At discussions in Warsaw on Monday, Kyiv is attempting to re-open food and grain transit via Poland. As per Reuters, this is a "first step" to lifting the import restrictions after some nations stopped importing grain from Ukraine to safeguard their own agricultural markets from an influx of supplies.

This comes as Poland and Hungary on Saturday announced bans on some imports. Slovakia also announced a similar action and reportedly other nations in central and eastern Europe are also considering action.

"The first step, in our opinion, should be the opening of transit, because it is quite important and it is the thing that should be done unconditionally and after that we will talk about other things," said Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-explains-who-is-vladimir-kara-murza-the-kremlin-critic-jailed-for-25-years-583306">WION Explains | Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza, the Kremlin critic jailed for 25 years?</a>

Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus,&nbsp;as per TVP Info, revealed that talks between Ukraine and Poland were due to start in Warsaw around 12:00 pm (1000 GMT) on Monday.

As per Solsky, Ukraine is also holding additional talks this week in Romania on Wednesday, and in Slovakia on Thursday.

In comments published on the Telegram messaging app by the Agriculture Ministry Solsky said that about 10 per cent of food goods Ukraine exports cross the Polish border. While deliveries to Hungary account for around six per cent of Ukraine's farm exports.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-acceptable-eu-issues-warning-after-poland-and-hungary-ban-ukrainian-grain-583193">'Not acceptable': EU issues warning after Poland and Hungary ban Ukrainian grain</a>

Poland's embargo, which came into effect Saturday evening, also applies to transit through the country to keep grain transport from entering the Polish market.

"The ultimate goal is not that the import ban will be in force indefinitely, but to ensure that grain from Ukraine, which is to be exported, goes (where it is headed)," said Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Pawel Jablonski while talking to radio station RMF.

As Slovakia prepared to ban imports of wheat and other specified products from Ukraine temporarily, a Slovakian government spokeswoman said on Monday, impediments to Ukrainian imports appeared to be growing.

Istvan Nagy, Hungary's farm minister, says that a solution was needed beyond the national level. "Joint European action and EU measures are inevitable," he said.&nbsp;After the bloc's executive said on Sunday that unilateral action was unacceptable, a senior EU source said EU envoys were scheduled to address Poland and Hungary's bans this week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At discussions in Warsaw on Monday, Kyiv is attempting to re-open food and grain transit via Poland. As per Reuters, this is a "first step" to lifting the import restrictions after some nations stopped importing grain from Ukraine to safeguard their own agricultural markets from an influx of supplies.

At discussions in Warsaw on Monday, Kyiv is attempting to re-open food and grain transit via Poland. As per Reuters, this is a "first step" to lifting the import restrictions after some nations stopped importing grain from Ukraine to safeguard their own agricultural markets from an influx of supplies. This comes as Poland and Hungary on Saturday announced bans on some imports. Slovakia also announced a similar action and reportedly other nations in central and eastern Europe are also considering action. "The first step, in our opinion, should be the opening of transit, because it is quite important and it is the thing that should be done unconditionally and after that we will talk about other things," said Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky. Also read | WION Explains | Who is Vladimir Kara-Murza, the Kremlin critic jailed for 25 years? Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, as per TVP Info, revealed that talks between Ukraine and Poland were due to start in Warsaw around 12:00 pm (1000 GMT) on Monday. As per Solsky, Ukraine is also holding additional talks this week in Romania on Wednesday, and in Slovakia on Thursday. In comments published on the Telegram messaging app by the Agriculture Ministry Solsky said that about 10 per cent of food goods Ukraine exports cross the Polish border. While deliveries to Hungary account for around six per cent of Ukraine's farm exports. Also read | 'Not acceptable': EU issues warning after Poland and Hungary ban Ukrainian grain Poland's embargo, which came into effect Saturday evening, also applies to transit through the country to keep grain transport from entering the Polish market. "The ultimate goal is not that the import ban will be in force indefinitely, but to ensure that grain from Ukraine, which is to be exported, goes (where it is headed)," said Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Pawel Jablonski while talking to radio station RMF. As Slovakia prepared to ban imports of wheat and other specified products from Ukraine temporarily, a Slovakian government spokeswoman said on Monday, impediments to Ukrainian imports appeared to be growing. Istvan Nagy, Hungary's farm minister, says that a solution was needed beyond the national level. "Joint European action and EU measures are inevitable," he said. After the bloc's executive said on Sunday that unilateral action was unacceptable, a senior EU source said EU envoys were scheduled to address Poland and Hungary's bans this week. (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.

As import bans mount Ukraine seeks re-opening of grain transit via Poland

Ukraine brings home 130 of its troops in 'big Easter POW swap' with Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation on Sunday (April 16).&nbsp;Putin and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church exchanged Easter egg decorations, just the way they have done in previous years. TASS reported that both exchanged Easter gifts during the holiday service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russian Orthodox patriarch Kirill led the Sign of the Cross outside having blessed the crowd. The 76-year-old also led night Eater service in Moscow's Christ the Saviour cathedral.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-bans-food-imports-from-ukraine-to-ease-farmers-582856">Poland bans food imports from Ukraine to ease farmers</a>&nbsp;

The Russian president was seen crossing himself several times during the ceremony, but he didn't speak much. He only spoke after Patriarch Kirill announced "Christ has risen". Putin and other members of the congregation replied "Truly he is risen."&nbsp;

During the entire ceremony, Putin was seen on one side in Moscow's Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Dressed in a dark suit with a white shirt and purple tie, Putin was seen holding a candle.&nbsp;

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Notably, Russia's Christ the Saviour Cathedral has strongly backed Putin's decision to send troops to Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".&nbsp;

Traditionally, the Russian president attends service&nbsp;during high holy days and on Easter, the head of state usually attends services at the Christ the Savior Cathedral. Putin also attended last year.&nbsp;

During his presidency, Putin only skipped the Easter service in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Putin has attended Easter festivities outside Moscow only twice. One was in 2000, at St. Petersburg’s St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the other in 2003, when he attended services at the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Dushanbe while on a visit to Tajikistan.

The entire Christian world commemorates a key moment in the history of Christianity as Easter is the central holiday. It is marked Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation on Sunday (April 16). Putin and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church exchanged Easter egg decorations, just the way they have done in previous years.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation on Sunday (April 16). Putin and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church exchanged Easter egg decorations, just the way they have done in previous years. TASS reported that both exchanged Easter gifts during the holiday service. Russian Orthodox patriarch Kirill led the Sign of the Cross outside having blessed the crowd. The 76-year-old also led night Eater service in Moscow's Christ the Saviour cathedral. ALSO READ | Poland bans food imports from Ukraine to ease farmers The Russian president was seen crossing himself several times during the ceremony, but he didn't speak much. He only spoke after Patriarch Kirill announced "Christ has risen". Putin and other members of the congregation replied "Truly he is risen." During the entire ceremony, Putin was seen on one side in Moscow's Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Dressed in a dark suit with a white shirt and purple tie, Putin was seen holding a candle. Watch this report: × Notably, Russia's Christ the Saviour Cathedral has strongly backed Putin's decision to send troops to Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Traditionally, the Russian president attends service during high holy days and on Easter, the head of state usually attends services at the Christ the Savior Cathedral. Putin also attended last year. During his presidency, Putin only skipped the Easter service in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic. Putin has attended Easter festivities outside Moscow only twice. One was in 2000, at St. Petersburg’s St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the other in 2003, when he attended services at the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Dushanbe while on a visit to Tajikistan. The entire Christian world commemorates a key moment in the history of Christianity as Easter is the central holiday. It is marked Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's Vladimir Putin attends midnight Orthodox Easter service in Moscow

Among the recently leaked documents from Pentagon also finds mention of a rumour surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deteriorating health.

The papers marked “Top Secret”&nbsp;say&nbsp;that the president is undergoing chemotherapy and that Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov and Russian National Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev “devised” a plan to “sabotage” him while he undergoes medical treatment.&nbsp;

It states that a&nbsp;top general is planning to "throw", or lose on purpose, the war while Putin undergoes chemotherapy.

The leak is part of the Pentagon documents breach that occurred last week where 100 documents containing sensitive information about the Russia-Ukraine conflict, South Korea, Israel and China, were made public.

“Russia planned to divert resources from Taganrog, Russia to Mariupol,&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and focus its attention on the southern front,” the leaked document allegedly states, according to the UK-based news outlet Independent.

“According to [redacted] source, the plan for “the offensive” was suspected to be a strategy devised by [Mr Gerasimov and Mr Patrushev] to sabotage Putin.”

The documents, however, don’t give details on what this “offensive” plan entails and what sort of ailment is Putin going through.

For long there have been speculations surrounding Putin’s health.&nbsp;It is believed that the Russian leader might be undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

The document states that they received this information from an unidentified Russian source who has access to Kremlin officials.

After days of an internal investigation, the US enforcement authorities were able to nab the accused who is said to have leaked the sensitive papers.

On Thursday, Jack Teixeira, a member of the US National Air Guard, was arrested at his residence and charged with unlawfully copying and transmitting classified material.

US Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the 21-year-old was arrested in connection with an investigation into alleged unauthorized removal, retention, and transmission of classified national defence information.

According to Reuters, Teixeira was brought before a crowded federal court for the hearing. Boston's top federal national security prosecutor, Nadine Pellegrini, requested that the 21-year-old be detained pending trial. A detention hearing is set for Wednesday (April 19), Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The leaked documents were said to be the most serious security breach in the US since more than 700,000 documents, videos and diplomatic cables appeared on the WikiLeaks website in 2010. On Thursday, the Pentagon called the leak a "deliberate, criminal act."

(With inputs from agencies)

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. 
 
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Among the recently leaked documents from Pentagon also finds mention of a rumour surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deteriorating health. The papers marked “Top Secret” say that the president is undergoing chemotherapy and that Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov and Russian National Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev “devised” a plan to “sabotage” him while he undergoes medical treatment.

Among the recently leaked documents from Pentagon also finds mention of a rumour surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deteriorating health. The papers marked “Top Secret” say that the president is undergoing chemotherapy and that Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov and Russian National Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev “devised” a plan to “sabotage” him while he undergoes medical treatment. It states that a top general is planning to "throw", or lose on purpose, the war while Putin undergoes chemotherapy. The leak is part of the Pentagon documents breach that occurred last week where 100 documents containing sensitive information about the Russia-Ukraine conflict, South Korea, Israel and China, were made public. “Russia planned to divert resources from Taganrog, Russia to Mariupol, Ukraine and focus its attention on the southern front,” the leaked document allegedly states, according to the UK-based news outlet Independent. “According to [redacted] source, the plan for “the offensive” was suspected to be a strategy devised by [Mr Gerasimov and Mr Patrushev] to sabotage Putin.” The documents, however, don’t give details on what this “offensive” plan entails and what sort of ailment is Putin going through. For long there have been speculations surrounding Putin’s health. It is believed that the Russian leader might be undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. The document states that they received this information from an unidentified Russian source who has access to Kremlin officials. After days of an internal investigation, the US enforcement authorities were able to nab the accused who is said to have leaked the sensitive papers. On Thursday, Jack Teixeira, a member of the US National Air Guard, was arrested at his residence and charged with unlawfully copying and transmitting classified material. US Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the 21-year-old was arrested in connection with an investigation into alleged unauthorized removal, retention, and transmission of classified national defence information. According to Reuters, Teixeira was brought before a crowded federal court for the hearing. Boston's top federal national security prosecutor, Nadine Pellegrini, requested that the 21-year-old be detained pending trial. A detention hearing is set for Wednesday (April 19), Reuters reported. The leaked documents were said to be the most serious security breach in the US since more than 700,000 documents, videos and diplomatic cables appeared on the WikiLeaks website in 2010. On Thursday, the Pentagon called the leak a "deliberate, criminal act." (With inputs from agencies) 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin receiving chemo for cancer, his people planning to oust him, say leaked US papers

Russian shelling on a block of flats in the eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk killed eight people, including a toddler, on Friday. The strike on the quiet Ukraine neighbourhood came as Russia put its naval fleet on high alert during a surprise inspection of its Pacific naval fleet.&nbsp;

In an address on Ukrainian television, Pavlo Kyrylenko, the governor of the Donetsk region, said, "21 people were wounded and eight people died." As per AFP, among the dead was a toddler, a boy, who was pulled from under the rubble but died while being transported to the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine Govt Official: Seven missiles fired from Russia

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Russia,&nbsp;as per Reuters, will be conducting missile launches and torpedo tests as part of the surprise inspection of its Pacific naval fleet.&nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu&nbsp;said on state television,&nbsp;"The main objective of this inspection is to increase the ability of the Armed Forces to repel the aggression of a probable enemy from the direction of ocean and sea."&nbsp;

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>

As per Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov, as part of the drills, Russia's naval forces would be deployed to training areas, where they will conduct combat exercises. The drills will involve simulating a foreign force landing on both Sakhalin, a Russian island, and the Kuril Islands in the south.&nbsp;The Kuril Islands have been the source of a long-running territorial dispute between Russia and Japan since the conclusion of World War Two.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-us-president-biden-says-probe-will-examine-why-leaker-had-classified-access-582597">Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access</a>

Kremlin, however, downplayed any connection with the regional tensions and its spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "This is a common practice, it has been constantly carried out in recent years and it continues. This is about maintaining the necessary level of combat readiness of our armed forces."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian shelling on a block of flats in the eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk killed eight people, including a toddler, on Friday. The strike on the quiet Ukraine neighbourhood came as Russia put its naval fleet on high alert during a surprise inspection of its Pacific naval fleet.

Russian shelling on a block of flats in the eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk killed eight people, including a toddler, on Friday. The strike on the quiet Ukraine neighbourhood came as Russia put its naval fleet on high alert during a surprise inspection of its Pacific naval fleet. In an address on Ukrainian television, Pavlo Kyrylenko, the governor of the Donetsk region, said, "21 people were wounded and eight people died." As per AFP, among the dead was a toddler, a boy, who was pulled from under the rubble but died while being transported to the hospital. Also read | Ukraine Govt Official: Seven missiles fired from Russia Russia, as per Reuters, will be conducting missile launches and torpedo tests as part of the surprise inspection of its Pacific naval fleet. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on state television, "The main objective of this inspection is to increase the ability of the Armed Forces to repel the aggression of a probable enemy from the direction of ocean and sea." Also read | Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service As per Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov, as part of the drills, Russia's naval forces would be deployed to training areas, where they will conduct combat exercises. The drills will involve simulating a foreign force landing on both Sakhalin, a Russian island, and the Kuril Islands in the south. The Kuril Islands have been the source of a long-running territorial dispute between Russia and Japan since the conclusion of World War Two. Also read | Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access Kremlin, however, downplayed any connection with the regional tensions and its spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "This is a common practice, it has been constantly carried out in recent years and it continues. This is about maintaining the necessary level of combat readiness of our armed forces." (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 strike on Ukraine’s Sloviansk residential area kills 8; Moscow puts naval forces on high alert

Russia has conducted what it said was the successful test launch of an 'advanced' intercontinental ballistic missile, weeks after it suspended participation in its last remaining nuclear arms control pact with the United States.

Russia tests intercontinental ballistic missile; Vladimir Putin unleashes new ICBM in test launch

Kyiv on Monday alleged that Russia is using so-called "scorched earth" in its assault on Ukraine's besieged Bakhmut. As per a Reuters report, Moscow's forces are pressing attacks in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region. The aggressor Russia is reportedly focusing on two cities of Bakhmut and Avdiivka, where it is pounding Ukrainian positions with air strikes and artillery barrages.&nbsp;

Ukraine's ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi on Monday said that the defence of Bakhmut continued and that the situation is "difficult but controllable."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-says-russia-almost-shot-down-uk-spy-plane-kyivs-air-defenses-on-verge-of-depletion-580827">Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion</a>

Syrskyi as per Ukraine's Media Military Centre, claimed that Moscow is sending in special forces and airborne assaults as a backup for the Russian mercenary Wagner group, whose members as per the Ukrainian commander are exhausted.

He said that "the enemy switched to the so-called scorched earth tactics from Syria. It is destroying buildings and positions with air strikes and artillery fire."

Scorched-earth policy refers to a military strategy wherein everything that could be useful to the 'enemy' or the opposite side is destroyed or 'scorched.

Ukraine claims that Russian forces made "unsuccessful advances" on areas west of Bakhmut and that around 10 villages and towns in the area have so far come under Russian shelling. Reportedly, Russia has also failed in its advances on Avdiivka.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-leak-includes-ukraine-war-mossad-spy-agency-and-more-is-america-spying-on-allies-580835">US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies?</a>

However, Denis Pushilin, the Russia-installed head of the eastern Ukrainian Donetsk region on Monday, announced that he had visited Bakhmut; a move that, as per AFP, suggests Russia has made significant gains. Pushilin published a video of the visit on Telegram.

Last week Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner, had claimed that his mercenaries had "in a legal sense" captured Bakhmut because the group had taken control of city hall. However, the Russian army had reported no such gains.&nbsp;The battle of Bakhmut as per analysts holds little strategic value but has taken on a "huge symbolic" importance.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kyiv on Monday alleged that Russia is using so-called "scorched earth" in its assault on Ukraine's besieged Bakhmut. As per a Reuters report, Moscow's forces are pressing attacks in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region.

Kyiv on Monday alleged that Russia is using so-called "scorched earth" in its assault on Ukraine's besieged Bakhmut. As per a Reuters report, Moscow's forces are pressing attacks in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region. The aggressor Russia is reportedly focusing on two cities of Bakhmut and Avdiivka, where it is pounding Ukrainian positions with air strikes and artillery barrages. Ukraine's ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi on Monday said that the defence of Bakhmut continued and that the situation is "difficult but controllable." Also read | Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion Syrskyi as per Ukraine's Media Military Centre, claimed that Moscow is sending in special forces and airborne assaults as a backup for the Russian mercenary Wagner group, whose members as per the Ukrainian commander are exhausted. He said that "the enemy switched to the so-called scorched earth tactics from Syria. It is destroying buildings and positions with air strikes and artillery fire." Scorched-earth policy refers to a military strategy wherein everything that could be useful to the 'enemy' or the opposite side is destroyed or 'scorched. Ukraine claims that Russian forces made "unsuccessful advances" on areas west of Bakhmut and that around 10 villages and towns in the area have so far come under Russian shelling. Reportedly, Russia has also failed in its advances on Avdiivka. Also read | US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies? However, Denis Pushilin, the Russia-installed head of the eastern Ukrainian Donetsk region on Monday, announced that he had visited Bakhmut; a move that, as per AFP, suggests Russia has made significant gains. Pushilin published a video of the visit on Telegram. Last week Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner, had claimed that his mercenaries had "in a legal sense" captured Bakhmut because the group had taken control of city hall. However, the Russian army had reported no such gains. The battle of Bakhmut as per analysts holds little strategic value but has taken on a "huge symbolic" importance. (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.

Conflicting accounts emerge from Bakhmut battleground; Ukraine says Russia using 'scorched-earth' tactic

Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week. The religious leader&nbsp;called for a two-week truce in the zone of hostilities in Ukraine, Russian news agency TASS reported on Friday, citing a conversation between&nbsp;Leonid Sevastyanov, the leader of the World Union of Old Believers, and Pope Francis.

"Next week is the Catholic Easter week, and then there will follow the Orthodox Easter week. The Pope has just told me that in honour of this, he suggests that all hostilities in the special military operation zone in Ukraine be stopped for two weeks: for the Catholic and Orthodox Easter weeks. Starting from this Sunday and for two weeks there would be no offensives at all, everyone would stop shooting at each other and a truce would be declared," Sevastyanov was quoted as saying by TASS.

The Old Believers’ leader reportedly went on to say&nbsp;that this issue was very important to the head of the Catholic church.

"Please let everyone know this," Sevastyanov quoted Pope Francis as saying, TASS report added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a>

The Catholic Church celebrates Easter this year next Sunday, April 9; Orthodox Christians celebrate it a week later, on April 16.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war: Attempts for ceasefire in recent past</h2>

On March 31, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called for an immediate ceasefire between the two warring sides.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia declares two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Orthodox Christmas

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"In terms of Ukraine, nothing is changing, the special military operation is continuing because today that is the only means in front of us to achieve our goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had said.&nbsp;

He said parts of a plan proposed by China for peace in Ukraine were "unrealisable at the moment, due to the unwillingness — or rather the inability — of the Ukrainian side to disobey their supervisors and commanders". 
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Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week.

Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week. The religious leader called for a two-week truce in the zone of hostilities in Ukraine, Russian news agency TASS reported on Friday, citing a conversation between Leonid Sevastyanov, the leader of the World Union of Old Believers, and Pope Francis. "Next week is the Catholic Easter week, and then there will follow the Orthodox Easter week. The Pope has just told me that in honour of this, he suggests that all hostilities in the special military operation zone in Ukraine be stopped for two weeks: for the Catholic and Orthodox Easter weeks. Starting from this Sunday and for two weeks there would be no offensives at all, everyone would stop shooting at each other and a truce would be declared," Sevastyanov was quoted as saying by TASS. The Old Believers’ leader reportedly went on to say that this issue was very important to the head of the Catholic church. "Please let everyone know this," Sevastyanov quoted Pope Francis as saying, TASS report added. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' The Catholic Church celebrates Easter this year next Sunday, April 9; Orthodox Christians celebrate it a week later, on April 16. Russia-Ukraine war: Attempts for ceasefire in recent past On March 31, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called for an immediate ceasefire between the two warring sides. ALSO WATCH | Russia declares two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Orthodox Christmas × "In terms of Ukraine, nothing is changing, the special military operation is continuing because today that is the only means in front of us to achieve our goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had said. He said parts of a plan proposed by China for peace in Ukraine were "unrealisable at the moment, due to the unwillingness — or rather the inability — of the Ukrainian side to disobey their supervisors and commanders". 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 heading for Easter ceasefire? Pope Francis conveys big message

Thirty-one Ukrainian children who were illegally taken to Russia have been brought back to their home country. AFP reports that the children were taken from Ukrainian territories that, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, have been annexed by Moscow. As per the Save Ukraine charity, the children had been taken from the nation's northeastern region of Kharkiv and the southern region of Kherson.&nbsp;

Taking to social media, Mykola Kuleba, head of the Save Ukraine charity said, "today we are welcoming home 31 more children who have been illegally taken by Russians from occupied territories."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-loses-three-un-votes-over-ukraine-war-580431">Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’</a>

Save Ukraine, the charity that as per AFP fights what it calls illegal deportations of Ukrainian children to Russian-controlled territory on Friday said that the illegally transported kids and their relatives have crossed into Kyiv-controlled territory.

Footage released by the charity shows children deboarding a bus and being greeted by Save Ukraine representatives.

Watch the heartwarming video here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Сhildren abducted by Russians from the Kherson and Kharkiv regions have been reunited with their families after several months of separation. They are now safe but in need of psychological and physical recovery. 
 
Follow the updates💛💙 <a href="https://t.co/dXGN5FTHp9">pic.twitter.com/dXGN5FTHp9</a>
— Save Ukraine (@SaveukraineUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaveukraineUs/status/1644350948725125122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per Kuleba, this was the "most difficult" of the charity's missions to date.

Kyiv claims that since the beginning of the Ukraine War, more than 16,000 Ukrainian children have been deported to Russia. Moscow denied the allegations and says it has saved Ukrainian children from the horrors of the war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-chinese-lgbtq-blogger-for-violating-same-sex-propaganda-law-580401">Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law</a>

However, last month over the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thirty-one Ukrainian children who were illegally taken to Russia have been brought back to their home country. AFP reports that the children were taken from Ukrainian territories that, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, have been annexed by Moscow.

Thirty-one Ukrainian children who were illegally taken to Russia have been brought back to their home country. AFP reports that the children were taken from Ukrainian territories that, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, have been annexed by Moscow. As per the Save Ukraine charity, the children had been taken from the nation's northeastern region of Kharkiv and the southern region of Kherson. Taking to social media, Mykola Kuleba, head of the Save Ukraine charity said, "today we are welcoming home 31 more children who have been illegally taken by Russians from occupied territories." Also read | Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’ Save Ukraine, the charity that as per AFP fights what it calls illegal deportations of Ukrainian children to Russian-controlled territory on Friday said that the illegally transported kids and their relatives have crossed into Kyiv-controlled territory. Footage released by the charity shows children deboarding a bus and being greeted by Save Ukraine representatives. Watch the heartwarming video here: Сhildren abducted by Russians from the Kherson and Kharkiv regions have been reunited with their families after several months of separation. They are now safe but in need of psychological and physical recovery. Follow the updates💛💙 pic.twitter.com/dXGN5FTHp9 — Save Ukraine (@SaveukraineUs) April 7, 2023 × As per Kuleba, this was the "most difficult" of the charity's missions to date. Kyiv claims that since the beginning of the Ukraine War, more than 16,000 Ukrainian children have been deported to Russia. Moscow denied the allegations and says it has saved Ukrainian children from the horrors of the war. Also read | Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law However, last month over the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Another warrant on similar charges was also issued 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.

31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine

Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations.&nbsp;The loss which comes over a&nbsp;year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade&nbsp;Ukraine. Vladimir Putin's nation bore defeat during votes in the 54-member UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The first "resounding defeat" was at the hands of Romania for a seat on the Commission on the Status of Women. Estonia then beat Russia in&nbsp;the bid for the UN children's agency UNICEF's executive board. Furthermore, Armenia and the Czech Republic defeated Rusia in a secret ballot for membership in the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.

AFP reports that after Wednesday's votes, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked that the results are a "clear signal from ECOSOC members that no country should hold positions on critical UN bodies when they are in flagrant violation of the UN Charter."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukrainian-minister-to-visit-india-on-monday-a-first-since-russian-invasion-580403">Ukrainian minister to visit India on Monday, a first since Russian invasion; eyes G20 invitation to Zelensky</a>

While Russia faced defeat for the above-mentioned significant seats, in the voting for members of 14 commissions, boards and expert groups that ECOSOC oversees, the nation was elected to the Commission for Social Development by acclamation. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly dissociated their countries from the commission. The two nations claim that Russia's invasion violates international law and Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-chinese-lgbtq-blogger-for-violating-same-sex-propaganda-law-580401">Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law</a>

Moscow was also elected to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting.

News agency AP reports that the UN Economic and Social Council votes follow the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) approval of six non-binding resolutions against Russia. The latest resolution was passed by the 193-member UNGA on the eve of the first anniversary of the Ukraine War. It was adopted by a vote of 141-7 with 32 abstentions and calls on&nbsp;Moscow to end hostilities and withdraw its forces.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations. The loss which comes over a year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade Ukraine.

Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations. The loss which comes over a year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade Ukraine. Vladimir Putin's nation bore defeat during votes in the 54-member UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The first "resounding defeat" was at the hands of Romania for a seat on the Commission on the Status of Women. Estonia then beat Russia in the bid for the UN children's agency UNICEF's executive board. Furthermore, Armenia and the Czech Republic defeated Rusia in a secret ballot for membership in the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. AFP reports that after Wednesday's votes, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked that the results are a "clear signal from ECOSOC members that no country should hold positions on critical UN bodies when they are in flagrant violation of the UN Charter." Also read | Ukrainian minister to visit India on Monday, a first since Russian invasion; eyes G20 invitation to Zelensky While Russia faced defeat for the above-mentioned significant seats, in the voting for members of 14 commissions, boards and expert groups that ECOSOC oversees, the nation was elected to the Commission for Social Development by acclamation. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly dissociated their countries from the commission. The two nations claim that Russia's invasion violates international law and Ukraine's territorial integrity. Also read | Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law Moscow was also elected to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting. News agency AP reports that the UN Economic and Social Council votes follow the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) approval of six non-binding resolutions against Russia. The latest resolution was passed by the 193-member UNGA on the eve of the first anniversary of the Ukraine War. It was adopted by a vote of 141-7 with 32 abstentions and calls on Moscow to end hostilities and withdraw its forces. (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 loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that Moscow has no desire to isolate itself and is open to constructive co-operation with all the nations.

"I would like to stress Russia is open to constructive partnership with all countries; we do not intend to isolate ourselves from anyone, we have no preconceived or what's more hostile intentions towards anyone," said Putin.

"We hope that our partners will adhere to the principles of equality and mutual benefit in their relations with us," the Russian president stated.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-are-responsible-for-strained-relations-putin-tells-us-and-eu-579481">You are responsible for strained relations, Putin tells US and EU</a>

According to the president, the government's approaches were elaborately explained in the Russian Foreign Policy Concept which was adopted on March 31.

Putin said that the document envisions the national interests of Russia in the context of the dynamic and complex changing world, and includes the government's basic objectives and aims as well as the important areas for Russian diplomacy.

"The most important thing is that Russia, as a sovereign and self-sufficient state, will be actively pursuing a balanced, multi-course foreign policy prioritising our domestic development and with particular awareness to the responsibility to maintain stability and security at the global and regional levels," the Russian president stated.

WATCH | Gravitas: Xi Jinping's China unilaterally appoints Bishop in Shanghai

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The statement comes in the wake of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to China where he is expected to pressurise Chinese President Xi Jinping to play a more active role in establishing peace between Russia and Ukraine, along with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.

Macron had stated that he wants to "be a voice that unites Europe" over Ukraine, and visiting China along with von der Leyen serves to "underline the consistency of this approach".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that Moscow has no desire to isolate itself and is open to constructive co-operation with all the nations. "I would like to stress Russia is open to constructive partnership with all countries; we do not intend to isolate ourselves from anyone, we have no preconceived or what's more hostile intentions towards anyone," said Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that Moscow has no desire to isolate itself and is open to constructive co-operation with all the nations. "I would like to stress Russia is open to constructive partnership with all countries; we do not intend to isolate ourselves from anyone, we have no preconceived or what's more hostile intentions towards anyone," said Putin. "We hope that our partners will adhere to the principles of equality and mutual benefit in their relations with us," the Russian president stated. ALSO READ | You are responsible for strained relations, Putin tells US and EU According to the president, the government's approaches were elaborately explained in the Russian Foreign Policy Concept which was adopted on March 31. Putin said that the document envisions the national interests of Russia in the context of the dynamic and complex changing world, and includes the government's basic objectives and aims as well as the important areas for Russian diplomacy. "The most important thing is that Russia, as a sovereign and self-sufficient state, will be actively pursuing a balanced, multi-course foreign policy prioritising our domestic development and with particular awareness to the responsibility to maintain stability and security at the global and regional levels," the Russian president stated. WATCH | Gravitas: Xi Jinping's China unilaterally appoints Bishop in Shanghai The statement comes in the wake of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to China where he is expected to pressurise Chinese President Xi Jinping to play a more active role in establishing peace between Russia and Ukraine, along with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. Macron had stated that he wants to "be a voice that unites Europe" over Ukraine, and visiting China along with von der Leyen serves to "underline the consistency of this approach". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia doesn't want to isolate itself, is open to global partnership, says Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday arrived in Poland, a close ally that has provided refuge to millions of Ukrainian citizens and has assisted the Kyiv government with vital weaponry. Soon after the leader's arrival, Marcin Przydacz, a senior official with the Polish presidency, while speaking to TVN24 television said that "the president has crossed the Polish border, he is on Polish territory." The visit comes as Ukraine readies to conduct a counter-offensive to recapture its land in the east and south from Russian control in the coming weeks or months.

Reuters reports that on his first visit to Poland, Volodymyr Zelensky has been awarded the nation's highest order, called the "Order of White Eagle".

In Warsaw, Zelensky met with the nation's President Andrzej Duda, who honoured him with the order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-signs-accession-documents-becomes-31st-nato-member-579043">Finland becomes 31st NATO member as Russia calls it 'dangerous historic mistake'</a>

Duda said that "the Order of White Eagle which I have an honour today to award to Mister President Zelensky is the oldest and the most precious Polish order."

Following the meeting, the two leaders held a press conference where Duda said that Poland will if the need arises, give its "whole remaining fleet of MiG-29s to Ukraine".

"I think that in the future we will be able to transfer our whole remaining fleet of MiG-29s to Ukraine if there is still such a need," said Duda.

The Polish president said that given that the remaining fighter jets in Poland's possession had been "adapted to NATO standards", the move would require a green light from NATO allies.

He specified that Poland would be able to pass on its MiG-29s to Ukraine as they get the new South Korean FA-50 fighter jets as well as the US-made F-35 stealth jets that have been ordered.

During his latest rare trip outside of Ukraine, Zelensky will also meet with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki.

As per AFP, he will also deliver remarks in the historic centre of the Polish capital, Warsaw.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-defends-its-unsc-presidency-says-wont-abuse-the-position-578967">Russia defends its UNSC presidency, says won't abuse the position</a>

Poland and Ukraine share a border.&nbsp;Warsaw has played an important role in persuading other Western powers to supply Kyiv with supply battle tanks and other weaponry for its offensive against Moscow.

In Poland, hordes of people welcomed Zelensky outside the Presidential palace, reports Reuters. Speaking to the news agency, one person, Tetiana, a Ukrainian&nbsp;citizen, said, "Zelensky is our commander-in-chief. This is the person we entrusted our country to, who is now trying to gain our freedom."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday arrived in Poland, a close ally that has provided refuge to millions of Ukrainian citizens and has assisted the Kyiv government with vital weaponry.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday arrived in Poland, a close ally that has provided refuge to millions of Ukrainian citizens and has assisted the Kyiv government with vital weaponry. Soon after the leader's arrival, Marcin Przydacz, a senior official with the Polish presidency, while speaking to TVN24 television said that "the president has crossed the Polish border, he is on Polish territory." The visit comes as Ukraine readies to conduct a counter-offensive to recapture its land in the east and south from Russian control in the coming weeks or months. Reuters reports that on his first visit to Poland, Volodymyr Zelensky has been awarded the nation's highest order, called the "Order of White Eagle". In Warsaw, Zelensky met with the nation's President Andrzej Duda, who honoured him with the order. Also read | Finland becomes 31st NATO member as Russia calls it 'dangerous historic mistake' Duda said that "the Order of White Eagle which I have an honour today to award to Mister President Zelensky is the oldest and the most precious Polish order." Following the meeting, the two leaders held a press conference where Duda said that Poland will if the need arises, give its "whole remaining fleet of MiG-29s to Ukraine". "I think that in the future we will be able to transfer our whole remaining fleet of MiG-29s to Ukraine if there is still such a need," said Duda. The Polish president said that given that the remaining fighter jets in Poland's possession had been "adapted to NATO standards", the move would require a green light from NATO allies. He specified that Poland would be able to pass on its MiG-29s to Ukraine as they get the new South Korean FA-50 fighter jets as well as the US-made F-35 stealth jets that have been ordered. During his latest rare trip outside of Ukraine, Zelensky will also meet with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. As per AFP, he will also deliver remarks in the historic centre of the Polish capital, Warsaw. Also read | Russia defends its UNSC presidency, says won't abuse the position Poland and Ukraine share a border. Warsaw has played an important role in persuading other Western powers to supply Kyiv with supply battle tanks and other weaponry for its offensive against Moscow. In Poland, hordes of people welcomed Zelensky outside the Presidential palace, reports Reuters. Speaking to the news agency, one person, Tetiana, a Ukrainian citizen, said, "Zelensky is our commander-in-chief. This is the person we entrusted our country to, who is now trying to gain our freedom." (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.

In Poland, Zelensky receives highest honour and a promise involving Warsaw's remaining fleet of MiG-29

US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested in Russia last week on spying claims as per a Moscow court, is reportedly appealing his detention. The court on Monday made this announcement, adding that the date for this appeal is yet to be announced. A spokesperson for Moscow's Lefortovo district court, according to an AFP report, said that "the date of the hearing on his detention appeal will be announced this week."&nbsp;

The appeal, as per the spokesperson, has been filed by the same lawyer that represented the Wall Street journalist during his previous detention hearing.

AFP reports that Gershkovich, who previously worked with the news agency, was remanded in custody until May 29.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-evan-gershkovich-the-us-journalist-arrested-in-russia-for-espionage-577732">Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage</a>

The journalist and the Wall Street Journal have denied the spying charges levied against him. The publication in its statement said that it "vehemently denies the allegations from the FSB and seeks the immediate release of our trusted and dedicated reporter."

Russian state news agency TASS reports that the case against Gershkovich&nbsp;has been classified as "top secret". This effectively restricts information that can be published about the case.

31-year-old Gershkovich is thought to be the first foreign journalist to be taken into custody for espionage charges since the break-up of the USSR.

His arrest has drawn outrage from the West and is seen as a serious escalation of Moscow's crackdown on media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-holds-talks-with-lavrov-for-release-of-us-journalist-gershkovich-578330">Blinken speaks with Lavrov, demands ‘immediate’ release of US journalist Gershkovich</a>

Denouncing the "unfounded espionage charges" more than three dozen news organisations have signed a letter to the Russian ambassador in the United States. The letter which was released by the Committee to Protect Journalists remarks that the journalist's "unwarranted and unjust arrest" by Russia "is a significant escalation in your government's anti-press actions."

It further says that "Gershkovich is a journalist, not a spy," and asks for his release "immediately and without conditions." 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested in Russia last week on spying claims as per a Moscow court, is reportedly appealing his detention. The court on Monday made this announcement, adding that the date for this appeal is yet to be announced.

US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested in Russia last week on spying claims as per a Moscow court, is reportedly appealing his detention. The court on Monday made this announcement, adding that the date for this appeal is yet to be announced. A spokesperson for Moscow's Lefortovo district court, according to an AFP report, said that "the date of the hearing on his detention appeal will be announced this week." The appeal, as per the spokesperson, has been filed by the same lawyer that represented the Wall Street journalist during his previous detention hearing. AFP reports that Gershkovich, who previously worked with the news agency, was remanded in custody until May 29. Also read | Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage The journalist and the Wall Street Journal have denied the spying charges levied against him. The publication in its statement said that it "vehemently denies the allegations from the FSB and seeks the immediate release of our trusted and dedicated reporter." Russian state news agency TASS reports that the case against Gershkovich has been classified as "top secret". This effectively restricts information that can be published about the case. 31-year-old Gershkovich is thought to be the first foreign journalist to be taken into custody for espionage charges since the break-up of the USSR. His arrest has drawn outrage from the West and is seen as a serious escalation of Moscow's crackdown on media. Also read | Blinken speaks with Lavrov, demands ‘immediate’ release of US journalist Gershkovich Denouncing the "unfounded espionage charges" more than three dozen news organisations have signed a letter to the Russian ambassador in the United States. The letter which was released by the Committee to Protect Journalists remarks that the journalist's "unwarranted and unjust arrest" by Russia "is a significant escalation in your government's anti-press actions." It further says that "Gershkovich is a journalist, not a spy," and asks for his release "immediately and without conditions." (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.

Evan Gershkovich, US journalist arrested by Russia, appeals against detention

The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three&nbsp;US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks. The list of equipment will be finalised over the weekend, and the dollar amount or the specifics of the equipment to be donated could still change, said one of the officials on the condition of anonymity.

As per the official, the final list of equipment could include half a dozen types of munitions, including tank munition.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Russia conflict: Ukraine's Avdiivka now 'second Bakhmut'

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Additionally, precision aerial munitions, bridging equipment that could be used by Ukraine to target Russian positions, and recovery vehicles to help disabled heavy equipment like tanks could also be included.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-board-approves-156-billion-loan-for-war-torn-ukraine-577840">IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine</a>

Finally, additional rounds for NASAMS air defences that the US and allies have given to Kyiv could be included in the latest batch of US military aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/let-him-go-us-president-biden-tells-russia-to-release-american-journalist-577795">‘Let him go’: US President Biden tells Russia to release American journalist</a>

According to the report, of the $2.6 billion, $500 million&nbsp;is being sourced from Presidential Drawdown Authority funds, which allow the president to access existing US&nbsp;stocks in a state of emergency. This will be&nbsp;used to purchase munitions to aid Kyiv in pushing a spring offensive against the Russian invasion.&nbsp;Apart from that, $2.1 billion will be taken from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) fund. According to Reuters, this permits the Biden administration to buy weapons from the industry instead of from US stockpiles.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks.

The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks. The list of equipment will be finalised over the weekend, and the dollar amount or the specifics of the equipment to be donated could still change, said one of the officials on the condition of anonymity. As per the official, the final list of equipment could include half a dozen types of munitions, including tank munition. Watch | Ukraine Russia conflict: Ukraine's Avdiivka now 'second Bakhmut' Additionally, precision aerial munitions, bridging equipment that could be used by Ukraine to target Russian positions, and recovery vehicles to help disabled heavy equipment like tanks could also be included. Also read | IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine Finally, additional rounds for NASAMS air defences that the US and allies have given to Kyiv could be included in the latest batch of US military aid. Also read | ‘Let him go’: US President Biden tells Russia to release American journalist According to the report, of the $2.6 billion, $500 million is being sourced from Presidential Drawdown Authority funds, which allow the president to access existing US stocks in a state of emergency. This will be used to purchase munitions to aid Kyiv in pushing a spring offensive against the Russian invasion. Apart from that, $2.1 billion will be taken from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) fund. According to Reuters, this permits the Biden administration to buy weapons from the industry instead of from US stockpiles. (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 | US to announce $2.6 billion military aid package for Kyiv

Xi Jinping has reportedly presented a plan to Vladimir Putin to block YouTube in Russia. Chinese experts are going to help Russia achieve this feat. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China & Russia v/s western tech | Jinping's proposal to Putin to block YouTube in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March&nbsp;30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported.&nbsp;

The official online portal of legal information of the Russian government published the document to divulge details. The call up is for those who are not in the reserve and meet the requirements of the law "On military duty and military service".&nbsp; 
 
The conscription campaign is calling 147,000 citizens up for statutory military service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RIA also reported that the head of state has also instructed the government, regional authorities and draft commissions to make sure that the draft-related activities are implemented. &nbsp;

The news agency mentioned that using the same decree, Putin also decided to dismiss "from military service soldiers, sailors, sergeants and foremen whose term of military service has expired."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;In Bakhmut, Russia-Ukraine fight Europe's bloodiest infantry battle since world war II&nbsp;

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The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a report on Tass stated that on average around 130,000 people have been called up in each of the spring and autumn campaigns in recent years. &nbsp; 
 
in September 2022, Putin had signed an order calling up 120,000 people for the autumn campaign. At the time, Tass news agency had quoted the defence ministry as saying the conscription was not in any way related to the special military operation — the official term used by Russia&nbsp;for the war in Ukraine.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

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The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported. The official online portal of legal information of the Russian government published the document to divulge details. The call up is for those who are not in the reserve and meet the requirements of the law "On military duty and military service". The conscription campaign is calling 147,000 citizens up for statutory military service. RIA also reported that the head of state has also instructed the government, regional authorities and draft commissions to make sure that the draft-related activities are implemented. The news agency mentioned that using the same decree, Putin also decided to dismiss "from military service soldiers, sailors, sergeants and foremen whose term of military service has expired." WATCH | In Bakhmut, Russia-Ukraine fight Europe's bloodiest infantry battle since world war II × The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Meanwhile, a report on Tass stated that on average around 130,000 people have been called up in each of the spring and autumn campaigns in recent years. in September 2022, Putin had signed an order calling up 120,000 people for the autumn campaign. At the time, Tass news agency had quoted the defence ministry as saying the conscription was not in any way related to the special military operation — the official term used by Russia for the war in Ukraine. 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. The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

Putin signs decree on spring conscription, calling up 147,000 for statutory military service: Report

The US on Tuesday said it will stop exchanging with Russia some data on its nuclear forces. The move is a response to Moscow suspending its participation in the New START nuclear arms treaty. Since "Russia has not been in full compliance and refused to share data which we ... agreed in New START to share biannually," the US has "decided to likewise not share that data,"&nbsp;John Kirby, the National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, told reporters.

Watch |&nbsp;Will Russia-US respect 'new start treaty'?&nbsp;

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He added that Washington "would prefer to be able to do (this) but it requires them (Russia) being willing to as well."

A spokesperson for the National Security Council said that "under international law, the United States has the right to respond to Russia's breaches of the New START Treaty by taking proportionate and reversible countermeasures in order to induce Russia to return to compliance with its obligations."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-successfully-tests-supersonic-missiles-at-target-in-sea-of-japan-576736">Russian Navy successfully tests supersonic missiles at mock target in Sea of Japan: Russian defence ministry</a>

"That means that because Russia's claimed suspension of the New START Treaty is legally invalid, the US is legally permitted to withhold our biannual data update in response to Russia's breaches," they added.

While Russian President Vladimir Putin has not formally withdrawn from the New START treaty, his February 21 suspension imperils the last pillar of US-Russian arms control, Reuters said in a report.&nbsp;Between them, the two nations hold nearly 90 per cent of the world's nuclear arsenal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-nuclear-weapons-plans-in-belarus-dangerous-and-irresponsible-nato-575926">Russia's nuclear weapons plans in Belarus 'dangerous and irresponsible': NATO</a>

The treaty was signed in 2010 and was due to expire in 2026. Under the New START treaty's "Biannual Data Exchanges," the two nations are required to provide a declaration of deployed strategic delivery vehicles, launchers and warheads. The number&nbsp;is capped at no more than 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads and 700 land- and submarine-based missiles and bombers to deliver them.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US on Tuesday said it will stop exchanging with Russia some data on its nuclear forces. The move is a response to Moscow suspending its participation in the New START nuclear arms treaty.

The US on Tuesday said it will stop exchanging with Russia some data on its nuclear forces. The move is a response to Moscow suspending its participation in the New START nuclear arms treaty. Since "Russia has not been in full compliance and refused to share data which we ... agreed in New START to share biannually," the US has "decided to likewise not share that data," John Kirby, the National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, told reporters. Watch | Will Russia-US respect 'new start treaty'? He added that Washington "would prefer to be able to do (this) but it requires them (Russia) being willing to as well." A spokesperson for the National Security Council said that "under international law, the United States has the right to respond to Russia's breaches of the New START Treaty by taking proportionate and reversible countermeasures in order to induce Russia to return to compliance with its obligations." Also read | Russian Navy successfully tests supersonic missiles at mock target in Sea of Japan: Russian defence ministry "That means that because Russia's claimed suspension of the New START Treaty is legally invalid, the US is legally permitted to withhold our biannual data update in response to Russia's breaches," they added. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has not formally withdrawn from the New START treaty, his February 21 suspension imperils the last pillar of US-Russian arms control, Reuters said in a report. Between them, the two nations hold nearly 90 per cent of the world's nuclear arsenal. Also read | Russia's nuclear weapons plans in Belarus 'dangerous and irresponsible': NATO The treaty was signed in 2010 and was due to expire in 2026. Under the New START treaty's "Biannual Data Exchanges," the two nations are required to provide a declaration of deployed strategic delivery vehicles, launchers and warheads. The number is capped at no more than 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads and 700 land- and submarine-based missiles and bombers to deliver them. (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.

In retaliation to Russia pulling back from New START treaty, US decides to withhold nuclear data

Britain's Challenger tanks as per reports have arrived in Ukraine. Speaking to AFP, Iryna Zolotar, spokesperson for the Kyiv-based defence ministry, said that "they (the tanks) are in Ukraine already." Zolotar did not provide any other details. These tanks will reportedly be part of Ukraine's counter-offensive operation against aggressor Russia. The Challenger 2 tanks use depleted uranium shells as ammunition.&nbsp;Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin had warned that Moscow would be "forced to react" if Britain follows through on a promise to deliver the armour-piercing ammunition, reports AFP.

Earlier on Monday, Ukraine's defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov said that he inspected a "new addition" to the country's forces. AFP reports that Reznikov was referring to the Challenger tanks as well as Germany's Marder infantry fighting vehicles, plus Cougar armoured trucks and Stryker armoured personnel carriers from the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Receives 18 Leopard 2 main battle Tanks from Germany

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Taking to Facebook, the minister praised Britain's Challengers, calling them works of "military art" and said that "a year ago, no one would have thought that our partners' support would be so strong."

United Kingdom on Monday announced that Ukrainian troops have completed training on UK-donated Challenger tanks and are ready to be deployed on the front lines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-allies-slam-ioc-say-not-a-single-reason-to-lift-olympics-ban-on-athletes-from-russia-and-belarus-576414">Ukraine allies slam IOC, say 'not a single reason' to lift olympics ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus</a>

"Ukrainian tank crews have completed training on Challenger 2 tanks in the UK and have returned home to continue their fight against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion," said the British ministry of defence in a statement.

Ukrainian tank crews began their training shortly after the UK in January announced that it will be donating 14 tanks to Kyiv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-confirms-delivery-of-18-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-576384">Germany confirms delivery of 18 leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

The crew, as per the UK defence ministry, learned how to command, drive, and "effectively identify and engage targets."&nbsp;

"It is truly inspiring to witness the determination of Ukrainian soldiers having completed their training on British Challenger 2 tanks on British soil," said Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, as per AFP.&nbsp;He added that the soldiers "return to their homeland better equipped but to no less danger. We will continue to stand by them and do all we can to support Ukraine for as long as it takes."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Britain's Challenger tanks as per reports have arrived in Ukraine. Speaking to AFP, Iryna Zolotar, spokesperson for the Kyiv-based defence ministry, said that "they (the tanks) are in Ukraine already.

Britain's Challenger tanks as per reports have arrived in Ukraine. Speaking to AFP, Iryna Zolotar, spokesperson for the Kyiv-based defence ministry, said that "they (the tanks) are in Ukraine already." Zolotar did not provide any other details. These tanks will reportedly be part of Ukraine's counter-offensive operation against aggressor Russia. The Challenger 2 tanks use depleted uranium shells as ammunition. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin had warned that Moscow would be "forced to react" if Britain follows through on a promise to deliver the armour-piercing ammunition, reports AFP. Earlier on Monday, Ukraine's defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov said that he inspected a "new addition" to the country's forces. AFP reports that Reznikov was referring to the Challenger tanks as well as Germany's Marder infantry fighting vehicles, plus Cougar armoured trucks and Stryker armoured personnel carriers from the United States. Watch | Ukraine Receives 18 Leopard 2 main battle Tanks from Germany Taking to Facebook, the minister praised Britain's Challengers, calling them works of "military art" and said that "a year ago, no one would have thought that our partners' support would be so strong." United Kingdom on Monday announced that Ukrainian troops have completed training on UK-donated Challenger tanks and are ready to be deployed on the front lines. Also read | Ukraine allies slam IOC, say 'not a single reason' to lift olympics ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus "Ukrainian tank crews have completed training on Challenger 2 tanks in the UK and have returned home to continue their fight against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion," said the British ministry of defence in a statement. Ukrainian tank crews began their training shortly after the UK in January announced that it will be donating 14 tanks to Kyiv. Also read | Germany confirms delivery of 18 leopard tanks to Ukraine The crew, as per the UK defence ministry, learned how to command, drive, and "effectively identify and engage targets." "It is truly inspiring to witness the determination of Ukrainian soldiers having completed their training on British Challenger 2 tanks on British soil," said Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, as per AFP. He added that the soldiers "return to their homeland better equipped but to no less danger. We will continue to stand by them and do all we can to support Ukraine for as long as it takes." (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.

United Kingdom's armour-piercing Challenger 2 tanks arrive in Ukraine

Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally. West has slammed Putin's announcement, with Ukraine even seeking an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the move.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Such a reaction of course cannot influence Russian plans."&nbsp;

Recently, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview and said that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin even stated that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-shells-sloviansk-two-killed-and-29-wounded-official-576256">Russia shells Sloviansk, two killed and 29 wounded: Official</a>&nbsp;

The latest development has led to concerns over the nuclear escalation and also sparked fears that Belarus may join its ally's offensive, but Lukashenko said he would do so "only if attacked".&nbsp;

"Nothing unusual," said Putin, further arguing that the United States has been doing this for decades. "They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Report says Russia moves up to 2nd place among major global economies&nbsp;

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A top security adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian plans would destabilise Belarus, a nation which had been taken "hostage" by Moscow, as per the official.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the other hand, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States had seen no sign that Putin had moved any nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

Kirby told US broadcaster CBS on Sunday: "We've in fact seen no indication that he has any intention to use nuclear weapons – period - inside Ukraine."&nbsp;

For the unversed, tactical nuclear weapons are powerful but they are slightly smaller. However, they can be used on the battlefield. In a report, the news agency Reuters explained the tactical nuclear weapons. The report mentioned academics and arms control negotiators have spent years arguing about how to define tactical nuclear weapons and the clue is in the name: they are nuclear weapons used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, say, destroying the biggest cities of the US or Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally.

Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally. West has slammed Putin's announcement, with Ukraine even seeking an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the move. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Such a reaction of course cannot influence Russian plans." Recently, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview and said that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin even stated that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same". ALSO READ | Russia shells Sloviansk, two killed and 29 wounded: Official The latest development has led to concerns over the nuclear escalation and also sparked fears that Belarus may join its ally's offensive, but Lukashenko said he would do so "only if attacked". "Nothing unusual," said Putin, further arguing that the United States has been doing this for decades. "They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin added. WATCH | Report says Russia moves up to 2nd place among major global economies × A top security adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian plans would destabilise Belarus, a nation which had been taken "hostage" by Moscow, as per the official. On the other hand, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States had seen no sign that Putin had moved any nuclear weapons. Kirby told US broadcaster CBS on Sunday: "We've in fact seen no indication that he has any intention to use nuclear weapons – period - inside Ukraine." For the unversed, tactical nuclear weapons are powerful but they are slightly smaller. However, they can be used on the battlefield. In a report, the news agency Reuters explained the tactical nuclear weapons. The report mentioned academics and arms control negotiators have spent years arguing about how to define tactical nuclear weapons and the clue is in the name: they are nuclear weapons used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, say, destroying the biggest cities of the US or Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

West's reaction won't change plans to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus: Kremlin

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement&nbsp;saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported.

This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base&nbsp;nuclear arms outside the country.

Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war.

Though there has&nbsp;been occasional rhetoric&nbsp;about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine.

However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty.

What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons?

According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation.

They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war.

So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation.

The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons.

For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons.

These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies.

How many tactical weapons does Russia have?

Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has&nbsp;because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy.

However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000.

On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency.

How can they be used?

Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells.

They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges.

The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy.

What are the concerns?

The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict.

However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context.

Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence.

Stationing nuclear weapons

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union.

Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders.

According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe.

Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons?

As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine.

These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister.

In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order.

Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus. Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported. This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base nuclear arms outside the country. Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war. Though there has been occasional rhetoric about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine. However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty. What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons? According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation. They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war. So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation. The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons. For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons. These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies. How many tactical weapons does Russia have? Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy. However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000. On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency. How can they be used? Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells. They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges. The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy. What are the concerns? The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict. However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context. Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence. Stationing nuclear weapons After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union. Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders. According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe. Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons? As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine. These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister. In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order. Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: What are tactical nuclear weapons, and how Russia may use them?

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview that Moscow and Beijing are not creating any military alliance. Putin further said that both nations don't have anything to hide in terms of their military cooperation and claimed that Russia does not threaten any countries.&nbsp;

As quoted by Russian news agencies, Putin, who spoke during an interview with the state television on Sunday (March 26), said that Moscow and Beijing have "cooperation in the sphere of military-technical interaction," which they are not hiding. But they are "not creating any military alliance".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-belarus-will-be-hostage-if-russia-places-tactical-nukes-575875">Ukraine slams Russia's nuke plans, says Belarus taken 'hostage'</a>&nbsp;

Putin said, "Everything is transparent, there is nothing secret. We have military cooperation, we conduct drills, not only with China, but even with other countries as well." &nbsp;

Putin then proceeded to accuse&nbsp;the West and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) of "starting to build a new axis" similar to the one built by Italy, Germany and militaristic Japan during World War II.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move&nbsp;

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"They are announcing that they will create 'Global NATO'. What's that? Great Britain and Japan at the start of this year, in January I think, have signed an agreement on developing relations and mutual development in military area," he said.&nbsp;

Putin added, "That is why Western analysts...are talking about the West starting to build a new axis similar to the one created in the 1930s by the fascist regimes of Germany and Italy and militarist Japan."&nbsp;

The remarks came after the Russian president promised to build closer ties with China during his counterpart Xi Jinping's recent visit to Moscow. The Xi-Putin summit gained global attention amid the Russia-Ukraine war and Moscow's struggle&nbsp;to make gains in what it calls a "special military operation".&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview that Moscow and Beijing are not creating any military alliance. Putin further said that both nations don't have anything to hide in terms of their military cooperation and claimed that Russia does not threaten any countries.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview that Moscow and Beijing are not creating any military alliance. Putin further said that both nations don't have anything to hide in terms of their military cooperation and claimed that Russia does not threaten any countries. As quoted by Russian news agencies, Putin, who spoke during an interview with the state television on Sunday (March 26), said that Moscow and Beijing have "cooperation in the sphere of military-technical interaction," which they are not hiding. But they are "not creating any military alliance". ALSO READ | Ukraine slams Russia's nuke plans, says Belarus taken 'hostage' Putin said, "Everything is transparent, there is nothing secret. We have military cooperation, we conduct drills, not only with China, but even with other countries as well." Putin then proceeded to accuse the West and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) of "starting to build a new axis" similar to the one built by Italy, Germany and militaristic Japan during World War II. WATCH | Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move × "They are announcing that they will create 'Global NATO'. What's that? Great Britain and Japan at the start of this year, in January I think, have signed an agreement on developing relations and mutual development in military area," he said. Putin added, "That is why Western analysts...are talking about the West starting to build a new axis similar to the one created in the 1930s by the fascist regimes of Germany and Italy and militarist Japan." The remarks came after the Russian president promised to build closer ties with China during his counterpart Xi Jinping's recent visit to Moscow. The Xi-Putin summit gained global attention amid the Russia-Ukraine war and Moscow's struggle to make gains in what it calls a "special military operation". (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 says Russia and China not creating military alliance; accuses West of ‘building WWII-like axis’

With the Russia-Ukraine war in its 14th month now, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he would deploy tactical nuclear weapons inside the territory of its neighbour and ally Belarus, another statement which strongly indicates that the West-Russia rivalry is only here to continue.&nbsp;

"There is nothing unusual here either: the United States has been doing this for decades. They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin said to validate the move, reported AFP.

Reacting to the statements made by the Russian leader, a&nbsp;senior administration official noted that&nbsp;Moscow and Minsk had talked about such a deal over the past year, and added that there were no signs Moscow planned to use its nuclear weapons, reports Reuters news agency.

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Putin further said he already spoke to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko regarding this and both the leaders "agreed to do the same."

"We agreed that we will do the same - without violating our obligations, I emphasize, without violating our international obligations on the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons."

The Russian president also threatened to send depleted uranium weapons to Ukraine in case Kyiv were to get such weapons from the West. "Russia of course has what it needs to answer. Without exaggeration, we have hundreds of thousands of such shells. We have not used them yet," he said.

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However, Putin affirmed that this will not violate non-proliferation agreements. In talks with state television, Putin said Lukashenko had long raised the issue of stationing tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus.&nbsp;

By July 1, Russia will have finished building a facility in Belarus for storing tactical nuclear weapons, said Putin,&nbsp;adding&nbsp;that Moscow would not really be handing control of the weapons to Minsk.

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-on-a-diplomatic-blitz-as-ukraine-war-rages-peace-plan-too-vague-to-make-a-difference-wion-575604">China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference?&nbsp;</a>

He went on to say that Moscow has previously given Belarus a number of Iskander tactical missile systems that may be used to fire nuclear weapons. According to Putin, Russia has stationed 10 planes in Belarus that are capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons. 
 
Meawhile, the U.S. said it would “monitor the implications” of Putin’s announcement, said a report&nbsp;by AP.

“We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture nor any indications Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon,” said National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson. “We remain committed to the collective defence of the NATO alliance.”

On Monday, Britain had acknowledged that it was giving Ukraine weapons laced with depleted uranium. Because of its density and other characteristics, the heavy metal is utilised in weaponry because it can more readily penetrate armour and tanks.

Putin, meanwhile, denounced British intentions to transfer such ammunition to Ukraine on Tuesday, warning that Moscow would be compelled to take appropriate action since such weapons "had a nuclear component."

After Russian President Vladimir Putin's criticism of Britain for providing depleted uranium to Ukrainian forces, Britain's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated on Wednesday that there has been no nuclear escalation in the Ukraine war.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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With the Russia-Ukraine war in its 14th month now, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he would deploy tactical nuclear weapons inside the territory of its neighbour and ally Belarus, another statement which strongly indicates that the West-Russia rivalry is only here to continue.

With the Russia-Ukraine war in its 14th month now, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he would deploy tactical nuclear weapons inside the territory of its neighbour and ally Belarus, another statement which strongly indicates that the West-Russia rivalry is only here to continue. "There is nothing unusual here either: the United States has been doing this for decades. They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin said to validate the move, reported AFP. Reacting to the statements made by the Russian leader, a senior administration official noted that Moscow and Minsk had talked about such a deal over the past year, and added that there were no signs Moscow planned to use its nuclear weapons, reports Reuters news agency. Also Read | Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent Putin further said he already spoke to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko regarding this and both the leaders "agreed to do the same." "We agreed that we will do the same - without violating our obligations, I emphasize, without violating our international obligations on the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons." The Russian president also threatened to send depleted uranium weapons to Ukraine in case Kyiv were to get such weapons from the West. "Russia of course has what it needs to answer. Without exaggeration, we have hundreds of thousands of such shells. We have not used them yet," he said. Also Read | Eric Garcetti sworn in as US ambassador to India However, Putin affirmed that this will not violate non-proliferation agreements. In talks with state television, Putin said Lukashenko had long raised the issue of stationing tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. By July 1, Russia will have finished building a facility in Belarus for storing tactical nuclear weapons, said Putin, adding that Moscow would not really be handing control of the weapons to Minsk. WATCH | China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? He went on to say that Moscow has previously given Belarus a number of Iskander tactical missile systems that may be used to fire nuclear weapons. According to Putin, Russia has stationed 10 planes in Belarus that are capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons. Meawhile, the U.S. said it would “monitor the implications” of Putin’s announcement, said a report by AP. “We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture nor any indications Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon,” said National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson. “We remain committed to the collective defence of the NATO alliance.” On Monday, Britain had acknowledged that it was giving Ukraine weapons laced with depleted uranium. Because of its density and other characteristics, the heavy metal is utilised in weaponry because it can more readily penetrate armour and tanks. Putin, meanwhile, denounced British intentions to transfer such ammunition to Ukraine on Tuesday, warning that Moscow would be compelled to take appropriate action since such weapons "had a nuclear component." After Russian President Vladimir Putin's criticism of Britain for providing depleted uranium to Ukrainian forces, Britain's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated on Wednesday that there has been no nuclear escalation in the Ukraine war. (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 to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus; US says will ‘monitor implications’

An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation.

While Moscow has denounced the ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin, countries supporting Ukraine&nbsp;have supported it. Amid the evolving geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine, spotlight is on South Africa if it will follow International Criminal Court's mandate or not.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin ICC arrest warrant: South Africa and International Criminal Court's mandate</h2>

South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court. This means that these 123 countries hold the mandate to arrest the Russian leader if he sets foot in any of these member countries.&nbsp;

Later this year in August, South Africa is due to host BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in Durban. It remains unclear if the Vladimir Putin will turn up for the summit in-person. In case he does, President Cyril Ramaphosa's government will be facing a tough geopolitical dilemma.

Meanwhile, the leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters political party, Julius Malena, has already said that Putin would be "welcome" in South Africa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has remained silent so far.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Is there a precedent?</h2>

In 2015, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir turned up in South Africa for a meeting of the African Union. He, like Putin now, was under an ICC arrest warrant. However, the South African government issued immunity to all delegates who were attending.&nbsp;

This was challenged in court, then appealed and by the time the courts had finished arguing, al-Bashir had caught his plane home.&nbsp;

<h2>ICC's Putin warrant: Questions raised on 'double standards'</h2>

Among the most vocal critics of the ICC's arrest warrant has been China.&nbsp;

Beijing appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this week to avoid what it termed as "double standards" and respect the immunity of heads of state.

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-icc-to-avoid-double-standards-after-putins-arrest-warrant-573942">China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant</a>

At the same time, not only is Russia not a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court in 1998, neither is Ukraine.

ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;ICC judges issue arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes

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It remains unclear, that despite not being a signatory to the relevant convention, how the ICC has been given the authority by Kyiv to act against the alleged war crimes on the Ukrainian land under Russian control after Moscow began its offensive last year.&nbsp;

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An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation.

An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation. While Moscow has denounced the ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin, countries supporting Ukraine have supported it. Amid the evolving geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine, spotlight is on South Africa if it will follow International Criminal Court's mandate or not. Putin ICC arrest warrant: South Africa and International Criminal Court's mandate South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court. This means that these 123 countries hold the mandate to arrest the Russian leader if he sets foot in any of these member countries. Later this year in August, South Africa is due to host BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in Durban. It remains unclear if the Vladimir Putin will turn up for the summit in-person. In case he does, President Cyril Ramaphosa's government will be facing a tough geopolitical dilemma. Meanwhile, the leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters political party, Julius Malena, has already said that Putin would be "welcome" in South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa has remained silent so far. Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Is there a precedent? In 2015, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir turned up in South Africa for a meeting of the African Union. He, like Putin now, was under an ICC arrest warrant. However, the South African government issued immunity to all delegates who were attending. This was challenged in court, then appealed and by the time the courts had finished arguing, al-Bashir had caught his plane home. ICC's Putin warrant: Questions raised on 'double standards' Among the most vocal critics of the ICC's arrest warrant has been China. Beijing appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this week to avoid what it termed as "double standards" and respect the immunity of heads of state. ALSO READ - China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant At the same time, not only is Russia not a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court in 1998, neither is Ukraine. ALSO WATCH - ICC judges issue arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes × It remains unclear, that despite not being a signatory to the relevant convention, how the ICC has been given the authority by Kyiv to act against the alleged war crimes on the Ukrainian land under Russian control after Moscow began its offensive last 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.

Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Will South Africa arrest Russian leader?

The Ukraine war could drag on for years,&nbsp;warned the war-torn nations' President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, as he urged European leaders to speed up supplies of modern weaponry. Addressing a summit of his European Union counterparts via video link, the Ukrainian President thanked the EU leaders for the military aid they have already provided to Ukraine. However, he&nbsp;cautioned them that a delay in sending further assistance — fighter jets and long-range missiles&nbsp;— could give "evil"&nbsp;time to regroup and prolong the war. Zelensky, as per AFP, also urged the European leaders to step up sanctions against aggressor Russia.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war has ‘profound impact’ on Asia, says US secretary of state Antony Blinken

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As per a readout and video released by the Ukrainian presidency, Zelensky said he was "grateful" to Poland and Slovakia for their pledges on presenting Ukraine with Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets, but added that the nation needs "more modern aircraft".&nbsp;

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He remarked that "the delay in supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles is already significant," adding that "we cannot delay the transfer of weapons to our soldiers, who can protect Ukrainians from terror."

"If Europe waits, the evil may have time to regroup and prepare for years of war. It is in your power to prevent this," he said, as reported by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-hasnt-crossed-line-to-provide-russia-lethal-aid-says-top-us-diplomat-blinken-574827">China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken</a>

Even as he urged his European counterparts to impose more sanctions on Moscow, the Ukrainian leader also pushed them to speed up work on Ukraine's EU membership bid and boost support for Kyiv's proposed peace plan.&nbsp;"Ukraine is ready for a decision on the start of accession negotiations on EU membership already this year. The same readiness is needed from all of you — every leader in Europe."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukraine war could drag on for years, warned the war-torn nations' President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, as he urged European leaders to speed up supplies of modern weaponry.

The Ukraine war could drag on for years, warned the war-torn nations' President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, as he urged European leaders to speed up supplies of modern weaponry. Addressing a summit of his European Union counterparts via video link, the Ukrainian President thanked the EU leaders for the military aid they have already provided to Ukraine. However, he cautioned them that a delay in sending further assistance — fighter jets and long-range missiles — could give "evil" time to regroup and prolong the war. Zelensky, as per AFP, also urged the European leaders to step up sanctions against aggressor Russia. Watch | Ukraine war has ‘profound impact’ on Asia, says US secretary of state Antony Blinken As per a readout and video released by the Ukrainian presidency, Zelensky said he was "grateful" to Poland and Slovakia for their pledges on presenting Ukraine with Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets, but added that the nation needs "more modern aircraft". Also read | Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank He remarked that "the delay in supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles is already significant," adding that "we cannot delay the transfer of weapons to our soldiers, who can protect Ukrainians from terror." "If Europe waits, the evil may have time to regroup and prepare for years of war. It is in your power to prevent this," he said, as reported by Reuters. Also read | China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken Even as he urged his European counterparts to impose more sanctions on Moscow, the Ukrainian leader also pushed them to speed up work on Ukraine's EU membership bid and boost support for Kyiv's proposed peace plan. "Ukraine is ready for a decision on the start of accession negotiations on EU membership already this year. The same readiness is needed from all of you — every leader in Europe." (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.

Zelensky warns EU: Delaying military aid could give 'evil' time to regroup, prolong Ukraine war for years

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has suggested that the troops may have to march onto cities as far as Kyiv or Lviv in Ukraine amid reports that Moscow was facing significant setbacks in the battle in the east.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has suggested that the troops may have to march onto cities as far as Kyiv or Lviv in Ukraine amid reports that Moscow was facing significant setbacks in the battle in the east. Considered a strong ally of President Vladimir Putin, Medvedev's statement may have unwittingly given away the position Kremlin finds itself in currently. “Nothing can be ruled out here. If you need to get to Kyiv, then you need to go to Kyiv, if to Lviv, then you need to go to Lviv in order to destroy this infection,” Medvedev was quoted as saying by Russian news agency RIA Novosti. The battle for the eastern city of Bakhmut has significantly drained the resources of the Russian side, according to multiple media reports. Since the war began over a year ago, no place has witnessed a battle as fierce as Bakhmut. WATCH | Can Putin be arrested by the international criminal court? Medvedev, who served as Russia's president from 2008 to 2012, has emerged as one of the most hawkish leaders in recent times — routinely issuing blustery and hyperbolic statements. Earlier this week, he issued a hypersonic missile attack threat to the International Criminal Court (ICC) after the global organisation issued an arrest warrant against Putin. "I'm afraid, gentlemen, everyone is answerable to God and missiles. It's quite possible to imagine how a hypersonic Oniks fired from a Russian warship in the North Sea strikes the court building in the Hague," Medvedev wrote on Telegram. "It can't be shot down, I'm afraid. And the court is just a pathetic international organisation, not the people of a NATO country. So, they won't start a war. They'll be scared. And no one will be sorry." ALSO READ | Putin's top aide threatens 'hypersonic missile strike' on ICC after issuance of arrest warrant Putin's top ally previously said that a civil war will break out in the US in 2023 and that if Russia lost in the ongoing war, it could provoke the beginning of a 'nuclear war'. He also stated that any attempt to arrest Putin will be considered a declaration of war against Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Need to go to Kyiv or Lviv’, says Putin’s top aide after Moscow suffers setbacks in war

One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years." As per the report released on Wednesday, these estimates "should be considered as minimums as needs will continue to rise as long as the war continues." Ukraine war which began on February 24, 2022 has caused widespread damage to the global economy. The Russian invasion has not only displaced millions of people, but has also triggered a global food and energy price surge.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Zelensky visits front line near Bakhmut as Russia targets cities

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As per the latest assessment, it is expected that in 2023, Kyiv will require around $14 billion for critical and priority reconstruction and recovery investments.&nbsp;

It estimates that in addition to what the Ukrainian government has allocated in its 2023 budget, meeting these needs will require $11 billion in additional&nbsp;funding. AFP reports that the highest expected needs are in transport, while housing and energy are a close second.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-uk-for-sending-depleted-uranium-shells-to-ukraine-calls-it-serious-escalation-574777">Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’</a>

The latest assessment has been jointly reached by the Ukrainian government, the World Bank, the European Commission and the United Nations. It is around $62 billion&nbsp;more than an earlier estimate of $349 billion reported in September.

Undoing 15 years of development and progress, the war has forced 7.1 million people into poverty, states the assessment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-uk-defends-sending-uranium-ammo-to-kyiv-after-putins-warning-says-report-574775">Ukraine war: UK defends sending uranium ammo to Kyiv after Putin's warning, says report</a>

As per AFP, the $411 billion needed is approximately 2.6 times Ukraine's estimated gross domestic product for 2022.

"Energy infrastructure, housing, critical infrastructure, economy and humanitarian demining are our five priorities for this year," said Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal in a statement.&nbsp;He further warned that "the amount of damage and recovery needs currently does not include data on the loss of infrastructure, housing and businesses in the occupied territories."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years.

One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years." As per the report released on Wednesday, these estimates "should be considered as minimums as needs will continue to rise as long as the war continues." Ukraine war which began on February 24, 2022 has caused widespread damage to the global economy. The Russian invasion has not only displaced millions of people, but has also triggered a global food and energy price surge. Watch | Ukraine war: Zelensky visits front line near Bakhmut as Russia targets cities As per the latest assessment, it is expected that in 2023, Kyiv will require around $14 billion for critical and priority reconstruction and recovery investments. It estimates that in addition to what the Ukrainian government has allocated in its 2023 budget, meeting these needs will require $11 billion in additional funding. AFP reports that the highest expected needs are in transport, while housing and energy are a close second. Also read | Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’ The latest assessment has been jointly reached by the Ukrainian government, the World Bank, the European Commission and the United Nations. It is around $62 billion more than an earlier estimate of $349 billion reported in September. Undoing 15 years of development and progress, the war has forced 7.1 million people into poverty, states the assessment. Also read | Ukraine war: UK defends sending uranium ammo to Kyiv after Putin's warning, says report As per AFP, the $411 billion needed is approximately 2.6 times Ukraine's estimated gross domestic product for 2022. "Energy infrastructure, housing, critical infrastructure, economy and humanitarian demining are our five priorities for this year," said Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal in a statement. He further warned that "the amount of damage and recovery needs currently does not include data on the loss of infrastructure, housing and businesses in the occupied territories." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow. Blinken, who as per AFP, has for weeks warned that Beijing is considering Russia's request for weapons for the Ukraine war said that "as we speak today, we have not seen them cross that line." He said this in response to a question on whether China was providing "lethal aid" to Russia. Talking to lawmakers at a Senate committee, the top diplomat as per Reuters said that China was "very carefully" watching how Washington and the world respond to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Blinken said that if Russia was allowed to attack Ukraine with impunity, it would "open a Pandora's box" for would-be aggressors and lead to a "world of conflict."

Watch |&nbsp;Key Takeaways from Xi- Jinping's Russia visit

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"The stakes in Ukraine go well beyond Ukraine. ... I think it has a profound impact in Asia, for example," he remarked.

Blinken's statement comes on the heels of a high-level meeting between Russia and China. Recently, 'dear friends' Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met in Moscow to discuss the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-reconstruction-and-recovery-will-take-several-years-and-411-billion-world-bank-574812">Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank</a>

"I think their diplomatic support, their political support, and to some extent material support for Russia certainly goes against our interest in bringing this war to an end," said Blinken when speaking about China.

Referring to the arrest warrant the International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently issued for the Russian President, Blinken said Washington would urge other nations to extradite Putin if he visits.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-uk-for-sending-depleted-uranium-shells-to-ukraine-calls-it-serious-escalation-574777">Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’</a>

"I think that anyone who is a party to the court and has obligations should fulfil their obligations," he said.&nbsp;

However, he added that given that the US is "not actually a party to the ICC", he wants to avoid engaging in the hypothetical and that regards to Washington helping ICC extradite Putin, he would "have to look at the laws." "I don't think he (Putin) has any plans to travel here soon," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow. Blinken, who as per AFP, has for weeks warned that Beijing is considering Russia's request for weapons for the Ukraine war said that "as we speak today, we have not seen them cross that line." He said this in response to a question on whether China was providing "lethal aid" to Russia. Talking to lawmakers at a Senate committee, the top diplomat as per Reuters said that China was "very carefully" watching how Washington and the world respond to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Blinken said that if Russia was allowed to attack Ukraine with impunity, it would "open a Pandora's box" for would-be aggressors and lead to a "world of conflict." Watch | Key Takeaways from Xi- Jinping's Russia visit "The stakes in Ukraine go well beyond Ukraine. ... I think it has a profound impact in Asia, for example," he remarked. Blinken's statement comes on the heels of a high-level meeting between Russia and China. Recently, 'dear friends' Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met in Moscow to discuss the bilateral relations between the two nations. Also read | Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank "I think their diplomatic support, their political support, and to some extent material support for Russia certainly goes against our interest in bringing this war to an end," said Blinken when speaking about China. Referring to the arrest warrant the International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently issued for the Russian President, Blinken said Washington would urge other nations to extradite Putin if he visits. Also read | Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’ "I think that anyone who is a party to the court and has obligations should fulfil their obligations," he said. However, he added that given that the US is "not actually a party to the ICC", he wants to avoid engaging in the hypothetical and that regards to Washington helping ICC extradite Putin, he would "have to look at the laws." "I don't think he (Putin) has any plans to travel here soon," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said that his nation has suggested to China that it join a Ukrainian peace formula to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The war-torn country's leader, however, said that Ukraine was still waiting for an answer. Zelensky's statement comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

Watch |&nbsp;‘Dear friends’ Xi &amp; Putin meet in Moscow

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"We offered China to become a partner in the implementation of the peace formula. We passed over our formula across all channels. We invite you to dialogue. We are waiting for your answer," Zelensky told the press during a joint briefing in Kyiv with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dear-friends-putin-and-xi-unify-against-the-west-express-concern-over-nato-presence-in-asia-574481">'Dear friends' Putin and Xi unify against the West, express concern over NATO presence in Asia</a>

He added that: "We are receiving some signals, but there are no specifics yet."

The Ukrainian leader also confirmed that he will participate in the upcoming G7 summit in Japan in May via video link.

"I accepted the prime minister's invitation and will participate in the G7 summit in Hiroshima in an online format," said Zelensky.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-in-moscow-chinese-president-holds-talks-with-putin-at-kremlin-discusses-ukraine-574391">Putin holds talks with Chinese President Xi at Kremlin, hails 'special' Russia-China ties</a>

Later, during his daily evening address, Zelensky said that he had "productive talks" with the Japanese Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"Our talks with Mr Kishida were quite productive," he said adding, "I also heard a very concrete willingness of Japan to work together with us to even more actively mobilise the world for international order, to protect against aggression, to protect against Russian terror."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said that his nation has suggested to China that it join a Ukrainian peace formula to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said that his nation has suggested to China that it join a Ukrainian peace formula to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The war-torn country's leader, however, said that Ukraine was still waiting for an answer. Zelensky's statement comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Watch | ‘Dear friends’ Xi & Putin meet in Moscow "We offered China to become a partner in the implementation of the peace formula. We passed over our formula across all channels. We invite you to dialogue. We are waiting for your answer," Zelensky told the press during a joint briefing in Kyiv with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Also read | 'Dear friends' Putin and Xi unify against the West, express concern over NATO presence in Asia He added that: "We are receiving some signals, but there are no specifics yet." The Ukrainian leader also confirmed that he will participate in the upcoming G7 summit in Japan in May via video link. "I accepted the prime minister's invitation and will participate in the G7 summit in Hiroshima in an online format," said Zelensky. Also read | Putin holds talks with Chinese President Xi at Kremlin, hails 'special' Russia-China ties Later, during his daily evening address, Zelensky said that he had "productive talks" with the Japanese Prime Minister. "Our talks with Mr Kishida were quite productive," he said adding, "I also heard a very concrete willingness of Japan to work together with us to even more actively mobilise the world for international order, to protect against aggression, to protect against Russian terror." (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.

As Xi meets Putin, Ukraine's Zelensky invites China to join Kyiv's peace formula

China and Russia on Tuesday hailed a "new era" in their relationship. Putting on a united front against the West, the allies expressed "great concern" over the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) growing presence in Asia and accused the United States of 'undermining' global security. 'Dear friends' Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on Monday, held four and a half hours of talks. The two leaders, as per AFP, agreed to deepen the partnership they share.

Watch |&nbsp;‘Dear friends’ Xi &amp; Putin meet in Moscow

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Putin, as per the report, also accused the West of rejecting Beijing's proposals to end the Ukraine conflict. The Russian leader said that he was open to talks on Ukraine. He also praised China's 12-point position paper on the conflict. He also accused Kyiv of being unwilling to implement China's proposals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-in-moscow-chinese-president-holds-talks-with-putin-at-kremlin-discusses-ukraine-574391">Putin holds talks with Chinese President Xi at Kremlin, hails 'special' Russia-China ties</a>

"Many of the provisions of the peace plan put forward by China... can be taken as the basis for a peaceful settlement when Kyiv and the West will be ready for it," said Putin adding "however, so far we have not seen such readiness on their part."

In a joint statement, Putin and Xi took aim at the West and called on the US "to stop undermining international and regional security and global strategic stability in order to secure its unilateral military advantage."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-invites-putin-to-visit-beijing-this-year-574268">Chinese President Xi Jinping invites Putin to visit Beijing this year</a>

Expressing concern over NATO's growing presence in Asia, the two leaders in their declaration said: "The parties express great concern over the ongoing strengthening of NATO's ties with the countries of the Asia-Pacific region on military and security issues."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China and Russia on Tuesday hailed a "new era" in their relationship. Putting on a united front against the West, the allies expressed "great concern" over the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) growing presence in Asia and accused the United States of 'undermining' global security.

China and Russia on Tuesday hailed a "new era" in their relationship. Putting on a united front against the West, the allies expressed "great concern" over the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) growing presence in Asia and accused the United States of 'undermining' global security. 'Dear friends' Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on Monday, held four and a half hours of talks. The two leaders, as per AFP, agreed to deepen the partnership they share. Watch | ‘Dear friends’ Xi & Putin meet in Moscow Putin, as per the report, also accused the West of rejecting Beijing's proposals to end the Ukraine conflict. The Russian leader said that he was open to talks on Ukraine. He also praised China's 12-point position paper on the conflict. He also accused Kyiv of being unwilling to implement China's proposals. Also read | Putin holds talks with Chinese President Xi at Kremlin, hails 'special' Russia-China ties "Many of the provisions of the peace plan put forward by China... can be taken as the basis for a peaceful settlement when Kyiv and the West will be ready for it," said Putin adding "however, so far we have not seen such readiness on their part." In a joint statement, Putin and Xi took aim at the West and called on the US "to stop undermining international and regional security and global strategic stability in order to secure its unilateral military advantage." Also read | Chinese President Xi Jinping invites Putin to visit Beijing this year Expressing concern over NATO's growing presence in Asia, the two leaders in their declaration said: "The parties express great concern over the ongoing strengthening of NATO's ties with the countries of the Asia-Pacific region on military and security issues." (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.

'Dear friends' Putin and Xi unify against the West, express concern over NATO presence in Asia

Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Moscow on Wednesday (March 22) after his crucial state visit&nbsp;during which he held talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The visit was highly significant amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions as the two nations showed a unified front against the West.&nbsp;

Putin and Xi called each other "dear friends" and hailed a "new era" in their nations' ties. The leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest and signed a few economic proposals, but there was no apparent breakthrough on ending the war in Ukraine despite Beijing touting it a "visit for peace".&nbsp;

Moreover, the joint statement, which was issued after Putin and Xi's meeting, hints that both nations want to keep the ongoing Ukraine conflict away from the G20 by not raising or mentioning it. The statement issued following meeting of Putin and Jinping indicates the two countries will jointly oppose the raising of the Ukraine crisis at the G20, just as they have done at two key ministerial meetings hosted by India.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-departs-russia-after-series-of-meetings-with-vladimir-putin-five-key-points-574572">Xi Jinping departs for Beijing after series of meetings with Putin. Five key points of his Russia visit</a>&nbsp;

The joint statement stated that Russia and China support the G20 format as an "important forum" for discussing international economic cooperation issues and anti-crisis response measures.&nbsp;

It also mentioned that they will jointly promote the invigorated spirit of solidarity and cooperation within the G20, and support the leading role of the association in such areas as the international fight against epidemics, world economic recovery, inclusive sustainable development, etc.&nbsp;

The statement also stated that they stand against attempts by external forces to undermine security and stability in their "common adjacent regions".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Xi reiterates China's adherence to UN; Is Xi more commanding than Putin?&nbsp;

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<h2>A message to the US over Taiwan&nbsp;</h2>

In a veiled reference to the West, the statement mentioned that the sides reaffirm their strong mutual support for protection of their core interests, state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and oppose interference by external forces in their internal affairs.

The Russian side reaffirmed its support for the One-China principle, confirming that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and opposes&nbsp;any form of independence of Taiwan.&nbsp;

<h2>Comments on Indo-Pacific&nbsp;</h2>

The joint statement noted that both nations stand against the formation of closed bloc structures and opposing camps in the Asia-Pacific region. It added that they remain highly vigilant about the "negative impact" of the United States Indo-Pacific strategy on peace and stability in the region.&nbsp;

"Russia and China have made consistent efforts to build an equitable, open and inclusive security system in the Asia-Pacific Region (APR) that is not directed against third countries and that promotes peace, stability and prosperity," the statement added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Moscow on Wednesday (March 22) after his crucial state visit during which he held talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Moscow on Wednesday (March 22) after his crucial state visit during which he held talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The visit was highly significant amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions as the two nations showed a unified front against the West. Putin and Xi called each other "dear friends" and hailed a "new era" in their nations' ties. The leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest and signed a few economic proposals, but there was no apparent breakthrough on ending the war in Ukraine despite Beijing touting it a "visit for peace". Moreover, the joint statement, which was issued after Putin and Xi's meeting, hints that both nations want to keep the ongoing Ukraine conflict away from the G20 by not raising or mentioning it. The statement issued following meeting of Putin and Jinping indicates the two countries will jointly oppose the raising of the Ukraine crisis at the G20, just as they have done at two key ministerial meetings hosted by India. ALSO READ | Xi Jinping departs for Beijing after series of meetings with Putin. Five key points of his Russia visit The joint statement stated that Russia and China support the G20 format as an "important forum" for discussing international economic cooperation issues and anti-crisis response measures. It also mentioned that they will jointly promote the invigorated spirit of solidarity and cooperation within the G20, and support the leading role of the association in such areas as the international fight against epidemics, world economic recovery, inclusive sustainable development, etc. The statement also stated that they stand against attempts by external forces to undermine security and stability in their "common adjacent regions". WATCH | Xi reiterates China's adherence to UN; Is Xi more commanding than Putin? × A message to the US over Taiwan In a veiled reference to the West, the statement mentioned that the sides reaffirm their strong mutual support for protection of their core interests, state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and oppose interference by external forces in their internal affairs. The Russian side reaffirmed its support for the One-China principle, confirming that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and opposes any form of independence of Taiwan. Comments on Indo-Pacific The joint statement noted that both nations stand against the formation of closed bloc structures and opposing camps in the Asia-Pacific region. It added that they remain highly vigilant about the "negative impact" of the United States Indo-Pacific strategy on peace and stability in the region. "Russia and China have made consistent efforts to build an equitable, open and inclusive security system in the Asia-Pacific Region (APR) that is not directed against third countries and that promotes peace, stability and prosperity," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Are China, Russia against raising Ukraine war issue at G20 summit in India too?

Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his whirlwind tour of Russia on Thursday and departed for Beijing, reported Russian news agencies. Xi received a guard of honour at Moscow's Vnukovo airport as Russian and Chinese national anthems were played in the background.

Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his whirlwind tour of Russia on Thursday and departed for Beijing, reported Russian news agencies. Xi received a guard of honour at Moscow's Vnukovo airport as Russian and Chinese national anthems were played in the background. Xi arrived in Moscow on Monday to meet his Russian counterpart, President Vladimir Putin. The leaders attempted to strengthen bilateral relations while sending a message that the two powerful nations were not cowering down in face of threats issued by the western countries. Targetting western bloc The joint statement issued after the summit took potshots at the western countries by terming them as the 'confrontational bloc' which did not want the war to end. “Russia reaffirmed that it was committed to restarting peace talks as soon as possible, and China expressed its approval,” read an excerpt from the joint statement. “Settlement of the Ukraine crisis must respect the reasonable security concerns of every country and prevent the formation of confrontational blocs that add fuel to the flames,” it added. China’s peace plan for Ukraine Since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has established a "no-limits" friendship with Russia where it has refused to denounce Moscow's aggressiveness, all the while presenting itself as impartial. However, prior to Xi's arrival in Russia, Beijing had prepared a 12-point peace plan for ending the war. The paper reiterates Beijing's talking points for Ukraine. However, the western world is wary that Beijing's plan will allow Putin to “freeze” its territorial gains in the country. ALSO READ | 'Russian people will...': Xi Jinping predicts about 2024 Russian presidential election Putin's booster shot of confidence Xi's visit assumes significance, particularly because it comes in the backdrop of Moscow being engaged in a vicious fight on the eastern flank of Ukraine. Facing severe economic sanctions and being isolated on the world stage, the visit by Xi may have come as a booster shot of confidence for Putin. Increased bonhomie between Russia-China The summit between the duo was marked by pomp as the exchanges suggested a growing bonhomie. During one of the meetings, Xi said he was convinced that the Russian people will be voting en masse for the Kremlin chief in next year's presidential election. "I know Russia will hold a presidential election," said Xi in Mandarin. "Under your strong leadership, Russia has made great strides in its prosperous development. I am confident that the Russian people will continue to give you their firm support." While Xi called Putin a 'dear friend', the latter jokingly said he was 'envious' of the progress made by Beijing in recent times. "In recent years, China has made a tremendous leap forward in its development," Putin said. "It arouses genuine interest all over the world, and even we envy you a little." WATCH | Xi Jinping: China values relationship with Russia × Strengthening economic partnership The two leaders also declared an enduring economic partnership under which more Russian energy will be brought to China while more Chinese enterprises will be welcomed in Moscow. "The growth of China-Russia relations has not only brought tangible benefits to the people of our two countries, but also made important contributions to the development and progress of the world," said Xi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Xi Jinping departs for Beijing after series of meetings with Putin. Five key points of his Russia visit

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