Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.'

"The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt.

Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine.

Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe.

<h2>Ukraine: A major producer of grain</h2>

However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports.

Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports&nbsp;wheat, corn, and barley.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-sacks-six-deputy-defence-ministers-after-new-ministers-appointment-637378">Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment</a>

Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freed-american-calls-on-biden-to-end-irans-vile-path-of-keeping-foreigners-imprisoned-637533">Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned</a>

According to statistics&nbsp;by the US Department of Agriculture,&nbsp;Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes.

<h2>Ukraine drowns Russian drones</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage.

"A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.

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Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media. He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt. Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine. Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe. Ukraine: A major producer of grain However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports. Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports wheat, corn, and barley. Also read | Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission. Also read | Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned According to statistics by the US Department of Agriculture, Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes. Ukraine drowns Russian drones Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage. "A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port

Upping diplomatic pressure against India over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has decided to engage with UK, US, France and its other “close allies” and brief them about the developments related to the case.

CBC News, quoting sources from the government, has reported that Trudeau briefed the leaders of some of Canada's closest allies about the case, including UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, and US President Joe Biden.

The report further mentions that Trudeau has urged the Indian government to participate in the ongoing investigation and "cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter."

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said the Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be probing the murder case.

"We'll hold the perpetrators accountable and bring them to justice," he said.

"It's progressing,"&nbsp;RCMP&nbsp;Commissioner&nbsp;Mike Duheme told&nbsp;CBC News when asked about the investigation.

<h2>So far no arrests&nbsp;</h2>

So far no arrests have been made, but in August, the Canadian police said that they were investigating three suspects and issued a description of a possible getaway vehicle, asking for the public’s help.

Till now, the US and Australia have reacted to the reports, with the White House saying it is “deeply concerned about the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau,” according to Reuters.

“We remain in regular contact with our Canadian partners. It is critical that Canada’s investigation proceed and the perpetrators be brought to justice,” it said.

A spokesperson for Australian foreign minister Penny Wong told CNN that they are “deeply concerned” by the allegations.

“We are closely engaged with partners on developments. We have conveyed our concerns at senior levels to India,” a statement shared with CNN said.

“We understand these reports will be particularly concerning to some Australian communities. The Indian diaspora is a valued and important contributor to our vibrant and resilient multicultural society, where all Australians can peacefully and safely express their views.”

<h2>Diplomatic row between India and Canada</h2>

On June 18, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was shot dead in his vehicle by two masked gunmen in the busy car park of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, a city about 30km (18 miles) east of Vancouver.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-delhi-expels-canadian-envoy-over-anti-india-activities-637399">New Delhi expels top Canadian diplomat over 'anti-India activities'</a>

Hours after Trudeau accused India of an association with the killing, both countries expelled top diplomats of their respective countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-expels-top-indian-diplomat-over-killing-of-khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjar-637332">Canada expels top Indian diplomat over killing of Khalistani terrorist Nijjar</a>

“Over the past number of weeks, Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar,” Trudeau said in parliament on Monday.

The Indian foreign ministry later&nbsp;expelled a senior Canadian diplomat based in India.

“The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days,” it said in a statement.

“The decision reflects the Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities.”

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Upping diplomatic pressure against India over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has decided to engage with UK, US, France and its other “close allies” and brief them about the developments related to the case.

Upping diplomatic pressure against India over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has decided to engage with UK, US, France and its other “close allies” and brief them about the developments related to the case. CBC News, quoting sources from the government, has reported that Trudeau briefed the leaders of some of Canada's closest allies about the case, including UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, and US President Joe Biden. The report further mentions that Trudeau has urged the Indian government to participate in the ongoing investigation and "cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter." Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said the Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be probing the murder case. "We'll hold the perpetrators accountable and bring them to justice," he said. "It's progressing," RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme told CBC News when asked about the investigation. So far no arrests So far no arrests have been made, but in August, the Canadian police said that they were investigating three suspects and issued a description of a possible getaway vehicle, asking for the public’s help. Till now, the US and Australia have reacted to the reports, with the White House saying it is “deeply concerned about the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau,” according to Reuters. “We remain in regular contact with our Canadian partners. It is critical that Canada’s investigation proceed and the perpetrators be brought to justice,” it said. A spokesperson for Australian foreign minister Penny Wong told CNN that they are “deeply concerned” by the allegations. “We are closely engaged with partners on developments. We have conveyed our concerns at senior levels to India,” a statement shared with CNN said. “We understand these reports will be particularly concerning to some Australian communities. The Indian diaspora is a valued and important contributor to our vibrant and resilient multicultural society, where all Australians can peacefully and safely express their views.” Diplomatic row between India and Canada On June 18, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was shot dead in his vehicle by two masked gunmen in the busy car park of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, a city about 30km (18 miles) east of Vancouver. Also read | New Delhi expels top Canadian diplomat over 'anti-India activities' Hours after Trudeau accused India of an association with the killing, both countries expelled top diplomats of their respective countries. Also read | Canada expels top Indian diplomat over killing of Khalistani terrorist Nijjar “Over the past number of weeks, Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar,” Trudeau said in parliament on Monday. The Indian foreign ministry later expelled a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. “The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days,” it said in a statement. “The decision reflects the Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canadian PM Trudeau briefs US, UK and France on 'India role in Nijjar killing' issue: Reports

One of the five Americans freed from Iranian custody after nearly eight years has urged US President Joe Biden to end the Islamic Republic’s “longstanding” practice of keeping foreign nationals in jail.

In a statement after being released from the notorious Evin prison in Tehran, Siamak Namazi, a dual national and the longest-held of the five detainees for 2,898 days, called for a different approach to deter what he called state-sponsored hostage taking.

“Over the past 44 years, the Iranian regime has mastered the nasty game of caging innocent Americans and other foreign nationals, and commercialising their freedom,” he said after flying from Tehran to Doha, calling Evin prison a “dystopian United Nations of Hostages”, reports Guardian.

“We must urgently channel the grievous pain of the victims of this wickedness into the kind of measures that would upend the cost-benefit calculations of Tehran’s foul business. For if we keep this vile path to profit free of risk and toll, this venal regime will keep treading on it. Again and again.

“It is only if the free world finally agrees to collectively impose draconian consequences on those who use human lives as mere bargaining chips, that the Iranian regime and its ilk will be compelled to make different choices. Sadly, until then, we can anticipate more Americans and others falling victim to state hostage-taking.”

<h2>Prisoners in exchange for access to funds&nbsp;</h2>

Siamak Namazi is one of the five American detainees who was freed on Monday in exchange for a deal to allow Iran to access $6 billion of previously frozen oil revenues.

The US official said that the money involved in the deal would be limited for use on “humanitarian transactions” involving food, medicine and medical supplies, and agricultural products.

“This is not a payment of any kind,” a senior administration official said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-american-detainees-fly-out-of-iran-in-swap-deal-after-6-billion-unfrozen-637211">US and Iran swap prisoners after Qatar-brokered deal unfreezes $6 billion of Iranian oil money</a>

“No funds enter Iran, nor do any funds get paid to Iranian companies or entities. At bottom, these are Iranian funds – payment made by South Korea to Iran for purchases of oil years ago, including during the last administration – moving from one restricted account in Korea to another restricted account in Qatar.”

The funds were frozen in 2019 as a result of ramped-up sanctions imposed by the Trump administration as part of its policy of “maximum pressure” on Tehran. They related to oil bought from Iran by South Korea the previous year under a sanctions-waiver scheme.

(With inputs from agencies)

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One of the five Americans freed from Iranian custody after nearly eight years has urged US President Joe Biden to end the Islamic Republic’s “longstanding” practice of keeping foreign nationals in jail.

One of the five Americans freed from Iranian custody after nearly eight years has urged US President Joe Biden to end the Islamic Republic’s “longstanding” practice of keeping foreign nationals in jail. In a statement after being released from the notorious Evin prison in Tehran, Siamak Namazi, a dual national and the longest-held of the five detainees for 2,898 days, called for a different approach to deter what he called state-sponsored hostage taking. “Over the past 44 years, the Iranian regime has mastered the nasty game of caging innocent Americans and other foreign nationals, and commercialising their freedom,” he said after flying from Tehran to Doha, calling Evin prison a “dystopian United Nations of Hostages”, reports Guardian. “We must urgently channel the grievous pain of the victims of this wickedness into the kind of measures that would upend the cost-benefit calculations of Tehran’s foul business. For if we keep this vile path to profit free of risk and toll, this venal regime will keep treading on it. Again and again. “It is only if the free world finally agrees to collectively impose draconian consequences on those who use human lives as mere bargaining chips, that the Iranian regime and its ilk will be compelled to make different choices. Sadly, until then, we can anticipate more Americans and others falling victim to state hostage-taking.” Prisoners in exchange for access to funds Siamak Namazi is one of the five American detainees who was freed on Monday in exchange for a deal to allow Iran to access $6 billion of previously frozen oil revenues. The US official said that the money involved in the deal would be limited for use on “humanitarian transactions” involving food, medicine and medical supplies, and agricultural products. “This is not a payment of any kind,” a senior administration official said in a statement. Also read | US and Iran swap prisoners after Qatar-brokered deal unfreezes $6 billion of Iranian oil money “No funds enter Iran, nor do any funds get paid to Iranian companies or entities. At bottom, these are Iranian funds – payment made by South Korea to Iran for purchases of oil years ago, including during the last administration – moving from one restricted account in Korea to another restricted account in Qatar.” The funds were frozen in 2019 as a result of ramped-up sanctions imposed by the Trump administration as part of its policy of “maximum pressure” on Tehran. They related to oil bought from Iran by South Korea the previous year under a sanctions-waiver scheme. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned

Covid wasn’t kind to wedding planners in China, where marriages are traditionally elaborate, expensive affairs, but the industry estimated at almost $500 billion is now facing a bigger threat: a plunge in the number of couples willing to tie the knot.

The trend, which has become more obvious as the economy weakens and consumer confidence wanes, is also worrying officials trying to revive marriage, and birth, rates which dropped to record lows last year, leading to the first decline in population numbers in 60 years.

“The number of marriages is falling and few are willing to spend a lot on weddings,” said Yuan Jialiang, who ran a full-scale wedding planning business for almost a decade in Shanghai before switching to focus on wedding photography before the pandemic.

“The future of this industry doesn’t look promising.”

There were 6.8 million marriages across China last year, 800,000 fewer than in 2021 and the lowest since the government began publishing the data in 1986.

This drop in marriage registrations will exacerbate the decline in births in China, now one of the world’s fastest-ageing societies. Many cities deny unmarried mothers child-raising or healthcare subsidies and having children out of wedlock is often frowned upon.

“You have a lot of consumers that are just saying ‘well, you know, marriage isn’t the right thing for me’ and a lot of younger adults in China feel that raising kids is just too expensive,” said Ben Cavender, managing director and head of strategy at China Market Research Group.

“The traditional Chinese wedding industry is probably in for tough times.”

<h2>Budget, backlog</h2>

Before the pandemic hit, weddings were big business in China, with Daxue Consulting estimating the industry to be worth 3.6 trillion yuan ($487 billion) in 2020.

Couples traditionally splash out on gold jewellery, elaborate decor and luxury venues but Frank Chen, from Chen Feng Wedding Planning in Shanghai, says few weddings this year had a budget of over 100,000 yuan ($13,736).

“People are more inclined to go for a simple and niche wedding,” said Chen, adding that a decade ago, it was common for couples to spend millions of yuan.

Many weddings planned for 2022 were postponed by COVID-19 lockdowns, resulting in a busier 2023 for some firms.

Jewellery companies Chow Tai Fook and TSL said they expect demand for wedding jewellery this year to return to pre-pandemic levels.

TSL, however, said the long-term future of the industry would depend on the strength of the economy.

“It’s just the COVID backlog,” said wedding planner Xueyi, whose business in Xi’an and Shanghai has also seen a spike this year. “Some of my clients who had bookings rescheduled have actually separated.”

<h2>‘Niche, Niche, Niche’</h2>

The economic downturn has hit the middle class, and the youth, the hardest, resulting in high jobless rates and low household spending.

Wealthier consumers appear to be better insulated against the macroeconomic headwinds and Jewel Wang, owner of a network of stores selling wedding dresses by U.S. designer Vera Wang, expects companies specialising in high-end or bespoke services to fare better than those in the low-to-mid-ranges.

Wang, who is also founder of Nora’s bridal boutique in Shanghai which stocks luxury gowns from designers including Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera, said June was the best month in a decade due to pent-up demand.

“For us it makes more sense to find the next bride who can afford our products versus capturing a greater part of the market,” she added.

Still, she was cautious about the future.

“As a market we see an absolute downturn in spending. Our strategy has been to stay niche, niche, niche,” said Wang.

“We don’t want to flow with the broader market because we don’t think that it’s a good place to go.”

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Covid wasn’t kind to wedding planners in China, where marriages are traditionally elaborate, expensive affairs, but the industry estimated at almost $500 billion is now facing a bigger threat: a plunge in the number of couples willing to tie the knot.

Covid wasn’t kind to wedding planners in China, where marriages are traditionally elaborate, expensive affairs, but the industry estimated at almost $500 billion is now facing a bigger threat: a plunge in the number of couples willing to tie the knot. The trend, which has become more obvious as the economy weakens and consumer confidence wanes, is also worrying officials trying to revive marriage, and birth, rates which dropped to record lows last year, leading to the first decline in population numbers in 60 years. “The number of marriages is falling and few are willing to spend a lot on weddings,” said Yuan Jialiang, who ran a full-scale wedding planning business for almost a decade in Shanghai before switching to focus on wedding photography before the pandemic. “The future of this industry doesn’t look promising.” There were 6.8 million marriages across China last year, 800,000 fewer than in 2021 and the lowest since the government began publishing the data in 1986. This drop in marriage registrations will exacerbate the decline in births in China, now one of the world’s fastest-ageing societies. Many cities deny unmarried mothers child-raising or healthcare subsidies and having children out of wedlock is often frowned upon. “You have a lot of consumers that are just saying ‘well, you know, marriage isn’t the right thing for me’ and a lot of younger adults in China feel that raising kids is just too expensive,” said Ben Cavender, managing director and head of strategy at China Market Research Group. “The traditional Chinese wedding industry is probably in for tough times.” Budget, backlog Before the pandemic hit, weddings were big business in China, with Daxue Consulting estimating the industry to be worth 3.6 trillion yuan ($487 billion) in 2020. Couples traditionally splash out on gold jewellery, elaborate decor and luxury venues but Frank Chen, from Chen Feng Wedding Planning in Shanghai, says few weddings this year had a budget of over 100,000 yuan ($13,736). “People are more inclined to go for a simple and niche wedding,” said Chen, adding that a decade ago, it was common for couples to spend millions of yuan. Many weddings planned for 2022 were postponed by COVID-19 lockdowns, resulting in a busier 2023 for some firms. Jewellery companies Chow Tai Fook and TSL said they expect demand for wedding jewellery this year to return to pre-pandemic levels. TSL, however, said the long-term future of the industry would depend on the strength of the economy. “It’s just the COVID backlog,” said wedding planner Xueyi, whose business in Xi’an and Shanghai has also seen a spike this year. “Some of my clients who had bookings rescheduled have actually separated.” ‘Niche, Niche, Niche’ The economic downturn has hit the middle class, and the youth, the hardest, resulting in high jobless rates and low household spending. Wealthier consumers appear to be better insulated against the macroeconomic headwinds and Jewel Wang, owner of a network of stores selling wedding dresses by U.S. designer Vera Wang, expects companies specialising in high-end or bespoke services to fare better than those in the low-to-mid-ranges. Wang, who is also founder of Nora’s bridal boutique in Shanghai which stocks luxury gowns from designers including Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera, said June was the best month in a decade due to pent-up demand. “For us it makes more sense to find the next bride who can afford our products versus capturing a greater part of the market,” she added. Still, she was cautious about the future. “As a market we see an absolute downturn in spending. Our strategy has been to stay niche, niche, niche,” said Wang. “We don’t want to flow with the broader market because we don’t think that it’s a good place to go.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fewer ‘I dos’ ruin the party for China’s $500 billion wedding industry

A local politician from India’s Punjab belonging to the Congress party was shot and killed in Dala village of Moga district allegedly by a terrorist who has ties with a Khalistan radical outfit.

The deceased identified as Baljinder Singh Balli (45) was shot twice after some&nbsp;assailants barged into his house later Monday. While one bullet pierced his chest, the other hit his thigh.

Police said that the assailants came on a bike. While one entered the house, the other kept waiting outside.

The incident was captured on CCTV installed outside Balli's residence in Dala village. He was the Congress block president in Ajitwal.

<h2>Revenge killing&nbsp;</h2>

Hours later, a gangster and a designated terrorist, Arshdeep Singh Gill, alias Arsh Dalla, took responsibility for the murder in a Facebook post purportedly from his account. He is currently a permanent resident of Canada.

Dalla said he killed Balli to exact revenge for keeping his mother in police custody and getting his friends arrested.

“I am responsible for the murder of Balli in Dala village because it was my own village’s politics which had made me tread this path. This man (Balli) was responsible for keeping my mother in CIA (police) custody for a week and he also got my friends arrested. He was hand in glove with police… and got my home vandalised. He destroyed my home just to gain his own afsar shaahi… My life’s aim was not to live my own life but to kill him. If we wished, we would have killed his child too but that child was nowhere at fault…. those who are sympathising with him, their homes are also not far for us…,”&nbsp;the post says in Punjabi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/motivated-and-absurd-india-slams-canadas-accusations-over-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-637339">'Motivated, absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist's killing</a>

Meanwhile, police have initiated a probe and an FIR was being registered. Moga SSP J Elanchezhian said that the alleged Facebook post of Dalla was being verified.

<h2>Who is Arsh Dalla?</h2>

In January this year, the Indian government declared Arsh Dalla as an ‘individual terrorist’.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-skip-next-republican-debate-give-speech-to-auto-workers-637387">Trump to skip next Republican debate, give speech to auto workers</a>

He is involved in heinous crimes such as murder, extortion and targeted killings and is facing 20 FIRs. He is notorious for generating funds and providing logistical support to gangsters and criminals.

He went to Canada on October 22, 2018, on a visitor visa. According to reports, he obtained a permanent residency in Canada based on this passport.

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A local politician from India’s Punjab belonging to the Congress party was shot and killed in Dala village of Moga district allegedly by a terrorist who has ties with a Khalistan radical outfit.

A local politician from India’s Punjab belonging to the Congress party was shot and killed in Dala village of Moga district allegedly by a terrorist who has ties with a Khalistan radical outfit. The deceased identified as Baljinder Singh Balli (45) was shot twice after some assailants barged into his house later Monday. While one bullet pierced his chest, the other hit his thigh. Police said that the assailants came on a bike. While one entered the house, the other kept waiting outside. The incident was captured on CCTV installed outside Balli's residence in Dala village. He was the Congress block president in Ajitwal. Revenge killing Hours later, a gangster and a designated terrorist, Arshdeep Singh Gill, alias Arsh Dalla, took responsibility for the murder in a Facebook post purportedly from his account. He is currently a permanent resident of Canada. Dalla said he killed Balli to exact revenge for keeping his mother in police custody and getting his friends arrested. “I am responsible for the murder of Balli in Dala village because it was my own village’s politics which had made me tread this path. This man (Balli) was responsible for keeping my mother in CIA (police) custody for a week and he also got my friends arrested. He was hand in glove with police… and got my home vandalised. He destroyed my home just to gain his own afsar shaahi… My life’s aim was not to live my own life but to kill him. If we wished, we would have killed his child too but that child was nowhere at fault…. those who are sympathising with him, their homes are also not far for us…,” the post says in Punjabi. Also read | 'Motivated, absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist's killing Meanwhile, police have initiated a probe and an FIR was being registered. Moga SSP J Elanchezhian said that the alleged Facebook post of Dalla was being verified. Who is Arsh Dalla? In January this year, the Indian government declared Arsh Dalla as an ‘individual terrorist’. Also read | Trump to skip next Republican debate, give speech to auto workers He is involved in heinous crimes such as murder, extortion and targeted killings and is facing 20 FIRs. He is notorious for generating funds and providing logistical support to gangsters and criminals. He went to Canada on October 22, 2018, on a visitor visa. According to reports, he obtained a permanent residency in Canada based on this passport. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian politician killed in Punjab, Canada-based terrorist who has ties with Khalistan claims responsibility

The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month.

The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment. Those removed included Hanna Maliar, who frequently issues public updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Rustem Umerov became defence minister less than two weeks ago, replacing Oleksii Reznikov. The ministry had been dogged by media allegations of corruption while Reznikov was in the post although he faced no corruption allegations himself.

“Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual,” Umerov said in a Facebook post.

The Ukrainska Pravda news site quoted unnamed government sources as saying all the deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts.

It said consultations were underway on candidates to replace them and quoted a source close to the ministry as saying “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry.

Umerov has said his priorities include making the ministry the main institution for coordinating Ukrainian defence forces, enhancing the value attached to individual soldiers, developing Ukraine’s military industry and fighting corruption.

Maliar, a war crimes lawyer, had served as a deputy defence minister since 2021 and her latest update on the war in Ukraine appeared on Monday morning.

She faced criticism last week after initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured an eastern village from Russian forces, but later saying her report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. Its capture was then announced by the military the next day, but Russia has since denied losing control of the village.

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The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month. The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment.

The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month. The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment. Those removed included Hanna Maliar, who frequently issues public updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine. Rustem Umerov became defence minister less than two weeks ago, replacing Oleksii Reznikov. The ministry had been dogged by media allegations of corruption while Reznikov was in the post although he faced no corruption allegations himself. “Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual,” Umerov said in a Facebook post. The Ukrainska Pravda news site quoted unnamed government sources as saying all the deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts. It said consultations were underway on candidates to replace them and quoted a source close to the ministry as saying “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry. Umerov has said his priorities include making the ministry the main institution for coordinating Ukrainian defence forces, enhancing the value attached to individual soldiers, developing Ukraine’s military industry and fighting corruption. Maliar, a war crimes lawyer, had served as a deputy defence minister since 2021 and her latest update on the war in Ukraine appeared on Monday morning. She faced criticism last week after initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured an eastern village from Russian forces, but later saying her report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. Its capture was then announced by the military the next day, but Russia has since denied losing control of the village. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that there is a need to shed the “West is the bad guy” syndrome, as he said that they are not flooding goods on a massive scale in Asia and Africa, in an indirect reference to China.

In an interview to Indian news channel Asianet on Sunday (Sept 17), Jaishankar further said that his remarks should not be seen as a defence of the Western countries.

He was in Thiruvananthapuram as part of the launch of the&nbsp;PM Vishwakarma scheme.

"It is not the West which is flooding Asia and Africa with goods on a massive scale. I think we need to get over the syndrome of the past that the West is the bad guy and on the other side are the developing countries. The world is more complicated, the problems are much more complicated than that," the minister said in response to a question by former Indian diplomat TP Sreenivasan, who interviewed Jaishankar for the channel.

<h2>China's&nbsp;trade and economic policies</h2>

He said the issue today was the building up of a strong sense, over the last 15-20 years, over the inequities of globalisation where countries saw their products, manufacturing and employment come under stress due to their markets being flooded by cheap goods — an indirect reference to the Chinese trade and economic policies.

The minister said this underlying resentment and pain of those countries regarding the global economy was building up for the last 15-20 years and the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict resulted in prices of energy and food items going up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-foreign-minister-to-visit-russia-from-september-18-to-21-636973">China's foreign minister to visit Russia from September 18 to 21</a>

“So, there was a sense of anger building up in countries about them being used as an extractive resource to fuel the economy of another nation and added that the West was not to be blamed for that,” he added.

<h2>Not defending West</h2>

He, however, quickly pointed out that he was not defending the West and said that the way manufacturing is being leveraged and subsidised, it is affecting the manufacturing of many nations’ economies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-indian-army-soldier-abducted-while-on-leave-killed-636932">Manipur: Indian Army soldier abducted while on leave, killed</a>

However, India's manufacturing, agriculture, scientific achievements like the Chandrayaan-3 mission, ability to vaccinate, etc,&nbsp;all of that has created a sense among the Global South, which includes the African Union, "that one of us has the ability to stand, grow and progress".

"So, they identify with us in a way that they do not with other people," Jaishankar said.

Commenting on why Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped the G20 summit in New Delhi, Jaishankar said the reasons were up for speculation.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that there is a need to shed the “West is the bad guy” syndrome, as he said that they are not flooding goods on a massive scale in Asia and Africa, in an indirect reference to China.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that there is a need to shed the “West is the bad guy” syndrome, as he said that they are not flooding goods on a massive scale in Asia and Africa, in an indirect reference to China. In an interview to Indian news channel Asianet on Sunday (Sept 17), Jaishankar further said that his remarks should not be seen as a defence of the Western countries. He was in Thiruvananthapuram as part of the launch of the PM Vishwakarma scheme. "It is not the West which is flooding Asia and Africa with goods on a massive scale. I think we need to get over the syndrome of the past that the West is the bad guy and on the other side are the developing countries. The world is more complicated, the problems are much more complicated than that," the minister said in response to a question by former Indian diplomat TP Sreenivasan, who interviewed Jaishankar for the channel. China's trade and economic policies He said the issue today was the building up of a strong sense, over the last 15-20 years, over the inequities of globalisation where countries saw their products, manufacturing and employment come under stress due to their markets being flooded by cheap goods — an indirect reference to the Chinese trade and economic policies. The minister said this underlying resentment and pain of those countries regarding the global economy was building up for the last 15-20 years and the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict resulted in prices of energy and food items going up. Also read | China's foreign minister to visit Russia from September 18 to 21 “So, there was a sense of anger building up in countries about them being used as an extractive resource to fuel the economy of another nation and added that the West was not to be blamed for that,” he added. Not defending West He, however, quickly pointed out that he was not defending the West and said that the way manufacturing is being leveraged and subsidised, it is affecting the manufacturing of many nations’ economies. Also read | Manipur: Indian Army soldier abducted while on leave, killed However, India's manufacturing, agriculture, scientific achievements like the Chandrayaan-3 mission, ability to vaccinate, etc, all of that has created a sense among the Global South, which includes the African Union, "that one of us has the ability to stand, grow and progress". "So, they identify with us in a way that they do not with other people," Jaishankar said. Commenting on why Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped the G20 summit in New Delhi, Jaishankar said the reasons were up for speculation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Should get over West is bad guy syndrome’, says India’s Jaishankar in indirect swipe at China

In a display of nostalgia, 10 women parliamentarians shared their memories, messages and experiences of the old Parliament building in handwritten notes as they prepared to bid farewell to the structure ahead of a move into the new complex during the upcoming session.

The MPs representing various political parties offered heartfelt tributes to the building that has been the epicentre of India's democratic journey.

Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, in her note, recounted her journey within the hallowed halls of the old Parliament building.

"From an awed visitor in 2006 to a first-time MP in 2009, then a first-time minister in 2014, these 144 pillars in this temple of democracy hold a multitude of memories for me," she said.

The "beautiful building, embellished with the history and handiwork of thousands of Indian artists, sculptors and labourers has been a place of intense learning and immense satisfaction", Badal added.

Priyanka Chaturvedi of the Shiv Sena (UBT) echoed her sentiment.

"Memories. Learnings. Policy Making. Friendships. History and the sheer beauty of this architectural marvel that has seen intense debates and disruptions," she shared in her note.

"Stalwarts and history makers all work in its precincts. Parliament that has shaped 75 years of our journey as a confident nation. Proud to be a part of this journey and hoping the essence of this parliament continues in the new building," Chaturvedi said.

Union Minister and Apna Dal (S) MP Anupriya Patel recalled in her note her first steps into Sansad Bhavan.

"I could feel deep within that I am entering a historic building, which saw India gaining its Independence on 15 August, 1947, the framing of our Constitution and the evolution and strengthening of our country's democratic institutions," she said in her note.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anantnag-operation-security-command-centre-established-kokernag-636912">Anantnag operation: Security command centre established in Kokernag</a>

BJP MP Poonam Mahajan expressed her thoughts poetically, saying, "Antim jay ka vajra banane, Nav Dadhichi haddiyan galaayein. Aao phir se diya jalaayein." Mahua Moitra of the TMC said the building "will always have a special place in my heart, as does anyone's first home".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-all-party-meeting-push-for-passage-of-womens-reservation-bill-in-parliament-session-636904">India: All-party meeting pushes for passage of women’s reservation bill in parliament's special session</a>

"This great Hall embraced us all, both treasury and opposition. And helped us find our own little corners in its cocoon. The building may change but its symbolism -- a free space for freely elected representatives of a free country -- is what is incumbent upon us all to preserve intact," she added in her note.

Union Minister and BJP MP Smriti Irani shared her "Best Wishes!" in her note.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule, on the other hand, expressed her gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency for giving her the opportunity to attend sessions at the Building.

"Blessed and gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and Baramati for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the largest democracy in the world and attending sessions in the old beautiful Parliament building -- echoes the voices of the leaders who contributed to the development of our beautiful country," she wrote in her note.

Congress MP Ramya Haridas reminisced about the building's significance, calling it the "palace of democracy" and the "birthplace of strong decisions".

She emphasised its historical importance and lasting memories.

Independent MP from Amravati Navneet Rana said she cherished her time in the old building and remarked, "First time when I was entering Parliament was a great memory for me. This Parliament gave me an opportunity to learn a lot of things. It's a real temple of democracy." Rajya Sabha MP and legenday sprinter PT Usha shared her unique perspective.

She recalled her visits to Parliament House and the warm reception she received from fellow parliamentarians, emphasising their support and cooperation.

"First time I visited this elegant Parliament House in the year 1986 after my rich gold medal haul at Seoul as a spectator. That time still remember that all the Honourable MPs congratulating me and gave best wishes. After that too I visited two or three times with some special purpose. But on 20th July, 2022, was a very special day for me. First time in my life I stepped into the Rajya Sabha with my right leg, touched the step with my right hand and chanted 'Hari Om' in my lips (sic)," she said.

A session of Parliament is set to begin on Monday amid an intense buzz on whether the government will have some surprise item up its sleeve during the five-day sitting that will see a discussion on Parliament's 75-year journey and House proceedings moving to the new building.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a display of nostalgia, 10 women parliamentarians shared their memories, messages and experiences of the old Parliament building in handwritten notes as they prepared to bid farewell to the structure ahead of a move into the new complex during the upcoming session.

In a display of nostalgia, 10 women parliamentarians shared their memories, messages and experiences of the old Parliament building in handwritten notes as they prepared to bid farewell to the structure ahead of a move into the new complex during the upcoming session. The MPs representing various political parties offered heartfelt tributes to the building that has been the epicentre of India's democratic journey. Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, in her note, recounted her journey within the hallowed halls of the old Parliament building. "From an awed visitor in 2006 to a first-time MP in 2009, then a first-time minister in 2014, these 144 pillars in this temple of democracy hold a multitude of memories for me," she said. The "beautiful building, embellished with the history and handiwork of thousands of Indian artists, sculptors and labourers has been a place of intense learning and immense satisfaction", Badal added. Priyanka Chaturvedi of the Shiv Sena (UBT) echoed her sentiment. "Memories. Learnings. Policy Making. Friendships. History and the sheer beauty of this architectural marvel that has seen intense debates and disruptions," she shared in her note. "Stalwarts and history makers all work in its precincts. Parliament that has shaped 75 years of our journey as a confident nation. Proud to be a part of this journey and hoping the essence of this parliament continues in the new building," Chaturvedi said. Union Minister and Apna Dal (S) MP Anupriya Patel recalled in her note her first steps into Sansad Bhavan. "I could feel deep within that I am entering a historic building, which saw India gaining its Independence on 15 August, 1947, the framing of our Constitution and the evolution and strengthening of our country's democratic institutions," she said in her note. Also read | Anantnag operation: Security command centre established in Kokernag BJP MP Poonam Mahajan expressed her thoughts poetically, saying, "Antim jay ka vajra banane, Nav Dadhichi haddiyan galaayein. Aao phir se diya jalaayein." Mahua Moitra of the TMC said the building "will always have a special place in my heart, as does anyone's first home". Also read | India: All-party meeting pushes for passage of women’s reservation bill in parliament's special session "This great Hall embraced us all, both treasury and opposition. And helped us find our own little corners in its cocoon. The building may change but its symbolism -- a free space for freely elected representatives of a free country -- is what is incumbent upon us all to preserve intact," she added in her note. Union Minister and BJP MP Smriti Irani shared her "Best Wishes!" in her note. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule, on the other hand, expressed her gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency for giving her the opportunity to attend sessions at the Building. "Blessed and gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and Baramati for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the largest democracy in the world and attending sessions in the old beautiful Parliament building -- echoes the voices of the leaders who contributed to the development of our beautiful country," she wrote in her note. Congress MP Ramya Haridas reminisced about the building's significance, calling it the "palace of democracy" and the "birthplace of strong decisions". She emphasised its historical importance and lasting memories. Independent MP from Amravati Navneet Rana said she cherished her time in the old building and remarked, "First time when I was entering Parliament was a great memory for me. This Parliament gave me an opportunity to learn a lot of things. It's a real temple of democracy." Rajya Sabha MP and legenday sprinter PT Usha shared her unique perspective. She recalled her visits to Parliament House and the warm reception she received from fellow parliamentarians, emphasising their support and cooperation. "First time I visited this elegant Parliament House in the year 1986 after my rich gold medal haul at Seoul as a spectator. That time still remember that all the Honourable MPs congratulating me and gave best wishes. After that too I visited two or three times with some special purpose. But on 20th July, 2022, was a very special day for me. First time in my life I stepped into the Rajya Sabha with my right leg, touched the step with my right hand and chanted 'Hari Om' in my lips (sic)," she said. A session of Parliament is set to begin on Monday amid an intense buzz on whether the government will have some surprise item up its sleeve during the five-day sitting that will see a discussion on Parliament's 75-year journey and House proceedings moving to the new building. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Memories and learnings': 10 Indian woman MPs pen letters to share memories of old parliament

Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

"103 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected" between Sunday and Monday morning, the defence ministry said in a statement, referring to China's air force and navy.

The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high".

The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China.

Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions.

<h2>Increased military drills </h2>

It comes at a time when China has been undertaking military drills near the self-ruled island in a bid to increase pressure as it asserts claim over Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory.

Between Wednesday (Sept 13) and Thursday ((Sept 14) morning, Taiwan’s defence ministry detected 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels in a day.

The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island.

It is believed that the Chinese drills coincided with a joint maritime exercise conducted by the US, South Korea and Canada that happened on the Yellow Sea on Thursday.

The military build-up is part of China’s attempts to lay claim over Taiwan and its integration into the mainland.

<h2>Plan for peaceful unification </h2>

On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers unveiled a new plan to move forward with the country's bid for "peaceful unification" with Taiwan.

Under the measures, the Chinese policymakers plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-84-chinese-warplanes-and-33-warships-near-island-in-three-days-635821">Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days</a>

The plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-demands-clarification-after-ukrainian-official-questions-intellectual-potential-635807">Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect</a>

Apart from that, the proposal includes making it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian and encouraging companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan.&nbsp;

They also call for Xiamen coastal city to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan.&nbsp;

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Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). "103 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected" between Sunday and Monday morning, the defence ministry said in a statement, referring to China's air force and navy. The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high". The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China. Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions. Increased military drills It comes at a time when China has been undertaking military drills near the self-ruled island in a bid to increase pressure as it asserts claim over Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory. Between Wednesday (Sept 13) and Thursday ((Sept 14) morning, Taiwan’s defence ministry detected 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels in a day. The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island. It is believed that the Chinese drills coincided with a joint maritime exercise conducted by the US, South Korea and Canada that happened on the Yellow Sea on Thursday. The military build-up is part of China’s attempts to lay claim over Taiwan and its integration into the mainland. Plan for peaceful unification On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers unveiled a new plan to move forward with the country's bid for "peaceful unification" with Taiwan. Under the measures, the Chinese policymakers plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation. Also read | Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days The plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification". Also read | Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect Apart from that, the proposal includes making it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian and encouraging companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan. They also call for Xiamen coastal city to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action' 

Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).&nbsp;The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high". Meanwhile,&nbsp;Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has assured to rewrite&nbsp;the Brexit deal if they are elected to power in the next election. In other news,&nbsp;Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will start his four-day official visit to Russia on Monday where he will hold security talks.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-103-chinese-warplanes-near-island-636975">Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes near island</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/18/380333-taiwan.jpg?imwidth=1920" />The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China. Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-will-be-majorly-rewritten-if-labour-is-elected-claims-keir-starmer-637003">Brexit deal will be majorly rewritten if Labour is elected: Keir Starmer</a>

<img alt="Hot, ready, legal: Britain's former top prosecutor Sir Keir Starmer turns his focus to politics | London Evening Standard | Evening Standard" src="https://static.standard.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2014/09/08/10/33KeirStarmer0809.jpg?width=968&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=50&amp;crop=968%3A645%2Csmart" />While unveiling the blueprint for power if the next general elections are won by the party,&nbsp;Labour Party leader Keir Starmer told the Financial Times he plans to seek a closer trading relationship with Brussels when the Brexit agreement, which was negotiated by then-prime minister Boris Johnson, will be reviewed in 2025.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-foreign-minister-to-visit-russia-from-september-18-to-21-636973">China's foreign minister to visit Russia from September 18 to 21</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/18/380332-untitled-design-2023-09-18t080140943.png?imwidth=1920" />Russia and China have been strategic allies as both countries frequently continue to reiterate their "no limits" partnership and military and economic co-operation. The ties between the two countries grew closer after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February last year which was not criticised by China.

Eye on China &amp; Pakistan, Indian government clears proposal to buy Pralay ballistic missiles for Army

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eye-on-china-pakistan-indian-government-clears-proposal-to-buy-pralay-ballistic-missiles-for-army-637006/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

UK comedian Russel Brand accused of rape and sexual assault, allegations span over 7 years

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Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high". Meanwhile, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has assured to rewrite the Brexit deal if they are elected to power in the next election. In other news, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will start his four-day official visit to Russia on Monday where he will hold security talks. Click on the headlines to read more: Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes near island The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China. Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions. Brexit deal will be majorly rewritten if Labour is elected: Keir Starmer While unveiling the blueprint for power if the next general elections are won by the party, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer told the Financial Times he plans to seek a closer trading relationship with Brussels when the Brexit agreement, which was negotiated by then-prime minister Boris Johnson, will be reviewed in 2025. China's foreign minister to visit Russia from September 18 to 21 Russia and China have been strategic allies as both countries frequently continue to reiterate their "no limits" partnership and military and economic co-operation. The ties between the two countries grew closer after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February last year which was not criticised by China. Eye on China & Pakistan, Indian government clears proposal to buy Pralay ballistic missiles for Army UK comedian Russel Brand accused of rape and sexual assault, allegations span over 7 years

Morning news brief: Taiwan sounds alarm over Chinese warship, new Brexit deal? And more

As the speculations around the mummified corpses of the alleged aliens unveiled in Mexico refuse to die down, US billionaire Elon Musk has weighed in on the whole incident.

An X user shared a TikTok video on the social media platform which appeared to show one of the aliens being sliced with a knife, indicating that the corpses were fake..

The video, in fact, was a spoof and was shared with the caption: "Breaking news: 'Alien' revealed as cake.

"Suspected Alien corpse turns out to be a Cake."

While replying to the footage post, Musk quipped: "It was cake all along."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Well, yummy idea<a href="https://t.co/O4ctV9WqQe">pic.twitter.com/O4ctV9WqQe</a>
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rainmaker1973/status/1702722095770194057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Other X users were quick to comment on their thoughts, with one writing: "I knew it, but didn't want to ruin the surprise."

Meanwhile, another one responded, &nbsp;"It looks more convincing than the other ones," followed by a cry-laughing emoji.

<h2>The cake video</h2>

The Mexico alien corpses reveal has stirred a massive debate in the scientific community, with many demanding that the evidence be shared with the public.

Even as the call for serious discussions gained ground, netizens have been having a field day on the whole thing that transpired.

Recently, a video was shared on TikTok and then on other social media platforms showing that the corpse of one of the alien-like creatures being sliced with a knife, suggesting that it was a cake all along.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-close-encounter-with-the-alien-bodies-in-mexico-637112">A close encounter with the 'alien bodies' in Mexico</a>

It was later confirmed that it was a spoof video intended to bring out laughter.&nbsp;The cake of the extra-terrestrial figure was created by a pastry maker, Ben Cullen.

He is reportedly an “Award-winning Cake Artist” and he revealed that he took part in Netflix’s&nbsp;Extreme Cake Makers. He also has his own YouTube channel where he has amassed over 43,000 followers.

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I had to do it 👽🍰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/alien?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#alien</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cake</a> <a href="https://t.co/VHetnNR0CX">pic.twitter.com/VHetnNR0CX</a>
— The Bakeking (@The_Bakeking) <a href="https://twitter.com/The_Bakeking/status/1702719762688573731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The alien corpse

Earlier this week, a journalist and self-described UFOlogist, Jaime Maussan, showcased two caskets of what he claims to be the corpses of aliens that were unearthed in Peru.

The corpses looked white and like stereotypical depictions of aliens — big head, little body, three fingers. Maussan said they were&nbsp;found in Peru in 2017&nbsp;and are estimated to be 1,000 years old. One of the bodies had been pregnant, he claimed.

"These are not mummies. These are complete bodies that have not been manipulated," Maussan claimed while being under oath in Congress, alleging that the bodies were nonhuman.

&nbsp;

As the speculations around the mummified corpses of the alleged aliens unveiled in Mexico refuse to die down, US billionaire Elon Musk has weighed in on the whole incident.

As the speculations around the mummified corpses of the alleged aliens unveiled in Mexico refuse to die down, US billionaire Elon Musk has weighed in on the whole incident. An X user shared a TikTok video on the social media platform which appeared to show one of the aliens being sliced with a knife, indicating that the corpses were fake.. The video, in fact, was a spoof and was shared with the caption: "Breaking news: 'Alien' revealed as cake. "Suspected Alien corpse turns out to be a Cake." While replying to the footage post, Musk quipped: "It was cake all along." Well, yummy ideapic.twitter.com/O4ctV9WqQe — Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) September 15, 2023 × Other X users were quick to comment on their thoughts, with one writing: "I knew it, but didn't want to ruin the surprise." Meanwhile, another one responded, "It looks more convincing than the other ones," followed by a cry-laughing emoji. The cake video The Mexico alien corpses reveal has stirred a massive debate in the scientific community, with many demanding that the evidence be shared with the public. Even as the call for serious discussions gained ground, netizens have been having a field day on the whole thing that transpired. Recently, a video was shared on TikTok and then on other social media platforms showing that the corpse of one of the alien-like creatures being sliced with a knife, suggesting that it was a cake all along. Also read | A close encounter with the 'alien bodies' in Mexico It was later confirmed that it was a spoof video intended to bring out laughter. The cake of the extra-terrestrial figure was created by a pastry maker, Ben Cullen. He is reportedly an “Award-winning Cake Artist” and he revealed that he took part in Netflix’s Extreme Cake Makers. He also has his own YouTube channel where he has amassed over 43,000 followers. I had to do it 👽🍰#alien #cake pic.twitter.com/VHetnNR0CX — The Bakeking (@The_Bakeking) September 15, 2023 × The alien corpse Earlier this week, a journalist and self-described UFOlogist, Jaime Maussan, showcased two caskets of what he claims to be the corpses of aliens that were unearthed in Peru. The corpses looked white and like stereotypical depictions of aliens — big head, little body, three fingers. Maussan said they were found in Peru in 2017 and are estimated to be 1,000 years old. One of the bodies had been pregnant, he claimed. "These are not mummies. These are complete bodies that have not been manipulated," Maussan claimed while being under oath in Congress, alleging that the bodies were nonhuman.

Elon Musk has this to say on Mexico alien corpses saga

At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson.

A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.

The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said.

"The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station."

Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure.

He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added.

Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings.

Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram.

It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions

<h2>Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones </h2>

Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea.

The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-35b-plane-suspected-to-be-in-air-after-pilot-safely-ejects-after-mishap-637014">US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects</a>

Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-103-chinese-warplanes-near-island-636975">Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action'&nbsp;</a>

Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.

At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said. "The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station." Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure. He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added. Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings. Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram. It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea. The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area. Also read | US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done. Also read | Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action' Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine

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Zee News Rajasthan

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C Krishnasai

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