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On Tuesday (August 19), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in capital New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. During the interaction with NSA Doval, Wang Yi mentioned the situation along the borders. In 2020, the two countries were embroiled in border clashes in the Galwan Valley, and casualties were reported on both sides.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-doval-meet-india-china-hold-24th-round-of-border-talks-1755593062567/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-doval-meet-india-china-hold-24th-round-of-border-talks-1755593062567/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;During the meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said, "We are heartened to see the stability that is now restored on the borders. We had a very good 23rd round of special representatives talks at the end of last year. At that meeting, we reached a new and important consensus on the management of disagreements, stabilising the borders, and moving toward a settlement.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lifts-export-ban-on-fertilisers-rare-earths-tunnel-machines-as-wang-yi-visits-india-report-1755581848134">China lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India: Report</a>&nbsp;“We identified specific goals and formed a working framework. We are heartened to see the stability that is now restored on the borders. Mr Doval, I appreciate your effort that you made as special representative of the Indian side. Now the bilateral relationship is facing an important opportunity of improvement and growth,” he added.<h2>&nbsp;</h2><h2>Chinese Foreign Minister highlighted:</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>'Chinese side attaches great importance to the Prime Minister's visit to China to attend the SCO summit at our invitation'</h3><ul><li>"We believe that Indian side will also make contribution to a successful summit in Tianjin. History and reality prove once again that a healthy and stable China-India relationship serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both of our countries. It is also what the developing countries all want to see.”</li></ul>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: During meeting with NSA Ajit Doval, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says, &quot;We are heartened to see the stability that is now restored on the borders.&quot; &quot;We had a very good 23rd round of special representatives talks at the end of last year. At that meeting, we… <a href="https://t.co/J9GqaMVhM3">pic.twitter.com/J9GqaMVhM3</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1957697720442867746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>'I am very pleased to meet you again in New Delhi for this round of talks between the special representatives of China and India on the boundary question'</h3>&nbsp;<ul><li>"The setbacks we experienced in the past few years were not in the interests of the people of our two countries. And then in October last year, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi had an important meeting in Kazan. That meeting pointed the direction for the development of our bilateral relations and provided impetus for the proper settlement of the boundary question..."</li></ul><h3>'Our two sides should follow the strategic guidance of our leaders'</h3>&nbsp;<ul><li>"Increase mutual trust through strategic communication. Expand common interest through exchanges and cooperation. And properly settle the specific issues in the borders so as to advance our relationship in a healthy and sound manner. Just now we had in-depth and detailed communication in the small group meeting. At the large group meeting, I am ready to work with you to build more consensus and identify the direction, the specific goals of the next of boundary consultations going forward and create more conditions for the improvement and further growth of our bilateral relations."</li></ul>

On Tuesday (August 19), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in capital New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. 

On Tuesday (August 19), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in capital New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. During the interaction with NSA Doval, Wang Yi mentioned the situation along the borders. In 2020, the two countries were embroiled in border clashes in the Galwan Valley, and casualties were reported on both sides. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-doval-meet-india-china-hold-24th-round-of-border-talks-1755593062567/embed During the meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said, "We are heartened to see the stability that is now restored on the borders. We had a very good 23rd round of special representatives talks at the end of last year. At that meeting, we reached a new and important consensus on the management of disagreements, stabilising the borders, and moving toward a settlement.” Also read: China lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India: Report “We identified specific goals and formed a working framework. We are heartened to see the stability that is now restored on the borders. Mr Doval, I appreciate your effort that you made as special representative of the Indian side. Now the bilateral relationship is facing an important opportunity of improvement and growth,” he added. Chinese Foreign Minister highlighted: 'Chinese side attaches great importance to the Prime Minister's visit to China to attend the SCO summit at our invitation' "We believe that Indian side will also make contribution to a successful summit in Tianjin. History and reality prove once again that a healthy and stable China-India relationship serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both of our countries. It is also what the developing countries all want to see.”

On Tuesday (August 19), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in capital New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day.&nbsp;

India-China talks: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlights 'stabilising borders' after Galwan clash

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a conversation with NBC News, said that Russian President Vladimir Putin paid nearly $250,000 to refuel the three jets as the Russian delegation was flying back. Putin received a warm welcome as he arrived for the Alaska Summit on Friday. The sanctions were temporarily eased for them to visit Alaska; despite this, when they landed on US soil, they were made to pay in cash for refuelling the jets.Rubio, while talking to NBC, said that every single sanction that was put in place remains. However, these sanctions have not altered the course of the war.&nbsp;Moreover, the members of the Russian delegation and Russian Journalists were not able to access mobile networks or bank cards during their time on US soil.&nbsp;“When the Russians landed in Alaska … they had to offer to pay in cash to refuel their aeroplanes because they can't use our banking system,” Rubio told NBC. “They face consequences every single day."In a late-night Truth Social post, Trump claimed that "No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!”Trump on Monday held a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with European leaders to discuss the key issue of long-term security guarantees for Kyiv. Zelensky confirmed that he was 'ready' for a bilateral talk with Putin, but stayed firmly opposed to any calls for ceding any Ukrainian territory. Trump, who had earlier once bragged that he would settle the Russia-Ukraine conflict in one day, admitted yesterday in a press conference at the White House that it was far complex than he could comprehend. But he was hopeful of having an understanding within a week or two if there would be an end to the horrific war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had 3 jets for his delegates, which landed in Alaska on August 15 for the US-Russia summit. Each costs around $85,000 to be refuelled. Russian delegates were made to pay all the money in cash. 

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a conversation with NBC News, said that Russian President Vladimir Putin paid nearly $250,000 to refuel the three jets as the Russian delegation was flying back. Putin received a warm welcome as he arrived for the Alaska Summit on Friday. The sanctions were temporarily eased for them to visit Alaska; despite this, when they landed on US soil, they were made to pay in cash for refuelling the jets. Rubio, while talking to NBC, said that every single sanction that was put in place remains. However, these sanctions have not altered the course of the war. Moreover, the members of the Russian delegation and Russian Journalists were not able to access mobile networks or bank cards during their time on US soil. “When the Russians landed in Alaska … they had to offer to pay in cash to refuel their aeroplanes because they can't use our banking system,” Rubio told NBC. “They face consequences every single day." In a late-night Truth Social post, Trump claimed that "No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!” Trump on Monday held a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with European leaders to discuss the key issue of long-term security guarantees for Kyiv. Zelensky confirmed that he was 'ready' for a bilateral talk with Putin, but stayed firmly opposed to any calls for ceding any Ukrainian territory. Trump, who had earlier once bragged that he would settle the Russia-Ukraine conflict in one day, admitted yesterday in a press conference at the White House that it was far complex than he could comprehend. But he was hopeful of having an understanding within a week or two if there would be an end to the horrific war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had 3 jets for his delegates, which landed in Alaska on August 15 for the US-Russia summit. Each costs around $85,000 to be refuelled. Russian delegates were made to pay all the money in cash.&nbsp;

Putin paid $250,000 in cash for refueling jets to fly back to Russia, says Rubio

On the vast ice sheets of Earth's North pole, Russian Space agency Roscosmos has tested space rovers that are meant to potentially traverse icy space bodies such as the shadowed regions on Earth's moon, polar regions of Mars, among others. This experiment was carried out during the North Polar expedition undertaken by the Russian Nuclear Power agency Rosatom's Nuclear-powered icebreaker ship “50 years of Victory.”&nbsp;"Russian Space Agency Roscosmos is working with Russian Nuclear Agency Rosatom. We will be testing prototypes of various technologies, including robotic rovers that can operate on icy planets. We will also explore and study the possibility of human spaceflight over the earth's polar regions," Andrei Babkin, test cosmonaut, Deputy Commander of the Roscosmos Cosmonaut Team, told WION's Sidharth MP in Murmansk.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Russia's Nuclear agency Rosatom,&nbsp; Russian robotic rovers are being tested for the first time ever in the harsh conditions of the North Pole.&nbsp;From Murmansk in Northwestern Russia, the 160-meter-long vessel set sail for the North pole in the second week of August and reached there this week. Nuclear icebreakers are unique ships that are meant to traverse the icy Arctic ocean, cut a passage through the ice and clear a path for commercial shipping. Russia's Atomflot (Atomic Fleet) is the world's only operator of such Nuclear-powered icebreakers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-years-after-its-debut-india-s-sslv-rocket-doesn-t-have-a-market-1754661417923"> 3 years after its debut, India’s SSLV rocket doesn’t have a market?</a>&nbsp;The North Polar expedition, titled "Icebreaker of Knowledge", ferried over 60 high-school students from 21 nations. These students were selected on the basis on competitions conducted in their respective nations. The students hail from India,&nbsp;Brazil, Bolivia, Egypt, Indonesia, China, among others.&nbsp;This expedition marks the 80th anniversary of Russia's nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary since the beginning of the development of the Northern Sea Route, a short Europe-Asia shipping route via Russia's frozen Arctic region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian student Aayush Goyal is among those participating in the Russian North Polar expedition. "Feels like I'm on top of the world... this is something no movie can capture... In terms of science, it provides experience and exposure, it'll give me the motivation and fire to pursue it more," he told WION. Russian and foreign scientists, engineers, specialists in the nuclear and space industries, are also part of the expedition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Roscosmos and Rosatom tested space rovers on the North Pole’s ice aboard the nuclear icebreaker “50 Years of Victory.” The “Icebreaker of Knowledge” expedition included 60+ students from 21 countries, marking Russia’s nuclear industry anniversary and advancing tech for icy space exploration.

On the vast ice sheets of Earth's North pole, Russian Space agency Roscosmos has tested space rovers that are meant to potentially traverse icy space bodies such as the shadowed regions on Earth's moon, polar regions of Mars, among others. This experiment was carried out during the North Polar expedition undertaken by the Russian Nuclear Power agency Rosatom's Nuclear-powered icebreaker ship “50 years of Victory.” "Russian Space Agency Roscosmos is working with Russian Nuclear Agency Rosatom. We will be testing prototypes of various technologies, including robotic rovers that can operate on icy planets. We will also explore and study the possibility of human spaceflight over the earth's polar regions," Andrei Babkin, test cosmonaut, Deputy Commander of the Roscosmos Cosmonaut Team, told WION's Sidharth MP in Murmansk. According to Russia's Nuclear agency Rosatom, Russian robotic rovers are being tested for the first time ever in the harsh conditions of the North Pole. From Murmansk in Northwestern Russia, the 160-meter-long vessel set sail for the North pole in the second week of August and reached there this week. Nuclear icebreakers are unique ships that are meant to traverse the icy Arctic ocean, cut a passage through the ice and clear a path for commercial shipping. Russia's Atomflot (Atomic Fleet) is the world's only operator of such Nuclear-powered icebreakers. Read More | 3 years after its debut, India’s SSLV rocket doesn’t have a market? The North Polar expedition, titled "Icebreaker of Knowledge", ferried over 60 high-school students from 21 nations. These students were selected on the basis on competitions conducted in their respective nations. The students hail from India, Brazil, Bolivia, Egypt, Indonesia, China, among others. This expedition marks the 80th anniversary of Russia's nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary since the beginning of the development of the Northern Sea Route, a short Europe-Asia shipping route via Russia's frozen Arctic region. Indian student Aayush Goyal is among those participating in the Russian North Polar expedition. "Feels like I'm on top of the world... this is something no movie can capture... In terms of science, it provides experience and exposure, it'll give me the motivation and fire to pursue it more," he told WION. Russian and foreign scientists, engineers, specialists in the nuclear and space industries, are also part of the expedition.

Roscosmos and Rosatom tested space rovers on the North Pole’s ice aboard the nuclear icebreaker “50 Years of Victory.” The “Icebreaker of Knowledge” expedition included 60+ students from 21 countries, marking Russia’s nuclear industry anniversary and advancing tech for icy space exploration.

Exclusive: Russia tests space rover on North Polar ice sheet

The much-anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky has concluded. Different from the previous engagement in the White House, which took place earlier in February, Trump has assured him of working on the next step. The US president, who has already had a word with Russian President Putin, will be working on arranging another meeting to call for peace between the warring countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-donald-trump-s-approval-rating-drops-to-lowest-level-of-his-second-term-1755584024028/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-donald-trump-s-approval-rating-drops-to-lowest-level-of-his-second-term-1755584024028/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After the meeting, Zelensky said, "No, we don't have any dates (of a meeting with President Putin)... We confirmed that we are ready for a trilateral meeting, and if Russia proposes a bilateral meeting to the President of the United States, then we will see the result of the bilateral meeting.”&nbsp;“After that, we can go for a trilateral. Ukraine will never stop on the way to peace, and we are ready for any kind of format, but on the level of leaders,” he added. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Washington, DC | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says, &quot;No, we dont have any dates (of a meeting with President Putin)... We confirmed that we are ready for a trilateral meeting, and if Russia proposes a bilateral meeting to the President of the United States,… <a href="https://t.co/ScfWtvu0lw">pic.twitter.com/ScfWtvu0lw</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1957607491170144582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Trump also assured the Ukrainian leader of security guarantees, which is one of Zelensky’s key &nbsp;concerns. “When Ukraine was given so called “security guarantees” in 1994, but they didn't work. Of course, Crimea should not have been given up then, just as Ukrainians did not give up Kyiv, Odesa, or Kharkiv after 2022. Ukrainians are fighting for their land, for their independence.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-had-so-many-european-leaders-trump-ahead-of-big-day-in-white-house-1755487045211">'Never had so many European leaders...' Trump ahead of 'big day' in White House just as Zelensky arrives</a>&nbsp;After a fruitful meeting, Trump wrote on Truth Social,“During the meeting we discussed security guarantees for Ukraine, which guarantees would be provided by the various European countries, with a coordination with the United States of America. Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine.”

The US president, who has already had a word with Russian President Putin, will be working on arranging another meeting to call for peace between the warring countries. 

The much-anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky has concluded. Different from the previous engagement in the White House, which took place earlier in February, Trump has assured him of working on the next step. The US president, who has already had a word with Russian President Putin, will be working on arranging another meeting to call for peace between the warring countries. https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-donald-trump-s-approval-rating-drops-to-lowest-level-of-his-second-term-1755584024028/embed After the meeting, Zelensky said, "No, we don't have any dates (of a meeting with President Putin)... We confirmed that we are ready for a trilateral meeting, and if Russia proposes a bilateral meeting to the President of the United States, then we will see the result of the bilateral meeting.” “After that, we can go for a trilateral. Ukraine will never stop on the way to peace, and we are ready for any kind of format, but on the level of leaders,” he added.

The US president, who has already had a word with Russian President Putin, will be working on arranging another meeting to call for peace between the warring countries.&nbsp;

‘Ready for a trilateral meet’: Zelensky on meeting Putin after talks with Trump in White House

The White House on Monday (Aug 18) displayed a map showing &nbsp;Russian control over Ukrainian territory, just as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders were visiting President Donald Trump for talks to end the war. The map, in a manner of speaking, made Russian military incursions and the resulting land grab official. If one combines the actual and supposed territory taken by Russia, it is as big as at least seven countries. Here is a breakdown of the extent of the Russian military invasion of Ukraine.<h2>How many square kilometres of Ukrainian territory does Russia control?</h2>At the time of writing this, Russia is estimated to control nearly 18.3 per cent to 20 per cent of Ukraine’s territory, amounting to about 110,000 to 120,000 square kilometres of Ukraine's total area of 603,548 square kilometres. This includes Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Large portions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts, or administrative areas, were taken by Russia in its military operation since 2022, along with small areas in Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ended-india-pakistan-war-trump-s-big-achievement-mentions-it-yet-again-during-meeting-with-zelensky-1755571247623">'Ended India-Pakistan war': Trump's 'big' achievement, mentions it yet again during meeting with Zelensky</a>Editor's note: The fog of war means that there would be fluctuations in the actual areas under Russian control. Map-making is difficult in a war zone. Also, with the ebbs and flows of the battlefield, the areas under control would change. But the following is a fair estimate based on various sources and media reports.<h2>Breakdown of Ukrainian territories and regions under Russian control, real or supposed</h2>Crimea, already annexed by Russia in 2014 in a military operation, is around 27,000 sq km. Russia has been administering Crimea as two federal subjects, despite Ukraine and most countries in the international community still recognising it as Ukrainian territory.The Russian military operation, or invasion according to the West, which started in 2022, led to Russian control of several oblasts, or administrative regions in Ukraine. They are as follows:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-duo-strike-a-different-mood-from-last-meet-1755583172211/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-duo-strike-a-different-mood-from-last-meet-1755583172211/embed</a>&nbsp;Donetsk Oblast: Russia has control over nearly 15,540 to 15,731 sq km of Donetsk, amounting to nearly 60 per cent of the oblast. The areas include Mariupol, besides territories already held by the Donetsk People’s Republic since 2014. Ukraine still retains key towns like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.Luhansk Oblast: Nearly 26,285 sq km of Luhansk are under Russian control, which is up to 98.5 per cent of the oblast, meaning Luhansk is practically under Russian control now. The so-called Russia-backed Luhansk People’s Republic gained nearly full control by 2022.Zaporizhzhia Oblast: Russia occupies about 19,839 sq km or nearly 73 per cent of this sensitive region, which also houses a nuclear power plant. Russian control includes the city of Enerhodar and the Zaporizhzhia reactor, while Ukraine controls the remaining 7,344 sq km.Kherson Oblast: In Kherson, Russia controls 21,337 sq km, which is around 74 per cent of the oblast. Russia had captured more territory in 2022, but Ukraine reclaimed the west bank of the Dnipro River, including Kherson city later that year.In the regions of Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk, Russia holds roughly 400 sq km, mainly in border buffer zones like Vovchansk in Kharkiv.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-promises-zelensky-security-guarantees-but-will-ukraine-be-forced-into-land-concessions-here-s-what-was-said-during-vital-washington-meet-1755568835632">Trump promises Zelensky security guarantees, but will Ukraine be forced into land concessions? Here's what was said during vital Washington meet</a>&nbsp;<h2>What is the total size of the Russian-occupied area in Ukraine?</h2>When one adds up all these, the estimates could range from 110,000 to 116,000 sq km.As mentioned earlier, these are not confirmed, as sources and frontline positions vary as the war progresses. For instance, the French newspaper Le Monde reported the total area under Russian control as 110,400 sq km in March 2025, while Al Jazeera calculated the area as 114,500 sq km in August.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-washington-gambit-trump-juggles-a-putin-call-european-doubts-and-zelensky-s-hopes-for-a-deal-1755580768397">The Washington Gambit: Trump juggles a Putin call, European doubts, and Zelensky’s hopes for a deal</a>&nbsp;<h2>The territory Russia holds in Ukraine is the same or bigger than these countries</h2>The territory under real or supposed control of Russia in Ukraine is larger than the total size of Serbia (88,361 sq km), Jordan (89,342), Portugal (92,090), and Hungary (93,030). The size is roughly equal to or slightly larger than Cuba (109,884 sq km). It also exceeds the size of Iceland (103,000 sq km) and South Korea (100,210). It is comparable to the US state of Pennsylvania, which has an area of 119,280 sq km.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-exactly-happened-in-trump-zelensky-meeting-know-in-6-points-putin-ceasefire-1755545706120">What exactly happened in Trump-Zelensky meeting? Know in 6 points</a>&nbsp;<h2>Will Ukraine have to give up territory?</h2>Besides Crimea, the Russian invasion of Ukraine helped it gain around 4,200 sq km between December 2023 and March 2025. While neither Ukraine nor its mostly European allies recognise Russia’s territorial claims, the White House displaying the map is significant. It is an indication that, at the end of the day, some of this territory may have to be ceded.

Crimea, already annexed by Russia in 2014 in a military operation, is around 27,000 sq km and the Ukrainian territory taken by Moscow since the 2022 war is nearly 20 per cent of the neighbouring country

The White House on Monday (Aug 18) displayed a map showing Russian control over Ukrainian territory, just as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders were visiting President Donald Trump for talks to end the war. The map, in a manner of speaking, made Russian military incursions and the resulting land grab official. If one combines the actual and supposed territory taken by Russia, it is as big as at least seven countries. Here is a breakdown of the extent of the Russian military invasion of Ukraine. How many square kilometres of Ukrainian territory does Russia control? At the time of writing this, Russia is estimated to control nearly 18.3 per cent to 20 per cent of Ukraine’s territory, amounting to about 110,000 to 120,000 square kilometres of Ukraine's total area of 603,548 square kilometres. This includes Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Large portions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts, or administrative areas, were taken by Russia in its military operation since 2022, along with small areas in Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk. Also read: 'Ended India-Pakistan war': Trump's 'big' achievement, mentions it yet again during meeting with Zelensky Editor's note: The fog of war means that there would be fluctuations in the actual areas under Russian control. Map-making is difficult in a war zone. Also, with the ebbs and flows of the battlefield, the areas under control would change. But the following is a fair estimate based on various sources and media reports. Breakdown of Ukrainian territories and regions under Russian control, real or supposed Crimea, already annexed by Russia in 2014 in a military operation, is around 27,000 sq km. Russia has been administering Crimea as two federal subjects, despite Ukraine and most countries in the international community still recognising it as Ukrainian territory. The Russian military operation, or invasion according to the West, which started in 2022, led to Russian control of several oblasts, or administrative regions in Ukraine. They are as follows: https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-duo-strike-a-different-mood-from-last-meet-1755583172211/embed Donetsk Oblast: Russia has control over nearly 15,540 to 15,731 sq km of Donetsk, amounting to nearly 60 per cent of the oblast. The areas include Mariupol, besides territories already held by the Donetsk People’s Republic since 2014. Ukraine still retains key towns like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. Luhansk Oblast: Nearly 26,285 sq km of Luhansk are under Russian control, which is up to 98.5 per cent of the oblast, meaning Luhansk is practically under Russian control now. The so-called Russia-backed Luhansk People’s Republic gained nearly full control by 2022. Zaporizhzhia Oblast: Russia occupies about 19,839 sq km or nearly 73 per cent of this sensitive region, which also houses a nuclear power plant. Russian control includes the city of Enerhodar and the Zaporizhzhia reactor, while Ukraine controls the remaining 7,344 sq km. Kherson Oblast: In Kherson, Russia controls 21,337 sq km, which is around 74 per cent of the oblast. Russia had captured more territory in 2022, but Ukraine reclaimed the west bank of the Dnipro River, including Kherson city later that year. In the regions of Kharkiv, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk, Russia holds roughly 400 sq km, mainly in border buffer zones like Vovchansk in Kharkiv. Also read: Trump promises Zelensky security guarantees, but will Ukraine be forced into land concessions? Here's what was said during vital Washington meet What is the total size of the Russian-occupied area in Ukraine? When one adds up all these, the estimates could range from 110,000 to 116,000 sq km. As mentioned earlier, these are not confirmed, as sources and frontline positions vary as the war progresses. For instance, the French newspaper Le Monde reported the total area under Russian control as 110,400 sq km in March 2025, while Al Jazeera calculated the area as 114,500 sq km in August. Also read: The Washington Gambit: Trump juggles a Putin call, European doubts, and Zelensky’s hopes for a deal The territory Russia holds in Ukraine is the same or bigger than these countries The territory under real or supposed control of Russia in Ukraine is larger than the total size of Serbia (88,361 sq km), Jordan (89,342), Portugal (92,090), and Hungary (93,030). The size is roughly equal to or slightly larger than Cuba (109,884 sq km). It also exceeds the size of Iceland (103,000 sq km) and South Korea (100,210). It is comparable to the US state of Pennsylvania, which has an area of 119,280 sq km. Also read: What exactly happened in Trump-Zelensky meeting? Know in 6 points Will Ukraine have to give up territory? Besides Crimea, the Russian invasion of Ukraine helped it gain around 4,200 sq km between December 2023 and March 2025. While neither Ukraine nor its mostly European allies recognise Russia’s territorial claims, the White House displaying the map is significant. It is an indication that, at the end of the day, some of this territory may have to be ceded.

Crimea, already annexed by Russia in 2014 in a military operation, is around 27,000 sq km and the Ukrainian territory taken by Moscow since the 2022 war is nearly 20 per cent of the neighbouring country

Did you know Ukrainian territory under Russian control is as big as these countries? Areas and size, explained

Amid talks of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, India's oil purchase from Russia has again made headlines. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro alleged that India's 'financial support' is helping Russia in the war against Ukraine. Navarro, who is instrumental in imposing the reciprocal tariffs on countries in escalating Trump's trade war, criticised India for purchasing Russian energy and defence equipment. He also warned that the US will hit "Delhi where it hurts.”&nbsp;In an opinion piece for the Financial Times, Navarro termed India’s oil trade with Russia “opportunistic” and “corrosive” to global efforts being made to isolate the Russian economy amid war with Ukraine. He also said that India was using dollars earned from trade with America to buy Russian oil, blaming New Delhi for "high tariffs." He also blamed the Biden administration for looking the other way and said that Trump administration is "confronting" the "geopolitical madness." He also claimed that crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. “This two-pronged policy will hit India where it hurts — its access to US markets — even as it seeks to cut off the financial lifeline it has extended to Russia’s war effort,” Navarro said. “If India wants to be treated as a strategic partner of the US, it needs to start acting like one.” Navarro also accused India of “cosying up to both Russia and China.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-2025-pm-narendra-modi-s-big-message-to-us-amid-trump-s-tariff-trade-war-50-percent-tariff-1755228508072">'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed</a><h2>Trump's trade war and India's response&nbsp;</h2>In continuation of ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs of April 2, Trump issued an executive order on July 31 that imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations.&nbsp;In a statement published Aug 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said, "India’s imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs to the Indian consumer. They are a necessity compelled by global market situation." “However, it is revealing that the very nations criticising India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia. Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, in what seemed to be a response to Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he won't compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen of his country, even if he has to pay a price for it. He echoed the same sentiments in his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15. “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. Delivering a strong message, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community. &nbsp;

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has doubled down on his attack on India for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia. He has claimed that India's purchase of crude oil may be funding the war against Ukraine

Amid talks of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, India's oil purchase from Russia has again made headlines. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro alleged that India's 'financial support' is helping Russia in the war against Ukraine. Navarro, who is instrumental in imposing the reciprocal tariffs on countries in escalating Trump's trade war, criticised India for purchasing Russian energy and defence equipment. He also warned that the US will hit "Delhi where it hurts.” In an opinion piece for the Financial Times, Navarro termed India’s oil trade with Russia “opportunistic” and “corrosive” to global efforts being made to isolate the Russian economy amid war with Ukraine. He also said that India was using dollars earned from trade with America to buy Russian oil, blaming New Delhi for "high tariffs." He also blamed the Biden administration for looking the other way and said that Trump administration is "confronting" the "geopolitical madness." He also claimed that crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. “This two-pronged policy will hit India where it hurts — its access to US markets — even as it seeks to cut off the financial lifeline it has extended to Russia’s war effort,” Navarro said. “If India wants to be treated as a strategic partner of the US, it needs to start acting like one.” Navarro also accused India of “cosying up to both Russia and China.” Read More | 'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed Trump's trade war and India's response In continuation of ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs of April 2, Trump issued an executive order on July 31 that imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations. In a statement published Aug 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said, "India’s imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs to the Indian consumer. They are a necessity compelled by global market situation." “However, it is revealing that the very nations criticising India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia. Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion,” it added. Meanwhile, in what seemed to be a response to Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he won't compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen of his country, even if he has to pay a price for it. He echoed the same sentiments in his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15. “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. Delivering a strong message, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has doubled down on his attack on India for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia. He has claimed that India's purchase of crude oil may be funding the war against Ukraine

India's oil purchase from Russia funding Ukraine war? Trump's aide makes sensational allegations

Mohammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh has reportedly ordered all Bangladeshi foreign missions to remove the portrait of President Shahabuddin from their offices. Reports have linked this move by the Yunus-led government to his gradual wiping of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's legacy from the South Asian nation. However, there was no written order of the same and local reports said that the order was issued verbally. Earlier this month, Yunus had announced that elections in the country would be held in February 2026.<h2>Here's what we know about the portrait controversy</h2>A report by The Bangladeshi Daily Prothom Alo reported that officials have been instructed to take down the portraits. The Daily Star cited sources in the foreign ministry who revealed that most of the 82 missions had already taken down the portraits following the July uprising, while the remaining missions were reportedly instructed last Friday to do the same. Since the order was made verbally, the lack of documentation and transparency has raised eyebrows. Moreover, removal of Shahabuddin's portraits has been linked to wiping Sheikh Hasina's legacy as he was appointed during Hasina’s tenure. As the controversy spiralled, both Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and Shah Asif Rahman, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Wing, declined to comment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Azad Majumder, Deputy Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, said in a Facebook post that the interim government had discouraged the use of official portraits from the outset, maintaining what he described as an unwritten “zero-portrait” policy and blamed media for stirring controversy. “Even so, some individuals have, on their own initiative, displayed pictures of the government or head of state. However, no written directive has been issued to any office or mission instructing them to remove such portraits. Since the announcement of the election schedule has reduced opportunities to create confusion over politics, many small matters are being exaggerated and turned into mountain-sized controversies to keep up political momentum,” Azad wrote. Responding on the controversy, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said that she &nbsp;learnt of the removals from media reports and stated that it would not impact the upcoming polls. “If photos were removed, that has nothing to do with the election. A photo has no relation to an election.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-army-chief-reaffirms-nation-s-secular-democratic-foundations-1755541736303/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-army-chief-reaffirms-nation-s-secular-democratic-foundations-1755541736303/embed</a><h2>Is the Yunus government really wiping out Hasina's legacy?</h2>After Sheikh Hasina's ouster in August 2024, the Yunus regime has been accused of erasing her legacy from the country, including that of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Yunus government has also been accused of giving free rein to the Islamist forces in the country. Attacks on minorities have also increased after the ouster of Hasina, with India also urging the Yunus-led government to protect the minorities. Recently, the Bangladeshi government scrapped the status of August 15 as the 'National Mourning Day.' Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is considered 'Father of the Nation' in Bangladesh, was brutally assassinated on August 15, 1975. The day was observed as National Mourning Day in the neighbouring country, but the holiday on that day has been scrapped by the Yunus government.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Yunus government has also removed Mujibur Rahman's image from banknotes and has renamed buildings and institutions in his name. It has also revised educational content to portray multiple viewpoints of the Liberation War, including that of Zia-ur-Rahman, and reduced mentions of India's role. Moreover, several trusts linked to Hasina and her family—including the Bangabandhu Memorial Trust—lost tax-exempt status and are now under financial scrutiny. The Awami League has been banned from political activity, including contests in upcoming elections—an effective move to sideline both the party and Hasina-affiliated politics. A nationwide crackdown—Operation Devil Hunt— has also been launched to target supporters and structures associated with Sheikh Hasina, resulting in thousands of arrests.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh's interim government reportedly ordered the removal of President Shahabuddin’s portraits from foreign missions, sparking controversy due to the lack of written orders. Yunus govt aide's said that they have maintained a “zero-portrait” policy since the beginning 

Mohammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh has reportedly ordered all Bangladeshi foreign missions to remove the portrait of President Shahabuddin from their offices. Reports have linked this move by the Yunus-led government to his gradual wiping of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's legacy from the South Asian nation. However, there was no written order of the same and local reports said that the order was issued verbally. Earlier this month, Yunus had announced that elections in the country would be held in February 2026. Here's what we know about the portrait controversy A report by The Bangladeshi Daily Prothom Alo reported that officials have been instructed to take down the portraits. The Daily Star cited sources in the foreign ministry who revealed that most of the 82 missions had already taken down the portraits following the July uprising, while the remaining missions were reportedly instructed last Friday to do the same. Since the order was made verbally, the lack of documentation and transparency has raised eyebrows. Moreover, removal of Shahabuddin's portraits has been linked to wiping Sheikh Hasina's legacy as he was appointed during Hasina’s tenure. As the controversy spiralled, both Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and Shah Asif Rahman, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Wing, declined to comment. Azad Majumder, Deputy Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, said in a Facebook post that the interim government had discouraged the use of official portraits from the outset, maintaining what he described as an unwritten “zero-portrait” policy and blamed media for stirring controversy. “Even so, some individuals have, on their own initiative, displayed pictures of the government or head of state. However, no written directive has been issued to any office or mission instructing them to remove such portraits. Since the announcement of the election schedule has reduced opportunities to create confusion over politics, many small matters are being exaggerated and turned into mountain-sized controversies to keep up political momentum,” Azad wrote. Responding on the controversy, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said that she learnt of the removals from media reports and stated that it would not impact the upcoming polls. “If photos were removed, that has nothing to do with the election. A photo has no relation to an election.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-army-chief-reaffirms-nation-s-secular-democratic-foundations-1755541736303/embed Is the Yunus government really wiping out Hasina's legacy? After Sheikh Hasina's ouster in August 2024, the Yunus regime has been accused of erasing her legacy from the country, including that of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Yunus government has also been accused of giving free rein to the Islamist forces in the country. Attacks on minorities have also increased after the ouster of Hasina, with India also urging the Yunus-led government to protect the minorities. Recently, the Bangladeshi government scrapped the status of August 15 as the 'National Mourning Day.' Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is considered 'Father of the Nation' in Bangladesh, was brutally assassinated on August 15, 1975. The day was observed as National Mourning Day in the neighbouring country, but the holiday on that day has been scrapped by the Yunus government. The Yunus government has also removed Mujibur Rahman's image from banknotes and has renamed buildings and institutions in his name. It has also revised educational content to portray multiple viewpoints of the Liberation War, including that of Zia-ur-Rahman, and reduced mentions of India's role. Moreover, several trusts linked to Hasina and her family—including the Bangabandhu Memorial Trust—lost tax-exempt status and are now under financial scrutiny. The Awami League has been banned from political activity, including contests in upcoming elections—an effective move to sideline both the party and Hasina-affiliated politics. A nationwide crackdown—Operation Devil Hunt— has also been launched to target supporters and structures associated with Sheikh Hasina, resulting in thousands of arrests.

Bangladesh's interim government reportedly ordered the removal of President Shahabuddin’s portraits from foreign missions, sparking controversy due to the lack of written orders. Yunus govt aide's said that they have maintained a “zero-portrait” policy since the beginning&nbsp;

Row breaks out over Bangladesh govt's order to remove President Shahabuddin's portraits: Is Yunus govt wiping out Hasina's legacy?

Iran and Israel were embroiled in cross-border fighting, it was on June 12 that the countries agreed for a ceasefire after US President Donald Trump intervened to broker peace. Now, on Monday (August 18), a high-ranking Iranian official said that the conflict may resurface. This statement comes two months after the 12-day conflict was paused. He cautioned it could probably be a temporary break. &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“We must remain vigilant for potential conflict at any moment; we are not in a formal ceasefire but rather in a temporary suspension of hostilities,” First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref was quoted by news outlet Eurasian Times.The ceasefire announced by Trump came on June 24, a day after US struck nuclear facilities in Iran. He, in his statement, had said, “I can report to the world that these strikes were a spectacular military success. Iran’s key nuclear facilities have been completed and totally obliterated. Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace.”&nbsp;Talking to local media on Sunday (August 17), Yahya Rahim Safavi, a key military adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that they are ‘bracing for the worst possible outcomes’.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-official-end-to-12-day-war-donald-trump-announces-ceasefire-between-israel-and-iran-1750719301651"> 'Official end to 12-day war': Donald Trump announces ceasefire between Israel and Iran</a>&nbsp;In an interview with news outlet Shargh Daily, Safavi said, “We are not under a ceasefire; we are in a state of war that could escalate at any moment. There is no formal agreement, no protocols, no understanding with Israel or the United States.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The ceasefire was an informal halt to the cross-border fighting. On the day of the pause, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had said, ‘there is NO agreement on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations’.

The 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran was paused but no formal agreement was reached. The ceasefire was na informal announcement made by Donald Trump after US struck three nuclear facilities in Iran.

Iran and Israel were embroiled in cross-border fighting, it was on June 12 that the countries agreed for a ceasefire after US President Donald Trump intervened to broker peace. Now, on Monday (August 18), a high-ranking Iranian official said that the conflict may resurface. This statement comes two months after the 12-day conflict was paused. He cautioned it could probably be a temporary break. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed “We must remain vigilant for potential conflict at any moment; we are not in a formal ceasefire but rather in a temporary suspension of hostilities,” First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref was quoted by news outlet Eurasian Times. The ceasefire announced by Trump came on June 24, a day after US struck nuclear facilities in Iran. He, in his statement, had said, “I can report to the world that these strikes were a spectacular military success. Iran’s key nuclear facilities have been completed and totally obliterated. Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace.” Talking to local media on Sunday (August 17), Yahya Rahim Safavi, a key military adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that they are ‘bracing for the worst possible outcomes’. Also read: 'Official end to 12-day war': Donald Trump announces ceasefire between Israel and Iran In an interview with news outlet Shargh Daily, Safavi said, “We are not under a ceasefire; we are in a state of war that could escalate at any moment. There is no formal agreement, no protocols, no understanding with Israel or the United States.” The ceasefire was an informal halt to the cross-border fighting. On the day of the pause, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had said, ‘there is NO agreement on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations’.

The 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran was paused but no formal agreement was reached. The ceasefire was na informal announcement made by Donald Trump after the US struck three nuclear facilities in Iran.

'Not under a ceasefire': Top Iranian official cautions conflict with Israel could resume

An Alaskan man recieved an unexpected gift from the Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Alaska Summit in Anchorage. The man identified by the state broadcaster Rossia 1 as Mark Warren, had been featured in a news segment claiming about the impacts of Russian invasion of Ukraine on common American. Mark Warren who owns a Soviet era Ural was complaining about the increased maintenance cost of the motorbike.&nbsp;“This is a personal gift from the Russian president,” said Andrei Ledenev, a counselor at the Russian Embassy in Washington, as he handed over the keys to the bike to Warren in the parking lot of the hotel where the Russian delegation was staying.&nbsp;"I'm speechless, it's amazing. Thank you very much." said Warren. Warren also expressed that if Trump and Putin could put an end to Russia and Ukraine conflict.Russian broadcaster Rossia 1 encountered Warren while in Alaska for the summit. The reporter reportedly stopped to admire Warren's bike which is made in Soviet Russia in 1941. Warren told reporter, Valentin Bogdanov, because of the US sanction on Russia, he was facing trouble to obtain spare parts for the motorcycle."It's night and day," Warren said. "I like my old one, but this one is much better."&nbsp;“Here’s a new ride on the new Ural. A Russian vehicle in Russian America under the shadow of a Russian birch tree,” said a Rossia 1 correspondent while referring to Alaska's history as part of Russian empire.Russian media framed the gift as a goodwill to the United States. Ural motorcycles are manufactured in Kazakhstan while its corporate headquarter is stationed in Washington. In March 2022, IMZ-Ural condemned Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Just after the conclusion of the Trump and US summit in Alaska, a representative of Russian President Vladimir Putin handed over a brand new Ural motorbike to an Alaskan resident, Mark Warren.

An Alaskan man recieved an unexpected gift from the Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Alaska Summit in Anchorage. The man identified by the state broadcaster Rossia 1 as Mark Warren, had been featured in a news segment claiming about the impacts of Russian invasion of Ukraine on common American. Mark Warren who owns a Soviet era Ural was complaining about the increased maintenance cost of the motorbike. “This is a personal gift from the Russian president,” said Andrei Ledenev, a counselor at the Russian Embassy in Washington, as he handed over the keys to the bike to Warren in the parking lot of the hotel where the Russian delegation was staying. "I'm speechless, it's amazing. Thank you very much." said Warren. Warren also expressed that if Trump and Putin could put an end to Russia and Ukraine conflict. Russian broadcaster Rossia 1 encountered Warren while in Alaska for the summit. The reporter reportedly stopped to admire Warren's bike which is made in Soviet Russia in 1941. Warren told reporter, Valentin Bogdanov, because of the US sanction on Russia, he was facing trouble to obtain spare parts for the motorcycle. "It's night and day," Warren said. "I like my old one, but this one is much better." “Here’s a new ride on the new Ural. A Russian vehicle in Russian America under the shadow of a Russian birch tree,” said a Rossia 1 correspondent while referring to Alaska's history as part of Russian empire. Russian media framed the gift as a goodwill to the United States. Ural motorcycles are manufactured in Kazakhstan while its corporate headquarter is stationed in Washington. In March 2022, IMZ-Ural condemned Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Just after the conclusion of the US and Russia summit in Alaska, a representative of Russian President Vladimir Putin handed over a brand new Ural motorbike to an Alaskan resident, Mark Warren.

Russian GOODWILL? President Putin gifts a Soviet-era Ural motor bike to an Alaskan man at Anchorage summit

A bulk carrier cargo ship caught fire in the Patapsco River near the Francis Scott Key Bridge site in Baltimore Harbor on Monday evening. Following the incident, officials confirmed no injuries. Surprisingly, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management confirmed that it was aware of the fire on the cargo vessel. However, no property damage beyond the ship was reported.&nbsp;The Baltimore City Fire Department said a fire under the deck of a vessel created thick smoke on Sunday evening. Although some residents reported hearing a blast but officials have not confirmed that it was an explosion, BNO News reported.&nbsp;The incident, which occurred at around 6.28 pm, was captured on a camera overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Footage showed a massive fireball erupting from the ship’s forward hold. Fire crews and US Coast Guard crews rushed to the scene, later escorting the vessel away from Fort Howard to prevent further danger. However, officials are still probing the cause of the incident.<h3>The ship was en route to Mauritius's Port Louis</h3>Maritime expert Sal Mercogliano suggested that the ship might be the MV W Sapphire, a bulk carrier bound for Mauritius, though authorities have not verified the identity of the ship. As per the CBS report, the vessel left Baltimore on Monday, 18 August at 5:55 p.m. and was en route to Mauritius's Port Louis, with a scheduled arrival on September 23.&nbsp;The fire broke out near the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the site of the March 2024 disaster, where a ship was struck by another container ship. The tragic event claimed the lives of six construction workers and halted operations at the Port of Baltimore for months.&nbsp;According to a report by Gulf News, the incident is jointly handled by the ship’s owner, the Baltimore City Fire Department, the Port of Baltimore, and the United States Coast Guard. In addition, fireboats remain deployed at the Coast Guard and other agencies conduct their investigation. The vessel will be shifted to a designated anchorage point and kept there until it receives clearance from the Coast Guard.

The incident unfolded near the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Harbor on Monday evening, the site of the March 2024 disaster, where a ship was struck by another container ship. 

A bulk carrier cargo ship caught fire in the Patapsco River near the Francis Scott Key Bridge site in Baltimore Harbor on Monday evening. Following the incident, officials confirmed no injuries. Surprisingly, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management confirmed that it was aware of the fire on the cargo vessel. However, no property damage beyond the ship was reported. The Baltimore City Fire Department said a fire under the deck of a vessel created thick smoke on Sunday evening. Although some residents reported hearing a blast but officials have not confirmed that it was an explosion, BNO News reported. The incident, which occurred at around 6.28 pm, was captured on a camera overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Footage showed a massive fireball erupting from the ship’s forward hold. Fire crews and US Coast Guard crews rushed to the scene, later escorting the vessel away from Fort Howard to prevent further danger. However, officials are still probing the cause of the incident. The ship was en route to Mauritius's Port Louis Maritime expert Sal Mercogliano suggested that the ship might be the MV W Sapphire, a bulk carrier bound for Mauritius, though authorities have not verified the identity of the ship. As per the CBS report, the vessel left Baltimore on Monday, 18 August at 5:55 p.m. and was en route to Mauritius's Port Louis, with a scheduled arrival on September 23. The fire broke out near the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the site of the March 2024 disaster, where a ship was struck by another container ship. The tragic event claimed the lives of six construction workers and halted operations at the Port of Baltimore for months. According to a report by Gulf News, the incident is jointly handled by the ship’s owner, the Baltimore City Fire Department, the Port of Baltimore, and the United States Coast Guard. In addition, fireboats remain deployed at the Coast Guard and other agencies conduct their investigation. The vessel will be shifted to a designated anchorage point and kept there until it receives clearance from the Coast Guard.

The incident unfolded near the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Harbor on Monday evening, the site of the March 2024 disaster, where a ship was struck by another container ship.&nbsp;

Massive fireball erupts as cargo ship catches fire in US's Baltimore Harbor — Details inside

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba is likely to visit New Delhi by the end of August to lay the groundwork for Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s official visit to India in September. Sources said Foreign Minister Rana will travel to Delhi for a routine health check-up, but her trip is also expected to include official meetings. She is likely to meet Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar as part of the preparations for PM Oli’s visit.&nbsp;Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar next month, where he will hold bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Breaking tradition, India will host Oli in Bodh Gaya instead of New Delhi. The Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment, carries deep cultural and spiritual significance for both nations.&nbsp;This will mark Oli’s first trip to India since assuming office in July last year.&nbsp;Both sides are planning delegation-level talks, luncheon meetings between Oli and Modi, and a joint press conference at the International Convention Centre in Bodh Gaya.&nbsp;The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. During the August 17–18 visit, Misri formally handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Oli, according to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.&nbsp;While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.&nbsp;He also held wide-ranging discussions with his Nepali counterpart, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and reviewed progress in bilateral initiatives and explored opportunities for further cooperation, including possible outcomes of Oli’s forthcoming visit.

The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba is likely to visit New Delhi by the end of August to lay the groundwork for Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s official visit to India in September. Sources said Foreign Minister Rana will travel to Delhi for a routine health check-up, but her trip is also expected to include official meetings. She is likely to meet Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar as part of the preparations for PM Oli’s visit. Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar next month, where he will hold bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Breaking tradition, India will host Oli in Bodh Gaya instead of New Delhi. The Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment, carries deep cultural and spiritual significance for both nations. This will mark Oli’s first trip to India since assuming office in July last year. Both sides are planning delegation-level talks, luncheon meetings between Oli and Modi, and a joint press conference at the International Convention Centre in Bodh Gaya. The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. During the August 17–18 visit, Misri formally handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Oli, according to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries. He also held wide-ranging discussions with his Nepali counterpart, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and reviewed progress in bilateral initiatives and explored opportunities for further cooperation, including possible outcomes of Oli’s forthcoming visit.

The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.

Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba to visit India ahead of PM Oli’s trip

China has informed India that it has lifted export restrictions on fertilisers, rare earth magnets and minerals, and tunnel boring machines, according to sources. The major breakthrough came after Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the three key demands in a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi last month. The Chinese foreign minister is currently visiting India on a three-day diplomatic trip. On Monday, Yi, reportedly assured Jaishankar that Beijing had already begun acting on India's demands. China has also started the shipment of said critical items, suggest reports.&nbsp;<h2>Why is this important? What was the Impact of Chinese curbs on Indian markets?</h2>India had earlier raised concerns over China suddenly imposing restrictions on the three critical items. Reports suggest that the sudden imposition of an export ban affected the Rabi season, as it hit the supply of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Meanwhile, shipment delays of tunnel boring machines affected crucial infrastructure projects, including those by foreign companies with manufacturing plants in China.The curb on Rare earth mineral exports impacted the auto and electronics sectors, which faced severe shortages and warned of disruptions in production.Also read |&nbsp;<h2>Why did China impose the export curbs?</h2>According to reports, China imposed the restrictions while citing security concerns and strained bilateral relations with India.&nbsp;However, Yi, in a statement published on Tuesday (Aug 19), lauded the progress in relations between India and China, noting that they were on a "positive trend".On Monday, during talks with Jaishankar, Wang Yi said that the two countries should "view each other as partners and opportunities, rather than adversaries or threats". Pointing to the resumption of "dialogue at all levels" and "maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas" as evidence, the Chinese foreign minister said that the bilateral ties were on a "positive trend of returning to the main path of cooperation".Watch | Wang Yi In India: Differences Shouldn’t Turn Into Disputes, S. Jaishankar to Wang <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-in-india-differences-shouldn-t-turn-into-disputes-s-jaishankar-to-wang-1755583135520/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-in-india-differences-shouldn-t-turn-into-disputes-s-jaishankar-to-wang-1755583135520/embed</a>&nbsp;

China has told India it has lifted export curbs on fertilizers, rare earth magnets, minerals, and tunnel boring machines, sources said. The move follows EAM S Jaishankar’s talks with Wang Yi last month.

China has informed India that it has lifted export restrictions on fertilisers, rare earth magnets and minerals, and tunnel boring machines, according to sources. The major breakthrough came after Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the three key demands in a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi last month. The Chinese foreign minister is currently visiting India on a three-day diplomatic trip. On Monday, Yi, reportedly assured Jaishankar that Beijing had already begun acting on India's demands. China has also started the shipment of said critical items, suggest reports. Why is this important? What was the Impact of Chinese curbs on Indian markets? India had earlier raised concerns over China suddenly imposing restrictions on the three critical items. Reports suggest that the sudden imposition of an export ban affected the Rabi season, as it hit the supply of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Meanwhile, shipment delays of tunnel boring machines affected crucial infrastructure projects, including those by foreign companies with manufacturing plants in China. The curb on Rare earth mineral exports impacted the auto and electronics sectors, which faced severe shortages and warned of disruptions in production. Also read | Why did China impose the export curbs? According to reports, China imposed the restrictions while citing security concerns and strained bilateral relations with India. However, Yi, in a statement published on Tuesday (Aug 19), lauded the progress in relations between India and China, noting that they were on a "positive trend". On Monday, during talks with Jaishankar, Wang Yi said that the two countries should "view each other as partners and opportunities, rather than adversaries or threats". Pointing to the resumption of "dialogue at all levels" and "maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas" as evidence, the Chinese foreign minister said that the bilateral ties were on a "positive trend of returning to the main path of cooperation". Watch | Wang Yi In India: Differences Shouldn’t Turn Into Disputes, S. Jaishankar to Wang https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-in-india-differences-shouldn-t-turn-into-disputes-s-jaishankar-to-wang-1755583135520/embed

China has told India it has lifted export curbs on fertilisers, rare earth magnets, minerals, and tunnel boring machines, sources said. The move follows EAM S Jaishankar’s talks with Wang Yi last month.

China lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India: Report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday to talk about ending the war in Ukraine. Several European leaders also came to Washington, just days after Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which did not bring a ceasefire. Even though Trump sounded hopeful, and European leaders were more cautious, by Monday evening there were no clear promises of security guarantees or a peace deal.<h2>Here are the main points from the talks:</h2>1. A Putin-Zelensky meeting on the cards?After the summit, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he had called Putin to start planning a meeting between the Russian leader and Zelensky. Trump said that after this one-on-one meeting, there could be a three-way meeting where the US president would also join.A Putin adviser later said that Trump and Putin had spoken for 40 minutes on Monday. Before the European leaders met Trump in the East Room of the White House, a hot mic caught a private chat between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. “I think he wants to make a deal. I think he wants to make a deal for me. You understand that? As crazy as that sounds,” Trump told Macron, speaking about Putin.&nbsp;(Here, Trump is suggesting that Putin might agree to talks mainly to give Trump the credit of being a peacemaker, rather than out of genuine interest in ending the war.) It is still uncertain how easy it will be to bring the two bitter enemies together at the negotiating table for the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. For months, Zelensky has been asking to meet Putin, mainly to prove that Russia is not serious about peace, since he believes the Kremlin has no real interest in such talks. Moscow has repeatedly rejected the idea of a Putin-Zelensky meeting. A Kremlin aide, Yuri Ushakov, gave a noncommittal statement on Monday night, saying it might be “worthwhile” to “explore the possibility” of sending higher-level representatives from the Russian and Ukrainian delegations for talks.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-zelensky-said-thank-you-eight-times-in-oval-office-remarks-1755575931099/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-zelensky-said-thank-you-eight-times-in-oval-office-remarks-1755575931099/embed</a>&nbsp;2. Europeans push back as Trump backs away from ceasefireTrump suggested that a ceasefire might not be needed before starting peace talks to end the war.In the past, Ukraine has been clear that stopping the fighting is a must before any further talks with Russia, and before working on a long-term settlement. A ceasefire is usually easier to agree on than a full peace deal, which could take many months of negotiations, while Russia’s attacks would likely continue. “I don’t know that it’s necessary,” Trump said about a ceasefire. But European leaders pushed back, with the strongest response coming from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. (This means that while Trump was downplaying the need for a ceasefire, European leaders — especially Merz — strongly disagreed, insisting that stopping the fighting first is essential before any real peace talks can begin.) “I can’t imagine that the next meeting would happen without a ceasefire,” Merz said. “So, let’s work on that and let’s try to put pressure on Russia.” When asked to speak, Zelensky did not repeat his earlier calls for a ceasefire.&nbsp;3. Trump engaged in some shuttle diplomacy with PutinPresident Joseph R. Biden Jr. (the former US president before Trump’s return to office) once called Putin a “murderous dictator,” but Trump has always shown a more positive view of the Russian president. On Monday, Trump continued to present Putin as being serious about ending the war he had started. At one point, Trump even paused his meeting with the European leaders in the East Room of the White House to call the Russian leader. Afterward, Trump brought Zelensky and the European leaders into the Oval Office to explain his discussion with Putin, according to President Alexander Stubb of Finland, as reported by New York Times.&nbsp;

4. Trump hints at security guaranteesTrump told Zelensky that the US would help guarantee Ukraine’s security in any deal to end the war, though he did not say exactly how. The US president did not promise troops on the ground, but when reporters asked if the guarantees could include American military in Ukraine, Trump did not rule it out. He said Europe was the “first line of defence”, but added that “we’ll be involved.” (This means Trump believes Europe should take the lead in defending Ukraine, but the US will also play a role and not stay out completely.) “We’ll give them good protection,” the president said. This was the strongest statement yet from Trump on security guarantees, which are seen as crucial for any deal with Russia. He also said that during last week’s Alaska summit, Putin had agreed that there would be security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any peace deal. At a news conference after Monday’s meetings, Zelensky said that part of the security guarantee would include a $90 billion (₹7.83 lakh crore / £67 billion) arms deal between the US and Ukraine. He said this would include US weapons that Ukraine does not yet have, such as aviation systems, anti-missile systems, “and other things I will not disclose.” Zelensky also said the US would buy Ukrainian drones, which would help fund local production of these unmanned aircraft.The Ukrainian president told reporters that security guarantees for Kyiv would likely be finalised within 10 days.&nbsp;5. Zelensky launches charm offensiveAfter his tense visit to the Oval Office in February, the Ukrainian president made a big effort to impress his American hosts — even saying “thank you” six times in the first few minutes, according to BBC. During his last visit to the White House, Zelensky was scolded by Vice-President JD Vance for not showing enough gratitude for US support. This time, Zelensky wore a dark suit instead of his usual military uniform, which previously drew a joke from Trump that his guest was “all dressed up today.” Zelensky also tried to build personal ties during the meeting by giving Trump a letter from Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska to be passed on to US First Lady Melania Trump. “It’s not to you — [it’s] to your wife,” Zelensky told Trump. European leaders also increased their praise for Trump before their joint meeting, crediting him for bringing them together at the table. “I really want to thank you for your leadership,” said Nato chief Mark Rutte. Italian PM Giorgia Meloni said that earlier there was no sign Russia wanted peace, but now “something had changed” because of Trump. Despite the positive words, the Europeans also warned that they feel vulnerable to any future Russian aggression. French President Emmanuel Macron told the leaders: “When we talk about security guarantees, we are also talking about the security of the European continent.”

Trump hosted European leaders after meeting Putin in Alaska. He proposed a Putin-Zelensky meeting and hinted at US security guarantees for Ukraine. Europeans insisted on a ceasefire first. Zelensky launched a charm offensive, while Trump engaged in direct talks with Putin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday to talk about ending the war in Ukraine. Several European leaders also came to Washington, just days after Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which did not bring a ceasefire. Even though Trump sounded hopeful, and European leaders were more cautious, by Monday evening there were no clear promises of security guarantees or a peace deal. Here are the main points from the talks: 1. A Putin-Zelensky meeting on the cards? After the summit, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he had called Putin to start planning a meeting between the Russian leader and Zelensky. Trump said that after this one-on-one meeting, there could be a three-way meeting where the US president would also join. A Putin adviser later said that Trump and Putin had spoken for 40 minutes on Monday. Before the European leaders met Trump in the East Room of the White House, a hot mic caught a private chat between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. “I think he wants to make a deal. I think he wants to make a deal for me. You understand that? As crazy as that sounds,” Trump told Macron, speaking about Putin. (Here, Trump is suggesting that Putin might agree to talks mainly to give Trump the credit of being a peacemaker, rather than out of genuine interest in ending the war.) It is still uncertain how easy it will be to bring the two bitter enemies together at the negotiating table for the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. For months, Zelensky has been asking to meet Putin, mainly to prove that Russia is not serious about peace, since he believes the Kremlin has no real interest in such talks. Moscow has repeatedly rejected the idea of a Putin-Zelensky meeting. A Kremlin aide, Yuri Ushakov, gave a noncommittal statement on Monday night, saying it might be “worthwhile” to “explore the possibility” of sending higher-level representatives from the Russian and Ukrainian delegations for talks. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-zelensky-said-thank-you-eight-times-in-oval-office-remarks-1755575931099/embed 2. Europeans push back as Trump backs away from ceasefire Trump suggested that a ceasefire might not be needed before starting peace talks to end the war. In the past, Ukraine has been clear that stopping the fighting is a must before any further talks with Russia, and before working on a long-term settlement. A ceasefire is usually easier to agree on than a full peace deal, which could take many months of negotiations, while Russia’s attacks would likely continue. “I don’t know that it’s necessary,” Trump said about a ceasefire. But European leaders pushed back, with the strongest response coming from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. (This means that while Trump was downplaying the need for a ceasefire, European leaders — especially Merz — strongly disagreed, insisting that stopping the fighting first is essential before any real peace talks can begin.) “I can’t imagine that the next meeting would happen without a ceasefire,” Merz said. “So, let’s work on that and let’s try to put pressure on Russia.” When asked to speak, Zelensky did not repeat his earlier calls for a ceasefire. 3. Trump engaged in some shuttle diplomacy with Putin President Joseph R. Biden Jr. (the former US president before Trump’s return to office) once called Putin a “murderous dictator,” but Trump has always shown a more positive view of the Russian president. On Monday, Trump continued to present Putin as being serious about ending the war he had started. At one point, Trump even paused his meeting with the European leaders in the East Room of the White House to call the Russian leader. Afterward, Trump brought Zelensky and the European leaders into the Oval Office to explain his discussion with Putin, according to President Alexander Stubb of Finland, as reported by New York Times.

Trump hosted European leaders after meeting Putin in Alaska. He proposed a Putin-Zelensky meeting and hinted at US security guarantees for Ukraine. Europeans insisted on a ceasefire first. Zelensky launched a charm offensive, while Trump engaged in direct talks with Putin.

The Washington Gambit: Trump juggles a Putin call, European doubts, and Zelensky’s hopes for a deal

Australia is trying to raise $70 billion in tax revenue, and some experts are calling to bring back a law from the 1970s that could help achieve this goal. A report from the Australia Institute says that if the country reimposes the inheritance tax, it would be able to raise $10 billion. This would also reduce "intergenerational inequality" as the wealth passes on to the next generation. Additionally, it added that a whopping $41 billion a year could be raised if a two per cent wealth tax in imposed on people with a worth of more than $5 million. The calls for these taxes come ahead of the government's landmark economic roundtable in Canberra, which will see participation from several business, union, and community leaders. Notably, an inheritance tax used to exist in state and federal form in the 1960s and 1970s in the country. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/australia-cuts-interest-rates-amid-economic-slowdown-and-inflation-relief-1754997832059">Australia cuts interest rates amid economic slowdown and inflation relief</a><h2>What is Inheritance Tax, or “death tax”?</h2>An inheritance tax is the tax a person pays to the government after they inherit money or property from a deceased person. The tax has been panned by some critics, who have dubbed it the "death tax". Advocates of the tax, as mentioned in the report, believe that this imposition could be done without hurting the low- or middle-income citizens. Australia Institute senior economist Matt Grudnoff told Nine News that Australia "does not do a good job of taxing wealth," and is "one of the few developed economies in the world which has neither a wealth tax nor an inheritance tax." He urged to correct this practice as a change could "raise huge amounts of extra revenue for essential services and ease growing inequality in Australia." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/meteor-shakes-ground-in-victoria-australia-fragments-likely-landed-on-earth-1754878669988">VIDEO: Meteor jolts Earth in Victoria, Australia. Was it linked to meteor shower?</a><h2>Why is Inheritance Tax called “death tax”?</h2>The report also suggests a way to reduce property prices and make housing more affordable. The researchers stated that scrapping the capital gains tax discount would raise another $19 billion a year, thus helping people to crack the property market. &nbsp;Inheritance tax, or "death tax", has been a point of debate in the country for years. By 1979, it was abolished in all Australian jurisdictions because of the objections raised by the public, claiming that it could negatively impact family businesses. Critics argue that families that are handed down the businesses could end up giving up their assets or going out of business because of high tax requirements.&nbsp;

Australia wants to bring back the “death tax” that was abolished 46 years ago. Experts argue that it could help reduce the inequality in the country. However, critics are against, stating that it could affect families that end up with the businesses.

Australia is trying to raise $70 billion in tax revenue, and some experts are calling to bring back a law from the 1970s that could help achieve this goal. A report from the Australia Institute says that if the country reimposes the inheritance tax, it would be able to raise $10 billion. This would also reduce "intergenerational inequality" as the wealth passes on to the next generation. Additionally, it added that a whopping $41 billion a year could be raised if a two per cent wealth tax in imposed on people with a worth of more than $5 million. The calls for these taxes come ahead of the government's landmark economic roundtable in Canberra, which will see participation from several business, union, and community leaders. Notably, an inheritance tax used to exist in state and federal form in the 1960s and 1970s in the country. Also Read: Australia cuts interest rates amid economic slowdown and inflation relief What is Inheritance Tax, or “death tax”? An inheritance tax is the tax a person pays to the government after they inherit money or property from a deceased person. The tax has been panned by some critics, who have dubbed it the "death tax". Advocates of the tax, as mentioned in the report, believe that this imposition could be done without hurting the low- or middle-income citizens. Australia Institute senior economist Matt Grudnoff told Nine News that Australia "does not do a good job of taxing wealth," and is "one of the few developed economies in the world which has neither a wealth tax nor an inheritance tax." He urged to correct this practice as a change could "raise huge amounts of extra revenue for essential services and ease growing inequality in Australia." Also Read: VIDEO: Meteor jolts Earth in Victoria, Australia. Was it linked to meteor shower? Why is Inheritance Tax called “death tax”? The report also suggests a way to reduce property prices and make housing more affordable. The researchers stated that scrapping the capital gains tax discount would raise another $19 billion a year, thus helping people to crack the property market. Inheritance tax, or "death tax", has been a point of debate in the country for years. By 1979, it was abolished in all Australian jurisdictions because of the objections raised by the public, claiming that it could negatively impact family businesses. Critics argue that families that are handed down the businesses could end up giving up their assets or going out of business because of high tax requirements.

Australia wants to bring back the “death tax” that was abolished 46 years ago. Experts argue that it could help reduce the inequality in the country. However, critics are against, stating that it could affect families that end up with the businesses.

'Death Tax' could return to THIS country after 46 years. Here's why it was abolished

Hurricane Erin could bring a nearly 1,000-kilometre-long “wall of rain” to the UK, according to reports circulating in the country. The storm has strengthened to a Category four hurricane, triggering a state of emergency in parts of North Carolina in the United States. However, remnants of the storm are expected to reach the western UK, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to the region. Waves of up to 20 feet are expected on the beaches of the Outer Banks on Tuesday. The hurricane could also bring life-threatening conditions to the US East Coast. The effects of the hurricane are already being felt in the south-eastern Bahamas, alongside the Turks and Caicos Islands, where rain is pouring. The UK Met Office has predicted wet and windy conditions in "southern and western areas" in the coming days, even though Erin is nearly 5,000 kilometres away. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erin-becomes-catastrophic-category-5-hurricane-here-s-what-we-know-so-far-1755372686487">Erin becomes 'catastrophic' Category 5 hurricane: Here’s what we know so far</a>&nbsp;Hurricane Erin is on a trajectory through the North Atlantic. Officials have predicted that there is a high possibility of "stronger winds and rain, some of which could be heavy and thundery, especially for southern and western areas". They added that the forecast for Erin will be affected by how the storm behaves as it moves through the Atlantic. Currently, the country is witnessing extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius in London. However, this is set to change because of Hurricane Erin. Reports circulating in the country mention that a 600-mile (1,000-kilometre) "wall of rain" will form moving across the west of the UK. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-dramatic-video-captures-stadium-effect-inside-hurricane-erin-that-can-result-in-life-threatening-100-foot-waves-1755405522910">Dramatic video captures ‘stadium effect’ inside Hurricane Erin that can result in life-threatening 100-foot waves</a>&nbsp;<h2>A 600-mile “wall of rain” in the UK</h2>Meteorologist Simon King told the BBC that the so-called "wall of rain" is "any low pressure containing remains of the strong storm", which would be 600 miles wide. So, it's not a literal wall, but an effect that would be felt for the given length of area. The weakening of Hurricane Erin as it "moves across the North Atlantic and arrives to the west of the UK", would change the current weather conditions and bring rain and wind to the country. A Met official told Daily Mail, "A deep area of low pressure linked to Erin is likely to develop in the North Atlantic, with the final week of August possibly seeing Atlantic systems progress over the UK, especially in the North and West."&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/hurricane-erin-heavy-rain-in-puerto-rico-and-virgin-islands-1755504861060/embed<h2>Hurricane Erin in the United States</h2>Hurricane Erin is not on track to make direct landfall, but has led to choppy seas and has led to nearly 38,000 people being evacuated in North Carolina. "Erin's already large size and intensity are acting like a giant plunger on the sea surface," AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said in a report. He added that Erin was among the fastest-strengthening storms on record. It earlier intensified from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane in just over 27 hours. It later dropped to a Category 4 hurricane.

Hurricane Erin, a Category 4 storm, is expected to bring devastating winds and rain not only to North Carolina in the US but also to the UK. As it moves across the North Atlantic, a “wall of rain” could form over the western portion of the country, according to the Met department.

Hurricane Erin could bring a nearly 1,000-kilometre-long “wall of rain” to the UK, according to reports circulating in the country. The storm has strengthened to a Category four hurricane, triggering a state of emergency in parts of North Carolina in the United States. However, remnants of the storm are expected to reach the western UK, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to the region. Waves of up to 20 feet are expected on the beaches of the Outer Banks on Tuesday. The hurricane could also bring life-threatening conditions to the US East Coast. The effects of the hurricane are already being felt in the south-eastern Bahamas, alongside the Turks and Caicos Islands, where rain is pouring. The UK Met Office has predicted wet and windy conditions in "southern and western areas" in the coming days, even though Erin is nearly 5,000 kilometres away. Also Read: Erin becomes 'catastrophic' Category 5 hurricane: Here’s what we know so far Hurricane Erin is on a trajectory through the North Atlantic. Officials have predicted that there is a high possibility of "stronger winds and rain, some of which could be heavy and thundery, especially for southern and western areas". They added that the forecast for Erin will be affected by how the storm behaves as it moves through the Atlantic. Currently, the country is witnessing extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius in London. However, this is set to change because of Hurricane Erin. Reports circulating in the country mention that a 600-mile (1,000-kilometre) "wall of rain" will form moving across the west of the UK. Also Read: Dramatic video captures ‘stadium effect’ inside Hurricane Erin that can result in life-threatening 100-foot waves A 600-mile “wall of rain” in the UK Meteorologist Simon King told the BBC that the so-called "wall of rain" is "any low pressure containing remains of the strong storm", which would be 600 miles wide. So, it's not a literal wall, but an effect that would be felt for the given length of area. The weakening of Hurricane Erin as it "moves across the North Atlantic and arrives to the west of the UK", would change the current weather conditions and bring rain and wind to the country. A Met official told Daily Mail, "A deep area of low pressure linked to Erin is likely to develop in the North Atlantic, with the final week of August possibly seeing Atlantic systems progress over the UK, especially in the North and West." https://www.wionews.com/videos/hurricane-erin-heavy-rain-in-puerto-rico-and-virgin-islands-1755504861060/embed Hurricane Erin in the United States Hurricane Erin is not on track to make direct landfall, but has led to choppy seas and has led to nearly 38,000 people being evacuated in North Carolina. "Erin's already large size and intensity are acting like a giant plunger on the sea surface," AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said in a report. He added that Erin was among the fastest-strengthening storms on record. It earlier intensified from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane in just over 27 hours. It later dropped to a Category 4 hurricane.

Hurricane Erin, a Category 4 storm, is expected to bring devastating winds and rain not only to North Carolina in the US but also to the UK. As it moves across the North Atlantic, a “wall of rain” could form over the western portion of the country, according to the Met department.

1,000-kilometre 'wall of rain' in UK? Met department says country could face Hurricane Erin after-effects

During a meeting with United States President Donald Trump in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Monday (Aug 18) credited the technological support of Elon Musk's Starlink during the war with Russia. Her comments during the high-stakes meeting and Trump's reaction have gone viral on the internet because it came months after the feud between Musk and the US president. She also praised Ukraine's battlefield bravery and emphasised unity in the push for peace. Meloni said that Starlink's support led to visible shifts in Russia’s stance in the war. Reports suggested that Trump was displeased by Meloni’s open praise for Tesla's boss. He was visibly uncomfortable, while Musk responded with emoji on a video of the incident on X.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250819/image-1755577029006.png"></figure> Several world leaders joined Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Monday (Aug 18) to discuss a potential path to peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine. The European leaders in attendance included: French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed deep gratitude to Elon Musk’s Starlink for its crucial role on the battlefield in Ukraine. &quot;Thanks also to the Starlinks in the Battlefield&quot; <a href="https://t.co/9mnndYvMsK">pic.twitter.com/9mnndYvMsK</a>&mdash; SMX 🇺🇸 (@iam_smx) <a href="https://twitter.com/iam_smx/status/1957530693409599530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump-Zelensky meeting</h2>Two days after Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky and Trump first had a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office, followed by a working lunch and a meeting with the European leaders in the East Room. Unlike their previous meeting in February, which reportedly ended acrimoniously, the tone this time was described as "warm" and "amicable". A central topic was securing long-term security guarantees for Ukraine to prevent future Russian aggression, but NATO membership was not discussed. Trump announced his intention to arrange a meeting between Putin and Zelensky, possibly as a bilateral meeting initially, followed by a trilateral meeting including himself. &nbsp;&nbsp;While European leaders stressed the importance of a ceasefire, Trump questioned its necessity, suggesting a peace agreement could be negotiated even while fighting continued. The issue of Ukraine potentially ceding territory to Russia was raised by Trump, who mentioned "possible exchanges of territory" during the meeting. Zelensky, however, did not explicitly agree to concessions. While Trump seemed to believe Putin was ready to make a deal and was optimistic about an agreement being reached quickly, Macron expressed skepticism about Russia's commitment to peace. The meeting marked a significant step in diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict, but the path forward and the specific details of a lasting peace remain subject to ongoing negotiations and the willingness of all parties involved to compromise.

Months after the feud between Elon Musk and US President Donald Trump, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Monday (Aug 18) praised Elon Musk's Starlink for its support to Ukraine in the war with Russia. Her comments have drawn a reaction from Musk and made Trump visibly uncomfortable

During a meeting with United States President Donald Trump in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Monday (Aug 18) credited the technological support of Elon Musk's Starlink during the war with Russia. Her comments during the high-stakes meeting and Trump's reaction have gone viral on the internet because it came months after the feud between Musk and the US president. She also praised Ukraine's battlefield bravery and emphasised unity in the push for peace. Meloni said that Starlink's support led to visible shifts in Russia’s stance in the war. Reports suggested that Trump was displeased by Meloni’s open praise for Tesla's boss. He was visibly uncomfortable, while Musk responded with emoji on a video of the incident on X. Several world leaders joined Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Monday (Aug 18) to discuss a potential path to peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine. The European leaders in attendance included: French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Months after the feud between Elon Musk and US President Donald Trump, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Monday (Aug 18) praised Elon Musk's Starlink for its support to Ukraine in the war with Russia. Her comments have drawn a reaction from Musk and made Trump visibly uncomfortable

Meloni praises Elon Musk's Starlink for helping in Ukraine war: Here's how Trump and Tesla boss reacted

From what looked like a tough meeting for Ukrainian President Zelensky earlier in February, the recent White House engagement appeared to be seemingly different. Though the approach also changed, back then, the leader was alone representing his country and seeking help to end war; this time around, prominent EU leaders accompanied and backed his cause. After the meeting, the US president said, “I had a very good meeting…”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-whisper-to-macron-caught-on-hot-mic-i-think-he-wants-to-a-deal-with-me-1755573258214/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-whisper-to-macron-caught-on-hot-mic-i-think-he-wants-to-a-deal-with-me-1755573258214/embed</a>&nbsp;“During the meeting we discussed security guarantees for Ukraine, which guarantees would be provided by the various European countries, with a coordination with the United States of America. Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine,” he continued.&nbsp;Zelensky had also mentioned matter concerning security guarantees ahead of his meeting in the White House, “When Ukraine was given so called “security guarantees” in 1994, but they didn't work. Of course, Crimea should not have been given up then, just as Ukrainians did not give up Kyiv, Odesa, or Kharkiv after 2022. Ukrainians are fighting for their land, for their independence.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-oil-purchase-from-russia-funding-ukraine-war-trump-s-aide-makes-sensational-allegations-1755570038790">India's oil purchase from Russia funding Ukraine war? Trump's aide makes sensational allegations</a>&nbsp;Trump, after completing the scheduled meeting with the distinguished guests, called Russian President Putin. He mentioned that he has begun the arrangements for a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ended-india-pakistan-war-trump-s-big-achievement-mentions-it-yet-again-during-meeting-with-zelensky-1755571247623"> 'Ended India-Pakistan war': Trump's 'big' achievement, mentions it yet again during meeting with Zelensky</a>&nbsp;He added, “Again, this was a very good, early step for a War that has been going on for almost four years. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, are coordinating with Russia and Ukraine.” It is after the next meeting that a trilateral between the presidents of the warring countries and with Trump in attendance.

After his second meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump is already preparing for the next step. He his certain of bringing peace to the warring countries. He is arranging a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’. 

From what looked like a tough meeting for Ukrainian President Zelensky earlier in February, the recent White House engagement appeared to be seemingly different. Though the approach also changed, back then, the leader was alone representing his country and seeking help to end war; this time around, prominent EU leaders accompanied and backed his cause. After the meeting, the US president said, “I had a very good meeting…” https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-whisper-to-macron-caught-on-hot-mic-i-think-he-wants-to-a-deal-with-me-1755573258214/embed “During the meeting we discussed security guarantees for Ukraine, which guarantees would be provided by the various European countries, with a coordination with the United States of America. Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine,” he continued. Zelensky had also mentioned matter concerning security guarantees ahead of his meeting in the White House, “When Ukraine was given so called “security guarantees” in 1994, but they didn't work. Of course, Crimea should not have been given up then, just as Ukrainians did not give up Kyiv, Odesa, or Kharkiv after 2022. Ukrainians are fighting for their land, for their independence.” Also read: India's oil purchase from Russia funding Ukraine war? Trump's aide makes sensational allegations Trump, after completing the scheduled meeting with the distinguished guests, called Russian President Putin. He mentioned that he has begun the arrangements for a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’. Also read: 'Ended India-Pakistan war': Trump's 'big' achievement, mentions it yet again during meeting with Zelensky He added, “Again, this was a very good, early step for a War that has been going on for almost four years. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, are coordinating with Russia and Ukraine.” It is after the next meeting that a trilateral between the presidents of the warring countries and with Trump in attendance.

After his second meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump is already preparing for the next step. He his certain of bringing peace to the warring countries. He is arranging a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’.&nbsp;

'Location to be determined': Trump begins coordinating with Russia and Ukraine for next meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in the White House for a crucial meeting with Donald Trump, supported by several European leaders. The talks come as Trump pushes Kyiv to accept major concessions to Russia after his summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska.The US president has said Ukraine should abandon its NATO ambitions and formally give up Crimea, two of Moscow’s central demands. Zelensky, who first met European leaders privately in Washington before heading to the Oval Office, urged Trump to pursue “peace through strength” and underlined the need for American security guarantees. “This is, really, the most important,” Zelensky said, adding that the meeting with Trump was “very serious.”Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska last week ended without a ceasefire. Trump also repeated Kremlin talking points, saying Zelensky could end the war “almost immediately” if he wished. On Sunday, Trump declared there was “no getting back” Crimea and “NO GOING INTO NATO” for Ukraine.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz revealed that Russian leader Vladimir Putin has agreed in a telephone call with US counterpart Donald Trump to meet Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky within two weeks."The American president spoke with the Russian president and agreed that there would be a meeting between the Russian president and the Ukrainian president within the next two weeks," Merz told reporters after White House talks.

Putin told Trump he's ready to meet Zelensky within two weeks: Merz

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that despite US leader Donald Trump's public calls for compromise, White House talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not raise the issue of Kyiv surrendering territory in exchange for peace.&nbsp;Asked by reporters if Trump had said that concessions were necessary before any US security guarantees to Ukraine, Macron said, "No, that wasn't discussed at all. We're well away from that."

White House talks did not discuss Ukraine territorial concessions: Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said that any future peace deal between Russia and Ukraine cannot restrict the size of Kyiv's military. He told reporters that US President Donald Trump and European leaders agreed on the need for a "robust Ukrainian army that can resist any attempted attack" and that it would not have "any limitation in number or capacity of arms."

Macron says peace deal cannot restrict Ukraine military size

Finnish President Cai-Göran Alexander Stubb said that his Russian counterpart was not trustworthy. Talking to Finnish reporters, he said, “Putin is rarely to be trusted. So now it remains to be seen whether he has the courage to come to this type of meeting. Does he have the courage to come to a trilateral meeting, or is he once again playing for time?”.

Putin not 'to be trusted' warns Finnish President

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his country's allies would likely outline security guarantees if a peace deal is secured with Moscow."Security guarantees will probably be decided by our partners, and there will be more and more details," Zelensky told journalists outside the White House following talks with US President Donald Trump. Zelensky added that those plans would be "formalized in some way in the next week or ten days."

Zelensky says allies to formalize Ukraine security guarantees within 10 days

In the Putin-Trump call on August 18, Russia first offered a bilateral meeting with Ukraine, Zelensky revealed.&nbsp;

In Putin-Trump call, Russia first offered bilateral meeting with Ukraine, says Zelensky 

'Ukraine is ready for any format to meet with Putin': Zelensky.&nbsp;

'Ukraine is ready for any format to meet with Putin': Zelensky

'We need not a pause but real peace': Zelensky after meeting Trump.

'We need not a pause but real peace': Zelensky after meeting Trump

Most European leaders have left the White House, others are departing shortly, official said.&nbsp;

Most European leaders have left the White House

Russian President Vladimir Putin told US counterpart Donald Trump on Monday that he is willing to meet Ukranian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, a person familiar with the call told AFP. Putin told Trump, whom he met Friday in Alaska, of his readiness to meet Zelensky during a telephone call in a break from White House talks in Washington with European leaders, the person said on condition of anonymity. &nbsp;

Putin is ready to meet Zelensky: Report

The high-stakes meetings between President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders have concluded at the White House. The White House called a lid, meaning Trump isn’t expected to appear on camera for the rest of the day. &nbsp;

High-stake White House meetings wrap up

US President Donald Trump said after talks with European leaders Monday that Europe could provide security guarantees for Ukraine as part of a Russia peace deal, with Washington taking an oversight role.

Trump says Europe to provide Ukraine security guarantees, US to coordinate

Trump says 'began' arranging summit Putin-Zelensky summit.&nbsp;“At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelenskyy. After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Trump says 'began' arranging summit Putin-Zelensky summit

East Room meeting with European leaders has concluded: White House.&nbsp;

East Room meeting with European leaders has concluded: White House 

Negotiations between US President Donald Trump and European leaders have resumed at the Oval Office in a “leaders only” format, Serhiy Nykyforov, a spokesperson to President Volodymyr Zelensky told CNN.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Negotiations resume in "leaders only" format, Zelensky's spokesperson says

Donald Trump has interrupted his talks in Washington with European leaders to call Vladimir Putin, German newspaper Bild is reporting.Bild said the meetings are due to resume after the call, which Trump had initially said would take place afterwards.

Trump interrupts talks with European leaders to call Putin: Report

The UK’s prime minister Keir Starmer echoes Macron’s sentiments that “we all want peace” and guaranteeing Ukraine’s security guarantees the security of Europe as a whole.He adds that a trilateral meeting is “the sensible next step”.

Trilateral meeting is 'sensible next step': Starmer

French president Emmanuel Macron, notably, opens his remarks by saying: “Everybody around this table is in favour of peace”. &nbsp;

Macron stresses leaders want peace and echoes need to push for a ceasefire

German chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasises that they would like to see a ceasefire. “To be honest, we all would like to see a ceasefire, the latest from the next meeting on,” he tells Trump. &nbsp;

Merz pushes Trump for ceasefire 'from the next meeting'

Trump says he would prefer an immediate to ceasefire in Ukraine while they work on a peace deal, but “as of this moment, it’s not happening”.

Trump says he would prefer ceasefire, but 'as of this moment, it's not happening'

That multilateral meeting has just started between Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the European leaders at the White House.

Trump kicks off multilateral meeting with European leaders

Trump said, "We will reach an agreement" to end aggression in Ukraine. He said that, for that, there will be a need to discuss the possible exchange of territory.

'Need to discuss the possible exchange of territory': Trump 

'Russia agreed to accept security guarantees,' says Trump.

'Russia agreed to accept security guarantees': Trump

Donald Trump said he spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin indirectly and would call him after his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

'Just spoke to Putin indirectly': Trump

When he was asked what security guarantees he needs from Trump, Zelenskyy says: “Everything." He says he needs a strong Ukrainian army – weapons, training, equipment, intelligence. And he depends on the United States and his European allies.

What security guarantees Ukraine needs from Trump, Zelenskyy says 'Everything'

When asked whether he would consider ceding territory, Zelensky said that “we need to stop the war, to stop Russia”. Zelensky added that Ukrainians are strong and that they support Trump's plans to end the war in a “diplomatic way.” He added that he wants to have a trilateral meeting.&nbsp;

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Zelensky said he supports Trump's plans for 'diplomatic solution'

Asked who is expected to end the war, Putin or Zelensky, Trump says “if everything works out today we’ll have a [trilateral meeting] … I think we’ll have a reasonable chance of ending the war when we do that”.

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Trump says we will have 'trilateral meeting' if everything goes well

Zelensky arrives at White House for high-stakes meeting.

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Zelensky arrives at White House for high-stakes meeting

The White House has confirmed that five US officials will join President Donald Trump in the Oval Office during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later today.The officials include Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and special envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg.Zelensky will be accompanied by his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, and Rustem Umerov, the former defence minister who now leads Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council.

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Who are Trump and Zelensky bringing along to the White House meeting?

They’re all in place at the White House, ahead of the Ukrainian president:NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen British Prime Minister Keir Starmer French President Emmanuel Macron German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni Finnish President&nbsp;Alexander&nbsp;Stubb

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Who all have reached the White House?

Laying out the goal for the White House meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that the goal is to recall what unites Ukraine, Europe, and the United States, pointing to Russia."There can be no territorial discussions about Ukraine without Ukrainian leaders," the French president stressed.He added that if partners are weak with Russia, they create preconditions for future conflicts.In order to have a “lasting peace deal for Ukraine, Ukraine needs a strong army", he said, adding that European allies want "Ukraine’s territorial integrity to be respected” and that “Ukraine must be represented in any talks on Ukraine’s future.”Macron stressed that the goal for talks is to " present a united front between Ukraine and its European allies", further warning that “if we show weakness today in front of Russia, we are laying the ground for future conflict.”

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: What is the agenda for the Trump-Zelensky meeting 

1:00 pm ET (10:30 pm IST) - Trump to greet Zelensky The US president will greet his Ukrainian counterpart after the EU leaders' arrival. Soon after that, they will head for the meeting in the Oval Office.2:15 pm ET (11:45 pm IST) - Trump to greet European leaders Trump will greet other European leaders in the State Dining Room an hour after he began his Oval Office meeting with Zelensky.2:30 pm ET (12 am IST) - Family photo 15 minutes after the greetings, the US president and European leaders will take a family photo together in the Cross Hall.3:00 pm ET (12:15 am IST) - Trump, Zelensky, EU leaders meeting Trump, Zelensky, and other European leaders will then head into their own high-stakes meeting in the East Room of the White House.

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: Here's the full schedule for the Trump-Zelensky meeting at the White House

European leaders have started to arrive at the White House. First to arrive was NATO chief Mark Rutte. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, UK PM Sir Keir Starmer and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have also arrived at the White House. &nbsp;

Trump-Zelensky Meeting LIVE: European leaders arrive at White House for Ukraine talks

Zelensky met Trump at the White House, backed by European leaders, as Trump urged Ukraine to drop NATO plans and Crimea claims. Zelensky stressed security guarantees.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in the White House for a crucial meeting with Donald Trump, supported by several European leaders. The talks come as Trump pushes Kyiv to accept major concessions to Russia after his summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The US president has said Ukraine should abandon its NATO ambitions and formally give up Crimea, two of Moscow’s central demands. Zelensky, who first met European leaders privately in Washington before heading to the Oval Office, urged Trump to pursue “peace through strength” and underlined the need for American security guarantees. “This is, really, the most important,” Zelensky said, adding that the meeting with Trump was “very serious.” Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska last week ended without a ceasefire. Trump also repeated Kremlin talking points, saying Zelensky could end the war “almost immediately” if he wished. On Sunday, Trump declared there was “no getting back” Crimea and “NO GOING INTO NATO” for Ukraine.

Zelensky met Trump at the White House, backed by European leaders, as Trump urged Ukraine to drop NATO plans and Crimea claims. Zelensky stressed security guarantees.

Trump-Zelensky Meeting HIGHLIGHTS: Putin ready to meet Zelensky within two weeks

Two food content creators escaped alive after a car crashed into the window of a restaurant where they were dining in the United States. A video shows them filming themselves picking up a slider and taking a bite, when suddenly, out of nowhere, a car rams into the eatery, missing them by a nick. The YouTubers can be seen visibly scared following the shocking incident. Patrick Blackwood and Nina Santiago run the YouTube channel Unrated Ex Files. The duo were at a restaurant in Houston to savour some food for their channel. They can be seen sitting at a window-side booth with their camera set-up right in front of them. The two have a variety of foods on their table. As they pick up a slider each and dig into it, a SUV rams into the window next to them, bulldozing their table and throwing them off their seats. The window curves inside and hits Blackwood in the face. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-crashes-into-parked-aircraft-in-us-airport-sparks-massive-fire-watch-1754973105216">Plane crashes into parked aircraft in US airport, sparks massive fire</a>&nbsp;<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<h2>The food vloggers sustained injuries</h2>Meanwhile, the restaurant staff at the back is shocked by the crash and immediately runs towards the duo to help them. Both of them sustained a few injuries and were admitted to the hospital to keep a check on their health. Both of them got a few stitches. Since Blackwood was sitting right next to the window, he received more injuries. The right side of this face had a gash from the window glass, and more wounds on other parts of his body. They uploaded a video of the incident on their YouTube channel and followed it up with their time at the hospital. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/100-foot-tsunami-silently-strikes-alaska-fjord-after-mountain-sized-landslide-1755055724089">100-foot tsunami silently strikes Alaska fjord after rock as big as 40,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools crashes into sea</a>&nbsp;<h2>YouTubers uploaded the video on their channel, say, “tomorrow is not promised”</h2>Recalling the incident, the duo wrote alongside the videos, "We can't even begin to express how incredibly fortunate we feel to be alive after what happened to us." They added that they were simply there enjoying happy hour in a cosy booth at their favourite restaurant, "with an amazing spread of salmon sliders, presidential oysters, a macaroni and cheese flight (classic, lobster, and truffle), shrimp and grits, and some refreshing drinks." Right when they "tapped" the "sliders together in a 'boom!' cheers moment, out of nowhere, this SUV came barreling through the glass wall at 35-40 mph." “We were inches from disaster, but by some miracle, we're both OK, just shaken and forever changed,” TMZ reported that the driver of the SUV escaped unscathed.&nbsp;

Patrick Blackwood and Nina Santiago were at a restaurant in Houston when an SUV crashed into the window. Blackwood was sitting right next to it, and the duo was shoved out of their seats by the impact. They shared the terrifying video on their YouTube channel 

Two food content creators escaped alive after a car crashed into the window of a restaurant where they were dining in the United States. A video shows them filming themselves picking up a slider and taking a bite, when suddenly, out of nowhere, a car rams into the eatery, missing them by a nick. The YouTubers can be seen visibly scared following the shocking incident. Patrick Blackwood and Nina Santiago run the YouTube channel Unrated Ex Files. The duo were at a restaurant in Houston to savour some food for their channel. They can be seen sitting at a window-side booth with their camera set-up right in front of them. The two have a variety of foods on their table. As they pick up a slider each and dig into it, a SUV rams into the window next to them, bulldozing their table and throwing them off their seats. The window curves inside and hits Blackwood in the face. Also Read: Plane crashes into parked aircraft in US airport, sparks massive fire Watch the video here

Patrick Blackwood and Nina Santiago were at a restaurant in Houston when an SUV crashed into the window. Blackwood was sitting right next to it, and the duo was shoved out of their seats by the impact. They shared the terrifying video on their YouTube channel&nbsp;

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