Peaky Blinders: 10 Quotes That Will Leave You Speechless - Part I

I don't pay for suits. My suits are on the house or the house burns down

I'm a man of ambition. I have plans for my future. And if you're not a part of those plans, then I have no use for you 

I don't mind the black, as long as you let in a little light 

You know, there's a reason they say 'No rest for the wicked' 

The day you become afraid of men in uniforms is the day you lose your freedom 


I've never been one to sit and talk about my feelings 

I don't think I'm God, though I wouldn't mind being God. So long as he had a bit of Tommy in him 

I'm not a traitor to my class. I am just an extreme example of what a working man can achieve 

I have a criminal record, a bullet wound, and I spent the last few months in a mental institution. I'm not the kind of woman to trifle with 

I can't bear it. People offering condolences, when they haven't got a clue - 


Peaky Blinders: 10 Unforgettable Quotes That Will Leave You Speechless - - Part Id Summary

10 Most Captivating Stargazing Spots Across the Globe!

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution.


Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, with vast stretches of remote and uninhabited land.

Located in southwestern Africa, it is a vast expanse of pristine desert. It is an International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning it has exceptionally low light pollution.

Situated on New Zealand's South Island, this dark sky reserve offers awe-inspiring stargazing experiences.


4. Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand


Nestled amidst the stunning red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, this picturesque town provides a unique stargazing experience.

It is home to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, one of the world's premier astronomical research facilities.

Known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, the Maldives also offers stunning opportunities for stargazing.


Visitors can participate in stargazing programmes or venture out on their own to witness the breathtaking beauty of the night sky.



It is known for its pristine natural beauty and dark skies. Visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of the stars in this tranquil and idyllic location.

Home to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), this national park provides a unique stargazing experience within the Australian Outback.

10. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia


<p>A recent US Navy briefing slide has drawn attention to the concerning gap between China and the United States in terms of shipbuilding capacity and naval force sizes. The data compiled by the Office of Naval Intelligence reveals that China's shipbuilders are over 200 times more capable than United States in producing surface warships and submarines. This raises concerns about the US Navy's ability to challenge Chinese fleets and maintain its forces in potential high-end conflicts.</p>

<h2><strong>China's shipbuilding capacity</strong></h2>

<p>The slide illustrates the stark difference in shipbuilding capacity between China and the United States. China's shipyards have a capacity of approximately 23.25 million tonnes, while the United States has less than 100,000 tonnes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to human</a></p>

<p>China's shipbuilding capacity is at least 232 times greater than that of the United States. The slide also highlights that China's naval production constitutes over 70 per cent of its overall national shipbuilding revenue, whereas the United States' naval production is estimated to be around 95 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>Projected battle force sizes</strong></h2>

<p>The briefing slide includes projected battle force sizes for the US Navy and the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) between 2020 and 2035.&nbsp;In 2020, the PLAN had 355 battle force ships, while the US Navy had 296. By 2035, the gap is expected to widen significantly, with China projected to have 475 battle force ships compared to the United States' 305 to 317.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>China's People's Liberation Army Navy already is the largest naval fleet globally in terms of total vessels and continues to acquire modern and capable designs, including aircraft carriers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Shipyard capacity</strong></h2>

<p>During a US congressional hearing in February, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro expressed concerns about China's shipyard capacity, pointing out the significant threat it poses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He highlighted that China has 13 shipyards, with some individual shipyards having more capacity than all of the United States' shipyards combined.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This disparity in shipyard capacity has a profound impact on the ability to sustain ships.</p>

<p>The circulating slide now emphasises the importance of shipyard capacity by noting that over 50 dry docks are capable of accommodating an aircraft carrier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China is actively working to expand its carrier fleets, indicating their focus on developing yards capable of supporting larger surface ships and submarines.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges faced by the US Navy</strong></h2>

<p>The U.S. Navy recognises the limitations of the slide saying it is not a definitive data set and considers it a living document.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The slide was developed by the Office of Naval Intelligence from multiple public sources as part of an overall brief on strategic competition," a US Navy spokesperson told The War Zone.</p>

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<p>"The slide provides context and trends on China’s shipbuilding capacity. It is not intended as a deep-dive into the PRC [People's Republic of China's] commercial shipbuilding industry," the spokesperson said adding, "It’s been iterated on over time and the unclassified sources used most recently were commercially-available shipbuilding data, publicly-available U.S. Navy long-range shipbuilding plans from the 2023 Presidential Budget (PB23), and the publicly-discussed approximate projected future PLAN [People's Liberation Army Navy] force."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The widening gap in naval power between China and the United States raises concerns about the US Navy's ability to challenge Chinese ambitions.</p>

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A recent US Navy briefing slide has drawn attention to the concerning gap between China and the United States in terms of shipbuilding capacity and naval force sizes.

A recent US Navy briefing slide has drawn attention to the concerning gap between China and the United States in terms of shipbuilding capacity and naval force sizes. The data compiled by the Office of Naval Intelligence reveals that China's shipbuilders are over 200 times more capable than United States in producing surface warships and submarines. This raises concerns about the US Navy's ability to challenge Chinese fleets and maintain its forces in potential high-end conflicts. China's shipbuilding capacity The slide illustrates the stark difference in shipbuilding capacity between China and the United States. China's shipyards have a capacity of approximately 23.25 million tonnes, while the United States has less than 100,000 tonnes. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to human China's shipbuilding capacity is at least 232 times greater than that of the United States. The slide also highlights that China's naval production constitutes over 70 per cent of its overall national shipbuilding revenue, whereas the United States' naval production is estimated to be around 95 per cent. Projected battle force sizes The briefing slide includes projected battle force sizes for the US Navy and the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) between 2020 and 2035. In 2020, the PLAN had 355 battle force ships, while the US Navy had 296. By 2035, the gap is expected to widen significantly, with China projected to have 475 battle force ships compared to the United States' 305 to 317. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests China's People's Liberation Army Navy already is the largest naval fleet globally in terms of total vessels and continues to acquire modern and capable designs, including aircraft carriers. Shipyard capacity During a US congressional hearing in February, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro expressed concerns about China's shipyard capacity, pointing out the significant threat it poses. He highlighted that China has 13 shipyards, with some individual shipyards having more capacity than all of the United States' shipyards combined. This disparity in shipyard capacity has a profound impact on the ability to sustain ships. The circulating slide now emphasises the importance of shipyard capacity by noting that over 50 dry docks are capable of accommodating an aircraft carrier. China is actively working to expand its carrier fleets, indicating their focus on developing yards capable of supporting larger surface ships and submarines. Challenges faced by the US Navy The U.S. Navy recognises the limitations of the slide saying it is not a definitive data set and considers it a living document. “The slide was developed by the Office of Naval Intelligence from multiple public sources as part of an overall brief on strategic competition," a US Navy spokesperson told The War Zone. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × "The slide provides context and trends on China’s shipbuilding capacity. It is not intended as a deep-dive into the PRC [People's Republic of China's] commercial shipbuilding industry," the spokesperson said adding, "It’s been iterated on over time and the unclassified sources used most recently were commercially-available shipbuilding data, publicly-available U.S. Navy long-range shipbuilding plans from the 2023 Presidential Budget (PB23), and the publicly-discussed approximate projected future PLAN [People's Liberation Army Navy] force." The widening gap in naval power between China and the United States raises concerns about the US Navy's ability to challenge Chinese ambitions. 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. ×

Growing disparity in naval power, China's dominance raises concerns for US navy

<p>President Joe Biden accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of having a "craven lust for land and power" at the end of a NATO summit on Wednesday where Ukraine won new security assurances from the US&nbsp;and its allies for its defence against Moscow.</p>

<p>Members of the world's most powerful military bloc offered the prospect of long-term protection a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decried as "absurd" a refusal to offer an invitation or timetable for Ukraine's entry into NATO.</p>

<p>Ukraine has been pushing for rapid membership while fighting a Russian invasion unleashed in February 2022 that has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions.</p>

<p>Instead, a declaration by the G7 group of the world's most industrialised countries launched a framework for bilateral negotiations to provide military and financial support, intelligence sharing and a promise of immediate steps if Russia should attack again.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>"Our support will last long into the future. It's a powerful statement of our commitment to Ukraine," Biden said, alongside Zelensky and leaders of the G7, which is made up of the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.</p>

<p>Speaking in Vilnius, Lithuania, at the end of the two-day meeting on Russia's doorstep, Biden said Putin had badly underestimated the resolve of the US-led military alliance.</p>

<p>"NATO is stronger, more energised and yes, more united than ever in its history. Indeed, more vital to our shared future. It didn't happen by accident. It wasn't inevitable," Biden said.</p>

<p>"When Putin, and his craven lust for land and power, unleashed his brutal war on Ukraine, he was betting NATO would break apart ... But he thought wrong."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>Swallowing his disappointment over the lack of a membership timetable, Zelensky hailed NATO's "practical and unprecedented support for Ukraine" and said that at the summit Ukraine had obtained "unambiguous clarity that Ukraine will be in NATO".</p>

<p>He tweeted: "I believe we will be in NATO once the security situation stabilises. Put simply, when the war is over, Ukraine will be invited into NATO and Ukraine will clearly become a member of the Alliance. I felt no thoughts of any other sort."</p>

<p>At a meeting with Zelensky, Biden promised him the US&nbsp;was doing everything it could to meet Ukraine's needs and acknowledged Zelensky's frustration about the scale and speed of support.</p>

<p>"Your resilience and your resolve have been a model for the whole world to see," Biden said. "I look forward to the day when we're having the meeting celebrating your official, official membership in NATO."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>"The bad news for you is, we're not going anywhere. You're stuck with us," Biden joked, prompting laughter from Zelensky.</p>

<p>US&nbsp;National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had said Biden would discuss the issue of long-range missiles with Zelensky when they met.</p>

<p><br />
Speaking to reporters later, Biden said: "One thing Zelensky understands now is that whether or not he's in NATO now is not relevant" as long as he has the commitments that have been made at the summit. "He's not concerned about that now."</p>

<p>Zelensky told Biden he wanted to thank "all Americans" for the billions of dollars in aid his country had received.</p>

<p>British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said he had told Ukraine that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for weapons donations to persuade Western politicians to give more.</p>

<p>Zelensky said: "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us."</p>

<p>Britain, France, Germany and the US&nbsp;have been negotiating with Kyiv for weeks over a broad international framework of support, encompassing modern advanced military equipment such as fighter jets, training, intelligence-sharing and cyber defence.</p>

<p>In return, Ukraine would pledge better governance, including through judicial and economic reforms and enhanced transparency.</p>

<p>The first sitting of a new NATO-Ukraine Council was also held on Wednesday, a format designed to tighten cooperation between Kyiv and the 31-nation alliance.</p>

<h2><strong>'Potentially very dangerous'</strong></h2>

<p>NATO is built around mutual security guarantees whereby an attack on one is an attack on all, and it has carefully avoided extending any firm military commitments to Ukraine, worried it would risk taking it closer to a full-on war with Russia.</p>

<p>Ukraine has been wary of any less-binding security "assurances", given Russia's invasion already trampled the so-called Budapest Memorandum under which international powers committed to keeping the country safe in exchange for Kyiv giving up its Soviet-era nuclear arms.</p>

<p>Speaking earlier alongside Zelensky, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Ukraine was closer to the alliance than ever before and brushed aside new warnings from Russia about the consequences of supporting Ukraine.</p>

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the security arrangements for Ukraine were not designed to be a substitute for full NATO membership and said the commitments at the summit marked a high point for the West's support for Kyiv.</p>

<p>Russia, which says NATO's eastward expansion is an existential threat to its own security, swiftly lashed out.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was "potentially very dangerous" for the West to give Ukraine security guarantees.</p>

<p>The Russian foreign ministry said the summit showed that NATO was reverting to "Cold War schemes" and added that it would respond "in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal."</p>

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President Joe Biden accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of having a "craven lust for land and power" at the end of a NATO summit on Wednesday where Ukraine won new security assurances from the US and its allies for its defence against Moscow.

President Joe Biden accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of having a "craven lust for land and power" at the end of a NATO summit on Wednesday where Ukraine won new security assurances from the US and its allies for its defence against Moscow. Members of the world's most powerful military bloc offered the prospect of long-term protection a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decried as "absurd" a refusal to offer an invitation or timetable for Ukraine's entry into NATO. Ukraine has been pushing for rapid membership while fighting a Russian invasion unleashed in February 2022 that has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions. Instead, a declaration by the G7 group of the world's most industrialised countries launched a framework for bilateral negotiations to provide military and financial support, intelligence sharing and a promise of immediate steps if Russia should attack again. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans "Our support will last long into the future. It's a powerful statement of our commitment to Ukraine," Biden said, alongside Zelensky and leaders of the G7, which is made up of the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. Speaking in Vilnius, Lithuania, at the end of the two-day meeting on Russia's doorstep, Biden said Putin had badly underestimated the resolve of the US-led military alliance. "NATO is stronger, more energised and yes, more united than ever in its history. Indeed, more vital to our shared future. It didn't happen by accident. It wasn't inevitable," Biden said. "When Putin, and his craven lust for land and power, unleashed his brutal war on Ukraine, he was betting NATO would break apart ... But he thought wrong." Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests Swallowing his disappointment over the lack of a membership timetable, Zelensky hailed NATO's "practical and unprecedented support for Ukraine" and said that at the summit Ukraine had obtained "unambiguous clarity that Ukraine will be in NATO". He tweeted: "I believe we will be in NATO once the security situation stabilises. Put simply, when the war is over, Ukraine will be invited into NATO and Ukraine will clearly become a member of the Alliance. I felt no thoughts of any other sort." At a meeting with Zelensky, Biden promised him the US was doing everything it could to meet Ukraine's needs and acknowledged Zelensky's frustration about the scale and speed of support. "Your resilience and your resolve have been a model for the whole world to see," Biden said. "I look forward to the day when we're having the meeting celebrating your official, official membership in NATO." Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × "The bad news for you is, we're not going anywhere. You're stuck with us," Biden joked, prompting laughter from Zelensky. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had said Biden would discuss the issue of long-range missiles with Zelensky when they met. Speaking to reporters later, Biden said: "One thing Zelensky understands now is that whether or not he's in NATO now is not relevant" as long as he has the commitments that have been made at the summit. "He's not concerned about that now." Zelensky told Biden he wanted to thank "all Americans" for the billions of dollars in aid his country had received. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said he had told Ukraine that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for weapons donations to persuade Western politicians to give more. Zelensky said: "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us." Britain, France, Germany and the US have been negotiating with Kyiv for weeks over a broad international framework of support, encompassing modern advanced military equipment such as fighter jets, training, intelligence-sharing and cyber defence. In return, Ukraine would pledge better governance, including through judicial and economic reforms and enhanced transparency. The first sitting of a new NATO-Ukraine Council was also held on Wednesday, a format designed to tighten cooperation between Kyiv and the 31-nation alliance. 'Potentially very dangerous' NATO is built around mutual security guarantees whereby an attack on one is an attack on all, and it has carefully avoided extending any firm military commitments to Ukraine, worried it would risk taking it closer to a full-on war with Russia. Ukraine has been wary of any less-binding security "assurances", given Russia's invasion already trampled the so-called Budapest Memorandum under which international powers committed to keeping the country safe in exchange for Kyiv giving up its Soviet-era nuclear arms. Speaking earlier alongside Zelensky, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Ukraine was closer to the alliance than ever before and brushed aside new warnings from Russia about the consequences of supporting Ukraine. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the security arrangements for Ukraine were not designed to be a substitute for full NATO membership and said the commitments at the summit marked a high point for the West's support for Kyiv. Russia, which says NATO's eastward expansion is an existential threat to its own security, swiftly lashed out. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was "potentially very dangerous" for the West to give Ukraine security guarantees. The Russian foreign ministry said the summit showed that NATO was reverting to "Cold War schemes" and added that it would respond "in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal." 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. ×

NATO allies offer Ukraine security assurances as Biden hits out at 'craven' Putin

<p>Sweden's NATO ratification process&nbsp;has again hit a significant obstacle unsettling the nation and NATO officials but this time the hindrance is not diplomatic.&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkey will not be able to ratify Sweden's NATO membership bid&nbsp;until at least October due to the parliament's recess, media reports said. Speaking to reporters at the end of a two-day NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, Erdogan explained that the parliament has a two-month holiday, and it will not reconvene before October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is a two-month parliament holiday. Of course, it will not be possible to end this holiday before October,” Erdogan said, adding, “There are many international agreements, there are many legislative proposals that need to be discussed. We take them up in the order of their importance."</p>

<p>However, Erdogan assured that Turkey aims to complete this process as quickly as possible.</p>

<p>"Our goal is to finish this process as soon as possible,” he said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>Several Western leaders had hoped for Turkey to finalise the ratification process in the upcoming weeks but now this seems to be out of question.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan backs&nbsp;Sweden's NATO membership</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Erdogan has agreed to support Sweden's membership in NATO.&nbsp;The announcement came as a breath of fresh air amidst Turkey's previous refusal to approve Sweden's bid to join the Western alliance.</p>

<p>"President Erdogan has agreed to forward the accession protocol for Sweden to the Grand National Assembly [Turkey's parliament] as soon as possible and work closely with the assembly to ensure ratification," NATO Chief Jens&nbsp;Stoltenberg said ahead of the NATO summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>However, he also stressed that a specific timeline for Sweden's membership could not be provided at that moment. The NATO head said, "Sweden and Turkey have worked closer together to address Turkey's legitimate security concerns."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As part of that process, Sweden has amended its constitution, changed its laws, significantly expanded its counter -terrorism operation against the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party), and resumed its arms exports to Turkey," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>At present, Turkey and Hungary are the only two NATO member countries that have not ratified Sweden's membership application. Regarding Hungary's opposition, Stoltenberg stated that Hungary has indicated "that they will not be the last to ratify". "I think that problem will be solved," Stoltenberg added.</p>

<p>Turkey has previously criticised Sweden for hosting Kurdish militants and has had disagreements with the country regarding Kurdish issues.</p>

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Sweden's NATO ratification process has again hit a significant obstacle unsettling the nation and NATO officials but this time the hindrance is not diplomatic. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkey will not be able to ratify Sweden's NATO membership bid until at least October due to the parliament's recess, media reports said.

Sweden's NATO ratification process has again hit a significant obstacle unsettling the nation and NATO officials but this time the hindrance is not diplomatic. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkey will not be able to ratify Sweden's NATO membership bid until at least October due to the parliament's recess, media reports said. Speaking to reporters at the end of a two-day NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, Erdogan explained that the parliament has a two-month holiday, and it will not reconvene before October. “There is a two-month parliament holiday. Of course, it will not be possible to end this holiday before October,” Erdogan said, adding, “There are many international agreements, there are many legislative proposals that need to be discussed. We take them up in the order of their importance." However, Erdogan assured that Turkey aims to complete this process as quickly as possible. "Our goal is to finish this process as soon as possible,” he said. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans Several Western leaders had hoped for Turkey to finalise the ratification process in the upcoming weeks but now this seems to be out of question. Erdogan backs Sweden's NATO membership Erdogan has agreed to support Sweden's membership in NATO. The announcement came as a breath of fresh air amidst Turkey's previous refusal to approve Sweden's bid to join the Western alliance. "President Erdogan has agreed to forward the accession protocol for Sweden to the Grand National Assembly [Turkey's parliament] as soon as possible and work closely with the assembly to ensure ratification," NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg said ahead of the NATO summit. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests However, he also stressed that a specific timeline for Sweden's membership could not be provided at that moment. The NATO head said, "Sweden and Turkey have worked closer together to address Turkey's legitimate security concerns." "As part of that process, Sweden has amended its constitution, changed its laws, significantly expanded its counter -terrorism operation against the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party), and resumed its arms exports to Turkey," he added. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × At present, Turkey and Hungary are the only two NATO member countries that have not ratified Sweden's membership application. Regarding Hungary's opposition, Stoltenberg stated that Hungary has indicated "that they will not be the last to ratify". "I think that problem will be solved," Stoltenberg added. Turkey has previously criticised Sweden for hosting Kurdish militants and has had disagreements with the country regarding Kurdish issues. 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. ×

Turkey to not ratify Sweden’s NATO membership bid before October

<p>The board of directors at Walt Disney has decided to extend the contract of CEO Robert Iger by two years, signaling their confidence in his leadership as the company faces long-term challenges in its film and television businesses.&nbsp;The decision aims to ensure continuity of leadership during Disney's ongoing transformation, the board said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iger retired in 2021 but returned as CEO in November 2022, committing to a two-year term to revitalise the business and find a more permanent replacement after the departure of Bob Chapek, Iger's chosen successor.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges in entertainment and media industry</strong></h2>

<p>Iger's extended tenure comes at a time when the entertainment and media industry is undergoing significant transitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>The streaming video business, once hailed as the future of media, continues to generate losses. Additionally, weak box office performances of high-profile titles have posed challenges to Iger's efforts to rejuvenate the company.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the television business is grappling with long-term declines in audience numbers, a trend that appears to be irreversible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>To mitigate costs, Disney announced in February its plans to cut 7,000 jobs as part of a major overhaul aimed at saving $5.5 billion.</p>

<h2><strong>Terms of Iger's contract&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Under the terms of his contract extension, Iger has the opportunity to receive an annual incentive bonus of five times his base salary. In his previous contract, he was estimated to earn $27 million per year in total compensation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>Following the announcement, Disney's shares saw a slight increase in after-hours trading.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Iger said, "There is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete." He also mentioned that the board is actively conducting interviews with both internal and external CEO candidates.</p>

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The board of directors at Walt Disney has decided to extend the contract of CEO Robert Iger by two years, signaling their confidence in his leadership as the company faces long-term challenges in its film and television businesses.

The board of directors at Walt Disney has decided to extend the contract of CEO Robert Iger by two years, signaling their confidence in his leadership as the company faces long-term challenges in its film and television businesses. The decision aims to ensure continuity of leadership during Disney's ongoing transformation, the board said in a statement. Iger retired in 2021 but returned as CEO in November 2022, committing to a two-year term to revitalise the business and find a more permanent replacement after the departure of Bob Chapek, Iger's chosen successor. Challenges in entertainment and media industry Iger's extended tenure comes at a time when the entertainment and media industry is undergoing significant transitions. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans The streaming video business, once hailed as the future of media, continues to generate losses. Additionally, weak box office performances of high-profile titles have posed challenges to Iger's efforts to rejuvenate the company. Furthermore, the television business is grappling with long-term declines in audience numbers, a trend that appears to be irreversible. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests To mitigate costs, Disney announced in February its plans to cut 7,000 jobs as part of a major overhaul aimed at saving $5.5 billion. Terms of Iger's contract Under the terms of his contract extension, Iger has the opportunity to receive an annual incentive bonus of five times his base salary. In his previous contract, he was estimated to earn $27 million per year in total compensation. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × Following the announcement, Disney's shares saw a slight increase in after-hours trading. In a statement, Iger said, "There is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete." He also mentioned that the board is actively conducting interviews with both internal and external CEO candidates. 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. ×

Disney extends CEO Robert Iger's contract by two years amid business challenges

<p>Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes".</p>

<p>The ministry also said that Kremlin was prepared to counter any threats using "all means",&nbsp;reported Reuters on Wednesday. This comes as the summit, held in Lithuania, concluded with the United States and its allies providing Ukraine with increased security assurances against Moscow's aggression.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian ministry's response to the summit</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry indicated that it would carefully analyse the outcomes of the Vilnius Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also affirmed that Russia would respond by utilising all available means considering the challenges and threats.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>"The results of the Vilnius Summit will be carefully analysed. Taking into account the challenges and threats to Russia's security and interests that have been identified, we will respond in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal," the ministry statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry also criticised NATO's "inability to adapt to the new geopolitical situation",&nbsp;alleging that the alliance was progressively lowering the threshold for the use of force and exacerbating political and military tensions.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian ministry accuses NATO of escalation</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian ministry claimed that NATO's actions aimed to protract the conflict in Ukraine, alleging that the alliance had pledged to supply the Ukrainian regime with increasingly advanced and long-range weapons. This course of action, according to the ministry, was intended to prolong the conflict until exhaustion.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the ministry stated its intent to strengthen the country's military and defence system, building upon the decisions already made.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's remarks and NATO's support for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On the same day, US President Joe Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of having a "craven lust for land and power." Biden praised NATO's unity and its support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.</p>

<h2><strong>Sweden's NATO membership bid&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>One of the key takeaways from the recently held NATO summit was the green light to the potential inclusion of Sweden as the newest member of the military alliance.</p>

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<p>In a major breakthrough, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan unexpectedly opened doors for Sweden's accession to NATO by approving to ratify its membership bid, a move which seemed very hard to achieve earlier. However, there is no timeline given as to when Ukraine will become part of NATO as the leaders said it is not possible as long as the war continues.&nbsp;</p>

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Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes".

Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes". The ministry also said that Kremlin was prepared to counter any threats using "all means", reported Reuters on Wednesday. This comes as the summit, held in Lithuania, concluded with the United States and its allies providing Ukraine with increased security assurances against Moscow's aggression. Russian ministry's response to the summit In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry indicated that it would carefully analyse the outcomes of the Vilnius Summit. It also affirmed that Russia would respond by utilising all available means considering the challenges and threats. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans "The results of the Vilnius Summit will be carefully analysed. Taking into account the challenges and threats to Russia's security and interests that have been identified, we will respond in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal," the ministry statement read. The ministry also criticised NATO's "inability to adapt to the new geopolitical situation", alleging that the alliance was progressively lowering the threshold for the use of force and exacerbating political and military tensions. Russian ministry accuses NATO of escalation The Russian ministry claimed that NATO's actions aimed to protract the conflict in Ukraine, alleging that the alliance had pledged to supply the Ukrainian regime with increasingly advanced and long-range weapons. This course of action, according to the ministry, was intended to prolong the conflict until exhaustion. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests Additionally, the ministry stated its intent to strengthen the country's military and defence system, building upon the decisions already made. Biden's remarks and NATO's support for Ukraine On the same day, US President Joe Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of having a "craven lust for land and power." Biden praised NATO's unity and its support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Sweden's NATO membership bid One of the key takeaways from the recently held NATO summit was the green light to the potential inclusion of Sweden as the newest member of the military alliance. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × In a major breakthrough, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan unexpectedly opened doors for Sweden's accession to NATO by approving to ratify its membership bid, a move which seemed very hard to achieve earlier. However, there is no timeline given as to when Ukraine will become part of NATO as the leaders said it is not possible as long as the war continues. 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. ×

NATO reviving 'Cold War schemes', Kremlin vows to employ 'all means' in response: Russia

<p>In&nbsp;a big respite to the nation's crumbling economy, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given its approval to a $3 billion bailout programme for Pakistan on Wednesday. IMF executive board said that approximately $1.2 billion will be immediately disbursed to provide immediate relief and the remaining instalments will be provided later to Pakistan, Dawn reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The amount approved, however, is higher-than-expected funding for Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The approved bailout amount of $3 billion, to be spread over a period of nine months, comes when the nation was eagerly anticipating the disbursement of the remaining $2.5 billion from a bailout package of $6.5 billion that was initially agreed upon in 2019 but expired in June.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>The latest development also comes after June 29 Standby Arrangement reached between Pakistan and IMF to address the financial crisis faced by the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund approved a 9-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) for Pakistan for an amount of SDR2,250 million (about $3 billion, or 111 per cent of quota) to support the authorities economic stabilisation programme,” IMF said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenging economic circumstances</strong></h2>

<p>The IMF pointed out that Pakistan is facing a challenging economic situation. Speaking of a combination of adverse conditions, IMF said, “A difficult external environment, devastating floods and policy missteps have led to large fiscal and external deficits, rising inflation and eroded reserve buffers in FY23."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>Notably, the approval from the IMF comes after Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made substantial deposits of $2 billion and $1 billion, respectively, into the State Bank of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>These contributions have helped boost Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves.</p>

<h2><strong>Shehbaz Sharif welcomes IMF bailout&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the endorsement of the $3 billion agreement marked a "major step forward" in the government's endeavours to stabilise the economy.&nbsp;“It bolsters Pakistan’s economic position to overcome immediate- to medium-term economic challenges, giving the next government the fiscal space to chart the way forward,” he stated, adding,&nbsp;“I would commend Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and his team at the Ministry of Finance for their hard work."&nbsp;</p>

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In a big respite to the nation's crumbling economy, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given its approval to a $3 billion bailout programme for Pakistan on Wednesday.

In a big respite to the nation's crumbling economy, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given its approval to a $3 billion bailout programme for Pakistan on Wednesday. IMF executive board said that approximately $1.2 billion will be immediately disbursed to provide immediate relief and the remaining instalments will be provided later to Pakistan, Dawn reported. The amount approved, however, is higher-than-expected funding for Pakistan. The approved bailout amount of $3 billion, to be spread over a period of nine months, comes when the nation was eagerly anticipating the disbursement of the remaining $2.5 billion from a bailout package of $6.5 billion that was initially agreed upon in 2019 but expired in June. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans The latest development also comes after June 29 Standby Arrangement reached between Pakistan and IMF to address the financial crisis faced by the country. “The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund approved a 9-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) for Pakistan for an amount of SDR2,250 million (about $3 billion, or 111 per cent of quota) to support the authorities economic stabilisation programme,” IMF said in a statement. Challenging economic circumstances The IMF pointed out that Pakistan is facing a challenging economic situation. Speaking of a combination of adverse conditions, IMF said, “A difficult external environment, devastating floods and policy missteps have led to large fiscal and external deficits, rising inflation and eroded reserve buffers in FY23." Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests Notably, the approval from the IMF comes after Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made substantial deposits of $2 billion and $1 billion, respectively, into the State Bank of Pakistan. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × These contributions have helped boost Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves. Shehbaz Sharif welcomes IMF bailout Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the endorsement of the $3 billion agreement marked a "major step forward" in the government's endeavours to stabilise the economy. “It bolsters Pakistan’s economic position to overcome immediate- to medium-term economic challenges, giving the next government the fiscal space to chart the way forward,” he stated, adding, “I would commend Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and his team at the Ministry of Finance for their hard work." 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. ×

IMF approves $3 billion bailout for Pakistan, offers respite to crumbling economy

<p>U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has proposed to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he extend a deal allowing the safe Black Sea export of grain from Ukraine in return for connecting a subsidiary of Russia's agricultural bank to the SWIFT international payment system, sources told Reuters.</p>

<p>Russia has threatened to ditch the grain deal, which expires on Monday, because several demands to dispatch its own grain and fertilizer abroad have not been met. The last two ships traveling under the Black Sea agreement are currently loading cargoes at the Ukrainian port of Odesa ahead of the deadline.</p>

<p>A key demand by Moscow is the reconnection of the Russian agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank to the SWIFT international payment network. It was cut off by the European Union in June 2022 over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. An EU spokesperson said in May the EU was not considering reinstating Russian banks.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>However, the EU is considering connecting to SWIFT a subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank to allow specifically for grain and fertilizer transactions, three sources familiar with discussions told Reuters on Wednesday. The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Guterres has proposed to Putin that Russia allow the Black Sea grain deal to continue for several months, giving the EU time to connect a Rosselkhozbank subsidiary to SWIFT, two of those sources familiar with discussions told Reuters.</p>

<p>Guterres sent a letter to Putin on Tuesday proposing a way forward to further facilitate Russian food and fertilizer exports and ensure the continued Black Sea shipments of Ukrainian grain, a U.N. spokesman said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>"The objective is to remove hurdles affecting financial transactions through the Russian Agricultural Bank, a major concern expressed by the Russian Federation, and simultaneously allow for the continued flow of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters.</p>

<p>He gave no further details on the proposal, but added that Guterres was engaged with all relevant parties on the issue and was willing to further discuss his proposal with Russia.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the Kremlin did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>The United Nations and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative with Russia and Ukraine in July 2022 to help alleviate a global food crisis worsened by Moscow's invasion and blockade of Ukrainian ports.</p>

<p>To convince Russia to agree to the Black Sea deal, a three-year memorandum of understanding was struck at the same time under which U.N. officials agreed to help Russia get its food and fertilizer exports to foreign markets.</p>

<p>While Russian exports of food and fertilizer are not subject to Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine, Moscow says restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments.</p>

<p>As a workaround to the lack of access to SWIFT, U.N. officials have gotten U.S. bank JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co JPM.N to start processing some Russian grain export payments with reassurances from the U.S. government.</p>

<p>The United Nations is also working with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to create a platform to help process transactions for Russian exports of grain and fertilizer to Africa, the top U.N. trade official told Reuters last month.</p>

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U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has proposed to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he extend a deal allowing the safe Black Sea export of grain from Ukraine in return for connecting a subsidiary of Russia's agricultural bank to the SWIFT international payment system, sources told Reuters.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has proposed to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he extend a deal allowing the safe Black Sea export of grain from Ukraine in return for connecting a subsidiary of Russia's agricultural bank to the SWIFT international payment system, sources told Reuters. Russia has threatened to ditch the grain deal, which expires on Monday, because several demands to dispatch its own grain and fertilizer abroad have not been met. The last two ships traveling under the Black Sea agreement are currently loading cargoes at the Ukrainian port of Odesa ahead of the deadline. A key demand by Moscow is the reconnection of the Russian agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank to the SWIFT international payment network. It was cut off by the European Union in June 2022 over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. An EU spokesperson said in May the EU was not considering reinstating Russian banks. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans However, the EU is considering connecting to SWIFT a subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank to allow specifically for grain and fertilizer transactions, three sources familiar with discussions told Reuters on Wednesday. The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Guterres has proposed to Putin that Russia allow the Black Sea grain deal to continue for several months, giving the EU time to connect a Rosselkhozbank subsidiary to SWIFT, two of those sources familiar with discussions told Reuters. Guterres sent a letter to Putin on Tuesday proposing a way forward to further facilitate Russian food and fertilizer exports and ensure the continued Black Sea shipments of Ukrainian grain, a U.N. spokesman said on Wednesday. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests "The objective is to remove hurdles affecting financial transactions through the Russian Agricultural Bank, a major concern expressed by the Russian Federation, and simultaneously allow for the continued flow of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters. He gave no further details on the proposal, but added that Guterres was engaged with all relevant parties on the issue and was willing to further discuss his proposal with Russia. A spokesperson for the Kremlin did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × The United Nations and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative with Russia and Ukraine in July 2022 to help alleviate a global food crisis worsened by Moscow's invasion and blockade of Ukrainian ports. To convince Russia to agree to the Black Sea deal, a three-year memorandum of understanding was struck at the same time under which U.N. officials agreed to help Russia get its food and fertilizer exports to foreign markets. While Russian exports of food and fertilizer are not subject to Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine, Moscow says restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. As a workaround to the lack of access to SWIFT, U.N. officials have gotten U.S. bank JPMorgan Chase & Co JPM.N to start processing some Russian grain export payments with reassurances from the U.S. government. The United Nations is also working with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to create a platform to help process transactions for Russian exports of grain and fertilizer to Africa, the top U.N. trade official told Reuters last month. 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. ×

UN asks Putin to extend Black Sea grain deal in return for SWIFT access

Taliban's Haqqani network has backed Elon Musk & Twitter, lauding the platform for promoting 'freedom of speech'. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Taliban's Haqqani Network backs Twitter for promoting 'freedom of speech'

Archaeologists are digging a remote site in Nebraska in hope to find remains of missing indigenous children who died in boarding schools in the 1880s and early 1900s. The children were separated from their families and often died under mysterious circumstances. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Missing Indigenous Children: Archaeologists dig remote site in Nebraska

According to a new report, global organisations that specialise in sexual and reproductive health and rights are failing in looking after the wellbeing of their own female staff. Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: New report on women's rights at workplaces

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