The rapid collapses of two ice shelves on the Antarctic Peninsula over the past quarter-century were most likely triggered by the arrival of huge plumes of warm, moisture-laden air that created extreme conditions and destabilized the ice, researchers said Thursday.

The disintegration of the Larsen A shelf in 1995 and of the Larsen B shelf in 2002 were preceded by landfall of these plumes, called atmospheric rivers, from the Pacific Ocean. They generated extremely warm temperatures over several days that caused surface melting of the ice that led to fracturing, and reduced sea ice cover, allowing ocean swells to flex the ice shelves and further weaken them.

“We identify atmospheric rivers as a mechanism that can create extreme conditions over the ice shelves of the Antarctic Peninsula and potentially lead to their destabilization,” said Jonathan Wille, a climatologist and meteorologist at the Université Grenoble Alpes in France and lead author of a study describing the research in the journal Communications Earth and Environment.

Although there have been no collapses on the peninsula since 2002, Wille and his colleagues found that atmospheric rivers also triggered 13 of 21 large iceberg-calving events from 2000-20.

Wille said the larger Larsen C shelf, which is still mostly intact and, at about 17,000 square miles, is the fourth-largest ice shelf in Antarctica, could eventually suffer the same fate as A and B.

“The only reason why melting has not been significant so far is because it’s just farther south compared to the others, therefore colder,” he said. But as the world continues to warm, atmospheric rivers are expected to become more intense. “The Larsen C will now be at risk from the same processes,” he said.

Kyle Clem, a researcher at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand who was not involved in the study, said the work also showed that other parts of Antarctica that are not warming as fast as the peninsula could eventually be susceptible as well, since the mechanism that the researchers documented is more dependent on warming where the atmospheric river originates.

“The amount of heat and moisture that atmospheric rivers transport is higher than it would be without global warming,” Clem said. “So the air mass that slams into Antarctica is much, much warmer. And it’s these episodes of extreme events that lead to ice shelf collapse.”

“You could get this anywhere in Antarctica,” he said.

Shelves are floating tongues of ice that serve to hold back most of the ice that covers Antarctica to depths up to nearly 3 miles. When a shelf collapses, the flow of this land ice to the ocean accelerates, increasing the rate of sea level rise.

Although the Antarctic Peninsula ice sheet is relatively small — if it all melted, seas would rise by less than 1 foot — the collapse of ice shelves elsewhere on the continent could lead to much greater sea level rise over centuries.

Last month, a small ice shelf collapsed in East Antarctica, which is considered the most stable part of the continent. In the days before, an intense atmospheric river arrived in the region. It led to record high temperatures, but researchers are not yet certain how much of a role it played, if any, in the shelf’s disintegration.

Atmospheric rivers occur when a large stationary zone of high-pressure air meets a low-pressure storm system. A narrow stream of moist air flows from the confluence of the two.

In a typical Southern Hemisphere summer, the peninsula gets from one to five of these events, the researchers said. They looked at only the ones that contained the highest volume of water vapor.

If a river is intense enough, it can lead to several days of surface melting of the ice shelf. As the meltwater flows into crevices, it refreezes, expanding and widening the cracks. Eventually such repeated hydrofracturing, as the process is called, can cause the ice shelf to disintegrate.

The atmospheric river can also spur the process by melting sea ice, or if its associated winds push the sea ice away from the shelf. That allows ocean waves to rock the ice shelf, further stressing it.

Some large ice shelves in West Antarctica are thinning as a result of melting from underneath by warm ocean water. Catherine Walker, a glaciologist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts who was not involved in the study, said that regardless of the long-term trends of warming and thinning, “this paper brings up the important point that very brief weather events can push an ice shelf past its tipping point.”

The rapid collapses of two ice shelves on the Antarctic Peninsula over the past quarter-century were most likely triggered by the arrival of huge plumes of warm, moisture-laden air that created extreme conditions and destabilized the ice, researchers said Thursday.

The rapid collapses of two ice shelves on the Antarctic Peninsula over the past quarter-century were most likely triggered by the arrival of huge plumes of warm, moisture-laden air that created extreme conditions and destabilized the ice, researchers said Thursday. The disintegration of the Larsen A shelf in 1995 and of the Larsen B shelf in 2002 were preceded by landfall of these plumes, called atmospheric rivers, from the Pacific Ocean. They generated extremely warm temperatures over several days that caused surface melting of the ice that led to fracturing, and reduced sea ice cover, allowing ocean swells to flex the ice shelves and further weaken them. “We identify atmospheric rivers as a mechanism that can create extreme conditions over the ice shelves of the Antarctic Peninsula and potentially lead to their destabilization,” said Jonathan Wille, a climatologist and meteorologist at the Université Grenoble Alpes in France and lead author of a study describing the research in the journal Communications Earth and Environment. Although there have been no collapses on the peninsula since 2002, Wille and his colleagues found that atmospheric rivers also triggered 13 of 21 large iceberg-calving events from 2000-20. Wille said the larger Larsen C shelf, which is still mostly intact and, at about 17,000 square miles, is the fourth-largest ice shelf in Antarctica, could eventually suffer the same fate as A and B. “The only reason why melting has not been significant so far is because it’s just farther south compared to the others, therefore colder,” he said. But as the world continues to warm, atmospheric rivers are expected to become more intense. “The Larsen C will now be at risk from the same processes,” he said. Kyle Clem, a researcher at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand who was not involved in the study, said the work also showed that other parts of Antarctica that are not warming as fast as the peninsula could eventually be susceptible as well, since the mechanism that the researchers documented is more dependent on warming where the atmospheric river originates. “The amount of heat and moisture that atmospheric rivers transport is higher than it would be without global warming,” Clem said. “So the air mass that slams into Antarctica is much, much warmer. And it’s these episodes of extreme events that lead to ice shelf collapse.” “You could get this anywhere in Antarctica,” he said. Shelves are floating tongues of ice that serve to hold back most of the ice that covers Antarctica to depths up to nearly 3 miles. When a shelf collapses, the flow of this land ice to the ocean accelerates, increasing the rate of sea level rise. Although the Antarctic Peninsula ice sheet is relatively small — if it all melted, seas would rise by less than 1 foot — the collapse of ice shelves elsewhere on the continent could lead to much greater sea level rise over centuries. Last month, a small ice shelf collapsed in East Antarctica, which is considered the most stable part of the continent. In the days before, an intense atmospheric river arrived in the region. It led to record high temperatures, but researchers are not yet certain how much of a role it played, if any, in the shelf’s disintegration. Atmospheric rivers occur when a large stationary zone of high-pressure air meets a low-pressure storm system. A narrow stream of moist air flows from the confluence of the two. In a typical Southern Hemisphere summer, the peninsula gets from one to five of these events, the researchers said. They looked at only the ones that contained the highest volume of water vapor. If a river is intense enough, it can lead to several days of surface melting of the ice shelf. As the meltwater flows into crevices, it refreezes, expanding and widening the cracks. Eventually such repeated hydrofracturing, as the process is called, can cause the ice shelf to disintegrate. The atmospheric river can also spur the process by melting sea ice, or if its associated winds push the sea ice away from the shelf. That allows ocean waves to rock the ice shelf, further stressing it. Some large ice shelves in West Antarctica are thinning as a result of melting from underneath by warm ocean water. Catherine Walker, a glaciologist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts who was not involved in the study, said that regardless of the long-term trends of warming and thinning, “this paper brings up the important point that very brief weather events can push an ice shelf past its tipping point.”

Scientists solve an Antarctic puzzle

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said.

By end of this month, the delivery of the critical system will be completed and thereafter it will be deployed.

The first squadron of the S-400 system arrived in India in December 2021 and has been deployed on the Punjab border to thwart any air strikes from both Pakistan and China.

India has procured five S-400 systems from Russia through a $5-billion deal signed in October 2018.

All the five units of the S-400 system, which can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km, are expected to be operational by 2022.

The S-400 system is capable of tracking, engaging and addressing the threat of Chinese or Pakistani fighters the moment they take off from air bases. The system can track multiple targets at multiple ranges and neutralise them simultaneously.

India decided to upgrade its military infrastructure when the country was locked in a major faceoff with China along the Line of Actual Control in July 2020. The threat of two-front war - from China and Pakistan - made India go for large scale arms deals and Russia is still one of India`s largest arms suppliers.

There were apprehension on delay in delivery of critical weapon system after Russia`s war with Ukraine. However, with delivery of the second squadron of S-400 system, India is hopeful of getting other military capabilities.

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited India and had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and apprised them about the ongoing crisis in Ukraine while discussing bilateral ties.

Lavrov and Jaishankar held discussions over Russia`s crude oil offer, rupee-ruble payment, ongoing arms deals, Ukraine crisis, and the situation in Afghanistan and Iran.

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said.

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said. By end of this month, the delivery of the critical system will be completed and thereafter it will be deployed. The first squadron of the S-400 system arrived in India in December 2021 and has been deployed on the Punjab border to thwart any air strikes from both Pakistan and China. India has procured five S-400 systems from Russia through a $5-billion deal signed in October 2018. All the five units of the S-400 system, which can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km, are expected to be operational by 2022. The S-400 system is capable of tracking, engaging and addressing the threat of Chinese or Pakistani fighters the moment they take off from air bases. The system can track multiple targets at multiple ranges and neutralise them simultaneously. India decided to upgrade its military infrastructure when the country was locked in a major faceoff with China along the Line of Actual Control in July 2020. The threat of two-front war - from China and Pakistan - made India go for large scale arms deals and Russia is still one of India`s largest arms suppliers. There were apprehension on delay in delivery of critical weapon system after Russia`s war with Ukraine. However, with delivery of the second squadron of S-400 system, India is hopeful of getting other military capabilities. Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited India and had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and apprised them about the ongoing crisis in Ukraine while discussing bilateral ties. Lavrov and Jaishankar held discussions over Russia`s crude oil offer, rupee-ruble payment, ongoing arms deals, Ukraine crisis, and the situation in Afghanistan and Iran.

Amid Ukraine war, Russia starts delivery of second S-400 missile system to India

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv.

"We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation. He did not specify which officials might be under consideration.

In a brief back-and-forth with a reporter, Biden appeared to suggest he might also be willing to travel to Kyiv.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-putin-may-use-nuclear-weapons-says-cia-chief-471114">Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief</a>

When asked if he were ready to go, Biden said, "Yeah," although White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki ruled out that possibility as recently as Monday.

Potential US officials on any visit to Kyiv could include Secretary of State Antony Blinken or Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. State Department spokesman Ned Price declined to comment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moskva-russian-navys-black-sea-fleet-flagship-has-sunk-defence-ministry-471089">Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry</a>

Biden on Wednesday announced a new $800 million military aid package for Ukraine.

The Pentagon said it has been looking to provide Ukraine with weapons that would "give them a little more range and distance," with Kyiv girding for an escalation of Russia's offensive in the eastern Donbas region.

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv. "We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation.

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv. "We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation. He did not specify which officials might be under consideration. In a brief back-and-forth with a reporter, Biden appeared to suggest he might also be willing to travel to Kyiv. Also Read | Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief When asked if he were ready to go, Biden said, "Yeah," although White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki ruled out that possibility as recently as Monday. Potential US officials on any visit to Kyiv could include Secretary of State Antony Blinken or Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. State Department spokesman Ned Price declined to comment. Also Read | Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry Biden on Wednesday announced a new $800 million military aid package for Ukraine. The Pentagon said it has been looking to provide Ukraine with weapons that would "give them a little more range and distance," with Kyiv girding for an escalation of Russia's offensive in the eastern Donbas region.

Biden says US deciding on sending envoy to Ukraine

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW). It is the most populous state in the country.

XE variant of coronavirus is combonation of BA.2 and BA.1

BA.2 is also known as 'stealth Omicron and BA.1 is the original, highly transmissible Omicron variant of the virus.&nbsp;

The overseas traveller was found to be positive for the variant XE on April 9. There are no reports of more&nbsp;Covid cases due this specific variant so far.

On Friday (April 15), the country reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases. More than 30 deaths were reported. New South Wales accounted for 16 of these deaths.

Latest data from Department of Health said that a total of&nbsp;5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia. Number of deaths is at&nbsp;6,693. By Thursday afternoon, there were&nbsp;435,702 active cases in the country.

There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported.

Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83.

So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country.

On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. The requirement of mandatory Covid tests before entering Australia has been lifted as well.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW).

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW). It is the most populous state in the country. XE variant of coronavirus is combonation of BA.2 and BA.1 BA.2 is also known as 'stealth Omicron and BA.1 is the original, highly transmissible Omicron variant of the virus. The overseas traveller was found to be positive for the variant XE on April 9. There are no reports of more Covid cases due this specific variant so far. On Friday (April 15), the country reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases. More than 30 deaths were reported. New South Wales accounted for 16 of these deaths. Latest data from Department of Health said that a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia. Number of deaths is at 6,693. By Thursday afternoon, there were 435,702 active cases in the country. There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported. Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83. So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country. On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. The requirement of mandatory Covid tests before entering Australia has been lifted as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Authorities on alert as first case of Covid XE variant emerges

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state.

According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon.

There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported.

Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83.

So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country.

On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces.

Masks are still required in high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities and public transport.

Peter Malinauskas, who wwas elected South Australian premier in March, said the new rules would give people more choice.

"Of course, if South Australians want to continue to wear masks, they really have that choice," he said.

Some local businesses hoped customers could still wear masks despite the mandate being dropped.

"I personally would prefer (wearing masks) for everyone`s safety," Fernando Gutierrez, a restaurant owner, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. "I know that a lot of them might get upset if I try to enforce something that by law is (optional). I can`t do anything."

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state. According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon.

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state. According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon. There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported. Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83. So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country. On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. Masks are still required in high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities and public transport. Peter Malinauskas, who wwas elected South Australian premier in March, said the new rules would give people more choice. "Of course, if South Australians want to continue to wear masks, they really have that choice," he said. Some local businesses hoped customers could still wear masks despite the mandate being dropped. "I personally would prefer (wearing masks) for everyone`s safety," Fernando Gutierrez, a restaurant owner, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. "I know that a lot of them might get upset if I try to enforce something that by law is (optional). I can`t do anything."

Australia's Covid cases, deaths continue to rise

Pakistan's newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to add 12 National Assembly members of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and seven members of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to his federal cabinet, as per reports in local media. Raja Pervez Ashraf of the PPP will be the&nbsp;candidate to become Speaker of the National Assembly. The preceding Speaker Asad Qaiser decided to resign from his post late on Saturday.

Pakistan's Geo News said that a member from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) might become the Deputy Speaker as Qasim Suri is currently facing no-confidence motion

Shehbaz Sharif became Pakistan's prime minister on April 11 after incumbent Imran Khan was ousted through a no-confidence motion. The development made him first prime minister of the country to be removed through the democratic process.

Geo News said that JUI-F will get three ministries and a state minister portfolio while, Muttahida Qaumi Movement - Pakistan (MQM-P) will get the governorship of Sindh, PPP will get Punjab and JUI-F will get Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and BNP-M will get the governorship of Balochistan. Shehbaz Sharif has sought support from &nbsp;MQM-P in the National Assembly (NA) speaker election.

ARY News said that Shehbaz Sharif held meeting with MQM-P leaders during his Karachi visit.

Sharif thanked the MQM-P for supporting the opposition parties in the no-trust motion against the former premier. He individually thanked the lawmakers who cast their votes in the NA, said the report citing sources. He also expressed hope that MQM-P would continue to support the government in the upcoming elections for the NA speaker, reported Ary News

MQM-P was a key ally of Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's coalition government. In the run up to the no-confidence motion, the party switched side dealing huge blow to Imran Khan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to add 12 National Assembly members of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and seven members of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to his federal cabinet, as per reports in local media.

Pakistan's newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to add 12 National Assembly members of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and seven members of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to his federal cabinet, as per reports in local media. Raja Pervez Ashraf of the PPP will be the candidate to become Speaker of the National Assembly. The preceding Speaker Asad Qaiser decided to resign from his post late on Saturday. Pakistan's Geo News said that a member from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) might become the Deputy Speaker as Qasim Suri is currently facing no-confidence motion Shehbaz Sharif became Pakistan's prime minister on April 11 after incumbent Imran Khan was ousted through a no-confidence motion. The development made him first prime minister of the country to be removed through the democratic process. Geo News said that JUI-F will get three ministries and a state minister portfolio while, Muttahida Qaumi Movement - Pakistan (MQM-P) will get the governorship of Sindh, PPP will get Punjab and JUI-F will get Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and BNP-M will get the governorship of Balochistan. Shehbaz Sharif has sought support from MQM-P in the National Assembly (NA) speaker election. ARY News said that Shehbaz Sharif held meeting with MQM-P leaders during his Karachi visit. Sharif thanked the MQM-P for supporting the opposition parties in the no-trust motion against the former premier. He individually thanked the lawmakers who cast their votes in the NA, said the report citing sources. He also expressed hope that MQM-P would continue to support the government in the upcoming elections for the NA speaker, reported Ary News MQM-P was a key ally of Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's coalition government. In the run up to the no-confidence motion, the party switched side dealing huge blow to Imran Khan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to include PPP MPs in federal cabinet 

Russian defence ministry on Friday warned that Russia will intensify attacks on Kyiv in response to strikes on Russian soil. The statement&nbsp;has come after Russian allegation that Ukraine targetted Russian border towns.

"The number and scale of missile strikes against targets in Kyiv will increase in response to any terrorist attacks or sabotage committed by the Kyiv nationalist regime on Russian territory," the ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian Flagship 'Moskva' sinks in Black Sea while being towed to port

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The defence ministry added that Russia has hit a 'military' plant outside Kyiv using Kalibr sea-based long-range missiles. As per the ministry, the attack was carried out late on Thursday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moskva-russian-navys-black-sea-fleet-flagship-has-sunk-defence-ministry-471089">Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry</a>

In addition to this, the ministry also said that it has killed up to 30 Polish mercenaries fighting for Ukrainian forces in the war-torn country's northeastern region of Kharkiv.

The Russian defence ministry said its strategic rocket forces "eliminated up to 30 Polish mercenaries" in a strike on the village of Izyumskoe, not far from the city of Kharkiv.

Russian defence ministry's assertions about Kyiv came on the same day it admitted loss of Moskva, the flagship of country's Black Sea Fleet. As per reports in Russian media, the defence ministry confirmed that the ship had indeed sunk.

Ukraine has claimed that the warship sank after a rocket attack. But the Russian camp has maintained that fire on Moskva erupted after ammunition onboard caught fire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian defence ministry on Friday warned that Russia will intensify attacks on Kyiv in response to strikes on Russian soil. The statement has come after Russian allegation that Ukraine targetted Russian border towns.

Russian defence ministry on Friday warned that Russia will intensify attacks on Kyiv in response to strikes on Russian soil. The statement has come after Russian allegation that Ukraine targetted Russian border towns. "The number and scale of missile strikes against targets in Kyiv will increase in response to any terrorist attacks or sabotage committed by the Kyiv nationalist regime on Russian territory," the ministry said in a statement. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian Flagship 'Moskva' sinks in Black Sea while being towed to port × The defence ministry added that Russia has hit a 'military' plant outside Kyiv using Kalibr sea-based long-range missiles. As per the ministry, the attack was carried out late on Thursday. Also Read | Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry In addition to this, the ministry also said that it has killed up to 30 Polish mercenaries fighting for Ukrainian forces in the war-torn country's northeastern region of Kharkiv. The Russian defence ministry said its strategic rocket forces "eliminated up to 30 Polish mercenaries" in a strike on the village of Izyumskoe, not far from the city of Kharkiv. Russian defence ministry's assertions about Kyiv came on the same day it admitted loss of Moskva, the flagship of country's Black Sea Fleet. As per reports in Russian media, the defence ministry confirmed that the ship had indeed sunk. Ukraine has claimed that the warship sank after a rocket attack. But the Russian camp has maintained that fire on Moskva erupted after ammunition onboard caught fire. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to intensify attacks on Kyiv, has hit military plant outside Ukrainian capital: Ministry

Mercedes-Benz aims to produce electric cars consuming as little as 10 kilowatt hours of energy per 100 km (62 miles), its chief technology officer (CTO) said on Thursday, a third more efficient than the current average for electric cars.

Speaking as the carmaker celebrated the successful test drive of its EQXX prototype vehicle over more than 1,000 km from Sindelfingen in Germany to the Cote d'Azur on a single charge, CTO Markus Schaefer said efficient design was key to maximising an electric car's range.

"First we optimise efficiency, and then we can see how many battery modules we put in the car," Schaefer said at a media roundtable, adding that customers should be able to decide the size of the battery they want based on their needs.

Carmakers from Mercedes-Benz to Tesla to China's Nio are in a neck-to-neck race to produce higher range cars that dispel consumer anxiety over the lack of widespread charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

Mercedes unveiled its Vision EQXX prototype, boasting a 1,000 km-range with a battery half the volume of its flagship EQS model, in January, promising that some of the car's components would make their way into series vehicles in 2-3 years time.

The car spent 8.7 kilowatt hours of energy per 100 km on its 11-and-a-half hour drive to France, Mercedes-Benz said, about twice as efficient as Mercedes models on the market and Tesla's longest-range car on offer, the Model S 60.

Mercedes' EQS has the highest range on the market as of yet, according to car comparison portal carwow, with 768 km, followed by Tesla's Model S Long Range with up to 652 km.

"There'll be a further increase for some time before a fall, which will happen once charging infrastructure is as available as petrol stations," Schaefer said, although he declined to state what range Mercedes was targeting in future models.

Mercedes-Benz aims to produce electric cars consuming as little as 10 kilowatt hours of energy per 100 km (62 miles), its chief technology officer (CTO) said on Thursday, a third more efficient than the current average for electric cars.

Mercedes-Benz aims to produce electric cars consuming as little as 10 kilowatt hours of energy per 100 km (62 miles), its chief technology officer (CTO) said on Thursday, a third more efficient than the current average for electric cars. Speaking as the carmaker celebrated the successful test drive of its EQXX prototype vehicle over more than 1,000 km from Sindelfingen in Germany to the Cote d'Azur on a single charge, CTO Markus Schaefer said efficient design was key to maximising an electric car's range. "First we optimise efficiency, and then we can see how many battery modules we put in the car," Schaefer said at a media roundtable, adding that customers should be able to decide the size of the battery they want based on their needs. Carmakers from Mercedes-Benz to Tesla to China's Nio are in a neck-to-neck race to produce higher range cars that dispel consumer anxiety over the lack of widespread charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. Mercedes unveiled its Vision EQXX prototype, boasting a 1,000 km-range with a battery half the volume of its flagship EQS model, in January, promising that some of the car's components would make their way into series vehicles in 2-3 years time. The car spent 8.7 kilowatt hours of energy per 100 km on its 11-and-a-half hour drive to France, Mercedes-Benz said, about twice as efficient as Mercedes models on the market and Tesla's longest-range car on offer, the Model S 60. Mercedes' EQS has the highest range on the market as of yet, according to car comparison portal carwow, with 768 km, followed by Tesla's Model S Long Range with up to 652 km. "There'll be a further increase for some time before a fall, which will happen once charging infrastructure is as available as petrol stations," Schaefer said, although he declined to state what range Mercedes was targeting in future models.

Mercedes-Benz completes 1,000 km electric drive on energy-efficient design

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Russian defence ministry confirmed late on Thursday that country's guided-missile cruiser Moskva had sunk in the Black Sea after getting damaged during a military operation against Ukraine.

Ukraine had claimed it struck the flagship with missiles but Russian authorities attributed the sinking to ammunition explosions.

"While being towed ... towards the destination port, the vessel lost its balance due to damage sustained in the hull as fire broke out after ammunition exploded. Given the choppy seas, the vessel sank," the state news agency TASS quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying. It said the crew was evacuated.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian Flagship 'Moskva' sinks in Black Sea while being towed to port

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The ministry had said earlier that fire on the Moskva had been contained and that the ship was afloat. Earlier on Thursday, there were various claims and counterclaims as to what caused the fire on the ship. Ukraine said the ship had been hit in a rocket attack while the Russian side had maintained that the fire broke out as ammunition on the ship blew up. The defence ministry had earlier said that the ship had been badly damaged due to the fire.

Moskva was the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet.

Big blow to Russia: Pentagon

The Pentagon said on Thursday that the sinking of Moskva was a "big blow" to Russian naval strength in the Black Sea.

"This is a big blow to the Black Sea fleet, this is... a key part of their efforts to execute some sort of naval dominance in the Black Sea," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told CNN.

"This is going to have an effect on their capabilities."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/invading-forces-in-ukraine-deported-500000-civilians-to-russia-says-report-471006">Invading forces in Ukraine deported 500,000 civilians to Russia, says report</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kirby said the US could not confirm the exact cause of the ship's demise.

"We're also not in any position to refute the Ukrainian side of this," he added. "It's certainly plausible and possible that they did in fact hit this with a Neptune missile or maybe more."

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian defence ministry confirmed late on Thursday that country's guided-missile cruiser Moskva had sunk in the Black Sea after getting damaged during a military operation against Ukraine. Ukraine had claimed it struck the flagship with missiles but Russian authorities attributed the sinking to ammunition explosions. "While being towed ... towards the destination port, the vessel lost its balance due to damage sustained in the hull as fire broke out after ammunition exploded. Given the choppy seas, the vessel sank," the state news agency TASS quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying. It said the crew was evacuated. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian Flagship 'Moskva' sinks in Black Sea while being towed to port × The ministry had said earlier that fire on the Moskva had been contained and that the ship was afloat. Earlier on Thursday, there were various claims and counterclaims as to what caused the fire on the ship. Ukraine said the ship had been hit in a rocket attack while the Russian side had maintained that the fire broke out as ammunition on the ship blew up. The defence ministry had earlier said that the ship had been badly damaged due to the fire. Moskva was the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet. Big blow to Russia: Pentagon The Pentagon said on Thursday that the sinking of Moskva was a "big blow" to Russian naval strength in the Black Sea. "This is a big blow to the Black Sea fleet, this is... a key part of their efforts to execute some sort of naval dominance in the Black Sea," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told CNN. "This is going to have an effect on their capabilities." Also Read | Invading forces in Ukraine deported 500,000 civilians to Russia, says report Kirby said the US could not confirm the exact cause of the ship's demise. "We're also not in any position to refute the Ukrainian side of this," he added. "It's certainly plausible and possible that they did in fact hit this with a Neptune missile or maybe more." (With inputs from agencies)

Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry

Germany has officially confiscated the world's largest superyacht owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, as part of sanctions against Moscow following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, police sources said Thursday.

The 156-metre (1,680-feet) long "Dilbar" has an estimated value of $600 million ((555 million euros) according to Forbes magazine. 
Since last October the boat has been docked for repairs in a Hamburg shipyard.

German customs had been eyeing the superyacht for several weeks, but could not formally seize it earlier due to a legal imbroglio over its ownership.

Eventually the German Federal Judicial Police indicated that they had succeeded "after lengthy investigations, and in spite of concealment via offshore companies, in identifying the owner of the M/S Dilbar and it is Gulbakhor Ismailova, the sister of Alisher Usmanov".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-putin-may-use-nuclear-weapons-says-cia-chief-471114">Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief</a>

"The luxury yacht is now under the sanctions regime and so could be confiscated in Hamburg," police added on Twitter.

The Russian billionaire and his sister are both targeted by European sanctions against Russian oligarchs as well as members of their families.

Usmanov, 68, was ranked sixth in the Sunday Times' list of the richest people in the UK in 2021.

He is one of dozens of Russian oligarchs hit by Western sanctions since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine.

On Wednesday, English Premier League football club Everton suspended its sponsorship agreements with several companies in which Usmanov held shares. &nbsp;

The confiscation of the "Dilbar" is just the latest in a string of seizures of Russian superyachts under the Western sanctions.&nbsp;

Germany has officially confiscated the world's largest superyacht owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, as part of sanctions against Moscow following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, police sources said Thursday.

Germany has officially confiscated the world's largest superyacht owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, as part of sanctions against Moscow following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, police sources said Thursday. The 156-metre (1,680-feet) long "Dilbar" has an estimated value of $600 million ((555 million euros) according to Forbes magazine. Since last October the boat has been docked for repairs in a Hamburg shipyard. German customs had been eyeing the superyacht for several weeks, but could not formally seize it earlier due to a legal imbroglio over its ownership. Eventually the German Federal Judicial Police indicated that they had succeeded "after lengthy investigations, and in spite of concealment via offshore companies, in identifying the owner of the M/S Dilbar and it is Gulbakhor Ismailova, the sister of Alisher Usmanov". Also Read | Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief "The luxury yacht is now under the sanctions regime and so could be confiscated in Hamburg," police added on Twitter. The Russian billionaire and his sister are both targeted by European sanctions against Russian oligarchs as well as members of their families. Usmanov, 68, was ranked sixth in the Sunday Times' list of the richest people in the UK in 2021. He is one of dozens of Russian oligarchs hit by Western sanctions since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine. On Wednesday, English Premier League football club Everton suspended its sponsorship agreements with several companies in which Usmanov held shares. The confiscation of the "Dilbar" is just the latest in a string of seizures of Russian superyachts under the Western sanctions.

Germany officially seizes world's largest yacht owned by Russian oligarch

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) never fails to amaze us. Not only the US space agency is at the forefront of space exploration and research, but its social media feeds are also widely admired for brearthtaking images and interesting chunks of space info. And it never fails to enthral us.

So what's on the menu this time? An image of Earth, but with a twist.

As the new month dawned, NASA tweeted a pic taken by its Cassini probe that is studying Saturn. The image show Saturn in all its glory with the majestic rings. But also depicts a curious blue dot.

"You are here. 
&nbsp; 
In 2013, the Cassini spacecraft captured this wide-angle view of Saturn and a chunk of its rings. That pale blue dot just below the rings? That’s Earth from about 898 million miles (1.4 billion kilometers) away," says NASA in its tweet.

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You are here. 
 
In 2013, the Cassini spacecraft captured this wide-angle view of Saturn and a chunk of its rings. That pale blue dot just below the rings? That’s Earth from about 898 million miles (1.4 billion kilometers) away. Explore <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASolarSystem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASASolarSystem</a>: <a href="https://t.co/9sLPATJHaE">https://t.co/9sLPATJHaE</a> <a href="https://t.co/NlTxVXRANR">pic.twitter.com/NlTxVXRANR</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1497734089692135428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The image is perhaps a lesson for the self-centred human race which probably thinks it is the centre of the universe. As you go away from the planet, other celestial bodies dwarf us. And all conflicts appear fruitless. This is the only planet we've got. No other space rock has been found to harbour life just like ours&nbsp;Peaceful co-existence is that tough, eh?

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) never fails to amaze us. Not only the US space agency is at the forefront of space exploration and research, but its social media feeds are also widely admired for brearthtaking images and interesting chunks of space info.

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) never fails to amaze us. Not only the US space agency is at the forefront of space exploration and research, but its social media feeds are also widely admired for brearthtaking images and interesting chunks of space info. And it never fails to enthral us. So what's on the menu this time? An image of Earth, but with a twist. As the new month dawned, NASA tweeted a pic taken by its Cassini probe that is studying Saturn. The image show Saturn in all its glory with the majestic rings. But also depicts a curious blue dot. "You are here. In 2013, the Cassini spacecraft captured this wide-angle view of Saturn and a chunk of its rings. That pale blue dot just below the rings? That’s Earth from about 898 million miles (1.4 billion kilometers) away," says NASA in its tweet. You are here. In 2013, the Cassini spacecraft captured this wide-angle view of Saturn and a chunk of its rings. That pale blue dot just below the rings? That’s Earth from about 898 million miles (1.4 billion kilometers) away. Explore @NASASolarSystem: https://t.co/9sLPATJHaE pic.twitter.com/NlTxVXRANR — NASA (@NASA) February 27, 2022 × The image is perhaps a lesson for the self-centred human race which probably thinks it is the centre of the universe. As you go away from the planet, other celestial bodies dwarf us. And all conflicts appear fruitless. This is the only planet we've got. No other space rock has been found to harbour life just like ours Peaceful co-existence is that tough, eh?

NASA tweets brilliant image that may make you a bit introspective

'Moon Knight'&nbsp;Episode 3&nbsp;Review: Marvel's 'Moon Knight'&nbsp;has invested first two of its episodes laying the groundwork as it unveiled one of its lesser-known heroes on the screen. Marc Spector/ Steven Grant/ 'Moon Knight'&nbsp;(Oscar Isaac) has had its time showing the dissociative identity disorder-afflicted protagonist trying to figure out what the heck was happening. Things are taking an interesting turn in 'Moon Knight'&nbsp;series and this review will definitely not reveal everything.

After Stephen Grant singlehandedly destroyed his career (?) at the museum gift shop in the second episode, things have gathered pace. He has got fired for wrecking the toilets while beating the hell out of a hellhound (which no one else can see). Marc Spector, the other person in charge of Steven's Body has had a good talk with him explaining what they do.&nbsp;

"We protect the vulnerable, with Khonshu," Marc tells Steven in episode 2 referring to the Egyptian God of Moon.

So at the start of episode 3, the scarab pointing to Goddess Ammit's tomb has been lost to nemesis Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke) and the race is on between him and Moon Knight to find the tomb first.

Joining forces with Steven is Layla (May Kalamawy). She was married to Marc (not Steven) and there is definitely some strain in their marriage. But Steven appears (respectfully) doe-eyed about her possibly hinting at the addition of a weird angle in the tussle between Steven and Marc who are already fighting for control of Steven's body.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/moon-knight-episode-1-review-theres-chaos-in-this-and-oscar-isaac-is-delightfully-bumbling-467146">'Moon Knight' Episode 1 Review: There's chaos in this, and Oscar Isaac is delightfully bumbling</a>

Marc Spector is adept at fighting, killing and generally roughing it up as he makes way towards his goal. This may make Steven look timid (he is!) but in all things history, Steven is the boss and the episode shows Marc's helplessness in this area.

There are hints of yet another person inhibiting Steven's body.

A refreshing bit of the third episode is the music and background score by Hesham Nazih. The Egyptian sensation is sure make waves.

Things are gathering pace as Marvel's series has reached the halfway mark. Expect more excitement.

'Moon Knight' Episode 3 Review: Marvel's 'Moon Knight' has invested first two of its episodes laying the groundwork as it unveiled one of its lesser-known heroes on the screen.

'Moon Knight' Episode 3 Review: Marvel's 'Moon Knight' has invested first two of its episodes laying the groundwork as it unveiled one of its lesser-known heroes on the screen. Marc Spector/ Steven Grant/ 'Moon Knight' (Oscar Isaac) has had its time showing the dissociative identity disorder-afflicted protagonist trying to figure out what the heck was happening. Things are taking an interesting turn in 'Moon Knight' series and this review will definitely not reveal everything. After Stephen Grant singlehandedly destroyed his career (?) at the museum gift shop in the second episode, things have gathered pace. He has got fired for wrecking the toilets while beating the hell out of a hellhound (which no one else can see). Marc Spector, the other person in charge of Steven's Body has had a good talk with him explaining what they do. "We protect the vulnerable, with Khonshu," Marc tells Steven in episode 2 referring to the Egyptian God of Moon. So at the start of episode 3, the scarab pointing to Goddess Ammit's tomb has been lost to nemesis Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke) and the race is on between him and Moon Knight to find the tomb first. Joining forces with Steven is Layla (May Kalamawy). She was married to Marc (not Steven) and there is definitely some strain in their marriage. But Steven appears (respectfully) doe-eyed about her possibly hinting at the addition of a weird angle in the tussle between Steven and Marc who are already fighting for control of Steven's body. Also Read | 'Moon Knight' Episode 1 Review: There's chaos in this, and Oscar Isaac is delightfully bumbling Marc Spector is adept at fighting, killing and generally roughing it up as he makes way towards his goal. This may make Steven look timid (he is!) but in all things history, Steven is the boss and the episode shows Marc's helplessness in this area. There are hints of yet another person inhibiting Steven's body. A refreshing bit of the third episode is the music and background score by Hesham Nazih. The Egyptian sensation is sure make waves. Things are gathering pace as Marvel's series has reached the halfway mark. Expect more excitement.

'Moon Knight' Episode 3 Review: All hands on deck, ally lost

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Zee News Rajasthan

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