President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that Russia needed to resume production of short and medium range land-based missiles, ending a self-imposed moratorium on making such missiles. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia to resume producing intermediate-range missiles

<p>President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Jun 28) that Russia should start production of previously banned intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that Moscow should then consider where to deploy them after the United States brought similar missiles to Europe and Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian president's appeal to strengthen military arsenal was made a few days after Moscow accused Washington of&nbsp;an attack on the Crimean peninsula, which killed four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-chief-investigator-urges-vladimir-putin-to-reinstate-death-penalty-736129">Russia's chief investigator urges Vladimir Putin to reinstate death penalty</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Russia claimed that it was certain that the attack was carried out by US-supplied ATACMS missiles carrying cluster bombs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address to his top security officials, Putin said Russia needed to start manufacturing missiles that were previously banned under a now-defunct Cold War treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said Russia had pledged not to deploy such missiles, but he reminded that the US had recently sent midrange missiles, which are able to strike targets at a distance of 500 to 5,500 kilometres, to Denmark for training exercises. He said the US also took them to the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-makes-fiery-attack-on-biden-calls-him-manchurian-candidate-paid-by-china-735959">Trump makes fiery attack on Biden, calls him 'Manchurian candidate', 'paid by China'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"We need to react to this and make decisions about what we should do next in this area. It seems that we need to start producing these strike systems," Putin was shown on state television telling Russia's Security Council.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And then, based on the reality of the actual situation, make decisions about where to deploy them for our security," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads. They were previously banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which was signed by Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan in 1987. It marked the first time the superpowers had agreed to reduce their nuclear arsenals and eliminate a whole category of nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Washington terminated the deal in 2019, blaming Russia for not complying with its terms.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Jun 28) that Russia should start production of previously banned intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles.

President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Jun 28) that Russia should start production of previously banned intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles. Putin said that Moscow should then consider where to deploy them after the United States brought similar missiles to Europe and Asia. Russian president's appeal to strengthen military arsenal was made a few days after Moscow accused Washington of an attack on the Crimean peninsula, which killed four. Also read: Russia's chief investigator urges Vladimir Putin to reinstate death penalty Russia claimed that it was certain that the attack was carried out by US-supplied ATACMS missiles carrying cluster bombs. In a televised address to his top security officials, Putin said Russia needed to start manufacturing missiles that were previously banned under a now-defunct Cold War treaty. Putin said Russia had pledged not to deploy such missiles, but he reminded that the US had recently sent midrange missiles, which are able to strike targets at a distance of 500 to 5,500 kilometres, to Denmark for training exercises. He said the US also took them to the Philippines. Also read: Trump makes fiery attack on Biden, calls him 'Manchurian candidate', 'paid by China' "We need to react to this and make decisions about what we should do next in this area. It seems that we need to start producing these strike systems," Putin was shown on state television telling Russia's Security Council. "And then, based on the reality of the actual situation, make decisions about where to deploy them for our security," he added. Such missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads. They were previously banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which was signed by Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan in 1987. It marked the first time the superpowers had agreed to reduce their nuclear arsenals and eliminate a whole category of nuclear weapons. However, Washington terminated the deal in 2019, blaming Russia for not complying with its terms. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin hints Russia to start making previously banned nuclear-capable missiles

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidklYYXUmpGMz3" />Alexander Bastrykin, the head of Russia's Investigative Committee, on Friday (June 28) urged President Vladimir Putin to&nbsp;lift the country's moratorium on the death penalty. Russia had stopped&nbsp;carrying out capital punishment in 1996 as a prerequisite for joining the Council of Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, a growing number&nbsp;of Putin's allies and lawmakers have since called for the death penalty to be brought back, seeking the sentence for the suspects in the terror attack at a concert hall near Moscow in March that killed more than 140 people.</p>

<h2><strong>'Should consider lifting moratorium on death penalty'</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing a legal forum in&nbsp;Saint Petersburg, Bastrykin said on Friday, "We should consider lifting the moratorium on the death penalty."</p>

<p>"In some cases, it should be applied, and in these cases, I am in favour of the death penalty," he added.&nbsp;Bastrykin&nbsp;said Putin could lift the moratorium by decree.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-dependent-on-authoritarian-leaders-for-weapons-nato-chief-732639">Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have been told by some competent, qualified lawyers that we need to change the constitution -- that we need to hold a referendum -- but I believe that we should simply lift the moratorium on the death penalty by presidential decree," the country's chief investigator further said.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP said that in March,&nbsp;the head of Russia's parliament Vyacheslav Volodin&nbsp;suggested the moratorium would need to be overturned by the Constitutional Court.</p>

<p>If Putin were to bring back the death penalty, the precise legal mechanism would simply be a formality. In March, his spokesperson&nbsp;said the Kremlin was not "taking part in this discussion for the moment."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alexander Bastrykin, the head of Russia's Investigative Committee, on Friday (June 28) urged President Vladimir Putin to lift the country's moratorium on the death penalty.

Alexander Bastrykin, the head of Russia's Investigative Committee, on Friday (June 28) urged President Vladimir Putin to lift the country's moratorium on the death penalty. Russia had stopped carrying out capital punishment in 1996 as a prerequisite for joining the Council of Europe. However, a growing number of Putin's allies and lawmakers have since called for the death penalty to be brought back, seeking the sentence for the suspects in the terror attack at a concert hall near Moscow in March that killed more than 140 people. 'Should consider lifting moratorium on death penalty' Addressing a legal forum in Saint Petersburg, Bastrykin said on Friday, "We should consider lifting the moratorium on the death penalty." "In some cases, it should be applied, and in these cases, I am in favour of the death penalty," he added. Bastrykin said Putin could lift the moratorium by decree. Also read | Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief "I have been told by some competent, qualified lawyers that we need to change the constitution -- that we need to hold a referendum -- but I believe that we should simply lift the moratorium on the death penalty by presidential decree," the country's chief investigator further said. A report by the news agency AFP said that in March, the head of Russia's parliament Vyacheslav Volodin suggested the moratorium would need to be overturned by the Constitutional Court. If Putin were to bring back the death penalty, the precise legal mechanism would simply be a formality. In March, his spokesperson said the Kremlin was not "taking part in this discussion for the moment." (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's chief investigator urges Vladimir Putin to reinstate death penalty

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Russia in July, expectedly for the annual India-Russia summit, marking his first visit to the country in five years. His last visit to Russia was in September 2019, when he attended the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. India&nbsp;and Russia have&nbsp;the tradition of annual summit, that began in October 2000 during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. The final contours of the visit are yet to be decided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last annual summit took place in December 2021 in New Delhi, with President Putin attending. The regularity of these summits has been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and other unspecified reasons over the past two years. This forthcoming visit, if materialises, will be Modi's first to Russia since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-narendra-modi-unlikely-to-attend-sco-summit-734110">PM Narendra Modi unlikely to attend SCO summit</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier this month, President Putin had a telephone conversation with PM Modi, congratulating him on his 3rd term. A statement from the Kremlin said, "Vladimir Putin warmly congratulated Narendra Modi on the success of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the recent 18th Lok Sabha elections. This reflects the support of the political course pursued by the Indian leadership, recognition of the results achieved in the socio-economic development of the country and strengthening of its international authority." PM Modi's Russia visit is expected to be his first bilateral foreign visit in his 3rd term, even though he travelled to Italy but that was in the context of the multilateral, G7 summit.</p>

<p>President Putin has&nbsp;invited PM Modi to visit Russia, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar's visit last year. Russia holds the BRICS presidency this year and is set to host the BRICS summit in Kazan in October, where PM Modi is expected to participate given India is a key member of the grouping.</p>

<p>The India-Russia relationship is characterised as a ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,’ focusing on defence, energy, and connectivity as among the key pillars. Ahead of the summit, Russia has approved a military logistics pact with India to enhance interoperability between the two nations' armed forces. In the energy sector, India's import of Russian crude oil has significantly increased over the past two years, despite Western pressure.</p>

<p>Connectivity projects are also a focal point of bilateral cooperation. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) aims to connect Mumbai to Moscow, facilitating trade between the two nations. Additionally, the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor is being developed to further strengthen economic ties between India and Russia's Far East.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Russia in July, expectedly for the annual India-Russia summit, marking his first visit to the country in five years.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Russia in July, expectedly for the annual India-Russia summit, marking his first visit to the country in five years. His last visit to Russia was in September 2019, when he attended the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. India and Russia have the tradition of annual summit, that began in October 2000 during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. The final contours of the visit are yet to be decided. The last annual summit took place in December 2021 in New Delhi, with President Putin attending. The regularity of these summits has been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and other unspecified reasons over the past two years. This forthcoming visit, if materialises, will be Modi's first to Russia since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022. Also read | PM Narendra Modi unlikely to attend SCO summit Earlier this month, President Putin had a telephone conversation with PM Modi, congratulating him on his 3rd term. A statement from the Kremlin said, "Vladimir Putin warmly congratulated Narendra Modi on the success of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the recent 18th Lok Sabha elections. This reflects the support of the political course pursued by the Indian leadership, recognition of the results achieved in the socio-economic development of the country and strengthening of its international authority." PM Modi's Russia visit is expected to be his first bilateral foreign visit in his 3rd term, even though he travelled to Italy but that was in the context of the multilateral, G7 summit. President Putin has invited PM Modi to visit Russia, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar's visit last year. Russia holds the BRICS presidency this year and is set to host the BRICS summit in Kazan in October, where PM Modi is expected to participate given India is a key member of the grouping. The India-Russia relationship is characterised as a ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,’ focusing on defence, energy, and connectivity as among the key pillars. Ahead of the summit, Russia has approved a military logistics pact with India to enhance interoperability between the two nations' armed forces. In the energy sector, India's import of Russian crude oil has significantly increased over the past two years, despite Western pressure. Connectivity projects are also a focal point of bilateral cooperation. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) aims to connect Mumbai to Moscow, facilitating trade between the two nations. Additionally, the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor is being developed to further strengthen economic ties between India and Russia's Far East.

Indian PM Narendra Modi likely to visit Russia in July

<p>Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported. The bash, held Thursday evening (Jun 20) at the exclusive 42-acre Hurlingham Club in London, saw the attendance of Vladimir Chernukhin, who served as Putin's deputy finance minister in the early 2000s. As per the report, his wife is a major donor of the cash-strapped Conservatives, and she has been spotted with party leaders like Theresa May and Liz Truss in the past.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Sunak blasts Putin</strong></h2>

<p>It came just days after PM Sunak blasted Putin at the Ukraine peace summit on June 15 for having “no interest in genuine peace”.</p>

<p>Ironically, the Tories had also attacked Labour Party leader Keir Starmer last week saying he may act soft towards dictators. Conservatives on X posted his picture alongside Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un, with the caption, "They’re watching.”</p>

<h2><strong>Tories having tough time raising money</strong></h2>

<p>As per available data, the Tories have raised a mere $367,000 in the second week of the election campaign. On the other hand, the Labour party has raised a whopping $5.56 million in the same period.</p>

<p>Labour meanwhile attacked the Conservatives for "taking cash from absolutely anyone now."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj55sPG4fCGAxX3a_UHHQxYDv4QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-hints-at-tough-penalties-for-young-britons-avoiding-national-military-service-733799" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-hints-at-tough-penalties-for-young-britons-avoiding-national-military-service-733799&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj55sPG4fCGAxX3a_UHHQxYDv4QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service</a></strong></p>

<p>"The cash-strapped Tories will clearly take cash from absolutely anyone now. Just as Nigel Farage reveals himself to be a Putin apologist the Tories are rolling out the red carpet to a former member of the Russian government," a Labour source was quoted as saying by the Mirror.</p>

<h2><strong>'No connection between two Vladimirs'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Vladimir Chernukhin has rebuffed claims of him being linked to the Russian regime. "Any suggestion that Mr. and Mrs. Chernukhin have any connection to the regime of President Putin is categorically false and defamatory. Mr and Mrs Chernukhin do not support, and have never supported, the policies of President Putin. Mr. Chernukhin’s reasons for leaving Russia are well documented, where he was dismissed for his loyalty to Mikhail Kasyanov, a vocal critic of President Putin and opposition leader," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-rishi-sunak-heckled-grilled-by-angry-citizens-during-televised-election-debate-733983/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“As a British citizen, Lubov Chernukhin is entitled to make donations to political parties as she sees fit and any donation she has made, has been declared in accordance with the rules of the Electoral Commission. Mrs Chernukhin is a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin’s regime and is a staunch opponent of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported.

Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported. The bash, held Thursday evening (Jun 20) at the exclusive 42-acre Hurlingham Club in London, saw the attendance of Vladimir Chernukhin, who served as Putin's deputy finance minister in the early 2000s. As per the report, his wife is a major donor of the cash-strapped Conservatives, and she has been spotted with party leaders like Theresa May and Liz Truss in the past. PM Sunak blasts Putin It came just days after PM Sunak blasted Putin at the Ukraine peace summit on June 15 for having “no interest in genuine peace”. Ironically, the Tories had also attacked Labour Party leader Keir Starmer last week saying he may act soft towards dictators. Conservatives on X posted his picture alongside Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un, with the caption, "They’re watching.” Tories having tough time raising money As per available data, the Tories have raised a mere $367,000 in the second week of the election campaign. On the other hand, the Labour party has raised a whopping $5.56 million in the same period. Labour meanwhile attacked the Conservatives for "taking cash from absolutely anyone now." Also read: Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service "The cash-strapped Tories will clearly take cash from absolutely anyone now. Just as Nigel Farage reveals himself to be a Putin apologist the Tories are rolling out the red carpet to a former member of the Russian government," a Labour source was quoted as saying by the Mirror. 'No connection between two Vladimirs' Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Vladimir Chernukhin has rebuffed claims of him being linked to the Russian regime. "Any suggestion that Mr. and Mrs. Chernukhin have any connection to the regime of President Putin is categorically false and defamatory. Mr and Mrs Chernukhin do not support, and have never supported, the policies of President Putin. Mr. Chernukhin’s reasons for leaving Russia are well documented, where he was dismissed for his loyalty to Mikhail Kasyanov, a vocal critic of President Putin and opposition leader," the spokesperson said. Watch: Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate × “As a British citizen, Lubov Chernukhin is entitled to make donations to political parties as she sees fit and any donation she has made, has been declared in accordance with the rules of the Electoral Commission. Mrs Chernukhin is a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin’s regime and is a staunch opponent of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Tory fundraiser attended by ex-Kremlin minister days after PM Sunak's tirade against Putin

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin's wholesome video of waving goodbye to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un from a plane went viral on social media platforms, with netizens labelling their meeting as a "great bromance".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video was shared by Daily Mail. It showed Putin waving and peeping through the airplane window. On the other side, the North Korean leader was waving back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One user reacted to the video, saying, "Who ever said you can't make friends in politics? They are soulmates!"</p>

<p>Another wrote: "Honestly, watching this and the video of them in the car is eye opening. If only all world leaders showed this genuine level of partnership…world peace would probably stand a chance."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/farmland-near-chernobyl-nuclear-disaster-site-safe-to-grow-crops-report-734138">Farmland near Chernobyl nuclear disaster site 'safe' to grow crops: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺🇰🇵 Russia's President Putin waves goodbye to his friend, North Korea's Kim Jung Un. <a href="https://t.co/EP5NDHXx2v">pic.twitter.com/EP5NDHXx2v</a></p>
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRICSinfo/status/1803837313107005691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Putin this week was on his first visit to Pyongyang since July 2000. He linked Russia's deepening&nbsp;ties with North Korea to the West's growing support for Ukraine. The Russian president also said Moscow could develop military and technical cooperation with Pyongyang. Putin signed a deal with Kim that included a mutual defence pledge, which is seen as one of Russia's most significant moves in Asia for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TASS news agency reported that the two leaders spent together more than 10 hours. They held talks, attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial to soldiers of the Red Army killed in action liberating Korea in World War II and had a ride on a limousine. They also exchanged gifts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-near-ship-off-yemen-crew-reported-safe-ukmto-734095">Explosions near ship off Yemen, crew 'reported safe': UKMTO</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Kim described Putin as "the dearest friend of Korean people". Meanwhile, Putin thanked the host nation and its leadership for their "balanced stance" in regard to "the situation on Ukrainian direction."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin spoke at a reception in Pyongyang and said that Russia and North Korea are together resisting "hegemonism and colonial practices of the U.S.A. and their satellites".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said that Russia might supply weapons to North Korea, and warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". After North Korea, Putin departed for Vietnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin said: "With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin's wholesome video of waving goodbye to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un from a plane went viral on social media platforms, with netizens labelling their meeting as a "great bromance".

Russian President Vladimir Putin's wholesome video of waving goodbye to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un from a plane went viral on social media platforms, with netizens labelling their meeting as a "great bromance". The video was shared by Daily Mail. It showed Putin waving and peeping through the airplane window. On the other side, the North Korean leader was waving back. One user reacted to the video, saying, "Who ever said you can't make friends in politics? They are soulmates!" Another wrote: "Honestly, watching this and the video of them in the car is eye opening. If only all world leaders showed this genuine level of partnership…world peace would probably stand a chance." Also read: Farmland near Chernobyl nuclear disaster site 'safe' to grow crops: Report Watch the video here: 🇷🇺🇰🇵 Russia's President Putin waves goodbye to his friend, North Korea's Kim Jung Un. pic.twitter.com/EP5NDHXx2v — BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) June 20, 2024 × Putin this week was on his first visit to Pyongyang since July 2000. He linked Russia's deepening ties with North Korea to the West's growing support for Ukraine. The Russian president also said Moscow could develop military and technical cooperation with Pyongyang. Putin signed a deal with Kim that included a mutual defence pledge, which is seen as one of Russia's most significant moves in Asia for years. TASS news agency reported that the two leaders spent together more than 10 hours. They held talks, attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial to soldiers of the Red Army killed in action liberating Korea in World War II and had a ride on a limousine. They also exchanged gifts. Also read: Explosions near ship off Yemen, crew 'reported safe': UKMTO As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Kim described Putin as "the dearest friend of Korean people". Meanwhile, Putin thanked the host nation and its leadership for their "balanced stance" in regard to "the situation on Ukrainian direction." Putin spoke at a reception in Pyongyang and said that Russia and North Korea are together resisting "hegemonism and colonial practices of the U.S.A. and their satellites". Putin also said that Russia might supply weapons to North Korea, and warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". After North Korea, Putin departed for Vietnam. While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin said: "With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like." (With inputs from agencies)

'Great bromance': Putin waving goodbye to North Korea's Kim wins internet - WATCH

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin visited North Korea before arriving in Vietnam - a visit which has angered the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like," said Putin, further adding that Seoul had nothing to worry about the pact between Moscow and Pyongyang.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-rutte-to-succeed-stoltenberg-as-nato-secretary-general-amid-escalating-global-tensions-733591">Mark Rutte to succeed Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general amid escalating global tensions</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"South Korea, the Republic of Korea has nothing to worry about because our military assistance under the treaty we signed only arises if aggression is carried out against one of the signatories. As far as I know, the Republic of Korea is not planning aggression against the DPRK (North Korea)," Putin told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He warned Seoul against move&nbsp;to supply weapons to Kyiv. Putin said that the supply of lethal weapons to the war zone in Ukraine would be a "very big mistake" and also added he hoped this would not happen.</p>

<p>"And if it does happen, then we will also take appropriate decisions, which are unlikely to please the current leadership of South Korea," added Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Putin said he "does not rule out" sending weapons to North Korea and called it repercussions for the West arming Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Those who send these (missiles to Ukraine), think that they are not fighting us, but I said, including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world, with regard to our agreements with the DPRK," Putin said in Vietnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do not rule this one out," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin gifted pair of hunting dogs&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-gifted-pair-of-hunting-dogs-733626/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Russia considering changing its nuclear doctrine</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Putin also said that Russia was thinking about possible changes to its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons. The existing doctrine states that Russia may use such weapons in response to a nuclear attack or in the event of a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact. Putin visited North Korea before arriving in Vietnam - a visit which has angered the West. "With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like," said Putin, further adding that Seoul had nothing to worry about the pact between Moscow and Pyongyang. Also read: Mark Rutte to succeed Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general amid escalating global tensions "South Korea, the Republic of Korea has nothing to worry about because our military assistance under the treaty we signed only arises if aggression is carried out against one of the signatories. As far as I know, the Republic of Korea is not planning aggression against the DPRK (North Korea)," Putin told reporters. He warned Seoul against move to supply weapons to Kyiv. Putin said that the supply of lethal weapons to the war zone in Ukraine would be a "very big mistake" and also added he hoped this would not happen. "And if it does happen, then we will also take appropriate decisions, which are unlikely to please the current leadership of South Korea," added Putin. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics Meanwhile, Putin said he "does not rule out" sending weapons to North Korea and called it repercussions for the West arming Ukraine. "Those who send these (missiles to Ukraine), think that they are not fighting us, but I said, including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world, with regard to our agreements with the DPRK," Putin said in Vietnam. "I do not rule this one out," he added. Watch: Russian President Putin gifted pair of hunting dogs × Russia considering changing its nuclear doctrine Putin also said that Russia was thinking about possible changes to its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons. The existing doctrine states that Russia may use such weapons in response to a nuclear attack or in the event of a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the state. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea would be making 'big mistake' if it supplies arms to Ukraine, says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia was thinking about possible changes to its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons. Watch in for more details!

Putin says Russia is considering changing its nuclear doctrine

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gave Russian President Vladimir Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs. Both leaders also exchanged several gifts during their meeting. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Putin gifted pair of hunting dogs

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Vietnam on Thursday for talks with the country's Communist leaders on the final stop of his two-nation tour of Asia after concluding a defence pact with North Korea. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Putin visits Vietnam to bolster relations

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a "strategic partnership treaty" following their talks in Pyongyang on Wednesday. Watch in for more details!

Russia, North Korea sign comprehensive strategic partnership deal

Russia and North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty

As Russian President Vladimir Putin makes his first visit to North Korea in more than two decades. The visit comes as the two nations strengthen their alliance against increasing pressures from Washington. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Vladimir Putin makes a rare visit to North Korea

<p>The annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia turned deadly for over 550 people amid raging heatwave in West Asia.&nbsp;Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. Russian President Vladimir Putin is in Russia in an unprecedented state visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrimage-heatwave-claims-over-550-lives-as-temperatures-hit-518-degrees-celsius-in-mecca-733024"><strong>Hajj deaths 2024: Heatwave claims over 550 lives as temperatures hit 51.8 degrees Celsius in Mecca</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/19/438607-hajj-deaths-2024-due-to-heatwave.jpg?imwidth=400" /><br />
<strong>Hajj deaths 2024 News:</strong>&nbsp;Tragedies have marked this year's Hajj pilgrimage, as at least 550 pilgrims have died, primarily because of heat-related illnesses.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-apologises-to-crash-victims-families-admits-flawed-culture-in-senate-hearing-732992"><strong>Boeing CEO apologises to crash victims' families, admits flawed culture in Senate hearing</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/19/438583-new-wion-50.png?imwidth=400" /><br />
Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. At the Senate hearing, Calhoun apologised to the families of the victims of the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and admitted that his company's culture was flawed but insisted on ongoing improvements in safety.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hails-north-koreas-support-for-ukraine-war-vows-trade-security-ahead-of-visit-to-pyongyang-732803"><strong>Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Pyongyang, commences his first visit to North Korea in 24 years</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/19/438580-kim-jong-un-and-vladimir-putin.png?imwidth=400" /><br />
President Vladimir Putin reached&nbsp;North Korea on Wednesday&nbsp;(Jun 19), after&nbsp;stopping over&nbsp;at&nbsp;Russia's far eastern region of Sakha&nbsp;for a few hours, marking the first trip to the country by a Russian leader in 24 years.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-slams-eu-centrists-for-excluding-her-from-top-job-talks-rejects-pre-packaged-deal-733015"><strong>Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects 'pre-packaged' deal</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/10/436888-succession-2024-06-10t110313358.jpg?imwidth=400" /><br />
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-delegation-in-dharamshala-to-meet-tibetan-spiritual-leader-dalai-lama-733016"><strong>US delegation in Dharamshala to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-delegation-in-dharamshala-to-meet-tibetan-spiritual-leader-dalai-lama-733016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/justin-timberlake-arrested-what-he-told-the-young-officer-who-didnt-recognise-him-732998"><strong>Justin Timberlake arrested: What he told the young officer who didn't recognise him</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/19/438584-horizons-2024-06-19t075516314.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Memes have now started flooding social media as Justin Timberlake reportedly told the officer that this arrest would "ruin the tour" and the officer had no context to what the singer was saying since he didn't recognise who Justin Timberlake was.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia turned deadly for over 550 people amid raging heatwave in West Asia. Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia turned deadly for over 550 people amid raging heatwave in West Asia. Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. Russian President Vladimir Putin is in Russia in an unprecedented state visit. Click here to read more: Hajj deaths 2024: Heatwave claims over 550 lives as temperatures hit 51.8 degrees Celsius in Mecca Hajj deaths 2024 News: Tragedies have marked this year's Hajj pilgrimage, as at least 550 pilgrims have died, primarily because of heat-related illnesses. Boeing CEO apologises to crash victims' families, admits flawed culture in Senate hearing Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. At the Senate hearing, Calhoun apologised to the families of the victims of the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and admitted that his company's culture was flawed but insisted on ongoing improvements in safety. Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Pyongyang, commences his first visit to North Korea in 24 years President Vladimir Putin reached North Korea on Wednesday (Jun 19), after stopping over at Russia's far eastern region of Sakha for a few hours, marking the first trip to the country by a Russian leader in 24 years. Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects 'pre-packaged' deal Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission. US delegation in Dharamshala to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama × Justin Timberlake arrested: What he told the young officer who didn't recognise him Memes have now started flooding social media as Justin Timberlake reportedly told the officer that this arrest would "ruin the tour" and the officer had no context to what the singer was saying since he didn't recognise who Justin Timberlake was.

Morning brief: Heatwave makes Hajj pilgrimage deadly; Putin lands in Pyongyang; and more

<p>NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.</p>

<p>Additionally, Stoltenberg&nbsp;called on Beijing to face consequences if it continues to support Moscow amid the war in Ukraine. The NATO Secretary-General accused China of worsening the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through an alleged export push to rebuild Russia's defence industry.</p>

<p>President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said.</p>

<p>"But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said.</p>

<p>"Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point — and unless China changes course — allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences," Stoltenberg added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-should-impose-a-cost-on-china-for-russia-support-nato-chief-732633">West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief</a></strong></p>

<p>China says that it is not sending lethal assistance to either Russia or Ukraine which the United States and other Western nations are purportedly doing.</p>

<p>China did not participate in a summit in Switzerland over the weekend billed by Ukraine's Zelensky as a "peace summit".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China says G7 statement 'full of arrogance, prejudice and lies'</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-says-g7-statement-full-of-arrogance-prejudice-and-lies-732619/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout Trump's 2017-2021 presidency, also said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." Donald Trump has repeatedly slammed European NATO counterparts for inequitable funding of the military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply. Additionally, Stoltenberg called on Beijing to face consequences if it continues to support Moscow amid the war in Ukraine. The NATO Secretary-General accused China of worsening the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through an alleged export push to rebuild Russia's defence industry. President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said. "But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said. "Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point — and unless China changes course — allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences," Stoltenberg added. Also read | West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief China says that it is not sending lethal assistance to either Russia or Ukraine which the United States and other Western nations are purportedly doing. China did not participate in a summit in Switzerland over the weekend billed by Ukraine's Zelensky as a "peace summit". Furthermore, Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply. Also watch | China says G7 statement 'full of arrogance, prejudice and lies' × Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout Trump's 2017-2021 presidency, also said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." Donald Trump has repeatedly slammed European NATO counterparts for inequitable funding of the military alliance. "The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said. "We are not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to arrive in North Korea later on Tuesday, in his first visit in 24 years, underlining the deepening ties between the two nuclear-armed states. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rare visit to North Korea

Russian President Putin to visit North Korea for first time in 24 years

WION's Senor correspondent Siddharth MP brings you this exclusive report from on board the world's first floating nuclear power plant. Watch in for more details!

Russia's floating Akademik Lomonosov nuclear plant: WION special report from Russia's far-east

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has kept his personal life guarded. He might not want to reveal the details about his family but others have, and now his daughters have stunned the corridors of power in and beyond Moscow after they spoke at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vladimir Putin and ex-wife Lyudmila are parents to Maria Vorontsova, 38 and Katerina Tikhonova, 37. Putin married Lyudmila in 1983.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VladimirPutin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VladimirPutin</a>'s elusive daughters make rare appearance.<br />
<br />
Who are Putin's daughters? <a href="https://twitter.com/AnanyaDutta97?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnanyaDutta97</a> tells you more<br />
<br />
Watch more on <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J">https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/JLcOxRqeHr">pic.twitter.com/JLcOxRqeHr</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1799016348959613247?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier this week, Putin's elder daughter Maria Vorontsova spoke on a panel related to innovation and biotechnology. Born in 1985, Maria studied biology at St Petersburg University and medicine at Moscow State University. A specialist in endocrine system, she is listed as a researcher at Moscow's Endocrinology Research Centre. &nbsp;Maria was married to Dutch businessperson Jorrit Joost Faassen, a former employee at Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom. The two have reportedly separated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-from-soviet-fight-picking-child-to-russias-reigning-president-701470">Vladimir Putin: From Soviet fight-picking child to Russia's reigning president</a></strong></p>

<p>Maria's younger sister Katerina was part of a panel at St Petersburg summit discussing the present and future of the Russian defence industry. Katerina has garnered limelight due to her talent as a rock n'roll dancer. In the summer of 2013, she married Kirill Shamalov, the son of a long-time friend of President Putin. Their wedding was held at an exclusive ski resort near St Petersburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-katerina-and-maria-the-russian-presidents-daughters-hit-by-us-sanctions-468904">Who are Katerina and Maria, the Russian President's daughters hit by US sanctions?</a></strong></p>

<p>The sisters were targeted by the US sanctions in 2022 in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-ukraine-crisis-war-crimes-in-bucha-heres-all-what-you-need-to-know-474954">Bucha killings</a> in Ukraine amid Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's daughters emerge out of the blue: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The splashy appearance of Putin's daughters may signal that the Russian president, 71, now in his fifth term, is looking at his legacy—and is willing to lean into family ties to expand it.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict: Joe Biden targets Russia's first family</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-conflict-joe-biden-targets-russias-first-family-469142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The two in the past have made some rare appearances on Russian state television. But the elder daughter Maria, while not being specifically political, has been slightly more vocal in promoting Putin's rule in the run-up to the country's presidential elections in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin has kept his personal life guarded. He might not want to reveal the details about his family but others have, and now his daughters have stunned the corridors of power in and beyond Moscow after they spoke at the St.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has kept his personal life guarded. He might not want to reveal the details about his family but others have, and now his daughters have stunned the corridors of power in and beyond Moscow after they spoke at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). Vladimir Putin and ex-wife Lyudmila are parents to Maria Vorontsova, 38 and Katerina Tikhonova, 37. Putin married Lyudmila in 1983. #VladimirPutin's elusive daughters make rare appearance. Who are Putin's daughters? @AnanyaDutta97 tells you more Watch more on https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J#RussiaNews pic.twitter.com/JLcOxRqeHr — WION (@WIONews) June 7, 2024 × Earlier this week, Putin's elder daughter Maria Vorontsova spoke on a panel related to innovation and biotechnology. Born in 1985, Maria studied biology at St Petersburg University and medicine at Moscow State University. A specialist in endocrine system, she is listed as a researcher at Moscow's Endocrinology Research Centre. Maria was married to Dutch businessperson Jorrit Joost Faassen, a former employee at Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom. The two have reportedly separated. Also read | Vladimir Putin: From Soviet fight-picking child to Russia's reigning president Maria's younger sister Katerina was part of a panel at St Petersburg summit discussing the present and future of the Russian defence industry. Katerina has garnered limelight due to her talent as a rock n'roll dancer. In the summer of 2013, she married Kirill Shamalov, the son of a long-time friend of President Putin. Their wedding was held at an exclusive ski resort near St Petersburg. Also read | Who are Katerina and Maria, the Russian President's daughters hit by US sanctions? The sisters were targeted by the US sanctions in 2022 in the wake of the Bucha killings in Ukraine amid Russia-Ukraine war. Putin's daughters emerge out of the blue: What does it mean? The splashy appearance of Putin's daughters may signal that the Russian president, 71, now in his fifth term, is looking at his legacy—and is willing to lean into family ties to expand it. Also watch | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Joe Biden targets Russia's first family × The two in the past have made some rare appearances on Russian state television. But the elder daughter Maria, while not being specifically political, has been slightly more vocal in promoting Putin's rule in the run-up to the country's presidential elections in March. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin succession plan out? Daughters appear at key economic summit to support father

<p>Russia's President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow is considering "asymmetric" measures against Ukraine's use of Western-supplied weapons in Russian territory, including arming adversaries of the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin's remarks came at a meeting with heads of international news agencies on Wednesday (June 5), on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). The remarks follow confirmation by a US senator and a western official that Ukraine has recently used US weapons to strike inside Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blasts-china-after-putin-xi-meet-says-you-cant-have-it-both-ways-722280">US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways'</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have no illusions in this regard,” Putin said while repeating his earlier claims that Ukrainian troops might be using the weapons but the US and its allies are providing the intelligence and targeting information to Kyiv.</p>

<p>"Secondly, if someone deems it possible to supply such weapons to the war zone, to strike our territory… why shouldn't we supply similar weapons to those regions of the world, where they will be used against sensitive sites of these countries?" the Russian president added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We can respond asymmetrically. We will give it a thought."</p>

<p>The Russian president said that if the West continues to escalate, it "will completely destroy international relations and undermine international security".</p>

<p>"If we see that these countries are being drawn into a war against us, and this is their direct participation in the war against Russia, then we reserve the right to act in a similar way. This is a recipe for very serious problems," he warned.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas| Putin warns West: There will be consequences</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-warns-west-there-will-be-consequences-726838/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Russia claims that a number of NATO military instructors training the Ukrainian forces have been killed in the Russian strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Washington and its allies claim that providing weapons and equipment to Ukraine does not put them at war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, a report from the Institute for the Study of War had said that Ukrainian forces struck a Russian S-300/400 air defence battery in the Belgorod region, with a US-supplied high mobility artillery rocket system, or Himars, on 1 or 2 June.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia's President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow is considering "asymmetric" measures against Ukraine's use of Western-supplied weapons in Russian territory, including arming adversaries of the West.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow is considering "asymmetric" measures against Ukraine's use of Western-supplied weapons in Russian territory, including arming adversaries of the West. Putin's remarks came at a meeting with heads of international news agencies on Wednesday (June 5), on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). The remarks follow confirmation by a US senator and a western official that Ukraine has recently used US weapons to strike inside Russia. Also read | US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways' "We have no illusions in this regard,” Putin said while repeating his earlier claims that Ukrainian troops might be using the weapons but the US and its allies are providing the intelligence and targeting information to Kyiv. "Secondly, if someone deems it possible to supply such weapons to the war zone, to strike our territory… why shouldn't we supply similar weapons to those regions of the world, where they will be used against sensitive sites of these countries?" the Russian president added. "We can respond asymmetrically. We will give it a thought." The Russian president said that if the West continues to escalate, it "will completely destroy international relations and undermine international security". "If we see that these countries are being drawn into a war against us, and this is their direct participation in the war against Russia, then we reserve the right to act in a similar way. This is a recipe for very serious problems," he warned. Also watch | Gravitas| Putin warns West: There will be consequences × Russia claims that a number of NATO military instructors training the Ukrainian forces have been killed in the Russian strikes. Meanwhile, Washington and its allies claim that providing weapons and equipment to Ukraine does not put them at war with Russia. Last month, a report from the Institute for the Study of War had said that Ukrainian forces struck a Russian S-300/400 air defence battery in the Belgorod region, with a US-supplied high mobility artillery rocket system, or Himars, on 1 or 2 June. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

'Recipe for very serious problems': Putin says Russia could supply arms to other nations to strike the West

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (May 29) appointed Alexei Dyumin as secretary of the advisory State Council. The appointment has brought Dyumin closer to the core of power and now, people are speculating that he might become the next president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin was re-elected for another six-year term in March and appointed Dyumin as an adviser supervising the weapons industry in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin's website announced a decree signed by Putin that appointed Dyumin to the State Council. It provided no further information about his new employment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sergei Markov, who is a former Kremlin adviser and Putin supporter, said on Telegram: "Russia's elite is abuzz with the appointment of Dyumin as secretary of the State Council."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-spain-ireland-and-norway-formally-recognise-palestinian-statehood-heres-why-it-matters-727107">Explained: Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognise Palestinian statehood. Here’s why it matters</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who is Alexei Dyumin?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Dyumin worked as the president's bodyguard for Putin's first and second terms from August 1999. He is one of his closest allies. He was born on August 28, 1972, in Kursk and his father was a military medic and his mother a teacher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He entered the Federal Guards Service (FSO) in 1995 and guarded both President Boris Yeltsin and Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 51-year-old has played ice hockey with Putin. He was deputy head of the GRU military intelligence service when Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dyumin later served as a deputy defence minister and then as governor of Tula, a region which plays a big role in Russia's military-industrial complex.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-uncovers-15-kilometre-long-terrorist-tunnel-route-in-eastern-rafah-727109">Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Dyumin saved Putin from bear attack</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>While speaking to the Kommersant newspaper in 2016, Dyumin explained how he once used his pistol to scare off a bear from one of the president's mountain residences. He is a recipient of Russia's highest Hero of Russia state award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was part of a group of officers which ensured the security of the president everywhere – in Russia and abroad. Every morning began with a report to the president on operational reports. You must have information on the regions, on emergency situations. Sometimes I had to give instructions to a minister, set a task for the head of a region," Dyumin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine fires 'storm shadow' missile</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-fires-storm-shadow-missile-727061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Will Dyumin become next president?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>So far, there's nothing certain over who will succeed Putin, however, experts are taking note of his appointments which suggest that he is preparing a prospective successor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is seen as confirmation that Dyumin is the future president of Russia, Putin's choice," Markov said. He also added that this was something that had long been rumoured.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (May 29) appointed Alexei Dyumin as secretary of the advisory State Council. The appointment has brought Dyumin closer to the core of power and now, people are speculating that he might become the next president.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (May 29) appointed Alexei Dyumin as secretary of the advisory State Council. The appointment has brought Dyumin closer to the core of power and now, people are speculating that he might become the next president. Putin was re-elected for another six-year term in March and appointed Dyumin as an adviser supervising the weapons industry in May. Kremlin's website announced a decree signed by Putin that appointed Dyumin to the State Council. It provided no further information about his new employment. Sergei Markov, who is a former Kremlin adviser and Putin supporter, said on Telegram: "Russia's elite is abuzz with the appointment of Dyumin as secretary of the State Council." Also read: Explained: Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognise Palestinian statehood. Here’s why it matters Who is Alexei Dyumin? Dyumin worked as the president's bodyguard for Putin's first and second terms from August 1999. He is one of his closest allies. He was born on August 28, 1972, in Kursk and his father was a military medic and his mother a teacher. He entered the Federal Guards Service (FSO) in 1995 and guarded both President Boris Yeltsin and Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin. The 51-year-old has played ice hockey with Putin. He was deputy head of the GRU military intelligence service when Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Dyumin later served as a deputy defence minister and then as governor of Tula, a region which plays a big role in Russia's military-industrial complex. Also read: Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah Dyumin saved Putin from bear attack While speaking to the Kommersant newspaper in 2016, Dyumin explained how he once used his pistol to scare off a bear from one of the president's mountain residences. He is a recipient of Russia's highest Hero of Russia state award. "I was part of a group of officers which ensured the security of the president everywhere – in Russia and abroad. Every morning began with a report to the president on operational reports. You must have information on the regions, on emergency situations. Sometimes I had to give instructions to a minister, set a task for the head of a region," Dyumin said. Watch: Ukraine fires 'storm shadow' missile × Will Dyumin become next president? So far, there's nothing certain over who will succeed Putin, however, experts are taking note of his appointments which suggest that he is preparing a prospective successor. "This is seen as confirmation that Dyumin is the future president of Russia, Putin's choice," Markov said. He also added that this was something that had long been rumoured. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin's ex-bodyguard, who saved him from bear attack, gets new role. Will he become next president?

Russia's invasion forces Ukrainian leader to seek more military aid from his Western allies. Today Zelensky is visiting Belgium to sign a security pact with Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, the visit comes after he visited Spain on Monday and signed security pact with the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Zelensky's visit comes as Ukraine battles Russia's ground offensive in the Kharkiv region which started on May 10. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says Russian troops massing along north-east of Kharkiv

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko met in Minsk to bolster their alliance in the Eastern continent while discussing economic and security concerns.

Putin in Belarus: Putin discusses security, tactical nuclear weapon drills in Belarus

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidarFXuBWzBoHL" /></p>

<p>South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on&nbsp;people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged&nbsp;procurement of weapons from North&nbsp;Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sanctions came as&nbsp;South Korea and the United States (US)&nbsp;accused North Korea&nbsp;of transferring weapons to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the&nbsp;accusation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, South Korea's foreign ministry said&nbsp;that&nbsp;sanctions were imposed&nbsp;on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels over weapons trade and other activities between Pyongyang and Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-ballistic-missiles-after-kims-sister-denies-supplying-arms-to-russia-722514">North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>The ministry said that the two Russian vessels were carrying a large quantity of containers between Russia and North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;transporting&nbsp;military supplies in a clear violation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.</p>

<p>Japan, meanwhile, imposed sanctions on 11 organisations and one person&nbsp;including&nbsp;what it said were Russian groups involved in military cooperation to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference,&nbsp;Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa said on Friday that Russia's procurement of arms from North Korea violated the relevant UN resolutions&nbsp;that&nbsp;completely prohibit&nbsp;the transfer of arms and related materials to and from North&nbsp;Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-North Korea ties deepen&nbsp;further</strong></h2>

<p>Days before&nbsp;the sanctions were imposed, North Korean state media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that a Russian delegation arrived in Pyongyang, signalling a further deepening of ties since North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | WION Dispatch: North Korea dismisses rumour of arms export to Russia</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-dismisses-rumour-of-arms-export-to-russia-722591/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Russian delegation, led by&nbsp;Grigory Rapota- the chairperson of the&nbsp;Russia-North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;friendship parliamentary group, arrived in Pyongyang on Monday.</p>

<p>In a post on Telegram, the Russian Embassy in North Korea said that the delegation would be staying in Pyongyang until Friday&nbsp;and&nbsp;the two sides would discuss parliamentary exchanges and further engagements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea.

South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea. The sanctions came as South Korea and the United States (US) accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the accusation. The sanctions In a statement, South Korea's foreign ministry said that sanctions were imposed on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels over weapons trade and other activities between Pyongyang and Moscow. Also read | North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia The ministry said that the two Russian vessels were carrying a large quantity of containers between Russia and North Korea transporting military supplies in a clear violation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Japan, meanwhile, imposed sanctions on 11 organisations and one person including what it said were Russian groups involved in military cooperation to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the news agency Reuters reported. Addressing a press conference, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa said on Friday that Russia's procurement of arms from North Korea violated the relevant UN resolutions that completely prohibit the transfer of arms and related materials to and from North Korea. Russia-North Korea ties deepen further Days before the sanctions were imposed, North Korean state media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that a Russian delegation arrived in Pyongyang, signalling a further deepening of ties since North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia last year. Also watch | WION Dispatch: North Korea dismisses rumour of arms export to Russia × The Russian delegation, led by Grigory Rapota- the chairperson of the Russia-North Korea friendship parliamentary group, arrived in Pyongyang on Monday. In a post on Telegram, the Russian Embassy in North Korea said that the delegation would be staying in Pyongyang until Friday and the two sides would discuss parliamentary exchanges and further engagements. (With inputs from agencies)

Alleged Russia-North Korea arms trade: South Korea, Japan impose sanctions

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine.</p>

<p>He further said that this time, the only difference was that the drills involved Belarus. Russia had in 2023 announced that it was deploying tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus.</p>

<p>Putin's remarks came at a press conference in Minsk after his talks with Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader</strong></h2>

<p>Putin further questioned if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had the legitimacy to negotiate on Kyiv's behalf.</p>

<p>Russia stated that it was ready to hold talks concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, however, it highlighted that Zelensky's five-year term in office ended on May 20.</p>

<p>Zelensky had previously ruled out the possibility of holding new presidential elections while the country was fighting a war.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-ukraine-gave-refuge-to-fleeing-islamic-state-terrorists-after-moscow-concert-attack-724858"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia says Ukraine gave refuge to fleeing Islamic State terrorists after Moscow concert attack</strong></a></p>

<p>“Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended,” Putin said.</p>

<p>“We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities,” he added reiterating that his country was ready to negotiate with Ukraine.</p>

<p>Zelensky, however, has rebuffed the preconditions placed by Russia for the talks which also demands allowing Moscow to retain the territory that the Kremlin forces have captured since the February 2022 invasion.</p>

<h2><strong>'Stopped' Russia in Kharkiv region, says Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's military on Friday said that its forces had stopped Russia from advancing into the northeastern Kharkiv region, but Moscow was intensifying its offensive on other parts of the front.</p>

<p>"The Ukrainian Defence Forces have stopped Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector... The situation is under control, counter-offensive actions are underway," the army said.</p>

<p>Despite initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units", Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said on social media.</p>

<p>In an attempt to seize the town, Russia "is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail", Syrsky added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine. He further said that this time, the only difference was that the drills involved Belarus. Russia had in 2023 announced that it was deploying tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus. Putin's remarks came at a press conference in Minsk after his talks with Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko. Putin questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader Putin further questioned if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had the legitimacy to negotiate on Kyiv's behalf. Russia stated that it was ready to hold talks concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, however, it highlighted that Zelensky's five-year term in office ended on May 20. Zelensky had previously ruled out the possibility of holding new presidential elections while the country was fighting a war. Also read: Russia says Ukraine gave refuge to fleeing Islamic State terrorists after Moscow concert attack “Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended,” Putin said. “We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities,” he added reiterating that his country was ready to negotiate with Ukraine. Zelensky, however, has rebuffed the preconditions placed by Russia for the talks which also demands allowing Moscow to retain the territory that the Kremlin forces have captured since the February 2022 invasion. 'Stopped' Russia in Kharkiv region, says Ukraine Meanwhile, Ukraine's military on Friday said that its forces had stopped Russia from advancing into the northeastern Kharkiv region, but Moscow was intensifying its offensive on other parts of the front. "The Ukrainian Defence Forces have stopped Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector... The situation is under control, counter-offensive actions are underway," the army said. Despite initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units", Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said on social media. In an attempt to seize the town, Russia "is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail", Syrsky added. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader

<p>The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23).</p>

<p>Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe&nbsp;from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee.</p>

<p>It claimed that Shamarin had received at least $360,000 (or 36 million roubles) in return.</p>

<p>The military official has been placed in pre-trial detention for two months and if found guilty, will face a jail term of up to 15 years.</p>

<p>Shamarin's arrest is the fourth detention to take place in a month. Earlier, Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was on April 23 placed in pre-trial detention for allegedly accepting bribe.</p>

<p>Following the incident, Lieutenant-General Yuri Kuznetsov, head of personnel at the defence ministry, and Major-General Ivan Popov, former commander of Russia's 58th army have also been arrested over alleged corruption charges.</p>

<p>The Kremlin played down Shamarin's arrest and denied that it was carrying out a purge of the military's top brass.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The fight against corruption is consistent work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "It is not a campaign, it is constantly ongoing work."</p>

<p>Several Russian military bloggers welcomed his arrest stating that it was communications breakdowns that led to Russia's military failures in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-russia-taking-advantage-of-its-lack-of-air-defence-by-launching-brutal-strikes-724634">Russia launching 'brutal' strikes amid Ukraine's lack of air defence</a></p>

<p>"Bribery in the military and security services is state treason," military blogger Anastasia Kashevarova said in a post on Telegram.</p>

<h2><strong>'Abuse of power'</strong></h2>

<p>Later on Thursday, another military official Vladimir Verteletsky was arrested by the committee over ensuring state orders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said Verteletsky had "been charged with the abuse of his official powers" and had also been placed in detention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Verteletsky was accused by the investigators of taking a bribe in connection with a government contract in &nbsp;2022, which was also the year when Moscow began its offensive against Ukraine.</p>

<p>The incident reportedly cost the state "over 70 million rubles".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23). Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee.

The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23). Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee. It claimed that Shamarin had received at least $360,000 (or 36 million roubles) in return. The military official has been placed in pre-trial detention for two months and if found guilty, will face a jail term of up to 15 years. Shamarin's arrest is the fourth detention to take place in a month. Earlier, Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was on April 23 placed in pre-trial detention for allegedly accepting bribe. Following the incident, Lieutenant-General Yuri Kuznetsov, head of personnel at the defence ministry, and Major-General Ivan Popov, former commander of Russia's 58th army have also been arrested over alleged corruption charges. The Kremlin played down Shamarin's arrest and denied that it was carrying out a purge of the military's top brass. "The fight against corruption is consistent work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "It is not a campaign, it is constantly ongoing work." Several Russian military bloggers welcomed his arrest stating that it was communications breakdowns that led to Russia's military failures in Ukraine. Also read: Russia launching 'brutal' strikes amid Ukraine's lack of air defence "Bribery in the military and security services is state treason," military blogger Anastasia Kashevarova said in a post on Telegram. 'Abuse of power' Later on Thursday, another military official Vladimir Verteletsky was arrested by the committee over ensuring state orders. It said Verteletsky had "been charged with the abuse of his official powers" and had also been placed in detention. Verteletsky was accused by the investigators of taking a bribe in connection with a government contract in 2022, which was also the year when Moscow began its offensive against Ukraine. The incident reportedly cost the state "over 70 million rubles". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia arrests top defence official over corruption charges

Russia forces have begun military drills near Ukraine - a simulation of tactical nuclear weapons. This comes two weeks after Russia's President Vladimir Putin announced that the country will carry out drills to test the readiness of personnel and equipment of non-strategic nuclear weapons.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia starts exercise with tactical nuclear weapons

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidf7qbkqpGyJv3" /></p>

<p>A&nbsp;survey conducted in Russia recently has&nbsp;revealed that nearly 70 per cent of the citizens consider themselves religious.&nbsp;Citing the&nbsp;survey, local media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that most of those who said they have religious beliefs identified themselves as&nbsp;Orthodox Christians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The survey said that the proportion of followers of other branches of Christianity or Islam was&nbsp;at&nbsp;seven per cent in Russia. Another one per cent of respondents said they were Buddhists&nbsp;and&nbsp;a further one per cent said they were followers of Judaism.</p>

<h2><strong>28% of respondents non-religious: Survey</strong></h2>

<p>The survey also revealed that 28 per cent of the respondents described themselves as non-religious. Of these, more than one-third of the people were between&nbsp;the ages of&nbsp;18 and 24.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-denies-us-claim-that-moscow-deployed-anti-satellite-weapon-in-space-724258">Russia denies US claim that Moscow deployed anti-satellite weapon in space</a></strong></p>

<p>The survey highlighted that&nbsp;religious believers were more likely to participate in various volunteer activities compared to people who were not religious by a margin of 34 per cent&nbsp;to 17 per cent.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, a similar survey&nbsp;was conducted&nbsp;by the&nbsp;Russian Public Opinion Research Center&nbsp;which&nbsp;showed that 78 per cent of the respondents considered themselves religious. Of these,&nbsp;two-thirds were Orthodox Christians.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Orthodoxy deeply rooted in Russians'&nbsp;consciousness'</strong></h2>

<p>In February, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that&nbsp;Orthodoxy, Eastern Christianity, was deeply rooted&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;consciousness of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Russian people.</p>

<p>"When Russia expanded and&nbsp;absorbed other nations who profess Islam, Buddhism and&nbsp;Judaism, Russia has always been very loyal to&nbsp;those people who profess other religions.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is its strength.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is absolutely clear," President Putin told Tucker Carlson.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Is it the West versus Xi and Putin as both leaders pledge a new era and condemn the US?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-it-the-west-versus-xi-and-putin-as-both-leaders-pledge-a-new-era-and-condemn-the-us-722556/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"By&nbsp;the&nbsp;way, Russian authorities were always&nbsp;very careful&nbsp;about the&nbsp;culture and&nbsp;religion of&nbsp;those peoples who came to&nbsp;join the&nbsp;Russian Empire.&nbsp;This,&nbsp;in&nbsp;my&nbsp;opinion, forms the&nbsp;basis of&nbsp;both security and&nbsp;stability of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Russian statehood&nbsp;– all the&nbsp;peoples inhabiting Russia&nbsp;basically&nbsp;consider it their Motherland," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A survey conducted in Russia recently has revealed that nearly 70 per cent of the citizens consider themselves religious. Citing the survey, local media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that most of those who said they have religious beliefs identified themselves as Orthodox Christians.

A survey conducted in Russia recently has revealed that nearly 70 per cent of the citizens consider themselves religious. Citing the survey, local media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that most of those who said they have religious beliefs identified themselves as Orthodox Christians. The survey said that the proportion of followers of other branches of Christianity or Islam was at seven per cent in Russia. Another one per cent of respondents said they were Buddhists and a further one per cent said they were followers of Judaism. 28% of respondents non-religious: Survey The survey also revealed that 28 per cent of the respondents described themselves as non-religious. Of these, more than one-third of the people were between the ages of 18 and 24. Also read | Russia denies US claim that Moscow deployed anti-satellite weapon in space The survey highlighted that religious believers were more likely to participate in various volunteer activities compared to people who were not religious by a margin of 34 per cent to 17 per cent. Earlier this month, a similar survey was conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center which showed that 78 per cent of the respondents considered themselves religious. Of these, two-thirds were Orthodox Christians. 'Orthodoxy deeply rooted in Russians' consciousness' In February, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Orthodoxy, Eastern Christianity, was deeply rooted in the consciousness of the Russian people. "When Russia expanded and absorbed other nations who profess Islam, Buddhism and Judaism, Russia has always been very loyal to those people who profess other religions. This is its strength. This is absolutely clear," President Putin told Tucker Carlson. Also watch | Is it the West versus Xi and Putin as both leaders pledge a new era and condemn the US? × "By the way, Russian authorities were always very careful about the culture and religion of those peoples who came to join the Russian Empire. This, in my opinion, forms the basis of both security and stability of the Russian statehood – all the peoples inhabiting Russia basically consider it their Motherland," Putin added. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 70% of Russians consider themselves religious, most of these identify as Orthodox Christians: Survey

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China from 16–17 May to hold another summit with President Xi Jinping. This was his second visit to Beijing in six months. Putin and Xi have met over 40 times since 2010. The question every expert on International Affairs (IR) wants to raise is: what is the new outcome of the latest confabulations?&nbsp;</p>

<p>The answer lies in a painstaking study of every statement made and every document issued by the two governments against the background of recent major interactions between the two leaders. The latest summit should be examined in the context of the historic February 2022 summit where the two sides announced a "no limits" partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vladimir Putin's Beijing visit: Immediate backdrop</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The latest summit took place when the Ukraine conflict continued unabated. The news from the war front was good for Russia as its troops launched a fresh offensive in the Kharkiv region, securing additional territories. The contrast was stark, between a confident Putin walking on the red carpet in Beijing and a worried President Volodymyr Zelensky canceling his foreign visits due to the recent setbacks. An anxious Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, rushed to Kyiv to assure that more US aid was coming to Ukraine, as the Chinese President prepared to host a glittering banquet for his Russian guests.<img alt="US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba walk past St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery frescos in Kyiv, on May 15, 2024. The United States will back Ukraine until its security is &quot;guaranteed&quot;, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on a trip to Kyiv on May 14, 2024, hours after Russian forces claimed further advances in the northeastern Kharkiv region." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="414e760c-79ad-4f0b-aac3-01fc38cbe784" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BlinkenKyiv_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba walk past St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery frescos in Kyiv, on May 15, 2024 | AFP</em></p>

<p>The backdrop was also marked by Israel’s ‘no holds barred’ attack on Rafah in Gaza, despite near universal condemnation and opposition. The Western alliance led by the US found itself in a particularly vulnerable spot just when the Eastern Alliance composed of Russia and China demonstrated their unity and strength while condemning the US on account of its penchant for alliance formation and Cold War mentality!</p>

<p>The Putin visit was also preceded by a further dip in US-China relations, as a series of visits by senior American officials to Beijing ended up in Washington imposing hefty increases in tariffs on the import of multiple Chinese products. Besides, Xi Jinping’s recent swing through Western and Central Europe showed his mettle in talking tough to the EU on the one hand and expanding the contours of cooperation with Serbia and Hungary on the other.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin visit, optics and outcomes</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Television images conveying the majesty of protocol and military pomp associated with a state visit were designed to impress and convey that the Russia-China relationship is in its best phase.</p>

<p><img alt="Russia's President Vladimir Putin and China's President Xi Jinping hold an informal meeting at Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing on May 16, 2024" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="927dcc40-048d-4c72-8911-923e0b22b83a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PutinXi.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russia's President Vladimir Putin and China's President Xi Jinping hold an informal meeting at Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing on May 16, 2024 | AFP via Sputnik</em></p>

<p>After all, the visit was part of celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states. Public events revealed a positive personal chemistry between the two leaders. The presence of large teams of high-level officials from both sides at the talks was noted. The rest was left to be projected by Putin and Xi Jinping through their scripted remarks at the press conference and by the joint statement on ‘Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination’ for the ‘New Era’ in bilateral relations.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<img alt="Putin Xi meet in Beijing" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23025a3a-80d7-4bfc-918f-6dfe34e49584" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PutinXiBeijingMeet.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russia's President Vladimir Putin, China's President Xi Jinping and both sides' officials hold a meeting in Beijing on May 16, 2024 | AFP</em></p>

<p>The two governments highlighted the importance of “five principles” that govern the China-Russia relationship which is touted as a prime example of a new form of international relations as well as of good-neighbourly relations. A closer look at these principles or special characteristics of the relations is advisable.</p>

<p>First, mutual respect, equality and support for each other’s core interests and major concerns is a top driver. Does it not smell like an alliance? Second, satisfaction was voiced on the $240 billion bilateral trade, indicating a 2.7 times increase within a decade. This came with the resolve to expand cooperation in ports, transportation and logistics, and stable global industrial and supply chains. China has become a vital trading partner for Russia which stands hobbled by the impact of Western sanctions. Third, the significance of cultural relations and people-to-people ties was stressed, with a decision announced to celebrate 2024 and 2025 as the ‘China-Russia Years of Culture’ through a long series of cultural events to be held in both countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fourth, the value of strategic coordination was emphasized for safeguarding the UN-centered international system, including the new multilateral platforms. It was conveyed that, with Russia and China chairing BRICS and SCO respectively (the latter begins soon), “the two sides will support each other’s chairmanship.” Further, they would construct a high-quality partnership to build the unity and strength of the Global South. Fifth, the two sides pronounced themselves in favour of political settlements of the world’s hotspots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Urgent resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through a two-state formula was stressed. On the Ukraine war, they said that a political settlement was “the right way forward.” Russia endorsed the Chinese position on Ukraine, thereby giving a fillip to the latter’s dual role as a staunch supporter of Russia and a mediator of questionable credentials. Putin stated that many provisions of China’s 12-point peace plan were consistent with Russia’s approach and could be taken as a basis for peaceful settlement, but the West and Kyiv were not ready.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reactions, perceptions</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Without conveying anything significantly new or tangible, Russia and China utilised Putin’s visit to inform the world that their partnership was strong and blooming. They have their differences, but they are not talking about them. That is a subject to be deciphered by Western and Asian experts on Russia-China relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A critical challenge in Beijing was how to address the adverse impact of US sanctions on the Russian economy and the recent US tariff measures against China. Putin seems to have pressed China to continue supplying equipment and technology such as machine tools, silicon chips, etc. to help its war-torn economy.</p>

<p>A Singapore-based scholar, Hoo Tiang Boon, stated that both sides wished to show “that despite what is happening globally, despite the pressures that both sides are facing from the US, both sides are not about to turn their backs on each other anytime soon.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country that received considerable criticism and negative attention during the parleys in Beijing was the US. This rattled Washington; the deputy spokesperson of the State Department observed that China could not “have its cake and eat it too.” Elaborating, he observed, “You cannot want to have deepened relations with Europe … while simultaneously continuing to fuel the biggest threat to European security in a long time.”</p>

<p>On Ukraine, the White House stated that China's position was not impartial and urged the Chinese government to work for Russia’s immediate withdrawal from Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's Beijing visit: View from New Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>The Beijing summit has been watched with keen interest in the Indian capital, despite the latter’s all-consuming preoccupation with the ongoing general elections. How much closer China and Russia have moved to each other and how to identify the downside of this relationship are issues of much debate on the think tank circuit in New Delhi. However, one point is clear: increased coordination between Moscow and Beijing on all issues relating to BRICS and SCO and their coordinated approach towards the Global South imply that India needs to plan its responses very carefully.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Putin in China: Xi, Putin reaffirm 'priority partners' status, slam US</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-in-china-xi-putin-reaffirm-priority-partners-status-slam-us-722521/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On a broader plane, India will need to do everything it can to strengthen its time-tested relationship with Russia through an early summit. Will it also consider its options about seeking a reset in its ties with China? But first Beijing must decide how to break the four-year-long impasse on the border issues. Will it? Watch this space.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China from 16–17 May to hold another summit with President Xi Jinping. This was his second visit to Beijing in six months.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China from 16–17 May to hold another summit with President Xi Jinping. This was his second visit to Beijing in six months. Putin and Xi have met over 40 times since 2010. The question every expert on International Affairs (IR) wants to raise is: what is the new outcome of the latest confabulations? The answer lies in a painstaking study of every statement made and every document issued by the two governments against the background of recent major interactions between the two leaders. The latest summit should be examined in the context of the historic February 2022 summit where the two sides announced a "no limits" partnership. Vladimir Putin's Beijing visit: Immediate backdrop The latest summit took place when the Ukraine conflict continued unabated. The news from the war front was good for Russia as its troops launched a fresh offensive in the Kharkiv region, securing additional territories. The contrast was stark, between a confident Putin walking on the red carpet in Beijing and a worried President Volodymyr Zelensky canceling his foreign visits due to the recent setbacks. An anxious Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, rushed to Kyiv to assure that more US aid was coming to Ukraine, as the Chinese President prepared to host a glittering banquet for his Russian guests. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba walk past St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery frescos in Kyiv, on May 15, 2024 | AFP The backdrop was also marked by Israel’s ‘no holds barred’ attack on Rafah in Gaza, despite near universal condemnation and opposition. The Western alliance led by the US found itself in a particularly vulnerable spot just when the Eastern Alliance composed of Russia and China demonstrated their unity and strength while condemning the US on account of its penchant for alliance formation and Cold War mentality! The Putin visit was also preceded by a further dip in US-China relations, as a series of visits by senior American officials to Beijing ended up in Washington imposing hefty increases in tariffs on the import of multiple Chinese products. Besides, Xi Jinping’s recent swing through Western and Central Europe showed his mettle in talking tough to the EU on the one hand and expanding the contours of cooperation with Serbia and Hungary on the other. Putin visit, optics and outcomes Television images conveying the majesty of protocol and military pomp associated with a state visit were designed to impress and convey that the Russia-China relationship is in its best phase. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and China's President Xi Jinping hold an informal meeting at Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing on May 16, 2024 | AFP via Sputnik After all, the visit was part of celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states. Public events revealed a positive personal chemistry between the two leaders. The presence of large teams of high-level officials from both sides at the talks was noted. The rest was left to be projected by Putin and Xi Jinping through their scripted remarks at the press conference and by the joint statement on ‘Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination’ for the ‘New Era’ in bilateral relations. Russia's President Vladimir Putin, China's President Xi Jinping and both sides' officials hold a meeting in Beijing on May 16, 2024 | AFP The two governments highlighted the importance of “five principles” that govern the China-Russia relationship which is touted as a prime example of a new form of international relations as well as of good-neighbourly relations. A closer look at these principles or special characteristics of the relations is advisable. First, mutual respect, equality and support for each other’s core interests and major concerns is a top driver. Does it not smell like an alliance? Second, satisfaction was voiced on the $240 billion bilateral trade, indicating a 2.7 times increase within a decade. This came with the resolve to expand cooperation in ports, transportation and logistics, and stable global industrial and supply chains. China has become a vital trading partner for Russia which stands hobbled by the impact of Western sanctions. Third, the significance of cultural relations and people-to-people ties was stressed, with a decision announced to celebrate 2024 and 2025 as the ‘China-Russia Years of Culture’ through a long series of cultural events to be held in both countries. Fourth, the value of strategic coordination was emphasized for safeguarding the UN-centered international system, including the new multilateral platforms. It was conveyed that, with Russia and China chairing BRICS and SCO respectively (the latter begins soon), “the two sides will support each other’s chairmanship.” Further, they would construct a high-quality partnership to build the unity and strength of the Global South. Fifth, the two sides pronounced themselves in favour of political settlements of the world’s hotspots. Urgent resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through a two-state formula was stressed. On the Ukraine war, they said that a political settlement was “the right way forward.” Russia endorsed the Chinese position on Ukraine, thereby giving a fillip to the latter’s dual role as a staunch supporter of Russia and a mediator of questionable credentials. Putin stated that many provisions of China’s 12-point peace plan were consistent with Russia’s approach and could be taken as a basis for peaceful settlement, but the West and Kyiv were not ready. Reactions, perceptions Without conveying anything significantly new or tangible, Russia and China utilised Putin’s visit to inform the world that their partnership was strong and blooming. They have their differences, but they are not talking about them. That is a subject to be deciphered by Western and Asian experts on Russia-China relations. A critical challenge in Beijing was how to address the adverse impact of US sanctions on the Russian economy and the recent US tariff measures against China. Putin seems to have pressed China to continue supplying equipment and technology such as machine tools, silicon chips, etc. to help its war-torn economy. A Singapore-based scholar, Hoo Tiang Boon, stated that both sides wished to show “that despite what is happening globally, despite the pressures that both sides are facing from the US, both sides are not about to turn their backs on each other anytime soon.” The country that received considerable criticism and negative attention during the parleys in Beijing was the US. This rattled Washington; the deputy spokesperson of the State Department observed that China could not “have its cake and eat it too.” Elaborating, he observed, “You cannot want to have deepened relations with Europe … while simultaneously continuing to fuel the biggest threat to European security in a long time.” On Ukraine, the White House stated that China's position was not impartial and urged the Chinese government to work for Russia’s immediate withdrawal from Ukraine. Putin's Beijing visit: View from New Delhi The Beijing summit has been watched with keen interest in the Indian capital, despite the latter’s all-consuming preoccupation with the ongoing general elections. How much closer China and Russia have moved to each other and how to identify the downside of this relationship are issues of much debate on the think tank circuit in New Delhi. However, one point is clear: increased coordination between Moscow and Beijing on all issues relating to BRICS and SCO and their coordinated approach towards the Global South imply that India needs to plan its responses very carefully. Also watch | Putin in China: Xi, Putin reaffirm 'priority partners' status, slam US × On a broader plane, India will need to do everything it can to strengthen its time-tested relationship with Russia through an early summit. Will it also consider its options about seeking a reset in its ties with China? But first Beijing must decide how to break the four-year-long impasse on the border issues. Will it? Watch this space. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Russia, China have their differences but Putin and Xi are not talking about them

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSsFdrgU4oUA9" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Friday (May 17) that Russia could intensify its offensive in Ukraine, adding his government&nbsp;would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution.&nbsp;In an interview with the news agency AFP,&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;also&nbsp;acknowledged that his military needed more men to&nbsp;boost the forces' morale.</p>

<p>"We need to staff the reserves... A large number of (brigades) are empty," Zelensky said amid a mobilisation law coming into force on Saturday.&nbsp;The law lowers the minimum age of mobilisation from 27 to 25 and streamlines mobilisation procedures. However, it scraps&nbsp;a vital proposal that would have given soldiers serving for more than 36 months the possibility to&nbsp;be discharged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-plans-of-capturing-ukraines-kharkiv-forces-creating-buffer-zone-putin-722547">Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky also repeated pleas for allies to send more air defence and fighter jets and said the "biggest advantage" for Russia was a ban on Ukraine using Western-donated weapons to strike Russian territory.</p>

<h2><strong>'No one is going to give&nbsp;up'</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky,&nbsp;who has been&nbsp;the face of Ukraine's resistance against Russia since Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022, told AFP on Friday that his country would&nbsp;hold its defensive lines and stop any&nbsp;major&nbsp;Russian breakthrough.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/future-of-war-will-private-military-contractors-take-over-715537/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"No one is going to give up," he said. "We want the war to end with a fair peace for us.&nbsp;While&nbsp;the West wants the war to end. Period. As soon as possible. And for them, this is a fair peace," the Ukrainian president added.</p>

<h2><strong>An appeal to China</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky appealed to China and other countries&nbsp;from the developing world to attend a peace summit with dozens of leaders being hosted by neutral Switzerland next month to which Russia has not&nbsp;been invited.</p>

<p>Zelensky pointed out that global players like China have influence over Russia. "And the more such countries we have on our side, on the side of the end of the war, I would say, the more Russia will have to move and reckon with," he told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Friday (May 17) that Russia could intensify its offensive in Ukraine, adding his government would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Friday (May 17) that Russia could intensify its offensive in Ukraine, adding his government would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution. In an interview with the news agency AFP, Zelensky also acknowledged that his military needed more men to boost the forces' morale. "We need to staff the reserves... A large number of (brigades) are empty," Zelensky said amid a mobilisation law coming into force on Saturday. The law lowers the minimum age of mobilisation from 27 to 25 and streamlines mobilisation procedures. However, it scraps a vital proposal that would have given soldiers serving for more than 36 months the possibility to be discharged. Also read | Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin Zelensky also repeated pleas for allies to send more air defence and fighter jets and said the "biggest advantage" for Russia was a ban on Ukraine using Western-donated weapons to strike Russian territory. 'No one is going to give up' Zelensky, who has been the face of Ukraine's resistance against Russia since Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022, told AFP on Friday that his country would hold its defensive lines and stop any major Russian breakthrough. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × "No one is going to give up," he said. "We want the war to end with a fair peace for us. While the West wants the war to end. Period. As soon as possible. And for them, this is a fair peace," the Ukrainian president added. An appeal to China Zelensky appealed to China and other countries from the developing world to attend a peace summit with dozens of leaders being hosted by neutral Switzerland next month to which Russia has not been invited. Zelensky pointed out that global players like China have influence over Russia. "And the more such countries we have on our side, on the side of the end of the war, I would say, the more Russia will have to move and reckon with," he told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Russia could intensify its offensive, need more men to boost forces' morale, says Zelensky

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidRhUb6KtrukKm" /></p>

<p>Russia's President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin&nbsp;on Friday (May 17) said that their current plan does not include capturing the Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Kharkiv.</p>

<p>He added that the Russian forces, which have been operating close to Kharkhiv, have been creating a “buffer zone” for their&nbsp;own&nbsp;security and to protect Russian border regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at a press conference in China, Putin said that all of the military operations were going ahead as per plan.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked Kharkiv to stop cross-border shelling: Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Putin&nbsp;said that a ground assault was launched by Russia into Ukraine's northeast to stop cross-border shelling.</p>

<p>On May 10, thousands of Russian troops launched artillery fire on various Ukrainian towns and villages and captured more than 200 square kilometres of land, which was the biggest advance made by the Russian Army in 18 months.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-advances-in-ukraines-kharkiv-region-to-create-buffer-zone-720105">New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive</a></p>

<p>"As for what is happening on the Kharkiv front, this is their fault, because they have shelled and continue to shell residential neighbourhoods in border areas including Belgorod," said Putin, while speaking to the reporters in the Chinese city of Harbin.</p>

<p>"And I said publicly that if this continues, we will be forced to create a security zone," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about Russia's plan to capture the city of Kharkiv, Putin said: "As for Kharkiv, there are no such plans as of today."</p>

<p>He added that he spoke about the Ukraine conflict with Chinese President Xi Jinping in an informal meeting, and appreciated the efforts of Beijing to end the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Will Ukraine strike deeper into Russia?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-will-ukraine-strike-deeper-into-russia-722232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"We have repeatedly said, we believe that China is sincerely seeking to resolve this problem, offers various options, and&nbsp;behaves very flexibly," said the Russian president.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian forces further advance in Kharkiv</strong></h2>

<p>The area of active combat was expanded by the Russian forces by almost 70 km as they launched their offensive in the&nbsp;Kharkiv&nbsp;region, confirmed Ukraine’s army chief&nbsp;Oleksandr Syrskyi on Friday (May 17).</p>

<p>Syrskyi said that Russia launched the offensive to force Ukraine to push additional reserve brigades into fighting.</p>

<p>He said that he expects fighting to intensify since Kyiv troops have also made preparations for defending the northern region of Sumy.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Friday (May 17) said that their current plan does not include capturing the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. He added that the Russian forces, which have been operating close to Kharkhiv, have been creating a “buffer zone” for their own security and to protect Russian border regions.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Friday (May 17) said that their current plan does not include capturing the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. He added that the Russian forces, which have been operating close to Kharkhiv, have been creating a “buffer zone” for their own security and to protect Russian border regions. While speaking at a press conference in China, Putin said that all of the military operations were going ahead as per plan. Russia attacked Kharkiv to stop cross-border shelling: Putin Putin said that a ground assault was launched by Russia into Ukraine's northeast to stop cross-border shelling. On May 10, thousands of Russian troops launched artillery fire on various Ukrainian towns and villages and captured more than 200 square kilometres of land, which was the biggest advance made by the Russian Army in 18 months. Also Read: New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive "As for what is happening on the Kharkiv front, this is their fault, because they have shelled and continue to shell residential neighbourhoods in border areas including Belgorod," said Putin, while speaking to the reporters in the Chinese city of Harbin. "And I said publicly that if this continues, we will be forced to create a security zone," he said. Speaking about Russia's plan to capture the city of Kharkiv, Putin said: "As for Kharkiv, there are no such plans as of today." He added that he spoke about the Ukraine conflict with Chinese President Xi Jinping in an informal meeting, and appreciated the efforts of Beijing to end the conflict. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Will Ukraine strike deeper into Russia? "We have repeatedly said, we believe that China is sincerely seeking to resolve this problem, offers various options, and behaves very flexibly," said the Russian president. Russian forces further advance in Kharkiv The area of active combat was expanded by the Russian forces by almost 70 km as they launched their offensive in the Kharkiv region, confirmed Ukraine’s army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi on Friday (May 17). Syrskyi said that Russia launched the offensive to force Ukraine to push additional reserve brigades into fighting. He said that he expects fighting to intensify since Kyiv troops have also made preparations for defending the northern region of Sumy. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin

vladimir-putin

Vladimir Putin, News on Vladimir Putin, stories on Vladimir Putin, articles on Vladimir Putin, Vladimir Putin stories at Wion, Vladimir Putin news, Vladimir Putin latest news

vladimir putin