Russia has reported 9,263 cases for the novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 299,941. The country recorded 115 deaths due to the virus taking the toll to 2,837.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-worldwide-cases-near-49-million-death-toll-at-318465-299544" hreflang="en">Covid-19 worldwide cases near 4.9 million; death toll at 318,465</a>

Russia has however seen a decline in daily cases, the country recorded cases below 10,000 for the fourth day in a row.

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has increased to over 4.8 million, while the death toll has surpassed 318,000, according to Johns Hopkins University.

As of Tuesday morning, the total number of cases stood at 4,801,282, while the death toll increased to 318,465, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The US currently accounts for the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 15,37,830 and 90,694, respectively.

Europe reopened more widely on Monday, allowing people into the Acropolis in Greece, shops in Italy, markets and museums in Belgium, golf courses in Ireland and beer gardens in Germany while its leaders discussed how to salvage hallowed summer vacations.

Russia has reported 9,263 cases for the novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 299,941. The country recorded 115 deaths due to the virus taking the toll to 2,837.

Russia has reported 9,263 cases for the novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 299,941. The country recorded 115 deaths due to the virus taking the toll to 2,837. Also read: Covid-19 worldwide cases near 4.9 million; death toll at 318,465 Russia has however seen a decline in daily cases, the country recorded cases below 10,000 for the fourth day in a row. The overall number of global coronavirus cases has increased to over 4.8 million, while the death toll has surpassed 318,000, according to Johns Hopkins University. As of Tuesday morning, the total number of cases stood at 4,801,282, while the death toll increased to 318,465, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. The US currently accounts for the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 15,37,830 and 90,694, respectively. Europe reopened more widely on Monday, allowing people into the Acropolis in Greece, shops in Italy, markets and museums in Belgium, golf courses in Ireland and beer gardens in Germany while its leaders discussed how to salvage hallowed summer vacations.

Russia nears 300,000 coronavirus cases, reports 115 deaths in 24 hours

Six coronavirus patients have been killed and about 150 evacuated after a fire suspected to have been caused by a lung ventilator in the intensive care unit at a hospital in Russia

Six coronavirus patients killed in Russia hospital fire

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday announced a gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures despite a new surge in infections

Russia to begin easing some lockdown measures

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazil-records-10627-deaths-155939-confirmed-cases-297712" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases</a>

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Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazil-records-10627-deaths-155939-confirmed-cases-297712">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-urges-citizens-to-unite-amid-toned-down-victory-day-celebration-297718" hreflang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin urges citizens to 'unite' amid toned down Victory Day celebration</a>

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Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-urges-citizens-to-unite-amid-toned-down-victory-day-celebration-297718">READ MORE</a>

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Obama said the election "is so important because what we're going to be battling is not just a particular individual or a political party." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-describes-trump-handling-of-virus-as-chaotic-in-a-leaked-call-297714">READ MORE</a>

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All five of them have been released on April 24 followed by a 14-day quarantine before they return home.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-five-notable-labour-rights-activists-after-year-long-imprisonment-297713">READ MORE</a>

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COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases.

COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases. READ MORE Russian President Vladimir Putin urges citizens to 'unite' amid toned down Victory Day celebration Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak. READ MORE Obama describes Trump handling of virus as chaotic in a leaked call Obama said the election "is so important because what we're going to be battling is not just a particular individual or a political party." READ MORE China releases five notable labour rights activists after year-long imprisonment All five of them have been released on April 24 followed by a 14-day quarantine before they return home. READ MORE WATCH| 3 children have died in New York from a mysterious disease ×

Morning News Brief: Brazil witnesses spike in COVID cases, Russia celebrates Victory Day and more

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin told his fellow citizens that they are unbeatable when they stand together during the celebrations of victory in World War Two that were cut down because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outbreaks-in-germany-south-korea-show-life-beyond-lockdown-isnt-what-people-think-itll-be-297680">Outbreaks in Germany, S Korea show life after lockdown isn't what people think</a>

Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-describes-trump-handling-of-virus-as-chaotic-in-a-leaked-call-297714" hreflang="en">Obama describes Trump handling of virus as chaotic in a leaked call</a>

The Victory Day marks the day when Allied forces won against Nazi Germany in 1945, the virus spread forced to postpone the main annual parade on Moscow's Red Square.&nbsp;

Putin made his first public appearance after weeks and had a low-key remembrance day but assured his countrymen that the parade to mark 75th anniversary will be held when the time will be right.&nbsp;

"Our veterans fought for life and against death, and we will always try to live up to their spirit of unanimity and resilience," Putin said after laying a bouquet of red roses at the Eternal Flame war memorial near the Kremlin.

"We are united by our shared memory, hopes and aspirations, as well as a sense of shared responsibility for the present and the future. We know and strongly believe that when we stand together, we are invincible."

The low-key celebrations involved guards from the Kremlin Regiment doing a march past after Putin's speech and &nbsp;75 military planes and helicopters, including advanced Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters, flew over central Moscow despite cloudy skies, with one group of jets leaving a trail in the sky in the colours of the Russian flag.

The state television broadcast replayed last year's Red Square parade.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin told his fellow citizens that they are unbeatable when they stand together during the celebrations of victory in World War Two that were cut down because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin told his fellow citizens that they are unbeatable when they stand together during the celebrations of victory in World War Two that were cut down because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. Also read: Outbreaks in Germany, S Korea show life after lockdown isn't what people think Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Obama describes Trump handling of virus as chaotic in a leaked call The Victory Day marks the day when Allied forces won against Nazi Germany in 1945, the virus spread forced to postpone the main annual parade on Moscow's Red Square. Putin made his first public appearance after weeks and had a low-key remembrance day but assured his countrymen that the parade to mark 75th anniversary will be held when the time will be right. "Our veterans fought for life and against death, and we will always try to live up to their spirit of unanimity and resilience," Putin said after laying a bouquet of red roses at the Eternal Flame war memorial near the Kremlin. "We are united by our shared memory, hopes and aspirations, as well as a sense of shared responsibility for the present and the future. We know and strongly believe that when we stand together, we are invincible." The low-key celebrations involved guards from the Kremlin Regiment doing a march past after Putin's speech and 75 military planes and helicopters, including advanced Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters, flew over central Moscow despite cloudy skies, with one group of jets leaving a trail in the sky in the colours of the Russian flag. The state television broadcast replayed last year's Red Square parade.

Russian President Vladimir Putin urges citizens to 'unite' amid toned down Victory Day celebration

Russia marks 75 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two on Saturday, but the coronavirus outbreak has forced it to scale back celebrations.

World marks 75th anniversary of Victory Day

President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (May 6) said Russia should not rush to lift coronavirus-related restrictions, warning that any haste in removing preventative measures could undo their work so far.

Russian President Putin warns against lifting coronavirus-related restrictions

Russia on Thursday recorded a largest a daily increase of confirmed coronavirus cases as the number of infections surged past 100,000.

According to health officials, 7,099 people confirmed of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number to 106,498 cases. The number of deaths in Russia is at 1,073.

With cases continue to rises with each passing day, Russia is on its way to becoming another worst-affected country in Europe. However, in comparison to other worst-hit European countries like Italy and Spain, the death toll in Russia is significantly low. &nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the country's response had helped it avoid the catastrophic "Italian scenario".

Russia's success was down to "tough self-isolation decisions" and government measures "which convinced people to stay at home," local media quoted Peskov as saying.

The virus has spread to all 85 regions of the country, with Moscow the epicentre with around half the total cases.

Russia recently surpassed Iran and China in the number of confirmed infections and is now eighth in the world in virus cases, according to an AFP tally.

The country has carried out nearly 3.5 million virus tests, health officials said while adding that Russia is ranked 19th in the world for the number of coronavirus deaths.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, President Vladimir Putin warned that the situation remained "very difficult", saying Russia had managed to slow the spread of the epidemic but cautioning that "this should not reassure us".

Medics in Russia have complained of shortages of protective equipment and testing kits and hospital staff are becoming increasingly concerned with deaths in the medical community.

The Kremlin this week extended until May 11 a "non-working" period when Russians would stay at home but still receive their salaries as part of sweeping efforts to contain the virus.

Despite the steady increase in cases, Putin said that Russia may begin to gradually lift different quarantine regimes throughout the country from mid-May.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday recorded a largest a daily increase of confirmed coronavirus cases as the number of infections surged past 100,000. According to health officials, 7,099 people confirmed of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number to 106,498 cases.

Russia on Thursday recorded a largest a daily increase of confirmed coronavirus cases as the number of infections surged past 100,000. According to health officials, 7,099 people confirmed of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number to 106,498 cases. The number of deaths in Russia is at 1,073. With cases continue to rises with each passing day, Russia is on its way to becoming another worst-affected country in Europe. However, in comparison to other worst-hit European countries like Italy and Spain, the death toll in Russia is significantly low. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the country's response had helped it avoid the catastrophic "Italian scenario". Russia's success was down to "tough self-isolation decisions" and government measures "which convinced people to stay at home," local media quoted Peskov as saying. The virus has spread to all 85 regions of the country, with Moscow the epicentre with around half the total cases. Russia recently surpassed Iran and China in the number of confirmed infections and is now eighth in the world in virus cases, according to an AFP tally. The country has carried out nearly 3.5 million virus tests, health officials said while adding that Russia is ranked 19th in the world for the number of coronavirus deaths. Earlier this week, President Vladimir Putin warned that the situation remained "very difficult", saying Russia had managed to slow the spread of the epidemic but cautioning that "this should not reassure us". Medics in Russia have complained of shortages of protective equipment and testing kits and hospital staff are becoming increasingly concerned with deaths in the medical community. The Kremlin this week extended until May 11 a "non-working" period when Russians would stay at home but still receive their salaries as part of sweeping efforts to contain the virus. Despite the steady increase in cases, Putin said that Russia may begin to gradually lift different quarantine regimes throughout the country from mid-May. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia sees record rise in one-day coronavirus infections; total number tops 100,000

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin revealed Thursday that he tested positive for coronavirus and will self-isolate to protect other cabinet members. Speaking at a televised meeting to President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said "I have just learned that the test on the coronavirus I took was positive."

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tests positive for COVID-19

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin revealed Thursday that he tested positive for coronavirus and will self-isolate to protect other cabinet members. COVID-19 cases are surging constantly in Russia.

Russia reports massive surge in COVID-19 cases, Russian PM tests positive as well

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the government to provide daily forecasts of the spread of the novel coronavirus as Russia recorded almost 5,000 new cases in a single day.

Coronavirus infections in Russia began rising sharply in April after reporting far fewer infections than many western European countries in the outbreak's early stages.

On Saturday, Russia's official tally of coronavirus cases was 36,793, a record overnight rise of 4,785, and death toll rose by 40 to 313.

The government must "provide a short-term prognosis of the number of citizens who may contract the new infectious disease (COVID-19)" and report its estimates on a daily basis, according to an order published on the Kremlin's website.

In Moscow, a city of 12.7 million people which became the epicentre of Russia's coronavirus outbreak, cases jumped by 2,649 to 20,754, and the capital city accounted for half of all new fatalities reported on Saturday.

However, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the lockdown measures first introduced in March were bearing fruit.

"The disease rate in the city is growing but not exponentially, and far from the worst-case scenario," Sobyanin wrote on his website.

"A week ago, Moscow medical institutions were working at their limit. Today, they have switched to a more normal mode with a good stock of capacity," Sobyanin said.

Initially declared on March 30, the lockdown regime banned residents from leaving their homes unless they were going to buy food or medicines, get urgent medical treatment or walk the dog.

The authorities also introduced a travel permit system effective from April 15, and Sobyanin said on Saturday the authorities would use traffic cameras to catch drivers travelling without passes.

Authorities and clerics have urged Christians to stay home during the Orthodox Easter weekend, although a senior cleric urged police on Saturday to be lenient on those who still try to make it to their church.

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the government to provide daily forecasts of the spread of the novel coronavirus as Russia recorded almost 5,000 new cases in a single day.

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the government to provide daily forecasts of the spread of the novel coronavirus as Russia recorded almost 5,000 new cases in a single day. Coronavirus infections in Russia began rising sharply in April after reporting far fewer infections than many western European countries in the outbreak's early stages. On Saturday, Russia's official tally of coronavirus cases was 36,793, a record overnight rise of 4,785, and death toll rose by 40 to 313. The government must "provide a short-term prognosis of the number of citizens who may contract the new infectious disease (COVID-19)" and report its estimates on a daily basis, according to an order published on the Kremlin's website. In Moscow, a city of 12.7 million people which became the epicentre of Russia's coronavirus outbreak, cases jumped by 2,649 to 20,754, and the capital city accounted for half of all new fatalities reported on Saturday. However, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the lockdown measures first introduced in March were bearing fruit. "The disease rate in the city is growing but not exponentially, and far from the worst-case scenario," Sobyanin wrote on his website. "A week ago, Moscow medical institutions were working at their limit. Today, they have switched to a more normal mode with a good stock of capacity," Sobyanin said. Initially declared on March 30, the lockdown regime banned residents from leaving their homes unless they were going to buy food or medicines, get urgent medical treatment or walk the dog. The authorities also introduced a travel permit system effective from April 15, and Sobyanin said on Saturday the authorities would use traffic cameras to catch drivers travelling without passes. Authorities and clerics have urged Christians to stay home during the Orthodox Easter weekend, although a senior cleric urged police on Saturday to be lenient on those who still try to make it to their church.

Putin orders daily coronavirus projections as Russia's tally nears 37,000

At a time when concerns over a massive surge in coronavirus outbreak remain, Russia continued holding rehearsals for its Victory Day parade.&nbsp;

Russia's coronavirus tally so far stands at 6,342, a rise of 954 cases in the last 24 hours, its crisis response centre said on Monday. At least 47 people have died due to coronavirus in Russia.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-in-good-spirits-after-being-hospitalised-due-to-covid-19-290908">British PM Boris Johnson in 'good spirits' after being hospitalised due to COVID-19</a>

The Victory Day parade is scheduled for May 9 and France President Emmanuel Macron is amongst the world leaders who have been invited to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of second world war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-reports-fewer-than-50-coronavirus-cases-who-lauds-nations-response-290895">South Korea reports fewer than 50 coronavirus cases; WHO lauds nation's response</a>

The event holds significance for the Russian president who currently faces isolation largely by the&nbsp;West.&nbsp;

However, the preparations could worsen the COVID-19 situation in Moscow as the city remains the epicentre of the outbreak with 591 new cases.&nbsp;

Moscow is under lockdown since last week and many regions across the country have adopted similar measures to curb the spread.&nbsp;

In an online video, nearly 15,000 soldiers are seen present inside a parade ground outside Moscow, where Russia's defence ministry earlier confirmed it is organising rehearsals for the event.&nbsp;

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Video purportedly of Russian troops at the Victory Day Parade rehearsals in Alabino who aren't quite meeting the 1.5 meter social distancing requirement instituted by local officials.<a href="https://t.co/Zhut8EX9gt">https://t.co/Zhut8EX9gt</a> <a href="https://t.co/JIQLTPFUMQ">pic.twitter.com/JIQLTPFUMQ</a>
— Rob Lee (@RALee85) <a href="https://twitter.com/RALee85/status/1245630198885650432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A new website was censured over claims of violating regulations of fake news after it reported that the parade might be cancelled in one Russian region due to COVID-19. &nbsp;

“May 9th is a sacred date for millions upon millions in Russia and CIS countries,” a foreign ministry handle wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

“The Victory Day parade is scheduled (sanitary measures taken) and will march on Red Square.”

Victory Day is one of the most important events in Russia and the Western nations have given it a miss since 2014 after Russia annexed Crimea. The distances grew even more after Moscow's alleged meddling in the US elections and the poisoning of Russian intel officer Sergei Skripal in 2018 in Salisbury in the UK.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At a time when concerns over a massive surge in coronavirus outbreak remain, Russia continued holding rehearsals for its Victory Day parade. Russia's coronavirus tally so far stands at 6,342, a rise of 954 cases in the last 24 hours, its crisis response centre said on Monday.

At a time when concerns over a massive surge in coronavirus outbreak remain, Russia continued holding rehearsals for its Victory Day parade. Russia's coronavirus tally so far stands at 6,342, a rise of 954 cases in the last 24 hours, its crisis response centre said on Monday. At least 47 people have died due to coronavirus in Russia. Also read | British PM Boris Johnson in 'good spirits' after being hospitalised due to COVID-19 The Victory Day parade is scheduled for May 9 and France President Emmanuel Macron is amongst the world leaders who have been invited to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of second world war. Also read | South Korea reports fewer than 50 coronavirus cases; WHO lauds nation's response The event holds significance for the Russian president who currently faces isolation largely by the West. However, the preparations could worsen the COVID-19 situation in Moscow as the city remains the epicentre of the outbreak with 591 new cases. Moscow is under lockdown since last week and many regions across the country have adopted similar measures to curb the spread. In an online video, nearly 15,000 soldiers are seen present inside a parade ground outside Moscow, where Russia's defence ministry earlier confirmed it is organising rehearsals for the event. Video purportedly of Russian troops at the Victory Day Parade rehearsals in Alabino who aren't quite meeting the 1.5 meter social distancing requirement instituted by local officials.https://t.co/Zhut8EX9gt pic.twitter.com/JIQLTPFUMQ — Rob Lee (@RALee85) April 2, 2020 × A new website was censured over claims of violating regulations of fake news after it reported that the parade might be cancelled in one Russian region due to COVID-19. “May 9th is a sacred date for millions upon millions in Russia and CIS countries,” a foreign ministry handle wrote on Twitter. “The Victory Day parade is scheduled (sanitary measures taken) and will march on Red Square.” Victory Day is one of the most important events in Russia and the Western nations have given it a miss since 2014 after Russia annexed Crimea. The distances grew even more after Moscow's alleged meddling in the US elections and the poisoning of Russian intel officer Sergei Skripal in 2018 in Salisbury in the UK.

Russia: Victory Day rehearsals continue despite coronavirus crisis

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions.

The two "expressed serious concern regarding the scope of the spread of the coronavirus" and "discussed closer cooperation," a brief Kremlin statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-delays-reforms-vote-holds-back-on-tough-virus-measures-288549">Putin delays reforms vote, holds back on tough virus measures</a>

Trump announced he'd be using the call to raise objections over a Russian-Saudi price war driving down world oil prices and "really hurting" the US energy industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/800000-us-physicians-ask-trump-not-to-lift-social-distancing-restrictions-289462">800,000 US physicians ask Trump not to lift 'social distancing' restrictions</a>

"We don’t want to have a dead industry," Trump told Fox News in an interview shortly before talking to Putin. "This is a fight between Saudi Arabia and Russia ... and they both went crazy."

"I never thought I’d be saying that maybe we have to have an oil (prices) increase, because we do," Trump said.

The Kremlin statement after the call merely said they had "exchanged opinions" on the oil market.

&nbsp;Sanctions&nbsp;

Trump also told Fox he expected Putin would use the call to push for a lifting of US sanctions on Russia.

"He'll probably ask for that," Trump told Fox News. "He's been asking that for two years."

The Kremlin statement did not mention sanctions but said unspecified "certain issues" of bilateral relations were aired.

Trump did not say what his response would be, noting that he had put sanctions on Russia but adding: "They don't like that. Frankly we should be able to get along."

The bulk of US sanctions against Russia were imposed over Moscow's annexation of Crimea in Ukraine and what US investigators say was a concerted attempt to interfere in the 2016 presidential election won by Trump.

Last Thursday, Putin told G20 leaders during a conference call that he wanted a moratorium on sanctions as a "matter of life and death" during the global coronavirus outbreak.

In the comments, Putin did not specify which countries he was talking about but Russia is being hit hard by the economic fallout from coronavirus and the parallel oil price drop.

Another point of US-Russian contention is Venezuela, where Washington, supported by dozens of other countries, has been trying unsuccessfully to promote the toppling of leftist strongman Nicolas Maduro. Russia is one of the few countries propping up his government.

"We may discuss that too," Trump said.

Russian state oil company Rosneft said Saturday it is pulling out of Venezuela and argued that US sanctions on a Rosneft subsidiary -- imposed as part of Washington's attempt to cripple the Maduro government's revenue sources -- should now be lifted.

However, Russia remains a key partner to Caracas.

'Every country does it'&nbsp;

Trump has often resisted punishing Moscow, which denies meddling in US politics, but his hand on imposing sanctions was forced by his own Republican party in Congress, which sees the Putin government as hostile.

The warm relationship between Trump and Putin -- seen by many Western capitals as an increasingly authoritarian leader responsible for assassinations of opponents at home and abroad -- has been a constant source of controversy in the United States.

In his Fox interview, Trump dismissed reports that Russia and China are seeking to exploit the coronavirus disruption by planting disinformation aimed at putting the United States in a bad light.

"They do it and we do it," he said, calling The Washington Post newspaper, which recently reported on the issue, "fake."

"Every country does it," he said.

Trump then questioned why Russia was considered an enemy by many in the West. As he has often in the past, he again also cast doubt on what was for decades the rock solid transatlantic alliance between the United States and Germany.

"I'm not saying they're babies, I'm not saying they're perfect," he said of the Russians.

"But you know they also fought World War II, they lost 50 million people. They were our partner and now we don't talk to Russia, we talk to Germany."

"Germany was the enemy and Germany is like this wonderful thing. Well, Germany takes advantage of us on trade for years. They pay far too little in NATO."

 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions.

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions. The two "expressed serious concern regarding the scope of the spread of the coronavirus" and "discussed closer cooperation," a brief Kremlin statement said. Also read | Putin delays reforms vote, holds back on tough virus measures Trump announced he'd be using the call to raise objections over a Russian-Saudi price war driving down world oil prices and "really hurting" the US energy industry. Also read | 800,000 US physicians ask Trump not to lift 'social distancing' restrictions "We don’t want to have a dead industry," Trump told Fox News in an interview shortly before talking to Putin. "This is a fight between Saudi Arabia and Russia ... and they both went crazy." "I never thought I’d be saying that maybe we have to have an oil (prices) increase, because we do," Trump said. The Kremlin statement after the call merely said they had "exchanged opinions" on the oil market. Sanctions Trump also told Fox he expected Putin would use the call to push for a lifting of US sanctions on Russia. "He'll probably ask for that," Trump told Fox News. "He's been asking that for two years." The Kremlin statement did not mention sanctions but said unspecified "certain issues" of bilateral relations were aired. Trump did not say what his response would be, noting that he had put sanctions on Russia but adding: "They don't like that. Frankly we should be able to get along." The bulk of US sanctions against Russia were imposed over Moscow's annexation of Crimea in Ukraine and what US investigators say was a concerted attempt to interfere in the 2016 presidential election won by Trump. Last Thursday, Putin told G20 leaders during a conference call that he wanted a moratorium on sanctions as a "matter of life and death" during the global coronavirus outbreak. In the comments, Putin did not specify which countries he was talking about but Russia is being hit hard by the economic fallout from coronavirus and the parallel oil price drop. Another point of US-Russian contention is Venezuela, where Washington, supported by dozens of other countries, has been trying unsuccessfully to promote the toppling of leftist strongman Nicolas Maduro. Russia is one of the few countries propping up his government. "We may discuss that too," Trump said. Russian state oil company Rosneft said Saturday it is pulling out of Venezuela and argued that US sanctions on a Rosneft subsidiary -- imposed as part of Washington's attempt to cripple the Maduro government's revenue sources -- should now be lifted. However, Russia remains a key partner to Caracas. 'Every country does it' Trump has often resisted punishing Moscow, which denies meddling in US politics, but his hand on imposing sanctions was forced by his own Republican party in Congress, which sees the Putin government as hostile. The warm relationship between Trump and Putin -- seen by many Western capitals as an increasingly authoritarian leader responsible for assassinations of opponents at home and abroad -- has been a constant source of controversy in the United States. In his Fox interview, Trump dismissed reports that Russia and China are seeking to exploit the coronavirus disruption by planting disinformation aimed at putting the United States in a bad light. "They do it and we do it," he said, calling The Washington Post newspaper, which recently reported on the issue, "fake." "Every country does it," he said. Trump then questioned why Russia was considered an enemy by many in the West. As he has often in the past, he again also cast doubt on what was for decades the rock solid transatlantic alliance between the United States and Germany. "I'm not saying they're babies, I'm not saying they're perfect," he said of the Russians. "But you know they also fought World War II, they lost 50 million people. They were our partner and now we don't talk to Russia, we talk to Germany." "Germany was the enemy and Germany is like this wonderful thing. Well, Germany takes advantage of us on trade for years. They pay far too little in NATO."

Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin discuss oil price plunge, coronavirus

Moscow, with its more than 12 million people, went into lockdown on Monday while other parts of Russia moved to introduce similar steps to curb the coronavirus outbreak.

The enforcement of the strict new rules, which Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin suddenly announced late Sunday, coincided with the beginning of a "non-working" week declared by President Vladimir Putin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-cases-cross-1500-mark-russia-starts-building-a-dedicated-covid-19-hospital-289468">As cases cross 1,500 mark, Russia starts building a dedicated COVID-19 hospital</a>

"The situation is certainly serious and everyone should take this very seriously," Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Moscow, which has become the epicentre of the contagion in Russia, announced the new measures after many Muscovites failed to heed recommendations to self-isolate and instead went to parks for barbecues at the weekend.

On Monday, Red Square in the heart of Moscow was eerily empty, while the streets of Europe's most populous city were quiet even though traffic could still be seen on the roads.

Patriarch Ponds, a popular central park, was deserted in the morning except for a lone woman walking her corgi. Police cars drove slowly through the streets, looking out for Muscovites breaking the rules.&nbsp;

Anna, a 36-year-old web designer living in south Moscow, said the lockdown would be hard for her and her five-year-old daughter.&nbsp;

"But I don't want Arina to get sick," she told AFP while on her way to buy some bread. "So of course we will observe the quarantine."

But some were in no hurry to take the new rules to heart. Three teenagers flouted social distancing rules, walking and laughing together.

"Staying home with our parents will kill us quicker than the coronavirus," said one teen as the others nodded.

Regions eye lockdowns&nbsp;

Muscovites are now only allowed to leave their homes in cases of a medical emergency, to travel to jobs judged essential, and to go to local grocery stores and pharmacies which need to enforce social distancing.

People are also allowed to take out the trash and walk their dogs.

Over the past 24 hours, Russia has recorded 302 new cases -- the biggest daily increase so far -- taking the national tally to 1,835 cases of coronavirus and nine deaths.

But the real number of infected people is believed to be higher and critics have rounded on authorities for not proposing tougher measures sooner.

At a government meeting, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin asked regional authorities to prepare for Moscow-style lockdowns, saying it was important to pre-empt a major outbreak.

At least eight regions including the Western exclave region of Kaliningrad have already imposed or were preparing to impose strict quarantines.&nbsp;

Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov was the first regional leader to announce a lockdown last week, banning non-residents from entering the once restive region.

Masked men in black uniforms were policing streets in Chechnya armed with white clubs, according to a video published by independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta.

In a rare televised address last Wednesday, Putin announced that Russians would not be required to go to work this week, but would still get paid.

He also postponed an upcoming public vote on constitutional reforms that would allow him to stay in power until 2036.

'Pray at home'&nbsp;

The powerful Russian Orthodox Church, which had initially said authorities had no right to close churches, finally fell into line on Sunday, with Patriarch Kirill calling on the faithful to pray at home.

"You can be saved without going to church," he told believers in an address.

The new isolation rules, which will be policed by a vast system of facial-recognition cameras in Moscow, came into force as Russia also closed its borders.

&nbsp;

Moscow, with its more than 12 million people, went into lockdown on Monday while other parts of Russia moved to introduce similar steps to curb the coronavirus outbreak.

Moscow, with its more than 12 million people, went into lockdown on Monday while other parts of Russia moved to introduce similar steps to curb the coronavirus outbreak. The enforcement of the strict new rules, which Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin suddenly announced late Sunday, coincided with the beginning of a "non-working" week declared by President Vladimir Putin. Also read | As cases cross 1,500 mark, Russia starts building a dedicated COVID-19 hospital "The situation is certainly serious and everyone should take this very seriously," Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Moscow, which has become the epicentre of the contagion in Russia, announced the new measures after many Muscovites failed to heed recommendations to self-isolate and instead went to parks for barbecues at the weekend. On Monday, Red Square in the heart of Moscow was eerily empty, while the streets of Europe's most populous city were quiet even though traffic could still be seen on the roads. Patriarch Ponds, a popular central park, was deserted in the morning except for a lone woman walking her corgi. Police cars drove slowly through the streets, looking out for Muscovites breaking the rules. Anna, a 36-year-old web designer living in south Moscow, said the lockdown would be hard for her and her five-year-old daughter. "But I don't want Arina to get sick," she told AFP while on her way to buy some bread. "So of course we will observe the quarantine." But some were in no hurry to take the new rules to heart. Three teenagers flouted social distancing rules, walking and laughing together. "Staying home with our parents will kill us quicker than the coronavirus," said one teen as the others nodded. Regions eye lockdowns Muscovites are now only allowed to leave their homes in cases of a medical emergency, to travel to jobs judged essential, and to go to local grocery stores and pharmacies which need to enforce social distancing. People are also allowed to take out the trash and walk their dogs. Over the past 24 hours, Russia has recorded 302 new cases -- the biggest daily increase so far -- taking the national tally to 1,835 cases of coronavirus and nine deaths. But the real number of infected people is believed to be higher and critics have rounded on authorities for not proposing tougher measures sooner. At a government meeting, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin asked regional authorities to prepare for Moscow-style lockdowns, saying it was important to pre-empt a major outbreak. At least eight regions including the Western exclave region of Kaliningrad have already imposed or were preparing to impose strict quarantines. Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov was the first regional leader to announce a lockdown last week, banning non-residents from entering the once restive region. Masked men in black uniforms were policing streets in Chechnya armed with white clubs, according to a video published by independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta. In a rare televised address last Wednesday, Putin announced that Russians would not be required to go to work this week, but would still get paid. He also postponed an upcoming public vote on constitutional reforms that would allow him to stay in power until 2036. 'Pray at home' The powerful Russian Orthodox Church, which had initially said authorities had no right to close churches, finally fell into line on Sunday, with Patriarch Kirill calling on the faithful to pray at home. "You can be saved without going to church," he told believers in an address. The new isolation rules, which will be policed by a vast system of facial-recognition cameras in Moscow, came into force as Russia also closed its borders.

Moscow begins lockdown during tougher push to curb coronavirus

Russia has ordered restaurants, cafes and resorts closed from Saturday to fight the coronavirus outbreak but stopped short of insisting on a full-blown lockdown.

Russian regions are to "halt the activities of public food service organisations," except for delivery services, a government decree said on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-use-mobile-phones-to-track-people-at-risk-of-coronavirus-288076">Russia to use mobile phones to track people at risk of coronavirus</a>

The decree also ordered regional authorities to halt the work of hotels and resorts and other similar venues until June, and to recommend that Russians limit travel.

Speaking at a meeting of the country's anti-coronavirus task force, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said "harsh, even prohibitive measures are needed" to prevent the novel coronavirus from spreading at crowded places.

They are dictated by "the necessity to cut down on any movements" and to postpone any non-essential travel and avoid public, he said.

"Staying home right now is the most important thing for everyone."

President Vladimir Putin Wednesday declared a non-working week from March 28 to April 5 to stem the spread of COVID-19 as the number of coronavirus cases has spiked, particularly in Moscow.

He urged Russians to heed recommendations of healthcare professionals and government officials.

The nationwide measures were announced after Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin warned Putin the number of coronavirus cases was higher than official figures and requested that Muscovites -- especially those over 65 -- stay home and ordered restaurants and parks closed next week.

However, authorities have so far denied plans to enforce a strict lockdown similar to that in China or some European countries.

In the second city of Saint Petersburg, the faithful were banned from attending church services next week but there is no formal ban in Moscow.

The powerful Russian Orthodox Church said any such restrictions were unconstitutional.

Russia has also grounded all international flights from Friday.&nbsp;

Three people have died of the infection and 1036 have fallen ill, according to official statistics.

Russia has ordered restaurants, cafes and resorts closed from Saturday to fight the coronavirus outbreak but stopped short of insisting on a full-blown lockdown.

Russia has ordered restaurants, cafes and resorts closed from Saturday to fight the coronavirus outbreak but stopped short of insisting on a full-blown lockdown. Russian regions are to "halt the activities of public food service organisations," except for delivery services, a government decree said on Friday. Also read | Russia to use mobile phones to track people at risk of coronavirus The decree also ordered regional authorities to halt the work of hotels and resorts and other similar venues until June, and to recommend that Russians limit travel. Speaking at a meeting of the country's anti-coronavirus task force, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said "harsh, even prohibitive measures are needed" to prevent the novel coronavirus from spreading at crowded places. They are dictated by "the necessity to cut down on any movements" and to postpone any non-essential travel and avoid public, he said. "Staying home right now is the most important thing for everyone." President Vladimir Putin Wednesday declared a non-working week from March 28 to April 5 to stem the spread of COVID-19 as the number of coronavirus cases has spiked, particularly in Moscow. He urged Russians to heed recommendations of healthcare professionals and government officials. The nationwide measures were announced after Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin warned Putin the number of coronavirus cases was higher than official figures and requested that Muscovites -- especially those over 65 -- stay home and ordered restaurants and parks closed next week. However, authorities have so far denied plans to enforce a strict lockdown similar to that in China or some European countries. In the second city of Saint Petersburg, the faithful were banned from attending church services next week but there is no formal ban in Moscow. The powerful Russian Orthodox Church said any such restrictions were unconstitutional. Russia has also grounded all international flights from Friday. Three people have died of the infection and 1036 have fallen ill, according to official statistics.

Russia unveils new 'stay at home' measures to control coronavirus outbreak

A look back at 20 years of Putin's rule in Russia

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin joined the emergency videoconference chaired by Saudi Arabia's King Salman, who is also under pressure to end an oil price war with Moscow that has roiled energy markets.

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The talks come as the global death toll from COVID-19 soared to more than 21,000 and over three billion people were locked down in their homes, triggering a massive financial shock worldwide.

"As the world confronts the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges to healthcare systems and the global economy, we convene this extraordinary G20 summit to unite efforts towards a global response," the king of Saudi Arabia, which currently holds the G20 presidency, said on Twitter.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-cases-near-70000-more-than-1000-dead-288573"> US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead</a>

The meeting, expected to be held at 1200 GMT, comes as the world's 20 most industrialised countries scramble to defend their virus-wracked economies amid forecasts they will likely plunge into a deep recession.

On Wednesday, the financial ratings agency Moody's estimated the G20's overall gross domestic product would contract by 0.5 per cent this year, with the US economy shrinking by 2.0 per cent and the eurozone by 2.2 per cent.

"The G20 economies will experience an unprecedented shock in the first half of this year and will contract in 2020 as a whole," Moody's said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-second-consecutive-day-of-no-new-local-coronavirus-transmissions-imported-cases-rise-288566">China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise</a>

While wealthy nations including the US have unveiled mammoth stimulus packages, there has so far been no collective action plan from the G20, and concerns are mounting for poorer countries without access to capital markets and adequate health facilities.

The IMF and World Bank on Wednesday urged G20 leaders to support its call for governments to put debt payments from the world's poorest nations on hold.

World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also urged G20 nations to offer support to "low and middle-income countries", including those from Sub-Saharan Africa.

'Missing in action'

This week, French President Emmanuel Macron and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping pushed for an emergency G20 summit to limit the impact of the pandemic.

French presidential sources said the virtual meeting would focus on "coordination on the health level" as well as sending a "strong signal" to financial markets over efforts to stabilise the global economy.

But with world leaders divided, the meeting stands in contrast to the G20 summits following the 2008 financial crisis, when the group swung into action to mobilise assistance for vulnerable countries.

"The G20 is missing in action today, unlike 2008," said Ian Bremmer, president and founder of the Eurasia Group risk consultancy firm.

Talk of global coordination has yet to resonate under Trump's isolationist presidency.

On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took aim at China, saying the top diplomats of the Group of Seven agreed with him that Beijing was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the pandemic.

At the G7 talks, a day before the G20 summit, Pompeo alleged Beijing was engaged in a social media campaign that included conspiracy theories that the US was behind the virus, first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan.&nbsp;

"If G20 leaders can put politics aside and reach a collective G20 agreement, countries have a better chance of success or of delivering more stimulus than on their own," Markus Engels, from the Global Solutions Initiative, a network of think tanks, told AFP.

"Coordination among the G20 sends a strong message of unity and confidence, both of which are urgently needed now."

Crude oil prices -- hammered by the outbreak's impact on demand as well as by a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia -- are also expected to be at the centre of the discussions.

Riyadh faces pressure from Washington to row back on its decision to hike production and offer the biggest price cuts in two decades, in retaliation for Russia's refusal to tighten supply as the virus saps demand.

On Wednesday, Pompeo urged Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to "rise to the occasion" and "reassure global energy and financial markets".

The G20 members will be joined by leaders from other affected countries including Spain, Jordan, Singapore and Switzerland, Riyadh said.

Leaders from international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and the World Trade Organisation will also participate.

 
&nbsp;

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis.

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin joined the emergency videoconference chaired by Saudi Arabia's King Salman, who is also under pressure to end an oil price war with Moscow that has roiled energy markets. Also read: How countries are using robots to fight coronavirus pandemic? The talks come as the global death toll from COVID-19 soared to more than 21,000 and over three billion people were locked down in their homes, triggering a massive financial shock worldwide. "As the world confronts the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges to healthcare systems and the global economy, we convene this extraordinary G20 summit to unite efforts towards a global response," the king of Saudi Arabia, which currently holds the G20 presidency, said on Twitter. Also read: US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead The meeting, expected to be held at 1200 GMT, comes as the world's 20 most industrialised countries scramble to defend their virus-wracked economies amid forecasts they will likely plunge into a deep recession. On Wednesday, the financial ratings agency Moody's estimated the G20's overall gross domestic product would contract by 0.5 per cent this year, with the US economy shrinking by 2.0 per cent and the eurozone by 2.2 per cent. "The G20 economies will experience an unprecedented shock in the first half of this year and will contract in 2020 as a whole," Moody's said. Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise While wealthy nations including the US have unveiled mammoth stimulus packages, there has so far been no collective action plan from the G20, and concerns are mounting for poorer countries without access to capital markets and adequate health facilities. The IMF and World Bank on Wednesday urged G20 leaders to support its call for governments to put debt payments from the world's poorest nations on hold. World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also urged G20 nations to offer support to "low and middle-income countries", including those from Sub-Saharan Africa. 'Missing in action' This week, French President Emmanuel Macron and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping pushed for an emergency G20 summit to limit the impact of the pandemic. French presidential sources said the virtual meeting would focus on "coordination on the health level" as well as sending a "strong signal" to financial markets over efforts to stabilise the global economy. But with world leaders divided, the meeting stands in contrast to the G20 summits following the 2008 financial crisis, when the group swung into action to mobilise assistance for vulnerable countries. "The G20 is missing in action today, unlike 2008," said Ian Bremmer, president and founder of the Eurasia Group risk consultancy firm. Talk of global coordination has yet to resonate under Trump's isolationist presidency. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took aim at China, saying the top diplomats of the Group of Seven agreed with him that Beijing was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the pandemic. At the G7 talks, a day before the G20 summit, Pompeo alleged Beijing was engaged in a social media campaign that included conspiracy theories that the US was behind the virus, first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan. "If G20 leaders can put politics aside and reach a collective G20 agreement, countries have a better chance of success or of delivering more stimulus than on their own," Markus Engels, from the Global Solutions Initiative, a network of think tanks, told AFP. "Coordination among the G20 sends a strong message of unity and confidence, both of which are urgently needed now." Crude oil prices -- hammered by the outbreak's impact on demand as well as by a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia -- are also expected to be at the centre of the discussions. Riyadh faces pressure from Washington to row back on its decision to hike production and offer the biggest price cuts in two decades, in retaliation for Russia's refusal to tighten supply as the virus saps demand. On Wednesday, Pompeo urged Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to "rise to the occasion" and "reassure global energy and financial markets". The G20 members will be joined by leaders from other affected countries including Spain, Jordan, Singapore and Switzerland, Riyadh said. Leaders from international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and the World Trade Organisation will also participate.

Saudi chairs G20 crisis talks as coronavirus threatens global recession

US&nbsp;authorities put out tsunami warnings on Wednesday after an earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck off&nbsp;Russia's Kuril Islands, but meteorological officials in Japan issued no alerts, although they said there might be slight tidal changes.

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The US&nbsp;National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said a tsunami watch was issued for the state of Hawaii, while another agency, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, said the quake had potential to generate a destructive tsunami.

"Tsunami waves are forecast to be less than 0.3 meters above the tide level," the center said in its advisory about risks to the coasts of Hawaii, Japan,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and the Pacific islands of Midway, the Northern Marianas and Wake Island.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-dons-hazmat-suit-as-moscow-says-coronavirus-outbreak-is-worse-than-it-looks-288303">Putin dons hazmat suit as Moscow says coronavirus outbreak is worse than it looks</a>

The height is equivalent to just under a foot.

The Japan Meteorological Association warned against slight tidal changes but said no warnings or even watch advisories had been issued.

The earthquake, 218 km&nbsp;south-southeast of the town of Severo, struck at a depth of 56.7 km, the US&nbsp;Geological Survey (USGS) said.

There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

US authorities put out tsunami warnings on Wednesday after an earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck off Russia's Kuril Islands, but meteorological officials in Japan issued no alerts, although they said there might be slight tidal changes.

US authorities put out tsunami warnings on Wednesday after an earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck off Russia's Kuril Islands, but meteorological officials in Japan issued no alerts, although they said there might be slight tidal changes. Also see: Russia uses face recognition system to find suspected COVID-19 patient The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said a tsunami watch was issued for the state of Hawaii, while another agency, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, said the quake had potential to generate a destructive tsunami. "Tsunami waves are forecast to be less than 0.3 meters above the tide level," the center said in its advisory about risks to the coasts of Hawaii, Japan, Russia and the Pacific islands of Midway, the Northern Marianas and Wake Island. Also read: Putin dons hazmat suit as Moscow says coronavirus outbreak is worse than it looks The height is equivalent to just under a foot. The Japan Meteorological Association warned against slight tidal changes but said no warnings or even watch advisories had been issued. The earthquake, 218 km south-southeast of the town of Severo, struck at a depth of 56.7 km, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

Tsunami warnings after magnitude 7.8 quake off Russia's Kuril islands

President Vladimir Putin postponed a vote on constitutional reforms and urged Russians to stay home to contain the coronavirus on Wednesday, but did not impose the kind of strong measures taken in other countries.

In a rare televised address to the nation, Putin said Russia could not isolate itself from the spreading pandemic but focused mainly on support for the struggling economy.

"The health, life and safety of people is our absolute priority," Putin said.

The vote on constitutional reforms, which had been due to take place on April 22, "must be postponed to a later date", he said, without specifying when.

The reforms, proposed by the president and approved by lawmakers over the last few months, would reset presidential term limits and potentially allow Putin, in power for 20 years, to stay in office until 2036.

Critics have denounced the project as a way for Putin to remain "president for life".

He also took the unusual step of declaring March 28 to April 5 a non-working week in order to slow the spread of the virus, urging Russians to stay at home.

"It is extremely important now to prevent the threat of the disease spreading rapidly," he said.

'Can affect everyone'

"This can affect everyone. What is happening today in many Western countries -- in Europe and across the ocean -- can become our nearest future."

He unveiled a series of measures to support Russians and boost the economy, including breaks on consumer loans and mortgage payments, support for small- and medium-sized businesses and early payouts of social benefits.

The coronavirus and a dizzying fall in oil prices have sparked a two-pronged crisis for the Russian economy, with the ruble falling to its lowest levels since early 2016.&nbsp;

This presents a huge challenge to Putin's promises to boost growth and raise living standards.

The Kremlin announced Putin's address as Russia on Wednesday recorded its biggest spike in confirmed coronavirus infections so far, with 163 new cases for a total of 658 across the country.&nbsp;

One person who was infected has died but officials are not linking the death to the virus.

Concern has risen as the number of cases steadily grows.&nbsp;

Putin met with top officials to discuss containment measures on Tuesday, putting on a yellow hazmat suit as he visited a major hospital treating coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, who heads a coronavirus task force, told Putin that the actual number of cases was probably "significantly" higher than official figures.

Russia previously imposed 14-day quarantines on people arriving from abroad, closed schools and told elderly residents in Moscow, where most of the cases are concentrated, to self-isolate.

It halted cultural and sports events and closed fitness clubs, cinemas and night clubs, although restaurants and cafes were allowed to remain open.

Authorities have repeatedly denied plans to impose lockdowns like those seen in China, Italy, Spain, France or Britain, but the warnings from officials on Tuesday were stark.&nbsp;

"The problem is that the volume of testing is very low and no one has a clear picture" of the situation in Russia and the world, Sobyanin told Putin.

'Italian' scenario

Denis Protsenko, head doctor of Moscow's new hospital treating coronavirus patients, told Putin that Russia needed to be ready for an "Italian" scenario, referring to what is now the hardest-hit country in the world in terms of deaths.

"If there is a big spike, and Moscow is headed there, our hospital is ready to transform," he said.

Russian lawmakers have proposed imposing severe punishments -- including up to seven years in prison -- for people breaking coronavirus quarantine rules.&nbsp;

Apart from traditional New Year's greetings, Putin rarely addresses the public on television. The last time was over an unpopular pension reform in August 2018.

Putin did not say whether he will postpone plans for a massive military parade on May 9 to mark 75 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Dozens of foreign leaders have been invited to take part.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday the postponement of the celebration had been discussed but no decision was yet made.

President Vladimir Putin postponed a vote on constitutional reforms and urged Russians to stay home to contain the coronavirus on Wednesday, but did not impose the kind of strong measures taken in other countries.

President Vladimir Putin postponed a vote on constitutional reforms and urged Russians to stay home to contain the coronavirus on Wednesday, but did not impose the kind of strong measures taken in other countries. In a rare televised address to the nation, Putin said Russia could not isolate itself from the spreading pandemic but focused mainly on support for the struggling economy. "The health, life and safety of people is our absolute priority," Putin said. The vote on constitutional reforms, which had been due to take place on April 22, "must be postponed to a later date", he said, without specifying when. The reforms, proposed by the president and approved by lawmakers over the last few months, would reset presidential term limits and potentially allow Putin, in power for 20 years, to stay in office until 2036. Critics have denounced the project as a way for Putin to remain "president for life". He also took the unusual step of declaring March 28 to April 5 a non-working week in order to slow the spread of the virus, urging Russians to stay at home. "It is extremely important now to prevent the threat of the disease spreading rapidly," he said. 'Can affect everyone' "This can affect everyone. What is happening today in many Western countries -- in Europe and across the ocean -- can become our nearest future." He unveiled a series of measures to support Russians and boost the economy, including breaks on consumer loans and mortgage payments, support for small- and medium-sized businesses and early payouts of social benefits. The coronavirus and a dizzying fall in oil prices have sparked a two-pronged crisis for the Russian economy, with the ruble falling to its lowest levels since early 2016. This presents a huge challenge to Putin's promises to boost growth and raise living standards. The Kremlin announced Putin's address as Russia on Wednesday recorded its biggest spike in confirmed coronavirus infections so far, with 163 new cases for a total of 658 across the country. One person who was infected has died but officials are not linking the death to the virus. Concern has risen as the number of cases steadily grows. Putin met with top officials to discuss containment measures on Tuesday, putting on a yellow hazmat suit as he visited a major hospital treating coronavirus patients. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, who heads a coronavirus task force, told Putin that the actual number of cases was probably "significantly" higher than official figures. Russia previously imposed 14-day quarantines on people arriving from abroad, closed schools and told elderly residents in Moscow, where most of the cases are concentrated, to self-isolate. It halted cultural and sports events and closed fitness clubs, cinemas and night clubs, although restaurants and cafes were allowed to remain open. Authorities have repeatedly denied plans to impose lockdowns like those seen in China, Italy, Spain, France or Britain, but the warnings from officials on Tuesday were stark. "The problem is that the volume of testing is very low and no one has a clear picture" of the situation in Russia and the world, Sobyanin told Putin. 'Italian' scenario Denis Protsenko, head doctor of Moscow's new hospital treating coronavirus patients, told Putin that Russia needed to be ready for an "Italian" scenario, referring to what is now the hardest-hit country in the world in terms of deaths. "If there is a big spike, and Moscow is headed there, our hospital is ready to transform," he said. Russian lawmakers have proposed imposing severe punishments -- including up to seven years in prison -- for people breaking coronavirus quarantine rules. Apart from traditional New Year's greetings, Putin rarely addresses the public on television. The last time was over an unpopular pension reform in August 2018. Putin did not say whether he will postpone plans for a massive military parade on May 9 to mark 75 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Dozens of foreign leaders have been invited to take part. Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday the postponement of the celebration had been discussed but no decision was yet made.

Putin delays reforms vote, holds back on tough virus measures

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want.

"Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-vladimir-putin-may-remain-president-for-life-285897" hreflang="en">WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life</a>

"Maybe someone else can be called a tsar. But in my case, I don't reign, I work every day," he told the state-run TASS news agency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/coronavirus-fears-continue-to-hurt-indian-markets-sensex-tumble-nearly-2000-points-287286" hreflang="en">Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets, Sensex tumble nearly 2,000 points</a>

The interview aired on Thursday as part of a series rolled out by TASS this month to mark 20 years since the 67-year-old Putin took the helm of Russian politics.

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It was not clear when the segments were recorded, but the series began airing before Putin said this month that he wants an opportunity to run for president again, as part of his constitutional reforms.

Explained:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/explained-how-vladimir-putin-could-stay-russian-president-for-two-more-terms-285657" hreflang="en"> How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms</a>

The reforms proposed in January include granting more power to parliament and strengthening the role of the State Council.

An amendment approved last week would allow Putin to run for another six years in the Kremlin in 2024 and again in 2030. The reforms will be subject to a public vote.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/twenty-years-of-vladimir-putin-274723" hreflang="en">Key dates in President Vladimir Putin's life: 1952 - 2020</a>

When asked what he foresees past 2024, Putin deferred to the perspective of "people's sentiments... what they want."

"The primary source of power is the people," he said. "It's very important for me to feel and understand what people want."

"A tsar is one who just sits there, looks down from above and says: 'They will do as I order,' while he just tries on a cap and looks at himself in the mirror," Putin said.

"On the contrary, I work every day."

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want. "Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler.

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want. "Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler. Also read: WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life "Maybe someone else can be called a tsar. But in my case, I don't reign, I work every day," he told the state-run TASS news agency. Also read: Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets, Sensex tumble nearly 2,000 points The interview aired on Thursday as part of a series rolled out by TASS this month to mark 20 years since the 67-year-old Putin took the helm of Russian politics. It was not clear when the segments were recorded, but the series began airing before Putin said this month that he wants an opportunity to run for president again, as part of his constitutional reforms. Explained: How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms The reforms proposed in January include granting more power to parliament and strengthening the role of the State Council. An amendment approved last week would allow Putin to run for another six years in the Kremlin in 2024 and again in 2030. The reforms will be subject to a public vote. In pics: Key dates in President Vladimir Putin's life: 1952 - 2020 When asked what he foresees past 2024, Putin deferred to the perspective of "people's sentiments... what they want." "The primary source of power is the people," he said. "It's very important for me to feel and understand what people want." "A tsar is one who just sits there, looks down from above and says: 'They will do as I order,' while he just tries on a cap and looks at himself in the mirror," Putin said. "On the contrary, I work every day."

Russian President Vladimir Putin says, 'I am not a 'tsar', I work every day'

A businessman closed to Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he will sue the US for $50bn in damages after prosecutors dropped charges of his firm meddling in the 2016 elections.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, often dubbed “Putin’s chef,” claimed in a statement on Tuesday that he had been “wrongfully persecuted” by US prosecutors who claimed his firm Concord had funded an internet troll factory that had promoted Donald Trump’s candidacy during the US elections in 2016, according to The Guardian.

The charges, which were filed by special counsel Robert Mueller after his two-year investigation into Russian meddling, were abruptly dropped on Monday, a month before trial, the report added.

Prosecutors said the Russian company had “no exposure to meaningful punishment” and that the prosecution risked exposing investigative sources and methods.

A day after charges were dropped, Prigozhin went on the attack, saying the dropped charges showed that the US government “feared publicity and just court proceedings”.

“This means that the allegations that ‘Prigozhin interfered in the US presidential election,’ ‘Concord interfered in the US presidential election,’ or ‘Russia interfered in the US presidential election’ are mendacious and false,” said Prigozhin, according to the statement released by his company.

Prosecutors had previously complained that documents they had provided to the defence had ended up online, and had been hesitant to deliver more sensitive information to Concord’s defence team.

It is not clear whether the plans to file a lawsuit are serious, where the lawsuit will be filed, and why Prigozhin values the damages against him at $50bn. The company’s press office declined to give any more information about Prigozhin’s plans on Tuesday.

A former restaurateur who met Putin in the early 2000s, Prigozhin later won lucrative contracts to supply food to Russian schools and soldiers.&nbsp;

A businessman closed to Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he will sue the US for $50bn in damages after prosecutors dropped charges of his firm meddling in the 2016 elections.

A businessman closed to Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he will sue the US for $50bn in damages after prosecutors dropped charges of his firm meddling in the 2016 elections. Yevgeny Prigozhin, often dubbed “Putin’s chef,” claimed in a statement on Tuesday that he had been “wrongfully persecuted” by US prosecutors who claimed his firm Concord had funded an internet troll factory that had promoted Donald Trump’s candidacy during the US elections in 2016, according to The Guardian. The charges, which were filed by special counsel Robert Mueller after his two-year investigation into Russian meddling, were abruptly dropped on Monday, a month before trial, the report added. Prosecutors said the Russian company had “no exposure to meaningful punishment” and that the prosecution risked exposing investigative sources and methods. A day after charges were dropped, Prigozhin went on the attack, saying the dropped charges showed that the US government “feared publicity and just court proceedings”. “This means that the allegations that ‘Prigozhin interfered in the US presidential election,’ ‘Concord interfered in the US presidential election,’ or ‘Russia interfered in the US presidential election’ are mendacious and false,” said Prigozhin, according to the statement released by his company. Prosecutors had previously complained that documents they had provided to the defence had ended up online, and had been hesitant to deliver more sensitive information to Concord’s defence team. It is not clear whether the plans to file a lawsuit are serious, where the lawsuit will be filed, and why Prigozhin values the damages against him at $50bn. The company’s press office declined to give any more information about Prigozhin’s plans on Tuesday. A former restaurateur who met Putin in the early 2000s, Prigozhin later won lucrative contracts to supply food to Russian schools and soldiers.

'Putin’s chef' says he will sue US for $50bn for 2016 election meddling charges

Russia's Constitutional Court on Monday approved amendments proposed by President Vladimir Putin to the country's basic law, giving him the option of serving two further terms in office.

The Constitutional Court published the ruling on its website and immediately sent the ruling to Putin, who could now stay in power until 2036.

The court issued a speedy decision after Putin signed the final reform package on Saturday, though it had a week to consider its ruling.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-signs-russias-constitutional-reform-law-286399">&nbsp;Vladimir Putin signs Russia's constitutional reform law</a>

Putin, 67, last week backed a last-minute proposal by the first woman in space, Valentina Tereshkova, to add an amendment to the reform package allowing his possible return to the Kremlin after 2024.

Under the current constitution, he is not allowed to serve another presidential term, having served two consecutive stints from 2012.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-authorities-curate-rescue-plan-for-businesses-amid-covid-19-pandemic-286737">Russian authorities curate rescue plan for businesses amid covid-19 pandemic</a>

The new constitution would allow him to reset his term-limit clock back to zero, paving the way for him to stay in power until 2036.

The bill subsequently sailed through the upper house and regional parliaments as required last week.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin plans radical overhaul to constitution

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-plans-radical-overhaul-to-constitution-285699/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Russian leader had proposed changes to the constitution in January but until last week denied that he was seeking to extend his rule.&nbsp;

His spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin changed his mind because of global instability.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-vladimir-putin-may-remain-president-for-life-285897">WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life</a>

The amendments also include stipulations banning gay marriages and protecting the "historic truth" of Russia's role in World War II.

Russia's Constitutional Court on Monday approved amendments proposed by President Vladimir Putin to the country's basic law, giving him the option of serving two further terms in office.

Russia's Constitutional Court on Monday approved amendments proposed by President Vladimir Putin to the country's basic law, giving him the option of serving two further terms in office. The Constitutional Court published the ruling on its website and immediately sent the ruling to Putin, who could now stay in power until 2036. The court issued a speedy decision after Putin signed the final reform package on Saturday, though it had a week to consider its ruling. Also read: Vladimir Putin signs Russia's constitutional reform law Putin, 67, last week backed a last-minute proposal by the first woman in space, Valentina Tereshkova, to add an amendment to the reform package allowing his possible return to the Kremlin after 2024. Under the current constitution, he is not allowed to serve another presidential term, having served two consecutive stints from 2012. Also see: Russian authorities curate rescue plan for businesses amid covid-19 pandemic The new constitution would allow him to reset his term-limit clock back to zero, paving the way for him to stay in power until 2036. The bill subsequently sailed through the upper house and regional parliaments as required last week. Watch: Gravitas: Putin plans radical overhaul to constitution The Russian leader had proposed changes to the constitution in January but until last week denied that he was seeking to extend his rule. His spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin changed his mind because of global instability. Also read: WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life The amendments also include stipulations banning gay marriages and protecting the "historic truth" of Russia's role in World War II.

Russian Constitutional Court approves Putin reform plan

Russian President Vladimir Putin might stay in power for the foreseeable future. But Russia is staring at several challenges.

Gravitas: Vladimir Putin could remain President for life

Russian President Vladimir Putin is pushing major changes to Russia's constitution. Is this an attempt by the Russian President to secure his grip on power? This report explores.

Gravitas: Putin plans radical overhaul to constitution

Constitutional changes allowing Vladimir Putin to run for president again in 2024 sailed through both houses of Russia's parliament on Wednesday, raising the prospect he could clock up over three decades in the Kremlin.

Constitutional changes allowing Vladimir Putin to run for president again in 2024 sailed through both houses of Russia's parliament on Wednesday, raising the prospect he could clock up over three decades in the Kremlin. Putin, 67, who has dominated Russia's political landscape for two decades as either president or prime minister, made a dramatic appearance in the lower chamber a day earlier to argue that term limits were less important in times of crisis. A former KGB officer, Putin is currently required by the constitution to step down in 2024 when his second sequential and fourth presidential term ends. But the amendment which he backed would formally reset his own presidential term tally to zero. Successors would face a two-term limit however. The 450-seat State Duma, the lower house of parliament, on Wednesday backed the term reset for Putin, along with other amendments to the constitution, by 383 votes, in a final reading. Nobody voted against. Hours later, the 170-seat Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, gave its approval by 160 votes to one. "Vladimir Vladimirovich must have the right to run in new competitive nationwide elections," said Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the upper house, calling the amendment timely. "Whether he exercises this right in 2024 or not is of course up to him, but he must have the right... We must recognise what was done by Vladimir Vladimirovoch Putin for the country's development in the last 20 years. He has raised the country from its knees." If, as Putin critics expect, regional parliaments and the constitutional court now give their blessing and the overall changes are backed in a nationwide vote in April, Putin would have the legal option to run again for president in 2024. Were he to do that, and his health and electoral fortunes allowed, he could potentially stay in office for another two back-to-back six-year terms until 2036 at which point he would be 83 and have spent 36 years at the top of Russian politics. Such a scenario would see him wield power longer than Soviet leader Josef Stalin, but still leave him well short of Tsar Peter the Great, who reigned for 43 years. President for life? Opposition activists have said they plan to organise protests as early as Friday. Their plans are complicated however by an order from Moscow's government which has banned public gatherings of more than 5,000 people until April 10 due to coronavirus-related risks. Putin remains popular with many Russians, who see him as a welcome source of stability, even as others complain that he has been in power for too long. Two people staged lone pickets outside the State Duma on Wednesday. One of them Gleb Tumanov, 31, said he was a member of the Yabloko party, and held a banner calling the move "an usurpation of power." "I’m here because of Vladimir Putin’s desire to stay for a fifth term or even maybe a sixth," said Tumanov. “It just feels sad. And reminiscent of the Soviet Union. I didn’t spend very much time living in the Soviet Union obviously but neither do I have any desire to do so." Kremlin critic and opposition politician Alexei Navalny has said he believed Putin was trying to become president for life. Putin has not spelled out his plans after 2024, but has said he does not favour the Soviet-era practice of leaders remaining in place until they die. Putin in January unveiled a major shake-up of Russian politics and a constitutional overhaul, which the Kremlin billed as a redistribution of power from the presidency to parliament. But Putin's critics say the reform was merely a smoke screen to give the country's ruling elite a way to keep Putin in power after 2024. Opposition politician and former lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov said on Wednesday he thought the changes had dealt a mortal blow to the country's constitution. "Russia has lost its constitution, which didn't work anyway," Gudkov wrote on social media. "The fig leaf has fallen off the regime and we can see who turned out to be beneath it."

Sixteen more years? Russian parliament backs move to keep Putin in power

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has opened the door to constitutional changes that would allow him to remain in power until 2036.

'President for Life'; Putin to stay in power until 2036?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been the leader of Russia for 20 years now. In that entire time, all throughout he has maintained a firm grip on the country.

And now, with the new Constitutional amendments, it looks like Putin is bound to touch the pinnacle of power - an authoritarian as described by the West or a nationalist who doesn't take no for an answer.

Perhaps the best adjective to describe the Russian President is power - at least that's what he likes to project. This week, Russia watchers had a close eye on Russia's state Duma.

The point of discussion was the landmark constitutional amendments that Russian Parliament plans to make. 
 
Among a long list of proposals, there is one that stands out - an end to the Constitutional term limits for&nbsp;Presidents. Putin gave his endorsement to the plan on Tuesday. Russia's Parliament approved it on Wednesday. Something that would allow Vladimir Putin to run for President once again in 2024 when his Presidential term expires.&nbsp;The amendment allows him to stay in power for two more terms (until 2036, when he will be 84).&nbsp;

Back in January, Putin had announced plans to make some fundamental changes to the Russian Constitution. He wants a ban on handing over Russian territory to foreign powers - something that could strengthen Moscow's grip on Crimea.

Putin also wants a marriage to be defined as a union of man and woman - a move that would rule out marriage between homosexuals.

The Russian President wants the new amendments to be ironclad. He has proposed a referendum to allow citizens to approve the changes. A nationwide vote on the constitutional amendments is planned for April 22.

But, this is a vote that the Russian president is favoured to win - many even term the referendum just a formality. Russia watchers say that neither the legal system nor the voters present a serious challenge to Putin's plans.

 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been the leader of Russia for 20 years now. In that entire time, all throughout he has maintained a firm grip on the country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been the leader of Russia for 20 years now. In that entire time, all throughout he has maintained a firm grip on the country. And now, with the new Constitutional amendments, it looks like Putin is bound to touch the pinnacle of power - an authoritarian as described by the West or a nationalist who doesn't take no for an answer. Perhaps the best adjective to describe the Russian President is power - at least that's what he likes to project. This week, Russia watchers had a close eye on Russia's state Duma. The point of discussion was the landmark constitutional amendments that Russian Parliament plans to make. Among a long list of proposals, there is one that stands out - an end to the Constitutional term limits for Presidents. Putin gave his endorsement to the plan on Tuesday. Russia's Parliament approved it on Wednesday. Something that would allow Vladimir Putin to run for President once again in 2024 when his Presidential term expires. The amendment allows him to stay in power for two more terms (until 2036, when he will be 84). Back in January, Putin had announced plans to make some fundamental changes to the Russian Constitution. He wants a ban on handing over Russian territory to foreign powers - something that could strengthen Moscow's grip on Crimea. Putin also wants a marriage to be defined as a union of man and woman - a move that would rule out marriage between homosexuals. The Russian President wants the new amendments to be ironclad. He has proposed a referendum to allow citizens to approve the changes. A nationwide vote on the constitutional amendments is planned for April 22. But, this is a vote that the Russian president is favoured to win - many even term the referendum just a formality. Russia watchers say that neither the legal system nor the voters present a serious challenge to Putin's plans.

Explained: How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

"Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib.

"We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-says-us-offering-patriot-systems-if-s-400s-remain-unboxed-285504">Turkish President Erdogan says US offering Patriot systems if S-400s remain unboxed</a>

Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary.

Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month.

Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-deal-with-european-union-needs-to-be-updated-turkey-285469">Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey</a>

As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault.

"We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said.

"In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pitches-for-constitutional-amendment-mps-back-package-of-changes-285487"> Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes</a>

Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border.

Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. "Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib. "We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures." Also read: Turkish President Erdogan says US offering Patriot systems if S-400s remain unboxed Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary. Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month. Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal. Also see: Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault. "We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said. "In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily." Also read: Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border. Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations

Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms.

A total of 383 State Duma lawmakers voted in favour of the package of constitutional amendments, with 43 abstentions and none against.

The measures must now be approved by the upper house Federation Council and be put to a public vote scheduled for April 22.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pitches-for-constitutional-amendment-mps-back-package-of-changes-285487">Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes</a>

Putin announced the package of reforms in January, then repeatedly denied they were meant to extend his grip on power as he approaches the end of his fourth and final presidential term in 2024.

However, on Tuesday another amendment was introduced that would reset presidential terms, making it possible for Putin to run again if the constitutional court allows it.

The changes "are not just justified... they plan... for the strategy of the development of the country," Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said after Wednesday's vote, Russian agencies reported.

Watch: 

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Other additions to the constitution include guarantees for pension payouts and minimum salaries, and giving parliament additional power to nominate the head of government.

They also give the president additional powers to fire judges in the country's higher courts and to reject laws passed by parliament.

Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms.

Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms. A total of 383 State Duma lawmakers voted in favour of the package of constitutional amendments, with 43 abstentions and none against. The measures must now be approved by the upper house Federation Council and be put to a public vote scheduled for April 22. Also read: Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes Putin announced the package of reforms in January, then repeatedly denied they were meant to extend his grip on power as he approaches the end of his fourth and final presidential term in 2024. However, on Tuesday another amendment was introduced that would reset presidential terms, making it possible for Putin to run again if the constitutional court allows it. The changes "are not just justified... they plan... for the strategy of the development of the country," Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said after Wednesday's vote, Russian agencies reported. Watch: × Other additions to the constitution include guarantees for pension payouts and minimum salaries, and giving parliament additional power to nominate the head of government. They also give the president additional powers to fire judges in the country's higher courts and to reject laws passed by parliament.

Parliament passes reforms allowing Putin to run again

Russian President Vladimir Putin has backed a proposed constitutional amendment that could allow him to seek re-election for a record fifth time. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Putin paving the way for another Presidential term?

Vladimir Putin has supported a proposed constitutional amendment to tighten his grip on power in Russia since the middle of a decade, which would allow him to take another two terms in the Kremlin.

Today Tonight: Russia's political overhaul, Putin to be president for life?

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