<p>The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/dangerous-provocations-by-russia-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-zelensky-to-macron-612025">Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies</a></strong></p>

<p>Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control.</p>

<h2><strong>A bizarre call</strong></h2>

<p>The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south.</p>

<p>"Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eye-of-the-beholder-chinese-man-creates-website-rating-attractiveness-of-university-students-612289">'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students</a></strong></p>

<p>A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations.</p>

<p>Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ru">Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане.<br />
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Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. <a href="https://t.co/9Guf6kTWue">pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue</a></p>
— Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) <a href="https://twitter.com/GazetaRu/status/1676270212222525470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rebuilding trust or saving face?</strong></h2>

<p>The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people.</p>

<p>Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.

The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned. In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov. Also read | Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control. A bizarre call The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus. As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south. "Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD. Also read | 'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations. Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president. Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader. Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане. Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue — Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) July 4, 2023 × Rebuilding trust or saving face? The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people. Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia. (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.

Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring'

<p>The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war sparked massive concerns over the nuclear attack. As the world continues to fear that the next nuclear disaster could be in Eastern&nbsp;Europe, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin against the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report cited Western and Chinese officials as saying that the Chinese officials privately take credit for convincing Russia to stop veiled atomic threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also mentioned that Xi warned Putin face-to-face during his state visit to Moscow in March, which was one of his first trips outside China after strict lockdown measures under his zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has often warned of an escalation in war and also said that the West's continued support for Ukraine could lead to a nuclear war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The concerns were further raised when Belarus hosted Russian nuclear weapons. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko insisted that their deployment did not violate international agreements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-drugs-entered-restricted-area-of-white-house-five-key-points-612208">How drugs entered restricted area of White House? Five key points</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In one of his televised addresses, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons, saying that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin had mentioned that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reference to China's stance, Andriy Yermak, who is a top adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said that Beijing's opposition to Russian threats is an "important position". Yermak said it on messaging app Telegram while sharing a screengrab of the Financial Times article.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/threats-surround-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-amidst-russia-ukraine-wa-612124/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-floods-xi-jinping-urges-authorities-to-step-up-amid-torrential-rains-612161">China floods: Xi Jinping urges authorities to step up amid torrential rains</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky speaks to Macron&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, Zelensky told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron that Russia was planning "dangerous provocations" at the Moscow-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said in a statement: "I warned Emmanuel Macron that the occupation troops are preparing dangerous provocations at the Zaporizhzhia plant. We agreed to keep the situation under maximum control together with the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said in his evening address that Russia had "installed objects similar to explosives" on the plant, according to Ukrainian intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Perhaps to simulate the hit on the plant. Maybe they have some other scenario. But in any case, the world sees it."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Radiation is a threat to everyone in the world," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accusation is not entirely new as the Ukrainian army has also alleged that there's a "possible preparation of a provocation on the territory of the Zaporizhzhia power plant in the near future".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's counterclaim</strong></h2>

<p>Russia has denied all the claims, in fact,&nbsp;Renat Karchaa, who is an advisor to Russia's Rosatom nuclear agency, accused Kyiv of planning an attack on the plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, we got information that I am authorised to announce... On July 5, literally at night, in the dark, the Ukrainian army will try to attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant," Karchaa told Russian state television.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war sparked massive concerns over the nuclear attack. As the world continues to fear that the next nuclear disaster could be in Eastern Europe, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin against the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war sparked massive concerns over the nuclear attack. As the world continues to fear that the next nuclear disaster could be in Eastern Europe, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin against the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine. The report cited Western and Chinese officials as saying that the Chinese officials privately take credit for convincing Russia to stop veiled atomic threats. It was also mentioned that Xi warned Putin face-to-face during his state visit to Moscow in March, which was one of his first trips outside China after strict lockdown measures under his zero-Covid policy. Russia has often warned of an escalation in war and also said that the West's continued support for Ukraine could lead to a nuclear war. The concerns were further raised when Belarus hosted Russian nuclear weapons. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko insisted that their deployment did not violate international agreements. Also read: How drugs entered restricted area of White House? Five key points In one of his televised addresses, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons, saying that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin had mentioned that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same". In reference to China's stance, Andriy Yermak, who is a top adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said that Beijing's opposition to Russian threats is an "important position". Yermak said it on messaging app Telegram while sharing a screengrab of the Financial Times article. Watch this report: Also read: China floods: Xi Jinping urges authorities to step up amid torrential rains Zelensky speaks to Macron On Tuesday, Zelensky told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron that Russia was planning "dangerous provocations" at the Moscow-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Zelensky said in a statement: "I warned Emmanuel Macron that the occupation troops are preparing dangerous provocations at the Zaporizhzhia plant. We agreed to keep the situation under maximum control together with the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)." Zelensky said in his evening address that Russia had "installed objects similar to explosives" on the plant, according to Ukrainian intelligence. He said, "Perhaps to simulate the hit on the plant. Maybe they have some other scenario. But in any case, the world sees it." "Radiation is a threat to everyone in the world," he further added. The accusation is not entirely new as the Ukrainian army has also alleged that there's a "possible preparation of a provocation on the territory of the Zaporizhzhia power plant in the near future". Russia's counterclaim Russia has denied all the claims, in fact, Renat Karchaa, who is an advisor to Russia's Rosatom nuclear agency, accused Kyiv of planning an attack on the plant. "Today, we got information that I am authorised to announce... On July 5, literally at night, in the dark, the Ukrainian army will try to attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant," Karchaa told Russian state television. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, 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.

Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine?

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.</p>

<p>In his address to his counterparts from China and India and other members of the SCO virtually on Tuesday, Putin pitched for trading in local currencies, arguing that more than 80 per cent of trade between Chinese and Russian people was in roubles and yuan, and urged other SCO members to follow the same process.</p>

<p>"Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," the Russian leader said during a televised address to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).</p>

<p>Making his first public appearance since the short-lived coup attempt by Wagner forces, Putin said, "I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens."</p>

<p>He also welcomed Russian ally Belarus's application to become a permanent member of the SCO next year.</p>

<h2><strong>SCO under India’s presidency</strong></h2>

<p>The summit was hosted by Indian PM Narendra Modi, who called on members to boost trade, connectivity and tech cooperation, among other things.</p>

<p>In his opening remarks, Modi praised the SCO as an “important platform for peace, prosperity and development in the entire Eurasia region.”</p>

<p>“We do not see the SCO as an extended neighbourhood, but an extended family. Security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and environmental protection are the pillars of our vision for SCO,” he said.</p>

<h2>Virtual Summit chaired by Indian PM Modi as Putin, Xi, Sharif attend&nbsp;</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/virtual-summit-chaired-by-indian-pm-modi-as-putin-xi-sharif-attend-virtually-611839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>China’s Xi Jinping, on the other hand, called for regional leaders to strengthen their coordination and resist the influence of “external forces in the region”, seemingly referring to American foreign policy.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-calls-for-regional-peace-and-opposes-protectionism-at-sco-summit-611865">China's Xi calls for regional peace, opposes protectionism at SCO Summit</a></p>

<p>“We must be highly vigilant against external forces inciting a ‘new cold war’ in the region and creating a confrontation between camps, (and) resolutely oppose any country’s interference in internal affairs and instigation of ‘colour revolutions,’” Xi said, using a term to refer to government-toppling political movements.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-virtual-sco-meet-modi-mentions-five-pillars-of-organisations-vision-611705">At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form</a></p>

<p>At the conclusion of the meeting,&nbsp;the grouping adopted a declaration and two joint statements, one on cooperation countering “radicalisation leading to separatism, extremism and terrorism” and a second on cooperation in the field of digital transformation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said while addressing the press.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. In his address to his counterparts from China and India and other members of the SCO virtually on Tuesday, Putin pitched for trading in local currencies, arguing that more than 80 per cent of trade between Chinese and Russian people was in roubles and yuan, and urged other SCO members to follow the same process. "Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," the Russian leader said during a televised address to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Making his first public appearance since the short-lived coup attempt by Wagner forces, Putin said, "I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens." He also welcomed Russian ally Belarus's application to become a permanent member of the SCO next year. SCO under India’s presidency The summit was hosted by Indian PM Narendra Modi, who called on members to boost trade, connectivity and tech cooperation, among other things. In his opening remarks, Modi praised the SCO as an “important platform for peace, prosperity and development in the entire Eurasia region.” “We do not see the SCO as an extended neighbourhood, but an extended family. Security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and environmental protection are the pillars of our vision for SCO,” he said. Virtual Summit chaired by Indian PM Modi as Putin, Xi, Sharif attend China’s Xi Jinping, on the other hand, called for regional leaders to strengthen their coordination and resist the influence of “external forces in the region”, seemingly referring to American foreign policy. Also read | China's Xi calls for regional peace, opposes protectionism at SCO Summit “We must be highly vigilant against external forces inciting a ‘new cold war’ in the region and creating a confrontation between camps, (and) resolutely oppose any country’s interference in internal affairs and instigation of ‘colour revolutions,’” Xi said, using a term to refer to government-toppling political movements. Also read | At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form At the conclusion of the meeting, the grouping adopted a declaration and two joint statements, one on cooperation countering “radicalisation leading to separatism, extremism and terrorism” and a second on cooperation in the field of digital transformation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said while addressing the press. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At SCO Summit, Vladimir Putin calls for trading in local currencies to blunt western sanctions

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday emphasised the need to safeguard regional peace and "oppose protectionism" during his address at a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per state news agency Xinhua, the leader "called for efforts to safeguard regional peace and ensure common security."</p>

<h2><strong>What did Xi Jinping say at the virtual SCO Summit 2023?</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing the participants via a virtual link, Xi highlighted the responsibility to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region, stating that it is a common goal.</p>

<p>State broadcaster CCTV, as per AFP, quoted&nbsp;him as saying that "achieving long-term regional peace and stability is our common responsibility".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-virtual-sco-meet-modi-mentions-five-pillars-of-organisations-vision-611705">At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form</a></strong></p>

<p>He also said that China would "persist in the correct direction of economic globalisation, oppose protectionism, unilateral sanctions and extension of national security concepts".</p>

<p>President Xi also pledged to "promote political solutions to pressing international and regional issues, building a firm regional security barrier."</p>

<h2><strong>The virtual summit</strong></h2>

<p>The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) now consists of nine member states — after welcoming Iran as the latest one Tuesday — and is headquartered in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Its latest virtual summit is being hosted by India, which holds the rotating chair.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaders of Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian countries also participated in the virtual SCO summit.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vladimir Putin, Ukraine war, and China</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin also addressed the summit. This marked his first appearance since a brief mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, occurred last month.</p>

<p>"Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," said the Russian leader.</p>

<p>"I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership&nbsp;to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dog-suffocates-in-scorching-car-as-careless-pet-owners-enjoy-tour-of-taj-mahal-611528">Dog suffocates in scorching car as careless pet owners enjoy tour of Taj Mahal</a></strong></p>

<p>AFP reports that China and Russia have deepened economic cooperation and diplomatic ties in recent years, with their strategic partnership strengthening further since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the Ukraine conflict, it has faced criticism for not condemning Moscow's offensive.</p>

<p>During a summit in Moscow in March, President Xi invited President Putin to visit Beijing, and the two leaders declared that their countries' ties were entering a new era.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday emphasised the need to safeguard regional peace and "oppose protectionism" during his address at a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Tuesday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday emphasised the need to safeguard regional peace and "oppose protectionism" during his address at a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Tuesday. As per state news agency Xinhua, the leader "called for efforts to safeguard regional peace and ensure common security." What did Xi Jinping say at the virtual SCO Summit 2023? Addressing the participants via a virtual link, Xi highlighted the responsibility to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region, stating that it is a common goal. State broadcaster CCTV, as per AFP, quoted him as saying that "achieving long-term regional peace and stability is our common responsibility". Also read | At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form He also said that China would "persist in the correct direction of economic globalisation, oppose protectionism, unilateral sanctions and extension of national security concepts". President Xi also pledged to "promote political solutions to pressing international and regional issues, building a firm regional security barrier." The virtual summit The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) now consists of nine member states — after welcoming Iran as the latest one Tuesday — and is headquartered in Beijing. Its latest virtual summit is being hosted by India, which holds the rotating chair. The leaders of Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian countries also participated in the virtual SCO summit. Vladimir Putin, Ukraine war, and China Russian President Vladimir Putin also addressed the summit. This marked his first appearance since a brief mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, occurred last month. "Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," said the Russian leader. "I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens," he added. Also read | Dog suffocates in scorching car as careless pet owners enjoy tour of Taj Mahal AFP reports that China and Russia have deepened economic cooperation and diplomatic ties in recent years, with their strategic partnership strengthening further since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Even though Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the Ukraine conflict, it has faced criticism for not condemning Moscow's offensive. During a summit in Moscow in March, President Xi invited President Putin to visit Beijing, and the two leaders declared that their countries' ties were entering a new era. (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.

Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for regional peace, opposes protectionism at SCO Summit

<p>Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia. The move has led to demonstrations outside Unilever's London headquarters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What Kyiv alleges</strong></h2>

<p>"The National Agency on Corruption Prevention has added British company Unilever onto its list of 'International Sponsors of War'," said a statement.</p>

<p>The agency stated that Unilever's presence in Russia and its significant tax contributions to the Russian state budget support the aggressor country's economy and contribute to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine.</p>

<p>Unilever's addition to the list is because of its "presence in the Russian Federation and its significant taxes to the Russian state budget," and "thereby supporting the aggressor's economy and contributing to the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-raided-wagner-bases-in-syria-detained-fighters-and-leaders-reports-611461">Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition to Unilever, the campaign group Global Witness accused French energy giant TotalEnergies and British company Shell of continuing to profit from Russian gas. Both companies responded to the claims by stating that contractual obligations bind them but have terminated partnerships in Russia following the country's invasion last year.</p>

<h2><strong>The company's response</strong></h2>

<p>Unilever, known for brands such as Dove soap, Magnum ice cream, and Cif surface cleaner, reiterated a statement made in February in which it condemned the war in Ukraine as a "brutal and senseless act by the Russian state".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company claimed to have ceased imports and exports of its goods into and out of Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Unilever acknowledged that it supplies everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people within the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-detains-a-man-it-says-ukraine-sent-to-assassinate-crimeas-head-611416">Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head</a></strong></p>

<p>It said that it was supplying "everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people in the country,"&nbsp;and noted that "exiting is not straightforward" process.</p>

<h2><strong>The demonstrations</strong></h2>

<p>As per AFP, demonstrations took place outside Unilever's London headquarters, with activists from both Ukraine and Britain displaying signs. One billboard reportedly resembled a Dove advertisement and featured wounded Ukrainian soldiers.</p>

<p>Unilever's 2022 results indicate that two per cent of its net profit was earned through operations in Russia. According to estimates from the Kyiv School of Economics, Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes last year.</p>

<p>As per the Kyiv School of Economics estimates, last year Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes.</p>

<p><br />
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Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia.

Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia. The move has led to demonstrations outside Unilever's London headquarters. What Kyiv alleges "The National Agency on Corruption Prevention has added British company Unilever onto its list of 'International Sponsors of War'," said a statement. The agency stated that Unilever's presence in Russia and its significant tax contributions to the Russian state budget support the aggressor country's economy and contribute to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. Unilever's addition to the list is because of its "presence in the Russian Federation and its significant taxes to the Russian state budget," and "thereby supporting the aggressor's economy and contributing to the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine," it said. Also read | Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports In addition to Unilever, the campaign group Global Witness accused French energy giant TotalEnergies and British company Shell of continuing to profit from Russian gas. Both companies responded to the claims by stating that contractual obligations bind them but have terminated partnerships in Russia following the country's invasion last year. The company's response Unilever, known for brands such as Dove soap, Magnum ice cream, and Cif surface cleaner, reiterated a statement made in February in which it condemned the war in Ukraine as a "brutal and senseless act by the Russian state". The company claimed to have ceased imports and exports of its goods into and out of Russia. However, Unilever acknowledged that it supplies everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people within the country. Also read | Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head It said that it was supplying "everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people in the country," and noted that "exiting is not straightforward" process. The demonstrations As per AFP, demonstrations took place outside Unilever's London headquarters, with activists from both Ukraine and Britain displaying signs. One billboard reportedly resembled a Dove advertisement and featured wounded Ukrainian soldiers. Unilever's 2022 results indicate that two per cent of its net profit was earned through operations in Russia. According to estimates from the Kyiv School of Economics, Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes last year. As per the Kyiv School of Economics estimates, last year Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes.

Ukraine places Unilever on 'International Sponsors of War' list; triggers protests in London

<p>Russia has accused Ukraine of pushing forward an assassination attempt on the head of what it deems as the 'Republic of Crimea', Sergei Akysonov. The said assassination attempt was thwarted, Moscow's intelligence agency Federal Security Service (FSB) told the state-run TASS agency.</p>

<p>"An assassination attempt organised by Ukraine's special services targeting the head of the Republic of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, was foiled," Russian state-run agency TASS reported, citing a statement by the Federal Security Service (FSB).</p>

<p>A video released by the FSB on Telegram showed masked Russian men in army uniform detaining a man who Moscow claimed is the man sent by Ukraine to assassinate the head of the Republic of Crimea. The video, seen by WION, shows Russian forces unpacking a sack bag and a red-coloured container, subsequently described by the Russians as the set up of an "explosive device".&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION cannot vouch for the authenticity of the video.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-planning-to-launch-missiles-at-crimea-russia-claims-606594">Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, claims Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>"The bomber did not have time to carry out his criminal intentions, as he was detained while extracting the explosive device from its hiding place," the FSB said.</p>

<p>The law enforcement officials did not give much information about the detained individual. They only disclosed that he was a Russian national born in 1988.</p>

<p>In an interrogation video released by the FSB on Telegram, and seen by WION, the detained man said he was recruited by Ukraine’s Security Service in December 2022 and had undergone training courses on subversive activities and explosives in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Crimean Governor Aksyonov praised the FSB’s "effective" work in preventing the attack.</p>

<p>Russia seized control of Crimea in February 2014 and followed it up with a referendum that it said gave legitimacy to Russian control over the territory. The official result of the referendum in Crimea was a 97 per cent vote for the integration of the region into the Russian Federation. Moscow claimed 83 per cent voter turnout.</p>

<p>The Crimean peninsula has been regularly targeted by strikes and attacks targeting officials that Kyiv and the West deemed pro-Russia in recent months.</p>

<p>During the times of the Soviet Union, the Crimean Oblast was part of the union until the 1954 transfer of Crimea into the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crimea became part of independent Ukraine after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. But shortly after, Crimea re-gained its autonomy following a 1991 referendum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian parliament abolished the 1992 Crimean Constitution and the office of President of Crimea in 1995.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Report: Images reveal Russia is fortifying Crimea Peninsula</strong></p>

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<p>In 1998, Crimea gained a new constitution, which granted it less autonomy.&nbsp;Notably, any legislation passed by the Crimean parliament could be vetoed by the Ukrainian parliament.</p>

<p>Since 2014, Crimea — on ground — remains part of the Russian Federation despite the West's attempts at de-legitimising its integration.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Russia has accused Ukraine of pushing forward an assassination attempt on the head of what it deems as the 'Republic of Crimea', Sergei Akysonov. The said assassination attempt was thwarted, Moscow's intelligence agency Federal Security Service (FSB) told the state-run TASS agency.

Russia has accused Ukraine of pushing forward an assassination attempt on the head of what it deems as the 'Republic of Crimea', Sergei Akysonov. The said assassination attempt was thwarted, Moscow's intelligence agency Federal Security Service (FSB) told the state-run TASS agency. "An assassination attempt organised by Ukraine's special services targeting the head of the Republic of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, was foiled," Russian state-run agency TASS reported, citing a statement by the Federal Security Service (FSB). A video released by the FSB on Telegram showed masked Russian men in army uniform detaining a man who Moscow claimed is the man sent by Ukraine to assassinate the head of the Republic of Crimea. The video, seen by WION, shows Russian forces unpacking a sack bag and a red-coloured container, subsequently described by the Russians as the set up of an "explosive device". WION cannot vouch for the authenticity of the video. Also read | Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, claims Russia "The bomber did not have time to carry out his criminal intentions, as he was detained while extracting the explosive device from its hiding place," the FSB said. The law enforcement officials did not give much information about the detained individual. They only disclosed that he was a Russian national born in 1988. In an interrogation video released by the FSB on Telegram, and seen by WION, the detained man said he was recruited by Ukraine’s Security Service in December 2022 and had undergone training courses on subversive activities and explosives in Ukraine. Crimean Governor Aksyonov praised the FSB’s "effective" work in preventing the attack. Russia seized control of Crimea in February 2014 and followed it up with a referendum that it said gave legitimacy to Russian control over the territory. The official result of the referendum in Crimea was a 97 per cent vote for the integration of the region into the Russian Federation. Moscow claimed 83 per cent voter turnout. The Crimean peninsula has been regularly targeted by strikes and attacks targeting officials that Kyiv and the West deemed pro-Russia in recent months. During the times of the Soviet Union, the Crimean Oblast was part of the union until the 1954 transfer of Crimea into the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Crimea became part of independent Ukraine after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. But shortly after, Crimea re-gained its autonomy following a 1991 referendum. The Ukrainian parliament abolished the 1992 Crimean Constitution and the office of President of Crimea in 1995. Also watch | Report: Images reveal Russia is fortifying Crimea Peninsula × In 1998, Crimea gained a new constitution, which granted it less autonomy. Notably, any legislation passed by the Crimean parliament could be vetoed by the Ukrainian parliament. Since 2014, Crimea — on ground — remains part of the Russian Federation despite the West's attempts at de-legitimising its integration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the country has killed at least 21,000 Wagner fighters and wounded another 80,000 so far. Zelensky did not provide any evidence for his claim.</p>

<p>Zelensky's comment comes a week after Russian President Vladimir Putin witnessed a major challenge to his authority as Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin launched a mutiny against the military leadership in Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky was speaking during a press conference with a Spanish media portal. He&nbsp;said that the "private military company has suffered enormous losses, particularly in Eastern Ukraine", &nbsp;CNN reported.</p>

<p>Zelensky described the Wagner fighters as "mostly convicts who had nothing to lose", and were recruited as akin to "motivated staff of the Russian army".</p>

<h2><strong>Entire world wants to kill Putin: Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>"Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's rebellion has greatly affected Russian power on the battlefield and could be beneficial to Ukraine's counteroffensive…We need to take advantage of this situation to push the enemy out of our land," Zelensky said.</p>

<p>Zelensky said that the "entire world wants to kill him (Putin)".</p>

<p>"It's more dangerous for Putin. Only in Russia that they want to kill me, whereas the entire world wants to kill him," Zelensky said.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky afraid of losing support for war from US Republicans</strong></h2>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_00293526-536F-32C0-987F-1434B6CA7CD7@published">Zelensky also expressed fears of losing bipartisan support from the United States, and cited "dangerous messages coming from some Republicans."</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_6497D105-FBB9-BF0E-C350-14300EAF9B21@published">"We have bipartisan support, however, there are different messages in their circles regarding support for Ukraine. There are messages coming from some Republicans, sometimes dangerous messages, that there may be less support," Zelensky said.</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_F0043BAD-205C-D544-98B4-14700812B3ED@published">"The most important thing for Ukraine is not to lose bipartisan support," he added.</p>

<p>On June 29, Russia's Wagner mercenary group's rebellion against military leadership in Moscow lasted for a little less than 36 hours. It ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin — also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin — announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner's chief and some of his forces arrived in Belarus after President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters three options: sign contracts with the Russian defence ministry, return to civilian life or go into exile in Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the country has killed at least 21,000 Wagner fighters and wounded another 80,000 so far. Zelensky did not provide any evidence for his claim.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the country has killed at least 21,000 Wagner fighters and wounded another 80,000 so far. Zelensky did not provide any evidence for his claim. Zelensky's comment comes a week after Russian President Vladimir Putin witnessed a major challenge to his authority as Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin launched a mutiny against the military leadership in Moscow. Zelensky was speaking during a press conference with a Spanish media portal. He said that the "private military company has suffered enormous losses, particularly in Eastern Ukraine", CNN reported. Zelensky described the Wagner fighters as "mostly convicts who had nothing to lose", and were recruited as akin to "motivated staff of the Russian army". Entire world wants to kill Putin: Zelensky "Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's rebellion has greatly affected Russian power on the battlefield and could be beneficial to Ukraine's counteroffensive…We need to take advantage of this situation to push the enemy out of our land," Zelensky said. Zelensky said that the "entire world wants to kill him (Putin)". "It's more dangerous for Putin. Only in Russia that they want to kill me, whereas the entire world wants to kill him," Zelensky said. Zelensky afraid of losing support for war from US Republicans Zelensky also expressed fears of losing bipartisan support from the United States, and cited "dangerous messages coming from some Republicans." "We have bipartisan support, however, there are different messages in their circles regarding support for Ukraine. There are messages coming from some Republicans, sometimes dangerous messages, that there may be less support," Zelensky said. "The most important thing for Ukraine is not to lose bipartisan support," he added. On June 29, Russia's Wagner mercenary group's rebellion against military leadership in Moscow lasted for a little less than 36 hours. It ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin — also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin — announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases. Wagner's chief and some of his forces arrived in Belarus after President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters three options: sign contracts with the Russian defence ministry, return to civilian life or go into exile in Belarus. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky claims Ukraine killed 21,000 Wagner fighters; says 'entire world wants to kill' Vladimir Putin

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend'&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin made the comments at an annual forum 'Strong ideas of our time'&nbsp;held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives&nbsp;in Moscow wherein he&nbsp;drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands.</p>

<p>"Our friends in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a great friend of Russia, a few years ago presented a concept 'Make in India' and it had a very visible effect on the Indian economy," said Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It would do no harm to emulate what is working well, even if it was not us but our friends who created it,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier,&nbsp;Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in New Delhi remarked that the special "Russia-India partnership" was growing "stronger as ever".</p>

<p>"There have been lies about Russia on a daily basis and on a global scale. Efforts are being made to disrupt Russia-India relations,"&nbsp;said Alipov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The indispensable truth however is — the special Russia-India strategic partnership has shown strength and we keep growing stronger than ever," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladimir-putin-hails-indias-prime-minister-narendra-modi-610275"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin hails India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Make-in-India paying dividends?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the much-popularised 'Make in India'&nbsp;initiative was launched by the Indian PM in September 2014, soon after taking the reins of the country for the first time. Though ridiculed by armchair economists at the time, the initiative has managed to change the direction of the Indian manufacturing sector, especially in the defence sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a government report released last month,&nbsp;India recorded&nbsp;an extraordinary 23 times rise in military exports during the nine years of the Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high, surging from Rs 686 crore ($82 million) in FY 2013-14 to nearly Rs 16,000 crore ($1.9 billion) in FY 2022-23. This remarkable 23-fold increase reflects India’s progress in the global defence manufacturing sector," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-exports-grew-23-times-in-9-years-surpasses-19-billion-in-fy-22-23-598660"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India's defence exports grew 23 times in 9 years, surpassed $1.9 billion in FY 22-23</strong></a></p>

<p>For a country that has been heavily reliant on military imports since its independence, the meteoric rise in exports suggests that a defence manufacturing setup (still in its relative infancy)&nbsp;has&nbsp;already started to pay dividends.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India's exports grew, its defence imports declined by 11 per cent between 2013-17 and 2018-22. The decline has been linked to a complex procurement process, efforts to diversify arms suppliers and attempts to replace imports with local designs. India’s domestic procurement climbed to 68 per cent in FY22.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT. Putin made the comments at an annual forum 'Strong ideas of our time' held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives in Moscow wherein he drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands. "Our friends in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a great friend of Russia, a few years ago presented a concept 'Make in India' and it had a very visible effect on the Indian economy," said Putin. "It would do no harm to emulate what is working well, even if it was not us but our friends who created it,” he added. Earlier, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in New Delhi remarked that the special "Russia-India partnership" was growing "stronger as ever". "There have been lies about Russia on a daily basis and on a global scale. Efforts are being made to disrupt Russia-India relations," said Alipov. "The indispensable truth however is — the special Russia-India strategic partnership has shown strength and we keep growing stronger than ever," he added. Watch | Vladimir Putin hails India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi × Make-in-India paying dividends? Notably, the much-popularised 'Make in India' initiative was launched by the Indian PM in September 2014, soon after taking the reins of the country for the first time. Though ridiculed by armchair economists at the time, the initiative has managed to change the direction of the Indian manufacturing sector, especially in the defence sector. According to a government report released last month, India recorded an extraordinary 23 times rise in military exports during the nine years of the Modi government. “India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high, surging from Rs 686 crore ($82 million) in FY 2013-14 to nearly Rs 16,000 crore ($1.9 billion) in FY 2022-23. This remarkable 23-fold increase reflects India’s progress in the global defence manufacturing sector," read the report. Also read | India's defence exports grew 23 times in 9 years, surpassed $1.9 billion in FY 22-23 For a country that has been heavily reliant on military imports since its independence, the meteoric rise in exports suggests that a defence manufacturing setup (still in its relative infancy) has already started to pay dividends. While India's exports grew, its defence imports declined by 11 per cent between 2013-17 and 2018-22. The decline has been linked to a complex procurement process, efforts to diversify arms suppliers and attempts to replace imports with local designs. India’s domestic procurement climbed to 68 per cent in FY22. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin lauds PM Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm if Russia adopts ‘friend's’ template

<p>At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship. Meanwhile, protests in France continued to rage for third consecutive night in reaction to the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-lauds-modi-for-make-in-india-initiative-says-no-harm-in-emulating-similar-exercise-in-russia-610334"><strong>Putin lauds Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm in emulating similar exercise in Russia</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/10/05/71730-putin-modi-reuters.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend'&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin made the comments at an annual forum&nbsp;"Strong ideas of our time" held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives&nbsp;in Moscow wherein he&nbsp;drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-emmanuel-macron-seen-partying-with-elton-john-as-france-descends-into-chaos-destruction-610346"><strong>President Emmanuel Macron seen partying with Elton John as France descends into chaos, destruction</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/30/363371-frace.png?imwidth=1920" /><br />
At a time when France is seething with rage in the wake of violent protests sparked by the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops, President Emmanuel Macron was seen partying with British singer Elton John.&nbsp;On Wednesday evening, Macron was filmed at Paris's Accor Arena, watching the singer on his farewell tour.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-last-minute-relief-from-imf-to-avoid-sovereign-default-610325"><strong>Pakistan secures initial relief from IMF in its bid to avoid sovereign default</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/30/363359-untitled-design-68.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Pakistan has managed to clinch a last-minute relief from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as it secured an initial program from the IMF&nbsp;for a $3 billion loan program. The development lowers the risk of a sovereign default as the South Asian nation continues to grapple with sky-high inflation and staggeringly low exchange reserves.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starting-july-1-this-nation-will-allow-psychedelics-for-ptsd-depression-610317"><strong>Starting July 1, THIS nation will allow psychedelics for PTSD, depression</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/03/330061-000g48h7.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Starting Saturday (July 1), Australia will become the world's first country to allow doctors to prescribe MDMA and magic mushrooms to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression and Post Trauma Stress Disorder (PTSD). Although the decision was taken in February earlier this year, it remains a controversial move.&nbsp;</p>


At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship.

At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship. Meanwhile, protests in France continued to rage for third consecutive night in reaction to the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops. Click on the headlines to read more: Putin lauds Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm in emulating similar exercise in Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT. Putin made the comments at an annual forum "Strong ideas of our time" held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives in Moscow wherein he drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands. President Emmanuel Macron seen partying with Elton John as France descends into chaos, destruction At a time when France is seething with rage in the wake of violent protests sparked by the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops, President Emmanuel Macron was seen partying with British singer Elton John. On Wednesday evening, Macron was filmed at Paris's Accor Arena, watching the singer on his farewell tour. Pakistan secures initial relief from IMF in its bid to avoid sovereign default Pakistan has managed to clinch a last-minute relief from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as it secured an initial program from the IMF for a $3 billion loan program. The development lowers the risk of a sovereign default as the South Asian nation continues to grapple with sky-high inflation and staggeringly low exchange reserves. Starting July 1, THIS nation will allow psychedelics for PTSD, depression Starting Saturday (July 1), Australia will become the world's first country to allow doctors to prescribe MDMA and magic mushrooms to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression and Post Trauma Stress Disorder (PTSD). Although the decision was taken in February earlier this year, it remains a controversial move.

Morning brief: Putin hails 'friend of Russia' in Modi, French protests rage on, and more

<p>The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday.</p>

<p>According to the BBC, when its journalists called more than a dozen recruitment centres across Russia, it was found that there was business as usual for recruitment of potential Wagner fighters.</p>

<p>The publication reportedly called the purported Wagner recruitment centres using a Russian phone number and asked that they were inquiring on behalf of a brother.</p>

<p>From Kaliningrad in the west to Krasnodar in the south, no one believed the group was being disbanded, the report said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a></strong></p>

<p>In Murmansk, a woman at the Viking sports club confirmed to the publication that she was still signing up Wagner fighters for Ukraine.</p>

<p>"That's where we are recruiting for, yes. If someone wants to go, they just have to call me and we will set a day," the woman was quoted as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>New Wagner members not signing contracts with Russian defence ministry</strong></h2>

<p>The BBC report said that several people at recruitment centres stressed that new members were signing contracts with the mercenary group itself, and not the Russian defence ministry which used to be the case before last Saturday.</p>

<p>"It's absolutely nothing to do with the defence ministry," a man at the Sparta sports club in Volgograd was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>"Nothing has stopped, we are still recruiting."</p>

<p>The Wagner Group rebelled against Moscow's military leadership last week after demands for transfer of its control from Yevgeny Prigozhin to the country's defence ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Gen. Sergey Surovikin secret VIP member of Wagner Group: Report</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a CNN report claimed that Russian General Sergey Surovikin was a secret VIP member of the Wagner Group and was simultaneously working with Russian military as well as Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenary group.</p>

<p>Surovikin, who has&nbsp;not been seen in public since last Saturday, is listed along with at least 30 other senior Russian military and intelligence officials, who is said to be a VIP Wagner member.</p>

<p>Surovikin released a video last week pleading for Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin to stop his insurrection.</p>

<p>His whereabouts have since remained unknown.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game?</strong></p>

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<p>Wagner's rebellion emerged as the biggest challenge to President Putin's authority in his over two-decade rule.&nbsp;The said&nbsp;rebellion lasted&nbsp;a little less than 36 hours and ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin&nbsp;—&nbsp;also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;—&nbsp;announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>All the criminal case against the mutineers were later&nbsp;dropped.</p>

<p>Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny have been&nbsp;signing the contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday.

The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday. According to the BBC, when its journalists called more than a dozen recruitment centres across Russia, it was found that there was business as usual for recruitment of potential Wagner fighters. The publication reportedly called the purported Wagner recruitment centres using a Russian phone number and asked that they were inquiring on behalf of a brother. From Kaliningrad in the west to Krasnodar in the south, no one believed the group was being disbanded, the report said. Also read | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points In Murmansk, a woman at the Viking sports club confirmed to the publication that she was still signing up Wagner fighters for Ukraine. "That's where we are recruiting for, yes. If someone wants to go, they just have to call me and we will set a day," the woman was quoted as saying. New Wagner members not signing contracts with Russian defence ministry The BBC report said that several people at recruitment centres stressed that new members were signing contracts with the mercenary group itself, and not the Russian defence ministry which used to be the case before last Saturday. "It's absolutely nothing to do with the defence ministry," a man at the Sparta sports club in Volgograd was quoted as saying. "Nothing has stopped, we are still recruiting." The Wagner Group rebelled against Moscow's military leadership last week after demands for transfer of its control from Yevgeny Prigozhin to the country's defence ministry. Gen. Sergey Surovikin secret VIP member of Wagner Group: Report Meanwhile, a CNN report claimed that Russian General Sergey Surovikin was a secret VIP member of the Wagner Group and was simultaneously working with Russian military as well as Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenary group. Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since last Saturday, is listed along with at least 30 other senior Russian military and intelligence officials, who is said to be a VIP Wagner member. Surovikin released a video last week pleading for Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin to stop his insurrection. His whereabouts have since remained unknown. Also watch | Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game? × Wagner's rebellion emerged as the biggest challenge to President Putin's authority in his over two-decade rule. The said rebellion lasted a little less than 36 hours and ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin — also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin — announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases. All the criminal case against the mutineers were later dropped. Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny have been signing the contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report

<p>General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources.</p>

<p>Surovikin, nicknamed "General Armageddon" by the Russian press for his aggressive tactics in the Syrian conflict, is a decorated soldier and a veteran of Russia’s wars in Chechnya and Syria. It is said that he is a close friend of&nbsp;Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<p>He was last seen on Saturday when he appeared in a video appealing to mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin to halt his mutiny.</p>

<p>The newspaper citing two sources close to Russia’s Defence Ministry, reported that Surovikin was arrested on Wednesday because he “chose” Wagner chief Yevgeny “Prigozhin’s side during the uprising”.</p>

<p>It is also being reported that Surovikin was aware of Prigozhin’s coup plans, but did not alert the top brass in the Russian defence ministry.</p>

<p>A Russian military blogger, Vladimir Romanov, also reported Surovikin’s arrest on Wednesday, the Moscow Times reported.</p>

<p>Additionally, there are also reports of the arrest of the military “affiliates” of Surovikin who had been “accused of complicity in the rebellion”.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin’s response</strong></h2>

<p>During a press conference on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not provide information about the reports of Surovikin’s detention and referred the matter to the defence ministry, which has yet to make a statement.</p>

<p>Asked by reporters if the Kremlin could clarify the situation with Surovikin, Peskov said: "No, unfortunately not."</p>

<p>"So, I recommend that you contact the defence ministry; this is its prerogative," he said, according to Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>When a reporter asked if President Vladimir Putin still continued to trust Surovikin, Peskov said, "He is the supreme commander-in-chief and he works with the defence minister and with the chief of the General Staff."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>Questions about "structural units within the ministry," Peskov said, should be addressed to the defence ministry.</p>

<p>When asked about Prigozhin's whereabouts, Peskov said he did not have information about the Wagner chief’s location at the current time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepali-gurkhas-joining-wagner-group-eyeing-russian-citizenship-report-609705">Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner group while eyeing Russian citizenship: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>What will happen to Wagner's troops?</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources.

General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources. Surovikin, nicknamed "General Armageddon" by the Russian press for his aggressive tactics in the Syrian conflict, is a decorated soldier and a veteran of Russia’s wars in Chechnya and Syria. It is said that he is a close friend of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. He was last seen on Saturday when he appeared in a video appealing to mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin to halt his mutiny. The newspaper citing two sources close to Russia’s Defence Ministry, reported that Surovikin was arrested on Wednesday because he “chose” Wagner chief Yevgeny “Prigozhin’s side during the uprising”. It is also being reported that Surovikin was aware of Prigozhin’s coup plans, but did not alert the top brass in the Russian defence ministry. A Russian military blogger, Vladimir Romanov, also reported Surovikin’s arrest on Wednesday, the Moscow Times reported. Additionally, there are also reports of the arrest of the military “affiliates” of Surovikin who had been “accused of complicity in the rebellion”. Kremlin’s response During a press conference on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not provide information about the reports of Surovikin’s detention and referred the matter to the defence ministry, which has yet to make a statement. Asked by reporters if the Kremlin could clarify the situation with Surovikin, Peskov said: "No, unfortunately not." "So, I recommend that you contact the defence ministry; this is its prerogative," he said, according to Reuters news agency. When a reporter asked if President Vladimir Putin still continued to trust Surovikin, Peskov said, "He is the supreme commander-in-chief and he works with the defence minister and with the chief of the General Staff." Also read | Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened Questions about "structural units within the ministry," Peskov said, should be addressed to the defence ministry. When asked about Prigozhin's whereabouts, Peskov said he did not have information about the Wagner chief’s location at the current time. Also read | Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner group while eyeing Russian citizenship: Report What will happen to Wagner's troops? On Monday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military. Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian general who went missing after Wagner’s uprising arrested: Report

<p>Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin called of his march on Moscow hours after receiving threats from Russian intelligence services that they would harm the families of the mercenary group leaders, British intelligence sources told the Telegraph newspaper.</p>

<p>On June 24, Prigozhin ordered his troops to halt to Moscow after taking control of Rostov-on-Don—one of Russia’s largest cities— to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus.</p>

<p>The attempted coup was part of months-long discontent brewing between the top brass of Russian defence ministry and Prigozhin.</p>

<p>Though Prigozhin claimed that he wanted to avoid bloodshed, the UK security officials point to a deeper plot undertaken by the Kremlin to deter one of the biggest challenges to President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long rule.</p>

<p>The British newspaper further reported, quoting unnamed officials, that the mercenary had only 8,000 fighters rather than the 25,000 claimed and faced likely defeat in any attempt to take the Russian capital.</p>

<h2>Wagner Crisis: Putin allows Prigozhin to avoid treason charges and accept axile</h2>

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<p>It is being said that Putin will now try to subsume the mercenary fighters into the Russian military and take out its former leaders.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the Kremlin said that Prigozhin would be exiled to Belarus in exchange for a&nbsp;pardon from charges of treason.</p>

<h2><strong>Vladimir Putin hasn’t been seen in public</strong></h2>

<p>More than 24 hours have passed since Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko brokered a deal with Prigozhin to end his revolt and Putin hasn’t been seen in public, Bloomberg reported.</p>

<p>Belarus's state-run Belta news service reported that Putin thanked Lukashenko in a phone call late Saturday for conducting the negotiations and reaching the deal.</p>

<p>But the 70-year-old hasn't commented on the deal. The Kremlin said the president guaranteed to let the Wagner leader travel to Belarus and to drop criminal mutiny charges against him and fighters involved in the rebellion.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-groups-mutiny-exposes-real-cracks-in-putins-leadership-blinken-608623">Wagner group's mutiny exposes 'real cracks' in Putin's leadership: Blinken</a></p>

<p>"Putin had to make concessions and actually surrender, and instead of defeating Prigozhin, he had to negotiate with him and give security guarantees, demonstrating in public his vulnerability," said Kirill Rogov, a former Russian government advisor who now heads Re:Russia, a Vienna-based think tank, reported Bloomberg.</p>

<p>"Previously, Putin absolutely didn't allow anyone to talk to him in the language of public ultimatums."</p>

<p>Russia has been lifting emergency restrictions to try to quickly restore a sense of normality. Hastily-installed roadblocks were dismantled on Sunday on highways leading into Moscow, though the authorities said Monday will remain a non-working day announced by Mayor Sergei Sobyanin after the imposition of a "counter-terrorist regime" in the capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-bruised-putins-dandling-future-post-wagners-short-lived-rebellion-608619">Explained: Bruised Putin's dangling future post Wagner's short-lived rebellion</a></p>

<p>Trading on the Moscow Exchange will go ahead as normal, the Bank of Russia said in a statement</p>

<p>Regional officials in Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh and Lipetsk reported that Wagner troops had left their territories and were heading to their field bases.</p>

<h2><strong>US anticipated Wagner’s move</strong></h2>

<p>According to US media reports, the American intelligence officials were anticipating that Prigozhin would try to lead an insurrection to Kremlin.</p>

<p>Though it is not clear when the United States first learned of the plot, the intelligence officials conducted briefings on Wednesday with administration and defence officials.</p>

<p>Though the US was aware of it, the officials felt that if they said anything, Putin could accuse them of orchestrating a coup. And they clearly had little interest in helping Putin avoid a major, embarrassing fracturing of his support, The New York Times reported.</p>

<p>Officials noted that the latest act of aggression was a clear sign of the internal tensions caused by the war in Ukraine, a product of Russia’s struggle to supply its troops adequately.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin called of his march on Moscow hours after receiving threats from Russian intelligence services that they would harm the families of the mercenary group leaders, British intelligence sources told the Telegraph newspaper.

Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin called of his march on Moscow hours after receiving threats from Russian intelligence services that they would harm the families of the mercenary group leaders, British intelligence sources told the Telegraph newspaper. On June 24, Prigozhin ordered his troops to halt to Moscow after taking control of Rostov-on-Don—one of Russia’s largest cities— to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus. The attempted coup was part of months-long discontent brewing between the top brass of Russian defence ministry and Prigozhin. Though Prigozhin claimed that he wanted to avoid bloodshed, the UK security officials point to a deeper plot undertaken by the Kremlin to deter one of the biggest challenges to President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long rule. The British newspaper further reported, quoting unnamed officials, that the mercenary had only 8,000 fighters rather than the 25,000 claimed and faced likely defeat in any attempt to take the Russian capital. Wagner Crisis: Putin allows Prigozhin to avoid treason charges and accept axile It is being said that Putin will now try to subsume the mercenary fighters into the Russian military and take out its former leaders. On Saturday, the Kremlin said that Prigozhin would be exiled to Belarus in exchange for a pardon from charges of treason. Vladimir Putin hasn’t been seen in public More than 24 hours have passed since Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko brokered a deal with Prigozhin to end his revolt and Putin hasn’t been seen in public, Bloomberg reported. Belarus's state-run Belta news service reported that Putin thanked Lukashenko in a phone call late Saturday for conducting the negotiations and reaching the deal. But the 70-year-old hasn't commented on the deal. The Kremlin said the president guaranteed to let the Wagner leader travel to Belarus and to drop criminal mutiny charges against him and fighters involved in the rebellion. Also read | Wagner group's mutiny exposes 'real cracks' in Putin's leadership: Blinken "Putin had to make concessions and actually surrender, and instead of defeating Prigozhin, he had to negotiate with him and give security guarantees, demonstrating in public his vulnerability," said Kirill Rogov, a former Russian government advisor who now heads Re:Russia, a Vienna-based think tank, reported Bloomberg. "Previously, Putin absolutely didn't allow anyone to talk to him in the language of public ultimatums." Russia has been lifting emergency restrictions to try to quickly restore a sense of normality. Hastily-installed roadblocks were dismantled on Sunday on highways leading into Moscow, though the authorities said Monday will remain a non-working day announced by Mayor Sergei Sobyanin after the imposition of a "counter-terrorist regime" in the capital. Also read | Explained: Bruised Putin's dangling future post Wagner's short-lived rebellion Trading on the Moscow Exchange will go ahead as normal, the Bank of Russia said in a statement Regional officials in Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh and Lipetsk reported that Wagner troops had left their territories and were heading to their field bases. US anticipated Wagner’s move According to US media reports, the American intelligence officials were anticipating that Prigozhin would try to lead an insurrection to Kremlin. Though it is not clear when the United States first learned of the plot, the intelligence officials conducted briefings on Wednesday with administration and defence officials. Though the US was aware of it, the officials felt that if they said anything, Putin could accuse them of orchestrating a coup. And they clearly had little interest in helping Putin avoid a major, embarrassing fracturing of his support, The New York Times reported. Officials noted that the latest act of aggression was a clear sign of the internal tensions caused by the war in Ukraine, a product of Russia’s struggle to supply its troops adequately. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian officials’ threat to harm families made Wagner’s Prigozhin call off mutiny: Report

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Wagner&nbsp;chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a></p>

<p>"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out&nbsp;the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.</p>

<p>"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.</p>

<h2><strong>'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial'</strong></h2>

<p>No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades.</p>

<p>Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters.</p>

<p>The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason</strong></p>

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<p>"This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly."</p>

<p>Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". ALSO READ | Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. 'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial' No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades. Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters. The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus. WATCH | Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason "This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added. Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly." Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko will be&nbsp;attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit that India will be hosting virtually next week. The summit on 4th July will be chaired by Indian PM Narendra Modi with a focus on "Secure" theme, an acronym that stands for 'Security, Economy and Trade, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, and Environment'.</p>

<p>India for the first time since becoming a full member of the grouping in 2017, is chairing the grouping. However, the nation has been hosting several key meetings of the grouping, including the defence and foreign ministers' meeting earlier this year. All the SCO Member States — China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, have been invited to attend the summit. In addition, Iran, Belarus, and Mongolia have been invited as Observer States. As per SCO tradition, Turkmenistan has also been invited as the guest of the Chair. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Pakistan confirmed its presence at the summit. Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said, "Pakistan will be represented at the summit. We will be making an announcement regarding our participation in the coming days." &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran will become a full member of the grouping during this year's summit hosted by India, even as Belarus will complete the procedure of entry by the next summit, a process that takes two years.</p>

<p>A key pact for the entry of the country will be signed this year while the entry itself&nbsp;takes place next year. The grouping is looking at rapid expansion. At the SCO foreign minister meet in Goa, memorandums were signed granting Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar, and the United Arab Emirates status as dialogue partners. In addition, Bahrain is at the final stage of obtaining the dialogue partner status.</p>

<p>All in all, India hosted a total of 134 meetings and events, including 14 ministerial-level meetings under its presidency of the grouping. Two new SCO mechanisms have been created under the Indian chair as well. These are special working groups on startups and innovation along with an expert working group on traditional medicine.</p>

<p>These mechanisms are India-created and India-led. Special emphasis was also laid on shared Buddhist Heritage, with New Delhi hosting key meetings.</p>

<p>The SCO, dominated by Russia and China, is seen as a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. The organisation covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko will be attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit that India will be hosting virtually next week.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko will be attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit that India will be hosting virtually next week. The summit on 4th July will be chaired by Indian PM Narendra Modi with a focus on "Secure" theme, an acronym that stands for 'Security, Economy and Trade, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, and Environment'. India for the first time since becoming a full member of the grouping in 2017, is chairing the grouping. However, the nation has been hosting several key meetings of the grouping, including the defence and foreign ministers' meeting earlier this year. All the SCO Member States — China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, have been invited to attend the summit. In addition, Iran, Belarus, and Mongolia have been invited as Observer States. As per SCO tradition, Turkmenistan has also been invited as the guest of the Chair. Earlier this month, Pakistan confirmed its presence at the summit. Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said, "Pakistan will be represented at the summit. We will be making an announcement regarding our participation in the coming days." Iran will become a full member of the grouping during this year's summit hosted by India, even as Belarus will complete the procedure of entry by the next summit, a process that takes two years. A key pact for the entry of the country will be signed this year while the entry itself takes place next year. The grouping is looking at rapid expansion. At the SCO foreign minister meet in Goa, memorandums were signed granting Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar, and the United Arab Emirates status as dialogue partners. In addition, Bahrain is at the final stage of obtaining the dialogue partner status. All in all, India hosted a total of 134 meetings and events, including 14 ministerial-level meetings under its presidency of the grouping. Two new SCO mechanisms have been created under the Indian chair as well. These are special working groups on startups and innovation along with an expert working group on traditional medicine. These mechanisms are India-created and India-led. Special emphasis was also laid on shared Buddhist Heritage, with New Delhi hosting key meetings. The SCO, dominated by Russia and China, is seen as a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. The organisation covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP. 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.

India to host virtual SCO summit with Putin and Lukashenko in attendance

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries. The president also observed a minute of silence for pilots who lost their lives in clashes during the mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You de facto stopped the civil war," said Putin, while speaking to troops from the FSB security service, National Guard, defence ministry, and interior ministry.</p>

<p>"You proved your loyalty to the people of Russia and the military oath. You showed responsibility for the fate of the motherland and its future," he added.</p>

<p>"In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," said Putin, before holding a minute of silence in memory of the lost lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-confirms-pilots-killed-during-wagner-mutiny-pays-tributes-609242">Russian President Putin confirms pilots killed during Wagner mutiny, pays tributes</a></p>

<p>Putin further stated that the Wagner mercenaries, &nbsp;who had participated in an armed insurrection last week over the military leadership of Russia, failed to win the support of the Russian army or its people.</p>

<p>"People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them," said the Russian president in a televised address while speaking to the law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin.</p>

<p>He added that no soldier was deployed by Moscow to Ukraine to counter the Wagner's armed rebellion inside Russia, as the Kremlin insisted that its offensive against Kyiv will remain unaffected.</p>

<p>"We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," said Putin, while speaking to law enforcement agencies at the Kremlin, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front during that time."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wagner Mutiny: Has Putin's credibility been damaged?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wagner-mutiny-has-putins-credibility-been-damaged-608985/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Preparing to transfer Wagner hardware to the army: Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia on Tuesday said that they are preparing to take possession of heavy military hardware which was held by Wagner as Moscow took steps to take control of the mercenary group after its aborted mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces," said the defence ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Mutiny is an event of no major significance: Orban&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that he does not feel Russian President Vladimir Putin has been weakened by the Mutiny adding that it is an "event of no major significance".</p>

<p>"If someone speculates that he (Putin) could fail or be replaced, then he does not understand the Russian people and Russian power structures," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries. The president also observed a minute of silence for pilots who lost their lives in clashes during the mutiny. "You de facto stopped the civil war," said Putin, while speaking to troops from the FSB security service, National Guard, defence ministry, and interior ministry. "You proved your loyalty to the people of Russia and the military oath. You showed responsibility for the fate of the motherland and its future," he added. "In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," said Putin, before holding a minute of silence in memory of the lost lives. ALSO READ | Russian President Putin confirms pilots killed during Wagner mutiny, pays tributes Putin further stated that the Wagner mercenaries, who had participated in an armed insurrection last week over the military leadership of Russia, failed to win the support of the Russian army or its people. "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them," said the Russian president in a televised address while speaking to the law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin. He added that no soldier was deployed by Moscow to Ukraine to counter the Wagner's armed rebellion inside Russia, as the Kremlin insisted that its offensive against Kyiv will remain unaffected. "We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," said Putin, while speaking to law enforcement agencies at the Kremlin, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front during that time." WATCH | Gravitas: Wagner Mutiny: Has Putin's credibility been damaged? Preparing to transfer Wagner hardware to the army: Russia Russia on Tuesday said that they are preparing to take possession of heavy military hardware which was held by Wagner as Moscow took steps to take control of the mercenary group after its aborted mutiny. "Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces," said the defence ministry. Mutiny is an event of no major significance: Orban Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that he does not feel Russian President Vladimir Putin has been weakened by the Mutiny adding that it is an "event of no major significance". "If someone speculates that he (Putin) could fail or be replaced, then he does not understand the Russian people and Russian power structures," he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'You de facto stopped civil war,' says Putin to troops in Kremlin post failed mutiny

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid00LQoCYDP4v5" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (June 26) paid tributes to pilots who were killed during the failed mutiny of Wagner, confirming earlier reports of military bloggers that several aircraft were shot down by the mercenary group. In his first public address since the mutiny, President Putin said, "The courage and self-sacrifice of the fallen heroes-pilots saved Russia from tragic devastating consequences."</p>

<p>There are no official details on how many pilots died or how many aircraft were shot down. However, some Russian Telegram channels that monitor Russia's military activity, said last Saturday (June 24) that 13 pilots were killed during the weekend mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-knew-about-wagner-rebellion-but-kept-it-secret-from-most-allies-reports-609144">US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>The Rybar channel on Telegram said that among the aircraft shot down were three Mi-8 MTPR electronic warfare helicopters and an Il-18 aircraft with its crew.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last Saturday, Wagner fighters took control of the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and its military command centre, then drove an armed convoy within 200 kilometres of Moscow before aborting their rebellion. Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said the group was forced to shoot down aircraft that attacked them on the way.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin let mutiny continue to avoid bloodshed</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, Putin said that he let Wagner's mutiny continue to avoid bloodshed. "From the very beginning of the events, steps were taken on my direct instruction to avoid serious bloodshed," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Time was needed, among other things, to give those who had made a mistake a chance to come to their senses, to realise that their actions were firmly rejected by society and that the adventure in which they had been involved had tragic and destructive consequences for Russia and for our state," the Russian president added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He thanked Wagner fighters and commanders who stood down from the mutiny to avoid what he called "fratricidal bloodshed." Putin said he would honour his promise to allow the fighters to relocate to Belarus if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the defence ministry or simply return to their families.</p>

<p>However, he made no mention of Prigozhin.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Jet linked to Prigozhin arrives in Belarus</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, a jet linked to Prigozhin arrived in Belarus believed to be carrying him to exile three days after the Wagner chief aborted the mutiny. Flight tracking website Flightradar24 showed an Embraer Legacy 600 jet, bearing identification codes that matched a plane linked to Prigozhin in American sanctions documents, descending to landing altitude near Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (June 26) paid tributes to pilots who were killed during the failed mutiny of Wagner, confirming earlier reports of military bloggers that several aircraft were shot down by the mercenary group.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (June 26) paid tributes to pilots who were killed during the failed mutiny of Wagner, confirming earlier reports of military bloggers that several aircraft were shot down by the mercenary group. In his first public address since the mutiny, President Putin said, "The courage and self-sacrifice of the fallen heroes-pilots saved Russia from tragic devastating consequences." There are no official details on how many pilots died or how many aircraft were shot down. However, some Russian Telegram channels that monitor Russia's military activity, said last Saturday (June 24) that 13 pilots were killed during the weekend mutiny. Also read | US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies: Reports The Rybar channel on Telegram said that among the aircraft shot down were three Mi-8 MTPR electronic warfare helicopters and an Il-18 aircraft with its crew. Last Saturday, Wagner fighters took control of the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and its military command centre, then drove an armed convoy within 200 kilometres of Moscow before aborting their rebellion. Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said the group was forced to shoot down aircraft that attacked them on the way. Putin let mutiny continue to avoid bloodshed On Monday, Putin said that he let Wagner's mutiny continue to avoid bloodshed. "From the very beginning of the events, steps were taken on my direct instruction to avoid serious bloodshed," Putin said. "Time was needed, among other things, to give those who had made a mistake a chance to come to their senses, to realise that their actions were firmly rejected by society and that the adventure in which they had been involved had tragic and destructive consequences for Russia and for our state," the Russian president added. He thanked Wagner fighters and commanders who stood down from the mutiny to avoid what he called "fratricidal bloodshed." Putin said he would honour his promise to allow the fighters to relocate to Belarus if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the defence ministry or simply return to their families. However, he made no mention of Prigozhin. Jet linked to Prigozhin arrives in Belarus On Tuesday, a jet linked to Prigozhin arrived in Belarus believed to be carrying him to exile three days after the Wagner chief aborted the mutiny. Flight tracking website Flightradar24 showed an Embraer Legacy 600 jet, bearing identification codes that matched a plane linked to Prigozhin in American sanctions documents, descending to landing altitude near Minsk. (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.

Russian President Putin confirms pilots killed during Wagner mutiny, pays tributes

<p lang="en-US">In a span of 36&nbsp;hours, Russian President Vladimir Putin faced the greatest threat of an armed insurrection, the biggest challenge to his authority since the leader came to power more than two decades ago.<br />
<br />
As the armed fighters of Wagner group along with their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin marched towards Moscow, Putin vowed to punish them, calling their act as 'treason' and a 'stab in the back' before the crisis suddenly defused after the sudden deal with Belarus.<br />
<br />
As per the deal, Prigozhin had to pull back his troops and all the criminal charges against the Wagner chief were dropped. Now, as the Wagner group mercenaries move towards Belarus, emergency security measures still remain imposed in Moscow.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>What will be the next steps of Putin?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Even though the immediate threat has been contained, experts believe that Putin has not emerged as a strong leader but rather appears badly bruised. Since the televised address of Putin, in which he loathed the Wagner group for its betrayal, the Russian president has not appeared in public and there have been no plans of any new presidential address in the near future.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">However, in the pre-recorded interview televised on Sunday, Putin stated that he was confident about the progress being made in the war against Ukraine. Some experts believe that Putin will soon lash out at those who remained unsupportive at such a critical time and may also show military aggression in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Speaking to BBC, Polish MEP Radek Sikorski said that Putin would "probably purge those who he saw as wavering", which means his regime will become "more authoritarian and more brutal at the same time".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>What lies ahead for Prigozhin and Wagner?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">It still remains unclear what will be the role of Prigozhin within the Wagner group and in the war against Ukraine and if all fighters will be contracted to the military of Russia.<br />
<br />
On Saturday, a Kremlin spokesperson said he “cannot answer” what will be Prigozhin's position in Belarus. Retired US Army Maj Mike Lyons said that the Wagner group is “an independent fighting company” with conditions which are different compared to the Russian military.<br />
<br />
“Maybe some will splinter off. Those people are loyal to the man, Prigozhin, not to the country, not to the mission. I think we’ve got a lot more questions that are not answered right now,” he said.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner forces halt advance in Moscow</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-wagner-forces-halt-advance-in-moscow-608534/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">“Putin doesn’t forgive traitors. Even if Putin says, ‘Prigozhin, you go to Belarus,’ he is still a traitor and I think Putin will never forgive that,” stated Jill Dougherty, CNN’s former Moscow bureau chief. She further hinted at the possibility of seeing Prigozhin “get killed in Belarus”.<br />
<br />
However, she stated that it is a tough dilemma for Russia till Prigozhin “has some type of support, he is a threat, regardless of where he is.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How will Wagner's rebellion affect the war in Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Some of the most successful fightings was carried out by the Wagner group in Ukraine, even though a lot of its fighters have come from prison and have been promised to be freed from frontline service. The group was heavily involved with Russia in capturing the city of Bakhmut. Russia maintains its stance that the rebellion has not impacted its Ukraine campaign.<br />
<br />
However, experts believe the news of armed rebellion may be demoralising for the Russian forces. Some believe that there is the possibility of in-fighting between rival units in the days ahead.<br />
<br />
Ukraine, along with being concerned over the chances of Russia escalating its involvement, will also look for opportunities that may emerge from the instability across the border. A counter-offensive has been launched by the forces of Kyiv to reclaim territories which have been captured by the occupiers and feel the unrest in Moscow offers a "window of opportunity".<br />
<br />
Speaking to BBC, former US ambassador to Ukraine Bill Taylor said that Ukrainian forces were in "a good position" to exploit tactical weaknesses exposed by the sudden movement of Wagner fighters.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How will the rebellion impact the Russian people?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">When Prigozhin and his armed forces departed Rostov-on-Don, they were cheered by the residents of the city, who were even heard chanting “Wagner”. The videos shared on social media reflected the support Wagner had from the citizens as people shouted, "Take care of yourselves”.<br />
<br />
The show of support for Wagner mercenaries was striking in a nation which grew increasingly intolerant of public criticism of Putin's rule.<br />
<br />
“If I were Putin, I would be worried about those people on the streets of Rostov cheering the Wagner people as they leave,” stated Dougherty, speaking to CNN.<br />
<br />
“Why are average Russians on the street cheering people who just tried to carry out a coup? “That means that maybe they support them or they like them. Whatever it is, it’s really bad news for Putin,” she added.<br />
<br />
Emphasising how concerning it is for Putin to see civilians applauding Wagner units, leading Russia analyst Tatiana Stanovaya said, "Many inside the elite will personally blame Putin for the fact that everything went so far and that there was no proper reaction from the president in good time. Therefore, this whole story is also a blow to Putin's positions."<br />
<br />
It's difficult to assess how much Putin's image has suffered because of rebellion, however, the cracks seem evident.&nbsp;</p>

<main>
<section>
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</main>


In a span of 36 hours, Russian President Vladimir Putin faced the greatest threat of an armed insurrection, the biggest challenge to his authority since the leader came to power more than two decades ago.

In a span of 36 hours, Russian President Vladimir Putin faced the greatest threat of an armed insurrection, the biggest challenge to his authority since the leader came to power more than two decades ago. As the armed fighters of Wagner group along with their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin marched towards Moscow, Putin vowed to punish them, calling their act as 'treason' and a 'stab in the back' before the crisis suddenly defused after the sudden deal with Belarus. As per the deal, Prigozhin had to pull back his troops and all the criminal charges against the Wagner chief were dropped. Now, as the Wagner group mercenaries move towards Belarus, emergency security measures still remain imposed in Moscow. What will be the next steps of Putin? Even though the immediate threat has been contained, experts believe that Putin has not emerged as a strong leader but rather appears badly bruised. Since the televised address of Putin, in which he loathed the Wagner group for its betrayal, the Russian president has not appeared in public and there have been no plans of any new presidential address in the near future. ALSO READ | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points However, in the pre-recorded interview televised on Sunday, Putin stated that he was confident about the progress being made in the war against Ukraine. Some experts believe that Putin will soon lash out at those who remained unsupportive at such a critical time and may also show military aggression in Ukraine. Speaking to BBC, Polish MEP Radek Sikorski said that Putin would "probably purge those who he saw as wavering", which means his regime will become "more authoritarian and more brutal at the same time". What lies ahead for Prigozhin and Wagner? It still remains unclear what will be the role of Prigozhin within the Wagner group and in the war against Ukraine and if all fighters will be contracted to the military of Russia. On Saturday, a Kremlin spokesperson said he “cannot answer” what will be Prigozhin's position in Belarus. Retired US Army Maj Mike Lyons said that the Wagner group is “an independent fighting company” with conditions which are different compared to the Russian military. “Maybe some will splinter off. Those people are loyal to the man, Prigozhin, not to the country, not to the mission. I think we’ve got a lot more questions that are not answered right now,” he said. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner forces halt advance in Moscow “Putin doesn’t forgive traitors. Even if Putin says, ‘Prigozhin, you go to Belarus,’ he is still a traitor and I think Putin will never forgive that,” stated Jill Dougherty, CNN’s former Moscow bureau chief. She further hinted at the possibility of seeing Prigozhin “get killed in Belarus”. However, she stated that it is a tough dilemma for Russia till Prigozhin “has some type of support, he is a threat, regardless of where he is.” How will Wagner's rebellion affect the war in Ukraine? Some of the most successful fightings was carried out by the Wagner group in Ukraine, even though a lot of its fighters have come from prison and have been promised to be freed from frontline service. The group was heavily involved with Russia in capturing the city of Bakhmut. Russia maintains its stance that the rebellion has not impacted its Ukraine campaign. However, experts believe the news of armed rebellion may be demoralising for the Russian forces. Some believe that there is the possibility of in-fighting between rival units in the days ahead. Ukraine, along with being concerned over the chances of Russia escalating its involvement, will also look for opportunities that may emerge from the instability across the border. A counter-offensive has been launched by the forces of Kyiv to reclaim territories which have been captured by the occupiers and feel the unrest in Moscow offers a "window of opportunity". Speaking to BBC, former US ambassador to Ukraine Bill Taylor said that Ukrainian forces were in "a good position" to exploit tactical weaknesses exposed by the sudden movement of Wagner fighters. How will the rebellion impact the Russian people? When Prigozhin and his armed forces departed Rostov-on-Don, they were cheered by the residents of the city, who were even heard chanting “Wagner”. The videos shared on social media reflected the support Wagner had from the citizens as people shouted, "Take care of yourselves”. The show of support for Wagner mercenaries was striking in a nation which grew increasingly intolerant of public criticism of Putin's rule. “If I were Putin, I would be worried about those people on the streets of Rostov cheering the Wagner people as they leave,” stated Dougherty, speaking to CNN. “Why are average Russians on the street cheering people who just tried to carry out a coup? “That means that maybe they support them or they like them. Whatever it is, it’s really bad news for Putin,” she added. Emphasising how concerning it is for Putin to see civilians applauding Wagner units, leading Russia analyst Tatiana Stanovaya said, "Many inside the elite will personally blame Putin for the fact that everything went so far and that there was no proper reaction from the president in good time. Therefore, this whole story is also a blow to Putin's positions." It's difficult to assess how much Putin's image has suffered because of rebellion, however, the cracks seem evident. 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 | Bruised Putin's dangling future post Wagner's short-lived rebellion

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared for the first time since the Wagner mercenary group's aborted mutiny, in a Kremlin video address on Monday.</p>

<p>In the video, Putin was seen addressing a youth forum titled the "Engineers of the Future" where he appreciated companies for ensuring "the stable operation" of the Russian industry "in the face of severe external challenges".</p>

<p lang="en-US">"Dear friends! I congratulate you on the opening of the International Industrial "Engineers of the Future" Youth Forum. It has brought together young engineers, scientists, technologists, students, graduate students and representatives of public organisations from the majority of Russia's regions and an array of foreign countries. It is symbolic that the forum is taking place on Tula (city south of Moscow) soil, which has always been famous for its craftsmen, its dynasties of workers, engineers and arms makers. The development of Russian industry depends on the quality of its specialists," said Putin, in his video address.</p>

<p>The address did not have any mention of the Wagner mutiny which rattled Russia over the weekend.</p>

<h2><strong>Working as normal after mutiny, says Wagner HQ</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner mercenary group's main Saint Petersburg office on Monday said that it was working in "normal mode". "Despite events that have taken place, the centre continues to work in normal mode in accordance with the law of the Russian Federation," said the group's main office, in a statement.</p>

<p>It stated that Wagner has "worked for the future of Russia" and extended thanks to its supporters.</p>

<h2><strong>Raisi extends 'full support' to Putin: Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday and extended his "full support" following the Wagner group's aborted mutiny, the Kremlin said.</p>

<p>"The Iranian president expressed full support for the Russian leadership in connection with the June 24 events," the Kremlin stated. Qatar's Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani also called Putin and expressed his support, said the Kremlin.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine recaptures Russian-occupied settlement</strong></h2>

<p>Another formerly Russian-held settlement was recaptured by the Ukrainian forces on the southern front, said deputy defence minister Ganna Malyar on Monday.</p>

<p>"Defence forces returned Rivnopil under our control. Let's push on," stated the minister on her Telegram account, referring to a rural community in the Donetsk region.</p>

<p>A counter-offensive was launched this month by Ukraine against the Russian troops which have occupied almost a fifth of its territory in the country's southern and eastern regions.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accepted that the advance did not accelerate as fast as estimated, even though more Western-supplied weapons and tanks were deployed by Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin stated that the city's situation is "stable", and thanked&nbsp;Muscovites for their "calm and understanding" during the crisis.</p>

<p>The government had ordered a “counter-terrorist" regime in the capital city on Saturday as Wagner columns marched towards the city while clashing with Russian armed forces in Voronezh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared for the first time since the Wagner mercenary group's aborted mutiny, in a Kremlin video address on Monday. In the video, Putin was seen addressing a youth forum titled the "Engineers of the Future" where he appreciated companies for ensuring "the stable operation" of the Russian industry "in the face of severe external challenges".

Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared for the first time since the Wagner mercenary group's aborted mutiny, in a Kremlin video address on Monday. In the video, Putin was seen addressing a youth forum titled the "Engineers of the Future" where he appreciated companies for ensuring "the stable operation" of the Russian industry "in the face of severe external challenges". "Dear friends! I congratulate you on the opening of the International Industrial "Engineers of the Future" Youth Forum. It has brought together young engineers, scientists, technologists, students, graduate students and representatives of public organisations from the majority of Russia's regions and an array of foreign countries. It is symbolic that the forum is taking place on Tula (city south of Moscow) soil, which has always been famous for its craftsmen, its dynasties of workers, engineers and arms makers. The development of Russian industry depends on the quality of its specialists," said Putin, in his video address. The address did not have any mention of the Wagner mutiny which rattled Russia over the weekend. Working as normal after mutiny, says Wagner HQ Wagner mercenary group's main Saint Petersburg office on Monday said that it was working in "normal mode". "Despite events that have taken place, the centre continues to work in normal mode in accordance with the law of the Russian Federation," said the group's main office, in a statement. It stated that Wagner has "worked for the future of Russia" and extended thanks to its supporters. Raisi extends 'full support' to Putin: Kremlin Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday and extended his "full support" following the Wagner group's aborted mutiny, the Kremlin said. "The Iranian president expressed full support for the Russian leadership in connection with the June 24 events," the Kremlin stated. Qatar's Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani also called Putin and expressed his support, said the Kremlin. Ukraine recaptures Russian-occupied settlement Another formerly Russian-held settlement was recaptured by the Ukrainian forces on the southern front, said deputy defence minister Ganna Malyar on Monday. "Defence forces returned Rivnopil under our control. Let's push on," stated the minister on her Telegram account, referring to a rural community in the Donetsk region. A counter-offensive was launched this month by Ukraine against the Russian troops which have occupied almost a fifth of its territory in the country's southern and eastern regions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accepted that the advance did not accelerate as fast as estimated, even though more Western-supplied weapons and tanks were deployed by Ukraine. Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin stated that the city's situation is "stable", and thanked Muscovites for their "calm and understanding" during the crisis. The government had ordered a “counter-terrorist" regime in the capital city on Saturday as Wagner columns marched towards the city while clashing with Russian armed forces in Voronezh. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's Putin makes first public appearance in video address since aborted mutiny

<p>The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here is a blow-by-blow account of what happened in Russia this weekend that shook corridors of power in Moscow and capitals across the world.</p>

<h2><strong>1. Prigozhin declares rebellion against Russian military leadership</strong></h2>

<p>In a series of posts on social media starting Friday, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin accused the Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu of ordering deadly airstrikes on Wagner fighters and death of his 2500 men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The evil born by the country's military leadership must be stopped," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>2. Moscow orders Prigozhin's arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's Federal Security Service opened a probe against Prigozhin for armed rebellion. Shortly, armoured vehicles were seen being deployed in Moscow and Rostov-on-Don where Prigozhin warned his fighters were moving towards. Moscow ordered the arrest of Prigozhin.</p>

<h2><strong>3. Wagner forces take Rostov-on-Don</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner forces took Rostov-on-Don with little resistance on Saturday morning. Prigozhin&nbsp; posted a video from the regional military headquarters and claimed that the "Wagnerites" control the city's key military installations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner fighters were seen walking around the city with takeout coffee and fast food.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Wagner forces move towards&nbsp;Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Videos which went viral on social media, showed a column of armoured and personnel vehicles appearing to depart from Rostov in the direction of Moscow. The visuals shook global capitals and amounted to the most testing times for Putin's hold of power in and beyond The Kremlin.</p>

<h2><strong>5. Putin addresses the&nbsp;nation to clam nerves</strong></h2>

<p>President Vladimir Putin, in an address delivered at 9:30 AM (Moscow Time) accused forces loyal to the Wagner group of "treason".</p>

<p>"This is a blow to Russia. To our people and our actions to protect the Fatherland from such a threat will be harsh," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Actions that split our unity," he said, adding that they "are a stab in the back of our country and our people."</p>

<h2><strong>6. Wagner convoy accelerates its move towards Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner's forces accelerated their movement towards Moscow after Prigozhin was accused of treason and charges filed against him. Wagner convoy entered the Lipetsk region about 250 miles south of Moscow, after pushing through the Vorenzh region.</p>

<h2><strong>7. Lukashenko emerges as surprise peacemaker</strong></h2>

<p>Belarus state media announced that President Alexsandr Lukashenko negotiated an agreement with Wagner's Prigozhin to halt his forces’ advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-prigozhin-commands-fighters-to-retreat-from-advance-on-moscow-to-prevent-bloodshed-608369">Wagner chief Prigozhin commands fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed</a></strong></p>

<p>Prigozhin then said in an audio message that his forces had come within 125 miles of Moscow and were "turning around" to head back to their training camps.</p>

<h2><strong>8. Prigozhin leaves Rostov for Belarus</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner forces left Rostov-on-Don with visuals on social media showing some residents coming out to show their support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin was among those leaving, driving out of the city in a heavily guarded black SUV.</p>

<h2><strong>9. Criminal case against Prigozhin dropped</strong></h2>

<p>The Kremlin announced that the criminal case against the Wagner leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, would be dropped.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;World reacts to Wagner's Call to Mutiny</strong></p>

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<p>Prigozhin will go to Belarus, the Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said, and the fighters who rebelled with him would not be prosecuted by law given their "service at the front."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>10. Wagner fighters to sign contracts of allegiance</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny will now sign contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defense.</p>

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The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine.

The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine. Here is a blow-by-blow account of what happened in Russia this weekend that shook corridors of power in Moscow and capitals across the world. 1. Prigozhin declares rebellion against Russian military leadership In a series of posts on social media starting Friday, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin accused the Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu of ordering deadly airstrikes on Wagner fighters and death of his 2500 men. "The evil born by the country's military leadership must be stopped," he said. 2. Moscow orders Prigozhin's arrest Russia's Federal Security Service opened a probe against Prigozhin for armed rebellion. Shortly, armoured vehicles were seen being deployed in Moscow and Rostov-on-Don where Prigozhin warned his fighters were moving towards. Moscow ordered the arrest of Prigozhin. 3. Wagner forces take Rostov-on-Don Wagner forces took Rostov-on-Don with little resistance on Saturday morning. Prigozhin posted a video from the regional military headquarters and claimed that the "Wagnerites" control the city's key military installations. Wagner fighters were seen walking around the city with takeout coffee and fast food. 4. Wagner forces move towards Moscow Videos which went viral on social media, showed a column of armoured and personnel vehicles appearing to depart from Rostov in the direction of Moscow. The visuals shook global capitals and amounted to the most testing times for Putin's hold of power in and beyond The Kremlin. 5. Putin addresses the nation to clam nerves President Vladimir Putin, in an address delivered at 9:30 AM (Moscow Time) accused forces loyal to the Wagner group of "treason". "This is a blow to Russia. To our people and our actions to protect the Fatherland from such a threat will be harsh," Putin said. "Actions that split our unity," he said, adding that they "are a stab in the back of our country and our people." 6. Wagner convoy accelerates its move towards Moscow Wagner's forces accelerated their movement towards Moscow after Prigozhin was accused of treason and charges filed against him. Wagner convoy entered the Lipetsk region about 250 miles south of Moscow, after pushing through the Vorenzh region. 7. Lukashenko emerges as surprise peacemaker Belarus state media announced that President Alexsandr Lukashenko negotiated an agreement with Wagner's Prigozhin to halt his forces’ advances. Also read | Wagner chief Prigozhin commands fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed Prigozhin then said in an audio message that his forces had come within 125 miles of Moscow and were "turning around" to head back to their training camps. 8. Prigozhin leaves Rostov for Belarus Wagner forces left Rostov-on-Don with visuals on social media showing some residents coming out to show their support. Prigozhin was among those leaving, driving out of the city in a heavily guarded black SUV. 9. Criminal case against Prigozhin dropped The Kremlin announced that the criminal case against the Wagner leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, would be dropped. Also watch | World reacts to Wagner's Call to Mutiny × Prigozhin will go to Belarus, the Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said, and the fighters who rebelled with him would not be prosecuted by law given their "service at the front." 10. Wagner fighters to sign contracts of allegiance Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny will now sign contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defense. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed.</p>

<p>His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”.</p>

<p>Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead.</p>

<p>“Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.”<br />
<br />
The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow.</p>

<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”. Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead. “Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.” The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia. The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow. Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Belarus leader after Wagner chief announces turnaround

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief,&nbsp;on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner&nbsp;forces. As per a report by CNN,&nbsp;Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now&nbsp;opened a criminal case against him.</p>

<h2><strong>There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted on social media on&nbsp;Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin&nbsp;said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-rippled-13-cruise-missiles-fired-by-russia-607781">Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO&nbsp;bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-mounts-legal-challenge-to-keep-embassy-site-near-australian-parliament-607792">Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder.&nbsp;They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's why it has become a protracted war," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces. "We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added. The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner forces. As per a report by CNN, Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now opened a criminal case against him. There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year. Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine. In a video posted on social media on Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president." Also read: Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia "On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said. "The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added. "Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield. Also read: Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder. They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'." "That's why it has become a protracted war," he said. Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force. He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more." Watch: Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy × Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses. "On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media. Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. "We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, 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.

Wagner chief accuses Russian military of bombing his forces, vows revenge

<p lang="en-US">Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.<br />
<br />
The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-issues-arrest-warrant-against-wagner-chief-after-his-call-for-mutiny-608089">Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal&nbsp;to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said.<br />
<br />
"I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said.<br />
<br />
Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion. The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country. Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war "I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address. ALSO READ | Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny "This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside". Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal' "The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said. "I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added. The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces "Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said. Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia

<p>During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are open to a constructive dialogue with all those who want peace based on the principles of justice and consideration of the legitimate interests of the parties,” Putin said, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meeting with African leaders</strong></h2>

<p>The African&nbsp;leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands were in the meeting. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met Volodymyr Zelensky, before their meeting with President Putin.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa presented his stance before Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasising the urgent need for the conflict in Ukraine to come to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stressed that the war should be resolved through negotiations and diplomatic means. President Ramaphosa highlighted the negative impact of the ongoing conflict not only on the African continent but also on numerous countries worldwide.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>"This war has to have an end... It must be settled through negotiations and through diplomatic means. This war is having a negative impact on the African continent and indeed on many other countries around the world," he said as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Significance for Africa's food supply</strong></h2>

<p>The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertilizer deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains.</p>

<h2><strong>African leaders advocate for peace&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>African leaders, including Senegalese President Macky Sall, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and Comoros President Azali Assoumani, who currently heads the African Union, expressed their desire for peace between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They firmly believed that dialogue and negotiations were the key to achieving a peaceful resolution.</p>

<h2><strong>Diplomatic efforts in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>The African delegation embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kyiv, where they called for peace and expressed their concerns over the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Africa. Rising grain prices had adversely affected the continent, prompting the leaders to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.</p>

<p>"There should be peace through negotiations," Ramaphosa told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaphosa cited Nelson Mandela multiple times during a news conference held after talks with Ukrainian President.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During their visit to Kyiv, the African leaders faced a tense situation as air raid sirens sounded across the city, indicating the detection of incoming Russian missiles. The delegation had to take shelter during this alarming situation.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian air force response</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the missile threat and successfully shot down 12 missiles, including six hypersonic ones. Although there were no reports of damage within the city, seven people, including two children, were wounded according to regional police, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict.

During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict. “We are open to a constructive dialogue with all those who want peace based on the principles of justice and consideration of the legitimate interests of the parties,” Putin said, reported Reuters. Meeting with African leaders The African leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands were in the meeting. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met Volodymyr Zelensky, before their meeting with President Putin. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges South African President Cyril Ramaphosa presented his stance before Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasising the urgent need for the conflict in Ukraine to come to an end. He stressed that the war should be resolved through negotiations and diplomatic means. President Ramaphosa highlighted the negative impact of the ongoing conflict not only on the African continent but also on numerous countries worldwide. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign "This war has to have an end... It must be settled through negotiations and through diplomatic means. This war is having a negative impact on the African continent and indeed on many other countries around the world," he said as per reports. Significance for Africa's food supply The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertilizer deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains. African leaders advocate for peace African leaders, including Senegalese President Macky Sall, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and Comoros President Azali Assoumani, who currently heads the African Union, expressed their desire for peace between Russia and Ukraine. They firmly believed that dialogue and negotiations were the key to achieving a peaceful resolution. Diplomatic efforts in Kyiv The African delegation embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kyiv, where they called for peace and expressed their concerns over the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Africa. Rising grain prices had adversely affected the continent, prompting the leaders to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. "There should be peace through negotiations," Ramaphosa told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ramaphosa cited Nelson Mandela multiple times during a news conference held after talks with Ukrainian President. "To allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky said. During their visit to Kyiv, the African leaders faced a tense situation as air raid sirens sounded across the city, indicating the detection of incoming Russian missiles. The delegation had to take shelter during this alarming situation. Ukrainian air force response The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the missile threat and successfully shot down 12 missiles, including six hypersonic ones. Although there were no reports of damage within the city, seven people, including two children, were wounded according to regional police, as per media reports. (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. ×

'Open for dialogue on Ukraine', Putin tells African leaders, welcomes their balanced approach on conflict

<p>Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades.</p>

<p>This new case against the opposition leader is occurring amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, resulting in the imprisonment or exile of numerous key opposition figures.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The upcoming trial of Alexei Navalny</strong></h2>

<p>The trial starts Monday. It will be conducted in the maximum-security IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, located approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow, where Navalny is currently incarcerated.</p>

<p>As per Navalny, prosecutors had provided him with an extensive 3,828-page document outlining the alleged crimes he committed while in prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/109-navalny-supporters-including-underage-child-arrested-by-russian-police-600624">Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's 109 supporters, including underage child arrested by Russian police</a></strong></p>

<p>"Although it is clear from the size of the tomes that I am a sophisticated and persistent criminal, it is impossible to find out what exactly I am accused of," he remarked.</p>

<p>Among the charges, Navalny faces are financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities, and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This trial marks the first overtly political case against him, according to his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, emphasised that "he is being tried for his political work".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yarmysh added that the initial court hearing on Monday is expected to be open to the public, but there remains the possibility that reporters can be banned from covering the proceedings "even three minutes after the start".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In April, Navalny revealed that he had been informed of an impending trial by a military tribunal on charges of "terrorism," which could result in a life sentence.</p>

<h2><strong>The imprisoned Kremlin critic</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny, who as per AFP, is known for his ability to mobilise large-scale anti-Kremlin protests, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges, which his supporters view as a form of punishment for his political activities.</p>

<p>The 47-year-old Navalny was arrested in 2021 upon his return from Germany, where he had been recuperating from a poison attack the previous year, an incident he attributed to the Kremlin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While in prison, Navalny has experienced significant weight loss and now faces the prospect of up to another 30 years of incarceration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalny-says-he-faces-30-more-years-in-prison-in-absurd-terrorism-case-586380">Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case</a></strong></p>

<p>Navalny's team alleges that he has faced harassment in prison, including being placed in a "punishment cell" for perceived violations. He claimed that prison officials compelled him to share a cell with a 'sick, foul-smelling inmate' and subjected him, along with other prisoners, to "torture by Putin," forcing them to listen to speeches by the Russian president.</p>

<p>On his third birthday behind bars in early June, Navalny stated that he was "in a really good mood" but expressed a heartfelt desire to wake up outside the prison.</p>

<p>"Of course, I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children,&nbsp;unwrap presents."</p>

<h2><strong>How is Navalny communicating from inside the prison?</strong></h2>

<p>As per AFP, Navalny has established a substantial social media operation, producing videos that expose the corruption of Russian elites close to President Vladimir Putin. Despite his incarceration, he continues to communicate through social media platforms with the assistance of his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In February, he asserted that Moscow's defeat in Ukraine was "inevitable" and that Russia should be held accountable for Ukraine's losses once the conflict ends.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades. This new case against the opposition leader is occurring amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, resulting in the imprisonment or exile of numerous key opposition figures. The upcoming trial of Alexei Navalny The trial starts Monday. It will be conducted in the maximum-security IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, located approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow, where Navalny is currently incarcerated. As per Navalny, prosecutors had provided him with an extensive 3,828-page document outlining the alleged crimes he committed while in prison. Also read | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's 109 supporters, including underage child arrested by Russian police "Although it is clear from the size of the tomes that I am a sophisticated and persistent criminal, it is impossible to find out what exactly I am accused of," he remarked. Among the charges, Navalny faces are financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities, and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology. This trial marks the first overtly political case against him, according to his team. Speaking to AFP, Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, emphasised that "he is being tried for his political work". Yarmysh added that the initial court hearing on Monday is expected to be open to the public, but there remains the possibility that reporters can be banned from covering the proceedings "even three minutes after the start". In April, Navalny revealed that he had been informed of an impending trial by a military tribunal on charges of "terrorism," which could result in a life sentence. The imprisoned Kremlin critic Navalny, who as per AFP, is known for his ability to mobilise large-scale anti-Kremlin protests, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges, which his supporters view as a form of punishment for his political activities. The 47-year-old Navalny was arrested in 2021 upon his return from Germany, where he had been recuperating from a poison attack the previous year, an incident he attributed to the Kremlin. While in prison, Navalny has experienced significant weight loss and now faces the prospect of up to another 30 years of incarceration. Also read | Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case Navalny's team alleges that he has faced harassment in prison, including being placed in a "punishment cell" for perceived violations. He claimed that prison officials compelled him to share a cell with a 'sick, foul-smelling inmate' and subjected him, along with other prisoners, to "torture by Putin," forcing them to listen to speeches by the Russian president. On his third birthday behind bars in early June, Navalny stated that he was "in a really good mood" but expressed a heartfelt desire to wake up outside the prison. "Of course, I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children, unwrap presents." How is Navalny communicating from inside the prison? As per AFP, Navalny has established a substantial social media operation, producing videos that expose the corruption of Russian elites close to President Vladimir Putin. Despite his incarceration, he continues to communicate through social media platforms with the assistance of his team. In February, he asserted that Moscow's defeat in Ukraine was "inevitable" and that Russia should be held accountable for Ukraine's losses once the conflict ends. (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.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on Saturday, June 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting included leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, before their meeting with President Putin.</p>

<h2><strong>Africa's pitch for peace between Russia and Ukraine: What did Putin say?</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks</strong></p>

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<p>"It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it."</p>

<p>"This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian side has not reacted on Putin's comments.</p>

<p>The peace agreement was purportedly based on the condition that Moscow withdraws its troops from Kyiv.&nbsp;Alongside, it specified the number of troops to be stationed in other parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺‼️Putin: "Peace was signed between Ukraine and Russia in the spring of 2022."‼️<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> publicly showed the previously unpublished document in front of South African President Ramaphosa.<br />
<br />
(Nato reportedly sent disgraced US puppet Boris Johnson to force Kiev to back down.) <a href="https://t.co/DQ4stmvAD3">pic.twitter.com/DQ4stmvAD3</a></p>
— Djole 🇷🇸 (@onlydjole) <a href="https://twitter.com/onlydjole/status/1670141702797967361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he asked.</p>

<p>The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertiliser deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Then Zelensky signed decree forbidding negotiations with Russia and ver fake back for talks. <a href="https://t.co/v3Hv6NsAMM">pic.twitter.com/v3Hv6NsAMM</a></p>
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MyLordBebo/status/1670125910815547400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on Saturday, June 17. The meeting included leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, before their meeting with President Putin. Africa's pitch for peace between Russia and Ukraine: What did Putin say? Putin said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul. Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Also watch | Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks × "It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it." "This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty. The Ukrainian side has not reacted on Putin's comments. The peace agreement was purportedly based on the condition that Moscow withdraws its troops from Kyiv. Alongside, it specified the number of troops to be stationed in other parts of Ukraine. 🇷🇺‼️Putin: "Peace was signed between Ukraine and Russia in the spring of 2022."‼️ #Putin publicly showed the previously unpublished document in front of South African President Ramaphosa. (Nato reportedly sent disgraced US puppet Boris Johnson to force Kiev to back down.) pic.twitter.com/DQ4stmvAD3 — Djole 🇷🇸 (@onlydjole) June 17, 2023 × The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused. "Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he asked. The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertiliser deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine. Then Zelensky signed decree forbidding negotiations with Russia and ver fake back for talks. pic.twitter.com/v3Hv6NsAMM — Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) June 17, 2023 × The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'

<p>An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation.</p>

<p>"I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky was quoted as saying by several media reports.</p>

<p>Ramaphosa reportedly called on both Ukraine and Russia to end the hostilities immediately for fostering peace. He said, “This war must be settled, and there should be peace through negotiations."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia ‘welcomes’ delegation with explosions in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the African delegation, including leaders of Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Comoros, arrived in Ukraine on Friday, they were greeted by Russia with explosions and missile attacks on the capital city of Kyiv. According to CNN, airstrikes were so intense that the leaders were immediately rushed to bunkers.</p>

<p>The delegation is set to visit Russia on Saturday to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.<br />
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Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, revealed that the attacks on Kyiv coincided with the visit by the African delegation. “Putin wants to demonstrate that he is ready to disregard the security of foreign leaders, he doesn’t really care, because he feels complete impunity. And anyone can be in the place of African leaders,” Yermak said.</p>

<h2><strong>United Africa to broker peace between Russia, Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p>African leaders are visiting Ukraine and Russia in the wake of the rising energy and food crisis across the African continent, prompting the African leaders to take the peace deal initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Explosions rock Kyiv as African delegation arrives in Ukraine to begin peace mission</strong></p>

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<p>“Ramaphosa’s office described the peace initiative as “the first time that Africa is united behind the resolution of a conflict outside of our continent, and where you have a group of African heads of state and government travelling together in an attempt to find a path to peace to this conflict.”</p>

<h2><strong>Economic impact of the war on Africa</strong></h2>

<p>South Africa’s presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that the end of the war will not only end the sufferings of millions of Ukrainians but will also alleviate concerns around food and energy safety in African nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-explosions-rock-kyiv-as-african-leaders-begins-peace-mission-605186"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Putin says Ukraine offensive stands `no chance`</strong></a></p>

<p>“As you all know, Africa has been severely impacted by this conflict in terms of food insecurity, the price of grain, the price of fertiliser, but equally, this mission says to seek a road to peace that will alleviate the suffering that is being experienced by people in Ukraine,” he said.</p>

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An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation.

An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation. "I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky was quoted as saying by several media reports. Ramaphosa reportedly called on both Ukraine and Russia to end the hostilities immediately for fostering peace. He said, “This war must be settled, and there should be peace through negotiations." Russia ‘welcomes’ delegation with explosions in Kyiv Even as the African delegation, including leaders of Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Comoros, arrived in Ukraine on Friday, they were greeted by Russia with explosions and missile attacks on the capital city of Kyiv. According to CNN, airstrikes were so intense that the leaders were immediately rushed to bunkers. The delegation is set to visit Russia on Saturday to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, revealed that the attacks on Kyiv coincided with the visit by the African delegation. “Putin wants to demonstrate that he is ready to disregard the security of foreign leaders, he doesn’t really care, because he feels complete impunity. And anyone can be in the place of African leaders,” Yermak said. United Africa to broker peace between Russia, Ukraine? African leaders are visiting Ukraine and Russia in the wake of the rising energy and food crisis across the African continent, prompting the African leaders to take the peace deal initiative. Watch: Explosions rock Kyiv as African delegation arrives in Ukraine to begin peace mission × “Ramaphosa’s office described the peace initiative as “the first time that Africa is united behind the resolution of a conflict outside of our continent, and where you have a group of African heads of state and government travelling together in an attempt to find a path to peace to this conflict.” Economic impact of the war on Africa South Africa’s presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that the end of the war will not only end the sufferings of millions of Ukrainians but will also alleviate concerns around food and energy safety in African nations. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Putin says Ukraine offensive stands `no chance` “As you all know, Africa has been severely impacted by this conflict in terms of food insecurity, the price of grain, the price of fertiliser, but equally, this mission says to seek a road to peace that will alleviate the suffering that is being experienced by people in Ukraine,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky rejects peace talks offer with Russia as African delegation visits Kyiv

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "They used HIMARS rockets deliberately and many times to hit Kakhovka dam - that's the point. Maybe they had some kind of plant there. I don't know."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Maybe they added something insignificant once again - and destruction began. As we understand - we are not interested in this (Kakhovka dam destruction) for sure, because there are harsh consequences for territories we control and that are Russian."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open earlier this month after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack, which caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-fsb-arrests-former-defence-industry-workers-suspected-of-spying-for-ukraines-military-intelligence-603962">Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Same as Ukrainian officials, Putin also mentioned that rescue efforts were continuing in flooded areas of Kherson under Russian control as he said that the Russian Emergencies Ministry has been working there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that military and local authorities are also doing rescue work. He said, "I've recently talked to the acting head of the Kherson region (Russian-controlled Ukraine territory) Vladimir Saldo. He said they were surprised. Because they had never seen such collaborative work (in Kherson)".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin speaks about recent border attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said Moscow could have more successfully readied southern regions of the country bordering Ukraine for cross-border attacks from Ukrainian territory. He referred to the recent cross-border attacks on Russia's southern region of Belgorod and said that "of course, there is nothing good in this".</p>

<p>Putin added, "But, in principle, one could have assumed that the enemy would behave this way, and one could have prepared better."</p>

<p>Speaking further, Putin said that there was no need to follow Ukraine's example and declare martial law, but he added that the nation must fight enemy agents and improve its defences against attacks deep inside its own territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's losses close to 'catastrophic'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin claimed that Ukraine was suffering massive losses in its highly touted counter-offensive against Russian positions in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Their losses are approaching a level that could be described as catastrophic," Putin said during a meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-israeli-soldiers-one-civilian-injured-after-shooting-incident-in-west-bank-604028">At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia to ditch grain deal?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin also said that Russia was considering withdrawing from the Black Sea grain deal because the West had cheated Moscow by implementing none of the promises to get Russian agricultural goods to world markets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are thinking about getting out of this grain deal now. Unfortunately, we were once again cheated - nothing was done in terms of liberalising the supply of our grain to foreign markets. There were a lot of conditions that the Westerners had to fulfil under the leadership of the UN," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nothing has been done," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The grain deal is crucial as it allowed Ukraine to resume seaborne grain exports was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States. Putin said, "They used HIMARS rockets deliberately and many times to hit Kakhovka dam - that's the point. Maybe they had some kind of plant there. I don't know." He added, "Maybe they added something insignificant once again - and destruction began. As we understand - we are not interested in this (Kakhovka dam destruction) for sure, because there are harsh consequences for territories we control and that are Russian." The hydroelectric dam was ripped open earlier this month after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack, which caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro. Also read: Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence Same as Ukrainian officials, Putin also mentioned that rescue efforts were continuing in flooded areas of Kherson under Russian control as he said that the Russian Emergencies Ministry has been working there. Putin said that military and local authorities are also doing rescue work. He said, "I've recently talked to the acting head of the Kherson region (Russian-controlled Ukraine territory) Vladimir Saldo. He said they were surprised. Because they had never seen such collaborative work (in Kherson)". Putin speaks about recent border attacks Putin said Moscow could have more successfully readied southern regions of the country bordering Ukraine for cross-border attacks from Ukrainian territory. He referred to the recent cross-border attacks on Russia's southern region of Belgorod and said that "of course, there is nothing good in this". Putin added, "But, in principle, one could have assumed that the enemy would behave this way, and one could have prepared better." Speaking further, Putin said that there was no need to follow Ukraine's example and declare martial law, but he added that the nation must fight enemy agents and improve its defences against attacks deep inside its own territory. Watch: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces × Ukraine's losses close to 'catastrophic' Putin claimed that Ukraine was suffering massive losses in its highly touted counter-offensive against Russian positions in Ukraine. "Their losses are approaching a level that could be described as catastrophic," Putin said during a meeting. Also read: At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank Russia to ditch grain deal? Putin also said that Russia was considering withdrawing from the Black Sea grain deal because the West had cheated Moscow by implementing none of the promises to get Russian agricultural goods to world markets. "We are thinking about getting out of this grain deal now. Unfortunately, we were once again cheated - nothing was done in terms of liberalising the supply of our grain to foreign markets. There were a lot of conditions that the Westerners had to fulfil under the leadership of the UN," he said. "Nothing has been done," Putin added. The grain deal is crucial as it allowed Ukraine to resume seaborne grain exports was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin claims Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets

<p>Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments.</p>

<p>Following this discovery, an RNZ journalist has been placed on leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here's what happened:</p>

<h2><strong>How did pro-Russian content make it to the RNZ website?</strong></h2>

<p>As per a report on the RNZ website, a digital journalist has been placed on leave after it was found that he had altered copies from news agencies like Reuters to reflect pro-Russian views.</p>

<p>When questioned, the journalist told RNZ Checkpoint that he had been subbing the stories that way for a number of years and "nobody had queried it".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-counter-offensive-kyiv-retakes-seven-villages-russia-launches-missile-strike-overnight-603707">Ukraine counter-offensive: Kyiv retakes seven villages, Russia launches missile strike overnight</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>How is Radio New Zealand rectifying the situation?</strong></h2>

<p>As per RNZ head Paul Thompson, hundreds of stories have already been audited and more would be checked "with a fine-toothed comb".</p>

<p>21 stories have already been audited and edited to reflect "balanced" reports. They've been republished with corrections and editor's notes. Thousands more will be scrutinised.</p>

<h2><strong>What do RNZ executives have to say?</strong></h2>

<p>RNZ chief Paul Thompson has apologised to listeners, readers, staff and the Ukrainian community.</p>

<p>BBC reports that talking to RNZ's Nine to Noon, Thompson said: "It's so disappointing that this pro-Kremlin garbage has ended up in our stories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's inexcusable," he added.</p>

<p>"It is so disappointing. I'm gutted. It's painful. It's shocking," he added.&nbsp;"We have to get to the bottom of how it happened."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-frances-macron-promises-more-military-aid-to-kyiv-as-counteroffensive-begins-603681">Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins</a></strong></p>

<p>Jim Mather, a board person, said that the revelations have eroded public trust and that it will take a lot of work to come back from this.</p>

<p>"We see ourselves as guardians of a taonga and that taonga being the 98 years of history that RNZ has in terms of trusted public media and high standards of excellent journalism and so it is fair to say we are extremely disappointed," he told RNZ Checkpoint.</p>

<p>"We need to demonstrate that we are prepared to review every aspect of what has occurred to actually start the restoration process in terms of confidence in RNZ."</p>

<h2><strong>The 'pro-Kremlin' coverage</strong></h2>

<p>As per BBC, the edited articles included claims like Russia had annexed Crimea after a referendum. However, the referendum and the Russian occupation of Crimea, which is part of Ukraine's southern peninsula, are not recognised by Kyiv or the wider international community.&nbsp;The United Nations has even passed a resolution, emphasising the illegitimacy of the referendum.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing. Accountability? Expect better from public broadcaster. <a href="https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP">https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP</a></p>
— Helen Clark (@HelenClarkNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelenClarkNZ/status/1667459221196091393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark took to Twitter to voice her displeasure and said that she expected&nbsp;better from the public broadcaster.&nbsp;"Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing," she wrote.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments.

Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments. Following this discovery, an RNZ journalist has been placed on leave. Here's what happened: How did pro-Russian content make it to the RNZ website? As per a report on the RNZ website, a digital journalist has been placed on leave after it was found that he had altered copies from news agencies like Reuters to reflect pro-Russian views. When questioned, the journalist told RNZ Checkpoint that he had been subbing the stories that way for a number of years and "nobody had queried it". Also read | Ukraine counter-offensive: Kyiv retakes seven villages, Russia launches missile strike overnight How is Radio New Zealand rectifying the situation? As per RNZ head Paul Thompson, hundreds of stories have already been audited and more would be checked "with a fine-toothed comb". 21 stories have already been audited and edited to reflect "balanced" reports. They've been republished with corrections and editor's notes. Thousands more will be scrutinised. What do RNZ executives have to say? RNZ chief Paul Thompson has apologised to listeners, readers, staff and the Ukrainian community. BBC reports that talking to RNZ's Nine to Noon, Thompson said: "It's so disappointing that this pro-Kremlin garbage has ended up in our stories." "It's inexcusable," he added. "It is so disappointing. I'm gutted. It's painful. It's shocking," he added. "We have to get to the bottom of how it happened." Also read | Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins Jim Mather, a board person, said that the revelations have eroded public trust and that it will take a lot of work to come back from this. "We see ourselves as guardians of a taonga and that taonga being the 98 years of history that RNZ has in terms of trusted public media and high standards of excellent journalism and so it is fair to say we are extremely disappointed," he told RNZ Checkpoint. "We need to demonstrate that we are prepared to review every aspect of what has occurred to actually start the restoration process in terms of confidence in RNZ." The 'pro-Kremlin' coverage As per BBC, the edited articles included claims like Russia had annexed Crimea after a referendum. However, the referendum and the Russian occupation of Crimea, which is part of Ukraine's southern peninsula, are not recognised by Kyiv or the wider international community. The United Nations has even passed a resolution, emphasising the illegitimacy of the referendum. Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing. Accountability? Expect better from public broadcaster. https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP — Helen Clark (@HelenClarkNZ) June 10, 2023 × Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark took to Twitter to voice her displeasure and said that she expected better from the public broadcaster. "Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing," she wrote. (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.

New Zealand national broadcaster chief apologises for  'inexcusable' pro-Russia stories

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. Moscow can try to carve out more territories of Ukraine to stop shelling into Russia, following attacks on the Belgorod and Kursk regions, explained Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin termed it a "sanitary zone" at the border and said that the amount of territory Russia can capture depends "on potentials that emerge after the so-called [Ukrainian] counteroffensive".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-deliberately-hit-kakhovka-dam-with-himars-rockets-604095">Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets</a></p>

<h2><strong>Russian missiles&nbsp;strike southern and eastern Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, southern and eastern Ukraine were hit by deadly Russian missile strikes on Wednesday. &nbsp;Air defences of Ukraine fought back as Russia fired four Kalibr missiles from a ship in the Black Sea on the port city Odesa, stated Ukraine's air force, adding that three of them were shot down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A food warehouse was hit by one missile in which three employees were killed and seven others were wounded, said Oleg Kiper, the head of the region's military administration. "There may be people under the rubble," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, six people suffered injuries after a business centre was hit. A residential complex in the city centre and a shop were damaged "as a result of air combat and the blast wave", he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Belarus receives delivery of Russian nuclear weapons</strong></h2>

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that his country is taking delivery of tactical nuclear weapons from Russia, some of which were claimed to be three times more powerful compared to the atomic bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Putin admits Russia doesn’t have enough weapons and drones</strong></p>

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<p>"We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia," said Lukashenko in an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel which was shared on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel.</p>

<p>"The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have always been a target. They (the West) have wanted to tear us to pieces since 2020. No one has so far fought against a nuclear country, a country that has nuclear weapons," Lukashenko said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters. Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. Moscow can try to carve out more territories of Ukraine to stop shelling into Russia, following attacks on the Belgorod and Kursk regions, explained Putin. President Vladimir Putin termed it a "sanitary zone" at the border and said that the amount of territory Russia can capture depends "on potentials that emerge after the so-called [Ukrainian] counteroffensive". ALSO READ | Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets Russian missiles strike southern and eastern Ukraine Meanwhile, southern and eastern Ukraine were hit by deadly Russian missile strikes on Wednesday. Air defences of Ukraine fought back as Russia fired four Kalibr missiles from a ship in the Black Sea on the port city Odesa, stated Ukraine's air force, adding that three of them were shot down. A food warehouse was hit by one missile in which three employees were killed and seven others were wounded, said Oleg Kiper, the head of the region's military administration. "There may be people under the rubble," he added. Meanwhile, six people suffered injuries after a business centre was hit. A residential complex in the city centre and a shop were damaged "as a result of air combat and the blast wave", he stated. Belarus receives delivery of Russian nuclear weapons Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that his country is taking delivery of tactical nuclear weapons from Russia, some of which were claimed to be three times more powerful compared to the atomic bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. WATCH | Putin admits Russia doesn’t have enough weapons and drones "We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia," said Lukashenko in an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel which was shared on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel. "The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he added. "We have always been a target. They (the West) have wanted to tear us to pieces since 2020. No one has so far fought against a nuclear country, a country that has nuclear weapons," Lukashenko said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin hints at his plan to attack Ukraine's capital, says ‘troops already near Kyiv’

Putin ponders if Russia should try to take Kyiv again

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Conveying his full support and solidarity with Moscow, Kim sent&nbsp;the message to Putin on Russia's National Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"Justice is sure to win and the Russian people will continue to add glory to the history of victory," KCNA quoted Kim as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">The dictator called for "closer strategic cooperation" with Moscow, "holding hands firmly with the Russian president, in conformity with the common desire of the peoples of the two countries to fulfil the grand goal of building a powerful country."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">Notably, this is not the first instance when Kim has attempted to serenade Putin with his sweet words. In May, Kim sent a letter to Putin, hailing Russia's "holy fight" against what he called "imperialists".&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">“We send warm wishes to you, the Russian army and the people of&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;for their holy fight to preserve world peace,” read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-putin-exchange-letters-on-north-koreas-liberation-day-507073"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kim, Putin exchange letters on North Korea's Liberation day</strong></a></p>

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<h2 data-testid="paragraph-3"><strong>The unlikely relationship of Kim, Putin</strong></h2>

<p>The unlikely equation between Kim and Putin developed after the latter invaded Ukraine last year.&nbsp;Kremlin has also attempted to bolster the relationship, as is evident from its actions.</p>

<p>Earlier this month,&nbsp;Russia and China ignored a US call to condemn North Korea in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for its attempt to launch a satellite. Both countries instead blamed Washington for raising tensions in the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-china-russia-join-forces-to-ignore-us-call-to-condemn-north-korea-599864"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;UNSC: China, Russia join forces to ignore US call to condemn North Korea</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the White House claimed to have found evidence that Russia is purchasing weapons from North Korea for its Ukrainian war, and in return providing food and water to the crisis-hit country.</p>

<p>White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Russia, which has been desperate for additional munitions and weapons in wake of western sanctions, is turning to “rogue” nations to fund its war.</p>

<p>“As part of this proposed deal, Russia would receive over two dozen kinds of weapons and munitions from Pyongyang,” said Kirby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We also understand that Russia is seeking to send a delegation to North Korea and that Russia is offering North Korea food in exchange for munitions,” he added.</p>

<p>In recent months, North Korea has accelerated its missile programme, much to the chagrin of the Western world. However, Putin and Moscow have remained in its corner, throughout the proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin appear closer than ever. The former has vowed to "hold hands" with his Russian counterpart and work towards their shared goal of building a powerful country, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Conveying his full support and solidarity with Moscow, Kim sent the message to Putin on Russia's National Day. "Justice is sure to win and the Russian people will continue to add glory to the history of victory," KCNA quoted Kim as saying. The dictator called for "closer strategic cooperation" with Moscow, "holding hands firmly with the Russian president, in conformity with the common desire of the peoples of the two countries to fulfil the grand goal of building a powerful country." Notably, this is not the first instance when Kim has attempted to serenade Putin with his sweet words. In May, Kim sent a letter to Putin, hailing Russia's "holy fight" against what he called "imperialists". “We send warm wishes to you, the Russian army and the people of Russia for their holy fight to preserve world peace,” read the letter. Watch | Kim, Putin exchange letters on North Korea's Liberation day × The unlikely relationship of Kim, Putin The unlikely equation between Kim and Putin developed after the latter invaded Ukraine last year. Kremlin has also attempted to bolster the relationship, as is evident from its actions. Earlier this month, Russia and China ignored a US call to condemn North Korea in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for its attempt to launch a satellite. Both countries instead blamed Washington for raising tensions in the Korean Peninsula. Also read | UNSC: China, Russia join forces to ignore US call to condemn North Korea Earlier this year, the White House claimed to have found evidence that Russia is purchasing weapons from North Korea for its Ukrainian war, and in return providing food and water to the crisis-hit country. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Russia, which has been desperate for additional munitions and weapons in wake of western sanctions, is turning to “rogue” nations to fund its war. “As part of this proposed deal, Russia would receive over two dozen kinds of weapons and munitions from Pyongyang,” said Kirby. “We also understand that Russia is seeking to send a delegation to North Korea and that Russia is offering North Korea food in exchange for munitions,” he added. In recent months, North Korea has accelerated its missile programme, much to the chagrin of the Western world. However, Putin and Moscow have remained in its corner, throughout the proceedings. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kim serenades Putin, vows to 'hold hands' for strategic cooperation

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