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What prompted Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s global defiance

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What prompted Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s global defiance

Russia launched a ‘military operation’ against Ukraine – effectively an invasion – early Thursday morning, triggering global fears of a major multi-national armed conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the attack in a televised address, which follows his declaration that a 2015 peace deal agreed to stop fighting over breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk – is invalid.

What followed was reports of explosions and missile strikes at key Ukraine cities, including capital Kyiv and in the rebel regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. Russia, according to western intel, has amassed well over 150,000 troops and significant military equipment along the Ukraine border.

So far, Russia has claimed the destruction of airbases and air defences, while Ukrainian military says it has shot down six Russian aircraft in Luhansk.

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At least eight people have been killed and nine wounded by Russian shelling, an advisor to Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs was quoted by Reuters.

Russia’s actions have been condemned by almost all major nations, including the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

UN chief Antonio Guterres has urged Putin to stop the war ‘in the name of humanity’, warning of devastating consequences for Ukraine and the world.

Russia believes Ukraine is moving closer and closer to the West via both the NATO, or North Atlantic Treaty Alliance, and the European Union.

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Ukraine is not a member of NATO but has cooperated with the alliance and frequently expressed its intention to sign up.

Putin, however, is aware Ukraine joining NATO significantly increases the difficulty of bringing Donetsk and Luhansk within his control. He has also frequently accused Ukraine of being a ‘puppet’ in the hands of the West.

The removal of pro-Russian Viktor Yanukovych as President of Ukraine – he was voted out by the Ukrainian parliament in February 2014 – triggered Russia’s annexation of the strategically valuable Crimea peninsula eight years ago.

A former member of the Soviet Republic, Ukraine still has deep social, historical, cultural, and political ties to Russia, but relations have been on a knife’s edge since the 2014 invasion.

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It gained independence in 1991 but has struggled economically since.

Fearing it could be surrounded by what it sees as hostile forces, the Kremlin has demanded guarantees NATO will not accept Ukraine, or other former members of the Soviet Republic. Western countries, and NATO, have dismissed such fears, but Putin is clearly not buying their statements.

Russia’s defiance in the face of sanctions

The US, the European Union, the UK and other countries have all slapped sanctions on Russia, targeting its banks (to cut funding to operations in rebel regions) and the lawmakers who approved the use of force.

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Putin, however, seems unconcerned.

Earlier this week Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov brushed off the threat of sanctions, saying, “We’re used to it. We know that sanctions will be imposed anyway, in any case. With or without reason.”

“They are already threatening us with all manner of sanctions or, as they say now, ‘the mother of all sanctions’,” he said.

Putin is also possibly secure in the knowledge that the US and other western nations will think twice (and maybe thrice) before deploying troops themselves, and risk turning this conflict into a potentially global one.

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The threat of a prolonged military operation is something Putin can sustain almost indefinitely, if he is willing to pay the cost of keeping a large number of troops and equipment in the field, according to two retired US military commanders quoted in a report by Bloomberg.

Complete News Source : Hindustan Times

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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