<p>The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said on Monday (Feb 26) that its Moon lander was revived after a two-week lunar night. The unmanned Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, commonly known as SLIM, touched down in January at a wonky angle that left its solar panels facing the wrong way. In a post on X, the JAXA said as the Sun's angle shifted, SLIM came back to life for two days and carried out scientific observations of a crater with a high-spec camera.</p>

<p>The lander went back to sleep again as darkness returned and, since it was "not designed for the harsh lunar nights", JAXA had been uncertain whether it would reawaken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Last night, a command was sent to SLIM and a response received, confirming that the spacecraft has made it through the lunar night and maintained communication capabilities!" the space agency said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></strong></p>

<p>"Communication with SLIM was terminated after a short time, as it was still lunar midday and the temperature of the communication equipment was very high. Preparations are being made to resume operations when instrument temperatures have sufficiently cooled," it said in a subsequent post.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Communication with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLIM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLIM</a> was terminated after a short time, as it was still lunar midday and the temperature of the communication equipment was very high. Preparations are being made to resume operations when instrument temperatures have sufficiently cooled. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoodAfterMoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoodAfterMoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JAXA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JAXA</a></p>
— 小型月着陸実証機SLIM (@SLIM_JAXA) <a href="https://twitter.com/SLIM_JAXA/status/1761982162075890085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>SLIM made a pinpoint touchdown on the moon on Jan 19, making Japan the fifth country to put a probe on the moon. However, during its descent, the craft suffered engine problems and ended up on its side, meaning the solar panels were facing west instead of up.</p>

<p>Last week, Japan successfully launched its new H3 flagship rocket. On Feb 17, the H3 lifted off at 9.22 am local time and successfully released a small satellite. The rocket also released a microsatellite and a dummy satellite during its flight of nearly two hours.</p>

<p>"The newborn H3 has just made its first cry", JAXA project manager Masashi Okada, who has led the decade-long development of the new rocket, told reporters. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said on Monday (Feb 26) that its Moon lander was revived after a two-week lunar night. The unmanned Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, commonly known as SLIM, touched down in January at a wonky angle that left its solar panels facing the wrong way.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said on Monday (Feb 26) that its Moon lander was revived after a two-week lunar night. The unmanned Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, commonly known as SLIM, touched down in January at a wonky angle that left its solar panels facing the wrong way. In a post on X, the JAXA said as the Sun's angle shifted, SLIM came back to life for two days and carried out scientific observations of a crater with a high-spec camera. The lander went back to sleep again as darkness returned and, since it was "not designed for the harsh lunar nights", JAXA had been uncertain whether it would reawaken. "Last night, a command was sent to SLIM and a response received, confirming that the spacecraft has made it through the lunar night and maintained communication capabilities!" the space agency said. Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again "Communication with SLIM was terminated after a short time, as it was still lunar midday and the temperature of the communication equipment was very high. Preparations are being made to resume operations when instrument temperatures have sufficiently cooled," it said in a subsequent post. Communication with #SLIM was terminated after a short time, as it was still lunar midday and the temperature of the communication equipment was very high. Preparations are being made to resume operations when instrument temperatures have sufficiently cooled. #GoodAfterMoon #JAXA — 小型月着陸実証機SLIM (@SLIM_JAXA) February 26, 2024 × SLIM made a pinpoint touchdown on the moon on Jan 19, making Japan the fifth country to put a probe on the moon. However, during its descent, the craft suffered engine problems and ended up on its side, meaning the solar panels were facing west instead of up. Last week, Japan successfully launched its new H3 flagship rocket. On Feb 17, the H3 lifted off at 9.22 am local time and successfully released a small satellite. The rocket also released a microsatellite and a dummy satellite during its flight of nearly two hours. "The newborn H3 has just made its first cry", JAXA project manager Masashi Okada, who has led the decade-long development of the new rocket, told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

'SLIM responded to command': Japan's Moon lander revives after two-week lunar night

A Look at Five Exoplanets Considered as Most Earth-Like

Astronomers for years have been looking for a planet that has similar characteristics to Earth. Several exoplanets have been discovered which might be habitable in future. Here's a look at five such exoplanets.

Located about 2,700 light-years from Earth, Kepler-69c is 70 per cent larger than our planet. According to NASA, astronomers are uncertain about the composition of this exoplanet, but its orbit of 242 days around a sun-like star resembles that of Venus. Kepler-69c's host star is about 80 per cent as luminous as the Sun, which means the exoplanet appears to be in the habitable zone.

Gliese 667 Cc, also referred to as GJ 667 C c, is a super Earth exoplanet that orbits an M-type star.  Its discovery was announced in 2013. Its mass is 3.8 Earths, and takes 28.1 days to complete one orbit of its star.

Proxima Centauri b is the closest known exoplanet to Earth- at four light-years. Its mass is 1.07 Earths, it takes 11.2 days to complete one orbit of its star. Although Proxima Centauri b can be found in the habitable zone of its star, the exoplanet is exposed to extreme ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Kepler-62F is a super-Earth-size planet in the habitable zone of a star smaller and cooler than the sun, located about 1,200 light-years from Earth in the constellation Lyra. NASA has said that Kepler-62F orbits its host star every 267 days and is roughly 40 per cent larger than Earth in size.

Kepler-452b is the first near-Earth-size planet that orbits around a star the size of the Sun. The size of the orbit of Kepler-452b is nearly the same as that of the Earth at 1.05 AU. Kepler-452b orbits its star once every 385 days.

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country. Addressing the 110th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday (Feb 25), Prime Minister Modi said, "Mann Ki Baat will not be broadcast for the next three months in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls."</p>

<p>"Even though 'Mann Ki Baat' will stop for three months but, the achievements of the country will not stop therefore, keep posting the achievements of the society and the country on social media with the hashtag Mann Ki Baat," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/today-india-is-the-largest-milk-producing-nation-globally-80-million-associated-with-dairy-sector-pm-modi-692640">Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>The monthly radio programme was launched on October 3, 2014. It aims to connect with various segments of Indian society, encompassing women, the elderly, and the youth. In the 110 episodes done so far, Modi has spoken on subjects ranging from government policies, initiatives, and welfare schemes.</p>

<p>The radio programme is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 11 foreign languages.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Women's power touching new heights of progress...'</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, PM Modi said that India's "Nari Shakti" (women's power) was touching new heights of progress in every field. "After a few days on March 8, we will celebrate Women's Day. This special day is an opportunity to salute the contributions of women's power in the developmental journey of the country. The great poet Bharathiyar Ji has said that the world will prosper only when women get equal opportunities. Nari Shakti (women power) is touching new heights of progress in every field," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mann Ki Baat 110th Edition: PM Modi speaks to Drone Didi and hails women empowerment</strong></p>

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<p>The prime minister also talked about the 'NaMo Drone Didi' scheme by saying the initiative brought changes in the lives of women living in rural areas. The scheme was launched last year</p>

<p>"Who would have thought till a few years ago that in our country, women living in villages would also fly drones? But today this is becoming possible. Today, there is so much discussion about Drone Didi in every village, Namo Drone Didi, Namo Drone Didi is on everyone's lips. Everyone is talking about them," he said.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country. Addressing the 110th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday (Feb 25), Prime Minister Modi said, "Mann Ki Baat will not be broadcast for the next three months in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls." "Even though 'Mann Ki Baat' will stop for three months but, the achievements of the country will not stop therefore, keep posting the achievements of the society and the country on social media with the hashtag Mann Ki Baat," he added. Also read | Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi The monthly radio programme was launched on October 3, 2014. It aims to connect with various segments of Indian society, encompassing women, the elderly, and the youth. In the 110 episodes done so far, Modi has spoken on subjects ranging from government policies, initiatives, and welfare schemes. The radio programme is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 11 foreign languages. 'Women's power touching new heights of progress...' On Sunday, PM Modi said that India's "Nari Shakti" (women's power) was touching new heights of progress in every field. "After a few days on March 8, we will celebrate Women's Day. This special day is an opportunity to salute the contributions of women's power in the developmental journey of the country. The great poet Bharathiyar Ji has said that the world will prosper only when women get equal opportunities. Nari Shakti (women power) is touching new heights of progress in every field," Modi said. Also watch | Mann Ki Baat 110th Edition: PM Modi speaks to Drone Didi and hails women empowerment × The prime minister also talked about the 'NaMo Drone Didi' scheme by saying the initiative brought changes in the lives of women living in rural areas. The scheme was launched last year "Who would have thought till a few years ago that in our country, women living in villages would also fly drones? But today this is becoming possible. Today, there is so much discussion about Drone Didi in every village, Namo Drone Didi, Namo Drone Didi is on everyone's lips. Everyone is talking about them," he said.

Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why

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<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday (Feb 25) that it was unclear whether a hostage deal would materialise from ongoing talks, adding that Hamas needed to "come down to a reasonable situation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to CBS News, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that he was meeting with staff later on Sunday to review a dual military plan that included the evacuation of Palestinian civilians in the war-torn Gaza Strip and an operation to destroy remaining Hamas battalions.</p>

<p>"If we have a deal, it will be delayed somewhat, but it will happen. If we don't have a deal, we'll do it anyway," he told CBS.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Talks in Paris came to understanding on hostages, new truce'</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu's remarks came as the United States (US) on Sunday said that multinational talks in Paris came to an "understanding" on a possible deal for Hamas to release hostages and for a new ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-six-week-long-truce-likely-before-march-10-claim-reports-693713">Israel-Hamas war: Paris talks came to 'understanding' on possible truce, says US</a></strong></p>

<p>An Israeli delegation was in Paris on Friday to discuss a deal to ensure a fresh ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.</p>

<p>Speaking to CNN, US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that representatives of Israel, the US, Egypt, and Qatar "met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like."</p>

<p>"It is still under negotiation in terms of hammering out the details of it. There will have to be indirect discussions by Qatar and Egypt with Hamas because ultimately they will have to agree to release the hostages," NSA Sullivan said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Humanitarian crisis amplify calls for ceasefire in Gaza globally</strong></p>

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<p>"That work is underway. And we hope that in the coming days, we can drive to a point where there is actually a firm and final agreement on this issue," he added.</p>

<p>Citing Egyptian media, a report by the news agency AFP said that negotiations for a ceasefire resumed in Doha between the four countries, as well as representatives of Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the war started on Oct 7 last year, Hamas took 250 hostages. According to Israeli authorities, 130 of the hostages are in Gaza including 30 presumed to be dead. In Nov, a week-long ceasefire saw more than 100 hostages and 240 Palestinian prisoners freed.</p>

<p>International efforts have been mounting for more ceasefires as the conflict intensifies and Israel is set to launch an offensive in Rafah.</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll in Gaza nearing 30,000</strong></h2>

<p>The health ministry in Gaza said on Sunday that the death toll in the Palestinian territory climbed to 29,692. The ministry said that 86 people were killed in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, 69,879 people have been injured since the conflict started, the ministry added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday (Feb 25) that it was unclear whether a hostage deal would materialise from ongoing talks, adding that Hamas needed to "come down to a reasonable situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday (Feb 25) that it was unclear whether a hostage deal would materialise from ongoing talks, adding that Hamas needed to "come down to a reasonable situation." Speaking to CBS News, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that he was meeting with staff later on Sunday to review a dual military plan that included the evacuation of Palestinian civilians in the war-torn Gaza Strip and an operation to destroy remaining Hamas battalions. "If we have a deal, it will be delayed somewhat, but it will happen. If we don't have a deal, we'll do it anyway," he told CBS. 'Talks in Paris came to understanding on hostages, new truce' Netanyahu's remarks came as the United States (US) on Sunday said that multinational talks in Paris came to an "understanding" on a possible deal for Hamas to release hostages and for a new ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Paris talks came to 'understanding' on possible truce, says US An Israeli delegation was in Paris on Friday to discuss a deal to ensure a fresh ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Speaking to CNN, US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that representatives of Israel, the US, Egypt, and Qatar "met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like." "It is still under negotiation in terms of hammering out the details of it. There will have to be indirect discussions by Qatar and Egypt with Hamas because ultimately they will have to agree to release the hostages," NSA Sullivan said. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Humanitarian crisis amplify calls for ceasefire in Gaza globally × "That work is underway. And we hope that in the coming days, we can drive to a point where there is actually a firm and final agreement on this issue," he added. Citing Egyptian media, a report by the news agency AFP said that negotiations for a ceasefire resumed in Doha between the four countries, as well as representatives of Hamas. Since the war started on Oct 7 last year, Hamas took 250 hostages. According to Israeli authorities, 130 of the hostages are in Gaza including 30 presumed to be dead. In Nov, a week-long ceasefire saw more than 100 hostages and 240 Palestinian prisoners freed. International efforts have been mounting for more ceasefires as the conflict intensifies and Israel is set to launch an offensive in Rafah. Death toll in Gaza nearing 30,000 The health ministry in Gaza said on Sunday that the death toll in the Palestinian territory climbed to 29,692. The ministry said that 86 people were killed in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, 69,879 people have been injured since the conflict started, the ministry added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Unclear whether hostage deal will materialise, says Netanyahu

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<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (Feb 24) that his government would spend an additional $660 million (100 billion yen) rebuilding the areas that were ravaged by magnitude-7.5 earthquake on New Year's Day (January 1), the news agency AFP reported. Addressing a press conference in Wajima which was the hardest-hit city, Prime Minister Kishida said, "The living conditions at temporary shelters are improving, but I will bear in mind that the reality remains tough as ever."</p>

<p>Kishida said that this additional funding would be approved by his cabinet in the coming days. He added the funds were designed in part to finance a subsidy system that seeks to help young and child-rearing families rebuild their destroyed homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-alters-japan-coastline-stretching-it-by-around-820-feet-679450">New Year's Day quake stretched a Japanese peninsula coastline by over 800 feet</a></strong></p>

<p>The prime minister also said that efforts would be sped up to construct prefabricated temporary housing while vowing more support for Wajima's traditional artefact industry.</p>

<h2><strong>241 killed in quake, over 10k displaced</strong></h2>

<p>The earthquake and its aftershocks devastated parts of the Ishikawa region. A total of 241 people had been killed and more than 10,000 people were displaced, taking refuge at shelters and hotels, and water still cut off in some parts of Ishikawa.</p>

<p>PM Kishida announced the additional funding as he visited the quake-hit areas to assess the situation. This is the third allocation of emergency funds to efforts to recover from the disaster, with the amount now expected to total over $1.7 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, a government estimate showed that damage in Ishikawa and two neighbouring regions was likely to cost between $7.4 billion and $17.6 billion. This data was calculated using data from past major earthquakes.</p>

<p>Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" and is regularly hit by quakes and has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong tremors.</p>

<p>However, many structures are older especially in rapidly ageing communities in rural areas like those hardest hit in the Jan 1 earthquake.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (Feb 24) that his government would spend an additional $660 million (100 billion yen) rebuilding the areas that were ravaged by magnitude-7.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (Feb 24) that his government would spend an additional $660 million (100 billion yen) rebuilding the areas that were ravaged by magnitude-7.5 earthquake on New Year's Day (January 1), the news agency AFP reported. Addressing a press conference in Wajima which was the hardest-hit city, Prime Minister Kishida said, "The living conditions at temporary shelters are improving, but I will bear in mind that the reality remains tough as ever." Kishida said that this additional funding would be approved by his cabinet in the coming days. He added the funds were designed in part to finance a subsidy system that seeks to help young and child-rearing families rebuild their destroyed homes. Also read | New Year's Day quake stretched a Japanese peninsula coastline by over 800 feet The prime minister also said that efforts would be sped up to construct prefabricated temporary housing while vowing more support for Wajima's traditional artefact industry. 241 killed in quake, over 10k displaced The earthquake and its aftershocks devastated parts of the Ishikawa region. A total of 241 people had been killed and more than 10,000 people were displaced, taking refuge at shelters and hotels, and water still cut off in some parts of Ishikawa. PM Kishida announced the additional funding as he visited the quake-hit areas to assess the situation. This is the third allocation of emergency funds to efforts to recover from the disaster, with the amount now expected to total over $1.7 billion. Last month, a government estimate showed that damage in Ishikawa and two neighbouring regions was likely to cost between $7.4 billion and $17.6 billion. This data was calculated using data from past major earthquakes. Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" and is regularly hit by quakes and has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong tremors. However, many structures are older especially in rapidly ageing communities in rural areas like those hardest hit in the Jan 1 earthquake. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan New Year earthquake: Tokyo to spend additional $660 million in rebuilding affected areas

<p>Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor. According to the Syria Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the explosion happened as the hunters were searching for truffles in the desert in the Raqqa province.</p>

<p>"Thirteen civilians, including women... were killed when a landmine left by the IS group exploded while they were searching for truffles in Raqqa," the SOHR said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shamima-begum-former-isis-bride-loses-appeal-against-uk-citizenship-revocation-693117">Shamima Begum, former 'ISIS bride', loses appeal against UK citizenship revocation</a></strong></p>

<p>These killings come after five truffle hunters were killed in a suspected IS ambush in Syria's central Homs province on Friday, state media reported. According to the news agency SANA, the assailants were on a motorcycle when they opened fire in the Jab al-Jirah area. The hunters were killed as they were picking truffles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A member of the regime forces was also killed in the attack.</p>

<p>The Syrian desert is known for producing some of the best quality truffles in the world. Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives to collect truffles in the desert - a known hideout for jihadists - which is also littered with landmines, AFP reported.</p>

<p>Authorities have repeatedly warned Syrians not to venture into the desert in search of truffles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IS carried out at least 50 attacks in the desert killing 101 members of the Syrian army and their affiliated groups, as well as 10 civilians, a report by Rudaw said on Saturday citing the SOHR.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor.

Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor. According to the Syria Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the explosion happened as the hunters were searching for truffles in the desert in the Raqqa province. "Thirteen civilians, including women... were killed when a landmine left by the IS group exploded while they were searching for truffles in Raqqa," the SOHR said. Also read | Shamima Begum, former 'ISIS bride', loses appeal against UK citizenship revocation These killings come after five truffle hunters were killed in a suspected IS ambush in Syria's central Homs province on Friday, state media reported. According to the news agency SANA, the assailants were on a motorcycle when they opened fire in the Jab al-Jirah area. The hunters were killed as they were picking truffles. A member of the regime forces was also killed in the attack. The Syrian desert is known for producing some of the best quality truffles in the world. Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives to collect truffles in the desert - a known hideout for jihadists - which is also littered with landmines, AFP reported. Authorities have repeatedly warned Syrians not to venture into the desert in search of truffles. The IS carried out at least 50 attacks in the desert killing 101 members of the Syrian army and their affiliated groups, as well as 10 civilians, a report by Rudaw said on Saturday citing the SOHR. (with inputs from agencies)

13 truffle hunters killed in Syrian desert in Islamic State landmine blast

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<p>The Ukrainian government said on Sunday (Feb 25) that 50 per cent of arms deliveries by the West do not arrive on time. Addressing a televised conference in Kyiv, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said, "Since the situation is always dynamic at the moment commitment doesn't constitute delivery. 50% of commitments are not delivered on time."</p>

<p>"So which means that in the mathematics of war, we'll look to the enemy - their economy is almost 2 trillion. They used up to 15% official and unofficial budget for the war, which constitutes over 150 billion USD. So, annually, it's officially. So basically, whatever committed that doesn't come on time we'll lose people, we'll lose territories," Defence Minister Umerov added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-ukraine-discusses-security-deals-with-allies-as-war-enters-third-year-what-are-they-693703">Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they?</a></strong></p>

<p>As the conflict has entered its third year, the Ukrainian military is struggling to stave off Russian forces along the sprawling front line. The military in Ukraine's east and south is outgunned and outnumbered, and Russia has secured its first territorial gain in almost a year.</p>

<p>Ukraine has signed security deals (that are 10 years long) with its Western allies to defend itself against Russian attacks. The security deals promise continued provision of military and security aid, support to develop Ukraine's defence industrial base, training Ukrainian soldiers, intelligence-sharing and cooperation, and support for cyber defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Denmark became the latest NATO member to sign an agreement on security cooperation with Kyiv, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Ukraine tripled weapons production in 2023'</strong></h2>

<p>Umerov's remarks came as Ukrainian Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin said on Sunday that his country tripled its weapons production last year and 500 companies were currently working in the defence sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Last year, our defence industry produced three times more than in 2022. Our capabilities for 2023 are six times larger than in the previous year. As of today, we have almost half of these capabilities contracted for 2024. We work together with the ministry of defence and the defence forces to secure further contracts (manufacturing)," Strategic Industries Minister Kamyshin said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>"Throughout the last year, we considerably increased ammunition production. This is the main designation the front is waiting for as of today. We have reached new levels in artillery shell production," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'We believe US will not abandon us'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal said on Sunday that Kyiv believed the United States would not abandon it. "We are deeply convinced that the US will not abandon Ukraine in terms of financial, military and armed support," Prime Minister Shmygal said.</p>

<p>The US has been one of the biggest financial and military backers of Ukraine since the conflict started on Feb 24, 2022. A crucial US funding package worth $ 60 billion is getting delayed due to domestic political wrangling (in the US).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World</strong></p>

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<p>On Thursday, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski told MSNBC that the delay in the US Congress in passing the funding package for Ukraine had already damaged Washington's credibility.</p>

<p>"Much damage to America's credibility has already been done because this aid package has already been debated for months,” Foreign Minister Sikorski said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What this package -- or rather the failure to pass it -- makes us realize is that even if the US president wants to help his allies, he may not be able to do so," Sikorski added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Ukrainian government said on Sunday (Feb 25) that 50 per cent of arms deliveries by the West do not arrive on time. Addressing a televised conference in Kyiv, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said, "Since the situation is always dynamic at the moment commitment doesn't constitute delivery.

The Ukrainian government said on Sunday (Feb 25) that 50 per cent of arms deliveries by the West do not arrive on time. Addressing a televised conference in Kyiv, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said, "Since the situation is always dynamic at the moment commitment doesn't constitute delivery. 50% of commitments are not delivered on time." "So which means that in the mathematics of war, we'll look to the enemy - their economy is almost 2 trillion. They used up to 15% official and unofficial budget for the war, which constitutes over 150 billion USD. So, annually, it's officially. So basically, whatever committed that doesn't come on time we'll lose people, we'll lose territories," Defence Minister Umerov added. Also read | Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they? As the conflict has entered its third year, the Ukrainian military is struggling to stave off Russian forces along the sprawling front line. The military in Ukraine's east and south is outgunned and outnumbered, and Russia has secured its first territorial gain in almost a year. Ukraine has signed security deals (that are 10 years long) with its Western allies to defend itself against Russian attacks. The security deals promise continued provision of military and security aid, support to develop Ukraine's defence industrial base, training Ukrainian soldiers, intelligence-sharing and cooperation, and support for cyber defence. Last week, Denmark became the latest NATO member to sign an agreement on security cooperation with Kyiv, the news agency Reuters reported. 'Ukraine tripled weapons production in 2023' Umerov's remarks came as Ukrainian Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin said on Sunday that his country tripled its weapons production last year and 500 companies were currently working in the defence sector. "Last year, our defence industry produced three times more than in 2022. Our capabilities for 2023 are six times larger than in the previous year. As of today, we have almost half of these capabilities contracted for 2024. We work together with the ministry of defence and the defence forces to secure further contracts (manufacturing)," Strategic Industries Minister Kamyshin said. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion "Throughout the last year, we considerably increased ammunition production. This is the main designation the front is waiting for as of today. We have reached new levels in artillery shell production," he added. 'We believe US will not abandon us' Meanwhile, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal said on Sunday that Kyiv believed the United States would not abandon it. "We are deeply convinced that the US will not abandon Ukraine in terms of financial, military and armed support," Prime Minister Shmygal said. The US has been one of the biggest financial and military backers of Ukraine since the conflict started on Feb 24, 2022. A crucial US funding package worth $ 60 billion is getting delayed due to domestic political wrangling (in the US). Also watch | War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World × On Thursday, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski told MSNBC that the delay in the US Congress in passing the funding package for Ukraine had already damaged Washington's credibility. "Much damage to America's credibility has already been done because this aid package has already been debated for months,” Foreign Minister Sikorski said. “What this package -- or rather the failure to pass it -- makes us realize is that even if the US president wants to help his allies, he may not be able to do so," Sikorski added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: 50% of Western arms deliveries don’t arrive on time, says Kyiv

<p>Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;said Sunday it had ended long-term tourist visa extensions for thousands of Russians and Ukrainians using the policy to live on the island since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"The government is not granting further visa extensions," Commissioner-General of Immigration Harsha Ilukpitiya told AFP, giving a March 7 deadline for departure.</p>

<p>"The flight situation has now normalised and they have no difficulty in getting back."</p>

<p>Just over 288,000 Russians and nearly 20,000 Ukrainians have visited&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;in the past two years, according to official figures.</p>

<p>It is not clear how many stayed longer than the usual 30-day tourist visa.</p>

<p>But thousands of Russians and smaller numbers of Ukrainians are believed to have settled in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka, some to avoid potential draft into the army.</p>

<p>Some who stayed have started restaurants and set up nightclubs.</p>

<p>The government decision coincided with a furious social media backlash against a Russian-run nightclub which had organised a "whites-only" party in the southern coastal resort town of Unawatuna.</p>

<p>Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;sought to boost tourism by granting 30-day visas on arrival, as the country desperately needed foreign exchange as it recovers from its worst economic crisis since mid-2022.</p>

<p>The country defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 and months of street protests led to the resignation of then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa three months later.</p>

<p>An IMF bailout of $2.9 billion has helped stabilise the economy and end shortages of essentials such as food, fuel and medicines.</p>


Sri Lanka said Sunday it had ended long-term tourist visa extensions for thousands of Russians and Ukrainians using the policy to live on the island since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Sri Lanka said Sunday it had ended long-term tourist visa extensions for thousands of Russians and Ukrainians using the policy to live on the island since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. "The government is not granting further visa extensions," Commissioner-General of Immigration Harsha Ilukpitiya told AFP, giving a March 7 deadline for departure. "The flight situation has now normalised and they have no difficulty in getting back." Just over 288,000 Russians and nearly 20,000 Ukrainians have visited Sri Lanka in the past two years, according to official figures. It is not clear how many stayed longer than the usual 30-day tourist visa. But thousands of Russians and smaller numbers of Ukrainians are believed to have settled in Sri Lanka, some to avoid potential draft into the army. Some who stayed have started restaurants and set up nightclubs. The government decision coincided with a furious social media backlash against a Russian-run nightclub which had organised a "whites-only" party in the southern coastal resort town of Unawatuna. Sri Lanka sought to boost tourism by granting 30-day visas on arrival, as the country desperately needed foreign exchange as it recovers from its worst economic crisis since mid-2022. The country defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 and months of street protests led to the resignation of then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa three months later. An IMF bailout of $2.9 billion has helped stabilise the economy and end shortages of essentials such as food, fuel and medicines.

Sri Lanka scraps long-term visa for Russians, Ukrainians

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<p>The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered its third year. Troops of the Ukrainian military in the country's east and south are outgunned and outnumbered, and Russia has secured its first territorial gain&nbsp;in almost a year. The war between the two countries started on February 24, 2022, and there are no signs of the conflict ending anytime soon. Ukraine is currently discussing security deals with Western allies to defend itself against Russian attacks, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Feb 23).</p>

<p>The Group of Seven (G7) countries signed a declaration at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in Vilnius in July 2023 committing to establish "long-term security commitments and arrangements" with Ukraine that would be negotiated bilaterally. The declaration has been signed by more than 30 countries so far.</p>

<h2><strong>What are these security deals about?</strong></h2>

<p>The security deals (which are 10 years long) promise continued provision of military and security aid, support to develop Ukraine's defence industrial base, training Ukrainian soldiers, intelligence-sharing and cooperation, and support for cyber defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europeans-rally-to-support-ukraine-as-war-with-russia-enters-third-year-693576">Europeans rally to support Ukraine as war with Russia enters third year</a></strong></p>

<p>When it comes to cyber defence, the deals include assistance to help Ukraine protect its networks from Russian cyberattacks and counter disinformation, a report by The Record said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Which countries have signed the deals?</strong></h2>

<p>Germany, France, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Italy have signed the security deals with Ukraine. On Friday (the eve of the war), Denmark became the latest NATO member to sign an agreement on security cooperation with Kyiv. Denmark is also the first non-G7 country to sign a deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agreement with France provides an additional package worth $3.2 billion in military aid this year, the largest amount Paris has given to Ukraine since the conflict started. The agreement with Germany provides Ukraine with another $1.2 billion package of military, including 36 howitzers, 120,000 rounds of artillery ammunition and two more air-defence systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine had signed its first such deal with the UK in January. The package is worth $3.2 billion, surpassing the previous annual commitments by $233 million, the Rishi Sunak government said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-rishi-sunak-assures-ukraines-triumph-with-new-artillery-funding-693504">UK PM Rishi Sunak assures Ukraine’s triumph with new artillery funding</a></strong></p>

<p>London said the deal formalised a range of support that it "has been and will continue to provide for Ukraine's security, including intelligence-sharing, cyber security, medical and military training, and defence industrial cooperation".</p>

<p>During a visit to Paris earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said “These three agreements ... give me confidence as president that we are not alone.”</p>

<h2><strong>Which countries will soon sign the deals?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Reuters report on Friday, Zelensky's Foreign Affairs adviser Ihor Zhovkva said that Ukraine has held at least two rounds of talks on the agreements with all the G7 countries. Zhovkva said that over 10 countries were in the active stage of talks or potentially starting soon. On Friday, the Netherlands announced it would soon sign a 10-year security deal with Ukraine for continued military support, help in reconstruction and the improvement of its cyber defences.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>"Without Western support, Ukraine as we know it will cease to exist. The Russian threat will move closer, putting pressure on the stability and safety of our continent," Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The additional countries that will sign the deal also include Poland and Romania.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's demands</strong></h2>

<p>Zhovkva pointed out that there was no need for Ukraine to rush to agree to agreements. "I don't need 10 or 15 agreements concluded within one week. Rather, I would have these same 10 or 15 agreements deeply thought over, well-negotiated and with concrete signs of long-term and varied support for Ukraine," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president's foreign adviser singled out as "very important" the provision in the deal signed with the UK under which consultations could be held within 24 hours to provide swift and sustained aid.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;G7 leaders commit to provide Ukraine with sufficient financial assistance in 2024</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine has also said that the security deals would in no way replace its strategic goal of joining NATO. "There has been speculation that by concluding enough of these agreements, we do not need membership. False. We need NATO membership," Zhovkva said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discussion of these agreements comes as top military generals in Ukraine have complained of growing shortages of both arms and soldiers. On Friday, President Zelensky pressed his allies to step up military supplies and vowed victory over Russia.</p>

<p>Speaking to G7 leaders, Zelensky said their "vital support" would help Ukraine prevail on the battlefield.</p>

<p>"Putin can lose this war. Remember that imperial ambitions and revanchism can be defeated only together," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered its third year. Troops of the Ukrainian military in the country's east and south are outgunned and outnumbered, and Russia has secured its first territorial gain in almost a year.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered its third year. Troops of the Ukrainian military in the country's east and south are outgunned and outnumbered, and Russia has secured its first territorial gain in almost a year. The war between the two countries started on February 24, 2022, and there are no signs of the conflict ending anytime soon. Ukraine is currently discussing security deals with Western allies to defend itself against Russian attacks, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Feb 23). The Group of Seven (G7) countries signed a declaration at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in Vilnius in July 2023 committing to establish "long-term security commitments and arrangements" with Ukraine that would be negotiated bilaterally. The declaration has been signed by more than 30 countries so far. What are these security deals about? The security deals (which are 10 years long) promise continued provision of military and security aid, support to develop Ukraine's defence industrial base, training Ukrainian soldiers, intelligence-sharing and cooperation, and support for cyber defence. Also read | Europeans rally to support Ukraine as war with Russia enters third year When it comes to cyber defence, the deals include assistance to help Ukraine protect its networks from Russian cyberattacks and counter disinformation, a report by The Record said. Which countries have signed the deals? Germany, France, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Italy have signed the security deals with Ukraine. On Friday (the eve of the war), Denmark became the latest NATO member to sign an agreement on security cooperation with Kyiv. Denmark is also the first non-G7 country to sign a deal with Ukraine. The agreement with France provides an additional package worth $3.2 billion in military aid this year, the largest amount Paris has given to Ukraine since the conflict started. The agreement with Germany provides Ukraine with another $1.2 billion package of military, including 36 howitzers, 120,000 rounds of artillery ammunition and two more air-defence systems. Ukraine had signed its first such deal with the UK in January. The package is worth $3.2 billion, surpassing the previous annual commitments by $233 million, the Rishi Sunak government said. Also read | UK PM Rishi Sunak assures Ukraine’s triumph with new artillery funding London said the deal formalised a range of support that it "has been and will continue to provide for Ukraine's security, including intelligence-sharing, cyber security, medical and military training, and defence industrial cooperation". During a visit to Paris earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said “These three agreements ... give me confidence as president that we are not alone.” Which countries will soon sign the deals? As per the Reuters report on Friday, Zelensky's Foreign Affairs adviser Ihor Zhovkva said that Ukraine has held at least two rounds of talks on the agreements with all the G7 countries. Zhovkva said that over 10 countries were in the active stage of talks or potentially starting soon. On Friday, the Netherlands announced it would soon sign a 10-year security deal with Ukraine for continued military support, help in reconstruction and the improvement of its cyber defences. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion "Without Western support, Ukraine as we know it will cease to exist. The Russian threat will move closer, putting pressure on the stability and safety of our continent," Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot said. The additional countries that will sign the deal also include Poland and Romania. Ukraine's demands Zhovkva pointed out that there was no need for Ukraine to rush to agree to agreements. "I don't need 10 or 15 agreements concluded within one week. Rather, I would have these same 10 or 15 agreements deeply thought over, well-negotiated and with concrete signs of long-term and varied support for Ukraine," he said. The Ukrainian president's foreign adviser singled out as "very important" the provision in the deal signed with the UK under which consultations could be held within 24 hours to provide swift and sustained aid. Also watch | G7 leaders commit to provide Ukraine with sufficient financial assistance in 2024 × Ukraine has also said that the security deals would in no way replace its strategic goal of joining NATO. "There has been speculation that by concluding enough of these agreements, we do not need membership. False. We need NATO membership," Zhovkva said. The discussion of these agreements comes as top military generals in Ukraine have complained of growing shortages of both arms and soldiers. On Friday, President Zelensky pressed his allies to step up military supplies and vowed victory over Russia. Speaking to G7 leaders, Zelensky said their "vital support" would help Ukraine prevail on the battlefield. "Putin can lose this war. Remember that imperial ambitions and revanchism can be defeated only together," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they?

<p>The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a crucial mission to save the life of an armed forces veteran. In a post on X, the IAF said on Sunday (Feb 25) that its Dornier aircraft was activated on short notice carrying a team of doctors to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi on Friday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"An IAF Dornier aircraft was activated at short notice to airlift a team of doctors of Army Hospital (R&amp;R), to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi during the night on 23 Feb 24," the IAF said.</p>

<p>"The subsequent transplant surgery helped save the life of a veteran," it added. The Army Hospital (Research and Referral) is located in the Delhi Cantonment area for the Indian armed forces where its personnel and their families get treatment.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An IAF Dornier aircraft was activated at short notice to airlift a team of doctors of Army Hospital (R&amp;R), to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi during the night on 23 Feb 24.<br />
<br />
The subsequent transplant surgery helped save the life of a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Veteran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Veteran</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarKaamDeshKeNaam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarKaamDeshKeNaam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SavingLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SavingLives</a> <a href="https://t.co/RoDkqsrSOt">pic.twitter.com/RoDkqsrSOt</a></p>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1761571787446313139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The air force has taken part in several missions like this to save lives. On July 26 last year, a harvested human heart was airlifted from Nagpur to Pune on an IAF aircraft and later transplanted into a recipient admitted to the Army Institute of Cardio-Thoracic Sciences (AICTS) in western Maharashtra city.</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency PTI, the live heart, retrieved from a woman declared brain dead, was successfully transplanted into the recipient, a male air warrior at the Pune-based AICTS, later in the day.</p>

<p>An official statement said that the organ was sent through a green corridor created by the civil administration before being transported to Pune, more than 700 km from Nagpur, on an IAF AN-32 aircraft in the “most expeditious” manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a crucial mission to save the life of an armed forces veteran. In a post on X, the IAF said on Sunday (Feb 25) that its Dornier aircraft was activated on short notice carrying a team of doctors to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi on Friday night.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a crucial mission to save the life of an armed forces veteran. In a post on X, the IAF said on Sunday (Feb 25) that its Dornier aircraft was activated on short notice carrying a team of doctors to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi on Friday night. "An IAF Dornier aircraft was activated at short notice to airlift a team of doctors of Army Hospital (R&R), to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi during the night on 23 Feb 24," the IAF said. "The subsequent transplant surgery helped save the life of a veteran," it added. The Army Hospital (Research and Referral) is located in the Delhi Cantonment area for the Indian armed forces where its personnel and their families get treatment. An IAF Dornier aircraft was activated at short notice to airlift a team of doctors of Army Hospital (R&R), to retrieve a liver from Pune to Delhi during the night on 23 Feb 24. The subsequent transplant surgery helped save the life of a #Veteran.#HarKaamDeshKeNaam #SavingLives pic.twitter.com/RoDkqsrSOt — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) February 25, 2024 × The air force has taken part in several missions like this to save lives. On July 26 last year, a harvested human heart was airlifted from Nagpur to Pune on an IAF aircraft and later transplanted into a recipient admitted to the Army Institute of Cardio-Thoracic Sciences (AICTS) in western Maharashtra city. According to a report by the news agency PTI, the live heart, retrieved from a woman declared brain dead, was successfully transplanted into the recipient, a male air warrior at the Pune-based AICTS, later in the day. An official statement said that the organ was sent through a green corridor created by the civil administration before being transported to Pune, more than 700 km from Nagpur, on an IAF AN-32 aircraft in the “most expeditious” manner. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Air Force saves veteran's life by deploying plane to transfer liver from Pune to Delhi

<p>A 45-year-old man was shot dead following a fight on a subway train in The Bronx, New York City, American media reported on Friday (Feb 23). According to a report by ABC7 New York, the man was shot on a southbound D train at 182-183 Street station in the early hours of Friday. He was pronounced dead at the St. Barnabas Hospital.</p>

<p>The report said the man was involved in a verbal dispute with three people onboard the train and was shot in the chest. The station remained closed in&nbsp;the morning hours as the authorities carried out their investigation.</p>

<p>The police were looking for three suspects who fled the train, but it is not clear if they were involved, the report added. The suspects were wearing all black.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No weapon was recovered and no person has been arrested for the shooting so far, the report added. The victim's identity has been withheld pending family notification. Further details were awaited.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 45-year-old man was shot dead following a fight on a subway train in The Bronx, New York City, American media reported on Friday (Feb 23). According to a report by ABC7 New York, the man was shot on a southbound D train at 182-183 Street station in the early hours of Friday.

A 45-year-old man was shot dead following a fight on a subway train in The Bronx, New York City, American media reported on Friday (Feb 23). According to a report by ABC7 New York, the man was shot on a southbound D train at 182-183 Street station in the early hours of Friday. He was pronounced dead at the St. Barnabas Hospital. The report said the man was involved in a verbal dispute with three people onboard the train and was shot in the chest. The station remained closed in the morning hours as the authorities carried out their investigation. The police were looking for three suspects who fled the train, but it is not clear if they were involved, the report added. The suspects were wearing all black. No weapon was recovered and no person has been arrested for the shooting so far, the report added. The victim's identity has been withheld pending family notification. Further details were awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

Man shot dead after fight on subway train in New York City

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<p>Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said on Friday (Feb 23) that his country has launched an investigation into over 122,000 suspected cases of war crimes since the beginning of Russia's invasion on Feb 24, 2022. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, Prosecutor General Kostin said "We have identified already 511 perpetrators. And we have already 80 convictions in Ukrainian courts."</p>

<p>Kostin said that the number of suspected war crimes is expected to continue rising. He urged help from the international community in documenting, investigating, and prosecuting war crimes. However, the prosecutor general pointed out that "99-plus per cent of all cases will be investigated and prosecuted in Ukraine."</p>

<p>Kostin's remarks came as Ukraine will mark the second anniversary of the Russian offensive on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US announces sanctions on over 500 targets in Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the United States President Joe Biden on Friday, announced sanctions on over 500 targets in Russia, vowing sustained pressure to stop President Vladimir Putin's "war machine."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>The sanctions also seek to impose a cost for the death last week in a Siberian prison of Putin critic Alexei Navalny, with measures taken against three officials. The latest sanctions will notably target the Mir credit card system, set up by Russia to avoid reliance on US-based networks.</p>

<p>In a statement, President Biden said that the sanctions would ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>On war's eve, a fresh appeal to West</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for the West to accelerate deliveries of promised air defence systems and fighter jets. "The most important thing is to unblock the sky. Air defence and future jets will help it," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference in the western city of Lviv. He was speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World</strong></p>

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<p>"What's important is that all our decisions have to come in time. I think that is the priority," he added.</p>

<p>Zelensky's remarks come amid&nbsp;vital US aid to Kyiv being&nbsp;blocked by Congress and&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;getting emboldened by fresh gains in recent weeks.</p>

<p>Since the conflict started, Ukraine has been relying on Western military backing to defend itself against Russian attacks. Military aid worth $60 billion from the US is currently held up in Congress amid domestic political wrangling.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said on Friday (Feb 23) that his country has launched an investigation into over 122,000 suspected cases of war crimes since the beginning of Russia's invasion on Feb 24, 2022.

Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said on Friday (Feb 23) that his country has launched an investigation into over 122,000 suspected cases of war crimes since the beginning of Russia's invasion on Feb 24, 2022. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, Prosecutor General Kostin said "We have identified already 511 perpetrators. And we have already 80 convictions in Ukrainian courts." Kostin said that the number of suspected war crimes is expected to continue rising. He urged help from the international community in documenting, investigating, and prosecuting war crimes. However, the prosecutor general pointed out that "99-plus per cent of all cases will be investigated and prosecuted in Ukraine." Kostin's remarks came as Ukraine will mark the second anniversary of the Russian offensive on Saturday. US announces sanctions on over 500 targets in Russia Meanwhile, the United States President Joe Biden on Friday, announced sanctions on over 500 targets in Russia, vowing sustained pressure to stop President Vladimir Putin's "war machine." Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' The sanctions also seek to impose a cost for the death last week in a Siberian prison of Putin critic Alexei Navalny, with measures taken against three officials. The latest sanctions will notably target the Mir credit card system, set up by Russia to avoid reliance on US-based networks. In a statement, President Biden said that the sanctions would ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," he added. On war's eve, a fresh appeal to West Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for the West to accelerate deliveries of promised air defence systems and fighter jets. "The most important thing is to unblock the sky. Air defence and future jets will help it," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference in the western city of Lviv. He was speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Also watch | War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World × "What's important is that all our decisions have to come in time. I think that is the priority," he added. Zelensky's remarks come amid vital US aid to Kyiv being blocked by Congress and Russia getting emboldened by fresh gains in recent weeks. Since the conflict started, Ukraine has been relying on Western military backing to defend itself against Russian attacks. Military aid worth $60 billion from the US is currently held up in Congress amid domestic political wrangling. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion

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