Chinese President Xi Jinping will be on a two-day visit to Moscow from March 20 to 22. On agenda is brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine. China has been touting itself as a mediator, but its deepening ties with Russia have cast doubts. Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Xi's Moscow visit | What if the peace plan fails?

Hours after China's&nbsp;foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-set-to-visit-russia-from-march-20-22-kremlin-confirms-572906">Xi Jinping set to visit Russia from March 20-22, on trip ‘for friendship and peace’</a>

Xi Jinping will begin his Russia visit on&nbsp;Monday at the invitation of his Moscow counterpart Vladimir Putin.

The two leaders are expected to discuss the Ukraine crisis, as well as ways to boost bilateral ties. In February, China sought a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine in a 12-point plan&nbsp;issued on the first anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Kremlin added that the two leaders would meet for an informal lunch on Monday and will hold&nbsp;formal talks on Tuesday.

"Contacts between the president and (Xi) will begin on March 20 in the afternoon. It will be a face-to-face conversation. There will be an informal lunch. And March 21 will actually be the day of negotiations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

<h2>Xi Jinping Russia visit: What to expect?</h2>

According to the Kremlin, the negotiations will include a discussion of "current issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Xi Jinping to visit Russia in show of support for Vladimir Putin

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The two sides also plan to exchange opinions within the context of deepening of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the international arena. The countries are expected to sign a number of important bilateral documents.

This is a breaking story. More information to be added soon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Hours after China's foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'.

Hours after China's foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'. ALSO READ | Xi Jinping set to visit Russia from March 20-22, on trip ‘for friendship and peace’ Xi Jinping will begin his Russia visit on Monday at the invitation of his Moscow counterpart Vladimir Putin. The two leaders are expected to discuss the Ukraine crisis, as well as ways to boost bilateral ties. In February, China sought a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine in a 12-point plan issued on the first anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war. The Kremlin added that the two leaders would meet for an informal lunch on Monday and will hold formal talks on Tuesday. "Contacts between the president and (Xi) will begin on March 20 in the afternoon. It will be a face-to-face conversation. There will be an informal lunch. And March 21 will actually be the day of negotiations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Xi Jinping Russia visit: What to expect? According to the Kremlin, the negotiations will include a discussion of "current issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China." ALSO WATCH | Xi Jinping to visit Russia in show of support for Vladimir Putin × The two sides also plan to exchange opinions within the context of deepening of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the international arena. The countries are expected to sign a number of important bilateral documents. This is a breaking story. More information to be added soon. (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, Xi to sign declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'new era': Kremlin

Chinese President Xi Jinping will make a state visit to Russia from March 20-22 at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin. The visit comes as China offers to broker peace in Ukraine.

Xi Jinping to make state visit to Russia from March 20-22

Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in Russia from March 20-22 for a state visit after he was invited by President Vladimir Putin. The visit comes as China offers to broker peace in Ukraine.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia from March 20-22

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit Russia from March 20 to 22. The visit comes as China called again for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war and for peace talks to resolve the conflict that began just over a year ago.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia next week amid Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Western countries and others imposed limited sanctions on Moscow. The West expected to cripple Russia's economy but the country's state media claims that the economy is flourishing.&nbsp;

"Foreign analysts predicted us a depression and a decline in the consumer sector, they promised empty store shelves, a massive shortage of goods, and the failure of the service sector," Putin said while addressing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pentagon-releases-video-of-moment-russian-fighter-jet-hit-us-drone-over-black-sea-572630">Pentagon releases video of moment when Russian fighter jet hit US drone over Black Sea&nbsp;</a>

The remark appeared to be in reference to comments by British minister Therese Coffey, who last month urged to prefer seasonal, home-grown turnips as Britons are facing issues getting imported tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in supermarkets.&nbsp;

Putin said, "Turnip is a good product, but they would also probably have to go for turnips to Russia, because our level of the harvest, after all, significantly exceeds those figures of our neighbours in Europe."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Here's America's 'Plan B' for Ukraine&nbsp;

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Putin also urged Russia's billionaires to invest in new technology, production facilities and enterprises to help it overcome what he said were Western attempts to destroy its economy.&nbsp;

He claimed that "there are even more opportunities for business development and expansion, and Russian business should&nbsp;not&nbsp;miss&nbsp;this."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Western countries and others imposed limited sanctions on Moscow. The West expected to cripple Russia's economy but the country's state media claims that the economy is flourishing. "Foreign analysts predicted us a depression and a decline in the consumer sector, they promised empty store shelves, a massive shortage of goods, and the failure of the service sector," Putin said while addressing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. ALSO READ | Pentagon releases video of moment when Russian fighter jet hit US drone over Black Sea The remark appeared to be in reference to comments by British minister Therese Coffey, who last month urged to prefer seasonal, home-grown turnips as Britons are facing issues getting imported tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in supermarkets. Putin said, "Turnip is a good product, but they would also probably have to go for turnips to Russia, because our level of the harvest, after all, significantly exceeds those figures of our neighbours in Europe." WATCH | Gravitas: Here's America's 'Plan B' for Ukraine × Putin also urged Russia's billionaires to invest in new technology, production facilities and enterprises to help it overcome what he said were Western attempts to destroy its economy. He claimed that "there are even more opportunities for business development and expansion, and Russian business should not miss this." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Vladimir Putin mocks West with turnip reference amid food crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the response of Germany to the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions shows that the country is still "occupied" and not able to independently act decades after it surrendered at the climax of World War Two.

In an interview on Russian television, Putin said that the leaders in European countries have been browbeaten into losing their sense of independence and sovereignty.

Western nations, including Germany, have declined to comment on who they think was responsible for the blasts.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-defends-ukraine-war-says-its-about-survival-of-russian-statehood-572027">Putin defends Ukraine war, claims it’s about ‘survival’ of Russian statehood</a>

"The matter is that European politicians have said themselves publicly that after World War Two, Germany was never a fully sovereign state," Putin was quoted saying.

"The Soviet Union at one point withdrew its forces and ended what amounted to an occupation of the country. But that, as is well known, was not the case with the Americans. They continue to occupy Germany,” he added.

Putin claimed that the blasts on the Nord Stream gas pipelines were carried out on a "state level" and called the suggestions that it was carried out by an autonomous pro-Ukraine group "complete nonsense".

"One should always look for those who are interested. And who is interested? Theoretically, of course, the United States is interested. An explosion of this kind, of this power, at this depth, can only be carried out by specialists, and supported by the full power of the state, which has certain technologies," Putin stated.

WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war | Putin: Not a war with people of Ukraine

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The pipelines were laid down to transfer Russian gas to Germany although, after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, steps were taken by Berlin to decrease its reliance on Russian hydrocarbons.

Last week, Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that the blasts on the Nord Stream gas pipelines could have been a "false-flag operation to blame Ukraine".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the response of Germany to the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions shows that the country is still "occupied" and not able to independently act decades after it surrendered at the climax of World War Two.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the response of Germany to the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions shows that the country is still "occupied" and not able to independently act decades after it surrendered at the climax of World War Two. In an interview on Russian television, Putin said that the leaders in European countries have been browbeaten into losing their sense of independence and sovereignty. Western nations, including Germany, have declined to comment on who they think was responsible for the blasts. ALSO READ | Putin defends Ukraine war, claims it’s about ‘survival’ of Russian statehood "The matter is that European politicians have said themselves publicly that after World War Two, Germany was never a fully sovereign state," Putin was quoted saying. "The Soviet Union at one point withdrew its forces and ended what amounted to an occupation of the country. But that, as is well known, was not the case with the Americans. They continue to occupy Germany,” he added. Putin claimed that the blasts on the Nord Stream gas pipelines were carried out on a "state level" and called the suggestions that it was carried out by an autonomous pro-Ukraine group "complete nonsense". "One should always look for those who are interested. And who is interested? Theoretically, of course, the United States is interested. An explosion of this kind, of this power, at this depth, can only be carried out by specialists, and supported by the full power of the state, which has certain technologies," Putin stated. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war | Putin: Not a war with people of Ukraine The pipelines were laid down to transfer Russian gas to Germany although, after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, steps were taken by Berlin to decrease its reliance on Russian hydrocarbons. Last week, Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that the blasts on the Nord Stream gas pipelines could have been a "false-flag operation to blame Ukraine". (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

Germany still 'occupied', claims Russia's Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin's verbal attack on the West rose to a crescendo for yet another time on Tuesday when he defended the war in Ukraine, saying it is the question of Russia's very existence as a state.

He made these remarks in a long address to workers at an aviation factory in Buryatia, a mountainous Russian republic in eastern Siberia, some 4,400 km east of the capital city of Moscow.

Russian president said that the Ukraine war is more than just a geopolitical task. "So, for us, this is not a geopolitical task, but a task of the survival of Russian statehood, creating conditions for the future development of the country and our children," Putin said in his address.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-raise-retirement-age-to-tackle-ageing-population-571960">China to raise retirement age to tackle ageing population</a>

Putin in its speech, which was high in its rhetoric against the West, said that the western nations are&nbsp;actually firing salvos from Ukraine's shoulders.&nbsp;He called for giving the West a strategic blow. Putin also spoke on the economic implications of the war after the heavy Russian sanctions.

Putin said he had apprehensions at the start when western nations imposed hard-hitting sanctions on Moscow. Russia, however, is still standing and proving stronger than was anticipated, he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-third-death-from-h3n2-in-indian-state-of-gujarat-571891">India reports third death from H3N2 in Indian state of Gujarat</a>

"We have increased our economic sovereignty many times over. After all, what did our enemy count on? That we would collapse in 2-3 weeks or in a month," he said. 
 
He said that the West had been vying to bring Russia to its knees by triggering unemployment and forcing workers to protest and take on the streets and that Russia would "sway from within and collapse".

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesias-new-capital-at-the-cost-of-environment-571886">Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment?</a>

"This did not happen," Putin said. "It turned out, for many of us, and even more so for Western countries, that the fundamental foundations of Russia's stability are much stronger than anyone thought." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin's verbal attack on the West rose to a crescendo for yet another time on Tuesday when he defended the war in Ukraine, saying it is the question of Russia's very existence as a state.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's verbal attack on the West rose to a crescendo for yet another time on Tuesday when he defended the war in Ukraine, saying it is the question of Russia's very existence as a state. He made these remarks in a long address to workers at an aviation factory in Buryatia, a mountainous Russian republic in eastern Siberia, some 4,400 km east of the capital city of Moscow. Russian president said that the Ukraine war is more than just a geopolitical task. "So, for us, this is not a geopolitical task, but a task of the survival of Russian statehood, creating conditions for the future development of the country and our children," Putin said in his address. Also Read | China to raise retirement age to tackle ageing population Putin in its speech, which was high in its rhetoric against the West, said that the western nations are actually firing salvos from Ukraine's shoulders. He called for giving the West a strategic blow. Putin also spoke on the economic implications of the war after the heavy Russian sanctions. Putin said he had apprehensions at the start when western nations imposed hard-hitting sanctions on Moscow. Russia, however, is still standing and proving stronger than was anticipated, he added. Also Read | India reports third death from H3N2 in Indian state of Gujarat "We have increased our economic sovereignty many times over. After all, what did our enemy count on? That we would collapse in 2-3 weeks or in a month," he said. He said that the West had been vying to bring Russia to its knees by triggering unemployment and forcing workers to protest and take on the streets and that Russia would "sway from within and collapse". Watch | Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment? "This did not happen," Putin said. "It turned out, for many of us, and even more so for Western countries, that the fundamental foundations of Russia's stability are much stronger than anyone thought." (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 defends Ukraine war, claims it’s about ‘survival’ of Russian statehood

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war.

The Kremlin, in its statement, confirmed that Putin and Assad will be holding talks in Moscow on Wednesday.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-refutes-allegations-of-crashing-us-drone-over-black-sea-572081">Russia refutes allegations of crashing US drone over Black Sea</a>

"Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian Arab Republic President Bashar Assad will hold talks in the Kremlin on March 15," the statement read.

"Topical issues of further development of Russian-Syrian co-operation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, as well as prospects for a comprehensive settlement of the situation in and around Syria will be discussed," said the Kremlin.

Syrian president's office confirmed his arrival in Moscow and stated that Assad was received by the Russian ambassador to Damascus Alexander Yefimov and Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov.

A "large ministerial delegation" accompanies Assad, stated the Syrian presidency in a statement.

A military campaign was launched by Russia in Syria in 2015 which helped in turning the civil war's tide in favour of Assad with massive aerial bombardment of areas held by the opposition.

WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons

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Since then, Moscow has expanded its military facilities in the country and built a permanent air base at Hmeymim in Latakia province, Syria.

The relations between Ankara and Damascus have been strained by the Syrian war, as the former has continued supporting the rebel groups which oppose Assad's regime.

However, analysts have stated that Moscow is making attempts to bridge the divide between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war. The Kremlin, in its statement, confirmed that Putin and Assad will be holding talks in Moscow on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Russia refutes allegations of crashing US drone over Black Sea "Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian Arab Republic President Bashar Assad will hold talks in the Kremlin on March 15," the statement read. "Topical issues of further development of Russian-Syrian co-operation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, as well as prospects for a comprehensive settlement of the situation in and around Syria will be discussed," said the Kremlin. Syrian president's office confirmed his arrival in Moscow and stated that Assad was received by the Russian ambassador to Damascus Alexander Yefimov and Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov. A "large ministerial delegation" accompanies Assad, stated the Syrian presidency in a statement. A military campaign was launched by Russia in Syria in 2015 which helped in turning the civil war's tide in favour of Assad with massive aerial bombardment of areas held by the opposition. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons Since then, Moscow has expanded its military facilities in the country and built a permanent air base at Hmeymim in Latakia province, Syria. The relations between Ankara and Damascus have been strained by the Syrian war, as the former has continued supporting the rebel groups which oppose Assad's regime. However, analysts have stated that Moscow is making attempts to bridge the divide between the two nations. (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

Syria's Assad reaches Moscow, to hold talks with Putin

Chinese President Xi Jinping plans to travel to Russia to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin as soon as next week, people familiar with the matter said. The Kremlin declined to comment on reports of Xi’s visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia as soon as next week, says reports

Russian President Vladimir Putin will most likely attend the G20 summit in September in India’s capital New Delhi, Bloomberg has reported citing officials.

According to the reports, Kremlin is working to clear Putin’s schedule to make it possible for the Russian president to participate in the gathering after he had to skip&nbsp;the last two summits.

No official confirmation has been issued in this regard, even though India has formally invited Putin and Kremlin has accepted it.

The report further mentions that Kremlin is gearing up for an annual economic forum in Vladivostok, which was scheduled to place for the eve of the September 9-10 summit.

But it was pushed to a week later to give Putin greater flexibility and open the possibility that senior officials from&nbsp;India&nbsp;and China might attend the forum, Bloomberg report&nbsp;quoting sources said.

<h2>Ukraine war: Will the battle for Bakhmut be a turning point for Russia?</h2>

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Last year, Putin did not participate in the G20 event in Bali, Indonesia, and instead sent Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in his place amidst pressure from the West over the Ukraine invasion

A year before that as well Putin did not attend the leaders’ gathering in Rome as he was planning his invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-nominates-longtime-ally-li-qiang-as-chinas-new-premier-570794">Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier</a>

This comes days after the G20 foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi in early March saw bitter divisions over the Russia-Ukraine war.

India had wanted to focus on other issues affecting developing nations, but it said the differences over Ukraine "could not be reconciled".

"We tried, but the gap between the countries was too much," India's foreign minister S Jaishankar said.

On the sidelines of the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Lavrov for about 10 minutes and told him that the West would stand by Ukraine "for as long as it takes", a senior state department official said.

Blinken also pressed Russia to rejoin the New Start nuclear arms control treaty that it recently withdrew from and abide by the terms. 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin will most likely attend the G20 summit in September in India’s capital New Delhi, Bloomberg has reported citing officials. According to the reports, Kremlin is working to clear Putin’s schedule to make it possible for the Russian president to participate in the gathering after he had to skip the last two summits.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will most likely attend the G20 summit in September in India’s capital New Delhi, Bloomberg has reported citing officials. According to the reports, Kremlin is working to clear Putin’s schedule to make it possible for the Russian president to participate in the gathering after he had to skip the last two summits. No official confirmation has been issued in this regard, even though India has formally invited Putin and Kremlin has accepted it. The report further mentions that Kremlin is gearing up for an annual economic forum in Vladivostok, which was scheduled to place for the eve of the September 9-10 summit. But it was pushed to a week later to give Putin greater flexibility and open the possibility that senior officials from India and China might attend the forum, Bloomberg report quoting sources said. Ukraine war: Will the battle for Bakhmut be a turning point for Russia? Last year, Putin did not participate in the G20 event in Bali, Indonesia, and instead sent Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in his place amidst pressure from the West over the Ukraine invasion A year before that as well Putin did not attend the leaders’ gathering in Rome as he was planning his invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier This comes days after the G20 foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi in early March saw bitter divisions over the Russia-Ukraine war. India had wanted to focus on other issues affecting developing nations, but it said the differences over Ukraine "could not be reconciled". "We tried, but the gap between the countries was too much," India's foreign minister S Jaishankar said. On the sidelines of the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Lavrov for about 10 minutes and told him that the West would stand by Ukraine "for as long as it takes", a senior state department official said. Blinken also pressed Russia to rejoin the New Start nuclear arms control treaty that it recently withdrew from and abide by the terms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin likely to attend G20 summit in India: Report

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024."

In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine."

Watch |&nbsp;Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut

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He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine."

"If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed."&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin <a href="https://t.co/C0Ni5FMKVx">pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx</a>
— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1634530100640206848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse</a>

As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue.

The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-strike-in-kherson-kills-three-battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-570951">Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on</a> 
 
Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. 
 
Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].”

Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024.

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024." In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine." Watch | Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine." "If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed." Watch the video here: ⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx — War Monitor (@WarMonitors) March 11, 2023 × Also read | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue. The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].” Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". (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 mercenary group Wagner’s chief reveals ‘political ambitions’, to run for Ukraine’s president in 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin could be attending the G20 Summit in India later this year. The Kremlin has killed the President's schedule which has led to speculations that the Russian president will be attending.

Kremlin clears Putin's schedule for September, Vladivostok forum dates shifted to avoid clash

The Russian gymnast Alina Kabaeva, widely believed to be&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin's rumoured girlfriend, revealed her idea of an "ideal man" in a recently discovered interview. A Moscow-based newspaper first reported on the affair in 2008. However, neither Putin nor Kabaeva has ever admitted to being involved with each other.

Over the years, the two have been spotted together with formal parlance of Moscow's centre of power, fueling speculations and reports of the two being romantically involved.&nbsp;

In a nearly 15 years old public interaction&nbsp;that has now resurfaced, the Olympic rhythmic gymnast can be heard speaking about her relationship. Kabaeva, however, has not named Putin and has kept her comments open to interpretations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-seen-living-with-rumoured-girlfriend-children-spotted-in-luxury-mansion-report-567661">Putin seen living with rumoured girlfriend, children spotted in luxury mansion</a>

"Have you met your ideal man?"&nbsp;a young boy asked her during the audience-led interview cited by The Telegraph.&nbsp;

Kabaeva can be seen reacting with a&nbsp;pause for a few seconds. She rearranges her chair,&nbsp;fiddles&nbsp;with a pen, to finally say: "I have met him."

Another girl asked who the mystery boyfriend is.

"A man, a very good man, a great man," Kabaeva said, adding: "I love him very much."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war

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When this public interaction took place in 2008, Vladimir Putin was married to Lyudmila Ocheretnaya. Putin and Ocheretnaya divorced in 2014.&nbsp;

Reflecting on infidelity, Kabaeva answered if she would ever be with a married man.

"If a man is already looking at another woman and is already talking to her then the problem in the family has already happened," she said. "In that case, there can be no good in that family."

Asked what the last gift she received from her mystery man was, Kabaeva said: "An Alaska coat, a coat with fur, very beautiful."

Earlier this week, The Project reported that Kabaeva and Putin have been living together in a luxurious palace about 250 miles north-west of Moscow.

Kabaeva retired from professional gymnastics in 2006, following which she formally joined Vladimir Putin's United Russia party. She is also a director at a private media company backed by a Putin ally.

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The Russian gymnast Alina Kabaeva, widely believed to be President Vladimir Putin's rumoured girlfriend, revealed her idea of an "ideal man" in a recently discovered interview.

The Russian gymnast Alina Kabaeva, widely believed to be President Vladimir Putin's rumoured girlfriend, revealed her idea of an "ideal man" in a recently discovered interview. A Moscow-based newspaper first reported on the affair in 2008. However, neither Putin nor Kabaeva has ever admitted to being involved with each other. Over the years, the two have been spotted together with formal parlance of Moscow's centre of power, fueling speculations and reports of the two being romantically involved. In a nearly 15 years old public interaction that has now resurfaced, the Olympic rhythmic gymnast can be heard speaking about her relationship. Kabaeva, however, has not named Putin and has kept her comments open to interpretations. ALSO READ | Putin seen living with rumoured girlfriend, children spotted in luxury mansion "Have you met your ideal man?" a young boy asked her during the audience-led interview cited by The Telegraph. Kabaeva can be seen reacting with a pause for a few seconds. She rearranges her chair, fiddles with a pen, to finally say: "I have met him." Another girl asked who the mystery boyfriend is. "A man, a very good man, a great man," Kabaeva said, adding: "I love him very much." ALSO WATCH | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war × When this public interaction took place in 2008, Vladimir Putin was married to Lyudmila Ocheretnaya. Putin and Ocheretnaya divorced in 2014. Reflecting on infidelity, Kabaeva answered if she would ever be with a married man. "If a man is already looking at another woman and is already talking to her then the problem in the family has already happened," she said. "In that case, there can be no good in that family." Asked what the last gift she received from her mystery man was, Kabaeva said: "An Alaska coat, a coat with fur, very beautiful." Earlier this week, The Project reported that Kabaeva and Putin have been living together in a luxurious palace about 250 miles north-west of Moscow. Kabaeva retired from professional gymnastics in 2006, following which she formally joined Vladimir Putin's United Russia party. She is also a director at a private media company backed by a Putin ally. 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.

'I love him very much': When Putin's rumoured girlfriend went candid about her 'ideal man'

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February.

"For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

"If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests."

Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-as-russian-forces-attempt-to-encircle-city-residents-flee-568971">Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee</a>

A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives.

The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril.

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack. Watch | Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February. "For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition. Also read | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report "If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests." Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Also read | Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives. The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut. (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.

'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse

United States President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz&nbsp;held talks at the White House on Friday and pledged to&nbsp;support Ukraine as long as it takes and punish Russia over its invasion of Kyiv. In a briefing, President Biden said that he last met Scholz when, "Russia was amassing its troops," on the border, adding the West had&nbsp;vowed to respond and "together we made good on that promise."

This comes hours after a warning from Russia to western countries over&nbsp;providing tanks and other military weapons to Ukraine, pointing towards Germany.

Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for Kremlin said it is obvious that&nbsp;this will prolong the conflict and have "sad consequences for Ukrainians."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-to-run-out-of-money-next-year-claims-oligarch-oleg-deripaska-567969">Also read |&nbsp;Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska</a>

It was Scholz's first trip to the US since Feb 2022, and&nbsp;the two leaders highlighted their approach to support Kyiv, said an AFP report.&nbsp;

In reply to Russia's warning, Scholz said that it is important to send a message to Ukraine that "we will continue to support Kyiv as long it takes."

Watch |&nbsp;Scholz meets Biden in order to keep Ukraine strategies aligned

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The chancellor's visit came after a period of rocky ties, mainly over the delivery of military tanks long sought by officials in Kyiv, which they agreed on at the end of January.&nbsp;

The diplomatic relationship between the United States and Germany is extremely sensitive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-raisina-dialogue-russias-lavrov-says-ukraine-cancelled-everything-including-minsk-agreements-568248">Also read |&nbsp;Russia's Lavrov says Ukraine cancelled everything including Minsk agreements</a>

This is because&nbsp;Biden's predecessor&nbsp;Donald Trump put pressure on Berlin to drop the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia to Germany.&nbsp;

The two leaders also discussed issues related to China.&nbsp;

Former US diplomat Jeffery Rathke said that the meeting sends a clear and persuasive signal to China over its relationship with Moscow, with both sides warning against sending military arms to Russia.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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United States President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held talks at the White House on Friday and pledged to support Ukraine as long as it takes and punish Russia over its invasion of Kyiv.

United States President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held talks at the White House on Friday and pledged to support Ukraine as long as it takes and punish Russia over its invasion of Kyiv. In a briefing, President Biden said that he last met Scholz when, "Russia was amassing its troops," on the border, adding the West had vowed to respond and "together we made good on that promise." This comes hours after a warning from Russia to western countries over providing tanks and other military weapons to Ukraine, pointing towards Germany. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for Kremlin said it is obvious that this will prolong the conflict and have "sad consequences for Ukrainians." Also read | Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska It was Scholz's first trip to the US since Feb 2022, and the two leaders highlighted their approach to support Kyiv, said an AFP report. In reply to Russia's warning, Scholz said that it is important to send a message to Ukraine that "we will continue to support Kyiv as long it takes." Watch | Scholz meets Biden in order to keep Ukraine strategies aligned The chancellor's visit came after a period of rocky ties, mainly over the delivery of military tanks long sought by officials in Kyiv, which they agreed on at the end of January. The diplomatic relationship between the United States and Germany is extremely sensitive. Also read | Russia's Lavrov says Ukraine cancelled everything including Minsk agreements This is because Biden's predecessor Donald Trump put pressure on Berlin to drop the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia to Germany. The two leaders also discussed issues related to China. Former US diplomat Jeffery Rathke said that the meeting sends a clear and persuasive signal to China over its relationship with Moscow, with both sides warning against sending military arms to Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Scholz vow to support support Kyiv for ‘as long as it takes’

Russin President Vladimir Putin is currently living with his rumoured girlfriend and former Olympian, Alina Kabaeva in Moscow, said several&nbsp;reports. Putin has been reportedly living with Kabaeva in a villa on Putin’s estate on Lake Valdai, which is 400 km northwest of Moscow. The reports surfaced online from a Russian investigative news website, The Project. The rumours and conjectures of Putin and Kabaeva dating have been going on since 2008, but nothing has been ever confirmed by any of the sources.&nbsp;

The Project cited unnamed officials saying that they had seen children on the premises, pointing to a probability that the couple might have been spending time with them at their estate. The existence of Putin's Valdai villa was first reported in 2021 by the team of Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader. Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and gymnast Alina Kabaeva have denied in the past that they are in a relationship.

<h2>Who is Alina Kabaeva?</h2>

Alina Kabaeva is a Russian politician, media manager and retired rhythmic gymnast, who has been designated Himoured Master of Sports by the Russian government. She is one of the most decorated gymnasts in the history of rhythmic gymnasts. She has won many awards and accolades, like 2 Olympic medals, 14 World Championship medals, and 21 European Championship medals.&nbsp;

From 2007 to 2014, Kabaeva was a State Duma Deputy from United Russia. In September 2014, Kabaeva became the chairperson of the board of directors of the National Media Group.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-neutral-god-putin-slams-church-of-england-they-dont-know-564414">On 'gender-neutral' God, Putin slams Church of England: 'They don't know...'</a>

Kabeava’s family is from Tashkent, Uzbekistan and her father, Marat Kabayev was a professional football player. Her younger sister, Leysan Kabaeva was appointed as a judge of the Almetyevsk City Court in Tatarstan by Putin in 2016. Due to Kabaeva’s career, her family often travelled to different places in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>Alina Kabaeva’s contributions to gymnastics</h2>

Kabaeva was one of the few gymnasts to perform new skills and elements, such as the back split pivot with hand help (also known as "The Kabaeva"), the ring position with a slow full turn, and the back scale pivot, which was believed to be invented by her.

<h2>All the rumours around Vladimir Putin and Alina Kabaeva&nbsp;</h2>

1. Kabeava officially retired in 2008. In 2005, she was presented with the Order for Merit to the Fatherland by President Vladimir Putin. She was among the six Russian athlete torch bearers who carried the Olympic flame through Fisht Stadium during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Her selection as a torch bearer generated controversy in the international media because of her alleged close relationship with President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
<img alt="Vladimir Putin and Alina Kabaeva " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aaea9a81-eaf5-4402-9196-0de1ff3a61f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2824%29_19.jpg" />
2. In April 2008, the Moskovsky Korrespondent reported that Kabeava was engaged to Putin. The story was denied and the newspaper was shut down. After this, the status of Kabaeva and Putin’s relationship became a topic of speculation, including allegations that they even have multiple children together.&nbsp;

3. In July 2013, Kabeva said that she did not have children. But in March 2015, she was reported to have given birth to a daughter at the VIP hospital of Sanit Ann in Ticino, Switzerland.&nbsp;

4. In 2019, she reportedly gave birth to twin sons at the Kulakov maternity clinic in Moscow. However, the Swiss newspaper later reported in 2022 that a Swiss doctor of Russian origin said that she has assisted two children of Kabaeva and both of them were boys. Though nothing was confirmed by Kabaeva or Putin.&nbsp;

5. In April 2022, the US Department of Treasury prepared sanctions against Kabaeva. However, the US government withheld the sanctions for fear of escalating tensions between Russia and the US to her alleged relationship with Putin.

&nbsp;

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Russin President Vladimir Putin is currently living with his rumoured girlfriend and former Olympian, Alina Kabaeva in Moscow, said several reports. Putin has been reportedly living with Kabaeva in a villa on Putin’s estate on Lake Valdai, which is 400 km northwest of Moscow.

Russin President Vladimir Putin is currently living with his rumoured girlfriend and former Olympian, Alina Kabaeva in Moscow, said several reports. Putin has been reportedly living with Kabaeva in a villa on Putin’s estate on Lake Valdai, which is 400 km northwest of Moscow. The reports surfaced online from a Russian investigative news website, The Project. The rumours and conjectures of Putin and Kabaeva dating have been going on since 2008, but nothing has been ever confirmed by any of the sources. The Project cited unnamed officials saying that they had seen children on the premises, pointing to a probability that the couple might have been spending time with them at their estate. The existence of Putin's Valdai villa was first reported in 2021 by the team of Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader. Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and gymnast Alina Kabaeva have denied in the past that they are in a relationship. Who is Alina Kabaeva? Alina Kabaeva is a Russian politician, media manager and retired rhythmic gymnast, who has been designated Himoured Master of Sports by the Russian government. She is one of the most decorated gymnasts in the history of rhythmic gymnasts. She has won many awards and accolades, like 2 Olympic medals, 14 World Championship medals, and 21 European Championship medals. From 2007 to 2014, Kabaeva was a State Duma Deputy from United Russia. In September 2014, Kabaeva became the chairperson of the board of directors of the National Media Group. Also Read | On 'gender-neutral' God, Putin slams Church of England: 'They don't know...' Kabeava’s family is from Tashkent, Uzbekistan and her father, Marat Kabayev was a professional football player. Her younger sister, Leysan Kabaeva was appointed as a judge of the Almetyevsk City Court in Tatarstan by Putin in 2016. Due to Kabaeva’s career, her family often travelled to different places in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Russia. Alina Kabaeva’s contributions to gymnastics Kabaeva was one of the few gymnasts to perform new skills and elements, such as the back split pivot with hand help (also known as "The Kabaeva"), the ring position with a slow full turn, and the back scale pivot, which was believed to be invented by her. All the rumours around Vladimir Putin and Alina Kabaeva 1. Kabeava officially retired in 2008. In 2005, she was presented with the Order for Merit to the Fatherland by President Vladimir Putin. She was among the six Russian athlete torch bearers who carried the Olympic flame through Fisht Stadium during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Her selection as a torch bearer generated controversy in the international media because of her alleged close relationship with President Vladimir Putin. 2. In April 2008, the Moskovsky Korrespondent reported that Kabeava was engaged to Putin. The story was denied and the newspaper was shut down. After this, the status of Kabaeva and Putin’s relationship became a topic of speculation, including allegations that they even have multiple children together. 3. In July 2013, Kabeva said that she did not have children. But in March 2015, she was reported to have given birth to a daughter at the VIP hospital of Sanit Ann in Ticino, Switzerland. 4. In 2019, she reportedly gave birth to twin sons at the Kulakov maternity clinic in Moscow. However, the Swiss newspaper later reported in 2022 that a Swiss doctor of Russian origin said that she has assisted two children of Kabaeva and both of them were boys. Though nothing was confirmed by Kabaeva or Putin. 5. In April 2022, the US Department of Treasury prepared sanctions against Kabaeva. However, the US government withheld the sanctions for fear of escalating tensions between Russia and the US to her alleged relationship with Putin. 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.

Who is Alina Kabaeva? Putin's rumoured girlfriend & former Olympian- Know everything about her

Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly living with former Olympic rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva in a villa on Putin's estate on Lake Valdai, over 400 km north-west of Moscow, 'The Project', a Russian investigative news website reported. The said estate, spread across 13,000 square feet, is built entirely in the style of a Russian dacha -- a seasonal or year-round second home in post-Soviet countries.

'The Project' cited unnamed officials saying that they had seen children on the premises. The estate also houses a playground, according to previous reports based on satellite imagery of the area.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war

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The estate housing Alina Kabaeva is reportedly located just 800 metres (2,640ft) from Valdai, Putin’s best-guarded and most private residence, where he almost never holds public meetings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/putins-rumored-girlfriend-appears-in-public-for-first-time-since-ukraine-invasion-473332">Putin's rumoured girlfriend appears in public for first time since Ukraine invasion</a>

The existence of Putin's Valdai villa was first reported in 2021 by the team of Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader.

Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and gymnast Alina Kabaeva have denied in the past that they are in a relationship.

Reports by Russian news outlets have claimed in the past that only top-ranking officers in President Putin's security detail are aware of the details of their arrangement. But in 2014, Kabaeva was appointed to lead Russia's National Media Group, a media holding owned by a Putin confidante, despite having no relevant experience. 
Kabaeva is known for her secretive lifestyle. She was revealed as the owner of a number of other luxury properties across Russia, including a penthouse in Sochi on the Black Sea, believed to be the biggest apartment in Russia.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly living with former Olympic rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva in a villa on Putin's estate on Lake Valdai, over 400 km north-west of Moscow, 'The Project', a Russian investigative news website reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly living with former Olympic rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva in a villa on Putin's estate on Lake Valdai, over 400 km north-west of Moscow, 'The Project', a Russian investigative news website reported. The said estate, spread across 13,000 square feet, is built entirely in the style of a Russian dacha -- a seasonal or year-round second home in post-Soviet countries. 'The Project' cited unnamed officials saying that they had seen children on the premises. The estate also houses a playground, according to previous reports based on satellite imagery of the area. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war × The estate housing Alina Kabaeva is reportedly located just 800 metres (2,640ft) from Valdai, Putin’s best-guarded and most private residence, where he almost never holds public meetings. ALSO READ | Putin's rumoured girlfriend appears in public for first time since Ukraine invasion The existence of Putin's Valdai villa was first reported in 2021 by the team of Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader. Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and gymnast Alina Kabaeva have denied in the past that they are in a relationship. Reports by Russian news outlets have claimed in the past that only top-ranking officers in President Putin's security detail are aware of the details of their arrangement. But in 2014, Kabaeva was appointed to lead Russia's National Media Group, a media holding owned by a Putin confidante, despite having no relevant experience. Kabaeva is known for her secretive lifestyle. She was revealed as the owner of a number of other luxury properties across Russia, including a penthouse in Sochi on the Black Sea, believed to be the biggest apartment in Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin seen living with rumoured girlfriend, children spotted in luxury mansion: Report

A head-on train collision in Greece&nbsp;killed 36 people&nbsp;and injured around 85, the officials in Athens said&nbsp;on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Finland parliament on Wednesday (March 1) overwhelmingly approved country's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).&nbsp;Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko&nbsp;met Chinese&nbsp;President Xi Jinping and lent support to Beijing's 12-point peace plan to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-meet-with-xi-putins-close-ally-lukashenko-fully-backs-chinas-peace-plan-567258">In meet with Xi, Putin's close ally Lukashenko 'fully' backs China's 'peace' plan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335812-untitled-design-2023-03-01t194947415.png?imwidth=1920" />

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin met Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is on a visit to the European country, and lent his full support to Beijing’s recently proposed "peace" initiative amid the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-16-killed-85-injured-after-two-trains-collide-in-greece-566978">Greece train crash: Thirty-six killed in head-on train collision, at least 85 injured</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335802-newest-template-6.png?imwidth=1920" />

A head-on train collision in Greece has killed 36 people&nbsp;and injured around 85, officials said&nbsp;on Wednesday. The passenger train, that was reportedly carrying 350 people from Athens to&nbsp;the northern city of Thessaloniki, collided with a freight train just before midnight&nbsp;near the town of Tempe as it was emerging from a highway underpass. Multiple cars of the train derailed, with at least three bursting into flames.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finlands-parliament-overwhelmingly-gives-early-greenlight-to-nato-entry-567250">Finnish parliament overwhelmingly gives early greenlight to NATO entry</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335791-nato-logo.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Finland parliament on Wednesday (March 1) overwhelmingly gave a green light and acceleration to the bid of joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The move by parliament has increased the prospects that Finland will leave its neighbour Sweden behind and become a member of the pact earlier.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">BBC must follow law, India’s foreign minister Jaishankar tells UK foreign secretary</a>

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India has made it clear to the United Kingdom that compliance with Indian laws and regulations is mandatory for all entities operating in the country, including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-everything-about-bola-tinubu-nigerias-president-elect-567275">EXPLAINED | Everything about Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's president-elect</a>

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Bola Tinubu, the incoming president of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political career. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's assistance, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019.&nbsp;And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-elections-to-be-held-on-may-14-as-erdogan-rules-out-any-delay-following-devastating-earthquake-567142">Turkey elections to be held on May 14 as Erdogan rules out any delay following devastating earthquake</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314264-recep-tayyip-erdogan.png?imwidth=1920" />

Turkey will be holding its elections as per schedule despite the devastating February 6 earthquake, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Wednesday. Erdogan said the vote will be held on May 14.&nbsp;

"(Turkish) people will do what is necessary on May 14," he told his ruling party lawmakers in the parliament in Ankara.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-appoints-two-prominent-indian-american-corporate-leaders-to-his-export-council-567225">Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335792-untitled-design-2023-03-01t181756555.png?imwidth=1920" />

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday nominated two prominent Indian American corporate leaders Punit Renjen and Rajesh Subramaniam to his Export Council, the principal national advisory committee on international trade.&nbsp;

White House made the announcement in a statement where it listed all the individuals Biden has nominated to his Export Council. The Council serves as the principal national advisory committee on international trade.&nbsp;This comes after Biden recently nominated another Indian-American Ajay Banga&nbsp;to be the head of the World Bank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/young-girls-poisoned-in-iran-in-a-spate-of-attacks-to-force-closure-of-schools-567266">Young girls 'poisoned' in Iran in a spate of attacks to force closure of schools</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335818-untitled-design-8.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Hundreds of Iranian schoolgirls complained of respiratory distress in what has emerged as another episode of "mysterious poisoning" in Iran. The&nbsp;mysterious poisoning, suspected to be a case of a pre-mediated poisoning, has been reported in the holy city of Qom, south of Tehran. Many schoolgirls needed hospitalisation, local media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-overtakes-james-anderson-to-become-no-1-ranked-bowler-during-day-1-of-indore-test-567152">Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/01/335729-r-ashwin-overtakes-james-anderson-to-become-no-1-ranked-bowler-during-day-1-of-indore-test.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Nothing has clicked for India on Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test versus Australia, in Indore, on Wednesday (March 01). After opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led hosts only managed a paltry 109 in 33.2 overs and have failed to run through the Australian top-order. However, there is something to cheer for India's spin duo Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. While Jadeja became only the second Indian to complete a double of 500 wickets and 5000 international runs, Ashwin became the No. 1 ranked bowler in the purest format after replacing James Anderson.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/naatu-naatu-will-be-performed-live-at-oscar-awards-2023-confirms-the-academy-566989">Naatu Naatu from RRR will be performed live at Oscar Awards 2023, confirms the Academy&nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/324968-horizons-51.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The 'Naatu Naatu'&nbsp;madness will take over the Oscar stage on March 12. Nominated in the Best Original Song category at the 95th Oscar Awards,&nbsp;RRR's smash hit song&nbsp;Naatu Naatu&nbsp;will be performed live on stage by Indian singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava. The two singers will be making their international stage debut at the Oscars. The song's composer MM Keeravaani and lyricist Chandrabose will also be present at the ceremony which will take place on March 12 in Hollywood. The Academy's Twitter handle made the announcement about the performance on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A head-on train collision in Greece killed 36 people and injured around 85, the officials in Athens said on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Finland parliament on Wednesday (March 1) overwhelmingly approved country's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

A head-on train collision in Greece killed 36 people and injured around 85, the officials in Athens said on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Finland parliament on Wednesday (March 1) overwhelmingly approved country's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko met Chinese President Xi Jinping and lent support to Beijing's 12-point peace plan to end the war in Ukraine. Click on the headlines to read more: In meet with Xi, Putin's close ally Lukashenko 'fully' backs China's 'peace' plan Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin met Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is on a visit to the European country, and lent his full support to Beijing’s recently proposed "peace" initiative amid the Ukraine war. Greece train crash: Thirty-six killed in head-on train collision, at least 85 injured A head-on train collision in Greece has killed 36 people and injured around 85, officials said on Wednesday. The passenger train, that was reportedly carrying 350 people from Athens to the northern city of Thessaloniki, collided with a freight train just before midnight near the town of Tempe as it was emerging from a highway underpass. Multiple cars of the train derailed, with at least three bursting into flames. Finnish parliament overwhelmingly gives early greenlight to NATO entry The Finland parliament on Wednesday (March 1) overwhelmingly gave a green light and acceleration to the bid of joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The move by parliament has increased the prospects that Finland will leave its neighbour Sweden behind and become a member of the pact earlier. BBC must follow law, India’s foreign minister Jaishankar tells UK foreign secretary India has made it clear to the United Kingdom that compliance with Indian laws and regulations is mandatory for all entities operating in the country, including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). EXPLAINED | Everything about Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's president-elect Bola Tinubu, the incoming president of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political career. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's assistance, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019. And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007. Turkey elections to be held on May 14 as Erdogan rules out any delay following devastating earthquake Turkey will be holding its elections as per schedule despite the devastating February 6 earthquake, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Wednesday. Erdogan said the vote will be held on May 14. "(Turkish) people will do what is necessary on May 14," he told his ruling party lawmakers in the parliament in Ankara. Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council US President Joe Biden on Wednesday nominated two prominent Indian American corporate leaders Punit Renjen and Rajesh Subramaniam to his Export Council, the principal national advisory committee on international trade. White House made the announcement in a statement where it listed all the individuals Biden has nominated to his Export Council. The Council serves as the principal national advisory committee on international trade. This comes after Biden recently nominated another Indian-American Ajay Banga to be the head of the World Bank. Young girls 'poisoned' in Iran in a spate of attacks to force closure of schools Hundreds of Iranian schoolgirls complained of respiratory distress in what has emerged as another episode of "mysterious poisoning" in Iran. The mysterious poisoning, suspected to be a case of a pre-mediated poisoning, has been reported in the holy city of Qom, south of Tehran. Many schoolgirls needed hospitalisation, local media reported. Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test Nothing has clicked for India on Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test versus Australia, in Indore, on Wednesday (March 01). After opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led hosts only managed a paltry 109 in 33.2 overs and have failed to run through the Australian top-order. However, there is something to cheer for India's spin duo Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. While Jadeja became only the second Indian to complete a double of 500 wickets and 5000 international runs, Ashwin became the No. 1 ranked bowler in the purest format after replacing James Anderson. Naatu Naatu from RRR will be performed live at Oscar Awards 2023, confirms the Academy The 'Naatu Naatu' madness will take over the Oscar stage on March 12. Nominated in the Best Original Song category at the 95th Oscar Awards, RRR's smash hit song Naatu Naatu will be performed live on stage by Indian singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava. The two singers will be making their international stage debut at the Oscars. The song's composer MM Keeravaani and lyricist Chandrabose will also be present at the ceremony which will take place on March 12 in Hollywood. The Academy's Twitter handle made the announcement about the performance on Tuesday.

Top 10 world news: Putin ally backs Xi's 'peace plan' to end Ukraine war, train tragedy hits Greece, and more

One year of Russia-Ukraine war: 'Terrible toll' of the conflict in numbers

In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-city-in-donbas-largely-under-russian-control-says-ukraine-486382">Donbas region</a> of Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I hope you hear me," Putin <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq6LcYDVsw8">said</a> on February 24, 2022, pointing towards the West. "Anyone who considers interfering from outside, you will face consequences greater than you have ever faced in history," he said while declaring the offensive which, according to a US military estimate, has resulted in 100,000 military casualties on both Russian and Ukrainian sides so far.

Putin’s declaration put countries with whom Moscow shares ‘special’ or ‘privileged’ bilateral ties – such as India, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Turkey among others –- in a rare geopolitical tight spot. For months, Russia was holding a gun to Ukraine’s head, citing ‘security challenges’ such as an eastward expansion of NATO despite West’s past diplomatic assurances against the same.&nbsp;

That day, Putin pulled the trigger, shooting much of the Russian diplomatic capital in the West, and sending combative shockwaves across the Global South. The term Global South has come to be associated with the countries that were left out of the industrialisation wave, mostly the nations in the regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

At its centre continues to be a geopolitically rising India, with a long history of bilateral bonhomie with Russia and the erstwhile Soviet Union.

<h2>India: A sane voice amid the war cry</h2>

India's careful geopolitical navigation was visible on February 23rd when New Delhi abstained from a non-binding&nbsp;UN vote that called upon Moscow to end hostilities against Kyiv.&nbsp;India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting&nbsp;that "no solution can ever arrive at the cost of human lives".&nbsp;India, while recognising the&nbsp;"inherent limitations" of the said resolution, added&nbsp;that it is "constrained to abstain" and that&nbsp;only viable way out of the conflict are "dialogue and diplomacy".

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the word?

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India's voice has been that of&nbsp;restraint, that&nbsp;maintains&nbsp;its signature strategic autonomy, while calling for the ‘cessation of hostilities’ and upholding of the UN charter, according to experts. At the same time, India’s reaction to the Russian military action has been rooted in protecting New Delhi’s national interests with its desire to reduce hostilities between the two sides, they say.&nbsp;

“India has been following the buildup of tensions for the last several years and always knew that this was no ordinary conflict or war in the classical sense. It is a multilayered conflict with deep roots in history,” said Pankaj Saran, India’s former deputy National Security Advisor (2018- 2021), a job he took soon after returning from Moscow as India’s envoy (2016-2018). Saran is currently the convenor of New Delhi-based Centre for Research on Security and Strategic Issues.

“The issues involved relate to the fundamentals of the European security architecture,” Saran told WION, referring to the security implications of the US-led transatlantic alliance.

Anil Wadhwa, India’s former envoy to Italy, Poland and Lithuania, Thailand, and Oman, added that New Delhi’s response to the war has been characterised by ‘restraint’, that is, “condemnation of the civilian killings and abstention from the votes on the UN resolutions by the United States and West”.&nbsp;

“This is not an isolated position,” Wadhwa said, while referring to the multilateral posturing of the countries such as the UAE, South Africa, Israel and Turkey in relation to the ongoing war. &nbsp;

During the one year of war, in its abstentions from the UN votes condemning Russian actions against Ukraine, India has often found itself in the company of South Africa and China – two of its BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) partners. Individually, despite their bilateral issues, both New Delhi and Beijing have courted Moscow to ‘end the war’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s famous ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-era-must-not-be-of-war-g20-draft-communique-uses-indian-pm-modis-remarks-to-putin-534278">today’s era is not of war</a>’ pitch to Vladimir Putin found its place in the Bali G20 declaration, shadowing a much-complicated geopolitical challenge as New Delhi took over the G20 presidency — during what has now become the second year of war in Ukraine.

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In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking Donbas region of Ukraine.

In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking Donbas region of Ukraine. "I hope you hear me," Putin said on February 24, 2022, pointing towards the West. "Anyone who considers interfering from outside, you will face consequences greater than you have ever faced in history," he said while declaring the offensive which, according to a US military estimate, has resulted in 100,000 military casualties on both Russian and Ukrainian sides so far. Putin’s declaration put countries with whom Moscow shares ‘special’ or ‘privileged’ bilateral ties – such as India, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Turkey among others –- in a rare geopolitical tight spot. For months, Russia was holding a gun to Ukraine’s head, citing ‘security challenges’ such as an eastward expansion of NATO despite West’s past diplomatic assurances against the same. That day, Putin pulled the trigger, shooting much of the Russian diplomatic capital in the West, and sending combative shockwaves across the Global South. The term Global South has come to be associated with the countries that were left out of the industrialisation wave, mostly the nations in the regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia and Oceania. At its centre continues to be a geopolitically rising India, with a long history of bilateral bonhomie with Russia and the erstwhile Soviet Union. India: A sane voice amid the war cry India's careful geopolitical navigation was visible on February 23rd when New Delhi abstained from a non-binding UN vote that called upon Moscow to end hostilities against Kyiv. India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting that "no solution can ever arrive at the cost of human lives". India, while recognising the "inherent limitations" of the said resolution, added that it is "constrained to abstain" and that only viable way out of the conflict are "dialogue and diplomacy". ALSO WATCH | How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the word? × India's voice has been that of restraint, that maintains its signature strategic autonomy, while calling for the ‘cessation of hostilities’ and upholding of the UN charter, according to experts. At the same time, India’s reaction to the Russian military action has been rooted in protecting New Delhi’s national interests with its desire to reduce hostilities between the two sides, they say. “India has been following the buildup of tensions for the last several years and always knew that this was no ordinary conflict or war in the classical sense. It is a multilayered conflict with deep roots in history,” said Pankaj Saran, India’s former deputy National Security Advisor (2018- 2021), a job he took soon after returning from Moscow as India’s envoy (2016-2018). Saran is currently the convenor of New Delhi-based Centre for Research on Security and Strategic Issues. “The issues involved relate to the fundamentals of the European security architecture,” Saran told WION, referring to the security implications of the US-led transatlantic alliance. Anil Wadhwa, India’s former envoy to Italy, Poland and Lithuania, Thailand, and Oman, added that New Delhi’s response to the war has been characterised by ‘restraint’, that is, “condemnation of the civilian killings and abstention from the votes on the UN resolutions by the United States and West”. “This is not an isolated position,” Wadhwa said, while referring to the multilateral posturing of the countries such as the UAE, South Africa, Israel and Turkey in relation to the ongoing war. During the one year of war, in its abstentions from the UN votes condemning Russian actions against Ukraine, India has often found itself in the company of South Africa and China – two of its BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) partners. Individually, despite their bilateral issues, both New Delhi and Beijing have courted Moscow to ‘end the war’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s famous ‘today’s era is not of war’ pitch to Vladimir Putin found its place in the Bali G20 declaration, shadowing a much-complicated geopolitical challenge as New Delhi took over the G20 presidency — during what has now become the second year of war in Ukraine. 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 anniversary: India's 'mature' geopolitical navigation amid pressure is in spotlight

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted Joe Biden a $12,000 distinctive Russian desk set during their first presidential summit in Geneva in 2021.&nbsp;The writing set was the most expensive gift Joe Biden received from a foreign leader that year. It was described in an annual report from the State Department’s Office of the Chief of Protocol as a ‘Kholuy lacquer miniature workshop desk writing set and pen’.

The gift sits as a high-water mark in US-Russian relations that then deteriorated with Putin’s invasion of Ukraine a year ago.

The White House said at the time that Biden had given Putin a pair of his aviator sunglasses and a glass sculpture of an American bison, but the White House nor the Kremlin did not disclose it.

Meanwhile, when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;visited the White House two months ago, he offered an American flag, which according to reports was estimated to be worth $700.

ALSO READ : <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-anniversary-biden-to-announce-sanctions-against-russia-at-virtual-g7-meet-friday-565334">Biden to announce sanctions against Russia at virtual G7 meet Friday</a>

Among the gifts disclosed in Biden’s first report is a Dupont fountain pen from Macron, a solar wristwatch from former Swiss President Guy Parmelin, and a pen drawing of Biden’s childhood home from then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

The late Queen Elizabeth II gave Biden a picture of herself.

Even during Donald Trump’s administration, foreign leaders wooed the president&nbsp;with gifts including a Louis Vuitton golf bag from French President Emmanuel Macron and a gold-framed portrait of Trump himself from then-Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave Biden two dog bowls, two wool blankets, a ceramic cup and mug set, a fountain pen with a bottle of Oxford blue ink and a photograph of a Frederick Douglass mural in Edinburgh.

Because the gifts belong to the US government and not the recipient, most gifts are transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration for safekeeping.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted Joe Biden a $12,000 distinctive Russian desk set during their first presidential summit in Geneva in 2021. The writing set was the most expensive gift Joe Biden received from a foreign leader that year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted Joe Biden a $12,000 distinctive Russian desk set during their first presidential summit in Geneva in 2021. The writing set was the most expensive gift Joe Biden received from a foreign leader that year. It was described in an annual report from the State Department’s Office of the Chief of Protocol as a ‘Kholuy lacquer miniature workshop desk writing set and pen’. The gift sits as a high-water mark in US-Russian relations that then deteriorated with Putin’s invasion of Ukraine a year ago. The White House said at the time that Biden had given Putin a pair of his aviator sunglasses and a glass sculpture of an American bison, but the White House nor the Kremlin did not disclose it. Meanwhile, when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House two months ago, he offered an American flag, which according to reports was estimated to be worth $700. ALSO READ : Biden to announce sanctions against Russia at virtual G7 meet Friday Among the gifts disclosed in Biden’s first report is a Dupont fountain pen from Macron, a solar wristwatch from former Swiss President Guy Parmelin, and a pen drawing of Biden’s childhood home from then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The late Queen Elizabeth II gave Biden a picture of herself. Even during Donald Trump’s administration, foreign leaders wooed the president with gifts including a Louis Vuitton golf bag from French President Emmanuel Macron and a gold-framed portrait of Trump himself from then-Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave Biden two dog bowls, two wool blankets, a ceramic cup and mug set, a fountain pen with a bottle of Oxford blue ink and a photograph of a Frederick Douglass mural in Edinburgh. Because the gifts belong to the US government and not the recipient, most gifts are transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration for safekeeping. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin gifted Joe Biden a $12,000 pen set, months before invading Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that the new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which is dubbed Satan 2 by Western analysts, will be deployed. The announcement came a day before the first anniversary of Russia's military campaign in neighbouring Ukraine.&nbsp;

Last year in April, Putin announced the test launch of a nuclear-capable&nbsp;ICBM system. The Sarmat is capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads. It is among Russia's next-generation missiles that Putin has described as "invincible".&nbsp;

In a video released by the Kremlin to mark the "Defender of the Fatherland Day" in Russia, Putin said: "We pay special attention, as before, to strengthening the nuclear triad. This year, the first launchers of the Sarmat missile system will be put on combat duty."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/janet-yellen-calls-for-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-as-g20-finance-chiefs-gather-in-india-565184">Janet Yellen calls for fresh sanctions on Russia as G20 finance chiefs gather in India</a>

This news development comes days after CNN cited two anonymous US officials as saying that Russia carried out a test of the Sarmat, but it failed.&nbsp;

However, on being asked about the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the report. Peskov said that it was "the prerogative of the defence ministry".&nbsp;

Russia has claimed that Sarmat, which weighs more than 200 tonnes, can reach an unmatched 16,000mph and can deploy 10 or more warheads on each missile. The long-range missile has been in development since the 2000s.&nbsp;

Putin has said the heavy Sarmat missile can hit any target on Earth and will make the Kremlin's enemies "think twice".&nbsp;

Last year, the Russian defence ministry claimed in a statement that Sarmat is the "most powerful missile with the longest range of destruction of targets in the world", which will significantly increase the combat power of Moscow's strategic nuclear forces.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will nuclear weapons be used in Ukraine?&nbsp;

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<h2>Kinzhal systems and Zircon hypersonic missiles&nbsp;</h2>

Putin also said that Russia would continue production of air-based hypersonic Kinzhal systems and would start mass supplies of sea-based Zircon hypersonic missiles.&nbsp;

He said: "With the adoption of the Borei-A nuclear-powered submarine project 'Emperor Alexander III' into the navy, the share of modern weapons and equipment in the naval strategic nuclear forces will reach one hundred per cent."&nbsp;

"In the coming years, three more cruisers of this project will replenish the fleet's combat strength," he added.&nbsp;

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;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that the new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which is dubbed Satan 2 by Western analysts, will be deployed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that the new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which is dubbed Satan 2 by Western analysts, will be deployed. The announcement came a day before the first anniversary of Russia's military campaign in neighbouring Ukraine. Last year in April, Putin announced the test launch of a nuclear-capable ICBM system. The Sarmat is capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads. It is among Russia's next-generation missiles that Putin has described as "invincible". In a video released by the Kremlin to mark the "Defender of the Fatherland Day" in Russia, Putin said: "We pay special attention, as before, to strengthening the nuclear triad. This year, the first launchers of the Sarmat missile system will be put on combat duty." ALSO READ | Janet Yellen calls for fresh sanctions on Russia as G20 finance chiefs gather in India This news development comes days after CNN cited two anonymous US officials as saying that Russia carried out a test of the Sarmat, but it failed. However, on being asked about the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the report. Peskov said that it was "the prerogative of the defence ministry". Russia has claimed that Sarmat, which weighs more than 200 tonnes, can reach an unmatched 16,000mph and can deploy 10 or more warheads on each missile. The long-range missile has been in development since the 2000s. Putin has said the heavy Sarmat missile can hit any target on Earth and will make the Kremlin's enemies "think twice". Last year, the Russian defence ministry claimed in a statement that Sarmat is the "most powerful missile with the longest range of destruction of targets in the world", which will significantly increase the combat power of Moscow's strategic nuclear forces. WATCH | Gravitas: Will nuclear weapons be used in Ukraine? × Kinzhal systems and Zircon hypersonic missiles Putin also said that Russia would continue production of air-based hypersonic Kinzhal systems and would start mass supplies of sea-based Zircon hypersonic missiles. He said: "With the adoption of the Borei-A nuclear-powered submarine project 'Emperor Alexander III' into the navy, the share of modern weapons and equipment in the naval strategic nuclear forces will reach one hundred per cent." "In the coming years, three more cruisers of this project will replenish the fleet's combat strength," he added. 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.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin to deploy Sarmat missile system on combat duty this year

One year of Russia-Ukraine war: Here's how the global community marked the anniversary

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a state-organised concert on Wednesday, hailed the country's ongoing war effort in Ukraine by referring to the historical territorial alignments of Kyiv. Putin was addressing a crowd of tens of thousands at a Moscow stadium as the country marked the Defender of the Fatherland Day holiday.

Putin has repeatedly invoked Ukraine's past territorial alignments under the Russian Empire as well as the Soviet Union, in what many interpreted as the Russian leader's justification to invade Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I have just been hearing from the highest military command that at this very moment there is an ongoing fight on our historical lands, for our people. It is led by similarly brave fighters like the ones standing beside us here right now,"&nbsp;he said while pointing to the military personnel present at the venue.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-speech-live-updates-streaming-all-eyes-on-russian-president-564206">As it happened | Vladimir Putin speech: Russia suspending participation in New START nuclear treaty</a>

"Today, defending our interests, our people, our culture, language and territory, our entire nation is the defender of our Fatherland," Putin said.

"I bow to all of you," he added.

Following a play of the Russian national anthem, the crowd in the stadium chanted "Russia!" as Putin shook the hands of the military personnel on the stage.

"When we are together, no one can be our equal. For the unity of the Russian nation!"&nbsp;Putin said.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-putin-blames-west-and-ukraine-for-provoking-conflict-564437">Russia's Putin blames West and Ukraine for provoking conflict</a>

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Putin's Wednesday appearance comes up after the Russian leader's state-of-the-nation address a day before. On Tuesday, Putin vowed to continue the war and blamed NATO's expansion as the causal reason which he said forced Moscow into launching 'special military operations' in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The Russian media reported that the crowd at Moscow’s Luznhniki Stadium waved Russian flags and gave muted applause between performances and speeches. However, most of the attendees were employees of state-run institutions. A report in The Moscow Times said that a state institution forced 70 per cent of its workers to go to Wednesday's concert.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a state-organised concert on Wednesday, hailed the country's ongoing war effort in Ukraine by referring to the historical territorial alignments of Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a state-organised concert on Wednesday, hailed the country's ongoing war effort in Ukraine by referring to the historical territorial alignments of Kyiv. Putin was addressing a crowd of tens of thousands at a Moscow stadium as the country marked the Defender of the Fatherland Day holiday. Putin has repeatedly invoked Ukraine's past territorial alignments under the Russian Empire as well as the Soviet Union, in what many interpreted as the Russian leader's justification to invade Ukraine. "I have just been hearing from the highest military command that at this very moment there is an ongoing fight on our historical lands, for our people. It is led by similarly brave fighters like the ones standing beside us here right now," he said while pointing to the military personnel present at the venue. ALSO READ | As it happened | Vladimir Putin speech: Russia suspending participation in New START nuclear treaty "Today, defending our interests, our people, our culture, language and territory, our entire nation is the defender of our Fatherland," Putin said. "I bow to all of you," he added. Following a play of the Russian national anthem, the crowd in the stadium chanted "Russia!" as Putin shook the hands of the military personnel on the stage. "When we are together, no one can be our equal. For the unity of the Russian nation!" Putin said. ALSO WATCH | Russia's Putin blames West and Ukraine for provoking conflict × Putin's Wednesday appearance comes up after the Russian leader's state-of-the-nation address a day before. On Tuesday, Putin vowed to continue the war and blamed NATO's expansion as the causal reason which he said forced Moscow into launching 'special military operations' in Ukraine. The Russian media reported that the crowd at Moscow’s Luznhniki Stadium waved Russian flags and gave muted applause between performances and speeches. However, most of the attendees were employees of state-run institutions. A report in The Moscow Times said that a state institution forced 70 per cent of its workers to go to Wednesday's concert. 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.

‘For the unity of Russian nation’: Putin tells a roaring Moscow crowd in brief wartime speech

President Vladimir Putin has told a huge rally in Moscow the "whole country" supports Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine. It comes ahead of Friday's one-year anniversary of the start of the invasion.

Ukraine War: Putin addresses massive rally in Moscow ahead of anniversary

Russia and China showcase their deepening ties as Beijing's top Diplomat Wang Yi had a series of meetings during his trip to Moscow, where he also met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting comes on the eve of one-year anniversary of Russia's War in Ukraine.

Will China help Russia? Beijing's top Diplomat Wang Yi in Moscow

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”.

The US president made the comment as he ended his wartime visit to Europe in Poland which was aimed at improving partnerships with allies on the eastern flank of NATO. Biden was holding a meeting with eastern European leaders and NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reportedly-failed-an-icbm-test-during-bidens-ukraine-trip-564688">Russia conducted ICBM test launch while Biden was in Ukraine, it failed: Report</a>

"It's a big mistake to do that, not very responsible. But I don't read into that that he's thinking of using nuclear weapons or anything like that," said the US president, adding that he had seen "no evidence" of any change in Moscow’s posture on the use of nuclear arms. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the participation of Moscow in the New START arms treaty will be suspended during a state of the nation address, a decision which had received approval from Russian lawmakers on Wednesday. Through the 2010 deal, the two nations committed to limiting their stockpile of nuclear warheads.

‘You’re the frontlines of our collective defence’, says Biden to Bucharest Nine

Addressing Bucharest Nine, which includes Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, Biden said, “You’re the frontlines of our collective defence.”

“And you know, better than anyone, what’s at stake in this conflict. Not just for Ukraine, but for the freedom of democracies throughout Europe and around the world,” he further stated.

WATCH | US President Biden rallies NATO allies in Poland, says 'Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia'

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Addressing the anxiety of these countries that Putin may take military action against them next if he achieves success in Ukraine, Biden said that the mutual defence pact of NATO is “sacred” and that “we will defend literally every inch of NATO”. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said, “We cannot allow Russia to continue to chip away at European security. We must break the cycle of Russian aggression.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”.

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”. The US president made the comment as he ended his wartime visit to Europe in Poland which was aimed at improving partnerships with allies on the eastern flank of NATO. Biden was holding a meeting with eastern European leaders and NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw. ALSO READ | Russia conducted ICBM test launch while Biden was in Ukraine, it failed: Report "It's a big mistake to do that, not very responsible. But I don't read into that that he's thinking of using nuclear weapons or anything like that," said the US president, adding that he had seen "no evidence" of any change in Moscow’s posture on the use of nuclear arms. On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the participation of Moscow in the New START arms treaty will be suspended during a state of the nation address, a decision which had received approval from Russian lawmakers on Wednesday. Through the 2010 deal, the two nations committed to limiting their stockpile of nuclear warheads. ‘You’re the frontlines of our collective defence’, says Biden to Bucharest Nine Addressing Bucharest Nine, which includes Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, Biden said, “You’re the frontlines of our collective defence.” “And you know, better than anyone, what’s at stake in this conflict. Not just for Ukraine, but for the freedom of democracies throughout Europe and around the world,” he further stated. WATCH | US President Biden rallies NATO allies in Poland, says 'Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia' Addressing the anxiety of these countries that Putin may take military action against them next if he achieves success in Ukraine, Biden said that the mutual defence pact of NATO is “sacred” and that “we will defend literally every inch of NATO”. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said, “We cannot allow Russia to continue to chip away at European security. We must break the cycle of Russian aggression.” (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

‘Big mistake’ | Biden says Putin’s decision to withdraw from nuclear treaty ‘not very responsible’

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation".

"The co-operation between China and Russia on the world stage is very important to stabilise the international situation," said Putin, during the meeting. The talks were held as Wang Yi visited Moscow after concerns were raised by NATO and Washington about China providing weapons to Russia.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-diplomat-to-visit-russia-amid-beijings-call-to-end-ukraine-war-564123">China's top diplomat to visit Russia amid Beijing's call to end Ukraine war</a>

"We will not be overwhelmed by threats and pressure from third parties," he stated. After the meeting, a readout was published by Chinese state news agency Xinhua which quoted Wang stating that China was willing to "deepen political trust" and "strengthen strategic co-ordination" with Russia.

China would "uphold an objective and fair position and play a constructive role in solving the crisis through political means", it stated. The meeting between the two leaders comes as China is trying to work as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine and is expected to provide its own "political solution" to the Ukraine conflict.

Beijing has been positioning itself as a neutral party, while it continues to maintain close ties with its ally Russia. "With the Russian side, we are ready to strengthen our strategic partnership and our in-depth co-operation" Wang Yi said, according to his statement’s translation.

WATCH | China's top Diplomat Wang Yi says, 'Beijing-Moscow relations mature in character'

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The Chinese diplomat insisted that the two countries’ partnership was "not directed against any third country and does not give in to pressure”. Wang Yi earlier held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

"Despite the high turbulence on the world stage, we are demonstrating our solidarity and the readiness to defend each other's interests based on the respect for international law and the central role of the United Nations," said Lavrov.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation".

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation". "The co-operation between China and Russia on the world stage is very important to stabilise the international situation," said Putin, during the meeting. The talks were held as Wang Yi visited Moscow after concerns were raised by NATO and Washington about China providing weapons to Russia. ALSO READ | China's top diplomat to visit Russia amid Beijing's call to end Ukraine war "We will not be overwhelmed by threats and pressure from third parties," he stated. After the meeting, a readout was published by Chinese state news agency Xinhua which quoted Wang stating that China was willing to "deepen political trust" and "strengthen strategic co-ordination" with Russia. China would "uphold an objective and fair position and play a constructive role in solving the crisis through political means", it stated. The meeting between the two leaders comes as China is trying to work as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine and is expected to provide its own "political solution" to the Ukraine conflict. Beijing has been positioning itself as a neutral party, while it continues to maintain close ties with its ally Russia. "With the Russian side, we are ready to strengthen our strategic partnership and our in-depth co-operation" Wang Yi said, according to his statement’s translation. WATCH | China's top Diplomat Wang Yi says, 'Beijing-Moscow relations mature in character' The Chinese diplomat insisted that the two countries’ partnership was "not directed against any third country and does not give in to pressure”. Wang Yi earlier held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. "Despite the high turbulence on the world stage, we are demonstrating our solidarity and the readiness to defend each other's interests based on the respect for international law and the central role of the United Nations," said Lavrov. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin meets China’s Wang Yi, says ties important to 'stabilise international situation'

Beijing's top Diplomat Wang Yi says, 'China, Russia ties can't be influenced by other countries'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to suspend participation in the Start Nuclear Treaty, which is the last major remaining Nuclear Arms Control treaty with the U.S. The West has now slammed Russia and echoed concerns over the suspension of the treaty.

Russia's President Putin halts nuke pact with U.S., latter slams treaty pull out by Moscow

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