A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines.

The most recent events came after big explosions at an air base in Crimea that Russia had occupied last week. According to a recent assessment by a Western official, that singular incident instantly rendered worthless half of Russia's Black Sea naval aviation force.

According to a local official in Crimea quoted by Russia's RIA and Tass news agencies, it appeared Russian anti-aircraft units were in action on Friday night close to the western Crimean port of Yevpatoriya. A Russian website published a video of what seemed to be a ground-to-air missile striking a target. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the authenticity of the video.

Meanwhile, six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by anti-aircraft forces, claimed Russia. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. Separately, a Crimean official reported that undetermined numbers of drones had been shot down over Sevastopol, as per a local official quoted by the Tass news agency.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

Seriy Khlan, a member of the regional council for Kherson that was abolished by Russian occupation forces, remarked that "the Ukrainian armed forces treated the Russians to a magical evening."&nbsp;

The previous evening, numerous explosions in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, had been reported, including ones in Sevastopol, the base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, and at Kerch, close to a huge bridge to Russia.

The&nbsp;frontline nuclear power plant, the Zaporizhzhia complex, was also the subject of dire threats from Ukraine, which claimed that Moscow was plotting a "large-scale provocation" to use as an excuse to disconnect the plant from the Ukrainian power grid and connect it to Russia's.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines.

A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines. The most recent events came after big explosions at an air base in Crimea that Russia had occupied last week. According to a recent assessment by a Western official, that singular incident instantly rendered worthless half of Russia's Black Sea naval aviation force. According to a local official in Crimea quoted by Russia's RIA and Tass news agencies, it appeared Russian anti-aircraft units were in action on Friday night close to the western Crimean port of Yevpatoriya. A Russian website published a video of what seemed to be a ground-to-air missile striking a target. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the authenticity of the video. Meanwhile, six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by anti-aircraft forces, claimed Russia. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. Separately, a Crimean official reported that undetermined numbers of drones had been shot down over Sevastopol, as per a local official quoted by the Tass news agency. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Seriy Khlan, a member of the regional council for Kherson that was abolished by Russian occupation forces, remarked that "the Ukrainian armed forces treated the Russians to a magical evening." The previous evening, numerous explosions in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, had been reported, including ones in Sevastopol, the base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, and at Kerch, close to a huge bridge to Russia. The frontline nuclear power plant, the Zaporizhzhia complex, was also the subject of dire threats from Ukraine, which claimed that Moscow was plotting a "large-scale provocation" to use as an excuse to disconnect the plant from the Ukrainian power grid and connect it to Russia's. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukraine launches fresh drone strike on Russia-annexed Crimea, far from war front

The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.&nbsp;

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people.

Tayyip Erdogan, Antonio&nbsp;Guterres, and Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly had a conversation about reviving the peace talks with Russia that had been suspended during the March meetings in Istanbul. Russia and Ukraine achieved an agreement in July for Moscow to ease a blockade on Ukrainian grain supplies, and exports began at the start of August as a result of a deal mediated by the UN and Turkey.&nbsp;

Turkey, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), has maintained positive commercial relations with Russia and has made efforts to mediate the war, which started six months ago when the Russian military invaded neighbouring Ukraine.

The administration of United States President Joe Biden is also preparing an additional $800 million in military assistance for Ukraine, which may be announced as soon as this Friday, according to three sources with knowledge of the situation.&nbsp;

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In the meantime, the regional governor reported on Thursday that two separate Russian attacks on Kharkiv, a significant city in northeastern Ukraine, resulted in 17 fatalities and 42 injuries. An early-morning missile attack on Thursday resulted in three civilian deaths and 17 injuries, according to the local emergency services. That came after a Wednesday Russian strikes on Kharkiv, which the emergency services first reported had left 12 dead.

On the Crimean peninsula, which is under the jurisdiction of Moscow, at least four explosions were reported to have occurred on Thursday. In the previous ten days, explosions at additional Russian locations in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, have been orchestrated, according to hints from Ukraine.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.

The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines. After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. Tayyip Erdogan, Antonio Guterres, and Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly had a conversation about reviving the peace talks with Russia that had been suspended during the March meetings in Istanbul. Russia and Ukraine achieved an agreement in July for Moscow to ease a blockade on Ukrainian grain supplies, and exports began at the start of August as a result of a deal mediated by the UN and Turkey. Turkey, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), has maintained positive commercial relations with Russia and has made efforts to mediate the war, which started six months ago when the Russian military invaded neighbouring Ukraine. The administration of United States President Joe Biden is also preparing an additional $800 million in military assistance for Ukraine, which may be announced as soon as this Friday, according to three sources with knowledge of the situation. Also Read: In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission In the meantime, the regional governor reported on Thursday that two separate Russian attacks on Kharkiv, a significant city in northeastern Ukraine, resulted in 17 fatalities and 42 injuries. An early-morning missile attack on Thursday resulted in three civilian deaths and 17 injuries, according to the local emergency services. That came after a Wednesday Russian strikes on Kharkiv, which the emergency services first reported had left 12 dead. On the Crimean peninsula, which is under the jurisdiction of Moscow, at least four explosions were reported to have occurred on Thursday. In the previous ten days, explosions at additional Russian locations in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, have been orchestrated, according to hints from Ukraine. (with inputs from agencies)

UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned'

Hamid Karzai reportedly pleaded with Indian Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon to stay in Kabul when India was about to close its embassy there on August 15 of last year following the Taliban takeover.&nbsp;

According to TOLO news, Abdul Qahar Balkhi, the spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, today said on Twitter that the recently "re-opened" Indian embassy in Kabul is anticipated to expand activities.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan appreciates this step of India, which wants to increase the level of diplomatic representation of its embassy in Kabul," said Abdul Qahar Balkhi in a Tweet.

The "technical team," which has been stationed there since June and focuses on commercial and trade opportunities as well as the provision of food and medical supplies, will expand the Embassy's operations.&nbsp;

India and the Afghan people have shared historical and cultural ties. Another Indian team recently went to Kabul to supervise the distribution of our humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and met with Taliban leaders. An evaluation of the security situation was also done during the visit.

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Local workers provided consular services in the Indian Embassy in Kabul, according to local media sources, and it was never shuttered.&nbsp;

On August 15 of last year, the Taliban invaded Kabul, forcing the US-backed government to resign. The group revealed the make-up of Afghanistan's new interim government later in September.&nbsp;

The ongoing economic, humanitarian, and security catastrophe caused by the Taliban takeover is wreaking havoc on the nation. The Afghan people have received many forms of support from the international community, including aid from governments and humanitarian organisations.

(with inputs from agencies)

Hamid Karzai reportedly pleaded with Indian Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon to stay in Kabul when India was about to close its embassy there on August 15 of last year following the Taliban takeover.

Hamid Karzai reportedly pleaded with Indian Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon to stay in Kabul when India was about to close its embassy there on August 15 of last year following the Taliban takeover. According to TOLO news, Abdul Qahar Balkhi, the spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, today said on Twitter that the recently "re-opened" Indian embassy in Kabul is anticipated to expand activities. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan appreciates this step of India, which wants to increase the level of diplomatic representation of its embassy in Kabul," said Abdul Qahar Balkhi in a Tweet. The "technical team," which has been stationed there since June and focuses on commercial and trade opportunities as well as the provision of food and medical supplies, will expand the Embassy's operations. India and the Afghan people have shared historical and cultural ties. Another Indian team recently went to Kabul to supervise the distribution of our humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and met with Taliban leaders. An evaluation of the security situation was also done during the visit. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Local workers provided consular services in the Indian Embassy in Kabul, according to local media sources, and it was never shuttered. On August 15 of last year, the Taliban invaded Kabul, forcing the US-backed government to resign. The group revealed the make-up of Afghanistan's new interim government later in September. The ongoing economic, humanitarian, and security catastrophe caused by the Taliban takeover is wreaking havoc on the nation. The Afghan people have received many forms of support from the international community, including aid from governments and humanitarian organisations. (with inputs from agencies)

Indian embassy newly 're-opened' in Kabul, Karzai urged ambassador not to leave

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. In other news, referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un&nbsp;said, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.”

Click on the headline to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-meets-zelensky-and-erdogan-to-secure-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-deeply-concerned-508270">UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned'</a>
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The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-rejects-south-koreas-economic-assistance-plan-will-not-give-up-nukes-508260">Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes</a>
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Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/affidavit-that-led-to-the-raid-at-trumps-house-can-be-unsealed-us-judge-508242">Affidavit that led to the raid at Trump's house can be unsealed: US Judge</a>
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In what comes as a small victory for Donald Trump and his legion of Republican supporters, a Florida Federal judge on Thursday issued orders that portions of the affidavit that the FBI used to secure&nbsp;a search warrant against the former President can be made public, much to the chagrin of Department of Justice (DOJ).&nbsp;

Gravitas: Indian soldiers to hold drills with China?

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After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people.

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. In other news, referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un said, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” Click on the headline to read more: UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned' The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines. Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Affidavit that led to the raid at Trump's house can be unsealed: US Judge In what comes as a small victory for Donald Trump and his legion of Republican supporters, a Florida Federal judge on Thursday issued orders that portions of the affidavit that the FBI used to secure a search warrant against the former President can be made public, much to the chagrin of Department of Justice (DOJ). Gravitas: Indian soldiers to hold drills with China? × 'We just partied in a boisterous way,' Finland PM Sanna Marin expresses dismay at leaked videos ×

Morning brief: UN chief on Ukraine nuke plant flare-up, N Korea won't give up nukes, and more

Chinese and Russian leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin will attend the G20 summit on the resort island of Bali this November, a longtime adviser to the Indonesian president said on Friday.

Andi Widjajanto, former cabinet secretary and unofficial adviser to President Joko Widodo, who is popularly known as Jokowi, told Reuters the two leaders would join the summit.

"Jokowi told me that Xi and Putin are both planning to attend in Bali," Widjajanto, who heads the National Resilience Institute, told Reuters.

On Thursday, Jokowi told Bloomberg News that both leaders had given him their assurances. Indonesian presidential officials did not respond to requests for confirmation of the report.

The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. A Kremlin spokesperson declined to comment to Bloomberg, but another official familiar with the situation told the news agency Putin plans to attend the meeting in person.

The trip would be significant given it would be Xi's first time outside China since January 2020, when he visited Myanmar.

China maintains a zero-COVID policy that has all but shut its borders to international travel.

Since then, Xi made his only trip outside of mainland China on June 30, visiting Hong Kong to mark the 25th anniversary of the handover of the territory from British control.

Xi is widely expected to secure a precedent-breaking third leadership term during a once-in-five-year congress of the ruling Communist Party scheduled for this autumn, most likely before he would head to Bali for the mid-November G20 gathering.

No dates have been announced for the party congress, but the last two took place in late October and early November.

Chinese officials are also reportedly making plans for a November meeting in Southeast Asia between Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden, who is expected to attend the G20 summit in Bali, according to a report https://www.wsj.com/articles/chinas-xi-jinping-plans-to-meet-with-biden-in-first-foreign-trip-in-nearly-three-years-11660318437 in the Wall Street Journal.

As head of the G20 this year, Indonesia has faced pressure from Western countries to withdraw its invitation to Putin over his country's invasion of Ukraine, which his government calls a "special military operation".

Indonesia has also invited Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the Bali summit.

Jokowi has sought to position himself as a mediator between the warring countries and has in recent months travelled to meet both the Ukrainian and Russian presidents to call for an end to the war and seek ways to ease the global food crisis.

This week, Jokowi said both countries have accepted Indonesia as a "bridge of peace". 
&nbsp;

Chinese and Russian leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin will attend the G20 summit on the resort island of Bali this November, a longtime adviser to the Indonesian president said on Friday.

Chinese and Russian leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin will attend the G20 summit on the resort island of Bali this November, a longtime adviser to the Indonesian president said on Friday. Andi Widjajanto, former cabinet secretary and unofficial adviser to President Joko Widodo, who is popularly known as Jokowi, told Reuters the two leaders would join the summit. "Jokowi told me that Xi and Putin are both planning to attend in Bali," Widjajanto, who heads the National Resilience Institute, told Reuters. On Thursday, Jokowi told Bloomberg News that both leaders had given him their assurances. Indonesian presidential officials did not respond to requests for confirmation of the report. The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. A Kremlin spokesperson declined to comment to Bloomberg, but another official familiar with the situation told the news agency Putin plans to attend the meeting in person. The trip would be significant given it would be Xi's first time outside China since January 2020, when he visited Myanmar. China maintains a zero-COVID policy that has all but shut its borders to international travel. Since then, Xi made his only trip outside of mainland China on June 30, visiting Hong Kong to mark the 25th anniversary of the handover of the territory from British control. Xi is widely expected to secure a precedent-breaking third leadership term during a once-in-five-year congress of the ruling Communist Party scheduled for this autumn, most likely before he would head to Bali for the mid-November G20 gathering. No dates have been announced for the party congress, but the last two took place in late October and early November. Chinese officials are also reportedly making plans for a November meeting in Southeast Asia between Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden, who is expected to attend the G20 summit in Bali, according to a report https://www.wsj.com/articles/chinas-xi-jinping-plans-to-meet-with-biden-in-first-foreign-trip-in-nearly-three-years-11660318437 in the Wall Street Journal. As head of the G20 this year, Indonesia has faced pressure from Western countries to withdraw its invitation to Putin over his country's invasion of Ukraine, which his government calls a "special military operation". Indonesia has also invited Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the Bali summit. Jokowi has sought to position himself as a mediator between the warring countries and has in recent months travelled to meet both the Ukrainian and Russian presidents to call for an end to the war and seek ways to ease the global food crisis. This week, Jokowi said both countries have accepted Indonesia as a "bridge of peace".

Xi, Putin to attend G20 summit in Indonesia's Bali this November

According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russia allegedly urged employees at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility not to report to work on Friday. This is in light of reports and rumours that a plant incident is being 'planned'&nbsp;for Friday in both Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russia threatened to shut down the plant on Thursday, saying there was a chance of a man-made disaster because of what it claimed was Ukraine's ongoing shelling of the area. Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, claims that the situation in Ukraine is entirely different.

Yusov told NBC News, “There is new information, it arrived about half an hour ago, that for tomorrow, August 19, there is an order for the majority of the staff not to go to work. This is what the Russians told their people, primarily the employees of Rosatom,”&nbsp;referring to the Russian nuclear agency.

According to him, this could be proof that Russia is getting ready to stage "large-scale provocations" at the power plant on Friday. “We do not rule out the possibility of massive Russian provocations on the territory of the ZNPP tomorrow. This is confirmed by their propaganda, information from our sources, and the behaviour of the Russians at the station,” he added, referring to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">&nbsp;In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

Russia declined to confirm or deny the presence of Rosatom employees in Zaporizhzhia. The Ukrainian government and its "US&nbsp;handlers,"&nbsp;are attempting to manufacture a "small accident" at the facility in southern Ukraine on Friday in order to place the blame on Russia, the Russian defence&nbsp;ministry claimed earlier on Thursday.

According to the report, the "provocation" may have involved a radioactive leak and was timed to coincide with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' visit to Ukraine.&nbsp;

The largest nuclear reactor facility in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, was repeatedly shelled by Russia after it invaded Ukraine almost six months ago, with Moscow and Kyiv trading accusations.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russia allegedly urged employees at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility not to report to work on Friday. This is in light of reports and rumours that a plant incident is being 'planned' for Friday in both Russia and Ukraine.

According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russia allegedly urged employees at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility not to report to work on Friday. This is in light of reports and rumours that a plant incident is being 'planned' for Friday in both Russia and Ukraine. Russia threatened to shut down the plant on Thursday, saying there was a chance of a man-made disaster because of what it claimed was Ukraine's ongoing shelling of the area. Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, claims that the situation in Ukraine is entirely different. Yusov told NBC News, “There is new information, it arrived about half an hour ago, that for tomorrow, August 19, there is an order for the majority of the staff not to go to work. This is what the Russians told their people, primarily the employees of Rosatom,” referring to the Russian nuclear agency. According to him, this could be proof that Russia is getting ready to stage "large-scale provocations" at the power plant on Friday. “We do not rule out the possibility of massive Russian provocations on the territory of the ZNPP tomorrow. This is confirmed by their propaganda, information from our sources, and the behaviour of the Russians at the station,” he added, referring to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Russia declined to confirm or deny the presence of Rosatom employees in Zaporizhzhia. The Ukrainian government and its "US handlers," are attempting to manufacture a "small accident" at the facility in southern Ukraine on Friday in order to place the blame on Russia, the Russian defence ministry claimed earlier on Thursday. According to the report, the "provocation" may have involved a radioactive leak and was timed to coincide with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' visit to Ukraine. The largest nuclear reactor facility in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, was repeatedly shelled by Russia after it invaded Ukraine almost six months ago, with Moscow and Kyiv trading accusations. (with inputs from agencies)

Russia threatens to shut down Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, anticipates 'planned' disaster

In the largest combined prosecution in the territory in recent years, Joshua Wong and a group of 28 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists who were accused under a contentious national security statute entered guilty pleas.

Under the broad national security law, a total of 47 defendants, ranging in age from 23 to 64, were charged with conspiring to commit subversion. They were imprisoned in 2021 for their alleged involvement in a plot to bring down Hong Kong's administration by participating in an illegitimate primary election in 2020, according to the authorities. Candidates prepared to take on the Beijing-backed local government at the time received a lot of support in the primary.

According to Hong Kong media, well-known dissidents and campaigners including Wong and legal expert Benny Tai were among the 29 who entered guilty pleas on Thursday. The two guys are already doing time for convictions related to protests. Wong, 25, who is still being held, stated on Thursday that the primary election gave Hongkongers a chance to voice their political preferences. He stated, "Our vote is our voice, being heard in the global community."

Along with Wong and Tai, The Global Times, a state-owned publication in China, claimed on Thursday, that former parliamentarians Claudia Mo, Eddie Chu, and Alvin Yeung all entered guilty pleas. Restrictions on media coverage of&nbsp;the proceedings, which will begin at Hong Kong's high court next month, have finally been relaxed. In the past, defence attorneys have claimed that the prosecution has not adequately described the conspiracy in which their clients are allegedly involved.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

Following the 2019 pro-democracy rallies, almost 2,000 Hong Kong citizens were detained, and the main opposition Apple Daily newspaper was forced to close. Political speech and public gatherings have been put on hold due to a lack of clarity over the authorities' red lines, and more people have been detained as a result of these activities, including the 90-year-old Catholic cardinal Joseph Zen.

In response to the protests in 2020, China enacted the broad national security law, arrested critics in the media and in civil society, and restructured the local legislative council to allow only pro-Beijing individuals to occupy the office.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In the largest combined prosecution in the territory in recent years, Joshua Wong and a group of 28 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists who were accused under a contentious national security statute entered guilty pleas.

In the largest combined prosecution in the territory in recent years, Joshua Wong and a group of 28 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists who were accused under a contentious national security statute entered guilty pleas. Under the broad national security law, a total of 47 defendants, ranging in age from 23 to 64, were charged with conspiring to commit subversion. They were imprisoned in 2021 for their alleged involvement in a plot to bring down Hong Kong's administration by participating in an illegitimate primary election in 2020, according to the authorities. Candidates prepared to take on the Beijing-backed local government at the time received a lot of support in the primary. According to Hong Kong media, well-known dissidents and campaigners including Wong and legal expert Benny Tai were among the 29 who entered guilty pleas on Thursday. The two guys are already doing time for convictions related to protests. Wong, 25, who is still being held, stated on Thursday that the primary election gave Hongkongers a chance to voice their political preferences. He stated, "Our vote is our voice, being heard in the global community." Along with Wong and Tai, The Global Times, a state-owned publication in China, claimed on Thursday, that former parliamentarians Claudia Mo, Eddie Chu, and Alvin Yeung all entered guilty pleas. Restrictions on media coverage of the proceedings, which will begin at Hong Kong's high court next month, have finally been relaxed. In the past, defence attorneys have claimed that the prosecution has not adequately described the conspiracy in which their clients are allegedly involved. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Following the 2019 pro-democracy rallies, almost 2,000 Hong Kong citizens were detained, and the main opposition Apple Daily newspaper was forced to close. Political speech and public gatherings have been put on hold due to a lack of clarity over the authorities' red lines, and more people have been detained as a result of these activities, including the 90-year-old Catholic cardinal Joseph Zen. In response to the protests in 2020, China enacted the broad national security law, arrested critics in the media and in civil society, and restructured the local legislative council to allow only pro-Beijing individuals to occupy the office. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Detained Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong charged under controversial national security law pleads guilty

In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia

An investigation started when a Yellowstone staff member discovered a foot fragment enclosed in a shoe floating in a hot spring at the national park.&nbsp;

The West Thumb Geyser Basin and its parking lot were temporarily closed as a result of the grim finding on Tuesday at the Abyss Pool in the southern region of Yellowstone. Since then, the area has reopened.

Park spokesperson Morgan Warthin said on Thursday that authorities are currently looking into the discovery but have no further information.

The West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake's Abyss Pool is 53 feet (16 metres) deep and is roughly 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), according to park officials. It is located on the southern side of the park's southern loop.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">&nbsp;In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

In these hot springs, superheated water lowers and is replenished by hotter water from below as it cools as it approaches the surface. According to the park's website, the circulation keeps the water from heating up to the temperature required to produce a geyser.&nbsp;

Even though they are one of Yellowstone's most well-known attractions, hot springs can be fatally threatening. The park claims that more people have been hurt or killed by hot springs in Yellowstone than by any other natural feature.

In 2016, a guy from Oregon went into a boiling, acidic spring, where he was killed and his body "dissolved."

(with inputs from agencies)

An investigation started when a Yellowstone staff member discovered a foot fragment enclosed in a shoe floating in a hot spring at the national park. The West Thumb Geyser Basin and its parking lot were temporarily closed as a result of the grim finding on Tuesday at the Abyss Pool in the southern region of Yellowstone.

An investigation started when a Yellowstone staff member discovered a foot fragment enclosed in a shoe floating in a hot spring at the national park. The West Thumb Geyser Basin and its parking lot were temporarily closed as a result of the grim finding on Tuesday at the Abyss Pool in the southern region of Yellowstone. Since then, the area has reopened. Park spokesperson Morgan Warthin said on Thursday that authorities are currently looking into the discovery but have no further information. The West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake's Abyss Pool is 53 feet (16 metres) deep and is roughly 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), according to park officials. It is located on the southern side of the park's southern loop. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia In these hot springs, superheated water lowers and is replenished by hotter water from below as it cools as it approaches the surface. According to the park's website, the circulation keeps the water from heating up to the temperature required to produce a geyser. Even though they are one of Yellowstone's most well-known attractions, hot springs can be fatally threatening. The park claims that more people have been hurt or killed by hot springs in Yellowstone than by any other natural feature. In 2016, a guy from Oregon went into a boiling, acidic spring, where he was killed and his body "dissolved." (with inputs from agencies)

Shoe with foot found floating in hot spring of Yellowstone national park

Opera singer Placido Domingo's name has cropped up in the probe into an Argentine sect-like group with offices in the United States, whose leaders have been accused of crimes including sexual exploitation. Spanish opera singer Domingo, who has been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women in the last three years, was a prostitution consumer, not a criminal or a member of the group, according to a law enforcement officer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing. Argentina does not have a prostitution ban.

Prosecutors' filings in the case state that police conducted dozens of raids in Buenos Aires Yoga School, which "built a cult around its leader" and subjected participants to "a situation of slavery and/or sexual exploitation."&nbsp;

It established a corporate structure with branches in at least three American cities, including Las Vegas, Chicago, and New York, as well as offices in Argentina. Currently, 19 persons are being held in Argentina, while four suspects are wanted in the US and at least three are believed to be still at large in the South American nation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

Domingo, 81, the sole remaining member of The Three Tenors, which also comprised the late Luciano Pavarotti and Jose Carreras, was one of opera's most popular artists.

In reports published by The Associated Press, more than 20 women accused Domingo of sexual harassment and other inappropriate behaviour in interactions that occurred from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. This damaged Domingo's reputation in the United States. His conduct was widely known in the classical music community, according to dozens more who spoke to AP.

Sexual harassment claims against Domingo were deemed to be credible after investigations by the American Guild of Musical Artists and the Los Angeles Opera, where he had previously worked as general director, were conducted. Domingo's career in the United States was put on hold by the allegations though he carried on touring in Europe and Latin America. According to his website, he is now performing in Mexico as part of a tour that will also take him to Italy later this month.

(with inputs from agencies)

Opera singer Placido Domingo's name has cropped up in the probe into an Argentine sect-like group with offices in the United States, whose leaders have been accused of crimes including sexual exploitation.

Opera singer Placido Domingo's name has cropped up in the probe into an Argentine sect-like group with offices in the United States, whose leaders have been accused of crimes including sexual exploitation. Spanish opera singer Domingo, who has been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women in the last three years, was a prostitution consumer, not a criminal or a member of the group, according to a law enforcement officer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing. Argentina does not have a prostitution ban. Prosecutors' filings in the case state that police conducted dozens of raids in Buenos Aires Yoga School, which "built a cult around its leader" and subjected participants to "a situation of slavery and/or sexual exploitation." It established a corporate structure with branches in at least three American cities, including Las Vegas, Chicago, and New York, as well as offices in Argentina. Currently, 19 persons are being held in Argentina, while four suspects are wanted in the US and at least three are believed to be still at large in the South American nation. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Domingo, 81, the sole remaining member of The Three Tenors, which also comprised the late Luciano Pavarotti and Jose Carreras, was one of opera's most popular artists. In reports published by The Associated Press, more than 20 women accused Domingo of sexual harassment and other inappropriate behaviour in interactions that occurred from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. This damaged Domingo's reputation in the United States. His conduct was widely known in the classical music community, according to dozens more who spoke to AP. Sexual harassment claims against Domingo were deemed to be credible after investigations by the American Guild of Musical Artists and the Los Angeles Opera, where he had previously worked as general director, were conducted. Domingo's career in the United States was put on hold by the allegations though he carried on touring in Europe and Latin America. According to his website, he is now performing in Mexico as part of a tour that will also take him to Italy later this month. (with inputs from agencies)

Spanish opera star Placido Domingo’s name crops up in Argentina sex sect probe

A truth commission investigating one of Mexico's worst human rights tragedies said Thursday that military personnel bore responsibility, either directly or through negligence, for the disappearance of 43 students in 2014.

"Their actions, omissions or participation allowed the disappearance and execution of the students, as well as the murder of six other people," said the commission's head, deputy interior minister Alejandro Encinas.

The teaching students had commandeered buses in the southern state of Guerrero to travel to a demonstration before they went missing.

According to an official report presented in 2015 by the government of then-president Enrique Pena Nieto, they were arrested by corrupt police and handed over to a drug cartel.

The cartel mistook the students for members of a rival gang and killed them before incinerating and dumping their remains, according to that report, which did not attribute responsibility to the military.

Those conclusions were rejected by relatives as well as independent experts and the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Encinas said that further investigations were necessary to establish the extent of participation by army and navy personnel.

"An action of an institutional nature was not proven, but there was clear responsibility of members" of the armed forces stationed in the area at the time, he said.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in March that navy members were under investigation for allegedly tampering with evidence, notably at a garbage dump where human remains were found, including those of the only three students identified so far.

He denied an accusation by independent experts that Mexican authorities were withholding important information about the case, which shocked the country and drew international condemnation. 
&nbsp;

A truth commission investigating one of Mexico's worst human rights tragedies said Thursday that military personnel bore responsibility, either directly or through negligence, for the disappearance of 43 students in 2014.

A truth commission investigating one of Mexico's worst human rights tragedies said Thursday that military personnel bore responsibility, either directly or through negligence, for the disappearance of 43 students in 2014. "Their actions, omissions or participation allowed the disappearance and execution of the students, as well as the murder of six other people," said the commission's head, deputy interior minister Alejandro Encinas. The teaching students had commandeered buses in the southern state of Guerrero to travel to a demonstration before they went missing. According to an official report presented in 2015 by the government of then-president Enrique Pena Nieto, they were arrested by corrupt police and handed over to a drug cartel. The cartel mistook the students for members of a rival gang and killed them before incinerating and dumping their remains, according to that report, which did not attribute responsibility to the military. Those conclusions were rejected by relatives as well as independent experts and the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Encinas said that further investigations were necessary to establish the extent of participation by army and navy personnel. "An action of an institutional nature was not proven, but there was clear responsibility of members" of the armed forces stationed in the area at the time, he said. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in March that navy members were under investigation for allegedly tampering with evidence, notably at a garbage dump where human remains were found, including those of the only three students identified so far. He denied an accusation by independent experts that Mexican authorities were withholding important information about the case, which shocked the country and drew international condemnation.

Truth commission faults Mexico military over 43 missing students

A US judge sentenced an extradited Liberian man to 63 months in prison for conspiring to traffic millions of dollars worth of horns and ivory from endangered rhinoceros and elephants, federal prosecutors said Thursday.

Moazu Kromah, an Uganda resident, was extradited from the west African country to the United States in June 2019, pleading guilty in March of this year to one count of conspiracy to commit wildlife trafficking and two counts of wildlife trafficking, the office of the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, said in a statement.

The trafficking plot involved the illegal poaching of more than around 35 rhinoceros and more than 100 elephants.

Williams praised the more than five-year sentence handed down by US District Judge Gregory H. Woods.&nbsp;

"Today's sentence demonstrates that those who are responsible for the decimation of global populations of endangered and threatened animals protected by international agreements will face serious consequences," he said.&nbsp;

Kromah, 49, and accomplices had buyers in the United States and Southeast Asia, trafficking some 190 kilograms (nearly 420 pounds) of rhinoceros horns and at least some 10 tons of elephant ivory from East African countries between roughly 2012 and 2019.

The estimated average retail value of the rhinoceros horn and elephant ivory was at least around $3.4 million and $4 million respectively.

During the investigation, law enforcement agents intercepted multiple packages bound for Manhattan buyers containing rhinoceros horns.

They concealed some of the animal parts in pieces of art such as African masks and statues, the New York investigators say.&nbsp;

Poaching is fueled by a seemingly insatiable demand for rhino horn in Asia, where people pay huge sums for a substance -- coveted as a traditional medicine -- that is composed mainly of keratin, the same substance as in human nails.

Kromah is one of five men accused of being part of a criminal enterprise.&nbsp;

Kenyan Mansur Mohamed Surur was extradited to the United States last year and pled guilty to trafficking and drug dealing charges, according to a June statement from Williams's office.

Guinean Amara Cherif is also in US custody and pled guilty to the charges against him in April this year.&nbsp;

Co-defendants Badru Abdul Aziz Saleh and Abdi Hussein Ahmed have reportedly been arrested.

 
&nbsp;

A US judge sentenced an extradited Liberian man to 63 months in prison for conspiring to traffic millions of dollars worth of horns and ivory from endangered rhinoceros and elephants, federal prosecutors said Thursday.

A US judge sentenced an extradited Liberian man to 63 months in prison for conspiring to traffic millions of dollars worth of horns and ivory from endangered rhinoceros and elephants, federal prosecutors said Thursday. Moazu Kromah, an Uganda resident, was extradited from the west African country to the United States in June 2019, pleading guilty in March of this year to one count of conspiracy to commit wildlife trafficking and two counts of wildlife trafficking, the office of the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, said in a statement. The trafficking plot involved the illegal poaching of more than around 35 rhinoceros and more than 100 elephants. Williams praised the more than five-year sentence handed down by US District Judge Gregory H. Woods. "Today's sentence demonstrates that those who are responsible for the decimation of global populations of endangered and threatened animals protected by international agreements will face serious consequences," he said. Kromah, 49, and accomplices had buyers in the United States and Southeast Asia, trafficking some 190 kilograms (nearly 420 pounds) of rhinoceros horns and at least some 10 tons of elephant ivory from East African countries between roughly 2012 and 2019. The estimated average retail value of the rhinoceros horn and elephant ivory was at least around $3.4 million and $4 million respectively. During the investigation, law enforcement agents intercepted multiple packages bound for Manhattan buyers containing rhinoceros horns. They concealed some of the animal parts in pieces of art such as African masks and statues, the New York investigators say. Poaching is fueled by a seemingly insatiable demand for rhino horn in Asia, where people pay huge sums for a substance -- coveted as a traditional medicine -- that is composed mainly of keratin, the same substance as in human nails. Kromah is one of five men accused of being part of a criminal enterprise. Kenyan Mansur Mohamed Surur was extradited to the United States last year and pled guilty to trafficking and drug dealing charges, according to a June statement from Williams's office. Guinean Amara Cherif is also in US custody and pled guilty to the charges against him in April this year. Co-defendants Badru Abdul Aziz Saleh and Abdi Hussein Ahmed have reportedly been arrested.

US judge sentences wildlife trafficker to more than 5 years in jail

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