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.

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&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

Russians began voting on Thursday in a poll that could enable President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 if re-elected, Reuters reported. If, as expected, the constitutional changes are approved, Putin will be eligible to run for two more back-to-back six-year terms after his current one expires in 2024, the report added.

Russians began voting on Thursday in a poll that could enable President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 if re-elected, Reuters reported. If, as expected, the constitutional changes are approved, Putin will be eligible to run for two more back-to-back six-year terms after his current one expires in 2024, the report added. Putin says he has yet to decide whether to run. Critics called the process a constitutional coup while ome voters said Putin had earlier suggested this term would be his last as president and accused him of a U-turn. Also read: Putin's opponents divided over Russian vote that could extend his rule "This man (Putin) is changing his mind very quickly. First he was saying one thing and then another. Even my family have stopped supporting him, especially after the quarantine. People have just lost faith in the man,” said Maria, a Moscow student. Others said Putin had earned the right to run again. "In many countries, for example in Germany, there is no legal limit on the number of presidential terms," said Konstantin Korzinin, a state employee in Moscow. "The most important thing for a leader is that they govern well. I think the guarantor of our constitution is doing a good job." The vote is on a large bundle of constitutional changes, already approved by parliament and the Constitutional Court, which the Kremlin says are needed to strengthen the role of parliament, improve social policy, and lock in stability. × With state media supporting Putin, and the president facing no immediate threat from a divided opposition, the vote is expected to go his way despite rising unemployment and the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. The central bank forecasts a 4%-6% GDP drop this year, while the International Monetary Fund projects a 6.6% decline. State pollster VTsIOM has forecast that 67% to 71% of voters will endorse the changes. Pictures on social media showed a polling station set up in the back of a car in Vladivostok and people voting in a bus in the town of Tver, while a journalist for TV Rain, which often criticises the Kremlin, filmed himself voting once at a polling station and again electronically. Opposition politician Alexei Navalny has called for a boycott. "Voting on the amendments is illegal, pointless and dangerous for your health," Navalny wrote before the vote. (With inputs from Reuters)

Marathon vote on extending Putin's rule begins amid coronavirus crisis

Russians today began a marathon seven-day vote on constitutional reforms that will allow Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036

Russia: A 7-day voting on Constitutional reform to keep Putin in power until 2036

Russia showed off its military prowess as it celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Victory Day. This year, the celebrations came right ahead of a referendum that could make Vladimir Putin president for life.

Gravitas: Putin to become Russian President for life?

Russia holds its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow on Wednesday, commemorating the 75th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s capitulation in World War II.

Russia holds a massive show of military might in Moscow

Indian contingent takes part in Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow

Russia President Vladimir Putin has called on the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to make good on an agreement to hold a face-to-face summit to try to tackle the world's problems as soon as possible.

Putin made the appeal in an article in English published late on Thursday in American international affairs magazine The National Interest.

In the article, he examined the events of World War Two close on the heels of a Red Square parade next week to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

"Today, as in 1945, it is important to demonstrate political will and discuss the future together," Putin wrote in the article.

He proposed such a summit in January and the four other permanent members of the UN Security Council - the United States, China, France and Britain - gave their agreement in principle.

Moscow hopes the summit can proceed once coronavirus fears recede despite its relations with the West, and particularly the United States, being strained over everything from Syria and Ukraine to alleged Russian political meddling abroad.

The summit would discuss the global economy, global security, arms control, extremism, cyberspace and climate change.

Russia President Vladimir Putin has called on the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to make good on an agreement to hold a face-to-face summit to try to tackle the world's problems as soon as possible.

Russia President Vladimir Putin has called on the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to make good on an agreement to hold a face-to-face summit to try to tackle the world's problems as soon as possible. Putin made the appeal in an article in English published late on Thursday in American international affairs magazine The National Interest. In the article, he examined the events of World War Two close on the heels of a Red Square parade next week to mark the 75th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. "Today, as in 1945, it is important to demonstrate political will and discuss the future together," Putin wrote in the article. He proposed such a summit in January and the four other permanent members of the UN Security Council - the United States, China, France and Britain - gave their agreement in principle. Moscow hopes the summit can proceed once coronavirus fears recede despite its relations with the West, and particularly the United States, being strained over everything from Syria and Ukraine to alleged Russian political meddling abroad. The summit would discuss the global economy, global security, arms control, extremism, cyberspace and climate change.

Putin pushes idea of Russian-backed summit to stabilise world

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick &amp; thin.&nbsp;Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China. 
&nbsp; 
The development comes even has Moscow has publically reacted on the standoff at multiple levels with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov &amp; India's Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma discussing the matter.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, reactions came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the Russian ambassador to India Nikolay R. Kudashev &amp; Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin on the development hoping for de-escalation.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Lavrov said, "It has already been announced that the military representatives of India and China have made contact, they are discussing the situation, discussing measures to de-escalate it. We welcome this".

Envoy Kudashev in a tweet said, "We welcome all steps aimed at de-escalation at the LAC, including the conversation between the two FMs, and remain optimistic."

While Russian DCM told WION, &nbsp;"We hope that the tensions will soon be de-escalated, and the sides would further maintain a constructive dialogue also keeping in mind the potential of cooperation. Russia believes it is vital for the region".

The Russian readout of deputy Russian foreign minister's talks with Indian envoy to Russia said, "the officials discussed regional security, including developments on the Line of Actual Control on the border between India and China in the Himalayas".&nbsp;

India and Russia have close ties and engage frequently including at the highest level. Both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other many times this year including on COVID-19 crisis.

Later next week, the RIC Russia-India-China foreign minister meet via video conference will take place.&nbsp;

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova announced that "On June 23, foreign ministers of Russia, India &amp; China are scheduled to meet via videoconference as part of Russia’s RIC chairmanship. They will exchange views on trends in global politics, the economy, and other areas following the COVID19 pandemic."&nbsp;

Russian envoy called the "existence" of the grouping an "undisputable reality" which is "firmly fixed on the world map". Commenting on "current stage of of the trilateral cooperation" he said, "there are no indications that it might be frozen" over current India-China stand-off.

Later this year as the chair of SCO and BRICS, Russia will host the summits of both the groupings.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan's&nbsp;Foreign Minister SM Qureshi also spoke to his Russian counterpart&nbsp;and the Russian foreign ministry readout of the talks showed that Russia did not support Pak priorities as Islamabad had been claiming during the telephone call.

India will send 75 members strong Tri-Service contingent to participate in the 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II in Moscow.

Victory Day Parade is scheduled to be held on June 24, 2020, in Moscow and the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had invited Indian contingent to take part.&nbsp;

According to the official press-release of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the mechanized column participating in the parade will consist of more than 200 vehicles with more than 20 types of military hardware showcased at the parade for the first time.

Among the new armoured vehicles will be T-90M main battle tank, Armata infantry fighting vehicle with new combat module Kinzhal, Kurganets-25 infantry fighting vehicle with Epoha combat module.

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick & thin. Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China.

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick & thin. Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China. The development comes even has Moscow has publically reacted on the standoff at multiple levels with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov & India's Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma discussing the matter. On Wednesday, reactions came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the Russian ambassador to India Nikolay R. Kudashev & Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin on the development hoping for de-escalation. Watch | Lavrov said, "It has already been announced that the military representatives of India and China have made contact, they are discussing the situation, discussing measures to de-escalate it. We welcome this". Envoy Kudashev in a tweet said, "We welcome all steps aimed at de-escalation at the LAC, including the conversation between the two FMs, and remain optimistic." While Russian DCM told WION, "We hope that the tensions will soon be de-escalated, and the sides would further maintain a constructive dialogue also keeping in mind the potential of cooperation. Russia believes it is vital for the region". The Russian readout of deputy Russian foreign minister's talks with Indian envoy to Russia said, "the officials discussed regional security, including developments on the Line of Actual Control on the border between India and China in the Himalayas". India and Russia have close ties and engage frequently including at the highest level. Both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other many times this year including on COVID-19 crisis. Later next week, the RIC Russia-India-China foreign minister meet via video conference will take place. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova announced that "On June 23, foreign ministers of Russia, India & China are scheduled to meet via videoconference as part of Russia’s RIC chairmanship. They will exchange views on trends in global politics, the economy, and other areas following the COVID19 pandemic." Russian envoy called the "existence" of the grouping an "undisputable reality" which is "firmly fixed on the world map". Commenting on "current stage of of the trilateral cooperation" he said, "there are no indications that it might be frozen" over current India-China stand-off. Later this year as the chair of SCO and BRICS, Russia will host the summits of both the groupings. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister SM Qureshi also spoke to his Russian counterpart and the Russian foreign ministry readout of the talks showed that Russia did not support Pak priorities as Islamabad had been claiming during the telephone call. India will send 75 members strong Tri-Service contingent to participate in the 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II in Moscow. Victory Day Parade is scheduled to be held on June 24, 2020, in Moscow and the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had invited Indian contingent to take part. According to the official press-release of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the mechanized column participating in the parade will consist of more than 200 vehicles with more than 20 types of military hardware showcased at the parade for the first time. Among the new armoured vehicles will be T-90M main battle tank, Armata infantry fighting vehicle with new combat module Kinzhal, Kurganets-25 infantry fighting vehicle with Epoha combat module.

Moscow assures support to India amidst stand off with China

The Russian president,&nbsp;Vladimir Putin, has been protected from the coronavirus by a special disinfection tunnel that anyone visiting his residence outside Moscow must pass through, according to state television.

The special tunnel, manufactured by a Russian company based in the town of Penza, has been installed at his official Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow where he receives visitors, RIA news agency reported on Tuesday.

Demonstration footage of the tunnel, published by RIA, showed masked people passing through it being sprayed with disinfectant from the ceiling and from the side.

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В резиденции Путина для защиты от коронавируса установили специальный туннель. Он предназначен для дезинфекции<a href="https://t.co/jjwWbuZ2EX">https://t.co/jjwWbuZ2EX</a> <a href="https://t.co/h62KWARvsr">pic.twitter.com/h62KWARvsr</a>
— РИА Новости (@rianru) <a href="https://twitter.com/rianru/status/1272933335573159938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Russian news agency described the disinfectant as a fine cloud of liquid that covered people’s clothes and any exposed upper body flesh.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesman, said in April that anyone meeting Putin in person was tested for the virus. A month later, Peskov said he had himself been infected.

Russia has recorded over 500,000 infections, the third highest number of cases in the world&nbsp;after Brazil and the United States, something it attributes to a large testing programme.

It has registered more than 7,000 deaths so far, fewer than numerous other countries. Critics are dubious about the accuracy of its mortality figures.

The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, has been protected from the coronavirus by a special disinfection tunnel that anyone visiting his residence outside Moscow must pass through, according to state television.

The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, has been protected from the coronavirus by a special disinfection tunnel that anyone visiting his residence outside Moscow must pass through, according to state television. The special tunnel, manufactured by a Russian company based in the town of Penza, has been installed at his official Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow where he receives visitors, RIA news agency reported on Tuesday. Demonstration footage of the tunnel, published by RIA, showed masked people passing through it being sprayed with disinfectant from the ceiling and from the side. В резиденции Путина для защиты от коронавируса установили специальный туннель. Он предназначен для дезинфекцииhttps://t.co/jjwWbuZ2EX pic.twitter.com/h62KWARvsr — РИА Новости (@rianru) June 16, 2020 × The Russian news agency described the disinfectant as a fine cloud of liquid that covered people’s clothes and any exposed upper body flesh. Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesman, said in April that anyone meeting Putin in person was tested for the virus. A month later, Peskov said he had himself been infected. Russia has recorded over 500,000 infections, the third highest number of cases in the world after Brazil and the United States, something it attributes to a large testing programme. It has registered more than 7,000 deaths so far, fewer than numerous other countries. Critics are dubious about the accuracy of its mortality figures.

'Disinfection tunnel' set up to safeguard Vladimir Putin from COVID-19

President Vladimir Putin appealed to what he termed Russians' core values on Friday, the country's national day, as he sought to rally support for a vote on constitutional reforms that could potentially keep him in office until 2036.

President Vladimir Putin enthuses confidence ahead of vote

Ambarnaya river turns Crimson as 21,000 tonnes of oil leaks of diesel fuel tank operated by Norilsk Nickel Rupture. Watch this video to know more.

Ambarnaya river turns Crimson as 21,000 tonnes of diesel leaks in water

Russian President Vladimir Putin's opponents agree a nationwide vote next month that could extend his rule is a sham, but are split over whether to campaign for a "No" vote or call for a boycott, according to Reuters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's opponents agree a nationwide vote next month that could extend his rule is a sham, but are split over whether to campaign for a "No" vote or call for a boycott, according to Reuters. In the July 1 vote, Russians will vote to approve or reject constitutional reforms including a change that would allow Putin to serve two more six-year terms, if re-elected, instead of stepping down in 2024. Putin's approval rating, though still high at 59%, has slipped to its lowest since 1999, the Levada pollster says, and the coronavirus pandemic poses one of the biggest challenges of his more than 20-year rule, according to Reuters. Also read: WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life Even so, Putin's opponents believe the outcome is a foregone conclusion. Some, such as politician Alexei Navalny and the liberal opposition Yabloko party, have urged supporters not to vote. "Legitimising this 'fete for Putin' by increasing turnout is just helping the Kremlin," said Lyubov Sobol, a Navalny ally. Others, such as the Communist party, which usually backs the Kremlin on big decisions, have urged supporters to vote against. Also read: Explained: How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms The Kremlin says constitutional changes are needed to strengthen the role of parliament and improve social policy and public administration, and that polls show the changes have wide support. Critics say the reforms amount to a constitutional coup. "There's no opportunity to uncover falsifications. All that remains is a circus with blow-up tents," Navalny said. Election officials deny such accusations, saying the vote will be free and fair. (With inputs from Reuters)

Putin's opponents divided over Russian vote that could extend his rule

Unexpanded G7 has long been in demand for the emerging world. All the member nations agree in principle that in this expansion they are divided over the decision to get the seat at the G7 table.

Putin wants China at G7 table: Trump's G7 expansion plan

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