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Turkey’s Celebi Sues Indian Government Over Security Clearance Withdrawal Amid Pakistan Tensions

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Turkey’s Celebi Sues Indian Government Over Security Clearance Withdrawal Amid Pakistan Tensions

New Delhi, India – Turkish aviation services firm Celebi has filed a legal challenge in the Delhi High Court after the Indian government abruptly revoked its security clearance, citing undefined national security concerns. The move comes amid escalating political tensions between India and Turkey over Ankara’s perceived support for Pakistan.

Celebi Airport Services India, which operates ground handling services at major Indian airports including New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kerala, and Goa, argues that the government’s decision lacked transparency and procedural fairness. In a court filing dated May 16 and reviewed by Reuters, Celebi called the government’s explanation “vague,” warning that the decision could jeopardize nearly 3,800 jobs and damage investor confidence.

“The mere rhetoric of national security, without elaborating on how the entity poses a threat, is unsustainable in law,” Celebi said in its filing. The company also claimed that the order failed to provide any “specific or substantive reason” for the sudden cancellation.

The Indian government has not publicly disclosed its rationale and has yet to respond to the legal challenge. The case is expected to be heard on Monday.

Tensions were heightened following remarks by India’s junior aviation minister, Murlidhar Mohol, who stated that the clearance was revoked in response to “numerous requests” across the country to ban Celebi, emphasizing the need to protect national interests. His comments, posted on X, followed protests in Mumbai by Shiv Sena, a key ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling coalition, demanding that the city’s airport sever ties with the company.

Celebi noted in its filing that, while its shareholders are registered in Turkey, the majority control of the company lies with entities that are not of Turkish origin or incorporation. It also emphasized that it had passed extensive security vetting by Indian authorities before commencing operations.

Shortly after the government’s decision, Delhi Airport announced on X that it had officially ended its association with Celebi for ground handling and cargo operations.

The controversy comes on the heels of a broader geopolitical spat. Reuters also reported that national carrier Air India is pressuring officials to block rival IndiGo’s leasing agreement with Turkish Airlines, citing competitive disadvantages and concerns over Istanbul’s alignment with Islamabad.

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for foreign investment and the aviation sector in India.

SOURCE : REUTERS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Trump meets new Syrian leader in high-stakes Mideast diplomatic blitz

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Trump meets new Syrian leader in high-stakes Mideast diplomatic blitz

Riyadh/Doha — In a dramatic reset of US Middle East policy, President Donald Trump held the first direct talks with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, on Wednesday after lifting all sanctions on Damascus.

It came as the visiting US president secured hundreds of billions of dollars in strategic and economic deals with Saudi Arabia before flying off to Qatar to receive a new presidential aircraft from Doha.

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The whirlwind four-day tour signaled Washington’s renewed ambition to shape the region’s post-conflict landscape, leveraging investment, diplomacy, and shifting alliances.

Trump’s Middle East tour entered a high-stakes phase as he met with al-Sharaa in a landmark 33-minute meeting in Riyadh, the first direct US-Syria engagement in 25 years.

The historic meeting, held during a special Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) session, came just a day after Trump lifted all US sanctions on Syria.

The move, coordinated with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was praised as “brave” and “bold,” signaling a major shift in Washington’s approach to Damascus following the collapse of the Assad regime last year.

“With the support of the great leaders in this room, we are currently exploring normalising relations with Syria’s new government,” Trump said, confirming his brief meeting with al-Sharaa.

“I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria at greatness,” he said, sparking a thunderous applause at a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders in Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh.

“It’s their time to shine. We’re taking them all off.”

He said the new government in Syria would hopefully succeed in stabilizing the country and keeping peace, referring to the interim government led by President al-Sharaa.

Trump urged al-Sharaa to seize “a great opportunity to do something historic,” outlining US expectations, which include normalizing ties with Israel via the Abraham Accords, expelling foreign militant groups, deporting Palestinian militants, and taking control of Islamic State detention centers in northern Syria.

Al-Sharaa responded by expressing openness to honoring the 1974 Golan Heights ceasefire with Israel and inviting US companies to invest in Syria’s oil and gas sectors.

Once a radical figure, al-Sharaa has reportedly moderated his stance and gained support from Sunni powers, including Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan said Trump’s visit had ushered in “an even more ambitious phase” in bilateral ties.

Speaking at a press conference in Riyadh, he announced new commercial, strategic, and economic agreements exceeding $600 billion, with over $300 billion confirmed across sectors such as artificial intelligence, energy, infrastructure, defense, and financial services.

“These agreements reflect the depth of our strategic partnership and support the goals of Vision 2030,” Bin Farhan said, referring to the kingdom’s economic diversification blueprint.

The deals also include provisions to enhance Saudi Arabia’s defense manufacturing capacity, with a goal of producing half its military equipment domestically by 2030.

In the renewable energy sector, Bin Farhan said US cooperation would help deliver affordable, sustainable power and create skilled jobs for Saudis, particularly in nuclear energy operations and maintenance.

Trump also participated in a high-level GCC meeting attended by leaders from Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.

On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia’s prime minister and de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, expressed his intent to deepen trade ties with the US and raise bilateral cooperation to $1 trillion across defense, security, and economic sectors.

Following the Riyadh engagements, Trump flew to Doha, where he was welcomed by Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and other senior officials.

According to US media, he is expected to accept a Boeing 747-800 from Qatar’s royal family as the future Air Force One, a symbolic gesture underscoring the strength of US-Qatar ties.

Trump’s three-nation sweep signals a coordinated regional effort to realign the post-conflict Middle East.

Trump’s overtures to Syria, economic diplomacy with Saudi Arabia, and military symbolism in Qatar collectively reflect Washington’s drive to assert influence amid changing alliances and shifting power dynamics.

SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

European leaders meet Zelenskiy in Kyiv to show support after Putin’s parade

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European leaders meet Zelenskiy in Kyiv to show support after Putin’s parade

Kyiv, Ukraine – The leaders of Britain, France, Germany, and Poland gathered in Kyiv on Saturday for talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, presenting a united front just one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his allies at Moscow’s Victory Day parade in Red Square.

At the center of the summit is a joint U.S.-European proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. A French diplomatic source noted that while the proposal hasn’t been finalized, failure by Moscow to agree could trigger fresh coordinated sanctions.

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The visit marks the first time British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk have jointly traveled to Ukraine.

In a joint statement, the four leaders urged Russia to accept a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire, calling it a necessary step toward meaningful peace negotiations. As their train—dubbed the “Bravery Express”—arrived in Kyiv, Zelenskiy welcomed them and accompanied them to a memorial honoring fallen Ukrainian soldiers.

The meeting takes place at a volatile moment in the conflict, now in its fourth year. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has reversed many of his predecessor’s policies since taking office in January, is pressing for a swift resolution. After a rocky start—including clashes with Zelenskiy and a brief suspension of military aid—Trump’s administration has repaired relations with Kyiv and signed a hard-won mineral resources agreement.

Trump has expressed growing impatience with Moscow’s reluctance to move toward a ceasefire. He has threatened stronger sanctions while cautioning that he could abandon peace efforts if there’s no progress. Both Trump and the EU have echoed the call for a 30-day ceasefire, with Zelenskiy stating he’s prepared to implement it immediately.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that Russia supports the idea “in principle,” but insisted on unspecified “nuances.” In a Saturday interview with ABC, Peskov suggested that Western military support for Ukraine would need to end in order for a ceasefire to be fair, calling it otherwise an “advantage for Ukraine.”

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Western military aid has been crucial to Ukraine’s defense.

On Friday, Putin hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders at a parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s WWII victory, signaling defiance and a rejection of isolation. Meanwhile, European officials reiterated support for establishing a special tribunal to prosecute Russian leaders for crimes of aggression. Zelenskiy condemned Putin’s event as a “parade of bile and lies.”

On the eve of the summit, the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv warned of a potentially significant Russian air assault, advising Americans to be prepared to seek shelter if sirens sound.

“There’s much to discuss—we need a just peace, and we must push Moscow toward a ceasefire,” said Zelenskiy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, sharing photos of the leaders arriving in Kyiv.

The summit is expected to culminate in a joint press conference and a virtual session with other allied leaders to outline plans for a postwar coalition involving air, land, and sea forces to help rebuild Ukraine’s military.

This diplomatic push comes as Putin’s May 8–10 ceasefire—rejected by Ukraine as a sham—draws to a close. Both sides have accused each other of violations. Reuters journalists at a frontline field hospital in the Zaporizhzhia region witnessed soldiers arriving with injuries sustained during the declared truce.

“There’s been no ceasefire. Shelling, drones, and bombing have continued as usual,” said a wounded soldier, Stanislav.

Zelenskiy said in a Thursday call with Trump that agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire would be a “true sign” of progress toward peace.

SOURCE : REUTERS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

India Protests, But IMF Approves Major Funding for Pakistan

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India Protests, But IMF Approves Major Funding for Pakistan

Washington, D.C. — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board has approved a new $1.4 billion loan to Pakistan under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), aimed at strengthening the country’s climate resilience. Simultaneously, the board completed the first review of Pakistan’s ongoing $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), freeing up an additional $1 billion in immediate financial support.

RELATED NEWS : India-Pakistan Conflicts : Terror Attack and Rising Tensions Threaten the Dream of the Asian Century

The IMF praised Pakistan’s recent economic reforms and stabilization efforts, stating:
“Pakistan’s policy efforts under the program have already delivered significant progress in stabilizing the economy and rebuilding confidence, amidst a challenging global environment.”

The approvals come as a major financial boost for Pakistan, which is grappling with mounting climate threats and economic headwinds, including high inflation, fiscal pressures, and external financing gaps.

Shehbaz: “India’s sabotage attempt failed”

Reacting to the development, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said in a statement that “India’s attempts to sabotage the IMF program have failed.” He emphasized that the staff-level agreements on both programs — the climate resilience loan and the EFF review — were finalized before the current rise in hostilities between India and Pakistan.

The statement is seen as a direct response to India’s objections raised during the IMF board’s deliberations, where Indian representatives voiced concerns about potential misuse of the funds, especially in light of recent cross-border tensions.

Critical support amid uncertainty

The $1.4 billion climate loan under the RSF is designed to help Pakistan better prepare for and adapt to climate-related disasters, while the $1 billion released from the EFF will support macroeconomic stabilization and fiscal reforms. The dual disbursement is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s credibility with international lenders and provide a cushion for its fragile economy.

As regional tensions continue to simmer, the IMF’s backing underscores the importance of keeping economic cooperation distinct from geopolitical disputes.

SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

India-Pakistan Conflicts : Terror Attack and Rising Tensions Threaten the Dream of the Asian Century

Jagdishor Panday
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India-Pakistan Conflicts : Terror Attack and Rising Tensions Threaten the Dream of the Asian Century

Kathmandu, Nepal – Over a decade ago, renowned American scholar and former U.S. Under Secretary of Defense Joseph Nye remarked that “global power is shifting towards Asia.” The widely echoed sentiment that “the 21st century is Asia’s century” sparked hopes of a bright, prosperous future, especially for South Asia—a region long marred by internal and external conflicts. Many believed that peace, security, and economic growth would finally redefine South Asia’s trajectory.

RELATED NEWS : Jammu Rocked by Drone and Missile Strikes Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Clashes

However, the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India—which claimed 26 lives, including a Nepali national—has brought back painful reminders of the region’s volatile past. The Indian government responded on May 7 with “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged terrorist hideouts across the border in Pakistan. Pakistan, on the other hand, denies any involvement in the attack, sparking fresh tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbors.

This escalation has plunged the region into uncertainty, raising global alarm about where the conflict might lead. History has shown that South Asia is no stranger to prolonged unrest: Sri Lanka’s civil war with the Tamil Tigers (1983–2009), Nepal’s Maoist conflict (1996–2006), the Khalistani movement in India, decades of insurgency and foreign interventions in Afghanistan, and Pakistan’s Baloch insurgency are only a few examples.

After 2010, many hoped South Asia had turned a corner, moving towards peace and economic integration. But hopes have steadily eroded. In 2021, the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul once again destabilized Afghanistan and disrupted SAARC, the region’s most significant cooperative platform. Afghanistan remains diplomatically isolated, with no formal recognition of the Taliban 2.0 government.

Global events have also spilled into South Asia. The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine saw South Asian nationals—including Nepalis, Indians, and Pakistanis—dying on distant battlefields while fighting for Russia. On October 7, 2023, 10 Nepali students were killed in the Hamas attacks on Israel. One Nepali, Bipin Joshi, remains held captive. These tragedies reflect how violence and conflict affect South Asians both within and beyond the region.

Now, renewed military tension between India and Pakistan risks plunging the region back into instability. The promise of an “Asian Century” feels increasingly out of reach for South Asia if conflict continues to overshadow cooperation.

The time has come for South Asian nations to act decisively. The region already has a framework in place: SAARC’s Anti-Terrorism Mechanism. At the 16th SAARC Summit in Thimphu (April 2010), member states unanimously condemned terrorism and reaffirmed their commitment to combating it in all forms. The 2009 Ministerial Declaration on Terrorism further emphasized the need for regional unity and mutual action.

This is a crucial moment for South Asia. Countries in the region must work not as rival powers but as a united force. Trust, dialogue, and a shared security agenda are essential to move beyond recurring cycles of violence. The dream of the Asian Century should not exclude South Asia—but achieving that dream depends entirely on whether the region chooses collaboration over confrontation.

If we fail to unite now, the Asian Century may arrive—but leave South Asia behind.

The writer is a Foreign Affairs Journalist based in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Reliance Withdraws Trademark Application Linked to Pakistan Strike Codename Amid Backlash

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Reliance Withdraws Trademark Application Linked to Pakistan Strike Codename Amid Backlash

New Delhi, India – Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani’s media company, Reliance’s Jio Studios, has withdrawn its application to trademark “Operation Sindoor,” the codename reportedly used for India’s recent military strikes on Pakistan, following public and political outrage on social media.

In a statement released late Thursday, Reliance Industries clarified that the application was filed “inadvertently” by a junior staff member at Jio Studios without proper authorization. The company emphasized that “Operation Sindoor” is now part of the national consciousness and serves as “an evocative symbol of Indian bravery.”

REALTED NEWS : Jammu Rocked by Drone and Missile Strikes Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Clashes

The move comes just days after India announced it had launched strikes on what it called “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation was in response to a deadly militant attack in Indian Kashmir that killed 26 men, mostly Hindu laborers. The name “Sindoor”—a sacred vermilion powder traditionally worn by married Hindu women—was interpreted by some as a reference to the widows left behind by the violence.

Public anger erupted after social media users shared screenshots from India’s official trademark registry showing applications filed by both Reliance and individuals for the term “Operation Sindoor.” Critics accused the conglomerate of seeking to commercialize a national tragedy.

“This isn’t branding, it’s blatant mockery,” posted user Archana Pawar on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s disturbing to see something so serious being reduced to a joke.”

India’s opposition Congress party also weighed in. Party spokesperson Aniruddh Sharma said the attempt to register a trademark linked to a military operation was “shameful,” adding, “Why is Mr. Ambani trying to profit from the sacrifices of our armed forces?”

The trademark application stated that it was intended for “provision of entertainment; production, presentation, and distribution of audio, video.” The backlash reflects growing sensitivities around the portrayal of military events in Indian popular media.

Indian cinema has a history of turning military operations into box office hits. The 2019 film Uri: The Surgical Strike, which dramatized India’s cross-border operation against militant targets in Pakistan, was a commercial success domestically and internationally.

Pakistan, however, has often disputed such claims. Following the 2019 incident, Islamabad denied any Indian incursion into its territory, and said there had been no military retaliation.

Reliance is a major player in India’s media landscape. Last year, the company merged its entertainment assets with Disney India to create an $8.5 billion media giant, running multiple television channels and a prominent streaming platform.

With tensions between India and Pakistan once again drawing global concern, the controversy over the attempted trademark underscores the delicate line between national pride and commercial exploitation.

SOURCE : REUTERS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Putin’s 3-day ceasefire begins, rejected by Ukraine

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Putin’s 3-day ceasefire begins, rejected by Ukraine

Moscow, Russia – A three-day unilateral ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin takes effect by midnight, despite Ukraine’s refusal to join the Kremlin’s initiative.

The temporary truce is set to last 72 hours, until midnight on May 10-11, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Red Army’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

“Yes, the initiative from the Russian side, from President Putin, is in effect,” said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in his daily press briefing.

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The ceasefire comes ahead of Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, where around 30 foreign leaders are expected to attend a military parade in Red Square on May 9.

Putin met today with the presidents of Venezuela and Cuba, and is scheduled to receive China’s president tomorrow, followed by leaders from Brazil, Slovakia on Friday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy not only rejected the ceasefire but warned that Kyiv cannot guarantee the safety of any leader traveling to Moscow.

Putin, as with a previous short Easter truce, cited humanitarian reasons for the decision and called on Kyiv to reciprocate.

The Kremlin condemned a series of recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory, including Moscow, which disrupted operations at airports and forced the delay or cancellation of hundreds of flights on Wednesday.

“Kiev continues to reveal its terrorist nature,” Peskov said, adding that Ukraine’s refusal to halt hostilities “justifies the continuation of the special military operation.”

He noted that Putin has not issued new military orders regarding the drone attack but had instructed the army to respond decisively to any provocation.

Despite the threats, Pesvok assured that Russian forces are working to ensure the Victory Day festivities proceed “peacefully and securely.”

Initially, the White House declined to support temporary ceasefires, instead calling for a lasting halt to hostilities.

However, United States President Donald Trump expressed support for Putin’s initiative earlier this week.

“As you know, President Putin just announced a three-day ceasefire. It may not sound like much, but it’s actually significant,” Trump stated.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andryi Sibiga and President Zelenskyy dismissed the truce as propaganda and reiterated calls for a minimum 30-day ceasefire.

Zelenskyy argued that it is fair for Russian skies to be unsafe during this period, but did not clarify whether Ukraine would suspend attacks during the 72-hour truce.

Russian officials accused Zelenskyy of threatening foreign dignitaries and dishonoring the memory of Ukrainian veterans who fought against the Nazis in World War II.

Source : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Jammu Rocked by Drone and Missile Strikes Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Clashes

Shasi Kumar
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Jammu Rocked by Drone and Missile Strikes Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Clashes

Jammu, India – Explosions lit up the night sky over Jammu on Thursday as suspected Pakistani drone and missile attacks targeted military installations in the region, according to Indian officials. The strikes marked the second day of escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan, threatening to push the nuclear-armed neighbors toward a deeper conflict.

Witnesses reported sustained blasts and sirens over a 2.5-hour period across the city, with streaks of red and flashes illuminating the sky. Indian military sources said the attacks appeared to originate from across the border and were aimed at multiple strategic sites in and around Jammu.

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The recent escalation follows a series of clashes in the disputed region of Kashmir, prompting international alarm. Global powers including the United States, China, and Russia have urged both sides to exercise restraint in one of the world’s most volatile flashpoints.

“Fear has entered my heart,” said Devi, a 50-year-old daily wage laborer who had recently arrived from Bihar with 15 family members to work in Akhnoor, a village near Jammu. “If this doesn’t end soon, we’ll have to leave. We just want to survive.”

Mass Evacuations and Emergency Shelters

To protect civilians, Indian authorities evacuated hundreds from two border villages on Wednesday, relocating them to a government college roughly 20 kilometers from the frontier. Classrooms have been converted into dormitories equipped with thin mattresses, basic meals, and access to two medical doctors assigned to the facility.

“The day before, we heard gunshots for over an hour at midnight, and then again at 4 a.m.,” said Pratima Devi, another evacuee. “I couldn’t sleep at all. But here at the college, I finally slept peacefully.”

Nearby, a Hindu spiritual center has also been repurposed as a shelter, primarily hosting women and children.

“We’ve been moved here because the border area is dangerous. Now I feel safe,” said Sameer Pawar, 11, speaking in English.

Life on Hold Amid Uncertainty

Most evacuees are farmers or daily laborers earning less than $60 per month. Many now face the possibility of prolonged displacement as tensions remain high.

India has not officially confirmed casualties from the latest attacks, but the deployment of additional troops and defense systems to the region suggests growing concerns of a protracted standoff.

Meanwhile, calls for peace are growing louder. Humanitarian organizations have urged both governments to prioritize civilian safety and diplomatic solutions.

As the region watches closely, the people of Jammu — many displaced and fearful — are left to endure the uncertainty of a conflict they had no part in starting.

SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Canadian PM says meeting with Trump marks new start in relations with US

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Canadian PM says meeting with Trump marks new start in relations with US

Washington, USA – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed confidence that his meeting with United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday marked the beginning of a new phase that will redefine bilateral relations after months of antagonism between both countries.

The White House meeting began with the two leaders appearing before the media.

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The meeting between Trump and Carney, which was also attended by prominent members of the Trump administration and the Canadian cabinet, took place in a relaxed atmosphere.

However, that didn’t stop the US president from expressing his interest in making Canada the 51st state as he said annexation would have “tremendous benefits” for Canadians like lower taxes or free military protection.

“I think it would really be a wonderful marriage because it’s two places. They get along very well. They like each other a lot,” Trump said.

Carney, who had been preparing for the meeting for weeks, responded to Trump’s words with a smile but a firm hand.

“(Canada) It’s not for sell, won’t be for sell, ever, but the opportunity is in the partnership,” said Carney, to which Trump responded, “Never say never.”

“As you know from the real estate market, there are some places that are never for sale. We are sitting in one right now,” the Canadian leader said to Trump.

Trump also stuck to his theory that Canada has little to negotiate with him because the US neither needs nor wants Canadian products, from cars to oil to steel.

At a press conference after the meeting, Carney said Trump was in favor of renegotiating trade relations between the two countries, “including USMCA,” the US–Mexico–Canada Agreement.

“The question now is how we will work together in the future, how we can build an economic and security relationship based on mutual respect,” he explained.

Carney said he believed they had laid a good foundation with the US for re-establishing a constructive relationship for negotiating a new economic and security partnership.

The Canadian PM said there would be new meetings with Trump and between senior officials from both countries in the coming weeks to continue negotiations.

SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Russia Condemns Western ‘Censorship’ and Honors Fallen Journalists Ahead of World Press Freedom Day

Shasi Kumar
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Russia Condemns Western ‘Censorship’ and Honors Fallen Journalists Ahead of World Press Freedom Day

Moscow, Russia – Ahead of World Press Freedom Day, Russia’s Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issued a strong statement condemning what she called Western double standards on media freedom, while honoring Russian journalists who have died covering the conflict in Ukraine.

May 3 traditionally marks World Press Freedom Day, a date established by the UN General Assembly on December 20, 1993, to symbolize the international community’s commitment to media independence, pluralism, and public access to information.

However, Zakharova criticized what she described as a growing gap between the ideals of the day and current realities. “In recent years, World Press Freedom Day is marked more often as a mere formality,” she said. “Under the pretext of combating ‘misinformation,’ Russian media outlets and journalists are being subjected to reprisals and oppression.”

She accused Western nations of waging an “information war” by employing political censorship, propaganda, and suppression of alternative narratives. “Western countries have virtually declared a full-scale war to dominate the global media space,” Zakharova said.

The spokeswoman expressed deep concern over what she called a “critical” situation in journalist safety, citing the deaths of five Russian media personnel since the beginning of 2025, all reportedly targeted in Ukrainian attacks. The incidents include:

  • January 4: Izvestia correspondent Alexander Martemyanov was killed in a drone strike.
  • March 24: Izvestia correspondent Alexander Fedorchak and Zvezda cameraman Andrey Panov died in an artillery strike.
  • March 26: War correspondent Anna Prokofyeva died when a mine exploded under a Channel One crew vehicle.
  • April 22: Zvezda correspondent Nikita Goldin succumbed to injuries in hospital.

Zakharova accused Ukrainian forces of deliberate targeting, and condemned the continued operation of the Mirotvorets website, which lists journalists and activists as enemies of the state. She further denounced the silence of Western-backed human rights groups in the face of these incidents.

“Anton Voloshin, Igor Kornelyuk, Anatoly Klyan, Andrey Stenin, Darya Dugina, and others will remain in our hearts forever,” she said, naming journalists killed since the conflict began. “Terrorist methods are being used to silence the truth, and international organisations must stop turning a blind eye.”

Zakharova reiterated Russia’s demand for accountability from institutions such as UNESCO, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, urging them to fulfill their mandates and speak out against the killing of journalists.

In line with World Press Freedom Day, the Foreign Ministry has partnered with Russian media to launch an exhibition titled “Died for the Truth”, commemorating fallen Russian journalists. The exhibit, developed in cooperation with journalist Alexander Malkevich and the Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights, is being hosted both online and at Russian embassies and cultural missions abroad.

Each portrait in the exhibit, Zakharova said, “tells the story of a life cut short and a commitment to truth that endured until the very last moment.” The virtual project, #DiedForTheTruth, aims to preserve the memory of these journalists and ensure their deaths are neither overlooked nor forgotten.

She concluded by inviting global media professionals and international stakeholders to engage with the exhibit and reflect on what she called the “stubborn silence” of the global community regarding what Russia sees as war crimes against its press corps.

Source : RUSSIA MFA |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

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