Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.&nbsp;

Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea.&nbsp;

After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today.

A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq.&nbsp;

At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers.&nbsp;

890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy.&nbsp;

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country.

In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace.&nbsp;

The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela.

(with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO. Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea. After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today. A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers. 890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country. In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace. The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela. (with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel receives UNESCO Peace Prize for accepting refugees

NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft departed Earth over 45 years ago on a mission to the outer planets and beyond. Even now, the adventure is still going on. On August 20, 1977, Voyager 2, the first of two spacecraft involved in the mission, was launched. It took use of a unique planetary alignment to use one planet's gravity to drive itself to another. Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space.

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The two spacecraft are equipped with cutting-edge tools for the in-depth study of distant worlds. Both of them are still sending data as they leave the solar system and enter interstellar space.&nbsp;

When mission designers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory realised that the next alignment of the outer planets, a rare occurrence that only happens once every 175 years, would take place in the late 1970s, they began planning the Voyager mission. Technology at the time allowed for the utilisation of this alignment to send a spacecraft via Jupiter, utilise Saturn's gravity to visit Saturn and then repeat the process to send another spacecraft by Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.

The first spacecraft to leave the earth, Voyager 2, was launched from Launch Complex 21 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (formerly the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station) in Florida on a Titan IIIE-Centaur rocket. Despite the fact that Voyager 1 was launched two weeks later, it reached Jupiter four months earlier than Voyager 2 thanks to a quicker trajectory.&nbsp;

NASA engineers began preparing more than 45 years ago for the potential that an extraterrestrial civilization could discover the spacecraft. Similar to Voyager 1, Voyager 2 is equipped with a gold-plated record that holds data about Earth as well as recordings of sounds, music, and greetings in 55 different languages. The record's playback instructions were also added by the engineers.

(with inputs from agencies)

NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft departed Earth over 45 years ago on a mission to the outer planets and beyond. Even now, the adventure is still going on. On August 20, 1977, Voyager 2, the first of two spacecraft involved in the mission, was launched.

NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft departed Earth over 45 years ago on a mission to the outer planets and beyond. Even now, the adventure is still going on. On August 20, 1977, Voyager 2, the first of two spacecraft involved in the mission, was launched. It took use of a unique planetary alignment to use one planet's gravity to drive itself to another. Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space. × The two spacecraft are equipped with cutting-edge tools for the in-depth study of distant worlds. Both of them are still sending data as they leave the solar system and enter interstellar space. When mission designers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory realised that the next alignment of the outer planets, a rare occurrence that only happens once every 175 years, would take place in the late 1970s, they began planning the Voyager mission. Technology at the time allowed for the utilisation of this alignment to send a spacecraft via Jupiter, utilise Saturn's gravity to visit Saturn and then repeat the process to send another spacecraft by Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The first spacecraft to leave the earth, Voyager 2, was launched from Launch Complex 21 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (formerly the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station) in Florida on a Titan IIIE-Centaur rocket. Despite the fact that Voyager 1 was launched two weeks later, it reached Jupiter four months earlier than Voyager 2 thanks to a quicker trajectory. NASA engineers began preparing more than 45 years ago for the potential that an extraterrestrial civilization could discover the spacecraft. Similar to Voyager 1, Voyager 2 is equipped with a gold-plated record that holds data about Earth as well as recordings of sounds, music, and greetings in 55 different languages. The record's playback instructions were also added by the engineers. (with inputs from agencies)

Watch: 45 years in space, NASA’s Voyager 2 continues its interstellar journey

The administration of Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on Tuesday that it has resurrected efforts to approve a bill that would shorten the nation's working hours and carry out a campaign pledge.&nbsp;

Since being submitted in 2017 by then-lawmaker and current government spokesperson Camila Vallejo, the bill, which seeks to decrease the working week from 45 to 40 hours within five years, has stuck in Congress.&nbsp;

A clause in Chile's constitution that compels parliamentarians to take up a bill when ordered by the president has been given "urgency" by Boric.

The bill's revisions suggested by Boric's administration, including one that extends the working-hour cut to employees in specific categories like public transportation drivers and domestic workers, will be debated by lawmakers.&nbsp;

At a ceremony held on Tuesday at the presidential palace, Boric declared that "these improvements are essential to&nbsp;bringing us closer to a new Chile, one that is fairer."

The world's top copper producer's economy is slowing down and facing significant inflationary pressures following a quick post-pandemic recovery, and the center-left administration has encouraged engagement with unions, worker federations, and representatives from small, medium, and large businesses.&nbsp;

Boric stated that his government anticipated that both parliamentary houses will vote on and pass the law as quickly as feasible.

(with inputs from agencies)

The administration of Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on Tuesday that it has resurrected efforts to approve a bill that would shorten the nation's working hours and carry out a campaign pledge.

The administration of Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on Tuesday that it has resurrected efforts to approve a bill that would shorten the nation's working hours and carry out a campaign pledge. Since being submitted in 2017 by then-lawmaker and current government spokesperson Camila Vallejo, the bill, which seeks to decrease the working week from 45 to 40 hours within five years, has stuck in Congress. A clause in Chile's constitution that compels parliamentarians to take up a bill when ordered by the president has been given "urgency" by Boric. The bill's revisions suggested by Boric's administration, including one that extends the working-hour cut to employees in specific categories like public transportation drivers and domestic workers, will be debated by lawmakers. At a ceremony held on Tuesday at the presidential palace, Boric declared that "these improvements are essential to bringing us closer to a new Chile, one that is fairer." The world's top copper producer's economy is slowing down and facing significant inflationary pressures following a quick post-pandemic recovery, and the center-left administration has encouraged engagement with unions, worker federations, and representatives from small, medium, and large businesses. Boric stated that his government anticipated that both parliamentary houses will vote on and pass the law as quickly as feasible. (with inputs from agencies)

Chilean President Boric invokes 'urgency' clause on bill to reduce working hours

Sanna Marin, the prime minister of Finland, issued an apology on Tuesday for a contentious photograph that was shot at her home, less than a week after the 36-year-old aroused controversy with a video of her partying.&nbsp;

The image, which has been circulating in Finnish media, features two ladies kissing, baring their torsos, and covering their breasts with the word "Finland."&nbsp;

The photo was taken at Marin's official residence in Kesaranta after she attended a music festival from July 8 to 10, she said on Tuesday.

"I think the picture is not appropriate, I apologise for it. Such a picture should not have been taken," Marin told reporters in Helsinki.

At the time, "friends" were "spending the evening" and "going to the sauna," according to Marin.&nbsp;

A former Miss Finland contestant and social media star who is in the snap initially posted the image on a TikTok account.&nbsp;

The largest newspaper in the Nordic region, Helsingin Sanomat, published an editorial on Tuesday claiming that Marin did not appear to be "in control" and that further images and films from her private life would come up in the public domain.&nbsp;

Last week, a video of Marin dancing and having a good time with a group of friends and celebrities made news across the world.&nbsp;

Some people mistook comments made in the video for references to drugs, which she vehemently rejected and was hotly disputed on social media.&nbsp;

Marin had a drug test on Friday to "clear up suspicions" as a result of the uproar.&nbsp;

A sample of her urine was examined for the presence of several medications. It gave negative results.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Sanna Marin, the prime minister of Finland, issued an apology on Tuesday for a contentious photograph that was shot at her home, less than a week after the 36-year-old aroused controversy with a video of her partying.

Sanna Marin, the prime minister of Finland, issued an apology on Tuesday for a contentious photograph that was shot at her home, less than a week after the 36-year-old aroused controversy with a video of her partying. The image, which has been circulating in Finnish media, features two ladies kissing, baring their torsos, and covering their breasts with the word "Finland." The photo was taken at Marin's official residence in Kesaranta after she attended a music festival from July 8 to 10, she said on Tuesday. "I think the picture is not appropriate, I apologise for it. Such a picture should not have been taken," Marin told reporters in Helsinki. At the time, "friends" were "spending the evening" and "going to the sauna," according to Marin. A former Miss Finland contestant and social media star who is in the snap initially posted the image on a TikTok account. The largest newspaper in the Nordic region, Helsingin Sanomat, published an editorial on Tuesday claiming that Marin did not appear to be "in control" and that further images and films from her private life would come up in the public domain. Last week, a video of Marin dancing and having a good time with a group of friends and celebrities made news across the world. Some people mistook comments made in the video for references to drugs, which she vehemently rejected and was hotly disputed on social media. Marin had a drug test on Friday to "clear up suspicions" as a result of the uproar. A sample of her urine was examined for the presence of several medications. It gave negative results. (with inputs from agencies)

Scandal yet again: Finland's PM Sanna Marin apologises for controversial pic

Brazilian police on Tuesday carried out raids against a number of businesses that had supported President Jair Bolsonaro's re-election after a media article said they had discussed the merits of a coup d'état if the far-right candidate lost the election in October, as reported by Reuters.

Justice of the Supreme Court Alexandre de Moraes, who was appointed head of Brazil's top electoral court last week, directed federal police to execute eight search warrants in five states. The targets were not named by the police.

Under the condition of anonymity, two people with knowledge of the situation claimed the targets of the raids included Meyer Joseph Nigri, chairman of the homebuilder Tecnisa SA, and Jose Isaac Peres, chief executive officer of shopping mall operator Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA.&nbsp;

One of Bolsonaro's most notable supporters and billionaire Luciano Hang, the founder of the department store chain Havan, claimed he was a target of the operation. He attributed this to news reports that misrepresented his comments made in a group chat.

"An irresponsible article without context put me in this situation," Hang wrote on Twitter. "I never spoke of a coup ... I have always defended democracy and freedom of expression."

The businessmen belonged to a WhatsApp group that talked about potential electoral fraud and the advantages of a coup d'état if Bolsonaro lost the forthcoming election, according to an article published last week by the Brazilian news outlet Metropoles.&nbsp;

The incumbent has questioned the validity of Brazil's electronic voting system, raising concerns that he would contest the election results. He is currently trailing the leftist former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in polls.&nbsp;

The sources claim that further businessmen Afranio Barreira Filho, Ivan Wrobel, Jose Koury, Marco Aurelio Raymundo, and Luiz Andre Tissot were the targets of the police raids on Tuesday.

(with inputs from agencies)

Brazilian police on Tuesday carried out raids against a number of businesses that had supported President Jair Bolsonaro's re-election after a media article said they had discussed the merits of a coup d'état if the far-right candidate lost the election in October, as reported by Reuters.

Brazilian police on Tuesday carried out raids against a number of businesses that had supported President Jair Bolsonaro's re-election after a media article said they had discussed the merits of a coup d'état if the far-right candidate lost the election in October, as reported by Reuters. Justice of the Supreme Court Alexandre de Moraes, who was appointed head of Brazil's top electoral court last week, directed federal police to execute eight search warrants in five states. The targets were not named by the police. Under the condition of anonymity, two people with knowledge of the situation claimed the targets of the raids included Meyer Joseph Nigri, chairman of the homebuilder Tecnisa SA, and Jose Isaac Peres, chief executive officer of shopping mall operator Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA. One of Bolsonaro's most notable supporters and billionaire Luciano Hang, the founder of the department store chain Havan, claimed he was a target of the operation. He attributed this to news reports that misrepresented his comments made in a group chat. "An irresponsible article without context put me in this situation," Hang wrote on Twitter. "I never spoke of a coup ... I have always defended democracy and freedom of expression." The businessmen belonged to a WhatsApp group that talked about potential electoral fraud and the advantages of a coup d'état if Bolsonaro lost the forthcoming election, according to an article published last week by the Brazilian news outlet Metropoles. The incumbent has questioned the validity of Brazil's electronic voting system, raising concerns that he would contest the election results. He is currently trailing the leftist former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in polls. The sources claim that further businessmen Afranio Barreira Filho, Ivan Wrobel, Jose Koury, Marco Aurelio Raymundo, and Luiz Andre Tissot were the targets of the police raids on Tuesday. (with inputs from agencies)

Pro-Bolsonaro businessmen accused of coup talk raided by Brazilian police

At a signing ceremony on Tuesday, officials announced that the United States would return to Nigeria the $23 million that former military dictator Sani Abacha had seized.&nbsp;

In recent years, Nigeria has come to various agreements on the return of stolen money. From 1993 until his death in 1998, Abacha oversaw the most populous and significant oil exporting country in Africa. Transparency International claimed that he syphoned off up to $5 billion in taxpayer funds during that time. He was never put on trial.

The money was in UK accounts, according to US&nbsp;Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard, but was discovered and blocked by American officials. She continued by saying that, with the most recent agreement included, the US had consented to return more than $334.7 million associated with Abacha.&nbsp;

The money will be utilised for infrastructure projects, such as the Abuja-Kano road, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and the second Niger bridge, under the supervision of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), according to Attorney General Abubakar Malami.

According to Malami, "The president's mandate to my office is to ensure that all international recoveries are transparently invested and monitored by civil society organizations to compete for these three projects within the agreed timeline."&nbsp;

Nigeria must spend monies returned from funds taken by Abacha on approved public projects, the U.S. Justice Department has previously stated, or be obliged to "replace" it.

(with inputs from agencies)

At a signing ceremony on Tuesday, officials announced that the United States would return to Nigeria the $23 million that former military dictator Sani Abacha had seized.

At a signing ceremony on Tuesday, officials announced that the United States would return to Nigeria the $23 million that former military dictator Sani Abacha had seized. In recent years, Nigeria has come to various agreements on the return of stolen money. From 1993 until his death in 1998, Abacha oversaw the most populous and significant oil exporting country in Africa. Transparency International claimed that he syphoned off up to $5 billion in taxpayer funds during that time. He was never put on trial. The money was in UK accounts, according to US Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard, but was discovered and blocked by American officials. She continued by saying that, with the most recent agreement included, the US had consented to return more than $334.7 million associated with Abacha. The money will be utilised for infrastructure projects, such as the Abuja-Kano road, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and the second Niger bridge, under the supervision of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), according to Attorney General Abubakar Malami. According to Malami, "The president's mandate to my office is to ensure that all international recoveries are transparently invested and monitored by civil society organizations to compete for these three projects within the agreed timeline." Nigeria must spend monies returned from funds taken by Abacha on approved public projects, the U.S. Justice Department has previously stated, or be obliged to "replace" it. (with inputs from agencies)

US will turn over $23 million looted by former military ruler Abacha to Nigeria

If access negotiations are successful, the U.N. nuclear watchdog will travel to the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility in Ukraine within days, it was announced in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Assaults on the Zaporizhzhia complex, which pro-Moscow forces took over shortly after the invasion on February 24, have been regularly claimed by Russia and Ukraine. The demilitarisation of the area has been demanded by the UN.&nbsp;

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said in a statement, "I'm continuing to consult very actively and intensively with all parties. The mission (to Zaporizhzhia) is expected to take place within the next few days if ongoing negotiations succeed."

The Russian foreign ministry said that Moscow had authorised a mission for June 3 and accused Kyiv of attempting to obstruct the planned inspection.&nbsp;

Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman, issued a statement saying, "We express our deep regret that the mission has not yet taken place."&nbsp;

Officials from the allied Western nations were also afraid that Russia was getting ready to invade Kyiv once more.

In the coming days, Russia will reportedly strike government and civilian infrastructure, according to the United States. If it was safe to do so, American citizens should depart Ukraine "now" of their own will, the U.S. Embassy advised.&nbsp;

According to the Ukrainian military, Russian forces engaged in artillery and rocket attacks on the battlefields in the southeastern Ukrainian district of Zaporizhzhia, where fighting has been occurring close to Europe's largest nuclear power station.

Attacks on the factory, which Russian forces took control of in March, have been attributed to attacks by Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

If access negotiations are successful, the U.N. nuclear inspector will visit the plant soon, it was announced on Tuesday. The agency had been notified by Ukraine that shelling had damaged plant infrastructure, including chemical and laboratory facilities.

(with inputs from agencies)

If access negotiations are successful, the U.N. nuclear watchdog will travel to the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility in Ukraine within days, it was announced in a statement on Tuesday.

If access negotiations are successful, the U.N. nuclear watchdog will travel to the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility in Ukraine within days, it was announced in a statement on Tuesday. Assaults on the Zaporizhzhia complex, which pro-Moscow forces took over shortly after the invasion on February 24, have been regularly claimed by Russia and Ukraine. The demilitarisation of the area has been demanded by the UN. Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said in a statement, "I'm continuing to consult very actively and intensively with all parties. The mission (to Zaporizhzhia) is expected to take place within the next few days if ongoing negotiations succeed." The Russian foreign ministry said that Moscow had authorised a mission for June 3 and accused Kyiv of attempting to obstruct the planned inspection. Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman, issued a statement saying, "We express our deep regret that the mission has not yet taken place." Officials from the allied Western nations were also afraid that Russia was getting ready to invade Kyiv once more. In the coming days, Russia will reportedly strike government and civilian infrastructure, according to the United States. If it was safe to do so, American citizens should depart Ukraine "now" of their own will, the U.S. Embassy advised. According to the Ukrainian military, Russian forces engaged in artillery and rocket attacks on the battlefields in the southeastern Ukrainian district of Zaporizhzhia, where fighting has been occurring close to Europe's largest nuclear power station. Attacks on the factory, which Russian forces took control of in March, have been attributed to attacks by Russia and Ukraine. If access negotiations are successful, the U.N. nuclear inspector will visit the plant soon, it was announced on Tuesday. The agency had been notified by Ukraine that shelling had damaged plant infrastructure, including chemical and laboratory facilities. (with inputs from agencies)

IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine

On Monday, the dollar rose and US and European markets plummeted as concerns grew that efforts by central banks to rein in increasing consumer prices through inflation-busting interest rate hikes would undermine the world economy and trigger a recession.&nbsp;

The benchmark European STOXX index closed down 1%, and each of the three major Wall Street indices fell roughly 2% as a result of Russia's Gazprom announcing that it would stop supplying natural gas to Europe for three days at the end of the month.

As traders feared demand would be harmed by a slowdown, oil initially dropped 4%. Following hawkish indications from European Central Bank policymakers, the most recent disruption to the continent's energy supply heightened worries about the future of the continent's economy. Russian natural gas exports to Europe have decreased by over 75% since last year.&nbsp;

As the market prepared for a speech on Friday from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who will address the Fed's goal to keep inflation low in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the inversion of the yield curve on U.S. Treasuries widened—a recession indication.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nasas-gigantic-sls-moon-rocket-a-practice-for-future-mars-mission-507987">&nbsp;In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission</a>

The Canadian dollar was pushed over 1.30 versus the dollar as a result of the strengthening of the dollar, which also caused the euro to go below parity at 0.9932. Gold prices dropped to their lowest point in over four weeks as a result of the dollar's surge.&nbsp;

Instead of the larger likelihood of a modest 50 basis point boost, which was the market's estimate heading into the weekend, Fed funds futures are now pricing in a 54.5% chance of a 75 basis point hike by the Fed in September.&nbsp;

China stands out as an exception to the tightening trend, as the central bank cut certain key lending rates on Monday by 5 to 15 basis points in an effort to stabilise a faltering economy and a pressured property market.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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On Monday, the dollar rose and US and European markets plummeted as concerns grew that efforts by central banks to rein in increasing consumer prices through inflation-busting interest rate hikes would undermine the world economy and trigger a recession.

On Monday, the dollar rose and US and European markets plummeted as concerns grew that efforts by central banks to rein in increasing consumer prices through inflation-busting interest rate hikes would undermine the world economy and trigger a recession. The benchmark European STOXX index closed down 1%, and each of the three major Wall Street indices fell roughly 2% as a result of Russia's Gazprom announcing that it would stop supplying natural gas to Europe for three days at the end of the month. As traders feared demand would be harmed by a slowdown, oil initially dropped 4%. Following hawkish indications from European Central Bank policymakers, the most recent disruption to the continent's energy supply heightened worries about the future of the continent's economy. Russian natural gas exports to Europe have decreased by over 75% since last year. As the market prepared for a speech on Friday from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who will address the Fed's goal to keep inflation low in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the inversion of the yield curve on U.S. Treasuries widened—a recession indication. Also Read: In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission The Canadian dollar was pushed over 1.30 versus the dollar as a result of the strengthening of the dollar, which also caused the euro to go below parity at 0.9932. Gold prices dropped to their lowest point in over four weeks as a result of the dollar's surge. Instead of the larger likelihood of a modest 50 basis point boost, which was the market's estimate heading into the weekend, Fed funds futures are now pricing in a 54.5% chance of a 75 basis point hike by the Fed in September. China stands out as an exception to the tightening trend, as the central bank cut certain key lending rates on Monday by 5 to 15 basis points in an effort to stabilise a faltering economy and a pressured property market. (with inputs from agencies)

Shares tumble, dollar advances as inflation-busting interest rate hikes trigger recession

On Monday, Iran accused the United States of dragging its feet in efforts to resurrect the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers. Washington rejected this accusation and claimed that a deal was closer than two weeks ago as a result of apparent Iranian flexibility.&nbsp;

After 16 months of intermittent, indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, during which time EU representatives alternated between the two sides, a senior EU official announced on August 8 that the EU had made a final offer and anticipated hearing back in "very, very few weeks."

Iran provided "additional views and considerations" in response to the EU's letter last week and urged the US to be flexible in resolving the remaining three issues.&nbsp;

Josep Borrell, the head of foreign affairs for the EU, expressed optimism that the United States will accept the bloc's plan as early as this week and noted that Iran had responded in a "reasonable" manner.&nbsp;

Nasser Kanaani, a spokesman for Iran's foreign ministry, said during a news conference that "America and Europe need an agreement more than Iran" because of the procrastination of the Americans and the passivity of the European sides.

Ned Price, a spokesperson for the US state department, refuted that claim, telling reporters in Washington that it was "just not true."&nbsp;

According to Price, the United States was heartened that Iran appeared to have withdrawn demands like having its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps removed from the list of foreign terrorist organisations on the United States.&nbsp;

"That's part of the reason why a deal is closer now than it was two weeks ago. But the outcome of these ongoing discussions still remains uncertain as gaps do remain,"Price said, adding that the US was moving as swiftly as it could to offer its reply.

Iranian-Americans detained in Iran on security-related allegations have been urged to leave by Washington. Iran has sought the release of seven Iranians jailed on suspicion of violating American sanctions.&nbsp;

Tehran is prepared to exchange inmates, Kanaani said, adding that it is a separate matter and has nothing to do with the ongoing talks to resurrect the 2015 agreement.

(with inputs from agencies)

On Monday, Iran accused the United States of dragging its feet in efforts to resurrect the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers. Washington rejected this accusation and claimed that a deal was closer than two weeks ago as a result of apparent Iranian flexibility.

On Monday, Iran accused the United States of dragging its feet in efforts to resurrect the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers. Washington rejected this accusation and claimed that a deal was closer than two weeks ago as a result of apparent Iranian flexibility. After 16 months of intermittent, indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, during which time EU representatives alternated between the two sides, a senior EU official announced on August 8 that the EU had made a final offer and anticipated hearing back in "very, very few weeks." Iran provided "additional views and considerations" in response to the EU's letter last week and urged the US to be flexible in resolving the remaining three issues. Josep Borrell, the head of foreign affairs for the EU, expressed optimism that the United States will accept the bloc's plan as early as this week and noted that Iran had responded in a "reasonable" manner. Nasser Kanaani, a spokesman for Iran's foreign ministry, said during a news conference that "America and Europe need an agreement more than Iran" because of the procrastination of the Americans and the passivity of the European sides. Ned Price, a spokesperson for the US state department, refuted that claim, telling reporters in Washington that it was "just not true." According to Price, the United States was heartened that Iran appeared to have withdrawn demands like having its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps removed from the list of foreign terrorist organisations on the United States. "That's part of the reason why a deal is closer now than it was two weeks ago. But the outcome of these ongoing discussions still remains uncertain as gaps do remain,"Price said, adding that the US was moving as swiftly as it could to offer its reply. Iranian-Americans detained in Iran on security-related allegations have been urged to leave by Washington. Iran has sought the release of seven Iranians jailed on suspicion of violating American sanctions. Tehran is prepared to exchange inmates, Kanaani said, adding that it is a separate matter and has nothing to do with the ongoing talks to resurrect the 2015 agreement. (with inputs from agencies)

US denies Tehran's allegations of delaying efforts to revive 2015 nuclear deal

Three Ukrainian troops who claimed they were injured and captured by Russia before being later freed, accused their captors of torturing and using psychological pressure after one of the fiercest engagements in the war.

Following Russia's invasion on February 24, the soldiers, who were a part of a group that fought for weeks from a sizable steelworks in the southern port of Mariupol, claimed during a news conference in Kyiv that their captors sought to force them to confess to atrocities against civilians.

Russia has already been charged with war crimes by Ukraine, but Moscow has refuted the claims.&nbsp;

Vladyslav Zhaivoronok, who lost a leg, said, "I was interrogated even before I started receiving antibiotics after my limb was amputated."&nbsp;

"The guys who were there were tortured. Some had needles inserted into their wounds, some were tortured with water, some received inadequate treatment " he explained, according to a Reuters report.

The three individuals were traded for Russian POWs. Although the exact date of the exchange was not immediately known, Ukraine declared in June that Russia had released 144 prisoners.&nbsp;

Zhaivoronok served in the national guard's Azov Regiment. Azov included some individuals with far-right and ultranationalist roots.

Hundreds of Azov forces gave up in May after weeks of combat from the steelworks' tunnels and bunkers. The Russian Supreme Court declared the regiment to be a terrorist organisation on August 2, despite the fact that the Azov inmates have not yet received formal charges.&nbsp;

In order to demilitarise its smaller neighbour and safeguard Russian-speaking minorities, Russia invaded Ukraine in what it refers to as a "special military operation." Moscow is accused of pursuing an imperial-style war of conquest by Ukraine and its Western sponsors.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Three Ukrainian troops who claimed they were injured and captured by Russia before being later freed, accused their captors of torturing and using psychological pressure after one of the fiercest engagements in the war.

Three Ukrainian troops who claimed they were injured and captured by Russia before being later freed, accused their captors of torturing and using psychological pressure after one of the fiercest engagements in the war. Following Russia's invasion on February 24, the soldiers, who were a part of a group that fought for weeks from a sizable steelworks in the southern port of Mariupol, claimed during a news conference in Kyiv that their captors sought to force them to confess to atrocities against civilians. Russia has already been charged with war crimes by Ukraine, but Moscow has refuted the claims. Vladyslav Zhaivoronok, who lost a leg, said, "I was interrogated even before I started receiving antibiotics after my limb was amputated." "The guys who were there were tortured. Some had needles inserted into their wounds, some were tortured with water, some received inadequate treatment " he explained, according to a Reuters report. The three individuals were traded for Russian POWs. Although the exact date of the exchange was not immediately known, Ukraine declared in June that Russia had released 144 prisoners. Zhaivoronok served in the national guard's Azov Regiment. Azov included some individuals with far-right and ultranationalist roots. Hundreds of Azov forces gave up in May after weeks of combat from the steelworks' tunnels and bunkers. The Russian Supreme Court declared the regiment to be a terrorist organisation on August 2, despite the fact that the Azov inmates have not yet received formal charges. In order to demilitarise its smaller neighbour and safeguard Russian-speaking minorities, Russia invaded Ukraine in what it refers to as a "special military operation." Moscow is accused of pursuing an imperial-style war of conquest by Ukraine and its Western sponsors. (with inputs from agencies)

Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison

The US has information suggesting that Russia is preparing to shortly conduct new assaults against the government and civilian infrastructure of Ukraine,&nbsp; an American official has said on Monday.

“We have information that Russia is stepping up efforts to launch strikes against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure and government facilities in the coming days. Given Russia’s track record in Ukraine, we are concerned about the continued threat that Russian strikes pose to civilians and civilian infrastructure," the official said, as reported by Reuters.

The assertion, according to the official, was supported by American intelligence.

This week marks six months since Vladimir Putin issued an order for tens of thousands of Russian soldiers to invade Ukraine for a "special military operation"—a magnitude of invasion not seen in Europe since World War II. As a result of Russia's continuous bombardment, tens of thousands have died, millions have fled, and cities have been completely destroyed.&nbsp;

At least four persons were hurt by Russian rockets fired at Nikopol, Krivyi Rih, and Synelnykovsky, which are all close to the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, overnight, according to regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko's Telegram post.&nbsp;

According to the General Staff of Ukraine, Russian forces damaged the Soledar, Zaytseve, and Bilogorivka regions in the eastern Bakhmut region using artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems.

In the southeast of Ukraine's Odesa region, Russia claimed that its Kalibr missiles had targeted a granary, while Kyiv claimed that a missile stockpile including missiles for a US-made HIMARS rocket had been hit.&nbsp;

The commander of Ukraine's armed forces reported that about 9,000 military soldiers from his country had died in the conflict with Russia.&nbsp;

According to local authorities, Ukraine's capital Kyiv forbade public celebrations this week honouring the country's independence from the Russian-dominated Soviet Union, and its second-largest city Kharkiv imposed a curfew because of an increased risk of Russian aggression.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The US has information suggesting that Russia is preparing to shortly conduct new assaults against the government and civilian infrastructure of Ukraine, an American official has said on Monday.

The US has information suggesting that Russia is preparing to shortly conduct new assaults against the government and civilian infrastructure of Ukraine, an American official has said on Monday. “We have information that Russia is stepping up efforts to launch strikes against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure and government facilities in the coming days. Given Russia’s track record in Ukraine, we are concerned about the continued threat that Russian strikes pose to civilians and civilian infrastructure," the official said, as reported by Reuters. The assertion, according to the official, was supported by American intelligence. This week marks six months since Vladimir Putin issued an order for tens of thousands of Russian soldiers to invade Ukraine for a "special military operation"—a magnitude of invasion not seen in Europe since World War II. As a result of Russia's continuous bombardment, tens of thousands have died, millions have fled, and cities have been completely destroyed. At least four persons were hurt by Russian rockets fired at Nikopol, Krivyi Rih, and Synelnykovsky, which are all close to the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, overnight, according to regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko's Telegram post. According to the General Staff of Ukraine, Russian forces damaged the Soledar, Zaytseve, and Bilogorivka regions in the eastern Bakhmut region using artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems. In the southeast of Ukraine's Odesa region, Russia claimed that its Kalibr missiles had targeted a granary, while Kyiv claimed that a missile stockpile including missiles for a US-made HIMARS rocket had been hit. The commander of Ukraine's armed forces reported that about 9,000 military soldiers from his country had died in the conflict with Russia. According to local authorities, Ukraine's capital Kyiv forbade public celebrations this week honouring the country's independence from the Russian-dominated Soviet Union, and its second-largest city Kharkiv imposed a curfew because of an increased risk of Russian aggression. (with inputs from agencies)

Russia planning strikes on Ukraine civilian infrastructure soon: US intelligence

A revised version of a measure to make it simpler for news organisations to bargain collectively with platforms like Google and Facebook was released by a bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Monday.&nbsp;

According to a news release from lawmakers, the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act "removes legal obstacles to news organization's ability to negotiate collectively and secure fair terms from gatekeeper platforms that regularly access news content without paying for its value."

The group includes Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar, Republican Senator John Kennedy, both of whom serve on the Judiciary Committee, as well as Democratic Representative David Cicilline and Republican Representative Ken Buck, both of whom serve on the House Judiciary Committee.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/shares-tumble-dollar-advances-as-inflation-busting-interest-rate-hikes-trigger-recession-509293">Shares tumble, dollar advances as inflation-busting interest rate hikes trigger recession</a>

The Computer &amp; Communications Industry Association and NetChoice, two trade associations for the technology sector that Facebook and Google, are members of, rejected an earlier iteration of the law that was filed in March 2021.

The amended measure would apply to non-network news broadcasters and publishers of news with fewer than 1,500 full-time employees. According to the news release, it would enable them to collaborate in order to obtain better agreements from Facebook, Google, and other significant platforms.&nbsp;

Any print, broadcast, or internet news business with a committed editorial staff that published at least once per week would have been subject to the 2021 Act.

(with inputs from agencies)

A revised version of a measure to make it simpler for news organisations to bargain collectively with platforms like Google and Facebook was released by a bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Monday.

A revised version of a measure to make it simpler for news organisations to bargain collectively with platforms like Google and Facebook was released by a bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Monday. According to a news release from lawmakers, the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act "removes legal obstacles to news organization's ability to negotiate collectively and secure fair terms from gatekeeper platforms that regularly access news content without paying for its value." The group includes Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar, Republican Senator John Kennedy, both of whom serve on the Judiciary Committee, as well as Democratic Representative David Cicilline and Republican Representative Ken Buck, both of whom serve on the House Judiciary Committee. Also Read: Shares tumble, dollar advances as inflation-busting interest rate hikes trigger recession The Computer & Communications Industry Association and NetChoice, two trade associations for the technology sector that Facebook and Google, are members of, rejected an earlier iteration of the law that was filed in March 2021. The amended measure would apply to non-network news broadcasters and publishers of news with fewer than 1,500 full-time employees. According to the news release, it would enable them to collaborate in order to obtain better agreements from Facebook, Google, and other significant platforms. Any print, broadcast, or internet news business with a committed editorial staff that published at least once per week would have been subject to the 2021 Act. (with inputs from agencies)

Bill in US seeks to make it easier for news organisations to negotiate better deals with Google, Facebook

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Chaheti Singh Sisodia

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