A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva.

She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac".&nbsp;

"Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you".

According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona.

Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort'

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Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era.

In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again.

In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher&nbsp;Nikita Tushkanov&nbsp;from Komi to five and a half&nbsp;years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia.

Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago.

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A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets. The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva. She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac". "Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you". According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona. Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort' × Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era. In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again. In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher Nikita Tushkanov from Komi to five and a half years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia. Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago. 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 raised a freak and murderer: Russian woman sentenced for note left at grave of Putin's parents

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War"&nbsp;of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died.&nbsp;

During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank.&nbsp;

Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. 
 
What happened? 😉 <a href="https://t.co/NeEiTGSLQC">pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC</a>
— Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) <a href="https://twitter.com/region776/status/1655845622342369280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb">https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb</a> That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. <a href="https://t.co/xvcRIQF8oQ">pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ</a>
— mrbrown (@mrbrown) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrbrown/status/1655920502672859137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. 
 
From this to this.... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/e0emLHU1Ix">pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix</a>
— Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) <a href="https://twitter.com/bassel_doueik/status/1655931731915198465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;

He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!"&nbsp;

He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity."&nbsp;

He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45.

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died. During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank. Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later. #Russia Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. What happened? 😉 pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC — Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) May 9, 2023 × https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ — mrbrown (@mrbrown) May 9, 2023 × In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. From this to this.... #Russia #ukraine #RussiaUkraineWar pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix — Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) May 9, 2023 × The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24. Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine. He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!" He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity." He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". (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.

Watch: Russia's 'lonely' T-34 tank during Victory Day parade mocked

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration. Watch this report for more details.

Victory Day in Russia: Moscow celebrates triumph over Nazi Germany

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region,&nbsp;Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. 
 
Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous."

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-year-old-ukrainian-refugee-receives-gift-of-sound-in-united-states-590366">Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States</a>

"I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant."&nbsp;

In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line.

Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter.

"We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS.

According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea.

With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-russian-flags-at-memorials-on-ww2-anniversary-says-berlin-court-590397">No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court</a>

Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians."

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material.&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region.

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous." "The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned. Also read | Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States "I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant." In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line. Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter. "We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS. According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea. With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline. Also read | No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians." The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, evacuates civilians amid threat of 'provocation'

In photos | Russia holds Victory Day parade amid shadow of Ukraine war

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the gathering evoking nationalism and stating that the nation is at war.

Nazis across the world want to destroy us, says Russian President Putin

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-food-no-water-only-wine-48-year-old-woman-miraculously-survives-five-days-in-bush-590286">No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush</a>

Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted.

Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear.

The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina.&nbsp;

Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-rejecting-worlds-most-progressive-constitution-chile-elects-right-wing-parties-to-rewrite-charter-590276">Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter</a>

CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist.&nbsp;

Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear."

In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear.

After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'. In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life. Also read | No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted. Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear. The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor." Also read | Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist. Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear." In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear. After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear. (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.

Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks.

Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that."

"Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added.

Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?</h2>

Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef."&nbsp;

His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin.

The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became&nbsp;one of Putin's favourite haunts.

<h2>Prigozhin and Putin</h2>

As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak.

Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of&nbsp;Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant.&nbsp;

He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army.

In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion."&nbsp;

"I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord.

<h2>The Wagner Group</h2>

Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group.&nbsp;

The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat.

Wagner Group's&nbsp;ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin.

The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique.

As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN).

<h2>Prigozhin’s anger at&nbsp;Russian generals</h2>

The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his&nbsp;troops from Bakhmut.

"I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal.

As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin.

On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine.

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks. Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that." "Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added. Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef." His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin. The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became one of Putin's favourite haunts. Prigozhin and Putin As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak. Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant. He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army. In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion." "I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord. The Wagner Group Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group. The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat. Wagner Group's ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin. The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique. As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN). Prigozhin’s anger at Russian generals The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his troops from Bakhmut. "I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal. As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented. The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]." (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.

Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack&nbsp;on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.&nbsp;The disclosure&nbsp;raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas&nbsp;and annexed Crimea.

At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum,&nbsp;which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance&nbsp;that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders."

Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country.

“Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at&nbsp;92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added.

“I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added.&nbsp;

The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;

“In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said.

His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising.

<h2>Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014&nbsp;</h2>

In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula.

Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014.

In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea.

With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp; 
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Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President. The disclosure raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas and annexed Crimea. At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum, which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders." Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country. “Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at 92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian. “Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added. “I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added. The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014. “In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said. His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising. Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014 In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula. Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014. In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea. With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Just a matter of time’: Was Bill Clinton aware of Putin’s plan to invade Ukraine?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki. "We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations' Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries. The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership." Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital. Recently, Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures. Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv. "After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

We didn't attack Putin: Ukraine's Zelensky as Nordic nations pledge continued support

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed&nbsp;"retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin

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"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement.

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack.

“Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said

Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim.

Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am&nbsp;local time, after which the lights went out.

Footage shared by residents on social media shows&nbsp;smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin.

Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed.

No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency.

Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany.

Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events.

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)

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The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed. The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed "retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin × "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement. "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack. “Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim. Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am local time, after which the lights went out. Footage shared by residents on social media shows smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin. Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed. No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency. Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany. Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events. 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 survives assassination attempt, Ukrainian drones attacked Kremlin, claims Russia

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

The preempted attacks also included assassinations.

On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed&nbsp;retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-device-causes-freight-train-derailment-in-russian-region-near-ukraine-588336">‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine</a>

"The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement.

The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators.

It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia.

The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage

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"There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel.

The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February.

Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days.

On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk.&nbsp;

A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened.

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Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea. The preempted attacks also included assassinations. On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power. ALSO READ | ‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine "The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement. The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators. It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia. The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. ALSO WATCH | Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage × "There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel. The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February. Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days. On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk. A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations'

In a major news development, there has been a 'failed' assassination attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin, claims Russia. Russia said that two Ukrainian drones attacked Kremlin overnight and it downed the drones with no victims or material damage to the Kremlin.

Russia claims Ukraine attempted Putin's assassination, 2 drones downed | World News | WION

Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions."

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side has denied Russian claims related to drone attack on the Kremlin

The footage of the moment when the drones purportedly hovered over the Kremlin in Moscow has gone viral. It shows an aerial projectile moving towards the Kremlin as it is destroyed by what appears to be a reactionary projectile from an air defence system.

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"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement while referring to the purported overnight drone attack on the Russian capital.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack.

“Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky's Press Secretary Nikiforov denied the Russia accusation related to the attack on the Kremlin.

“We have no information about the so-called night attacks on the Kremlin. But, as President Zelensky has repeatedly stated, Ukraine directs all available forces and means to liberate its own territories, and not to attack others," said Nikiforov.

As a matter of precaution, Moscow's mayor announced that unauthorised drone flights will be banned over the Russian capital.

Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, in a statement, said that all drone flights will remain prohibited unless the "government authorities" provide a special permit.

The Russian president will now work from his bunker in his residence in Novo-Ogarevo following Tuesday's overnight attack.&nbsp;

He further stated that the ban was meant to prevent unauthorised drone flights which could "obstruct the work of law enforcement".

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Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions.

Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions." Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side has denied Russian claims related to drone attack on the Kremlin The footage of the moment when the drones purportedly hovered over the Kremlin in Moscow has gone viral. It shows an aerial projectile moving towards the Kremlin as it is destroyed by what appears to be a reactionary projectile from an air defence system. × "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement while referring to the purported overnight drone attack on the Russian capital. "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack. “Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Press Secretary Nikiforov denied the Russia accusation related to the attack on the Kremlin. “We have no information about the so-called night attacks on the Kremlin. But, as President Zelensky has repeatedly stated, Ukraine directs all available forces and means to liberate its own territories, and not to attack others," said Nikiforov. As a matter of precaution, Moscow's mayor announced that unauthorised drone flights will be banned over the Russian capital. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, in a statement, said that all drone flights will remain prohibited unless the "government authorities" provide a special permit. The Russian president will now work from his bunker in his residence in Novo-Ogarevo following Tuesday's overnight attack. He further stated that the ban was meant to prevent unauthorised drone flights which could "obstruct the work of law enforcement". 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.

Watch | Moment when alleged Ukrainian drone was shot down over Putin's Kremlin residence

Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine is all set to affect its citizens' dating lives. One year into the Ukraine war, Tinder has finally announced that it will be quitting Russia. Citing the need to protect human rights, the popular dating application's owner, Match Group on Monday, announced that it will quit Russia by June 30.&nbsp;

In its annual impact report published on Monday, "We are committed to protecting human rights."

Match Group, whose brands along with Tinder include dating apps like Hinge and PlentyOfFish said that its brands were taking steps to "restrict access" to services and would withdraw from the Russian market completely by June 30.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-volodymyr-zelensky-behind-tucker-carlsons-exit-from-fox-news-588245">Is Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky behind Tucker Carlson’s exit from Fox News?</a>

"Our brands are taking steps to restrict access to their services in Russia and will complete their withdrawal from the Russian market by June 30, 2023," said the Tinder owner.

Match group shareholder Friends Fiduciary Corp told Reuters that the company had good reason to leave Russia.

"It's not a good look for a trusted brand to be continuing operations in a nation where the head of state has been indicted by the International Criminal Court," it said.

On March 17, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Putin. The international agency accused the Russian leader of war crimes over Russia's illegal deportation of hundreds of Ukrainian Children. Moscow denies the charges and claims it has not committed any war crimes and also says that the ICC warrant and the decision are meaningless since the country isn't even a member of the forum.

The shareholder also said that by tying its decision to the human rights risks faced by the Ukrainian people, Match had set an example for others to follow.

Tinder's competition Bumble blocked downloads in Russia, back in March of last year (2022).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-defense-ministrys-tweet-showing-hindu-goddess-kali-in-awkward-pose-triggers-row-in-india-587490">Ukraine&nbsp;defence ministry’s tweet showing Hindu Goddess Kali in awkward pose sparks row in India</a>

Since the beginning of the war, many brands have quit Russia. In the immediate weeks after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the offensive, numerous Western firms announced the suspension of their operations, and many withdrew altogether.

Others — like McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Starbucks and Heineken — faced pressure from consumers and were forced&nbsp;to announce that they were cutting ties, reports the Guardian.

As per Reuters, many digital service providers like Spotify and Netflix, which only had a small number of staff in Russia, also pulled out shortly after Moscow launched its military campaign in February 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine is all set to affect its citizens' dating lives. One year into the Ukraine war, Tinder has finally announced that it will be quitting Russia.

Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine is all set to affect its citizens' dating lives. One year into the Ukraine war, Tinder has finally announced that it will be quitting Russia. Citing the need to protect human rights, the popular dating application's owner, Match Group on Monday, announced that it will quit Russia by June 30. In its annual impact report published on Monday, "We are committed to protecting human rights." Match Group, whose brands along with Tinder include dating apps like Hinge and PlentyOfFish said that its brands were taking steps to "restrict access" to services and would withdraw from the Russian market completely by June 30. Also read | Is Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky behind Tucker Carlson’s exit from Fox News? "Our brands are taking steps to restrict access to their services in Russia and will complete their withdrawal from the Russian market by June 30, 2023," said the Tinder owner. Match group shareholder Friends Fiduciary Corp told Reuters that the company had good reason to leave Russia. "It's not a good look for a trusted brand to be continuing operations in a nation where the head of state has been indicted by the International Criminal Court," it said. On March 17, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Putin. The international agency accused the Russian leader of war crimes over Russia's illegal deportation of hundreds of Ukrainian Children. Moscow denies the charges and claims it has not committed any war crimes and also says that the ICC warrant and the decision are meaningless since the country isn't even a member of the forum. The shareholder also said that by tying its decision to the human rights risks faced by the Ukrainian people, Match had set an example for others to follow. Tinder's competition Bumble blocked downloads in Russia, back in March of last year (2022). Also read | Ukraine defence ministry’s tweet showing Hindu Goddess Kali in awkward pose sparks row in India Since the beginning of the war, many brands have quit Russia. In the immediate weeks after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the offensive, numerous Western firms announced the suspension of their operations, and many withdrew altogether. Others — like McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Starbucks and Heineken — faced pressure from consumers and were forced to announce that they were cutting ties, reports the Guardian. As per Reuters, many digital service providers like Spotify and Netflix, which only had a small number of staff in Russia, also pulled out shortly after Moscow launched its military campaign in February 2022. (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.

Tinder 'swipes left' on Russia, to 'dump' the warring nation by June 30

Ahead of an anticipated counter-offensive by Ukraine, the Russian army has replaced its highest-ranking general in charge of logistics. Colonel General Mikhail Mizintsev, who is under British sanctions for his role in the siege of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol — seized by Russia around a year ago — has been replaced by Alexei Kuzmenkov, a former official from the National Guard, according to a statement from the Russian defence ministry.

"Kuzmenkov was appointed to the position of deputy defence minister of the Russian Federation, responsible for the logistical support of the Armed Forces," said the ministry in its statement. As per AFP, the statement did not mention why Mizintsev had been replaced after only seven months on the job.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-launch-counteroffensive-without-western-fighter-aircraft-says-zelensky-587540">Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky</a>

However, the replacement is no surprise. Last week, several influential Russian war correspondents, as per AFP, had predicted that Mizintsev would likely be removed from his post.

The Russian army has reportedly faced significant logistical challenges during its offensive in Ukraine. These challenges were highlighted during a chaotic mobilisation drive last year.

Mizintsev, who has been nicknamed "the Butcher of Mariupol" by some Western media, was appointed to the&nbsp;highest-ranking position of general in charge of logistics, soon after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the mobilisation drive last September.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ahead of an anticipated counter-offensive by Ukraine, the Russian army has replaced its highest-ranking general in charge of logistics. Colonel General Mikhail Mizintsev, who is under British sanctions for his role in the siege of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol — seized by Russia around a year ago — has been replaced by Alexei Kuzmenkov, a former official from the National Guard, according to a statement from the Russian defence ministry.

Ahead of an anticipated counter-offensive by Ukraine, the Russian army has replaced its highest-ranking general in charge of logistics. Colonel General Mikhail Mizintsev, who is under British sanctions for his role in the siege of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol — seized by Russia around a year ago — has been replaced by Alexei Kuzmenkov, a former official from the National Guard, according to a statement from the Russian defence ministry. "Kuzmenkov was appointed to the position of deputy defence minister of the Russian Federation, responsible for the logistical support of the Armed Forces," said the ministry in its statement. As per AFP, the statement did not mention why Mizintsev had been replaced after only seven months on the job. Also read | Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky However, the replacement is no surprise. Last week, several influential Russian war correspondents, as per AFP, had predicted that Mizintsev would likely be removed from his post. The Russian army has reportedly faced significant logistical challenges during its offensive in Ukraine. These challenges were highlighted during a chaotic mobilisation drive last year. Mizintsev, who has been nicknamed "the Butcher of Mariupol" by some Western media, was appointed to the highest-ranking position of general in charge of logistics, soon after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the mobilisation drive last September. (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.

'Butcher of Mariupol': Russia replaces its logistics commander ahead of Ukraine counteroffensive

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow.&nbsp;

"We need to involve everyone... to put pressure on the Russian aggressor and the terrorists who kidnapped so many of our children," said Zelensky.&nbsp;

"The UN, many others want to do something, but so far the results have been poor. So I have appealed to the leader of China," he added.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian government has claimed nearly 16,000 children have been abducted by Russia since February last year. Kremlin has not denied the accusation, albeit presented it as a humanitarian campaign to protect the orphans present in the conflict areas.&nbsp;

Due to the allegations, the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this year issued an arrest warrant in the name of Putin.&nbsp;Though&nbsp;ICC attempts to start a legal battle, Moscow has stated it will not be entertaining any arrest warrant. The country withdrew its membership from ICC in 2016.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-xi-jinping-calls-ukrainian-president-zelensky-us-and-eu-hails-the-talks-586487">WATCH |&nbsp;China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks</a>

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<h2>Zelensky's call with Xi</h2>

Zelensky informed about the request, couple of days after he held a 'long and meaningful' phone call with Xi.&nbsp;This was&nbsp;the first instance that the two leaders spoke to each other since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"I had a long and meaningful phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. I believe that this call, as well as the appointment of Ukraine's ambassador to China, will give a powerful impetus to the development of our bilateral relations," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Chinese state media broadcaster CCTV reported about the call and said that Xi told Zelensky that China has "always stood on the side of peace".

"On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, China has always stood on the side of peace and its core position is to promote peace talks," CCTV reported Xi as saying during the phone call.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-speaks-with-zelensky-over-the-phone-586328">ALSO READ |&nbsp;'Long and meaningful': Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks with Zelensky over phone</a>

Since the turn of the year, the Chinese leader has presented himself as the mediator of peace. During his visit to Russia to meet Putin in March, Xi repeatedly batted for maintaining stability and&nbsp;peace in the region. Beijing even prepared a 12-point peace plan to bring the war to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China has established a "no-limits" friendship with Russia in the aftermath of the war where it has refused to denounce Moscow's aggressiveness, all the while presenting itself as impartial. However, Zelensky's recent outreach efforts may force Beijing to rethink its impartial approach, experts stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow. "We need to involve everyone.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow. "We need to involve everyone... to put pressure on the Russian aggressor and the terrorists who kidnapped so many of our children," said Zelensky. "The UN, many others want to do something, but so far the results have been poor. So I have appealed to the leader of China," he added. The Ukrainian government has claimed nearly 16,000 children have been abducted by Russia since February last year. Kremlin has not denied the accusation, albeit presented it as a humanitarian campaign to protect the orphans present in the conflict areas. Due to the allegations, the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this year issued an arrest warrant in the name of Putin. Though ICC attempts to start a legal battle, Moscow has stated it will not be entertaining any arrest warrant. The country withdrew its membership from ICC in 2016. WATCH | China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks × Zelensky's call with Xi Zelensky informed about the request, couple of days after he held a 'long and meaningful' phone call with Xi. This was the first instance that the two leaders spoke to each other since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "I had a long and meaningful phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. I believe that this call, as well as the appointment of Ukraine's ambassador to China, will give a powerful impetus to the development of our bilateral relations," Zelensky said. Chinese state media broadcaster CCTV reported about the call and said that Xi told Zelensky that China has "always stood on the side of peace". "On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, China has always stood on the side of peace and its core position is to promote peace talks," CCTV reported Xi as saying during the phone call. ALSO READ | 'Long and meaningful': Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks with Zelensky over phone Since the turn of the year, the Chinese leader has presented himself as the mediator of peace. During his visit to Russia to meet Putin in March, Xi repeatedly batted for maintaining stability and peace in the region. Beijing even prepared a 12-point peace plan to bring the war to an end. China has established a "no-limits" friendship with Russia in the aftermath of the war where it has refused to denounce Moscow's aggressiveness, all the while presenting itself as impartial. However, Zelensky's recent outreach efforts may force Beijing to rethink its impartial approach, experts stated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky requests Xi's help to bring back deported children from Russia

Ukraine rang with air raid alerts on Friday. Quoting local sources, Interfax Ukraine news agency reported that explosions were witnessed throughout the nation, “in cities in widely separated regions.”

As per a report by news agency AP,&nbsp;Russia fired more than 20 cruise missiles and two drones at Ukraine. At least 12 people were killed in these attacks, most of them when two missiles slammed into an apartment building in the centre of the country, said, officials.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko, earlier&nbsp;reported that 10 people died in strikes on a nine-story residential building in central Ukraine's Uman city.&nbsp;The death toll from the Russian strikes in Ukraine's Uman has risen to 17, as per a recent report by Reuters, citing officials.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;Ukrainian national police,&nbsp;17 people were wounded and three children were rescued from the rubble. Umam&nbsp;is located around 215 kilometres (134 miles) south of Kyiv.&nbsp;

The news agency quoted regional Telegram accounts and reported that unidentified airborne objects were headed for the west of Ukraine. Furthermore, explosions as per Interfax were reported after midnight in Dnipro, Kremenchuk and Poltava in central Ukraine and in Mykolaiv in the south.

Citing “another online source,” Reuters reports that an explosion was also reported in the Kyiv region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-russian-and-iranian-intelligence-agencies-for-hostage-taking-586811">US sanctions target 'hostage taking' by Russia and Iran</a>

Meanwhile, on Thursday Russian troops as per Ukrainian officers tried to cut off essential supply routes into Ukraine’s Bakhmut. This, as per the officers, was done with the motive of putting more pressure on defending forces.

Talking to the Freedom television channel, spokesperson for Ukrainian troops in the east Serhiy Cherevatyi, revealed that&nbsp;in the past 24 hours, Bakhmut had seen 13 new combats.

“The enemy’s main goal in the Bakhmut sector is to cut communication routes,” he said, adding that, “thanks to constant counter-battery combat ... we can deliver supplies and evacuate our wounded.”

Ukrainian military analyst Oleksander Musiyenko, as per Reuters, said that districts were rapidly changing hands in fierce fighting that has already gone on for 15 months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-may-restrict-export-of-semiconductor-supplies-to-china-report-586820">Germany may&nbsp;restrict export of&nbsp;semiconductor supplies to China: Report</a>

“Ukraine is successfully conducting local counter-attacks, making it difficult for the Russians to capture Bakhmut,” he told Ukrainian NV Radio.

Furthermore, in a resolution adopted on Thursday, the Council of Europe has branded Russia’s forced transfer of Ukrainian children as amounting to ‘genocide.’

Calling for the safe return of the children back home to Ukraine, it said “The documented evidence of this practice matches with the international definition of genocide.”

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, hailed the resolution as an “important,” decision and said that it would help “hold Russia and its leaders to account”.&nbsp;

In his evening address, he called the forced transfer of Ukrainian children an element of “Russia’s attempt to erase the identity of our people, to destroy the very essence of the Ukrainian people”, he said in his evening address.

Previously, on March 17, the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, over Moscow’s “unlawful deportation” of children. The court also issued a warrant for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine rang with air raid alerts on Friday. Quoting local sources, Interfax Ukraine news agency reported that explosions were witnessed throughout the nation, “in cities in widely separated regions.

Ukraine rang with air raid alerts on Friday. Quoting local sources, Interfax Ukraine news agency reported that explosions were witnessed throughout the nation, “in cities in widely separated regions.” As per a report by news agency AP, Russia fired more than 20 cruise missiles and two drones at Ukraine. At least 12 people were killed in these attacks, most of them when two missiles slammed into an apartment building in the centre of the country, said, officials. Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko, earlier reported that 10 people died in strikes on a nine-story residential building in central Ukraine's Uman city. The death toll from the Russian strikes in Ukraine's Uman has risen to 17, as per a recent report by Reuters, citing officials. According to Ukrainian national police, 17 people were wounded and three children were rescued from the rubble. Umam is located around 215 kilometres (134 miles) south of Kyiv. The news agency quoted regional Telegram accounts and reported that unidentified airborne objects were headed for the west of Ukraine. Furthermore, explosions as per Interfax were reported after midnight in Dnipro, Kremenchuk and Poltava in central Ukraine and in Mykolaiv in the south. Citing “another online source,” Reuters reports that an explosion was also reported in the Kyiv region. Also read | US sanctions target 'hostage taking' by Russia and Iran Meanwhile, on Thursday Russian troops as per Ukrainian officers tried to cut off essential supply routes into Ukraine’s Bakhmut. This, as per the officers, was done with the motive of putting more pressure on defending forces. Talking to the Freedom television channel, spokesperson for Ukrainian troops in the east Serhiy Cherevatyi, revealed that in the past 24 hours, Bakhmut had seen 13 new combats. “The enemy’s main goal in the Bakhmut sector is to cut communication routes,” he said, adding that, “thanks to constant counter-battery combat ... we can deliver supplies and evacuate our wounded.” Ukrainian military analyst Oleksander Musiyenko, as per Reuters, said that districts were rapidly changing hands in fierce fighting that has already gone on for 15 months. Also read | Germany may restrict export of semiconductor supplies to China: Report “Ukraine is successfully conducting local counter-attacks, making it difficult for the Russians to capture Bakhmut,” he told Ukrainian NV Radio. Furthermore, in a resolution adopted on Thursday, the Council of Europe has branded Russia’s forced transfer of Ukrainian children as amounting to ‘genocide.’ Calling for the safe return of the children back home to Ukraine, it said “The documented evidence of this practice matches with the international definition of genocide.” Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, hailed the resolution as an “important,” decision and said that it would help “hold Russia and its leaders to account”. In his evening address, he called the forced transfer of Ukrainian children an element of “Russia’s attempt to erase the identity of our people, to destroy the very essence of the Ukrainian people”, he said in his evening address. Previously, on March 17, the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, over Moscow’s “unlawful deportation” of children. The court also issued a warrant for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights. (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.

17 dead after Russian missiles hit Ukraine; Council of Europe says Moscow's deportation of children 'genocide'

Vladimir Putin says the Russian drone industry could soon be worth $12.25 billion. A plan to boost the production is being worked out, and Putin is betting on the versatility of unmanned aerial vehicles. Late last year, Putin said Russia must increase its output of drones. The Russian President is pushing for the widespread use of drones in military and civilian applications. He ordered a strategy for drone development through 2030. Drones, remote or pre-programmed, have been used extensively in battles. Drones gather intelligence, deliver explosives, and can even launch missiles and fly away. With drones, Russia is hitting targets, crushing morale and draining Ukraine's war chest. Suicide drones can flood combat theatres, and are often dubbed as the poor man's cruise missile. Drones are allowing Russia to avoid putting sophisticated aircraft and pilots at risk. Drones are also helping Russia save expensive, long-range precision missiles.

Russia acing the 'Game of Drones'? Strategy for drone development through 2030 | Details

South Africa is not planning to quit the International Criminal Court, as earlier suggested by president Cyril Ramaphosa. Just hours before, Ramaphosa had said his African National Congress had decided to withdraw South Africa from the International Court. The president's office cited a communication error from the ruling A.N.C. Party. In march, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin. The warrant against the Russian president is based on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Russia denies the allegations. The I.C.C. arrest warrant meant that Pretoria, due to host the Brics Summit this year, would have to detain Putin on arrival. The arrest warrant for Putin, a sitting head of state of a permanent member of U.N. Security Council, is an unprecedented step for the Hague-based court. Russia is not a party to the international criminal court, so it was unclear if or how Putin could ever end up in the dock.

Ramaphosa's office cities communication error over Int'l Criminal Court exit statement

International Court warrant against Putin; South Africa due to host BRICS summit

United State's proposal for the Group of Seven (G7) countries to ban all exports to Russia was met with resistance, ahead of a summit of the bloc.

As per a Financial Times report, the European Union (EU) and Japan pushed back against the proposal during negotiations ahead of a summit of the world's most advanced economies.

According to documents seen by the Financial Times, G7 leaders are drafting a statement for their meeting in Hiroshima next month. This statement includes a US proposal for a pledge to replace the current sector-by-sector sanctions regime against Russia with a complete export ban, with a few exemptions for agricultural, medical and other products.

The pledge is reportedly prompted by Washington's frustration over the loopholes in the existing system that allow&nbsp;Russia to continue to import Western technology.

During a preparatory meeting last week, EU and Japan however said that the move isn't feasible. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one of the officials said that from their perspective "it is simply not do-able."

The US said that it would "continue to look for ways to hold Russia accountable."

The disagreement as per FT underscores the lack of additional options available to G&amp; leaders as the Western nations seek to penalise Russia for its invasion of Ukraine that began 15 months back. Since then, a number of sanction measures designed to cut off Moscow's economy from the global markets and deprive it of Western imports of technology, machinery and finance.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United State's proposal for the Group of Seven (G7) countries to ban all exports to Russia was met with resistance, ahead of a summit of the bloc. As per a Financial Times report, the European Union (EU) and Japan pushed back against the proposal during negotiations ahead of a summit of the world's most advanced economies.

United State's proposal for the Group of Seven (G7) countries to ban all exports to Russia was met with resistance, ahead of a summit of the bloc. As per a Financial Times report, the European Union (EU) and Japan pushed back against the proposal during negotiations ahead of a summit of the world's most advanced economies. According to documents seen by the Financial Times, G7 leaders are drafting a statement for their meeting in Hiroshima next month. This statement includes a US proposal for a pledge to replace the current sector-by-sector sanctions regime against Russia with a complete export ban, with a few exemptions for agricultural, medical and other products. The pledge is reportedly prompted by Washington's frustration over the loopholes in the existing system that allow Russia to continue to import Western technology. During a preparatory meeting last week, EU and Japan however said that the move isn't feasible. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one of the officials said that from their perspective "it is simply not do-able." The US said that it would "continue to look for ways to hold Russia accountable." The disagreement as per FT underscores the lack of additional options available to G& leaders as the Western nations seek to penalise Russia for its invasion of Ukraine that began 15 months back. Since then, a number of sanction measures designed to cut off Moscow's economy from the global markets and deprive it of Western imports of technology, machinery and finance. (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.

Japan, EU say US plans to ban all exports to Russia 'simply not do-able'

Russia has started using its new T-14 Armata battle tanks to fire on Ukrainian positions, according to the RIA state news agency. However, the report claims that the tanks "have not yet participated in direct assault operations."&nbsp;

As per the report, the T-14 Armata battle tanks have been fitted with extra protection on their flanks, and crews have undergone "combat coordination" at training grounds in Ukraine.&nbsp;

RIA states that the tank,&nbsp;which on a highway has&nbsp;a maximum speed of 80 kilometres or 50 miles an hour, also boasts an unmanned turret.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-1-killed-10-injured-after-russian-missile-strikes-museum-in-kupiansk-585936">Ukraine war: 1 killed, 10 injured after Russian missile strikes museum in Kupiansk</a>

Crew can remotely control the armaments from "an isolated armoured capsule located in the front of the hull," reports Reuters.

This news comes just a couple of months after the British military intelligence in January reported that Russian forces in Ukraine were reluctant to accept the first tranche of the tanks due to their "poor condition."&nbsp;

"Production is probably only in the low tens, while commanders are unlikely to trust the vehicle in combat," the British military said.

"Eleven years in development," the programme has been dogged with delays, reduction in planned fleet size, and reports of manufacturing problems, it said.

British military intelligence also claimed that any deployment of the T-14 would likely be "a high-risk decision" for Russia, taken primarily for propaganda purposes.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraine-disassembling-fighter-jets-sent-by-slovakia-and-poland-to-use-spare-parts-585934">Is Ukraine disassembling fighter jets sent by Slovakia and Poland to use spare parts?</a>

Russian media reports state that the Kremlin had ordered the production of 2,300 tanks by 2020, but this was later stretched to 2025.&nbsp;

State conglomerate Rostec, as per Interfax news agency reports, had started production of some 40 tanks in 2021, with an anticipated delivery after 2023.

Just a day earlier (April 24th) the Russia-Ukraine war crossed its 15 months mark. The current conflict started on February 24th 2022 with an order from Russian President Vladimir Putin, and over its course, has already resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and millions in infrastructure loss.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has started using its new T-14 Armata battle tanks to fire on Ukrainian positions, according to the RIA state news agency. However, the report claims that the tanks "have not yet participated in direct assault operations.

Russia has started using its new T-14 Armata battle tanks to fire on Ukrainian positions, according to the RIA state news agency. However, the report claims that the tanks "have not yet participated in direct assault operations." As per the report, the T-14 Armata battle tanks have been fitted with extra protection on their flanks, and crews have undergone "combat coordination" at training grounds in Ukraine. RIA states that the tank, which on a highway has a maximum speed of 80 kilometres or 50 miles an hour, also boasts an unmanned turret. Also read | Ukraine war: 1 killed, 10 injured after Russian missile strikes museum in Kupiansk Crew can remotely control the armaments from "an isolated armoured capsule located in the front of the hull," reports Reuters. This news comes just a couple of months after the British military intelligence in January reported that Russian forces in Ukraine were reluctant to accept the first tranche of the tanks due to their "poor condition." "Production is probably only in the low tens, while commanders are unlikely to trust the vehicle in combat," the British military said. "Eleven years in development," the programme has been dogged with delays, reduction in planned fleet size, and reports of manufacturing problems, it said. British military intelligence also claimed that any deployment of the T-14 would likely be "a high-risk decision" for Russia, taken primarily for propaganda purposes. Also read | Is Ukraine disassembling fighter jets sent by Slovakia and Poland to use spare parts? Russian media reports state that the Kremlin had ordered the production of 2,300 tanks by 2020, but this was later stretched to 2025. State conglomerate Rostec, as per Interfax news agency reports, had started production of some 40 tanks in 2021, with an anticipated delivery after 2023. Just a day earlier (April 24th) the Russia-Ukraine war crossed its 15 months mark. The current conflict started on February 24th 2022 with an order from Russian President Vladimir Putin, and over its course, has already resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and millions in infrastructure loss. (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 T-14 Armata battle tank debuts in Ukraine

South Africa has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will be attending the upcoming BRICS summit in person later this year. In an exclusive interview to WION's Sidhant Sibal, South Africa's sherpa Anil Sooklal said that the leaders of all the BRICS nations have accepted their invite.

Vladimir Putin to visit South Africa in August, latter says 'invite accepted' | WION Pulse

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has accepted the invitation to attend an&nbsp;in-person BRICS summit in South Africa later this year in August, said BRICS South Africa Sherpa Anil Sooklal in an exclusive interview with WION.&nbsp;

The five nation bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS)&nbsp;has a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) slightly more than the United States. The five major economies constitute 41 per cent of world population, 24 per cent of the world GDP and 16 per cent of global trade flows.

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal&nbsp;said that Russia is "preparing to attend the summit. And South Africa is preparing to host an in-person summit in August this year."

The comments assume significance since International Criminal Court issued a warrant against President Putin which raised concern over his participation. On top of that,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-icc-arrest-warrant-will-south-africa-arrest-russian-leader-575587">South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute</a> that established the International Criminal Court, further throwing the BRICS summit host of the year into a geopolitical dilemma.&nbsp;

The Sherpa also spoke about expansion of the grouping, explaining, 20 countries have formally or informally approached BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS.&nbsp;

Asked about India, the Sherpa Anil said, "India has been a founding member of the BRICS and has played a critical role over the past 15 years."

WION <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brics-common-currency-soon-india-china-step-up-to-counter-us-dollars-dominance-578660">reported</a> in recent weeks about how the BRICS nations are banding together to counter the dominance of dollar as a nearly hegemonic currency in global trade. "BRICS Sherpa called for "focusing on reforming the global multilateral architecture at geopolitical, geo-economic and geo-financial" levels.

"Well, we already have an agreement that we signed several years ago, the BRICS interbank agreement mechanism that lays the foundation to trade in local currency," Sooklal&nbsp;said.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Brazilian President Lula da Silva wants a BRICS currency

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Sidhant Sibal: What is the key focus of the South African Presidency of the BRICS?

Anil Sooklal: You've rightfully pointed out that we are president of BRICS this year for the third time, having hosted in 2013 and 2018. Whenever South Africa has the opportunity to share BRICS, it's always also about the African continent. This was the case in 2013 and again in 2018. Because BRICS is first, in the first instance the partnership between the five of us, but it's also looking at the larger global South. So, for this year, South Africa has chosen the theme BRICS and Africa partnership for mutually accelerated growth as well as sustainable development and inclusive multilateral. Now if you break down the theme, it consists of four parts firstly, the partnership between BRICS and Africa, which will be a major focus of, of our summit. Secondly, it focuses on mutually accelerate growth, given the challenges of the post COVID environment that we find ourselves, in an environment where you have major power conflict that is impacting global growth, including BRICS Member States and of course, thirdly, we will also look at the sustainable development goals as you are aware as a result of COVID we have fallen back in terms of meeting the targets of the 2030 agenda and the SDGs.

So, we will have a discussion on how we can best assist each other in bringing back, bringing us back on track in terms of meeting our SDG goals. And of course, inclusive multilateralism is a standing agenda item of BRICS. BRICS has always focused on how we reform the current global multi-multilateral architecture that has severe fault lines. So focusing on reforming the global multilateral architecture,&nbsp;the geopolitical, geo economic and geo financial architecture will be a major focus for us. So these are some of our key priorities.

Now, of course, in terms of specific deliverables, as I've indicated, we want to use the summit to focus on Africa and specifically the African continental Free Trade Agreement, how BRICS, can partner with the African continent to advance this agreement for the mutual benefit of BRICS countries and the African continent. All of the BRICS countries are major partners in Africa's development, in Africa's economy, so we're having an interaction during the BRICS plus and outreach summit that we will have post the BRICS leaders' summit, with leaders from Africa and other global south partners will give us this opportunity to focus on Africa. And to focus on the larger economy. We are also going to be looking at some specific areas of cooperation especially around energy transition and establishing a BRICS Africa- just the energy transition platform. As you know, all of us have made commitments to transit to green energy, but we must ensure that it's a just transition that does not impact negatively on our economic growth does not impact negatively on employment opportunities, and does not impact negatively on poverty alleviation measures. So, energy also be a major focus for us.

We'll also look at skills and capacity building for the future. As you know, with new technologies, the future of work is very under discussion. So again, we will look at how we can cooperate in addressing the challenges that new technologies pose to capacity and skills development in the workplace, and how we can also harness the tremendous opportunities that New Technologies provides all of us on the workplace. So these are some of our key priorities. And as I indicated, addressing collectively the challenges of the multilateral architecture as it's currently exist, and what is it the BRICS can do as a collective to advance the discussions and debate on the global stage and not just advance to discussion, but practically, how can we ensure that we bring back the United Nations at the center of the multilateral order. This is something all of us subscribe to and to ensure that the current multilateral order reflects the current global reality which is quite different from when the United Nations was formed almost 50 years ago.

Sidhant Sibal: What about trading in national currencies, are there any plans?

Anil Sooklal: Well, we already have an agreement that we signed several years ago, the BRICS interbank agreement mechanism that lays the foundation to trade in local currency. So the framework already exists through that MOU that has been signed. What we need to do now is actualize this and given the current situation that we find ourselves in in terms of the global financial architecture, you will see that increasingly BRICS countries and other countries of the global south are starting to trade in their own currencies. India has agreement it is close to 20 plus countries. I was two weeks ago in Moscow and this feature very sharply in the discussions I had with the Russian BRICS Sherpa. And likewise, China is doing the same Brazil. President Lula was recently in China, and he spoke strongly about this. So I think you're going to see this this is also already a discussion within BRICS. The framework in-place and also, I should point out that the New Development Bank, will give 30% of its new lending will be in the local currency. So this process has in terms of lending within BRICS, it's also started in terms of trading between ourselves in local currency. And I think you're going to see this accelerating, and this discussion is very much part of the BRICS agenda this year.

Sidhant Sibal: If you can talk about the expansion of the grouping..

Anil Sooklal: Yes, as you will recall, last year at the Beijing summit under China's chair ship, paragraph 73 of the declaration specifically spoke to expansion wherein it stated that we need to start having discussions on BRICS expansion and the leaders tasked sherpas to start looking at the modalities, rules and guidelines governing expansion. So a working group has been created that is specifically working on this mandate. We have had several meetings, we started under China's chair ship last year with 2 meetings, &nbsp;and since South Africa assumed chairmanship, we had three such meetings. We have a further meeting next week at the level of Su Sherpa, specifically discussing expansion. And at the end of May we have a Sherpa meeting to also take forward the discussions and prepare report for our foreign ministers who will be meeting on the first and second of June, on where we are in this process. As you have observed, something like 13 countries have formally asked BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS. In addition, about the five or six countries that we informally made queries wanting to become BRICS members. So something like 20 countries have formally or informally approached BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS. So expansion is something that we have, in principle agreed to our leaders have agreed to the expansion of BRICS, but it's working on the modalities and timeframes of how this will pan out and that's what we are seeing.

Sidhant Sibal: Countries who have been invited for the BRICS outreach summit?

Anil Sooklal: Well, this is a process under consultation, but we are looking at using a formula that we have discussed with the African Union, which we use in 2013 and 2018. That worked well. Because BRICS is an inclusive process. So, we must ensure that we are inclusive in the manner in which we invite global leaders from the Global South, including Africa. So what we have done in the past is to invite the political heads of the regional economic communities of Africa, which we have eight that is recognized by the African Union and in addition, we will invite the chair of the African Union, chair of the African Union Commission. Likewise, in terms of invitees from the Global South, in 2018. We also found a formula that was acceptable to all BRICS partners, and I think to the global south as well. We will invite the political heads of all the global south bodies like the Nam, the G 77, the SCO ASEAN, CARICOM, and the Pacific Island forum. So that's the envisaged list of countries we intend to invite together with the African leaders for the architects. Of course, there's a lot of interest in it and a number of countries have approached us wanting to be invited to the summit. So, we'll have to look at how we are involved in a process that is inclusive.

Sidhant Sibal: How much will be the conflict in Africa, like the Sudan crisis will be discussed?

Anil Sooklal: Well, look, global hotspots has always been an integral part of the Brexit agenda, both at the level of foreign ministers as well as at the summit, not just on conflict in Africa, but conflict throughout the world be it the Western Asia region, in Northeast Asia, in Africa, in Latin America And in Europe. So we will look at some global hotspots and how is it that we can cooperate as BRICS countries to ensure that we instil a movement towards peace through diplomatic dialogue and trying to avert future conflicts and addressing current conflicts in a peaceful and inclusive manner through the respective united with the involvement of the United Nations with the involvement of the regional bodies in the case of Africa, the African Union and the regional economic communities and likewise, in the case of Southeast Asia, for example, the situation in Myanmar with the ASEAN in that instance. So I think addressing peace on the global stage in a comprehensive and inclusive manner, wherever it is.

Sidhant Sibal: What does India brings to the table?

Anil Sooklal: Well, India has been a founding member of the BRICS and has played a critical role over the past 15 years that we are meeting at the level of Summit. I've been privileged to partake whenever India has chaired as way back as 2012 at the Delhi summit and subsequently the Goa Summit, and India has brought tremendous value to the BRICS on all three areas of cooperation as you know, we are arranged in such a manner that we have three pillars of cooperation, the political and security, economic and finance and of course, the social and people to people interaction. And in all of these areas, India has been a critical contributor like the other BRICS members, it was in New Delhi that we in 2012 started the process of looking at establishing a BRICS Bank, which ultimately turned out to be the New Development Bank and that was the initiative of India to look at how we as countries of the global south should develop our own multilateral development bank. And so, India has been critical in several important developments over the years in advancing BRICS cooperation, including the standalone statement that we had on addressing terrorism, including the issues of global peace and security. As well as the tremendous economic opportunities that we have through the BRICS Business Council, where the Indian chapter plays a very important role through the woman's Business Alliance, and of course through the think tank Council where Indian academia and think tanks have been an important dimension for cooperation.

Sidhant Sibal: Has BRICS outgrown G7?

Anil Sooklal: Well, let me say that when BRICS came together as a formation, we did so with a common agenda to advance the agenda of the global south as a collective and addressing the fault lines that exist in the global, geopolitical, geo economic financial architecture. That is what BRICS is about , BRICS is an inclusive process. We will never form as a bloc in opposition to any other block nor will be seen as a counterweight to any other block. It is about ourselves and how do we ensure that the global south is not marginalized as we have been constantly marginalized in terms of what is happening on the global front in reshaping a more inclusive and equitable architecture. So, of course, the G7 is there for a long time. And the G7 is about the global north and they cannot speak for the global south because they do not have the same challenges and experiences that we are having as the global south. And that's why you see a tremendous, tremendous interest from a large number of emerging markets, developing countries, very important countries from the Global South, wanting to have a former relationship and join the BRICS. They're not asking to join other bodies. They're asking to join the BRICS. And that's because we are doing certain things that are appealing to them in terms of addressing the imbalances that exist in a very unequal world at the present time.

Sidhant Sibal: Will President Putin be able to attend the summit in South Africa given a warrant has been issued?

Anil Sooklal: Well, let me say that President Ramaphosa has sent out invitations to all four of the BRICS leaders, all of the countries including President Putin have accepted the invitation and they are all looking forward to attending the summit in person in South Africa in August, which is the first time in four years as a result of COVID that we are convening in person. And I was in Moscow two weeks ago where I met the Russian BRICS Sherpa. They are preparing to attend the summit. And South Africa is preparing to host an in-person summit in August this year.

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Russia's President Vladimir Putin has accepted the invitation to attend an in-person BRICS summit in South Africa later this year in August, said BRICS South Africa Sherpa Anil Sooklal in an exclusive interview with WION.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has accepted the invitation to attend an in-person BRICS summit in South Africa later this year in August, said BRICS South Africa Sherpa Anil Sooklal in an exclusive interview with WION. The five nation bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) has a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) slightly more than the United States. The five major economies constitute 41 per cent of world population, 24 per cent of the world GDP and 16 per cent of global trade flows. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal said that Russia is "preparing to attend the summit. And South Africa is preparing to host an in-person summit in August this year." The comments assume significance since International Criminal Court issued a warrant against President Putin which raised concern over his participation. On top of that, South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court, further throwing the BRICS summit host of the year into a geopolitical dilemma. The Sherpa also spoke about expansion of the grouping, explaining, 20 countries have formally or informally approached BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS. Asked about India, the Sherpa Anil said, "India has been a founding member of the BRICS and has played a critical role over the past 15 years." WION reported in recent weeks about how the BRICS nations are banding together to counter the dominance of dollar as a nearly hegemonic currency in global trade. "BRICS Sherpa called for "focusing on reforming the global multilateral architecture at geopolitical, geo-economic and geo-financial" levels. "Well, we already have an agreement that we signed several years ago, the BRICS interbank agreement mechanism that lays the foundation to trade in local currency," Sooklal said. ALSO WATCH | Brazilian President Lula da Silva wants a BRICS currency × Sidhant Sibal: What is the key focus of the South African Presidency of the BRICS? Anil Sooklal: You've rightfully pointed out that we are president of BRICS this year for the third time, having hosted in 2013 and 2018. Whenever South Africa has the opportunity to share BRICS, it's always also about the African continent. This was the case in 2013 and again in 2018. Because BRICS is first, in the first instance the partnership between the five of us, but it's also looking at the larger global South. So, for this year, South Africa has chosen the theme BRICS and Africa partnership for mutually accelerated growth as well as sustainable development and inclusive multilateral. Now if you break down the theme, it consists of four parts firstly, the partnership between BRICS and Africa, which will be a major focus of, of our summit. Secondly, it focuses on mutually accelerate growth, given the challenges of the post COVID environment that we find ourselves, in an environment where you have major power conflict that is impacting global growth, including BRICS Member States and of course, thirdly, we will also look at the sustainable development goals as you are aware as a result of COVID we have fallen back in terms of meeting the targets of the 2030 agenda and the SDGs. So, we will have a discussion on how we can best assist each other in bringing back, bringing us back on track in terms of meeting our SDG goals. And of course, inclusive multilateralism is a standing agenda item of BRICS. BRICS has always focused on how we reform the current global multi-multilateral architecture that has severe fault lines. So focusing on reforming the global multilateral architecture, the geopolitical, geo economic and geo financial architecture will be a major focus for us. So these are some of our key priorities. Now, of course, in terms of specific deliverables, as I've indicated, we want to use the summit to focus on Africa and specifically the African continental Free Trade Agreement, how BRICS, can partner with the African continent to advance this agreement for the mutual benefit of BRICS countries and the African continent. All of the BRICS countries are major partners in Africa's development, in Africa's economy, so we're having an interaction during the BRICS plus and outreach summit that we will have post the BRICS leaders' summit, with leaders from Africa and other global south partners will give us this opportunity to focus on Africa. And to focus on the larger economy. We are also going to be looking at some specific areas of cooperation especially around energy transition and establishing a BRICS Africa- just the energy transition platform. As you know, all of us have made commitments to transit to green energy, but we must ensure that it's a just transition that does not impact negatively on our economic growth does not impact negatively on employment opportunities, and does not impact negatively on poverty alleviation measures. So, energy also be a major focus for us. We'll also look at skills and capacity building for the future. As you know, with new technologies, the future of work is very under discussion. So again, we will look at how we can cooperate in addressing the challenges that new technologies pose to capacity and skills development in the workplace, and how we can also harness the tremendous opportunities that New Technologies provides all of us on the workplace. So these are some of our key priorities. And as I indicated, addressing collectively the challenges of the multilateral architecture as it's currently exist, and what is it the BRICS can do as a collective to advance the discussions and debate on the global stage and not just advance to discussion, but practically, how can we ensure that we bring back the United Nations at the center of the multilateral order. This is something all of us subscribe to and to ensure that the current multilateral order reflects the current global reality which is quite different from when the United Nations was formed almost 50 years ago. Sidhant Sibal: What about trading in national currencies, are there any plans? Anil Sooklal: Well, we already have an agreement that we signed several years ago, the BRICS interbank agreement mechanism that lays the foundation to trade in local currency. So the framework already exists through that MOU that has been signed. What we need to do now is actualize this and given the current situation that we find ourselves in in terms of the global financial architecture, you will see that increasingly BRICS countries and other countries of the global south are starting to trade in their own currencies. India has agreement it is close to 20 plus countries. I was two weeks ago in Moscow and this feature very sharply in the discussions I had with the Russian BRICS Sherpa. And likewise, China is doing the same Brazil. President Lula was recently in China, and he spoke strongly about this. So I think you're going to see this this is also already a discussion within BRICS. The framework in-place and also, I should point out that the New Development Bank, will give 30% of its new lending will be in the local currency. So this process has in terms of lending within BRICS, it's also started in terms of trading between ourselves in local currency. And I think you're going to see this accelerating, and this discussion is very much part of the BRICS agenda this year. Sidhant Sibal: If you can talk about the expansion of the grouping.. Anil Sooklal: Yes, as you will recall, last year at the Beijing summit under China's chair ship, paragraph 73 of the declaration specifically spoke to expansion wherein it stated that we need to start having discussions on BRICS expansion and the leaders tasked sherpas to start looking at the modalities, rules and guidelines governing expansion. So a working group has been created that is specifically working on this mandate. We have had several meetings, we started under China's chair ship last year with 2 meetings, and since South Africa assumed chairmanship, we had three such meetings. We have a further meeting next week at the level of Su Sherpa, specifically discussing expansion. And at the end of May we have a Sherpa meeting to also take forward the discussions and prepare report for our foreign ministers who will be meeting on the first and second of June, on where we are in this process. As you have observed, something like 13 countries have formally asked BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS. In addition, about the five or six countries that we informally made queries wanting to become BRICS members. So something like 20 countries have formally or informally approached BRICS leaders to become full members of BRICS. So expansion is something that we have, in principle agreed to our leaders have agreed to the expansion of BRICS, but it's working on the modalities and timeframes of how this will pan out and that's what we are seeing. Sidhant Sibal: Countries who have been invited for the BRICS outreach summit? Anil Sooklal: Well, this is a process under consultation, but we are looking at using a formula that we have discussed with the African Union, which we use in 2013 and 2018. That worked well. Because BRICS is an inclusive process. So, we must ensure that we are inclusive in the manner in which we invite global leaders from the Global South, including Africa. So what we have done in the past is to invite the political heads of the regional economic communities of Africa, which we have eight that is recognized by the African Union and in addition, we will invite the chair of the African Union, chair of the African Union Commission. Likewise, in terms of invitees from the Global South, in 2018. We also found a formula that was acceptable to all BRICS partners, and I think to the global south as well. We will invite the political heads of all the global south bodies like the Nam, the G 77, the SCO ASEAN, CARICOM, and the Pacific Island forum. So that's the envisaged list of countries we intend to invite together with the African leaders for the architects. Of course, there's a lot of interest in it and a number of countries have approached us wanting to be invited to the summit. So, we'll have to look at how we are involved in a process that is inclusive. Sidhant Sibal: How much will be the conflict in Africa, like the Sudan crisis will be discussed? Anil Sooklal: Well, look, global hotspots has always been an integral part of the Brexit agenda, both at the level of foreign ministers as well as at the summit, not just on conflict in Africa, but conflict throughout the world be it the Western Asia region, in Northeast Asia, in Africa, in Latin America And in Europe. So we will look at some global hotspots and how is it that we can cooperate as BRICS countries to ensure that we instil a movement towards peace through diplomatic dialogue and trying to avert future conflicts and addressing current conflicts in a peaceful and inclusive manner through the respective united with the involvement of the United Nations with the involvement of the regional bodies in the case of Africa, the African Union and the regional economic communities and likewise, in the case of Southeast Asia, for example, the situation in Myanmar with the ASEAN in that instance. So I think addressing peace on the global stage in a comprehensive and inclusive manner, wherever it is. Sidhant Sibal: What does India brings to the table? Anil Sooklal: Well, India has been a founding member of the BRICS and has played a critical role over the past 15 years that we are meeting at the level of Summit. I've been privileged to partake whenever India has chaired as way back as 2012 at the Delhi summit and subsequently the Goa Summit, and India has brought tremendous value to the BRICS on all three areas of cooperation as you know, we are arranged in such a manner that we have three pillars of cooperation, the political and security, economic and finance and of course, the social and people to people interaction. And in all of these areas, India has been a critical contributor like the other BRICS members, it was in New Delhi that we in 2012 started the process of looking at establishing a BRICS Bank, which ultimately turned out to be the New Development Bank and that was the initiative of India to look at how we as countries of the global south should develop our own multilateral development bank. And so, India has been critical in several important developments over the years in advancing BRICS cooperation, including the standalone statement that we had on addressing terrorism, including the issues of global peace and security. As well as the tremendous economic opportunities that we have through the BRICS Business Council, where the Indian chapter plays a very important role through the woman's Business Alliance, and of course through the think tank Council where Indian academia and think tanks have been an important dimension for cooperation. Sidhant Sibal: Has BRICS outgrown G7? Anil Sooklal: Well, let me say that when BRICS came together as a formation, we did so with a common agenda to advance the agenda of the global south as a collective and addressing the fault lines that exist in the global, geopolitical, geo economic financial architecture. That is what BRICS is about , BRICS is an inclusive process. We will never form as a bloc in opposition to any other block nor will be seen as a counterweight to any other block. It is about ourselves and how do we ensure that the global south is not marginalized as we have been constantly marginalized in terms of what is happening on the global front in reshaping a more inclusive and equitable architecture. So, of course, the G7 is there for a long time. And the G7 is about the global north and they cannot speak for the global south because they do not have the same challenges and experiences that we are having as the global south. And that's why you see a tremendous, tremendous interest from a large number of emerging markets, developing countries, very important countries from the Global South, wanting to have a former relationship and join the BRICS. They're not asking to join other bodies. They're asking to join the BRICS. And that's because we are doing certain things that are appealing to them in terms of addressing the imbalances that exist in a very unequal world at the present time. Sidhant Sibal: Will President Putin be able to attend the summit in South Africa given a warrant has been issued? Anil Sooklal: Well, let me say that President Ramaphosa has sent out invitations to all four of the BRICS leaders, all of the countries including President Putin have accepted the invitation and they are all looking forward to attending the summit in person in South Africa in August, which is the first time in four years as a result of COVID that we are convening in person. And I was in Moscow two weeks ago where I met the Russian BRICS Sherpa. They are preparing to attend the summit. And South Africa is preparing to host an in-person summit in August this year. 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.

Exclusive | Russian President Putin accepts invite for BRICS summit: South Africa's BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal

The United States on Wednesday called upon Turkey and Hungary to ratify Sweden's membership to the NATO alliance. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was&nbsp;on a visit to Sweden, hoped that the Russian maritime neighbour will become a NATO member before July 2023.&nbsp;

"We look forward to soon welcoming Sweden as the 32nd (member of NATO). To be clear, we look forward to that to happen before the summit in July," Austin told a news conference.

"We encourage our allies, Turkey and Hungary, to ratify Sweden's accession as soon as possible."

The US&nbsp;defence secretary's Sweden visit coincides with the Scandinavian nation's biggest military exercise for more than a quarter of a century, Aurora 23.

Around 700 US marines will take part in the exercise along with troops from Britain, Finland, Poland, Norway, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Denmark, Austria, Germany and France.

In total, around 26,000 military personnel will take part in exercises around Sweden on land, at sea and in the air.

Along with Finland, Sweden applied to join NATO in May last year. Finland's application was processed in record time and it became the 31st member of the alliance earlier this month.

Sweden's accession has been held up by Turkey and Hungary, who have not&nbsp;yet ratified Sweden as a NATO member.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO

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Austin was in Sweden to hold talks with Defence Minister Pal Jonson about the war in Ukraine and Sweden's NATO application.

Sweden's defence minister said Austin's visit, which included a tour of the underground naval base at Musko, was a signal of the United States' commitment to Sweden's security "on a bilateral basis" and was an opportunity for Sweden to showcase its military capabilities.

The Musko base contains a naval dockyard, workshops, offices, warehouses and a hospital, all excavated deep beneath the rocks of Musko island during the 1950s and 60s.

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The United States on Wednesday called upon Turkey and Hungary to ratify Sweden's membership to the NATO alliance. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was on a visit to Sweden, hoped that the Russian maritime neighbour will become a NATO member before July 2023.

The United States on Wednesday called upon Turkey and Hungary to ratify Sweden's membership to the NATO alliance. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was on a visit to Sweden, hoped that the Russian maritime neighbour will become a NATO member before July 2023. "We look forward to soon welcoming Sweden as the 32nd (member of NATO). To be clear, we look forward to that to happen before the summit in July," Austin told a news conference. "We encourage our allies, Turkey and Hungary, to ratify Sweden's accession as soon as possible." The US defence secretary's Sweden visit coincides with the Scandinavian nation's biggest military exercise for more than a quarter of a century, Aurora 23. Around 700 US marines will take part in the exercise along with troops from Britain, Finland, Poland, Norway, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Denmark, Austria, Germany and France. In total, around 26,000 military personnel will take part in exercises around Sweden on land, at sea and in the air. Along with Finland, Sweden applied to join NATO in May last year. Finland's application was processed in record time and it became the 31st member of the alliance earlier this month. Sweden's accession has been held up by Turkey and Hungary, who have not yet ratified Sweden as a NATO member. ALSO WATCH | Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO × Austin was in Sweden to hold talks with Defence Minister Pal Jonson about the war in Ukraine and Sweden's NATO application. Sweden's defence minister said Austin's visit, which included a tour of the underground naval base at Musko, was a signal of the United States' commitment to Sweden's security "on a bilateral basis" and was an opportunity for Sweden to showcase its military capabilities. The Musko base contains a naval dockyard, workshops, offices, warehouses and a hospital, all excavated deep beneath the rocks of Musko island during the 1950s and 60s. (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.

US steps up Russia's NATO encirclement process with wargame over Sweden

Fourteen months into the Russia-Ukraine war and a few months after President Vladimir Putin announced the partial military mobilisation of Russian citizens, Moscow is taking drastic steps to catch those evading the nation's compulsory military draft. As per a report by Russian state-owned news agency TASS, Moscow authorities are using the nation's vast system of facial recognition to track down young men eligible for serving in the military.

"To determine the place of residence of the conscript, video surveillance systems in the city of Moscow are being used," said Moscow's chief enlistment officer Maxim Loktev while talking to TASS.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-approves-electronic-enlistment-bill-clamps-down-on-russians-who-dodge-military-service-582599">Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service</a>

In 2017, Moscow's Department of Information Technologies announced that more than 3,000 surveillance cameras in the city had been connected to a facial recognition system.

This comes as just last week Putin signed a law tightening restrictions on draft evaders and made it so that call-up papers can be delivered electronically instead of in-person delivery by an enlistment officer or employer.

As per Reuters, facial recognition will make life harder for thousands of 18 to 27-year-olds who every spring and autumn do their best to dodge recruitment. Alongside those called up for service in the Ukraine war, these young men try their best to dodge recruitment officers trying to force them to do their year of&nbsp;compulsory military service.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-moves-towards-electronic-system-to-crack-down-on-conscription-dodgers-581848">Russia moves towards electronic system to crack down on conscription dodgers</a>

Since the start of the Ukraine war, at least 300,000 reservists have been mobilised to fight in Ukraine.

The nation's compulsory military service exponentially expands Russia's armed forces.&nbsp;Starting in 2021, all Russian male citizens aged 18-27 are required to undergo conscription for one year of active duty military service in the country's armed forces. Recruitment campaigns for this are held twice every year; in spring and in autumn.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fourteen months into the Russia-Ukraine war and a few months after President Vladimir Putin announced the partial military mobilisation of Russian citizens, Moscow is taking drastic steps to catch those evading the nation's compulsory military draft.

Fourteen months into the Russia-Ukraine war and a few months after President Vladimir Putin announced the partial military mobilisation of Russian citizens, Moscow is taking drastic steps to catch those evading the nation's compulsory military draft. As per a report by Russian state-owned news agency TASS, Moscow authorities are using the nation's vast system of facial recognition to track down young men eligible for serving in the military. "To determine the place of residence of the conscript, video surveillance systems in the city of Moscow are being used," said Moscow's chief enlistment officer Maxim Loktev while talking to TASS. Also read | Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service In 2017, Moscow's Department of Information Technologies announced that more than 3,000 surveillance cameras in the city had been connected to a facial recognition system. This comes as just last week Putin signed a law tightening restrictions on draft evaders and made it so that call-up papers can be delivered electronically instead of in-person delivery by an enlistment officer or employer. As per Reuters, facial recognition will make life harder for thousands of 18 to 27-year-olds who every spring and autumn do their best to dodge recruitment. Alongside those called up for service in the Ukraine war, these young men try their best to dodge recruitment officers trying to force them to do their year of compulsory military service. Also read | Russia moves towards electronic system to crack down on conscription dodgers Since the start of the Ukraine war, at least 300,000 reservists have been mobilised to fight in Ukraine. The nation's compulsory military service exponentially expands Russia's armed forces. Starting in 2021, all Russian male citizens aged 18-27 are required to undergo conscription for one year of active duty military service in the country's armed forces. Recruitment campaigns for this are held twice every year; in spring and in autumn. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia using facial recognition to crack down on youngsters dodging compulsory military service

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited parts of Ukraine (Kherson and Lugansk) that Russia claims it annexed last year to meet the security forces and military commanders. The crucial visit is marked as the first time Putin visited the two regions, which are partly controlled by Russian troops. Moscow claims that it annexed both Kherson and Lugansk along with two other Ukrainian regions last September.&nbsp;

Putin rarely visited parts of Ukraine under Russia's control amid the ongoing war. Last month, he visited the Crimea region and the city of Mariupol.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Kremlin said that the "supreme commander of Russian Federation armed forces has visited the headquarters of the Dniepr military grouping" in the Kherson region in the south, as well as Russian national guard headquarters in the Lugansk region in the east.&nbsp;

The Kremlin statement was released on Tuesday (April 18), but it doesn't specify when the trip took place.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lavrov-says-russia-is-interested-in-ending-ukraine-conflict-as-soon-as-possible-583528">Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible'</a>&nbsp;

Putin said in a video released by the Kremlin:&nbsp;"It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information."&nbsp;

The Russian leader also wished the troops a happy Easter, which Orthodox Christians marked last Sunday.&nbsp;

Russian news agency TASS reported that Putin spoke with commanders from the airborne forces of Russia's "Dnieper" army unit and TASS added that one of the objectives of the visit was to get a "report" from commanders on the situation in both the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia directions.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian strikes kill father and daughter in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia&nbsp;

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As seen in the video and translated by news agencies, Putin said: "I do not want to distract you from your direct duties related to command and control. Therefore, we are working here in a business-like manner, briefly, but concretely."&nbsp;

"It is important for me to hear your opinion on how the situation is developing, to listen to you, to exchange information. I would ask you to start your report with the situation in the Kherson direction, then in the Zaporozhzhia direction," he added.&nbsp;

The visit took place as a meeting of Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in Japan condemned a Russian plan to station nuclear weapons in Belarus.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine reacts to the visit</h2>

Kyiv accused Putin of visiting the scenes of Russian "crimes".&nbsp;Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, tweeted:&nbsp;"Putin's degradation is impressive.

He also said Putin was touring Ukraine's occupied territories "to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin visited parts of Ukraine (Kherson and Lugansk) that Russia claims it annexed last year to meet the security forces and military commanders.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited parts of Ukraine (Kherson and Lugansk) that Russia claims it annexed last year to meet the security forces and military commanders. The crucial visit is marked as the first time Putin visited the two regions, which are partly controlled by Russian troops. Moscow claims that it annexed both Kherson and Lugansk along with two other Ukrainian regions last September. Putin rarely visited parts of Ukraine under Russia's control amid the ongoing war. Last month, he visited the Crimea region and the city of Mariupol. In a statement, the Kremlin said that the "supreme commander of Russian Federation armed forces has visited the headquarters of the Dniepr military grouping" in the Kherson region in the south, as well as Russian national guard headquarters in the Lugansk region in the east. The Kremlin statement was released on Tuesday (April 18), but it doesn't specify when the trip took place. ALSO READ | Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible' Putin said in a video released by the Kremlin: "It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information." The Russian leader also wished the troops a happy Easter, which Orthodox Christians marked last Sunday. Russian news agency TASS reported that Putin spoke with commanders from the airborne forces of Russia's "Dnieper" army unit and TASS added that one of the objectives of the visit was to get a "report" from commanders on the situation in both the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia directions. WATCH | Russian strikes kill father and daughter in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia × As seen in the video and translated by news agencies, Putin said: "I do not want to distract you from your direct duties related to command and control. Therefore, we are working here in a business-like manner, briefly, but concretely." "It is important for me to hear your opinion on how the situation is developing, to listen to you, to exchange information. I would ask you to start your report with the situation in the Kherson direction, then in the Zaporozhzhia direction," he added. The visit took place as a meeting of Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in Japan condemned a Russian plan to station nuclear weapons in Belarus. Ukraine reacts to the visit Kyiv accused Putin of visiting the scenes of Russian "crimes". Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, tweeted: "Putin's degradation is impressive. He also said Putin was touring Ukraine's occupied territories "to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin visits Russian troops in 'annexed' Ukrainian regions

Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Sunday (April 16) and hailed ties between the two nations, state media reported on Monday.&nbsp;

Li said that Beijing is willing to work with Russia to have close strategic communications between their militaries. He also said that China pursue the strengthening of multilateral coordination and cooperation with Russia.&nbsp;

The state media's report quoted Li as saying: "China is willing to work with Russia to make new contributions to the maintenance of world and regional security and stability."&nbsp;

He said that China and Russia have very "strong ties" and the nations surpass the military-political alliances of the Cold War era, they are very stable.&nbsp;

The defence minister further noted that the Russia-China ties have "already entered a new era". He said, "This is my first overseas visit since taking over as China's defence minister."&nbsp;

"I specifically chose Russia for this in order to emphasise the special nature and strategic importance of our bilateral ties," Li said.

News agencies reported that Putin welcomed military cooperation between Russia and China during the meeting, which was also attended by Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.&nbsp;

Putin said, "We are also working actively through the military departments, regularly exchange useful information, cooperate in the field of military-technical cooperation, and conduct joint exercises."&nbsp;

"This is, undoubtedly, another important area that strengthens the exclusively trusting, strategic nature of our relations," he added. 
&nbsp; 
The visit by the Chinese defence minister comes in the backdrop of Xi's state visit to Russia last month. During the Xi-Putin summit, both called each other "dear friends" and agreed to work together on issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;

Over the past few years, Moscow and Beijing have increased cooperation, both driven by a desire to counterbalance US global dominance. Their partnership has only grown closer since Putin launched an offensive in Ukraine last February.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Sunday (April 16) and hailed ties between the two nations, state media reported on Monday.

Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Sunday (April 16) and hailed ties between the two nations, state media reported on Monday. Li said that Beijing is willing to work with Russia to have close strategic communications between their militaries. He also said that China pursue the strengthening of multilateral coordination and cooperation with Russia. The state media's report quoted Li as saying: "China is willing to work with Russia to make new contributions to the maintenance of world and regional security and stability." He said that China and Russia have very "strong ties" and the nations surpass the military-political alliances of the Cold War era, they are very stable. The defence minister further noted that the Russia-China ties have "already entered a new era". He said, "This is my first overseas visit since taking over as China's defence minister." "I specifically chose Russia for this in order to emphasise the special nature and strategic importance of our bilateral ties," Li said. News agencies reported that Putin welcomed military cooperation between Russia and China during the meeting, which was also attended by Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Putin said, "We are also working actively through the military departments, regularly exchange useful information, cooperate in the field of military-technical cooperation, and conduct joint exercises." "This is, undoubtedly, another important area that strengthens the exclusively trusting, strategic nature of our relations," he added. The visit by the Chinese defence minister comes in the backdrop of Xi's state visit to Russia last month. During the Xi-Putin summit, both called each other "dear friends" and agreed to work together on issues of mutual interest. Over the past few years, Moscow and Beijing have increased cooperation, both driven by a desire to counterbalance US global dominance. Their partnership has only grown closer since Putin launched an offensive in Ukraine last February. (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 minister meets Putin, says willing to work with Russian military to have close communications

Vladimir Kara-Murza, Russian opposition leader and a staunch Vladimir Putin critic, was convicted of treason by a Russian court on Monday. He has been sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Moscow City Court found the 41-year-old guilty of treason, “false information about the Russian army,” and affiliation with an “undesirable organisation,” Interfax reported.&nbsp;His trial was held behind closed doors.

According&nbsp;to the Mediazona news site, the hearing was attended by several Kara-Murza supporters and foreign diplomats including a US&nbsp;embassy official named David Bernstein.

“Russia will be free, tell everyone,” Kara-Murza was quoted as saying after the verdict, according to the independent news site Avtozak.info.

Kara-Murza's wife later said that a&nbsp;&nbsp;25-year sentence shows Kremlin is "afraid of him".&nbsp;

His attorney also slammed the decision, saying he was a political prisoner whose prosecution had no relation to justice.

"The criminal case against him was nothing to do with justice from the beginning," attorney Vadim Prokhorov said in Washington.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny also denounced the sentence as "shameless and simply fascist".&nbsp;

"I was deeply outraged by the sentence delivered against Vladimir Kara-Murza today," Navalny said in audio remarks released by his team. "I consider it to be unlawful, shameless and simply fascist."

Russia has been clamping down even a fraction of war dissent ever since the invasion of Ukraine began.

The politician was detained in April 2022, on charges of “spreading false information about the Russian army” in an address to US state legislators on March 15.&nbsp; During that speech to the Arizona House of Representatives, he denounced&nbsp;military action in Ukraine.

The authorities added treason charges while he was in custody. Russia adopted a law criminalising spreading “false information” about its military shortly after it sent troops into Ukraine on February&nbsp;24, 2022. Authorities have used the law to stifle criticism of what the Kremlin calls “a special military operation.”

Kara-Murza holds dual British-Russian citizenship. Though born in Russia, the 41-year-old&nbsp;received British citizenship after moving to the UK with his mother when he was 15.

Moscow Times newspaper reported that Kara-Murza suffers from a nerve condition called polyneuropathy, which his lawyers say was due to poisoning attempts in 2015 and 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They said that his condition has worsened in prison, and he was too unwell to attend some of his hearings.&nbsp;Kara-Murza claims that he was poisoned twice because of his political activities, but he continued to spend long periods of time in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vladimir Kara-Murza, Russian opposition leader and a staunch Vladimir Putin critic, was convicted of treason by a Russian court on Monday. He has been sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, Russian opposition leader and a staunch Vladimir Putin critic, was convicted of treason by a Russian court on Monday. He has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. Moscow City Court found the 41-year-old guilty of treason, “false information about the Russian army,” and affiliation with an “undesirable organisation,” Interfax reported. His trial was held behind closed doors. According to the Mediazona news site, the hearing was attended by several Kara-Murza supporters and foreign diplomats including a US embassy official named David Bernstein. “Russia will be free, tell everyone,” Kara-Murza was quoted as saying after the verdict, according to the independent news site Avtozak.info. Kara-Murza's wife later said that a 25-year sentence shows Kremlin is "afraid of him". His attorney also slammed the decision, saying he was a political prisoner whose prosecution had no relation to justice. "The criminal case against him was nothing to do with justice from the beginning," attorney Vadim Prokhorov said in Washington. Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny also denounced the sentence as "shameless and simply fascist". "I was deeply outraged by the sentence delivered against Vladimir Kara-Murza today," Navalny said in audio remarks released by his team. "I consider it to be unlawful, shameless and simply fascist." Russia has been clamping down even a fraction of war dissent ever since the invasion of Ukraine began. The politician was detained in April 2022, on charges of “spreading false information about the Russian army” in an address to US state legislators on March 15. During that speech to the Arizona House of Representatives, he denounced military action in Ukraine. The authorities added treason charges while he was in custody. Russia adopted a law criminalising spreading “false information” about its military shortly after it sent troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Authorities have used the law to stifle criticism of what the Kremlin calls “a special military operation.” Kara-Murza holds dual British-Russian citizenship. Though born in Russia, the 41-year-old received British citizenship after moving to the UK with his mother when he was 15. Moscow Times newspaper reported that Kara-Murza suffers from a nerve condition called polyneuropathy, which his lawyers say was due to poisoning attempts in 2015 and 2017. They said that his condition has worsened in prison, and he was too unwell to attend some of his hearings. Kara-Murza claims that he was poisoned twice because of his political activities, but he continued to spend long periods of time in Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza sentenced to 25 years in prison, Navalny terms the ruling 'fascist'

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Kremlin critic, has been jailed for 25 years on charges including treason over criticism of Russia's offensive against its neighbour Ukraine. The 41-year-old's high-profile trial is the latest in a string of cases targeting those critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin. As per AFP, the crackdown has worsened since Putin ordered Russian troops to begin a military offensive 14 months back.

Charges against Kara-Murza include treason, spreading "false" information about the Russian army, and affiliation with an "undesirable organisation."&nbsp;

Following a closed-door trial, he has been found guilty of all charges. The Kremlin critic has been sentenced to 25 years in a strict regime penal colony.

Here's all you need to know about Vladimir Kara-Murza:

<h2>Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza?</h2>

He is a historian, a journalist and an opposition politician. The Kremlin critic is a dual citizen and holds Russian and British passports.

Kara-Murza was a close associate of Boris Nemtsov, an outspoken critic of Russian President Putin,&nbsp;who was assassinated on February 27, 2015.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-critic-vladimir-kara-murza-charged-with-treason-by-russian-court-583272">Putin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza charged with treason by Russian court</a>

Nemtsov was a stringent critic of the Putin government, which he viewed as an increasingly authoritarian, undemocratic regime. He was killed after being hit by four bullets, which were reportedly shot from the back.&nbsp;In the weeks before his death, he had even expressed a fear that Putin would have him killed.

Vladimir Kara-Murza is also a known close associate of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former oligarch turned Putin critic.

<h2>Did Kara-Murza face any "assassination attempts"?</h2>

In 2015 and then again in 2017, the Kremlin critic suddenly fell ill. Both times,&nbsp;his condition worsened to the point of him slipping into a coma.&nbsp;As per the Guardian, he nearly died from kidney failure in the first attempt on his life.

Kara-Murza alleges that he was poisoned by the Russian security services. However, Russian authorities deny any involvement in the incidents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-minister-meets-putin-says-willing-to-work-with-russian-military-to-have-close-communications-583151">Chinese minister meets Putin, says willing to work with Russian military to have close communications</a>

Reuters reports that even today Kara-Murza is suffering the effects of the alleged poisonings. As per his lawyers, the Kremlin critic is plagued by a nerve condition called polyneuropathy, which was triggered due to the said assassination attempts.

<h2>Did he flee Russia after these "attempts" on his life?</h2>

AFP reports that almost all of Putin's best-known political opponents and critics have either fled the country or, like another prominent Kremlin critic, Alexei Navalny, are in jail; a fate that Kara-Murza now faces.

He is one of the small numbers of Putin's opposition politicians who remained active in Russia, even after the nation invaded its neighbour country and the resulting Ukraine war.

<h2>Kara-Murza's criticism of Putin and the Ukraine war</h2>

The politician has been a vocal critic of the Russian invasion of Ukraine from the get-go. He even launched an anti-war committee with fellow leading Russian opposition figures.

Kara-Murza infamously described the Kremlin as a "regime of murderers."

In April 2022, appearing on CNN, he said: "I have absolutely no doubt that the Putin regime will end over this war in Ukraine, doesn’t mean it’s gonna happen tomorrow. The two main questions are time and price, and by price, I do not mean monetary – I mean the price of human blood and human lives and it has already been horrendous, but the Putin regime will end over this and there will be a democratic Russia after Putin."

Watch |&nbsp;How important is cyber warfare in Russia-Ukraine conflict

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<h2>When was he arrested? What charges were imposed against him?</h2>

Kara-Murza was arrested on April 11, 2022, on charges of disobeying police orders and faced up to 15 days in jail or a small fine. However, the arrest came hours after he referred to Putin's government as "a regime of murderers."

Subsequently, on April 22, 2022, he was charged by a Russian court for spreading "false" information about the Russian troops. The charges were reportedly imposed for his March 15 speech to the Arizona House of Representatives, in which he denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He was declared a "foreign agent" for his statement.

In July, new charges of cooperating with an "undesirable" foreign NGO were added, which comes with up to six years in prison. In October, for public speeches he made in Lisbon, Helsinki and Washington, he was charged with treason, a crime that carries up to 20 years in prison.

<h2>How did the Kremlin critic respond to the charges levied against him?</h2>

As per a copy of the speech Kara-Murza delivered to the court where he was sentenced to 25 years in prison, the Kremlin critic said he has done nothing wrong and that he was "proud" of his words.

"I subscribe to every word that I have said, that I am incriminated for today," he said as per comments published by veteran journalist Alexei Venediktov.&nbsp;

"Not only do I not repent for any of it — I am proud of it," he added.

"Criminals are supposed to repent of what they have done. I, on the other hand, am in prison for my political views. I also know that the day will come when the darkness over our country will dissipate," said Kara-Murza, who has described the entire case against him as being based on "political vengeance" and compared the proceedings to Josef Stalin's show trials of the 1930s&nbsp;— held between by the Soviet Union between 1936 and 1938. Defendants were Old Bolshevik Party leaders and top officials of the Soviet secret police,&nbsp;these trials&nbsp;are often seen as a great purge to rid of Stalin's opposition in the party.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Kremlin critic, has been jailed for 25 years on charges including treason over criticism of Russia's offensive against its neighbour Ukraine.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Kremlin critic, has been jailed for 25 years on charges including treason over criticism of Russia's offensive against its neighbour Ukraine. The 41-year-old's high-profile trial is the latest in a string of cases targeting those critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin. As per AFP, the crackdown has worsened since Putin ordered Russian troops to begin a military offensive 14 months back. Charges against Kara-Murza include treason, spreading "false" information about the Russian army, and affiliation with an "undesirable organisation." Following a closed-door trial, he has been found guilty of all charges. The Kremlin critic has been sentenced to 25 years in a strict regime penal colony. Here's all you need to know about Vladimir Kara-Murza: Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza? He is a historian, a journalist and an opposition politician. The Kremlin critic is a dual citizen and holds Russian and British passports. Kara-Murza was a close associate of Boris Nemtsov, an outspoken critic of Russian President Putin, who was assassinated on February 27, 2015. Also read | Putin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza charged with treason by Russian court Nemtsov was a stringent critic of the Putin government, which he viewed as an increasingly authoritarian, undemocratic regime. He was killed after being hit by four bullets, which were reportedly shot from the back. In the weeks before his death, he had even expressed a fear that Putin would have him killed. Vladimir Kara-Murza is also a known close associate of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former oligarch turned Putin critic. Did Kara-Murza face any "assassination attempts"? In 2015 and then again in 2017, the Kremlin critic suddenly fell ill. Both times, his condition worsened to the point of him slipping into a coma. As per the Guardian, he nearly died from kidney failure in the first attempt on his life. Kara-Murza alleges that he was poisoned by the Russian security services. However, Russian authorities deny any involvement in the incidents. Also read | Chinese minister meets Putin, says willing to work with Russian military to have close communications Reuters reports that even today Kara-Murza is suffering the effects of the alleged poisonings. As per his lawyers, the Kremlin critic is plagued by a nerve condition called polyneuropathy, which was triggered due to the said assassination attempts. Did he flee Russia after these "attempts" on his life? AFP reports that almost all of Putin's best-known political opponents and critics have either fled the country or, like another prominent Kremlin critic, Alexei Navalny, are in jail; a fate that Kara-Murza now faces. He is one of the small numbers of Putin's opposition politicians who remained active in Russia, even after the nation invaded its neighbour country and the resulting Ukraine war. Kara-Murza's criticism of Putin and the Ukraine war The politician has been a vocal critic of the Russian invasion of Ukraine from the get-go. He even launched an anti-war committee with fellow leading Russian opposition figures. Kara-Murza infamously described the Kremlin as a "regime of murderers." In April 2022, appearing on CNN, he said: "I have absolutely no doubt that the Putin regime will end over this war in Ukraine, doesn’t mean it’s gonna happen tomorrow. The two main questions are time and price, and by price, I do not mean monetary – I mean the price of human blood and human lives and it has already been horrendous, but the Putin regime will end over this and there will be a democratic Russia after Putin." Watch | How important is cyber warfare in Russia-Ukraine conflict When was he arrested? What charges were imposed against him? Kara-Murza was arrested on April 11, 2022, on charges of disobeying police orders and faced up to 15 days in jail or a small fine. However, the arrest came hours after he referred to Putin's government as "a regime of murderers." Subsequently, on April 22, 2022, he was charged by a Russian court for spreading "false" information about the Russian troops. The charges were reportedly imposed for his March 15 speech to the Arizona House of Representatives, in which he denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He was declared a "foreign agent" for his statement. In July, new charges of cooperating with an "undesirable" foreign NGO were added, which comes with up to six years in prison. In October, for public speeches he made in Lisbon, Helsinki and Washington, he was charged with treason, a crime that carries up to 20 years in prison. How did the Kremlin critic respond to the charges levied against him? As per a copy of the speech Kara-Murza delivered to the court where he was sentenced to 25 years in prison, the Kremlin critic said he has done nothing wrong and that he was "proud" of his words. "I subscribe to every word that I have said, that I am incriminated for today," he said as per comments published by veteran journalist Alexei Venediktov. "Not only do I not repent for any of it — I am proud of it," he added. "Criminals are supposed to repent of what they have done. I, on the other hand, am in prison for my political views. I also know that the day will come when the darkness over our country will dissipate," said Kara-Murza, who has described the entire case against him as being based on "political vengeance" and compared the proceedings to Josef Stalin's show trials of the 1930s — held between by the Soviet Union between 1936 and 1938. Defendants were Old Bolshevik Party leaders and top officials of the Soviet secret police, these trials are often seen as a great purge to rid of Stalin's opposition in the party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. 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WION Explains | Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza, the Kremlin critic jailed for 25 years

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