A 37-year-old businessman in Nepal, who had set himself on fire in front of Parliament in the capital city of Kathmandu on Tuesday (January 24), succumbed to burns on Wednesday. The man, identified as Prem Prasad Acharya had set himself on fire as Nepal's new Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal`s cavalcade was coming out of Parliament on Tuesday afternoon. Acharya was rushed to the Skin Burn Hospital in Kirtipur. Speaking to news agency ANI, Dr Kiran Nakarmi from the hospital said, "He succumbed to the burn-inflicted injuries. He had suffered 80 per cent burns."

Acharya belonged to the Illam district of Nepal. He poured diesel on himself and set himself on fire. Videos of the incident, which have been circulating on social media, showed bystanders attempting to douse the blaze after Acharya set himself afire. Initially, the reasons for taking this extreme step were not known.&nbsp;

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A report by the Himalayan Times on Wednesday said that Acharya had written a long post on Facebook expressing his disappointment with Nepal's corrupt system and blamed it for his decision to die by suicide. Acharya gave details about his unsuccessful business career, foreign employment and the torture by various financial institutions, banks, and people he had taken loans from. The businessman from Illam also mentioned that he had tried dying by suicide multiple times but failed.&nbsp;

The report added that Acharya also expressed anger towards Nepal's politicians and other businessmen for not supporting youth like him in his difficult time.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, a group of people staged a protest at the Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, demanding justice for Acharya, a report by The Kathmandu Post said. The report added that Nepal's home ministry has been asked to investigate the issues raised by Acharya and the reason for his&nbsp;self-immolation. The ministry has also been asked to decide the compensation to his family.&nbsp;

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A 37-year-old businessman in Nepal, who had set himself on fire in front of Parliament in the capital city of Kathmandu on Tuesday (January 24), succumbed to burns on Wednesday.

A 37-year-old businessman in Nepal, who had set himself on fire in front of Parliament in the capital city of Kathmandu on Tuesday (January 24), succumbed to burns on Wednesday. The man, identified as Prem Prasad Acharya had set himself on fire as Nepal's new Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal`s cavalcade was coming out of Parliament on Tuesday afternoon. Acharya was rushed to the Skin Burn Hospital in Kirtipur. Speaking to news agency ANI, Dr Kiran Nakarmi from the hospital said, "He succumbed to the burn-inflicted injuries. He had suffered 80 per cent burns." Acharya belonged to the Illam district of Nepal. He poured diesel on himself and set himself on fire. Videos of the incident, which have been circulating on social media, showed bystanders attempting to douse the blaze after Acharya set himself afire. Initially, the reasons for taking this extreme step were not known. ALSO READ | Satellite images show China constructing new dam close to borders with India, Nepal: Report A report by the Himalayan Times on Wednesday said that Acharya had written a long post on Facebook expressing his disappointment with Nepal's corrupt system and blamed it for his decision to die by suicide. Acharya gave details about his unsuccessful business career, foreign employment and the torture by various financial institutions, banks, and people he had taken loans from. The businessman from Illam also mentioned that he had tried dying by suicide multiple times but failed. The report added that Acharya also expressed anger towards Nepal's politicians and other businessmen for not supporting youth like him in his difficult time. On Wednesday, a group of people staged a protest at the Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, demanding justice for Acharya, a report by The Kathmandu Post said. The report added that Nepal's home ministry has been asked to investigate the issues raised by Acharya and the reason for his self-immolation. The ministry has also been asked to decide the compensation to his family. 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.

Nepal: Businessman, who set himself on fire in front of Parliament succumbs to burns

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled on Wednesday (January 25) that the cases brought by the Netherlands and Ukraine against Russia over the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 (MH17) in 2014, were admissible.

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled on Wednesday (January 25) that the cases brought by the Netherlands and Ukraine against Russia over the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 (MH17) in 2014, were admissible. A report by news agency Reuters said the decision did not rule on the merits of the cases but it showed that the court considered that Moscow could be held liable for human rights violations in the separatist regions. "Among other things, the Court found that areas in eastern Ukraine in separatist hands were, from 11 May 2014 and up to at least 26 January 2022, under the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation," the ruling on Wednesday said. The cases will now move on to the merits stage. What had happened to Flight MH17? On July 17 2014, Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 (MH17), which was on its way from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was brought down over eastern Ukraine. The flight was hit over the Donetsk region by what international investigators say was a Russian-made surface-to-air missile. There were 283 passengers, including 196 Dutch nationals and 15 crew members on board. All were killed. ALSO READ | Dutch court convicts two Russians, one Ukrainian for MH17 downing, acquits one A report by the BBC on Wednesday said the Dutch government argues that Russia had played a key role in the air disaster and holds it responsible for the crash. Moscow, however, has denied any involvement. Which conspiracy theories circulated regarding the flight's disappearance? A lot of misinformation and theories were spread regarding the flight's downing. Some of these theories included hijacking, terrorist attack, crew suicide, fire and a cyberattack. What was the Netherlands' application against Russia? The Netherlands has argued that Russia played a key role in the downing of the Malaysian Airlines flight. The Dutch foreign ministry statement on Monday said that the government also believed that Moscow did not conduct an adequate investigation and failed to cooperate with the Netherlands' request for a criminal investigation. "In the view of the Netherlands, this, combined with Russia’s repeated denial of any involvement in downing flight MH17, has caused the victims’ next of kin additional suffering," the statement added. In 2020, the Netherlands lodged an application with the ECHR regarding Russia's role in the downing of the flight. What cases were filed by Ukraine? The Reuters report on Wednesday said that the two cases in Ukraine, which are from 2014, pertained to what the government said were administrative practices by Moscow in eastern Ukraine in violation of the European Convention on Human Rights, as well as the abduction, and transfer to Russia, of the three groups of Ukrainian orphan children and children without parental care, and a number of adults accompanying them. As per the ECHR, all were returned to Ukraine one day or, in the third case, five days after being abducted. November 17, 2022: Dutch court convicts three of murder for downing of MH17 On November 17, last year, a Dutch court convicted three men of murder for their role in shooting down the Malaysian Airlines flight with a Russian-made surface-to-air missile. The convictions, along with life sentences were handed to Russians and a pro-Moscow Ukrainian. As per a report by the news agency Associated Press on November 18, 2022, presiding judge Hendrik Steenhuis said evidence presented by prosecutors in the trial—proved that the aircraft was brought down by a Buk missile fired by pro-Moscow Ukrainian fighters. 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.

Explained | Know all about flight MH17 as court rules cases against Russia 'partially admissible'

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday (January 25) that he is considering a trip to Ukraine&nbsp;following an invitation from President Volodymyr Zelensky. Addressing the Parliament, Prime Minister Kishida said, "Nothing has been decided at this time regarding my visit to Ukraine. I will consider this in light of various circumstances and conditions," news agency AFP reported. He did not give any further details.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Zelensky had invited the Japanese PM (to visit Ukraine) during a call on January 6. The AFP report added that Fumio Kishida's trip would be the first time in the post-war period that a Japanese PM visited a country during an ongoing conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-all-set-to-send-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-report-suggests-555700">Germany reportedly set to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine; US finalising plans on M1 Abrams</a>

However, Kishida's visit to the war-torn country would pose security challenges that have reportedly been giving some Japanese officials pause. A report by the Jiji news agency said as the prime minister's travel has to be approved by Parliament, officials are worried it may be difficult to keep the timing of the trip a secret. The report added that Kishida's bodyguards are limited in what weapons can they carry, and there is also no legal framework to allow the Japanese military to protect the PM abroad.&nbsp;

In May, Japan will be hosting the G7 Summit in Hiroshima where Russia's offensive in Ukraine is going to be one of the biggest agendas. The Japanese government has worked with its allies to sanction Moscow and boost support to Kyiv, even taking the rare step of offering refuge to people fleeing the war.&nbsp;

On January 14, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-should-show-strong-will-on-russias-offensive-in-ukraine-japan-pm-kishida-552819">Prime Minister Kishida said that the G7 Summit</a> should show a strong will on Russia's offensive and pointed out that the aggression in Ukraine was not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-britons-went-to-ukraine-to-help-deliver-humanitarian-aid-now-found-dead-555778">Two Britons went to Ukraine to help deliver humanitarian aid, now found dead</a>

Kishida added that the G7 leaders confirmed they would continue tough sanctions against Russia and strong support for Ukraine. The Japanese PM also stressed the importance of standing up to the Russian invasion saying if a unilateral change to the status quo went unchallenged, the same would happen elsewhere, including in Asia.&nbsp;

In the latest news on the war in Ukraine, which will soon mark one year, Germany has announced sending Leopard 2 tanks long sought by the Zelensky government. The announcement&nbsp;also includes permitting other countries including Poland to transfer these tanks to Ukraine. The United States is also expected to announce sending its tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday (January 25) that he is considering a trip to Ukraine following an invitation from President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday (January 25) that he is considering a trip to Ukraine following an invitation from President Volodymyr Zelensky. Addressing the Parliament, Prime Minister Kishida said, "Nothing has been decided at this time regarding my visit to Ukraine. I will consider this in light of various circumstances and conditions," news agency AFP reported. He did not give any further details. Ukrainian President Zelensky had invited the Japanese PM (to visit Ukraine) during a call on January 6. The AFP report added that Fumio Kishida's trip would be the first time in the post-war period that a Japanese PM visited a country during an ongoing conflict. ALSO READ | Germany reportedly set to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine; US finalising plans on M1 Abrams However, Kishida's visit to the war-torn country would pose security challenges that have reportedly been giving some Japanese officials pause. A report by the Jiji news agency said as the prime minister's travel has to be approved by Parliament, officials are worried it may be difficult to keep the timing of the trip a secret. The report added that Kishida's bodyguards are limited in what weapons can they carry, and there is also no legal framework to allow the Japanese military to protect the PM abroad. In May, Japan will be hosting the G7 Summit in Hiroshima where Russia's offensive in Ukraine is going to be one of the biggest agendas. The Japanese government has worked with its allies to sanction Moscow and boost support to Kyiv, even taking the rare step of offering refuge to people fleeing the war. On January 14, Prime Minister Kishida said that the G7 Summit should show a strong will on Russia's offensive and pointed out that the aggression in Ukraine was not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community. ALSO READ | Two Britons went to Ukraine to help deliver humanitarian aid, now found dead Kishida added that the G7 leaders confirmed they would continue tough sanctions against Russia and strong support for Ukraine. The Japanese PM also stressed the importance of standing up to the Russian invasion saying if a unilateral change to the status quo went unchallenged, the same would happen elsewhere, including in Asia. In the latest news on the war in Ukraine, which will soon mark one year, Germany has announced sending Leopard 2 tanks long sought by the Zelensky government. The announcement also includes permitting other countries including Poland to transfer these tanks to Ukraine. The United States is also expected to announce sending its tanks to Ukraine. (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.

Considering a trip to Ukraine, says Japanese PM even as Russian offensive continues

Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported. The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, adding, it had temporarily grounded the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft.&nbsp;

Police investigator Edgardo Delos Santos told the news agency Associated Press that the bodies of the two pilots were pulled from the wreckage and that witnesses saw the aircraft rapidly descending apparently out of control before crashing in. Further details on the crash are awaited.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-senior-police-officers-in-philippines-asked-to-resign-heres-why-549327">Hundreds of senior police officers in Philippines asked to resign. Here's why</a>

The SF-260 TP has been in operation in the country since the 1970s and has served as a light attack combat aircraft. The aircraft was deployed during airstrikes on southern Marawi City after it was taken over in 2017 by militants loyal to Islamic State (IS), the Reuters report said.&nbsp;

In separate news, the Philippines Civil Aviation Authority said on Wednesday that a single-engine Cessna aircraft carrying six people lost contact with an airport tower about four minutes after takeoff on a 30-minute flight in the northern Isabela province on Tuesday, the Associated Press report said. The authority said that full-scale search and rescue operations were continuing but it did not identify those aboard the aircraft. The air force, meanwhile, said that its helicopters could not join the operations due to bad weather.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported.

Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported. The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, adding, it had temporarily grounded the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft. Police investigator Edgardo Delos Santos told the news agency Associated Press that the bodies of the two pilots were pulled from the wreckage and that witnesses saw the aircraft rapidly descending apparently out of control before crashing in. Further details on the crash are awaited. ALSO READ | Hundreds of senior police officers in Philippines asked to resign. Here's why The SF-260 TP has been in operation in the country since the 1970s and has served as a light attack combat aircraft. The aircraft was deployed during airstrikes on southern Marawi City after it was taken over in 2017 by militants loyal to Islamic State (IS), the Reuters report said. In separate news, the Philippines Civil Aviation Authority said on Wednesday that a single-engine Cessna aircraft carrying six people lost contact with an airport tower about four minutes after takeoff on a 30-minute flight in the northern Isabela province on Tuesday, the Associated Press report said. The authority said that full-scale search and rescue operations were continuing but it did not identify those aboard the aircraft. The air force, meanwhile, said that its helicopters could not join the operations due to bad weather. (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.

Philippines: Two air force pilots killed after trainer plane crashes in Bataan, say reports

In Pics | Macau sees influx of tourists over Lunar Year Holiday after scrapping of Covid curbs

The 11th&nbsp;victim of the California mass shooting died on Monday (January 23)&nbsp;from wounds sustained during a weekend shooting rampage at a dance hall in the Los Angeles region.&nbsp;The 72-year-old suspected gunman, who was once a regular at the club, killed himself when approached by police on Sunday (January 22).

Huu Can Tran later drove to another dance studio where a "heroic" young man wrestled the weapon off him to prevent another slaughter.

While the reason for the attack is still not clear, multiple law enforcement sources said evidence gathered so far rules out terrorism or a hate crime.&nbsp;

The Los Angeles Times reported that the police are&nbsp;investigating "jealousy" and a personal relationship as reasons for the shooting.&nbsp;

Monterey Park resident Chester Hong told AFP&nbsp; he believed a domestic dispute over an invitation to a Lunar New Year eve party could be at the root of the attack.

"The wife (was) invited to join the party (but) the husband cannot be invited," he said. "And the husband may be upset and jealous."

The 72-year-old suspected gunman killed himself when approached by police on Sunday (January 22), about 12 hours after he had carried out a Lunar New Year shooting rampage&nbsp;at a dance club that left 11&nbsp;people dead and another 10 injured.&nbsp;

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LIVE: Los Angeles police hold briefing on Monterey Park shooting <a href="https://t.co/jpWlcHzmiK">https://t.co/jpWlcHzmiK</a>
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Luna also spoke about a second incident in nearby Alhambra some 20 minutes later, in which another Asian man carrying a gun walked into a dance studio but was tackled and thwarted. The man fled the scene and no injuries were reported. Alhambra is about two miles north of Monterey Park and investigators are probing whether these two incidents were related.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-us-has-witnessed-36-mass-shootings-in-just-23-days-this-year-555074">The US has witnessed 36 mass shootings in just 23 days this year</a>

The mass shooting at Monterey Park has been the deadliest attack in the US since May last year, when a gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at a school in Uvalde, Texas.&nbsp;

Earlier on Sunday, the White House said that President Joe Biden was briefed on the attack and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was instructed to help the local police. Vice President Kamala Harris, meanwhile, tweeted that the Biden administration would continue to provide full support to local authorities.&nbsp;

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Overnight, yet another community was torn apart by a senseless act of gun violence. To the Monterey Park families impacted: Doug and I mourn with you—and pray for you. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> and I will continue to provide full support to local authorities as we learn more.
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"Overnight, yet another community was torn apart by a senseless act of gun violence. To the Monterey Park families impacted: Doug and I mourn with you—and pray for you. POTUS and I will continue to provide full support to local authorities as we learn more," Harris tweeted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The 11th victim of the California mass shooting died on Monday (January 23) from wounds sustained during a weekend shooting rampage at a dance hall in the Los Angeles region.

The 11th victim of the California mass shooting died on Monday (January 23) from wounds sustained during a weekend shooting rampage at a dance hall in the Los Angeles region. The 72-year-old suspected gunman, who was once a regular at the club, killed himself when approached by police on Sunday (January 22). Huu Can Tran later drove to another dance studio where a "heroic" young man wrestled the weapon off him to prevent another slaughter. While the reason for the attack is still not clear, multiple law enforcement sources said evidence gathered so far rules out terrorism or a hate crime. The Los Angeles Times reported that the police are investigating "jealousy" and a personal relationship as reasons for the shooting. Monterey Park resident Chester Hong told AFP he believed a domestic dispute over an invitation to a Lunar New Year eve party could be at the root of the attack. "The wife (was) invited to join the party (but) the husband cannot be invited," he said. "And the husband may be upset and jealous." The 72-year-old suspected gunman killed himself when approached by police on Sunday (January 22), about 12 hours after he had carried out a Lunar New Year shooting rampage at a dance club that left 11 people dead and another 10 injured. LIVE: Los Angeles police hold briefing on Monterey Park shooting https://t.co/jpWlcHzmiK — Reuters (@Reuters) January 22, 2023 × Luna also spoke about a second incident in nearby Alhambra some 20 minutes later, in which another Asian man carrying a gun walked into a dance studio but was tackled and thwarted. The man fled the scene and no injuries were reported. Alhambra is about two miles north of Monterey Park and investigators are probing whether these two incidents were related. Also read | The US has witnessed 36 mass shootings in just 23 days this year The mass shooting at Monterey Park has been the deadliest attack in the US since May last year, when a gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at a school in Uvalde, Texas. Earlier on Sunday, the White House said that President Joe Biden was briefed on the attack and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was instructed to help the local police. Vice President Kamala Harris, meanwhile, tweeted that the Biden administration would continue to provide full support to local authorities. Overnight, yet another community was torn apart by a senseless act of gun violence. To the Monterey Park families impacted: Doug and I mourn with you—and pray for you. @POTUS and I will continue to provide full support to local authorities as we learn more. — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) January 22, 2023 × "Overnight, yet another community was torn apart by a senseless act of gun violence. To the Monterey Park families impacted: Doug and I mourn with you—and pray for you. POTUS and I will continue to provide full support to local authorities as we learn more," Harris tweeted. (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.

Toll in California shooting rises to 11 as police probe 'troubled romantic relationship' as reason

A bomb alert was reported on a Ryanair flight, a Boeing 737, from Poland to Greece on Sunday (January 22) with more than 190 people on board. Officials told news agency AFP that Greek warplanes scrambled to escort the flight after the alert was reported to authorities. Two F-16 jets were dispatched to escort the flight from Katowice to Athens, as it entered Greek airspace from North Macedonia, the officials added.&nbsp;

They also said the aircraft had earlier been escorted by Hungarian warplanes.

The aircraft landed at an isolated location at the Athens International Airport shortly before 16.00 GMT (9.30 pm IST), after a delay of nearly 2.5 hours, and was under inspection by a bomb disposal team.

"The passengers have disembarked and are being inspected. There were 190 people on board including the crew," Greek police spokesperson Constantia Dimoglidou told AFP on Sunday.&nbsp;As the plane approached Athens, it was diverted over the sea as a precautionary measure, the report added.&nbsp;

Piotr Adamczyk, public relations manager at Katowice airport, told the news agency that they received a telephone warning as the aircraft was flying over Slovakia. "After the plane took off, there was a call to the airport information centre concerning the possible presence of an explosive device on board," Adamczyk said, adding air traffic control was informed, which subsequently contacted the pilots.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A bomb alert was reported on a Ryanair flight, a Boeing 737, from Poland to Greece on Sunday (January 22) with more than 190 people on board. Officials told news agency AFP that Greek warplanes scrambled to escort the flight after the alert was reported to authorities.

A bomb alert was reported on a Ryanair flight, a Boeing 737, from Poland to Greece on Sunday (January 22) with more than 190 people on board. Officials told news agency AFP that Greek warplanes scrambled to escort the flight after the alert was reported to authorities. Two F-16 jets were dispatched to escort the flight from Katowice to Athens, as it entered Greek airspace from North Macedonia, the officials added. They also said the aircraft had earlier been escorted by Hungarian warplanes. The aircraft landed at an isolated location at the Athens International Airport shortly before 16.00 GMT (9.30 pm IST), after a delay of nearly 2.5 hours, and was under inspection by a bomb disposal team. "The passengers have disembarked and are being inspected. There were 190 people on board including the crew," Greek police spokesperson Constantia Dimoglidou told AFP on Sunday. As the plane approached Athens, it was diverted over the sea as a precautionary measure, the report added. Piotr Adamczyk, public relations manager at Katowice airport, told the news agency that they received a telephone warning as the aircraft was flying over Slovakia. "After the plane took off, there was a call to the airport information centre concerning the possible presence of an explosive device on board," Adamczyk said, adding air traffic control was informed, which subsequently contacted the pilots. (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.

Bomb alert on Ryanair flight from Poland to Greece, passengers disembarked

Albert Bourla, the chief executive officer (CEO) of American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer who is in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF), was confronted by two journalists on Wednesday (January 18) over the company's vaccine against Covid. The journalists, who work for Rebel News, posed several questions to Bourla about the vaccine and the Pfizer CEO ignored them.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Rebel News shared a six-minute-long video of its journalists confronting Albert Bourla. Ezra Levant, one of the journalists said, "Mr Bourla, can I ask you – when did you know the vaccines did not stop transmission? How long did you know that before saying it publicly?"

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-greta-thunberg-accuses-wef-attendees-of-fuelling-the-destruction-of-planet-554185">Davos: Greta Thunberg slams decision to appoint UAE oil boss as chair of Cop28</a>

To this, the Pfizer CEO replied, "Thank you very much." Levant then posed a follow-up question about why Pfizer kept a secret about vaccines not stopping transmission (of Covid). "You said it was 100% effective, then 90%, then 80%, then 70%, but we now know that the vaccines do not stop transmission. Why do you keep that secret?" Levant asked and Albert Bourla ignored the question and told the journalist to have a nice day.&nbsp;

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WE CAUGHT HIM! Watch what happened when <a href="https://twitter.com/ezralevant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ezralevant</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/OzraeliAvi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OzraeliAvi</a> spotted Albert Bourla, the CEO of Pfizer, on the street in Davos today. 
 
We finally asked him all the questions the mainstream media refuses to ask. 
 
Story: <a href="https://t.co/eIp37FWNtz">https://t.co/eIp37FWNtz</a> 
 
SUPPORT: <a href="https://t.co/aJiaQfYNuD">https://t.co/aJiaQfYNuD</a> <a href="https://t.co/6jSVAzCB0d">pic.twitter.com/6jSVAzCB0d</a>
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The second journalist Avi Yemini, accused Bourla of making millions on the backs of people's entire livelihoods. "Is it time to apologise to the world, sir? To give refunds to the countries that borrowed their money into a vaccine that doesn’t work. An ineffective vaccine. Are you not ashamed of what you’ve done in the last couple of years?" Yemini asked only to get no response from Bourla.&nbsp;

The two journalists also questioned the Pfizer CEO over how much money he made from the vaccine and about his secret meeting in Davos.&nbsp;

This confrontation comes a day after Pfizer announced that it would expand the number of medicines and vaccines that it sells on a not-for-profit basis to the world's poorest countries. During the WEF meeting, Pfizer said it would begin offering at cost 45 low-income nations. The American pharmaceutical giant said this expansion would help address the "disease burden and unmet patient needs" of 1.2 billion people living in these 45 nations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-covid-committee-might-quiz-von-der-leyen-over-pfizer-vaccine-contract-551787">EU Covid committee might quiz von der Leyen about Pfizer vaccine contract&nbsp;</a>

Previously, Pfizer had offered 23 of its patented drugs to poor countries on a not-for-profit basis. Now, it would include off-patent medicines, bringing the total number of products on offer to around 500, according to a report by the news agency AFP. This move is part of an initiative known as "An Accord for a Healthier World" which was announced in Davos last year.&nbsp;

"The Accord portfolio offering now includes both patented and off-patent medicines and vaccines that treat or prevent many of the greatest infectious and non-communicable disease threats faced today in lower-income countries," Pfizer said on Tuesday.

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Albert Bourla, the chief executive officer (CEO) of American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer who is in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF), was confronted by two journalists on Wednesday (January 18) over the company's vaccine against Covid.

Albert Bourla, the chief executive officer (CEO) of American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer who is in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF), was confronted by two journalists on Wednesday (January 18) over the company's vaccine against Covid. The journalists, who work for Rebel News, posed several questions to Bourla about the vaccine and the Pfizer CEO ignored them. Taking to Twitter, Rebel News shared a six-minute-long video of its journalists confronting Albert Bourla. Ezra Levant, one of the journalists said, "Mr Bourla, can I ask you – when did you know the vaccines did not stop transmission? How long did you know that before saying it publicly?" ALSO READ | Davos: Greta Thunberg slams decision to appoint UAE oil boss as chair of Cop28 To this, the Pfizer CEO replied, "Thank you very much." Levant then posed a follow-up question about why Pfizer kept a secret about vaccines not stopping transmission (of Covid). "You said it was 100% effective, then 90%, then 80%, then 70%, but we now know that the vaccines do not stop transmission. Why do you keep that secret?" Levant asked and Albert Bourla ignored the question and told the journalist to have a nice day. WE CAUGHT HIM! Watch what happened when @ezralevant & @OzraeliAvi spotted Albert Bourla, the CEO of Pfizer, on the street in Davos today. We finally asked him all the questions the mainstream media refuses to ask. Story: https://t.co/eIp37FWNtz SUPPORT: https://t.co/aJiaQfYNuD pic.twitter.com/6jSVAzCB0d — Rebel News (@RebelNewsOnline) January 18, 2023 × The second journalist Avi Yemini, accused Bourla of making millions on the backs of people's entire livelihoods. "Is it time to apologise to the world, sir? To give refunds to the countries that borrowed their money into a vaccine that doesn’t work. An ineffective vaccine. Are you not ashamed of what you’ve done in the last couple of years?" Yemini asked only to get no response from Bourla. The two journalists also questioned the Pfizer CEO over how much money he made from the vaccine and about his secret meeting in Davos. This confrontation comes a day after Pfizer announced that it would expand the number of medicines and vaccines that it sells on a not-for-profit basis to the world's poorest countries. During the WEF meeting, Pfizer said it would begin offering at cost 45 low-income nations. The American pharmaceutical giant said this expansion would help address the "disease burden and unmet patient needs" of 1.2 billion people living in these 45 nations. ALSO READ | EU Covid committee might quiz von der Leyen about Pfizer vaccine contract Previously, Pfizer had offered 23 of its patented drugs to poor countries on a not-for-profit basis. Now, it would include off-patent medicines, bringing the total number of products on offer to around 500, according to a report by the news agency AFP. This move is part of an initiative known as "An Accord for a Healthier World" which was announced in Davos last year. "The Accord portfolio offering now includes both patented and off-patent medicines and vaccines that treat or prevent many of the greatest infectious and non-communicable disease threats faced today in lower-income countries," Pfizer said on Tuesday. 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.

Watch | In Davos, Pfizer CEO confronted by journalists over 'ineffective' Covid vaccine

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large. In Syria's northern city of Aleppo, a building collapsed on Sunday killing 16 people, including children. According to the state media, search and rescue efforts were ongoing. And in a major-shake up Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri from his cabinet after the Supreme Court gave a ruling against the appointment recently. The court decided that Deri could not serve as a cabinet minister because of a conviction last year over tax offences.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-in-california-leaves-multiple-fatalities-many-injured-554870">US: 10 killed, 10 injured in mass shooting at Lunar New Year event near Los Angeles, suspect at large</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327283-la.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

At least 10 people were killed and at least 10 others injured&nbsp;in a mass shooting&nbsp;at a ballroom dance club amid Lunar New Year celebrations attended by thousands of people in&nbsp;Monterey Park city&nbsp;in California, late Saturday, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/syria-at-least-13-killed-including-children-after-building-collapses-in-aleppo-554904">Syria: At least 16 killed, including children, as building collapses in Aleppo</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327307-syria.png?imwidth=1920" />

At least 16 people, including children, lost their lives after a building collapsed in Syria's northern city of Aleppo early on Sunday (January 22), the state news agency SANA quoting an interior ministry statement.&nbsp;The report mentioned that the five-story building, housing about 30 people, collapsed overnight in the Sheikh Maksoud neighbourhood.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-removes-top-minister-after-supreme-court-ruling-554900">Israeli PM Netanyahu removes minister Aryeh Deri from cabinet following Supreme Court ruling</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327305-untitled-design-2023-01-22t171935719.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a major shake-up, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a&nbsp;top minister Aryeh Deri who is also the leader of coalition partner from his nascent cabinet after the Supreme Court gave the ruling against the appointment recently.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327292-000333x7pr.jpg?imwidth=1920" /> 
&nbsp;

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-and-germany-must-become-pioneers-to-relaunch-europe-says-macron-554930">France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327316-emmanuel-macron-and-olaf-scholz.png?imwidth=1920" />

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe.&nbsp;German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-years-after-capitol-riot-us-lawmakers-seek-to-bar-insurrectionists-from-holding-office-report-554932">Two years after Capitol riot, US lawmakers seek to bar insurrectionists from holding office: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/08/177561-us-capitol-hill-riots.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the Capitol Hill riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-media-faces-massive-layoffs-amid-fears-of-economic-depression-554886">US media faces massive layoffs amid fears of economic depression</a> 
&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327294-untitled-design-2023-01-22t162104315.png?imwidth=1920" />

US media outlets, from the Washington Post to CNN, have been facing tough days, as massive layoffs were announced by various outlets amid increasing fears of economic depression.&nbsp;Vox Media, owner of websites like The Verge and Vox along with the famous New York Magazine as well as its online platform,&nbsp;on Friday announced that they will be laying off seven per cent of its staff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dear-mr-kirby-wagner-boss-writes-to-white-house-over-fresh-us-sanctions-554903">'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327306-00032mt72q.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared&nbsp;it a transnational criminal organisation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-advices-young-umran-malik-says-you-do-this-and-then-you-will-rule-the-world-554910">Mohammed Shami advices young Umran Malik, says 'you do this..' and then you will rule the world</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327312-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Following India’s dominant eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the second ODI in Raipur, player-of-the-match Mohammed Shami was seen have a discussion with India’s newest pace sensation Umran Malik on Bcci.tv. During the match, it was Shami who provided India with early breakthroughs and returned with figures of 3-18 in six overs. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-akshay-kumar-begins-filming-for-bade-miyan-chote-miyan-with-tiger-shroff-554921">Akshay Kumar begins filming for 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' with Tiger Shroff</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327318-untitled-design-2023-01-22t194717196.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff have finally started filming&nbsp;for their upcoming action entertainer 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan', backed by Pooja Entertainment. The film is being helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar and&nbsp;features Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist.

&nbsp;

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large.

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large. In Syria's northern city of Aleppo, a building collapsed on Sunday killing 16 people, including children. According to the state media, search and rescue efforts were ongoing. And in a major-shake up Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri from his cabinet after the Supreme Court gave a ruling against the appointment recently. The court decided that Deri could not serve as a cabinet minister because of a conviction last year over tax offences. Click on the headlines to read more US: 10 killed, 10 injured in mass shooting at Lunar New Year event near Los Angeles, suspect at large At least 10 people were killed and at least 10 others injured in a mass shooting at a ballroom dance club amid Lunar New Year celebrations attended by thousands of people in Monterey Park city in California, late Saturday, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said. Syria: At least 16 killed, including children, as building collapses in Aleppo At least 16 people, including children, lost their lives after a building collapsed in Syria's northern city of Aleppo early on Sunday (January 22), the state news agency SANA quoting an interior ministry statement. The report mentioned that the five-story building, housing about 30 people, collapsed overnight in the Sheikh Maksoud neighbourhood. Israeli PM Netanyahu removes minister Aryeh Deri from cabinet following Supreme Court ruling In a major shake-up, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri who is also the leader of coalition partner from his nascent cabinet after the Supreme Court gave the ruling against the appointment recently. 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency. France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty. Two years after Capitol riot, US lawmakers seek to bar insurrectionists from holding office: Report Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the Capitol Hill riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial. US media faces massive layoffs amid fears of economic depression US media outlets, from the Washington Post to CNN, have been facing tough days, as massive layoffs were announced by various outlets amid increasing fears of economic depression. Vox Media, owner of websites like The Verge and Vox along with the famous New York Magazine as well as its online platform, on Friday announced that they will be laying off seven per cent of its staff. 'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared it a transnational criminal organisation. Mohammed Shami advices young Umran Malik, says 'you do this..' and then you will rule the world Following India’s dominant eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the second ODI in Raipur, player-of-the-match Mohammed Shami was seen have a discussion with India’s newest pace sensation Umran Malik on Bcci.tv. During the match, it was Shami who provided India with early breakthroughs and returned with figures of 3-18 in six overs. Akshay Kumar begins filming for 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' with Tiger Shroff Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff have finally started filming for their upcoming action entertainer 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan', backed by Pooja Entertainment. The film is being helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar and features Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist.

Top 10 world news: 10 dead in Lunar New Year shooting near Los Angeles, suspect at large, and more

Democratic lawmakers in a handful of states are seeking to bar insurrectionists from holding office, two years after the violent attacks on Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (January 22) said that the lawmakers are trying to send a message that those who engage in an attempted overthrow of the government should not be allowed to run it. Some of these states include New York, Connecticut and Virginia where the proposed legislation would prohibit people convicted of participating in an insurrection from holding public office or a position of public trust. &nbsp;

Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial.

In New York, state senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said those who will try to take the government down through violent means, in no way should be part of it. Sigal was sponsoring a bill that would bar people convicted of engaging in an insurrection or rebellion (against the US government) from holding civil office. He added that he would introduce the bill this year as he saw people who were involved in the Capital riot running for office last year, the report said.&nbsp;

In Virginia, a lawmaker introduced a bill in earlier in January that would prohibit anyone convicted of a felony related to an attempted insurrection or riot from serving in positions of public trust,&nbsp;including in policymaking, law enforcement, safety, education or health.&nbsp;

And in Connecticut, senate majority leader Bob Duff introduced a bill that would prohibit people convicted of sedition, rebellion, insurrection or a felony related to one of those acts from running for or holding public office. Speaking to the Associated Press, Duff said he wanted the bill to bar such people from holding state or municipal jobs.

The bill in these three states comes a month after the House's January 6 committee's final report,&nbsp;which asserted that former United States President Donald Trump was criminally engaged in a “multi-part conspiracy” to overturn the lawful results of the 2020 election and also failed to act &nbsp;to stop his supporters from attacking the Capitol. Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the committee, wrote in the report that Trump “lit that fire.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Republican leaders have said the bill to bar insurrectionists from holding office was unnecessary. Republican Assemblyman Will Barclay called the legislation a political statement and said "(the bill is) more political than it is a concern about public policy." Barclay added the existing rules already applied to people in certain positions who were convicted of crimes and these rules should be sufficient, the report added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Democratic lawmakers in a handful of states are seeking to bar insurrectionists from holding office, two years after the violent attacks on Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021.

Democratic lawmakers in a handful of states are seeking to bar insurrectionists from holding office, two years after the violent attacks on Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (January 22) said that the lawmakers are trying to send a message that those who engage in an attempted overthrow of the government should not be allowed to run it. Some of these states include New York, Connecticut and Virginia where the proposed legislation would prohibit people convicted of participating in an insurrection from holding public office or a position of public trust. Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial. In New York, state senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said those who will try to take the government down through violent means, in no way should be part of it. Sigal was sponsoring a bill that would bar people convicted of engaging in an insurrection or rebellion (against the US government) from holding civil office. He added that he would introduce the bill this year as he saw people who were involved in the Capital riot running for office last year, the report said. In Virginia, a lawmaker introduced a bill in earlier in January that would prohibit anyone convicted of a felony related to an attempted insurrection or riot from serving in positions of public trust, including in policymaking, law enforcement, safety, education or health. And in Connecticut, senate majority leader Bob Duff introduced a bill that would prohibit people convicted of sedition, rebellion, insurrection or a felony related to one of those acts from running for or holding public office. Speaking to the Associated Press, Duff said he wanted the bill to bar such people from holding state or municipal jobs. The bill in these three states comes a month after the House's January 6 committee's final report, which asserted that former United States President Donald Trump was criminally engaged in a “multi-part conspiracy” to overturn the lawful results of the 2020 election and also failed to act to stop his supporters from attacking the Capitol. Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the committee, wrote in the report that Trump “lit that fire.” Meanwhile, Republican leaders have said the bill to bar insurrectionists from holding office was unnecessary. Republican Assemblyman Will Barclay called the legislation a political statement and said "(the bill is) more political than it is a concern about public policy." Barclay added the existing rules already applied to people in certain positions who were convicted of crimes and these rules should be sufficient, the report added. (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.

Two years after Capitol riot, US lawmakers seek to bar insurrectionists from holding office: Report

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made an unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday (January 22) and met President Volodymyr Zelensky and top officials in the capital city of Kyiv.“It’s an absolute honour to be here,” Johnson told Zelensky. “Honour for us,” the Ukrainian President responded, news agency Reuters reported. Johnson visited the Borodyanka and Bucha suburbs of Kyiv. As the British PM, Johnson had visited Ukraine thrice — the last visit being on August 24 last year.&nbsp;

In Bucha, he took selfies with residents and laid flowers in tribute to the victims of the ongoing war. Johnson told Bucha's mayor that the United Kingdom (UK) will be sticking by Ukraine, adding, "You're going to win and you're going to get all the Russians out of your country, but we will be there for the long-term. And we will also want to be helping you to reconstruct."&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-ally-warns-of-global-catastrophe-due-to-the-wests-deliveries-of-new-weapons-to-ukraine-554911">Putin’s ally warns of ‘global catastrophe’ due to the West’s deliveries of new weapons to Ukraine</a>

While in Borodyanka, Johnson walked the streets by ruined residential blocks. Kyiv's regional governor Oleskiy Kuleba, who accompanied the former British Prime Minister, said that 162 residents were killed during the month-long Russian occupation of the suburb last year, adding 60% of the residents had returned.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson's unannounced visit to Ukraine comes just days after he urged allies to double down on sending military equipment to Ukraine and speed up an end to the war with Russia.&nbsp;

"There is nothing to be lost by doubling down on the material, and equipment that we are sending to Ukraine and there is nothing to fear in escalation, and the best thing for the world is to get this thing done, and done fast," the former British Prime Minister said on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos on Thursday, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"That is the cheapest solution. It's the solution that has the lowest cost in human life and suffering," he added. A day earlier, Boris Johnson was named an honorary citizen of Kyiv by mayor Vitali Klitschko in Davos.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

Last week, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that his government would provide 14 Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine to help Kyiv's forces to push Russian troops back. Sunak's pledge saw an immediate reaction from Moscow which warned it would only "intensify" the conflict.

"Bringing tanks to the conflict zone, far from drawing the hostilities to a close, will only serve to intensify combat operations, generating more casualties, including among the civilian population,"&nbsp;the Russian embassy in the UK said last week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made an unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday (January 22) and met President Volodymyr Zelensky and top officials in the capital city of Kyiv.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made an unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday (January 22) and met President Volodymyr Zelensky and top officials in the capital city of Kyiv.“It’s an absolute honour to be here,” Johnson told Zelensky. “Honour for us,” the Ukrainian President responded, news agency Reuters reported. Johnson visited the Borodyanka and Bucha suburbs of Kyiv. As the British PM, Johnson had visited Ukraine thrice — the last visit being on August 24 last year. In Bucha, he took selfies with residents and laid flowers in tribute to the victims of the ongoing war. Johnson told Bucha's mayor that the United Kingdom (UK) will be sticking by Ukraine, adding, "You're going to win and you're going to get all the Russians out of your country, but we will be there for the long-term. And we will also want to be helping you to reconstruct." ALSO READ | Putin’s ally warns of ‘global catastrophe’ due to the West’s deliveries of new weapons to Ukraine While in Borodyanka, Johnson walked the streets by ruined residential blocks. Kyiv's regional governor Oleskiy Kuleba, who accompanied the former British Prime Minister, said that 162 residents were killed during the month-long Russian occupation of the suburb last year, adding 60% of the residents had returned. Boris Johnson's unannounced visit to Ukraine comes just days after he urged allies to double down on sending military equipment to Ukraine and speed up an end to the war with Russia. "There is nothing to be lost by doubling down on the material, and equipment that we are sending to Ukraine and there is nothing to fear in escalation, and the best thing for the world is to get this thing done, and done fast," the former British Prime Minister said on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos on Thursday, Reuters reported. "That is the cheapest solution. It's the solution that has the lowest cost in human life and suffering," he added. A day earlier, Boris Johnson was named an honorary citizen of Kyiv by mayor Vitali Klitschko in Davos. ALSO READ | 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine Last week, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that his government would provide 14 Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine to help Kyiv's forces to push Russian troops back. Sunak's pledge saw an immediate reaction from Moscow which warned it would only "intensify" the conflict. "Bringing tanks to the conflict zone, far from drawing the hostilities to a close, will only serve to intensify combat operations, generating more casualties, including among the civilian population," the Russian embassy in the UK said last week. (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.

Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson makes unannounced visit to Ukraine, meets President Zelensky

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared&nbsp;it a transnational criminal organisation. Taking to Telegram, Prigozhin's press service addressed a letter to the White House national security spokesperson John Kirby. "Dear Mr Kirby, Could you please clarify what crime was committed by PMC Wagner?" the letter read, a report by news agency Reuters said early Sunday (January 22).&nbsp;

Wagner, which has been supporting Russia in its offensive on Ukraine, has claimed credit for many battlefield advances. The mercenary group has also been involved in conflicts in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-designates-mercenary-group-wagner-as-international-criminal-organisation-554630">US designates mercenary group Wagner as 'transnational criminal organisation'</a>

On Friday, the White House announced that it would impose additional sanctions next week against Wagner and its support across multiple continents. "These actions recognise the transcontinental threat that Wagner poses, including through its ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity," John Kirby told reporters as he designated the group as a "transnational criminal organisation".

Kirby said that Wagner has about 50,000 fighters in Ukraine, 80 per cent of them drawn from prisons. The White House national security spokesperson also showed US intelligence photographs of North Korea supplying arms to Wagner for its Ukraine operations,&nbsp;a claim that Pyongyang called groundless and denounced the US for providing lethal weapons to Ukraine. Prigozhin also denied taking delivery of arms from North Korea.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outrage-in-serbia-over-russias-mercenary-wagner-group-hiring-locals-for-ukrainian-war-554316">Outrage in Serbia over Russian mercenary Wagner Group hiring locals for Ukraine&nbsp;war</a>

Reuters reported early Saturday that designating Wagner as a transnational criminal organisation under US executive order 13581 would freeze any US assets of the group and prohibit Americans from providing funds, goods or services to it (Wagner).

"With these actions and more to come, our message to any company that is considering providing support to Wagner is this: Wagner is a criminal organisation that is committing widespread atrocities and human rights abuses, and we will work relentlessly to identify, disrupt, expose, and target those assisting Wagner," Kirby further said on Friday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared it a transnational criminal organisation.

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared it a transnational criminal organisation. Taking to Telegram, Prigozhin's press service addressed a letter to the White House national security spokesperson John Kirby. "Dear Mr Kirby, Could you please clarify what crime was committed by PMC Wagner?" the letter read, a report by news agency Reuters said early Sunday (January 22). Wagner, which has been supporting Russia in its offensive on Ukraine, has claimed credit for many battlefield advances. The mercenary group has also been involved in conflicts in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. ALSO READ | US designates mercenary group Wagner as 'transnational criminal organisation' On Friday, the White House announced that it would impose additional sanctions next week against Wagner and its support across multiple continents. "These actions recognise the transcontinental threat that Wagner poses, including through its ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity," John Kirby told reporters as he designated the group as a "transnational criminal organisation". Kirby said that Wagner has about 50,000 fighters in Ukraine, 80 per cent of them drawn from prisons. The White House national security spokesperson also showed US intelligence photographs of North Korea supplying arms to Wagner for its Ukraine operations, a claim that Pyongyang called groundless and denounced the US for providing lethal weapons to Ukraine. Prigozhin also denied taking delivery of arms from North Korea. ALSO READ | Outrage in Serbia over Russian mercenary Wagner Group hiring locals for Ukraine war Reuters reported early Saturday that designating Wagner as a transnational criminal organisation under US executive order 13581 would freeze any US assets of the group and prohibit Americans from providing funds, goods or services to it (Wagner). "With these actions and more to come, our message to any company that is considering providing support to Wagner is this: Wagner is a criminal organisation that is committing widespread atrocities and human rights abuses, and we will work relentlessly to identify, disrupt, expose, and target those assisting Wagner," Kirby further said on Friday. (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.

'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions

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