<p>In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Nov 22) told the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) that it was extremely important to come up with a plan on how to stop "the tragedy" of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>He further blamed Ukraine for pulling out of the negotiation process stating that "Moscow never refused peace talks" with Kyiv.</p>

<p>"Of course, military actions are always a tragedy for people, families, and the country as a whole. And, of course, we must think about how to stop this tragedy," Putin said in his virtual address at the G20.</p>

<p>"By the way, Russia has never refused peace negotiations with Ukraine. It is not Russia, but Ukraine, that has publicly announced that it is withdrawing from the negotiation process. And moreover, a decree was signed by the head of state prohibiting such negotiations with Russia," he added.</p>

<p>The remarks by the Russian president during his very first address since the war began, were the most placatory to date about the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-investigating-vehicle-explosion-at-us-canada-bridge-near-niagara-falls-661692">Vehicle explosion at US-Canada bridge near Niagara Falls kills 2</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Situation in global economy requires collective, consensus decisions', says Putin</strong></h2>

<p>He then underlined that the current situation related to the global economy required collective, consensus decisions that reflect the opinions of the overwhelming majority of the international community.</p>

<p>"Now the situation in the global economy and in the world as a whole requires collective, consensus decisions that reflect the opinions of the overwhelming majority of the international community--both developed and developing countries," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cryptocurrency-firm-binance-was-used-by-hamas-other-terror-groups-to-funnel-money-treasury-department-661684">Cryptocurrency firm Binance used by Hamas, other terror groups to funnel money: US Treasury Department</a></p>

<p>"The world is undergoing processes of radical transformation. New powerful centres of global economic development are emerging and strengthening. A significant share of global investment, trade and consumption activity is shifting to Asian, African and Latin American regions, where the majority of the world's population lives," he added.</p>

<p>Putin noted that the global economy was witnessing a "direct consequence of the ill-conceived macroeconomic policies of some states."</p>

<p>"Turbulence in the markets is increasing. Chronic problems in the international financial sector, energy and food security are worsening. By the way, Russia fulfils all its obligations in this area and remains one of the largest food exporters. And today, I want to inform you that the first ships with free Russian grain have been sent to Africa, for example, to countries in need," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Nov 22) told the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) that it was extremely important to come up with a plan on how to stop "the tragedy" of the war in Ukraine.

In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Nov 22) told the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) that it was extremely important to come up with a plan on how to stop "the tragedy" of the war in Ukraine. He further blamed Ukraine for pulling out of the negotiation process stating that "Moscow never refused peace talks" with Kyiv. "Of course, military actions are always a tragedy for people, families, and the country as a whole. And, of course, we must think about how to stop this tragedy," Putin said in his virtual address at the G20. "By the way, Russia has never refused peace negotiations with Ukraine. It is not Russia, but Ukraine, that has publicly announced that it is withdrawing from the negotiation process. And moreover, a decree was signed by the head of state prohibiting such negotiations with Russia," he added. The remarks by the Russian president during his very first address since the war began, were the most placatory to date about the conflict. Also read: Vehicle explosion at US-Canada bridge near Niagara Falls kills 2 'Situation in global economy requires collective, consensus decisions', says Putin He then underlined that the current situation related to the global economy required collective, consensus decisions that reflect the opinions of the overwhelming majority of the international community. "Now the situation in the global economy and in the world as a whole requires collective, consensus decisions that reflect the opinions of the overwhelming majority of the international community--both developed and developing countries," he said. Also read: Cryptocurrency firm Binance used by Hamas, other terror groups to funnel money: US Treasury Department "The world is undergoing processes of radical transformation. New powerful centres of global economic development are emerging and strengthening. A significant share of global investment, trade and consumption activity is shifting to Asian, African and Latin American regions, where the majority of the world's population lives," he added. Putin noted that the global economy was witnessing a "direct consequence of the ill-conceived macroeconomic policies of some states." "Turbulence in the markets is increasing. Chronic problems in the international financial sector, energy and food security are worsening. By the way, Russia fulfils all its obligations in this area and remains one of the largest food exporters. And today, I want to inform you that the first ships with free Russian grain have been sent to Africa, for example, to countries in need," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin says Russia never refused peace talks with Ukraine, blames Kyiv for withdrawing

<p>Speaking in front of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the rest of the leaders of Group of Twenty (G20) nations during the virtual summit of the world's wealthiest economies, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the war in Ukraine is a "tragedy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was Russian President's first address in front of the G20 leaders since he announced a full-blown offensive on Ukraine in February 2022 which resulted in one of the most significant geopolitical tumults of the 21st century so far after 9/11 attacks.</p>

<p>Putin's offensive pushed previously neutral Finland into US-led transatlantic &nbsp;alliance (NATO). Sweden too formally applied for NATO membership, bringing the US forces (by virtue of them being the NATO allies) closest to Russian borders than they ever were.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has also somewhat managed to evade the impact of American sanctions by sale of crude oil at lower than international prices to a number of countries and utlising the economic potential of its military-industry complex as the war raged on.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trumps-wests-sanctions-as-moscow-proposes-largest-ever-federal-budget-659280">Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus</a></strong></p>

<p>"Some colleagues have already said in their speeches that they are shocked by the 'continuing aggression of Russia in Ukraine,'" Putin said on Wednesday (Nov 22).</p>

<p>"Yes, of course, military actions are always a tragedy," he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Specific people, specific families, and the country as a whole. And, of course, we must think about how to stop this tragedy."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Efforts for peace in past</strong></h2>

<p>Putin has accused Ukraine of failing to end the war despite having launched the offensive himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June 2023, in a meeting with leaders of Africa during a purported summit aimed at initiating peace process between Russia and Ukraine, Putin said Kyiv signed a peace treaty with Moscow in the spring of 2022, and then threw it into 'garbage of history'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a></strong></p>

<p>"It was called treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it."</p>

<p>"This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russian history books defend invasion of Ukraine</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-history-books-defend-invasion-of-ukraine-623591/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kremlin has said that they are ready to discuss peace talks with Ukraine as long as Western countries agree to a set of conditions, including the expansion of NATO towards and alongside the Russian borders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Speaking in front of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the rest of the leaders of Group of Twenty (G20) nations during the virtual summit of the world's wealthiest economies, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the war in Ukraine is a "tragedy".

Speaking in front of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the rest of the leaders of Group of Twenty (G20) nations during the virtual summit of the world's wealthiest economies, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the war in Ukraine is a "tragedy". This was Russian President's first address in front of the G20 leaders since he announced a full-blown offensive on Ukraine in February 2022 which resulted in one of the most significant geopolitical tumults of the 21st century so far after 9/11 attacks. Putin's offensive pushed previously neutral Finland into US-led transatlantic alliance (NATO). Sweden too formally applied for NATO membership, bringing the US forces (by virtue of them being the NATO allies) closest to Russian borders than they ever were. Russia has also somewhat managed to evade the impact of American sanctions by sale of crude oil at lower than international prices to a number of countries and utlising the economic potential of its military-industry complex as the war raged on. Also read | Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus "Some colleagues have already said in their speeches that they are shocked by the 'continuing aggression of Russia in Ukraine,'" Putin said on Wednesday (Nov 22). "Yes, of course, military actions are always a tragedy," he continued. "Specific people, specific families, and the country as a whole. And, of course, we must think about how to stop this tragedy." Russia-Ukraine war: Efforts for peace in past Putin has accused Ukraine of failing to end the war despite having launched the offensive himself. In June 2023, in a meeting with leaders of Africa during a purported summit aimed at initiating peace process between Russia and Ukraine, Putin said Kyiv signed a peace treaty with Moscow in the spring of 2022, and then threw it into 'garbage of history'. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' "It was called treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it." "This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty. Also watch | Russian history books defend invasion of Ukraine × Kremlin has said that they are ready to discuss peace talks with Ukraine as long as Western countries agree to a set of conditions, including the expansion of NATO towards and alongside the Russian borders. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin speaks about 'tragedy' of Ukraine war in front of India's Modi, other G20 leaders

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidT7T4DHrbabca" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 21) called for a political solution to the Israel-Hamas war and said that regional states and BRICS members could be involved in efforts to reach such a settlement. Addressing the BRICS Summit on the conflict virtually, Putin said, "We call for the joint efforts of the international community aimed at de-escalating the situation, a ceasefire and finding a political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. And the BRICS states and countries of the region could play a key role in this work."</p>

<p>However, Putin did not elaborate on how such an effort would be organised. The Russian president once again blamed the Middle East crisis on the failure of US diplomacy in the region.</p>

<p>Putin also said it was "terrible" that Palestinian children were dying in large numbers.</p>

<h2><strong>BRICS nations urge immediate truce in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>In a joint statement, the BRICS group of nations,&nbsp;which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, called for an immediate truce in the Gaza Strip. "We called&nbsp;for an immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities," the grouping said in a statement.</p>

<p>BRICS members said that a long-term diplomatic solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict was needed to ensure peace.</p>

<p>"We reiterated our commitment to the peaceful resolution of differences and disputes through dialogue and inclusive consultations in a coordinated and cooperative manner and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises," the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>South Africa accuses Israel of war crimes</strong></h2>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who chaired the summit, accused Israel of war crimes and genocide in Gaza. "The collective punishment of Palestinian civilians through the unlawful use of force by Israel is a war crime. The deliberate denial of medicine, fuel, food and water to the residents of Gaza is tantamount to genocide," President Ramaphosa said.</p>

<p>He called for the deployment of UN force "to monitor the cessation of hostilities and protect civilians."</p>

<p>"As individual countries, we have demonstrated our grave concern at the death and destruction in Gaza," he told the summit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 21) called for a political solution to the Israel-Hamas war and said that regional states and BRICS members could be involved in efforts to reach such a settlement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 21) called for a political solution to the Israel-Hamas war and said that regional states and BRICS members could be involved in efforts to reach such a settlement. Addressing the BRICS Summit on the conflict virtually, Putin said, "We call for the joint efforts of the international community aimed at de-escalating the situation, a ceasefire and finding a political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. And the BRICS states and countries of the region could play a key role in this work." However, Putin did not elaborate on how such an effort would be organised. The Russian president once again blamed the Middle East crisis on the failure of US diplomacy in the region. Putin also said it was "terrible" that Palestinian children were dying in large numbers. BRICS nations urge immediate truce in Gaza In a joint statement, the BRICS group of nations, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, called for an immediate truce in the Gaza Strip. "We called for an immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities," the grouping said in a statement. BRICS members said that a long-term diplomatic solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict was needed to ensure peace. "We reiterated our commitment to the peaceful resolution of differences and disputes through dialogue and inclusive consultations in a coordinated and cooperative manner and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises," the statement added. South Africa accuses Israel of war crimes South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who chaired the summit, accused Israel of war crimes and genocide in Gaza. "The collective punishment of Palestinian civilians through the unlawful use of force by Israel is a war crime. The deliberate denial of medicine, fuel, food and water to the residents of Gaza is tantamount to genocide," President Ramaphosa said. He called for the deployment of UN force "to monitor the cessation of hostilities and protect civilians." "As individual countries, we have demonstrated our grave concern at the death and destruction in Gaza," he told the summit. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: BRICS could help reach political settlement in conflict, says Putin

<p>Iran-backed Houthi rebels hijacked an India-bound ship in the Red Sea. According to the Israel Defense Forces on Sunday (Nov 19), Galaxy Leader was sailing from Turkey to India with an international crew which did not include Israelis. There were 52 crew on board.</p>

<p>In the United States, four women were shot dead and one injured after a string of shootings rocked Tennessee. Hours later, the attacker was found dead.</p>

<p>In news from the raging Israel-Hamas war, Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Sunday that the challenges to the hostage deal were logistical.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-confirms-houthis-hijacked-ship-in-red-sea-but-says-its-not-israeli-vessel-660542">IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394138-galaxy-leader.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday (Nov 19) confirmed the hacking of a shipping vessel in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. According to a report by the Times of Israel, the IDF said the hijacking was a very serious incident on a global scale.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-four-women-killed-one-injured-in-series-of-shootings-across-memphis-gunman-found-dead-later-660481"><strong>US: Four women killed, one injured in series of shootings across Memphis, gunman found dead</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394108-memphis.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Four women were shot dead and one injured after a string of shootings rocked Tennessee in US. Hours later, the attacker was found dead — in what police believe — to be a “self-inflicted gunshot wound.”</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-challenges-to-hostage-deal-are-logistical-says-qatar-pm-660454">Israel-Hamas war: Challenges to hostage deal are logistical, says Qatar PM</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394093-untitled-design.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Sunday (Nov 19) that the challenges to the Israel-Hamas war hostage deal were logistical.&nbsp;"The challenges that remain in the negotiations are very minor compared to the bigger challenges, they are more logistical, they are more practical," Al Thani said.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/putin-to-attend-virtual-g20-summit-next-week-after-lavrov-led-delegation-during-in-person-sept-summit-660540">Putin to attend virtual G20 Summit next week after Lavrov led delegation during in-person Sept Summit</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388684-2023-10-24t093317z1lynxmpej9n0dgrtroptp4russia-putin.JPG?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to participate in the upcoming virtual G20 leaders' summit on Wednesday (Nov 22) after his absence from the in-person meeting held in New Delhi in September.&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was the one who led the Russian delegation to the G20 summit hosted by India.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ufo-sighted-in-india-manipurs-imphal-airport-shutdown-after-unusual-activity-660494">UFO sighted in India? Manipur’s Imphal airport shutdown after unusual activity</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394112-airport.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>India’s northeastern Manipur state has been on alert after an unidentified flying object was spotted near the capital Imphal city airport's runway on Sunday (Nov 19). The unidentified aerial vehicle was spotted in the afternoon at 2 pm (local time) by a&nbsp; Central Industrial Security Force&nbsp;(CISF) personnel following which operations were halted and around 500&nbsp;passengers of three outbound flights were stranded.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-achieve-major-leap-forward-to-potential-hair-loss-cure-660474">Scientists achieve major leap forward to potential hair-loss cure</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394106-untitled-design-2023-11-19t180639105.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Scientists in the United States successfully 3D-printed hair follicles within lab-grown human skin tissue, a first in the evolving history of biomedical engineering. The results of the study from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute of New York were published in the journal Science Advances.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamys-hindu-faith-led-him-into-presidential-race-entrepreneur-advocates-for-traditional-values-660437">Vivek Ramaswamy says his Hindu faith led him into presidential race, advocates traditional values</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/02/377221-the-battle-for-kyiv-23.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy who is in the race for the presidency said that his Hindu faith has been a guiding force in his decision to enter the presidential campaign. At 'The Family Leader' forum, hosted by The Daily Signal, the 38-year-old spoke on Hinduism, Christianity, and the traditional family values that shape his worldview.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-becomes-4-trillion-economy-creates-history-report-660438">Has India become a $4-trillion economy? Social media abuzz with rumours</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394085-india-economy.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Social media in India was abuzz with unconfirmed reports that&nbsp;India’s gross domestic product (GDP) breached the $4 trillion mark in nominal terms. If it is true, then it will make New Delhi the fifth-largest economy globally.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-breaking-hearts-of-14bn-indians-australia-win-final-to-become-six-time-world-champions-660543">Breaking hearts of 1.4 billion Indians, Australia win final to become six-time world champions</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/19/394128-screenshot-2023-11-19-204514.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Breaking the hearts of over 1.4 billion Indians, Australia romped to a six-wicket victory against India in front of a stunned 130,000 home fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19) evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-iman-vellani-on-the-marvels-box-office-performance-that%E2%80%99s-not-even-in-my-control-660515">Iman Vellani on The Marvels' box office performance: That’s not even in my control</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/12/344905-the-marvels.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Iman Vellani has a perfect answer when it comes to box office questions. Vellani's last MCU outing&nbsp;<em>The Marvels</em>&nbsp;starring Beir Larson, opened with disappointing numbers at the box office. MCU's most recent release&nbsp;<em>The Marvels</em>&nbsp;failed to create its magic at the box office, as it earned $47 million in its opening weekend, the worst for any Marvel film.&nbsp;</p>


Iran-backed Houthi rebels hijacked an India-bound ship in the Red Sea. According to the Israel Defense Forces on Sunday (Nov 19), Galaxy Leader was sailing from Turkey to India with an international crew which did not include Israelis.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels hijacked an India-bound ship in the Red Sea. According to the Israel Defense Forces on Sunday (Nov 19), Galaxy Leader was sailing from Turkey to India with an international crew which did not include Israelis. There were 52 crew on board. In the United States, four women were shot dead and one injured after a string of shootings rocked Tennessee. Hours later, the attacker was found dead. In news from the raging Israel-Hamas war, Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Sunday that the challenges to the hostage deal were logistical. Click on the headlines to read more: IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday (Nov 19) confirmed the hacking of a shipping vessel in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. According to a report by the Times of Israel, the IDF said the hijacking was a very serious incident on a global scale. US: Four women killed, one injured in series of shootings across Memphis, gunman found dead Four women were shot dead and one injured after a string of shootings rocked Tennessee in US. Hours later, the attacker was found dead — in what police believe — to be a “self-inflicted gunshot wound.” Israel-Hamas war: Challenges to hostage deal are logistical, says Qatar PM Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Sunday (Nov 19) that the challenges to the Israel-Hamas war hostage deal were logistical. "The challenges that remain in the negotiations are very minor compared to the bigger challenges, they are more logistical, they are more practical," Al Thani said. Putin to attend virtual G20 Summit next week after Lavrov led delegation during in-person Sept Summit Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to participate in the upcoming virtual G20 leaders' summit on Wednesday (Nov 22) after his absence from the in-person meeting held in New Delhi in September. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was the one who led the Russian delegation to the G20 summit hosted by India. UFO sighted in India? Manipur’s Imphal airport shutdown after unusual activity India’s northeastern Manipur state has been on alert after an unidentified flying object was spotted near the capital Imphal city airport's runway on Sunday (Nov 19). The unidentified aerial vehicle was spotted in the afternoon at 2 pm (local time) by a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel following which operations were halted and around 500 passengers of three outbound flights were stranded. Scientists achieve major leap forward to potential hair-loss cure Scientists in the United States successfully 3D-printed hair follicles within lab-grown human skin tissue, a first in the evolving history of biomedical engineering. The results of the study from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute of New York were published in the journal Science Advances. Vivek Ramaswamy says his Hindu faith led him into presidential race, advocates traditional values Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy who is in the race for the presidency said that his Hindu faith has been a guiding force in his decision to enter the presidential campaign. At 'The Family Leader' forum, hosted by The Daily Signal, the 38-year-old spoke on Hinduism, Christianity, and the traditional family values that shape his worldview. Has India become a $4-trillion economy? Social media abuzz with rumours Social media in India was abuzz with unconfirmed reports that India’s gross domestic product (GDP) breached the $4 trillion mark in nominal terms. If it is true, then it will make New Delhi the fifth-largest economy globally. Breaking hearts of 1.4 billion Indians, Australia win final to become six-time world champions Breaking the hearts of over 1.4 billion Indians, Australia romped to a six-wicket victory against India in front of a stunned 130,000 home fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19) evening. Iman Vellani on The Marvels' box office performance: That’s not even in my control Iman Vellani has a perfect answer when it comes to box office questions. Vellani's last MCU outing The Marvels starring Beir Larson, opened with disappointing numbers at the box office. MCU's most recent release The Marvels failed to create its magic at the box office, as it earned $47 million in its opening weekend, the worst for any Marvel film.

Top 10 world news: Houthis hijack India-bound ship in Red Sea, and more

Russian President Vladimir Putin will take part in a virtual G20 leader summit on Wednesday. Putin has taken very few trips outside Russia since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him.

Virtual G20 leaders summit: Vladimir Putin to attend virtual G20 summit on Wednesday | WION

<p>Igor Girkin, a prominent ultranationalist currently in Russian custody on charges of inciting extremism, has nominated himself for the 2024 presidential race, according to an announcement made on his behalf by Oleg Nelzin, co-chair of the Russian Movement for Strelkov.</p>

<p>Girkin, who previously asserted he would make a better president than Vladimir Putin, issued a letter instructing his followers to establish a headquarters and gather signatures for his candidacy.</p>

<p>Girkin's August statement from custody, where he criticised Putin as "too kind" and declared his own presidential ambitions, was laden with irony. Despite being considered an improbable contender, Girkin, also known for his role in the downing of a Malaysian passenger plane over eastern Ukraine in 2014, has persisted in pursuing his political aspirations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Putin calls Israel against using 'cruel' tactics in Gaza</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-putin-calls-israel-against-using-cruel-tactics-in-gaza-659521/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Extending investigation and signature collection</strong></h2>

<p>Supporters of Girkin announced in September that the criminal investigation into his activities had been extended until December 18.</p>

<p>In response, Girkin's letter, as read by Nelzin, directed his followers to actively organise and collect the necessary signatures for his presidential candidacy, signalling a determined push for political relevance.</p>

<p>Girkin, who lost an appeal against pre-trial detention in August, is recognised in the West for his conviction in absentia by a Dutch court regarding the Malaysian plane incident. His controversial past and legal battles add complexity to his unexpected bid for the presidency.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trumps-wests-sanctions-as-moscow-proposes-largest-ever-federal-budget-659280">Also read |&nbsp;Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus</a></p>

<h2><strong>Putin's unmatched&nbsp;popularity</strong></h2>

<p>While Girkin pursues his political ambitions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has asserted that Putin enjoys unprecedented support and would secure an overwhelming majority if he chose to run in the 2024 election.</p>

<p>The emergence of Girkin as a contender adds a layer of intrigue to Russia's political landscape, prompting scrutiny and speculation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Igor Girkin, a prominent ultranationalist currently in Russian custody on charges of inciting extremism, has nominated himself for the 2024 presidential race, according to an announcement made on his behalf by Oleg Nelzin, co-chair of the Russian Movement for Strelkov.

Igor Girkin, a prominent ultranationalist currently in Russian custody on charges of inciting extremism, has nominated himself for the 2024 presidential race, according to an announcement made on his behalf by Oleg Nelzin, co-chair of the Russian Movement for Strelkov. Girkin, who previously asserted he would make a better president than Vladimir Putin, issued a letter instructing his followers to establish a headquarters and gather signatures for his candidacy. Girkin's August statement from custody, where he criticised Putin as "too kind" and declared his own presidential ambitions, was laden with irony. Despite being considered an improbable contender, Girkin, also known for his role in the downing of a Malaysian passenger plane over eastern Ukraine in 2014, has persisted in pursuing his political aspirations. Also watch | Putin calls Israel against using 'cruel' tactics in Gaza Extending investigation and signature collection Supporters of Girkin announced in September that the criminal investigation into his activities had been extended until December 18. In response, Girkin's letter, as read by Nelzin, directed his followers to actively organise and collect the necessary signatures for his presidential candidacy, signalling a determined push for political relevance. Girkin, who lost an appeal against pre-trial detention in August, is recognised in the West for his conviction in absentia by a Dutch court regarding the Malaysian plane incident. His controversial past and legal battles add complexity to his unexpected bid for the presidency. Also read | Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus Putin's unmatched popularity While Girkin pursues his political ambitions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has asserted that Putin enjoys unprecedented support and would secure an overwhelming majority if he chose to run in the 2024 election. The emergence of Girkin as a contender adds a layer of intrigue to Russia's political landscape, prompting scrutiny and speculation. (With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Russian ultranationalist nominates self for 2024 presidential race. Can he beat Putin?

<p>Russia's Duma, the country's equivalent of a parliament, on Wednesday (Nov 15) moved towards the approval of its largest-ever federal budget since the disintegration of Soviet Union. The projection denotes a whopping 25 per cent increase in spending for 2024 with focus on defence.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The proposed budget signals a historic shift&nbsp;as defence expenditures are expected to surpass social spending ahead of the upcoming presidential election in March. The robust budget is facilitated by Russia's ability to withstand sanctions due to sustained revenue from oil exports, despite being shunned in the West.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-the-money-is-influencing-a-new-space-race-with-indias-boom-and-russias-crunch-628286">How the money is influencing a new space race with India’s boom and Russia’s crunch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Experts cited in the western media viewed it as a strategic move aimed at addressing conflicts in Ukraine and preparing for potential military confrontations with the West and called it&nbsp;a comprehensive remilitarisation of Russian society.</p>

<p>"This amounts to the wholesale remilitarisation of Russian society," Richard Connolly, an expert on Russia’s military and economy at the Royal United Services Institute in London told Associated Press.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia 2024 annual budget: Specific proposals</strong></h2>

<p>The draft budget outlines an expected expenditure of 36.66 trillion rubles (approximately $411 billion) in 2024, with a forecasted budget deficit of 0.8 per cent of Russia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia to increase spending in 2024</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-to-increase-spending-in-2024-638840/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Notably, a significant portion of the budget is yet to be disclosed, reflecting the budgetary spending that could have been proposed towards Moscow's war-effort in Ukraine that began in February 2022 and is continuing since.</p>

<p>Approximately 39 per cent of federal spending in 2024 is allocated to defence and law enforcement, according to independent business journalists Farida Rustamova and Maksim Tovkaylo, Associated Press reported.</p>

<p>Besides, Russia's Central Bank, expecting 4.5 per cent inflation in 2024, has raised key interest rates to 15 per cent to counter inflationary pressures.</p>

<p>Russia's move towards a record federal budget signals a specific focus on defence amid potential economic challenges they may pose in the long term.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia's Duma, the country's equivalent of a parliament, on Wednesday (Nov 15) moved towards the approval of its largest-ever federal budget since the disintegration of Soviet Union.

Russia's Duma, the country's equivalent of a parliament, on Wednesday (Nov 15) moved towards the approval of its largest-ever federal budget since the disintegration of Soviet Union. The projection denotes a whopping 25 per cent increase in spending for 2024 with focus on defence. What does it mean? The proposed budget signals a historic shift as defence expenditures are expected to surpass social spending ahead of the upcoming presidential election in March. The robust budget is facilitated by Russia's ability to withstand sanctions due to sustained revenue from oil exports, despite being shunned in the West. Also read | How the money is influencing a new space race with India’s boom and Russia’s crunch Experts cited in the western media viewed it as a strategic move aimed at addressing conflicts in Ukraine and preparing for potential military confrontations with the West and called it a comprehensive remilitarisation of Russian society. "This amounts to the wholesale remilitarisation of Russian society," Richard Connolly, an expert on Russia’s military and economy at the Royal United Services Institute in London told Associated Press. Russia 2024 annual budget: Specific proposals The draft budget outlines an expected expenditure of 36.66 trillion rubles (approximately $411 billion) in 2024, with a forecasted budget deficit of 0.8 per cent of Russia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Also watch | Russia to increase spending in 2024 × Notably, a significant portion of the budget is yet to be disclosed, reflecting the budgetary spending that could have been proposed towards Moscow's war-effort in Ukraine that began in February 2022 and is continuing since. Approximately 39 per cent of federal spending in 2024 is allocated to defence and law enforcement, according to independent business journalists Farida Rustamova and Maksim Tovkaylo, Associated Press reported. Besides, Russia's Central Bank, expecting 4.5 per cent inflation in 2024, has raised key interest rates to 15 per cent to counter inflationary pressures. Russia's move towards a record federal budget signals a specific focus on defence amid potential economic challenges they may pose in the long term. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin’s oldest daughter Maria Vorontsova recently criticised the patient care laws which was adopted in her father’s regime.<br />
<br />
Vorontsova was appointed to the board of the Moscow Society of Medical Genetics, reported the independent news outlet Mozhem Obyasnit on Monday (Nov 13).<br />
<br />
The news site cited the daughter’s public profile which was uploaded on the website of the organisation and a video in which she can be heard while speaking at a conference, criticising laws which were adopted when her father was in office, as reported by The Moscow Times.<br />
<br />
Putin's daughter Vorontsova is a candidate of medical sciences which can be considered equivalent to a Ph.D. in Western countries. She has received training as an endocrinologist.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russiann-media-announces-retreat-of-forces-from-dnipro-river-only-to-retract-within-minutes-658238">Russian media announces retreat of forces from Dnipro River, only to retract within minutes</a></p>

<p>The Moscow Society of Medical Genetics' website has listed Maria Vorontsova among 11 doctors who are associated with the organisation which was founded two years ago, as per Mozhem Obyasnit news outlet.<br />
<br />
The outlet reported that as a part of the medical organisation, Vorontsova criticised the country's patient care laws which came into effect at the time when her father was president.<br />
<br />
A video of Vorontsova addressing a genetics conference in May was shared on YouTube in which she was seen criticising the practices which are associated with informed consent and which allow doctors to remain free from certain legal liabilities.<br />
<br />
"It's a crude tool. I understand this as a patient. After all, the patient is given a pile of papers, which he signs without even [understanding] the details," she stated, in the video shared.</p>

<h2><strong>US, UK and other nations issue sanctions against Putin's daughters</strong></h2>

<p>The US, UK, EU, Japan and New Zealand had issued sanctions against Vorontsova and her younger sister Katerina Tikhonova in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling kills three people</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-russian-shelling-kills-three-people-658541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
The EU stated that Vorontsova has been on its list because she is the co-owner of a company called Nomenko which is "involved in Russia's largest private investment project in healthcare."<br />
<br />
Thus, it was believed that she is benefitting from the Russian government and has been involved in a sector and providing its revenue from the same.<br />
<br />
The lives of the daughters of Putin have been kept closely guarded by the Kremlin. In the public, Putin has not acknowledged Tikhonova and Vorontsova as his daughters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin’s oldest daughter Maria Vorontsova recently criticised the patient care laws which was adopted in her father’s regime. Vorontsova was appointed to the board of the Moscow Society of Medical Genetics, reported the independent news outlet Mozhem Obyasnit on Monday (Nov 13).

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s oldest daughter Maria Vorontsova recently criticised the patient care laws which was adopted in her father’s regime. Vorontsova was appointed to the board of the Moscow Society of Medical Genetics, reported the independent news outlet Mozhem Obyasnit on Monday (Nov 13). The news site cited the daughter’s public profile which was uploaded on the website of the organisation and a video in which she can be heard while speaking at a conference, criticising laws which were adopted when her father was in office, as reported by The Moscow Times. Putin's daughter Vorontsova is a candidate of medical sciences which can be considered equivalent to a Ph.D. in Western countries. She has received training as an endocrinologist. ALSO READ | Russian media announces retreat of forces from Dnipro River, only to retract within minutes The Moscow Society of Medical Genetics' website has listed Maria Vorontsova among 11 doctors who are associated with the organisation which was founded two years ago, as per Mozhem Obyasnit news outlet. The outlet reported that as a part of the medical organisation, Vorontsova criticised the country's patient care laws which came into effect at the time when her father was president. A video of Vorontsova addressing a genetics conference in May was shared on YouTube in which she was seen criticising the practices which are associated with informed consent and which allow doctors to remain free from certain legal liabilities. "It's a crude tool. I understand this as a patient. After all, the patient is given a pile of papers, which he signs without even [understanding] the details," she stated, in the video shared. US, UK and other nations issue sanctions against Putin's daughters The US, UK, EU, Japan and New Zealand had issued sanctions against Vorontsova and her younger sister Katerina Tikhonova in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling kills three people The EU stated that Vorontsova has been on its list because she is the co-owner of a company called Nomenko which is "involved in Russia's largest private investment project in healthcare." Thus, it was believed that she is benefitting from the Russian government and has been involved in a sector and providing its revenue from the same. The lives of the daughters of Putin have been kept closely guarded by the Kremlin. In the public, Putin has not acknowledged Tikhonova and Vorontsova as his daughters. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin’s daughter criticises laws adopted during father’s regime

<p>Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per&nbsp;Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban.</p>

<h2><strong>Which VPN services are vulnerable?</strong></h2>

<p>The RIA news agency report did not mention any particular VPN networks, instead, it said that certain Virtual Private Networks and protocols which are believed to be a threat will be banned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-zelensky-lie-all-this-while-new-report-claims-ukrainian-military-officer-coordinated-nord-stream-sabotage-657729">Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage</a></strong></p>

<p>Quoting correspondence from Russian digital ministry, it reported that a commission of experts will take the decision about whether a VPN poses a threat or not.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian lawmaker expresses concern</strong></h2>

<p>Lawmaker Anton Tkachev has voiced concerns about alleged plans by the Russian government to effectively block all Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tkachev argued that implementing a broad restriction on all VPNs would intensify pressure on Russians, restricting their access to everyday devices. The move, if enforced, could impact citizens' ability to use common household appliances that rely on internet connectivity, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-air-defenders-shot-down-russian-missiles-as-kyiv-pounded-for-first-attack-in-months-657697">Ukraine's air defenders shoot down Russian missiles as Kyiv is pounded for first time in months</a></strong></p>

<p>In response to Tkachev's address, the digital ministry as quoted by the RIA has issued a reply. It said that "On the basis of a decision by the expert commission… the filtration of certain VPN services and VPN protocols can be carried out on the mobile communication network for foreign traffic which is identified as a threat."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia and VPNs</strong></h2>

<p>Russia as per Reuters put in place restrictions on access to certain Western social media platforms after President Vladimir Putin ordered the deployment of troops into Ukraine in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following that, the demand for VPN services experienced a significant surge. According to RIA, the Russian digital ministry has identified this circumvention of restrictions on specific information as a potential threat.</p>

<p>Previously, in 2017, Russia implemented a law mandating VPN technology providers to collaborate with Russian authorities, compelling them to restrict access to content banned by Russia. Failure to comply with this law could result in prohibition. However, despite these regulations, VPN services continue to be widely used in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban.

Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban. Which VPN services are vulnerable? The RIA news agency report did not mention any particular VPN networks, instead, it said that certain Virtual Private Networks and protocols which are believed to be a threat will be banned. Also read | Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage Quoting correspondence from Russian digital ministry, it reported that a commission of experts will take the decision about whether a VPN poses a threat or not. Russian lawmaker expresses concern Lawmaker Anton Tkachev has voiced concerns about alleged plans by the Russian government to effectively block all Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Tkachev argued that implementing a broad restriction on all VPNs would intensify pressure on Russians, restricting their access to everyday devices. The move, if enforced, could impact citizens' ability to use common household appliances that rely on internet connectivity, he said. Also read | Ukraine's air defenders shoot down Russian missiles as Kyiv is pounded for first time in months In response to Tkachev's address, the digital ministry as quoted by the RIA has issued a reply. It said that "On the basis of a decision by the expert commission… the filtration of certain VPN services and VPN protocols can be carried out on the mobile communication network for foreign traffic which is identified as a threat." Russia and VPNs Russia as per Reuters put in place restrictions on access to certain Western social media platforms after President Vladimir Putin ordered the deployment of troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Following that, the demand for VPN services experienced a significant surge. According to RIA, the Russian digital ministry has identified this circumvention of restrictions on specific information as a potential threat. Previously, in 2017, Russia implemented a law mandating VPN technology providers to collaborate with Russian authorities, compelling them to restrict access to content banned by Russia. Failure to comply with this law could result in prohibition. However, despite these regulations, VPN services continue to be widely used in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to ban VPN services 'identified as a threat'

<p>Vladimir Putin will be taking part in the March presidential elections in Russia, Reuters news agency reported on Monday (Nov 6) citing sources.</p>

<p>If he wins, which he most likely will, the Russian leader, who turned 71 on Oct 7, will remain in power until 2030, making him the longest-serving leader in Russia since the inception of the Soviet Union.</p>

<p>Putin succeeded Boris Yeltsin on the last day of 1999. He has already served as president for longer than any other Russian ruler since Josef Stalin.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin pegged to be the winner&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Though the confirmation hasn’t been made official yet, Reuters reported that Putin enjoys 80 per cent approval ratings.</p>

<p>With no opposition leader rallying that much support, and the supposed support from the state, Putin is pegged to be the clear winner.</p>

<p>"The decision has been made - he will run," one of the sources who has knowledge of planning told Reuters.</p>

<p>Kommersant newspaper also reported, citing a source, that a formal announced would made with a few weeks.</p>

<p>Another source told Reuters that Putin’s advisers were preparing for his participation and that Putin has made his mind about the presidential elections.</p>

<p>"The world we look out upon is very dangerous," one of the sources was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Official confirmation awaited&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>There has been no official confirmation from the Kremlin till now, but spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in September that if Putin decided to run, then no one would be able to compete with him.</p>

<p>The reports of Putin running for president come at a time when rumours about his purported ill health have been raging since the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p>The Kremlin has dismissed reports that Putin was unwell as disinformation spread by the West.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-rare-move-us-announces-entry-of-nuclear-submarine-in-middle-east-655546">In rare move, US announces entry of nuclear submarine into Middle East</a></p>

<p>"Everything is fine with him, this is absolutely another fake," Peskov responded on Oct 24 when asked about an unsourced report by a Russian Telegram channel, picked up by some Western media, that the President had suffered a serious health problem.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-semitic-crimes-surge-in-france-over-1000-acts-recorded-since-october-7-hamas-attack-655582">Anti-Semitic crimes surge in France: 1,000+ recorded since Oct 7 Hamas attack</a></p>

<p>The spokesman laughed in response to a further question about body doubles, and denied that Putin had any.</p>

<p>"This belongs to the category of absurd information hoaxes that a whole series of media discuss with enviable tenacity. This evokes nothing but a smile," Peskov said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Vladimir Putin will be taking part in the March presidential elections in Russia, Reuters news agency reported on Monday (Nov 6) citing sources. If he wins, which he most likely will, the Russian leader, who turned 71 on Oct 7, will remain in power until 2030, making him the longest-serving leader in Russia since the inception of the Soviet Union.

Vladimir Putin will be taking part in the March presidential elections in Russia, Reuters news agency reported on Monday (Nov 6) citing sources. If he wins, which he most likely will, the Russian leader, who turned 71 on Oct 7, will remain in power until 2030, making him the longest-serving leader in Russia since the inception of the Soviet Union. Putin succeeded Boris Yeltsin on the last day of 1999. He has already served as president for longer than any other Russian ruler since Josef Stalin. Putin pegged to be the winner Though the confirmation hasn’t been made official yet, Reuters reported that Putin enjoys 80 per cent approval ratings. With no opposition leader rallying that much support, and the supposed support from the state, Putin is pegged to be the clear winner. "The decision has been made - he will run," one of the sources who has knowledge of planning told Reuters. Kommersant newspaper also reported, citing a source, that a formal announced would made with a few weeks. Another source told Reuters that Putin’s advisers were preparing for his participation and that Putin has made his mind about the presidential elections. "The world we look out upon is very dangerous," one of the sources was quoted as saying. Official confirmation awaited There has been no official confirmation from the Kremlin till now, but spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in September that if Putin decided to run, then no one would be able to compete with him. The reports of Putin running for president come at a time when rumours about his purported ill health have been raging since the Russia-Ukraine war. The Kremlin has dismissed reports that Putin was unwell as disinformation spread by the West. Also read | In rare move, US announces entry of nuclear submarine into Middle East "Everything is fine with him, this is absolutely another fake," Peskov responded on Oct 24 when asked about an unsourced report by a Russian Telegram channel, picked up by some Western media, that the President had suffered a serious health problem. Also read | Anti-Semitic crimes surge in France: 1,000+ recorded since Oct 7 Hamas attack The spokesman laughed in response to a further question about body doubles, and denied that Putin had any. "This belongs to the category of absurd information hoaxes that a whole series of media discuss with enviable tenacity. This evokes nothing but a smile," Peskov said. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin to run for March presidential election, seeks to remain in power until at least 2030: Report

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidbjlIZ3wG0Rnj" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>An ally of President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Nov 2) that Poland, a NATO member state, was now considered a dangerous enemy by Russia and could end up losing its statehood if it continued on its current course.&nbsp;Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president, made this remark in an article on Russia-Poland relations, the news agency Reuters reported.</p>

<p>Medvedev, now the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said in the article that Moscow would treat Poland precisely as a historical enemy. "If there is no hope for reconciliation with the enemy, Russia should have only one and a very tough attitude regarding its fate," Medvedev said.</p>

<p>"History has more than once delivered a merciless verdict to the presumptuous Poles: no matter how ambitious the revanchist plans may be, their collapse could lead to the death of Polish statehood in its entirety," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Poland slams Medvedev's warning</strong></h2>

<p>Stanisław Żaryn, a Polish security official, slammed Medvedev's warning and told the PAP news agency that Russian leaders had been stoking hatred towards Poland for many years.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="pl">Kilka słów komentarza o ost. ataku propagandowym D. Miedwiediewa na Polskę, a także szerszym kontekście. Kreml próbuje wymusić na Zachodzie zgodę na reset i wznowienie relacji. Polska mu w tym przeszkadza, więc jest - i będzie - atakowana.<a href="https://t.co/OAFkNOkYQR">https://t.co/OAFkNOkYQR</a></p>
— Stanisław Żaryn (@StZaryn) <a href="https://twitter.com/StZaryn/status/1720346878322016713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Żaryn said that Medvedev's article was full of hatred and threats against Poland and NATO and typical of Krelmin's propaganda. The official told PAP Medvedev “repeated the main lies propagated against Poland.”</p>

<p>His article proved that Moscow was aware of Warsaw's role in significantly reducing Russia’s influence in Europe in recent years. Russia was also seeking to pressure Europe into resuming political and economic cooperation with Russia, while Poland was blocking such an operation which sparked aggression from the Kremlin.</p>

<p>Russia's ongoing offensive in Ukraine has further strained the relations between Moscow and Warsaw. Poland has backed Ukraine since the beginning of the war in February last year, providing Kyiv with weapons, and financial and humanitarian aid worth around $4.5 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


An ally of President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Nov 2) that Poland, a NATO member state, was now considered a dangerous enemy by Russia and could end up losing its statehood if it continued on its current course.

An ally of President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Nov 2) that Poland, a NATO member state, was now considered a dangerous enemy by Russia and could end up losing its statehood if it continued on its current course. Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president, made this remark in an article on Russia-Poland relations, the news agency Reuters reported. Medvedev, now the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said in the article that Moscow would treat Poland precisely as a historical enemy. "If there is no hope for reconciliation with the enemy, Russia should have only one and a very tough attitude regarding its fate," Medvedev said. "History has more than once delivered a merciless verdict to the presumptuous Poles: no matter how ambitious the revanchist plans may be, their collapse could lead to the death of Polish statehood in its entirety," he added. Poland slams Medvedev's warning Stanisław Żaryn, a Polish security official, slammed Medvedev's warning and told the PAP news agency that Russian leaders had been stoking hatred towards Poland for many years. Kilka słów komentarza o ost. ataku propagandowym D. Miedwiediewa na Polskę, a także szerszym kontekście. Kreml próbuje wymusić na Zachodzie zgodę na reset i wznowienie relacji. Polska mu w tym przeszkadza, więc jest - i będzie - atakowana.https://t.co/OAFkNOkYQR — Stanisław Żaryn (@StZaryn) November 3, 2023 × Żaryn said that Medvedev's article was full of hatred and threats against Poland and NATO and typical of Krelmin's propaganda. The official told PAP Medvedev “repeated the main lies propagated against Poland.” His article proved that Moscow was aware of Warsaw's role in significantly reducing Russia’s influence in Europe in recent years. Russia was also seeking to pressure Europe into resuming political and economic cooperation with Russia, while Poland was blocking such an operation which sparked aggression from the Kremlin. Russia's ongoing offensive in Ukraine has further strained the relations between Moscow and Warsaw. Poland has backed Ukraine since the beginning of the war in February last year, providing Kyiv with weapons, and financial and humanitarian aid worth around $4.5 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland considered a dangerous enemy by Russia: Putin ally

<p>Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year.&nbsp;Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid.</p>

<h2><strong>EU enlargement</strong></h2>

<p>Baerbock, as per a Reuters report, presented the prospect of the bloc's enlargement as a geo-strategic necessity.</p>

<p>She suggested that candidate nations should be given some of the benefits of an EU membership even before they fully enter the bloc.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-endures-biggest-russian-attack-since-start-of-the-year-with-over-100-settlements-targeted-654270">Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted</a></strong></p>

<p>The German minister said there was a need to plough ahead with "tedious" internal reforms so that it could function with 30-plus members and greater centralisation of power within the EU.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Times, she proposed this could be done by stripping individual countries of their veto rights and simplification of the sprawling administrative apparatus — under which 27 member states are in charge of their own individual policy brief.</p>

<p>"We want to see Ukraine a member of our European Union," she said, adding, "The European Union has to be enlarged. That is the geo-political consequence of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-support-for-kyiv-waning-most-americans-believe-ukraine-war-is-at-stalemate-654610">US support for Kyiv waning? Most Americans believe Ukraine war is at stalemate</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>EU to decide soon</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the EU will soon reach a decision on the start of talks about Ukraine joining the bloc. They are expected to reach a decision about the beginning of the formal start of Kyiv's membership talks at the December 14-15 summit.</p>

<p>"I am convinced that the European Council in December is going to send out that signal," said the German Minister.</p>

<p>"However, an enlarged EU will only be stronger if we do what we have been so hesitant to do for so long - review and rethink the way in which our union functions," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine 'optimistic'</strong></h2>

<p>AFP reports that speaking ahead of the conference in Berlin, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv was optimistic about its efforts to open EU membership talks this year.</p>

<p>"We are optimistic. We did a lot of reforms and we passed legislation necessary to meet, to implement the recommendations," said Kuleba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So we are looking forward to the presentation of this report and I have reasons to believe that it will pave the way to the decision of the European Council on opening accession talks with Ukraine."</p>

<p>The war-torn nation applied for the supranational political and economic union's membership just days after Russia launched its invasion on 24 February 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year. Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid.

Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year. Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid. EU enlargement Baerbock, as per a Reuters report, presented the prospect of the bloc's enlargement as a geo-strategic necessity. She suggested that candidate nations should be given some of the benefits of an EU membership even before they fully enter the bloc. Also read | Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted The German minister said there was a need to plough ahead with "tedious" internal reforms so that it could function with 30-plus members and greater centralisation of power within the EU. According to the Times, she proposed this could be done by stripping individual countries of their veto rights and simplification of the sprawling administrative apparatus — under which 27 member states are in charge of their own individual policy brief. "We want to see Ukraine a member of our European Union," she said, adding, "The European Union has to be enlarged. That is the geo-political consequence of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine." Also read | US support for Kyiv waning? Most Americans believe Ukraine war is at stalemate EU to decide soon As per Reuters, the EU will soon reach a decision on the start of talks about Ukraine joining the bloc. They are expected to reach a decision about the beginning of the formal start of Kyiv's membership talks at the December 14-15 summit. "I am convinced that the European Council in December is going to send out that signal," said the German Minister. "However, an enlarged EU will only be stronger if we do what we have been so hesitant to do for so long - review and rethink the way in which our union functions," she added. Ukraine 'optimistic' AFP reports that speaking ahead of the conference in Berlin, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv was optimistic about its efforts to open EU membership talks this year. "We are optimistic. We did a lot of reforms and we passed legislation necessary to meet, to implement the recommendations," said Kuleba. "So we are looking forward to the presentation of this report and I have reasons to believe that it will pave the way to the decision of the European Council on opening accession talks with Ukraine." The war-torn nation applied for the supranational political and economic union's membership just days after Russia launched its invasion on 24 February 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany bats for Ukraine's EU membership, says formal talks could get greenlit next month

<p>Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow. &nbsp;</p>

<p>This, as per Kyiv, was the highest number of shellings it has borne in a single day since the Ukraine-Russia war began.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biggest attack</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to social media,&nbsp;Igor Klymenko, Ukraine's interior minister, stated, "Over the last 24 hours, the enemy shelled 118 settlements in 10 regions."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-expect-rapid-success-in-offensive-says-zelensky-un-confirms-death-of-over-9900-civilians-in-ukraine-653703">Don’t expect rapid success in offensive, says Zelensky; UN confirms death of over 9,900 civilians in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>This, he said, "is the highest number of cities and villages that have come under attack since the start of the year."</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian oil refinery ablaze</strong></h2>

<p>As per a Reuters report, a Russian drone attack set ablaze the Kremenchuk oil refinery in central Ukraine. The fire, according to Filip Pronin, head of the Poltava region's military administration, was quickly put out. However, the extent of the damage is not known at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also damaged power lines and an unnamed infrastructure facility, knocking out the power supply in three villages in the Poltava region.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Battle of drones on frontlines, Ukraine deploys in-house 'shark' drones</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-battle-of-drones-on-frontlines-ukraine-deploys-in-house-shark-drones-wion-654218/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 focus of the attack was the Poltava region, it was attacked in several waves," said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat during an address on national television.</p>

<p>However, as per Kyiv, its forces have repelled Moscow's attacks in frontline sectors in the east and northeast.</p>

<p>The Air Force said that its air defences successfully foiled attacks on military and critical infrastructure, shooting down 18 of 20 drones and a missile fired by Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>A new stage of fighting</strong></h2>

<p>In an article in The Economist, Ukraine's commander-in-chief, on Wednesday, warned that the war with Russia is moving towards a new stage of static and attritional fighting. This, as per General Valery Zaluzhnyi, will allow Moscow to rebuild its military power.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-denies-us-russian-journalists-appeal-against-detention-653683">Russia denies US-Russian journalist's appeal against detention</a></strong></p>

<p>"This will benefit Russia, allowing it to rebuild its military power, eventually threatening Ukraine's armed forces and the state itself."</p>

<p>To continue their fight in the war that has already stretched to its 21st month, General Zaluzhnyi said Ukraine's army needed "key military capabilities and technologies to break out of this kind of war. The most important one is air power"</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow.

Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow. This, as per Kyiv, was the highest number of shellings it has borne in a single day since the Ukraine-Russia war began. Biggest attack Taking to social media, Igor Klymenko, Ukraine's interior minister, stated, "Over the last 24 hours, the enemy shelled 118 settlements in 10 regions." Also read | Don’t expect rapid success in offensive, says Zelensky; UN confirms death of over 9,900 civilians in Ukraine This, he said, "is the highest number of cities and villages that have come under attack since the start of the year." Ukrainian oil refinery ablaze As per a Reuters report, a Russian drone attack set ablaze the Kremenchuk oil refinery in central Ukraine. The fire, according to Filip Pronin, head of the Poltava region's military administration, was quickly put out. However, the extent of the damage is not known at the moment. It also damaged power lines and an unnamed infrastructure facility, knocking out the power supply in three villages in the Poltava region. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Battle of drones on frontlines, Ukraine deploys in-house 'shark' drones × "The focus of the attack was the Poltava region, it was attacked in several waves," said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat during an address on national television. However, as per Kyiv, its forces have repelled Moscow's attacks in frontline sectors in the east and northeast. The Air Force said that its air defences successfully foiled attacks on military and critical infrastructure, shooting down 18 of 20 drones and a missile fired by Russia. A new stage of fighting In an article in The Economist, Ukraine's commander-in-chief, on Wednesday, warned that the war with Russia is moving towards a new stage of static and attritional fighting. This, as per General Valery Zaluzhnyi, will allow Moscow to rebuild its military power. Also read | Russia denies US-Russian journalist's appeal against detention "This will benefit Russia, allowing it to rebuild its military power, eventually threatening Ukraine's armed forces and the state itself." To continue their fight in the war that has already stretched to its 21st month, General Zaluzhnyi said Ukraine's army needed "key military capabilities and technologies to break out of this kind of war. The most important one is air power" (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidgxFFZ1a3mFqm" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Tuesday (Oct 31) that Russian President Vladimir Putin would succeed in his war against Ukraine if the United States halted support for Kyiv. Addressing a Senate hearing on supplemental funding for national security priorities including Ukraine, Austin said, "I can guarantee you that without our support, Putin will be successful."</p>

<p>"If we pull the rug out from under them now, Putin will only get stronger and he will be successful in doing what he wants to do in acquiring his neighbour's sovereign territory," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-blames-ukraine-and-the-west-for-airport-riot-claims-us-behind-deadly-chaos-in-middle-east-653281">Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East</a></strong></p>

<p>Since Russia began its offensive in Ukraine in February last year, the US has been the biggest donor of military aid for Kyiv committing some $43.9 billion. However, several Republicans have opposed this</p>

<h2><strong>'Putin taking advantage of Israel-Hamas war to distract US'</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was a part of the Senate hearing, said on Tuesday that Putin was very much trying to take advantage of the Israel-Hamas war "in the hopes that it will distract us... and that it will result in the United States pulling back its resources from Ukraine."</p>

<p>Blinken said a halt to US aid for Ukraine could encourage other countries to follow suit. "This is an instance where we've seen very significant burden-sharing that would almost certainly go away if we go away," he said.</p>

<p>"The message it would send... to each and every one of these countries is that the United States is abandoning ship -- well, we may as well do, too," the secretary of state added.</p>

<p>Israel's retaliatory offensive following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7 has killed more than 8,500 people in the Gaza Strip. On the Israeli side, over 1,400 people have been killed by Hamas.</p>

<p>Antony Blinken also said on Tuesday the Palestinian Authority should retake control of the Gaza Strip from Hamas, with international players potentially filling a role in the interim.</p>

<p>At some point, what would make the most sense would be for an effective and revitalized Palestinian Authority to have governance and ultimately security responsibility for Gaza," he said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Tuesday (Oct 31) that Russian President Vladimir Putin would succeed in his war against Ukraine if the United States halted support for Kyiv.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Tuesday (Oct 31) that Russian President Vladimir Putin would succeed in his war against Ukraine if the United States halted support for Kyiv. Addressing a Senate hearing on supplemental funding for national security priorities including Ukraine, Austin said, "I can guarantee you that without our support, Putin will be successful." "If we pull the rug out from under them now, Putin will only get stronger and he will be successful in doing what he wants to do in acquiring his neighbour's sovereign territory," he added. Also read: Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East Since Russia began its offensive in Ukraine in February last year, the US has been the biggest donor of military aid for Kyiv committing some $43.9 billion. However, several Republicans have opposed this 'Putin taking advantage of Israel-Hamas war to distract US' US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was a part of the Senate hearing, said on Tuesday that Putin was very much trying to take advantage of the Israel-Hamas war "in the hopes that it will distract us... and that it will result in the United States pulling back its resources from Ukraine." Blinken said a halt to US aid for Ukraine could encourage other countries to follow suit. "This is an instance where we've seen very significant burden-sharing that would almost certainly go away if we go away," he said. "The message it would send... to each and every one of these countries is that the United States is abandoning ship -- well, we may as well do, too," the secretary of state added. Israel's retaliatory offensive following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7 has killed more than 8,500 people in the Gaza Strip. On the Israeli side, over 1,400 people have been killed by Hamas. Antony Blinken also said on Tuesday the Palestinian Authority should retake control of the Gaza Strip from Hamas, with international players potentially filling a role in the interim. At some point, what would make the most sense would be for an effective and revitalized Palestinian Authority to have governance and ultimately security responsibility for Gaza," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's Putin will succeed in Ukraine if US halts support to Kyiv: Austin

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East.</p>

<p>He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region.</p>

<h2><strong>Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"?</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services."</p>

<p>The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-enter-russian-airport-in-search-of-jewish-people-chant-anti-israeli-remarks-652865">Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans</a></strong></p>

<p>Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability."</p>

<p>Putin also said that in the wake&nbsp;to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions."</p>

<h2><strong>Old habits?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces.</p>

<p>Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation".</p>

<p>However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-government-aide-paul-bristow-fired-after-calls-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-653237">Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>"We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at Makhachkala airport?</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region. Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"? Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services." The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society. Also read | Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability." Putin also said that in the wake to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions." Old habits? As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces. Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation". However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza "We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added. What happened at Makhachkala airport? On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East

<p><em><strong>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised</strong></em></p>

<p>In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house. Russian soldiers have been blamed for the gruesome killings.</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials have alleged that the Kapkanets family was killed on October&nbsp;27 for refusing to give their house to the soldiers.</p>

<h2><strong>Arrests and more</strong></h2>

<p>As per a BBC report, Russian investigators have detained two male suspects, who they say are Russian soldiers from the Far East.</p>

<p>Photographs of the brutal killings have emerged on social media. They show blood-splattered and bullet-riddled bodies lying in bed. In some heartbreaking images, the slain family could be seen lying locked in an embrace.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-blames-ukraine-and-the-west-for-airport-riot-claims-us-behind-deadly-chaos-in-middle-east-653281">Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine and Russia have both opened their own investigations into the merciless slaying.</p>

<h2><strong>'Bloodied hands'</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets on Monday said that "Russians' bloodied hands were involved" in the Volnovakha killings.</p>

<p>As per Lubinets' statement, preliminary information has revealed that "the occupiers have killed the whole of the Kapkanets family, who were celebrating a birthday and who had refused to hand their own house over to occupiers from Chechnya."</p>

<p>Citing preliminary information, the prosecutors' office in Ukraine-controlled Donetsk has alleged that attackers in Russian army uniforms shot the entire family after they refused to comply with demands to vacate their family home. It also said that two children, aged around five and nine, were among the victims.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia says it was a domestic conflict</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia's official Investigations Committee has said that as per preliminary information, "the motive for the crime was a domestic conflict."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-is-ready-to-repel-russias-offensive-actions-in-bakhmut-653284">Ukraine says it is ready to repel Russia's offensive actions in Bakhmut</a></strong></p>

<p>They said that two men arrested in relation to the crime were Russian soldiers from the country's far East, who had signed contracts with the Russian military.</p>

<p>Astra, a Russian news channel on Telegram quoting the slain family's neighbours, reported that the "killers were in the military". One neighbour told the news outlet: "We're all scared."</p>

<p>Another Russian Telegram channel, Baza, reported that the family had "a conflict with unidentified men wearing military fatigues with no insignia".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house. Russian soldiers have been blamed for the gruesome killings. Ukrainian officials have alleged that the Kapkanets family was killed on October 27 for refusing to give their house to the soldiers. Arrests and more As per a BBC report, Russian investigators have detained two male suspects, who they say are Russian soldiers from the Far East. Photographs of the brutal killings have emerged on social media. They show blood-splattered and bullet-riddled bodies lying in bed. In some heartbreaking images, the slain family could be seen lying locked in an embrace. Also read | Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East Ukraine and Russia have both opened their own investigations into the merciless slaying. 'Bloodied hands' Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets on Monday said that "Russians' bloodied hands were involved" in the Volnovakha killings. As per Lubinets' statement, preliminary information has revealed that "the occupiers have killed the whole of the Kapkanets family, who were celebrating a birthday and who had refused to hand their own house over to occupiers from Chechnya." Citing preliminary information, the prosecutors' office in Ukraine-controlled Donetsk has alleged that attackers in Russian army uniforms shot the entire family after they refused to comply with demands to vacate their family home. It also said that two children, aged around five and nine, were among the victims. Russia says it was a domestic conflict Meanwhile, Russia's official Investigations Committee has said that as per preliminary information, "the motive for the crime was a domestic conflict." Also read | Ukraine says it is ready to repel Russia's offensive actions in Bakhmut They said that two men arrested in relation to the crime were Russian soldiers from the country's far East, who had signed contracts with the Russian military. Astra, a Russian news channel on Telegram quoting the slain family's neighbours, reported that the "killers were in the military". One neighbour told the news outlet: "We're all scared." Another Russian Telegram channel, Baza, reported that the family had "a conflict with unidentified men wearing military fatigues with no insignia". (With inputs from agencies) 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian family of 9, including two minors brutally slain by Russian soldiers

<p>Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though abortion remains legal and widely available in Russia, the country has recently tried to restrict the right. This, as per news agency AP, has touched a nerve across the increasingly conservative nations.</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening?</strong></h2>

<p>As per AP, in Kaliningrad, restricting abortion access is still a proposal, however, private clinics elsewhere have reportedly begun denying abortions.</p>

<p>Nationwide, Russia's health ministry has reportedly drawn up talking points for doctors&nbsp;— which&nbsp;seek to discourage medical abortions. These, as per media reports, include phrases like pregnancy is "a beautiful and natural condition for every woman." On the other hand, abortion is propagated as "harmful to your health and a risk of developing complications."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-social-media-scrambles-to-scrub-spoof-videos-mocking-palestinians-651829">Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians</a></strong></p>

<p>Michele Rivkin-Fish, an anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as quoted by AP said: "It's clear that there is a gradual erosion of abortion access and rights in Russia, and this is similar to what has taken place in the US."</p>

<h2><strong>Abortions and Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Currently, laws allow women to end a pregnancy at up to 12 weeks, and for special "social reasons," like divorce, unemployment, or because of income, this can be pushed back to 22 weeks. Only in instances of rape is an abortion legally allowed between 12 and 22 weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Historically, Russian women had access to abortions. Even back in the Soviet Union times, when getting contraceptives was difficult, women would opt for multiple abortions in their lifetimes.</p>

<p>After the USSR collapsed, government and health experts promoted family planning and birth control, which contributed to a decrease in abortion rates. In 1991, Russians had 4.1 million abortions, in 2021 this number fell to 517,000.</p>

<p>ALso read |&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as President Vladimir Putin rose to power, his alliance with the Russian Orthodox Church, promotion of "traditional values," and attempts to boost population growth led to abortions being looked down upon.</p>

<p>Now, women have to wait for at least 48 hours, and up to a week for the abortion — the waiting period depends on the stage of their pregnancy. Furthermore, to discourage abortions, they are offered psychological consults, as per state-issued guidelines.</p>

<p>Besides, a recent Health Ministry decree that takes effect on September 1, 2024, has restricted the circulation of abortion pills that terminate pregnancies in the first trimester.</p>

<p>The anti-abortion push, as per AP, comes as amid the Russia-Ukraine war, women seem to take a step back from having children.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics.

Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics. Even though abortion remains legal and widely available in Russia, the country has recently tried to restrict the right. This, as per news agency AP, has touched a nerve across the increasingly conservative nations. What is happening? As per AP, in Kaliningrad, restricting abortion access is still a proposal, however, private clinics elsewhere have reportedly begun denying abortions. Nationwide, Russia's health ministry has reportedly drawn up talking points for doctors — which seek to discourage medical abortions. These, as per media reports, include phrases like pregnancy is "a beautiful and natural condition for every woman." On the other hand, abortion is propagated as "harmful to your health and a risk of developing complications." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians Michele Rivkin-Fish, an anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as quoted by AP said: "It's clear that there is a gradual erosion of abortion access and rights in Russia, and this is similar to what has taken place in the US." Abortions and Russia Currently, laws allow women to end a pregnancy at up to 12 weeks, and for special "social reasons," like divorce, unemployment, or because of income, this can be pushed back to 22 weeks. Only in instances of rape is an abortion legally allowed between 12 and 22 weeks. Historically, Russian women had access to abortions. Even back in the Soviet Union times, when getting contraceptives was difficult, women would opt for multiple abortions in their lifetimes. After the USSR collapsed, government and health experts promoted family planning and birth control, which contributed to a decrease in abortion rates. In 1991, Russians had 4.1 million abortions, in 2021 this number fell to 517,000. ALso read | However, as President Vladimir Putin rose to power, his alliance with the Russian Orthodox Church, promotion of "traditional values," and attempts to boost population growth led to abortions being looked down upon. Now, women have to wait for at least 48 hours, and up to a week for the abortion — the waiting period depends on the stage of their pregnancy. Furthermore, to discourage abortions, they are offered psychological consults, as per state-issued guidelines. Besides, a recent Health Ministry decree that takes effect on September 1, 2024, has restricted the circulation of abortion pills that terminate pregnancies in the first trimester. The anti-abortion push, as per AP, comes as amid the Russia-Ukraine war, women seem to take a step back from having children. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access

<p>The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-found-lying-on-floor-after-allegedly-suffering-cardiac-arrest-reports-suggest-650538">speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health </a></strong>and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.</p>

<p>"I can tell you that he has no doubles, and with regards to work and so on, this is already an absurd informational hoax that is discussed by some media with vigorous tenacity. It makes nothing but smile," Peskov said.</p>

<p>Earlier, General SRV, a channel on Telegram claimed that Putin suffered a serious health episode last Sunday (Oct 22). General SRV said that the Russian president was lying on the floor and rolling his eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There have been speculations about Putin's health in the past as well ranging from blood cancer to Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>In August, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-post-ignites-concerns-about-russian-president-vladimir-putins-health-ukraine-reacts-631170">another Telegram channel </a></strong>that goes by the name of "Z-blogger" shared a post which read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X and said, "What is going on?"</p>

<p>In February, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-vladimir-putin-sick-new-clip-of-his-feet-twitching-goes-viral-sparks-health-concerns-564297">a video went viral on social media </a></strong>showing Putin being unable to control his twitching feet during a conversation with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.</p>

<p>The video showed Putin's legs fidgeting and his feet tapping when he and Lukashenko discussed expanding military and economic ties.</p>

<p>Putin turned 71 on October 7 and maintains an intensive schedule of meetings and public appearances, many of them televised. His recent programme included a visit to China last week, with stop-offs in two Russian cities on the way back.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles. "I can tell you that he has no doubles, and with regards to work and so on, this is already an absurd informational hoax that is discussed by some media with vigorous tenacity. It makes nothing but smile," Peskov said. Earlier, General SRV, a channel on Telegram claimed that Putin suffered a serious health episode last Sunday (Oct 22). General SRV said that the Russian president was lying on the floor and rolling his eyes. There have been speculations about Putin's health in the past as well ranging from blood cancer to Parkinson's disease. In August, another Telegram channel that goes by the name of "Z-blogger" shared a post which read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X and said, "What is going on?" In February, a video went viral on social media showing Putin being unable to control his twitching feet during a conversation with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The video showed Putin's legs fidgeting and his feet tapping when he and Lukashenko discussed expanding military and economic ties. Putin turned 71 on October 7 and maintains an intensive schedule of meetings and public appearances, many of them televised. His recent programme included a visit to China last week, with stop-offs in two Russian cities on the way back. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health

<p>A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that a new world war is about to begin between the West and Muslims across the world. He also declared that Russia would back Muslims by providing them with weapons.</p>

<p>The comments came from Vladimir Solovyov, a long-time Kremlin propagandist and best-known figure in the Kremlin-backed media.</p>

<p>Solovyov also reprimanded the US for supplying ATACMS missiles to Ukraine. Americans believe “they can do anything," he reportedly complained on his TV show airing on Russia-1 channel.</p>

<p>“We should deliver everything America's enemies need,” he suggested. "To all of them! Any weapons that they need!" he continued. "To make sure there is not one spot on this Earth where soil doesn't burn under the feet of these neo-colonialist critters," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>‘The new war is coming’</strong></h2>

<p>Solovyov then talks about a ‘global jihad’ against the West. “Do you even understand what will happen if a global jihad will start," he warned.</p>

<p>His remarks came after a strike allegedly killed hundreds of people at a Gazan hospital earlier this week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Similar prophecies by other Putin allies</strong></h2>

<p>Similar warnings regarding an imminent world war have also been issued by other Putin allies, including the editor-in-chief of the Russian state-backed Russia Today (RT) channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against 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/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-using-custom-made-rocket-launchers-against-russia-wion-628093/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"This is wonderful, it's beautiful! Watch how the British instructors are leaving Ukraine because they have no more time for Ukraine, just like the Americans and everyone else, because the world is on the brink of World War III," Margarita Simonyan said while praising the Israel-Hamas war for diverting&nbsp;the world’s attention away from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, also warned Thursday (Oct 19) that the war between Israel and Hamas could snowball into a bigger regional conflict.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-west-getting-sobering-updates-on-ukrainian-counteroffensive-623572"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: West getting `sobering` updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive</strong></a></p>

<p>"The Middle East is seeing another war. A cruel war without rules. A war based on terror and the doctrine of disproportionate use of force against the civilian population. As it is said today, both sides have gone 'berserk,'" Medvedev wrote in an article for the newspaper Izvestia.</p>

<p>"Of course, it is more important for us to achieve success in the special military operation in our fight against the neo-Nazi in Ukraine, but what is going on in Palestine and Israel cannot but cause concern," he continued.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that a new world war is about to begin between the West and Muslims across the world. He also declared that Russia would back Muslims by providing them with weapons.

A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that a new world war is about to begin between the West and Muslims across the world. He also declared that Russia would back Muslims by providing them with weapons. The comments came from Vladimir Solovyov, a long-time Kremlin propagandist and best-known figure in the Kremlin-backed media. Solovyov also reprimanded the US for supplying ATACMS missiles to Ukraine. Americans believe “they can do anything," he reportedly complained on his TV show airing on Russia-1 channel. “We should deliver everything America's enemies need,” he suggested. "To all of them! Any weapons that they need!" he continued. "To make sure there is not one spot on this Earth where soil doesn't burn under the feet of these neo-colonialist critters," he added. ‘The new war is coming’ Solovyov then talks about a ‘global jihad’ against the West. “Do you even understand what will happen if a global jihad will start," he warned. His remarks came after a strike allegedly killed hundreds of people at a Gazan hospital earlier this week. Similar prophecies by other Putin allies Similar warnings regarding an imminent world war have also been issued by other Putin allies, including the editor-in-chief of the Russian state-backed Russia Today (RT) channel. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia × "This is wonderful, it's beautiful! Watch how the British instructors are leaving Ukraine because they have no more time for Ukraine, just like the Americans and everyone else, because the world is on the brink of World War III," Margarita Simonyan said while praising the Israel-Hamas war for diverting the world’s attention away from Ukraine. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, also warned Thursday (Oct 19) that the war between Israel and Hamas could snowball into a bigger regional conflict. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: West getting `sobering` updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive "The Middle East is seeing another war. A cruel war without rules. A war based on terror and the doctrine of disproportionate use of force against the civilian population. As it is said today, both sides have gone 'berserk,'" Medvedev wrote in an article for the newspaper Izvestia. "Of course, it is more important for us to achieve success in the special military operation in our fight against the neo-Nazi in Ukraine, but what is going on in Palestine and Israel cannot but cause concern," he continued. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Three Putin allies warn of imminent ‘world war’, ‘global jihad’ against West

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attacks-russian-targets-with-missile-system-covertly-given-by-the-us-648172">Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv</a> by Washington.</p>

<p>These long-range missiles are known as ATACMS or Army Tactical Missile System and were designed during the end of the Cold War for deep-strike missions on priority targets detrimental to American interests.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attacks-russian-targets-with-missile-system-covertly-given-by-the-us-648172">Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin invited Biden "for pancakes and tea" after holding talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'If Russia has lost the war...': Vladimir Putin's big statement</strong></h2>

<p>Putin delivered these remarks during a rare trip to Beijing.&nbsp;When asked by a journalist about US President Joe&nbsp;Biden’s comment that Russia had already lost the war in Ukraine, Putin appeared incensed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine proves America's billion-dollar weapons are not invincible</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-ukraine-proves-americas-billion-dollar-weapons-are-not-invincible-593428/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"If Russia has lost the war, why do they [the US] supply ATACMS?" Putin asked.</p>

<p>"Let them take them back, and all the other weapons. He [Biden] can take a seat and eat pancakes and visit us for some tea."</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's 'tea' remark for Joe Biden: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>A number of Vladimir Putin's opponents as well as Russian dissidents have died in suspicious circumstances and alleged poisoning instances.</p>

<p>A few of these dissidents have died after drinking poisoned cup(s) of tea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years ago, the European Court of Human Rights found the Kremlin responsible for the 2006 assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, 43, a Putin critic who reportedly died after drinking green tea at a London hotel.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had denounced the verdict.</p>

<p>Similarly, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Siberia&nbsp;after a powder dissolved in a liquid&nbsp;was reportedly put into his tea&nbsp;he drank at a Russian airport.</p>

<p>Putin added that Washington's deliveries of its weapons&nbsp;were a "mistake".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There’s nothing good for Ukraine in this. It just prolongs the agony," he added.</p>

<p>Vladimir Putin is a guest of honour at a summit in Beijing, attended by the likes of a Taliban minister among others, to mark the 10th anniversary of China's expansionist trade project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv by Washington.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv by Washington. These long-range missiles are known as ATACMS or Army Tactical Missile System and were designed during the end of the Cold War for deep-strike missions on priority targets detrimental to American interests. Also read | Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US Putin invited Biden "for pancakes and tea" after holding talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing. 'If Russia has lost the war...': Vladimir Putin's big statement Putin delivered these remarks during a rare trip to Beijing. When asked by a journalist about US President Joe Biden’s comment that Russia had already lost the war in Ukraine, Putin appeared incensed. Also watch | Gravitas: Ukraine proves America's billion-dollar weapons are not invincible × "If Russia has lost the war, why do they [the US] supply ATACMS?" Putin asked. "Let them take them back, and all the other weapons. He [Biden] can take a seat and eat pancakes and visit us for some tea." Putin's 'tea' remark for Joe Biden: What does it mean? A number of Vladimir Putin's opponents as well as Russian dissidents have died in suspicious circumstances and alleged poisoning instances. A few of these dissidents have died after drinking poisoned cup(s) of tea. Two years ago, the European Court of Human Rights found the Kremlin responsible for the 2006 assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, 43, a Putin critic who reportedly died after drinking green tea at a London hotel. The Kremlin had denounced the verdict. Similarly, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Siberia after a powder dissolved in a liquid was reportedly put into his tea he drank at a Russian airport. Putin added that Washington's deliveries of its weapons were a "mistake". "There’s nothing good for Ukraine in this. It just prolongs the agony," he added. Vladimir Putin is a guest of honour at a summit in Beijing, attended by the likes of a Taliban minister among others, to mark the 10th anniversary of China's expansionist trade project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In Beijing, Putin invites Biden to come over for 'pancakes and tea'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in China to meet his "No Limits" partner President Xi Jinping since the war broke out in Ukraine and this is the first time he's travelled to the capital of another P5 member country. Chinese President Xi Jinping greeted his dear friend Putin as China welcomes representatives from 130 countries for the Belt and Road Initiative Forum.

BRI Forum: Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping to hold bilateral today

<p>President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise&nbsp;on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing.</p>

<p>On his second visit&nbsp;outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR)&nbsp;and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West.</p>

<p>“As for the Northern Sea Route, Russia does not just offer its partners to actively use its transit potential, I will say more: we invite interested states to participate directly in its development, and we are ready to provide reliable ice breaker navigation, communication and supply,” Putin said.</p>

<p>The NSR runs from Murmansk near Russia’s border with Norway eastwards to the Bering Strait near Alaska.</p>

<p>“Starting next year, navigation for ice-class cargo ships along the entire length of the Northern Sea Route will become year-round,” Putin announced.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping</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/bri-forum-russian-president-putin-arrives-in-china-to-meet-xi-jinping-648176/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Putin referred to Xi as his "dear friend" and thanked him for bringing the world together and reviving the ancient Silk Road through the BRI project.</p>

<p>“Russia and China, like most countries of the world, share the desire for equal, mutually beneficial cooperation in order to achieve universal sustainable and long-term economic progress and social well-being, while respecting the diversity of civilisation and the right of each State to its own development model,” Putin said.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden-Xi meet</strong></h2>

<p>The two leaders earlier met on Tuesday (Oct 17) to kick off the BRI meeting.</p>

<p>Both leaders reportedly discussed the Middle East and Ukraine in the meeting, with Putin emphasising that common threats were pushing the two nations even closer.</p>

<p>Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p>As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-meeting-whats-on-agenda-and-why-no-high-publicity-deals-are-expected-647769"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected</strong></a></p>

<p>Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Message from China</strong></h2>

<p>The BRI meeting comes at the height of the persistent tensions between US and China. Xi Jinping took the opportunity to warn the West against its decoupling efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We stand against unilateral sanctions, economic coercion, decoupling and supply chain disruption," Xi told more than 1,000 delegates gathered in an ornate conference room in the Great Hall of the People west of Tiananmen Square.</p>

<p>Jinping also lauded China's BRI programme, claiming it was acting as a bridge between continents and helping build infrastructure around the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's warning to US</strong></h2>

<p>Putin on&nbsp;Wednesday said in a press conference that US deliveries of long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine were a "mistake" that would create additional threats to Russian forces but would not significantly change the situation on the front.</p>

<p>"Firstly, this of course causes harm and creates an additional threat. Secondly, we will of course be able to repel these attacks. War is war," Putin said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing. On his second visit outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR) and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West. “As for the Northern Sea Route, Russia does not just offer its partners to actively use its transit potential, I will say more: we invite interested states to participate directly in its development, and we are ready to provide reliable ice breaker navigation, communication and supply,” Putin said. The NSR runs from Murmansk near Russia’s border with Norway eastwards to the Bering Strait near Alaska. “Starting next year, navigation for ice-class cargo ships along the entire length of the Northern Sea Route will become year-round,” Putin announced. Watch: Russian President Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping × Putin referred to Xi as his "dear friend" and thanked him for bringing the world together and reviving the ancient Silk Road through the BRI project. “Russia and China, like most countries of the world, share the desire for equal, mutually beneficial cooperation in order to achieve universal sustainable and long-term economic progress and social well-being, while respecting the diversity of civilisation and the right of each State to its own development model,” Putin said. Biden-Xi meet The two leaders earlier met on Tuesday (Oct 17) to kick off the BRI meeting. Both leaders reportedly discussed the Middle East and Ukraine in the meeting, with Putin emphasising that common threats were pushing the two nations even closer. Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin. Also read: Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP. Message from China The BRI meeting comes at the height of the persistent tensions between US and China. Xi Jinping took the opportunity to warn the West against its decoupling efforts. "We stand against unilateral sanctions, economic coercion, decoupling and supply chain disruption," Xi told more than 1,000 delegates gathered in an ornate conference room in the Great Hall of the People west of Tiananmen Square. Jinping also lauded China's BRI programme, claiming it was acting as a bridge between continents and helping build infrastructure around the world. Putin's warning to US Putin on Wednesday said in a press conference that US deliveries of long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine were a "mistake" that would create additional threats to Russian forces but would not significantly change the situation on the front. "Firstly, this of course causes harm and creates an additional threat. Secondly, we will of course be able to repel these attacks. War is war," Putin said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday&nbsp;ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi&nbsp;in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<h2><strong>Focus of the talks</strong></h2>

<p>As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin.</p>

<p>Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake</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/israel-palestine-war-can-regional-players-negotiate-ceasefire-as-russia-china-want-a-stake-645507/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Lavrov- Wang meeting</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-nuclear-plant-like-china-russia-suspends-all-japanese-seafood-imports-647527"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports</strong></a></p>

<p>Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative.</p>

<p>"Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>On Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit.</p>

<p>Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum. Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Focus of the talks As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin. Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake × For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine. "Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP. Lavrov- Wang meeting Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit. Also read: Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative. "Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said. On Israel-Hamas war As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China. Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit. Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected

<p>The Russian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 17) declared that it is revoking ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, an action it says was necessitated as a result of “the irresponsible attitude” of the United States towards global security.</p>

<p>“In the interests of ensuring the security of our country, we are withdrawing the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty,” Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said ahead of a debate and parliamentary vote on revoking ratification.</p>

<p>The speaker said that while Russia had ratified the 1996 treaty in 2000, the US failed to follow suit because of an “irresponsible attitude to global security issues”.</p>

<p>He added that the Russian Federation will do everything “to protect its citizens and to maintain global strategic parity".</p>

<p>The announcement from the speaker of the lower house of the Russian parliament comes a week after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he was not ready to say whether or not Russia should resume nuclear testing to issue a stern warning to the West.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia would remain a signatory</strong></h2>

<p>While Russia will revoke the ratification of the nuclear test ban treaty, it will continue to remain a signatory. It means that it will continue to cooperate with the test ban treaty organisation and alert the world before any nuclear test.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin: Russia successfully tested nuclear-powered 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/putin-russia-successfully-tested-nuclear-powered-missile-643636/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Russian officials have clarified that revoking ratification doesn’t mean the country will test a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nuclear testing by Russia</strong></h2>

<p>The erstwhile Soviet Union conducted the last nuclear test in 1990, with newborn Russia yet to open its account. The US, on the other hand, conducted its last nuclear test in 1992.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-hint-at-expansion-of-nuclear-test-sites-in-us-russia-and-china-report-639168"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the United Nations, in the five decades between 1945 and 1996, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out, 1,032 of them by the United States and 715 of them by the Soviet Union.</p>

<h2><strong>Consequences</strong></h2>

<p>Revocation by Russia means that the world could return to an era of nuclear testing, which might also trigger a nuclear race between the US and its adversaries Russia and China.</p>

<p>However, Russian President Putin has maintained that his nation is not willing to return to testing. “I hear calls to start testing nuclear weapons, to return to testing,” Putin said on Oct 5. “I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not, but it is possible theoretically to behave in the same way as the United States,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Russian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 17) declared that it is revoking ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, an action it says was necessitated as a result of “the irresponsible attitude” of the United States towards global security.

The Russian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 17) declared that it is revoking ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, an action it says was necessitated as a result of “the irresponsible attitude” of the United States towards global security. “In the interests of ensuring the security of our country, we are withdrawing the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty,” Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said ahead of a debate and parliamentary vote on revoking ratification. The speaker said that while Russia had ratified the 1996 treaty in 2000, the US failed to follow suit because of an “irresponsible attitude to global security issues”. He added that the Russian Federation will do everything “to protect its citizens and to maintain global strategic parity". The announcement from the speaker of the lower house of the Russian parliament comes a week after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he was not ready to say whether or not Russia should resume nuclear testing to issue a stern warning to the West. Russia would remain a signatory While Russia will revoke the ratification of the nuclear test ban treaty, it will continue to remain a signatory. It means that it will continue to cooperate with the test ban treaty organisation and alert the world before any nuclear test. Watch: Putin: Russia successfully tested nuclear-powered missile × Russian officials have clarified that revoking ratification doesn’t mean the country will test a nuclear bomb. Nuclear testing by Russia The erstwhile Soviet Union conducted the last nuclear test in 1990, with newborn Russia yet to open its account. The US, on the other hand, conducted its last nuclear test in 1992. Also read: Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report According to the United Nations, in the five decades between 1945 and 1996, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out, 1,032 of them by the United States and 715 of them by the Soviet Union. Consequences Revocation by Russia means that the world could return to an era of nuclear testing, which might also trigger a nuclear race between the US and its adversaries Russia and China. However, Russian President Putin has maintained that his nation is not willing to return to testing. “I hear calls to start testing nuclear weapons, to return to testing,” Putin said on Oct 5. “I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not, but it is possible theoretically to behave in the same way as the United States,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia to revoke ratification of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

The White House said that it has started making plans for a meeting to be held in San Francisco between United States President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November, an attempt which is aimed at stabilising the tumultuous relationship between the two countries, as per senior administration officials.

All eyes on Vladimir Putin-Xi Jinping meet; world leaders trickle into Chinese capital

Russia's top diplomat Sergey Lavrov is on a trip to Beijing ahead of an expected visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Beijing is hosting representatives of 130 countries to mark a decade of its Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative is a key geopolitical project of Chinese president Xi Jinping.

Analysts: Beijing excessively lends money to indebted states

Lavrov in China: Belt and Road initiative a bid to extend China's global reach

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics. Experts are increasingly of the view that Moscow is fast becoming a junior partner in this equation.</p>

<p>On October 17-18, Beijing is playing host to representatives from 130 countries to mark a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is a key geopolitical project of Chinese President Xi Jinping which seeks to expand China's global reach.</p>

<p>All eyes will be on Putin, who last month, met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Saint Petersburg and said he had "gladly accepted" Xi's invitation to visit China for the BRI congregation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China's fertility rate drops to record low</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/chinas-fertility-rate-drops-to-record-low-645227/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's strategic dependence on China has only increased after the global isolation Moscow faced after Ukraine's invasion.</p>

<p>The trade between the two countries has soared considerably since the beginning of Ukraine invasion. As international sanctions increasingly cornered Russian economy, Chinese imports of Russian oil was a critical lifeline to Moscow.</p>

<p>Last year, bilateral trade soared to record USD 190 billion, says the Chinese customs data. Both countries have pledged to take this to USD 200 billion this year.</p>

<p>In the aftermath of Russia's Ukraine invasion, China provided diplomatic cover and refused to condemn the war. China positioned itself as a neutral party but the stance was seen as benefitting Russia in global diplomatic circles.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/combat-veteran-is-top-contender-to-replace-chinas-missing-defence-minister-646488">Combat veteran is top contender to replace China's missing defence minister</a></strong></p>

<p>"Beijing has maintained a posture of 'pro-Russia neutrality' throughout the invasion, providing critical diplomatic, economic, and non-lethal military assistance to Moscow," Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global Energy Center, told AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>The shared struggle</strong></h2>

<p>China and Russia see their alliance as a symbiotic necessity and as a bulwark against Western dominance.</p>

<p>When President Xi Jinping made state visit to Moscow in March, he had hailed the "truly unlimited possibilities" in the partnership of the countries.</p>

<p>In May, the Chinese leader told Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that Beijing and Moscow would continue to offer each other "firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics. Experts are increasingly of the view that Moscow is fast becoming a junior partner in this equation. On October 17-18, Beijing is playing host to representatives from 130 countries to mark a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is a key geopolitical project of Chinese President Xi Jinping which seeks to expand China's global reach. All eyes will be on Putin, who last month, met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Saint Petersburg and said he had "gladly accepted" Xi's invitation to visit China for the BRI congregation. Watch | China's fertility rate drops to record low × Russia's strategic dependence on China has only increased after the global isolation Moscow faced after Ukraine's invasion. The trade between the two countries has soared considerably since the beginning of Ukraine invasion. As international sanctions increasingly cornered Russian economy, Chinese imports of Russian oil was a critical lifeline to Moscow. Last year, bilateral trade soared to record USD 190 billion, says the Chinese customs data. Both countries have pledged to take this to USD 200 billion this year. In the aftermath of Russia's Ukraine invasion, China provided diplomatic cover and refused to condemn the war. China positioned itself as a neutral party but the stance was seen as benefitting Russia in global diplomatic circles. Also Read | Combat veteran is top contender to replace China's missing defence minister "Beijing has maintained a posture of 'pro-Russia neutrality' throughout the invasion, providing critical diplomatic, economic, and non-lethal military assistance to Moscow," Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global Energy Center, told AFP. The shared struggle China and Russia see their alliance as a symbiotic necessity and as a bulwark against Western dominance. When President Xi Jinping made state visit to Moscow in March, he had hailed the "truly unlimited possibilities" in the partnership of the countries. In May, the Chinese leader told Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that Beijing and Moscow would continue to offer each other "firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Vladimir Putin to head to China as two countries draw ever closer

<p>Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.</p>

<p>The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin in Kyrgyzstan</strong></h2>

<p>Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part&nbsp;in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-of-improved-position-near-east-ukraine-town-645608">Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit.</p>

<p>Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ICC arrest warrant</strong></h2>

<p>Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-women-earn-less-than-men-nobel-economics-laureate-reflects-on-gender-gap-studies-645624">Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies</a></strong></p>

<p>Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?".</p>

<p>"If I come, a political show will start," he added.</p>

<p>The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1"></iframe></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</p>


Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.

Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March. The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him. Putin in Kyrgyzstan Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit. Also read | Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit. Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022. This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China. ICC arrest warrant Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war. Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August. Also read | Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?". "If I come, a political show will start," he added. The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin arrives in Kyrgyzstan for his first international trip since ICC arrest warrant

<p>The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras.</p>

<h2><strong>Invisibility cloaks: How will they work?</strong></h2>

<p>The coats called 'Brave 1', as per Mirror UK,&nbsp;will soak up heat, which means that the Russian thermal cameras will be unable to detect Ukrainian soldiers. Reportedly, these coats&nbsp;are also waterproof and lightweight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, the newly supplied coats have been tested by the Ukraine special forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/traces-of-grenade-discovered-in-remains-of-wagner-chief-prigozhin-putin-643183">Traces of grenade discovered in remains of Wagner chief Prigozhin: Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine's Deputy Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov called these coats a 'game changer' for Kyiv forces and said: "The cloak blocks the radiation of heat and makes the fighters invisible to the enemy. For example, it will be for snipers or Special Operations Forces that perform combat tasks."</p>

<p>"The invisibility cloak is just one of the developments that will help save the lives of our soldiers at the front. Now we need even more," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>The need for invisibility cloaks</strong></h2>

<p>During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian drones have spotted Kyiv's marksmen sneaking up on Moscow's forces. This detection has more often than not landed Ukrainian snipers in grave danger.</p>

<p>This development comes as Ukraine on Thursday (5th October) announced that its troops have made headway in the eastern theatre of their counteroffensive operation against aggressor Russia. As per Reuters, Kyiv forces, however, said that they were under pressure further north.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-india-to-wagner-to-ukraine-war-striking-points-of-vladimir-putins-address-643105">From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address</a></strong></p>

<p>"The most difficult area is the Lyman-Kupiansk sector," said Ilia Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine's eastern group of forces.</p>

<p>"The intensity of assaults there has increased … The enemy has chosen a new point - Makiivka - and is directing all its main efforts into this direction. Of course, we are also repulsing enemy attacks and inflicting damage on forces and equipment."</p>

<p>Recent days have also seen Western nations criticise Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy. While President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that it is proceeding more slowly than the military would have liked, he has dismissed Western criticism.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras.

The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras. Invisibility cloaks: How will they work? The coats called 'Brave 1', as per Mirror UK, will soak up heat, which means that the Russian thermal cameras will be unable to detect Ukrainian soldiers. Reportedly, these coats are also waterproof and lightweight. As per the report, the newly supplied coats have been tested by the Ukraine special forces. Also read | Traces of grenade discovered in remains of Wagner chief Prigozhin: Putin Ukraine's Deputy Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov called these coats a 'game changer' for Kyiv forces and said: "The cloak blocks the radiation of heat and makes the fighters invisible to the enemy. For example, it will be for snipers or Special Operations Forces that perform combat tasks." "The invisibility cloak is just one of the developments that will help save the lives of our soldiers at the front. Now we need even more," he added. The need for invisibility cloaks During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian drones have spotted Kyiv's marksmen sneaking up on Moscow's forces. This detection has more often than not landed Ukrainian snipers in grave danger. This development comes as Ukraine on Thursday (5th October) announced that its troops have made headway in the eastern theatre of their counteroffensive operation against aggressor Russia. As per Reuters, Kyiv forces, however, said that they were under pressure further north. Also read | From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address "The most difficult area is the Lyman-Kupiansk sector," said Ilia Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine's eastern group of forces. "The intensity of assaults there has increased … The enemy has chosen a new point - Makiivka - and is directing all its main efforts into this direction. Of course, we are also repulsing enemy attacks and inflicting damage on forces and equipment." Recent days have also seen Western nations criticise Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy. While President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that it is proceeding more slowly than the military would have liked, he has dismissed Western criticism. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine develops 'invisibility cloaks' for its snipers. Here's how they work

Did Vladimir Putin survive another assassination attempt? Reports say, an agent from Russia's own secret service was tasked with killing the Russian President. What's the basis for this claim? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Did a Russian agent try to assassinate 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