Russian President Vladimir Putin would not be invited to next year's G20 summit in Britain, said British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Notably, Russia remains a member of the G20 grouping. However, according to the British PM, his country would skip inviting the Russian PM because of sanctions against leading figures in Putin's administration.When asked by The Economist whether Putin would be invited, Burnham said: "No.""There are sanctions against leading figures in the administration," he said. "And there's some technicalities about invites, because I think they're handled by the G20 rather than by Britain. I think I've got that right. So, if I maybe rephrase it, technically, but will not be coming because of an outstanding sanction."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-announces-ukraine-russia-and-us-to-hold-first-trilateral-talks-since-february-in-abu-dhabi-rules-out-inviting-putin-to-kyiv-1793718814985">Zelensky announces Ukraine, Russia and US to hold first trilateral talks since February in Abu Dhabi; rules out inviting Putin to Kyiv</a><h2>US vs UK on Putin's invitation question</h2>The remarks are in stark contrast to Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in September that the United States had invited Putin to a G20 meeting in Miami in December, describing it as an opportunity for him to engage with President Donald Trump and other world leaders.Russia remains a member of the G20 despite Western efforts to isolate it following its invasion of Ukraine. Leaders of host nations traditionally invite all members of the bloc to attend the annual summit.Next year's G20 summit will be held in November in Manchester, the centre of the region in northwestern England where Burnham was mayor before becoming prime minister.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-sale-of-500-patriot-missiles-to-ukraine-but-zelensky-warns-deliveries-could-take-few-years-1793417783540">US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, but Zelensky warns deliveries could take ‘FEW YEARS’</a><h2>UK's wider policy on Russia</h2>The UK has a longstanding policy of avoiding direct, bilateral engagement with Russian ministers since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Notably, at the October 2026 G20 ministerial gathering in Atlanta, UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, along with other Western foreign ministers, refused to participate in a group photograph with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, leading to the cancellation of the photo call.

Vladimir Putin will not be invited to next year's G20 summit in the UK, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said, citing sanctions against senior figures in the Russian administration. The stance contrasts with Washington's position on Putin's participation in the G20.

Russian President Vladimir Putin would not be invited to next year's G20 summit in Britain, said British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Notably, Russia remains a member of the G20 grouping. However, according to the British PM, his country would skip inviting the Russian PM because of sanctions against leading figures in Putin's administration. When asked by The Economist whether Putin would be invited, Burnham said: "No." "There are sanctions against leading figures in the administration," he said. "And there's some technicalities about invites, because I think they're handled by the G20 rather than by Britain. I think I've got that right. So, if I maybe rephrase it, technically, but will not be coming because of an outstanding sanction." Also read | Zelensky announces Ukraine, Russia and US to hold first trilateral talks since February in Abu Dhabi; rules out inviting Putin to Kyiv US vs UK on Putin's invitation question The remarks are in stark contrast to Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in September that the United States had invited Putin to a G20 meeting in Miami in December, describing it as an opportunity for him to engage with President Donald Trump and other world leaders. Russia remains a member of the G20 despite Western efforts to isolate it following its invasion of Ukraine. Leaders of host nations traditionally invite all members of the bloc to attend the annual summit. Next year's G20 summit will be held in November in Manchester, the centre of the region in northwestern England where Burnham was mayor before becoming prime minister. Also read | US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, but Zelensky warns deliveries could take ‘FEW YEARS’ UK's wider policy on Russia The UK has a longstanding policy of avoiding direct, bilateral engagement with Russian ministers since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Notably, at the October 2026 G20 ministerial gathering in Atlanta, UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, along with other Western foreign ministers, refused to participate in a group photograph with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, leading to the cancellation of the photo call.

Vladimir Putin will not be invited to next year's G20 summit in the UK, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said, citing sanctions against senior figures in the Russian administration. The stance contrasts with Washington's position on Putin's participation in the G20.

'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why

Even as Russia confirmed trilateral talks with Ukraine and U.S. in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11, the war continues unabated.&nbsp;Russia reportedly launched 289 attack drones, 17 ballistic missiles and 59 cruise missiles on Ukraine's vital infrastructure overnight.&nbsp;Just a while back, U.S. announced that First Lady Melania Trump will bring representatives of Russia and Ukraine together at the White House on Thursday.&nbsp;She had earlier brokered a brief ceasefire in the city of Oleshky.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in Zaporizhia, a school being used as an aid distribution centre was reduced to ruins in multiple glide bomb attacks by Russia.&nbsp;The death toll has now risen to 33.&nbsp;Five others were wounded, while 50 others are still trapped under the rubble.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described it as a 'vile terrorist attack'.&nbsp;Search and rescue operations continue at the site.&nbsp;Visuals showed rescuers carrying an injured dog from the rubble and giving it first aid.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-unleashes-glide-bomb-terror-on-ukraine-russia-s-key-oil-refinery-hit-by-drone-barrage-1793725122497/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-unleashes-glide-bomb-terror-on-ukraine-russia-s-key-oil-refinery-hit-by-drone-barrage-1793725122497/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Zelensky, Russia attacked multiple power generation facilities and substations, resulting in damage to ten facilities.&nbsp;In Zhytomyr for instance, about one hundred eighty thousand people were left without power after a Russian strike.&nbsp;Three thermal plants were forced to shut down.&nbsp;Additionally, a hospital came under attack in Kharkiv, leaving 73 people injured.&nbsp;Ukrainian authorities also reported a Russian missile attack on Dnipro, which destroyed residential and administrative buildings.&nbsp;At least two persons were killed whereas 17 others were injured.&nbsp;Rescuers pulled nine people alive from the rubble, and all fires have been now extinguished.&nbsp;Kherson administration released footage, which shows the scars of war across this southern Ukrainian city.&nbsp;Years of shelling and drone attacks have damaged residential buildings, parks and shopping malls.&nbsp;Zelensky also warned of another impending Russian attack.&nbsp;Now, last month itself, Ukraine witnessed some of the deadliest attacks on its soil.&nbsp;On October 7, 22 people including five children were killed as a Russian missile struck a residential building in the city of Pryluky.&nbsp;This was followed by a glide bomb attack on a bus stop in the city of Kramatorsk that killed 33 people.&nbsp;Two days later, 23 innocent civilians lost their lives in another glide bomb strike, this time in Zaporizhia.&nbsp;On the other hand, Russia claimed to have intercepted 856 Ukrainian drones from Monday onwards.&nbsp;Despite Trump telling Zelensky to stop striking Russian refineries ahead of the midterms, Ukraine reportedly carried out a drone attack on an oil refinery in the city of Yaroslavl, which is located around 250 kilometres northeast of Moscow.&nbsp;This attack assumes significance as it is one of Russia's largest oil refineries, processing three hundred thousand barrels every day.&nbsp;Now, Russia too has borne the brunt of Ukraine's fierce retaliation.&nbsp;In August, seven people died across Rostov, Moscow and Belgorod, in what Russia described as the largest attack launched by Ukraine this year.&nbsp;A warehouse belonging to Russian online retailer Wildberries was also hit.&nbsp;On the final day of the polling for the parliamentary elections, Russia downed over 1,600 drones out of which 450 were headed for Moscow.&nbsp;While three people were killed, a key oil refinery in the Russian capital was also damaged.&nbsp;Last week, Russia intercepted over 1,200 Ukrainian drones when Moscow was hosting the Russia-Africa summit, which was attended by over 22 foreign leaders.&nbsp;Meanwhile, diplomacy continues in full swing.&nbsp;On Wednesday, negotiators from U.S, EU and NATO will meet to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.&nbsp;While U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff pinned hopes on the trilateral talks to achieve a comprehensive durable peace agreement, the current spate of attacks makes truce a very tricky prospect.

Ukrainian authorities also reported a Russian missile attack on Dnipro, which destroyed residential and administrative buildings. At least two persons were killed, whereas 17 others were injured. Rescuers pulled nine people alive from the rubble, and all fires have now been extinguished.

Even as Russia confirmed trilateral talks with Ukraine and U.S. in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11, the war continues unabated. Russia reportedly launched 289 attack drones, 17 ballistic missiles and 59 cruise missiles on Ukraine's vital infrastructure overnight. Just a while back, U.S. announced that First Lady Melania Trump will bring representatives of Russia and Ukraine together at the White House on Thursday. She had earlier brokered a brief ceasefire in the city of Oleshky. Meanwhile, in Zaporizhia, a school being used as an aid distribution centre was reduced to ruins in multiple glide bomb attacks by Russia. The death toll has now risen to 33. Five others were wounded, while 50 others are still trapped under the rubble. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described it as a 'vile terrorist attack'. Search and rescue operations continue at the site. Visuals showed rescuers carrying an injured dog from the rubble and giving it first aid. https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-unleashes-glide-bomb-terror-on-ukraine-russia-s-key-oil-refinery-hit-by-drone-barrage-1793725122497/embed According to Zelensky, Russia attacked multiple power generation facilities and substations, resulting in damage to ten facilities. In Zhytomyr for instance, about one hundred eighty thousand people were left without power after a Russian strike. Three thermal plants were forced to shut down. Additionally, a hospital came under attack in Kharkiv, leaving 73 people injured. Ukrainian authorities also reported a Russian missile attack on Dnipro, which destroyed residential and administrative buildings. At least two persons were killed whereas 17 others were injured. Rescuers pulled nine people alive from the rubble, and all fires have been now extinguished. Kherson administration released footage, which shows the scars of war across this southern Ukrainian city. Years of shelling and drone attacks have damaged residential buildings, parks and shopping malls. Zelensky also warned of another impending Russian attack. Now, last month itself, Ukraine witnessed some of the deadliest attacks on its soil. On October 7, 22 people including five children were killed as a Russian missile struck a residential building in the city of Pryluky. This was followed by a glide bomb attack on a bus stop in the city of Kramatorsk that killed 33 people. Two days later, 23 innocent civilians lost their lives in another glide bomb strike, this time in Zaporizhia. On the other hand, Russia claimed to have intercepted 856 Ukrainian drones from Monday onwards. Despite Trump telling Zelensky to stop striking Russian refineries ahead of the midterms, Ukraine reportedly carried out a drone attack on an oil refinery in the city of Yaroslavl, which is located around 250 kilometres northeast of Moscow. This attack assumes significance as it is one of Russia's largest oil refineries, processing three hundred thousand barrels every day. Now, Russia too has borne the brunt of Ukraine's fierce retaliation. In August, seven people died across Rostov, Moscow and Belgorod, in what Russia described as the largest attack launched by Ukraine this year. A warehouse belonging to Russian online retailer Wildberries was also hit. On the final day of the polling for the parliamentary elections, Russia downed over 1,600 drones out of which 450 were headed for Moscow. While three people were killed, a key oil refinery in the Russian capital was also damaged. Last week, Russia intercepted over 1,200 Ukrainian drones when Moscow was hosting the Russia-Africa summit, which was attended by over 22 foreign leaders. Meanwhile, diplomacy continues in full swing. On Wednesday, negotiators from U.S, EU and NATO will meet to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. While U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff pinned hopes on the trilateral talks to achieve a comprehensive durable peace agreement, the current spate of attacks makes truce a very tricky prospect.

Ukrainian authorities also reported a Russian missile attack on Dnipro, which destroyed residential and administrative buildings. At least two persons were killed, whereas 17 others were injured. Rescuers pulled nine people alive from the rubble, and all fires have now been extinguished.

Putin unleashes glide bomb terror on Ukraine, Russia's key oil refinery hit by drone barrage | Gravitas

A Russian drone struck a busy railway platform in Ukraine’s city of Dnipro on Thursday, killing at least 14 people and injuring others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as 'horrific' and called for stronger action from Kyiv’s international allies. The strike occurred as Russia and Ukraine maintained a fragile local ceasefire in the occupied city of Oleshky, where residents have faced months of shortages of food, water and medicine. Despite the truce entering its third day, local officials reported that at least 20 people had been killed and more than 70 injured in attacks across Ukraine.&nbsp;Zelensky said the Dnipro railway station was hit on a platform where a regular commuter train and a regular passenger train were standing. By Thursday afternoon, Dnipropetrovsk regional governor Oleksandr Ganzha reported that the death toll had risen to 14, with another 14 people wounded. Six of the injured were in severe condition with multiple shrapnel wounds.&nbsp;An 11-year-old boy was among those injured, while one man had both legs amputated, according to the governor. Zelensky described the strike as horrific and insisted that sanctions against Moscow and its war machine must not be eased for as long as this Russian war continues. Images released by Ukrainian emergency services showed bodies on the platform, rescuers assisting victims and two passenger trains that had been burnt out, with shattered windows. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed outrage over the attack and stressed the need for far more than a localised ceasefire such as the one in Oleshky.<h2>EU calls for greater pressure on Russia</h2>European Union Council President Antonio Costa called for increased pressure on Moscow following what he described as a cruel and devastating series of Russian strikes against civilians. "The EU will continue to increase the pressure on Russia and to support Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved," he added. "We call on all our international partners to do the same."&nbsp;Russia has targeted trains with drones since the early days of its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, destroying hundreds of locomotives and killing several railway workers. Ukraine’s air force said it intercepted three jet-powered drones during one daytime attack, but a fourth evaded its defences and struck the station. Following the Dnipro attack, Zelensky renewed his criticism of an agreement between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to ease certain US sanctions on Russia, allowing Moscow to release diesel onto global markets.&nbsp;"How many such terrorist strikes has Russia carried out against our people since sanctions were lifted on some Russian oligarchs and the energy sector, instead of de-escalating," he asked. "It is important that America does not remain silent about the killings, this is very important," Zelensky added in a separate statement. Local officials reported that at least six other people had been killed in separate Russian attacks elsewhere in Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-trump-says-black-and-jewish-voters-supporting-abdul-el-sayed-are-crazy-1793307015679">US midterms 2026: Trump says Black and Jewish voters supporting Abdul El-Sayed are 'crazy' | WATCH</a><h2>Two teenagers killed in Chernigiv attack</h2>An attack on the city centre of Chernigiv, north of Kyiv, killed two 15-year-old girls and injured nearly two dozen other people, including four children, according to Dmytro Bryzhynsky, head of the city’s military administration. In the central city of Kremenchuk, a drone struck a multi-storey residential building, killing three people and injuring several others, including a six-year-old child, the local governor said.<h2>Fragile ceasefire and peace talks</h2>Zelensky said on Wednesday that it would be a huge success if the local ceasefire in Oleshky, brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump, enabled the evacuation of stranded residents. Russia and Ukraine are expected to meet US envoys next month to discuss possible ways to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. However, no firm dates for the talks have been announced.&nbsp;Previous rounds of negotiations have failed to bring the two sides closer to an agreement. Russia is demanding additional territory in eastern Ukraine, alongside sweeping military and political restrictions on Kyiv. Ukraine and its allies argue that surrendering territory to Moscow would amount to capitulation and leave the country vulnerable to future Russian attacks.

A Russian drone attack on Dnipro railway station killed 14 people and injured others as Zelensky demanded tougher sanctions and stronger international action

A Russian drone struck a busy railway platform in Ukraine’s city of Dnipro on Thursday, killing at least 14 people and injuring others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as 'horrific' and called for stronger action from Kyiv’s international allies. The strike occurred as Russia and Ukraine maintained a fragile local ceasefire in the occupied city of Oleshky, where residents have faced months of shortages of food, water and medicine. Despite the truce entering its third day, local officials reported that at least 20 people had been killed and more than 70 injured in attacks across Ukraine. Zelensky said the Dnipro railway station was hit on a platform where a regular commuter train and a regular passenger train were standing. By Thursday afternoon, Dnipropetrovsk regional governor Oleksandr Ganzha reported that the death toll had risen to 14, with another 14 people wounded. Six of the injured were in severe condition with multiple shrapnel wounds. An 11-year-old boy was among those injured, while one man had both legs amputated, according to the governor. Zelensky described the strike as horrific and insisted that sanctions against Moscow and its war machine must not be eased for as long as this Russian war continues. Images released by Ukrainian emergency services showed bodies on the platform, rescuers assisting victims and two passenger trains that had been burnt out, with shattered windows. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed outrage over the attack and stressed the need for far more than a localised ceasefire such as the one in Oleshky. EU calls for greater pressure on Russia European Union Council President Antonio Costa called for increased pressure on Moscow following what he described as a cruel and devastating series of Russian strikes against civilians. "The EU will continue to increase the pressure on Russia and to support Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved," he added. "We call on all our international partners to do the same." Russia has targeted trains with drones since the early days of its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, destroying hundreds of locomotives and killing several railway workers. Ukraine’s air force said it intercepted three jet-powered drones during one daytime attack, but a fourth evaded its defences and struck the station. Following the Dnipro attack, Zelensky renewed his criticism of an agreement between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to ease certain US sanctions on Russia, allowing Moscow to release diesel onto global markets. "How many such terrorist strikes has Russia carried out against our people since sanctions were lifted on some Russian oligarchs and the energy sector, instead of de-escalating," he asked. "It is important that America does not remain silent about the killings, this is very important," Zelensky added in a separate statement. Local officials reported that at least six other people had been killed in separate Russian attacks elsewhere in Ukraine. Also Read: US midterms 2026: Trump says Black and Jewish voters supporting Abdul El-Sayed are 'crazy' | WATCH Two teenagers killed in Chernigiv attack An attack on the city centre of Chernigiv, north of Kyiv, killed two 15-year-old girls and injured nearly two dozen other people, including four children, according to Dmytro Bryzhynsky, head of the city’s military administration. In the central city of Kremenchuk, a drone struck a multi-storey residential building, killing three people and injuring several others, including a six-year-old child, the local governor said. Fragile ceasefire and peace talks Zelensky said on Wednesday that it would be a huge success if the local ceasefire in Oleshky, brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump, enabled the evacuation of stranded residents. Russia and Ukraine are expected to meet US envoys next month to discuss possible ways to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. However, no firm dates for the talks have been announced. Previous rounds of negotiations have failed to bring the two sides closer to an agreement. Russia is demanding additional territory in eastern Ukraine, alongside sweeping military and political restrictions on Kyiv. Ukraine and its allies argue that surrendering territory to Moscow would amount to capitulation and leave the country vulnerable to future Russian attacks.

A Russian drone strike on a Dnipro railway station killed 14 people, Zelensky condemns the attack and demands tougher sanctions on Moscow

14 killed in Russian drone attack on Dnipro train station platform, Zelensky condemns ‘horrific’ strike

Despite a ceasefire coming into effect, in the city of Oleshky since Tuesday, the fighting between Russia and Ukraine continues unabated in other regions. In a horrific tragedy, at least 14 people were killed in a drone strike on a railway station in Dnipro.&nbsp;On its part, Russia accused Ukraine of firing over 600 drones at Moscow overnight.&nbsp;A Russian drone strike hit a platform, where two trains were standing. This also resulted in injuries to 14 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed the attack as 'horrific' and insisted that sanctions against Moscow must not be eased as long as this war continues.&nbsp;The attack also drew international condemnation.&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his distress and accused Russia of choosing a pathway of 'escalation' instead of accepting peace proposals.&nbsp;Ukrainian authorities also accused Russia of launching a strike on the City Centre of Chernihiv.&nbsp;While two 15-year-old girls were killed, two dozen others were also wounded.&nbsp;The city of Kremenchuk also came under attack, as a drone slammed into a multi-storey building, killing three people.&nbsp;On the other hand, Russia claimed to have intercepted over twelve hundred Ukrainian drones across the country.&nbsp;This includes 613 drones launched towards Moscow.&nbsp;&nbsp;A third of them were reportedly destroyed on their approach to the Russian capital.&nbsp;This was one of the most massive aerial drone barrage on Russia.&nbsp;Now, this comes at a time when Moscow is hosting over 22 foreign leaders at the Russia-Africa Summit.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin described African countries as 'natural allies'.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner met a representative from Russia in Belarus.&nbsp;This meeting was part of the relief mission aimed at providing aid and evacuation of civilians.&nbsp;&nbsp;Locals have faced food, water and medicine shortage for months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;While the truce brokered by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump is still holding, Putin accused Ukraine of creating a humanitarian catastrophe by laying mines on the way to Oleshky.&nbsp;Subsequently, Russia also released footage of its officials demining ground near Oleshky, which is under Russian occupation.&nbsp;At a time when Ukraine has been up in arms over restrictions on Starlink and Starshield, Putin showered praise on SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.&nbsp;While discussing Russia's own satellite connectivity project 'Rassvet', Putin called Musk a genius for deploying thousands of satellites into orbit.&nbsp;He also revealed that Moscow is in close contact with U.S. and Musk regarding this project.&nbsp;Essentially, Starlink and Starshield help the Ukrainian military by providing high-speed and jam-resistant satellite internet that connects combat units, command posts and unmanned systems in real time.&nbsp;According to Ukraine, speed restrictions on these services disrupted a number of missions, and affected its ability to intercept Russian drones.&nbsp;While Zelensky announced last weekend that Starlink and Starshield were fully functional again, Musk accused the Ukrainian military of violating SpaceX's terms.&nbsp;Now, Ukraine's experience also provides a valuable lesson for countries like India, where Starlink is yet to be approved.&nbsp;In a war-like situation, reliance on satellite technology controlled by a foreign power can prove to be problematic.&nbsp;While both Ukraine and Russia have expressed willingness for trilateral negotiations in November on ending the war, a Kremlin aide made it clear that the start of talks will depend on the situation on the battlefield.

President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed the attack as 'horrific' and insisted that sanctions against Moscow must not be eased as long as this war continues. French President Emmanuel Macron accused Russia of choosing a pathway of 'escalation' instead of accepting peace proposals.

Despite a ceasefire coming into effect, in the city of Oleshky since Tuesday, the fighting between Russia and Ukraine continues unabated in other regions. In a horrific tragedy, at least 14 people were killed in a drone strike on a railway station in Dnipro. On its part, Russia accused Ukraine of firing over 600 drones at Moscow overnight. A Russian drone strike hit a platform, where two trains were standing. This also resulted in injuries to 14 people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed the attack as 'horrific' and insisted that sanctions against Moscow must not be eased as long as this war continues. The attack also drew international condemnation. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his distress and accused Russia of choosing a pathway of 'escalation' instead of accepting peace proposals. Ukrainian authorities also accused Russia of launching a strike on the City Centre of Chernihiv. While two 15-year-old girls were killed, two dozen others were also wounded. The city of Kremenchuk also came under attack, as a drone slammed into a multi-storey building, killing three people. On the other hand, Russia claimed to have intercepted over twelve hundred Ukrainian drones across the country. This includes 613 drones launched towards Moscow. A third of them were reportedly destroyed on their approach to the Russian capital. This was one of the most massive aerial drone barrage on Russia. Now, this comes at a time when Moscow is hosting over 22 foreign leaders at the Russia-Africa Summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin described African countries as 'natural allies'. Earlier in the day, Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner met a representative from Russia in Belarus. This meeting was part of the relief mission aimed at providing aid and evacuation of civilians. Locals have faced food, water and medicine shortage for months.

President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed the attack as 'horrific' and insisted that sanctions against Moscow must not be eased as long as this war continues. French President Emmanuel Macron accused Russia of choosing a pathway of 'escalation' instead of accepting peace proposals.

Putin's deadly revenge after attack on Moscow, 14 killed in attack on Ukraine train station | Gravitas

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has told Russian President Vladimir Putin that Middle Eastern countries can resolve regional problems without involving the United States, as Tehran and Moscow seek closer political and economic ties amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;The two leaders met on Tuesday on the sidelines of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum summit in Moscow. Their discussions covered the regional conflict, bilateral cooperation and joint projects in the oil and gas sectors.&nbsp;"I believe we are capable of resolving our problems in the region without relying on the United States," Pezeshkian told Putin.&nbsp;He said US actions in the region were encouraging countries to strengthen cooperation and move towards greater multilateralism.&nbsp;"Our trade is expanding and growing day by day. US actions in the region make it easier for us to move towards greater multilateralism and strengthen our cooperation with you and other countries subject to unilateral US sanctions," he said.&nbsp;Pezeshkian also expressed confidence that both countries were willing to expand cooperation in science, industry, culture, security and military affairs.&nbsp;Putin said he had discussed the regional conflict with his Iranian counterpart and hoped the situation would improve.&nbsp;"We spoke earlier, one-on-one, about the situation in the region -- a situation that, undoubtedly, cannot help but cause concern," Putin said, adding that he hoped it would "evolve in a positive direction".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-s-flavio-bolsonaro-flees-to-us-after-presidential-election-defeat-to-lula-1793127266337">Brazil's Flavio Bolsonaro flees to US after presidential election defeat to Lula</a><h3>Iran, Russia discuss joint oil and gas projects</h3>The two presidents also discussed expanding political, economic, trade and energy cooperation, including joint oil and gas projects, according to a readout from the Iranian government, cited by Iran International.&nbsp;Pezeshkian called for greater cooperation in natural gas exports, saying Iran produces around 280 billion cubic metres of gas annually, making it the world's third-largest producer after the United States and Russia.&nbsp;He said global developments required stronger technical and engineering cooperation, along with what he described as the “strategic governance” of international energy markets.&nbsp;The discussions come as Iran seeks closer economic ties with Moscow while its energy exports face pressure from a US naval blockade.<h3>Moscow seeks to mediate in Middle East war</h3>Russia has been seeking to mediate efforts to end the Middle East war, which began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran.&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Iran last week for the first time since the conflict began. He said Moscow's efforts were "aimed at preventing the return of a large-scale war", as negotiations between Tehran and Washington remained stalled.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said that Russia and Iran had "never" worked so closely.Negotiations between the United States and Iran have been stalled for months, while Washington and Israel have threatened to resume strikes against Iran.

Pezeshkian told Vladimir Putin that the Middle East could resolve its problems without US involvement as the two leaders discussed the regional war and closer cooperation in trade, energy and other sectors.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has told Russian President Vladimir Putin that Middle Eastern countries can resolve regional problems without involving the United States, as Tehran and Moscow seek closer political and economic ties amid the ongoing war. The two leaders met on Tuesday on the sidelines of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum summit in Moscow. Their discussions covered the regional conflict, bilateral cooperation and joint projects in the oil and gas sectors. "I believe we are capable of resolving our problems in the region without relying on the United States," Pezeshkian told Putin. He said US actions in the region were encouraging countries to strengthen cooperation and move towards greater multilateralism. "Our trade is expanding and growing day by day. US actions in the region make it easier for us to move towards greater multilateralism and strengthen our cooperation with you and other countries subject to unilateral US sanctions," he said. Pezeshkian also expressed confidence that both countries were willing to expand cooperation in science, industry, culture, security and military affairs. Putin said he had discussed the regional conflict with his Iranian counterpart and hoped the situation would improve. "We spoke earlier, one-on-one, about the situation in the region -- a situation that, undoubtedly, cannot help but cause concern," Putin said, adding that he hoped it would "evolve in a positive direction". Also Read: Brazil's Flavio Bolsonaro flees to US after presidential election defeat to Lula Iran, Russia discuss joint oil and gas projects The two presidents also discussed expanding political, economic, trade and energy cooperation, including joint oil and gas projects, according to a readout from the Iranian government, cited by Iran International. Pezeshkian called for greater cooperation in natural gas exports, saying Iran produces around 280 billion cubic metres of gas annually, making it the world's third-largest producer after the United States and Russia. He said global developments required stronger technical and engineering cooperation, along with what he described as the “strategic governance” of international energy markets. The discussions come as Iran seeks closer economic ties with Moscow while its energy exports face pressure from a US naval blockade. Moscow seeks to mediate in Middle East war Russia has been seeking to mediate efforts to end the Middle East war, which began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Iran last week for the first time since the conflict began. He said Moscow's efforts were "aimed at preventing the return of a large-scale war", as negotiations between Tehran and Washington remained stalled. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said that Russia and Iran had "never" worked so closely. Negotiations between the United States and Iran have been stalled for months, while Washington and Israel have threatened to resume strikes against Iran.

Pezeshkian told Vladimir Putin that the Middle East could resolve its problems without US involvement as the two leaders discussed the regional war and closer cooperation in trade, energy and other sectors.

Russia, Iran eye joint oil and gas projects as Pezeshkian, Putin hold talks in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday rejected accusations that Moscow is behind mass protests in major European cities, calling the claims a "clear overkill." Putin said that was "strange and completely unexpected" to him, as he did not expect European leaders to attack "their main ally and protector" across the Atlantic. &nbsp;“Claims immediately began to be thrown out that the events taking place in Europe are the result of the activities of the current American administration and its support for right-wing parties and movements,” Putin said in an interview with VGTRK broadcasting company published on Sunday.“My first reaction when I saw this was surprise, because to say that we are provoking mass protests in major European cities is a clear overkill,” he said.&nbsp; Putin said the allegations reflected a failure by some European leaders to take responsibility for what is happening at home. "This is bad. Why? Because it means they do not analyse the events, do not look for the causes of what is happening, but simply shift the blame onto someone, first the US, now Russia," Putin said. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-claims-iran-disrupt-israel-election-1792948000899">Netanyahu claims Iran could disrupt Israel election, threatens 'disproportionate blows'</a>French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, during a speech at an OECD-hosted conference on October 13, said that "enemies of democracy" from Russia, China, Iran, and the American MAGA community were exploiting domestic grievances around immigration, public spending, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to incite hatred and destabilise European sovereignty. Similarly, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, speaking at the Defence Procurement Forum in Rome, argued that the street violence was entirely different from historical protests and was the product of a "hybrid war" driven by foreign forces using social media algorithms.&nbsp;The remarks come as nationwide student protests have run for several weeks in France. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had already dismissed the accusations on October 19, saying nobody takes such "absurd accusations" seriously. US President Donald Trump has blamed the unrest on mass migration.

Vladimir Putin dismisses accusations of Russian involvement in European protests as “clear overkill” amid unrest and competing claims over its causes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday rejected accusations that Moscow is behind mass protests in major European cities, calling the claims a "clear overkill." Putin said that was "strange and completely unexpected" to him, as he did not expect European leaders to attack "their main ally and protector" across the Atlantic. “Claims immediately began to be thrown out that the events taking place in Europe are the result of the activities of the current American administration and its support for right-wing parties and movements,” Putin said in an interview with VGTRK broadcasting company published on Sunday. “My first reaction when I saw this was surprise, because to say that we are provoking mass protests in major European cities is a clear overkill,” he said. Putin said the allegations reflected a failure by some European leaders to take responsibility for what is happening at home. "This is bad. Why? Because it means they do not analyse the events, do not look for the causes of what is happening, but simply shift the blame onto someone, first the US, now Russia," Putin said. Also Read: Netanyahu claims Iran could disrupt Israel election, threatens 'disproportionate blows' French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, during a speech at an OECD-hosted conference on October 13, said that "enemies of democracy" from Russia, China, Iran, and the American MAGA community were exploiting domestic grievances around immigration, public spending, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to incite hatred and destabilise European sovereignty. Similarly, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, speaking at the Defence Procurement Forum in Rome, argued that the street violence was entirely different from historical protests and was the product of a "hybrid war" driven by foreign forces using social media algorithms. The remarks come as nationwide student protests have run for several weeks in France. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had already dismissed the accusations on October 19, saying nobody takes such "absurd accusations" seriously. US President Donald Trump has blamed the unrest on mass migration.

Vladimir Putin dismisses accusations of Russian involvement in European protests as “clear overkill” amid unrest and competing claims over its causes.

'Clear overkill': Putin rejects claims Russia is behind mass protests in Europe

Could humans one day live forever? Maria Vorontsova, the eldest daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, believes advances in medicine could eventually bring humanity closer to that possibility. Vorontsova, a 41-year-old endocrinologist who heads Moscow State University’s Medical Research and Education Institute, discussed the future of longevity at a forum in Moscow last week titled Live Long, Live Differently.Her approach has two stages. Healthy habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise and limiting alcohol, could help people live into their late 80s, she suggested. Going beyond that, however, would require breakthroughs that challenge the biological limits of human life.Vorontsova said she expected the growing fear of death to push healthcare providers towards finding solutions within the next 10 to 20 years.<h2>Why the Kremlin is interested</h2>The interest in longevity extends beyond medical research. Putin, who has led Russia since 2000, has spoken publicly about the possibility of extending active life through biotechnology and organ replacement.During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last year, the two leaders were overheard discussing ageing and the prospect of humans living to 150.Putin later told reporters that advances in medicine and organ-replacement surgery offered hope that people could remain active for longer.In 2024, he announced a $26 billion national project, New Technologies for Health Preservation, aimed at improving healthcare and extending life expectancy. Russia is also funding research into genetics and therapies designed to slow cellular ageing.<h2>Immortality remains out of reach</h2>Despite the ambitions, science is nowhere near delivering eternal life. The maximum human lifespan is generally thought to be around 125 years, while fully functional human organs grown in laboratories remain beyond current capabilities.Researchers at Russia’s Kurchatov Institute are investigating the use of 3D printing to create human tissues and organs. Other work focuses on gene therapies that could slow age-related changes.But the research has also drawn criticism, particularly as Russia continues its war in Ukraine and faces competing demands on public resources.For now, extending healthy life may be a realistic scientific goal. Defeating death altogether remains a distant prospect.

Putin’s daughter Maria Vorontsova has discussed longevity and the possibility of extending human life, as Russia invests billions in research into ageing, biotechnology and the limits of human lifespan.

Could humans one day live forever? Maria Vorontsova, the eldest daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, believes advances in medicine could eventually bring humanity closer to that possibility. Vorontsova, a 41-year-old endocrinologist who heads Moscow State University’s Medical Research and Education Institute, discussed the future of longevity at a forum in Moscow last week titled Live Long, Live Differently. Her approach has two stages. Healthy habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise and limiting alcohol, could help people live into their late 80s, she suggested. Going beyond that, however, would require breakthroughs that challenge the biological limits of human life. Vorontsova said she expected the growing fear of death to push healthcare providers towards finding solutions within the next 10 to 20 years. Why the Kremlin is interested The interest in longevity extends beyond medical research. Putin, who has led Russia since 2000, has spoken publicly about the possibility of extending active life through biotechnology and organ replacement. During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last year, the two leaders were overheard discussing ageing and the prospect of humans living to 150. Putin later told reporters that advances in medicine and organ-replacement surgery offered hope that people could remain active for longer. In 2024, he announced a $26 billion national project, New Technologies for Health Preservation, aimed at improving healthcare and extending life expectancy. Russia is also funding research into genetics and therapies designed to slow cellular ageing. Immortality remains out of reach Despite the ambitions, science is nowhere near delivering eternal life. The maximum human lifespan is generally thought to be around 125 years, while fully functional human organs grown in laboratories remain beyond current capabilities. Researchers at Russia’s Kurchatov Institute are investigating the use of 3D printing to create human tissues and organs. Other work focuses on gene therapies that could slow age-related changes. But the research has also drawn criticism, particularly as Russia continues its war in Ukraine and faces competing demands on public resources. For now, extending healthy life may be a realistic scientific goal. Defeating death altogether remains a distant prospect.

Putin’s daughter Maria Vorontsova has discussed longevity and the possibility of extending human life, as Russia invests billions in research into ageing, biotechnology and the limits of human lifespan.

Can Putin cheat death? All about his daughter’s billion-dollar quest for immortality

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Moscow was prepared to resume trilateral talks with Ukraine and the United States, but stressed that discussions should focus on security arrangements under a final peace agreement rather than a temporary ceasefire. "The goal of these discussions will be to address the issue of ensuring security for both Ukraine and Russia... within the framework of a final agreement, not after some kind of short pause in fighting," Putin told a reporter from state TV.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukraine accused Russia on Thursday of showing no change in its approach to the war after launching a wave of ballistic missile attacks shortly after US envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin to discuss restarting peace negotiations. Air raid sirens sounded throughout the night and into the day in Kyiv. City authorities said two people were killed and more than 30 others injured in the attacks. In the eastern city of Lozova, two women aged 50 and 60 were killed and dozens of people wounded when an attack struck a crowded market. Separately, two people were injured in Russia’s Moscow region during a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-should-keep-it-up-trump-defends-ramaswamy-s-controversial-campaign-ad-targeting-amy-acton-1792702768630">'Vivek should keep it up': Trump defends Ramaswamy's controversial campaign ad targeting Amy Acton</a><h2>‘No real change’ in Russia’s position</h2>The attacks followed the Kremlin’s announcement that it was prepared to resume trilateral negotiations with Ukraine and Washington next month. However, Moscow rejected new proposals presented by Witkoff that had been developed in coordination with European countries and Ukraine. Overnight strikes affected 12 Ukrainian regions, damaging residential buildings, energy facilities, shops, cafes and a monastery in Kyiv. The attacks on the Ukrainian capital have intensified as winter approaches.&nbsp;Meanwhile, authorities ordered all families and children to evacuate the frontline towns of Kramatorsk and neighbouring Sloviansk in eastern Ukraine following a series of attacks that killed dozens of civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the latest wave of attacks began "almost immediately" after Witkoff and Putin concluded hours of talks in Saint Petersburg.&nbsp;Zelensky also criticised the US envoy’s description of the Russian president as a ‘humanitarian’, arguing that the continued attacks contradicted such characterisations. "This means there has been no real change in its attitude towards everything that is happening," Zelensky said.

Putin says Russia is ready to resume peace talks with Ukraine and the US but wants a final security agreement as deadly strikes hit Ukrainian cities

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Moscow was prepared to resume trilateral talks with Ukraine and the United States, but stressed that discussions should focus on security arrangements under a final peace agreement rather than a temporary ceasefire. "The goal of these discussions will be to address the issue of ensuring security for both Ukraine and Russia... within the framework of a final agreement, not after some kind of short pause in fighting," Putin told a reporter from state TV. Meanwhile, Ukraine accused Russia on Thursday of showing no change in its approach to the war after launching a wave of ballistic missile attacks shortly after US envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin to discuss restarting peace negotiations. Air raid sirens sounded throughout the night and into the day in Kyiv. City authorities said two people were killed and more than 30 others injured in the attacks. In the eastern city of Lozova, two women aged 50 and 60 were killed and dozens of people wounded when an attack struck a crowded market. Separately, two people were injured in Russia’s Moscow region during a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack. Also Read: 'Vivek should keep it up': Trump defends Ramaswamy's controversial campaign ad targeting Amy Acton ‘No real change’ in Russia’s position The attacks followed the Kremlin’s announcement that it was prepared to resume trilateral negotiations with Ukraine and Washington next month. However, Moscow rejected new proposals presented by Witkoff that had been developed in coordination with European countries and Ukraine. Overnight strikes affected 12 Ukrainian regions, damaging residential buildings, energy facilities, shops, cafes and a monastery in Kyiv. The attacks on the Ukrainian capital have intensified as winter approaches. Meanwhile, authorities ordered all families and children to evacuate the frontline towns of Kramatorsk and neighbouring Sloviansk in eastern Ukraine following a series of attacks that killed dozens of civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the latest wave of attacks began "almost immediately" after Witkoff and Putin concluded hours of talks in Saint Petersburg. Zelensky also criticised the US envoy’s description of the Russian president as a ‘humanitarian’, arguing that the continued attacks contradicted such characterisations. "This means there has been no real change in its attitude towards everything that is happening," Zelensky said.

Putin says Russia is ready for Ukraine-US peace talks but rejects a short ceasefire as deadly Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities

Putin says Russia is ready to resume Ukraine-US peace talks but rejects 'short ceasefire' amid deadly attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has told President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff that Moscow is willing in principle to resume trilateral talks with Ukraine and the United States next month to end the conflict, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Wednesday.The talks between Putin and Witkoff, who was on his ninth visit to Russia, took place in St Petersburg and lasted almost three hours.&nbsp;“Our president informed Steve Witkoff that we are, in principle, ready to resume the aforementioned trilateral negotiations on the main topic on the tenth of November. The American representative noted that such a decision would undoubtedly be met with great satisfaction by President Trump,” Ushakov added.No such peace talks to end the over four-year war have taken place since February.&nbsp;The Kremlin said the proposed new round of negotiations could focus on establishing a security system for Russia and Ukraine after the conflict ends.&nbsp;<h2>Witkoff briefed Putin on his meetings in Oslo</h2>&nbsp;Ushakov said Witkoff briefed Putin on his meetings in Oslo on Tuesday, where the American envoy met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Norwegian prime minister and the Finnish president.&nbsp;According to Ushakov, Witkoff highlighted some new approaches in the positions of European countries and Kyiv.&nbsp;The Kremlin aide said a new round of trilateral talks involving Russia, the United States and Ukraine could take place in Abu Dhabi, reported Russian state broadcaster Vesti.&nbsp;Interfax reported Ushakov as saying that the Ukrainian conflict was nearing an end.&nbsp;<h2>Oct 9 agreement, Iran crisis also discussed</h2>&nbsp;Putin and Witkoff also discussed implementing an October 9 agreement between Putin and US President Donald Trump on supplying Russian diesel to the United States and global markets, Ushakov said.&nbsp;The discussions also covered the crisis involving Iran. Ushakov said Putin had stressed that diplomatic options remained available and that reaching agreements with Tehran was both possible and necessary, describing Iran as Russia’s strategic partner.&nbsp;“Russia reaffirmed its readiness to continue facilitating the search for political and diplomatic solutions to the Iranian issue,” Ushakov said.&nbsp;The Kremlin's remarks signal Moscow's stated willingness to return to negotiations next month, although the proposed talks have yet to take place.&nbsp;The US envoy planned to return to Oslo for more consultations after his trip to Russia, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said. “I think we may have entered a phase now where the Russians are also looking for opportunities for diplomacy,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump-Xi-Putin summit likely</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ushakov also said a trilateral meeting between Putin, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping is “being prepared” and the aim was to include the meeting in the APEC Summit in Shenzhen next month.Putin was the first to suggest a summit with Trump and Xi to negotiate an end to the four-year-old Ukraine conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that discussions were taking place over a potential meeting.“There is no clear understanding ⁠yet regarding the meeting itself or its potential agenda, although all three parties acknowledge the hypothetical possibility of such a meeting taking place,” he told Wall Street Journal.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said US special envoy Steve Witkoff briefed President Vladimir Putin on his meetings in Oslo on Tuesday, where the American envoy met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Norwegian prime minister and the Finnish president.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has told President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff that Moscow is willing in principle to resume trilateral talks with Ukraine and the United States next month to end the conflict, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Wednesday. The talks between Putin and Witkoff, who was on his ninth visit to Russia, took place in St Petersburg and lasted almost three hours. “Our president informed Steve Witkoff that we are, in principle, ready to resume the aforementioned trilateral negotiations on the main topic on the tenth of November. The American representative noted that such a decision would undoubtedly be met with great satisfaction by President Trump,” Ushakov added. No such peace talks to end the over four-year war have taken place since February. The Kremlin said the proposed new round of negotiations could focus on establishing a security system for Russia and Ukraine after the conflict ends. Witkoff briefed Putin on his meetings in Oslo Ushakov said Witkoff briefed Putin on his meetings in Oslo on Tuesday, where the American envoy met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Norwegian prime minister and the Finnish president. According to Ushakov, Witkoff highlighted some new approaches in the positions of European countries and Kyiv. The Kremlin aide said a new round of trilateral talks involving Russia, the United States and Ukraine could take place in Abu Dhabi, reported Russian state broadcaster Vesti. Interfax reported Ushakov as saying that the Ukrainian conflict was nearing an end. Oct 9 agreement, Iran crisis also discussed Putin and Witkoff also discussed implementing an October 9 agreement between Putin and US President Donald Trump on supplying Russian diesel to the United States and global markets, Ushakov said. The discussions also covered the crisis involving Iran. Ushakov said Putin had stressed that diplomatic options remained available and that reaching agreements with Tehran was both possible and necessary, describing Iran as Russia’s strategic partner. “Russia reaffirmed its readiness to continue facilitating the search for political and diplomatic solutions to the Iranian issue,” Ushakov said. The Kremlin's remarks signal Moscow's stated willingness to return to negotiations next month, although the proposed talks have yet to take place. The US envoy planned to return to Oslo for more consultations after his trip to Russia, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said. “I think we may have entered a phase now where the Russians are also looking for opportunities for diplomacy,” he said. Trump-Xi-Putin summit likely Meanwhile, Ushakov also said a trilateral meeting between Putin, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping is “being prepared” and the aim was to include the meeting in the APEC Summit in Shenzhen next month. Putin was the first to suggest a summit with Trump and Xi to negotiate an end to the four-year-old Ukraine conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that discussions were taking place over a potential meeting. “There is no clear understanding ⁠yet regarding the meeting itself or its potential agenda, although all three parties acknowledge the hypothetical possibility of such a meeting taking place,” he told Wall Street Journal.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said US special envoy Steve Witkoff briefed President Vladimir Putin on his meetings in Oslo on Tuesday, where the American envoy met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Norwegian prime minister and the Finnish president.

Putin ready to resume three-way talks with US and Kyiv, says Kremlin. Will Ukraine War finally end?

Three leaders, three competing priorities and one proposed summit that could have far-reaching consequences for global security.The possibility of an unprecedented meeting between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping has triggered fresh debate over the future of international diplomacy.The Kremlin has acknowledged discussions about a potential trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, on November 18 and 19.Trump has expressed willingness to participate, but no formal agreement has been reached.And already, the three powers appear to have different priorities.According to reports, Putin has proposed using the meeting to explore a settlement to the war in Ukraine. Trump, however, has suggested that nuclear disarmament would be a principal objective, alongside possible discussions on trade.Beijing has not confirmed the proposed gathering.The most immediate controversy concerns Ukraine.Ukrainian officials have strongly criticised the prospect of negotiations about their country's future without Kyiv's participation.Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned that a meeting involving Washington, Moscow and Beijing could encourage Russia to continue the war rather than accelerate peace.The diplomatic developments also come amid fresh Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, leaving hundreds of thousands of households without electricity.Meanwhile, Trump's recent decision to ease certain sanctions on Moscow and his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have intensified disagreements between Washington and Kyiv.China faces a different calculation.Beijing maintains close strategic ties with Moscow while simultaneously seeking economic stability in its relations with Washington and Europe.It has also questioned proposals for trilateral nuclear disarmament talks, arguing that its nuclear arsenal remains considerably smaller than those of Russia and the United States.For the wider international community, the proposed meeting raises questions extending beyond Ukraine.Could three competing powers negotiate meaningful arms-control agreements? Would their diplomatic engagement reduce geopolitical tensions? And what role would smaller countries and established alliances play in decisions affecting their security?Supporters of renewed great-power dialogue may see an opportunity to reduce confrontation. Critics fear that negotiations conducted without directly affected countries could undermine their sovereignty and confidence in international diplomacy.For now, the summit remains hypothetical.But the debate surrounding it has already exposed a central tension in contemporary geopolitics: the difference between negotiating with powerful states and negotiating on behalf of those whose futures are at stake.Three superpowers may eventually sit at one table. The question is whether their discussions will produce a more stable international order — and whose voices will help shape it.

For the global community, the proposed meeting raises questions extending beyond Ukraine. Supporters of renewed great-power dialogue see an opportunity to reduce confrontation. But critics fear that negotiations conducted without directly affected countries could undermine their sovereignty.

Three leaders, three competing priorities and one proposed summit that could have far-reaching consequences for global security. The possibility of an unprecedented meeting between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping has triggered fresh debate over the future of international diplomacy. The Kremlin has acknowledged discussions about a potential trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, on November 18 and 19. Trump has expressed willingness to participate, but no formal agreement has been reached. And already, the three powers appear to have different priorities. According to reports, Putin has proposed using the meeting to explore a settlement to the war in Ukraine. Trump, however, has suggested that nuclear disarmament would be a principal objective, alongside possible discussions on trade. Beijing has not confirmed the proposed gathering. The most immediate controversy concerns Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have strongly criticised the prospect of negotiations about their country's future without Kyiv's participation. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned that a meeting involving Washington, Moscow and Beijing could encourage Russia to continue the war rather than accelerate peace. The diplomatic developments also come amid fresh Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, leaving hundreds of thousands of households without electricity. Meanwhile, Trump's recent decision to ease certain sanctions on Moscow and his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have intensified disagreements between Washington and Kyiv. China faces a different calculation. Beijing maintains close strategic ties with Moscow while simultaneously seeking economic stability in its relations with Washington and Europe. It has also questioned proposals for trilateral nuclear disarmament talks, arguing that its nuclear arsenal remains considerably smaller than those of Russia and the United States. For the wider international community, the proposed meeting raises questions extending beyond Ukraine. Could three competing powers negotiate meaningful arms-control agreements? Would their diplomatic engagement reduce geopolitical tensions? And what role would smaller countries and established alliances play in decisions affecting their security? Supporters of renewed great-power dialogue may see an opportunity to reduce confrontation. Critics fear that negotiations conducted without directly affected countries could undermine their sovereignty and confidence in international diplomacy. For now, the summit remains hypothetical. But the debate surrounding it has already exposed a central tension in contemporary geopolitics: the difference between negotiating with powerful states and negotiating on behalf of those whose futures are at stake. Three superpowers may eventually sit at one table. The question is whether their discussions will produce a more stable international order — and whose voices will help shape it.

For the global community, the proposed meeting raises questions extending beyond Ukraine. Supporters of renewed great-power dialogue see an opportunity to reduce confrontation. But critics fear that negotiations conducted without directly affected countries could undermine their sovereignty.

The Verdict | Trump, Putin and Xi: A superpower triangle that could reshape global diplomacy

A 26-year-old Russian military officer secretly supplied Ukraine with sensitive battlefield intelligence, helping its forces kill more than 300 Russian soldiers before escaping across the frontline and joining a unit fighting against President Vladimir Putin's government, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Lieutenant Lev Stupnikov allegedly used his position in the Russian army to pass military secrets to Ukrainian intelligence. His role gave him access to troop movements, operational plans and surveillance feeds from reconnaissance drones and cameras. After reaching Ukraine, Stupnikov joined the fight against Moscow. However, his decision came at a personal cost. He eventually lost contact with his wife, Liza, who accused him of betraying both his country and their marriage.<h2>'There's just meat': How he helped Ukraine strike Russian troops</h2>A graduate of the Budyonny Military Academy of the Signal Corps, Stupnikov was appointed chief signals officer of a battalion assigned to capture Vuhledar, a strategically important Ukrainian stronghold in the Donbas region. His responsibilities included maintaining communications between commanders and frontline units and ensuring they received information from surveillance systems. Instead, he secretly passed Ukrainian military intelligence precise details about Russian positions and planned movements.&nbsp;During a freezing morning in eastern Ukraine, Stupnikov pretended to suffer from stomach cramps to leave his fellow soldiers. Shortly afterwards, Ukrainian missiles struck the coordinates he had provided. The attack killed 68 Russian soldiers, including Colonel Gusein Musayev, who was reportedly among Kyiv's priority targets. Another 60 troops were wounded. "Were there explosions? Send a photo", a Ukrainian contact messaged Stupnikov after the strike. "There's just meat," he replied. According to the report, thousands of people, including soldiers and homemakers, communicated with Ukrainian agents through encrypted platforms.<h2>Russia's invasion changed everything for him</h2>Stupnikov's decision to turn against the Russian military stemmed from his opposition to the invasion of Ukraine. In February 2022, he watched videos of Russian helicopters flying over Ukrainian cities and bombs exploding as Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. The images left him horrified. "They were dropping bombs on innocent civilians," he said. “It was evil.” He struggled to understand how fellow soldiers could continue their daily routines while the war devastated Ukrainian communities.&nbsp;At home, he spent evenings with his wife, Liza, watching videos featuring Russian opposition figures and interviews with Ukrainian-held Russian prisoners of war. Even at the military academy, a small group of cadets shared similar views. They exchanged glances that suggested they understood one another, while some attempted to leave the institution. Their requests, however, remained pending for months. "I couldn't show my emotions," he recalled. "But inside, I was on fire."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oregon-school-shooting-16-year-old-shooter-identified-used-shotgun-bought-by-mother-trump-praises-bystander-who-shot-gunman-as-great-hero-1792176243036">Oregon school shooting: 16-year-old shooter identified, used shotgun bought by mother; Trump praises bystander who shot gunman as 'great hero'</a><h2>His mother helped him contact Ukrainian intelligence</h2>Stupnikov's mother, Tatiana Yantsen, also opposed Putin's government. The 49-year-old office worker had participated in protests against the Russian president. In February 2024, three months after her son started serving on the frontline, she contacted Dmytro Karpenko, a computer programmer who worked closely with Ukrainian military intelligence. Karpenko operated a network of Russian informants through encrypted communication platforms. He had also attracted attention for publishing video interviews with Russian prisoners of war on YouTube.&nbsp;According to the report, some Russian servicemen contacted him after returning home and offered to provide military information in exchange for money. In October 2023, Karpenko announced a payment of 250,000 rubles, equivalent to approximately $2,700, to Russian servicemen willing to supply information supporting Ukraine's war effort. Stupnikov's eventual escape was organised through this network. He, Karpenko and Ukrainian scouts used encrypted applications to coordinate a route across the dangerous frontline.<h2>Russian officer's escape across the frontline</h2>In July 2024, Stupnikov slipped away from his Russian military unit at night and travelled north towards Ukrainian positions. Ukrainian operators monitored his movements in real time from an underground bunker using a live video feed. After approximately 40 minutes, he reached a tree line where soldiers from Ukraine's 72nd Brigade were stationed. The Ukrainian troops spotted a man wearing a Russian uniform approaching their position. From a dugout, they pointed their rifles at him and demanded, “What's the passcode?” Stupnikov responded with the pre-arranged answer, 'peanut shop', before being taken into Ukrainian custody. He later joined the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), a unit made up of ethnic Russians fighting alongside Ukraine against Putin's government. He now serves as a communications specialist, according to the report.<h2>His mother and sister planned to join him</h2>In February 2025, Stupnikov's mother and sister packed a backpack and a suitcase each in preparation for travelling to Moldova. Their plan was to cross into Ukraine on foot and meet Karpenko. Meanwhile, Tatiana had spent months receiving calls from Russian military officials seeking her help in persuading her son to surrender if he was still alive.She presented herself as a distressed mother, insisting that locating him was the authorities' responsibility.&nbsp;A year later, Stupnikov recounted his experiences in a two-hour video interview with Karpenko. The interview brought renewed attention to his defection and the intelligence he had allegedly provided to Ukrainian forces. Despite the consequences of his decision, Stupnikov maintained that his actions were consistent with the oath he had taken at the military academy nearly a decade earlier. He had pledged to defend his country's freedom, independence and constitutional order. In his view, Putin's invasion had destroyed those principles. "Did I betray my oath? I pledged to defend freedom, independence, and the constitutional order," he said. "But Putin destroyed all three."

Russian officer Lev Stupnikov reportedly leaked battle plans to Ukraine, helping kill over 300 Russian troops before escaping and joining an anti-Putin unit

A 26-year-old Russian military officer secretly supplied Ukraine with sensitive battlefield intelligence, helping its forces kill more than 300 Russian soldiers before escaping across the frontline and joining a unit fighting against President Vladimir Putin's government, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Lieutenant Lev Stupnikov allegedly used his position in the Russian army to pass military secrets to Ukrainian intelligence. His role gave him access to troop movements, operational plans and surveillance feeds from reconnaissance drones and cameras. After reaching Ukraine, Stupnikov joined the fight against Moscow. However, his decision came at a personal cost. He eventually lost contact with his wife, Liza, who accused him of betraying both his country and their marriage. 'There's just meat': How he helped Ukraine strike Russian troops A graduate of the Budyonny Military Academy of the Signal Corps, Stupnikov was appointed chief signals officer of a battalion assigned to capture Vuhledar, a strategically important Ukrainian stronghold in the Donbas region. His responsibilities included maintaining communications between commanders and frontline units and ensuring they received information from surveillance systems. Instead, he secretly passed Ukrainian military intelligence precise details about Russian positions and planned movements. During a freezing morning in eastern Ukraine, Stupnikov pretended to suffer from stomach cramps to leave his fellow soldiers. Shortly afterwards, Ukrainian missiles struck the coordinates he had provided. The attack killed 68 Russian soldiers, including Colonel Gusein Musayev, who was reportedly among Kyiv's priority targets. Another 60 troops were wounded. "Were there explosions? Send a photo", a Ukrainian contact messaged Stupnikov after the strike. "There's just meat," he replied. According to the report, thousands of people, including soldiers and homemakers, communicated with Ukrainian agents through encrypted platforms. Russia's invasion changed everything for him Stupnikov's decision to turn against the Russian military stemmed from his opposition to the invasion of Ukraine. In February 2022, he watched videos of Russian helicopters flying over Ukrainian cities and bombs exploding as Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. The images left him horrified. "They were dropping bombs on innocent civilians," he said. “It was evil.” He struggled to understand how fellow soldiers could continue their daily routines while the war devastated Ukrainian communities. At home, he spent evenings with his wife, Liza, watching videos featuring Russian opposition figures and interviews with Ukrainian-held Russian prisoners of war. Even at the military academy, a small group of cadets shared similar views. They exchanged glances that suggested they understood one another, while some attempted to leave the institution. Their requests, however, remained pending for months. "I couldn't show my emotions," he recalled. "But inside, I was on fire." Also Read: Oregon school shooting: 16-year-old shooter identified, used shotgun bought by mother; Trump praises bystander who shot gunman as 'great hero' His mother helped him contact Ukrainian intelligence Stupnikov's mother, Tatiana Yantsen, also opposed Putin's government. The 49-year-old office worker had participated in protests against the Russian president. In February 2024, three months after her son started serving on the frontline, she contacted Dmytro Karpenko, a computer programmer who worked closely with Ukrainian military intelligence. Karpenko operated a network of Russian informants through encrypted communication platforms. He had also attracted attention for publishing video interviews with Russian prisoners of war on YouTube. According to the report, some Russian servicemen contacted him after returning home and offered to provide military information in exchange for money. In October 2023, Karpenko announced a payment of 250,000 rubles, equivalent to approximately $2,700, to Russian servicemen willing to supply information supporting Ukraine's war effort. Stupnikov's eventual escape was organised through this network. He, Karpenko and Ukrainian scouts used encrypted applications to coordinate a route across the dangerous frontline. Russian officer's escape across the frontline In July 2024, Stupnikov slipped away from his Russian military unit at night and travelled north towards Ukrainian positions. Ukrainian operators monitored his movements in real time from an underground bunker using a live video feed. After approximately 40 minutes, he reached a tree line where soldiers from Ukraine's 72nd Brigade were stationed. The Ukrainian troops spotted a man wearing a Russian uniform approaching their position. From a dugout, they pointed their rifles at him and demanded, “What's the passcode?” Stupnikov responded with the pre-arranged answer, 'peanut shop', before being taken into Ukrainian custody. He later joined the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), a unit made up of ethnic Russians fighting alongside Ukraine against Putin's government. He now serves as a communications specialist, according to the report. His mother and sister planned to join him In February 2025, Stupnikov's mother and sister packed a backpack and a suitcase each in preparation for travelling to Moldova. Their plan was to cross into Ukraine on foot and meet Karpenko. Meanwhile, Tatiana had spent months receiving calls from Russian military officials seeking her help in persuading her son to surrender if he was still alive. She presented herself as a distressed mother, insisting that locating him was the authorities' responsibility. A year later, Stupnikov recounted his experiences in a two-hour video interview with Karpenko. The interview brought renewed attention to his defection and the intelligence he had allegedly provided to Ukrainian forces. Despite the consequences of his decision, Stupnikov maintained that his actions were consistent with the oath he had taken at the military academy nearly a decade earlier. He had pledged to defend his country's freedom, independence and constitutional order. In his view, Putin's invasion had destroyed those principles. "Did I betray my oath? I pledged to defend freedom, independence, and the constitutional order," he said. "But Putin destroyed all three."

Russian officer Lev Stupnikov reportedly helped Ukraine kill 300 Russian troops by leaking military secrets before escaping and joining an anti-Putin unit

A secret code, a midnight escape and 300 deaths: The Russian officer who turned on Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Oct 14) vowed that his nation would resume strikes on Russian oil refineries despite US President Donald Trump's "energy ceasefire". In a fiery interview with FT, he said, "The block [on attacking refineries] is out. We’re done." The wartime leader also lamented what he called the "dangerous" withdrawal of US intelligence sharing and access to the Starlink satellite internet service.These comments are the latest by Zelensky that reflect Ukraine's growing frustration with Trump. The POTUS last week announced a controversial deal to buy Russian oil. The move sharply contrasts with months of US pressure on nations like India to stop buying discounted Russian crude and “funding Moscow's war effort”.Additionally, Trump has heaped pressure on Kyiv to stop striking Russian energy infrastructure, and on Sunday (Oct 11) he even announced a unilateral "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine "effective immediately". However, within hours Ukraine reported that Russia had violated the ceasefire, striking at least six of its energy facilities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-s-answer-to-president-trump-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-violating-energy-ceasefire-within-hours-of-announcement-six-energy-facilities-hit-1791864980398">'Putin's answer to Trump': Zelensky accuses Russia of violating energy ceasefire within hours of announcement; six energy facilities hit</a><h2>Ukraine-Starlink controversy</h2>Kyiv on Wednesday (Oct 14) reported that Elon Musk's Starlink has restricted some military internet services. Taking to Telegram, Sergiy Beskrestnov, technology adviser to the Ukrainian president, said, "Through their actions, our partners are depriving us of one of the few chances we have to defend the country against jet-powered Shahed drones."Subsequently, Zelensky asked Musk to "switch on" the Starlink system. Responding to the criticism, Elon Musk suggested that the US government may be behind any disruptions Kyiv is experiencing. "Starshield systems are owned and controlled by the US government. Any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS," Musk said, referring to Trump.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-katie-zacharia-trump-s-new-press-secretary-under-fire-after-china-law-degree-gaffe-past-links-to-maga-inner-circle-emerge-1791963477582">Trump's new press secretary under fire after China bar exam remark; Polymarket bets on how long Katie Zacharia will last</a><h2>Zelensky slams Trump over chumminess with Russia</h2>Speaking to FT, Zelensky slammed Trump's willingness to strike deals with Moscow, as well as the POTUS' apparent admiration of Russian President Vladimir Putin.He also claimed that his military officials have been told by their American counterparts to stop strikes on Russian energy resources or "we will block intelligence".In a separate interview with British media personality Piers Morgan, Zelensky had previously said that he felt "betrayed" by Trump. "It’s a pity that we are losing a strong partner," he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to resume attacks on Russian oil refineries despite Trump’s “energy ceasefire”, while accusing Washington of restricting intelligence and Starlink support. The latest clash exposes growing tensions between Kyiv and the Trump administration.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Oct 14) vowed that his nation would resume strikes on Russian oil refineries despite US President Donald Trump's "energy ceasefire". In a fiery interview with FT, he said, "The block [on attacking refineries] is out. We’re done." The wartime leader also lamented what he called the "dangerous" withdrawal of US intelligence sharing and access to the Starlink satellite internet service. These comments are the latest by Zelensky that reflect Ukraine's growing frustration with Trump. The POTUS last week announced a controversial deal to buy Russian oil. The move sharply contrasts with months of US pressure on nations like India to stop buying discounted Russian crude and “funding Moscow's war effort”. Additionally, Trump has heaped pressure on Kyiv to stop striking Russian energy infrastructure, and on Sunday (Oct 11) he even announced a unilateral "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine "effective immediately". However, within hours Ukraine reported that Russia had violated the ceasefire, striking at least six of its energy facilities. Also read | 'Putin's answer to Trump': Zelensky accuses Russia of violating energy ceasefire within hours of announcement; six energy facilities hit Ukraine-Starlink controversy Kyiv on Wednesday (Oct 14) reported that Elon Musk's Starlink has restricted some military internet services. Taking to Telegram, Sergiy Beskrestnov, technology adviser to the Ukrainian president, said, "Through their actions, our partners are depriving us of one of the few chances we have to defend the country against jet-powered Shahed drones." Subsequently, Zelensky asked Musk to "switch on" the Starlink system. Responding to the criticism, Elon Musk suggested that the US government may be behind any disruptions Kyiv is experiencing. "Starshield systems are owned and controlled by the US government. Any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS," Musk said, referring to Trump. Also read | Trump's new press secretary under fire after China bar exam remark; Polymarket bets on how long Katie Zacharia will last Zelensky slams Trump over chumminess with Russia Speaking to FT, Zelensky slammed Trump's willingness to strike deals with Moscow, as well as the POTUS' apparent admiration of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He also claimed that his military officials have been told by their American counterparts to stop strikes on Russian energy resources or "we will block intelligence". In a separate interview with British media personality Piers Morgan, Zelensky had previously said that he felt "betrayed" by Trump. "It’s a pity that we are losing a strong partner," he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to resume attacks on Russian oil refineries despite Trump’s “energy ceasefire”, while accusing Washington of restricting intelligence and Starlink support. The latest clash exposes growing tensions between Kyiv and the Trump administration.

'We're done': Zelensky says Trump’s 'energy ceasefire' is over, vows to resume Russia refinery strikes amid Starlink row

The United States may have deliberately withheld advance warnings of Russian missile attacks on Ukraine earlier this week, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter who spoke to CBS News. The allegations come as Kyiv faces renewed Russian strikes and reports of disruptions to critical satellite communications technology. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine ‘received no advance warning from our partners’ before Russia launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv and other locations early on Tuesday.&nbsp;According to sources cited by CBS News, American officials told their Ukrainian counterparts that the system used to detect Russian missile launches had failed because of ‘bad weather’. However, Ukrainian officials, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the issue, said they did not believe the explanation. They accused the United States of instead ‘playing’ with the system. When Russia launched another wave of ballistic missiles at around 3 am local time on Wednesday, the sources said the US early-warning system appeared to be functioning again. The sources also alleged that the United States had failed to provide intelligence about Russian ballistic missile launches on one previous occasion earlier this year, citing the need to redirect resources towards the Middle East.<h2>Russian strikes kill six, disrupt power supplies</h2>Zelenskyy said Russia launched more than 39 ballistic missiles and over 120 attack drones and loitering munitions during an overnight assault on Wednesday. The attacks primarily targeted energy facilities and other critical infrastructure in Kyiv and Kharkiv, killing six people and leaving approximately 600,000 without electricity, according to the Ukrainian president. The alleged failure to provide advance warnings has raised questions about the status of intelligence cooperation between Washington and Kyiv.&nbsp;Asked on Tuesday whether the United States had stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine, President Donald Trump denied that assistance had been suspended. “No, we haven't. We help them, but we're really helping them get to a final answer. We want the war ended.” "We are helping them, and we are sharing intel. We want the war to end, so we're working with them and with Russia on getting the war to end," Trump said.<h2>US reportedly threatens to restrict intelligence sharing</h2>The dispute comes amid broader tensions over Washington's military support for Ukraine. Earlier this week, the Trump administration threatened to halt intelligence sharing and suspend the purchase of US-made weapons by European allies for Ukraine through the PURL procurement system unless Kyiv stopped conducting deep strikes against Russian energy infrastructure, a European official and a Ukrainian official told CBS News.&nbsp;Ukraine depends heavily on American intelligence for both offensive and defensive military operations. This includes satellite information and aircraft sensor data used to detect Russian aircraft and missile launches. However, sources familiar with the matter told CBS News that Washington had not suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine overall, describing the missing advance warning before this week's attacks as an isolated incident.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-trump-under-election-watch-democrats-deploy-100-observers-across-nine-states-1792013518119">US midterms 2026: Trump under election watch? Democrats deploy 100 observers across nine states</a><h2>Starlink disruptions raise additional concerns</h2>Ukrainian officials and military personnel also told CBS News that the country's forces began experiencing difficulties with Starlink satellite communications on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has become a crucial communications tool for Ukrainian forces, enabling troops to coordinate operations and conduct strikes in areas affected by electronic warfare.&nbsp;In an interview with CBS News earlier this year, Ukraine's former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov described Starlink as one of the country's most important technologies. Sources within Ukraine's Ministry of Defense told CBS News that restrictions had affected military satellite terminals used by Ukrainian forces. "On the night of 14 October, without warning the Defence Forces, SpaceX unilaterally restricted the operation of Starshield terminals ('military package') while in motion. This complicates UAV missions, particularly interceptors and middle-strike drones, and reduces capabilities for frontline logistics, reconnaissance and signal relay," sources in Ukraine's Ministry of Defense told CBS News. “At present, the Ministry of Defence is in contact with the United States, SpaceX and NATO partners, is collecting data from all units, and backup communication channels are being tested and put into use.”<h2>Zelenskyy urges Washington to respond</h2>The developments have intensified pressure on Washington to respond to Russia's continued attacks. On Wednesday, Zelenskyy arrived in the United Kingdom for meetings with Prime Minister Andy Burnham and other officials, while calling for a stronger American response to the latest Russian strikes. "The strike was absolutely deliberate and indicative in its scale — such a demonstrative disrespect from Russia toward America has never happened before. Russia does not consider the statements of the President of America to be strong," he wrote on X. “We ask America and EVERYONE in the world who does not close their eyes to reality to respond, and to respond harshly.”

Ukraine questions US intelligence sharing after missing Russian missile warnings, deadly attacks and reported Starlink restrictions raise tensions with Washington

The United States may have deliberately withheld advance warnings of Russian missile attacks on Ukraine earlier this week, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter who spoke to CBS News. The allegations come as Kyiv faces renewed Russian strikes and reports of disruptions to critical satellite communications technology. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine ‘received no advance warning from our partners’ before Russia launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv and other locations early on Tuesday. According to sources cited by CBS News, American officials told their Ukrainian counterparts that the system used to detect Russian missile launches had failed because of ‘bad weather’. However, Ukrainian officials, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the issue, said they did not believe the explanation. They accused the United States of instead ‘playing’ with the system. When Russia launched another wave of ballistic missiles at around 3 am local time on Wednesday, the sources said the US early-warning system appeared to be functioning again. The sources also alleged that the United States had failed to provide intelligence about Russian ballistic missile launches on one previous occasion earlier this year, citing the need to redirect resources towards the Middle East. Russian strikes kill six, disrupt power supplies Zelenskyy said Russia launched more than 39 ballistic missiles and over 120 attack drones and loitering munitions during an overnight assault on Wednesday. The attacks primarily targeted energy facilities and other critical infrastructure in Kyiv and Kharkiv, killing six people and leaving approximately 600,000 without electricity, according to the Ukrainian president. The alleged failure to provide advance warnings has raised questions about the status of intelligence cooperation between Washington and Kyiv. Asked on Tuesday whether the United States had stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine, President Donald Trump denied that assistance had been suspended. “No, we haven't. We help them, but we're really helping them get to a final answer. We want the war ended.” "We are helping them, and we are sharing intel. We want the war to end, so we're working with them and with Russia on getting the war to end," Trump said. US reportedly threatens to restrict intelligence sharing The dispute comes amid broader tensions over Washington's military support for Ukraine. Earlier this week, the Trump administration threatened to halt intelligence sharing and suspend the purchase of US-made weapons by European allies for Ukraine through the PURL procurement system unless Kyiv stopped conducting deep strikes against Russian energy infrastructure, a European official and a Ukrainian official told CBS News. Ukraine depends heavily on American intelligence for both offensive and defensive military operations. This includes satellite information and aircraft sensor data used to detect Russian aircraft and missile launches. However, sources familiar with the matter told CBS News that Washington had not suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine overall, describing the missing advance warning before this week's attacks as an isolated incident. Also Read: US midterms 2026: Trump under election watch? Democrats deploy 100 observers across nine states Starlink disruptions raise additional concerns Ukrainian officials and military personnel also told CBS News that the country's forces began experiencing difficulties with Starlink satellite communications on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has become a crucial communications tool for Ukrainian forces, enabling troops to coordinate operations and conduct strikes in areas affected by electronic warfare. In an interview with CBS News earlier this year, Ukraine's former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov described Starlink as one of the country's most important technologies. Sources within Ukraine's Ministry of Defense told CBS News that restrictions had affected military satellite terminals used by Ukrainian forces. "On the night of 14 October, without warning the Defence Forces, SpaceX unilaterally restricted the operation of Starshield terminals ('military package') while in motion. This complicates UAV missions, particularly interceptors and middle-strike drones, and reduces capabilities for frontline logistics, reconnaissance and signal relay," sources in Ukraine's Ministry of Defense told CBS News. “At present, the Ministry of Defence is in contact with the United States, SpaceX and NATO partners, is collecting data from all units, and backup communication channels are being tested and put into use.” Zelenskyy urges Washington to respond The developments have intensified pressure on Washington to respond to Russia's continued attacks. On Wednesday, Zelenskyy arrived in the United Kingdom for meetings with Prime Minister Andy Burnham and other officials, while calling for a stronger American response to the latest Russian strikes. "The strike was absolutely deliberate and indicative in its scale — such a demonstrative disrespect from Russia toward America has never happened before. Russia does not consider the statements of the President of America to be strong," he wrote on X. “We ask America and EVERYONE in the world who does not close their eyes to reality to respond, and to respond harshly.”

Ukraine questions US intelligence support after receiving no advance warning of Russian missile strikes that killed six and disrupted power supplies

Did the US withhold missile warnings? Ukraine questions Washington's 'bad weather' explanation after Russian strikes kill six, cut power to 600,000

Russian President Vladimir Putin has conveyed Tehran's proposal to US President Donald Trump on a possible resolution of the war between the US and Iran, Russia's Interfax news agency reported on October 10. The Kremlin said that Tehran's stance was discussed in a phone call between the two leaders, including a proposal on Iran's nuclear program."In coordination with the Iranian president, Putin conveyed the Iranian side's views on a possible resolution to the conflict to Trump," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Saturday, according to Russia's state RIA news agency.&nbsp;"Putin told Trump that Moscow's offer to transfer Iran's highly enriched uranium to Russia remains on the table," said Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov.&nbsp;Iran continues to control traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while the US Navy maintains a blockade on Iranian sea ports, following the more-than-seven-month-long US-Iran conflict. US and Iran have both previously agreed to a memorandum of understanding in June that attempted to resolve the conflict, but each side was reluctant to give concessions to the other.&nbsp;In the recent conversation between Putin and Trump, the Russian President hinted that diplomatic options to end the war had not been exhausted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riyadh-king-khalid-airport-missile-attack-dozens-injured-1791651898662">Riyadh airport hit in missile attack, dozens injured; 5 in intensive care</a>During a meeting with Putin, Pezeshkian noted that Tehran was willing to negotiate with Washington. The Iranian President said that Iran and the US had submitted proposals; once finalised, they will meet through existing diplomatic channels.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has thanked Putin for agreeing to supply diesel fuel to the US market while speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday."I think you heard about the oil deal with Russia. That is a big deal. That is massive amounts of oil coming into our country, and I want to thank President Putin, to be honest with you. We have massive amounts of oil coming into our country, and it's diesel, which is what we want. So, thank you," Trump said."We need oil for the world, and this is diesel, which is what we need. So, we're very happy to get it. We're very happy to get it. Look, we need it," he added.While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Moscow was expressing its "thanks" for a diesel deal as fresh Russian strikes killed 16 people, authorities said. Despite pushback from European leaders on easing pressure on Russia, Trump said that Ukraine need to replace Volodymyr Zelensky with a new leader to end the war. He said that Zelensky can "do what you want" against Russia, but "don't hit refineries." &nbsp;Kirill Dmitriev, the Kremlin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said that Trump's remark was "iconic and historic".

Putin has relayed Iran’s proposal to end the US-Iran war to Trump, while reiterating Moscow’s offer to take Iran’s highly enriched uranium to Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has conveyed Tehran's proposal to US President Donald Trump on a possible resolution of the war between the US and Iran, Russia's Interfax news agency reported on October 10. The Kremlin said that Tehran's stance was discussed in a phone call between the two leaders, including a proposal on Iran's nuclear program. "In coordination with the Iranian president, Putin conveyed the Iranian side's views on a possible resolution to the conflict to Trump," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Saturday, according to Russia's state RIA news agency. "Putin told Trump that Moscow's offer to transfer Iran's highly enriched uranium to Russia remains on the table," said Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov. Iran continues to control traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while the US Navy maintains a blockade on Iranian sea ports, following the more-than-seven-month-long US-Iran conflict. US and Iran have both previously agreed to a memorandum of understanding in June that attempted to resolve the conflict, but each side was reluctant to give concessions to the other. In the recent conversation between Putin and Trump, the Russian President hinted that diplomatic options to end the war had not been exhausted. Also Read: Riyadh airport hit in missile attack, dozens injured; 5 in intensive care During a meeting with Putin, Pezeshkian noted that Tehran was willing to negotiate with Washington. The Iranian President said that Iran and the US had submitted proposals; once finalised, they will meet through existing diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has thanked Putin for agreeing to supply diesel fuel to the US market while speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday. "I think you heard about the oil deal with Russia. That is a big deal. That is massive amounts of oil coming into our country, and I want to thank President Putin, to be honest with you. We have massive amounts of oil coming into our country, and it's diesel, which is what we want. So, thank you," Trump said. "We need oil for the world, and this is diesel, which is what we need. So, we're very happy to get it. We're very happy to get it. Look, we need it," he added. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Moscow was expressing its "thanks" for a diesel deal as fresh Russian strikes killed 16 people, authorities said. Despite pushback from European leaders on easing pressure on Russia, Trump said that Ukraine need to replace Volodymyr Zelensky with a new leader to end the war. He said that Zelensky can "do what you want" against Russia, but "don't hit refineries." Kirill Dmitriev, the Kremlin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said that Trump's remark was "iconic and historic".

Putin has relayed Iran’s proposal to end the US-Iran war to Trump, while reiterating Moscow’s offer to take Iran’s highly enriched uranium to Russia.

Putin conveys Iran’s proposal to Trump, offers to take Tehran’s enriched uranium

Donald Trump once again left people wondering about his mental faculties during a meeting at the Oval Office on Wednesday (Oct 7). Not only did he struggle to stay awake in the midst of journalists and his administrative team, but he also said something so bizarre that left everyone watching wondering if he was seriously saying the words. His latest gaffe comes at a time when he again pitched himself for the Nobel Peace Prize, after repeatedly asking for it last year. Critics have dubbed Trump "deranged" for his bizarre antics, with California Governor Gavin Newsom recently saying he is "mentally ill."&nbsp;The 80-year-old was practically snoozing at the Oval meeting as venture capitalist Brad Gerstner praised his “Trump Accounts” for American children in front of the press. And when he was shaken out of his slumber by a journalist with a question on the plague scare in Russia, the American president blurted out the most unexpected thing.<h2>Trump remembers Putin's birthday when asked about the plague</h2>When asked whether he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the possible plague outbreak in Siberia, he said, "Today is his birthday. Today is Vladimir Putin’s birthday; I’m sure you’re gonna celebrate it." Trump's words caught everyone in the room by surprise.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-should-win-it-trump-renews-nobel-peace-prize-claim-ahead-of-2026-announcement-1791424780096">'I should win it': Trump renews Nobel Peace Prize claim ahead of 2026 announcement</a>&nbsp;Trump said that he had a call set up, and asked the journalist, "Are you gonna celebrate his birthday? No, I have a call set up." That the president chose to bring up Putin's birthday and the accompanying celebrations at a time when the country is in the midst of a major health scare is another example of his badly placed priorities.&nbsp;His response that he had a call set up also left many wondering whether the plan is to extend best wishes on his birthday or discuss the grave matter of plague. Going by the things he has done and said in the past, either case could be true.<h2>Trump renews calls for Nobel Peace Prize</h2>&nbsp;At the same gathering, Trump again talked about his longstanding desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. "I’ve done stuff that nobody else has ever done. I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you the facts. No president has probably ever settled any wars. I settled eight wars," Trump told reporters. He added that he is working to settle another war, adding that no other president had done it before.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-approval-ratings-hit-new-low-republican-party-faces-voter-backlash-gravitas-1791392724668/embed&nbsp;"They have a reputation for maybe not giving it to people like me. But, whether I get it or not, I have done far more. And I think it would be a great discredit to them. And I’m not saying that out of scorn; I’m saying that when you settle eight wars, and nobody’s never," he said.<h2>Questions on Trump's physical and mental health</h2>The 80-year-old has had countless such moments in this tenure as president, with snoozing during meetings on top of the list. Just last week, he fell asleep after announcing a new steel plant in Iowa. He has been seen with his eyes shut on several occasions. His mental health has been under the scanner as he continues to say the strangest things and make claims without any proof.<h2>Trump's strange statements&nbsp;</h2>He shocked the world when he threatened Iran, saying that "a whole civilisation will die tonight." Concerned politicians called to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. On Monday, at a rally in Nebraska, Trump said, "Let Iran take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay." A flabbergasted Newsom said, "Donald Trump is mentally ill. TIME FOR THE 25TH!"&nbsp;He has also repeatedly claimed that he won the presidential elections thrice - 2016, 2020 and 2024 - as he continues to push his belief that he was burgled of a win in the 2020 elections. Trump has also said quite a few times that he wants to run for president again, even though the American Constitution limits it to two terms.<h2>Trump's bizarre ‘vegan’ rant at Texas rally</h2>&nbsp;At a Texas rally on Wednesday, Trump went on a bizarre tirade, telling the crowd that Melania calls him "sir" when correcting his pronunciation of the word "vegan." Trump recalled, "You know, my wife told me 'sir, you have to do me a favor — it's not vay-gan, it's vee-gan.'" He also attacked Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton's Democratic opponent, James Talarico, alleging he pretends to eat meat for political reasons in Texas, but is secretly vegan.&nbsp;"Now he says he loves meat, but he's a vegan — see, Melania? I got that right. He's a vegan. He wants to eat a piece of lettuce, a little piece of lettuce, please."&nbsp;Such strange and sudden tirades have become common for the American president who goes off the tracks every other day.

Donald Trump wants the Nobel Peace Prize, but he thinks Putin's birthday is more important than the supposed plague situation in Russia. He is also fine with Iran taking out “two US cities”, and yet he believes he is fit to become president a third time.

Donald Trump once again left people wondering about his mental faculties during a meeting at the Oval Office on Wednesday (Oct 7). Not only did he struggle to stay awake in the midst of journalists and his administrative team, but he also said something so bizarre that left everyone watching wondering if he was seriously saying the words. His latest gaffe comes at a time when he again pitched himself for the Nobel Peace Prize, after repeatedly asking for it last year. Critics have dubbed Trump "deranged" for his bizarre antics, with California Governor Gavin Newsom recently saying he is "mentally ill." The 80-year-old was practically snoozing at the Oval meeting as venture capitalist Brad Gerstner praised his “Trump Accounts” for American children in front of the press. And when he was shaken out of his slumber by a journalist with a question on the plague scare in Russia, the American president blurted out the most unexpected thing. Trump remembers Putin's birthday when asked about the plague When asked whether he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the possible plague outbreak in Siberia, he said, "Today is his birthday. Today is Vladimir Putin’s birthday; I’m sure you’re gonna celebrate it." Trump's words caught everyone in the room by surprise. Also Read: 'I should win it': Trump renews Nobel Peace Prize claim ahead of 2026 announcement Trump said that he had a call set up, and asked the journalist, "Are you gonna celebrate his birthday? No, I have a call set up." That the president chose to bring up Putin's birthday and the accompanying celebrations at a time when the country is in the midst of a major health scare is another example of his badly placed priorities. His response that he had a call set up also left many wondering whether the plan is to extend best wishes on his birthday or discuss the grave matter of plague. Going by the things he has done and said in the past, either case could be true. Trump renews calls for Nobel Peace Prize At the same gathering, Trump again talked about his longstanding desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. "I’ve done stuff that nobody else has ever done. I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you the facts. No president has probably ever settled any wars. I settled eight wars," Trump told reporters. He added that he is working to settle another war, adding that no other president had done it before. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-approval-ratings-hit-new-low-republican-party-faces-voter-backlash-gravitas-1791392724668/embed "They have a reputation for maybe not giving it to people like me. But, whether I get it or not, I have done far more. And I think it would be a great discredit to them. And I’m not saying that out of scorn; I’m saying that when you settle eight wars, and nobody’s never," he said. Questions on Trump's physical and mental health The 80-year-old has had countless such moments in this tenure as president, with snoozing during meetings on top of the list. Just last week, he fell asleep after announcing a new steel plant in Iowa. He has been seen with his eyes shut on several occasions. His mental health has been under the scanner as he continues to say the strangest things and make claims without any proof. Trump's strange statements He shocked the world when he threatened Iran, saying that "a whole civilisation will die tonight." Concerned politicians called to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. On Monday, at a rally in Nebraska, Trump said, "Let Iran take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay." A flabbergasted Newsom said, "Donald Trump is mentally ill. TIME FOR THE 25TH!" He has also repeatedly claimed that he won the presidential elections thrice - 2016, 2020 and 2024 - as he continues to push his belief that he was burgled of a win in the 2020 elections. Trump has also said quite a few times that he wants to run for president again, even though the American Constitution limits it to two terms. Trump's bizarre ‘vegan’ rant at Texas rally At a Texas rally on Wednesday, Trump went on a bizarre tirade, telling the crowd that Melania calls him "sir" when correcting his pronunciation of the word "vegan." Trump recalled, "You know, my wife told me 'sir, you have to do me a favor — it's not vay-gan, it's vee-gan.'" He also attacked Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton's Democratic opponent, James Talarico, alleging he pretends to eat meat for political reasons in Texas, but is secretly vegan. "Now he says he loves meat, but he's a vegan — see, Melania? I got that right. He's a vegan. He wants to eat a piece of lettuce, a little piece of lettuce, please." Such strange and sudden tirades have become common for the American president who goes off the tracks every other day.

Donald Trump wants the Nobel Peace Prize, but he thinks Putin's birthday is more important than the supposed plague situation in Russia. He is also fine with Iran taking out “two US cities”, and yet he believes he is fit to become president a third time.

From Putin’s birthday to nuking LA: Trump’s latest bizarre ramblings fuel fresh mental health fears

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged his “invariable support” for Russian President Vladimir Putin and described Moscow’s war against Ukraine as a “sacred war of justice”, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Wednesday (Oct 07). Kim made the remarks in a birthday letter to Putin, in which he also vowed to strengthen ties between North Korea and Russia. The letter underlines the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries, which has expanded significantly since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.<h2>Kim hails Russia’s ‘sacred war’</h2>According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim said he was pleased to have a “good friendship” with Putin and expressed a desire to “open up a new chapter” in bilateral relations. “I reaffirm my invariable support for you and the Russian Federation,” Kim said, according to KCNA.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-left-faeces-in-finnish-mp-s-toilet-bizarre-home-intrusions-spark-intimidation-fears-1791258344095">'Russian spies,' faeces and Finnish MPs? Bizarre home intrusions spark intimidation fears</a> He added that he was “firmly convinced that the Russian people's sacred war of justice” would end in victory.Kim also described the strengthening of the Russia-North Korea partnership as a steadfast policy of his government. The two countries signed a mutual defence pact in June 2024, providing the framework for expanded military cooperation.<h2>North Korean troops in Russia</h2>North Korea has emerged as an important military partner for Moscow during the Ukraine war. Western and South Korean officials estimate that Pyongyang has sent around 14,000 to 15,000 troops to support Russian forces since late 2024.South Korea's National Intelligence Service estimated in February 2026 that around 6,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in combat. A UK assessment similarly estimated that North Korean forces had suffered more than 6,000 casualties in fighting in Russia's Kursk region.In return for its military assistance, Pyongyang is believed to have received economic support and military technology from Moscow, according to South Korean intelligence assessments.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-plotting-something-bad-russia-may-launch-accidental-strikes-on-nato-countries-supporting-ukraine-britain-poland-pm-warns-1789697149962">Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns</a><h2>Seoul-Kyiv ties face new strain</h2>Kim's message comes as relations between South Korea and Ukraine have become strained over the public disclosure of two captured North Korean soldiers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that the two prisoners had been transferred to South Korea, prompting Seoul to protest the disclosure. South Korean officials said the transfer had been intended to remain confidential, while Kyiv has denied that there was a prior confidentiality agreement.South Korea has provided humanitarian and other non-lethal assistance to Ukraine but has maintained restrictions on supplying lethal weapons to countries engaged in war. Zelensky has also warned that Russia could receive additional North Korean troops. Recent South Korean assessments have indicated continued preparations in North Korea for possible further deployments.&nbsp; &nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged “invariable support” for Vladimir Putin and called Russia’s war in Ukraine a “sacred war of justice”. Here's what he said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged his “invariable support” for Russian President Vladimir Putin and described Moscow’s war against Ukraine as a “sacred war of justice”, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Wednesday (Oct 07). Kim made the remarks in a birthday letter to Putin, in which he also vowed to strengthen ties between North Korea and Russia. The letter underlines the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries, which has expanded significantly since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Kim hails Russia’s ‘sacred war’ According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim said he was pleased to have a “good friendship” with Putin and expressed a desire to “open up a new chapter” in bilateral relations. “I reaffirm my invariable support for you and the Russian Federation,” Kim said, according to KCNA. Also read | 'Russian spies,' faeces and Finnish MPs? Bizarre home intrusions spark intimidation fears He added that he was “firmly convinced that the Russian people's sacred war of justice” would end in victory. Kim also described the strengthening of the Russia-North Korea partnership as a steadfast policy of his government. The two countries signed a mutual defence pact in June 2024, providing the framework for expanded military cooperation. North Korean troops in Russia North Korea has emerged as an important military partner for Moscow during the Ukraine war. Western and South Korean officials estimate that Pyongyang has sent around 14,000 to 15,000 troops to support Russian forces since late 2024. South Korea's National Intelligence Service estimated in February 2026 that around 6,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in combat. A UK assessment similarly estimated that North Korean forces had suffered more than 6,000 casualties in fighting in Russia's Kursk region. In return for its military assistance, Pyongyang is believed to have received economic support and military technology from Moscow, according to South Korean intelligence assessments. Also read | Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns Seoul-Kyiv ties face new strain Kim's message comes as relations between South Korea and Ukraine have become strained over the public disclosure of two captured North Korean soldiers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that the two prisoners had been transferred to South Korea, prompting Seoul to protest the disclosure. South Korean officials said the transfer had been intended to remain confidential, while Kyiv has denied that there was a prior confidentiality agreement. South Korea has provided humanitarian and other non-lethal assistance to Ukraine but has maintained restrictions on supplying lethal weapons to countries engaged in war. Zelensky has also warned that Russia could receive additional North Korean troops. Recent South Korean assessments have indicated continued preparations in North Korea for possible further deployments.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged “invariable support” for Vladimir Putin and called Russia’s war in Ukraine a “sacred war of justice”. Here's what he said.

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un pledges ‘invariable support’ for Putin in birthday letter, calls Russia’s war against Ukraine ‘sacred’

Russia is facing what may sound like a bizarre accusation: sending its secret agents to defecate in the lavatories of Finnish MPs. Why, you may ask? As an intimidation tactic, purportedly in response to Russia's anger over Finland joining NATO. Finnish authorities are now investigating a series of suspected intrusions at the homes of members of parliament. This comes amid accusations that Russia could be staging an intimidation campaign targeting lawmakers.The unusual allegations gained attention after reports that as many as 20 MPs had discovered signs that someone had entered their homes. One lawmaker reportedly found faeces in a toilet. Notably, Finnish police have not identified those responsible or established a motive. Helsinki police and the National Bureau of Investigation are conducting a preliminary inquiry, which officials say is still at an early stage.Ben Zyskowicz, a senior MP from the ruling National Coalition Party, suggested the incidents could be intended to send a message to politicians. “It’s a way for the Russian intelligence service to show that people are being monitored, a way to create confusion or concerns,” he said, according to The Telegraph.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-dwight-d-eisenhower-returns-to-port-for-aircraft-systems-assessment-after-growler-mishap-1791252806297">USS Dwight D. Eisenhower returns to port for aircraft systems assessment after Growler mishap</a><h2>No theft, but signs allegedly left behind</h2>Parliamentary Speaker Jussi Halla-aho said a “significant” number of suspected intrusions had been reported. The incidents are believed to have occurred over a longer period, with some dating back about a year.There were reportedly no clear signs of forced entry, and nothing appeared to have been stolen or damaged. Instead, MPs noticed small changes or objects in their homes that suggested someone may have entered while they were away. Halla-aho said such signs might have been deliberately left behind.Finnish authorities have urged MPs to remain alert and report suspicious activity. The Finnish Parliament has also begun working with Helsinki police and the National Bureau of Investigation to establish the scale and nature of the incidents. Parliament's deputy speaker Paula Risikko said authorities should determine who was responsible rather than speculate.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-plotting-something-bad-russia-may-launch-accidental-strikes-on-nato-countries-supporting-ukraine-britain-poland-pm-warns-1789697149962">Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns</a><h2>Cold-war era tactic back in focus</h2>Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has said it is possible that a foreign power could be responsible for the suspected intrusions. While there is currently no official finding linking Russia to the incidents, the alleged use of unexplained disturbances inside private homes has echoes of Cold War-era intelligence tactics. Such operations were designed not necessarily to steal information, but to make targets aware that their private spaces could be penetrated.In a method the US State Department has previously described as “home intrusions”, Russian and Soviet intelligence services have allegedly used similar intimidation techniques against diplomats, journalists and other targets, including moving personal belongings or leaving doors and windows open.&nbsp;<h2>Finnish officials warn of threat to democracy</h2>President Alexander Stubb has backed the lawmakers targeted by the suspected intrusions. “An attack on a member of parliament is an attack on democracy,” Stubb said, adding that such conduct should not be accepted.With parliamentary elections approaching in Finland, the incidents have heightened concerns about possible foreign interference or intimidation. Police, however, have stressed that the investigation is at an early stage and that the perpetrator and motive remain unknown.&nbsp;

Finnish MPs are reporting a series of mysterious intrusions at their homes, with one lawmaker reportedly finding faeces in a toilet. Russia has been suspected of orchestrating the incidents. But why would Moscow do this? All you need to know.

Russia is facing what may sound like a bizarre accusation: sending its secret agents to defecate in the lavatories of Finnish MPs. Why, you may ask? As an intimidation tactic, purportedly in response to Russia's anger over Finland joining NATO. Finnish authorities are now investigating a series of suspected intrusions at the homes of members of parliament. This comes amid accusations that Russia could be staging an intimidation campaign targeting lawmakers. The unusual allegations gained attention after reports that as many as 20 MPs had discovered signs that someone had entered their homes. One lawmaker reportedly found faeces in a toilet. Notably, Finnish police have not identified those responsible or established a motive. Helsinki police and the National Bureau of Investigation are conducting a preliminary inquiry, which officials say is still at an early stage. Ben Zyskowicz, a senior MP from the ruling National Coalition Party, suggested the incidents could be intended to send a message to politicians. “It’s a way for the Russian intelligence service to show that people are being monitored, a way to create confusion or concerns,” he said, according to The Telegraph. Also read | USS Dwight D. Eisenhower returns to port for aircraft systems assessment after Growler mishap No theft, but signs allegedly left behind Parliamentary Speaker Jussi Halla-aho said a “significant” number of suspected intrusions had been reported. The incidents are believed to have occurred over a longer period, with some dating back about a year. There were reportedly no clear signs of forced entry, and nothing appeared to have been stolen or damaged. Instead, MPs noticed small changes or objects in their homes that suggested someone may have entered while they were away. Halla-aho said such signs might have been deliberately left behind. Finnish authorities have urged MPs to remain alert and report suspicious activity. The Finnish Parliament has also begun working with Helsinki police and the National Bureau of Investigation to establish the scale and nature of the incidents. Parliament's deputy speaker Paula Risikko said authorities should determine who was responsible rather than speculate. Also read | Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns Cold-war era tactic back in focus Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has said it is possible that a foreign power could be responsible for the suspected intrusions. While there is currently no official finding linking Russia to the incidents, the alleged use of unexplained disturbances inside private homes has echoes of Cold War-era intelligence tactics. Such operations were designed not necessarily to steal information, but to make targets aware that their private spaces could be penetrated. In a method the US State Department has previously described as “home intrusions”, Russian and Soviet intelligence services have allegedly used similar intimidation techniques against diplomats, journalists and other targets, including moving personal belongings or leaving doors and windows open. Finnish officials warn of threat to democracy President Alexander Stubb has backed the lawmakers targeted by the suspected intrusions. “An attack on a member of parliament is an attack on democracy,” Stubb said, adding that such conduct should not be accepted. With parliamentary elections approaching in Finland, the incidents have heightened concerns about possible foreign interference or intimidation. Police, however, have stressed that the investigation is at an early stage and that the perpetrator and motive remain unknown.

Finnish MPs are reporting a series of mysterious intrusions at their homes, with one lawmaker reportedly finding faeces in a toilet. Russia has been suspected of orchestrating the incidents. But why would Moscow do this? All you need to know.

'Russian spies,' faeces and Finnish MPs? Bizarre home intrusions spark intimidation fears

Moscow has stepped up its aerial attacks on Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia oflaunching over 100 drones, most of which were jet-powered drones at multiple cities across Ukraine overnight. This was followed by a massive retaliation by Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian president, Russia targeted a kindergarten in Kherson, a grocery store in Kharkiv and apartment buildings in Kramatorsk and Sumy. He added that four people wereinjured in this overnight attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, one person was killed in Kyiv when a Russian drone struck the 24th and 25th floors of a residential building. As a result, fire broke out in the premises. Listen in to what a resident of this damaged building had to say. In wake of the Russian drone attacks, two of Kyiv's major bridges were shut, leading to massive traffic snarls. Amid this, the Ukrainian capital's mayor stressed that Russian strikes are tearing Kyiv apart. On its part, Ukraine claimed to havestruck oil refineries, airfields, industrial facilities, a missile and space centre as well as ammunition depot in Russia over the last 24 hours.&nbsp;Multiple regions of Russia including Samara, Voronezh and Krasnodar faced the brunt of Ukraine's retaliation. Now, even as drones have been the go-to weapon in this war, both sides have also been developing and using a range of indigenous missiles to extend their strike options. In a key development, Zelensky announced that Ukraine deployed its domestically developed FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for the first time.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladimir-putin-threatens-to-unleash-entire-russian-arsenal-if-europe-attacks-kaliningrad-1790960720388/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladimir-putin-threatens-to-unleash-entire-russian-arsenal-if-europe-attacks-kaliningrad-1790960720388/embed</a>&nbsp;However, he didn't provide details about when or where the missile was used. Now, why is this so significant? This missile is very hard to stop because it travels at a speed of over five thousand kilometres per hour, giving air defence systems very less time to react. Designed by Firepoint, it can engage targets at up to 250 kilometres away. As this missile is launched from a ground-based platform, it provides strategic flexibility and can cater to various operational scenarios. According to the manufacturer, this ballistic interceptor has been developed as a cheaper alternative toAmerica's army tactical missile system.&nbsp;Ukraine is also developing a FP-9 missile with a range of up to 850 kilometres, which is likely to be ready by year-end.It is worth noting that Firefront launched the long-range fpFP5 flamingo missile last year. This cruise missile system has been designed to strike ground targets at a three thousand kilometre range. It also stands out due to its low cost,ease of use and the fact that, it can be disguised as an ordinary truck during transport.&nbsp;In another boost for Ukraine, UK agreed to provide classified information to enable domestic production of the long-range storm shadow missile. This supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by France and Britain, offers a precision deep strike ability, due to its advanced navigation system. Its targets include bunkers and key infrastructure. Amid this, an unusual shoulder-fired surface-to-air missile in Russia has garnered attention.&nbsp;This man-portable air defence system or manpads which was seen on Russian state television, does not resemble any domestically-made weapon. While Russian personnel reportedly referred to it, as via, the weapon's origin and model remains a mystery. According to some experts, it resembles an Iranian Misagh-3 and Chinese QW-series system. Others feel that it may be a Russian-produced version of an Iranian or Chinese design.&nbsp;Manpads are crucial as they can be dispersed among small teams, rapidly repositioned and deployed without the large infrastructure associated with conventional surface-to-air missile batteries. Now, missile warfare has been a key part of Russia's offensive against Ukraine. In July alone, Russia reportedly launched 376 missiles at Ukraine, more than twiceThe number fired in June.&nbsp;If we look at Russia's indigenous missile arsenal used during the Ukraine war, the Zircon anti-ship cruise missile has played a key role owing to its speed, and plasma cloud which allows it to remain undetected. Another key missile is Iskander, that can execute unpredictable evasive maneuvers in terminal descent. This is not all. Russia has also used its Oreshnik missile, which has a range of over five thousand kilometres.&nbsp;It has the ability to fire nuclear weapons. The air-launched Kinzhal hypersonic missile is another vital weapon in its arsenal. With Russian President Vladimir Putin ruling out a ceasefire on long-range strikes on Ukraine, it is apparent that the battlefield action is unlikely to stop anytime soon.

According to the Ukrainian president, Russia targeted a kindergarten in Kherson, a grocery store in Kharkiv and apartment buildings in Kramatorsk and Sumy. He added that four people were injured in this overnight attack. 

Moscow has stepped up its aerial attacks on Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of launching over 100 drones, most of which were jet-powered drones at multiple cities across Ukraine overnight. This was followed by a massive retaliation by Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian president, Russia targeted a kindergarten in Kherson, a grocery store in Kharkiv and apartment buildings in Kramatorsk and Sumy. He added that four people were injured in this overnight attack. Additionally, one person was killed in Kyiv when a Russian drone struck the 24th and 25th floors of a residential building. As a result, fire broke out in the premises. Listen in to what a resident of this damaged building had to say. In wake of the Russian drone attacks, two of Kyiv's major bridges were shut, leading to massive traffic snarls. Amid this, the Ukrainian capital's mayor stressed that Russian strikes are tearing Kyiv apart. On its part, Ukraine claimed to have struck oil refineries, airfields, industrial facilities, a missile and space centre as well as ammunition depot in Russia over the last 24 hours. Multiple regions of Russia including Samara, Voronezh and Krasnodar faced the brunt of Ukraine's retaliation. Now, even as drones have been the go-to weapon in this war, both sides have also been developing and using a range of indigenous missiles to extend their strike options. In a key development, Zelensky announced that Ukraine deployed its domestically developed FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for the first time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladimir-putin-threatens-to-unleash-entire-russian-arsenal-if-europe-attacks-kaliningrad-1790960720388/embed However, he didn't provide details about when or where the missile was used. Now, why is this so significant? This missile is very hard to stop because it travels at a speed of over five thousand kilometres per hour, giving air defence systems very less time to react. Designed by Firepoint, it can engage targets at up to 250 kilometres away. As this missile is launched from a ground-based platform, it provides strategic flexibility and can cater to various operational scenarios. According to the manufacturer, this ballistic interceptor has been developed as a cheaper alternative to America's army tactical missile system. Ukraine is also developing a FP-9 missile with a range of up to 850 kilometres, which is likely to be ready by year-end. It is worth noting that Firefront launched the long-range fpFP5 flamingo missile last year. This cruise missile system has been designed to strike ground targets at a three thousand kilometre range. It also stands out due to its low cost, ease of use and the fact that, it can be disguised as an ordinary truck during transport. In another boost for Ukraine, UK agreed to provide classified information to enable domestic production of the long-range storm shadow missile. This supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by France and Britain, offers a precision deep strike ability, due to its advanced navigation system. Its targets include bunkers and key infrastructure. Amid this, an unusual shoulder-fired surface-to-air missile in Russia has garnered attention. This man-portable air defence system or manpads which was seen on Russian state television, does not resemble any domestically-made weapon. While Russian personnel reportedly referred to it, as via, the weapon's origin and model remains a mystery. According to some experts, it resembles an Iranian Misagh-3 and Chinese QW-series system. Others feel that it may be a Russian-produced version of an Iranian or Chinese design. Manpads are crucial as they can be dispersed among small teams, rapidly repositioned and deployed without the large infrastructure associated with conventional surface-to-air missile batteries. Now, missile warfare has been a key part of Russia's offensive against Ukraine. In July alone, Russia reportedly launched 376 missiles at Ukraine, more than twice The number fired in June. If we look at Russia's indigenous missile arsenal used during the Ukraine war, the Zircon anti-ship cruise missile has played a key role owing to its speed, and plasma cloud which allows it to remain undetected. Another key missile is Iskander, that can execute unpredictable evasive maneuvers in terminal descent. This is not all. Russia has also used its Oreshnik missile, which has a range of over five thousand kilometres. It has the ability to fire nuclear weapons. The air-launched Kinzhal hypersonic missile is another vital weapon in its arsenal. With Russian President Vladimir Putin ruling out a ceasefire on long-range strikes on Ukraine, it is apparent that the battlefield action is unlikely to stop anytime soon.

According to the Ukrainian president, Russia targeted a kindergarten in Kherson, a grocery store in Kharkiv and apartment buildings in Kramatorsk and Sumy. He added that four people were injured in this overnight attack.&nbsp;

Ukraine fires hard-to-stop ballistic missile as Russia unleashes mystery missile | Gravitas

President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party won after securing 355 seats in Russia's 450-seat Duma, the lower house of parliament. Electoral chief Ella Pamfilova has released the preliminary results of the election on Monday (September 21). With counting nearly complete after the three-day election, in which no parties critical of Putin took part, results indicated that the presidential party would secure a supermajority even larger than the one it achieved in 2016.&nbsp;According to the ​Central Election Commission, the United Russia party won 57.83 per cent of the vote, a sharp rise from 49.8 per cent, which it ‌won ⁠in 2021, the last time an election for the State Duma, the lower ​house ​of parliament, ⁠was held. Based on the result, the party is set to hold 355 seats of ​the ⁠450-seat Duma, allowing it to retain its ⁠constitutional ​majority, the commission ​noted.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-to-pay-state-visit-to-us-from-september-23-25-chinese-foreign-ministry-1789985928318">Xi Jinping to pay state visit to US from September 23-25: Chinese Foreign Ministry</a><h3>Other parties clear threshold to enter parliament</h3>Four other parties also crossed the threshold needed to enter parliament: the Communist Party, which won 40 seats; the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party (LDPR), with 25; New People, with 20; and A Just Russia, with four. United Russia has held a dominant position in Russian politics since the early 2000s, coinciding with Putin's hold on power since taking office on New Year's Eve 1999. Pamfilova said more than 95 per cent of votes had been counted so far, with final results expected to be announced later this week. Voting also extended to Ukrainian territories that Russia has occupied and annexed. On the final day of polling, Ukraine launched a series of drone strikes on Moscow and its surrounding region, killing two people and igniting a fire at an oil refinery, officials said.&nbsp;Russia vowed to "intensify" its strikes on Kyiv in response. Meanwhile, the defence ministry accused Ukraine of attempting to "disrupt the democratic will of Russian citizens".

With counting nearly complete after the three-day election, in which no parties critical of Putin took part, results indicated that the presidential party would secure a supermajority even larger than the one it achieved in 2016.

President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party won after securing 355 seats in Russia's 450-seat Duma, the lower house of parliament. Electoral chief Ella Pamfilova has released the preliminary results of the election on Monday (September 21). With counting nearly complete after the three-day election, in which no parties critical of Putin took part, results indicated that the presidential party would secure a supermajority even larger than the one it achieved in 2016. According to the Central Election Commission, the United Russia party won 57.83 per cent of the vote, a sharp rise from 49.8 per cent, which it ‌won ⁠in 2021, the last time an election for the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, ⁠was held. Based on the result, the party is set to hold 355 seats of the ⁠450-seat Duma, allowing it to retain its ⁠constitutional majority, the commission noted. Also read: Xi Jinping to pay state visit to US from September 23-25: Chinese Foreign Ministry Other parties clear threshold to enter parliament Four other parties also crossed the threshold needed to enter parliament: the Communist Party, which won 40 seats; the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party (LDPR), with 25; New People, with 20; and A Just Russia, with four. United Russia has held a dominant position in Russian politics since the early 2000s, coinciding with Putin's hold on power since taking office on New Year's Eve 1999. Pamfilova said more than 95 per cent of votes had been counted so far, with final results expected to be announced later this week. Voting also extended to Ukrainian territories that Russia has occupied and annexed. On the final day of polling, Ukraine launched a series of drone strikes on Moscow and its surrounding region, killing two people and igniting a fire at an oil refinery, officials said. Russia vowed to "intensify" its strikes on Kyiv in response. Meanwhile, the defence ministry accused Ukraine of attempting to "disrupt the democratic will of Russian citizens".

With counting nearly complete after the three-day election, in which no parties critical of Putin took part, results indicated that the presidential party would secure a supermajority even larger than the one it achieved in 2016.

Putin's United Russia party wins 355 seats in Duma election; 4 other parties cross threshold to enter parliament

Russia began voting on Friday (Sep 18) in a parliamentary election that is expected to further cement President Vladimir Putin’s grip on the country’s political system. The three-day election will decide all 450 seats in the State Duma, while voters in 11 regions elect governors and 39 choose regional lawmakers. About 111 million people are eligible to vote, with electronic voting available in several areas.The election is the first parliamentary vote since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Voting is also taking place in Crimea and four Ukrainian regions that Moscow claims to have annexed, a move Kyiv has condemned and urged governments not to recognise.<h2>United Russia set to dominate</h2>United Russia, the Kremlin’s main political vehicle, controls more than two-thirds of the Duma after its 2021 victory and is expected to retain its dominance.Its candidate list includes Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. War correspondent Yevgeny Poddubny is also among its leading candidates.The party backs Putin’s war objectives, although Sobyanin has opposed calls for wider mobilisation. “To destroy a normal economy is to destroy the country altogether,” he said.<h2>Communists and LDPR back the war</h2>The Communist Party remains a major parliamentary force under longtime leader Gennady Zyuganov. While it has criticised some government policies, it has avoided challenging Putin and supports the war.“We strictly adhere to President Putin’s directives,” Zyuganov said last month.The nationalist Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, now led by Leonid Slutsky following founder Vladimir Zhirinovsky’s death, also strongly supports the war. Its candidates include former US prisoner Viktor Bout.<h2>Smaller parties fill out the ballot</h2>A Just Russia, the New People Party, Communists of Russia, the Party of Pensioners, the Greens, the Party of Direct Democracy and Motherland are also contesting seats.The liberal Yabloko Party, Russia’s only registered party opposing the war, was removed from the party-list race by the Supreme Court in August. It can still field candidates in single-seat constituencies.The exclusion has left voters with limited organised opposition to the Kremlin’s policies.

Russia’s parliamentary election is expected to preserve United Russia’s dominance, with Communist, LDPR and smaller parties also contesting. Anti-war Yabloko was removed from the party-list race.

Russia began voting on Friday (Sep 18) in a parliamentary election that is expected to further cement President Vladimir Putin’s grip on the country’s political system. The three-day election will decide all 450 seats in the State Duma, while voters in 11 regions elect governors and 39 choose regional lawmakers. About 111 million people are eligible to vote, with electronic voting available in several areas. The election is the first parliamentary vote since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Voting is also taking place in Crimea and four Ukrainian regions that Moscow claims to have annexed, a move Kyiv has condemned and urged governments not to recognise. United Russia set to dominate United Russia, the Kremlin’s main political vehicle, controls more than two-thirds of the Duma after its 2021 victory and is expected to retain its dominance. Its candidate list includes Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. War correspondent Yevgeny Poddubny is also among its leading candidates. The party backs Putin’s war objectives, although Sobyanin has opposed calls for wider mobilisation. “To destroy a normal economy is to destroy the country altogether,” he said. Communists and LDPR back the war The Communist Party remains a major parliamentary force under longtime leader Gennady Zyuganov. While it has criticised some government policies, it has avoided challenging Putin and supports the war. “We strictly adhere to President Putin’s directives,” Zyuganov said last month. The nationalist Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, now led by Leonid Slutsky following founder Vladimir Zhirinovsky’s death, also strongly supports the war. Its candidates include former US prisoner Viktor Bout. Smaller parties fill out the ballot A Just Russia, the New People Party, Communists of Russia, the Party of Pensioners, the Greens, the Party of Direct Democracy and Motherland are also contesting seats. The liberal Yabloko Party, Russia’s only registered party opposing the war, was removed from the party-list race by the Supreme Court in August. It can still field candidates in single-seat constituencies. The exclusion has left voters with limited organised opposition to the Kremlin’s policies.

Russia’s parliamentary election is expected to preserve United Russia’s dominance, with Communist, LDPR and smaller parties also contesting. Anti-war Yabloko was removed from the party-list race.

Russia votes amid Ukraine war: Which are the main parties on the ballot?

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could carry out drone or missile strikes against countries supporting Ukraine, with Moscow potentially portraying the attacks as "accidents" to test NATO’s willingness to respond.Speaking in the Polish parliament on Thursday (Sep 17), Tusk said intelligence assessments pointing to such a scenario were “very consistent and convincing”. Tusk alleged that Britain, a key ally of Ukraine, could be one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's intended targets.He urged Poland to prepare for a range of possibilities as Russia continues its war in Ukraine. “There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident,” Tusk said.Tusk argued that such incidents could be designed by an increasingly desperate Putin as a way to weaken support for Ukraine and create divisions within NATO over whether an attack had taken place deliberately.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-us-russia-sanctions-bill-100-tariff-threat-committed-to-energy-security-for-1-4-billion-1789619754941">India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion</a><h2>Tusk warns of a test for NATO</h2>According to Tusk, Russia could use repeated incidents to undermine confidence in NATO’s collective defence commitments and make member states reluctant to invoke the alliance’s provisions.He warned that the coming autumn and winter could be a particularly critical phase of the war, with Russia expected to intensify attacks on Ukraine while testing the resolve of its Western supporters."We know he is plotting something bad. However, for us the most important task is to prepare for various scenarios," said Tusk, adding, "We will certainly not naively accept such messages that Russia has goodwill and will start behaving properly. There is no indication of this."The warning came after a fresh Russian aerial assault on western Ukraine near Poland’s border. Poland scrambled fighter jets and temporarily closed airports in response to the attack, although Warsaw said there was no confirmed breach of its airspace.The use of faster, jet-powered drones has added to concerns among Ukraine’s allies because they leave air-defence systems less time to detect and engage incoming weapons. These have also led to calls for Britain and other allies to shoot down the jets before they could reach NATO airspace.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a>"There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident," warned the Polish PM.<h2>Poland steps up air patrols</h2>Poland has already increased military activity along its eastern frontier. Its air force has been conducting more F-16 patrols and helicopter operations, while Warsaw has pre-authorised its forces to shoot down any Russian aircraft that enter Polish airspace.Tusk’s comments follow a series of incidents involving Russian drones and other military activity close to NATO territory. Earlier this month, Poland reported concerns over possible Russian activity near border infrastructure, while similar incidents have been reported around other Ukrainian border areas.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has alleged that intelligence assessments point to a possible Russian strategy involving drones or missiles hitting countries that support Ukraine. These attacks, he said, would be portrayed by Moscow as an “accident” to test NATO’s response.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could carry out drone or missile strikes against countries supporting Ukraine, with Moscow potentially portraying the attacks as "accidents" to test NATO’s willingness to respond. Speaking in the Polish parliament on Thursday (Sep 17), Tusk said intelligence assessments pointing to such a scenario were “very consistent and convincing”. Tusk alleged that Britain, a key ally of Ukraine, could be one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's intended targets. He urged Poland to prepare for a range of possibilities as Russia continues its war in Ukraine. “There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident,” Tusk said. Tusk argued that such incidents could be designed by an increasingly desperate Putin as a way to weaken support for Ukraine and create divisions within NATO over whether an attack had taken place deliberately. Also read | India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion Tusk warns of a test for NATO According to Tusk, Russia could use repeated incidents to undermine confidence in NATO’s collective defence commitments and make member states reluctant to invoke the alliance’s provisions. He warned that the coming autumn and winter could be a particularly critical phase of the war, with Russia expected to intensify attacks on Ukraine while testing the resolve of its Western supporters. "We know he is plotting something bad. However, for us the most important task is to prepare for various scenarios," said Tusk, adding, "We will certainly not naively accept such messages that Russia has goodwill and will start behaving properly. There is no indication of this." The warning came after a fresh Russian aerial assault on western Ukraine near Poland’s border. Poland scrambled fighter jets and temporarily closed airports in response to the attack, although Warsaw said there was no confirmed breach of its airspace. The use of faster, jet-powered drones has added to concerns among Ukraine’s allies because they leave air-defence systems less time to detect and engage incoming weapons. These have also led to calls for Britain and other allies to shoot down the jets before they could reach NATO airspace. Also read | Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill "There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident," warned the Polish PM. Poland steps up air patrols Poland has already increased military activity along its eastern frontier. Its air force has been conducting more F-16 patrols and helicopter operations, while Warsaw has pre-authorised its forces to shoot down any Russian aircraft that enter Polish airspace. Tusk’s comments follow a series of incidents involving Russian drones and other military activity close to NATO territory. Earlier this month, Poland reported concerns over possible Russian activity near border infrastructure, while similar incidents have been reported around other Ukrainian border areas.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has alleged that intelligence assessments point to a possible Russian strategy involving drones or missiles hitting countries that support Ukraine. These attacks, he said, would be portrayed by Moscow as an “accident” to test NATO’s response.

Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns

Donald Trump Jr and his wife, Bettina, confirmed on Monday (Sep 15) that a Russian oligarch close to President Vladimir Putin partially paid for the couple’s wedding celebrations in May, prompting US President Donald Trump's family to issue statements distancing themselves from the matter. A report by ProPublica claimed that Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the wedding celebration in Bahmas. While Donald Trump Jr and his wife, Bettina have now confirmed the development, insisting that it was a “gift” from a friend, First Lady Melania said that she was not involved in wedding plans and did not know anything about Umar Kremlev's involvement.&nbsp;<h2>What is the matter?</h2>A ProPublica report published on Sep 14 revealed that Umar Kremlev, a Russian oligarch with close ties to Putin, paid the rent of one of the islands where a reception was held and where guests slept, along with other large expenses, including a huge firework show. The luxurious bash on a private island was attended by several Trump children, including Ivanka and her husband Jared, Eric and Lara, Tiffany and her husband Michael, and many grandchildren. But Trump and Melania skipped the party citing escalating Iran war.As the news came out, Robert Garcia, the ranking member and lead Democrat on the House oversight committee, asked: “Why did a Russian oligarch close to Putin fund Trump Jr.’s wedding in the Bahamas? Umar Kremlev spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the President’s son. What did he get in return? We need answers."<h2>Statement by Trump Jr and wife Bettina</h2>Trump Jr, the US president’s eldest child and his wife Bettina in a statement said that the arrangements were “an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend, and something for which we were and remain incredibly grateful.” Donald Trump Jr, the president's eldest son, is a private citizen, so it is not illegal for him to accept gifts from a foreign national. "Our dear friend Umar very generously hosted two incredible nights of celebrations for us AFTER our wedding. It was an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend, and something for which we were and remain incredibly grateful," the couple said in the statement. .'Friendship doesn’t require a political motive. Generosity doesn’t automatically come with an agenda,’ Bettina added saying, “So, for anyone determined not to let the facts get in the way of a good story: NO CONSPIRACY, NO MYSTERY. Just a private family wedding, a wonderful weekend with friends and one hell of a party."<h2>Statement by Melania Trump and Eric</h2>A statement from First Lady Melania Trump's office states: "Mrs. Trump does not, and has never had, a relationship with Mr. Kremlev. Mrs. Trump played no role whatsoever in organizing the wedding event and was not privy to any aspect of its financial planning." Trump Jr’s brother Eric, also distanced himself from Kremlev. “Eric has absolutely no clue who this person is, nor has never heard his name,” his spokesman told ProPublica.&nbsp;&nbsp;The necessity for issuing a statement was because this Russian oligarch is accused leading an organization called – Healthy Fatherland – that facilitates the abduction of Ukrainian children from occupied territories while Melania Trump leads a campaign to reunite children who have been kidnapped from Ukraine and taken to Russia during the ongoing war.<h2>Who is Umar Kremlev?</h2>Umar Kremlev is the head of the International Boxing Association (IBA), a sporting body that has been backed by the state-owned Russian energy company Gazprom. According to ProPublica, the wedding payments came from an IBA-affiliated entity in Dubai that the boxing association uses for financial transactions. He is believed to one from Putin's inner circle. He reportedly went to China as part of a delegation accompanying Putin, and the month prior the Russian president had bestowed him with a state honor, the Order of Friendship. The Ukrainian government has imposed sanctions on Kremlev, citing his closeness to Putin and Russian security services.&nbsp;

Donald Trump Jr and wife Bettina confirmed that Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev helped pay for their Bahamas wedding celebrations, calling it a generous gift from a friend. Kremlev’s ties to Putin have prompted statements from Melania Trump and Eric distancing themselves.

Donald Trump Jr and his wife, Bettina, confirmed on Monday (Sep 15) that a Russian oligarch close to President Vladimir Putin partially paid for the couple’s wedding celebrations in May, prompting US President Donald Trump's family to issue statements distancing themselves from the matter. A report by ProPublica claimed that Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the wedding celebration in Bahmas. While Donald Trump Jr and his wife, Bettina have now confirmed the development, insisting that it was a “gift” from a friend, First Lady Melania said that she was not involved in wedding plans and did not know anything about Umar Kremlev's involvement. What is the matter? A ProPublica report published on Sep 14 revealed that Umar Kremlev, a Russian oligarch with close ties to Putin, paid the rent of one of the islands where a reception was held and where guests slept, along with other large expenses, including a huge firework show. The luxurious bash on a private island was attended by several Trump children, including Ivanka and her husband Jared, Eric and Lara, Tiffany and her husband Michael, and many grandchildren. But Trump and Melania skipped the party citing escalating Iran war.As the news came out, Robert Garcia, the ranking member and lead Democrat on the House oversight committee, asked: “Why did a Russian oligarch close to Putin fund Trump Jr.’s wedding in the Bahamas? Umar Kremlev spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the President’s son. What did he get in return? We need answers." Statement by Trump Jr and wife Bettina Trump Jr, the US president’s eldest child and his wife Bettina in a statement said that the arrangements were “an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend, and something for which we were and remain incredibly grateful.” Donald Trump Jr, the president's eldest son, is a private citizen, so it is not illegal for him to accept gifts from a foreign national. "Our dear friend Umar very generously hosted two incredible nights of celebrations for us AFTER our wedding. It was an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend, and something for which we were and remain incredibly grateful," the couple said in the statement. .'Friendship doesn’t require a political motive. Generosity doesn’t automatically come with an agenda,’ Bettina added saying, “So, for anyone determined not to let the facts get in the way of a good story: NO CONSPIRACY, NO MYSTERY. Just a private family wedding, a wonderful weekend with friends and one hell of a party." Statement by Melania Trump and Eric A statement from First Lady Melania Trump's office states: "Mrs. Trump does not, and has never had, a relationship with Mr. Kremlev. Mrs. Trump played no role whatsoever in organizing the wedding event and was not privy to any aspect of its financial planning." Trump Jr’s brother Eric, also distanced himself from Kremlev. “Eric has absolutely no clue who this person is, nor has never heard his name,” his spokesman told ProPublica. The necessity for issuing a statement was because this Russian oligarch is accused leading an organization called – Healthy Fatherland – that facilitates the abduction of Ukrainian children from occupied territories while Melania Trump leads a campaign to reunite children who have been kidnapped from Ukraine and taken to Russia during the ongoing war. Who is Umar Kremlev? Umar Kremlev is the head of the International Boxing Association (IBA), a sporting body that has been backed by the state-owned Russian energy company Gazprom. According to ProPublica, the wedding payments came from an IBA-affiliated entity in Dubai that the boxing association uses for financial transactions. He is believed to one from Putin's inner circle. He reportedly went to China as part of a delegation accompanying Putin, and the month prior the Russian president had bestowed him with a state honor, the Order of Friendship. The Ukrainian government has imposed sanctions on Kremlev, citing his closeness to Putin and Russian security services.

Donald Trump Jr and wife Bettina confirmed that Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev helped pay for their Bahamas wedding celebrations, calling it a generous gift from a friend. Kremlev’s ties to Putin have prompted statements from Melania Trump and Eric distancing themselves.

Putin-linked Russian oligarch, Melania links: Why Trump skipped his son’s Bahamas wedding bash?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi to attend the BRICS summit and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the two leaders expected to discuss ways to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and technology. Modi and Putin last met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek last week. During their meeting, the Prime Minister urged Putin to move from an ‘endless war towards the end of war’, in a reference to the Russia-Ukraine conflict that started five years ago following Moscow’s full-scale invasion.&nbsp;"We have to move from a situation of 'endless war' to 'end of war'... It is humanity's wish that the end of this war happens as soon as possible," PM Modi said. The Modi-Putin meeting, scheduled for Friday, is expected to cover several issues of strategic importance to both countries, including defence cooperation and proposed upgrades to the BrahMos missile system. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that India and Russia were discussing upgrades to the BrahMos missile. He also said Moscow remained committed to completing the pending deliveries of the S-400 air defence systems, while the two sides were discussing the proposed supply of Su-57 fighter jets to India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-putin-xi-to-pezeshkian-who-is-coming-when-for-brics-summit-in-new-delhi-check-full-schedule-1789062121834">From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule</a><h2>Watch the video of Putin arriving in New Delhi</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India ahead of the BRICS Summit 2026. During his visit, he will also hold talks with PM Narendra Modi and have a series of bilateral meetings. <a href="https://t.co/pax5EW70Yu">pic.twitter.com/pax5EW70Yu</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2098168103117169135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India and Russia are also expected to discuss New Delhi’s plans to establish new civil nuclear reactors. Peskov said negotiations on the proposed projects would be held between the two countries. Putin will also participate in the two-day BRICS summit being hosted by New Delhi. During his visit, the Russian President will address the Plenary Session of the annual BRICS Business Forum before visiting the Innoprom exhibition with PM Modi.&nbsp;On the sidelines of the summit, Putin is also scheduled to meet several international leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. However, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is visiting India after a gap of seven years, are not scheduled to hold a separate full-format bilateral meeting.&nbsp;Xi and Modi are set to hold talks on Saturday evening, with trade and investment expected to feature prominently in their discussions. The two leaders are also expected to review the broader situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Meanwhile, PM Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday.

Putin arrives in Delhi for BRICS 2026. PM Modi talks with Putin will focus on BrahMos, S-400, Su-57, defence, energy and nuclear cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi to attend the BRICS summit and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the two leaders expected to discuss ways to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and technology. Modi and Putin last met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek last week. During their meeting, the Prime Minister urged Putin to move from an ‘endless war towards the end of war’, in a reference to the Russia-Ukraine conflict that started five years ago following Moscow’s full-scale invasion. "We have to move from a situation of 'endless war' to 'end of war'... It is humanity's wish that the end of this war happens as soon as possible," PM Modi said. The Modi-Putin meeting, scheduled for Friday, is expected to cover several issues of strategic importance to both countries, including defence cooperation and proposed upgrades to the BrahMos missile system. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that India and Russia were discussing upgrades to the BrahMos missile. He also said Moscow remained committed to completing the pending deliveries of the S-400 air defence systems, while the two sides were discussing the proposed supply of Su-57 fighter jets to India. Also Read: From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule Watch the video of Putin arriving in New Delhi

Russia President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for BRICS as meeting with PM Modi to focus on defence, BrahMos, S-400, Su-57, energy and nuclear cooperation

Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for BRICS Summit: Russia-India defence, energy and nuclear ties in focus ahead of meeting with PM Modi

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India as the BRICS Summit gets underway in New Delhi on September 12.Ahead of Putin’s visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the trip will provide an important opportunity for India and Russia to discuss bilateral relations and address key issues on their agenda.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters during a virtual briefing from Moscow, Peskov highlighted the close personal relationship between Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their engagement as pragmatic and open. He said the visit could create new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. "In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his India visit. You know that our two leaders, Indian and Russian leaders, are in a very close personal contact. contact. They are very pragmatic in their relationship, and they are as sincere as to be able to discuss in a very open and constructive way the most sensitive issues of our agenda and our bilateral relations. Of course, it opens additional horizons for our cooperation."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-2026-from-delhi-to-g20-in-florida-is-india-emerging-as-the-voice-of-the-global-south-1788848244799">BRICS Summit 2026: From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as the voice of the Global South?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On President Putin&#39;s upcoming visit to India, Dmitry Peskov, Spokesperson for the President of the Russian Federation, says, &quot;In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his visit to India. He will take part in the BRICS summit, and it will also be a significant time… <a href="https://t.co/mP1e9YZAk4">pic.twitter.com/mP1e9YZAk4</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2097249220747030947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Peskov also expressed confidence in India’s ability to successfully host the summit and said Russia would continue supporting efforts to strengthen cooperation within the BRICS framework. "We have no doubt that the summit will be successful. Russia, we are doing our best to contribute to further development of BRICS cooperation in the three main pillars of our interaction. So, those are policy and security. economy and finance, and cultural and humanitarian contexts. So, we are supporting idea of inviting new countries to join different formats within BRICS," he added. His remarks come ahead of Putin’s India visit, with bilateral ties and broader BRICS cooperation expected to remain key areas of discussion during the summit.

Putin’s India visit for the BRICS Summit will focus on India-Russia ties, bilateral cooperation and strengthening BRICS across key sectors

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India as the BRICS Summit gets underway in New Delhi on September 12. Ahead of Putin’s visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the trip will provide an important opportunity for India and Russia to discuss bilateral relations and address key issues on their agenda. Speaking to reporters during a virtual briefing from Moscow, Peskov highlighted the close personal relationship between Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their engagement as pragmatic and open. He said the visit could create new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. "In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his India visit. You know that our two leaders, Indian and Russian leaders, are in a very close personal contact. contact. They are very pragmatic in their relationship, and they are as sincere as to be able to discuss in a very open and constructive way the most sensitive issues of our agenda and our bilateral relations. Of course, it opens additional horizons for our cooperation." Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as the voice of the Global South?

Putin’s India visit ahead of the BRICS Summit will focus on bilateral ties, cooperation and strengthening the grouping’s role across key sectors

BRICS Summit 2026: Russia says Putin will update PM Modi on Ukraine conflict during their meeting

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected return to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026 comes at a particularly sensitive moment for India’s relationship with Moscow, and for its increasingly complicated economic relationship with Washington. Putin was last in India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit. His expected appearance at the September BRICS gathering would therefore put the Russian president in Delhi for a second time in less than a year, underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship even as New Delhi simultaneously manages its ties with the United States and other Western powers. Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said on Friday that Putin is expected to attend the summit.&nbsp;But beyond the optics of another Modi-Putin meeting, one issue will inevitably hang over the summit: Russian oil. India’s dependence on Russian crude has grown dramatically since the Ukraine war. In July 2026, Russian crude accounted for a record 50.83% of India’s total oil imports, or about 2.47 million barrels per day, according to trade data cited by news agency Reuters. That makes the oil question far more complicated than a simple diplomatic choice between Washington and Moscow.<h2>The 50% tariff episode, and what changed</h2>The Trump administration had imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports in August 2025 specifically over India’s purchases of Russian oil. Combined with the existing reciprocal tariff, the total reached 50%. The White House said the additional duty was intended to pressure countries purchasing Russian oil. But that is not the current tariff structure. In February 2026, Washington removed the additional 25% Russia-oil tariff after saying India had committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian oil. The US also lowered its reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18%. Crucially, however, the February executive order contains a warning: if India resumes direct or indirect purchases of Russian oil, US officials can recommend bringing back the additional 25% tariff. And India's subsequent oil-import numbers make that provision highly relevant.<h2>Why India cannot simply walk away from Russian crude</h2>India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and relies heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements. Russian crude became particularly attractive after Western sanctions and price restrictions disrupted Moscow's traditional markets. For Indian refiners, Russian crude has not simply been a geopolitical purchase. Price, availability, refinery economics and supply security have all mattered. The scale of the trade illustrates the problem. India's imports from Russia have become heavily concentrated in energy: crude oil alone accounted for $35.76 billion of imports in FY2025-26 through November, according to IBEF data. Fertilisers were another major category at $2.11 billion. And crude is not the only Russian commodity India has reasons to keep buying.<h2>What India buys from Russia</h2>Crude oil: By far the biggest component. Russian supplies have become crucial to Indian refiners, and July's record share shows how difficult it is to immediately replace those volumes. Fertilisers: Russia remains an important source of fertilisers for India's agriculture sector. Any disruption has implications beyond foreign policy, potentially affecting input costs and food security.&nbsp;Defence equipment: Russia has historically been India's biggest defence supplier, although India's dependence has declined as New Delhi has diversified its procurement. The relationship nevertheless includes decades of equipment, spares, maintenance and technology links. Diamonds, metals and other commodities: India also imports diamonds, iron and steel, vegetable oils and several other commodities from Russia, although their strategic significance is generally much smaller than oil, fertilisers and defence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-has-become-an-old-continent-belgian-pm-warns-us-china-are-surpassing-europe-1788505852108">'Europe has become an old continent': Belgian PM warns US, China are surpassing Europe</a><h2>What India can reduce, and what it cannot easily replace</h2>This is where the Russian oil debate becomes more nuanced. India can diversify its crude purchases. It already buys from suppliers in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. It can also adjust refinery configurations and procurement patterns depending on prices, sanctions and shipping costs. But replacing Russian oil overnight is another matter.&nbsp;The challenge is not simply finding another barrel. India needs barrels that are economically viable, available in sufficient volumes and compatible with its refinery system. Removing one of its largest sources could raise procurement costs and put pressure on refiners and consumers. The same logic applies, in a different way, to fertilisers and defence sustainment. India can diversify suppliers over time. But diversification is not the same as immediate substitution.<h2>Why Putin’s BRICS visit matters?</h2>This makes Putin’s expected Delhi visit particularly significant. India's BRICS presidency comes at a time when the grouping is discussing energy security, economic cooperation, local-currency trade and reducing vulnerabilities created by global financial and supply-chain disruptions. Russia, meanwhile, has a strong interest in preserving access to major markets such as India.&nbsp;For Moscow, India is not merely a diplomatic partner. It is a major energy customer and an increasingly important economic relationship. For New Delhi, Russia remains one pillar of a broader strategic-autonomy strategy: maintaining ties with Moscow while simultaneously engaging Washington, Europe, the Gulf, Japan and other partners.That does not mean India is choosing Russia over the US. It means India is trying to avoid being forced to choose.<h2>The bigger India-US question</h2>The oil issue therefore puts the Modi government in a delicate position. Washington has already demonstrated that Russian energy purchases can become a trade issue. The February 2026 executive order removed the additional 25% tariff but explicitly kept the door open to bringing it back if Russian oil imports resume.&nbsp;At the same time, India's latest import data suggest that Russian crude remains extremely difficult to displace. With Russian oil reaching more than half of India's imports in July, the economic relationship has moved far beyond the limited purchases that existed before the Ukraine war. That is why the Putin-Modi meeting on the sidelines of BRICS Summit 2026 will carry significance beyond the usual India-Russia agenda.&nbsp;The discussion is likely to encompass energy security, fertilisers, defence, trade imbalances and payment mechanisms. But underneath all of it will be one fundamental question: How much Russian oil can India continue buying without reopening the tariff confrontation with Washington, and how much Russian oil can India realistically afford to stop buying? For Moscow, the answer is strategically important. For Washington, it is a test of economic pressure. And for New Delhi, it is ultimately a question of energy security, economic interests and strategic autonomy.

BRICS Summit 2026: Putin’s expected Delhi visit comes as India’s Russian oil imports surge. Here’s what India buys from Russia and why it can’t easily stop

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected return to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026 comes at a particularly sensitive moment for India’s relationship with Moscow, and for its increasingly complicated economic relationship with Washington. Putin was last in India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit. His expected appearance at the September BRICS gathering would therefore put the Russian president in Delhi for a second time in less than a year, underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship even as New Delhi simultaneously manages its ties with the United States and other Western powers. Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said on Friday that Putin is expected to attend the summit. But beyond the optics of another Modi-Putin meeting, one issue will inevitably hang over the summit: Russian oil. India’s dependence on Russian crude has grown dramatically since the Ukraine war. In July 2026, Russian crude accounted for a record 50.83% of India’s total oil imports, or about 2.47 million barrels per day, according to trade data cited by news agency Reuters. That makes the oil question far more complicated than a simple diplomatic choice between Washington and Moscow. The 50% tariff episode, and what changed The Trump administration had imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports in August 2025 specifically over India’s purchases of Russian oil. Combined with the existing reciprocal tariff, the total reached 50%. The White House said the additional duty was intended to pressure countries purchasing Russian oil. But that is not the current tariff structure. In February 2026, Washington removed the additional 25% Russia-oil tariff after saying India had committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian oil. The US also lowered its reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18%. Crucially, however, the February executive order contains a warning: if India resumes direct or indirect purchases of Russian oil, US officials can recommend bringing back the additional 25% tariff. And India's subsequent oil-import numbers make that provision highly relevant. Why India cannot simply walk away from Russian crude India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and relies heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements. Russian crude became particularly attractive after Western sanctions and price restrictions disrupted Moscow's traditional markets. For Indian refiners, Russian crude has not simply been a geopolitical purchase. Price, availability, refinery economics and supply security have all mattered. The scale of the trade illustrates the problem. India's imports from Russia have become heavily concentrated in energy: crude oil alone accounted for $35.76 billion of imports in FY2025-26 through November, according to IBEF data. Fertilisers were another major category at $2.11 billion. And crude is not the only Russian commodity India has reasons to keep buying. What India buys from Russia Crude oil: By far the biggest component. Russian supplies have become crucial to Indian refiners, and July's record share shows how difficult it is to immediately replace those volumes. Fertilisers: Russia remains an important source of fertilisers for India's agriculture sector. Any disruption has implications beyond foreign policy, potentially affecting input costs and food security. Defence equipment: Russia has historically been India's biggest defence supplier, although India's dependence has declined as New Delhi has diversified its procurement. The relationship nevertheless includes decades of equipment, spares, maintenance and technology links. Diamonds, metals and other commodities: India also imports diamonds, iron and steel, vegetable oils and several other commodities from Russia, although their strategic significance is generally much smaller than oil, fertilisers and defence. Also Read: 'Europe has become an old continent': Belgian PM warns US, China are surpassing Europe What India can reduce, and what it cannot easily replace This is where the Russian oil debate becomes more nuanced. India can diversify its crude purchases. It already buys from suppliers in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. It can also adjust refinery configurations and procurement patterns depending on prices, sanctions and shipping costs. But replacing Russian oil overnight is another matter. The challenge is not simply finding another barrel. India needs barrels that are economically viable, available in sufficient volumes and compatible with its refinery system. Removing one of its largest sources could raise procurement costs and put pressure on refiners and consumers. The same logic applies, in a different way, to fertilisers and defence sustainment. India can diversify suppliers over time. But diversification is not the same as immediate substitution. Why Putin’s BRICS visit matters? This makes Putin’s expected Delhi visit particularly significant. India's BRICS presidency comes at a time when the grouping is discussing energy security, economic cooperation, local-currency trade and reducing vulnerabilities created by global financial and supply-chain disruptions. Russia, meanwhile, has a strong interest in preserving access to major markets such as India. For Moscow, India is not merely a diplomatic partner. It is a major energy customer and an increasingly important economic relationship. For New Delhi, Russia remains one pillar of a broader strategic-autonomy strategy: maintaining ties with Moscow while simultaneously engaging Washington, Europe, the Gulf, Japan and other partners. That does not mean India is choosing Russia over the US. It means India is trying to avoid being forced to choose. The bigger India-US question The oil issue therefore puts the Modi government in a delicate position. Washington has already demonstrated that Russian energy purchases can become a trade issue. The February 2026 executive order removed the additional 25% tariff but explicitly kept the door open to bringing it back if Russian oil imports resume. At the same time, India's latest import data suggest that Russian crude remains extremely difficult to displace. With Russian oil reaching more than half of India's imports in July, the economic relationship has moved far beyond the limited purchases that existed before the Ukraine war. That is why the Putin-Modi meeting on the sidelines of BRICS Summit 2026 will carry significance beyond the usual India-Russia agenda. The discussion is likely to encompass energy security, fertilisers, defence, trade imbalances and payment mechanisms. But underneath all of it will be one fundamental question: How much Russian oil can India continue buying without reopening the tariff confrontation with Washington, and how much Russian oil can India realistically afford to stop buying? For Moscow, the answer is strategically important. For Washington, it is a test of economic pressure. And for New Delhi, it is ultimately a question of energy security, economic interests and strategic autonomy.

Putin’s expected BRICS 2026 visit comes as India’s Russian oil imports surge, reviving questions over US tariffs, energy security and strategic autonomy

BRICS Summit 2026: Putin’s second India visit in 10 months comes amid focus on Russian oil

For years, the West has pursued a simple strategy toward Vladimir Putin: punish Russia economically, isolate Moscow diplomatically and force the Kremlin to pay a price for its war in Ukraine.But is that strategy still working?Putin may be isolated from much of the Western political establishment. Yet the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit tells a very different story.Russia remains deeply engaged with China, India and much of the non-Western world. Putin can still sit at the table with major powers — and that makes the claim that Russia is simply “isolated” increasingly difficult to sustain.But there is a catch.At the SCO summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a message that Moscow cannot easily dismiss: the world must move from endless wars toward an end to war. Modi's appeal reflects India's increasingly independent diplomatic position — maintaining its strategic relationship with Russia while simultaneously deepening ties with the United States.China presents another complicated equation.Beijing has become crucial to Moscow economically and strategically, but that does not necessarily make Russia the senior partner. The longer the war continues, the greater Russia's dependence on China could become.Meanwhile, Europe is moving in the opposite direction.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed</a>The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.Britain is also helping Ukraine expand its long-range strike capability. Moscow has warned that British military targets could face retaliation if British-made missiles continue being used against Russian territory.And NATO is increasingly focused on what comes after Ukraine — with European governments concerned about alleged Russian hybrid attacks, airspace incidents and the possibility of wider confrontation.So the old definition of isolation no longer fits.Russia is economically constrained, militarily challenged and politically estranged from much of Europe.But it is not diplomatically alone.The Verdict? Putin has not broken out of Western isolation — he has learned to operate around it.And perhaps that is the bigger story.The world is no longer divided neatly between Moscow and the West.India wants strategic autonomy. China wants greater global influence. Europe wants security. Washington wants leverage.And Putin is trying to turn those competing interests into diplomatic space for Russia.Is he isolated? In the West, increasingly yes.In the world? Not even close.&nbsp;

The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.

For years, the West has pursued a simple strategy toward Vladimir Putin: punish Russia economically, isolate Moscow diplomatically and force the Kremlin to pay a price for its war in Ukraine. But is that strategy still working? Putin may be isolated from much of the Western political establishment. Yet the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit tells a very different story. Russia remains deeply engaged with China, India and much of the non-Western world. Putin can still sit at the table with major powers — and that makes the claim that Russia is simply “isolated” increasingly difficult to sustain. But there is a catch. At the SCO summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a message that Moscow cannot easily dismiss: the world must move from endless wars toward an end to war. Modi's appeal reflects India's increasingly independent diplomatic position — maintaining its strategic relationship with Russia while simultaneously deepening ties with the United States. China presents another complicated equation. Beijing has become crucial to Moscow economically and strategically, but that does not necessarily make Russia the senior partner. The longer the war continues, the greater Russia's dependence on China could become. Meanwhile, Europe is moving in the opposite direction. https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war. Britain is also helping Ukraine expand its long-range strike capability. Moscow has warned that British military targets could face retaliation if British-made missiles continue being used against Russian territory. And NATO is increasingly focused on what comes after Ukraine — with European governments concerned about alleged Russian hybrid attacks, airspace incidents and the possibility of wider confrontation. So the old definition of isolation no longer fits. Russia is economically constrained, militarily challenged and politically estranged from much of Europe. But it is not diplomatically alone. The Verdict? Putin has not broken out of Western isolation — he has learned to operate around it. And perhaps that is the bigger story. The world is no longer divided neatly between Moscow and the West. India wants strategic autonomy. China wants greater global influence. Europe wants security. Washington wants leverage. And Putin is trying to turn those competing interests into diplomatic space for Russia. Is he isolated? In the West, increasingly yes. In the world? Not even close.

The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.

The Verdict | Putin is isolated — but not alone

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned airlines, insurance companies and other aviation stakeholders that growing Ukrainian drone activity is making Russian airspace increasingly dangerous and could effectively force the closure of the country’s skies. “Today, we want to warn every airline that uses Russian airspace, every insurer, everyone who still uses key Russian airports: the Russian sky is becoming completely dangerous,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address.&nbsp;Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine does not pose a threat to civilian aviation, while warning that Ukrainian drones would continue operating over Russian territory. “Ukraine poses no threat to civil aviation, but there will be drones in Russia’s skies and due notice must be taken,” he said. The Ukrainian president also accused Russian authorities of failing to adequately communicate aviation risks linked to the ongoing drone activity. He said that, regardless of official announcements, the security situation would effectively lead to Russian airspace becoming closed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charlie-kirk-murder-case-trial-tyler-robinson-faces-possible-death-penalty-after-court-ruling-1788313352702">Charlie Kirk murder case trial: Tyler Robinson faces possible death penalty after court ruling</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It was from Russia that the first missiles and the first drones came, and they crossed our country’s border from Russian airspace. This escalation cannot and will not remain confined to Ukrainian territory. Today, we want to warn every airline that uses Russian airspace, every…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2094847676848480297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Although Russian authorities are not properly announcing it, Russian airspace will effectively be closing. The war started by Russia is closing its own skies,” Zelenskyy added. The warning comes as Russia has intensified its air campaign against Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities in recent weeks. Moscow’s latest attacks killed 12 people and injured many others, marking the sixth consecutive day of heavy assaults on the Ukrainian capital.&nbsp;Ukraine, meanwhile, has continued launching drone strikes against targets inside Russia. Several of the attacks have focused on facilities linked to Russia’s oil industry, along with retail and other sites. Zelenskyy’s latest warning highlights the growing impact of the drone war on Russia’s aviation sector. As Ukrainian drone operations continue across Russian territory and Russian missile and drone attacks intensify against Ukrainian cities, concerns over the safety of Russian airspace are becoming increasingly prominent.

Zelenskyy warns airlines and insurers that Ukrainian drones are making Russian airspace increasingly dangerous as attacks intensify across Russia and Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned airlines, insurance companies and other aviation stakeholders that growing Ukrainian drone activity is making Russian airspace increasingly dangerous and could effectively force the closure of the country’s skies. “Today, we want to warn every airline that uses Russian airspace, every insurer, everyone who still uses key Russian airports: the Russian sky is becoming completely dangerous,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine does not pose a threat to civilian aviation, while warning that Ukrainian drones would continue operating over Russian territory. “Ukraine poses no threat to civil aviation, but there will be drones in Russia’s skies and due notice must be taken,” he said. The Ukrainian president also accused Russian authorities of failing to adequately communicate aviation risks linked to the ongoing drone activity. He said that, regardless of official announcements, the security situation would effectively lead to Russian airspace becoming closed. Also Read: Charlie Kirk murder case trial: Tyler Robinson faces possible death penalty after court ruling

Zelenskyy warns airlines and insurers that Ukrainian drone activity is making Russian airspace increasingly dangerous and could effectively close it

'Russian sky is becoming completely dangerous': Zelensky warns as Ukraine steps up drone strikes

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed admiration for the courage and resilience of the Iranian people in defending Iran's national interest. Speaking in a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Putin noted that Russia was seeking to assist Tehran during what he described as a difficult period. Pezeshkian meanwhile expressed confidence that Iran will emerge victorious.“We are trying to provide you with the assistance you need during this difficult time,” Putin said. “We have discussed this matter, and we are supplying you with the necessary equipment.”Putin said that Russia is supplying Tehran with "necessary equipment" and "essential goods," deliberately leaving it unconfirmed whether that assistance includes military material.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-officials-cosco-china-spying-military-communications-1788274722448">US accuses COSCO of using concealed equipment to gather military signals</a>Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to Russia for its support in Iran's campaign. He added that the relationship between Russia and Iran was not an “ordinary relationship” but rather a “strategic relationship”.&nbsp;“We appreciate and thank you for your positions at every stage, both during the period when the fighting and acts of aggression were taking place and under normal circumstances, when the United States was imposing sanctions on us, both at the United Nations and in international forums,” said Pezeshkian.&nbsp;Putin also expressed his desire to maintain trade and expand bilateral relations despite the current military and political environment. He also said that Russia attaches great importance to expanding cooperation with the Islamic Republic in the humanitarian sphere.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Iran’s resilience and said Moscow was providing Tehran with “necessary equipment” and essential goods.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed admiration for the courage and resilience of the Iranian people in defending Iran's national interest. Speaking in a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Putin noted that Russia was seeking to assist Tehran during what he described as a difficult period. Pezeshkian meanwhile expressed confidence that Iran will emerge victorious. “We are trying to provide you with the assistance you need during this difficult time,” Putin said. “We have discussed this matter, and we are supplying you with the necessary equipment.” Putin said that Russia is supplying Tehran with "necessary equipment" and "essential goods," deliberately leaving it unconfirmed whether that assistance includes military material. Also Read: US accuses COSCO of using concealed equipment to gather military signals Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to Russia for its support in Iran's campaign. He added that the relationship between Russia and Iran was not an “ordinary relationship” but rather a “strategic relationship”. “We appreciate and thank you for your positions at every stage, both during the period when the fighting and acts of aggression were taking place and under normal circumstances, when the United States was imposing sanctions on us, both at the United Nations and in international forums,” said Pezeshkian. Putin also expressed his desire to maintain trade and expand bilateral relations despite the current military and political environment. He also said that Russia attaches great importance to expanding cooperation with the Islamic Republic in the humanitarian sphere.

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Iran’s resilience and said Moscow was providing Tehran with “necessary equipment” and essential goods.

Putin praises Iran’s resilience, says Russia providing Tehran with ‘necessary equipment’

Kyiv is facing increasingly lengthy daytime air raid warnings as Russia intensifies its drone campaign against Ukraine, launching around 800 jet-powered drones in just four days.The new-generation Shahed drones can reportedly reach cruising speeds of between 200mph and 250mph, roughly twice the speed of their piston-engine predecessors, which travel at about 115mph. Their higher speed is making them more difficult for Ukraine’s low-cost interceptor drones to bring down.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Sunday that jet-powered drones now make up more than half of the unmanned aircraft Russia is using in its attacks, describing the campaign as an effort to “wear down” Ukraine.“There were almost 1,500 drones of all types in these four days alone – about 800 of them jet-powered,” the president said. Ukraine was currently relying on combat aircraft to shoot them down, he added.One of the latest models, the Geran-4, hit an ammunition storage site in Myla, a village around 15 miles west of Kyiv, on Thursday. The attack reportedly killed 38 people and triggered hours of secondary explosions. Warehouses were destroyed and nearby residential properties were also damaged.Russia has continued to conduct waves of daytime drone attacks over recent days, resulting in prolonged air raid warnings, particularly in the Ukrainian capital. Kyiv recorded eight air raid alerts by lunchtime on Monday.Although daytime strikes have occurred previously, they were relatively unusual. The latest attacks have disrupted daily life, with some businesses temporarily suspending operations during alerts. Residents have also been forced to decide whether to stay inside, move to shelters or continue their activities despite the warnings.The presence of nearby drones can also complicate emergency response operations. Firefighters and other emergency crews may be forced to withdraw from damaged locations when another attack is detected, potentially allowing fires to spread. A similar situation occurred earlier this month after a food storage facility in Boryspil, east of Kyiv, was hit.Russian forces have also targeted warehouses in and around Kyiv during the past month. The strikes have been linked to retaliation for Ukrainian attacks on the Wildberries and Ozon distribution networks in Russia. The resulting disruption has contributed to shortages of some food products in Ukrainian stores, although officials have attempted to reassure the public.Serhii Beskrestnov, an adviser to Zelenskyy on defence technology, urged people “do not give in to rumours, misinformation, and panic” and said that companies were rebuilding supply chains in response to the attacks. “We will not die of hunger,” he wrote in a social media posting.Shahed drones feature a distinctive delta-wing design and were initially developed in Iran before the technology was transferred to Russia. Iran first unveiled the jet-powered Shahed-238 in autumn 2023, and the system subsequently appeared in attacks against Ukraine.Russia began producing and deploying its newest jet-powered version, the Geran-4, in significant numbers during the spring. Moscow is now producing more jet-powered drones than the earlier piston-engine variants, with the Geran-4 and Geran-5 among the models being used.The Geran-5 has a different appearance from the delta-wing Geran-4, resembling a small missile fitted with wings.Beskrestnov said at least 2,500 jet-powered drones had been launched against Ukraine during August, compared with approximately 1,500 in July. He said production date stamps discovered on drone components indicated that some weapons were being launched only days after leaving the manufacturing facility in Yelabuga.Ukraine has previously developed a network of inexpensive ground-launched interceptors capable of destroying slower piston-engine Shahed drones. Those systems helped push interception rates above 90%.Over the weekend, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would need to maintain that level of defence effectiveness as the country enters autumn.Ukrainian engineers are now working on faster interceptor drones designed specifically to counter the newer jet-powered Shaheds. Few technical details have been disclosed publicly, but Zelenskyy said progress was already being made.“Four companies have developed the relevant interceptor drones, and one company has the most successful technology,” Zelensky said.The shift toward faster drones presents a new challenge for Ukraine's air-defence network. As Russia increases production and uses the weapons in sustained waves during daylight hours, Ukrainian forces face growing pressure to develop interceptors capable of matching their speed while remaining inexpensive enough for large-scale deployment.

Kyiv faces prolonged air raids as Russia deploys faster jet-powered Shahed drones, forcing Ukraine to develop new low-cost air defence interceptors

Kyiv is facing increasingly lengthy daytime air raid warnings as Russia intensifies its drone campaign against Ukraine, launching around 800 jet-powered drones in just four days. The new-generation Shahed drones can reportedly reach cruising speeds of between 200mph and 250mph, roughly twice the speed of their piston-engine predecessors, which travel at about 115mph. Their higher speed is making them more difficult for Ukraine’s low-cost interceptor drones to bring down. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Sunday that jet-powered drones now make up more than half of the unmanned aircraft Russia is using in its attacks, describing the campaign as an effort to “wear down” Ukraine. “There were almost 1,500 drones of all types in these four days alone – about 800 of them jet-powered,” the president said. Ukraine was currently relying on combat aircraft to shoot them down, he added. One of the latest models, the Geran-4, hit an ammunition storage site in Myla, a village around 15 miles west of Kyiv, on Thursday. The attack reportedly killed 38 people and triggered hours of secondary explosions. Warehouses were destroyed and nearby residential properties were also damaged. Russia has continued to conduct waves of daytime drone attacks over recent days, resulting in prolonged air raid warnings, particularly in the Ukrainian capital. Kyiv recorded eight air raid alerts by lunchtime on Monday. Although daytime strikes have occurred previously, they were relatively unusual. The latest attacks have disrupted daily life, with some businesses temporarily suspending operations during alerts. Residents have also been forced to decide whether to stay inside, move to shelters or continue their activities despite the warnings. The presence of nearby drones can also complicate emergency response operations. Firefighters and other emergency crews may be forced to withdraw from damaged locations when another attack is detected, potentially allowing fires to spread. A similar situation occurred earlier this month after a food storage facility in Boryspil, east of Kyiv, was hit. Russian forces have also targeted warehouses in and around Kyiv during the past month. The strikes have been linked to retaliation for Ukrainian attacks on the Wildberries and Ozon distribution networks in Russia. The resulting disruption has contributed to shortages of some food products in Ukrainian stores, although officials have attempted to reassure the public. Serhii Beskrestnov, an adviser to Zelenskyy on defence technology, urged people “do not give in to rumours, misinformation, and panic” and said that companies were rebuilding supply chains in response to the attacks. “We will not die of hunger,” he wrote in a social media posting. Shahed drones feature a distinctive delta-wing design and were initially developed in Iran before the technology was transferred to Russia. Iran first unveiled the jet-powered Shahed-238 in autumn 2023, and the system subsequently appeared in attacks against Ukraine. Russia began producing and deploying its newest jet-powered version, the Geran-4, in significant numbers during the spring. Moscow is now producing more jet-powered drones than the earlier piston-engine variants, with the Geran-4 and Geran-5 among the models being used. The Geran-5 has a different appearance from the delta-wing Geran-4, resembling a small missile fitted with wings. Beskrestnov said at least 2,500 jet-powered drones had been launched against Ukraine during August, compared with approximately 1,500 in July. He said production date stamps discovered on drone components indicated that some weapons were being launched only days after leaving the manufacturing facility in Yelabuga. Ukraine has previously developed a network of inexpensive ground-launched interceptors capable of destroying slower piston-engine Shahed drones. Those systems helped push interception rates above 90%. Over the weekend, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would need to maintain that level of defence effectiveness as the country enters autumn. Ukrainian engineers are now working on faster interceptor drones designed specifically to counter the newer jet-powered Shaheds. Few technical details have been disclosed publicly, but Zelenskyy said progress was already being made. “Four companies have developed the relevant interceptor drones, and one company has the most successful technology,” Zelensky said. The shift toward faster drones presents a new challenge for Ukraine's air-defence network. As Russia increases production and uses the weapons in sustained waves during daylight hours, Ukrainian forces face growing pressure to develop interceptors capable of matching their speed while remaining inexpensive enough for large-scale deployment.

Kyiv faces prolonged daytime air raids as Russia deploys hundreds of faster jet-powered Shahed drones, challenging Ukraine’s air defences

Russia unleashes 800-jet powered drones on Ukraine in four days as Kyiv faces prolonged air raids

Russia’s Defence Ministry said on Sunday that Moscow was preparing large-scale strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in what it described as a tit-for-tat response to Kyiv’s attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. "Russian forces have begun preparations for massive strikes against facilities in Ukraine's energy sector in response to the ongoing attacks by the Kyiv regime on civilian infrastructure and on Russia's oil and energy complex," it said on Telegram.&nbsp;The warning comes after months of escalating long-range attacks by both Russia and Ukraine, with strikes increasingly targeting warehouses, businesses, oil facilities, ports and other critical infrastructure. The attacks have also contributed to rising civilian casualties. Last winter, repeated Russian strikes on Ukrainian power plants severely damaged the country’s energy network, leaving millions of people without electricity and heating during freezing temperatures.&nbsp;On Sunday, Russia’s army said it had struck a plant in Kyiv that produces asbestos and cement. Moscow claimed warehouses at the facility were being used to store explosives. Russian forces also reported striking a Ukrainian manufacturer of drones and munitions. The latest escalation followed a deadly Russian strike on an ammunition depot near the Ukrainian capital on Saturday. The attack triggered a massive explosion and fire, with secondary detonations sending flames into surrounding areas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that the death toll from the strike had risen to 38.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-posts-bizarre-ai-clip-of-donald-ducks-patrolling-lake-america-1788080363913">WATCH | Trump posts bizarre AI clip of ‘Donald Ducks’ patrolling ‘Lake America’</a>&nbsp;The military facility, located near the town of Myla, was reportedly storing ammunition, drones and explosives. Emergency crews have extinguished most of the fires, while bomb disposal teams continue operations to clear the site, Zelensky said on Telegram.He said 38 people had been killed, 20 injured and four remained missing. Zelensky also warned that the extent of contamination in the area is significant.&nbsp;The incident marked the second attack on a munitions depot near Kyiv in less than two months. Ukrainian officials have expressed concern over the continued storage of weapons and explosives near residential areas. Ukrainian prosecutors have launched an investigation into possible criminal negligence following the blast. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia launched at least two missiles and 267 drones against Ukraine between late Friday and early Saturday.&nbsp;Ukraine has also continued its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Local authorities said a Ukrainian drone strike hit an oil refinery in northwestern Russia on Saturday, causing a fire. The intensifying attacks come as US-led diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled. The conflict, which has become Europe’s deadliest since World War II, has seen little progress toward a negotiated settlement in recent months. Russia has demanded sweeping territorial and political concessions from Ukraine, while Kyiv has rejected those demands as unacceptable and tantamount to capitulation.

Russia prepares massive strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure after Kyiv attacks, as the death toll from a Ukrainian arms depot blast rises to 38

Russia’s Defence Ministry said on Sunday that Moscow was preparing large-scale strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in what it described as a tit-for-tat response to Kyiv’s attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. "Russian forces have begun preparations for massive strikes against facilities in Ukraine's energy sector in response to the ongoing attacks by the Kyiv regime on civilian infrastructure and on Russia's oil and energy complex," it said on Telegram. The warning comes after months of escalating long-range attacks by both Russia and Ukraine, with strikes increasingly targeting warehouses, businesses, oil facilities, ports and other critical infrastructure. The attacks have also contributed to rising civilian casualties. Last winter, repeated Russian strikes on Ukrainian power plants severely damaged the country’s energy network, leaving millions of people without electricity and heating during freezing temperatures. On Sunday, Russia’s army said it had struck a plant in Kyiv that produces asbestos and cement. Moscow claimed warehouses at the facility were being used to store explosives. Russian forces also reported striking a Ukrainian manufacturer of drones and munitions. The latest escalation followed a deadly Russian strike on an ammunition depot near the Ukrainian capital on Saturday. The attack triggered a massive explosion and fire, with secondary detonations sending flames into surrounding areas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that the death toll from the strike had risen to 38. Also Read: WATCH | Trump posts bizarre AI clip of ‘Donald Ducks’ patrolling ‘Lake America’ The military facility, located near the town of Myla, was reportedly storing ammunition, drones and explosives. Emergency crews have extinguished most of the fires, while bomb disposal teams continue operations to clear the site, Zelensky said on Telegram. He said 38 people had been killed, 20 injured and four remained missing. Zelensky also warned that the extent of contamination in the area is significant. The incident marked the second attack on a munitions depot near Kyiv in less than two months. Ukrainian officials have expressed concern over the continued storage of weapons and explosives near residential areas. Ukrainian prosecutors have launched an investigation into possible criminal negligence following the blast. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia launched at least two missiles and 267 drones against Ukraine between late Friday and early Saturday. Ukraine has also continued its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Local authorities said a Ukrainian drone strike hit an oil refinery in northwestern Russia on Saturday, causing a fire. The intensifying attacks come as US-led diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled. The conflict, which has become Europe’s deadliest since World War II, has seen little progress toward a negotiated settlement in recent months. Russia has demanded sweeping territorial and political concessions from Ukraine, while Kyiv has rejected those demands as unacceptable and tantamount to capitulation.

Russia prepares massive strikes on Ukraine’s energy sector after Kyiv attacks, as the death toll from a deadly arms depot blast reaches 38

Russia warns of 'massive strikes' on Ukraine's energy sector as death toll from Kyiv's arm depot reaches 38

New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to boost fertiliser supplies to India, stressing Moscow’s commitment to ties with India. Speaking during a meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Putin highlighted energy resources and fertilisers as key priorities. “One of these issues is not only energy resources, of course, but it is also the supply of fertilisers. We are doing everything to resolve this matter for Indian farmers and for agriculture; we are increasing these supplies and are ready to continue doing so,” he said. The Russian leader noted that nuclear energy cooperation, high-tech collaboration and other areas were progressing confidently. He praised the strength of Russia-India ties built over decades, saying work continued across government, parliamentary and business levels. Putin pointed to growing trade in the ties. “I am pleased to note that this year our trade turnover has grown. While last year it declined slightly, this year it is rising, and this is in part, or perhaps primarily, thanks to the efforts of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who pays close personal attention to the development of Russian-Indian relations.” Trade between the 2 countries has grown significantly, largely due to increased imports of Russian energy.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Russian President Vladimir Putin meets India&#39;s external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar in Moscow <a href="https://t.co/clackSleQM">pic.twitter.com/clackSleQM</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2091847761654366569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Modi and the Russian President are expected to meet next week on the sidelines of the SCO Bishkek summit. “I hope to see him in the near future, as we had planned, within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, in the near future. Our schedule is such that we will probably be able to meet once more this year", the Russian leader said. Jaishankar, who had earlier held talks with Russian counterpart Denis Manturov in the intergovernmental commission, delivered a personal message from the Indian prime minister, pointing to the economic cooperation. “I would like to note that our economic cooperation has grown significantly", he said. India's External Affairs Minister described the partnership as “strong, robust bilateral cooperation” even as Delhi-Moscow continue to up the engagement in areas like energy and defence.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow will increase fertiliser supplies to India as he praised growing trade and strong bilateral ties during talks with S Jaishankar.

New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to boost fertiliser supplies to India, stressing Moscow’s commitment to ties with India. Speaking during a meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Putin highlighted energy resources and fertilisers as key priorities. “One of these issues is not only energy resources, of course, but it is also the supply of fertilisers. We are doing everything to resolve this matter for Indian farmers and for agriculture; we are increasing these supplies and are ready to continue doing so,” he said. The Russian leader noted that nuclear energy cooperation, high-tech collaboration and other areas were progressing confidently. He praised the strength of Russia-India ties built over decades, saying work continued across government, parliamentary and business levels. Putin pointed to growing trade in the ties. “I am pleased to note that this year our trade turnover has grown. While last year it declined slightly, this year it is rising, and this is in part, or perhaps primarily, thanks to the efforts of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who pays close personal attention to the development of Russian-Indian relations.” Trade between the 2 countries has grown significantly, largely due to increased imports of Russian energy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow will increase fertiliser supplies to India as he praised growing trade and strong bilateral ties during talks with S Jaishankar.

Putin pledges more fertiliser for India, confirms meeting with PM Modi in Bishkek

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From Putin’s birthday to nuking LA: Trump’s many ramblings and mental health

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un pledges ‘invariable support’ for Putin's 'sacred war'

‘Russian spies’ and faeces? Finnish MPs report bizarre home intrusions

Ukraine fires hard-to-stop ballistic missile as Russia unleashes mystery missile

Putin's United Russia party wins 355 seats in Duma election, beats 2016 tally

Russia votes amid Ukraine war: Which are the main parties on the ballot?

Poland's BIG warning: Putin 'plotting something bad' against NATO nations

Why Trump skipped his son’s Bahamas wedding bash?

Putin in Delhi for BRICS: Russia-India defence, energy and nuclear ties in focus