Taiwan's defence ministry has said that 12 Chinese aircraft and five Chinese ships were detected operating around Taiwan on Sunday. The ministry also said that five aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line. Chinese military activities near the island have continued.

China considers Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the island. Chinese planes have made made numerous incursions into Air Defence Zone (ADZ) of Taiwan in recent past.

The latest Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan just days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, much to the anger of the Chinese. At the time of her visit China had vowed 'targeted' military exercises. China has since been carrying out drills near Taiwan. In&nbsp;the run up to the visit by Pelosi, China had made its displeasure amply clear, something that had raised tension between China and the US.

Governor of US state of Indiana was the latest US official to visit Taiwan. Eric Holcomb, the governor, arrived in Taipei on Sunday.

Eric Holcomb tweeted that he would also be visiting South Korea, while Taiwan's presidential office said he would meet President Tsai Ing-wen on Monday morning.

"I'm energised to spend this week building new relationships, reinforcing long time ones and strengthening key sector partnerships with Taiwan and South Korea," Holcomb tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan's defence ministry has said that 12 Chinese aircraft and five Chinese ships were detected operating around Taiwan on Sunday. The ministry also said that five aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line.

Taiwan's defence ministry has said that 12 Chinese aircraft and five Chinese ships were detected operating around Taiwan on Sunday. The ministry also said that five aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line. Chinese military activities near the island have continued. China considers Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the island. Chinese planes have made made numerous incursions into Air Defence Zone (ADZ) of Taiwan in recent past. The latest Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan just days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, much to the anger of the Chinese. At the time of her visit China had vowed 'targeted' military exercises. China has since been carrying out drills near Taiwan. In the run up to the visit by Pelosi, China had made its displeasure amply clear, something that had raised tension between China and the US. Governor of US state of Indiana was the latest US official to visit Taiwan. Eric Holcomb, the governor, arrived in Taipei on Sunday. Eric Holcomb tweeted that he would also be visiting South Korea, while Taiwan's presidential office said he would meet President Tsai Ing-wen on Monday morning. "I'm energised to spend this week building new relationships, reinforcing long time ones and strengthening key sector partnerships with Taiwan and South Korea," Holcomb tweeted. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Five Chinese planes crossed Taiwan Strait median line, says Taiwan

Pakistan's media watchdog has banned live television broadcast of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches. The ban was issued on Saturday night (August 20) and came into effect immediately. Khan had held a rally in Pakistani capital Islamabad on the same day. He criticised police officials and judiciary during the rally over the arrest of one of his party leaders.

Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued notice to television channels saying Khan was leveling "baseless allegations and spreading hate speech".

"His provocative statements against state institutions and officers... is likely to disturb public peace and tranquility," it added.

Imran Khan is set to hold a rally in Rawalpindi on Sunday night.

Khan swept into power in 2018 thanks to an electorate weary of the dynastic politics of the country's two major parties, with the popular former sports star promising to sweep away decades of entrenched corruption and cronyism.&nbsp;

Even after he was ousted from power, he remains popular. His speeches have been drawing top ratings on television. Highlights of the speeches trend on social media in Pakistan.

Saturday night's protest followed the arrest of a senior leader from Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who authorities alleged had made anti-military remarks on a TV channel that was subsequently suspended.

Criticising the military -- which has ruled Pakistan for roughly half its 75-year history -- is considered a red line.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's media watchdog has banned live television broadcast of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches. The ban was issued on Saturday night (August 20) and came into effect immediately.

Pakistan's media watchdog has banned live television broadcast of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches. The ban was issued on Saturday night (August 20) and came into effect immediately. Khan had held a rally in Pakistani capital Islamabad on the same day. He criticised police officials and judiciary during the rally over the arrest of one of his party leaders. Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued notice to television channels saying Khan was leveling "baseless allegations and spreading hate speech". "His provocative statements against state institutions and officers... is likely to disturb public peace and tranquility," it added. Imran Khan is set to hold a rally in Rawalpindi on Sunday night. Khan swept into power in 2018 thanks to an electorate weary of the dynastic politics of the country's two major parties, with the popular former sports star promising to sweep away decades of entrenched corruption and cronyism. Even after he was ousted from power, he remains popular. His speeches have been drawing top ratings on television. Highlights of the speeches trend on social media in Pakistan. Saturday night's protest followed the arrest of a senior leader from Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who authorities alleged had made anti-military remarks on a TV channel that was subsequently suspended. Criticising the military -- which has ruled Pakistan for roughly half its 75-year history -- is considered a red line. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Ban issued against live telecast of Imran Khan's speeches 

Indonesia, on Saturday (August 20) announced its first case of monkeypox. A 27-year-old patient returned home to Jakarta and felt feverish. He had rashes on his body.

"The tests done&nbsp;on August 18 concluded that he was infected with monkeypox," said Indonesian health ministry spokesperson Mohammad Syahril as quoted by Xinhua news agency.

Currently, a&nbsp;medical team is tracing those who came in close contact with the patient. Indonesia is setting up more 10 polymerase chain reaction laboratories at entry points like airports and ports. The ministry said that about 10,000 monkeypox vaccines are being procured.

On July 23, the World Health Organization declared the escalating global monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "I have decided that the global monkeypox outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern."

Speaking at the press conference on the report of the 2nd meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee regarding the monkeypox outbreak, Ghebreyesus said that he convened the emergency committee, a month ago, to assess whether the monkeypox outbreak represented a public health emergency of international concern. He further said that during that meeting, the committee came to the conclusion that monkeypox was not represented as a public health emergency of international concern.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indonesia, on Saturday (August 20) announced its first case of monkeypox. A 27-year-old patient returned home to Jakarta and felt feverish. He had rashes on his body.

Indonesia, on Saturday (August 20) announced its first case of monkeypox. A 27-year-old patient returned home to Jakarta and felt feverish. He had rashes on his body. "The tests done on August 18 concluded that he was infected with monkeypox," said Indonesian health ministry spokesperson Mohammad Syahril as quoted by Xinhua news agency. Currently, a medical team is tracing those who came in close contact with the patient. Indonesia is setting up more 10 polymerase chain reaction laboratories at entry points like airports and ports. The ministry said that about 10,000 monkeypox vaccines are being procured. On July 23, the World Health Organization declared the escalating global monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "I have decided that the global monkeypox outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern." Speaking at the press conference on the report of the 2nd meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee regarding the monkeypox outbreak, Ghebreyesus said that he convened the emergency committee, a month ago, to assess whether the monkeypox outbreak represented a public health emergency of international concern. He further said that during that meeting, the committee came to the conclusion that monkeypox was not represented as a public health emergency of international concern. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indonesia reports first case of monkeypox

At least 12 people were dead in an attack by al Qaeda-linked militants on a hotel in Somalian capital Mogadishu. The militants have hostages and even after 24 hours, the authorities are battling to free them. Insurgents from al Shabaab have claimed responsibility for the attack. The attackers entered Hayat hotel making use of two car bombs before opening fire.&nbsp;

"So far we have confirmed 12 people, mostly civilians, died," Mohammed, an intelligence officer who only gave one name, told Reuters.

Mohammed said that unknown number of people were held hostage on the second floor of the building. This has prevented authorities from using heavy weapons.

They had also bombed out the stairs to make it harder to access certain floors, he said.

The siege entered its second day on Saturday evening. Authorities have till now secured 95 per cent of the building as reported by Somali National Television. The broadcaster did not give an updated number of casualties.

Those battling the militants inside the hotel include Gaashan, a paramilitary force specialising in counter-insurgency, a senior official told Reuters.

The detonations sent huge plumes of smoke over the busy junction on Friday night, and the sound of gunfire still crackled across the capital on Saturday evening.

Explosions were heard on Friday night as government forces tried to wrest control of the hotel back from the militants, witnesses said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 12 people were dead in an attack by al Qaeda-linked militants on a hotel in Somalian capital Mogadishu. The militants have hostages and even after 24 hours, the authorities are battling to free them.

At least 12 people were dead in an attack by al Qaeda-linked militants on a hotel in Somalian capital Mogadishu. The militants have hostages and even after 24 hours, the authorities are battling to free them. Insurgents from al Shabaab have claimed responsibility for the attack. The attackers entered Hayat hotel making use of two car bombs before opening fire. "So far we have confirmed 12 people, mostly civilians, died," Mohammed, an intelligence officer who only gave one name, told Reuters. Mohammed said that unknown number of people were held hostage on the second floor of the building. This has prevented authorities from using heavy weapons. They had also bombed out the stairs to make it harder to access certain floors, he said. The siege entered its second day on Saturday evening. Authorities have till now secured 95 per cent of the building as reported by Somali National Television. The broadcaster did not give an updated number of casualties. Those battling the militants inside the hotel include Gaashan, a paramilitary force specialising in counter-insurgency, a senior official told Reuters. The detonations sent huge plumes of smoke over the busy junction on Friday night, and the sound of gunfire still crackled across the capital on Saturday evening. Explosions were heard on Friday night as government forces tried to wrest control of the hotel back from the militants, witnesses said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Somalia: Hotel siege enters second day, at least 12 dead till now

Russian defence ministry on Saturday (August 20), accused Ukraine of poisoning some of its soldiers in Zaporizhzhia, the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's southeastern region. In response, an adviser to Ukraine's interior ministry said that the alleged poisoning may have taken place due to Russian soldiers eating expired canned meat.

Russian defence ministry alleges that the poisoning took place in the month of July and a number of Russian servicemen were taken to a military hospital with signs of serious poisoning on July 31. The ministry said that tests results showed presence of botulinum type B, a toxic substance in their bodies.

"On the fact of chemical terrorism sanctioned by the (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky regime, Russia is preparing supporting evidence with the results of all the analyses," the ministry said in a statement.

Watch | US: Provides mine-resistant vehicles to Ukraine, new aid to target Russian artillery

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The ministry did not elaborate as to how many servicemen had suffered. No information was provided about their current condition. There was no further explanation on what the 'supporting evidence' was.&nbsp;

Botulinum toxin type B is a neurotoxin that can cause botulism when ingested in previously contaminated food products, but it can also have medical uses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-ukrainian-saboteurs-played-a-role-in-blasts-at-russian-military-sites-report-508696">Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report</a>

Ukraine's interior ministry adviser Anton Gerashchenko commented on Russian allegations on Telegram app.

"The department (Russian defence ministry) does not clarify whether the poisoning could have been caused by expired canned meat, in which botulinum toxin is often found. Overdue rations have been massively complained about by the occupying forces since the first days of the invasion of Ukraine," he said.

The Russian defence ministry said it was conducting an additional investigation into an incident in which Volodymyr Saldo, the Russian-installed administration in Ukraine's occupied Kherson region, had taken ill.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian defence ministry on Saturday (August 20), accused Ukraine of poisoning some of its soldiers in Zaporizhzhia, the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's southeastern region.

Russian defence ministry on Saturday (August 20), accused Ukraine of poisoning some of its soldiers in Zaporizhzhia, the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's southeastern region. In response, an adviser to Ukraine's interior ministry said that the alleged poisoning may have taken place due to Russian soldiers eating expired canned meat. Russian defence ministry alleges that the poisoning took place in the month of July and a number of Russian servicemen were taken to a military hospital with signs of serious poisoning on July 31. The ministry said that tests results showed presence of botulinum type B, a toxic substance in their bodies. "On the fact of chemical terrorism sanctioned by the (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky regime, Russia is preparing supporting evidence with the results of all the analyses," the ministry said in a statement. Watch | US: Provides mine-resistant vehicles to Ukraine, new aid to target Russian artillery × The ministry did not elaborate as to how many servicemen had suffered. No information was provided about their current condition. There was no further explanation on what the 'supporting evidence' was. Botulinum toxin type B is a neurotoxin that can cause botulism when ingested in previously contaminated food products, but it can also have medical uses. Also Read | Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report Ukraine's interior ministry adviser Anton Gerashchenko commented on Russian allegations on Telegram app. "The department (Russian defence ministry) does not clarify whether the poisoning could have been caused by expired canned meat, in which botulinum toxin is often found. Overdue rations have been massively complained about by the occupying forces since the first days of the invasion of Ukraine," he said. The Russian defence ministry said it was conducting an additional investigation into an incident in which Volodymyr Saldo, the Russian-installed administration in Ukraine's occupied Kherson region, had taken ill. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine poisoned some of our soldiers, alleges Russia

The travel ban exemptions for 13 Taliban officials ended on Friday after the United Nations failed to achieve consensus on possible extension. Thirteen Taliban officials were given exemptions from travel ban to enable them to take part in negotiations and meet foreign officials abroad. These 13 officials were among 135 Taliban officials who were subject to sanctions as per a 2011 UN Security resolution.

In June, the 15-member UN Security Council's Afghanistan Sanctions Committee removed two Taliban education ministers from the exemption list over the regime's curtailment of women's rights.

At that time exemptions for others were renewed until August 19. An extension of a month was possible if no member objected but AFP, quoting diplomatic sources, said that Ireland objected last week.

China and Russia were in favour of an extension.&nbsp;

Watch | UN fails to reach consensus over travel ban, 13 Taliban officials not allowed to travel now

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The exemption for 13 officials from travel ban ended at midnight on Friday (August 19)

Among the 13 are deputy prime minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and deputy minister of foreign affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai.

They were instrumental in negotiations with the US government of then-president Donald Trump which led to a deal in 2020 paving the way for America's withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-engage-with-global-community-based-on-sharia-says-talibans-supreme-leader-hibatullah-akhundzada-508629">Will engage with global community based on Sharia, says Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada</a>

A spokesperson for the Chinese mission at the UN, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council, this week called the Western position linking the travel ban to human rights "counterproductive."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The travel ban exemptions for 13 Taliban officials ended on Friday after the United Nations failed to achieve consensus on possible extension. Thirteen Taliban officials were given exemptions from travel ban to enable them to take part in negotiations and meet foreign officials abroad.

The travel ban exemptions for 13 Taliban officials ended on Friday after the United Nations failed to achieve consensus on possible extension. Thirteen Taliban officials were given exemptions from travel ban to enable them to take part in negotiations and meet foreign officials abroad. These 13 officials were among 135 Taliban officials who were subject to sanctions as per a 2011 UN Security resolution. In June, the 15-member UN Security Council's Afghanistan Sanctions Committee removed two Taliban education ministers from the exemption list over the regime's curtailment of women's rights. At that time exemptions for others were renewed until August 19. An extension of a month was possible if no member objected but AFP, quoting diplomatic sources, said that Ireland objected last week. China and Russia were in favour of an extension. Watch | UN fails to reach consensus over travel ban, 13 Taliban officials not allowed to travel now × The exemption for 13 officials from travel ban ended at midnight on Friday (August 19) Among the 13 are deputy prime minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and deputy minister of foreign affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai. They were instrumental in negotiations with the US government of then-president Donald Trump which led to a deal in 2020 paving the way for America's withdrawal from Afghanistan. Also Read | Will engage with global community based on Sharia, says Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada A spokesperson for the Chinese mission at the UN, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council, this week called the Western position linking the travel ban to human rights "counterproductive." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Travel ban exemptions for Taliban officials end, no consensus in UN for extension

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday (August 20) inspected a grain ship anchored off Turkish coast. A boat took the secretary general from Istanbul to the grain ship. The ship was chartered by the United Nations to transport Ukrainian grain on the southern shores of Istanbul.

Ukraine, a leading producer of foodgrains&nbsp;has been under attack from Russia since February 24 this year. The invasion created obstacles in the path of grain export from Ukraine raising the spectre of global food crisis. But a deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey between Ukraine and Russia that resulted in agreement for safe passage for grain ships from and to Ukraine.

The agreement also guarantees Russia a right to sell fertilisers and agricultural products despite western sanctions. Guterres said that Russian fertilisers and agricultural products should be able to reach global markets 'unimpeded'. He warned of a global food crisis next year should this not happen.

"It is important that all governments and the private sector cooperate to bring them to market," he said from the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC).

The JCC oversees the implementation of the Ukrainian grain export agreement signed in July by Kyiv and Moscow.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-ukrainian-saboteurs-played-a-role-in-blasts-at-russian-military-sites-report-508696">Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report</a>

"What we see here in Istanbul and in Odessa is only the more visible part of the solution. The other part of this package deal is the unimpeded access to the global markets of Russian food and fertiliser, which are not subject to sanctions," Guterres said, adding that despite this, Russian fertiliser and agricultural exports still faced "obstacles."

"Without fertiliser in 2022, there may not be enough food in 2023. Getting more food and fertiliser out of Ukraine and Russia is crucial to further calm commodity markets and lower prices for consumers," he said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday (August 20) inspected a grain ship anchored off Turkish coast. A boat took the secretary general from Istanbul to the grain ship.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday (August 20) inspected a grain ship anchored off Turkish coast. A boat took the secretary general from Istanbul to the grain ship. The ship was chartered by the United Nations to transport Ukrainian grain on the southern shores of Istanbul. Ukraine, a leading producer of foodgrains has been under attack from Russia since February 24 this year. The invasion created obstacles in the path of grain export from Ukraine raising the spectre of global food crisis. But a deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey between Ukraine and Russia that resulted in agreement for safe passage for grain ships from and to Ukraine. The agreement also guarantees Russia a right to sell fertilisers and agricultural products despite western sanctions. Guterres said that Russian fertilisers and agricultural products should be able to reach global markets 'unimpeded'. He warned of a global food crisis next year should this not happen. "It is important that all governments and the private sector cooperate to bring them to market," he said from the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC). The JCC oversees the implementation of the Ukrainian grain export agreement signed in July by Kyiv and Moscow. Also Read | Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report "What we see here in Istanbul and in Odessa is only the more visible part of the solution. The other part of this package deal is the unimpeded access to the global markets of Russian food and fertiliser, which are not subject to sanctions," Guterres said, adding that despite this, Russian fertiliser and agricultural exports still faced "obstacles." "Without fertiliser in 2022, there may not be enough food in 2023. Getting more food and fertiliser out of Ukraine and Russia is crucial to further calm commodity markets and lower prices for consumers," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN chief inspects Ukraine grain ship off the coast of Turkey

A Ukrainian official has told US media that pro-Ukraine elements were involved in explosions in Russia-held Crimea in recent days. Meanwhile Russia has made an allegation that a number of its soldiers were poisoned by Ukraine. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-ukrainian-saboteurs-played-a-role-in-blasts-at-russian-military-sites-report-508696">Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report</a>

Russia-Ukraine war: The report also noted that given the nature of the blasts, experts have speculated that guerrilla fighters, known as "partisans" might have played a role.

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f937d476-6dbe-48f3-b9a6-024a14e4768d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russia_4.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/travel-ban-exemptions-for-taliban-officials-end-no-consensus-in-un-for-extension-508677">Travel ban exemptions for Taliban officials end, no consensus in UN for extension</a> 
 
Exemptions from travel ban were given to 13 Taliban officials to enable them to take part in negotiations and meet foreign officials abroad.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93d73ebe-54fb-43c7-aead-a694e1be3fd6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taliban_2.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coal-import-from-russia-at-record-high-amid-eu-ban-508612">China's coal import from Russia surges to record high amid EU ban</a> 
 
EU member states the Netherlands, Austria and Germany have reportedly increased the use of coal-fired power plants even as the EU seeks to cut natural gas use by 15 per cent due to surging prices.

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dabce43-3bf1-4543-9470-2fee9b53eea4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_9.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-multiple-times-when-world-leaders-took-to-the-dancefloor-why-blame-sanna-marin-508599">WATCH: Multiple times when world leaders hit the dancefloor, why blame Sanna Marin alone?</a> 
 
Even her harshest detractors would concede that Sanna Marin throws more than competent shapes compared to some other world leaders, despite the fact that her passion for partying may have gotten her into trouble at home.&nbsp;

<img alt="Marin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2871a832-1a03-4072-9149-e9aca5c30831" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Marin.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-poisoned-some-of-our-soldiers-alleges-russia-508717">Ukraine poisoned some of our soldiers, alleges Russia</a> 
 
Russian defence ministry alleges that the poisoning took place in the month of July and a number of Russian servicemen were taken to a military hospital with signs of serious poisoning on July 31.

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f6b03573-4432-4918-a38e-d69bfcfb3369" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russian.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-inspects-grain-ship-off-the-coast-of-turkey-508707">UN chief inspects grain ship off the coast of Turkey</a> 
 
Ukraine, a leading producer of foodgrains has been under attack from Russia since February 24 this year. The invasion created obstacles in the path of grain export from Ukraine raising the spectre of global food crisis. But a deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey between Ukraine and Russia that resulted in agreement for safe passage for grain ships from and to Ukraine.

<img alt="Guterres" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73b344a7-23f4-4f2c-9613-66e692d713df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Antonio%20Guterres_1.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-to-fete-south-africas-new-zulu-king-508700">Thousands gather to fete South Africa's new Zulu king</a> 
 
Men and women in colourful traditional outfits assembled outside the marble palace on the hills of Nongoma, a small town in the southeastern province of KwaZulu-Natal, the Zulu heartland.

<img alt="Zulu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70fe413f-2429-48df-97b2-377c38be51e6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Zulu.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-downpour-eases-after-forcing-hundreds-from-home-508688">New Zealand: Downpour eases after forcing hundreds from homes</a> 
 
Nelson, the city in the South Island of the country is the worst affected due to the rain. Hundreds of homes have been evacuated over the week. The lashing from rain has rendered some of the homes uninhabitable.

<img alt="New Zealand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51a0ddde-15a6-4925-bd7d-48cf30bab0e2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20Zealand.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-virus-can-remain-on-blankets-coffee-machines-says-cdc-study-508648">Monkeypox virus can remain on blankets, coffee machines for days, says CDC study</a>

<img alt="Monkeypox" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39de1666-a6bd-4565-8413-90a5d57820b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/monkeypox_0.jpg" />

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said cleaning and disinfection may have contained contamination at home. The WHO has already instituted a study to find out whether genetic changes are responsible for the monkeypox surge worldwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/literature-world-gathers-in-support-of-salman-rushdie-in-new-york-508623">Literature world gathers in support of Salman Rushdie in New York</a> 
 
More than a dozen renowned authors, including Rushdie's friends and colleagues, spoke at the occasion, which, according to the event's organisers, had also invited the novelist to attend from a hospital bed. Rushdie, 75, was stabbed multiple times in the neck and abdomen a week ago as he prepared for a lecture series in upstate New York.&nbsp;

<img alt="Rushdie" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b644341d-fda6-40e0-b726-43a8cf184ea1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rushdie.jpg" />

A Ukrainian official has told US media that pro-Ukraine elements were involved in explosions in Russia-held Crimea in recent days. Meanwhile Russia has made an allegation that a number of its soldiers were poisoned by Ukraine.

A Ukrainian official has told US media that pro-Ukraine elements were involved in explosions in Russia-held Crimea in recent days. Meanwhile Russia has made an allegation that a number of its soldiers were poisoned by Ukraine. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News. Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report Russia-Ukraine war: The report also noted that given the nature of the blasts, experts have speculated that guerrilla fighters, known as "partisans" might have played a role. Travel ban exemptions for Taliban officials end, no consensus in UN for extension Exemptions from travel ban were given to 13 Taliban officials to enable them to take part in negotiations and meet foreign officials abroad. China's coal import from Russia surges to record high amid EU ban EU member states the Netherlands, Austria and Germany have reportedly increased the use of coal-fired power plants even as the EU seeks to cut natural gas use by 15 per cent due to surging prices. WATCH: Multiple times when world leaders hit the dancefloor, why blame Sanna Marin alone? Even her harshest detractors would concede that Sanna Marin throws more than competent shapes compared to some other world leaders, despite the fact that her passion for partying may have gotten her into trouble at home. Ukraine poisoned some of our soldiers, alleges Russia Russian defence ministry alleges that the poisoning took place in the month of July and a number of Russian servicemen were taken to a military hospital with signs of serious poisoning on July 31. UN chief inspects grain ship off the coast of Turkey Ukraine, a leading producer of foodgrains has been under attack from Russia since February 24 this year. The invasion created obstacles in the path of grain export from Ukraine raising the spectre of global food crisis. But a deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey between Ukraine and Russia that resulted in agreement for safe passage for grain ships from and to Ukraine. Thousands gather to fete South Africa's new Zulu king Men and women in colourful traditional outfits assembled outside the marble palace on the hills of Nongoma, a small town in the southeastern province of KwaZulu-Natal, the Zulu heartland. New Zealand: Downpour eases after forcing hundreds from homes Nelson, the city in the South Island of the country is the worst affected due to the rain. Hundreds of homes have been evacuated over the week. The lashing from rain has rendered some of the homes uninhabitable. Monkeypox virus can remain on blankets, coffee machines for days, says CDC study US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said cleaning and disinfection may have contained contamination at home. The WHO has already instituted a study to find out whether genetic changes are responsible for the monkeypox surge worldwide. Literature world gathers in support of Salman Rushdie in New York More than a dozen renowned authors, including Rushdie's friends and colleagues, spoke at the occasion, which, according to the event's organisers, had also invited the novelist to attend from a hospital bed. Rushdie, 75, was stabbed multiple times in the neck and abdomen a week ago as he prepared for a lecture series in upstate New York.

Top 10 world news: Pro-Ukraine elements at work in Crimea, UN chief inspects grain ship, more

There is no limit to what we can gaze at into the Universe as the expanse is unimaginably huge. All we can do is improve the way we look at it through our lenses and marvel at the beauty as we understand it further. Scientists have now captured sharpest (yet) image of the most massive star known to us till now. Compared to the mesmerising and breathtaking space images that come our way usually, this one might look ordinary but the observation has led scientists to furter refine our understanding of massive stars even bigger than our Sun.

The name of this star is R136a1. It is in the heart of Tarantula Nebula and is the largest known star in the Universe. Previous attempts to click sharp images of this star were successful in a limited way because the star is situated amid dust and near other stars in the nebula.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-moon-landing-sites-for-artemis-iii-mission-what-are-they-508583">NASA's Moon landing sites for Artemis III mission: What are they?</a>

But now researchers have captured image of R136a1 using 8.1 metre Gemini South Telescope in Chile. Previously, it was thought that this star had a mass between 250-320 times that of the Sun. But the new observations indicate a possibility that R136a1 may only be beetween 170 and 230 times more massive than our Sun. This has helped scientists refine our understanding of the cosmos. Based on these observations, scientists think that &nbsp;“the upper limit on stellar masses may also be smaller than previously thought”.

Giant stars live fast and die young. They burn their fuel quickly and have a life of just a few million years. This may sound a lot but when we compare that to the estimated life of Sun (10 billion years) it's easy to accept that giant stars die out 'quickly'.

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There is no limit to what we can gaze at into the Universe as the expanse is unimaginably huge. All we can do is improve the way we look at it through our lenses and marvel at the beauty as we understand it further.

There is no limit to what we can gaze at into the Universe as the expanse is unimaginably huge. All we can do is improve the way we look at it through our lenses and marvel at the beauty as we understand it further. Scientists have now captured sharpest (yet) image of the most massive star known to us till now. Compared to the mesmerising and breathtaking space images that come our way usually, this one might look ordinary but the observation has led scientists to furter refine our understanding of massive stars even bigger than our Sun. The name of this star is R136a1. It is in the heart of Tarantula Nebula and is the largest known star in the Universe. Previous attempts to click sharp images of this star were successful in a limited way because the star is situated amid dust and near other stars in the nebula. Also Read | NASA's Moon landing sites for Artemis III mission: What are they? But now researchers have captured image of R136a1 using 8.1 metre Gemini South Telescope in Chile. Previously, it was thought that this star had a mass between 250-320 times that of the Sun. But the new observations indicate a possibility that R136a1 may only be beetween 170 and 230 times more massive than our Sun. This has helped scientists refine our understanding of the cosmos. Based on these observations, scientists think that “the upper limit on stellar masses may also be smaller than previously thought”. Giant stars live fast and die young. They burn their fuel quickly and have a life of just a few million years. This may sound a lot but when we compare that to the estimated life of Sun (10 billion years) it's easy to accept that giant stars die out 'quickly'. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists click sharpest ever image of most massive known star in the Universe

Floods, fires and storms brought chaos and destruction across the world on Thursday and Friday (August 18-19) in two days of extreme weather.

Wildfires burned in eastern Spain as strong winds fanned up flames raging through parched bushland.

More than 400 people and 36 aircraft were working on Thursday to control a wildfire that had burnt more than 19,000 hectares (46,950 acres) forcing the evacuation and confinement of over 1000 people in nearby villages.

However, a fire in Vall d'Ebo, also in Valencia, was extinguished.

Torrential rain hit parts of New Zealand for a fourth day on Friday, forcing hundreds of people from their homes as rivers overflowed their banks and waterlogged ground becomes unstable.

Nelson, on the north coast of the South Island, has been worst affected, with more than 400 homes evacuated and some declared uninhabitable because of the rain.

France's weather forecaster lifted a major storm warning for Corsica on Friday, a day after hurricane-strength winds and rain ripped across the Mediterranean island, killing five people.

A natural catastrophe decree is expected to be approved next week, which will help residents and businesses with insurance claims for damage caused by the storm, regional leader Gilles Simeoni told France Info radio.

Hail, heavy rain and winds peaking at 225 km per hour (140 mph) swept the island on Thursday morning, smashing boats and cars, uprooting trees and damaging houses.

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the western Chinese province of Qinghai killed 16 people, state media reported on Thursday, with an additional 36 missing.

Heavy and sudden downpours in Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County, population 403,368, of Qinghai province started late Wednesday, causing flooding on the mountains and triggered landslides, according to China's state broadcaster CCTV.

Rivers changed courses and flooded villages and towns. More than 6,200 people were affected by the flood.

Southern Italy remained in the grip of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing close to 40C (104°F) fuelling wildfires on the island of Sicily.

Firefighters battled early on Friday with a wildfire on Mount Grifone, on the outskirts of Palermo.

Smoke caused traffic jams on the highway connecting Palermo to Catania.

Two people were killed by falling trees in central Italy on Thursday as powerful storms battered several regions after weeks of punishingly high temperatures, rescue services said.

Italy's civil protection unit said that the bad weather would sweep south overnight and issued warnings for Friday for 11 of the country's 20 regions.

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Floods, fires and storms brought chaos and destruction across the world on Thursday and Friday (August 18-19) in two days of extreme weather. Wildfires burned in eastern Spain as strong winds fanned up flames raging through parched bushland.

Floods, fires and storms brought chaos and destruction across the world on Thursday and Friday (August 18-19) in two days of extreme weather. Wildfires burned in eastern Spain as strong winds fanned up flames raging through parched bushland. More than 400 people and 36 aircraft were working on Thursday to control a wildfire that had burnt more than 19,000 hectares (46,950 acres) forcing the evacuation and confinement of over 1000 people in nearby villages. However, a fire in Vall d'Ebo, also in Valencia, was extinguished. Torrential rain hit parts of New Zealand for a fourth day on Friday, forcing hundreds of people from their homes as rivers overflowed their banks and waterlogged ground becomes unstable. Nelson, on the north coast of the South Island, has been worst affected, with more than 400 homes evacuated and some declared uninhabitable because of the rain. France's weather forecaster lifted a major storm warning for Corsica on Friday, a day after hurricane-strength winds and rain ripped across the Mediterranean island, killing five people. A natural catastrophe decree is expected to be approved next week, which will help residents and businesses with insurance claims for damage caused by the storm, regional leader Gilles Simeoni told France Info radio. Hail, heavy rain and winds peaking at 225 km per hour (140 mph) swept the island on Thursday morning, smashing boats and cars, uprooting trees and damaging houses. Flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the western Chinese province of Qinghai killed 16 people, state media reported on Thursday, with an additional 36 missing. Heavy and sudden downpours in Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County, population 403,368, of Qinghai province started late Wednesday, causing flooding on the mountains and triggered landslides, according to China's state broadcaster CCTV. Rivers changed courses and flooded villages and towns. More than 6,200 people were affected by the flood. Southern Italy remained in the grip of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing close to 40C (104°F) fuelling wildfires on the island of Sicily. Firefighters battled early on Friday with a wildfire on Mount Grifone, on the outskirts of Palermo. Smoke caused traffic jams on the highway connecting Palermo to Catania. Two people were killed by falling trees in central Italy on Thursday as powerful storms battered several regions after weeks of punishingly high temperatures, rescue services said. Italy's civil protection unit said that the bad weather would sweep south overnight and issued warnings for Friday for 11 of the country's 20 regions. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fires, floods and storms: Two days of extreme weather around the world

A move by North Carolina police sheriff to arm school resource officers with assault rifles is meeting incredulous reactions from gun reform advocates. Buddy Harwood, the police sheriff has said that he felt obliged to do so after shootout at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which saw 19 children being killed by a&nbsp;gunman.

“Having just a deputy armed with a handgun isn’t enough to stop these animals,” Harwood said in a video statement he posted to Facebook in June.

“My school resource officers will not have to wait, retreat, or have to leave the situation to get the weaponry to deal with that threat.”

Local media reported that the sheriff's plan involved military-style weapons to be locked in undisclosed location in county's schools.

“I think it is absolute insanity. This won’t save a single child, or stop a single unknown and potential future act of violence,” said Fred Guttenberg, as quoted by The Guardian. Guttenberg's own daughter was killed in shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018

“However, it will immediately help to sell more guns and make this sheriff more popular with the gun lobby that he is hoping to be a champion with,” he said.

Right to bear arms has been enshrined in the US Constitution. Each time a school shootout, such as the&nbsp;one in Texas, takes place, there is increased clamour in the US for gun controls. But such efforts are always opposed by the politically influential gun lobby in the country.

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A move by North Carolina police sheriff to arm school resource officers with assault rifles is meeting incredulous reactions from gun reform advocates. Buddy Harwood, the police sheriff has said that he felt obliged to do so after shootout at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which saw 19 children being killed by a gunman.

A move by North Carolina police sheriff to arm school resource officers with assault rifles is meeting incredulous reactions from gun reform advocates. Buddy Harwood, the police sheriff has said that he felt obliged to do so after shootout at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which saw 19 children being killed by a gunman. “Having just a deputy armed with a handgun isn’t enough to stop these animals,” Harwood said in a video statement he posted to Facebook in June. “My school resource officers will not have to wait, retreat, or have to leave the situation to get the weaponry to deal with that threat.” Local media reported that the sheriff's plan involved military-style weapons to be locked in undisclosed location in county's schools. “I think it is absolute insanity. This won’t save a single child, or stop a single unknown and potential future act of violence,” said Fred Guttenberg, as quoted by The Guardian. Guttenberg's own daughter was killed in shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018 “However, it will immediately help to sell more guns and make this sheriff more popular with the gun lobby that he is hoping to be a champion with,” he said. Right to bear arms has been enshrined in the US Constitution. Each time a school shootout, such as the one in Texas, takes place, there is increased clamour in the US for gun controls. But such efforts are always opposed by the politically influential gun lobby in the country. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Move to place assault rifles in US schools draws strong reaction

Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence".&nbsp;Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec.

The 78-year-old, who was once considered a strong candidate to be pope, was named in court documents this week relating to a class action suit targeting more than 80 members of the clergy in the archdiocese of Quebec.

He rejected the accusations in a statement, a day after the Vatican said it ruled out a formal church investigation.

"Having learnt of the false accusations made against me by the complainant, I strongly deny having made inappropriate gestures towards her," he said.

"I consider the interpretation and circulation of these allegations of sexual assaults to be defamatory.&nbsp;If a civil inquiry is opened, I will actively participate so the truth is established and my innocence is recognised," said the statement in French and Italian published on the Vatican website.

The claims against him in the civil suit, which the Quebec supreme court ruled could go ahead in May, are among the testimonies of 101 people who say they were sexually assaulted by members of the clergy and church staff from 1940 to today.

They surfaced just weeks after Pope Francis visited Canada, where he apologised for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run residential schools.

So far, the cardinal is not facing any criminal charges.

No grounds for formal probe

Ouellet's denial comes a day after Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said a "preliminary investigation" already ordered by Pope Francis had found there were "no elements to initiate a trial".

The pontiff went back to the author of that probe, Father Jacques Servais, and was told again there were no grounds for opening a formal investigation.

Ouellet is a prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, one of the most important functions within the Curia, the government of the Vatican.

His accuser claims the cardinal assaulted her multiple times — kissing her, "forcefully" massaging her shoulders, and once sliding his hand along her back to her buttocks.

According to Thursday's Vatican statement, Servais said he had interviewed the woman via Zoom in the presence of a member of the committee.

He was quoted as saying that neither in her report to the pope, nor in the testimony he heard, "did this person make an accusation that would provide material for such an investigation".

Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has sought to tackle decades-long sexual abuse scandals, although critics insist much more needs to be done.

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Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence". Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec.

Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence". Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec. The 78-year-old, who was once considered a strong candidate to be pope, was named in court documents this week relating to a class action suit targeting more than 80 members of the clergy in the archdiocese of Quebec. He rejected the accusations in a statement, a day after the Vatican said it ruled out a formal church investigation. "Having learnt of the false accusations made against me by the complainant, I strongly deny having made inappropriate gestures towards her," he said. "I consider the interpretation and circulation of these allegations of sexual assaults to be defamatory. If a civil inquiry is opened, I will actively participate so the truth is established and my innocence is recognised," said the statement in French and Italian published on the Vatican website. The claims against him in the civil suit, which the Quebec supreme court ruled could go ahead in May, are among the testimonies of 101 people who say they were sexually assaulted by members of the clergy and church staff from 1940 to today. They surfaced just weeks after Pope Francis visited Canada, where he apologised for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run residential schools. So far, the cardinal is not facing any criminal charges. No grounds for formal probe Ouellet's denial comes a day after Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said a "preliminary investigation" already ordered by Pope Francis had found there were "no elements to initiate a trial". The pontiff went back to the author of that probe, Father Jacques Servais, and was told again there were no grounds for opening a formal investigation. Ouellet is a prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, one of the most important functions within the Curia, the government of the Vatican. His accuser claims the cardinal assaulted her multiple times — kissing her, "forcefully" massaging her shoulders, and once sliding his hand along her back to her buttocks. According to Thursday's Vatican statement, Servais said he had interviewed the woman via Zoom in the presence of a member of the committee. He was quoted as saying that neither in her report to the pope, nor in the testimony he heard, "did this person make an accusation that would provide material for such an investigation". Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has sought to tackle decades-long sexual abuse scandals, although critics insist much more needs to be done. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canadian cardinal 'strongly denies' sex assault allegations

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