<p>Deforestation of Brazilian Amazon rainforests has set a new six-month record, said INPE national space agency on Friday. Since the beginning of the year, the world's largest tropical rainforest lost 3750 square kilometres of jungle. This is highest for a six-month period since record keeping began in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previous worst reforestation destroyed 3605 square kilometres of jungle. This record was set last year</p>

<p>The new figure does not even include the final six days of June.</p>

<p>This year has seen the worst June in 15 years for forest fires.</p>

<p>Monthly records were also beaten in January and February, when deforestation is usually lower, and in April.</p>

<p>INPE satellites identified more than 2,500 fires in the Amazon last month, the largest number since more than 3,500 were recorded in June 2007, and an 11 percent increase over June 2021.</p>

<p>More than 7,500 fires have been recorded since the start of the year, another 17 percent increase on 2021 and the worst numbers since 2010.</p>

<p>"The dry season has barely begun in the Amazon and already we're beating environmental destruction records," said Cristiane Mazzetti, from Greenpeace Brazil.</p>

<p>Environmentalists and opposition figures accuse the government of President Jair Bolsonaro of implementing policies that encourage big businesses to damage the environment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Deforestation of Brazilian Amazon rainforests has set a new six-month record, said INPE national space agency on Friday. Since the beginning of the year, the world's largest tropical rainforest lost 3750 square kilometres of jungle.

Deforestation of Brazilian Amazon rainforests has set a new six-month record, said INPE national space agency on Friday. Since the beginning of the year, the world's largest tropical rainforest lost 3750 square kilometres of jungle. This is highest for a six-month period since record keeping began in 2016. Previous worst reforestation destroyed 3605 square kilometres of jungle. This record was set last year The new figure does not even include the final six days of June. This year has seen the worst June in 15 years for forest fires. Monthly records were also beaten in January and February, when deforestation is usually lower, and in April. INPE satellites identified more than 2,500 fires in the Amazon last month, the largest number since more than 3,500 were recorded in June 2007, and an 11 percent increase over June 2021. More than 7,500 fires have been recorded since the start of the year, another 17 percent increase on 2021 and the worst numbers since 2010. "The dry season has barely begun in the Amazon and already we're beating environmental destruction records," said Cristiane Mazzetti, from Greenpeace Brazil. Environmentalists and opposition figures accuse the government of President Jair Bolsonaro of implementing policies that encourage big businesses to damage the environment. (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 ×

Brazil: Amazon deforestation sets new six-month record

<p>Eurozone inflation accelerated to another record high in June, official data showed on Friday, as Russia's war in Ukraine drives up energy prices and hammers the European economy.</p>

<p>The EU's Eurostat data agency said the increase in consumer prices in the 19 countries that use the euro reached 8.6 percent in June, leaping from the previous record of 8.1 percent a month earlier.</p>

<p>Consumer prices in the eurozone have hit records since November, buffeted by sky-high energy prices, which jumped by 41.9 percent over one year, caused by the fallout of Russia's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine.</p>

<p>But analysts also pointed to the rise in food prices, which accelerated by 8.9 percent, showing that the inflation problem was spreading through the economy.</p>

<p>"Historically, we have never had such a high figure for the contribution of food. It will have a big impact," said Philippe Waechter of Ostrum Asset Management.</p>

<p>The European Central Bank has said it will do whatever it takes to bring inflation back to its target level, with political pressure high to bring energy and food prices into check.</p>

<p>"With eurozone inflation now becoming more broad-based in nature, the outlook for the Eurozone for the rest of 2022 continues to look bleak," warned Pushpin Singh, Economist at the Centre for Economics and Business Research.</p>

<p>"This comes amid a mounting possibility of a severe gas crisis in Europe, with Russia using gas exports as a means to counter sanctions," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Rate hike</strong></p>

<p>As the conflict rages on, Russia has shown an increased willingness to cut off gas supplies to Europe, a danger that has raised the prospect of energy rationing in the eurozone to get through next winter.</p>

<p>Some analysts took solace in the core inflation data, which excludes energy and food prices and came in at 3.7 percent, a tiny drop from the previous month.</p>

<p>But this would not be enough to change the course decided at the ECB's last meeting, when policymakers agreed to the bank's first interest rate hike in more than a decade.</p>

<p>The quarter-point raise, set to take place at its next meeting on July 21, will raise rates from their historic lows.</p>

<p>"We will go as far as necessary to ensure that inflation stabilises at our two percent target over the medium term," ECB head Christine Lagarde said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The ECB is being pressured by some to go faster in halting inflation and choose a path more akin to the United States where the Federal Reserve has warned it may trigger a recession to cool prices.</p>

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Eurozone inflation accelerated to another record high in June, official data showed on Friday, as Russia's war in Ukraine drives up energy prices and hammers the European economy.

Eurozone inflation accelerated to another record high in June, official data showed on Friday, as Russia's war in Ukraine drives up energy prices and hammers the European economy. The EU's Eurostat data agency said the increase in consumer prices in the 19 countries that use the euro reached 8.6 percent in June, leaping from the previous record of 8.1 percent a month earlier. Consumer prices in the eurozone have hit records since November, buffeted by sky-high energy prices, which jumped by 41.9 percent over one year, caused by the fallout of Russia's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine. But analysts also pointed to the rise in food prices, which accelerated by 8.9 percent, showing that the inflation problem was spreading through the economy. "Historically, we have never had such a high figure for the contribution of food. It will have a big impact," said Philippe Waechter of Ostrum Asset Management. The European Central Bank has said it will do whatever it takes to bring inflation back to its target level, with political pressure high to bring energy and food prices into check. "With eurozone inflation now becoming more broad-based in nature, the outlook for the Eurozone for the rest of 2022 continues to look bleak," warned Pushpin Singh, Economist at the Centre for Economics and Business Research. "This comes amid a mounting possibility of a severe gas crisis in Europe, with Russia using gas exports as a means to counter sanctions," he added. Rate hike As the conflict rages on, Russia has shown an increased willingness to cut off gas supplies to Europe, a danger that has raised the prospect of energy rationing in the eurozone to get through next winter. Some analysts took solace in the core inflation data, which excludes energy and food prices and came in at 3.7 percent, a tiny drop from the previous month. But this would not be enough to change the course decided at the ECB's last meeting, when policymakers agreed to the bank's first interest rate hike in more than a decade. The quarter-point raise, set to take place at its next meeting on July 21, will raise rates from their historic lows. "We will go as far as necessary to ensure that inflation stabilises at our two percent target over the medium term," ECB head Christine Lagarde said on Tuesday. The ECB is being pressured by some to go faster in halting inflation and choose a path more akin to the United States where the Federal Reserve has warned it may trigger a recession to cool prices. 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 ×

Eurozone inflation hits record, as gas crunch looms

<p>The word 'Selfie' was the 'word of the year'&nbsp;of Oxford Dictionaries in 2013. The concept was new in the preceding years. But since then the word (and photos) have become almost a second nature to us. If we are at a great outdoor location, we click a selfie. If we are with friends, we click a selfie. Even if we are doing something that we think is special, the photo makes its way to the social media in no time.</p>

<p>A satellite has now clicked a selfie with the Great Barrier Reef in the background. The satellite even used a selfie stick to click the photo. The satellite is owned by a company and is revolving around the Earth in an orbit 550 kilometres from the surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The microsatellite, named MP42 was launched into space in the month of April this year. It hitched a ride on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We wanted to highlight the vulnerability of our planet and the importance of Earth observation by satellites, especially for monitoring environment and climate changes," said NanoAvionics, the company which owns the microsatellite. The company has even published the video on Yutube. Check it out.</p>

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<p>The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. It stretches for more than 2300 Kilometres along northeast coast of Australia.</p>

<p>The selfie, and the video was taken with a GoPro Hero 7. The camera was mounted on a selfie stick.</p>

<p>The Great Barrier Reef is in need of conservation. A report by Australian government earlier this year said that the reef was undergoing 'mass bleaching' due to global warming.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The word 'Selfie' was the 'word of the year' of Oxford Dictionaries in 2013. The concept was new in the preceding years. But since then the word (and photos) have become almost a second nature to us.

The word 'Selfie' was the 'word of the year' of Oxford Dictionaries in 2013. The concept was new in the preceding years. But since then the word (and photos) have become almost a second nature to us. If we are at a great outdoor location, we click a selfie. If we are with friends, we click a selfie. Even if we are doing something that we think is special, the photo makes its way to the social media in no time. A satellite has now clicked a selfie with the Great Barrier Reef in the background. The satellite even used a selfie stick to click the photo. The satellite is owned by a company and is revolving around the Earth in an orbit 550 kilometres from the surface. The microsatellite, named MP42 was launched into space in the month of April this year. It hitched a ride on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. "We wanted to highlight the vulnerability of our planet and the importance of Earth observation by satellites, especially for monitoring environment and climate changes," said NanoAvionics, the company which owns the microsatellite. The company has even published the video on Yutube. Check it out. × The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. It stretches for more than 2300 Kilometres along northeast coast of Australia. The selfie, and the video was taken with a GoPro Hero 7. The camera was mounted on a selfie stick. The Great Barrier Reef is in need of conservation. A report by Australian government earlier this year said that the reef was undergoing 'mass bleaching' due to global warming.

Video: A satellite has clicked 'selfie' from space

<p>Solar eclipse is a wonder to behold when viewed from Earth in first. Not everyone of us has been lucky enough to experience this wonder of nature. If the celestial event is so impressive from our planet, imagine how it must enthral those who view it from space!&nbsp;</p>

<p>For those of us not having chosen being&nbsp;an astronaut as a career option, NASA comes to rescue.</p>

<p>In a solar eclipse, Moon is situated between the Earth and the Sun in a way that its shadow falls on Earth. Depending upon extent to which the Moon obstructs the Sun, there are three types of solar eclipses.</p>

<p>The one clicked by NASA is a partial solar eclipse. It has been clicked by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). The SDO is NASA's observatory in the sky. It was launched in the year 2010.</p>

<p>The SDO recorded the 35-minute partial solar eclipse from space on Wednesday (June 29).</p>

<p>Over the last 12 years, observations made SDO have been extremely useful to understand the Sun</p>

<p>"SDO observations start in the interior of the Sun with the solar dynamo -- the churning of the Sun’s interior that creates its magnetic field and drives space weather. Further out, SDO observes the solar surface to directly measure the magnetic field and the solar atmosphere to understand how magnetic energy is linked to the interior and converted to space weather-causing events. Finally, SDO measures the extreme ultraviolet irradiance of the Sun that is a key driver to the structure and composition of the Earth’s upper atmosphere," says NASA on its website.</p>

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Solar eclipse is a wonder to behold when viewed from Earth in first. Not everyone of us has been lucky enough to experience this wonder of nature. If the celestial event is so impressive from our planet, imagine how it must enthral those who view it from space!

Solar eclipse is a wonder to behold when viewed from Earth in first. Not everyone of us has been lucky enough to experience this wonder of nature. If the celestial event is so impressive from our planet, imagine how it must enthral those who view it from space! For those of us not having chosen being an astronaut as a career option, NASA comes to rescue. In a solar eclipse, Moon is situated between the Earth and the Sun in a way that its shadow falls on Earth. Depending upon extent to which the Moon obstructs the Sun, there are three types of solar eclipses. The one clicked by NASA is a partial solar eclipse. It has been clicked by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). The SDO is NASA's observatory in the sky. It was launched in the year 2010. The SDO recorded the 35-minute partial solar eclipse from space on Wednesday (June 29). Over the last 12 years, observations made SDO have been extremely useful to understand the Sun "SDO observations start in the interior of the Sun with the solar dynamo -- the churning of the Sun’s interior that creates its magnetic field and drives space weather. Further out, SDO observes the solar surface to directly measure the magnetic field and the solar atmosphere to understand how magnetic energy is linked to the interior and converted to space weather-causing events. Finally, SDO measures the extreme ultraviolet irradiance of the Sun that is a key driver to the structure and composition of the Earth’s upper atmosphere," says NASA on its website. 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 ×

NASA captures breathtaking image of an eclipse from space

<p>COVID-19 cases are again on a rise in India.<strong>&nbsp;</strong>India reported 17,070 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally&nbsp;to 4,34,69,234, while the active cases increased to 1,07,189, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday (July 1). According to reports, the number of new cases have increased by 18 per cent in the last week, globally. Many states in India have also issued some fresh guidelines looking at the rise in cases.&nbsp;New cases of Omicron's BA.5 variant have been reported in Delhi and other parts of the country. 23 COVID-19 related deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of coronavirus fatalities to 5,25,139. However, the ministry said that the recovery rate was&nbsp;98.58 per cent. In the last 24 hours,&nbsp;17,070 new COVID-19 cases were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/active-covid-cases-rise-to-107189-in-country-493497">Active Covid cases rise to 107,189 in India</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>COVID-19 Cases rise in Delhi, check their latest guidelines</strong></h2>

<p>According to data shared by health department on Wednesday,&nbsp;Delhi reported 1,109 Covid-19 cases with a positivity rate of 5.87 per cent and one fatality. However, even after rise in COVID-19&nbsp;cases, schools in the National Capital Region have re-opened after summer vacations. Several parents and students have also expressed their concerns over the same, but the school authorities have ensured that strict COVID-19&nbsp;protocols will be&nbsp;followed. Though, no restrictions have been applied so far. However, section- 144 has been imposed in Noida for the months of July and August, and masks also remain mandatory. According to a report by Zee News, almost five per cent of the samples genome sequenced from central and south east Delhi tested positive for the BA.5 sub-variant and nearly two per cent samples from south Delhi showed its presence.</p>

<h2><strong>Cases rise in Karnataka&nbsp;and new guidelines issued&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cases are also on a rapid rise in Karnataka, with Bengaluru being the worst-hit.&nbsp;On June 29,1,249 new Covid-19 cases were recorded, rising the&nbsp;state's active caseload to 5,707.&nbsp;Bengaluru reported 1,109 new coronavirus infections and the capital now has 5,393 active infections. However,&nbsp;the positivity rate has risen to 4.84 per cent. New guidelines are also issued by the Karnataka Government.</p>

<p><strong>See the tweet by Dr. Sudhakar K,&nbsp;Minister for Health &amp; Family Welfare and Medical Education, Karnataka below,</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the wake of increase in Covid-19 cases from June 10, updated guidelines have been formulated to contain the spread of infection. I urge all citizens to adhere to the guidelines to defeat the pandemic.<br />
<br />
Get your booster doses and follow appropriate COVID behaviour.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/xKZgoxGnTb">pic.twitter.com/xKZgoxGnTb</a></p>
— Dr Sudhakar K (@mla_sudhakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/mla_sudhakar/status/1541794946231181312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Downward trend of cases&nbsp;in Maharashtra</strong></h2>

<p>Even though Maharashtra reported rapidly increasing number of cases earlier, it is seeing a downfall now. Cases in Mumbai have dropped by 11.43 per cent in the last seven days. On 29th June,&nbsp;3,957 new&nbsp;cases were reported in&nbsp;Maharashtra.&nbsp;However, on 30th June,&nbsp;3,640 cases were reported.&nbsp;The fatalities also dropped from seven to three in the last 24 hours. Earlier the government issued some guidelines amid the rising COVID-19&nbsp;cases.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Cases up in Tamil Nadu, one of the worst affected states</strong></h2>

<p>Tamil Nadu is one of the worst affected states with&nbsp;active cases crossing&nbsp;the 10,000 mark for the first time since February this year. In early June it reported about 80 cases a day, but now the state is&nbsp;now reporting an average of 1,285 cases a day. Doctors and experts, seeing the rapidly rising cases have started worrying about a 'Fourth wave'&nbsp;and are constantly urging people to take precautions to prevent the infection from spreading. According to a report by PTI, the death toll remained at 38,026 as no fatalities occurred today, according to a bulletin from the State Health Department here.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-virus-fattens-body-cells-to-initiate-its-takeover-says-study-493072">Covid virus fattens body cells to initiate its takeover, says study</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why we should take the current COVID-19 situation seriously?</strong></h2>

<p>It is very important to take necessary precautions in order to prevent the COVID-19 infections. Not just the citizens, but the governments should also imply the required restrictions and formulate new guidelines. The cases are increasing day-by-day all over the country, and the infection rate is also high. Doctors and experts have warned and feared about a 'Fourth wave'&nbsp;and that if we don't take the necessary precautions now, the situation may worsen and we may land in the same state as we were before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are no restrictions as such on travel and people are travelling domestic as well as foreign frequently. This is also one of the reasons of the rise in COVID-19 cases. Other than the states mentioned, other states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, etc. are also reporting increasing cases every day. It is high time now that we start performing COVID-19 appropriate behaviour, otherwise the situation may&nbsp;deteriorate.</p>

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COVID-19 cases are again on a rise in India. India reported 17,070 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally to 4,34,69,234, while the active cases increased to 1,07,189, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday (July 1).

COVID-19 cases are again on a rise in India. India reported 17,070 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally to 4,34,69,234, while the active cases increased to 1,07,189, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday (July 1). According to reports, the number of new cases have increased by 18 per cent in the last week, globally. Many states in India have also issued some fresh guidelines looking at the rise in cases. New cases of Omicron's BA.5 variant have been reported in Delhi and other parts of the country. 23 COVID-19 related deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of coronavirus fatalities to 5,25,139. However, the ministry said that the recovery rate was 98.58 per cent. In the last 24 hours, 17,070 new COVID-19 cases were reported. Also read | Active Covid cases rise to 107,189 in India COVID-19 Cases rise in Delhi, check their latest guidelines According to data shared by health department on Wednesday, Delhi reported 1,109 Covid-19 cases with a positivity rate of 5.87 per cent and one fatality. However, even after rise in COVID-19 cases, schools in the National Capital Region have re-opened after summer vacations. Several parents and students have also expressed their concerns over the same, but the school authorities have ensured that strict COVID-19 protocols will be followed. Though, no restrictions have been applied so far. However, section- 144 has been imposed in Noida for the months of July and August, and masks also remain mandatory. According to a report by Zee News, almost five per cent of the samples genome sequenced from central and south east Delhi tested positive for the BA.5 sub-variant and nearly two per cent samples from south Delhi showed its presence. Cases rise in Karnataka and new guidelines issued Cases are also on a rapid rise in Karnataka, with Bengaluru being the worst-hit. On June 29,1,249 new Covid-19 cases were recorded, rising the state's active caseload to 5,707. Bengaluru reported 1,109 new coronavirus infections and the capital now has 5,393 active infections. However, the positivity rate has risen to 4.84 per cent. New guidelines are also issued by the Karnataka Government. See the tweet by Dr. Sudhakar K, Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Medical Education, Karnataka below, In the wake of increase in Covid-19 cases from June 10, updated guidelines have been formulated to contain the spread of infection. I urge all citizens to adhere to the guidelines to defeat the pandemic. Get your booster doses and follow appropriate COVID behaviour.#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/xKZgoxGnTb — Dr Sudhakar K (@mla_sudhakar) June 28, 2022 × Downward trend of cases in Maharashtra Even though Maharashtra reported rapidly increasing number of cases earlier, it is seeing a downfall now. Cases in Mumbai have dropped by 11.43 per cent in the last seven days. On 29th June, 3,957 new cases were reported in Maharashtra. However, on 30th June, 3,640 cases were reported. The fatalities also dropped from seven to three in the last 24 hours. Earlier the government issued some guidelines amid the rising COVID-19 cases. Cases up in Tamil Nadu, one of the worst affected states Tamil Nadu is one of the worst affected states with active cases crossing the 10,000 mark for the first time since February this year. In early June it reported about 80 cases a day, but now the state is now reporting an average of 1,285 cases a day. Doctors and experts, seeing the rapidly rising cases have started worrying about a 'Fourth wave' and are constantly urging people to take precautions to prevent the infection from spreading. According to a report by PTI, the death toll remained at 38,026 as no fatalities occurred today, according to a bulletin from the State Health Department here. Also read | Covid virus fattens body cells to initiate its takeover, says study Why we should take the current COVID-19 situation seriously? It is very important to take necessary precautions in order to prevent the COVID-19 infections. Not just the citizens, but the governments should also imply the required restrictions and formulate new guidelines. The cases are increasing day-by-day all over the country, and the infection rate is also high. Doctors and experts have warned and feared about a 'Fourth wave' and that if we don't take the necessary precautions now, the situation may worsen and we may land in the same state as we were before. There are no restrictions as such on travel and people are travelling domestic as well as foreign frequently. This is also one of the reasons of the rise in COVID-19 cases. Other than the states mentioned, other states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, etc. are also reporting increasing cases every day. It is high time now that we start performing COVID-19 appropriate behaviour, otherwise the situation may deteriorate. 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.

Covid-19 fourth wave? Cases rise across India, check THESE latest guidelines

<p>The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks.</p>

<p>"Today, I am intensifying my call for governments and civil society to scale up efforts in the coming weeks and months to prevent monkeypox from establishing itself across a growing geographical area. Urgent and coordinated action is imperative if we are to turn a corner in the race to reverse the ongoing spread of this disease," WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Henri Kluge said.</p>

<p>Majority of the countries where monkeypox cases have reached three figure mark are in Europe.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was 'concerned' about 'sustained transmission' of monkeypox virus.</p>

<p>"I am concerned about sustained transmission because it would suggest that the virus is establishing itself and it could move into high-risk groups including children, the immunocompromised and pregnant women," &nbsp;he said. He was talking with reporters.</p>

<p>Last week the UN health agency convened an emergency committee of experts to decide if monkeypox constitutes a so-called Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the highest alarm that the WHO can sound.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks.

The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks. "Today, I am intensifying my call for governments and civil society to scale up efforts in the coming weeks and months to prevent monkeypox from establishing itself across a growing geographical area. Urgent and coordinated action is imperative if we are to turn a corner in the race to reverse the ongoing spread of this disease," WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Henri Kluge said. Majority of the countries where monkeypox cases have reached three figure mark are in Europe. Earlier this week, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was 'concerned' about 'sustained transmission' of monkeypox virus. "I am concerned about sustained transmission because it would suggest that the virus is establishing itself and it could move into high-risk groups including children, the immunocompromised and pregnant women," he said. He was talking with reporters. Last week the UN health agency convened an emergency committee of experts to decide if monkeypox constitutes a so-called Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the highest alarm that the WHO can sound. (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 ×

WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladmir Putin on Friday (July 1) held a telephonic discussion about food security, energy and trade. The talks took place amid rising prices of food commodities globally. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is the major reason behind the price rise.</p>

<p>In a statement, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said,"They exchanged ideas on how bilateral trade in agricultural goods, fertilizers and pharma products could be encouraged further." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia and Ukraine are both major exporters of wheat, especially to developing countries. Conflict between them has caused wheat prices to shoot up.</p>

<p>Amid all this, India has exported 1.8 million tonnes of wheat to countries in need, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Sudan and Yemen in last two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Kremlin readout said that President Putin pointed at 'illegitimate sanctions' from the West that have made situation with respect to commodity and energy prices difficult. The readout said that Putin assured that Moscow is a 'reliable partner' for food, energy supply.</p>

<p>Both leaders also discussed "global issues, including the state of the international energy and food markets", MEA said. India has emerged as a major country importing discounted Russian crude oil despite western sanctions. In a foreseeable future, the imports are set to increase even as US and Europe shun Russian energy, particularly crude oil.</p>

<p>This is the fourth telephonic talk between the two leaders. They spoke on February 24, and twice in the month of March (2nd and 7th). It is important to note that the telephonic discussion came days after PM's participation at the G7 outreach summit in Germany. The issue of Russia-Ukraine conflict naturally came up during the talks and the Indian side reiterated its call for 'dialogue and diplomacy.'</p>

<p>Russian President Putin visited India in December of last year as part of India-Russia annual summit-level talks. This year Indian PM is expected to visit Russia.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladmir Putin on Friday (July 1) held a telephonic discussion about food security, energy and trade. The talks took place amid rising prices of food commodities globally.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladmir Putin on Friday (July 1) held a telephonic discussion about food security, energy and trade. The talks took place amid rising prices of food commodities globally. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is the major reason behind the price rise. In a statement, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said,"They exchanged ideas on how bilateral trade in agricultural goods, fertilizers and pharma products could be encouraged further." Russia and Ukraine are both major exporters of wheat, especially to developing countries. Conflict between them has caused wheat prices to shoot up. Amid all this, India has exported 1.8 million tonnes of wheat to countries in need, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Sudan and Yemen in last two months. A Kremlin readout said that President Putin pointed at 'illegitimate sanctions' from the West that have made situation with respect to commodity and energy prices difficult. The readout said that Putin assured that Moscow is a 'reliable partner' for food, energy supply. Both leaders also discussed "global issues, including the state of the international energy and food markets", MEA said. India has emerged as a major country importing discounted Russian crude oil despite western sanctions. In a foreseeable future, the imports are set to increase even as US and Europe shun Russian energy, particularly crude oil. This is the fourth telephonic talk between the two leaders. They spoke on February 24, and twice in the month of March (2nd and 7th). It is important to note that the telephonic discussion came days after PM's participation at the G7 outreach summit in Germany. The issue of Russia-Ukraine conflict naturally came up during the talks and the Indian side reiterated its call for 'dialogue and diplomacy.' Russian President Putin visited India in December of last year as part of India-Russia annual summit-level talks. This year Indian PM is expected to visit Russia. 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 ×

PM Modi, President Putin hold telephonic talks, discuss trade, energy, food security

<p>British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from 'partygate' scandal, may have new political headache as Conservative Party deputy chief whip resigned over allegations that he drunkely groped two men. In a letter to Johnson sent late Thursday, Tory MP Chris Pincher said he was quitting his post after he drank "far too much" and "embarrassed myself and other people" the previous evening. Numerous reports have said that Pincher groped two men in front of others at private members Carlton Club in London.</p>

<p>His departure from the whips office and Johnson's embattled government is the latest in a string of sexual impropriety scandals involving Tory MPs in recent months.</p>

<p>Pincher's resignation means that Johnson would have to fill another post in his senior ranks. The chairman of the Conservative Party quit last month following the party's loss in two elections.</p>

<p>In his resignation letter Thursday, Pincher said quitting was "the right thing to do in the circumstances", arguing "I owe it to you and the people I've caused upset to".</p>

<p>"I want to assure you that you will continue to have my full support from the back benches," he added.</p>

<p>Pincher's resignation and reports of his behaviour has resulted in a backlash. Boris Johnson is facing calls to suspend him from the partimentary party and launch an investigation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-climate-activists-glue-hand-to-van-gogh-painting-to-protest-uk-govts-climate-policies-493460">British climate activists glue hand to Van Gogh painting to protest UK govt’s climate policies</a></strong></p>

<p>The main opposition Labour party said the episode showed "how far standards in public life have been degraded on Boris Johnson's watch".</p>

<p>"Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer about why Chris Pincher was given this role in the first place and how he can remain a Conservative MP," Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said.</p>

<p>Pincher only took up his latest role of deputy chief whip -- which involves enforcing party discipline -- in February.</p>

<p>A Downing Street source told British media that Pincher would face no further action from the party and would remain a Conservative MP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from 'partygate' scandal, may have new political headache as Conservative Party deputy chief whip resigned over allegations that he drunkely groped two men.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from 'partygate' scandal, may have new political headache as Conservative Party deputy chief whip resigned over allegations that he drunkely groped two men. In a letter to Johnson sent late Thursday, Tory MP Chris Pincher said he was quitting his post after he drank "far too much" and "embarrassed myself and other people" the previous evening. Numerous reports have said that Pincher groped two men in front of others at private members Carlton Club in London. His departure from the whips office and Johnson's embattled government is the latest in a string of sexual impropriety scandals involving Tory MPs in recent months. Pincher's resignation means that Johnson would have to fill another post in his senior ranks. The chairman of the Conservative Party quit last month following the party's loss in two elections. In his resignation letter Thursday, Pincher said quitting was "the right thing to do in the circumstances", arguing "I owe it to you and the people I've caused upset to". "I want to assure you that you will continue to have my full support from the back benches," he added. Pincher's resignation and reports of his behaviour has resulted in a backlash. Boris Johnson is facing calls to suspend him from the partimentary party and launch an investigation. Also Read | British climate activists glue hand to Van Gogh painting to protest UK govt’s climate policies The main opposition Labour party said the episode showed "how far standards in public life have been degraded on Boris Johnson's watch". "Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer about why Chris Pincher was given this role in the first place and how he can remain a Conservative MP," Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said. Pincher only took up his latest role of deputy chief whip -- which involves enforcing party discipline -- in February. A Downing Street source told British media that Pincher would face no further action from the party and would remain a Conservative MP. (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 ×

UK: Tory deputy chief whip Chris Pincher resigns after allegedly groping men

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, perhaps in a devastating reply, has shot back at western leaders saying that these leaders, if shirtless, would make for a 'disgusting sight'. Putin's comments came after European and other western leaders appeared to poke fun at shirtless Putin who, in past, has been clicked riding horse and other 'macho' activities.</p>

<p>"I don’t know exactly how far they wanted to get undressed, above or below the waist. But I think, either way, it would be a disgusting sight," said Putin. He was speaking with reporters at a summit in Tajikistan.</p>

<p>Earlier, western leader poked fun at the Russian president at a G7 summit lunch in Germany. They joked whether they should go shirtless to project a manly image.</p>

<p>"Jackets on? Jackets off? Do we take our coats off?" British Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked as he sat down at the table in Bavaria's picturesque Elmau Castle, where Chancellor Olaf Scholz was hosting the summit of seven powerful democracies.</p>

<p>The leader from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the European Union pondered the dilemma.</p>

<p>Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, suggested they wait for the official picture before disrobing but then Boris Johnson quipped "We have to show that we're tougher than Putin" and the joke kept rolling.</p>

<p>"We're going to get the bare-chested horseback riding display," Trudeau said.</p>

<p>"Horseback riding is the best," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, without apparently weighing in on the clothing issue itself.</p>

<p>Boris Johnson interjected: "We've got to show them our pecs."</p>

<p>In a photo-op in 2009, a shirtless Putin was clicked riding a horse. Putin, a former KGB agent and a black belt in martial arts, is a fitness fanatic. His fit physique on the horseback had become topic of discussion everywhere. The Russian state machinery has been projecting him as a macho, 'manly' leader who was in charge of Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, perhaps in a devastating reply, has shot back at western leaders saying that these leaders, if shirtless, would make for a 'disgusting sight'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, perhaps in a devastating reply, has shot back at western leaders saying that these leaders, if shirtless, would make for a 'disgusting sight'. Putin's comments came after European and other western leaders appeared to poke fun at shirtless Putin who, in past, has been clicked riding horse and other 'macho' activities. "I don’t know exactly how far they wanted to get undressed, above or below the waist. But I think, either way, it would be a disgusting sight," said Putin. He was speaking with reporters at a summit in Tajikistan. Earlier, western leader poked fun at the Russian president at a G7 summit lunch in Germany. They joked whether they should go shirtless to project a manly image. "Jackets on? Jackets off? Do we take our coats off?" British Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked as he sat down at the table in Bavaria's picturesque Elmau Castle, where Chancellor Olaf Scholz was hosting the summit of seven powerful democracies. The leader from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the European Union pondered the dilemma. Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, suggested they wait for the official picture before disrobing but then Boris Johnson quipped "We have to show that we're tougher than Putin" and the joke kept rolling. "We're going to get the bare-chested horseback riding display," Trudeau said. "Horseback riding is the best," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, without apparently weighing in on the clothing issue itself. Boris Johnson interjected: "We've got to show them our pecs." In a photo-op in 2009, a shirtless Putin was clicked riding a horse. Putin, a former KGB agent and a black belt in martial arts, is a fitness fanatic. His fit physique on the horseback had become topic of discussion everywhere. The Russian state machinery has been projecting him as a macho, 'manly' leader who was in charge of Russia. (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 ×

Shirtless western leaders would be a 'disgusting sight': Putin

<p>The man suspected to be driver of the truck packed with dozens of migrants who died in sweltering heat during smuggling attempt in Texas was charged in US federal court on Wednesday with human trafficking charges. An accused conspirator faces the same charge. Each of them faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted. There is even a possibility of death penalty. The migrant trafficking incident has been the deadliest such incident on record in the US. The death toll in the incident rose to 53 on Wednesday. The truck carried migrants from Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. The truck was found abandoned on Monday in desolate, industrial area near a highway on outskirts of San Antonio, Texas.</p>

<p>The temperatures in the area on that day had soared to 103 Fahrenheit (39.4 Celsius). Officials who arrived at the scene did not find any water supply or even signs of working air-conditioning inside the vehicle.</p>

<p>Officials described finding the rear door to the trailer ajar with "stacks of bodies" inside, many of them hot to the touch. Other victims were discovered on the ground nearby, some deceased, some incapacitated. It was not made clear from official accounts how the door opened.</p>

<p>According to radio dispatch audio from authorities who were first on the scene, no one inside the trailer was conscious and only about a dozen appeared at first to be breathing.</p>

<p>The truck's alleged driver, Homero Zamorano Jr, 45, a Texas native who was arrested near the scene, was charged in a criminal complaint with one count of "alien smuggling resulting in death," according to the Justice Department.</p>

<p>San Antonio police officers found Zamorano hiding in the brush, according to federal prosecutors. Francisco Garduno, head of Mexico's National Migration Institute, told a news conference earlier on Wednesday the driver had "tried to pass himself off as one of the survivors" when he was detained.</p>

<p>A second suspect, Christian Martinez, 28, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with a single count of "conspiracy to transport illegal aliens," the Justice Department said in its statement. His nationality was not immediately revealed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The man suspected to be driver of the truck packed with dozens of migrants who died in sweltering heat during smuggling attempt in Texas was charged in US federal court on Wednesday with human trafficking charges.

The man suspected to be driver of the truck packed with dozens of migrants who died in sweltering heat during smuggling attempt in Texas was charged in US federal court on Wednesday with human trafficking charges. An accused conspirator faces the same charge. Each of them faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted. There is even a possibility of death penalty. The migrant trafficking incident has been the deadliest such incident on record in the US. The death toll in the incident rose to 53 on Wednesday. The truck carried migrants from Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. The truck was found abandoned on Monday in desolate, industrial area near a highway on outskirts of San Antonio, Texas. The temperatures in the area on that day had soared to 103 Fahrenheit (39.4 Celsius). Officials who arrived at the scene did not find any water supply or even signs of working air-conditioning inside the vehicle. Officials described finding the rear door to the trailer ajar with "stacks of bodies" inside, many of them hot to the touch. Other victims were discovered on the ground nearby, some deceased, some incapacitated. It was not made clear from official accounts how the door opened. According to radio dispatch audio from authorities who were first on the scene, no one inside the trailer was conscious and only about a dozen appeared at first to be breathing. The truck's alleged driver, Homero Zamorano Jr, 45, a Texas native who was arrested near the scene, was charged in a criminal complaint with one count of "alien smuggling resulting in death," according to the Justice Department. San Antonio police officers found Zamorano hiding in the brush, according to federal prosecutors. Francisco Garduno, head of Mexico's National Migration Institute, told a news conference earlier on Wednesday the driver had "tried to pass himself off as one of the survivors" when he was detained. A second suspect, Christian Martinez, 28, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with a single count of "conspiracy to transport illegal aliens," the Justice Department said in its statement. His nationality was not immediately revealed. (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 ×

Texas: Deadly truck smuggling incident sees two more men facing charges

<p>British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that Russia's pullout from captured Snake Island shows futility of President Putin's strategoc goals in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"In the end, it will prove impossible for Putin to hold down a country that will not accept his rule," Johnson told a news conference after a NATO summit in Madrid.</p>

<p>Johnson added that agreement over any peace deal would be entirely upto Ukraine. He stressed&nbsp;unity against Russia from the NATO alliance and from G7 countries at a leaders' summit in Germany.</p>

<p>"We've seen what Ukraine can do to drive the Russians back," Johnson said.</p>

<p>"We've seen what they did around Kyiv and Kharkiv, now on Snake Island. I think the right thing for us is to keep going on the course that NATO has set out, no matter how difficult."</p>

<p>At the G7 summit, Johnson joked to fellow leaders that they could emulate Putin by posing topless to show their toughness.</p>

<p>The Russian leader responded that seeing Johnson and the other leaders half-naked would be "disgusting".</p>

<p>The prime minister refused to extend the war of words, arguing that Putin should reflect instead "about the consequences of his barbaric actions", including NATO's planned admission of Finland and Sweden.</p>

<p>"The most important conclusion that Vladimir Putin needs to draw from today and the last few days at NATO, and previously in the G7, is we are totally united in condemning what he has done in Ukraine," Johnson said.</p>

<p>Driven by Russia's actions, NATO members were committed to spending at least 2.0 percent of their gross domestic product on defence, he stressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Britain "will reach 2.5 percent of GDP on defence by the end of the decade", he added, although a row has erupted in London over whether Johnson's government is indeed sticking to that commitment.</p>

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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that Russia's pullout from captured Snake Island shows futility of President Putin's strategoc goals in Ukraine.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that Russia's pullout from captured Snake Island shows futility of President Putin's strategoc goals in Ukraine. "In the end, it will prove impossible for Putin to hold down a country that will not accept his rule," Johnson told a news conference after a NATO summit in Madrid. Johnson added that agreement over any peace deal would be entirely upto Ukraine. He stressed unity against Russia from the NATO alliance and from G7 countries at a leaders' summit in Germany. "We've seen what Ukraine can do to drive the Russians back," Johnson said. "We've seen what they did around Kyiv and Kharkiv, now on Snake Island. I think the right thing for us is to keep going on the course that NATO has set out, no matter how difficult." At the G7 summit, Johnson joked to fellow leaders that they could emulate Putin by posing topless to show their toughness. The Russian leader responded that seeing Johnson and the other leaders half-naked would be "disgusting". The prime minister refused to extend the war of words, arguing that Putin should reflect instead "about the consequences of his barbaric actions", including NATO's planned admission of Finland and Sweden. "The most important conclusion that Vladimir Putin needs to draw from today and the last few days at NATO, and previously in the G7, is we are totally united in condemning what he has done in Ukraine," Johnson said. Driven by Russia's actions, NATO members were committed to spending at least 2.0 percent of their gross domestic product on defence, he stressed. Britain "will reach 2.5 percent of GDP on defence by the end of the decade", he added, although a row has erupted in London over whether Johnson's government is indeed sticking to that commitment. 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 ×

'Impossible' to subdue Ukraine, says UK after Russian retreat from Snake Island

<p>NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday (June 29) said that China was not an enemy of the alliance but it did represent a serious challenge.</p>

<p>"We now face an era of strategic competition. We see a deepening strategic partnership between Moscow and Beijing and China's growing assertiveness and its coercive policies have consequences for the security of (NATO) allies and partners," Stoltenberg said.</p>

<p>Stoltenberg's comment came after NATO agreed a new strategic concept that mentioned China for the first time.</p>

<p>The 10-page document describes China as a challenge to NATO's "interests, security and values". It also describes China as a military power that remains opaque about its strategy, intentions and military build-up"</p>

<p>Beijing's "stated ambitions and coercive policies challenge our interests, security and values", the document says.</p>

<p>The new strategic concept accuses China of using malicious hybrid and cyber operations, confrontational rhetoric and disinformation to target NATO allies.</p>

<p>China denies any such tactics.</p>

<p>The document also mentions China's economic ambitions. It says Beijing seeks to control key technological and industrial sectors, critical infrastructure, and strategic materials and supply chains.</p>

<p>"It uses its economic leverage to create strategic dependencies and enhance its influence," the concept says.</p>

<p>"It strives to subvert the rules-based international order, including in the space, cyber and maritime domains." It also expresses concern over closer ties between Moscow and Beijing that are "mutually reinforcing attempts to undercut the rules-based international order".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday (June 29) said that China was not an enemy of the alliance but it did represent a serious challenge. "We now face an era of strategic competition.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday (June 29) said that China was not an enemy of the alliance but it did represent a serious challenge. "We now face an era of strategic competition. We see a deepening strategic partnership between Moscow and Beijing and China's growing assertiveness and its coercive policies have consequences for the security of (NATO) allies and partners," Stoltenberg said. Stoltenberg's comment came after NATO agreed a new strategic concept that mentioned China for the first time. The 10-page document describes China as a challenge to NATO's "interests, security and values". It also describes China as a military power that remains opaque about its strategy, intentions and military build-up" Beijing's "stated ambitions and coercive policies challenge our interests, security and values", the document says. The new strategic concept accuses China of using malicious hybrid and cyber operations, confrontational rhetoric and disinformation to target NATO allies. China denies any such tactics. The document also mentions China's economic ambitions. It says Beijing seeks to control key technological and industrial sectors, critical infrastructure, and strategic materials and supply chains. "It uses its economic leverage to create strategic dependencies and enhance its influence," the concept says. "It strives to subvert the rules-based international order, including in the space, cyber and maritime domains." It also expresses concern over closer ties between Moscow and Beijing that are "mutually reinforcing attempts to undercut the rules-based international order". (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 ×

China is not an enemy, but remains serious challenge: NATO

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