An ambulance aircraft carrying gravely ill Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny landed at Berlin's Tegel airport on Saturday after he was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for treatment&nbsp;of a suspected poisoning.

German doctors had flown to Omsk on Friday to evacuate Navalny --&nbsp;after a day-long standoff over his medical evacuation --&nbsp;at the request of his wife and allies who said that the hospital treating him was badly equipped.

"The condition of Navalny during the flight and after landing is stable," Slovenian-born activist and filmmaker Jaka Bizilj told German mass tabloid Bild.

Navalny was expected to be rushed to Berlin's Charite hospital, about 10 km (6.2 miles) from Tegel airport.

Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokeswoman, said the opposition politician's wife Yulia was on board the evacuation flight.

Navalny, one of President Vladimir Putin's fiercest critics, fell ill earlier this week while flying back to Moscow from the Siberian city of Tomsk where he had met allies ahead of regional elections next month. He was taken on a stretcher, motionless, from the plane and rushed to hospital after it made an emergency landing in Omsk.

Doctors treating him in Omsk initially refused to let Navalny leave but reversed course after his family and staff demanded he be allowed to travel to Germany.

Navalny's life was not in immediate danger, he was in an induced coma and his brain was in a stable condition, the medical staff at a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk said.

German doctors flew in to evacuate Navalny at the request of his wife and allies who said they feared authorities might try to cover up clues as to how he fell ill and that the hospital treating him was badly equipped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doctors-agree-to-evacuate-navalny-from-siberian-hospital-on-relatives-request-322181">Also read |&nbsp;Doctors agree to evacuate Navalny from Siberian hospital on relatives' request</a>

Navalny's wife Yulia earlier sent a letter to the Kremlin directly appealing for it to intervene and grant permission for him to be allowed to be flown out.

Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh posted a picture on Twitter of him being lifted into the plane on a covered stretcher and said his wife Yulia was with him.

Alexander Murakhovsky, the head doctor at the hospital, said earlier that Navalny had been diagnosed with a metabolic disease that may have been caused by low blood sugar. He said traces of industrial chemical substances had been found on Navalny's clothes and fingers and that doctors did not believe he had been poisoned.

Navalny is the latest in a long line of Kremlin critics who have fallen seriously ill or died in apparent poisonings.

Navalny has been a thorn in the Kremlin's side for more than a decade, exposing what he says is high-level graft and mobilising crowds of young protesters.

He has been repeatedly detained for organising public meetings and rallies and sued over his investigations into corruption. He was barred from running in a presidential election in 2018.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-trace-of-poison-found-in-putin-critic-alexei-navalnys-tests-russian-hospital-doctor-322131">Also read |&nbsp;'No trace' of poison found in Putin critic Alexei Navalny's tests: Russian hospital doctor</a>

The air ambulance was dispatched to take Navalny to Berlin after Chancellor Angela Merkel extended an offer of treatment.

European Union leaders including Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron have voiced concern for Navalny, who has faced repeated physical attacks and prosecutions in more than a decade of opposition to Russian authorities.

(with inputs from agencies)

An ambulance aircraft carrying gravely ill Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny landed at Berlin's Tegel airport on Saturday after he was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for treatment of a suspected poisoning.

An ambulance aircraft carrying gravely ill Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny landed at Berlin's Tegel airport on Saturday after he was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for treatment of a suspected poisoning. German doctors had flown to Omsk on Friday to evacuate Navalny -- after a day-long standoff over his medical evacuation -- at the request of his wife and allies who said that the hospital treating him was badly equipped. "The condition of Navalny during the flight and after landing is stable," Slovenian-born activist and filmmaker Jaka Bizilj told German mass tabloid Bild. Navalny was expected to be rushed to Berlin's Charite hospital, about 10 km (6.2 miles) from Tegel airport. Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokeswoman, said the opposition politician's wife Yulia was on board the evacuation flight. Navalny, one of President Vladimir Putin's fiercest critics, fell ill earlier this week while flying back to Moscow from the Siberian city of Tomsk where he had met allies ahead of regional elections next month. He was taken on a stretcher, motionless, from the plane and rushed to hospital after it made an emergency landing in Omsk. Doctors treating him in Omsk initially refused to let Navalny leave but reversed course after his family and staff demanded he be allowed to travel to Germany. Navalny's life was not in immediate danger, he was in an induced coma and his brain was in a stable condition, the medical staff at a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk said. German doctors flew in to evacuate Navalny at the request of his wife and allies who said they feared authorities might try to cover up clues as to how he fell ill and that the hospital treating him was badly equipped. Also read | Doctors agree to evacuate Navalny from Siberian hospital on relatives' request Navalny's wife Yulia earlier sent a letter to the Kremlin directly appealing for it to intervene and grant permission for him to be allowed to be flown out. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh posted a picture on Twitter of him being lifted into the plane on a covered stretcher and said his wife Yulia was with him. Alexander Murakhovsky, the head doctor at the hospital, said earlier that Navalny had been diagnosed with a metabolic disease that may have been caused by low blood sugar. He said traces of industrial chemical substances had been found on Navalny's clothes and fingers and that doctors did not believe he had been poisoned. Navalny is the latest in a long line of Kremlin critics who have fallen seriously ill or died in apparent poisonings. Navalny has been a thorn in the Kremlin's side for more than a decade, exposing what he says is high-level graft and mobilising crowds of young protesters. He has been repeatedly detained for organising public meetings and rallies and sued over his investigations into corruption. He was barred from running in a presidential election in 2018. Also read | 'No trace' of poison found in Putin critic Alexei Navalny's tests: Russian hospital doctor The air ambulance was dispatched to take Navalny to Berlin after Chancellor Angela Merkel extended an offer of treatment. European Union leaders including Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron have voiced concern for Navalny, who has faced repeated physical attacks and prosecutions in more than a decade of opposition to Russian authorities. (with inputs from agencies)

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny airlifted to Germany; condition stable after landing

In this video, watch a recap of scandals under Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime.

A recap of scandals under Russian President Putin's regime

Alexei Navalny is not the first victim of suspected poisoning. Several dissidents and defectors of Kremlin have fallen ill mysteriously in the past and many have died.

The Kremlin has been silent on all these “incidents”.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-curious-case-of-russian-kremlin-critics-who-were-allegedly-poisoned-321943" hreflang="en">The curious case of Russian Kremlin critics who were allegedly poisoned</a>

Sergei and Yulia Skripal, Viktor Yushchenko, Alexander Perepilichny, Anna Politkovskaya, Alexander Litvinenko and now Alexei Navalny.

These seven names have two things in common - they are all Russians and they all were poisoned under the presidency of Vladimir Putin.

These seven high profile names believed to be targets of cold and calculated vengeance.&nbsp;Russia has a long and ugly history of poisoning dissidents, defectors and political enemies especially under the Putin administration. The targets have been struck both in Russia and abroad.

Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned in 2018. Sergei is a former Russian military officer turned double agent. During the 1990s and early 2000s, he fed information to the British intelligence services.

Sergei was arrested and imprisoned but in 2010 he settled in the UK. After a spy swap,&nbsp;Sergei’s daughter Yulia was visiting him in 2018. They were found slumped on a bench in Salisbury.&nbsp;They were critically ill and poisoned by nerve agent Novichok that causes respiratory and cardiac arrest. Investigators traced it back to Russian agents.

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The poison was smeared on a doorknob of their home. Some other poisoning attacks have been more sophisticated and horrifying.

In 2004, Viktor Yushchenko barely survived a poisoning attempt. Yushchenko was an anti-Russian Ukrainian presidential candidate. He had soup, that was tainted with TCCD, a potent dioxin that is 170,000 times more poisonous than cyanide.

The attack left Yushchenko’s face disfigured but he survived.&nbsp;Alexander Perepilichny wasn’t so lucky. Perepilichny was a Russian businessman and whistleblower&nbsp;who left Russia and settled in the United Kingdom. He was linked to a $230 million tax fraud.

In 2012, he was poisoned with a soup containing gelsemium which is a rare plant found only in remote parts of China. He collapsed while jogging in Surrey.

The case of journalist Anna Politkovskaya is similar to Alexei Navalny. She was a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;In 2004, she fell ill after drinking tea on an Aeroflot flight. While Politkovskaya survived the poisoning, two years later, she was murdered in the elevator in&nbsp;her flat.

Only in a few cases has the world been able to establish the Russia link.

Alexander Litvinenko was a Russian spy. He fled to the United Kingdom after becoming a fierce critic of the Kremlin. He was killed using radioactive Polonium 210 that was administered, once again, through a cup of tea in 2006.

A public inquiry was ordered in the United Kingdom. It revealed that the orders to assassinate Litvinenko most probably came from Russian President Vladimir Putin himself.&nbsp;Assassination through poisoning has been Russia's preferred method to kill since 1921&nbsp;when the Soviet Union established its laboratory Kamera, a lab to make poisons.

The Soviet Union invested heavily on the development of poisons during the Cold War too. Modern day Russia seems to have retained them.

Alexei Navalny is not the first victim of suspected poisoning. Several dissidents and defectors of Kremlin have fallen ill mysteriously in the past and many have died.

Alexei Navalny is not the first victim of suspected poisoning. Several dissidents and defectors of Kremlin have fallen ill mysteriously in the past and many have died. The Kremlin has been silent on all these “incidents”. In pics: The curious case of Russian Kremlin critics who were allegedly poisoned Sergei and Yulia Skripal, Viktor Yushchenko, Alexander Perepilichny, Anna Politkovskaya, Alexander Litvinenko and now Alexei Navalny. These seven names have two things in common - they are all Russians and they all were poisoned under the presidency of Vladimir Putin. These seven high profile names believed to be targets of cold and calculated vengeance. Russia has a long and ugly history of poisoning dissidents, defectors and political enemies especially under the Putin administration. The targets have been struck both in Russia and abroad. Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned in 2018. Sergei is a former Russian military officer turned double agent. During the 1990s and early 2000s, he fed information to the British intelligence services. Sergei was arrested and imprisoned but in 2010 he settled in the UK. After a spy swap, Sergei’s daughter Yulia was visiting him in 2018. They were found slumped on a bench in Salisbury. They were critically ill and poisoned by nerve agent Novichok that causes respiratory and cardiac arrest. Investigators traced it back to Russian agents. × The poison was smeared on a doorknob of their home. Some other poisoning attacks have been more sophisticated and horrifying. In 2004, Viktor Yushchenko barely survived a poisoning attempt. Yushchenko was an anti-Russian Ukrainian presidential candidate. He had soup, that was tainted with TCCD, a potent dioxin that is 170,000 times more poisonous than cyanide. The attack left Yushchenko’s face disfigured but he survived. Alexander Perepilichny wasn’t so lucky. Perepilichny was a Russian businessman and whistleblower who left Russia and settled in the United Kingdom. He was linked to a $230 million tax fraud. In 2012, he was poisoned with a soup containing gelsemium which is a rare plant found only in remote parts of China. He collapsed while jogging in Surrey. The case of journalist Anna Politkovskaya is similar to Alexei Navalny. She was a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin. In 2004, she fell ill after drinking tea on an Aeroflot flight. While Politkovskaya survived the poisoning, two years later, she was murdered in the elevator in her flat. Only in a few cases has the world been able to establish the Russia link. Alexander Litvinenko was a Russian spy. He fled to the United Kingdom after becoming a fierce critic of the Kremlin. He was killed using radioactive Polonium 210 that was administered, once again, through a cup of tea in 2006. A public inquiry was ordered in the United Kingdom. It revealed that the orders to assassinate Litvinenko most probably came from Russian President Vladimir Putin himself. Assassination through poisoning has been Russia's preferred method to kill since 1921 when the Soviet Union established its laboratory Kamera, a lab to make poisons. The Soviet Union invested heavily on the development of poisons during the Cold War too. Modern day Russia seems to have retained them.

How Russia silences dissidents

The curious case of Russian Kremlin critics who were allegedly poisoned

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was in intensive care in a Siberian hospital on Thursday after he fell ill in what his spokeswoman said was a suspected poisoning. He was being treated in a hospital in the city of Omsk after he lost consciousness on a flight to Moscow and his plane made an emergency landing.

Navalny, an anti-corruption campaigner, is among President Vladimir Putin's fiercest critics.

His spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh wrote on Twitter that Navalny had been placed in a coma on a ventilator and that tests were being carried out.

"Alexei has toxic poisoning," she wrote. "Alexei is now in intensive care."

"I'm sure it was intentional poisoning," she told the Echo of Moscow radio station.

State news agency TASS reported that Navalny was in the intensive care unit for toxicology patients in Omsk Emergency Hospital No. 1.

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Yarmysh said that police and investigators had arrived and questioned a doctor.

"We think that Alexei was poisoned with something mixed in his tea. That was the only thing he drank in the morning," she wrote on Twitter.

Yarmysh said they had been on a work trip to Tomsk.

The head of the legal department of the Anti-Corruption Foundation that Navalny heads, Vyacheslav Gimadi, wrote on Twitter that "there is no doubt that Navalny was poisoned for his political position and activity."

He said Navalny's lawyers were requesting an investigation into the attempted assassination of a public figure.

Navalny has previously suffered physical attacks, and a number of Kremlin critics have been poisoned in the past.

He endured chemical burns to his eye in 2017 when attackers threw green dye used as a disinfectant at his face outside his office.

In August last year Navalny suffered rashes and his face became swollen while he was in a police detention centre serving a short term for calling for illegal protests.

Navalny, a charismatic lawyer and whistleblower, is travelling the country to promote a tactical voting strategy to oppose pro-Putin candidates in more than 30 regional elections in September.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was in intensive care in a Siberian hospital on Thursday after he fell ill in what his spokeswoman said was a suspected poisoning.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was in intensive care in a Siberian hospital on Thursday after he fell ill in what his spokeswoman said was a suspected poisoning. He was being treated in a hospital in the city of Omsk after he lost consciousness on a flight to Moscow and his plane made an emergency landing. Navalny, an anti-corruption campaigner, is among President Vladimir Putin's fiercest critics. His spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh wrote on Twitter that Navalny had been placed in a coma on a ventilator and that tests were being carried out. "Alexei has toxic poisoning," she wrote. "Alexei is now in intensive care." "I'm sure it was intentional poisoning," she told the Echo of Moscow radio station. State news agency TASS reported that Navalny was in the intensive care unit for toxicology patients in Omsk Emergency Hospital No. 1. Yarmysh said that police and investigators had arrived and questioned a doctor. "We think that Alexei was poisoned with something mixed in his tea. That was the only thing he drank in the morning," she wrote on Twitter. Yarmysh said they had been on a work trip to Tomsk. The head of the legal department of the Anti-Corruption Foundation that Navalny heads, Vyacheslav Gimadi, wrote on Twitter that "there is no doubt that Navalny was poisoned for his political position and activity." He said Navalny's lawyers were requesting an investigation into the attempted assassination of a public figure. Navalny has previously suffered physical attacks, and a number of Kremlin critics have been poisoned in the past. He endured chemical burns to his eye in 2017 when attackers threw green dye used as a disinfectant at his face outside his office. In August last year Navalny suffered rashes and his face became swollen while he was in a police detention centre serving a short term for calling for illegal protests. Navalny, a charismatic lawyer and whistleblower, is travelling the country to promote a tactical voting strategy to oppose pro-Putin candidates in more than 30 regional elections in September.

Putin critic Alexei Navalny in intensive care after 'poisoning'

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he had secured a pledge from Russia to provide comprehensive assistance if needed to ensure the security of his country in a phone call with President Vladimir Putin on Saturday.

Ties between the two traditional allies had been under strain before the election, as Russia scaled back the subsidies that propped up Lukashenko's government. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer against NATO and the EU.

The two presidents spoke as tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Minsk once again urging Lukashenko to quit and staff at the Belarusian state broadcaster BT considered joining a wave of strikes and mass protests.

Accused of rigging last Sunday's election, Lukashenko had earlier appealed to Putin for help as he grapples with the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule and the threat of new Western sanctions.

The state news agency Belta cited remarks by Lukashenko that "at the first request, Russia will provide comprehensive assistance to ensure the security of Belarus in the event of external military threats".

A Kremlin statement made no mention of such assistance but said both sides expressed confidence that all problems in Belarus would be resolved soon.

Statements by both sides contained a pointed reference to a "union state" between the two countries.

The neighbours had signed an agreement in 1999 which was supposed to create a unified state. The unification project was never properly implemented and more recently Lukashenko had rejected calls by Moscow for closer economic and political ties as an assault on his country's sovereignty.

Russia has been wary of unrest on its borders since Georgia's 2003 Rose Revolution, Ukraine's 2003-04 Orange Revolution and 2014 Maidan protests -- events in which it says the West backed the protesters.

The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus in response to a violent crackdown in which at least two protesters have been killed and thousands detained.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said Washington was discussing the situation with the EU.

The leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania called on Belarus to conduct new "free and fair" elections. Lukashenko said he did not need foreign governments or mediators.

Ramping up the rhetoric, Lukashenko said an air assault brigade would move to the border with Poland, after expressing concerned over the NATO military exercises being conducted in Poland and Lithuania, which he sees as an arms build-up.

Some of the country's biggest state-run industrial plants, the backbone of Lukashenko's Soviet-style economic model, were hit by protests and walkouts this week.

In Minsk, people gathered to lay flowers where one of the protesters was killed this week, waving flags and chanting "go away" and "Lukashenko is a murderer".

The crowd also converged outside the state broadcaster BT. Several staff, including presenters, walked out of the building, saying they had resigned, while a red-and-white opposition flag was mounted outside. Later riot police were seen going inside.

Lukashenko has accused the protesters of being criminals and in cahoots with foreign backers. Moscow this week also accused unnamed countries of "outside meddling" in Belarus.

In a further sign of wanting to mend fences with Moscow, Lukashenko handed back 32 Russian members of a private security firm who were detained before the election on suspicion of plotting to destabilise Belarus.

The decision angered Ukraine, as Kyiv had asked Minsk for the extradition of 28 of them on suspicion of fighting alongside Russian-backed separatists in its eastern Donbass region. 
&nbsp;

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he had secured a pledge from Russia to provide comprehensive assistance if needed to ensure the security of his country in a phone call with President Vladimir Putin on Saturday.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he had secured a pledge from Russia to provide comprehensive assistance if needed to ensure the security of his country in a phone call with President Vladimir Putin on Saturday. Ties between the two traditional allies had been under strain before the election, as Russia scaled back the subsidies that propped up Lukashenko's government. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer against NATO and the EU. The two presidents spoke as tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Minsk once again urging Lukashenko to quit and staff at the Belarusian state broadcaster BT considered joining a wave of strikes and mass protests. Accused of rigging last Sunday's election, Lukashenko had earlier appealed to Putin for help as he grapples with the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule and the threat of new Western sanctions. The state news agency Belta cited remarks by Lukashenko that "at the first request, Russia will provide comprehensive assistance to ensure the security of Belarus in the event of external military threats". A Kremlin statement made no mention of such assistance but said both sides expressed confidence that all problems in Belarus would be resolved soon. Statements by both sides contained a pointed reference to a "union state" between the two countries. The neighbours had signed an agreement in 1999 which was supposed to create a unified state. The unification project was never properly implemented and more recently Lukashenko had rejected calls by Moscow for closer economic and political ties as an assault on his country's sovereignty. Russia has been wary of unrest on its borders since Georgia's 2003 Rose Revolution, Ukraine's 2003-04 Orange Revolution and 2014 Maidan protests -- events in which it says the West backed the protesters. The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus in response to a violent crackdown in which at least two protesters have been killed and thousands detained. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said Washington was discussing the situation with the EU. The leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania called on Belarus to conduct new "free and fair" elections. Lukashenko said he did not need foreign governments or mediators. Ramping up the rhetoric, Lukashenko said an air assault brigade would move to the border with Poland, after expressing concerned over the NATO military exercises being conducted in Poland and Lithuania, which he sees as an arms build-up. Some of the country's biggest state-run industrial plants, the backbone of Lukashenko's Soviet-style economic model, were hit by protests and walkouts this week. In Minsk, people gathered to lay flowers where one of the protesters was killed this week, waving flags and chanting "go away" and "Lukashenko is a murderer". The crowd also converged outside the state broadcaster BT. Several staff, including presenters, walked out of the building, saying they had resigned, while a red-and-white opposition flag was mounted outside. Later riot police were seen going inside. Lukashenko has accused the protesters of being criminals and in cahoots with foreign backers. Moscow this week also accused unnamed countries of "outside meddling" in Belarus. In a further sign of wanting to mend fences with Moscow, Lukashenko handed back 32 Russian members of a private security firm who were detained before the election on suspicion of plotting to destabilise Belarus. The decision angered Ukraine, as Kyiv had asked Minsk for the extradition of 28 of them on suspicion of fighting alongside Russian-backed separatists in its eastern Donbass region.

Putin has agreed to help security of Belarus, says Lukashenko

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.

On Friday, Putin called on the&nbsp;permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf.

However, Trump, in his golf field news conference said,&nbsp;"I think we'll wait till after the election."

Labelling it is an "urgent issue", Putin called on to leaders of China, France,&nbsp;Britain, the United States, Germany and Iran to attend the summit to resolve the increasingly tense situations in Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/edward-snowden-asks-to-return-to-the-us-trump-to-take-a-look-at-pardoning-320867">Also read:&nbsp;Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning</a>

"Discussions at the UN Security Council over the Iranian issue are becoming increasingly tense," Putin said, adding that Moscow's ally Iran was a target of "groundless accusations."

Trump's "probably" status of the invitation came after the Security Council&nbsp;rejected a US resolution to extend an Iranian arms embargo, in a move with huge repercussions for the Iran nuclear deal. Out of 15 members of the Security Council, only two voted in favour of this.

Since Trump pulled out and slapped unilateral sanctions on Iran under a campaign of "maximum pressure," Tehran has since taken small but escalating steps away from compliance with the nuclear accord as it presses for sanctions relief.

European allies of the United States -- who, along with Russia and China, signed the deal with Iran -- have voiced support for extending the 13-year-long conventional arms embargo, saying an expiry threatens stability in the Middle East.&nbsp;

However, the Iranian President&nbsp;Hassan Rouhani feels the US has "failed in this conspiracy with humiliation."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. On Friday, Putin called on the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf.

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. On Friday, Putin called on the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf. However, Trump, in his golf field news conference said, "I think we'll wait till after the election." Labelling it is an "urgent issue", Putin called on to leaders of China, France, Britain, the United States, Germany and Iran to attend the summit to resolve the increasingly tense situations in Iran. Also read: Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning "Discussions at the UN Security Council over the Iranian issue are becoming increasingly tense," Putin said, adding that Moscow's ally Iran was a target of "groundless accusations." Trump's "probably" status of the invitation came after the Security Council rejected a US resolution to extend an Iranian arms embargo, in a move with huge repercussions for the Iran nuclear deal. Out of 15 members of the Security Council, only two voted in favour of this. Since Trump pulled out and slapped unilateral sanctions on Iran under a campaign of "maximum pressure," Tehran has since taken small but escalating steps away from compliance with the nuclear accord as it presses for sanctions relief. European allies of the United States -- who, along with Russia and China, signed the deal with Iran -- have voiced support for extending the 13-year-long conventional arms embargo, saying an expiry threatens stability in the Middle East. However, the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani feels the US has "failed in this conspiracy with humiliation." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump may 'probably not' attend Putin's 'urgent' Iran summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin told Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in a phone call on Sunday that Moscow stood ready to provide help under a collective military pact if necessary, Reuters report said quoting the Kremlin statement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin told Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in a phone call on Sunday that Moscow stood ready to provide help under a collective military pact if necessary, Reuters report said quoting the Kremlin statement. The Kremlin said in the same statement that external pressure was being applied to Belarus. It did not say by whom, the report added. Also read: Putin has agreed to help security of Belarus, says Lukashenko Belarus has been rocked by a week of street protests after protesters accused Lukashenko of rigging a presidential election last Sunday. Ties between the two traditional allies had been under strain in the run up to the election, as Russia scaled back the subsidies that propped up Lukashenko's government. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer against NATO and the Europeamn Union. Also read: Belarus leader Lukashenko talks to Russian President Putin, discusses protests Accused of rigging last Sunday's election, Lukashenko had earlier appealed to Putin for help as he grapples with the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule and the threat of new Western sanctions. Meanwhile, Lukashenko on Sunday spoke in front of a crowd of supporters at a rally in central Minsk asking them to defend the country and its independence. The strongman is facing the greatest challenge to his leadership from a growing protest movement fanned by a brutal police crackdown. "I'm not a fan of rallies but alas, it's not my fault I had to call you to help me," the 65-year-old said as some 10,000 supporters waved national flags and shouted "Thank you!" and "Belarus!"

'Russia ready to help militarily if necessary': Putin tells Belarusian leader Lukashenko

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko discussed the protests shaking his country with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday.

"The presidents discussed the situation that is unfolding inside and around Belarus," a&nbsp;Belarusian state news agency Belta reported.

The Kremlin said that Putin and&nbsp;Lukashenko agreed in a phone call that the "problems" in Belarus would be swiftly resolved.

The phone call came after Belarus leader who claims to have won a disputed presidential election on Sunday said he needed to contact Moscow over growing protests against his rule.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-braces-for-weekend-protests-as-pressure-grows-on-lukashenko-320793" hreflang="en">Belarus braces for weekend protests as pressure grows on Lukashenko</a>

Russia has been the only neighbour of Belarus to back Lukashenko during the mass protests that have gained growing support from Belarusians and drawn international condemnation of police violence and vote-rigging.

The Kremlin in its account of the exchange between Putin and Lukashenko said that "the most important thing is to prevent destructive forces from taking advantage of these problems."

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-stage-flower-protest-in-belarus-as-eu-weighs-sanctions-320218">Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions</a>

It said these forces "are striving to harm the mutually beneficial cooperation of the two countries in the union state."

It said the two sides agreed to continue regular contacts and their "intention to strengthen their relations as a union."

Belarusian riot police have used extreme violence and detainees have reported beatings and torture in prison. &nbsp;

Lukashenko, in charge of Belarus for the past 26 years, has a history of playing Russia off against the neighbouring European Union when it suits him but Belarus is highly economically dependent on Russia.&nbsp;

Lukashenko issued criticisms&nbsp;of Russia during his election campaign and Belarus detained 33 Russians on suspicion of planning riots ahead of polls.&nbsp;

However he has since changed his rhetoric to blame protests on provocateurs coming from countries including Poland and the Netherlands.

Russia in statements supportive of Lukashenko's election victory has stressed the importance of strengthening the alliance between the two countries, which are formally a union state and until the coronavirus pandemic had no border restrictions.

Lukashenko has said that he opposes full unification with Russia.

In a gesture towards Russia, Belarus on Friday handed back all but one of the 33 detained Russians without charging them.

It earlier issued an embarrassing claim for Russia that they were mercenaries in Wagner, a shadowy private army reportedly funded by a close ally of Putin.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko discussed the protests shaking his country with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday. "The presidents discussed the situation that is unfolding inside and around Belarus," a Belarusian state news agency Belta reported.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko discussed the protests shaking his country with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday. "The presidents discussed the situation that is unfolding inside and around Belarus," a Belarusian state news agency Belta reported. The Kremlin said that Putin and Lukashenko agreed in a phone call that the "problems" in Belarus would be swiftly resolved. The phone call came after Belarus leader who claims to have won a disputed presidential election on Sunday said he needed to contact Moscow over growing protests against his rule. Also read: Belarus braces for weekend protests as pressure grows on Lukashenko Russia has been the only neighbour of Belarus to back Lukashenko during the mass protests that have gained growing support from Belarusians and drawn international condemnation of police violence and vote-rigging. The Kremlin in its account of the exchange between Putin and Lukashenko said that "the most important thing is to prevent destructive forces from taking advantage of these problems." Also see: Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions It said these forces "are striving to harm the mutually beneficial cooperation of the two countries in the union state." It said the two sides agreed to continue regular contacts and their "intention to strengthen their relations as a union." Belarusian riot police have used extreme violence and detainees have reported beatings and torture in prison. Lukashenko, in charge of Belarus for the past 26 years, has a history of playing Russia off against the neighbouring European Union when it suits him but Belarus is highly economically dependent on Russia. Lukashenko issued criticisms of Russia during his election campaign and Belarus detained 33 Russians on suspicion of planning riots ahead of polls. However he has since changed his rhetoric to blame protests on provocateurs coming from countries including Poland and the Netherlands. Russia in statements supportive of Lukashenko's election victory has stressed the importance of strengthening the alliance between the two countries, which are formally a union state and until the coronavirus pandemic had no border restrictions. Lukashenko has said that he opposes full unification with Russia. In a gesture towards Russia, Belarus on Friday handed back all but one of the 33 detained Russians without charging them. It earlier issued an embarrassing claim for Russia that they were mercenaries in Wagner, a shadowy private army reportedly funded by a close ally of Putin.

Belarus leader Lukashenko talks to Russian President Putin, discusses protests

NIAID director Anthony Fauci cast doubts on the effectiveness of Russia's registered coronavirus vaccine touted by President Vladimir Putin on August 11.

Doubts whether Russians have proven COVID-19 vaccine safety | Anthony Fauci

Furgal, the Khabarovsk region governor, was arrested on July 9 and flown to Moscow where he was put in jail for two months.

Protests continue in Russia for the release of governor Sergei Furgal

Locals say a struggle for democratic freedoms is unfolding in the far eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk, where the arrest of a popular governor has unleashed massive protests.

"Sometimes I feel like crying with joy when I see everyone so united," 21-year-old student Yekaterina Ishchenko told AFP.

For the last three weeks, she and thousands of other residents of the city 6,000 kilometres (3,700 miles) east of Moscow have taken to the streets, with another huge rally due on Saturday.

For Ishchenko, this is her first taste of political activism.

Tens of thousands attended a rally last weekend, according to journalists and activists, while police put the figure at just 6,500.

Such protests are rare in the region seven time zones away from the capital, where most opposition protests take place.

They were sparked by the arrest on July 9 of regional governor Sergei Furgal.

Investigators accused the 50-year-old former businessman of ordering two contract killings and an attempted murder 15 years ago.

He was flown to Moscow where he is being held in custody.

His supporters see the probe as aimed at removing an overly independent politician, elected in 2018 after standing against an incumbent from the ruling party backing President Vladimir Putin.

"It's a slap in the face for us. We voted for him!" said 72-year-old pensioner Marina Beletskaya.

Furgal is a member of the nationalist party LDPR which is generally loyal to the Kremlin.

He became a popular governor, with supporters describing him as energetic and ready to listen. Locally, his level of popularity rivalled Putin's.

- Conflict with Moscow -

"After we elected Furgal, the capital of the Far Eastern Federal District was moved from here to Vladivostok," said 22-year-old Victoria Sakharova, a sales assistant, referring to the port city on the Pacific coast.

"This was clearly because we elected an opposition candidate."

Around the size of Turkey, the Khabarovsk region has a population of just 1.3 million.

One factor fuelling protests is long-standing resentment among residents who feel ignored by Moscow.

Added to this are the economic worries in this region bordering China where metallurgy, coal mining and forestry are the main areas of employment.

State media has largely ignored the protests but more independent outlets have described the events positively.

In a recent editorial Vedomosti daily called the protests a "new symbol" representing opposition of "regions against the centre".

Some protesters shout slogans expressing anger at Putin.

Khabarovsk was one of those least supportive regions in a July 1 vote on changing the constitution to allow Putin to extend his rule. The "yes" vote was 15 percent below the national average.

- Sent from Moscow -

In a bid to appease the protesters, Moscow appointed a new acting governor from Furgal's LDPR party, Mikhail Degtyarev.

But the 39-year-old MP, known for proposing wacky bills, has faced a chilly reception.

He made matters worse by claiming not to "have time" to meet protesters and alleging they received backing from foreign "provocateurs".

"We should have chosen a local person to replace him ourselves. But instead we were sent someone who only knows Khabarovsk from 5,000-ruble banknotes," said Sakharova. The banknote (worth $68) depicts views of the city.

In a sign that the scale of the protests may have spooked the regional authorities the police have shown unusual restraint, allowing the protests to go ahead and only detaining a handful of people.

Even Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov this week praised the police's forbearance while unauthorised protests are usually quickly broken up in Russia.

"We still fear they'll arrest us," said 47-year-old protester Yury Petrov.

"We're living through a moment of democracy but it will doubtless be fleeting."

Locals say a struggle for democratic freedoms is unfolding in the far eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk, where the arrest of a popular governor has unleashed massive protests.

Locals say a struggle for democratic freedoms is unfolding in the far eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk, where the arrest of a popular governor has unleashed massive protests. "Sometimes I feel like crying with joy when I see everyone so united," 21-year-old student Yekaterina Ishchenko told AFP. For the last three weeks, she and thousands of other residents of the city 6,000 kilometres (3,700 miles) east of Moscow have taken to the streets, with another huge rally due on Saturday. For Ishchenko, this is her first taste of political activism. Tens of thousands attended a rally last weekend, according to journalists and activists, while police put the figure at just 6,500. Such protests are rare in the region seven time zones away from the capital, where most opposition protests take place. They were sparked by the arrest on July 9 of regional governor Sergei Furgal. Investigators accused the 50-year-old former businessman of ordering two contract killings and an attempted murder 15 years ago. He was flown to Moscow where he is being held in custody. His supporters see the probe as aimed at removing an overly independent politician, elected in 2018 after standing against an incumbent from the ruling party backing President Vladimir Putin. "It's a slap in the face for us. We voted for him!" said 72-year-old pensioner Marina Beletskaya. Furgal is a member of the nationalist party LDPR which is generally loyal to the Kremlin. He became a popular governor, with supporters describing him as energetic and ready to listen. Locally, his level of popularity rivalled Putin's. - Conflict with Moscow - "After we elected Furgal, the capital of the Far Eastern Federal District was moved from here to Vladivostok," said 22-year-old Victoria Sakharova, a sales assistant, referring to the port city on the Pacific coast. "This was clearly because we elected an opposition candidate." Around the size of Turkey, the Khabarovsk region has a population of just 1.3 million. One factor fuelling protests is long-standing resentment among residents who feel ignored by Moscow. Added to this are the economic worries in this region bordering China where metallurgy, coal mining and forestry are the main areas of employment. State media has largely ignored the protests but more independent outlets have described the events positively. In a recent editorial Vedomosti daily called the protests a "new symbol" representing opposition of "regions against the centre". Some protesters shout slogans expressing anger at Putin. Khabarovsk was one of those least supportive regions in a July 1 vote on changing the constitution to allow Putin to extend his rule. The "yes" vote was 15 percent below the national average. - Sent from Moscow - In a bid to appease the protesters, Moscow appointed a new acting governor from Furgal's LDPR party, Mikhail Degtyarev. But the 39-year-old MP, known for proposing wacky bills, has faced a chilly reception. He made matters worse by claiming not to "have time" to meet protesters and alleging they received backing from foreign "provocateurs". "We should have chosen a local person to replace him ourselves. But instead we were sent someone who only knows Khabarovsk from 5,000-ruble banknotes," said Sakharova. The banknote (worth $68) depicts views of the city. In a sign that the scale of the protests may have spooked the regional authorities the police have shown unusual restraint, allowing the protests to go ahead and only detaining a handful of people. Even Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov this week praised the police's forbearance while unauthorised protests are usually quickly broken up in Russia. "We still fear they'll arrest us," said 47-year-old protester Yury Petrov. "We're living through a moment of democracy but it will doubtless be fleeting."

Massive protests in Russia's far east rattle Kremlin

The representatives of Ukraine, Russia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe agreed on establishing a complete and comprehensive ceasefire

Ukraine says Pro-Russian rebels violated 2 ceasefires

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis.

Thousands protest against Putin in Russia's far east

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis.

Residents of Khabarovsk, around 3,800 miles (6,110 km) and seven time zones east of Moscow, are unhappy about the detention this month of the wider region's popular governor, Sergei Furgal, who was arrested on murder charges he denies.

His arrest, which his supporters say was politically motivated, triggered the protests and created a headache for the Kremlin which is trying to troubleshoot a COVID-19-induced drop in real incomes and keep a lid on unrest.

Protesters chanted "Putin resign!" and "Putin is a thief!". Demonstrators say they want Furgal, who they think has been set up, to be flown back from Moscow and put on trial in Khabarovsk.

City authorities estimated around 6,500 people had taken part. One local media outlet put the number at up to 20,000, while other outlets and opposition activists said upwards of 50,000 had attended and that it was the biggest protest of its kind so far.

"Give us our Furgal back," said a local businesswoman called Viktoria. "This is our choice."

The protests have highlighted anger among some over what they see as policies emanating from detached Moscow-based authorities.

Supporters of Furgal, a member of the nationalist LDPR party, feel he is being belatedly punished for defeating a candidate from the ruling pro-Putin United Russia party in 2018. The Kremlin says Furgal has serious charges to answer.

Such sustained demonstrations are unusual for Russia's regions, as is the fact that the authorities have not yet moved to break them up.

In an apparent move to defuse tensions, Putin on Monday named a new acting governor. But protesters said they felt insulted by the choice of Mikhail Degtyaryov, who has no connection with the region, and have demanded he step down.

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis. Residents of Khabarovsk, around 3,800 miles (6,110 km) and seven time zones east of Moscow, are unhappy about the detention this month of the wider region's popular governor, Sergei Furgal, who was arrested on murder charges he denies. His arrest, which his supporters say was politically motivated, triggered the protests and created a headache for the Kremlin which is trying to troubleshoot a COVID-19-induced drop in real incomes and keep a lid on unrest. Protesters chanted "Putin resign!" and "Putin is a thief!". Demonstrators say they want Furgal, who they think has been set up, to be flown back from Moscow and put on trial in Khabarovsk. City authorities estimated around 6,500 people had taken part. One local media outlet put the number at up to 20,000, while other outlets and opposition activists said upwards of 50,000 had attended and that it was the biggest protest of its kind so far. "Give us our Furgal back," said a local businesswoman called Viktoria. "This is our choice." The protests have highlighted anger among some over what they see as policies emanating from detached Moscow-based authorities. Supporters of Furgal, a member of the nationalist LDPR party, feel he is being belatedly punished for defeating a candidate from the ruling pro-Putin United Russia party in 2018. The Kremlin says Furgal has serious charges to answer. Such sustained demonstrations are unusual for Russia's regions, as is the fact that the authorities have not yet moved to break them up. In an apparent move to defuse tensions, Putin on Monday named a new acting governor. But protesters said they felt insulted by the choice of Mikhail Degtyaryov, who has no connection with the region, and have demanded he step down.

Tens of thousands protest against Putin in Russian far east

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday the Russian Navy would be armed with hypersonic nuclear strike weapons and underwater nuclear drones, which the defence ministry said were in their final phase of testing.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday the Russian Navy would be armed with hypersonic nuclear strike weapons and underwater nuclear drones, which the defence ministry said were in their final phase of testing. Putin, who says he does not want an arms race, has often spoken of a new generation of Russian nuclear weapons that he says are unequalled and can hit almost anywhere in the world. Some Western experts have questioned how advanced they are. The weapons, some of which have yet to be deployed, include the Poseidon underwater nuclear drone, designed to be carried by submarines, and the Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic cruise missile, which can be deployed on surface ships. The combination of speed, manoeuvrability and altitude of hypersonic missiles, capable of travelling at more than five times the speed of sound, makes them difficult to track and intercept. Speaking in St Petersburg at an annual naval parade that showcases Russia's best ships, nuclear submarines and naval aviation, Putin said the navy's capabilities were growing and it would get 40 new vessels this year. He did not specify when it would receive new hypersonic weapons, but suggested that day was drawing closer. "The widespread deployment of advanced digital technologies that have no equals in the world, including hypersonic strike systems and underwater drones, will give the fleet unique advantages and increased combat capabilities," Putin said. In a separate statement released via Russian news agencies, the defence ministry said testing of the Belgorod, the first submarine capable of carrying the Poseidon drones, was underway and testing of the weapons systems was nearing completion. "Work is being successfully completed to create modern weapons systems for the Navy," it was cited as saying. Putin last year threatened to deploy hypersonic missiles on ships and submarines that could lurk outside U.S. territorial waters if the United States moved to deploy intermediate-range nuclear weapons in Europe. Washington has not deployed such missiles in Europe, but Moscow is worried it might.

Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons

Residents of Khabarovsk, around 3,800 miles (6,110 km) and seven time zones east of Moscow, are unhappy about the detention this month of the wider region's popular governor, Sergei Furgal, who was arrested on murder charges he denies.

Tens of thousands protest against Putin in Russian far east, 26 detained in Moscow

Russia will be contesting for a seat in the United Nations Human Rights Council. Russia's candidacy does not come as a surprise as Putin's government has long been eager to return to the forum from which it was dropped nearly 4 years ago. Watch report.

Russia eyes a spot on the UNHRC: Worst human rights abusers on the run

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.&nbsp;

Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-britain-canada-accuse-russia-of-hacking-covid-19-vaccine-research-313873">US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research</a>

Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him.&nbsp;

He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-has-russia-really-found-coronavirus-vaccine-313073">Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine?</a>

The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media.&nbsp;

The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran.&nbsp;

Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him.&nbsp;

Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036.

This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments.

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent. Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow. Also read | US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him. He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September. Also read | Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine? The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media. The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran. Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him. Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036. This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments. (With AFP inputs)

Russia: Police raid prominent opposition leader's office

President Vladimir Putin has ordered snap military drills involving 150,000 personnel and hundreds of aircraft and naval vessels to ensure "security in Russia's southwest," the defence ministry said Friday.&nbsp;

"In accordance with the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces snap exercises are being conducted by troops of the Southern and Western military districts," Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was quoted as saying in a statement.

The drills involve nearly 150,000 personnel including airborne troops and marine infantry of the Northern and Pacific Fleets, the defence ministry said. &nbsp;

The exercises also involve more than 400 aircraft and over 100 vessels and will be conducted in the Black and Caspian Seas, among other places.

The drills aim to test the Russian army's readiness to ensure "security in Russia's southwest where a serious threat of terrorism remains" as well as prepare for the Caucasus-2020 war games,&nbsp;the defence ministry said.

President Vladimir Putin has ordered snap military drills involving 150,000 personnel and hundreds of aircraft and naval vessels to ensure "security in Russia's southwest," the defence ministry said Friday.

President Vladimir Putin has ordered snap military drills involving 150,000 personnel and hundreds of aircraft and naval vessels to ensure "security in Russia's southwest," the defence ministry said Friday. "In accordance with the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces snap exercises are being conducted by troops of the Southern and Western military districts," Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was quoted as saying in a statement. The drills involve nearly 150,000 personnel including airborne troops and marine infantry of the Northern and Pacific Fleets, the defence ministry said. The exercises also involve more than 400 aircraft and over 100 vessels and will be conducted in the Black and Caspian Seas, among other places. The drills aim to test the Russian army's readiness to ensure "security in Russia's southwest where a serious threat of terrorism remains" as well as prepare for the Caucasus-2020 war games, the defence ministry said.

Putin orders massive snap military drills

Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036

Thousands of people are protesting in Russia calling for Vladimir Putin's resignation following the arrest of a regional governor since last week.

Demonstrations have been taking place in towns across the Khabarovsk Krai, a region that stretches from the frontier with China to the artic along the pacific ocean.

The outburst against Putin is coming from a region that's 4,000 miles away from the capital Moscow.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putins-throne-shakes-as-protests-break-out-313326/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;Khabarovsk Krai's Governor Sergei Furgal was detained and taken to Moscow. He is accused of killing several businessmen nearly 15 years ago. The governor denies all charges. If found guilty, he might spend the rest of his life in prison.&nbsp;

Sergei Furgal is a popular regional leader. He is one of Russia's few provincial leaders, who is not associated with the political forces in kremlin. In 2018, Furgal defeated Putin's United Russia Party candidate to become the governor. This was seen as Putin losing his hold in the far-reaching areas of Russia. The protesters say t is a political witch-hunt and that Furgal's popularity in the region has made Putin nervous. Close to 40,000 people spilt out on to the streets of&nbsp;Khabarovsk Krai.

One protester fears Putin will now imprison anybody who could be a threat. Interestingly, the protests aren't just taking place in some remote corner of Russia. There are protests erupting in Moscow too. The capital's streets rocked under the march of protesters.

Former journalist Ivan Safronov has been arrested and charged with treason. In May, he quit his job as a journalist and joined as an adviser at Russia's space agency. He has been accused of passing on secrets to the Czech Republic. If found guilty,&nbsp;he faces 20 years in jail. The former scribe has denied the allegation.

He shared an abrasive relationship with the authorities as a journalist. In 2019,&nbsp;court proceedings were held over one of his articles. Safronov had written about Russia's deliveries of Sukhoi-35 fighter aircraft to Egypt.&nbsp; The articles were ordered to be taken down. The arrest of a former journalist for treason sent shock waves in the media circles of Moscow. More than a dozen journalists protested against Safronov's arrest. They were quickly detained. The journalists say the case is shrouded in secrecy.

The protesters are demanding the officials to declassify the case and&nbsp;spell out the allegations against Safronov. A petition has been signed by 55,000 people so far. Safronov's lawyer says the secrecy violates a basic right...

Political persecution in a remote province and silencing of a journalist who may know too much. Now, Putin is facing the heat even before he could get comfortable in the throne he has made his for life.

Thousands of people are protesting in Russia calling for Vladimir Putin's resignation following the arrest of a regional governor since last week. Demonstrations have been taking place in towns across the Khabarovsk Krai, a region that stretches from the frontier with China to the artic along the pacific ocean.

Thousands of people are protesting in Russia calling for Vladimir Putin's resignation following the arrest of a regional governor since last week. Demonstrations have been taking place in towns across the Khabarovsk Krai, a region that stretches from the frontier with China to the artic along the pacific ocean. The outburst against Putin is coming from a region that's 4,000 miles away from the capital Moscow. Khabarovsk Krai's Governor Sergei Furgal was detained and taken to Moscow. He is accused of killing several businessmen nearly 15 years ago. The governor denies all charges. If found guilty, he might spend the rest of his life in prison. Sergei Furgal is a popular regional leader. He is one of Russia's few provincial leaders, who is not associated with the political forces in kremlin. In 2018, Furgal defeated Putin's United Russia Party candidate to become the governor. This was seen as Putin losing his hold in the far-reaching areas of Russia. The protesters say t is a political witch-hunt and that Furgal's popularity in the region has made Putin nervous. Close to 40,000 people spilt out on to the streets of Khabarovsk Krai. One protester fears Putin will now imprison anybody who could be a threat. Interestingly, the protests aren't just taking place in some remote corner of Russia. There are protests erupting in Moscow too. The capital's streets rocked under the march of protesters. Former journalist Ivan Safronov has been arrested and charged with treason. In May, he quit his job as a journalist and joined as an adviser at Russia's space agency. He has been accused of passing on secrets to the Czech Republic. If found guilty, he faces 20 years in jail. The former scribe has denied the allegation. He shared an abrasive relationship with the authorities as a journalist. In 2019, court proceedings were held over one of his articles. Safronov had written about Russia's deliveries of Sukhoi-35 fighter aircraft to Egypt. The articles were ordered to be taken down. The arrest of a former journalist for treason sent shock waves in the media circles of Moscow. More than a dozen journalists protested against Safronov's arrest. They were quickly detained. The journalists say the case is shrouded in secrecy. The protesters are demanding the officials to declassify the case and spell out the allegations against Safronov. A petition has been signed by 55,000 people so far. Safronov's lawyer says the secrecy violates a basic right... Political persecution in a remote province and silencing of a journalist who may know too much. Now, Putin is facing the heat even before he could get comfortable in the throne he has made his for life.

Putin feeling the heat amid protest over two arrests

Russia's far-east is seething in anger over the arrest of a regional governor. Protests have erupted in Moscow too. A former journalist has been jailed for treason.

Gravitas: Putin's Throne Shakes As Protests Break Out

In a&nbsp;first&nbsp;for the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;Navy, an&nbsp;all-female&nbsp;navy&nbsp;crew&nbsp;carried out&nbsp;patrols on the&nbsp;Black&nbsp;Sea&nbsp;on Friday in preparation for Russia's&nbsp;Navy&nbsp;Day celebrations later this month.

The&nbsp;crew, on board a&nbsp;patrol&nbsp;boat, fulfilled a broad array of drills on their maiden voyage, simulating how they would react to an incursion by saboteurs including by tossing RGD-5 hand grenades into the&nbsp;sea.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-has-russia-really-found-coronavirus-vaccine-313073">Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine?</a>

Olga Chelkova, a senior engine mechanic said she&nbsp;decided to become a member of the&nbsp;crew&nbsp;because it's ''very interesting''.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-female-crew-embarks-on-black-sea-patrol-in-first-for-russian-navy-313212/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It's promising and, most of&nbsp;all, it's an experiment that women have never taken part in before."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bounties-pompeo-speaks-with-russias-lavrov-about-afghanistan-313112">Russian bounties: Pompeo speaks with Russia's Lavrov about Afghanistan</a>

The voyage marks a symbolic step in&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;women's quest to play a more active role in the armed forces, an institution dominated by men.

The&nbsp;navy&nbsp;still holds barriers to entry for women. A decree signed by President Vladimir Putin in 2000 lists 456 jobs in 38 industries which women are barred from doing because they would entail "heavy work and work in harmful working conditions".

The role of captain is not on the list but&nbsp;seaman is, and serving a&nbsp;seaman's apprenticeship is standard practice for male cadets and a necessary step to take on a command role.

The&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;government plans next year to shorten the list of jobs women are barred from holding.

In a first for the Russian Navy, an all-female navy crew carried out patrols on the Black Sea on Friday in preparation for Russia's Navy Day celebrations later this month.

In a first for the Russian Navy, an all-female navy crew carried out patrols on the Black Sea on Friday in preparation for Russia's Navy Day celebrations later this month. The crew, on board a patrol boat, fulfilled a broad array of drills on their maiden voyage, simulating how they would react to an incursion by saboteurs including by tossing RGD-5 hand grenades into the sea. Also read| Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine? Olga Chelkova, a senior engine mechanic said she decided to become a member of the crew because it's ''very interesting''. "It's promising and, most of all, it's an experiment that women have never taken part in before." Also read| Russian bounties: Pompeo speaks with Russia's Lavrov about Afghanistan The voyage marks a symbolic step in Russian women's quest to play a more active role in the armed forces, an institution dominated by men. The navy still holds barriers to entry for women. A decree signed by President Vladimir Putin in 2000 lists 456 jobs in 38 industries which women are barred from doing because they would entail "heavy work and work in harmful working conditions". The role of captain is not on the list but seaman is, and serving a seaman's apprenticeship is standard practice for male cadets and a necessary step to take on a command role. The Russian government plans next year to shorten the list of jobs women are barred from holding.

In a first for Russian Navy, all-female crew embarks on Black Sea patrol

Russia President Vladimir Putin has said his country showed unity by voting to back reforms allowing him to stay in power until 2036 and that Russians had felt the need for the changes in their hearts.

Putin also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday.

The Kremlin has hailed the landslide victory as a triumph for Putin, but critics said the vote was illegal and illegitimate. An independent monitoring group said the vote was deeply flawed.

"People felt with their hearts that what was on offer (the amendments) ... was in demand and what the country needed," Putin said in his first public comments on the vote.

"In general, the results of the vote showed a high level of unity in society on key questions that are of national significance," Putin said.

Other changes in the reform package grant former presidents immunity from prosecution, enshrine a reference in the constitution to God and define marriage as a union of a man and a woman.

Putin also used a meeting with officials broadcast on state television to try to poke fun at the US embassy in Moscow for flying the rainbow flag as part of LGBT pride celebrations.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Russia President Vladimir Putin has said his country showed unity by voting to back reforms allowing him to stay in power until 2036 and that Russians had felt the need for the changes in their hearts.

Russia President Vladimir Putin has said his country showed unity by voting to back reforms allowing him to stay in power until 2036 and that Russians had felt the need for the changes in their hearts. Putin also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday. The Kremlin has hailed the landslide victory as a triumph for Putin, but critics said the vote was illegal and illegitimate. An independent monitoring group said the vote was deeply flawed. "People felt with their hearts that what was on offer (the amendments) ... was in demand and what the country needed," Putin said in his first public comments on the vote. "In general, the results of the vote showed a high level of unity in society on key questions that are of national significance," Putin said. Other changes in the reform package grant former presidents immunity from prosecution, enshrine a reference in the constitution to God and define marriage as a union of a man and a woman. Putin also used a meeting with officials broadcast on state television to try to poke fun at the US embassy in Moscow for flying the rainbow flag as part of LGBT pride celebrations. (with inputs from Reuters)

Russia President Vladimir Putin signs order to allow his rule till 2036

Russia has passed a referendum that could give Vladimir Putin another 12 years as President. The story of Putin's rise to power is a fascinating one. WION's Palki Sharma brings you some unheard stories about the Russian President's rise from a working-class household to the Kremlin.

Gravitas: How Vladimir Putin became the Tsar of Russia

Russians have cleared the way for President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 as they voted in huge numbers to approve the controversial constitutional amendments, with opposition and Western countries suspecting poll violations.&nbsp;

Russia's Central Elections Commission announced early on Thursday that about 78 per cent of people had voted in favour of constitutional changes.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-from-a-rebellious-kid-to-russias-longest-serving-leader-310289">Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader</a>

Putin thanked the people for showing their support, saying the country needs "internal stability and time" to strengthen itself and its institutions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-reform-plan-highlights-ban-same-sex-marriages-primacy-of-russian-law-310162">Putin's reform plan highlights: Ban same-sex marriages, primacy of Russian law</a>

"Thank you very much for your support and trust," Putin said in a televised address.&nbsp;

"Very little time has passed since the break-up of the Soviet Union," he said, adding "we need internal stability and time to strengthen the country and its institutions".

The voting began last week on the constitutional changes proposed by the Russian president earlier this year, which includes increasing the limit of the presidential term, which will let Putin contest twice again after his current six-year term ends in 2024.

Other changes strengthen presidential and parliamentary powers, revitalise traditional values, which includes an effective ban on gay marriage and guarantee better minimum wages and pensions.

The United States expressed its concerns over attempts to "manipulate" the ballot, and the European Union (EU) asked Russia to investigate reports of voting "irregularities".&nbsp;

Main opposition leader Alexei Navalny also condemned the poll, saying it set "a record in faking votes" and the result had "nothing in common with people's views."

(With inputs from AFP)

Russians have cleared the way for President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 as they voted in huge numbers to approve the controversial constitutional amendments, with opposition and Western countries suspecting poll violations.

Russians have cleared the way for President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 as they voted in huge numbers to approve the controversial constitutional amendments, with opposition and Western countries suspecting poll violations. Russia's Central Elections Commission announced early on Thursday that about 78 per cent of people had voted in favour of constitutional changes. Also read | Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader Putin thanked the people for showing their support, saying the country needs "internal stability and time" to strengthen itself and its institutions. Also read | Putin's reform plan highlights: Ban same-sex marriages, primacy of Russian law "Thank you very much for your support and trust," Putin said in a televised address. "Very little time has passed since the break-up of the Soviet Union," he said, adding "we need internal stability and time to strengthen the country and its institutions". The voting began last week on the constitutional changes proposed by the Russian president earlier this year, which includes increasing the limit of the presidential term, which will let Putin contest twice again after his current six-year term ends in 2024. Other changes strengthen presidential and parliamentary powers, revitalise traditional values, which includes an effective ban on gay marriage and guarantee better minimum wages and pensions. The United States expressed its concerns over attempts to "manipulate" the ballot, and the European Union (EU) asked Russia to investigate reports of voting "irregularities". Main opposition leader Alexei Navalny also condemned the poll, saying it set "a record in faking votes" and the result had "nothing in common with people's views." (With inputs from AFP)

Russians vote in large numbers to approve Putin-backed constitutional amendments

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-congratulates-putin-on-constitutional-vote-310246">PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote</a>

Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and &nbsp;Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years.

Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR.

He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides.

Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party.&nbsp;

He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up.

Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself.

Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative.&nbsp;

Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests.&nbsp;

An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed.

In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. &nbsp;

Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin.&nbsp;

December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over.

Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. &nbsp;He did not tell her he was going to be president.

Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia.&nbsp;

A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey.

His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism.&nbsp;

He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants.&nbsp;

Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him. Also read: PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years. Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR. He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides. Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party. He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up. Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself. Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative. Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests. An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed. In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin. December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over. Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. He did not tell her he was going to be president. Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia. A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey. His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism. He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants. Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader

A total of 71.2 percent percent of Russians who took part in the nation-wide referendum have supported the amendments to the national constitution.

Russian agency's exit polls say 76% backs constitutional reforms

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms.

In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said.

The constitutional reforms approved in a nationwide vote by 77.92 per cent of Russian voters could allow Putin to extend his rule until 2036.

That means that the 67-year-old former KGB officer, who has ruled Russia for over two decades as either president or prime minister, could be in power until he is 83.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-voters-overwhelmingly-back-putins-reform-plan-to-rule-until-2036-310054">Also read |&nbsp;Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036</a>

Modi's congratulations stand in contrast to expressions of concern in both Washington and Brussels.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Thursday hailed as a triumph the result of the nationwide vote that handed Putin the right to run for two more terms, but an independent monitoring group said the vote had not been free and the outcome was flawed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms. In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms. In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said. The constitutional reforms approved in a nationwide vote by 77.92 per cent of Russian voters could allow Putin to extend his rule until 2036. That means that the 67-year-old former KGB officer, who has ruled Russia for over two decades as either president or prime minister, could be in power until he is 83. Also read | Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036 Modi's congratulations stand in contrast to expressions of concern in both Washington and Brussels. Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Thursday hailed as a triumph the result of the nationwide vote that handed Putin the right to run for two more terms, but an independent monitoring group said the vote had not been free and the outcome was flawed.

PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote

The main voting day on amendments to the Constitution of the Russian Federation is to be held nationwide on Wednesday.

Russia holds prominent voting day on constitutional amendments today

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