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<p>Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO&nbsp;airfields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.</p>

<p>After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict.

Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO airfields. “There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel. "What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned. This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems × However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday. Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia questions NATO involvement over F-16 transfer to Ukraine

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<p>US President Joe Biden is set to meet House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Monday ( May 22) regarding debt ceiling talks after they spoke on the phone while the former was on his way home after attending the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters after the call, McCarthy sounded 'upbeat' and said he was more hopeful about reaching a decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our teams are talking today and we're setting (sic) to have a meeting tomorrow. That's better than it was earlier. So, yes."</p>

<p>“I think we can solve some of these problems if he understands what we’re looking at.” The speaker added, “But I’ve been very clear to him from the very beginning. We have to spend less money than we spent last year.”</p>

<p>White House officials also confirmed the meeting but offered no specific time or place for it, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans had seemingly come to an impasse. The frustration was palpable as Biden, prior to leaving Japan, termed the demands of GOP lawmakers as 'unacceptable'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-debt-ceiling-biden-to-ring-mccarthy-from-air-force-one-to-restart-negotiations-594728" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Biden to ring McCarthy from Air Force One to restart negotiations</strong></a></p>

<p>"Much of what they've already proposed is simply, quite frankly, unacceptable. It's time for Republicans to accept that there is no bipartisan deal to be made solely, solely on their partisan terms. They have to move as well," Biden told a news conference in Hiroshima</p>

<p>The Republicans have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-the-us-debt-ceiling-what-happens-if-it-isnt-raised-593402"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;What is the US debt ceiling &amp; what happens if it isn’t raised?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What is the debt limit?</strong></h2>

<p>A debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-us-debt-ceiling-why-is-it-such-a-big-deal-554338" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: What's US debt ceiling &amp; why is it such a big deal?&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>If congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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US President Joe Biden is set to meet House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Monday ( May 22) regarding debt ceiling talks after they spoke on the phone while the former was on his way home after attending the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

US President Joe Biden is set to meet House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Monday ( May 22) regarding debt ceiling talks after they spoke on the phone while the former was on his way home after attending the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. Speaking to reporters after the call, McCarthy sounded 'upbeat' and said he was more hopeful about reaching a decision. "Our teams are talking today and we're setting (sic) to have a meeting tomorrow. That's better than it was earlier. So, yes." “I think we can solve some of these problems if he understands what we’re looking at.” The speaker added, “But I’ve been very clear to him from the very beginning. We have to spend less money than we spent last year.” White House officials also confirmed the meeting but offered no specific time or place for it, according to a Reuters report. With the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans had seemingly come to an impasse. The frustration was palpable as Biden, prior to leaving Japan, termed the demands of GOP lawmakers as 'unacceptable'. ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Biden to ring McCarthy from Air Force One to restart negotiations "Much of what they've already proposed is simply, quite frankly, unacceptable. It's time for Republicans to accept that there is no bipartisan deal to be made solely, solely on their partisan terms. They have to move as well," Biden told a news conference in Hiroshima The Republicans have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure. Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised. WATCH | What is the US debt ceiling & what happens if it isn’t raised? × What is the debt limit? A debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments. Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: What's US debt ceiling & why is it such a big deal? If congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Debt ceiling: Biden, McCarthy to meet Monday after 'productive' phone call

<p>In what comes as a bombshell development, details about the relationship between disgraced paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates have emerged. It appears that Epstein threatened Gates and tried to blackmail the billionaire over his extramarital affair with a Russian bridge player, a new report by the Wall Street Journal has claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Titled "Jeffrey Epstein Appeared to Threaten Bill Gates Over Microsoft Co-Founder’s Affair With Russian Bridge Player", the report claims that Gates met a woman named Mila Antonova around 2010 when she was in her 20s and engaged in a romantic relationship. The two were involved while Gates was still married to&nbsp;his then-wife, Melinda French Gates</p>

<p>In a YouTube video from the same year,&nbsp;Antonova recounted playing in a tournament with Gates.&nbsp;“I didn’t beat him [Gates] but I tried to kick him with my leg," said&nbsp;Antonova.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein threatened Bill Gates over alleged affairs</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>The threat by Epstein</strong></h2>

<p>Epstein met Antonova three years later in 2013 and paid for her to&nbsp;attend software coding school. She was&nbsp;looking for financial backers for a bridge academy and&nbsp;Boris Nikolic, a top adviser to Gates at the time, pointed her to Epstein.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, in 2017, Epstein, who had learned about the affair, brazenly emailed Gates and requested reimbursement for the course. It was an implicit yet subtle threat from Epstein that he knew about Gates' business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The tone of the message was that Epstein knew about the affair and could expose it, the people said,” the Journal reported, adding that a Gates spokesperson said that the Microsoft founder “had no financial dealings with Epstein”.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/epsteins-private-islands-sold-to-billionaire-investor-for-60-million-588757"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein’s private islands sold to billionaire investor for $60 million&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>The threat&nbsp;stemmed from the fact that Epstein was unable to convince Gates to participate in a&nbsp;multibillion-dollar charitable fund that he was attempting to establish with banking giant JPMorgan Chase.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meet Mila Antonova, the young bridge player who Bill Gates had an affair with in 2010. Jeffrey Epstein found out about this affair and used it as leverage against Bill Gates. Bill Gates began having private meetings with Epstein in 2011, but Epstein didn’t find out about the… <a href="https://t.co/4W6gTKx7WN">pic.twitter.com/4W6gTKx7WN</a></p>
— Erin Elizabeth Health Nut News 🙌 (@unhealthytruth) <a href="https://twitter.com/unhealthytruth/status/1660380089932972033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Antonova told the Journal that she did meet Epstein but did not know who he was at the time, thinking he was just a&nbsp;“successful businessman" who "wanted to help”.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am disgusted with Epstein and what he did,” Antonova said while declining to comment on her alleged relationship with Gates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Epstein agreed to pay, and he paid directly to the school,” she added. “Nothing was exchanged. I don’t know why he did that.</p>

<p>The report added that Epstein also provided an apartment for Antonova to stay in New York City in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Epstein's modus operandi</strong></h2>

<p>Two years after the mail, Epstein was charged with sex trafficking a minor and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking&nbsp;by federal prosecutors. His confidant Maxwell Ghislaine would also be dragged in the case but Epstein would die months later in custody in an apparent suicide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virgin-islands-govt-unable-to-subpoena-googles-larry-page-in-jeffrey-epstein-lawsuit-590083"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Virgin Islands govt unable to subpoena Google's Larry Page in Jeffrey Epstein lawsuit</strong></a></p>

<p>The new details&nbsp;reveal how Epstein managed to hide in plain sight over the years whilst engaging in his paedophilic, voyeuristic tendencies. He used information that could compromise the top businessmen and political leaders and used it to fuel his sex-trafficking empire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In what comes as a bombshell development, details about the relationship between disgraced paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates have emerged.

In what comes as a bombshell development, details about the relationship between disgraced paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates have emerged. It appears that Epstein threatened Gates and tried to blackmail the billionaire over his extramarital affair with a Russian bridge player, a new report by the Wall Street Journal has claimed. Titled "Jeffrey Epstein Appeared to Threaten Bill Gates Over Microsoft Co-Founder’s Affair With Russian Bridge Player", the report claims that Gates met a woman named Mila Antonova around 2010 when she was in her 20s and engaged in a romantic relationship. The two were involved while Gates was still married to his then-wife, Melinda French Gates In a YouTube video from the same year, Antonova recounted playing in a tournament with Gates. “I didn’t beat him [Gates] but I tried to kick him with my leg," said Antonova. Watch | Jeffrey Epstein threatened Bill Gates over alleged affairs The threat by Epstein Epstein met Antonova three years later in 2013 and paid for her to attend software coding school. She was looking for financial backers for a bridge academy and Boris Nikolic, a top adviser to Gates at the time, pointed her to Epstein. Later, in 2017, Epstein, who had learned about the affair, brazenly emailed Gates and requested reimbursement for the course. It was an implicit yet subtle threat from Epstein that he knew about Gates' business. “The tone of the message was that Epstein knew about the affair and could expose it, the people said,” the Journal reported, adding that a Gates spokesperson said that the Microsoft founder “had no financial dealings with Epstein”. ALSO READ | Jeffrey Epstein’s private islands sold to billionaire investor for $60 million The threat stemmed from the fact that Epstein was unable to convince Gates to participate in a multibillion-dollar charitable fund that he was attempting to establish with banking giant JPMorgan Chase. Meet Mila Antonova, the young bridge player who Bill Gates had an affair with in 2010. Jeffrey Epstein found out about this affair and used it as leverage against Bill Gates. Bill Gates began having private meetings with Epstein in 2011, but Epstein didn’t find out about the… pic.twitter.com/4W6gTKx7WN — Erin Elizabeth Health Nut News 🙌 (@unhealthytruth) May 21, 2023 × Antonova told the Journal that she did meet Epstein but did not know who he was at the time, thinking he was just a “successful businessman" who "wanted to help”. “I am disgusted with Epstein and what he did,” Antonova said while declining to comment on her alleged relationship with Gates. “Epstein agreed to pay, and he paid directly to the school,” she added. “Nothing was exchanged. I don’t know why he did that. The report added that Epstein also provided an apartment for Antonova to stay in New York City in 2014. Epstein's modus operandi Two years after the mail, Epstein was charged with sex trafficking a minor and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by federal prosecutors. His confidant Maxwell Ghislaine would also be dragged in the case but Epstein would die months later in custody in an apparent suicide. ALSO READ | Virgin Islands govt unable to subpoena Google's Larry Page in Jeffrey Epstein lawsuit The new details reveal how Epstein managed to hide in plain sight over the years whilst engaging in his paedophilic, voyeuristic tendencies. He used information that could compromise the top businessmen and political leaders and used it to fuel his sex-trafficking empire. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Did Jeffrey Epstein blackmail Bill Gates for affair with Russian woman? Shocking details revealed

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<p>Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched four astronauts, including the first Saudi Arabian woman into space from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral in the southern United States on Monday. The launch was textbook as the Falcon-9 rocket zooted off the surface with full thrust carrying the Dragon spacecraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Aqarni from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Commander Peggy Whitson and Pilot John Shoffner from the USA formed the quarter aboard the spacecraft which has been dubbed Freedom. It separated from the rocket nearly 12 minutes after the launch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Hello from outer space! It feels amazing to be viewing Earth from this capsule,” Barnawi said after settling into orbit.</p>

<p>Prior to the liftoff,&nbsp;Barnawi said her inclusion in the trip represented the dreams of the Saudi women, “I am honoured and happy to represent all the dreams and all the hopes of the people in Saudia Arabia. And also the hopes and dreams of all the women in the region.”</p>

<p>The crew in their dragon capsule would reach the International Space Station (ISS) by Monday evening and spend over a week before making the sojourn back home with a splashdown planned off the Florida coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Saudi pair is the first to ride a rocket to space since a Saudi prince ravelled on board the space shuttle Discovery in 1985. In what comes as a coincidence, the duo will be greeted by an astronaut from the UAE upon their arrival at the ISS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-scripts-history-as-first-arab-woman-astronaut-to-go-on-space-mission-594669"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia's first woman astronaut set to blast off into space on a private mission</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Saudi Arabia sponsored the trip</strong></h2>

<p>The mission has been sponsored by the Saudi government. The kingdom last year signed a deal with Houston's Axiom Space, which arranges and manages private missions to space on US spacecraft for researchers and tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although Axiom has not revealed how much the kingdom is paying for the 10-day trip, the previous packages have hovered around the $55 million mark for individual passengers. NASA's current price list shows per-person, per-day charges of $2,000 for food and up to 1,500 for sleeping bags and other gear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudis-first-woman-astronaut-en-route-to-intl-space-station-594978" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Saudi's first woman astronaut en route to int'l space station</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the astronauts will carry out 14 ground-breaking scientific experiments in microgravity that will aid in the development of new methods for creating circumstances that would allow people to explore space more effectively.</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia's&nbsp;astronaut programme, which started in September 2022, is part of its Vision 2030 ambition&nbsp;to develop space research. Usually regarded as a conservative country, Saudi sending a woman astronaut aboard the Dragon capsule is expected to send a strong message to the liberal world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched four astronauts, including the first Saudi Arabian woman into space from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral in the southern United States on Monday.

Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched four astronauts, including the first Saudi Arabian woman into space from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral in the southern United States on Monday. The launch was textbook as the Falcon-9 rocket zooted off the surface with full thrust carrying the Dragon spacecraft. Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Aqarni from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Commander Peggy Whitson and Pilot John Shoffner from the USA formed the quarter aboard the spacecraft which has been dubbed Freedom. It separated from the rocket nearly 12 minutes after the launch. “Hello from outer space! It feels amazing to be viewing Earth from this capsule,” Barnawi said after settling into orbit. Prior to the liftoff, Barnawi said her inclusion in the trip represented the dreams of the Saudi women, “I am honoured and happy to represent all the dreams and all the hopes of the people in Saudia Arabia. And also the hopes and dreams of all the women in the region.” The crew in their dragon capsule would reach the International Space Station (ISS) by Monday evening and spend over a week before making the sojourn back home with a splashdown planned off the Florida coast. The Saudi pair is the first to ride a rocket to space since a Saudi prince ravelled on board the space shuttle Discovery in 1985. In what comes as a coincidence, the duo will be greeted by an astronaut from the UAE upon their arrival at the ISS. ALSO READ | Saudi Arabia's first woman astronaut set to blast off into space on a private mission Saudi Arabia sponsored the trip The mission has been sponsored by the Saudi government. The kingdom last year signed a deal with Houston's Axiom Space, which arranges and manages private missions to space on US spacecraft for researchers and tourists. Although Axiom has not revealed how much the kingdom is paying for the 10-day trip, the previous packages have hovered around the $55 million mark for individual passengers. NASA's current price list shows per-person, per-day charges of $2,000 for food and up to 1,500 for sleeping bags and other gear. WATCH | Saudi's first woman astronaut en route to int'l space station × According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the astronauts will carry out 14 ground-breaking scientific experiments in microgravity that will aid in the development of new methods for creating circumstances that would allow people to explore space more effectively. Saudi Arabia's astronaut programme, which started in September 2022, is part of its Vision 2030 ambition to develop space research. Usually regarded as a conservative country, Saudi sending a woman astronaut aboard the Dragon capsule is expected to send a strong message to the liberal world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

SpaceX sends first Saudi woman astronaut to space, will reach ISS soon

<p>Amid the kerfuffle surrounding the withdrawal of Rs 2,000 notes from circulation, Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday explained why such a decision was taken.&nbsp;Das asserted the currency continues to be a legal tender, adding that decision was part of the central bank's currency management exercise.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let me clarify and re-emphasise that it is a part of the currency management operations of the Reserve Bank..for a long time, the Reserve Bank has been following a clean note policy," said Das.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From time to time, RBI withdraws notes of a particular series and issues fresh notes...we are withdrawing the Rs 2000 notes from circulation but they continue as legal tender."</p>

<p>The RBI governor added that&nbsp;the September deadline had been granted so that the "process will be taken seriously".</p>

<p>Das emphasised&nbsp;that Rs 2,000 notes were primarily issued in circulation to quickly replenish the value of money which was being taken out from the system.</p>

<p>The RBI governor was referring to the 'demonetisation' process initiated in 2016 by the central bank where old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes were taken out of the system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/state-bank-of-india-no-identity-proof-needed-to-exchange-2000-note-594920"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;State Bank of India: No identity proof needed to exchange 2000-note</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>How to exchange&nbsp;the currency?</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from banks exchanging the notes, the facility for the same up to Rs 20,000 limit&nbsp;will also be provided at the 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of the RBI, starting May 23, said a press release issued by India's central bank.</p>

<p>“The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 banknotes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-central-bank-rbi-stops-circulation-of-rs-2000-currency-594168"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;India’s central bank RBI withdraws Rs 2,000 currency note from circulation</strong></a></p>

<p>The 2,000 banknotes had been dwindling in circulation for the past few years. According to the finance ministry's report tabled in Parliament in December 2022,&nbsp;the notes of Rs 2000 denomination in terms of value to the total notes in circulation dipped from 22.6 per cent (March 31, 2020) to 13.8 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Amid the kerfuffle surrounding the withdrawal of Rs 2,000 notes from circulation, Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday explained why such a decision was taken.

Amid the kerfuffle surrounding the withdrawal of Rs 2,000 notes from circulation, Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday explained why such a decision was taken. Das asserted the currency continues to be a legal tender, adding that decision was part of the central bank's currency management exercise. "Let me clarify and re-emphasise that it is a part of the currency management operations of the Reserve Bank..for a long time, the Reserve Bank has been following a clean note policy," said Das. "From time to time, RBI withdraws notes of a particular series and issues fresh notes...we are withdrawing the Rs 2000 notes from circulation but they continue as legal tender." The RBI governor added that the September deadline had been granted so that the "process will be taken seriously". Das emphasised that Rs 2,000 notes were primarily issued in circulation to quickly replenish the value of money which was being taken out from the system. The RBI governor was referring to the 'demonetisation' process initiated in 2016 by the central bank where old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes were taken out of the system. WATCH | State Bank of India: No identity proof needed to exchange 2000-note × How to exchange the currency? Apart from banks exchanging the notes, the facility for the same up to Rs 20,000 limit will also be provided at the 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of the RBI, starting May 23, said a press release issued by India's central bank. “The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 banknotes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect. ALSO READ | India’s central bank RBI withdraws Rs 2,000 currency note from circulation The 2,000 banknotes had been dwindling in circulation for the past few years. According to the finance ministry's report tabled in Parliament in December 2022, the notes of Rs 2000 denomination in terms of value to the total notes in circulation dipped from 22.6 per cent (March 31, 2020) to 13.8 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Clean note policy': RBI governor explains decision to withdraw Rs 2,000 notes

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<p>An Australian teen has been slapped with a $65 fine after she attempted to avoid paying airline baggage fees by wearing as many as 13 pounds of clothing. The video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms and shows the girl wearing the clothes whilst laughing hysterically.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nineteen-year-old Adriana Ocampo pulled the hack during a Jetstar Airways flight from Melbourne to her hometown of Adelaide after she had gone for a girls' trip with her friend Emily Altamura. However, prior to boarding the departure flight, she knew she had exceeded the airline's 15-pound limit after seeing the staff pull out a trolley with a scale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To game the system, both teenage friends draped themselves in layers of clothing, hoping that the airport crew would not have the time to check or notice their uncanny size.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We thought the only way we can take the weight off our bags is if we put it on ourselves so we started putting on our jackets and coats,” Ocampo was quoted as saying by South West News Service.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delta-airlines-passenger-arrested-for-opening-emergency-door-deploying-exit-slide-at-lax-airport-576082" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Delta Airlines passenger arrested for opening emergency door, deploying exit slide at LAX airport&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>“I looked like a bear. I’m small and petite but I looked like the exact opposite,” added Ocampo while her friend also started wearing the clothes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Besides the layers of jackets and jumpers, I had baggy trousers on and I was stuffing t-shirts and my iPad in them. I had about six layers on and stuff in my pockets.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/plus-sized-influencer-starts-petition-for-free-and-better-seats-on-airlines-582830" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Plus-sized influencer starts petition for free and extra seats on airlines</strong></a></p>

<p>Ocampo said by the time she was done wearing the clothes, she was totally hysterical and looked like Augustus Gloop from “Willy Wonka &amp; the Chocolate Factory.”</p>

<h2><strong>Authorities impose fine</strong></h2>

<p>The authorities saw right through their hack and fined them $65.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everyone in line was staring at us and laughing at us, it was kind of embarrassing. People were annoyed that we were holding the plane up.”</p>

<p>To make matters worse, the airport crew forced the duo to endure the 80-minute flight wearing clothing like an attack dog trainer.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-airlines-push-for-single-pilot-flights-536185" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | WION Dispatch: Airlines push for single-pilot flights</strong></a></p>

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<p>After the video of the incident went viral, Jetstar Airways also commented on the girl's inflight fashion disaster.</p>

<p>“While we certainly see the funny side, we have limits to carry-on to make it fair for everyone. Keeping track of how much baggage passengers bring onboard means everyone has room for their belongings and we’re meeting our safety requirements,” said an airline spokesperson.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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An Australian teen has been slapped with a $65 fine after she attempted to avoid paying airline baggage fees by wearing as many as 13 pounds of clothing. The video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms and shows the girl wearing the clothes whilst laughing hysterically.

An Australian teen has been slapped with a $65 fine after she attempted to avoid paying airline baggage fees by wearing as many as 13 pounds of clothing. The video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms and shows the girl wearing the clothes whilst laughing hysterically. Nineteen-year-old Adriana Ocampo pulled the hack during a Jetstar Airways flight from Melbourne to her hometown of Adelaide after she had gone for a girls' trip with her friend Emily Altamura. However, prior to boarding the departure flight, she knew she had exceeded the airline's 15-pound limit after seeing the staff pull out a trolley with a scale. To game the system, both teenage friends draped themselves in layers of clothing, hoping that the airport crew would not have the time to check or notice their uncanny size. “We thought the only way we can take the weight off our bags is if we put it on ourselves so we started putting on our jackets and coats,” Ocampo was quoted as saying by South West News Service. ALSO READ | Delta Airlines passenger arrested for opening emergency door, deploying exit slide at LAX airport “I looked like a bear. I’m small and petite but I looked like the exact opposite,” added Ocampo while her friend also started wearing the clothes. “Besides the layers of jackets and jumpers, I had baggy trousers on and I was stuffing t-shirts and my iPad in them. I had about six layers on and stuff in my pockets.” ALSO READ | Plus-sized influencer starts petition for free and extra seats on airlines Ocampo said by the time she was done wearing the clothes, she was totally hysterical and looked like Augustus Gloop from “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” Authorities impose fine The authorities saw right through their hack and fined them $65. “Everyone in line was staring at us and laughing at us, it was kind of embarrassing. People were annoyed that we were holding the plane up.” To make matters worse, the airport crew forced the duo to endure the 80-minute flight wearing clothing like an attack dog trainer. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Airlines push for single-pilot flights × After the video of the incident went viral, Jetstar Airways also commented on the girl's inflight fashion disaster. “While we certainly see the funny side, we have limits to carry-on to make it fair for everyone. Keeping track of how much baggage passengers bring onboard means everyone has room for their belongings and we’re meeting our safety requirements,” said an airline spokesperson. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian teen wears six layers of clothes to avoid baggage fees, gets caught and fined

<p>As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With&nbsp;the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans have come to an impasse.&nbsp;According to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, even the extraordinary measures, if implemented, will only buy the government a limited amount of time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The GOP lawmakers have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as&nbsp;Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden&nbsp;to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to them, the 14th Amendment of the Constitution should be used as an escape route. The law states: "The validity of the public debt of the United States...shall not be questioned."</p>

<p>Even Biden has considered the alternative, but experts fear that using it would trigger a legal battle, as well as undermine global faith in USA's creditworthiness and damage the economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have been considering the 14th Amendment. And a man I have enormous respect for, Larry Tribe, who advised me for a long time, thinks that it would be legitimate. But the problem is it would have to be litigated," said Biden last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-debt-ceiling-biden-told-to-use-14th-amendment-escape-hatch-by-democrat-lawmakers-594382"><strong>ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Democrat lawmakers ask Biden to use ‘14th Amendment’ to evade debt default</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is the debt limit?</strong></h2>

<p>In layman's terms, a debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-the-us-debt-ceiling-what-happens-if-it-isnt-raised-593402"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;What is the US debt ceiling &amp; what happens if it isn’t raised?</strong></a></p>

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<p>With the Senate under the control of Democrats and the House in Republican hands, it is highly unlikely that a straightforward limit hike will be possible.</p>

<p>If the congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report.

As the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan comes to an end, US President Joe Biden has turned his attention towards the debt ceiling crisis. Biden will hold a call with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy about the issue during his flight back home, aboard Air Force One, according to a Bloomberg report. With the deadline to raise the debt ceiling (June 1) precariously close, the talks between the Democrats and the Republicans have come to an impasse. According to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, even the extraordinary measures, if implemented, will only buy the government a limited amount of time. The GOP lawmakers have rejected the Biden administration's proposal to raise the debt ceiling, which otherwise used to be a routine affair. They have been demanding that the White House announce budget cuts if it wants support for the measure. Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers such as Tina Smith, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Bernie Sanders have advised Biden to use his authority under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to continue paying the US government’s bills, even if the ceiling is not raised. According to them, the 14th Amendment of the Constitution should be used as an escape route. The law states: "The validity of the public debt of the United States...shall not be questioned." Even Biden has considered the alternative, but experts fear that using it would trigger a legal battle, as well as undermine global faith in USA's creditworthiness and damage the economy. “I have been considering the 14th Amendment. And a man I have enormous respect for, Larry Tribe, who advised me for a long time, thinks that it would be legitimate. But the problem is it would have to be litigated," said Biden last week. ALSO READ | US debt ceiling: Democrat lawmakers ask Biden to use ‘14th Amendment’ to evade debt default What is the debt limit? In layman's terms, a debt limit is the amount of money that the US government can borrow to meet its financial obligations such as social security, military salaries and Medicare benefits payments. Congress earlier this year extended the statutory debt limit to $31.4 trillion. However, the weak economic fundamentals and overflowing expenditures mean that the US will be breaching the limit. Consequently, Congress has been engaged in a fierce tussle to raise the limit. WATCH | What is the US debt ceiling & what happens if it isn’t raised? × With the Senate under the control of Democrats and the House in Republican hands, it is highly unlikely that a straightforward limit hike will be possible. If the congressional lawmakers cannot make a decision quickly, the world's largest economy could risk defaulting on its debt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US debt ceiling: Biden to ring McCarthy from Air Force One to restart negotiations

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidWhi57sg9iGV9" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Greece went to the parliamentary polls on Sunday (May 21) with 9.8 million registered voters looking to cast their votes to elect the next government. This is the first election since the country was freed from the supervision of international lenders who had provided bailout funds over the last few years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, 55, a Harvard-educated former banker, and 48-year-old Alexis Tsipras, who heads the left-wing Syriza party and served as prime minister during some of the financial crisis’ most turbulent years, are the two main contenders in the fray.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greek-elections-voting-begins-in-parliamentary-polls-594681" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Greek elections: Voting begins in parliamentary polls</strong></a></p>

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<p>Mitsotakis' ruling New Democracy party currently holds the aces with 159 seats in the 300-seat Hellenic Parliament. During the canvassing trail, Mitsotakis promised to build on his earlier work, having taken the country out of financial duress. Taking a leaf out of US President Joe Biden's book, Mitsotakis used the "Let’s finish what we started" slogan to attract the voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He patted his own back by remarking that tax cuts delivered during his first term led to a three per cent annual growth and cut unemployment to less than eight per cent.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cost of living crisis has been one of the major poll planks with parties attempting to woo voters by offering to increase the minimum wage and create more jobs.&nbsp;Tsipras', particularly,&nbsp;has used the crisis to get the voters gravitated towards his party.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A winner is highly unlikely</strong></h2>

<p>The election, though, is highly unlikely to produce an outright winner as the political parties fail to agree to a coalition. A winner, however,&nbsp;is necessary, not because the country cannot afford to slip up on the economic scale anymore but also because the dispute with Turkey over maritime borders in the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean is becoming increasingly fraught.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Picture regarding the results will be cleared late in the night after a joint exit poll by six polling agencies is published.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, opinion polls have predicted that Mitsotakis' party may sweep 35 per cent of votes, some six percentage points ahead of Tsipras’s Syriza party. Experts say 45 per cent of votes is required to clinch an outright majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If no majority is reached, a second election will take place on July 2 and under the new electoral law, the winner will be given a boost of up to 50 of Parliament's 300 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Greece went to the parliamentary polls on Sunday (May 21) with 9.8 million registered voters looking to cast their votes to elect the next government. This is the first election since the country was freed from the supervision of international lenders who had provided bailout funds over the last few years.

Greece went to the parliamentary polls on Sunday (May 21) with 9.8 million registered voters looking to cast their votes to elect the next government. This is the first election since the country was freed from the supervision of international lenders who had provided bailout funds over the last few years. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, 55, a Harvard-educated former banker, and 48-year-old Alexis Tsipras, who heads the left-wing Syriza party and served as prime minister during some of the financial crisis’ most turbulent years, are the two main contenders in the fray. WATCH | Greek elections: Voting begins in parliamentary polls × Mitsotakis' ruling New Democracy party currently holds the aces with 159 seats in the 300-seat Hellenic Parliament. During the canvassing trail, Mitsotakis promised to build on his earlier work, having taken the country out of financial duress. Taking a leaf out of US President Joe Biden's book, Mitsotakis used the "Let’s finish what we started" slogan to attract the voters. He patted his own back by remarking that tax cuts delivered during his first term led to a three per cent annual growth and cut unemployment to less than eight per cent. The cost of living crisis has been one of the major poll planks with parties attempting to woo voters by offering to increase the minimum wage and create more jobs. Tsipras', particularly, has used the crisis to get the voters gravitated towards his party. A winner is highly unlikely The election, though, is highly unlikely to produce an outright winner as the political parties fail to agree to a coalition. A winner, however, is necessary, not because the country cannot afford to slip up on the economic scale anymore but also because the dispute with Turkey over maritime borders in the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean is becoming increasingly fraught. Picture regarding the results will be cleared late in the night after a joint exit poll by six polling agencies is published. Meanwhile, opinion polls have predicted that Mitsotakis' party may sweep 35 per cent of votes, some six percentage points ahead of Tsipras’s Syriza party. Experts say 45 per cent of votes is required to clinch an outright majority. If no majority is reached, a second election will take place on July 2 and under the new electoral law, the winner will be given a boost of up to 50 of Parliament's 300 seats. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Greece votes in general election with chaotic outcome in offing

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<p>The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday grounded its entire fleet of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft till an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the crash near Hanumangarh in the western state of Rajasthan earlier this month was completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The MiG-21 fleet has been grounded till the investigations are carried out and reasons for the crash are ascertained," a senior Air Force official was quoted as saying by ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 8, a MiG-21 Bison crashed during a routine training sortie after suffering a technical snag. Initial reports mentioned that the jet, which had taken off from Suratgarh, crashed on a house in Bahlolnagar and killed three villagers.</p>

<p>According to local media reports, police said that all three killed in the crash were women. The pilot, however, managed to eject safely from the aircraft but with minor injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, IAF wrote: "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-indias-lca-mk2-can-be-a-game-changer-for-the-indian-air-force-574447"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;How India's LCA Mk2 can be a game changer for the Indian Air Force</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Why is IAF grounding MiG-21?</strong></h2>

<p>IAF currently has around 50 MiG-21 aircraft in service, which comprise three of its 31 squadrons. The jet has been in service for over five decades now and remained a mainstay of combat operations. However, its reliability issues have become a significant talking point in recent times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Inducted into the IAF in the 1960s, the jet has been involved in as many as 400 accidents. While 870 Mig-21 fighter jets were procured initially, only 50 remain standing. The jet is also referred to as the 'flying coffin' primarily due to the number of pilots that have lost their lives while flying&nbsp;the machine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to defence ministry officials, seeing the current state of MiG-21 aircraft, the entire batch is expected to be pulled out of service by early 2025. The MiGs will be replaced by 83 modern Tejas jets that IAF has a deal for with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as part of its&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Air Force has procured 36 Rafale jets to fortify its combat prowess. The IAF is also in the process of adding 114 Medium Role Fighter Aircraft to its combat fleet.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-iaf-mig-21-crashes-in-rajasthan-killing-at-least-two-rescue-operation-underway-590129" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | India: IAF MiG-21 crashes in Rajasthan, killing at least three civilians; rescue operation underway</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Previous incidents of MiG-21 crash</strong></h2>

<p>Last year in July, a Mig-21 trainer fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan killing two pilots aboard - Wing Commander M Rana and Flight Lieutenant Advitiya Bal.</p>

<p>In December 2021, Wing Commander Harshit Sinha lost his life after the Mig-21 he was piloting developed a technical snag and crashed in Jaisalmer during a training sortie.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday grounded its entire fleet of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft till an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the crash near Hanumangarh in the western state of Rajasthan earlier this month was completed.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday grounded its entire fleet of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft till an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the crash near Hanumangarh in the western state of Rajasthan earlier this month was completed. "The MiG-21 fleet has been grounded till the investigations are carried out and reasons for the crash are ascertained," a senior Air Force official was quoted as saying by ANI. On May 8, a MiG-21 Bison crashed during a routine training sortie after suffering a technical snag. Initial reports mentioned that the jet, which had taken off from Suratgarh, crashed on a house in Bahlolnagar and killed three villagers. According to local media reports, police said that all three killed in the crash were women. The pilot, however, managed to eject safely from the aircraft but with minor injuries. In a tweet, IAF wrote: "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries." WATCH | How India's LCA Mk2 can be a game changer for the Indian Air Force × Why is IAF grounding MiG-21? IAF currently has around 50 MiG-21 aircraft in service, which comprise three of its 31 squadrons. The jet has been in service for over five decades now and remained a mainstay of combat operations. However, its reliability issues have become a significant talking point in recent times. Inducted into the IAF in the 1960s, the jet has been involved in as many as 400 accidents. While 870 Mig-21 fighter jets were procured initially, only 50 remain standing. The jet is also referred to as the 'flying coffin' primarily due to the number of pilots that have lost their lives while flying the machine. According to defence ministry officials, seeing the current state of MiG-21 aircraft, the entire batch is expected to be pulled out of service by early 2025. The MiGs will be replaced by 83 modern Tejas jets that IAF has a deal for with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as part of its The Air Force has procured 36 Rafale jets to fortify its combat prowess. The IAF is also in the process of adding 114 Medium Role Fighter Aircraft to its combat fleet. ALSO READ | India: IAF MiG-21 crashes in Rajasthan, killing at least three civilians; rescue operation underway Previous incidents of MiG-21 crash Last year in July, a Mig-21 trainer fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan killing two pilots aboard - Wing Commander M Rana and Flight Lieutenant Advitiya Bal. In December 2021, Wing Commander Harshit Sinha lost his life after the Mig-21 he was piloting developed a technical snag and crashed in Jaisalmer during a training sortie. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why has Indian Air Force grounded its entire fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets?

<p>A major whale vomit&nbsp;(ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities&nbsp;seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bust was conducted by the&nbsp;Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the&nbsp;Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18.</p>

<p>Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI&nbsp;informed in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-whales-help-store-planet-heating-carbon-emissions-544848"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-whales-help-store-planet-heating-carbon-emissions-544848/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

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<p>The smuggling of&nbsp;whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around&nbsp;&nbsp;40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs&nbsp;54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In September last year,&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of&nbsp;ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/megalophobia-activated-giant-whale-sinks-44ft-boat-in-pacific-ocean-574543"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean</strong></a></p>

<p>In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;ambergris?</strong></h2>

<p>Generally referred to as whale vomit,&nbsp;ambergris is derived from&nbsp;old French words<strong>&nbsp;</strong>'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the&nbsp;ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent.</p>

<p>The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the&nbsp;&nbsp;Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whales-can-help-fight-the-climate-change-scientists-say-544934"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.

A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The bust was conducted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18. Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI informed in a statement. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions × The smuggling of whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around 40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs 54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast. Previous instances In September last year, Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore). ALSO READ | Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city. What is ambergris? Generally referred to as whale vomit, ambergris is derived from old French words 'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber. A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent. The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. ALSO READ | Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Whale vomit worth $3.8 million seized in Tamil Nadu, five smugglers arrested

<p>The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit&nbsp;held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China". Meanwhile, Beijing said G7's "approach has no international credibility whatsoever".</p>

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, addressing a televised conference said the Western world was using Ukraine as a tool to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The task was set loudly and openly — to defeat Russia on the battlefield, but not to stop there, but to eliminate it as a geopolitical competitor," said Lavrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Look at the decisions that are being discussed and adopted today in Hiroshima at G7 summit of the Seven, and which are aimed at the double containment of Russia and China," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov was referring to a statement released by the grouping under which it was agreed to tighten sanctions against Moscow. The G7 statement also urged China, Moscow's partner to press President Vladimir Putin to halt his military aggression and withdraw troops from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Kremlin could have also been irked after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was given a space at the platform, holding a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who promised to make all efforts to end the war by using any means possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," PM Modi told Zelensky in their meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 manipulating China-related issues: Beijing</strong></h2>

<p>As for China, the country expressed 'strong dissatisfaction' with a communique issued by the grouping which targetted Beijing on issues such as the South China Sea, human rights and its alleged interference in foreign democracies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G7 insisted on manipulating China-related issues, smearing and attacking China," said a spokesperson of the foreign ministry in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and has lodged an official protest with Japan, the host country of the summit, as well as other relevant parties."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-2023-live-pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talk-with-british-pm-rishi-sunak-594599"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;G7 summit 2023 LIVE | PM Modi holds bilateral talks with British PM Rishi Sunak</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, the bloc instructed China to not "conduct interference activities" whilst simultaneously expressing concerns about the human rights abuse of the Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang province as well as the treatment of other minorities in Tibet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G7 trumpets that it wants to move towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous world. But in fact it is hindering world peace, undermining regional stability and inhibiting the development of other countries," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China".

The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China". Meanwhile, Beijing said G7's "approach has no international credibility whatsoever". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, addressing a televised conference said the Western world was using Ukraine as a tool to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. "The task was set loudly and openly — to defeat Russia on the battlefield, but not to stop there, but to eliminate it as a geopolitical competitor," said Lavrov. "Look at the decisions that are being discussed and adopted today in Hiroshima at G7 summit of the Seven, and which are aimed at the double containment of Russia and China," he added. Lavrov was referring to a statement released by the grouping under which it was agreed to tighten sanctions against Moscow. The G7 statement also urged China, Moscow's partner to press President Vladimir Putin to halt his military aggression and withdraw troops from Ukraine. Kremlin could have also been irked after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was given a space at the platform, holding a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who promised to make all efforts to end the war by using any means possible. "India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," PM Modi told Zelensky in their meeting. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit × G7 manipulating China-related issues: Beijing As for China, the country expressed 'strong dissatisfaction' with a communique issued by the grouping which targetted Beijing on issues such as the South China Sea, human rights and its alleged interference in foreign democracies. "The G7 insisted on manipulating China-related issues, smearing and attacking China," said a spokesperson of the foreign ministry in Beijing. "China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and has lodged an official protest with Japan, the host country of the summit, as well as other relevant parties." ALSO READ | G7 summit 2023 LIVE | PM Modi holds bilateral talks with British PM Rishi Sunak Notably, the bloc instructed China to not "conduct interference activities" whilst simultaneously expressing concerns about the human rights abuse of the Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang province as well as the treatment of other minorities in Tibet. "The G7 trumpets that it wants to move towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous world. But in fact it is hindering world peace, undermining regional stability and inhibiting the development of other countries," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia, China come down heavily on G7 nations after grouping targets them in communique

<p>At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said&nbsp;Grushko.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader&nbsp;discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-come-down-heavy-on-g7-after-grouping-targets-them-594616"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit&nbsp;claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined&nbsp;eastern city of Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit</strong></a></p>

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<p>Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">"We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat,&nbsp;adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">"By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.

At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit. “Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street. Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets. ALSO READ | Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit × Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use. "We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat, adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons. "By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’

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