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President Donald Trump said on Monday (August 18) he will sign an executive order aimed at removing mail-in ballots and voting machines ahead of next year’s midterm elections. He claimed he would lead “a movement” to restore what he described as fairness in American voting.<h2>Attacking mail-in ballots and machines</h2>“I am going to lead a movement to get rid of MAIL-IN BALLOTS, and also, while we’re at it, Highly Inaccurate, Very Expensive, and Seriously Controversial VOTING MACHINES, which cost Ten Times more than accurate and sophisticated Watermark Paper, which is faster, and leaves NO DOUBT, at the end of the evening, as to who WON, and who LOST, the Election,” Trump wrote in a social media post. Trump has long argued that mail-in ballots and voting machines are vulnerable to election fraud, although there is no evidence of it happening in the US.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-did-the-unthinkable-trump-blames-biden-for-bringing-china-and-russia-close-1755514013533">'Did the unthinkable': Trump blames Biden for bringing China and Russia close</a><h2>Claiming America is alone on mail-in voting</h2>The president argued that the United States is the only country still using mail-in voting. “All others gave it up because of the MASSIVE VOTER FRAUD ENCOUNTERED. WE WILL BEGIN THIS EFFORT, WHICH WILL BE STRONGLY OPPOSED BY THE DEMOCRATS BECAUSE THEY CHEAT AT LEVELS NEVER SEEN BEFORE, by signing an EXECUTIVE ORDER to help bring HONESTY to the 2026 Midterm Elections,” he added.<h2>Why Democrats support mail-in balloting?</h2>Mail-in balloting widens access to voting to people who struggle or are unable to vote in person, such as the elderly and disabled. Democrats argue that ending it would sideline a large number of voters.<h2>States versus federal power</h2>Trump also insisted that state governments cannot act independently on elections. “Remember, the States are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes. They must do what the Federal Government, as represented by the President of the United States, tells them, FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COUNTRY, to do,” he wrote, linking Democrats to what he called “HORRIBLE Radical Left policies.”An executive order like that would likely face a legal challenge from states, since the Constitution gives them the power to run federal elections. However, Congress can still set rules through laws.<h2>Trump pledges to fight</h2>“I, AND THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, WILL FIGHT LIKE HELL TO BRING HONESTY AND INTEGRITY BACK TO OUR ELECTIONS. THE MAIL-IN BALLOT HOAX, USING VOTING MACHINES THAT ARE A COMPLETE AND TOTAL DISASTER, MUST END, NOW!!! REMEMBER, WITHOUT FAIR AND HONEST ELECTIONS, AND STRONG AND POWERFUL BORDERS, YOU DON’T HAVE EVEN A SEMBLANCE OF A COUNTRY,” he added.

Donald Trump announced plans to sign an executive order banning mail-in ballots and voting machines, claiming they’re unreliable, despite no evidence of widespread election fraud in the US.

President Donald Trump said on Monday (August 18) he will sign an executive order aimed at removing mail-in ballots and voting machines ahead of next year’s midterm elections. He claimed he would lead “a movement” to restore what he described as fairness in American voting. Attacking mail-in ballots and machines “I am going to lead a movement to get rid of MAIL-IN BALLOTS, and also, while we’re at it, Highly Inaccurate, Very Expensive, and Seriously Controversial VOTING MACHINES, which cost Ten Times more than accurate and sophisticated Watermark Paper, which is faster, and leaves NO DOUBT, at the end of the evening, as to who WON, and who LOST, the Election,” Trump wrote in a social media post. Trump has long argued that mail-in ballots and voting machines are vulnerable to election fraud, although there is no evidence of it happening in the US. Also read: 'Did the unthinkable': Trump blames Biden for bringing China and Russia close Claiming America is alone on mail-in voting The president argued that the United States is the only country still using mail-in voting. “All others gave it up because of the MASSIVE VOTER FRAUD ENCOUNTERED. WE WILL BEGIN THIS EFFORT, WHICH WILL BE STRONGLY OPPOSED BY THE DEMOCRATS BECAUSE THEY CHEAT AT LEVELS NEVER SEEN BEFORE, by signing an EXECUTIVE ORDER to help bring HONESTY to the 2026 Midterm Elections,” he added. Why Democrats support mail-in balloting? Mail-in balloting widens access to voting to people who struggle or are unable to vote in person, such as the elderly and disabled. Democrats argue that ending it would sideline a large number of voters. States versus federal power Trump also insisted that state governments cannot act independently on elections. “Remember, the States are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes. They must do what the Federal Government, as represented by the President of the United States, tells them, FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COUNTRY, to do,” he wrote, linking Democrats to what he called “HORRIBLE Radical Left policies.” An executive order like that would likely face a legal challenge from states, since the Constitution gives them the power to run federal elections. However, Congress can still set rules through laws. Trump pledges to fight “I, AND THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, WILL FIGHT LIKE HELL TO BRING HONESTY AND INTEGRITY BACK TO OUR ELECTIONS. THE MAIL-IN BALLOT HOAX, USING VOTING MACHINES THAT ARE A COMPLETE AND TOTAL DISASTER, MUST END, NOW!!! REMEMBER, WITHOUT FAIR AND HONEST ELECTIONS, AND STRONG AND POWERFUL BORDERS, YOU DON’T HAVE EVEN A SEMBLANCE OF A COUNTRY,” he added.

Donald Trump announced plans to sign an executive order banning mail-in ballots and voting machines, claiming they’re unreliable, despite no evidence of widespread election fraud in the US.

'TOTAL DISASTER': Trump to revolutionise voting? US president says he will ‘get rid of’ mail-in ballots, controversial voting machines

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Aug 18) called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to share insights on his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on the Ukraine conflict. This comes of the meeting between the US president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders in Washington on Monday. In a post on X, PM Modi affirmed India’s stance, calling for a peaceful resolution of the war between Russia and Ukraine. He also expressed his support and said that he looks forward to continued exchanges with Putin in the future.&nbsp;“Thank my friend, President Putin, for his phone call and for sharing insights on his recent meeting with President Trump in Alaska. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and supports all efforts in this regard. I look forward to our continued exchanges in the days to come,” PM Modi wrote on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank my friend, President Putin, for his phone call and for sharing insights on his recent meeting with President Trump in Alaska. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and supports all efforts in this regard. I look forward to our…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1957410517053477314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;This comes hours before Zelensky is set to meet with Trump in Washington, marking his second visit to the Oval Office, where he engaged in a shouting match with the US president on his last visit. The meeting is part of the next step to reach an agreement to end the war in Ukraine, which is currently in its fourth year.&nbsp;&nbsp;European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte will also join the meeting.&nbsp;Earlier on Friday (Aug 15), Trump held talks with Putin in Alaska. Their meeting was followed by virtual talks between Trump, Zelensky and European leaders.&nbsp;<h2>What Trump-Zelensky meeting means for India</h2>&nbsp;The upcoming meeting in Washington also has high stakes for India’s tariff and trade deals with the US. Earlier this month, Trump announced additional 25 per cent duties on India, on top of the initial 25 per cent tariffs imposed earlier, citing Russian oil purchases. The move has resulted in a strain between Washington and New Delhi, which is currently among the nations facing the highest rates of US tariffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following the Alaska Summit with Putin, the US president said that Russia lost its “oil client” – India, when asked if there was any economic side to his Russian counterpart agreeing to hold a meeting. Meanwhile, India said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia after Trump’s tariff threats and continues to buy over economic considerations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Aug 18) spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the Trump-Zelensky meeting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Aug 18) called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to share insights on his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on the Ukraine conflict. This comes of the meeting between the US president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders in Washington on Monday. In a post on X, PM Modi affirmed India’s stance, calling for a peaceful resolution of the war between Russia and Ukraine. He also expressed his support and said that he looks forward to continued exchanges with Putin in the future. “Thank my friend, President Putin, for his phone call and for sharing insights on his recent meeting with President Trump in Alaska. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and supports all efforts in this regard. I look forward to our continued exchanges in the days to come,” PM Modi wrote on X.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Aug 18) spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the Trump-Zelensky meeting.

Russia’s Putin dials up PM Modi ahead of Trump-Zelensky meeting, ‘share insights’ on Alaska summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 18), as the two leaders aim to discuss the Russia-Ukraine peace and ceasefire deal to put an end to the killings of thousands of people. Zelensky will be accompanied by other European leaders to the White House.&nbsp;This comes after Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska last week. The two leaders discussed the Russia-Ukraine war; however, no ceasefire or peace deal was announced following their meeting.&nbsp;On late Sunday night, the Ukrainian president arrived in Washington as he announced on his social media X. He wrote, "Tomorrow we are also speaking with European leaders. I am grateful to @POTUS &nbsp;for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting."&nbsp;Later, the White House released the schedule for the Trump-Zelensky meeting at the White House, along with the European leaders.<h2>Schedule</h2>12:00 pm ET (9:30 pm IST) - EU leaders to arriveThe European leaders are expected to arrive at the White House at the South Portico, ahead of the high-stakes meeting.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;2:15 pm ET (11:45 pm IST) - Trump to greet European leaders&nbsp; Trump will greet other European leaders in the State Dining Room an hour after he began his Oval Office meeting with Zelensky.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<h2>Who all are attending the Trump-Zelensky meet?</h2><ul><li>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer</li><li>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni</li><li>French President Emmanuel Macron</li><li>German Chancellor Friedrich Merz</li><li>Finnish President Alexander Stubb</li><li>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen&nbsp;</li><li>Nato secretary general Mark Rutte</li></ul><h2>Agenda for meeting</h2>Laying out the goal for the White House meeting, &nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that the goal is to recall what unites Ukraine, Europe, and the United States, pointing to Russia.&nbsp;"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.&nbsp;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.”&nbsp;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.”

On late Sunday night, the Ukrainian president arrived in Washington as he announced on his social media X. Later, the White House released the schedule for the Trump-Zelensky meeting at the White House.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 18), as the two leaders aim to discuss the Russia-Ukraine peace and ceasefire deal to put an end to the killings of thousands of people. Zelensky will be accompanied by other European leaders to the White House. This comes after Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska last week. The two leaders discussed the Russia-Ukraine war; however, no ceasefire or peace deal was announced following their meeting. On late Sunday night, the Ukrainian president arrived in Washington as he announced on his social media X. He wrote, "Tomorrow we are also speaking with European leaders. I am grateful to @POTUS for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting." Later, the White House released the schedule for the Trump-Zelensky meeting at the White House, along with the European leaders. Schedule 12:00 pm ET (9:30 pm IST) - EU leaders to arrive The European leaders are expected to arrive at the White House at the South Portico, ahead of the high-stakes 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. Who all are attending the Trump-Zelensky meet? UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni French President Emmanuel Macron German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Finnish President Alexander Stubb European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Nato secretary general Mark Rutte Agenda for meeting 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.”

On late Sunday night, the Ukrainian president arrived in Washington as he announced on his social media X. Later, the White House released the schedule for the Trump-Zelensky meeting at the White House.

Trump-Zelensky meet: Here's the full schedule and agenda - Who all are attending the high-stakes summit

After his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Vladimir Putin once again blamed the West for the war in Ukraine. The Russian president insisted the real issue, or the so-called 'root cause' lies in what he called the 'situation around Ukraine.' By this, he meant a long-running struggle over Russia’s security and its place in the world.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-will-the-ukraine-war-end-here-are-the-two-possible-futures-after-trump-putin-summit-1755428286504">How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit</a><h2>Balance of power at the centre</h2>Putin said the root cause of the conflict was the collapse of what he views as a “fair balance in the security sphere in Europe and the world as a whole.” He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO. For the Kremlin, this means undoing the West’s dominance since the Soviet Union broke apart in 1991 during the Cold War.<h2>Claiming Russia is the victim</h2>Putin has repeatedly called the war a tragedy, saying Russians and Ukrainians “have the same roots.” He said he wanted it to end, but blamed the West for pushing Ukraine away from Russia. In his view, Russia is not the aggressor, instead, he portrays his country as a victim of Western bullying.<h2>NATO expansion as the trigger</h2>For years, Putin has said NATO’s growth in Eastern Europe is the main reason for the conflict. Countries such as Poland and Romania joined NATO after the Soviet Union collapsed. When Ukraine looked to follow the same path, Russia drew a red line. Western leaders rejected Moscow’s demands to stop NATO’s expansion, and soon after, Russia invaded.<h2>A Cold War mindset</h2>For Putin, the “root causes” are less about Ukraine itself and more about restoring Russia’s place as a global power, equal to the United States and respected in Europe. Putin's mindset is to restore Russia as one of two global superpowers and revive the Cold War order, where Moscow held sway over its neighbours and sat at the top table of world politics.<h2>A gamble that has backfired</h2>But instead of weakening NATO, Russia’s invasion has made it stronger. Finland and Sweden, once neutral, have now joined the alliance, bringing it even closer to Russia’s borders. What Putin sees as fixing an imbalance may have only deepened it.

Putin argued that the conflict started because the “balance of security” in Europe and beyond was broken after the Cold War. He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO.

After his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Vladimir Putin once again blamed the West for the war in Ukraine. The Russian president insisted the real issue, or the so-called 'root cause' lies in what he called the 'situation around Ukraine.' By this, he meant a long-running struggle over Russia’s security and its place in the world. Also read: How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit Balance of power at the centre Putin said the root cause of the conflict was the collapse of what he views as a “fair balance in the security sphere in Europe and the world as a whole.” He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO. For the Kremlin, this means undoing the West’s dominance since the Soviet Union broke apart in 1991 during the Cold War. Claiming Russia is the victim Putin has repeatedly called the war a tragedy, saying Russians and Ukrainians “have the same roots.” He said he wanted it to end, but blamed the West for pushing Ukraine away from Russia. In his view, Russia is not the aggressor, instead, he portrays his country as a victim of Western bullying. NATO expansion as the trigger For years, Putin has said NATO’s growth in Eastern Europe is the main reason for the conflict. Countries such as Poland and Romania joined NATO after the Soviet Union collapsed. When Ukraine looked to follow the same path, Russia drew a red line. Western leaders rejected Moscow’s demands to stop NATO’s expansion, and soon after, Russia invaded. A Cold War mindset For Putin, the “root causes” are less about Ukraine itself and more about restoring Russia’s place as a global power, equal to the United States and respected in Europe. Putin's mindset is to restore Russia as one of two global superpowers and revive the Cold War order, where Moscow held sway over its neighbours and sat at the top table of world politics. A gamble that has backfired But instead of weakening NATO, Russia’s invasion has made it stronger. Finland and Sweden, once neutral, have now joined the alliance, bringing it even closer to Russia’s borders. What Putin sees as fixing an imbalance may have only deepened it.

Putin argued that the conflict started because the “balance of security” in Europe and beyond was broken after the Cold War. He said peace could only come if that balance is restored, with Russia treated as an equal to the United States and NATO.

Is 'western bullying' real reason for Ukraine war? Putin reveals 'root causes' behind Moscow's invasion of Kyiv

In yet another jibe on his predecessor Joe Biden, US President Donald Trump said he is the reason behind Russia and China coming closer. He claimed they natural enemies and it’s Biden, who did the ‘unthinkable.’ &nbsp;His comments came after the summit with Putin in Alaska, where was attempting to make peace between warring countries Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-urges-zelensky-to-relinquish-crimea-stay-out-of-nato-1755510226809/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-urges-zelensky-to-relinquish-crimea-stay-out-of-nato-1755510226809/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Talking to news outlet Fox New, Trump,&nbsp;“He (Biden) did something that was unthinkable. He drove China and Russia together. That's not good... it's the one thing you didn't want to do. Because they are basically natural enemies.”“…because of pure stupidity, they were driven together,” Trump claimed that Russia's vast territory is what China is eyeing to accommodate its massive population. He also highlighted how Biden's foreign policy and how it put restrictions on both Russia and China. White House imposed sanctions Russia over Ukraine war. Also tightened restrictions on China’s exports such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.&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;Trump has also blamed Biden in the past for the war in Ukraine. He said 'this is Biden's war' which 'should have never happened, would have never happened'. He was confident as he said none of this would have happened if he were the president. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Not the first time, Trump has always been clear about his efforts in stopping wars across the world. Speaking to the media, he said, “This is Biden's war, and we're working very hard to get us out. I stopped five wars in the last five months actually, and I'd like this to be the sixth, frankly...” &nbsp;&nbsp;

In yet another jibe on his predecessor Joe Biden, US President Donald Trump said he is the reason behind Russia and China coming closer.

In yet another jibe on his predecessor Joe Biden, US President Donald Trump said he is the reason behind Russia and China coming closer. He claimed they natural enemies and it’s Biden, who did the ‘unthinkable.’ His comments came after the summit with Putin in Alaska, where was attempting to make peace between warring countries Russia and Ukraine. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-urges-zelensky-to-relinquish-crimea-stay-out-of-nato-1755510226809/embed Talking to news outlet Fox New, Trump, “He (Biden) did something that was unthinkable. He drove China and Russia together. That's not good... it's the one thing you didn't want to do. Because they are basically natural enemies.” “…because of pure stupidity, they were driven together,” Trump claimed that Russia's vast territory is what China is eyeing to accommodate its massive population. He also highlighted how Biden's foreign policy and how it put restrictions on both Russia and China. White House imposed sanctions Russia over Ukraine war. Also tightened restrictions on China’s exports such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. Also read: 'Never had so many European leaders...' Trump ahead of 'big day' in White House just as Zelensky arrives Trump has also blamed Biden in the past for the war in Ukraine. He said 'this is Biden's war' which 'should have never happened, would have never happened'. He was confident as he said none of this would have happened if he were the president. Not the first time, Trump has always been clear about his efforts in stopping wars across the world. Speaking to the media, he said, “This is Biden's war, and we're working very hard to get us out. I stopped five wars in the last five months actually, and I'd like this to be the sixth, frankly...”

In yet another jibe on his predecessor Joe Biden, US President Donald Trump said he is the reason behind Russia and China coming closer.

'Did the unthinkable': Trump blames Biden for bringing China and Russia close

China on Monday (August 18) stressed that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to India will help in maintaining the momentum of high-level exchanges and enhance political mutual trust between the two nations, hence signalling positive ties between India and China.&nbsp;Xu Feihong, China's Ambassador to India, in a post on X, said that China wants to take this opportunity to work together with India in implementing the important consensus.&nbsp;When asked about China’s expectation regarding Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India and the 24th Round of Talks Between the Special Representatives of China and India on the boundary question, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that "China is willing to take the opportunity of Wang's visit to India to work together with the Indian side in implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries."&nbsp;The foreign ministry spokesperson added that it will help “maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, enhance political mutual trust, strengthen practical cooperation, properly manage differences, and promote the sustained, healthy, and stable development of China-India relations.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">When asked about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>’s expectation regarding Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India and the 24th Round of Talks Between the Special Representatives of China and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> on the Boundary Question, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that China is… <a href="https://t.co/iSYRSMhCxq">pic.twitter.com/iSYRSMhCxq</a>&mdash; Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1957379063993233840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>China's FM visit to India</h2>Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, who will be on an India visit starting tomorrow, will meet PM Modi on Tuesday.Foreign Minister Yi's meeting with PM Modi comes even as India-China ties look to reset ties, a process started after India and China leaders met on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS summit last year.&nbsp;The Chinese foreign minister will be on a 3-day visit for the 24th round of India-China Special Representatives (SR) level border talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.&nbsp;Wang Yi will arrive in the Indian national capital on Monday, and will also meet EAM Dr S Jaishankar. This will be the second visit of the Chinese foreign minister to India since the 2020 Galwan clashes, the last being in March 2022.&nbsp;As part of the reset of ties, focus is on cooperation on the sharing of river water data, resumption of direct air services, and exchanges between media and think-tanks. The holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra started this year after a gap of several years.<h2>China backs India amid Trump's massive tariffs</h2>Last week, China expressed optimism to work with India, and cement political mutual trust, along with handling differences properly.&nbsp;Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, during a press conference, told reporters that India and China are maintaining interactions at various levels, in order to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.&nbsp;Jian assured that Beijing "stands ready to work with India" to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that the visit will help maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, enhance political mutual trust and strengthen practical cooperation. 

China on Monday (August 18) stressed that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to India will help in maintaining the momentum of high-level exchanges and enhance political mutual trust between the two nations, hence signalling positive ties between India and China. Xu Feihong, China's Ambassador to India, in a post on X, said that China wants to take this opportunity to work together with India in implementing the important consensus. When asked about China’s expectation regarding Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India and the 24th Round of Talks Between the Special Representatives of China and India on the boundary question, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that "China is willing to take the opportunity of Wang's visit to India to work together with the Indian side in implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries." The foreign ministry spokesperson added that it will help “maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, enhance political mutual trust, strengthen practical cooperation, properly manage differences, and promote the sustained, healthy, and stable development of China-India relations.”

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that the visit will help maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, enhance political mutual trust and strengthen practical cooperation.&nbsp;

India-China reset: Will Wang Yi's visit to Delhi pave way for PM Modi-Xi Jinping breakthrough? Here's what Beijing said

A death row prisoner in Arkansas is pleading with authorities to kill him as soon as possible. He doesn't care what the method of execution is and is even ready to be put to death by a firing squad or in an electric chair. However, his death pleas are not being met because 10 other inmates are against the execution method that will be used. They have filed a lawsuit against Arkansas for its use of nitrogen hypoxia for execution after its new authorisation went into effect on August 5. Scotty Gardner was given the death sentence in 2018 for strangling his girlfriend with a curling iron cord and stealing her things to gamble at a casino. Before that, he repeatedly shot his pregnant ex-wife in 1990 and served time for attempted murder. Now, Gardner is urging officials for swift death because of his shoddy living conditions. Arkansas has not executed anyone since 2017. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-is-bela-donald-trump-s-mysterious-covfefe-esque-four-letter-post-leaves-netizens-confused-1755502868941">What is 'Bela'? Donald Trump’s mysterious 'covfefe-esque' four-letter post leaves netizens confused</a>&nbsp;<h2>“Bugs, mould” in his cell are pushing Gardner to ask for death</h2>He wrote an email to USA Today, stating that he wants to leave "his cave", which is a mouldy cell, poor plumbing with bugs crawling in and out of a sink and a drain. He also reached out to the Arkansas State Supreme Court in 2025, urging them to "set a date and let’s do it". He had also written to the authorities in 2020, saying that he would be fine with any form of execution, including the firing squad or electric chair. But the use of nitrogen hypoxia has complicated matters and stood as a hurdle between Gardner and death. Heather Fraley, an attorney for several of the plaintiffs, said in a press release, "Arkansas juries explicitly sentenced our clients to execution by lethal injection – not gas – and the General Assembly cannot rewrite those verdicts to impose death by this very different and highly problematic method." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/louisiana-carries-out-states-first-nitrogen-gas-execution-8869547">Louisiana carries out state’s first nitrogen gas execution</a>&nbsp;Three prisoners in Alabama have been previously executed by nitrogen. Louisiana and Mississippi are the other states that permit nitrogen hypoxia for executions in the face of limited drug availability for death by lethal injection. The process involved placing a mask on the inmate and pumping nitrogen gas into the body to replace the oxygen, ultimately suffocating the person. &nbsp;

A prisoner on death row in Arkansas is pleading for death, citing the mould and bugs in his cell. However, his requests are being hindered because of other inmates on death row. Here is what they are asking for.

A death row prisoner in Arkansas is pleading with authorities to kill him as soon as possible. He doesn't care what the method of execution is and is even ready to be put to death by a firing squad or in an electric chair. However, his death pleas are not being met because 10 other inmates are against the execution method that will be used. They have filed a lawsuit against Arkansas for its use of nitrogen hypoxia for execution after its new authorisation went into effect on August 5. Scotty Gardner was given the death sentence in 2018 for strangling his girlfriend with a curling iron cord and stealing her things to gamble at a casino. Before that, he repeatedly shot his pregnant ex-wife in 1990 and served time for attempted murder. Now, Gardner is urging officials for swift death because of his shoddy living conditions. Arkansas has not executed anyone since 2017. Also Read: What is 'Bela'? Donald Trump’s mysterious 'covfefe-esque' four-letter post leaves netizens confused “Bugs, mould” in his cell are pushing Gardner to ask for death He wrote an email to USA Today, stating that he wants to leave "his cave", which is a mouldy cell, poor plumbing with bugs crawling in and out of a sink and a drain. He also reached out to the Arkansas State Supreme Court in 2025, urging them to "set a date and let’s do it". He had also written to the authorities in 2020, saying that he would be fine with any form of execution, including the firing squad or electric chair. But the use of nitrogen hypoxia has complicated matters and stood as a hurdle between Gardner and death. Heather Fraley, an attorney for several of the plaintiffs, said in a press release, "Arkansas juries explicitly sentenced our clients to execution by lethal injection – not gas – and the General Assembly cannot rewrite those verdicts to impose death by this very different and highly problematic method." Also Read: Louisiana carries out state’s first nitrogen gas execution Three prisoners in Alabama have been previously executed by nitrogen. Louisiana and Mississippi are the other states that permit nitrogen hypoxia for executions in the face of limited drug availability for death by lethal injection. The process involved placing a mask on the inmate and pumping nitrogen gas into the body to replace the oxygen, ultimately suffocating the person.

A prisoner on death row in Arkansas is pleading for death, citing the mould and bugs in his cell. However, his requests are being hindered because of other inmates on death row. Here is what they are asking for.

Arkansas prisoner is pleading for quick execution, but other inmates have sued to stop it. Here is what's happening

As mid-August nights draw in, stargazers across the northern hemisphere are being treated to some of the most striking views of the year. Among the highlights are three prominent star clusters, each offering a window into the dynamic and ancient life of the Milky Way. From dense globular swarms to open formations etched into familiar constellations, these stellar gatherings are visible to the naked eye from dark-sky sites, but reveal their full majesty when observed with binoculars or a telescope.<h2>What are star clusters?</h2>&nbsp;Star clusters are gravitationally bound families of stars born from the same interstellar cloud. They come in two main types: open clusters and globular clusters. Open clusters, such as the Hyades and the Pleiades, are relatively young and often located in the Milky Way’s spiral arms. Their loosely bound nature means they can disperse over millions of years as passing stars tug at their members. Globular clusters, by contrast, are tightly packed spheres containing hundreds of thousands of stars, often among the oldest in the galaxy. These vast systems orbit in the galactic halo, high above and below the Milky Way’s disk, and many shine brightly enough to appear as faint smudges of light to the unaided eye.&nbsp;Roughly 150 globular clusters and more than 1,000 open clusters. Observing them requires patience and technique: allow around 30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to darkness, and use averted vision, looking slightly to the side of the target, to engage the light-sensitive rods of your eyes. While some clusters can be glimpsed without equipment, 10x50 binoculars sharpen the view and begin to resolve brighter stars, and a telescope of six inches or more reveals their intricate structures in detail.&nbsp;<h2>The Great Hercules Cluster</h2>&nbsp;One of the brightest sights of August evenings is the Great Hercules Cluster, also known as Messier 13 (M13). Located about 25,000 light-years away in the constellation Hercules, M13 contains around 100,000 stars bound in a glittering spherical mass. It can be found between the bright stars Vega and Arcturus by locating the Keystone asterism, a diamond-shaped pattern of four stars at Hercules’ centre. Sweeping binoculars between Zeta Herculis and Eta Herculis brings this ancient cluster into view, a highlight of the summer sky.&nbsp;<h2>The Hyades and the Pleiades</h2>&nbsp;In the early hours before dawn, the constellation Taurus rises in the east. At its heart lies the Hyades, the closest open cluster to Earth at just 150 light-years away. Shaped like a sideways ‘V’ marking the bull’s face, its brightest star Aldebaran, the red ‘eye’ of Taurus, is a foreground object, only 65 light-years distant.&nbsp;Above the Hyades sits the Pleiades, one of the most famous open clusters, often called the ‘Seven Sisters’. This cluster hosts more than a thousand hot, young stars, but binoculars reveal the seven brightest that dominate its appearance. Positioned about 10 degrees above the Hyades, roughly a fist’s width at arm’s length, the Pleiades are a dazzling reminder of the Milky Way’s star-forming past.&nbsp;

From dense globular swarms to open formations etched into familiar constellations, these stellar gatherings are visible to the naked eye from dark-sky sites.

As mid-August nights draw in, stargazers across the northern hemisphere are being treated to some of the most striking views of the year. Among the highlights are three prominent star clusters, each offering a window into the dynamic and ancient life of the Milky Way. From dense globular swarms to open formations etched into familiar constellations, these stellar gatherings are visible to the naked eye from dark-sky sites, but reveal their full majesty when observed with binoculars or a telescope. What are star clusters? Star clusters are gravitationally bound families of stars born from the same interstellar cloud. They come in two main types: open clusters and globular clusters. Open clusters, such as the Hyades and the Pleiades, are relatively young and often located in the Milky Way’s spiral arms. Their loosely bound nature means they can disperse over millions of years as passing stars tug at their members. Globular clusters, by contrast, are tightly packed spheres containing hundreds of thousands of stars, often among the oldest in the galaxy. These vast systems orbit in the galactic halo, high above and below the Milky Way’s disk, and many shine brightly enough to appear as faint smudges of light to the unaided eye. Roughly 150 globular clusters and more than 1,000 open clusters. Observing them requires patience and technique: allow around 30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to darkness, and use averted vision, looking slightly to the side of the target, to engage the light-sensitive rods of your eyes. While some clusters can be glimpsed without equipment, 10x50 binoculars sharpen the view and begin to resolve brighter stars, and a telescope of six inches or more reveals their intricate structures in detail. The Great Hercules Cluster One of the brightest sights of August evenings is the Great Hercules Cluster, also known as Messier 13 (M13). Located about 25,000 light-years away in the constellation Hercules, M13 contains around 100,000 stars bound in a glittering spherical mass. It can be found between the bright stars Vega and Arcturus by locating the Keystone asterism, a diamond-shaped pattern of four stars at Hercules’ centre. Sweeping binoculars between Zeta Herculis and Eta Herculis brings this ancient cluster into view, a highlight of the summer sky. The Hyades and the Pleiades In the early hours before dawn, the constellation Taurus rises in the east. At its heart lies the Hyades, the closest open cluster to Earth at just 150 light-years away. Shaped like a sideways ‘V’ marking the bull’s face, its brightest star Aldebaran, the red ‘eye’ of Taurus, is a foreground object, only 65 light-years distant. Above the Hyades sits the Pleiades, one of the most famous open clusters, often called the ‘Seven Sisters’. This cluster hosts more than a thousand hot, young stars, but binoculars reveal the seven brightest that dominate its appearance. Positioned about 10 degrees above the Hyades, roughly a fist’s width at arm’s length, the Pleiades are a dazzling reminder of the Milky Way’s star-forming past.

From dense globular swarms to open formations etched into familiar constellations, these stellar gatherings are visible to the naked eye from dark-sky sites.

See 1,00,000 stars at once: The star clusters set to dazzle skywatchers in August 2025

Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump talked to each other in Alaska for nearly three hours, followed by a press conference. But the short meeting triggered a slew of speculations, rumours and reports. One conspiracy theory catching on on social media is whether the Putin Trump met was the real Russia leader or a body double? People even posted comparative pictures, pointing out the difference between the "real" Putin and the "body double." The theory of Putin's body doubles taking part in several meetings instead of the real him have circulated online for years. Putin has maintained that he does not have a body double. Among the reasons pointed out were Putin's animated facial expressions. A user wrote that Putin is never this active physically and with his face. However, the Putin world saw at the press conference in Alaska was quite different. "How do we know if this is the real Putin? &nbsp; He is never this animated," a user wrote on X, posting four different photos of Putin where he is being extremely expressive with his face. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/putin-s-poop-suitcase-was-in-alaska-russian-leader-took-his-faeces-back-to-moscow-here-s-why-1755503502120">Did Putin bring a 'poop suitcase' to Alaska? The Russian leader reportedly took his faeces back to Moscow. Here's why</a><h2>People claim the “high-energy” Putin in Alaska was a body double</h2>The "high-energy" quips and actions were cited by other people as well, who claimed that the Putin in Alaska was his "high-energy double" that Moscow sends "into big crowds." The user added, “I call this one the Mr Magoo Putin. Huge round head, botoxed on a daily basis to keep him that way. Its incredible that they use him for the US ”negotiations", signaling that Witkoff requires no handling at all (sic)." Another person wrote that "Putin sent his body double to Alaska, who failed miserably under pressure from the US press corps." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-agreed-to-nato-style-security-guarantees-for-ukraine-top-us-envoy-witkoff-s-game-changing-revealation-ahead-of-trump-zelensky-meet-1755443245449">Putin agreed to ‘NATO-style’ security guarantees for Ukraine? says senior envoy Steve Witkoff</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Definite it was a Putin doubler. Look at the smooth forehead. Yesterday it was filled with wrinkles. <a href="https://t.co/N26LahlWSi">pic.twitter.com/N26LahlWSi</a>&mdash; RjChicago1 (@RjChicago1) <a href="https://twitter.com/RjChicago1/status/1956526252049002909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Putin didn&#39;t even send the real Putin. This is Putin&#39;s high energy double, the one they send into big crowds. I call this one the Mr Magoo Putin. Huge round head, botoxed on a daily basis to keep him that way. Its incredible that they use him for the US &quot;negotiations&quot;, signaling… <a href="https://t.co/1u3jGLciWH">pic.twitter.com/1u3jGLciWH</a>&mdash; Jay in Kyiv (@JayinKyiv) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayinKyiv/status/1953024935523168456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Putin “doubler” has a "smooth forehead”&nbsp;</h2>One more user pointed out the "smooth forehead", placing two pictures of Putin side-by-side to say that the real Russian president has wrinkles on his forehead, while the one in Alaska had a smooth forehead. "Definite it was a Putin doubler. Look at the smooth forehead. Yesterday it was filled with wrinkles," the user wrote on X. People posted shots of Putin from the press conference to claim "Putin’s facial expressions feels like its his body double." Putin even spoke a few words in English. In 2020, Putin admitted that the idea of using body doubles came up in the early 2000s, but, he told news outlet TACC, that he "refused doubles".&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">How do we know if this is the real Putin? He is never this animated. <a href="https://t.co/29DRwpIkNG">pic.twitter.com/29DRwpIkNG</a>&mdash; Marlene Robertson🇨🇦 (@marlene4719) <a href="https://twitter.com/marlene4719/status/1956472392840081802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reporters are bombarding putin with tough questions. Putin’s facial expressions feels like its his body double <a href="https://t.co/z7LCJcXG6U">pic.twitter.com/z7LCJcXG6U</a>&mdash; Maxx (@Max_geopolitic) <a href="https://twitter.com/Max_geopolitic/status/1956454076012761401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

One user cited the body language and movement to claim that it was not the real Putin. “Those last few seconds looks totally out of character for Putin. The real Putin does not express any physical horseplay like this on the World stage. Ever,” the user wrote.&nbsp;However, he added that the one meeting Trump will be the real one. “Expect Trump will meet the real Putin behind closed doors but it won’t be this guy. He also walked down the red carpet too briskly, with too much of a spring in his step and was too tall beside Trump,” the user named Sheldon Miller added, who is an ex-journalist as per his bio on X. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Putin sent his body double to Alaska, who failed miserably under pressure from the US press corps. What a joke. <a href="https://t.co/QgUtwOTWeM">pic.twitter.com/QgUtwOTWeM</a>&mdash; Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) <a href="https://twitter.com/igorsushko/status/1956451896358768794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Alaska Summit no deal</h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-putin-meet-it-s-up-to-zelensky-to-agree-to-a-ukraine-deal-says-trump-1755330246988/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-putin-meet-it-s-up-to-zelensky-to-agree-to-a-ukraine-deal-says-trump-1755330246988/embed</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Alaska Summit did not deliver any concrete results about the Russia-Ukraine war, the primary objective of the meet between the two world leaders. However, both Trump and Putin claimed that despite no ceasefire agreement, the talks were "very productive." Trump said at the press conference, “We had an extremely productive meeting and many points were agreed to. There are just a very few that are left."

Did Putin send a body double to Alaska? The summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin has kicked off a conspiracy theory that the Russian leader sent a body double to Alaska. People on social media cited several details to claim that he was not the real deal. 

Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump talked to each other in Alaska for nearly three hours, followed by a press conference. But the short meeting triggered a slew of speculations, rumours and reports. One conspiracy theory catching on on social media is whether the Putin Trump met was the real Russia leader or a body double? People even posted comparative pictures, pointing out the difference between the "real" Putin and the "body double." The theory of Putin's body doubles taking part in several meetings instead of the real him have circulated online for years. Putin has maintained that he does not have a body double. Among the reasons pointed out were Putin's animated facial expressions. A user wrote that Putin is never this active physically and with his face. However, the Putin world saw at the press conference in Alaska was quite different. "How do we know if this is the real Putin? He is never this animated," a user wrote on X, posting four different photos of Putin where he is being extremely expressive with his face. Also Read: Did Putin bring a 'poop suitcase' to Alaska? The Russian leader reportedly took his faeces back to Moscow. Here's why People claim the “high-energy” Putin in Alaska was a body double The "high-energy" quips and actions were cited by other people as well, who claimed that the Putin in Alaska was his "high-energy double" that Moscow sends "into big crowds." The user added, “I call this one the Mr Magoo Putin. Huge round head, botoxed on a daily basis to keep him that way. Its incredible that they use him for the US ”negotiations", signaling that Witkoff requires no handling at all (sic)." Another person wrote that "Putin sent his body double to Alaska, who failed miserably under pressure from the US press corps." Also Read: Putin agreed to ‘NATO-style’ security guarantees for Ukraine? says senior envoy Steve Witkoff

Did Putin send a body double to Alaska? The summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin has kicked off a conspiracy theory that the Russian leader sent a body double to Alaska. People on social media cited several details to claim that he was not the real deal.&nbsp;

Did Putin send a body double to Alaska? Conspiracy theory kicks up dust on social media

Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to allow “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine from the United States as part of a potential peace deal during his summit with President Donald Trump, senior envoy Steve Witkoff told CNN. “We agreed to robust security guarantees that I would describe as game-changing,” Witkoff said, likening the arrangement to NATO’s Article 5 protection. He explained that this mechanism would offer Ukraine defence commitments similar to NATO’s collective security clause, without the country formally joining the alliance, a long-standing Russian red line.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-will-the-ukraine-war-end-here-are-the-two-possible-futures-after-trump-putin-summit-1755428286504">How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit</a><h2>How would the security guarantee work?</h2>According to Witkoff, the deal would mean the United States and European partners could provide “Article 5-like language” to deter any future Russian aggression. “Putin has said that a red flag is NATO admission,” Witkoff told CNN. “Assuming that the Ukrainians could agree to that and could live with that… we were able to win the following concession that the United States could offer Article 5-like protection,” he added.Witkoff stressed that it was “the first time we had ever heard the Russians agree” to such a clause. He added that Putin had also accepted the idea of “legislative enshrinement” to guarantee Russia would not invade Ukraine or other European countries again.<h2>What did Putin demand in return?</h2>Despite the breakthrough, Putin reportedly repeated demands for territorial concessions. European officials said Trump told them afterwards that the Russian leader insisted Ukraine hand over the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. In exchange, Putin suggested he would freeze the front lines in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and pledge not to launch further attacks. He also stuck to his condition that Ukraine scale back its military, abandon NATO ambitions and remain neutral, which he described as addressing the “root causes” of the war.<h2>Why does this matter for a peace deal?</h2>Witkoff said the talks made more progress than previous efforts, with Moscow showing “accommodation more than we’ve seen in the past, certainly more than we saw in the last administration.” “We are intent on trying to hammer out a peace deal that ends the fighting permanently very, very quickly. Quicker than a ceasefire,” he said. “We cut through all kinds of issues that would have to be discussed and agreed to during a ceasefire,” he added. So far, the Kremlin has not publicly responded to the Trump team’s description of the summit.

Putin reportedly agreed to US-backed “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine, similar to NATO’s Article 5, during talks with Trump, offering defence assurances without Ukraine formally joining the alliance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to allow “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine from the United States as part of a potential peace deal during his summit with President Donald Trump, senior envoy Steve Witkoff told CNN. “We agreed to robust security guarantees that I would describe as game-changing,” Witkoff said, likening the arrangement to NATO’s Article 5 protection. He explained that this mechanism would offer Ukraine defence commitments similar to NATO’s collective security clause, without the country formally joining the alliance, a long-standing Russian red line. Also read: How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit How would the security guarantee work? According to Witkoff, the deal would mean the United States and European partners could provide “Article 5-like language” to deter any future Russian aggression. “Putin has said that a red flag is NATO admission,” Witkoff told CNN. “Assuming that the Ukrainians could agree to that and could live with that… we were able to win the following concession that the United States could offer Article 5-like protection,” he added. Witkoff stressed that it was “the first time we had ever heard the Russians agree” to such a clause. He added that Putin had also accepted the idea of “legislative enshrinement” to guarantee Russia would not invade Ukraine or other European countries again. What did Putin demand in return? Despite the breakthrough, Putin reportedly repeated demands for territorial concessions. European officials said Trump told them afterwards that the Russian leader insisted Ukraine hand over the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. In exchange, Putin suggested he would freeze the front lines in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and pledge not to launch further attacks. He also stuck to his condition that Ukraine scale back its military, abandon NATO ambitions and remain neutral, which he described as addressing the “root causes” of the war. Why does this matter for a peace deal? Witkoff said the talks made more progress than previous efforts, with Moscow showing “accommodation more than we’ve seen in the past, certainly more than we saw in the last administration.” “We are intent on trying to hammer out a peace deal that ends the fighting permanently very, very quickly. Quicker than a ceasefire,” he said. “We cut through all kinds of issues that would have to be discussed and agreed to during a ceasefire,” he added. So far, the Kremlin has not publicly responded to the Trump team’s description of the summit.

Putin reportedly agreed to US-backed “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine, similar to NATO’s Article 5, during talks with Trump, offering defence assurances without Ukraine formally joining the alliance.

Putin agreed to ‘NATO-style’ security guarantees for Ukraine? Top US envoy's 'game-changing' revelation ahead of Trump-Zelensky meet

Pakistan received the third of the eight Hangor-class submarines from China, this is Beijing’s attempt to arm Islamabad’s naval capabilities. It’s an effort by China to help support the country’s presence in India’s backyard – the Indian Ocean. On August 13, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also announced the launch of Army Rocket Force Command&nbsp;(ARFC) in an attempt to boost its military strength. &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-s-in-india-china-s-fm-to-begin-2-day-india-visit-ahead-of-sco-summit-in-beijing-1755507541010/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-s-in-india-china-s-fm-to-begin-2-day-india-visit-ahead-of-sco-summit-in-beijing-1755507541010/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The ceremony was held at Shuangliu Base in Wuhan; in attendance were top officials from both countries, who cherish their ‘iron brotherhood’. &nbsp;Pakistan’s Vice Admiral Abdul Samad was the chief guest and in his address, he stressed the significance of maritime security amid region’s current geo-strategic dynamics. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-obvious-that-it-is-meant-for-india-pakistan-launches-army-rocket-force-command-during-independence-day-celebrations-1755152841896">'Obvious that it is meant for India': Pakistan launches Army Rocket Force Command during Independence Day celebrations</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;“He reaffirmed that Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defend national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment. Referring to HANGOR Class Submarines, he highlighted that their cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability,” Pakistan Navy mentioned in a statement. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>What is the agreement between China and Pakistan?</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Pakistan government has signed a deal with China Shipbuilding &amp; Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOS). They will be acquiring eight Hangor-class submarines. According to the agreement, four of which will be built in China and the remaining four submarines will be constructed in Pakistan’s Karachi under the transfer of technology programme. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<h2> Key highlights of Hangor-class submarine:</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Cutting-edge weaponry</li><li>Advanced sensors</li><li>Estimated to be instrumental in sustaining the regional power equilibrium&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Performance estimate:</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Max submerged speed: 17 nautical miles</li><li>AIP endurance: 20 days or 768 nautical miles</li><li>Mixed diesel-AIP range: 2,000 nautical miles or 65 days</li></ul>

Pakistan received the third of the eight Hangor-class submarines from China, this is Beijing’s attempt to arm Islamabad’s naval capabilities. 

Pakistan received the third of the eight Hangor-class submarines from China, this is Beijing’s attempt to arm Islamabad’s naval capabilities. It’s an effort by China to help support the country’s presence in India’s backyard – the Indian Ocean. On August 13, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also announced the launch of Army Rocket Force Command (ARFC) in an attempt to boost its military strength. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wang-yi-s-in-india-china-s-fm-to-begin-2-day-india-visit-ahead-of-sco-summit-in-beijing-1755507541010/embed The ceremony was held at Shuangliu Base in Wuhan; in attendance were top officials from both countries, who cherish their ‘iron brotherhood’. Pakistan’s Vice Admiral Abdul Samad was the chief guest and in his address, he stressed the significance of maritime security amid region’s current geo-strategic dynamics. Also read: 'Obvious that it is meant for India': Pakistan launches Army Rocket Force Command during Independence Day celebrations “He reaffirmed that Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defend national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment. Referring to HANGOR Class Submarines, he highlighted that their cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability,” Pakistan Navy mentioned in a statement. What is the agreement between China and Pakistan? Pakistan government has signed a deal with China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOS). They will be acquiring eight Hangor-class submarines. According to the agreement, four of which will be built in China and the remaining four submarines will be constructed in Pakistan’s Karachi under the transfer of technology programme. Key highlights of Hangor-class submarine: Cutting-edge weaponry Advanced sensors Estimated to be instrumental in sustaining the regional power equilibrium Performance estimate: Max submerged speed: 17 nautical miles AIP endurance: 20 days or 768 nautical miles Mixed diesel-AIP range: 2,000 nautical miles or 65 days

Pakistan received the third of the eight Hangor-class submarines from China, this is Beijing’s attempt to arm Islamabad’s naval capabilities.&nbsp;

China delivers 3rd Hangor-class submarine to Pakistan. Here's all you need to know

US vice President JD Vance has a new nickname: "Just Dance Vance". The name may be reminiscent of US President Donald Trump, but the person behind "Just Dance Vance" is someone else. While 'imitation may be the highest form of flattery', California Governor Gavin Newsom didn't have this goal in mind when he introduced Vance's new nickname in a post on social media. The nickname seems to be part of Newsom's renewed attack on Trump after the POTUS sent federal troops to Los Angeles without the Governor's permission – a move for which Newsom sued the president.<h2>Imitation = Flattery? Nope!</h2>Newsom's nickname for JD Vance, henceforth to be known as 'Just Dance Vance', happens to be just one of the many ways the California governor is imitating Trump's very obvious ways. Trump is infamous for coming up with mocking, derogatory nicknames for his opponents. Some popular ones that took the internet by storm were 'Sleepy Joe' for former president Joe Biden, ‘Crooked Hillary’ for Hillary Clinton, 'Crazy Mika' for Mika Bezezinski and 'Governor Newscum' for Newsom.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ghost-ukrainian-sniper-takes-out-two-russian-soldiers-with-record-breaking-kill-shot-from-4km-away-1755483790363">Watch: 'Ghost' Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away</a>&nbsp;As Newsom attempts to fight against nationwide attempts to redistribute congressional boundaries ahead of the 2026 midterms – a move, which as per Newsweek, has the backing of the Trump administration. The California governor, in a tit-for-tat move, has even threatened to redraw California's electoral map if Texas and other Republican-led states reconfigure their state's congressional districts in their favour. However, he said if these republican states give up on the idea, he won't partake in his action that would effectively neutralise any redistribution they do.&nbsp;<h2>Flattery or Mockery?</h2>Newsom is not only copying Trump's knack for unflattering nicknames; he has also taken to writing in the POTUS's signature all-caps social media posts, an apparent mockery of the Republican president.&nbsp;"NOT EVEN JD 'JUST DANCE' VANCE CAN SAVE TRUMP FROM THE DISASTROUS MAPS 'WAR' HE HAS STARTED. NOT EVEN HIS EYELINER LINES LOOK AS PRETTY AS CALIFORNIA 'MAP' LINES. HE WILL FAIL, AS HE ALWAYS DOES (SAD!)".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-drops-bombshell-before-zelensky-meet-tells-ukraine-to-give-up-nato-crimea-dream-1755488523212">Trump drops bombshell before Zelensky meet — tells Ukraine to give up on NATO, Crimea dream</a>&nbsp;He even gave himself a nickname, Gavin Christopher 'Columbus' Newsom. "AND I, THE PEACETIME GOVERNOR—OUR NATION'S FAVOURITE—WILL SAVE AMERICA ONCE AGAIN. MANY ARE NOW CALLING ME GAVIN CHRISTOPHER 'COLUMBUS' NEWSOM (BECAUSE OF THE MAPS!). THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER."&nbsp;When questioned by a reporter about his new style of social media posts, Newsom claimed, "I'm just following his (Trump's) example." He added, "If you have issues with what I'm putting out, you sure as hell should have concerns with what he's putting out as president."

California Governor Gavin Newsom has dubbed US Vice President JD Vance “Just Dance Vance”. Why? Read on to find out. 

US vice President JD Vance has a new nickname: "Just Dance Vance". The name may be reminiscent of US President Donald Trump, but the person behind "Just Dance Vance" is someone else. While 'imitation may be the highest form of flattery', California Governor Gavin Newsom didn't have this goal in mind when he introduced Vance's new nickname in a post on social media. The nickname seems to be part of Newsom's renewed attack on Trump after the POTUS sent federal troops to Los Angeles without the Governor's permission – a move for which Newsom sued the president. Imitation = Flattery? Nope! Newsom's nickname for JD Vance, henceforth to be known as 'Just Dance Vance', happens to be just one of the many ways the California governor is imitating Trump's very obvious ways. Trump is infamous for coming up with mocking, derogatory nicknames for his opponents. Some popular ones that took the internet by storm were 'Sleepy Joe' for former president Joe Biden, ‘Crooked Hillary’ for Hillary Clinton, 'Crazy Mika' for Mika Bezezinski and 'Governor Newscum' for Newsom. Also read | Watch: 'Ghost' Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away As Newsom attempts to fight against nationwide attempts to redistribute congressional boundaries ahead of the 2026 midterms – a move, which as per Newsweek, has the backing of the Trump administration. The California governor, in a tit-for-tat move, has even threatened to redraw California's electoral map if Texas and other Republican-led states reconfigure their state's congressional districts in their favour. However, he said if these republican states give up on the idea, he won't partake in his action that would effectively neutralise any redistribution they do. Flattery or Mockery? Newsom is not only copying Trump's knack for unflattering nicknames; he has also taken to writing in the POTUS's signature all-caps social media posts, an apparent mockery of the Republican president. "NOT EVEN JD 'JUST DANCE' VANCE CAN SAVE TRUMP FROM THE DISASTROUS MAPS 'WAR' HE HAS STARTED. NOT EVEN HIS EYELINER LINES LOOK AS PRETTY AS CALIFORNIA 'MAP' LINES. HE WILL FAIL, AS HE ALWAYS DOES (SAD!)". Also read | Trump drops bombshell before Zelensky meet — tells Ukraine to give up on NATO, Crimea dream He even gave himself a nickname, Gavin Christopher 'Columbus' Newsom. "AND I, THE PEACETIME GOVERNOR—OUR NATION'S FAVOURITE—WILL SAVE AMERICA ONCE AGAIN. MANY ARE NOW CALLING ME GAVIN CHRISTOPHER 'COLUMBUS' NEWSOM (BECAUSE OF THE MAPS!). THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER." When questioned by a reporter about his new style of social media posts, Newsom claimed, "I'm just following his (Trump's) example." He added, "If you have issues with what I'm putting out, you sure as hell should have concerns with what he's putting out as president."

California Governor Gavin Newsom has dubbed US Vice President JD Vance “Just Dance Vance”. Why? Read on to find out.&nbsp;

'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…'

After US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on India over its oil purchases from Russia, critics have questioned why he has not imposed similar duties on China, which is the largest buyer of Russian oil. Clarifying the administration’s reasoning behind this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that any additional sanctions on Beijing could result in increased energy costs. He added that it can lead to disruption in global markets.&nbsp;In an interview with Fox Business, Marco Rubio acknowledged that the Trump administration has not imposed sanctions on China despite the country being the top buyer of Russian oil, while it has imposed 25 per cent tariffs in addition to the initial 25 per cent duties earlier, citing Russian oil purchases. The move has resulted in a strain between Washington and New Delhi, which is currently among the nations facing the highest rates of US tariffs. Trump has also claimed that India’s economy is “dead”.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India has called the tariffs unjust and unreasonable, adding that it will take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.&nbsp;“If you put secondary sanctions on a country – let’s say you were to go after the oil sales of Russian oil to China. Well, China just refines that oil. That oil is then sold into the global marketplace, and anyone who’s buying that oil would be paying more for it or, if it doesn’t exist, would have to find an alternative source for it,” Rubio said.&nbsp;When asked about the possibility of US sanctions on Europe, he said, “Well, I don’t know about on Europe directly, obviously, but certainly there are implications to secondary sanctions.” He further added that the US doesn’t want to get into a tit-for-tat with the Europeans on this matter.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio justified why the US has imposed additional tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, but no sanctions have been imposed on China, the largest buyer of oil from Moscow, citing disruptions in global markets if the move is taken.

After US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on India over its oil purchases from Russia, critics have questioned why he has not imposed similar duties on China, which is the largest buyer of Russian oil. Clarifying the administration’s reasoning behind this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that any additional sanctions on Beijing could result in increased energy costs. He added that it can lead to disruption in global markets. In an interview with Fox Business, Marco Rubio acknowledged that the Trump administration has not imposed sanctions on China despite the country being the top buyer of Russian oil, while it has imposed 25 per cent tariffs in addition to the initial 25 per cent duties earlier, citing Russian oil purchases. The move has resulted in a strain between Washington and New Delhi, which is currently among the nations facing the highest rates of US tariffs. Trump has also claimed that India’s economy is “dead”. Meanwhile, India has called the tariffs unjust and unreasonable, adding that it will take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security. “If you put secondary sanctions on a country – let’s say you were to go after the oil sales of Russian oil to China. Well, China just refines that oil. That oil is then sold into the global marketplace, and anyone who’s buying that oil would be paying more for it or, if it doesn’t exist, would have to find an alternative source for it,” Rubio said. When asked about the possibility of US sanctions on Europe, he said, “Well, I don’t know about on Europe directly, obviously, but certainly there are implications to secondary sanctions.” He further added that the US doesn’t want to get into a tit-for-tat with the Europeans on this matter.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio justified why the US has imposed additional tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, but no sanctions have been imposed on China, the largest buyer of oil from Moscow, citing disruptions in global markets if the move is taken.

Is US being hypocritical? How Rubio justified 50% tariff threats on India, while China avoids penalty

As Ukrainian President Zelensky leaves for the US in the hope of bringing an end to the war, Russia's drone attack targets residential buildings in Kharkiv. The strikes have killed three, including a toddler, and 17 have been injured. In a Telegram post, Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, wrote, "Three people were killed, including a 1.5-year-old girl whose body was pulled out from under the rubble. 17 people were injured to varying degrees, some of whom were hospitalised."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-strikes-russian-train-station-ahead-of-trump-zelensky-meet-1755503060466/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-strikes-russian-train-station-ahead-of-trump-zelensky-meet-1755503060466/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;He added, "In total, six residential buildings and 15 cars were damaged." These strikes come at a time when the president is hopeful of lasting peace in the region.&nbsp;Zelensky has arrived in the US and will be meeting Trump on August 19. As he reached Washington, he wrote on X, “I am grateful to POTUS for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting.”&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;“Not like it was years ago, when Ukraine was forced to give up Crimea and part of our East—part of Donbas—and Putin simply used it as a springboard for a new attack,” he pointed out. Also mentioning that, yet again in 2022, the country was in a similar position while defending its land.&nbsp;“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,” he added.&nbsp;"I am confident that we will defend Ukraine, effectively guarantee security," lauding the soldiers on the frontline, Zelensky mentioned the notable gains in regions like Donetsk and Sumy.&nbsp;Trump recently concluded his meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska, where they discussed the end to the war with Ukraine. Moscow's military action in Ukraine began in February 2022. And now, this is the sixth war Trump is working to put an end to. Though Kyiv is looking for a ceasefire even before a final deal is reached, the US is concentrating on the deal.&nbsp;

As Ukrainian President Zelensky arrives in the US, Russian strikes in Kharkiv kill 3. The aerial strikes on a residential building also killed a toddler and injured 17 people.

As Ukrainian President Zelensky leaves for the US in the hope of bringing an end to the war, Russia's drone attack targets residential buildings in Kharkiv. The strikes have killed three, including a toddler, and 17 have been injured. In a Telegram post, Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, wrote, "Three people were killed, including a 1.5-year-old girl whose body was pulled out from under the rubble. 17 people were injured to varying degrees, some of whom were hospitalised." https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-strikes-russian-train-station-ahead-of-trump-zelensky-meet-1755503060466/embed He added, "In total, six residential buildings and 15 cars were damaged." These strikes come at a time when the president is hopeful of lasting peace in the region. Zelensky has arrived in the US and will be meeting Trump on August 19. As he reached Washington, he wrote on X, “I am grateful to POTUS for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting.” Also read: 'Never had so many European leaders...' Trump ahead of 'big day' in White House just as Zelensky arrives “Not like it was years ago, when Ukraine was forced to give up Crimea and part of our East—part of Donbas—and Putin simply used it as a springboard for a new attack,” he pointed out. Also mentioning that, yet again in 2022, the country was in a similar position while defending its land. “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,” he added. "I am confident that we will defend Ukraine, effectively guarantee security," lauding the soldiers on the frontline, Zelensky mentioned the notable gains in regions like Donetsk and Sumy. Trump recently concluded his meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska, where they discussed the end to the war with Ukraine. Moscow's military action in Ukraine began in February 2022. And now, this is the sixth war Trump is working to put an end to. Though Kyiv is looking for a ceasefire even before a final deal is reached, the US is concentrating on the deal.

As Ukrainian President Zelensky arrives in the US, Russian strikes in Kharkiv kill 3. The aerial strikes on a residential building also killed a toddler and injured 17 people.

Zelensky arrives in US to end war; Russian strikes in Kharkiv kills a toddler and two more

Russian President Vladimir Putin was apparently extra cautious while taking the trip to Alaska. He did not want to leave any traces of his DNA behind, and so, his bodyguards collected his poo and brought it back to Russia. According to Express UK, as a web of security officers guarded Putin, one of the measures included carrying a "poop suitcase". Citing two veteran investigative journalists in the French publication Paris Match, it stated that members of the Russian president’s Federal Protection Service (FPS) were responsible for collecting his human waste, including his faeces. It was put in special bags, which were then placed inside the briefcase brought along for his Alaska trip for this specific purpose. The journalists who made the claim added that this has been a regular practice for years during Putin's foreign trips. This includes his visit to France in May 2017. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/did-putin-send-a-body-double-to-alaska-conspiracy-theory-kicks-up-dust-on-social-media-1755511348950">Did Putin send a body double to Alaska? Conspiracy theory kicks up dust on social media</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-did-putin-trump-not-take-questions-at-alaska-press-conference-the-reason-revealed-1755371066598">Why did Putin, Trump not take questions at Alaska press conference? The reason REVEALED</a>&nbsp;The claims have been made by author Regis Gente and Mikhail Rubin, both of whom have been writing on Russia for years. Ex-BBC journalist Farida Rustamova had also made similar claims about Putin. She said that Putin has a private bathroom during his foreign trips, where he uses a portable toilet. It has been done since 199,9 when he assumed the role of Prime Minister of Russia. While there is no confirmation on the said practice, the reason for it is supposedly to prevent other countries from learning about his health by accessing his poop. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/war-or-peace-at-alaska-and-beyond-1755444890249">War or peace – at Alaska and beyond</a>&nbsp;<h2>Health concerns about Putin</h2>Putin's health has invited attention for a few years now. Reports have been swirling about the Russian leader being sick, with rumours once even suggesting that he had suffered a cardiac arrest. In Astana, Kazakhstan, last November, Putin was seen jerking his legs, triggering rumours that he could be suffering from a neurological condition, such as Parkinson's disease. Earlier this year, the General SVR Telegram channel claimed that Putin fell down a flight of stairs and soiled himself.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-trump-slams-fake-news-on-alaska-summit-says-putin-would-have-done-the-meeting-anywhere-1755482369055/embed&nbsp;<h2>The Alaska Summit</h2>The Alaska summit between US President Donald Trump and Putin ended without any significant decision. Trump had earlier threatened the Russian leader with "severe consequences" if he did not take measures to bring peace to Ukraine. However, an almost three-hour meeting ended without any major announcements. Both leaders stressed that they had made significant progress towards ending the conflict, without giving any details. “I believe we had a very productive meeting,” Trump said. “We haven’t quite got there, but we’ve made some headway. So, there’s no deal until there’s a deal.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin was apparently so concerned about his health details leaking to the world that he brought along a poop suitcase to Alaska. His bodyguards collected his faeces and took it back to Moscow, according to two journalists.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was apparently extra cautious while taking the trip to Alaska. He did not want to leave any traces of his DNA behind, and so, his bodyguards collected his poo and brought it back to Russia. According to Express UK, as a web of security officers guarded Putin, one of the measures included carrying a "poop suitcase". Citing two veteran investigative journalists in the French publication Paris Match, it stated that members of the Russian president’s Federal Protection Service (FPS) were responsible for collecting his human waste, including his faeces. It was put in special bags, which were then placed inside the briefcase brought along for his Alaska trip for this specific purpose. The journalists who made the claim added that this has been a regular practice for years during Putin's foreign trips. This includes his visit to France in May 2017. Also Read: Did Putin send a body double to Alaska? Conspiracy theory kicks up dust on social media Also Read: Why did Putin, Trump not take questions at Alaska press conference? The reason REVEALED The claims have been made by author Regis Gente and Mikhail Rubin, both of whom have been writing on Russia for years. Ex-BBC journalist Farida Rustamova had also made similar claims about Putin. She said that Putin has a private bathroom during his foreign trips, where he uses a portable toilet. It has been done since 199,9 when he assumed the role of Prime Minister of Russia. While there is no confirmation on the said practice, the reason for it is supposedly to prevent other countries from learning about his health by accessing his poop. Also Read: War or peace – at Alaska and beyond Health concerns about Putin Putin's health has invited attention for a few years now. Reports have been swirling about the Russian leader being sick, with rumours once even suggesting that he had suffered a cardiac arrest. In Astana, Kazakhstan, last November, Putin was seen jerking his legs, triggering rumours that he could be suffering from a neurological condition, such as Parkinson's disease. Earlier this year, the General SVR Telegram channel claimed that Putin fell down a flight of stairs and soiled himself. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-trump-slams-fake-news-on-alaska-summit-says-putin-would-have-done-the-meeting-anywhere-1755482369055/embed The Alaska Summit The Alaska summit between US President Donald Trump and Putin ended without any significant decision. Trump had earlier threatened the Russian leader with "severe consequences" if he did not take measures to bring peace to Ukraine. However, an almost three-hour meeting ended without any major announcements. Both leaders stressed that they had made significant progress towards ending the conflict, without giving any details. “I believe we had a very productive meeting,” Trump said. “We haven’t quite got there, but we’ve made some headway. So, there’s no deal until there’s a deal.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin was apparently so concerned about his health details leaking to the world that he brought along a poop suitcase to Alaska. His bodyguards collected his faeces and took it back to Moscow, according to two journalists.

Did Putin bring a 'poop suitcase' to Alaska? The Russian leader reportedly took his faeces back to Moscow. Here's why

US President Donald Trump's cryptic post with his four-letter post on Truth Social has sent the internet into a buzz. While writing several posts regarding his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on his platform, Trump wrote the word ‘Bela’ in a post. After writing this word by Trump, it left netizens wondering about the possible meaning of the word written by the president.&nbsp;Currently, there appears to be no direct link between the term 'Bela' and the President of the United States. Hence, it seems a typo was made by the POTUS while sharing multiple posts on the platform. However, a double “l,” the term translates to “beautiful” in Italian (“bella”), but it remains unclear what escalated the post.&nbsp;After internet sleuths got onto the task following Trump's post, a Reddit user said that Trump, or his social media team, might be denoting the word to the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) law in South Africa, which is reportedly controversial.<h3>Netizens draw the typo with infamous “covfefe” tweet</h3>The term also began trending on the social media platform X (Formerly known as Twitter). It also sparked a series of posts on X with a person drawing comparisons to his infamous 2017 “covfefe” tweet. California Gov.&nbsp;The office of Gavin Newsom mocked Donald Trump with jabs at his “tiny hands,” while The Lincoln Project dubbed it the new “covfefe.” Trump critic George Conway also weighed in, calling “bela” a blend of the earlier post, as speculation swirled over its meaning and intent.&nbsp;Meanwhile, before the seemingly incomprehensible word, Trump wrote on Truth Social, “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED! President DJT”.&nbsp;He also added, “If I got Russia to give up Moscow as part of the Deal, the Fake News, and their PARTNER, the Radical Left Democrats, would say I made a terrible mistake and a very bad deal. That’s why they are the FAKE NEWS! Also, they should talk about the 6 WARS, etc., I JUST STOPPED!!! MAGA.”&nbsp;

Donald Trump's post with a typo on Truth Social set the social media buzz, creating suspense. However, a double “l” in the word translates to “beautiful” in Italian (“bella”), but it remains unclear what escalated the post.

US President Donald Trump's cryptic post with his four-letter post on Truth Social has sent the internet into a buzz. While writing several posts regarding his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on his platform, Trump wrote the word ‘Bela’ in a post. After writing this word by Trump, it left netizens wondering about the possible meaning of the word written by the president. Currently, there appears to be no direct link between the term 'Bela' and the President of the United States. Hence, it seems a typo was made by the POTUS while sharing multiple posts on the platform. However, a double “l,” the term translates to “beautiful” in Italian (“bella”), but it remains unclear what escalated the post. After internet sleuths got onto the task following Trump's post, a Reddit user said that Trump, or his social media team, might be denoting the word to the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) law in South Africa, which is reportedly controversial. Netizens draw the typo with infamous “covfefe” tweet The term also began trending on the social media platform X (Formerly known as Twitter). It also sparked a series of posts on X with a person drawing comparisons to his infamous 2017 “covfefe” tweet. California Gov. The office of Gavin Newsom mocked Donald Trump with jabs at his “tiny hands,” while The Lincoln Project dubbed it the new “covfefe.” Trump critic George Conway also weighed in, calling “bela” a blend of the earlier post, as speculation swirled over its meaning and intent. Meanwhile, before the seemingly incomprehensible word, Trump wrote on Truth Social, “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED! President DJT”. He also added, “If I got Russia to give up Moscow as part of the Deal, the Fake News, and their PARTNER, the Radical Left Democrats, would say I made a terrible mistake and a very bad deal. That’s why they are the FAKE NEWS! Also, they should talk about the 6 WARS, etc., I JUST STOPPED!!! MAGA.”

Donald Trump's post with a typo on Truth Social set the social media buzz, creating suspense. However, a double “l” in the word translates to “beautiful” in Italian (“bella”), but it remains unclear what escalated the post.

What is 'Bela'? Donald Trump’s mysterious 'covfefe-esque' four-letter post leaves netizens confused

Private schools in the United Kingdom are gradually going into the hands of new owners, who are actually Chinese investors. More than thirty independent schools have been bought in the past decade by them, while many big purchases are in the pipeline.&nbsp;Officials within the Department for Education and security services are concerned by the development but are unable to put China on the existing list of countries that pose a risk to the UK’s national security, reported The Times.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ideological warfare&nbsp;A senior government source speaking to the media outlet highlighted how the Chinese are doing all the things that Britain did as an empire.&nbsp;"China is playing the long game and doing all the things we used to do as an empire. They targeted universities before but have realised it’s easier to start younger. It’s ideological warfare. These children will grow up and be helpful to the Communist Party," said the source.&nbsp;Britain’s “world-leading education system has made it an obvious target for influence” for China, said Phil Brickell, a Labour MP who sits on the foreign affairs committee. He vouched for the education system to be protected and said that British governments for a long time "have misunderstood the strategic threat posed by China", which needs to be addressed immediately.&nbsp;There is a high demand for British education among Chinese families that has driven Chinese investors to acquire private schools in Britain, reveals an analysis published last year by a Beijing-based company called Venture Education .&nbsp;Number of schools acquired&nbsp;Between 2017 and 2020, 17 schools were bought by Chinese investors who focused on buying "distressed schools" and fill them with Chinese students or use the brand in China, said the report.&nbsp;Since 2022 there has been an increase in the pace of acquisitions. According to the report Chinese investors bought 30 schools by the end of last year.&nbsp;Julian Fisher, co-founder and senior consultant at Venture Education that supports British schools and universities in China insisted that the purchases are mostly commercial in nature.&nbsp;“In most cases these are distressed assets, which are seemingly cheap to Chinese investors: a couple of million pounds is a drop in the ocean to a billion-dollar real estate company," he said"There is certainly a prestige element to the purchases too, perhaps akin to Gulf royals buying historic houses in the UK in the early eighties," Fisher added.&nbsp;China is the biggest source of non-British pupils whose parents live overseas and accounts for 6,258 of the 25,526 pupils in this category, according to the Independent Schools Council census published in April this year, reported The Times.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

One of the reasons laid out for Chinese investors to acquire private schools in Britain is a high demand for British education among Chinese families.

Private schools in the United Kingdom are gradually going into the hands of new owners, who are actually Chinese investors. More than thirty independent schools have been bought in the past decade by them, while many big purchases are in the pipeline. Officials within the Department for Education and security services are concerned by the development but are unable to put China on the existing list of countries that pose a risk to the UK’s national security, reported The Times. Ideological warfare A senior government source speaking to the media outlet highlighted how the Chinese are doing all the things that Britain did as an empire. "China is playing the long game and doing all the things we used to do as an empire. They targeted universities before but have realised it’s easier to start younger. It’s ideological warfare. These children will grow up and be helpful to the Communist Party," said the source. Britain’s “world-leading education system has made it an obvious target for influence” for China, said Phil Brickell, a Labour MP who sits on the foreign affairs committee. He vouched for the education system to be protected and said that British governments for a long time "have misunderstood the strategic threat posed by China", which needs to be addressed immediately. There is a high demand for British education among Chinese families that has driven Chinese investors to acquire private schools in Britain, reveals an analysis published last year by a Beijing-based company called Venture Education . Number of schools acquired Between 2017 and 2020, 17 schools were bought by Chinese investors who focused on buying "distressed schools" and fill them with Chinese students or use the brand in China, said the report. Since 2022 there has been an increase in the pace of acquisitions. According to the report Chinese investors bought 30 schools by the end of last year. Julian Fisher, co-founder and senior consultant at Venture Education that supports British schools and universities in China insisted that the purchases are mostly commercial in nature. “In most cases these are distressed assets, which are seemingly cheap to Chinese investors: a couple of million pounds is a drop in the ocean to a billion-dollar real estate company," he said "There is certainly a prestige element to the purchases too, perhaps akin to Gulf royals buying historic houses in the UK in the early eighties," Fisher added. China is the biggest source of non-British pupils whose parents live overseas and accounts for 6,258 of the 25,526 pupils in this category, according to the Independent Schools Council census published in April this year, reported The Times.

One of the reasons laid out for Chinese investors to acquire private schools in Britain is a high demand for British education among Chinese families.

China buys 30 UK schools in span of ten years; what is the reason behind this rapid acquisition?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington and will be meeting Trump on Tuesday (August 19). This meeting comes seven months after he last met the US president in February. Zelensky has sought help to end the war in his homeland, urging allies and like-minded people to bring an end to what began in February 2022. Hopeful that this meeting with Trump, in which prominent EU leaders will accompany him, will be successful.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-russia-ukraine-war-3-killed-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-s-kharkiv-1755491369875/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-russia-ukraine-war-3-killed-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-s-kharkiv-1755491369875/embed</a>&nbsp;"I am grateful to POTUS for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting," the Ukrainian president wrote on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I have already arrived in Washington, tomorrow I am meeting with President Trump. Tomorrow we are also speaking with European leaders. I am grateful to <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting. Not…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1957271398902039032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Not like it was years ago, when Ukraine was forced to give up Crimea and part of our East—part of Donbas—and Putin simply used it as a springboard for a new attack,” he pointed out. Also mentioning that, yet again in 2022, the country was in a similar position while defending its land.&nbsp;“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,” he added.&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;"I am confident that we will defend Ukraine, effectively guarantee security," lauding the soldiers on the frontline, Zelensky mentioned the notable gains in regions like Donetsk and Sumy. "Our people will always be grateful to President Trump, everyone in America, and every partner and ally for their support and invaluable assistance. Russia must end this war, which it started. And I hope that our joint strength with America, with our European friends, will force Russia into a real peace," he is confident that the upcoming interaction with the US president will be fruitful and put an end to the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington and will be meeting Trump on Tuesday (August 19). This meeting comes seven months after he last met the US president in February. Z

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington and will be meeting Trump on Tuesday (August 19). This meeting comes seven months after he last met the US president in February. Zelensky has sought help to end the war in his homeland, urging allies and like-minded people to bring an end to what began in February 2022. Hopeful that this meeting with Trump, in which prominent EU leaders will accompany him, will be successful. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-russia-ukraine-war-3-killed-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-s-kharkiv-1755491369875/embed "I am grateful to POTUS for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting," the Ukrainian president wrote on X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is on his second visit to the US this year, hoping to stop the war in his homeland. On August 19, he will be meeting US President Trump, along with prominent European leaders.

'Our people will always be grateful to President Trump': A hopeful Zelensky says ahead of meeting in White House

Thousands of protesters demonstrated in Israel on Sunday, demanding an immediate end to the war in Gaza and urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach an agreement with Hamas to end the war and secure the release of captives held in the blockaded territory. The protests come after Israeli forces escalated their offensive in Gaza City, pushing tens of thousands of starving Palestinians to flee once again.&nbsp;According to a report in Al Jazeera, police arrested dozens of protesters and used water cannons against those who gathered on Sunday for the nationwide demonstration. Meanwhile, organisers said that nearly half a million people rallied in Tel Aviv by nightfall – marking one of the largest and most intense ever since the conflict began almost two years ago.&nbsp;This nationwide strike prompted schools, businesses and public transport to standstill as rallies were held in several cities as part of a coordinated day of action, led by groups representing families of hostages and bereaved relatives.<h3>We don’t win wars over hostages’ bodies: Protester</h3>As per the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, dozens of Israeli artists, celebrities, and athletes raised support and joined the strike. In addition, major unions, including lawyers, doctors, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, as well as the business forum, also confirmed their role during the protest.&nbsp;Protesters are scared that only about 20 of the 50 captives in Gaza are believed to be alive. “We don’t win a war over the bodies of hostages," a protester said. “Military pressure doesn’t bring hostages back – it only kills them,” former captive Arbel Yehoud stated while protesting in Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square”. “The only way to bring them back is through a deal, all at once, without games," &nbsp;Arbel Yehoud added.&nbsp;The protest on Sunday followed just days after the security cabinet of Israel approved advancing on Gaza City, nearly two years into a genocidal war that has devastated the Gaza Strip. The conflict left several people on the brink of famine, resulting in Israel becoming internationally isolated.&nbsp;

The protest by the Israelis followed after Israeli forces heightened their offensive in Gaza City, pushing tens of thousands of starving Palestinians to flee once again.

Thousands of protesters demonstrated in Israel on Sunday, demanding an immediate end to the war in Gaza and urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach an agreement with Hamas to end the war and secure the release of captives held in the blockaded territory. The protests come after Israeli forces escalated their offensive in Gaza City, pushing tens of thousands of starving Palestinians to flee once again. According to a report in Al Jazeera, police arrested dozens of protesters and used water cannons against those who gathered on Sunday for the nationwide demonstration. Meanwhile, organisers said that nearly half a million people rallied in Tel Aviv by nightfall – marking one of the largest and most intense ever since the conflict began almost two years ago. This nationwide strike prompted schools, businesses and public transport to standstill as rallies were held in several cities as part of a coordinated day of action, led by groups representing families of hostages and bereaved relatives. We don’t win wars over hostages’ bodies: Protester As per the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, dozens of Israeli artists, celebrities, and athletes raised support and joined the strike. In addition, major unions, including lawyers, doctors, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, as well as the business forum, also confirmed their role during the protest. Protesters are scared that only about 20 of the 50 captives in Gaza are believed to be alive. “We don’t win a war over the bodies of hostages," a protester said. “Military pressure doesn’t bring hostages back – it only kills them,” former captive Arbel Yehoud stated while protesting in Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square”. “The only way to bring them back is through a deal, all at once, without games," Arbel Yehoud added. The protest on Sunday followed just days after the security cabinet of Israel approved advancing on Gaza City, nearly two years into a genocidal war that has devastated the Gaza Strip. The conflict left several people on the brink of famine, resulting in Israel becoming internationally isolated.

The protest by the Israelis followed after Israeli forces heightened their offensive in Gaza City, pushing tens of thousands of starving Palestinians to flee once again.

Hundreds of thousands take to streets in Israel, demand end to Gaza War and release of hostages

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Aug 17) told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to come to the negotiating table without the dream of "getting back" Crimea or "going into NATO". Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that Zelensky can end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict with Russia "almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight". "Some things never change," he insisted ahead of the Ukrainian president's Washington visit. On Monday (Aug 18) Trump is scheduled to hold much-anticipated talks with Zelensky and a cohort of European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and others.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ghost-ukrainian-sniper-takes-out-two-russian-soldiers-with-record-breaking-kill-shot-from-4km-away-1755483790363">Watch: 'Ghost' Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away</a><h2>What did Trump say?</h2>In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump insisted that "President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately if he wants to, or he can continue to fight." Throwing cold water on Ukraine's NATO membership dreams, the POTUS, who recently met Russian President Vladimir Putin, added that retaking Russian-occupied Crimea or joining NATO were off the table. "Remember how it started. 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!!!" he posted on the eve of a White House meeting with the Ukrainian president and European leaders.

<h2>Zelensky expresses desire to end the war as he arrives in Washington</h2>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday night called for lasting peace as he arrived in Washington. In a post on X, he said, "We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably," Zelensky posted on social media. However, in what could be seen as a commentary on Trump's post that Crimea, NATO were off the table, he added, “Peace must be lasting. Not like it was years ago, when Ukraine was forced to give up Crimea and part of our East—part of Donbas—and Putin simply used it as a springboard for a new attack.”Watch | Europe promises to stand firmly with Ukraine as Trump-Zelensky meeting approaches <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-promises-to-stand-firmly-with-ukraine-as-trump-zelensky-meeting-approaches-1755459867520/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-promises-to-stand-firmly-with-ukraine-as-trump-zelensky-meeting-approaches-1755459867520/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump told Zelensky to drop hopes of reclaiming Crimea or joining NATO, saying Ukraine could end the war with Russia “almost immediately” if it wanted. His remarks came ahead of talks in Washington with the Ukrainian President and European leaders.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Aug 17) told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to come to the negotiating table without the dream of "getting back" Crimea or "going into NATO". Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that Zelensky can end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict with Russia "almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight". "Some things never change," he insisted ahead of the Ukrainian president's Washington visit. On Monday (Aug 18) Trump is scheduled to hold much-anticipated talks with Zelensky and a cohort of European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and others. Also read | Watch: 'Ghost' Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away What did Trump say? In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump insisted that "President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately if he wants to, or he can continue to fight." Throwing cold water on Ukraine's NATO membership dreams, the POTUS, who recently met Russian President Vladimir Putin, added that retaking Russian-occupied Crimea or joining NATO were off the table. "Remember how it started. 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!!!" he posted on the eve of a White House meeting with the Ukrainian president and European leaders.

Trump told Zelensky to drop hopes of reclaiming Crimea or joining NATO, saying Ukraine could end the war with Russia “almost immediately” if it wanted. His remarks came ahead of talks in Washington with the Ukrainian President and European leaders.

Trump drops bombshell before Zelensky meet — tells Ukraine to give up on NATO, Crimea dream

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be in the White House for the second time in 2025. But this time around, he will be joined by European leaders; French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb will accompany him in the meeting with Donald Trump. Talking about the engagement, the US president said he has never hosted 'so many European leaders at one time'.&nbsp;Trump recently concluded his meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska, where they discussed the end to the war with Ukraine. Moscow's military action in Ukraine began in February 2022. And now, this is the sixth war Trump is working to put an end to. Though Kyiv is looking for a ceasefire even before a final deal is reached, the US is concentrating on the deal.&nbsp;About the meeting, Trump took to his social media account to write, "Big day at the White House tomorrow. Never had so many European Leaders at one time. My great honor to host them!!! President DJT."

Ahead of meeting with EU leaders, US President Donald Trump expresses his honour of hosting so many leaders at once in the White House.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be in the White House for the second time in 2025. But this time around, he will be joined by European leaders; French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb will accompany him in the meeting with Donald Trump. Talking about the engagement, the US president said he has never hosted 'so many European leaders at one time'. Trump recently concluded his meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska, where they discussed the end to the war with Ukraine. Moscow's military action in Ukraine began in February 2022. And now, this is the sixth war Trump is working to put an end to. Though Kyiv is looking for a ceasefire even before a final deal is reached, the US is concentrating on the deal. About the meeting, Trump took to his social media account to write, "Big day at the White House tomorrow. Never had so many European Leaders at one time. My great honor to host them!!! President DJT."

Ahead of meeting with EU leaders, US President Donald Trump expresses his honour of hosting so many leaders at once in the White House.

'Never had so many European leaders...' Trump ahead of 'big day' in White House just as Zelensky arrives

A Ukrainian sniper is believed to have set a new world record for the longest confirmed kill shot in history — taking out two Russian soldiers from more than 4 kilometres (around 2.5 miles) away with a single bullet. The historic strike was reportedly carried out on Thursday (Aug 14). According to reports, it was made with a 14.5&nbsp;mm Alligator sniper rifle on the Pokrovsk–Myrnohrad defensive line in Donetsk. The bullet reportedly pierced a glass window of a building where Russian troops were stationed before killing not just one, but two Russian soldiers.<h2>Kill shot world record</h2>The operation was executed by the elite Pryvyd, or Ghost, sniper unit of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, which has killed nearly 1,000 Russian troops in the past year, according to Ukrainian military reports.Dramatic footage shows the Ukrainian sniper and his spotter firing multiple rounds before taking the kill shot. A flash of light can be seen as the bullet makes its impact, eliminating the Russian soldiers.According to The Sun, artificial intelligence was used to guide the mission. The AI was used alongside a drone reconnaissance system to locate the Russian soldiers. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">We got a new World Record - 4 kilometers 😊 (2.485 miles for crazy people) The record hit was carried out on August 14, 2025, in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad sector by a sniper from the combined sniper unit ‘Pryvid.’ (eng link in the thread) <a href="https://t.co/2dgF4pnFre">https://t.co/2dgF4pnFre</a> <a href="https://t.co/mIJwghAKoc">pic.twitter.com/mIJwghAKoc</a>&mdash; Харківська Нишпорка (@ne_vluchiv) <a href="https://twitter.com/ne_vluchiv/status/1956558702573388149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The shot — measured at 13,123 feet (4 kilometres) — obliterates the previous record of 3.7 kilometres (2.3 miles) set in 2023 by another Ukrainian sniper, Viacheslav Kovalskyi. Before that, the record was held by a Canadian special forces sniper who killed an ISIS fighter from 3.52 kilometres (2.19 miles) away in Iraq in 2017.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-melania-trump-tell-vladimir-putin-in-secret-letter-hand-delivered-by-donald-trump-appeal-to-restore-children-s-laughter-1755392541031">'Restore children’s laughter': What did Melania Trump tell Vladimir Putin in secret letter hand-delivered by Donald Trump?</a>The record-breaking kill shot was made on the Pokrovsk–Myrnohrad defensive line, where Ukrainian forces continue to defend against Russian incursions. As of Friday (Aug 15), the area remains under Ukraine's control, claims the nation's military.Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukrainian snipers have earned a reputation for long-range precision shooting. In another impressive feat, a Ukrainian sniper reportedly killed two Russian soldiers with a single bullet while shooting five men in five minutes. The shots were reportedly taken from nearly 4,000 feet (1.22 kilometres) away by a sniper of Ukraine's 3rd Special Purpose Regiment of the Special Operations Forces.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-promises-to-stand-firmly-with-ukraine-as-trump-zelensky-meeting-approaches-1755459867520/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-promises-to-stand-firmly-with-ukraine-as-trump-zelensky-meeting-approaches-1755459867520/embed</a> &nbsp;

A Ukrainian sniper has reportedly set a new world record for the longest confirmed kill shot in history — eliminating two Russian soldiers with a single bullet fired from more than 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) away.

A Ukrainian sniper is believed to have set a new world record for the longest confirmed kill shot in history — taking out two Russian soldiers from more than 4 kilometres (around 2.5 miles) away with a single bullet. The historic strike was reportedly carried out on Thursday (Aug 14). According to reports, it was made with a 14.5 mm Alligator sniper rifle on the Pokrovsk–Myrnohrad defensive line in Donetsk. The bullet reportedly pierced a glass window of a building where Russian troops were stationed before killing not just one, but two Russian soldiers. Kill shot world record The operation was executed by the elite Pryvyd, or Ghost, sniper unit of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, which has killed nearly 1,000 Russian troops in the past year, according to Ukrainian military reports. Dramatic footage shows the Ukrainian sniper and his spotter firing multiple rounds before taking the kill shot. A flash of light can be seen as the bullet makes its impact, eliminating the Russian soldiers. According to The Sun, artificial intelligence was used to guide the mission. The AI was used alongside a drone reconnaissance system to locate the Russian soldiers. Watch it here:

A Ukrainian sniper has reportedly set a new world record for the longest confirmed kill shot in history — eliminating two Russian soldiers with a single bullet fired from more than 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) away.

Watch: 'Ghost' Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on Sunday (Aug 17), repeated claims that the nation downed six Indian aircraft during the brief military confrontation between the two nations in May, claiming that Islamabad had “video proof”. However, he did not, once again, provide any details to back the assertion. While relations between neighbours India and Pakistan have been tense for years, the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, which was linked to Islamabad, triggered India's Operation Sindoor and subsequently a military confrontation between the two nations.<h2>What did the Pakistani minister say?</h2>Addressing a seminar in Lahore on Sunday, Naqvi boasted about being privy to key pieces of information surrounding the recent India-Pakistan war. There, he insisted that Pakistani intelligence had knowledge about India's plans ahead of time and that the nation had footage of six Indian planes being downed by the Pak military. The claim is not new and has already been refuted by India. On May 31, India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, speaking in Singapore, had flatly rejected Pakistan's claims of downing Indian jets, including Rafael's, as "absolutely incorrect".&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-travel-with-jo-youtuber-jyoti-malhotra-charge-sheeted-for-allegedly-spying-for-pakistan-1755406129532">‘Travel with Jo’ YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra charge-sheeted for allegedly spying for Pakistan</a>Naqvi, on Sunday, praised the Pakistani intelligence agencies' "important work" and said, "We need to acknowledge them." Without backing his claims about Pakistan downing Indian planes, evasively, he said, "Although the radar data had confirmed the downing of the Indian aircraft, Pakistan chose not to make any announcement until concrete evidence is in hand. We have video footage of all six Indian planes, which were shot down."Despite claiming to have the purported video footage, Pakistan has yet to present any evidence publicly.Naqvi also asserted that Pakistan destroyed an Indian oil depot during the conflict and that none of Pakistan's critical assets were damaged by Indian missiles. He declared that Pakistan had prior knowledge of New Delhi's strategies: "We knew whatever they planned, what aircraft they would use."&nbsp;Watch | J&amp;K: Two LeT terror associates arrested | Joint op by J&amp;K police, army<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-j-k-two-let-terror-associates-arrested-joint-op-by-j-k-police-army-1755459827856/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-j-k-two-let-terror-associates-arrested-joint-op-by-j-k-police-army-1755459827856/embed</a>&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has once again claimed that the country’s military shot down six Indian aircraft during the brief May confrontation, insisting Islamabad has “video proof” of the strikes. However, once again, the nation failed to back its claims with evidence.

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on Sunday (Aug 17), repeated claims that the nation downed six Indian aircraft during the brief military confrontation between the two nations in May, claiming that Islamabad had “video proof”. However, he did not, once again, provide any details to back the assertion. While relations between neighbours India and Pakistan have been tense for years, the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, which was linked to Islamabad, triggered India's Operation Sindoor and subsequently a military confrontation between the two nations. What did the Pakistani minister say? Addressing a seminar in Lahore on Sunday, Naqvi boasted about being privy to key pieces of information surrounding the recent India-Pakistan war. There, he insisted that Pakistani intelligence had knowledge about India's plans ahead of time and that the nation had footage of six Indian planes being downed by the Pak military. The claim is not new and has already been refuted by India. On May 31, India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, speaking in Singapore, had flatly rejected Pakistan's claims of downing Indian jets, including Rafael's, as "absolutely incorrect". Also read | ‘Travel with Jo’ YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra charge-sheeted for allegedly spying for Pakistan Naqvi, on Sunday, praised the Pakistani intelligence agencies' "important work" and said, "We need to acknowledge them." Without backing his claims about Pakistan downing Indian planes, evasively, he said, "Although the radar data had confirmed the downing of the Indian aircraft, Pakistan chose not to make any announcement until concrete evidence is in hand. We have video footage of all six Indian planes, which were shot down." Despite claiming to have the purported video footage, Pakistan has yet to present any evidence publicly. Naqvi also asserted that Pakistan destroyed an Indian oil depot during the conflict and that none of Pakistan's critical assets were damaged by Indian missiles. He declared that Pakistan had prior knowledge of New Delhi's strategies: "We knew whatever they planned, what aircraft they would use." Watch | J&K: Two LeT terror associates arrested | Joint op by J&K police, army https://www.wionews.com/videos/-j-k-two-let-terror-associates-arrested-joint-op-by-j-k-police-army-1755459827856/embed

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has once again claimed that the country’s military shot down six Indian aircraft during the brief May confrontation, insisting Islamabad has “video proof” of the strikes. However, once again, the nation failed to back its claims with evidence.

Pakistan minister claims 'video proof’ of downing 6 Indian jets during India-pak conflict in May—but offers no evidence again

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed on Sunday that the United States monitors the situation between India and Pakistan “every single day” since the two nations announced ceasefire, along with other global regions where tensions remain high.Rubio said the US has been calling for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts, which is difficult to negotiate while hostilities are ongoing. “The only way to have a ceasefire is for both sides to agree to stop firing at one another. The Russians have not agreed to that,” he said, referring to the war in Ukraine, during NBC News’s Meet the Press show.He then added that after a ceasefire is achieved, maintaining it is often challenging, especially after long conflicts. “Ceasefires can fall apart very quickly, especially after a three-and-a-half-year war like what we’re facing now,” he said.&nbsp;“Every single day we keep an eye on what’s happening between Pakistan and India, what’s happening between Cambodia and Thailand,” Rubio said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Keeping eye on India, Pakistan Ceasefire says US US Secy of State Marco Rubio &quot;One of the complications of the ceasefire is that they have to be maintained, which is very difficult. Every single day, we keep an eye on what is happening between Pakistan &amp; India..&quot; Ctsy: NBC <a href="https://t.co/fnU3J3DG8O">pic.twitter.com/fnU3J3DG8O</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1957102093342507303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;He then added that the aim should be a peace deal that prevents both current and future conflict, not just a temporary halt in fighting.&nbsp;President Donald Trump repeatedly claimed credit for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan after New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terror attack. Trump claimed on several occasions that his intervention led to a ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, but India firmly rejected the assertions.India has always maintained that all issues with Pakistan are managed bilaterally, with no role for third-party mediation.&nbsp;In a special discussion in Parliament on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that no world leader had asked India to stop its military response.“We had said from day one that our action was non-escalatory. No leader in the world asked us to stop Operation Sindoor,” PM Modi said.External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also told the House that the ceasefire was not the result of any foreign intervention. The minister also clarified that the decision to halt military operations had no link to trade discussions, as claimed by Trump.While India denied Trump’s involvement, Pakistan nominated the US president for the Nobel Peace Prize.&nbsp;Rubio made the remark in response to a question on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the White House on Monday as the war-torn nation hopes for a peace deal with Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marco Rubio said the US has been calling for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts, which is difficult to negotiate while hostilities are ongoing, and then added that after a ceasefire is achieved, maintaining it is often challenging, especially after long conflicts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed on Sunday that the United States monitors the situation between India and Pakistan “every single day” since the two nations announced ceasefire, along with other global regions where tensions remain high. Rubio said the US has been calling for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts, which is difficult to negotiate while hostilities are ongoing. “The only way to have a ceasefire is for both sides to agree to stop firing at one another. The Russians have not agreed to that,” he said, referring to the war in Ukraine, during NBC News’s Meet the Press show. He then added that after a ceasefire is achieved, maintaining it is often challenging, especially after long conflicts. “Ceasefires can fall apart very quickly, especially after a three-and-a-half-year war like what we’re facing now,” he said. “Every single day we keep an eye on what’s happening between Pakistan and India, what’s happening between Cambodia and Thailand,” Rubio said.

Marco Rubio said the US has been calling for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts, which is difficult to negotiate while hostilities are ongoing, and then added that after a ceasefire is achieved, maintaining it is often challenging, especially after long conflicts.

US keeps an eye on India-Pakistan situation ‘every single day’: Marco Rubio

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting.He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-want-everyone-both-living-and-fallen-netanyahu-says-partial-hostage-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-is-behind-us-1755025818107">'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’</a><h2>Why are families of hostages angry?</h2>Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home.“Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added.They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.”<h2>What triggered the general strike?</h2>The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages.According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.”<h2>What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza?</h2>Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security.<h2>How many hostages remain in Gaza?</h2>Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.

Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.” Also read: 'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’ Why are families of hostages angry? Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home. “Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added. They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.” What triggered the general strike? The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages. According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.” What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza? Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security. How many hostages remain in Gaza? Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.

Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted that defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.

'October 7 will repeat': Netanyahu says Israelis calling to end war are 'strengthening Hamas' amid backlash from hostage families

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Sunday (August 17) that both Russia and Ukraine will need to make compromises if the war is to end, signalling the difficult road ahead for peace negotiations, and Russia will face “additional consequences” if negotiations fail. “We want to wind up with a peace deal that ends this war so Ukraine can go on with the rest of their lives and rebuild their country and be assured that this is never going to happen again,” Rubio told CBS News.He added that a settlement would not come without both sides making sacrifices, “If one side gets everything they want, that’s called surrender. And that’s not what we’re close to doing, because neither side here is on the verge of surrender, or anything close to it.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-will-the-ukraine-war-end-here-are-the-two-possible-futures-after-trump-putin-summit-1755428286504">How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit</a>He said the US will continue efforts to create a path toward ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, but acknowledged it may not succeed, noting that American life wouldn’t be drastically affected without peace. “If peace is not going to be possible here and this is just going to continue on as a war, people will continue to die by the thousands … we may unfortunately wind up there, but we don’t want to wind up there,” Rubio said.“There are things that were discussed as part of this meeting that are potentials for breakthroughs, that are potential for progress,” he added, mentioning that talks would include security guarantees for Ukraine.<h2>What happens next in the talks?</h2>President Donald Trump is due to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday, days after his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Trump described the three-hour meeting with Putin as “extremely productive” with “many points” of agreement, but noted that “there’s no deal until there’s a deal” and no ceasefire was announced.Rubio, who attended the Alaska summit, said there had been “some concepts and ideas discussed” with Putin that could pave the way for a breakthrough, but stressed details would be thrashed out in Monday’s meetings.<h2>What are the sticking points?</h2>Rubio outlined several key issues still to be resolved, including security guarantees for Ukraine, the fate of contested territories and “where the lines are going to be drawn,” as well as the long-term rebuilding of the country. He said these ideas “require some more specificity” and would need coordination with European partners before being finalised.“We have to make enough progress so that we can sit down President Zelensky and President Putin in the same place, which is what President Zelensky has been asking for, and reach a final agreement that ends this war,” Rubio said.<h2>Why are European leaders joining Zelensky in Washington?</h2>Zelensky’s trip to Washington comes with European leaders at his side, sparking speculation they are acting as a counterweight to prevent Ukraine from being pressured into a bad deal. Rubio rejected that notion, insisting the visit was pre-arranged. “We’ve been working with these people for weeks, for weeks on this stuff,” he said. “They’re coming here tomorrow because they’re supposed to come here tomorrow. We invited them to come. The president invited them to come,” he added.He added that while a breakthrough was not imminent, the Alaska talks had created momentum. “I’m not saying we’re on the verge of a peace deal, but I am saying that we saw movement. Enough movement to justify a follow-up meeting with Zelensky and the Europeans, enough movement for us to dedicate even more time to this.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said peace in Ukraine requires compromises from both sides, warned of consequences for Russia if talks fail, and admitted peace may be unreachable despite ongoing US efforts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Sunday (August 17) that both Russia and Ukraine will need to make compromises if the war is to end, signalling the difficult road ahead for peace negotiations, and Russia will face “additional consequences” if negotiations fail. “We want to wind up with a peace deal that ends this war so Ukraine can go on with the rest of their lives and rebuild their country and be assured that this is never going to happen again,” Rubio told CBS News. He added that a settlement would not come without both sides making sacrifices, “If one side gets everything they want, that’s called surrender. And that’s not what we’re close to doing, because neither side here is on the verge of surrender, or anything close to it.” Also read: How will the Ukraine war end? Here are the two possible futures after Trump-Putin summit He said the US will continue efforts to create a path toward ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, but acknowledged it may not succeed, noting that American life wouldn’t be drastically affected without peace. “If peace is not going to be possible here and this is just going to continue on as a war, people will continue to die by the thousands … we may unfortunately wind up there, but we don’t want to wind up there,” Rubio said. “There are things that were discussed as part of this meeting that are potentials for breakthroughs, that are potential for progress,” he added, mentioning that talks would include security guarantees for Ukraine. What happens next in the talks? President Donald Trump is due to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday, days after his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Trump described the three-hour meeting with Putin as “extremely productive” with “many points” of agreement, but noted that “there’s no deal until there’s a deal” and no ceasefire was announced. Rubio, who attended the Alaska summit, said there had been “some concepts and ideas discussed” with Putin that could pave the way for a breakthrough, but stressed details would be thrashed out in Monday’s meetings. What are the sticking points? Rubio outlined several key issues still to be resolved, including security guarantees for Ukraine, the fate of contested territories and “where the lines are going to be drawn,” as well as the long-term rebuilding of the country. He said these ideas “require some more specificity” and would need coordination with European partners before being finalised. “We have to make enough progress so that we can sit down President Zelensky and President Putin in the same place, which is what President Zelensky has been asking for, and reach a final agreement that ends this war,” Rubio said. Why are European leaders joining Zelensky in Washington? Zelensky’s trip to Washington comes with European leaders at his side, sparking speculation they are acting as a counterweight to prevent Ukraine from being pressured into a bad deal. Rubio rejected that notion, insisting the visit was pre-arranged. “We’ve been working with these people for weeks, for weeks on this stuff,” he said. “They’re coming here tomorrow because they’re supposed to come here tomorrow. We invited them to come. The president invited them to come,” he added. He added that while a breakthrough was not imminent, the Alaska talks had created momentum. “I’m not saying we’re on the verge of a peace deal, but I am saying that we saw movement. Enough movement to justify a follow-up meeting with Zelensky and the Europeans, enough movement for us to dedicate even more time to this.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said peace in Ukraine requires compromises from both sides, warned of consequences for Russia if talks fail, and admitted peace may be unreachable despite ongoing US efforts.

US to step back if Ukraine-Russia talks fail? Rubio warns both sides must compromise for peace deal

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