According to officials, the White House and the Kremlin are working to arrange a summit in Switzerland next month between the United States President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Preparations underway for US President Biden and Russian President's meeting in Switzerland

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday warned that Russians will 'knock out teeth' of the country's adversaries. Speaking at a government meeting, Putin said that enemies of Russia were trying to clip its wings. every time the nation grew strong.

"Everyone wants to bite us somewhere or to bite off something from us," Putin said.

"But they -- those who are going to do it -- should know that we will knock out their teeth so that they cannot bite."

Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia, the world's largest country by landmass, is "too big for some", Putin said.

Putin didn't take names of adversaries he spoke about but stressed the need for modernisation of Russian forces.

Putin is known not to mince words during public meetings. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
In 1999, he famously promised to strike at separatists even in the "outhouse" which heralded the adoption of tougher tactics by the authorities against Chechen militants.

Tensions between Moscow and the West are high over a litany of issues, including Russia's troop buildup on Ukraine's border, interference in US elections and other perceived hostile activities.

But signs of a possible détente have recently been growing, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging dialogue during a face-to-face meeting in Reykjavik on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday warned that Russians will 'knock out teeth' of the country's adversaries. Speaking at a government meeting, Putin said that enemies of Russia were trying to clip its wings.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday warned that Russians will 'knock out teeth' of the country's adversaries. Speaking at a government meeting, Putin said that enemies of Russia were trying to clip its wings. every time the nation grew strong. "Everyone wants to bite us somewhere or to bite off something from us," Putin said. "But they -- those who are going to do it -- should know that we will knock out their teeth so that they cannot bite." Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia, the world's largest country by landmass, is "too big for some", Putin said. Putin didn't take names of adversaries he spoke about but stressed the need for modernisation of Russian forces. Putin is known not to mince words during public meetings. In 1999, he famously promised to strike at separatists even in the "outhouse" which heralded the adoption of tougher tactics by the authorities against Chechen militants. Tensions between Moscow and the West are high over a litany of issues, including Russia's troop buildup on Ukraine's border, interference in US elections and other perceived hostile activities. But signs of a possible détente have recently been growing, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging dialogue during a face-to-face meeting in Reykjavik on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says Russians will 'knock out teeth' of country's adversaries

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact.

The Russian exit from the Open Skies Treaty is yet to be endorsed by the upper house of parliament and needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin to take effect.

Moscow has signaled its readiness to reverse the withdrawal procedure and stay in the treaty if the US returns to the agreement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pulls-out-of-open-skies-treaty-russia-says-it-will-affect-all-members-300258">US pulls out of Open Skies treaty; Russia says it will affect all members</a>

The Open Skies Treaty was intended to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing the accord's more than three dozen signatories to conduct reconnaissance flights over each other's territories to collect information about military forces and activities.

More than 1,500 flights have been conducted under the treaty since it took effect in 2002, aimed at fostering transparency about military activity and helping monitor arms control and other agreements.

US President Donald Trump pulled out of the pact, arguing that Russian violations made it untenable for Washington to remain a party. The US completed its withdrawal from the pact in November.

Russia has insisted that the restrictions on observation flights it imposed in the past were permissible by the treaty and noted that the US imposed more sweeping restrictions on observation flights over Alaska.

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact.

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact. The Russian exit from the Open Skies Treaty is yet to be endorsed by the upper house of parliament and needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin to take effect. Moscow has signaled its readiness to reverse the withdrawal procedure and stay in the treaty if the US returns to the agreement. Also read| US pulls out of Open Skies treaty; Russia says it will affect all members The Open Skies Treaty was intended to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing the accord's more than three dozen signatories to conduct reconnaissance flights over each other's territories to collect information about military forces and activities. More than 1,500 flights have been conducted under the treaty since it took effect in 2002, aimed at fostering transparency about military activity and helping monitor arms control and other agreements. US President Donald Trump pulled out of the pact, arguing that Russian violations made it untenable for Washington to remain a party. The US completed its withdrawal from the pact in November. Russia has insisted that the restrictions on observation flights it imposed in the past were permissible by the treaty and noted that the US imposed more sweeping restrictions on observation flights over Alaska.

Russian parliament's lower house votes to exit from Open Skies Treaty

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims.

Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced.

Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced. Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: Putin calls for an end to violence

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West.&nbsp;

The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic.&nbsp; 
The Czech embassy will be allowed to employ no more than 19 Russian nationals and the US embassy none at all, Moscow said.

Tensions between Russia and the US have been high from the time the US held it accountable for interference in US elections and hacking of US government departments and agencies. The US expelled some Russian diplomats last month.

Czech Republic has also taken a hard stand against Russia in recent weeks. Last month, it expelled Russian diplomats and accused Russia of having been involved in an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

Russia's ties with the West were also strained during its military build-up along its border with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday to respond to what he said was the persecution of Moscow-friendly politicians in Ukraine, accusing the West of turning a blind eye to Kiev's political "clean-up".

With tensions between Moscow and Kiev high, Ukraine this week placed Putin's top ally Viktor Medvedchuk under house arrest on suspicion of high treason.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West. The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic.

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West. The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic. The Czech embassy will be allowed to employ no more than 19 Russian nationals and the US embassy none at all, Moscow said. Tensions between Russia and the US have been high from the time the US held it accountable for interference in US elections and hacking of US government departments and agencies. The US expelled some Russian diplomats last month. Czech Republic has also taken a hard stand against Russia in recent weeks. Last month, it expelled Russian diplomats and accused Russia of having been involved in an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump. Russia's ties with the West were also strained during its military build-up along its border with Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday to respond to what he said was the persecution of Moscow-friendly politicians in Ukraine, accusing the West of turning a blind eye to Kiev's political "clean-up". With tensions between Moscow and Kiev high, Ukraine this week placed Putin's top ally Viktor Medvedchuk under house arrest on suspicion of high treason. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia designates US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly states'

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

"In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call.

The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places.

Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims.

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country.

In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict. "In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call. The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places. Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims. Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine: UN chief Antonio Guterres, Vladimir Putin appeal for calm

Russia celebrates victory over Nazi Germany with huge parade on Red Square

Despite Russia's troop drawdown, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Ukraine remains under Russian military threat. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Blinken called on Russia to cease "reckless and aggressive actions" against Ukraine, saying that Moscow has kept "significant forces" near the border.

"We stand strongly with you... and we look to Russia to cease reckless and aggressive actions," Blinken told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the first visit to Kiev by a senior US official under President Joe Biden.

"We're aware that Russia has withdrawn some forces from the border with Ukraine, but we also see that significant forces remain there." 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/russia-begins-withdrawing-troops-from-ukraine-borders-379476">Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders</a>

Last month, Kremlin has sent several thousand troops on Ukraine's borders, the biggest such buildup since Russia seized Crimea in 2014 which led to a war breaking out in eastern Ukraine.

The violence between the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatists escalated since January in eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite Russia's troop drawdown, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Ukraine remains under Russian military threat. Blinken called on Russia to cease "reckless and aggressive actions" against Ukraine, saying that Moscow has kept "significant forces" near the border.

Despite Russia's troop drawdown, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Ukraine remains under Russian military threat. Blinken called on Russia to cease "reckless and aggressive actions" against Ukraine, saying that Moscow has kept "significant forces" near the border. "We stand strongly with you... and we look to Russia to cease reckless and aggressive actions," Blinken told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the first visit to Kiev by a senior US official under President Joe Biden. "We're aware that Russia has withdrawn some forces from the border with Ukraine, but we also see that significant forces remain there." Also read | Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders Last month, Kremlin has sent several thousand troops on Ukraine's borders, the biggest such buildup since Russia seized Crimea in 2014 which led to a war breaking out in eastern Ukraine. The violence between the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatists escalated since January in eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

US calls on Russia to cease 'reckless and aggressive' actions against Ukraine

The United States on Thursday reaffirmed the country's "commitment" to "Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence" in what is seen as a message to Russia over its troop buildup. &nbsp;

"I'm here really for a very simple reason, which is to, on behalf of President Biden, reaffirm -- strongly -- our commitment to the partnership between our countries, our commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Blinken made these comments during his one-day visit to Kiev and came hours after he along with other G7 foreign ministers condemned Russia's "irresponsible and destabilising behaviour" in Ukraine and elsewhere.

The G7 renewed its call "for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders including its territorial waters," a statement said.&nbsp;

"It is critical that Moscow now fully withdraws its forces and takes the necessary steps to help alleviate tensions."

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/russia-begins-withdrawing-troops-from-ukraine-borders-379476">Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders</a>

Last month, Kremlin has sent several thousand troops on Ukraine's borders, the biggest such buildup since Russia seized Crimea in 2014 which led to a war breaking out in eastern Ukraine.

The violence between the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatists escalated since January in eastern Ukraine. 
&nbsp;

The United States on Thursday reaffirmed the country's "commitment" to "Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence" in what is seen as a message to Russia over its troop buildup.

The United States on Thursday reaffirmed the country's "commitment" to "Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence" in what is seen as a message to Russia over its troop buildup. "I'm here really for a very simple reason, which is to, on behalf of President Biden, reaffirm -- strongly -- our commitment to the partnership between our countries, our commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Watch | Blinken made these comments during his one-day visit to Kiev and came hours after he along with other G7 foreign ministers condemned Russia's "irresponsible and destabilising behaviour" in Ukraine and elsewhere. The G7 renewed its call "for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders including its territorial waters," a statement said. "It is critical that Moscow now fully withdraws its forces and takes the necessary steps to help alleviate tensions." Also read | Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders Last month, Kremlin has sent several thousand troops on Ukraine's borders, the biggest such buildup since Russia seized Crimea in 2014 which led to a war breaking out in eastern Ukraine. The violence between the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatists escalated since January in eastern Ukraine.

US reaffirms commitment to Ukraine's 'sovereignty', 'territorial integrity'

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>on Tuesday said that he hoped of a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during a Europe trip in June.&nbsp;

"That is my hope and expectation," Biden was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Biden is scheduled to attend a G7 meet in Britain in mid-June, followed by NATO and EU summits in Brussels. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Kremlin has not confirmed the summit, but Yury Ushakov, an advisor of Putin, said that the planning is underway.&nbsp;

Austria and Finland have shown interest in hosting the meeting between the two leaders.&nbsp;

The US president in April proposed a meeting with Putin as the relations between both the countries hit a new low over tensions in Ukraine, treatment of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, among other issues.&nbsp;

Weeks ago, Biden also described Putin as a "killer", to which the Russian president responded that "it takes one to know one".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/putin-biden-may-meet-in-june-for-a-summit-top-kremlin-aide-380170">Putin-Biden may meet in June for a summit: Top Kremlin aide</a>

In April, the US expelled 10 Russian diplomats over claims of Russia's large-scale cyberattack on US computer systems and meddling in the presidential election in 2020.&nbsp;

Kremlin retaliated with tit-for-tat expulsions.

"I made very clear to Putin that we are not going to seek escalation but their actions will have consequences," Biden earlier said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday said that he hoped of a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during a Europe trip in June. "That is my hope and expectation," Biden was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday said that he hoped of a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during a Europe trip in June. "That is my hope and expectation," Biden was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Biden is scheduled to attend a G7 meet in Britain in mid-June, followed by NATO and EU summits in Brussels. Watch | Meanwhile, Kremlin has not confirmed the summit, but Yury Ushakov, an advisor of Putin, said that the planning is underway. Austria and Finland have shown interest in hosting the meeting between the two leaders. The US president in April proposed a meeting with Putin as the relations between both the countries hit a new low over tensions in Ukraine, treatment of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, among other issues. Weeks ago, Biden also described Putin as a "killer", to which the Russian president responded that "it takes one to know one". Also read | Putin-Biden may meet in June for a summit: Top Kremlin aide In April, the US expelled 10 Russian diplomats over claims of Russia's large-scale cyberattack on US computer systems and meddling in the presidential election in 2020. Kremlin retaliated with tit-for-tat expulsions. "I made very clear to Putin that we are not going to seek escalation but their actions will have consequences," Biden earlier said. (With inputs from agencies)

It is my 'hope and expectation': Joe Biden on summit with Putin

A Russian court has jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's ally to two and a half years in prison on pornography charges. Russia is inching closer to shutting down Alexei Navalny's political network. Regional offices of the network have announced that they would disband ahead of a ruling over whether the network be designated as extremists.

The court in Arkhangelsk, northern Russia, ruled that Andrei Borovikov, a former coordinator for Navalny's offices, had spread pornography by reposting a music video by the German metal band Rammstein.

Borovikov, 32, had pleaded not guilty to the charge, and his defence team will appeal the decision, lawyer Andrei Kychin added.

Opposition news site MBKh Media reported that in 2014, Borovikov had reposted the music video to Rammstein's song "Pussy" on VKontakte, a popular Russian social network similar to Facebook.

The news site said a former volunteer for Navalny's Arkhangelsk offices informed the police about the post in 2019, and charges were brought against Borovikov in September 2020.

One version of the music video depicts Rammstein playing its song interspersed with shots of scantily clad women dancing at a strip bar.&nbsp;

In a second edition, a couple performs sexual intercourse near the end of the clip.

It was not immediately clear which Borovikov had reposted because he has deleted the post.

Amnesty International on Wednesday called the case against Borovikov "utterly absurd.

"It is blatantly obvious that he is being punished solely for his activism, not his musical taste," the group cited its Moscow director Natalia Zvyagina as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian court has jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's ally to two and a half years in prison on pornography charges. Russia is inching closer to shutting down Alexei Navalny's political network.

A Russian court has jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's ally to two and a half years in prison on pornography charges. Russia is inching closer to shutting down Alexei Navalny's political network. Regional offices of the network have announced that they would disband ahead of a ruling over whether the network be designated as extremists. The court in Arkhangelsk, northern Russia, ruled that Andrei Borovikov, a former coordinator for Navalny's offices, had spread pornography by reposting a music video by the German metal band Rammstein. Borovikov, 32, had pleaded not guilty to the charge, and his defence team will appeal the decision, lawyer Andrei Kychin added. Opposition news site MBKh Media reported that in 2014, Borovikov had reposted the music video to Rammstein's song "Pussy" on VKontakte, a popular Russian social network similar to Facebook. The news site said a former volunteer for Navalny's Arkhangelsk offices informed the police about the post in 2019, and charges were brought against Borovikov in September 2020. One version of the music video depicts Rammstein playing its song interspersed with shots of scantily clad women dancing at a strip bar. In a second edition, a couple performs sexual intercourse near the end of the clip. It was not immediately clear which Borovikov had reposted because he has deleted the post. Amnesty International on Wednesday called the case against Borovikov "utterly absurd. "It is blatantly obvious that he is being punished solely for his activism, not his musical taste," the group cited its Moscow director Natalia Zvyagina as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's ally jailed for video post

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has denounced Russian President Vladimir Putin as a 'naked, thieving king', while his first appearance in court after his hunger strike via video link.

Alexei Navalny Calls Putin A 'naked, thieving king' in court hearing

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephonic conversation during which the two leaders decided to establish a new 2+2 dialogue at the ministerial level comprising foreign and defence ministers from both countries.

Indian PM Modi & Russian Prez Putin speak over phone, agree to setting up 2+2 dialogue

According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden may meet in June. Putin's top foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, said a firm decision on the meeting has not been taken yet.

Reports say Putin and Biden may meet in June

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

"If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow.

Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222">Watch |</a>

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Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country.

Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1.

"If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko.

But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk.

"And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said.

Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly. "If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow. Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war. Watch | Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country. Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1. "If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko. But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk. "And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said. Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula. The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Putin offers to meet Ukraine president in Moscow 'any time'

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

"Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases.

The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months.

Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension".

A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine."

The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal.

Uptick in separatist conflict

Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders.

Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills.

It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border. "Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases. The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months. Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension". A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine." The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal. Uptick in separatist conflict Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders. Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills. It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic in the country.

Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-in-talks-with-russia-to-buy-30-million-sputnik-v-jabs-379271" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-in-talks-with-russia-to-buy-30-million-sputnik-v-jabs-379271&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjHipmWnJTwAhWxzjgGHbU9DMQQFjAEegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0k83PvBZiUiw2QtBSi_zCS" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-in-talks-with-russia-to-buy-30-million-sputnik-v-jabs-379271" target="_blank">Germany in talks with Russia to buy 30 million Sputnik V jabs</a>

"If you think that it's necessary, let's do it. Today I'll sign the relevant decree," Putin said in a televised meeting where a proposal for the same was presented to him from the head of Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova.

The decision has come a day after Putin claimed Russia is aiming for herd immunity against the coronavirus by the autumn and hailed the medical experts for the vaccine rollout.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-ape-putin-explains-why-he-chose-to-get-vaccinated-in-private-373949">'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private</a>

"Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," he said during his annual state of the nation address.

"Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now Russia has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread coronavirus pandemic in the country. Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread coronavirus pandemic in the country. Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus. Also read | Germany in talks with Russia to buy 30 million Sputnik V jabs "If you think that it's necessary, let's do it. Today I'll sign the relevant decree," Putin said in a televised meeting where a proposal for the same was presented to him from the head of Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova. The decision has come a day after Putin claimed Russia is aiming for herd immunity against the coronavirus by the autumn and hailed the medical experts for the vaccine rollout. Also read | 'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private "Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," he said during his annual state of the nation address. "Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now Russia has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added.

Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment.

Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014.

It was then when Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-is-massing-120000-troops-along-the-ukraine-border-379129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for talks.

But the Russian president is in no mood for a compromise.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-president-zelenskiy-asks-putin-to-meet-him-for-peace-talks-in-conflict-zone-378900">Ukraine's President Zelenskiy asks Putin to meet him for peace talks in conflict zone</a>

There are satellite images that show the Russian military activity in Crimea.

They show how Russia is stepping up its deployments near Ukraine with aircraft, vehicles at airbases and training areas.

Ukraine assesses that Russia will soon have more than 120,000 troops on the border.

Left with no options, Zelensky sent a message from Kiev to Moscow, inviting Putin for talks.&nbsp;

But, it doesn't look like Moscow wants a dialogue.

Tensions escalated this week when Russia carried out more military exercises in the Black Sea.

Reports say the Russians are planning to block parts of these waters, a move that could impact access to Ukrainian ports.

Those living near the borders are afraid and many people have begun to leave their homes.

People who are still around fear that war could soon break out.

For the US, Russia still remains the aggressor.

Ukraine's other ally, the European Union, believes it would take just a spark to set off a confrontation.

An assessment that was validated by Putin himself.

The Russian president used his annual state of the union speech to deliver a warning to the West.

The Russian military build-up has been going on for weeks now, but what's motivating Moscow's aggression still remains unclear.

Either Russia is posturing&nbsp;by putting pressure on Kiev, or this is a serious bid to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a former state of the erstwhile Soviet Union.

Either way, it is another test for US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>.

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment. Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014.

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment. Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014. It was then when Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for talks. But the Russian president is in no mood for a compromise. Also read | Ukraine's President Zelenskiy asks Putin to meet him for peace talks in conflict zone There are satellite images that show the Russian military activity in Crimea. They show how Russia is stepping up its deployments near Ukraine with aircraft, vehicles at airbases and training areas. Ukraine assesses that Russia will soon have more than 120,000 troops on the border. Left with no options, Zelensky sent a message from Kiev to Moscow, inviting Putin for talks. But, it doesn't look like Moscow wants a dialogue. Tensions escalated this week when Russia carried out more military exercises in the Black Sea. Reports say the Russians are planning to block parts of these waters, a move that could impact access to Ukrainian ports. Those living near the borders are afraid and many people have begun to leave their homes. People who are still around fear that war could soon break out. For the US, Russia still remains the aggressor. Ukraine's other ally, the European Union, believes it would take just a spark to set off a confrontation. An assessment that was validated by Putin himself. The Russian president used his annual state of the union speech to deliver a warning to the West. The Russian military build-up has been going on for weeks now, but what's motivating Moscow's aggression still remains unclear. Either Russia is posturing by putting pressure on Kiev, or this is a serious bid to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a former state of the erstwhile Soviet Union. Either way, it is another test for US President Joe Biden.

As Ukraine-Russia crisis worsens, threat of war looms

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia.

According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". 
 
Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-could-die-at-any-moment-doctors-378509/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US&nbsp;on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

(With inputs from agencies)

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported. These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia. According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors The US on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". (With inputs from agencies)

Health of Navalny threatens his life: Russian politicians to President Vladimir Putin

The 44-year-old Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's most visible and persistent critic, started a hunger strike more than three weeks ago to protest prison authorities’ refusal to allow him to be seen by a private doctor.

Pro-Navalny protest planned in Russia as Alexei Navalny's health deteriorates

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday.

Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat.

Call for Nationwide protests in Russia

Navalny's team on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">called for massive protests across Russia</a> on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address.

"It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life</a>

Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come.

"Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute".

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday. Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat. Call for Nationwide protests in Russia Navalny's team on Sunday called for massive protests across Russia on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address. "It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook. Also Read | Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come. "Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

"A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name.

The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention.

Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19"

"The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information.&nbsp;

"Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings.

Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood"

Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries. "A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name. The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention. Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19" "The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement. Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information. "Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings. Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood" Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia expels Ukrainian diplomat after detaining him amid border tensions

As tensions around the Ukraine border spike, Joe Biden has proposed a face to face meeting with Vladimir Putin to settle all differences. Can two leaders work together after having called each other killers? WION's Palki Sharma tells you what's at stake.

Gravitas: US vs Russia: Are we heading towards Cold War 2.0?

The Russian Kremlin said that it will consider US President Joe Biden's proposal to hold a meeting with President Vladimir Putin. In a phone call on Tuesday, Biden proposed that the two leaders should hold a summit "in the near future".

Kremlin says Russia will study US proposal for Putin-Biden summit

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats&nbsp;from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt.

Watch |&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-warned-russia-against-military-build-up-near-ukrainian-border-377642/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-new-sanctions-on-russia-for-election-interference-cyber-attack-sources-377685">US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources</a>

The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not.&nbsp;

A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO.&nbsp;

Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month.

&nbsp; 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt. Watch | "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine. Also read | US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not. A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO. Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month. (With inputs from agencies)

US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to lower tensions on the Ukrainian border and suggested they hold their first summit.

The White House and the Kremlin reported only the second conversation between the two since Biden took office in January. Western officials urged Moscow to end the build-up and Russia, in words recalling the Cold War, said its "adversary" should keep US&nbsp;warships well away from the Crimea region.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-russia-ukraine-conflict-explained-377141/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and fighting has increased in recent weeks in eastern Ukraine, where government forces have battled Russian-backed separatists in a seven-year conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people.

In a sign of concern about tensions spinning out of control in the Ukraine crisis, Biden phoned Putin to propose they meet in a third country while underlining US&nbsp;commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"President Biden also made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to Russia's actions, such as cyber intrusions and election interference," the White House said in a statement.

"The president voiced our concerns over the sudden Russian military build-up in occupied Crimea and on Ukraine’s borders, and called on Russia to de-escalate tensions," it said.

In the first public Russian description of the build-up, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Moscow had moved two armies and three paratrooper units to its western border as part of a large snap drill meant to test combat readiness and respond to what he called threatening military action by NATO.

Shoigu said on state TV that the three-week exercise, which he called successful, was due to wrap up in the next two weeks.

Shoigu said NATO was deploying 40,000 troops and 15,000 pieces of military equipment near Russia's borders, mainly in the Black Sea and the Baltic regions.

The Western alliance denies any such plans.

A senior U.S. State Department official told reporters: "We know Russia's capacity. This enormous build-up that they've made militarily ... to take aggressive action, but we don't know their intentions obviously," the official said.

Russia has regularly accused NATO of destabilizing Europe with its troop reinforcements in the Baltics and Poland since the annexation of Crimea.

Two US&nbsp;warships are due to arrive in the Black Sea this week in response to what U.S. and NATO officials say is the largest massing of Russian forces - with thousands of combat-ready troops - since Moscow seized Crimea from Ukraine.

"We warn the United States that it will be better for them to stay far away from Crimea and our Black Sea coast," Ryabkov said. "It will be for their own good. He called the US&nbsp;deployment a provocation designed to test Russian nerves.

Blinken met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Brussels after Group of Seven foreign ministers condemned what they said was the unexplained rise in Russian troop numbers.

Echoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who met Kuleba earlier, Blinken said Moscow's military actions on Ukraine's doorstep were "very provocative".

"Russia must end this military build-up in and around Ukraine, stop its provocations and de-escalate immediately," Stoltenberg said at a news conference with Kuleba.

Kyiv has welcomed the show of Western support, but it falls short of Ukraine's desire for full membership of NATO.

Kuleba said Kyiv wanted a diplomatic solution, though he also appealed for further economic sanctions against Moscow and more military assistance to Ukraine.

Separately, two diplomats said Stoltenberg would chair a video conference with allied defense and foreign ministers on Wednesday. Blinken and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were to be present at NATO headquarters to brief the other 29 allies on Ukraine, as well as on Afghanistan, the diplomats said.

In contrast to former president Donald Trump's reluctance to criticize Putin, Biden came into office in January openly attacking what he says is the Kremlin's meddling in US elections, &nbsp;mounting of a huge cyber attack last year, and the jailing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Biden said in a March interview that he agreed Putin is a "killer."

The White House has promised retaliatory actions but has yet to make public any details.

In a surprise move Tuesday, Biden also used the call to suggest a summit with Putin somewhere other than in the United States or Russia.

"President Biden reaffirmed his goal of building a stable and predictable relationship with Russia consistent with US interests, and proposed a summit meeting in a third country in the coming months to discuss the full range of issues facing the United States and Russia," the White House statement said.

Putin similarly held a summit in Finland in 2018 with Trump, who caused a furor at home by appearing to ignore his own intelligence community's assessment and to accept the Russian leader's denials of election meddling.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that the summit was being proposed for "the coming months," which would mean "this summer."

However, she expressed US skepticism over how much could be achieved in relations with Putin's Russia.

"What we're working toward is predictable and stable. We're not looking for an establishment of trust as much as a predictability and stability," she told reporters.

Moscow earlier Tuesday responded to criticism of its troop deployments by saying they were "training exercises" and said Russia felt threatened by the western NATO alliance.

In its readout of the Biden-Putin call, the Kremlin said "both sides expressed their readiness to continue dialogue on the most important areas of ensuring global security."

It also said that Biden proposed a summit "in the near future" but did not say whether the idea had been accepted.

Amid fears in Ukraine that Russia could launch a large-scale assault, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba met in Brussels with top officials of NATO nations including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who voiced his strong support for Kiev.

(With input from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to lower tensions on the Ukrainian border and suggested they hold their first summit.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to lower tensions on the Ukrainian border and suggested they hold their first summit. The White House and the Kremlin reported only the second conversation between the two since Biden took office in January. Western officials urged Moscow to end the build-up and Russia, in words recalling the Cold War, said its "adversary" should keep US warships well away from the Crimea region. Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and fighting has increased in recent weeks in eastern Ukraine, where government forces have battled Russian-backed separatists in a seven-year conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people. In a sign of concern about tensions spinning out of control in the Ukraine crisis, Biden phoned Putin to propose they meet in a third country while underlining US commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. "President Biden also made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to Russia's actions, such as cyber intrusions and election interference," the White House said in a statement. "The president voiced our concerns over the sudden Russian military build-up in occupied Crimea and on Ukraine’s borders, and called on Russia to de-escalate tensions," it said. In the first public Russian description of the build-up, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Moscow had moved two armies and three paratrooper units to its western border as part of a large snap drill meant to test combat readiness and respond to what he called threatening military action by NATO. Shoigu said on state TV that the three-week exercise, which he called successful, was due to wrap up in the next two weeks. Shoigu said NATO was deploying 40,000 troops and 15,000 pieces of military equipment near Russia's borders, mainly in the Black Sea and the Baltic regions. The Western alliance denies any such plans. A senior U.S. State Department official told reporters: "We know Russia's capacity. This enormous build-up that they've made militarily ... to take aggressive action, but we don't know their intentions obviously," the official said. Russia has regularly accused NATO of destabilizing Europe with its troop reinforcements in the Baltics and Poland since the annexation of Crimea. Two US warships are due to arrive in the Black Sea this week in response to what U.S. and NATO officials say is the largest massing of Russian forces - with thousands of combat-ready troops - since Moscow seized Crimea from Ukraine. "We warn the United States that it will be better for them to stay far away from Crimea and our Black Sea coast," Ryabkov said. "It will be for their own good. He called the US deployment a provocation designed to test Russian nerves. Blinken met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Brussels after Group of Seven foreign ministers condemned what they said was the unexplained rise in Russian troop numbers. Echoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who met Kuleba earlier, Blinken said Moscow's military actions on Ukraine's doorstep were "very provocative". "Russia must end this military build-up in and around Ukraine, stop its provocations and de-escalate immediately," Stoltenberg said at a news conference with Kuleba. Kyiv has welcomed the show of Western support, but it falls short of Ukraine's desire for full membership of NATO. Kuleba said Kyiv wanted a diplomatic solution, though he also appealed for further economic sanctions against Moscow and more military assistance to Ukraine. Separately, two diplomats said Stoltenberg would chair a video conference with allied defense and foreign ministers on Wednesday. Blinken and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were to be present at NATO headquarters to brief the other 29 allies on Ukraine, as well as on Afghanistan, the diplomats said. In contrast to former president Donald Trump's reluctance to criticize Putin, Biden came into office in January openly attacking what he says is the Kremlin's meddling in US elections, mounting of a huge cyber attack last year, and the jailing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Biden said in a March interview that he agreed Putin is a "killer." The White House has promised retaliatory actions but has yet to make public any details. In a surprise move Tuesday, Biden also used the call to suggest a summit with Putin somewhere other than in the United States or Russia. "President Biden reaffirmed his goal of building a stable and predictable relationship with Russia consistent with US interests, and proposed a summit meeting in a third country in the coming months to discuss the full range of issues facing the United States and Russia," the White House statement said. Putin similarly held a summit in Finland in 2018 with Trump, who caused a furor at home by appearing to ignore his own intelligence community's assessment and to accept the Russian leader's denials of election meddling. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that the summit was being proposed for "the coming months," which would mean "this summer." However, she expressed US skepticism over how much could be achieved in relations with Putin's Russia. "What we're working toward is predictable and stable. We're not looking for an establishment of trust as much as a predictability and stability," she told reporters. Moscow earlier Tuesday responded to criticism of its troop deployments by saying they were "training exercises" and said Russia felt threatened by the western NATO alliance. In its readout of the Biden-Putin call, the Kremlin said "both sides expressed their readiness to continue dialogue on the most important areas of ensuring global security." It also said that Biden proposed a summit "in the near future" but did not say whether the idea had been accepted. Amid fears in Ukraine that Russia could launch a large-scale assault, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba met in Brussels with top officials of NATO nations including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who voiced his strong support for Kiev. (With input from agencies)

Biden tells Putin to ease tensions on Ukrainian border, proposes summit

Amid increasing rift between the United States and Russia over Kremlin border army buildup, US President Joe Biden has proposed a high-level meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Mr Biden reiterated the U.S.’s “unwavering commitment” to Ukraine’s sovereignty according to the White House.

US Prez Joe Biden proposes a high-level summit with Vladimir Putin

From Sputnik-1 to Sputnik V: Russian scientific achievements

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law allowing him to potentially hold on to power until 2036. The move formalises constitutional changes endorsed in a vote last year.

Putin signs law allowing him to hold power until 2036

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

The court said on its Telegram channel that the video-sharing platform had been found guilty of failing to remove information that violates Russian law and sentenced to an administrative fine of $34,000 (2.6 million rubles/28,000 euros).

The ruling comes as Russia ramps up pressure on foreign&nbsp;tech&nbsp;platforms, with a Moscow court also hitting Twitter on Friday with three fines totalling 8.9 million rubles ($116,700/99,000 euros) for the same violation as TikTok.

In January, authorities accused foreign social media platforms including TikTok and Twitter of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs by not deleting calls to rallies in support of Navalny late that month and early February.

Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor said last month it would draw up protocols demanding the foreign social media platforms be fined for failing to delete the calls after it had warned them to do so.

Roskomnadzor described the calls to protests as "inciting teenagers" to take part in "illegal activities", or "unauthorised mass events".&nbsp;

Last month the media watchdog also began throttling the speeds of Twitter's services, accusing it of failing to remove content related to child pornography, drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide.

On Monday, it gave the US&nbsp;tech&nbsp;giant an ultimatum of deleting the posts by mid-May or face a complete blockage in the country.&nbsp;

Moscow regularly fines foreign internet companies like Twitter, Facebook, and Google for failing to comply with its legislation.

TikTok came into the view of the authorities more recently after videos on the platform in January calling for Russians to join rallies in support of Navalny garnered hundreds of thousands of views.&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies that he said are competing with states.&nbsp;

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. The court said on its Telegram channel that the video-sharing platform had been found guilty of failing to remove information that violates Russian law and sentenced to an administrative fine of $34,000 (2.6 million rubles/28,000 euros). The ruling comes as Russia ramps up pressure on foreign tech platforms, with a Moscow court also hitting Twitter on Friday with three fines totalling 8.9 million rubles ($116,700/99,000 euros) for the same violation as TikTok. In January, authorities accused foreign social media platforms including TikTok and Twitter of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs by not deleting calls to rallies in support of Navalny late that month and early February. Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor said last month it would draw up protocols demanding the foreign social media platforms be fined for failing to delete the calls after it had warned them to do so. Roskomnadzor described the calls to protests as "inciting teenagers" to take part in "illegal activities", or "unauthorised mass events". Last month the media watchdog also began throttling the speeds of Twitter's services, accusing it of failing to remove content related to child pornography, drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide. On Monday, it gave the US tech giant an ultimatum of deleting the posts by mid-May or face a complete blockage in the country. Moscow regularly fines foreign internet companies like Twitter, Facebook, and Google for failing to comply with its legislation. TikTok came into the view of the authorities more recently after videos on the platform in January calling for Russians to join rallies in support of Navalny garnered hundreds of thousands of views. President Vladimir Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies that he said are competing with states.

Russia fines TikTok over calls for minors to join protests

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-foreign-minister-sergey-lavrov-to-visit-india-next-week-374518">Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week</a>

WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year.&nbsp;

Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic.

Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced. Also read | Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year. Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet. Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic. Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian foreign minister to arrive in New Delhi next week, with focus on Putin's India visit, Afghanistan

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