<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>

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<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>

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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>

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<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>

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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>

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<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>

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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>

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<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>

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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>

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<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>

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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>

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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>

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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?

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's&nbsp;Nazi row, as he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-western-hegemony-and-warns-over-nuclear-testing-says-mission-is-to-create-new-world-643050">addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The club is a Moscow-based think tank and discussion forum and was established in 2004. The name of the club is after Lake Valdai, which is close to Veliky Novgorod, - a place where the first meeting of the club took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here are the important points of the address:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped and also said that Europe is helping Ukraine at the expense of its own economy and people.</p>

<p>He said that Europe had opted to provide monetary aid&nbsp;to Ukraine, and in so doing had worsened its own economic fortunes and also dragged out the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Putin on nuclear testing</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.</p>

<p>The Russian leader&nbsp;said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal.</p>

<p>In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>On Indian leadership</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Canadian parliament's Nazi row</strong></h2>

<p>Putin called the Canadian parliament's standing ovation&nbsp;to honour a Ukrainian war veteran who served in Nazi Waffen SS units "disgusting". He said that it showed Moscow was right to "denazify" Ukraine.</p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month formally apologised after the speaker of the Canadian House of Commons, Anthony Rota, praised 98-year-old ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka in the chamber in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rota said he had made a mistake and resigned.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin on Wagner boss Prigozhin's death</strong></h2>

<p>During the address, Putin suggested that the plane crash which killed Wagner's chief in August was caused by hand grenades detonating inside the aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The private Embraer jet on which Prigozhin was travelling to St Petersburg crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board on Aug 23, including two other top Wagner figures, Prigozhin's four bodyguards and a crew of three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fragments of hand grenades were found in the bodies of those killed in the crash," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How long does Ukraine have to save itself? NATO's weapons reserves dwindle</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Putin on Armenia</strong></h2>

<p>Armenia did not listen to Russia's recommendations on Nagorno-Karabakh, Putin said around two weeks after an Azerbaijani invasion drove ethnic Armenians who had ruled the region for more than three decades to surrender.</p>

<p>Putin stated that Armenia remained a Russian friend and that Moscow was ready to assist the people of Karabakh, despite the fact that the majority of the ethnic Armenian population had already fled the region.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin targets US</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave.</p>

<p>In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's Nazi row, as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's Nazi row, as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club. The club is a Moscow-based think tank and discussion forum and was established in 2004. The name of the club is after Lake Valdai, which is close to Veliky Novgorod, - a place where the first meeting of the club took place. Here are the important points of the address: Russia-Ukraine war Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped and also said that Europe is helping Ukraine at the expense of its own economy and people. He said that Europe had opted to provide monetary aid to Ukraine, and in so doing had worsened its own economic fortunes and also dragged out the conflict. Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Putin on nuclear testing Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. The Russian leader said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal. In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty. Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched. On Indian leadership Putin said that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. "At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said. He also alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy." Also read: Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike Canadian parliament's Nazi row Putin called the Canadian parliament's standing ovation to honour a Ukrainian war veteran who served in Nazi Waffen SS units "disgusting". He said that it showed Moscow was right to "denazify" Ukraine. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month formally apologised after the speaker of the Canadian House of Commons, Anthony Rota, praised 98-year-old ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka in the chamber in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rota said he had made a mistake and resigned. Putin on Wagner boss Prigozhin's death During the address, Putin suggested that the plane crash which killed Wagner's chief in August was caused by hand grenades detonating inside the aircraft. The private Embraer jet on which Prigozhin was travelling to St Petersburg crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board on Aug 23, including two other top Wagner figures, Prigozhin's four bodyguards and a crew of three. "Fragments of hand grenades were found in the bodies of those killed in the crash," Putin said. Watch: How long does Ukraine have to save itself? NATO's weapons reserves dwindle × Putin on Armenia Armenia did not listen to Russia's recommendations on Nagorno-Karabakh, Putin said around two weeks after an Azerbaijani invasion drove ethnic Armenians who had ruled the region for more than three decades to surrender. Putin stated that Armenia remained a Russian friend and that Moscow was ready to assist the people of Karabakh, despite the fact that the majority of the ethnic Armenian population had already fled the region. Putin targets US Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave. In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world." (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.

From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuideYdJU3uByAKZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Oct 5) that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club, President Putin alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy."</p>

<p>"At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said.</p>

<p>He added that the West was trying to cast Arabs as the enemy. The Russian president also said that countries such as India, Brazil, and South Africa deserve more representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and added that the UN should be reformed but gradually.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine would only last for a week if foreign aid stopped: Putin</strong></h2>

<p>During Thursday's event, Vladimir Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Generally speaking, the Ukrainian economy can not function without external assistance. Things have changed. Look, on the outside, it is all balanced there. The Ukrainian budget is balanced, and the macroeconomic indicators have levelled. But thanks to what? Thanks to multi-billion donations that come each month," Putin said.</p>

<p>"If one just stops it (SNAPS FINGERS), it will all die in a week. The same applies to the defence system. Just imagine - the aid stops tomorrow. It will live only for a week - when they run out of ammo," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Russia did not start war in Ukraine'</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian president also asserted that Moscow did not start the war in Ukraine but launched what it calls a "special military operation" to try to stop it.</p>

<p>"There is this ever-increasing military and political pressure. We have to respond. I have said many times that we did not start the so-called war in Ukraine. On the contrary, we are trying to end it. It was not us who worked a state coup in Kyiv in 2014 - bloody and anti-constitutional," he said.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Oct 5) that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club, President Putin alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Oct 5) that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club, President Putin alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy." "At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said. He added that the West was trying to cast Arabs as the enemy. The Russian president also said that countries such as India, Brazil, and South Africa deserve more representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and added that the UN should be reformed but gradually. Ukraine would only last for a week if foreign aid stopped: Putin During Thursday's event, Vladimir Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped. "Generally speaking, the Ukrainian economy can not function without external assistance. Things have changed. Look, on the outside, it is all balanced there. The Ukrainian budget is balanced, and the macroeconomic indicators have levelled. But thanks to what? Thanks to multi-billion donations that come each month," Putin said. "If one just stops it (SNAPS FINGERS), it will all die in a week. The same applies to the defence system. Just imagine - the aid stops tomorrow. It will live only for a week - when they run out of ammo," he added. 'Russia did not start war in Ukraine' The Russian president also asserted that Moscow did not start the war in Ukraine but launched what it calls a "special military operation" to try to stop it. "There is this ever-increasing military and political pressure. We have to respond. I have said many times that we did not start the so-called war in Ukraine. On the contrary, we are trying to end it. It was not us who worked a state coup in Kyiv in 2014 - bloody and anti-constitutional," he said. 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.

Indian leadership self-directed, led by national interests: Putin

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine. The Russian leader also portrayed the war in Ukraine as a part of a long-standing confrontation with the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin claimed Russia had “practically finished work on the modern strategic weapons that I have been talking about and I announced a few years ago”.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;once again issued a nuclear threat and added that the&nbsp;‘Satan-2’ and ‘Flying Chernobyl’ missiles would be ready soon.</p>

<p>“From the moment the launch of missiles is detected, no matter where it comes from - from any point of the world ocean or from any territory - such a number, so many hundreds of our missiles appear in the air in a retaliatory strike that there is no chance of survival there will be no single enemy left, and in several directions at once," Putin said.</p>

<p>Putin said Russia is "tasked, essentially, with building a new world" and further added that the West was aiming for global "hegemony". Putin said, "The West always needs an enemy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a stark warning to the West, Putin said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Russia's nuclear arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin chief said there was no need to change Russia's nuclear doctrine, however, as any attack on Russia would provoke a split-second response with hundreds of nuclear missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the nuclear doctrine, Putin said, "Do we need to change this? And why? Everything can be changed but I just don't see the need for it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think no person of sound mind and clear memory would think of using nuclear weapons against Russia," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ex-German ambassador to NATO on war in Ukraine &amp; impact of US Elections&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Putin targets US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave.</p>

<p>In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2>Ukraine war not a 'territorial one'&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Russian leader said that the conflict in Ukraine was "not a territorial" one and that Moscow has "no interests from the point of view of conquering some territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the war, Russia's army occupies large swathes of southern and eastern Ukraine, and Putin has formally annexed four Ukrainian regions: Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Lugansk. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin has consistently said that Ukrainian territory was historically Russian and questioned Ukrainian statehood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine. The Russian leader also portrayed the war in Ukraine as a part of a long-standing confrontation with the West. Putin claimed Russia had “practically finished work on the modern strategic weapons that I have been talking about and I announced a few years ago”. He once again issued a nuclear threat and added that the ‘Satan-2’ and ‘Flying Chernobyl’ missiles would be ready soon. “From the moment the launch of missiles is detected, no matter where it comes from - from any point of the world ocean or from any territory - such a number, so many hundreds of our missiles appear in the air in a retaliatory strike that there is no chance of survival there will be no single enemy left, and in several directions at once," Putin said. Putin said Russia is "tasked, essentially, with building a new world" and further added that the West was aiming for global "hegemony". Putin said, "The West always needs an enemy." In a stark warning to the West, Putin said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. Also read: Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched. Putin also said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Russia's nuclear arsenal. The Kremlin chief said there was no need to change Russia's nuclear doctrine, however, as any attack on Russia would provoke a split-second response with hundreds of nuclear missiles. On the nuclear doctrine, Putin said, "Do we need to change this? And why? Everything can be changed but I just don't see the need for it." "I think no person of sound mind and clear memory would think of using nuclear weapons against Russia," he said. Watch: Ex-German ambassador to NATO on war in Ukraine & impact of US Elections × Putin targets US Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave. In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world." Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Ukraine war not a 'territorial one' The Russian leader said that the conflict in Ukraine was "not a territorial" one and that Moscow has "no interests from the point of view of conquering some territories." In the aftermath of the war, Russia's army occupies large swathes of southern and eastern Ukraine, and Putin has formally annexed four Ukrainian regions: Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Lugansk. Putin has consistently said that Ukrainian territory was historically Russian and questioned Ukrainian statehood. (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.

'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge

<p>As per shocking reports citing a Telegram channel, it has been claimed that Russian secret service agents are plotting to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin. Coming against the backdrop of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, the channel which reportedly has close links to the security forces, makes a startling claim that some agents from "within their own ranks" are planning to take out Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The channel goes by the name VChK-OGPU and sheds light on what was being allegedly cooked inside the secret agents' ranks.</p>

<p>The channel said that things came to the fore during a meeting at karaoke club Honey, in Chekhov which is about 40 miles from the Russian capital city of Moscow. The channel quoted a source while uncovering the alleged plot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-evacuates-diplomats-from-india-after-new-delhi-asks-for-staff-reduction-643197">Canada evacuates diplomats from India after New Delhi demands staff reduction</a></p>

<p>This person is a 37-year-old man named Mikhail Yurchenko. He is reportedly a construction entrepreneur. The Telegram channel disclosed that Yurchenko had a lengthy conversation with a man from the club “about the war and future life in Russia”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At some point, according to Yurchenko, the interlocutor showed him a red service ID and stated that he had a task ‘to remove Vladimir Putin,’” media reports said while citing the VChK-OGPU channel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia aware of the events&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>If reports are to be believed, Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs is already aware of the development.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-disclosed-classified-information-about-us-nuclear-subs-to-australian-businessman-643145">Trump disclosed classified info about US nuclear subs to Aussie businessman</a></p>

<p>The ministry was alerted by a specialist in the presidential administrative directorate and was informed of the “secret conspiracy against the head of state”.</p>

<p>Shocked and "haunted" after learning about the alleged planning by the Russian secret agents, Yurchenko approached the police and reported it.</p>

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<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-dengue-death-toll-crosses-1000-mark-643175">Bangladesh: Dengue death toll crosses 1,000-mark</a></strong></p>

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<p>However, Russian authorities are now looking into the matter to make sure if the investigations are true or just a facade.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>The club which is cited by the channel is a place where Russian agents frequently come and meet, reports said.&nbsp;VChK-OGPU reportedly said, "The special services have been searching for several days for the unknown person who planned to 'remove' Putin. Based on his tip, operatives went to study the situation in the Honey club, where... you can often meet employees of various [secret] departments."</p>

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As per shocking reports citing a Telegram channel, it has been claimed that Russian secret service agents are plotting to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin.

As per shocking reports citing a Telegram channel, it has been claimed that Russian secret service agents are plotting to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin. Coming against the backdrop of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, the channel which reportedly has close links to the security forces, makes a startling claim that some agents from "within their own ranks" are planning to take out Putin. The channel goes by the name VChK-OGPU and sheds light on what was being allegedly cooked inside the secret agents' ranks. The channel said that things came to the fore during a meeting at karaoke club Honey, in Chekhov which is about 40 miles from the Russian capital city of Moscow. The channel quoted a source while uncovering the alleged plot. Also Read | Canada evacuates diplomats from India after New Delhi demands staff reduction This person is a 37-year-old man named Mikhail Yurchenko. He is reportedly a construction entrepreneur. The Telegram channel disclosed that Yurchenko had a lengthy conversation with a man from the club “about the war and future life in Russia”. “At some point, according to Yurchenko, the interlocutor showed him a red service ID and stated that he had a task ‘to remove Vladimir Putin,’” media reports said while citing the VChK-OGPU channel. Russia aware of the events If reports are to be believed, Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs is already aware of the development. Also Read | Trump disclosed classified info about US nuclear subs to Aussie businessman The ministry was alerted by a specialist in the presidential administrative directorate and was informed of the “secret conspiracy against the head of state”. Shocked and "haunted" after learning about the alleged planning by the Russian secret agents, Yurchenko approached the police and reported it. Watch | Bangladesh: Dengue death toll crosses 1,000-mark × However, Russian authorities are now looking into the matter to make sure if the investigations are true or just a facade. The club which is cited by the channel is a place where Russian agents frequently come and meet, reports said. VChK-OGPU reportedly said, "The special services have been searching for several days for the unknown person who planned to 'remove' Putin. Based on his tip, operatives went to study the situation in the Honey club, where... you can often meet employees of various [secret] departments." 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. ×

Russian secret agents investigate plot to assassinate Putin from 'within own ranks'

<p>Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks.</p>

<p>Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, the New York Times (NYT) newspaper claimed on Wednesday (Oct 5), citing Western officials and satellite images verified by naval experts.</p>

<p>The Telegraph newspaper also reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”.</p>

<p>Russia is now “attempting to use naval air power to project force over the north-western Black Sea”, it reported.</p>

<p>If the reports are accurate, then this would be the biggest setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin who had occupied Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.</p>

<h2><strong>Crimea important naval base for Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Crimea has served as the key hub supporting&nbsp;Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sevastopol, the main base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet since the 19th century, has had particular importance for navy operations since the start of the war.</p>

<p>Another reason is to use it as a logistics hub, shipping in munitions and materiel for the land battle to the north.</p>

<p>The decision to withdraw from Sevastopol comes in the wake of a series of attacks by Ukraine in recent weeks that have severely damaged Russian vessels and the fleet’s headquarters.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's counteroffensive ops yielding results&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Ukrainian strikes obliterated the naval headquarters and damaged docked warships last month, making the port city untenable as a naval base.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-begins-release-of-second-batch-of-treated-radioactive-wastewater-642747">Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batc</a></p>

<p>The recent assault has not only denied Russia access to parts of the Black Sea but has also allowed Ukraine to open a new corridor for it to dispatch vital grain shipments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-led-to-kevin-mccarthys-exit-and-what-happens-next-642314">Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit as US House speaker, and what happens next?</a></p>

<p>The Russian withdrawal would give a major boost to Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations as it slowly makes advances amidst heavy losses.</p>

<p>Military experts argue that it is essential for Ukraine to keep up its attacks on targets in Crimea to degrade Russian morale and weaken its military.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks.

Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks. Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, the New York Times (NYT) newspaper claimed on Wednesday (Oct 5), citing Western officials and satellite images verified by naval experts. The Telegraph newspaper also reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”. Russia is now “attempting to use naval air power to project force over the north-western Black Sea”, it reported. If the reports are accurate, then this would be the biggest setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin who had occupied Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Crimea important naval base for Russia Crimea has served as the key hub supporting Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sevastopol, the main base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet since the 19th century, has had particular importance for navy operations since the start of the war. Another reason is to use it as a logistics hub, shipping in munitions and materiel for the land battle to the north. The decision to withdraw from Sevastopol comes in the wake of a series of attacks by Ukraine in recent weeks that have severely damaged Russian vessels and the fleet’s headquarters. Ukraine's counteroffensive ops yielding results The Ukrainian strikes obliterated the naval headquarters and damaged docked warships last month, making the port city untenable as a naval base. Also read | Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batc The recent assault has not only denied Russia access to parts of the Black Sea but has also allowed Ukraine to open a new corridor for it to dispatch vital grain shipments. Also read | Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit as US House speaker, and what happens next? The Russian withdrawal would give a major boost to Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations as it slowly makes advances amidst heavy losses. Military experts argue that it is essential for Ukraine to keep up its attacks on targets in Crimea to degrade Russian morale and weaken its military. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Setback for Vladimir Putin as Russia withdraws Black Sea Fleet from Crimea: Report

<p>A former Russian journalist was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison in absentia for allegedly voicing her opposition to the ongoing war in Ukraine and calling President Vladimir Putin a “murderer.”</p>

<p>The Basmanny District Court found Marina Ovsyannikova guilty of disseminating false information about the Russian army, Russian state-backed news agency TASS reported Wednesday (Oct 4).</p>

<p>Reuters reported that she faced criminal prosecution for "spreading knowingly false information about the Russian Armed Forces" in connection with a July 2022 protest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, she allegedly stood on a river embankment opposite the Kremlin and waved posters calling Putin a “murderer” and Russian soldiers “fascists.”</p>

<p>"How many more children must die before you will stop?" the poster read.</p>

<p>She was later put under house arrest. According to her lawyer, she fled to an undisclosed European nation along with her daughter.</p>

<h2><strong>Ovsyannikova's March 2022 protest</strong></h2>

<p>The 45-year-old journalist-turned-Kremlin critic first made global headlines in March 2022, just days after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She appeared on the newscast with a message that stormed the Kremlin no time.</p>

<p>She brandished posters reading “Stop the war” and “They are lying to you” on air, a move that attracted heavy penalty from the authorities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Will Putin use nuclear weapons?</strong></p>

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<p>Ovsyannikova received a 30,000-ruble fine (at that time, around €250) over that protest. She fled Russia and worked briefly for Germany’s Die Welt newspaper, before returning to Russia to fight a child custody battle.</p>

<p>She then escaped house arrest and left Russia along with her daughter.</p>

<p>Unconfirmed reports indicate she is currently living in France.</p>

<h2><strong>Crackdown on dissent in Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Over the past 20 months, thousands of Russians have received fines, and hundreds have been subject to criminal charges for openly expressing their opposition to the Ukraine war. The Kremlin has enacted&nbsp;laws that prohibit criticism of what it terms a "special military operation" to target opposition leaders, human rights advocates, and free media outlets.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-robert-ficos-win-in-slovakia-is-good-news-for-vladimir-putin-during-ukraine-war-641770"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Why Robert Fico`s win in Slovakia is good news for Vladimir Putin during Ukraine war</strong></a></p>

<p>Prominent critics of the Kremlin have been sentenced to extended periods of imprisonment, human rights organisations have been compelled to cease operations, independent news websites have been blocked, and many independent journalists have chosen to leave the country due to the threat of prosecution.</p>

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A former Russian journalist was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison in absentia for allegedly voicing her opposition to the ongoing war in Ukraine and calling President Vladimir Putin a “murderer.

A former Russian journalist was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison in absentia for allegedly voicing her opposition to the ongoing war in Ukraine and calling President Vladimir Putin a “murderer.” The Basmanny District Court found Marina Ovsyannikova guilty of disseminating false information about the Russian army, Russian state-backed news agency TASS reported Wednesday (Oct 4). Reuters reported that she faced criminal prosecution for "spreading knowingly false information about the Russian Armed Forces" in connection with a July 2022 protest. According to reports, she allegedly stood on a river embankment opposite the Kremlin and waved posters calling Putin a “murderer” and Russian soldiers “fascists.” "How many more children must die before you will stop?" the poster read. She was later put under house arrest. According to her lawyer, she fled to an undisclosed European nation along with her daughter. Ovsyannikova's March 2022 protest The 45-year-old journalist-turned-Kremlin critic first made global headlines in March 2022, just days after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She appeared on the newscast with a message that stormed the Kremlin no time. She brandished posters reading “Stop the war” and “They are lying to you” on air, a move that attracted heavy penalty from the authorities. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Will Putin use nuclear weapons? × Ovsyannikova received a 30,000-ruble fine (at that time, around €250) over that protest. She fled Russia and worked briefly for Germany’s Die Welt newspaper, before returning to Russia to fight a child custody battle. She then escaped house arrest and left Russia along with her daughter. Unconfirmed reports indicate she is currently living in France. Crackdown on dissent in Russia Over the past 20 months, thousands of Russians have received fines, and hundreds have been subject to criminal charges for openly expressing their opposition to the Ukraine war. The Kremlin has enacted laws that prohibit criticism of what it terms a "special military operation" to target opposition leaders, human rights advocates, and free media outlets. Also read: Why Robert Fico`s win in Slovakia is good news for Vladimir Putin during Ukraine war Prominent critics of the Kremlin have been sentenced to extended periods of imprisonment, human rights organisations have been compelled to cease operations, independent news websites have been blocked, and many independent journalists have chosen to leave the country due to the threat of prosecution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian journalist who flashed anti-war placard on air sentenced to over 8 years in jail

<p>Former Slovakia prime minister Robert Fico may become the leader of landlocked a former Soviet Republic nation once again. Fico is being described as a pro-Russia figure by western media amid ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The election was expected to be a close race between Fico’s populist SMER party and the centrist Progressive Slovensko (PS). But with all votes counted, SMER-SSD led with 23 per cent, and PS trailed with 17 per cent.</p>

<p>Fico pulled off a political comeback after campaigning on pro-Russian lines and promised to withdraw support for ongoing conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Slovakia matters for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Under the previous regime, Slovakia, a member of both NATO and the European Union, was among a number of European countries pushing for tough EU sanctions against Russia.</p>

<p>Slovakia was the first nation to supply air defences to Ukraine when the Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' against the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Slovakia had provided Ukraine with MiG-29 fighter jets, S-300 air defence systems as well as helicopters, and armoured vehicles. It also hosts a number of refugees from the war-torn country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Slovak Elections: Populist leader Robert Fico wins elections</strong></p>

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<p>However, Fico has promised that under him, the country will no longer extend support to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Instead of sending arms to Kyiv, the EU and the US should use their influence to force Russia and Ukraine to strike a compromise peace deal," he was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>Fico has blamed "Ukrainian Nazis and fascists" for pushing Russian President Vladimir Putin to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a charge Kyiv denies.</p>

<p>Fico previously served as Slovakia’s prime minister for more than a decade, first between 2006 and 2010 and then again from 2012 to 2018.</p>

<p>He was forced to resign in March 2018 after weeks of mass protests over the murder of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée, Martina Kušnírová. The journalist had reported on corruption among the country’s elite, including people directly connected to Fico and his party.</p>

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Former Slovakia prime minister Robert Fico may become the leader of landlocked a former Soviet Republic nation once again. Fico is being described as a pro-Russia figure by western media amid ongoing war in Ukraine.

Former Slovakia prime minister Robert Fico may become the leader of landlocked a former Soviet Republic nation once again. Fico is being described as a pro-Russia figure by western media amid ongoing war in Ukraine. The election was expected to be a close race between Fico’s populist SMER party and the centrist Progressive Slovensko (PS). But with all votes counted, SMER-SSD led with 23 per cent, and PS trailed with 17 per cent. Fico pulled off a political comeback after campaigning on pro-Russian lines and promised to withdraw support for ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Why Slovakia matters for Ukraine Under the previous regime, Slovakia, a member of both NATO and the European Union, was among a number of European countries pushing for tough EU sanctions against Russia. Slovakia was the first nation to supply air defences to Ukraine when the Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' against the country. Slovakia had provided Ukraine with MiG-29 fighter jets, S-300 air defence systems as well as helicopters, and armoured vehicles. It also hosts a number of refugees from the war-torn country. Also watch | Slovak Elections: Populist leader Robert Fico wins elections × However, Fico has promised that under him, the country will no longer extend support to Ukraine. "Instead of sending arms to Kyiv, the EU and the US should use their influence to force Russia and Ukraine to strike a compromise peace deal," he was quoted as saying. Fico has blamed "Ukrainian Nazis and fascists" for pushing Russian President Vladimir Putin to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a charge Kyiv denies. Fico previously served as Slovakia’s prime minister for more than a decade, first between 2006 and 2010 and then again from 2012 to 2018. He was forced to resign in March 2018 after weeks of mass protests over the murder of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée, Martina Kušnírová. The journalist had reported on corruption among the country’s elite, including people directly connected to Fico and his party. 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.

Why Robert Fico's win in Slovakia is good news for Vladimir Putin during Ukraine war

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the country on Saturday (Sep 30) on the first anniversary of parts of four Ukrainian regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - being incorporated into Russia. In a televised address, President Putin said, "A year ago a decisive, historic and fateful event happened. Agreements of four new regions of the Federation joining Russia were signed. Millions of people of Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions made their choice - to be with their fatherland."</p>

<p>“This conscious, long-awaited, hard-won and truly popular decision people took together, at the referendums that were held in full compliance with international regulations,” Putin said and declared September 30 as "Reunification Day".</p>

<p>He added that the choice (of parts of these four regions) to join Russia was reinforced by local elections staged this month that returned officials supporting Moscow's annexation.</p>

<p>“I want to specially address the people of Donetsk People's Republic, Luhansk People's Republic, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. I thank you for saving and passing to your children the love for the fatherland, despite all these tests. Thanks to you, your firmness and determination, Russia has become even more stronger," Putin further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine has described the annexation as temporarily occupied and says that the parts of the four regions will be liberated. It said the votes in Russian-controlled Ukraine were unlawful and part of an effort by the Kremlin to justify its attempted annexation of the land.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the country on Saturday (Sep 30) on the first anniversary of parts of four Ukrainian regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - being incorporated into Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the country on Saturday (Sep 30) on the first anniversary of parts of four Ukrainian regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - being incorporated into Russia. In a televised address, President Putin said, "A year ago a decisive, historic and fateful event happened. Agreements of four new regions of the Federation joining Russia were signed. Millions of people of Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions made their choice - to be with their fatherland." “This conscious, long-awaited, hard-won and truly popular decision people took together, at the referendums that were held in full compliance with international regulations,” Putin said and declared September 30 as "Reunification Day". He added that the choice (of parts of these four regions) to join Russia was reinforced by local elections staged this month that returned officials supporting Moscow's annexation. “I want to specially address the people of Donetsk People's Republic, Luhansk People's Republic, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. I thank you for saving and passing to your children the love for the fatherland, despite all these tests. Thanks to you, your firmness and determination, Russia has become even more stronger," Putin further said. Ukraine has described the annexation as temporarily occupied and says that the parts of the four regions will be liberated. It said the votes in Russian-controlled Ukraine were unlawful and part of an effort by the Kremlin to justify its attempted annexation of the land. 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.

A decisive, historic event: Putin addresses Russia on first anniversary of Ukrainian regions’ annexation

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-volodymyr-zelensky-keen-on-india-visit-later-this-year-640807">Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-vladimir-putin-meets-chechen-warlord-ramzan-kadyrov-believed-to-be-in-coma-640937">Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What does this meeting indicate?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war. A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine. Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation." Also read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23. Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin. According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday. Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation." Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way." Also read: Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma Watch this video: × What does this meeting indicate? A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers. During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat. Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs). Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) 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 discusses Ukraine war with former Prigozhin aide. What does this indicate?

As per reports, Russia President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine continues to adversely impact Russia's economy and it has forced the leader to review his budget priorities but instead of what at least NATO would have expected.

Cost of Russia Ukraine War: Russia doubles 2024 defence spending as Ukraine war costs soar

<p>Kremlin released a video of Russian President Vladimir speaking with Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, believed to be ‘seriously ill’ and fighting for life in a coma.</p>

<p>In the video released on Thursda (Sept 28), Putin was seen meeting Kadyrov, whose face is not shown. The clip lasts for only four seconds.</p>

<p>Images later released by the state-run agencies showed Kadyrov sitting before Putin and seemingly having a conversation.</p>

<p>Kadyrov in a post on Telegram said that he&nbsp;talked to the Russian president about a range of topics including the role of Chechen fighters in Ukraine. He added teasingly that "other issues" were raised, and promised "more on this later."</p>

<p>According to Sky News, Putin praised Kadyrov for creating a "positive dynamic" in Chechnya, who was shown handing him some papers from a file.</p>

<h2><strong>Chechen leader had 'severe kidney failure'</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting comes amid rumours that Kadyrov has been suffering from serious health problems.</p>

<p>Former editor-in-chief of Echo of Moscow Alexey Venediktov had earlier claimed that the Chechen leader was in the hospital with "severe kidney failure" which requires "frequent hemodialysis".</p>

<p>But earlier this month, Kadyrov posted a video online saying that he was fine and that his reason for travelling to a Moscow hospital was to visit the bed-ridden sick uncle.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lays-down-new-road-to-daulat-beg-oldi-secures-key-point-at-lac-640842">India lays down new road to Daulat Beg Oldi, secures key point at LAC</a></p>

<p>Thursday’s meeting also comes days after the Chechen leader posted a video of his son beating a Ukrainian being held on suspicion of burning the Quran holy book.</p>

<h2><strong>Meeting comes amidst furore over son beating Ukrainian&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Adam Kadyrov (15) was filmed thrashing Nikita Zhuravel (19), a native Ukrainian, who was held in a detention cell for allegedly setting ablaze a copy of Islam's holy book.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gives-task-of-managing-ukraine-volunteer-fighters-to-ex-prigozhin-aide-640789">Putin gives task of managing Ukraine volunteer fighters to ex-Prigozhin aide</a></p>

<p>Though the incident took place earlier this month, the video was shared on Monday (Sept 25), which became a hot topic of discussion in Russian media.</p>

<p>The Chechen warlord said that he was 'proud' of his teenage son for carrying out the horrific attack.</p>

<p>The 46-year-old is one of the staunch allies of Putin ally and has been a vocal supporter of Russia's invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Kremlin released a video of Russian President Vladimir speaking with Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, believed to be ‘seriously ill’ and fighting for life in a coma.

Kremlin released a video of Russian President Vladimir speaking with Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, believed to be ‘seriously ill’ and fighting for life in a coma. In the video released on Thursda (Sept 28), Putin was seen meeting Kadyrov, whose face is not shown. The clip lasts for only four seconds. Images later released by the state-run agencies showed Kadyrov sitting before Putin and seemingly having a conversation. Kadyrov in a post on Telegram said that he talked to the Russian president about a range of topics including the role of Chechen fighters in Ukraine. He added teasingly that "other issues" were raised, and promised "more on this later." According to Sky News, Putin praised Kadyrov for creating a "positive dynamic" in Chechnya, who was shown handing him some papers from a file. Chechen leader had 'severe kidney failure' The meeting comes amid rumours that Kadyrov has been suffering from serious health problems. Former editor-in-chief of Echo of Moscow Alexey Venediktov had earlier claimed that the Chechen leader was in the hospital with "severe kidney failure" which requires "frequent hemodialysis". But earlier this month, Kadyrov posted a video online saying that he was fine and that his reason for travelling to a Moscow hospital was to visit the bed-ridden sick uncle. Also read | India lays down new road to Daulat Beg Oldi, secures key point at LAC Thursday’s meeting also comes days after the Chechen leader posted a video of his son beating a Ukrainian being held on suspicion of burning the Quran holy book. Meeting comes amidst furore over son beating Ukrainian Adam Kadyrov (15) was filmed thrashing Nikita Zhuravel (19), a native Ukrainian, who was held in a detention cell for allegedly setting ablaze a copy of Islam's holy book. Also read | Putin gives task of managing Ukraine volunteer fighters to ex-Prigozhin aide Though the incident took place earlier this month, the video was shared on Monday (Sept 25), which became a hot topic of discussion in Russian media. The Chechen warlord said that he was 'proud' of his teenage son for carrying out the horrific attack. The 46-year-old is one of the staunch allies of Putin ally and has been a vocal supporter of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, who was rumoured to be 'in coma'

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin gave the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's former aide the task of overseeing volunteer fighter units in Ukraine, as per a statement issued by the Kremlin on Friday (Sep 28).<br />
<br />
Prigozhin was killed in August in an air crash which was suspected to have been orchestrated by Putin after the failed Wagner mutiny in June.<br />
<br />
"At the last meeting, we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation," the Russian president was quoted as saying to Andrei Troshev.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-places-icc-president-on-wanted-list-amid-allegations-of-torturing-ukrainian-victims-to-death-639487">Russia places ICC president on wanted list amid allegations it tortured Ukrainians to death</a></p>

<p>The meeting, which was also attended by Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, emphasised the integration of the mercenary group's fighters into the regular military of Russia in the wake of the aborted mutiny.</p>

<p>Prigozhin was killed along with nine other people when a plane, which took off from Moscow and was headed to Saint Petersburg, crashed on August 23.</p>

<p>As per the experts, the Wagner mutiny was the most significant challenge to the rule of Putin.</p>

<p>The rebellion was called off by Prigozhin after he apparently finalised a deal with the Kremlin through the mediation of Belarus, after which he faced no criminal prosecution.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Vladmir Putin meets Ramzan Kadyrov in Moscow</strong></p>

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<p>Troshev, who is a retired colonel famous by the nickname "Sedoi" (Gray-haired), hails from St Petersburg, the hometown of Putin, and is a decorated veteran of Kremlin campaigns in Chechnya, Afghanistan and Syria.</p>

<p>He was one of the Wagner Group's leaders in Syria for which he was put on the sanctions list of the the European Union in December 2021.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin gave the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's former aide the task of overseeing volunteer fighter units in Ukraine, as per a statement issued by the Kremlin on Friday (Sep 28).

Russian President Vladimir Putin gave the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's former aide the task of overseeing volunteer fighter units in Ukraine, as per a statement issued by the Kremlin on Friday (Sep 28). Prigozhin was killed in August in an air crash which was suspected to have been orchestrated by Putin after the failed Wagner mutiny in June. "At the last meeting, we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation," the Russian president was quoted as saying to Andrei Troshev. ALSO READ | Russia places ICC president on wanted list amid allegations it tortured Ukrainians to death The meeting, which was also attended by Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, emphasised the integration of the mercenary group's fighters into the regular military of Russia in the wake of the aborted mutiny. Prigozhin was killed along with nine other people when a plane, which took off from Moscow and was headed to Saint Petersburg, crashed on August 23. As per the experts, the Wagner mutiny was the most significant challenge to the rule of Putin. The rebellion was called off by Prigozhin after he apparently finalised a deal with the Kremlin through the mediation of Belarus, after which he faced no criminal prosecution. WATCH | Vladmir Putin meets Ramzan Kadyrov in Moscow Troshev, who is a retired colonel famous by the nickname "Sedoi" (Gray-haired), hails from St Petersburg, the hometown of Putin, and is a decorated veteran of Kremlin campaigns in Chechnya, Afghanistan and Syria. He was one of the Wagner Group's leaders in Syria for which he was put on the sanctions list of the the European Union in December 2021. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) 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

Putin gives task of managing Ukraine volunteer fighters to ex-Prigozhin aide

<p>Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This dossier, as per The Guardian report, alleges that Moscow deliberately caused starvation during the ongoing 18-month Ukraine-Russia war.</p>

<h2><strong>Document to unveil war crime</strong></h2>

<p>Law firm Global Rights Compliance is compiling what is expected to be a meticulous document that will unveil instances where the Russian forces deployed hunger as a weapon of warfare.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-fm-says-bid-to-revive-black-sea-grain-deal-not-realistic-accuses-west-of-direct-fighting-in-ukraine-639004">Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The document, as per The Guardian, will supply the ICC with compelling evidence that could pave the way for an unprecedented prosecution, potentially implicating Russian President Vladimir Putin himself.</p>

<p>As per Yousuf Khan, a lawyer with the law firm Global Rights Compliance, "The weaponisation of food has taken place in three phases."</p>

<h2><strong>The three phases of starving Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p><em><strong>Phase 1: </strong></em>Khan claims that the initial phase started at the beginning of the invasion, during which Ukrainian cities were besieged, and food supplies were cut.</p>

<p>As per Khan, their investigation is also focusing on the siege of Mariupol, where food supplies were cut to the city. The document also alleges that humanitarian relief corridors were blocked or bombed to make it impossible for desperate, starving Ukrainians to escape.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-wagner-commander-arrested-in-norway-for-trying-to-cross-border-back-into-russia-illegally-638968">Former Wagner commander arrested in Norway for trying to cross border into Russia illegally</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Phase 2:</strong></em> In the second phase, a deliberate destruction of food and water supplies and energy sources took place during the fighting.</p>

<p>These objects were described by Khan as "indispensable to the survival of the civilian population." Khan, as per the report, argues that these attacks were "not crimes of result but crimes of intent".</p>

<p>He says, "If you are taking out objects that civilians need, like energy infrastructure in the dead of winter, there is a foreseeability to your actions."</p>

<p><em><strong>Phase 3:</strong></em> Prevention or restriction of Ukrainian food exports.</p>

<p>"We've seen Russia attack grain facilities on the Danube and engage in muscle flexing on the Black Sea," says Khan.</p>

<p>The two nations have a history of such crimes. According to the Guardian, in 1932-33, the Joseph Stalin Soviet government engineered a famine that killed millions in Ukraine. This came to be known as the Holodomor, or the Great Ukrainian Famine.</p>

<p>In 2018, a UN Security Council resolution condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of war. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Putin could bear responsibility for having committed the acts directly, jointly with others and/or through others," says the Lawyer.</p>

<p>Over the years, starvation as a war strategy has been used by many. Recent examples include Syria and Tigray, Ethiopia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC). This dossier, as per The Guardian report, alleges that Moscow deliberately caused starvation during the ongoing 18-month Ukraine-Russia war. Document to unveil war crime Law firm Global Rights Compliance is compiling what is expected to be a meticulous document that will unveil instances where the Russian forces deployed hunger as a weapon of warfare. Also read | Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine The document, as per The Guardian, will supply the ICC with compelling evidence that could pave the way for an unprecedented prosecution, potentially implicating Russian President Vladimir Putin himself. As per Yousuf Khan, a lawyer with the law firm Global Rights Compliance, "The weaponisation of food has taken place in three phases." The three phases of starving Ukraine Phase 1: Khan claims that the initial phase started at the beginning of the invasion, during which Ukrainian cities were besieged, and food supplies were cut. As per Khan, their investigation is also focusing on the siege of Mariupol, where food supplies were cut to the city. The document also alleges that humanitarian relief corridors were blocked or bombed to make it impossible for desperate, starving Ukrainians to escape. Also read | Former Wagner commander arrested in Norway for trying to cross border into Russia illegally Phase 2: In the second phase, a deliberate destruction of food and water supplies and energy sources took place during the fighting. These objects were described by Khan as "indispensable to the survival of the civilian population." Khan, as per the report, argues that these attacks were "not crimes of result but crimes of intent". He says, "If you are taking out objects that civilians need, like energy infrastructure in the dead of winter, there is a foreseeability to your actions." Phase 3: Prevention or restriction of Ukrainian food exports. "We've seen Russia attack grain facilities on the Danube and engage in muscle flexing on the Black Sea," says Khan. The two nations have a history of such crimes. According to the Guardian, in 1932-33, the Joseph Stalin Soviet government engineered a famine that killed millions in Ukraine. This came to be known as the Holodomor, or the Great Ukrainian Famine. In 2018, a UN Security Council resolution condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of war. "Putin could bear responsibility for having committed the acts directly, jointly with others and/or through others," says the Lawyer. Over the years, starvation as a war strategy has been used by many. Recent examples include Syria and Tigray, Ethiopia. (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.

Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p>Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session."</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky in US</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-no-longer-arming-war-torn-ukraine-amid-grain-deal-row-638229">Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row</a></strong></p>

<p>Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP.</p>

<p>This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals.</p>

<h2><strong>US aid and the Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry.</p>

<p>President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-shot-19-ukrainian-drones-over-crimea-black-sea-638044">Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence."</p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he&nbsp;also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress. Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session." Zelensky in US The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden. Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv. Also read | Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP. This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals. US aid and the Ukraine war Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry. President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership. Also read | Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence." The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress. (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's Zelensky denied request to address joint session of US Congress

<p>President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Nikolai Patrushev, a close Putin ally and the secretary of Russia's Security Council, said Russia and China should deepen cooperation in the face of the West's attempt to contain them both.</p>

<p>He was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying that the talks in Beijing would be "thorough", at a meeting in Moscow with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi.</p>

<p>Putin will attend the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by Xi during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March.</p>

<p>Days before that visit, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Putin's arrest on suspicion of illegally deporting hundreds of children or more from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Moscow denies the allegations, and the Kremlin said the warrant was evidence of the West's hostility to Russia, which opened a criminal case against the ICC prosecutor and the judges who issued the warrant.</p>

<p>Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine early last year has triggered one of the deadliest European conflicts since World War Two and the biggest confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.</p>

<p>Putin has pivoted towards China, and Xi has stood by him.</p>

<p>Chinese-Russian trade has soared since the invasion, and Russia has sold Asian powers, including China's greater volumes of the oil it can no longer sell to the West because of sanctions.</p>

<p>Putin last visited Beijing in February 2022, days before the invasion, where he and Xi announced a 'no limits' partnership. Moscow says this does not mean a military alliance, however.</p>

<h2><strong>China and Russia share outlook, boost trade</strong></h2>

<p>Putin and Xi share a broad world view, which sees the West as decadent and in decline, just as China challenges US&nbsp;supremacy in everything from technology to espionage and military power.</p>

<p>Trade between Russia and China soared 30 per cent&nbsp;in the first half of this year and will rise to more than $200 billion in 2023, Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov said on a visit to China.</p>

<p>"We are actively developing investments, including in our large gas and petrochemical projects, where we actively use Chinese technologies," Reshetnikov said.</p>

<p>"We are strongly interested in transforming technological cooperation into investment cooperation, so that Chinese companies actively enter into these projects, invest in capital, and lend money, because the projects are capital-intensive and not all of them can be fully provided for by the Russian financial system."</p>

<p>The United States sees China as its gravest long-term "strategic competitor" and Russia as an "acute threat".</p>

<p>China has refrained from condemning Russia's operation against Ukraine or calling it an invasion, in line with the Kremlin, which casts the war as a "special military operation".</p>

<p>Earlier this year, CIA Director William Burns said Russia was becoming more and more dependent on China and was even at risk of becoming its "economic colony" in time.</p>

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President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine. Nikolai Patrushev, a close Putin ally and the secretary of Russia's Security Council, said Russia and China should deepen cooperation in the face of the West's attempt to contain them both. He was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying that the talks in Beijing would be "thorough", at a meeting in Moscow with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi. Putin will attend the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by Xi during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March. Days before that visit, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Putin's arrest on suspicion of illegally deporting hundreds of children or more from Ukraine. Moscow denies the allegations, and the Kremlin said the warrant was evidence of the West's hostility to Russia, which opened a criminal case against the ICC prosecutor and the judges who issued the warrant. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine early last year has triggered one of the deadliest European conflicts since World War Two and the biggest confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Putin has pivoted towards China, and Xi has stood by him. Chinese-Russian trade has soared since the invasion, and Russia has sold Asian powers, including China's greater volumes of the oil it can no longer sell to the West because of sanctions. Putin last visited Beijing in February 2022, days before the invasion, where he and Xi announced a 'no limits' partnership. Moscow says this does not mean a military alliance, however. China and Russia share outlook, boost trade Putin and Xi share a broad world view, which sees the West as decadent and in decline, just as China challenges US supremacy in everything from technology to espionage and military power. Trade between Russia and China soared 30 per cent in the first half of this year and will rise to more than $200 billion in 2023, Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov said on a visit to China. "We are actively developing investments, including in our large gas and petrochemical projects, where we actively use Chinese technologies," Reshetnikov said. "We are strongly interested in transforming technological cooperation into investment cooperation, so that Chinese companies actively enter into these projects, invest in capital, and lend money, because the projects are capital-intensive and not all of them can be fully provided for by the Russian financial system." The United States sees China as its gravest long-term "strategic competitor" and Russia as an "acute threat". China has refrained from condemning Russia's operation against Ukraine or calling it an invasion, in line with the Kremlin, which casts the war as a "special military operation". Earlier this year, CIA Director William Burns said Russia was becoming more and more dependent on China and was even at risk of becoming its "economic colony" in time. 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 and Xi to meet in Beijing in October, Russia says

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his visit to Russia on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, leaving the far eastern region of the country on his armoured train. The Ria Novosti agency published a video of Kim's departure, and said a "departure ceremony" was held at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station.</p>

<p>The TASS news agency said that Kim's train was headed around 250 kilometres towards the border.</p>

<p>Kim's Russia visit and show of bonhomie with President Vladimir Putin has heightened Western concerns that Moscow and Pyongyang may defy sanctions and engage in arms negotiations.</p>

<p>In a video released by Ria Novosti agency, Kim is seen bidding farewell to a Russian delegation led by Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov, as the Russian march "Farewell of Slavianka" plays during the train's departure.</p>

<h2><strong>Kim Jong Un scores drone bonanza as state gifts from Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, TASS mentioned Kim receiving gifts from a regional governor, including five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone, and a bulletproof vest.</p>

<p>TASS detailed the gifts as "five kamikaze drones and a 'Geran-25' reconnaissance drone with vertical takeoff," using North Korea's official name.</p>

<p>Additionally, the governor of the Primorye region offered Kim Jong Un bulletproof protection and special clothing undetectable by thermal cameras.</p>

<p>Earlier on&nbsp;Saturday, Kim Jong Un met with the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok, inspecting advanced weaponry, including a hypersonic missile system.</p>

<p>Kim's extensive tour of Russia's far eastern region, which began on Tuesday, predominantly focused on military matters, and was dominated&nbsp;by his peculiar&nbsp;entourage.</p>

<h2><strong>Kim-Putin ties: Strategic implications for war in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports in the western media,&nbsp;Moscow is interested in procuring North Korean ammunition for the conflict in Ukraine, while Pyongyang seeks Russian assistance for its internationally sanctioned&nbsp;missile program.</p>

<p>The Kremlin, however, said that no agreement has been, or will be, signed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kin Jong-Un's highly criticised Russia visit, West worried about possible cooperation</strong></p>

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<p>Kim also spent time with North Korean students studying in Vladivostok on Sunday.</p>

<p>North Korean news agency KCNA described the atmosphere during Kim's visit as "enthusiastic and warm," calling it&nbsp;the emergence of a "new era of friendship, solidarity, and cooperation" between North Korea and Russia.</p>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his visit to Russia on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, leaving the far eastern region of the country on his armoured train.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his visit to Russia on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, leaving the far eastern region of the country on his armoured train. The Ria Novosti agency published a video of Kim's departure, and said a "departure ceremony" was held at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station. The TASS news agency said that Kim's train was headed around 250 kilometres towards the border. Kim's Russia visit and show of bonhomie with President Vladimir Putin has heightened Western concerns that Moscow and Pyongyang may defy sanctions and engage in arms negotiations. In a video released by Ria Novosti agency, Kim is seen bidding farewell to a Russian delegation led by Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov, as the Russian march "Farewell of Slavianka" plays during the train's departure. Kim Jong Un scores drone bonanza as state gifts from Russia Earlier, TASS mentioned Kim receiving gifts from a regional governor, including five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone, and a bulletproof vest. TASS detailed the gifts as "five kamikaze drones and a 'Geran-25' reconnaissance drone with vertical takeoff," using North Korea's official name. Additionally, the governor of the Primorye region offered Kim Jong Un bulletproof protection and special clothing undetectable by thermal cameras. Earlier on Saturday, Kim Jong Un met with the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok, inspecting advanced weaponry, including a hypersonic missile system. Kim's extensive tour of Russia's far eastern region, which began on Tuesday, predominantly focused on military matters, and was dominated by his peculiar entourage. Kim-Putin ties: Strategic implications for war in Ukraine According to reports in the western media, Moscow is interested in procuring North Korean ammunition for the conflict in Ukraine, while Pyongyang seeks Russian assistance for its internationally sanctioned missile program. The Kremlin, however, said that no agreement has been, or will be, signed. Also watch | Kin Jong-Un's highly criticised Russia visit, West worried about possible cooperation × Kim also spent time with North Korean students studying in Vladivostok on Sunday. North Korean news agency KCNA described the atmosphere during Kim's visit as "enthusiastic and warm," calling it the emergence of a "new era of friendship, solidarity, and cooperation" between North Korea and Russia. 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.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un leaves Russia after underscoring bonhomie with Vladimir Putin

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-likely-boosting-capacity-for-winter-onslaught-says-uk-636574">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year.</p>

<p>Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution. As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor." Also read: Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference. Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out." While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK Watch: United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories × Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky". Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year. Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans. (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.

Donald Trump welcomes Vladimir Putin's praise, says 'I like that he said that'

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko floated the idea of a "three-way cooperation" with Russia and North Korea as he met with his Russian counterpart in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Friday (September 15), news agency Associated Press reported.&nbsp;Lukashenko suggested that Minsk could join Moscow's efforts to revive an alliance with North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko was in Russia at the same time as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's crucial visit to the nation. Kim held a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, angering the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said at the start of the meeting with Lukashenko: "I would like to inform you about the discussion on the situation in the region, which was quite important, and also to touch on the most acute issue, the situation in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response, Lukashenko said that "we could think about three-way cooperation," further adding that "I think a bit of work could be found for Belarus to do there as well".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-no-agreements-signed-during-north-korean-kims-russia-visit-636297">Kremlin says 'no agreements' signed during North Korean leader Kim's Russia visit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The so-called three-way cooperation between Russia, Belarus and North Korea can be a concern for the United States and its allies amid the ongoing Ukraine war as they believe that Kim will likely supply ammunition to Russia for use in Ukraine in exchange for receiving advanced weapons or technology from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though there's no confirmation and the Kremlin has said that no agreements had been signed during Kim's visit to Russia so far but if any weapons deal gets finalised, it will boost Russian aggression in Ukraine and would also violate the UN sanctions against Pyongyang that ban any arms trade with North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit also aimed at addressing the issue of experiencing acute diesel shortages as Lukashenko told Putin that Belarus has recently supplied 60,000 tonnes of diesel and 60,000 tonnes of petrol to Russia and is ready to further increase shipments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-zelensky-to-meet-us-prez-biden-as-congress-debates-24-billion-aid-for-kyiv-reports-636198">Ukraine’s Zelensky to meet Prez Biden as US Congress debates $24 billion aid for Kyiv: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;What’s the Russia – North Korea game plan?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As translated by the news agency Reuters, the Belarusian leader said: "I would like to inform you about the...not exactly interruptions, but rather some difficulties with the fuel market. We have stabilised the situation, supplied as much (fuel) as the Russian Federation needed, as much as the government asked for."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think, 60,000 (tonnes) each of diesel and petrol. And we stabilised the situation in our common markets. If it becomes necessary to further reduce supplies to foreign markets and increase them for domestic consumption, this is not a problem. We resolve all these issues, both small and large," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko floated the idea of a "three-way cooperation" with Russia and North Korea as he met with his Russian counterpart in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Friday (September 15), news agency Associated Press reported.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko floated the idea of a "three-way cooperation" with Russia and North Korea as he met with his Russian counterpart in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Friday (September 15), news agency Associated Press reported. Lukashenko suggested that Minsk could join Moscow's efforts to revive an alliance with North Korea. Lukashenko was in Russia at the same time as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's crucial visit to the nation. Kim held a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, angering the West. Putin said at the start of the meeting with Lukashenko: "I would like to inform you about the discussion on the situation in the region, which was quite important, and also to touch on the most acute issue, the situation in Ukraine." In response, Lukashenko said that "we could think about three-way cooperation," further adding that "I think a bit of work could be found for Belarus to do there as well". Also read: Kremlin says 'no agreements' signed during North Korean leader Kim's Russia visit The so-called three-way cooperation between Russia, Belarus and North Korea can be a concern for the United States and its allies amid the ongoing Ukraine war as they believe that Kim will likely supply ammunition to Russia for use in Ukraine in exchange for receiving advanced weapons or technology from Moscow. Though there's no confirmation and the Kremlin has said that no agreements had been signed during Kim's visit to Russia so far but if any weapons deal gets finalised, it will boost Russian aggression in Ukraine and would also violate the UN sanctions against Pyongyang that ban any arms trade with North Korea. The visit also aimed at addressing the issue of experiencing acute diesel shortages as Lukashenko told Putin that Belarus has recently supplied 60,000 tonnes of diesel and 60,000 tonnes of petrol to Russia and is ready to further increase shipments. Also read: Ukraine’s Zelensky to meet Prez Biden as US Congress debates $24 billion aid for Kyiv: Reports Watch: What’s the Russia – North Korea game plan? × As translated by the news agency Reuters, the Belarusian leader said: "I would like to inform you about the...not exactly interruptions, but rather some difficulties with the fuel market. We have stabilised the situation, supplied as much (fuel) as the Russian Federation needed, as much as the government asked for." "I think, 60,000 (tonnes) each of diesel and petrol. And we stabilised the situation in our common markets. If it becomes necessary to further reduce supplies to foreign markets and increase them for domestic consumption, this is not a problem. We resolve all these issues, both small and large," he added. (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.

Belarus proposes 'three-way cooperation' with Russia and North Korea

<p>During Kim Jong-un’s visit to Russia, the North Korean leader and Vladimir Putin exchanged several gifts among which were rifles and a glove from a Russian cosmonaut’s space suit.</p>

<p>The North Korean dictator met with Putin on Wednesday (September 13) at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region of the Russian Far East.</p>

<p>According to experts, the purpose of the visit was to discuss space technology and securing artillery and arms from North Korea for the Ukrainian war.</p>

<p>Kim also visited a factory in Amur that makes Russia’s most modern fighter jets, Russian news agencies reported.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters on Thursday (Sept 14), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Putin gave Kim a Russian-produced rifle “of the highest quality”, and in return received a North Korean rifle, among other gifts.</p>

<p>He also gave Kim a glove from&nbsp;a spacesuit “that had been in space several times”.</p>

<h2><strong>Avid wildlife enthusiast&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Though not much of a hunter himself, Putin, who is an avid wildlife enthusiast, loves to explore nature.</p>

<p>There are several shirtless photos of Putin over the years engaging in outdoor pursuits in the Russian countryside with other senior officials.</p>

<p>Peskov also said that Putin "gratefully" accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, and intends to visit the country tentatively in October.</p>

<p>He said that Moscow will first “quickly prepare” to send Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Pyongyang before a Putin visit can be arranged.</p>

<p>It would be Putin’s second trip to North Korea. He last visited in July 2000 to meet Kim’s late father Kim Jong-il, just months after being elected to the presidency. Kim last visited Russia in 2019.</p>

<h2><strong>Kim to stay more days&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While Putin returned to Moscow after their meeting&nbsp;on Wednesday, Kim’s visit is expected to continue for several more days, the Kremlin said.</p>

<p>In Pyongyang, North Korea's Central News Agency praised Kim Jung Un's summit with Putin, saying the pair held "historic" talks.</p>

<p>Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia is his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-snubbing-g20-summit-a-costly-mistake-makes-india-the-clear-winner-economist-who-coined-bric-636101">China’s Xi snubbing G20 Summit a costly mistake, makes India the clear winner: Economist who coined BRIC</a></p>

<p>Both countries are under a raft of sanctions, and Kim Jung Un's visit has sparked widespread concern over illicit arms agreements.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sikh-student-assaulted-pepper-sprayed-in-canada-sikh-group-demands-urgent-action-636089">Sikh student ‘assaulted, pepper-sprayed’ in Canada, Sikh group demands urgent action</a></p>

<p>After the summit, Putin told reporters that he saw "possibilities" for military cooperation.</p>

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During Kim Jong-un’s visit to Russia, the North Korean leader and Vladimir Putin exchanged several gifts among which were rifles and a glove from a Russian cosmonaut’s space suit.

During Kim Jong-un’s visit to Russia, the North Korean leader and Vladimir Putin exchanged several gifts among which were rifles and a glove from a Russian cosmonaut’s space suit. The North Korean dictator met with Putin on Wednesday (September 13) at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region of the Russian Far East. According to experts, the purpose of the visit was to discuss space technology and securing artillery and arms from North Korea for the Ukrainian war. Kim also visited a factory in Amur that makes Russia’s most modern fighter jets, Russian news agencies reported. Briefing the reporters on Thursday (Sept 14), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Putin gave Kim a Russian-produced rifle “of the highest quality”, and in return received a North Korean rifle, among other gifts. He also gave Kim a glove from a spacesuit “that had been in space several times”. Avid wildlife enthusiast Though not much of a hunter himself, Putin, who is an avid wildlife enthusiast, loves to explore nature. There are several shirtless photos of Putin over the years engaging in outdoor pursuits in the Russian countryside with other senior officials. Peskov also said that Putin "gratefully" accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, and intends to visit the country tentatively in October. He said that Moscow will first “quickly prepare” to send Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Pyongyang before a Putin visit can be arranged. It would be Putin’s second trip to North Korea. He last visited in July 2000 to meet Kim’s late father Kim Jong-il, just months after being elected to the presidency. Kim last visited Russia in 2019. Kim to stay more days While Putin returned to Moscow after their meeting on Wednesday, Kim’s visit is expected to continue for several more days, the Kremlin said. In Pyongyang, North Korea's Central News Agency praised Kim Jung Un's summit with Putin, saying the pair held "historic" talks. Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia is his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. Also read | China’s Xi snubbing G20 Summit a costly mistake, makes India the clear winner: Economist who coined BRIC Both countries are under a raft of sanctions, and Kim Jung Un's visit has sparked widespread concern over illicit arms agreements. Also read | Sikh student ‘assaulted, pepper-sprayed’ in Canada, Sikh group demands urgent action After the summit, Putin told reporters that he saw "possibilities" for military cooperation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un exchange rifles, Russia also gifts special glove

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