ukraine war

President Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin pledged deepened cooperation, aiming to counter US influence and establish a new world order. They emphasized strengthened ties, including military, and sought to resolve the Ukraine conflict by addressing its "root causes," echoing Russia's justification for the war. Xi's visit and joint statement provide Putin with crucial support amidst US pressure.

US President Donald Trump has urged a 30-day unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, following discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine's readiness for negotiations, contingent upon a complete ceasefire. This call coincides with the Kremlin's symbolic three-day ceasefire for Russia’s Victory Day, which Ukraine has dismissed as insincere, citing past violations of similar agreements.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Thursday criticised Russia's "historical lies" over the ukraine war, as he marked the Nazi defeat that ended World War II in Europe 80 years ago. Russia has cast its three-year offensive against Ukraine as a fight against "neo-Nazis" and has channelled its own wartime legacy to try to justify the war.

Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz, on his first foreign trip to Paris, pledged closer security cooperation with France's President Macron amid Russian threats and concerns over US commitment to European security. Both leaders announced a joint defense council and emphasized the need for continued US involvement in resolving the Ukraine conflict.

Donald Trump asserted that Vladimir Putin wouldn't have invaded Ukraine if he were still president, suggesting Putin saw the Afghanistan withdrawal as a sign of weakness. Trump believes Putin initially aimed to seize all of Ukraine but his presence deterred him. He also stated that Putin now desires peace, possibly influenced by Trump's previous stance.

Ukraine's security agency has apprehended two former Ukrainian military members suspected of spying for Hungary in the Zakarpattia region. Accused of treason, they allegedly gathered intelligence on Ukraine's military under the direction of a Hungarian military intelligence officer. This marks the first instance of uncovering a Hungarian espionage operation within Ukraine, amidst strained relations between the two nations.

In a landmark move, the US and Ukraine have formalized a deal establishing the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. This initiative aims to harness Ukraine's mineral wealth for post-war recovery, with profits shared equally. Ukraine retains full control over its resources, and the fund, exempt from taxes, will attract global investment.

President Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow underscores the deepening ties between China and Russia, highlighted by participation in the Victory Day parade. Discussions will encompass the Ukraine conflict and Russia-US relations, signaling a united front against unilateralism. This partnership, solidified by increased trade and military cooperation, is viewed with concern by the West amid ongoing tensions.

Xi Jinping visited Moscow for Victory Day amid Ukraine's accusations of Russia violating its declared truce with airstrikes. Putin and Xi affirmed their shared stance against what they perceive as historical distortions and "hegemonic bullying." Despite a ceasefire announcement, Ukraine reported immediate Russian attacks, while Zelenskyy condemned Moscow's commemorations as cynical and urged continued resistance.

Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Moscow on Wednesday for a key three-day visit including a grand Victory Day parade and a show of support for Vladimir Putin. - Guest of honour - Putin will address the "grandest" ever annual Victory Day parade in Moscow on Friday for the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Germany in World War II to rally support for his troops fighting in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin stated nuclear weapons use in Ukraine is unnecessary and hopefully will remain so. He affirmed Russia's capacity to achieve its goals in Ukraine. A 72-hour ceasefire for Victory Day was declared, but Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed it as a tactic. He proposed a 30-day pause. Meanwhile, Kyiv faced a Russian drone attack, wounding eleven, including children.

China's president Xi Jinping will visit Russia from May 7-10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany. Discussions between Xi and Putin will focus on strengthening their partnership and addressing international and regional issues. While Russia has declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day, Zelensky has dismissed it as political theatre.

US President Donald Trump suggested that Russia’s return to the 2026 World Cup could be an incentive to end the ukraine war, though he acknowledged that FIFA would make the final decision. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance discussed strict immigration policies, warning that while the US welcomes World Cup fans, they must leave after the tournament.

France will tap income from frozen Russian assets to help maintain some 60 French-made Caesar howitzers delivered to Ukraine, France's foreign minister said on Friday. "By mobilising income from frozen Russian assets, France... will be able to ensure the continued maintenance of the Caesar cannons it has supplied to Ukraine to help resist Russian attacks," said Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized Europe, stating India seeks partners, not hypocritical preachers. He emphasized the need for mutual understanding and sensitivity in international partnerships, particularly regarding differing perspectives on the Russia-ukraine war and tensions with Pakistan. Jaishankar also advocated for realism in engaging with both Russia and the United States, focusing on shared interests.

In a recent interview, Joe Biden defended his late exit from the 2024 presidential race, asserting it wouldn't have altered Kamala Harris's defeat against Donald Trump. He criticized Trump's foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine, likening it to appeasement. Biden also expressed concerns about Trump's approach to NATO and defended his own presidential record, highlighting economic growth and global influence.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw simulated nuclear counterstrike tests against US and South Korean forces, according to state media. The tests involved short-range ballistic missile systems and multiple rocket launchers. These actions are in response to joint military exercises, which North Korea views as preparations for nuclear war.

Following Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region, thousands of residents like Marina fled their homes, facing a humanitarian crisis marked by intense fighting and uncertainty. Despite Russia's claims of regaining control, conflicting reports persist, leaving locals in fear and questioning the support from their government.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia soon. This visit occurs amidst reports of Chinese nationals fighting in Ukraine, mostly for Russia. Some fighters are returning with harrowing experiences. Ukraine accuses China of supplying Russia with war materials. China denies any state involvement. The situation poses a challenge for Xi, balancing support for Russia with avoiding direct military engagement.