11 Funniest Asian Female Stand-Up Comedians of All Time

Wong's comedic style is characterised by her explicit observations on relationships, marriage, pregnancy, motherhood, and her Asian-American identity.

Nancherla's intelligent and witty humor has earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim in the comedy world.

Awkwafina, whose real name is Nora Lum, is an American rapper, actress, and comedian. She initially gained recognition as a rapper, releasing humorous and satirical songs on YouTube that went viral.

Atsuko Okatsuka is a Japanese-American comedian, actress, and writer. She has a vibrant and energetic comedic style that often delves into personal experiences.

One of her most notable ventures is the true-crime comedy podcast "My Favorite Murder," co-hosted with comedian Georgia Hardstark. The podcast gained a massive and devoted fan base.

Michelle Buteau is a talented comedian, actress, and podcast host known for her infectious energy, witty humor, and charismatic stage presence.

Sierra Katow's comedic style often combines storytelling with self-deprecating humor, making her performances relatable and engaging to a wide range of audiences.

Radhika Vaz is an Indian comedian, writer, and performer known for her bold and unapologetic humor. Her comedy often explores themes of feminism, relationships, social issues, and her experiences as a woman in India.

Kaling first gained widespread recognition and acclaim for her work on the hit comedy series "The Office," where she portrayed Kelly Kapoor, a quirky and talkative customer service representative.

Ellen Wong is a Canadian actress. Her performances in film and television have showcased her comedic talent and ability to bring humor to her characters.

<p>A major breakthrough has been attained&nbsp;in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman&nbsp;of the ex-PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The unlocking of the device is a crucial development as the UK police reopened the probe into the Partygate political scandal recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is important to note that the phone is believed to possess important Covid-era communications which Johnson had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021 after he was advised to do so due to security reasons during his tenure as the PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>A spokesman for the former prime minister quoted by UK's Metro media portal said that experts have unlocked the phone and recovered ‘all relevant messages’. The former PM's representative also added that the recovered data will now be handed to the Covid inquiry ‘unredacted'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boris Johnson seems to have taken the news in positive spirit. Johnson's spokesman said that the former PM was "pleased that technical experts have now successfully recovered all relevant messages from the device".</p>

<p>He added that the "inquiry process requires that a security check of this material is now made by the Cabinet Office."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>As per Johnson's representative, the timing of any further progress in the Covid-inquiry depends on the Cabinet Office’s control. "It was always the case that Boris Johnson would pass this material to the inquiry and do everything possible to help it be recovered." the spokesman said adding, "A careful process approved by the Inquiry has been followed to ensure that this was successful."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a report said that the experts were wary that any attempts to crack into Johnson's iPhone could potentially end up in the deletion of its key Covid-era communications data. It was also discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years.</p>

<h2><strong>House of Commons Privileges Committee report&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, a report by the House of Commons Privileges Committee, published on June 15, found out that former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal.</p>

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<p>However, even before the committee had published its report, Boris Johnson formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Viral Partygate scandal video</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Amid the controversy that plagued Johnson and surrounded many UK lawmakers,&nbsp;a video surfaced which showed workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown. This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>UK police reopen probe&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. However, they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson.</p>

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A major breakthrough has been attained in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman of the ex-PM.

A major breakthrough has been attained in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman of the ex-PM. The unlocking of the device is a crucial development as the UK police reopened the probe into the Partygate political scandal recently. It is important to note that the phone is believed to possess important Covid-era communications which Johnson had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021 after he was advised to do so due to security reasons during his tenure as the PM. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah A spokesman for the former prime minister quoted by UK's Metro media portal said that experts have unlocked the phone and recovered ‘all relevant messages’. The former PM's representative also added that the recovered data will now be handed to the Covid inquiry ‘unredacted'. Boris Johnson seems to have taken the news in positive spirit. Johnson's spokesman said that the former PM was "pleased that technical experts have now successfully recovered all relevant messages from the device". He added that the "inquiry process requires that a security check of this material is now made by the Cabinet Office." Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities As per Johnson's representative, the timing of any further progress in the Covid-inquiry depends on the Cabinet Office’s control. "It was always the case that Boris Johnson would pass this material to the inquiry and do everything possible to help it be recovered." the spokesman said adding, "A careful process approved by the Inquiry has been followed to ensure that this was successful." Earlier, a report said that the experts were wary that any attempts to crack into Johnson's iPhone could potentially end up in the deletion of its key Covid-era communications data. It was also discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years. House of Commons Privileges Committee report Earlier, a report by the House of Commons Privileges Committee, published on June 15, found out that former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × However, even before the committee had published its report, Boris Johnson formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament. Viral Partygate scandal video Amid the controversy that plagued Johnson and surrounded many UK lawmakers, a video surfaced which showed workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown. This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020. UK police reopen probe The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. However, they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson. 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. ×

Boris Johnson's phone is finally unlocked, all 'relevant' messages recovered

<p>Have you ever wondered that as the steam rises from espresso cups, so does the promise of a brighter future for the minds it may safeguard? Whether it's sipped solo or mixed into lattes, Americanos, and even martinis, espresso has long captivated coffee enthusiasts with its caffeine punch.</p>

<p>But recent research has unraveled interesting findings which will make you rethink what all that one shot of Espresso can achieve than just waking you up in the mornings. Beyond its usual job, the study reveals that this dark elixir potentially holds more benefits, including in the field of medicine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Research published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has found that Espresso shows promise in inhibiting tau protein aggregation, a critical process linked to the onset of Alzheimer's disease.</p>

<p>The key finding was made in preliminary in vitro laboratory tests during the research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>About half of all Americans drink coffee daily. This recent study suggested that espresso may potentially harbour protective effects against certain neurodegenerative ailments, including Alzheimer's.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How does espresso&nbsp;tackle this unique job?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It is important to note that the actual cause of Alzheimer's condition still remains elusive. Still, researchers believe that tau proteins play a pivotal role in the onset of Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>In healthy individuals, these proteins provide structural stability to the brain. While, in the context of diseases, these proteins form aggregations called fibrils. Scientists speculate that deterring this aggregation could alleviate symptoms. Therefore, in order to find out the potential impact of espresso in tau proteins agregation, Mariapina D'Onofrio and colleagues conducted this research.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the research entail?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>To unveil the hidden magic within espresso, the researchers used store-bought beans. They extracted precious espresso shots and then turned to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to decipher their chemical secrets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the compounds on which the researchers focused were caffeine and trigonelline, both alkaloids, the flavonoid genistein, and theobromine, the same compound found in chocolate, reported Science Daily citing the research.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>These molecules, along with the full espresso extract, were incubated alongside a shortened version of the tau protein for a duration of about 40 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What were the findings of the research?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Researchers observed remarkable findings during the study. During the experiment it was found that as the concentration of espresso extract, caffeine, or genistein rose, the fibrils shortened, refraining from forming those ominous larger sheets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the most significant discovery was made by the complete espresso extract, as it exhibited the most dramatic results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shortened fibrils remained non-toxic to cells and thwarted further aggregation by refusing to act as "seeds" for tau's aggression.</p>

<p>In a delightful surprise in the study, the researchers noticed that both caffeine and the espresso extract could skillfully bind to pre-formed tau fibrils. However, it is noteworthy that this journey into espresso findings has just begun. The researchers sensed they had stumbled upon an extraordinary clue but&nbsp;they also acknowledged the need for further exploration into the same.</p>

<p>The team believes that the in vitro discoveries could lay the foundation for unearthing methods to combat neurodegenerative afflictions, including Alzheimer's.</p>

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Have you ever wondered that as the steam rises from espresso cups, so does the promise of a brighter future for the minds it may safeguard? Whether it's sipped solo or mixed into lattes, Americanos, and even martinis, espresso has long captivated coffee enthusiasts with its caffeine punch.

Have you ever wondered that as the steam rises from espresso cups, so does the promise of a brighter future for the minds it may safeguard? Whether it's sipped solo or mixed into lattes, Americanos, and even martinis, espresso has long captivated coffee enthusiasts with its caffeine punch. But recent research has unraveled interesting findings which will make you rethink what all that one shot of Espresso can achieve than just waking you up in the mornings. Beyond its usual job, the study reveals that this dark elixir potentially holds more benefits, including in the field of medicine. Research published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has found that Espresso shows promise in inhibiting tau protein aggregation, a critical process linked to the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The key finding was made in preliminary in vitro laboratory tests during the research. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah About half of all Americans drink coffee daily. This recent study suggested that espresso may potentially harbour protective effects against certain neurodegenerative ailments, including Alzheimer's. How does espresso tackle this unique job? It is important to note that the actual cause of Alzheimer's condition still remains elusive. Still, researchers believe that tau proteins play a pivotal role in the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities In healthy individuals, these proteins provide structural stability to the brain. While, in the context of diseases, these proteins form aggregations called fibrils. Scientists speculate that deterring this aggregation could alleviate symptoms. Therefore, in order to find out the potential impact of espresso in tau proteins agregation, Mariapina D'Onofrio and colleagues conducted this research. What did the research entail? To unveil the hidden magic within espresso, the researchers used store-bought beans. They extracted precious espresso shots and then turned to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to decipher their chemical secrets. Among the compounds on which the researchers focused were caffeine and trigonelline, both alkaloids, the flavonoid genistein, and theobromine, the same compound found in chocolate, reported Science Daily citing the research. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × These molecules, along with the full espresso extract, were incubated alongside a shortened version of the tau protein for a duration of about 40 hours. What were the findings of the research? Researchers observed remarkable findings during the study. During the experiment it was found that as the concentration of espresso extract, caffeine, or genistein rose, the fibrils shortened, refraining from forming those ominous larger sheets. However, the most significant discovery was made by the complete espresso extract, as it exhibited the most dramatic results. The shortened fibrils remained non-toxic to cells and thwarted further aggregation by refusing to act as "seeds" for tau's aggression. In a delightful surprise in the study, the researchers noticed that both caffeine and the espresso extract could skillfully bind to pre-formed tau fibrils. However, it is noteworthy that this journey into espresso findings has just begun. The researchers sensed they had stumbled upon an extraordinary clue but they also acknowledged the need for further exploration into the same. The team believes that the in vitro discoveries could lay the foundation for unearthing methods to combat neurodegenerative afflictions, including Alzheimer's. 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. ×

Espresso shows promise in quest for fight against Alzheimer's: Study

<p>Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State Duma Defence Committee Chairman Andrey Kartapolov told media personnel on Friday that the conscription age bracket now will be from 18 to 30 years.&nbsp;"The key amendment is that the upper age ceiling [in the conscription age bracket] will be set at 30 years old, while the decision was made to leave the lower age limit at 18, as there are many young people who would like to enlist for military service at the age of 18, and that opportunity is currently available to them," the senior Russian lawmaker said during the second reading of the bill in the lower house of Russia’s parliament, reported Moscow Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>During the first reading last month, the bill sought to raise the lower age limit for men to be called up for compulsory military service from 18 to 21 years old. However, it was kept to 18 years after the second reading.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These new rules will come into effect on 1st January 2024 if the bill is enacted into law. Media reports quoting Kartapolov&nbsp;also said that the changes will not have any impact on new troops who will be called up this fall.</p>

<h2><strong>Timeline of the bill&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In March, the bill was submitted by a coalition of lawmakers led by Kartapolov. Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament&nbsp;passed the bill in the first reading at the time.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>The bill, in its original shape, had proposed a phased increase in the compulsory conscription age bracket. As per that, the bill first sought to keep the bracket at 19-30 years old in 2024, then to 20-30 years old in 2025, and then to 21-30 years old in 2026.</p>

<h2><strong>Duration of&nbsp;compulsory military service</strong></h2>

<p>Kartapolov, while speaking to media personnel, said that the time duration of compulsory military service in Russia will be kept at one year. He said there is no need for conscripts to serve for two years. "There is absolutely no need to serve for two years. Currently, in our country, a contemporary youth is capable of mastering any military specialization in six months maximum," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, all men in Russia are obligated to serve in the military. Alternatively, they can undergo equivalent training while pursuing higher education.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversies surrounding military service</strong></h2>

<p>Military service has been a sensitive topic in Russia, leading many individuals to take extreme measures to evade conscription during the call-up periods.</p>

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<p>Concerns escalated when some conscripts were deployed to participate in Russia's war in Ukraine, despite prior assurances to the contrary.</p>

<p>Additionally, the unexpected mobilisation of 300,000 men for a "special military operation" last autumn further fueled public criticism and prompted numerous people to flee the country to avoid being sent to fight.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's efforts to strengthen its military</strong></h2>

<p>To bolster its military capabilities, Russia announced plans to increase its professional and conscripted combat personnel by over 30% to reach a total of 1.5 million. However, the country faced challenges due to undisclosed casualties in the ongoing war.</p>

<p>In a move to make avoiding military service more difficult, legislation was passed in April allowing conscription papers to be served online. Furthermore, last Tuesday, Russian parliament extended the maximum age at which men who completed compulsory service can be mobilised. The age limit was raised to 55 for some junior ranks and up to 70 for the most senior officers.</p>

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Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year.

Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well. State Duma Defence Committee Chairman Andrey Kartapolov told media personnel on Friday that the conscription age bracket now will be from 18 to 30 years. "The key amendment is that the upper age ceiling [in the conscription age bracket] will be set at 30 years old, while the decision was made to leave the lower age limit at 18, as there are many young people who would like to enlist for military service at the age of 18, and that opportunity is currently available to them," the senior Russian lawmaker said during the second reading of the bill in the lower house of Russia’s parliament, reported Moscow Times. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah During the first reading last month, the bill sought to raise the lower age limit for men to be called up for compulsory military service from 18 to 21 years old. However, it was kept to 18 years after the second reading. These new rules will come into effect on 1st January 2024 if the bill is enacted into law. Media reports quoting Kartapolov also said that the changes will not have any impact on new troops who will be called up this fall. Timeline of the bill In March, the bill was submitted by a coalition of lawmakers led by Kartapolov. Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament passed the bill in the first reading at the time. Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities The bill, in its original shape, had proposed a phased increase in the compulsory conscription age bracket. As per that, the bill first sought to keep the bracket at 19-30 years old in 2024, then to 20-30 years old in 2025, and then to 21-30 years old in 2026. Duration of compulsory military service Kartapolov, while speaking to media personnel, said that the time duration of compulsory military service in Russia will be kept at one year. He said there is no need for conscripts to serve for two years. "There is absolutely no need to serve for two years. Currently, in our country, a contemporary youth is capable of mastering any military specialization in six months maximum," he said. At present, all men in Russia are obligated to serve in the military. Alternatively, they can undergo equivalent training while pursuing higher education. Controversies surrounding military service Military service has been a sensitive topic in Russia, leading many individuals to take extreme measures to evade conscription during the call-up periods. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × Concerns escalated when some conscripts were deployed to participate in Russia's war in Ukraine, despite prior assurances to the contrary. Additionally, the unexpected mobilisation of 300,000 men for a "special military operation" last autumn further fueled public criticism and prompted numerous people to flee the country to avoid being sent to fight. Russia's efforts to strengthen its military To bolster its military capabilities, Russia announced plans to increase its professional and conscripted combat personnel by over 30% to reach a total of 1.5 million. However, the country faced challenges due to undisclosed casualties in the ongoing war. In a move to make avoiding military service more difficult, legislation was passed in April allowing conscription papers to be served online. Furthermore, last Tuesday, Russian parliament extended the maximum age at which men who completed compulsory service can be mobilised. The age limit was raised to 55 for some junior ranks and up to 70 for the most senior officers. 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. ×

Russia raises upper conscription age to 30 from 27, keeps lower limit at 18

<p>In response to Poland bolstering security across its borders, Putin in a stern warning to Warsaw, said that an attack against Belarus will be considered an attack against Moscow itself. Meanwhile, the diplomatic showdown because of the Sweden Quran burning protests continued as two middle east giants, Saudi Arabia and Iran, condemned the country for allowing the desecration of the holy book.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In news AI-related news, the White House said Friday that OpenAI and other tech giants have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a><br />
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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 21) issued a stern warning to Poland saying that it would treat any “aggression” against its ally Belarus as an attack on his own country.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/holy-quran-protests-saudi-arabia-iran-summon-swedish-diplomats-618186">Quran burning, desecration protests: Saudi Arabia, Iran summon Swedish diplomats</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/21/368630-untitled-design-2023-07-21t174840937.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Saudi Arabia and Iran summoned Swedish diplomats to mark protest against Sweden for allowing the burning of the holy book Quran. Sweden had granted permission to burn the holy book as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, a move that is now being slammed by a majority of Muslim nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-companies-promise-watermark-to-differentiate-ai-creations-white-house-618216">Tech companies promise watermark to differentiate AI creations: White House</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/11/344573-artificial-intelligence-2.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The White House said on Friday (July 21) that OpenAI and other tech giants in the artificial intelligence race have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-reformist-party-to-support-rival-candidate-after-prime-minister-vote-defeat-618210">Thailand reformist party to support rival candidate after Prime Minister vote defeat</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/21/368646-succession-2023-07-21t173232254.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Thailand's reformist party, which won the recent election, on Friday, said that it would support a rival candidate to become prime minister after its own leader was temporarily suspended from parliament.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-government-ordered-to-arrest-vladimir-putin-618206">South African government ordered to arrest Vladimir Putin</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/21/368642-putin-3.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The South African government has been ordered by the high court to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin if he ever sets foot in the country, in compliance with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) directive.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-battles-wildfires-for-fifth-day-amid-heatwave-618194">Greece battles wildfires for fifth day amid heatwave</a><br />
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<p>Greece is struggling to contain wildfires west of Athens as they rage on fifth day on Friday (July 21). The country is experiencing another heatwave. Reuters quoted fire service official who said that concerns have grown after teh fire severely damaged more than 100 houses and businesses. Another fire near Athens was put out earlier by the autorities.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-raises-upper-conscription-age-to-30-from-27-keeps-lower-limit-at-18-618215">Russia raises upper conscription age to 30 from 27, keeps lower limit at 18</a></p>

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<p>Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27 but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-dismisses-countrys-ambassador-to-the-united-kingdom-618190">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses country's ambassador to the United Kingdom</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/21/368633-succession-2023-07-21t175702828.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tony-bennett-legendary-jazz-crooner-dies-aged-96-618213">Tony Bennett, legendary crooner, dies aged 96</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/20/202981-untitled-design-2021-07-20t110042340.jpg?imwidth=1920" />American legendary singer Tony Bennett is no more. The multiple Grammy-winning singer, who was best known for singing "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," has died at the age of 96. Bennett's longtime publicist, Sylvia Weiner, has confirmed the news.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-virat-kohli-finally-ends-five-year-test-century-drought-on-away-soil-scores-76th-international-ton-618222">IND vs WI: Virat Kohli ends five-year Test century drought on away soil; scores 76th int'l ton in 500th game</a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/21/368652-1-2.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>India’s Virat Kohli has finally ended his five-year-long Test century drought on foreign soil after he smashed a ton against West Indies on Day 2 of the second Test match on Friday, July 21. This is Virat’s 76th international hundred first on foreign soil in the red-ball format since December 2018. He will now look to consolidate on a good start as India are currently in a good position having started on the bright side on Day 1.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


In response to Poland bolstering security across its borders, Putin in a stern warning to Warsaw, said that an attack against Belarus will be considered an attack against Moscow itself.

In response to Poland bolstering security across its borders, Putin in a stern warning to Warsaw, said that an attack against Belarus will be considered an attack against Moscow itself. Meanwhile, the diplomatic showdown because of the Sweden Quran burning protests continued as two middle east giants, Saudi Arabia and Iran, condemned the country for allowing the desecration of the holy book. In news AI-related news, the White House said Friday that OpenAI and other tech giants have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images. Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 21) issued a stern warning to Poland saying that it would treat any “aggression” against its ally Belarus as an attack on his own country. Quran burning, desecration protests: Saudi Arabia, Iran summon Swedish diplomats Saudi Arabia and Iran summoned Swedish diplomats to mark protest against Sweden for allowing the burning of the holy book Quran. Sweden had granted permission to burn the holy book as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, a move that is now being slammed by a majority of Muslim nations. Tech companies promise watermark to differentiate AI creations: White House The White House said on Friday (July 21) that OpenAI and other tech giants in the artificial intelligence race have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images. Thailand reformist party to support rival candidate after Prime Minister vote defeat Thailand's reformist party, which won the recent election, on Friday, said that it would support a rival candidate to become prime minister after its own leader was temporarily suspended from parliament. South African government ordered to arrest Vladimir Putin The South African government has been ordered by the high court to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin if he ever sets foot in the country, in compliance with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) directive. Greece battles wildfires for fifth day amid heatwave Greece is struggling to contain wildfires west of Athens as they rage on fifth day on Friday (July 21). The country is experiencing another heatwave. Reuters quoted fire service official who said that concerns have grown after teh fire severely damaged more than 100 houses and businesses. Another fire near Athens was put out earlier by the autorities. Russia raises upper conscription age to 30 from 27, keeps lower limit at 18 Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27 but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses country's ambassador to the United Kingdom Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid. Tony Bennett, legendary crooner, dies aged 96 American legendary singer Tony Bennett is no more. The multiple Grammy-winning singer, who was best known for singing "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," has died at the age of 96. Bennett's longtime publicist, Sylvia Weiner, has confirmed the news. IND vs WI: Virat Kohli ends five-year Test century drought on away soil; scores 76th int'l ton in 500th game India’s Virat Kohli has finally ended his five-year-long Test century drought on foreign soil after he smashed a ton against West Indies on Day 2 of the second Test match on Friday, July 21. This is Virat’s 76th international hundred first on foreign soil in the red-ball format since December 2018. He will now look to consolidate on a good start as India are currently in a good position having started on the bright side on Day 1.

Top 10 news: Putin warns Poland against aggression towards Belarus, & more

<p>Saudi Arabia and Iran summoned Swedish diplomats to mark protest against Sweden for allowing the burning of the holy book Quran. Sweden&nbsp;had granted permission to burn the holy book as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, a move that is now being slammed by a majority of Muslim nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The foreign ministry of both Middle east nations released statements late Thursday condemning the actions by the Swedish police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sweden became the epicentre of angry protests after the 28 June incident when Sweden-based Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika burned pages of the Quran in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm during Eid al-Adha. Reports quoting Momika said that the primary purpose of the refugee was to bring the spotlight on freedom of speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>Another major protest happened on Thursday when protesters stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad and set it on fire. Thursday's protest in Baghdad was organised by supporters of religious leader Moqtada Sadr who were angered by the desecration of Quran in Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iraq severed its diplomatic ties with Sweden.</p>

<p>A planned protest was organised on the same day when Momika staged another protest in Stockholm. This time, he stomped on and kicked the copy of the Muslim holy book in front of Iraq's embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "strong condemnation and denunciation of the repeated and irresponsible actions of the Swedish authorities by granting some extremists official permits authorizing them to burn and desecrate copies of the Holy Quran."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>Speaking in the same vein, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said that Sweden’s ambassador to Tehran had been summoned. “We strongly condemn the repeated desecration of the Holy Quran and Islamic sanctities in Sweden and hold the Swedish government fully responsible for the consequences of inciting the feelings of Muslims around the world,” Kanani said, reported Dawn news portal.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Iraq and Sweden ties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Quran burning incident and the following protests have affected diplomatic ties between the Iraq and Sweden. The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm.</p>

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<p>Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Other countries that condemned Sweden&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “The desecration of sacred books, persons and rituals is not freedom of expression but [is done] to constantly torment the world" and added that the entire Muslim and Christian communities “must stop this conspiracy together."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other countries that condemned Sweden are Turkey, Lebanon, United States, among others. However, the US said that Sweden’s issuing of the permit supported freedom of expression but the country was not an endorsement of the action.</p>

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Saudi Arabia and Iran summoned Swedish diplomats to mark protest against Sweden for allowing the burning of the holy book Quran. Sweden had granted permission to burn the holy book as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, a move that is now being slammed by a majority of Muslim nations.

Saudi Arabia and Iran summoned Swedish diplomats to mark protest against Sweden for allowing the burning of the holy book Quran. Sweden had granted permission to burn the holy book as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, a move that is now being slammed by a majority of Muslim nations. The foreign ministry of both Middle east nations released statements late Thursday condemning the actions by the Swedish police. Sweden became the epicentre of angry protests after the 28 June incident when Sweden-based Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika burned pages of the Quran in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm during Eid al-Adha. Reports quoting Momika said that the primary purpose of the refugee was to bring the spotlight on freedom of speech. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah Another major protest happened on Thursday when protesters stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad and set it on fire. Thursday's protest in Baghdad was organised by supporters of religious leader Moqtada Sadr who were angered by the desecration of Quran in Sweden. Iraq severed its diplomatic ties with Sweden. A planned protest was organised on the same day when Momika staged another protest in Stockholm. This time, he stomped on and kicked the copy of the Muslim holy book in front of Iraq's embassy. In a statement, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "strong condemnation and denunciation of the repeated and irresponsible actions of the Swedish authorities by granting some extremists official permits authorizing them to burn and desecrate copies of the Holy Quran." Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities Speaking in the same vein, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said that Sweden’s ambassador to Tehran had been summoned. “We strongly condemn the repeated desecration of the Holy Quran and Islamic sanctities in Sweden and hold the Swedish government fully responsible for the consequences of inciting the feelings of Muslims around the world,” Kanani said, reported Dawn news portal. Iraq and Sweden ties The Quran burning incident and the following protests have affected diplomatic ties between the Iraq and Sweden. The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement. Other countries that condemned Sweden Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “The desecration of sacred books, persons and rituals is not freedom of expression but [is done] to constantly torment the world" and added that the entire Muslim and Christian communities “must stop this conspiracy together." Other countries that condemned Sweden are Turkey, Lebanon, United States, among others. However, the US said that Sweden’s issuing of the permit supported freedom of expression but the country was not an endorsement of the action. 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. ×

Quran burning, desecration protests: Saudi Arabia, Iran summon Swedish diplomats

<p>Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks.</p>

<p>The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this week it expected temperatures in North America, Asia, North Africa and the Mediterranean to be above 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) "for a prolonged number of days this week as the heatwave intensifies".</p>

<p>"We should expect or at least plan for these extreme heatwaves to continue through August," Senior Extreme Heat Adviser for the WMO John Nairn told Reuters.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-orders-lower-stairs-on-air-force-one-opt-for-loafers-to-avoid-tripping-618092">Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping</a></p>

<p>Southern Europe is grappling with a record-breaking heatwave during the peak summer tourist season, prompting the authorities to warn of an increased risk of health problems and even casualties.</p>

<p>Extreme weather has also disrupted the lives of millions of Americans, with dangerous heat stretching from Southern California to the Deep South. Sweltering heat has also hit the Middle East.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a></p>

<p>Nairn said climate change meant heatwaves would become more frequent and be spread across the seasons.</p>

<p>"We're on trend in seeing a rise in global temperatures that will contribute to heatwaves increasing in intensity and frequency," Nairn said.</p>

<p>"We've got quite clear indications that they're already growing out into spring."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty</strong></p>

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<p>Some countries including the 27-member European Union are hoping all nations will agree at U.N. climate talks later this year to phase out the fossil fuel consumption that causes climate change.</p>

<p>Countries with oil and gas resources have opposed the idea.</p>

<p>"There is very strong evidence that if we were to eliminate fossil fuels, we would reduce a major contributor to what we are seeing," Nairn said.</p>

<p>"We can't turn it around in a hurry, but we certainly can take action."</p>

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Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks.

Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this week it expected temperatures in North America, Asia, North Africa and the Mediterranean to be above 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) "for a prolonged number of days this week as the heatwave intensifies". "We should expect or at least plan for these extreme heatwaves to continue through August," Senior Extreme Heat Adviser for the WMO John Nairn told Reuters. Also Read | Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping Southern Europe is grappling with a record-breaking heatwave during the peak summer tourist season, prompting the authorities to warn of an increased risk of health problems and even casualties. Extreme weather has also disrupted the lives of millions of Americans, with dangerous heat stretching from Southern California to the Deep South. Sweltering heat has also hit the Middle East. Also Read | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus Nairn said climate change meant heatwaves would become more frequent and be spread across the seasons. "We're on trend in seeing a rise in global temperatures that will contribute to heatwaves increasing in intensity and frequency," Nairn said. "We've got quite clear indications that they're already growing out into spring." Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty × Some countries including the 27-member European Union are hoping all nations will agree at U.N. climate talks later this year to phase out the fossil fuel consumption that causes climate change. Countries with oil and gas resources have opposed the idea. "There is very strong evidence that if we were to eliminate fossil fuels, we would reduce a major contributor to what we are seeing," Nairn said. "We can't turn it around in a hurry, but we certainly can take action." 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. ×

Extreme heatwaves to continue in many parts through August, says WMO adviser

<p>In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana.</p>

<p>Wazukhana is a space inside a mosque where Muslim worshippers wash their hands before delivering namaaz. The contention revolves around claims of the existence of a 'Shivling', a structure considered holy to Hindus, in the wazukhana of the mosque..</p>

<p>Gyanvapi is situated next to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. A group of women had petitioned the local court for permission to worship daily before the idols on the mosque's exterior walls.</p>

<p>In May 2022, after a videographic survey of the Gyanvapi complex, the Hindu devotees claimed that there was a 'Shivling' inside the mosque premises. However, the Muslim side denied the claims. They said that it was not 'Shivling' but a&nbsp;fountain.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>In its order, the Varanasi court said the entire&nbsp;mosque complex will be subjected to&nbsp;ASI's "scientific survey". However, it will exclude&nbsp;wuzukhana (place for ablution) where the 'Shivling' was found.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>An order to conduct an archaeological survey of the Gyanvapi complex was issued on April 8, 2021.&nbsp;Later, a local court in May 2022 ordered the Varanasi district administration to seal the location in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex where a Shivling was allegedly discovered during a three-day court-ordered videography survey.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the court say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As per the court order, the ASI has been directed to produce a study report by August 4. In addition, District Judge A K Vishwesha ordered that the scientific survey by ASI should be done between 8 am in the morning to 12 in the noon.</p>

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<p>Despite the ASI survey order, the court made it clear that the survey will not hinder 'Namaz'. Furthermore, it added that no damage should be caused to the Gyanvapi mosque.</p>

<h2><strong>Hindu side welcomes ASI survey&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The court order was welcomed by the Hindu side. The counsel for the Hindu side, Vishnu Shankar Jain, termed the order by the court a "turning point" in the long-standing Kashi Vishwanath temple-Gyanvapi mosque dispute.</p>

<p>He reportedly said that the survey is needed in order to "uncover whether the current structure (Gyanvapi mosque) was built on barren land or was constructed over a pre-existing structure of a Hindu temple."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is also important to examine the age and nature of the construction of the western wall of the building and domes to check whether the top of temples existed beneath them. Besides, marks of Swastik, verses of shlokas evident on many walls and many other facts should also be examined," media reports said citing his comments before the court.</p>

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In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana.

In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana. Wazukhana is a space inside a mosque where Muslim worshippers wash their hands before delivering namaaz. The contention revolves around claims of the existence of a 'Shivling', a structure considered holy to Hindus, in the wazukhana of the mosque.. Gyanvapi is situated next to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. A group of women had petitioned the local court for permission to worship daily before the idols on the mosque's exterior walls. In May 2022, after a videographic survey of the Gyanvapi complex, the Hindu devotees claimed that there was a 'Shivling' inside the mosque premises. However, the Muslim side denied the claims. They said that it was not 'Shivling' but a fountain. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah In its order, the Varanasi court said the entire mosque complex will be subjected to ASI's "scientific survey". However, it will exclude wuzukhana (place for ablution) where the 'Shivling' was found. Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities An order to conduct an archaeological survey of the Gyanvapi complex was issued on April 8, 2021. Later, a local court in May 2022 ordered the Varanasi district administration to seal the location in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex where a Shivling was allegedly discovered during a three-day court-ordered videography survey. What did the court say? As per the court order, the ASI has been directed to produce a study report by August 4. In addition, District Judge A K Vishwesha ordered that the scientific survey by ASI should be done between 8 am in the morning to 12 in the noon. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × Despite the ASI survey order, the court made it clear that the survey will not hinder 'Namaz'. Furthermore, it added that no damage should be caused to the Gyanvapi mosque. Hindu side welcomes ASI survey The court order was welcomed by the Hindu side. The counsel for the Hindu side, Vishnu Shankar Jain, termed the order by the court a "turning point" in the long-standing Kashi Vishwanath temple-Gyanvapi mosque dispute. He reportedly said that the survey is needed in order to "uncover whether the current structure (Gyanvapi mosque) was built on barren land or was constructed over a pre-existing structure of a Hindu temple." "It is also important to examine the age and nature of the construction of the western wall of the building and domes to check whether the top of temples existed beneath them. Besides, marks of Swastik, verses of shlokas evident on many walls and many other facts should also be examined," media reports said citing his comments before the court. 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. ×

India: Varanasi court allows archaeological survey of entire Gyanvapi complex, excluding 'wuzukhana'

<p>Elon Musk is changing the way Twitter treats media queries as per a comment dropped by the Tesla CEO on a post by a social media user. Usually, when any media outlet approaches Twitter for queries, the company reacts with an auto-reply message which is a poop emoji.</p>

<p>Musk, a billionaire,&nbsp;after taking over Twitter, has been making quite a number of changes to the microblogging website. One of these changes was when in the month of March&nbsp;Musk announced that journos who seek to ask questions to Twitter will get a poop emoji in response.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>So what happened?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Twitter user, Shibetoshi Nakamoto, shared a screenshot of an article that stated, "Twitter responded to a request for comment by sending a poop emoji, as is its standard practice." Captioning the post, the user wrote, "Every time I see an article mention this it amuses me… why do they bother trying though?"&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How did Musk respond?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to this post, Musk wrote, "We are changing the auto-reply from 💩 to a “We will get back to you soon” infinite loop."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Or maybe a “Check with us again tomorrow” loop" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-orders-lower-stairs-on-air-force-one-opt-for-loafers-to-avoid-tripping-618092">Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping</a></p>

<p>After the tweet by the Tesla CEO went viral, netizens started to react to his post. Soon enough, the post ended up amassing a barrage of comments. The tweet, which was posted by Musk in the morning, received more than 4,000 likes and over three lakh views.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a></p>

<p>Joining the Twitter thread was also the Twitter CEO Linda Yaccarcino. The newly appointed CEO reacted to the post with two clapping emojis.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens react&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The internet exploded with hilarious comments. One user reacted, "Email response is stuck in the mail."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty</strong></p>

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<p>"We will get back to you soon. Please don’t send additional emails, as it'll move your request to the bottom of our queue and delay our response to you," another user added. "When 'tomorrow' finally comes but you're still millions deep in the queue," one Twitter user said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Please hold while we connect you&nbsp;Infinite" and "Or the classic, “I am connecting you to a real person” loop", were some of the other comments where Twitter users got creative.&nbsp;<br />
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Elon Musk is changing the way Twitter treats media queries as per a comment dropped by the Tesla CEO on a post by a social media user. Usually, when any media outlet approaches Twitter for queries, the company reacts with an auto-reply message which is a poop emoji.

Elon Musk is changing the way Twitter treats media queries as per a comment dropped by the Tesla CEO on a post by a social media user. Usually, when any media outlet approaches Twitter for queries, the company reacts with an auto-reply message which is a poop emoji. Musk, a billionaire, after taking over Twitter, has been making quite a number of changes to the microblogging website. One of these changes was when in the month of March Musk announced that journos who seek to ask questions to Twitter will get a poop emoji in response. So what happened? A Twitter user, Shibetoshi Nakamoto, shared a screenshot of an article that stated, "Twitter responded to a request for comment by sending a poop emoji, as is its standard practice." Captioning the post, the user wrote, "Every time I see an article mention this it amuses me… why do they bother trying though?" How did Musk respond? Responding to this post, Musk wrote, "We are changing the auto-reply from 💩 to a “We will get back to you soon” infinite loop." "Or maybe a “Check with us again tomorrow” loop" he added. Also Read | Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping After the tweet by the Tesla CEO went viral, netizens started to react to his post. Soon enough, the post ended up amassing a barrage of comments. The tweet, which was posted by Musk in the morning, received more than 4,000 likes and over three lakh views. Also Read | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus Joining the Twitter thread was also the Twitter CEO Linda Yaccarcino. The newly appointed CEO reacted to the post with two clapping emojis. Netizens react The internet exploded with hilarious comments. One user reacted, "Email response is stuck in the mail." Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty × "We will get back to you soon. Please don’t send additional emails, as it'll move your request to the bottom of our queue and delay our response to you," another user added. "When 'tomorrow' finally comes but you're still millions deep in the queue," one Twitter user said. "Please hold while we connect you Infinite" and "Or the classic, “I am connecting you to a real person” loop", were some of the other comments where Twitter users got creative. 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. ×

Poop emoji in Twitter email auto-reply to be changed to THIS

<p>Ukrainian forces have begun using cluster munitions provided by the US to target Russian troops and disrupt their positions. This comes as tensions escalated after Russia withdrew from a Black Sea grain deal that had allowed safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports. This withdrawal caused a significant surge in global wheat prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India news, during the opening session of the Parliament's monsoon session, there was chaos as the debate centered on the Manipur crisis. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the violence and condemned the appalling incident where two women from the Kuki tribe were paraded naked. However, the opposition, led by Congress party lawmaker Mallikarjun Kharge, strongly criticised the government's handling of the situation.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts firing cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368416-cluster-munitions.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wheat-prices-rise-exponentially-after-russia-pulls-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-617794">Wheat prices rise exponentially after Russia pulls out of Black Sea grain deal</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/20/297383-m63g4vefprouxibg5przomxgzm.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up.&nbsp;On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368404-kharge-1.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>There was pandemonium during the opening session of the Parliament’s monsoon session on Thursday (July 20) when the debate opened about the Manipur crisis. Minutes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first remarks over the violence, condemning the horrific incident of two women from Kuki tribe being paraded naked, the opposition tore into the government, with the Congress party lawmaker Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-james-anderson-is-a-bowlers-paradise-in-a-batters-world-617851">Explained: Why James Anderson is a bowler's paradise in a batter's world</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368407-untitled-design-2023-07-20t172835777.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Cricket has had its heroes, mostly batters, some all-rounders and a handful of bowlers, to be precise. The game, whose origin is unknown to most avid fans, is worshipped in a few countries, and England happens to be one. From W.G Grace to Jim Laker, from the legendary Ian Botham to dashing David Gower – many inspired generations, but imagine starting to follow the game because of a seamer a world now calls perhaps the greatest, and he’s none other than veteran James Anderson.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/blackstone-becomes-first-private-equity-firm-to-reach-this-1-trillion-milestone-617867">Blackstone becomes first private equity firm to reach THIS $1 trillion milestone</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368420-copy-of-untitled.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>New York-based private equity firm Blackstone has breached the $1 trillion in assets under management mark - becoming the first among its peers to reach the milestone. The firm first set the goal of crossing the $1 trillion landmark in 2018 by 2026 but reached it, three years in advance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/workers-battle-extreme-heat-warn-of-strike-in-italy-and-stoppages-in-greece-617666">Extreme heat roils Europe: Workers warn of strike in Italy and stoppages in Greece</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368290-untitled-design-2023-07-20t095420721.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Temperatures soared to almost 47 degrees Celcius in southern Italy on Wednesday (July 19) as factory workers threatened to go on strike over the extreme heat. Heat records were broken in coastal waters around Spain even as wildfires continued to rage in Greece.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-restricts-movement-of-british-diplomats-in-russia-know-why-617878">Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368426-copy-of-untitled-1.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/iraq-expels-swedish-envoy-in-response-to-planned-quran-burning-protest-617879">Iraq expels Swedish envoy in response to planned Quran burning protest</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368427-iraq.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Iraq on Thursday (July 20) cut diplomatic ties with Sweden in response to Swedish authorities allowing protesters to desecrate holy book Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm.&nbsp;The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semiconductor-wars-china-warns-of-retaliation-if-us-imposes-further-restrictions-617844">Semiconductor wars: China warns of retaliation if US imposes further restrictions</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/28/362832-ai-chips.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Amid the ongoing chip wars, China's new envoy to the US has issued a warning that Beijing will retaliate if the Biden administration imposes new limits on technology. Ambassador Xie Feng, during the Aspen Security Forum China said his country did not want a trade or technology war but its leaders won't sit on their hands if the US had something up its sleeve once again.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-kevin-spacey-got-away-with-sexual-assault-because-of-his-celebrity-status-claims-prosecutor-617777">Kevin Spacey got away with sexual assault because of his celebrity status, claims prosecutor</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364603-kevin-spacey.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The prosecution in Kevin Spacey's sexual assault trial on Wednesday claimed that the actor got away with his behaviour because of his celebrity status. In his closing arguments on the case, prosecutor Christine Agnew said that Spacey seized moments for an 'opportunity grab' and was able to get away from all his objectionable behaviour because he took advantage of the power he got from being a celebrity.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ukrainian forces have begun using cluster munitions provided by the US to target Russian troops and disrupt their positions. This comes as tensions escalated after Russia withdrew from a Black Sea grain deal that had allowed safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports.

Ukrainian forces have begun using cluster munitions provided by the US to target Russian troops and disrupt their positions. This comes as tensions escalated after Russia withdrew from a Black Sea grain deal that had allowed safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports. This withdrawal caused a significant surge in global wheat prices. In India news, during the opening session of the Parliament's monsoon session, there was chaos as the debate centered on the Manipur crisis. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the violence and condemned the appalling incident where two women from the Kuki tribe were paraded naked. However, the opposition, led by Congress party lawmaker Mallikarjun Kharge, strongly criticised the government's handling of the situation. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukraine starts firing cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter. Wheat prices rise exponentially after Russia pulls out of Black Sea grain deal After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent. ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt There was pandemonium during the opening session of the Parliament’s monsoon session on Thursday (July 20) when the debate opened about the Manipur crisis. Minutes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first remarks over the violence, condemning the horrific incident of two women from Kuki tribe being paraded naked, the opposition tore into the government, with the Congress party lawmaker Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge. Explained: Why James Anderson is a bowler's paradise in a batter's world Cricket has had its heroes, mostly batters, some all-rounders and a handful of bowlers, to be precise. The game, whose origin is unknown to most avid fans, is worshipped in a few countries, and England happens to be one. From W.G Grace to Jim Laker, from the legendary Ian Botham to dashing David Gower – many inspired generations, but imagine starting to follow the game because of a seamer a world now calls perhaps the greatest, and he’s none other than veteran James Anderson. Blackstone becomes first private equity firm to reach THIS $1 trillion milestone New York-based private equity firm Blackstone has breached the $1 trillion in assets under management mark - becoming the first among its peers to reach the milestone. The firm first set the goal of crossing the $1 trillion landmark in 2018 by 2026 but reached it, three years in advance. Extreme heat roils Europe: Workers warn of strike in Italy and stoppages in Greece Temperatures soared to almost 47 degrees Celcius in southern Italy on Wednesday (July 19) as factory workers threatened to go on strike over the extreme heat. Heat records were broken in coastal waters around Spain even as wildfires continued to rage in Greece. Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report. Iraq expels Swedish envoy in response to planned Quran burning protest Iraq on Thursday (July 20) cut diplomatic ties with Sweden in response to Swedish authorities allowing protesters to desecrate holy book Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm. The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm. Semiconductor wars: China warns of retaliation if US imposes further restrictions Amid the ongoing chip wars, China's new envoy to the US has issued a warning that Beijing will retaliate if the Biden administration imposes new limits on technology. Ambassador Xie Feng, during the Aspen Security Forum China said his country did not want a trade or technology war but its leaders won't sit on their hands if the US had something up its sleeve once again. Kevin Spacey got away with sexual assault because of his celebrity status, claims prosecutor The prosecution in Kevin Spacey's sexual assault trial on Wednesday claimed that the actor got away with his behaviour because of his celebrity status. In his closing arguments on the case, prosecutor Christine Agnew said that Spacey seized moments for an 'opportunity grab' and was able to get away from all his objectionable behaviour because he took advantage of the power he got from being a celebrity.

Top 10 news: Ukraine fires cluster munitions, wheat prices soar as Russia pulls out of grain deal, and more

<p>Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a&nbsp;roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US&nbsp;justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fed-fines-deutsche-bank-186-million-for-inefficient-action-to-restrain-money-laundering-617784">Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering</a></p>

<p>While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-powered-sex-robots-may-eliminate-need-for-human-partners-claims-former-google-executive-617766">Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners</a></p>

<p>Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's approval followed by criticism</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons.</p>

<p>Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end.</p>

<p>President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Comments by Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill</strong></p>

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<p>On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use.</p>

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Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.

Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter. Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available. Also Read | Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake. It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops. Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year. Biden's approval followed by criticism US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons. Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end. President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests. Comments by Russia and Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations. Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill × On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use. 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. ×

Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism

<p>Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the released document, Burisma's CEO Mykola Zlochevsky was purportedly "coerced" into paying millions of dollars to the Bidens in exchange for their help in getting fired a Ukrainian prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, who was investigating the company for corruption.</p>

<p>The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens.</p>

<p>Fox News earlier reported citing sources said that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from the executive to curry favours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fed-fines-deutsche-bank-186-million-for-inefficient-action-to-restrain-money-laundering-617784">Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering</a></p>

<p>Grassley said that he released the document so that Americans can "read this document for themselves without the filter of politicians or bureaucrats."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is important to note that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the company's board at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document, the FBI FD-1023 form, was used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources (CHS).</p>

<p>The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes an interviewed source as "highly credible."</p>

<p>As per the form, the confidential human source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015. states that the contact with the source was made via a telephonic conversation.</p>

<p>In the form, Burisma's CEO Zlochevsky revealed to the source that he had evidence such as "many text messages and ‘recordings’ to "show he was coerced to make such payments" to the Bidens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-powered-sex-robots-may-eliminate-need-for-human-partners-claims-former-google-executive-617766">Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners</a></p>

<p>"CHS recalled this meeting took place around the time Joe Biden made a public statement about (former) Ukraine Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin being corrupt, and that he should be fired/removed from office," the form states adding, "CHS told Zlochevsky that due to Shokin’s investigation into Burisma, which was made public at this time, it would have a substantial negative impact on Burisma’s prospective IPO in the United States."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill</strong></p>

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<p>Zlochevsky, in response, said something that insinuated, "Don’t worry Hunter will take care of those issues through his dad."</p>

<p>The form added that the source "did not ask any further questions about what that specifically meant."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"CHS advised Zlochevsky it would be problematic to raise capital in the US given Shokin’s investigation into Burisma as nobody in the US would invest in a company that was the subject of a criminal investigation," the form stated adding,&nbsp;"CHS suggested it would be best if Burisma simply litigate the matter in Ukraine, and pay some attorney $50,000," the form states, but Zlochevsky said Burisma "would likely lose the trial because he could not show that Burisma was innocent."</p>

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Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma. According to the released document, Burisma's CEO Mykola Zlochevsky was purportedly "coerced" into paying millions of dollars to the Bidens in exchange for their help in getting fired a Ukrainian prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, who was investigating the company for corruption. The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens. Fox News earlier reported citing sources said that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from the executive to curry favours. Also Read | Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering Grassley said that he released the document so that Americans can "read this document for themselves without the filter of politicians or bureaucrats." It is important to note that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the company's board at the time. The document, the FBI FD-1023 form, was used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources (CHS). The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes an interviewed source as "highly credible." As per the form, the confidential human source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015. states that the contact with the source was made via a telephonic conversation. In the form, Burisma's CEO Zlochevsky revealed to the source that he had evidence such as "many text messages and ‘recordings’ to "show he was coerced to make such payments" to the Bidens. Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners "CHS recalled this meeting took place around the time Joe Biden made a public statement about (former) Ukraine Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin being corrupt, and that he should be fired/removed from office," the form states adding, "CHS told Zlochevsky that due to Shokin’s investigation into Burisma, which was made public at this time, it would have a substantial negative impact on Burisma’s prospective IPO in the United States." Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill × Zlochevsky, in response, said something that insinuated, "Don’t worry Hunter will take care of those issues through his dad." The form added that the source "did not ask any further questions about what that specifically meant." "CHS advised Zlochevsky it would be problematic to raise capital in the US given Shokin’s investigation into Burisma as nobody in the US would invest in a company that was the subject of a criminal investigation," the form stated adding, "CHS suggested it would be best if Burisma simply litigate the matter in Ukraine, and pay some attorney $50,000," the form states, but Zlochevsky said Burisma "would likely lose the trial because he could not show that Burisma was innocent." 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. ×

Bidens 'coerced' Burisma CEO in bribery scheme to get Ukraine prosecutor fired: FBI document

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