Kim Jong-un has arrived in Russia for a rare summit with president Vladimir Putin to discuss a possible deal to supply North Korean arms for the war in Ukraine.To know more watch this interview with Military Expert and Senior Fellow at Defense Priorities, Lt Col Daniel L Davis.

North Korea's Kim Jong-un arrives in Russia: Report

Kim Jong-un has arrived in Russia for a rare summit with president Vladimir Putin to discuss a possible deal to supply North Korean arms for the war in Ukraine.

North Korea's state media: Kim en route to Russia to meet Putin

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Kim Jong-un has arrived in Russia for a rare summit with President Vladimir Putin to discuss a possible deal to supply North Korean arms for the war in Ukraine.

Kim Jong-un in Russia: Putin set to meet Kim in Russia's far east

Kim Jong-un has arrived in Russia for a rare summit with President Vladimir Putin to discuss a possible deal to supply North Korean arms for the war in Ukraine. To know more watch this interview with an International Affairs Analyst, Author and Historian Dr Gilbert Doctorow.

North Korea's Kim Jong-un to meet Russia's Vladimir Putin

Russia-North Korea arms deal on the table?

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's Russian delegation: Who's Who?

A North Korean train presumed to be&nbsp;carrying North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has departed for Russia for an expected meeting with Russian&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin, South Korean media reported on September 11.

Hours later, the Kremlin confirmed that Kim will visit Russia "in the coming days" after receiving an invite from President Vladimir Putin himself.

"At the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un, Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, will pay an official visit to the Russian Federation in the coming days," the Kremlin said.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported earlier that Kim's train appeared to have already left for Russia, citing an unidentified official.

Two major South Korean publications, namely Chosun Ilbo newspaper and the Yonhap news agency, reported that the train left the North Korean capital of Pyongyang on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

A meeting between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin is possible as early as Tuesday, the reports added.

<h2>Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet: What do we know so far?</h2>

Last week, US officials released intelligence indicating that North Korea and Russia were coordinating a leader-level meeting within this month. The potential meeting was purportedly aimed at&nbsp;strengthening their cooperation amid rising tensions with the United States.

<h2>Where will the potential meeting be conducted?</h2>

A potential meeting location is Vladivostok in eastern Russia, where Putin is presently attending an international forum that runs until Wednesday, as reported by Russia's TASS news agency.

Vladivostok was also the site of Putin's initial meeting with Kim in 2019.

<h2>Russia-North Korea ties: What do they want from each other?</h2>

US officials suggest that Putin may be seeking additional supplies of North Korean artillery and ammunition to replenish diminishing reserves amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

This could increase pressure on the US and its allies to engage in negotiations, given concerns about an extended conflict despite significant arms shipments to Ukraine over the past 17 months.

In exchange, Kim may be seeking much-needed energy and food aid, as well as advanced weapons technologies, including those related to intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear-capable ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites.

Also watch |&nbsp;Why is Putin cosying up to Kim?

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There are concerns that potential Russian technology transfers could escalate the threat posed by Kim's expanding arsenal of nuclear weapons and missiles, which are designed to target the United States, South Korea, and Japan.

The Russia-North Korea relationship has been evolving since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, driven by Putin's need for military support and Kim's desire to strengthen partnerships with Moscow and Beijing, potentially breaking diplomatic isolation and aligning North Korea within a united front against Washington.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A North Korean train presumed to be carrying North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has departed for Russia for an expected meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, South Korean media reported on September 11.

A North Korean train presumed to be carrying North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has departed for Russia for an expected meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, South Korean media reported on September 11. Hours later, the Kremlin confirmed that Kim will visit Russia "in the coming days" after receiving an invite from President Vladimir Putin himself. "At the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un, Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, will pay an official visit to the Russian Federation in the coming days," the Kremlin said. South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported earlier that Kim's train appeared to have already left for Russia, citing an unidentified official. Two major South Korean publications, namely Chosun Ilbo newspaper and the Yonhap news agency, reported that the train left the North Korean capital of Pyongyang on Sunday evening. A meeting between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin is possible as early as Tuesday, the reports added. Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet: What do we know so far? Last week, US officials released intelligence indicating that North Korea and Russia were coordinating a leader-level meeting within this month. The potential meeting was purportedly aimed at strengthening their cooperation amid rising tensions with the United States. Where will the potential meeting be conducted? A potential meeting location is Vladivostok in eastern Russia, where Putin is presently attending an international forum that runs until Wednesday, as reported by Russia's TASS news agency. Vladivostok was also the site of Putin's initial meeting with Kim in 2019. Russia-North Korea ties: What do they want from each other? US officials suggest that Putin may be seeking additional supplies of North Korean artillery and ammunition to replenish diminishing reserves amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. This could increase pressure on the US and its allies to engage in negotiations, given concerns about an extended conflict despite significant arms shipments to Ukraine over the past 17 months. In exchange, Kim may be seeking much-needed energy and food aid, as well as advanced weapons technologies, including those related to intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear-capable ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites. Also watch | Why is Putin cosying up to Kim? × There are concerns that potential Russian technology transfers could escalate the threat posed by Kim's expanding arsenal of nuclear weapons and missiles, which are designed to target the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The Russia-North Korea relationship has been evolving since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, driven by Putin's need for military support and Kim's desire to strengthen partnerships with Moscow and Beijing, potentially breaking diplomatic isolation and aligning North Korea within a united front against Washington. (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.

Kim Jong Un to visit Russia at Putin's invitation 'in coming days', Kremlin confirms

Moscow seeks the return of Vadim Krasikov, a Russian hitman jailed in Germany for the assassination of a Chechen dissident. The Russian government wishes to return him as part of a prisoner swap.

Moscow seeks the return of Vadim Krasikov, a Russian hitman jailed in Germany for the assassination of a Chechen dissident. The Russian government wishes to return him as part of a prisoner swap. The Krelim raised Vadim Krasikov's name in the recent negotiations with the Western officials. In exchange, they have offered the release of prisoners, including Evan Gershkovich, a 31-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter accused of espionage and ex-US marine Paul Whelan, convicted of spying charges in 2020. He appeared on a Russian news channel a week ago. The former US Marine is serving a 16-year sentence in a penal colony in the Russian region of Mordovia. The Biden administration claimed both men were innocent and their detention was politically motivated. The 58-year-old Russian assassin, Vadim Krasikov, received life imprisonment in December 2021 for the "state-ordered" assassination of Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, a Georgian national of Chechen heritage, in 2019. Krasikov shot him dead in a children's playground in Germany's Kleiner Tiergarten park. ALSO READ | India-Europe-Middle East Economic Corridor to change the face of the Middle East: Israel PM Khangoshvili allegedly led a 2004 raid by Chechens in which many security officials died. In 2012, Russia included his name in the 19 most wanted terrorists list, which it sent to other countries, including Germany. In 2016, Khangoshvili fled to Germany from Georgia. Although Germany rejected his "protection from arrest" appeal, he could still stay in the country. Krasikov travelled to Germany on a false passport in the name of Vadim Sokolov, as per the Telegraph. After the assassination, the authorities caught him trying to escape on an electric scooter after tossing a bike and gun in the River Spree and changing his disguise. Police convicted him as they found his fingerprints and DNA on the dumped objects. Krasikov insisted he was an innocent Russian tourist with no relation to Krelim. However, German prosecutors, aided by Kyiv authorities and investigative website Bellingcat, proved he was a veteran agent working for the secretive Vympel department of the Russian security service FSB. But Moscow condemned the trial, insisting that he was an innocent citizen and his arrest was politically motivated. Germany expelled two Russian diplomats soon after Krasikov's conviction. According to the Wall Street Journal, Russian President Vladimir Putin sought Krasikov's release briefly after his conviction. He asked his top security advisor, Nikolai Patrushev, to conduct the negotiations. Putin also seeks the release of other Russian agents. However, Krasikov remains his top priority. US President Joe Biden also confirmed his interest in a prisoner swap in July. But Germany's unwillingness to release Krasikov, who was convicted of murder on its land, might be an obstacle to Russia's plan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Vadim Krasikov? Assassin Russia wants in prisoner swap for US WSJ journalist

Only two days are left for the high-stakes G20 Summit to commence in India’s national capital New Delhi.

Even as India works to raise its global profile with its presidency of the G20, there has been some geo-political friction&nbsp;that is likely to have an impact on the marquee event.

What would be the outcome of this year’s G20 event could be anybody’s guess, but Indian officials have confirmed that climate change shall remain the hot topic of the conclave, despite friction&nbsp;caused by the Russia-Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping’s absence.

The G20 climate talks would carry forward the discussions that took place in the July meeting by the energy and climate ministers during which negotiators failed to reach a consensus on key parameters.

<h2>Climate change&nbsp;</h2>

Despite difficult conversations and lack of any clarity on key issues, like phasing down of fossil fuels, climate finance, means of implementing energy transition and reforms of multilateral banks (MDBs), there is some hope that the G20 heads of state and government will be able to gather minimum consensus needed to project unity among the group.

"India has already demonstrated leadership with bold and ambitious climate actions and will achieve two out of three quantifiable targets set forth in the NDC by 2030 – reducing the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35 per cent from 2005 levels and 40 per cent non-fossil fuel installed electricity capacity in 2030,” Sanjay Vashist, Director, Climate Action Network South Asia (CANSA) said.

<h2>PM Modi's G20 pitch for human-centric approach</h2>

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“India now has a unique opportunity to influence other G20 nations to advance a sustainable, just, affordable, inclusive and clean energy transition. The Indian presidency must aim to get the world back on track to limit global warming below 1.5 C as promised by countries under the Paris Agreement,” he added.

Linda Kalcher, Executive Director, Strategic Perspectives, noted that India can leverage its position and use the G20 forum to achieve key climate targets and simultaneously achieve consensus on climate aid from the developed countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/upi-wallets-for-g20-delegates-as-india-showcases-its-digital-infra-prowess-633223">UPI wallets for G20 delegates as India showcases its digital infra prowess</a>

“The G20 is a key moment for the EU to rally countries behind the target to triple renewable energy by 2030. The renewables goal can only become a success at COP28 if it comes with a financial package to ensure it can be achievable for developing countries. The EU and other rich countries can raise the stakes on climate ambition. They can lower the cost of capital and forge new economic partnerships on renewable manufacturing and deployment,” Kalcher said.

“Host-country India wants to become a champion on solar energy - it needs more public and private finance to make this a reality though.”

<h2>Can consensus be achieved without Xi and Putin's presence?</h2>

However, Li Shuo, Senior Global Policy Advisor of Greenpeace East Asia, has said that it will be challenging to achieve any climate action goals as the current geo-politics is fraught with US-China competition and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-g20-president-india-will-strive-to-bridge-divides-and-sow-seeds-of-collaboration-pm-modi-633153">India's G20 presidency strives to bridge divides and sow seeds of collaboration: PM Modi</a>

“The G20 has been hamstrung by US-China competition and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This makes moving the global agenda forward extremely challenging on this platform,” Li Shuo said.

“Climate change risks becoming collateral damage at this year’s summit in India. Preparatory talks have exposed deep divisions. This does not bode well for the year-end UN climate conference in the UAE. Yet it reflects the zeitgeist of global climate politics. Bad geopolitical blood is paralysing the G20 just as severe climate impacts across the world call for more unity and ambition,” he added.

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Only two days are left for the high-stakes G20 Summit to commence in India’s national capital New Delhi. Even as India works to raise its global profile with its presidency of the G20, there has been some geo-political friction that is likely to have an impact on the marquee event.

Only two days are left for the high-stakes G20 Summit to commence in India’s national capital New Delhi. Even as India works to raise its global profile with its presidency of the G20, there has been some geo-political friction that is likely to have an impact on the marquee event. What would be the outcome of this year’s G20 event could be anybody’s guess, but Indian officials have confirmed that climate change shall remain the hot topic of the conclave, despite friction caused by the Russia-Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping’s absence. The G20 climate talks would carry forward the discussions that took place in the July meeting by the energy and climate ministers during which negotiators failed to reach a consensus on key parameters. Climate change Despite difficult conversations and lack of any clarity on key issues, like phasing down of fossil fuels, climate finance, means of implementing energy transition and reforms of multilateral banks (MDBs), there is some hope that the G20 heads of state and government will be able to gather minimum consensus needed to project unity among the group. "India has already demonstrated leadership with bold and ambitious climate actions and will achieve two out of three quantifiable targets set forth in the NDC by 2030 – reducing the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35 per cent from 2005 levels and 40 per cent non-fossil fuel installed electricity capacity in 2030,” Sanjay Vashist, Director, Climate Action Network South Asia (CANSA) said. PM Modi's G20 pitch for human-centric approach “India now has a unique opportunity to influence other G20 nations to advance a sustainable, just, affordable, inclusive and clean energy transition. The Indian presidency must aim to get the world back on track to limit global warming below 1.5 C as promised by countries under the Paris Agreement,” he added. Linda Kalcher, Executive Director, Strategic Perspectives, noted that India can leverage its position and use the G20 forum to achieve key climate targets and simultaneously achieve consensus on climate aid from the developed countries. Also read | UPI wallets for G20 delegates as India showcases its digital infra prowess “The G20 is a key moment for the EU to rally countries behind the target to triple renewable energy by 2030. The renewables goal can only become a success at COP28 if it comes with a financial package to ensure it can be achievable for developing countries. The EU and other rich countries can raise the stakes on climate ambition. They can lower the cost of capital and forge new economic partnerships on renewable manufacturing and deployment,” Kalcher said. “Host-country India wants to become a champion on solar energy - it needs more public and private finance to make this a reality though.” Can consensus be achieved without Xi and Putin's presence? However, Li Shuo, Senior Global Policy Advisor of Greenpeace East Asia, has said that it will be challenging to achieve any climate action goals as the current geo-politics is fraught with US-China competition and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Also read | India's G20 presidency strives to bridge divides and sow seeds of collaboration: PM Modi “The G20 has been hamstrung by US-China competition and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This makes moving the global agenda forward extremely challenging on this platform,” Li Shuo said. “Climate change risks becoming collateral damage at this year’s summit in India. Preparatory talks have exposed deep divisions. This does not bode well for the year-end UN climate conference in the UAE. Yet it reflects the zeitgeist of global climate politics. Bad geopolitical blood is paralysing the G20 just as severe climate impacts across the world call for more unity and ambition,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India will hope to keep climate change the prime agenda of G20 Summit: Experts  

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is expected to meet Vladimir Putin. Kim Jong-un's rare foreign trip to Russia will likely take place later this month. The United States says that Kim Jong-un will discuss providing arms to Moscow for its ongoing war in Ukraine.

North Korea's Kim Jong-un to visit Putin in Russia to discuss weapon supply

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is expected to meet Vladimir Putin. Kim Jong-un's rare foreign trip to Russia will likely take place later this month. The United States says that Kim Jong-un will discuss providing arms to Moscow for its ongoing war in Ukraine. To know more watch this interview with a professor of Political Science at the Pusan National University Dr Robert Edwin Kelly.

US: Russia-North Korea arms negotiations actively advancing

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is expected to meet Vladimir Putin. Kim Jong-un's rare foreign trip to Russia will likely take place later this month. The United States says that Kim Jong-un will discuss providing arms to Moscow for its ongoing war in Ukraine.

North Korea's Kim Jong-un to meet Russia's Vladimir Putin?

Report: Armoured train to take Kim Jong-un to Vladivostok in Russia to meet Putin

Russia was "open" to talks on resuming the Black Sea grain export deal, President Vladimir Putin said on Monday, (September 4) just hours after Moscow launched strikes on one of Ukraine's key grain-exporting ports overnight.&nbsp;In televised comments alongside Erdogan, Putin said: "I know you intend to raise the issue of the grain deal. We are open to negotiations on this issue."&nbsp;

In July, Russia decided to scrap the deal brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, which allowed Ukraine to export grain through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Moscow said it was ready to revive the deal "as soon" as restrictions on its own exports were lifted. Putin wants the West to fulfil a separate memorandum agreed with the US at the same time to facilitate Russian food and fertiliser exports. While Russian exports of food and fertiliser are not subject to Western sanctions, Moscow claims that the restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have hindered shipments.&nbsp;

"We will be ready to consider the possibility of reviving the grain deal... and we will do it as soon as all the agreements on lifting restrictions on Russian agricultural exports are fully implemented," Putin said at a press conference with Turkish counterpart.&nbsp;

Putin also said that Russia is closing in on the deal to supply food for free to Africa, and the supplies will start in the next two to three weeks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-hiring-central-asian-migrants-as-soldiers-to-fight-in-ukraine-war-uk-intel-632251">Russia hiring Central Asian migrants as soldiers to fight in Ukraine War: UK intel</a>&nbsp;

On the other hand, Erdogan said after talks that Turkey was against alternative proposals to last year's grain agreement. At a joint media appearance with Putin in Sochi, he said: "The alternative proposals brought to the agenda could not offer a sustainable, secure and permanent model based on cooperation between the parties like the Black Sea Initiative."&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he had sent Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov "a set of concrete proposals" aimed at reviving the deal. Reconnecting the Russian Agricultural Bank to the SWIFT global payments network is one of Moscow's top requests.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-launches-fresh-attacks-on-odesa-port-region-ukraine-fights-back-632124">Ukraine reports fresh attacks on Odesa port region hours before Putin-Erdogan meet</a>&nbsp;

Watch: G20 Summit 2023: Indian PM shrugs off Pakistan, China objections on G20 venues&nbsp;

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<h2>Russian attack on Ukrainian ports</h2>

Russia has also repeatedly pounded Ukrainian port infrastructure in what Kyiv says is an attempt to damage its exports and undermine global food security.&nbsp;

On Monday, a Russian drone attack damaged a grain export hub on the Danube River. The officials said that warehouses and agricultural equipment were destroyed.&nbsp;

A few hours after the attack, Putin met his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Sochi, amid hopes the two could restore the deal. Erdogan has promised that he would make a "significant" announcement on grain exports after the talks.&nbsp;

A report by the Russian state news agency TASS mentioned that the talks between Putin and Erdogan involved defence and foreign ministers of both countries, as well as other government officials. The talks focused on the topic of the resumption of the grain deal along with issues on the bilateral agenda.&nbsp;

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)

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Russia was "open" to talks on resuming the Black Sea grain export deal, President Vladimir Putin said on Monday, (September 4) just hours after Moscow launched strikes on one of Ukraine's key grain-exporting ports overnight.

Russia was "open" to talks on resuming the Black Sea grain export deal, President Vladimir Putin said on Monday, (September 4) just hours after Moscow launched strikes on one of Ukraine's key grain-exporting ports overnight. In televised comments alongside Erdogan, Putin said: "I know you intend to raise the issue of the grain deal. We are open to negotiations on this issue." In July, Russia decided to scrap the deal brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, which allowed Ukraine to export grain through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. Moscow said it was ready to revive the deal "as soon" as restrictions on its own exports were lifted. Putin wants the West to fulfil a separate memorandum agreed with the US at the same time to facilitate Russian food and fertiliser exports. While Russian exports of food and fertiliser are not subject to Western sanctions, Moscow claims that the restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have hindered shipments. "We will be ready to consider the possibility of reviving the grain deal... and we will do it as soon as all the agreements on lifting restrictions on Russian agricultural exports are fully implemented," Putin said at a press conference with Turkish counterpart. Putin also said that Russia is closing in on the deal to supply food for free to Africa, and the supplies will start in the next two to three weeks. Also read: Russia hiring Central Asian migrants as soldiers to fight in Ukraine War: UK intel On the other hand, Erdogan said after talks that Turkey was against alternative proposals to last year's grain agreement. At a joint media appearance with Putin in Sochi, he said: "The alternative proposals brought to the agenda could not offer a sustainable, secure and permanent model based on cooperation between the parties like the Black Sea Initiative." Earlier on Thursday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he had sent Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov "a set of concrete proposals" aimed at reviving the deal. Reconnecting the Russian Agricultural Bank to the SWIFT global payments network is one of Moscow's top requests. Also read: Ukraine reports fresh attacks on Odesa port region hours before Putin-Erdogan meet Watch: G20 Summit 2023: Indian PM shrugs off Pakistan, China objections on G20 venues × Russian attack on Ukrainian ports Russia has also repeatedly pounded Ukrainian port infrastructure in what Kyiv says is an attempt to damage its exports and undermine global food security. On Monday, a Russian drone attack damaged a grain export hub on the Danube River. The officials said that warehouses and agricultural equipment were destroyed. A few hours after the attack, Putin met his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Sochi, amid hopes the two could restore the deal. Erdogan has promised that he would make a "significant" announcement on grain exports after the talks. A report by the Russian state news agency TASS mentioned that the talks between Putin and Erdogan involved defence and foreign ministers of both countries, as well as other government officials. The talks focused on the topic of the resumption of the grain deal along with issues on the bilateral agenda. 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.

Russia may revive Black Sea grain deal if Putin's demands are met

At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The White House on Friday (September 1) informed Biden will travel to India on September 7 to attend the summit, scheduled to take place on September 9 and 10.&nbsp;

On September 8, Biden is expected to participate in a bilateral meeting with PM Modi to further strengthen the growing ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

"On Thursday (September 7), the President will travel to New Delhi, India to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. On Friday, the President will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the statement by the White House read.

Among other topics of discussion, the economic and social impacts of Russian President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine may also feature heavily in the talks.&nbsp;

"While in New Delhi, the President will also commend Prime Minister Modi's leadership of the G20 and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation, including by hosting it in 2026," it said.

Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India

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<h2>Putin to visit China</h2>

Notably, the White House statement came hours after Putin in a televised address, called his Chinese counterpart a 'friend', adding that he was planning to visit Beijing soon.&nbsp;

"Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax.&nbsp;

"He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations."

Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with PM&nbsp;Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-not-attend-g20-in-india-but-set-to-visit-china-for-belt-and-road-forum-630307">Also read |&nbsp;Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum</a>

Similarly, a day after releasing a&nbsp;controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, reports claimed that Xi was giving the G20 summit a miss in New Delhi.&nbsp;Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The White House on Friday (September 1) informed Biden will travel to India on September 7 to attend the summit, scheduled to take place on September 9 and 10. On September 8, Biden is expected to participate in a bilateral meeting with PM Modi to further strengthen the growing ties between the two countries. "On Thursday (September 7), the President will travel to New Delhi, India to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. On Friday, the President will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the statement by the White House read. Among other topics of discussion, the economic and social impacts of Russian President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine may also feature heavily in the talks. "While in New Delhi, the President will also commend Prime Minister Modi's leadership of the G20 and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation, including by hosting it in 2026," it said. Watch | Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India Putin to visit China Notably, the White House statement came hours after Putin in a televised address, called his Chinese counterpart a 'friend', adding that he was planning to visit Beijing soon. "Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax. "He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations." Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with PM Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss. Also read | Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum Similarly, a day after releasing a controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, reports claimed that Xi was giving the G20 summit a miss in New Delhi. Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting. Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

While Xi, Putin skip G20, Biden to reach India two days before summit to meet PM Modi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has termed his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping a 'friend' and said he will meet him soon, following reports that the Kremlin leader was planning to visit Beijing in October.&nbsp;

"Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax.&nbsp;

"He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations."

Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin evading ICC arrest warrant?</h2>

Notably, ever since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Putin in March, on suspicion&nbsp;of war crimes in Ukraine, the Russian leader has rarely travelled abroad.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India

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Prior to the G20, Putin also skipped the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.&nbsp;During last month's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin.&nbsp;

According to experts, Putin is willing to visit only those countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-not-attend-g20-in-india-but-set-to-visit-china-for-belt-and-road-forum-630307">Also read |&nbsp;Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum</a>

<h2>China-Russia axis</h2>

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Moscow has provided discounted oil and gas to Beijing which it can no longer sell to Europe. Thus a strong China-Russia axis has formed in this region of the world, which has rejigged the geopolitical landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has termed his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping a 'friend' and said he will meet him soon, following reports that the Kremlin leader was planning to visit Beijing in October.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has termed his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping a 'friend' and said he will meet him soon, following reports that the Kremlin leader was planning to visit Beijing in October. "Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax. "He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations." Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event. Putin evading ICC arrest warrant? Notably, ever since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Putin in March, on suspicion of war crimes in Ukraine, the Russian leader has rarely travelled abroad. Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss. Watch | Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India Prior to the G20, Putin also skipped the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. During last month's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin. According to experts, Putin is willing to visit only those countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places. Also read | Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum China-Russia axis Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war. Meanwhile, Moscow has provided discounted oil and gas to Beijing which it can no longer sell to Europe. Thus a strong China-Russia axis has formed in this region of the world, which has rejigged the geopolitical landscape. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin calls Xi Jinping a 'friend', says he will meet him soon

A post on a Russian channel on Telegram has ignited concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. According to a report by the Express on Monday (August 28), the post by "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov read, "God, don't you leave us.

A post on a Russian channel on Telegram has ignited concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. According to a report by the Express on Monday (August 28), the post by "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." The post sparked discussion across social media platforms about Putin's health. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this Telegram post. So far, Russian authorities have not commented on this matter. What is going on?: Ukraine reacts to post on Putin's health Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X (formerly known as Twitter), and said, "What is going on?" Gerashchenko's post garnered several reactions on the microblogging website. An interesting post on the Telegram channel of "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov: "God, don't you leave us 🙏🙏🙏 Pray to God you are alive and healthy 🙏" What is going on? pic.twitter.com/w1mlbuQyfx — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 28, 2023 × "Nothing. More propaganda. Just a way to manipulate people's feelings. I know exactly where he's going with this. What country has a leader that prays to god on social media unless they're hoping to use it to get people to keep worrying about what he might do? We all know better," X user Roadrunner posted on Tuesday. "Probably nothing, but if he's sick and his time is nearing the end, then it actually makes perfect sense to get rid of Prigozjin. He would most certainly try to take over if this is the case," another X user named RAVEN posted. Russian missile hits private enterprise in central Ukraine Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine continues, Russian forces struck a private enterprise with a long-range cruise missile in Ukraine's Vinnytsia, Kyiv said on Friday. "Unfortunately, there are victims - three civilians, they are being provided with all necessary assistance," Governor Serhiy Borzov wrote on Telegram, adding that unspecified property and cars had been damaged. 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.

Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts

Days after releasing a controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to skip the G20 summit&nbsp;scheduled to take place in the Indian capital city of New Delhi next month, a Reuters report has claimed.&nbsp;

The report quoted sources familiar with the matter in India and China who stated that&nbsp;Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting.&nbsp;

Xi pulling out of the summit comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced he was not travelling to India to attend the meet in person. He called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conveyed that Foreign Minister&nbsp;Sergei Lavrov will represent Russian interests on the global platform.&nbsp;

It was anticipated that Xi might meet with US President Joe Biden, who has confirmed his attendance at the summit. Some reports claimed that Xi might square up against PM Modi yet again, after holding a rare conversation on the sidelines of the BRICS meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, earlier this month.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed&nbsp;reducing tensions in the bilateral relationship that soured after clashes along their Himalayan frontier in 2020 left 24 soldiers dead.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-india-to-not-over-interpret-latest-distorted-map-release-630704">Also read |&nbsp;China asks India to not 'over-interpret' latest 'distorted' map release</a>

<h2>Divided G20 or not?</h2>

Xi planning to skip the summit is likely to steer the summit in a productive direction. Earlier, geopolitical hawks stated that Beijing releasing the distorted map where India's Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin as well as Taiwan and major portions of the South China Sea were shown as Chinese territories, could have divided the G20 summit.&nbsp;

Since the release of the controversial map, India, Malaysia and the Philippines have come out with strong objections, calling out China for its hyper-expansionist tendencies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-china-map-show-whole-of-arunachal-pradesh-as-part-of-china-630258">Watch |&nbsp;New China map show whole of Arunachal Pradesh as part of China</a>

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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnkar in a statement said:&nbsp;"It's an old habit of theirs. These (territories) are very much part of India. This government is very clear what our territories are. Making absurd claims doesn't make others' territories yours."

Meanwhile, the Filipino Department of Foreign Affairs said the 2023 edition map is China's latest attempt "to legitimise purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over Philippine features and maritime zones" and "has no basis under international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Days after releasing a controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to skip the G20 summit scheduled to take place in the Indian capital city of New Delhi next month, a Reuters report has claimed.

Days after releasing a controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to skip the G20 summit scheduled to take place in the Indian capital city of New Delhi next month, a Reuters report has claimed. The report quoted sources familiar with the matter in India and China who stated that Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting. Xi pulling out of the summit comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced he was not travelling to India to attend the meet in person. He called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conveyed that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will represent Russian interests on the global platform. It was anticipated that Xi might meet with US President Joe Biden, who has confirmed his attendance at the summit. Some reports claimed that Xi might square up against PM Modi yet again, after holding a rare conversation on the sidelines of the BRICS meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, earlier this month. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed reducing tensions in the bilateral relationship that soured after clashes along their Himalayan frontier in 2020 left 24 soldiers dead. Also read | China asks India to not 'over-interpret' latest 'distorted' map release Divided G20 or not? Xi planning to skip the summit is likely to steer the summit in a productive direction. Earlier, geopolitical hawks stated that Beijing releasing the distorted map where India's Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin as well as Taiwan and major portions of the South China Sea were shown as Chinese territories, could have divided the G20 summit. Since the release of the controversial map, India, Malaysia and the Philippines have come out with strong objections, calling out China for its hyper-expansionist tendencies. Watch | New China map show whole of Arunachal Pradesh as part of China India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnkar in a statement said: "It's an old habit of theirs. These (territories) are very much part of India. This government is very clear what our territories are. Making absurd claims doesn't make others' territories yours." Meanwhile, the Filipino Department of Foreign Affairs said the 2023 edition map is China's latest attempt "to legitimise purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over Philippine features and maritime zones" and "has no basis under international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After Putin, Xi likely to pull out of G20 summit in India: Report

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The visit would be Putin's first since an arrest warrant was issued against the Russian president for alleged war crimes, which the Kremlin has vehemently denied.

Preparations are now underway in Moscow for Putin's visit as Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly accepted Chinese leader Xi Jinping's invitation for the top flagship project of his presidency.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin will not visit India for G-20 but will visit China for BRI forum?</h2>

That's pretty much it. Vladimir Putin, in a telephonic conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, cited his "busy schedule" and said that his main focus is still the "special military operation" in Ukraine for his inability to attend the G-20 summit in New Delhi in September.

Another facet of the discourse remains that New Delhi has vehemently opposed the G20 summit to emerge as a forum for focus on war in Ukraine, saying that it's a "geo-economic" platform and that the "(UN) Security Council" exists for conflict resolutions.

Putin in the New Delhi G-20 summit would have made him and by extension the war in Ukraine the top focus of a crucial multilateral meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India

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Secondly, Putin is reportedly willing to visit countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places, according to two people cited by Bloomberg.

Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the forum, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event, the state-run TASS news service reported in May.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-likely-to-visit-china-in-october-to-attend-bri-forum-615082">Vladimir Putin likely to visit China in October to attend BRI Summit</a>

In March 2023, The Hague-based International Criminal Court issued a warrant against Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Globally, a total of 123 nations are signatories to the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court which makes them bound to act on the orders passed by the court.&nbsp;

China and India are not signatories to the Rome Statute.&nbsp;

In last week's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Vladimir Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin.&nbsp;

Since Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has only visited neighbouring countries and Iran.

Putin last visited China right before the beginning of the war in Ukraine when he attended the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing and held talks with Xi Jinping at which the two sides declared a "no limits" partnership.

Xi, however, travelled to Moscow for a state visit in March.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The visit would be Putin's first since an arrest warrant was issued against the Russian president for alleged war crimes, which the Kremlin has vehemently denied. Preparations are now underway in Moscow for Putin's visit as Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly accepted Chinese leader Xi Jinping's invitation for the top flagship project of his presidency. Putin will not visit India for G-20 but will visit China for BRI forum? That's pretty much it. Vladimir Putin, in a telephonic conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, cited his "busy schedule" and said that his main focus is still the "special military operation" in Ukraine for his inability to attend the G-20 summit in New Delhi in September. Another facet of the discourse remains that New Delhi has vehemently opposed the G20 summit to emerge as a forum for focus on war in Ukraine, saying that it's a "geo-economic" platform and that the "(UN) Security Council" exists for conflict resolutions. Putin in the New Delhi G-20 summit would have made him and by extension the war in Ukraine the top focus of a crucial multilateral meeting. Also read | Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India × Secondly, Putin is reportedly willing to visit countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places, according to two people cited by Bloomberg. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the forum, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event, the state-run TASS news service reported in May. Also read | Vladimir Putin likely to visit China in October to attend BRI Summit In March 2023, The Hague-based International Criminal Court issued a warrant against Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Globally, a total of 123 nations are signatories to the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court which makes them bound to act on the orders passed by the court. China and India are not signatories to the Rome Statute. In last week's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Vladimir Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin. Since Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has only visited neighbouring countries and Iran. Putin last visited China right before the beginning of the war in Ukraine when he attended the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing and held talks with Xi Jinping at which the two sides declared a "no limits" partnership. Xi, however, travelled to Moscow for a state visit in March. 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 will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum

Russian intelligence chief Gen. Andrey Averyanov, who is notorious for eliminating Vladimir Putin's dissidents, is expected to take over Wagner mercenary group's African operations following Yevgeny Prigozhin's death in a plane crash, Wall Street Journal newspaper reported.

Notably, Averyanov, who is head of the Covert Operations Unit in the GRU, was in Africa in July during a Russia-Africa summit and met several African leaders. The summit was also Prigozhin's first public appearance following his failed mutiny against Russian President Putin.

Currently, no top members of the Wagner group are alive. Those who lost their lives in last week's crash, apart from Prigozhin, include second-in-command Dmitry Utkin and Wagner's non-military logistics chief, Valery Chekalov.

It is unknown what caused the plane to crash, but several unconfirmed reports claim that Prigozhin was assassinated on the orders of Putin in retaliation for Prigozhin’s rebellion against the Moscow government this June.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, Russian officials stated that a DNA analysis confirmed that Prigozhin was among the deceased.

The&nbsp;GRU Unit 29155, which is headed by Averyanov, has reportedly carried out several foreign operations ordered by Putin and has been linked to many assassinations, including the Salisbury poisonings in March 2018.

<h2>Wagner under new leader</h2>

Kremlin had been looking to replace Prigozhin after the latter's brief mutiny was thwarted. In July, it was reported that President Vladimir Putin had proposed Andrei Troshev's name to take over Wagner.

Troshev, who is also known as "Sedoi" or "Grey Hair", is a retired colonel and is one of the founding members and the executive director of the Wagner group. &nbsp;&nbsp;

His name cropped up during a meeting held by Putin five days after the failed rebellion, which was also attended by Prigozhin and several dozen senior Wagner combatants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-wont-attend-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhins-funeral-kremlin-630231">Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin</a>

Kommersant newspaper reported that Putin told dozens of Wagner mercenaries to continue to serve the mercenary group under their direct commander, a man who goes by the call sign, ‘Sedoy,’ meaning ‘grey hair.’

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjVnrXR-oGBAxU8zDgGHZ6QDMsQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-warned-wagner-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-about-threats-to-his-life-belarusian-president-lukashenko-629273" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/i-warned-wagner-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-about-threats-to-his-life-belarusian-president-lukashenko-629273&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVnrXR-oGBAxU8zDgGHZ6QDMsQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko</a>

“They could have all gathered in one place and continued to serve,” Putin said, “and nothing would have changed for them. They would be led by the same person who has been their real commander all along.”

“And what happened then?” the Kommersant reporter said in reply to Putin. “Many people nodded [affirmatively] when I said that,” Putin replied.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian intelligence chief Gen. Andrey Averyanov, who is notorious for eliminating Vladimir Putin's dissidents, is expected to take over Wagner mercenary group's African operations following Yevgeny Prigozhin's death in a plane crash, Wall Street Journal newspaper reported.

Russian intelligence chief Gen. Andrey Averyanov, who is notorious for eliminating Vladimir Putin's dissidents, is expected to take over Wagner mercenary group's African operations following Yevgeny Prigozhin's death in a plane crash, Wall Street Journal newspaper reported. Notably, Averyanov, who is head of the Covert Operations Unit in the GRU, was in Africa in July during a Russia-Africa summit and met several African leaders. The summit was also Prigozhin's first public appearance following his failed mutiny against Russian President Putin. Currently, no top members of the Wagner group are alive. Those who lost their lives in last week's crash, apart from Prigozhin, include second-in-command Dmitry Utkin and Wagner's non-military logistics chief, Valery Chekalov. It is unknown what caused the plane to crash, but several unconfirmed reports claim that Prigozhin was assassinated on the orders of Putin in retaliation for Prigozhin’s rebellion against the Moscow government this June. Over the weekend, Russian officials stated that a DNA analysis confirmed that Prigozhin was among the deceased. The GRU Unit 29155, which is headed by Averyanov, has reportedly carried out several foreign operations ordered by Putin and has been linked to many assassinations, including the Salisbury poisonings in March 2018. Wagner under new leader Kremlin had been looking to replace Prigozhin after the latter's brief mutiny was thwarted. In July, it was reported that President Vladimir Putin had proposed Andrei Troshev's name to take over Wagner. Troshev, who is also known as "Sedoi" or "Grey Hair", is a retired colonel and is one of the founding members and the executive director of the Wagner group. His name cropped up during a meeting held by Putin five days after the failed rebellion, which was also attended by Prigozhin and several dozen senior Wagner combatants. Also read | Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin Kommersant newspaper reported that Putin told dozens of Wagner mercenaries to continue to serve the mercenary group under their direct commander, a man who goes by the call sign, ‘Sedoy,’ meaning ‘grey hair.’ Also read | I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko “They could have all gathered in one place and continued to serve,” Putin said, “and nothing would have changed for them. They would be led by the same person who has been their real commander all along.” “And what happened then?” the Kommersant reporter said in reply to Putin. “Many people nodded [affirmatively] when I said that,” Putin replied. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian intelligence chief to take over Wagner's Africa operations: Report

Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday.

<h2>The hidden cost of war</h2>

As per the Children's Fund, persistent attacks mean that only about one-third of school going age children in Ukraine are attending schools. Many, it said, are forgetting what they may have learned earlier.

"Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), as reported by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-wont-attend-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhins-funeral-kremlin-630231">Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin</a>

The UN agency stated that while some schools have suffered direct hits, others have taken precautionary steps and have closed down as the 18 months of missile and artillery attacks on residential areas across the country continue.

<h2>Four years lost</h2>

As per the UN agency, this is the fourth consecutive year Ukrainian children are facing disruptions to their education. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, Covid was the reason behind the disruption of their school education.

"Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.

"Not only has this left Ukraine's children struggling to progress in their education, but they are also struggling to retain what they learnt when their schools were fully functioning," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-faces-criticism-for-telling-russian-youths-to-remember-legacy-of-a-great-empire-630204">Pope faces criticism for telling Russian youths to remember 'legacy' of a 'great empire'</a>

As per AFP, UNICEF survey data shows around half of Ukraine's teachers have reported a deterioration in their students' abilities, like reading, language and mathematics. They also reported that the children have missed out on the sense of safety and friendships school can provide to those enduring war.

Enrolment data indicates that only about one-third of the children were learning fully in-person, another third were studying through remote, online classes, and the remaining were getting education through a mixed approach.&nbsp;

It also found that two-thirds (or about 66 per cent) of pre-school-age children weren't attending school. In frontline areas, this figure rises to three-fourths or 75 per cent.&nbsp;

Those who have sought refuge outside Ukraine face other uncertainties. More than half the refugee children across seven host countries are not enrolled in schools due to language barriers, difficulty in accessing schools and overstretched education systems.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday.

Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday. The hidden cost of war As per the Children's Fund, persistent attacks mean that only about one-third of school going age children in Ukraine are attending schools. Many, it said, are forgetting what they may have learned earlier. "Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), as reported by Reuters. Also read | Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin The UN agency stated that while some schools have suffered direct hits, others have taken precautionary steps and have closed down as the 18 months of missile and artillery attacks on residential areas across the country continue. Four years lost As per the UN agency, this is the fourth consecutive year Ukrainian children are facing disruptions to their education. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, Covid was the reason behind the disruption of their school education. "Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia. "Not only has this left Ukraine's children struggling to progress in their education, but they are also struggling to retain what they learnt when their schools were fully functioning," she added. Also read | Pope faces criticism for telling Russian youths to remember 'legacy' of a 'great empire' As per AFP, UNICEF survey data shows around half of Ukraine's teachers have reported a deterioration in their students' abilities, like reading, language and mathematics. They also reported that the children have missed out on the sense of safety and friendships school can provide to those enduring war. Enrolment data indicates that only about one-third of the children were learning fully in-person, another third were studying through remote, online classes, and the remaining were getting education through a mixed approach. It also found that two-thirds (or about 66 per cent) of pre-school-age children weren't attending school. In frontline areas, this figure rises to three-fourths or 75 per cent. Those who have sought refuge outside Ukraine face other uncertainties. More than half the refugee children across seven host countries are not enrolled in schools due to language barriers, difficulty in accessing schools and overstretched education systems. (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.

Hidden cost of Russia-Ukraine war: Children losing out on education, warns UNICEF

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters.

<h2>"Not envisaged"</h2>

When asked about Putin's attendance at the last rites of Prigozhin, Peskov, as per an AFP report, said, "The presence of the president is not envisaged."&nbsp;

He also said that the Kremlin did not have any specific information about the mercenary leader's funeral and that the arrangements were up to the family.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uncertainty-persists-over-wagner-chiefs-death-russia-to-conduct-molecular-genetic-test-on-remains-from-crash-629336">Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash</a>

Amid doubts about Prigozhin's presence on the plane, on Sunday, genetic tests confirmed that the Wagner chief was in fact among the 10 people killed in the plane crash near Moscow.

"Molecular-genetic examinations have been completed as part of the investigation into the plane crash in the Tver region," said Russia's Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko.

"According to their results, the identities of all 10 victims were established, they correspond to the list stated in the flight list," she added.

<h2>Revenge or accident?</h2>

The Wednesday (August 23rd) crash happened two months to the day Prigozhin and his mercenaries staged a mutiny against Putin and his top military commanders.&nbsp;

Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June.

As per AFP, they took control of the southern city of Rostov and advanced towards Moscow before turning back some 200 km (125 miles) from the capital.

The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the option to join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virgins-vitality-and-penile-implants-shocking-report-uncovers-wagner-chiefs-harem-of-young-girls-620321">Virgins, vitality and penile implants: Shocking report uncovers Wagner chief's harem of young girls</a>

In spite of the deal, following the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated.

Despite this, the Kremlin has denied any part in the Wagner chief's death and has labelled the assassination rumours an "absolute lie".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters. "Not envisaged" When asked about Putin's attendance at the last rites of Prigozhin, Peskov, as per an AFP report, said, "The presence of the president is not envisaged." He also said that the Kremlin did not have any specific information about the mercenary leader's funeral and that the arrangements were up to the family. Also read | Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash Amid doubts about Prigozhin's presence on the plane, on Sunday, genetic tests confirmed that the Wagner chief was in fact among the 10 people killed in the plane crash near Moscow. "Molecular-genetic examinations have been completed as part of the investigation into the plane crash in the Tver region," said Russia's Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko. "According to their results, the identities of all 10 victims were established, they correspond to the list stated in the flight list," she added. Revenge or accident? The Wednesday (August 23rd) crash happened two months to the day Prigozhin and his mercenaries staged a mutiny against Putin and his top military commanders. Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June. As per AFP, they took control of the southern city of Rostov and advanced towards Moscow before turning back some 200 km (125 miles) from the capital. The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the option to join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus. Also read | Virgins, vitality and penile implants: Shocking report uncovers Wagner chief's harem of young girls In spite of the deal, following the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated. Despite this, the Kremlin has denied any part in the Wagner chief's death and has labelled the assassination rumours an "absolute lie". (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.

Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28).

During the phone call, the two leaders discussed the results of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.

“The two leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg," the statement said.

<h2>Modi thanks Putin for supporting India's presidency&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Putin also told Modi that he would be unable to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9-10 September and that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

“While expressing an understanding for Russia’s decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russia’s consistent support to all initiatives under India’s G20 Presidency,” it said.

Putin once again congratulated the prime minister on the successful landing of the Indian space mission Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon near its south pole.

“Readiness was reaffirmed to further develop bilateral cooperation in the space sector,” the TASS news agency reported.

<h2>Vladimir Putin skips G20 summit for second consecutive year</h2>

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<h2>Other aspects of Indo-Russia ties discussed&nbsp;</h2>

Other aspects of Russian-Indian relations, like the strategic partnership, were also discussed.

“The positive dynamics of trade and economic cooperation was stated. A mutual disposition was expressed for the consistent implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector and joint work to expand the international transport and logistics&nbsp;infrastructure.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-not-to-attend-g20-summit-in-india-629120">Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend G20 summit in India in person</a>

On Friday (Aug 25), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin has decided to skip the G20 summit due to a special focus on the “special military operation” in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-school-shaves-heads-of-14-girls-for-wearing-islamic-head-scarves-incorrectly-faces-backlash-629933">Indonesian school shaves heads of 14 girls for improper Islamic head scarves</a>

"No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying.

He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later.

The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan.

During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the COVID-19 pandemic, Putin was present virtually.

He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

He had also decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in&nbsp;Johannesburg as the&nbsp;International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine.

South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country.&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28).

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28). During the phone call, the two leaders discussed the results of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. “The two leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg," the statement said. Modi thanks Putin for supporting India's presidency Putin also told Modi that he would be unable to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9-10 September and that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. “While expressing an understanding for Russia’s decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russia’s consistent support to all initiatives under India’s G20 Presidency,” it said. Putin once again congratulated the prime minister on the successful landing of the Indian space mission Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon near its south pole. “Readiness was reaffirmed to further develop bilateral cooperation in the space sector,” the TASS news agency reported. Vladimir Putin skips G20 summit for second consecutive year Other aspects of Indo-Russia ties discussed Other aspects of Russian-Indian relations, like the strategic partnership, were also discussed. “The positive dynamics of trade and economic cooperation was stated. A mutual disposition was expressed for the consistent implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector and joint work to expand the international transport and logistics infrastructure.” Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend G20 summit in India in person On Friday (Aug 25), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin has decided to skip the G20 summit due to a special focus on the “special military operation” in Ukraine. Also read | Indonesian school shaves heads of 14 girls for improper Islamic head scarves "No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later. The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan. During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the COVID-19 pandemic, Putin was present virtually. He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He had also decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in Johannesburg as the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine. South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sergey Lavrov to represent Russia in G20 meet: Vladimir Putin tells PM Modi in phone call

Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains.

<h2>The need for such a test</h2>

As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday.

However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-killed-yevgeny-prigozhin-us-preliminary-findings-discover-traces-of-sabotage-628904">Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest</a>

To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses".

Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow.

"In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now."

<h2>Putin denies ordering the killing</h2>

Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie."

Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-warned-wagner-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-about-threats-to-his-life-belarusian-president-lukashenko-629273">I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko</a>

The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus.

In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin&nbsp;critics&nbsp;have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated.

Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains. The need for such a test As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday. However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft. Also read | Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses". Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow. "In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now." Putin denies ordering the killing Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie." Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June. Also read | I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus. In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated. Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane. (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.

Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash

"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.

"What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side.&nbsp;

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile.

<h2>Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin?</h2>

As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhins-death-sparks-global-intrigue-as-putins-unforgiving-side-resurfaces-in-old-video-watch-628781">Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH</a>

Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile.

The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant.

As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs".

Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash.

"That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added.

<h2>What happens now?</h2>

As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death

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Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief.

However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'.

Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhin-death-news-this-is-what-happened-to-other-putin-foes-628714">Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past</a>

Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder".

Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship."

(With inputs from agencies)

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"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.

"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year. "What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile. Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin? As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash. Also read | Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile. The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant. As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs". Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash. "That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added. What happens now? As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin. Watch | Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief. However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'. Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death. Also read | Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder". Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship." (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.

Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest

Almost a decade was spent by Wagner's slain chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to build the mercenary group. The group emerged as the central force in Russia's war against Ukraine and the troops of Prigozhin worked towards spreading influence of Moscow across the globe and gathering President Vladimir Putin's allies in Syria and Africa. 
 
Prigozhin's sudden death in a plane crash has now triggered multiple speculations about the dangling future of the group. But let's understand the journey taken by the Wagner group so far.

<h2>Prigozhin – a prison convict turned into a hot dog joint owner</h2>

Before the Wagner stint, Prigozhin – who was born in Leningrad, USSR (now St Petersburg, Russia) on 1 June 1961 – was one of the most influential and richest businessmen in Russia. 
 
However, before soaring the heights, he spent almost 13 years in prison after getting implicated in various robbery cases in the early 1980s. He was released in 1990 when the Soviet Union was on the verge of collapse. 
 
Once out of prison, Prigozhin started his business of selling hot dogs in St. Petersburg. As per the Guardian, in no time, Prigozhin had his hands in various ventures, from supermarkets to restaurants. 
 
In 1995, he finally set up a network of catering companies and restaurants, which included St. Petersburg's well-known company called Concord Catering. Soon after, Prigozhin entered the list of one of the country's wealthiest individuals. 
 
With the growing business, Prigozhin’s proximity with the Russian ruling class also increased. Prigozhin became the caterer of choice for the rich and powerful in Russia by the time Vladimir Putin came to power. 
 
Prigozhin became the one who provided catering when Putin hosted some important world leaders like Prince Charles and George Bush. The caterer and the Russian leader soon developed a friendship that changed the shape of world politics, before they turned into foes briefly that is being viewed as a cause of his end.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-shows-the-moment-wagner-chiefs-plane-tumbled-toward-ground-crashing-in-fireball-628645">A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Prigozhin's plane crash</a>

<h2>Rise and rise of Wagner group</h2>

It remained unclear who decided to form the Wagner Group – Putin or Prigozhin. However, the group was formed during Russia's invasion of Crimea in 2014. Wagner Group and Russia's armed forces co-ordinated with each other but maintained their distance as recently as 2022. 
 
Even as private armies remained officially banned in Russia, Wagner Group troops operated with impunity during Crimea's 2014 invasion. After Crimea was captured, Wagner’s private military contractors (PMCs) went to Donbas in Eastern Ukraine and assisted pro-Russian separatist forces of the self-declared Luhansk and Donetsk from 2014 to 2015. 
 
In no time, Wagner became Putin's proxy army, getting their hands dirty in regions where Russia wanted to step in but officially could not. Prigozhin led this proxy army as a general. 
 
In 2015, Prigozhin sent his Wagner troops to Syria when Russia intervened militarily in the country to support Bashar al-Assad amid the civil war. Wagner chief also got food and supplies. In Syria, Wagner saw itself engaged in some of the most intense fighting and for the first time faced accusations of war crime. 
 
Slowly, Wagner Group was involved in every other conflict where Russia played a role, from civil wars in Libya and Sudan to Venezuela.

<h2>Invasion of Ukraine and Prigozhin's fallout with Putin</h2>

When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the involvement of Prigozhin and his Wagner Group in the escalation was out in the open. Prigozhin also became an active recruiter and recruited convicts to fight the war. The group saw a sudden expansion with a surge of convict fighters. The group engaged in some of the heaviest fighting of the conflict and faced massive casualties. 
 
Wagner Group achieved success in May when it seized Bakhmut, an eastern Ukrainian city, at the end of some of the most brutal fighting. After the city was captured, Prigozhin called out the alleged treachery of top military brass, targetting Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. 
 
He continued criticising the military leadership of Russia for failing to care about his troops and using his&nbsp;fighters as cannon fodder. The brewing tensions soon resulted in the armed mutiny of the Wagner group on June 24. However, before his men could reach Moscow, Prigozhin asked them to stop as Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko announced that he had negotiated a deal with Prigozhin. The Kremlin then announced that Prigozhin would shift to Belarus and won’t face prosecution.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dies in plane crash

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<h2>Wagner's leader's death and a question mark over empty seat</h2>

In a sudden development, it was reported that Prigozhin had apparently died in an Embraer jet crash in the north-west of Moscow, along with other nine passengers and crew onboard. A day later, his death was confirmed by Putin himself. 
 
Now with the death of Prigozhin, the complex commercial and military operations planned by the chief and the group across Africa, the Middle East and Europe hang in the balance. The operations of Wagner Group were already rolled up in Syria by Putin. 
 
After the mutiny, the forces of Wagner deployed in Ukraine gave a base to the regular military of Russia and started relocating to an army camp in Belarus. The group is likely to stay more or less intact in Africa under new management and can be taken over by another Russian mercenary group. 
 
As per analysts, Wagner Group is not likely to go through much changes in countries where it was operating through an official agreement with Moscow. CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera's political adviser Fidele Gouandjika said that since Wagner troops were present in the country through a state-level agreement with Russia, "nothing will affect the presence of these instructors". Prigozhin is "a dead leader, we can replace him," Gouandjika added.

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Almost a decade was spent by Wagner's slain chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to build the mercenary group. The group emerged as the central force in Russia's war against Ukraine and the troops of Prigozhin worked towards spreading influence of Moscow across the globe and gathering President Vladimir Putin's allies in Syria and Africa.

Almost a decade was spent by Wagner's slain chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to build the mercenary group. The group emerged as the central force in Russia's war against Ukraine and the troops of Prigozhin worked towards spreading influence of Moscow across the globe and gathering President Vladimir Putin's allies in Syria and Africa. Prigozhin's sudden death in a plane crash has now triggered multiple speculations about the dangling future of the group. But let's understand the journey taken by the Wagner group so far. Prigozhin – a prison convict turned into a hot dog joint owner Before the Wagner stint, Prigozhin – who was born in Leningrad, USSR (now St Petersburg, Russia) on 1 June 1961 – was one of the most influential and richest businessmen in Russia. However, before soaring the heights, he spent almost 13 years in prison after getting implicated in various robbery cases in the early 1980s. He was released in 1990 when the Soviet Union was on the verge of collapse. Once out of prison, Prigozhin started his business of selling hot dogs in St. Petersburg. As per the Guardian, in no time, Prigozhin had his hands in various ventures, from supermarkets to restaurants. In 1995, he finally set up a network of catering companies and restaurants, which included St. Petersburg's well-known company called Concord Catering. Soon after, Prigozhin entered the list of one of the country's wealthiest individuals. With the growing business, Prigozhin’s proximity with the Russian ruling class also increased. Prigozhin became the caterer of choice for the rich and powerful in Russia by the time Vladimir Putin came to power. Prigozhin became the one who provided catering when Putin hosted some important world leaders like Prince Charles and George Bush. The caterer and the Russian leader soon developed a friendship that changed the shape of world politics, before they turned into foes briefly that is being viewed as a cause of his end. ALSO READ | A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Prigozhin's plane crash Rise and rise of Wagner group It remained unclear who decided to form the Wagner Group – Putin or Prigozhin. However, the group was formed during Russia's invasion of Crimea in 2014. Wagner Group and Russia's armed forces co-ordinated with each other but maintained their distance as recently as 2022. Even as private armies remained officially banned in Russia, Wagner Group troops operated with impunity during Crimea's 2014 invasion. After Crimea was captured, Wagner’s private military contractors (PMCs) went to Donbas in Eastern Ukraine and assisted pro-Russian separatist forces of the self-declared Luhansk and Donetsk from 2014 to 2015. In no time, Wagner became Putin's proxy army, getting their hands dirty in regions where Russia wanted to step in but officially could not. Prigozhin led this proxy army as a general. In 2015, Prigozhin sent his Wagner troops to Syria when Russia intervened militarily in the country to support Bashar al-Assad amid the civil war. Wagner chief also got food and supplies. In Syria, Wagner saw itself engaged in some of the most intense fighting and for the first time faced accusations of war crime. Slowly, Wagner Group was involved in every other conflict where Russia played a role, from civil wars in Libya and Sudan to Venezuela. Invasion of Ukraine and Prigozhin's fallout with Putin When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the involvement of Prigozhin and his Wagner Group in the escalation was out in the open. Prigozhin also became an active recruiter and recruited convicts to fight the war. The group saw a sudden expansion with a surge of convict fighters. The group engaged in some of the heaviest fighting of the conflict and faced massive casualties. Wagner Group achieved success in May when it seized Bakhmut, an eastern Ukrainian city, at the end of some of the most brutal fighting. After the city was captured, Prigozhin called out the alleged treachery of top military brass, targetting Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He continued criticising the military leadership of Russia for failing to care about his troops and using his fighters as cannon fodder. The brewing tensions soon resulted in the armed mutiny of the Wagner group on June 24. However, before his men could reach Moscow, Prigozhin asked them to stop as Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko announced that he had negotiated a deal with Prigozhin. The Kremlin then announced that Prigozhin would shift to Belarus and won’t face prosecution. WATCH | Gravitas: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dies in plane crash Wagner's leader's death and a question mark over empty seat In a sudden development, it was reported that Prigozhin had apparently died in an Embraer jet crash in the north-west of Moscow, along with other nine passengers and crew onboard. A day later, his death was confirmed by Putin himself. Now with the death of Prigozhin, the complex commercial and military operations planned by the chief and the group across Africa, the Middle East and Europe hang in the balance. The operations of Wagner Group were already rolled up in Syria by Putin. After the mutiny, the forces of Wagner deployed in Ukraine gave a base to the regular military of Russia and started relocating to an army camp in Belarus. The group is likely to stay more or less intact in Africa under new management and can be taken over by another Russian mercenary group. As per analysts, Wagner Group is not likely to go through much changes in countries where it was operating through an official agreement with Moscow. CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera's political adviser Fidele Gouandjika said that since Wagner troops were present in the country through a state-level agreement with Russia, "nothing will affect the presence of these instructors". Prigozhin is "a dead leader, we can replace him," Gouandjika added. 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

Explained | With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present & uncertain future

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25).

Peskov said due to the “special military operation” in Ukraine, Putin won’t be able to attend the event in person. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later.

"No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying.

The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan.

During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the Covid pandemic, Putin was present virtually.

He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

<h2>Skipped BRICS Summit as well</h2>

He also had decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in&nbsp;Johannesburg as the&nbsp;International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine.

South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian President Putin: We unanimously stand for shaping a multipolar world order</h2>

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India, on the other hand, is not a member of the ICC, and has never signed its core treaty, the 'Rome Statute'. India has in the past hosted individuals that faced action from the ICC.

In 2015, ahead of then-Sudanese president Omar Hassan al-Bashir’s visit to New Delhi for the India-Africa Summit, the ICC had told India to arrest the African leader and hand him over to international authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dismisses-chinas-claim-that-request-for-modis-meet-with-xi-came-from-new-delhi-628983">BRICS summit: India dismisses China claim that New Delhi sought Modi-Xi meet</a>

In 2009 and 2010, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Bashir, who was allegedly responsible for genocide and war crimes in the western Darfur region of Sudan.

<h2>Delegations to start arriving on Sept 8</h2>

Meanwhile, many head of the states are expected to visit India on September 8&nbsp;for the G20 Summit in the capital New Delhi. Among the leaders expected to visit are US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-breaks-silence-on-prigozhin-says-he-made-some-mistakes-628863">Russian President Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes</a>

The delegates will reach India on September 9. A gala dinner is planned in their honour on that day, and the attendees will visit Rajghat on September 10.

The representatives of nine "guest countries" —Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and the United Arab Emirates — have also been invited by India for the summit.

The summit will be held on September 9-10 at the newly-built Bharat Mandapam convention centre in Delhi's erstwhile Pragati Maidan. The 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit will be a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers, senior officials and civil society.

&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25).

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25). Peskov said due to the “special military operation” in Ukraine, Putin won’t be able to attend the event in person. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later. "No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying. The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan. During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the Covid pandemic, Putin was present virtually. He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Skipped BRICS Summit as well He also had decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in Johannesburg as the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine. South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country. Russian President Putin: We unanimously stand for shaping a multipolar world order India, on the other hand, is not a member of the ICC, and has never signed its core treaty, the 'Rome Statute'. India has in the past hosted individuals that faced action from the ICC. In 2015, ahead of then-Sudanese president Omar Hassan al-Bashir’s visit to New Delhi for the India-Africa Summit, the ICC had told India to arrest the African leader and hand him over to international authorities. Also read | BRICS summit: India dismisses China claim that New Delhi sought Modi-Xi meet In 2009 and 2010, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Bashir, who was allegedly responsible for genocide and war crimes in the western Darfur region of Sudan. Delegations to start arriving on Sept 8 Meanwhile, many head of the states are expected to visit India on September 8 for the G20 Summit in the capital New Delhi. Among the leaders expected to visit are US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others. Also read | Russian President Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes The delegates will reach India on September 9. A gala dinner is planned in their honour on that day, and the attendees will visit Rajghat on September 10. The representatives of nine "guest countries" —Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and the United Arab Emirates — have also been invited by India for the summit. The summit will be held on September 9-10 at the newly-built Bharat Mandapam convention centre in Delhi's erstwhile Pragati Maidan. The 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit will be a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers, senior officials and civil society.

Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend G20 summit in India in person

A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death. The Wagner boss, once part of the inner circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin, angered him because of his mutiny just two months ago. For a brief period in those 24 hours, it seemed as if Russia was on the brink of a civil war when it had its hands tied in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Though Prigozhin called off his mercenaries, he was widely seen to be a 'dead man walking' as various experts and media outlets predicted that he would be assassinated in the near future.

The fears are not unfounded.

The lives of many of Putin's critics and opponents have ended in mysterious ways. It did not matter whether they were inside Russia or outside. The mystery surrounding these deaths (or at least apparent attempts to kill) has reinforced the perception that those who tenaciously oppose Putin are often forced to forego ideas of living long lives happily spent with family.

Let's take a look at such mysterious deaths and attempts to kill.

<h2>Alexander Litvinenko</h2>

<img alt="Litvinenko" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71eee916-44c0-4904-87ba-fd280bdd7aaf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_PAR2004091412384.jpg" />

Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB agent, was an outspoken critic of Putin. He died at the age of 43 in 2006 in London after drinking tea laced with Polonium-210. Polonium is a rare and potent radioactive element, a small amount of which can be deadly. A British inquiry in 2016 said that Putin probably approved the killing.

The Kremlin denied any involvement in Litvinenko's killing.

Alexei Navalny

<img alt="Navalny" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a039657a-a664-46e0-a6eb-d4c15c9a8b90" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV1094107.jpg" />

The most prominent face of political opposition in Russia was poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. He was poisoned in Siberia. He was flown to Germany in August 2020. Navalny survived but this was widely perceived to be an attempt to assassinate him.

Russia denied any involvement.

Alexander Perepilichny

<img alt="Alexander" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df885191-3c74-449c-a2f7-7e2c7493929a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alexander.JPG" />

Alexander Perepilichny (44), a Russian whistleblower, was found dead outside his home in 2012. He was out jogging. He had helped a Swiss investigation into money laundering in Russia. He left Russia and went to Britain in 2009.

British police ruled out foul play but there were suspicions that his death was an assassination.

Russia denied any involvement.

<h2>Sergei Skripal</h2>

<img alt="Skripal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ae56ec4-5830-4f69-af64-612259439e8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_12128A_0.jpg" />

Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent who worked for British intelligence, was found unconscious alongwith his daughter in 2018 on a bench in Salisbury, UK.

British authorities said that they were poisoned with Novichok. Both of them survived.

Russia denied any role in the poisoning.

Anna Politkovskaya

<img alt="Anna" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93113ce0-264c-48df-b2a9-2428c9e7228c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APW2002102579022.jpg" />

She was a journalist who criticised Putin and made news reports on human rights abuses.

She was shot dead outside her Moscow flat in 2006. The killing took place on Putin's birthday.

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A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death.

A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death. The Wagner boss, once part of the inner circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin, angered him because of his mutiny just two months ago. For a brief period in those 24 hours, it seemed as if Russia was on the brink of a civil war when it had its hands tied in the Ukraine war. Though Prigozhin called off his mercenaries, he was widely seen to be a 'dead man walking' as various experts and media outlets predicted that he would be assassinated in the near future. The fears are not unfounded. The lives of many of Putin's critics and opponents have ended in mysterious ways. It did not matter whether they were inside Russia or outside. The mystery surrounding these deaths (or at least apparent attempts to kill) has reinforced the perception that those who tenaciously oppose Putin are often forced to forego ideas of living long lives happily spent with family. Let's take a look at such mysterious deaths and attempts to kill. Alexander Litvinenko Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB agent, was an outspoken critic of Putin. He died at the age of 43 in 2006 in London after drinking tea laced with Polonium-210. Polonium is a rare and potent radioactive element, a small amount of which can be deadly. A British inquiry in 2016 said that Putin probably approved the killing. The Kremlin denied any involvement in Litvinenko's killing. Alexei Navalny The most prominent face of political opposition in Russia was poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. He was poisoned in Siberia. He was flown to Germany in August 2020. Navalny survived but this was widely perceived to be an attempt to assassinate him. Russia denied any involvement. Alexander Perepilichny Alexander Perepilichny (44), a Russian whistleblower, was found dead outside his home in 2012. He was out jogging. He had helped a Swiss investigation into money laundering in Russia. He left Russia and went to Britain in 2009. British police ruled out foul play but there were suspicions that his death was an assassination. Russia denied any involvement. Sergei Skripal Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent who worked for British intelligence, was found unconscious alongwith his daughter in 2018 on a bench in Salisbury, UK. British authorities said that they were poisoned with Novichok. Both of them survived. Russia denied any role in the poisoning. Anna Politkovskaya She was a journalist who criticised Putin and made news reports on human rights abuses. She was shot dead outside her Moscow flat in 2006. The killing took place on Putin's birthday. 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 ×

Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past

A plane with 10 people on-board crashed in Russia. Reports say, Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was among who were killed. More information is awaited on the same.

BREAKING: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin killed in plane crash, says report | World News | WION

In his opening remarks at a business forum ahead of the BRICS summit being held in South Africa’s Johannesburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the bloc was on the course to meet the aspirations of most of the world community.

In a virtual address delivered on Tuesday (August 22), Putin told the forum, “We cooperate on the principles of equality, partnership support, respect for each other’s interests, and this is the essence of the future-oriented strategic course of our association, a course that meets the aspirations of the main part of the world community, the so-called global majority."

It must be noted that Putin is not attending the summit in-person as he is sought by the West-backed International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations that he deported Ukrainian children.

<h2>Putin attacks US dollar, yet again</h2>

In his address, Putin said the US dollar was losing its global role in an “objective and irreversible” process.

De-dollarisation is “gaining momentum” he said, adding that members of the group of major emerging economies are seeking to reduce their reliance on the greenback in mutual transactions.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin on BRICS vs G7</h2>

The Russian leader said the five nations – Russia, China, India, Brazil and South Africa – are becoming the new world economic leaders, and that their cumulative share of global GDP has reached 26 per cent.

Watch:&nbsp;BRICS summit in Johannesburg: Meet between PM Modi and Xi on cards

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He added that if measured by purchasing power parity, BRICS has already surpassed the Group of Seven leading industrialised nations – accounting for 31 per cent of the global economy, compared to 30% for the G7.

<h2>Brazilian leader Lula supports the Common Currency programme</h2>

In his remarks at the business forum, Brazilian President Lula da Silva said he supported the BRICS common currency programme that does not aim to replace the national currency regime.

“I support a common trading currency for BRICS countries that will not replace our national currencies,” he said.

 
“The New Development Bank already represents a milestone in effective collaboration among emerging economies and is expected to be the global leader in financing projects that address the most pressing challenges of our time,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2023-pm-modi-departs-for-south-africa-xi-reaches-johannesburg-627730">Also read:&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2023: In last 10 years, BRICS played vital role in economic cooperation, says Modi</a>

“We cannot accept new global colonialism,” he said in his speech, in remarks sure to trigger concerns in the West about Brazil’s position on China’s and Russia’s campaign to stand up against Western hegemony.

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In his opening remarks at a business forum ahead of the BRICS summit being held in South Africa’s Johannesburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the bloc was on the course to meet the aspirations of most of the world community.

In his opening remarks at a business forum ahead of the BRICS summit being held in South Africa’s Johannesburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the bloc was on the course to meet the aspirations of most of the world community. In a virtual address delivered on Tuesday (August 22), Putin told the forum, “We cooperate on the principles of equality, partnership support, respect for each other’s interests, and this is the essence of the future-oriented strategic course of our association, a course that meets the aspirations of the main part of the world community, the so-called global majority." It must be noted that Putin is not attending the summit in-person as he is sought by the West-backed International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations that he deported Ukrainian children. Putin attacks US dollar, yet again In his address, Putin said the US dollar was losing its global role in an “objective and irreversible” process. De-dollarisation is “gaining momentum” he said, adding that members of the group of major emerging economies are seeking to reduce their reliance on the greenback in mutual transactions. Putin on BRICS vs G7 The Russian leader said the five nations – Russia, China, India, Brazil and South Africa – are becoming the new world economic leaders, and that their cumulative share of global GDP has reached 26 per cent. Watch: BRICS summit in Johannesburg: Meet between PM Modi and Xi on cards × He added that if measured by purchasing power parity, BRICS has already surpassed the Group of Seven leading industrialised nations – accounting for 31 per cent of the global economy, compared to 30% for the G7. Brazilian leader Lula supports the Common Currency programme In his remarks at the business forum, Brazilian President Lula da Silva said he supported the BRICS common currency programme that does not aim to replace the national currency regime. “I support a common trading currency for BRICS countries that will not replace our national currencies,” he said. “The New Development Bank already represents a milestone in effective collaboration among emerging economies and is expected to be the global leader in financing projects that address the most pressing challenges of our time,” he added. Also read: BRICS Summit 2023: In last 10 years, BRICS played vital role in economic cooperation, says Modi “We cannot accept new global colonialism,” he said in his speech, in remarks sure to trigger concerns in the West about Brazil’s position on China’s and Russia’s campaign to stand up against Western hegemony. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

BRICS 2023: Putin hails de-dollarisation, Lula vows to fight global colonialism

The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries.

Among the leaders who were present in the forum were Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Lula da Silva. But someone was missing.

<h2>Putin addresses event virtually</h2>

While Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the event virtually, there was one leader whose absence was conspicuous, given that he was one of the earliest to arrive at the South African city for the summit. That was Chinese President Xi Jinping.

After Ramaphosa, Lula and Modi addressed the forum, Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao delivered a statement on behalf of Xi Jinping.

In the brief speech, Wentao denounced “countries obsessed with maintaining hegemony” for sabotaging the growth of developing nations, an effort he said is “futile”.

Quoting Xi, Wentao called for an end to one-dimensional views of states that divide them into artificial categories like “liberal” or “authoritarian”.

Though it was known that Putin won’t be coming to South Africa due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over war crimes in Ukraine, it was surprising that Xi did not turn up for the event.

So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation.

<h2>Xi met&nbsp;Ramaphosa</h2>

Earlier in the day, Xi met with Ramaphosa ahead of the summit on just his second international trip of the year.

"Now as friends and&nbsp;BRICS&nbsp;partners, we stand together in our shared objective and quest for a better and more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all the people in the world," said Ramaphosa in Pretoria at the opening of Xi's state visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-aims-at-expansion-of-indias-upi-to-brics-nations-at-business-forum-meet-628060">Modi aims at expansion of India's UPI to BRICS nations at business forum meet</a>

"Today, standing at a new historical starting point, inheriting friendship, deepening cooperation, and strengthening coordination are the common aspirations of the two countries, and are also the important tasks entrusted to us by the times," said Xi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-2023-putin-hails-de-dollarisation-lula-vows-to-fight-global-colonialism-628065">BRICS 2023: Putin hails de-dollarisation, Lula vows to fight global colonialism</a>

Ahead of this summit, at least 40 countries have expressed interest in joining including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and Argentina, officials say.

South Africa will present&nbsp;BRICS&nbsp;leaders with a proposal to expand its membership and a decision on the matter is expected at the summit's close.

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The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries.

The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries. Among the leaders who were present in the forum were Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Lula da Silva. But someone was missing. Putin addresses event virtually While Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the event virtually, there was one leader whose absence was conspicuous, given that he was one of the earliest to arrive at the South African city for the summit. That was Chinese President Xi Jinping. After Ramaphosa, Lula and Modi addressed the forum, Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao delivered a statement on behalf of Xi Jinping. In the brief speech, Wentao denounced “countries obsessed with maintaining hegemony” for sabotaging the growth of developing nations, an effort he said is “futile”. Quoting Xi, Wentao called for an end to one-dimensional views of states that divide them into artificial categories like “liberal” or “authoritarian”. Though it was known that Putin won’t be coming to South Africa due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over war crimes in Ukraine, it was surprising that Xi did not turn up for the event. So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation. Xi met Ramaphosa Earlier in the day, Xi met with Ramaphosa ahead of the summit on just his second international trip of the year. "Now as friends and BRICS partners, we stand together in our shared objective and quest for a better and more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all the people in the world," said Ramaphosa in Pretoria at the opening of Xi's state visit. Also read | Modi aims at expansion of India's UPI to BRICS nations at business forum meet "Today, standing at a new historical starting point, inheriting friendship, deepening cooperation, and strengthening coordination are the common aspirations of the two countries, and are also the important tasks entrusted to us by the times," said Xi. Also read | BRICS 2023: Putin hails de-dollarisation, Lula vows to fight global colonialism Ahead of this summit, at least 40 countries have expressed interest in joining including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and Argentina, officials say. South Africa will present BRICS leaders with a proposal to expand its membership and a decision on the matter is expected at the summit's close. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Where is Xi Jinping? Chinese leader's unusual absence at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows

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