Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry.

Its reactors appeared undamaged after the assault despite a fire that broke out there after tanks bombarded it.

Officials from Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom arrived at the site on Friday, the Ukrainian nuclear agency Energoatom said in a message on Telegram.

The Russians told Ukrainian personnel they were there "to evaluate the radiation level" and "help to repair the plant" which was hit by shells, Energoatom said.

At the time of the attack, Moscow's UN ambassador denied that Russia had shelled the plant.

The Ukrainian agency said that the Russians had come directly to the site because Ukrainian personnel had refused to collaborate with them.

It said one of the Russians who arrived at the plant had introduced himself as the new civil and military administrator of the area and declared the plant part of Russian territory, to be run by Rosatom.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry.

Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry. Its reactors appeared undamaged after the assault despite a fire that broke out there after tanks bombarded it. Officials from Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom arrived at the site on Friday, the Ukrainian nuclear agency Energoatom said in a message on Telegram. The Russians told Ukrainian personnel they were there "to evaluate the radiation level" and "help to repair the plant" which was hit by shells, Energoatom said. At the time of the attack, Moscow's UN ambassador denied that Russia had shelled the plant. The Ukrainian agency said that the Russians had come directly to the site because Ukrainian personnel had refused to collaborate with them. It said one of the Russians who arrived at the plant had introduced himself as the new civil and military administrator of the area and declared the plant part of Russian territory, to be run by Rosatom. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia engineers inspect seized nuclear plant, Europe's biggest

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.&nbsp;

Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram. 
Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said.

The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada.

It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks.

Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24.

The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine.&nbsp;

Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace &amp; security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone.

"Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv. Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page. "Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram. Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said. The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada. It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks. Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24. The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine. Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace & security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone. "Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades. Zelensky did not give details about this claim and it has not been independently verified.

Zelensky also said he had spoken to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron about pressuring Russia to release the mayor of the city of Melitopol, who Ukraine says was kidnapped on Friday (March 11) by Russian forces.

More than 2,000 residents of the southern city, which is now under Russian control, protested outside the city administration building to demand the release of the mayor, Ivan Fedorov, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office, said.

A call between Scholz, Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin was underway, the French presidency said. Russia has not commented on the fate of Fedorov, who Ukrainian officials said was kidnapped by Russian forces on false accusations of terrorism.

Zelenskiy said his country could not stop fighting but was upholding a ceasefire around an agreed humanitarian corridor out of the southern port of Mariupol, which has been under an almost two-week siege, and called on Russia to do the same.

Moscow has previously blamed Kyiv for failed evacuations.

Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24 in an operation that has been near universally condemned around the world and that has drawn tough Western sanctions on Russia.

(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. &nbsp;

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades. Zelensky did not give details about this claim and it has not been independently verified. Zelensky also said he had spoken to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron about pressuring Russia to release the mayor of the city of Melitopol, who Ukraine says was kidnapped on Friday (March 11) by Russian forces. More than 2,000 residents of the southern city, which is now under Russian control, protested outside the city administration building to demand the release of the mayor, Ivan Fedorov, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office, said. A call between Scholz, Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin was underway, the French presidency said. Russia has not commented on the fate of Fedorov, who Ukrainian officials said was kidnapped by Russian forces on false accusations of terrorism. Zelenskiy said his country could not stop fighting but was upholding a ceasefire around an agreed humanitarian corridor out of the southern port of Mariupol, which has been under an almost two-week siege, and called on Russia to do the same. Moscow has previously blamed Kyiv for failed evacuations. Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24 in an operation that has been near universally condemned around the world and that has drawn tough Western sanctions on Russia. (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.

Russia sending fresh troops after heavy losses, claims Zelensky

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021.&nbsp;

The official Saudi Press Agency said those convicted were linked to "the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, the Huthis and other terrorist organisations", adding they were plotting attacks on vital places and smuggling weapons into the country.

Meanwhile, freed blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi was imposed with a 10-year travel ban. The blogger has become a symbol of freedom and expression around the world.

Badawi, now 38, who was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam", was released Friday.

An interior ministry official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP on Saturday: "The sentence handed down to Raif was 10 years in prison followed by a travel ban for the same length of time. The court ruling holds up and is final."

"Therefore, he cannot leave the kingdom for another 10 years unless a (royal) pardon is issued," the official said.

At the end of 2014, Badawi was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 50 lashes a week for 20 weeks. 
His first flogging in the kingdom's Jeddah square shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as&nbsp; 
"cruel and inhuman". After the outcry, he was not lashed again.

On Friday, Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children, told AFP: "Raif called me. He is free."&nbsp;

It was later confirmed by a Saudi security official, but details of Badawi's release were not revealed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021.

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021. The official Saudi Press Agency said those convicted were linked to "the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, the Huthis and other terrorist organisations", adding they were plotting attacks on vital places and smuggling weapons into the country. Meanwhile, freed blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi was imposed with a 10-year travel ban. The blogger has become a symbol of freedom and expression around the world. Badawi, now 38, who was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam", was released Friday. An interior ministry official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP on Saturday: "The sentence handed down to Raif was 10 years in prison followed by a travel ban for the same length of time. The court ruling holds up and is final." "Therefore, he cannot leave the kingdom for another 10 years unless a (royal) pardon is issued," the official said. At the end of 2014, Badawi was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 50 lashes a week for 20 weeks. His first flogging in the kingdom's Jeddah square shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as "cruel and inhuman". After the outcry, he was not lashed again. On Friday, Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children, told AFP: "Raif called me. He is free." It was later confirmed by a Saudi security official, but details of Badawi's release were not revealed. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia executes more people in 1 day than it did in entire 2021

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has given new boost to Taiwan's military's level of alertness and military reservists reforms.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday visited army reservists training under a new scheme to bolster war readiness on Saturday, a programme that has gotten added impetus from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, given China's bellicosity against the island.

The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed Taiwan about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force.

Taiwan's government announced late last year a reform of the training of its reserve forces, including doubling down on combat and shooting exercises.

Under the new programme which began this month, reservists get two weeks of training, rather than the previous five to seven days, and spend more time on combat training like firing guns.

Observing the training at the Nanshipu firing range outside the capital Taipei, Tsai, dressed in full military fatigues including body armour, said reservists were specifically getting trained in areas close to their homes.

"The recent situation in Ukraine once again proves that the protection of the country, in addition to international solidarity and assistance, depends on the unity of the whole people," she said, flanked by her top security officials.

Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters there were many lessons they could learn from Ukraine, where he said people were being given guns and sent to fight after only a few days of training.

"For our reservists, if they train for between seven and 14 days a year, that gives us a lot more confidence."

Taiwan has been gradually shifting from a conscript military to a volunteer-dominated professional force.

But Reuters has reported the switch was troublesome and has led to a gutting of the 2.31 million-strong reserve force. Some complained of wasting time on pointless drills and lectures during retraining.

The new system is being trialed in the first three quarters of this year on about 15,000 reservists and will be reviewed in the fourth quarter to see whether it will continue.

Taiwan and Ukraine's armed forces are both undermanned and undergunned compared to their giant neighbours.

Tsai has championed the concept of "asymmetric warfare" to make the military more mobile, harder to attack and better able to survive and strike back in a war, as Beijing steps up what Taipei views as its threats against the island.

Reservists are part of that plan.

The Defence Ministry has been heavily promoting the new scheme on its social media channels, showing pictures of reservists carrying out live-fire drills and being greeted by flag-waving children shouting messages of support.

Freddy Lim, an independent lawmaker who sits on parliament's defence and foreign affairs committee, told Reuters the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made many Taiwanese more determined to defend the island and has boosted public support for reservist training reform and civil defence.

"In the past, before Ukraine, we were called alarmist when we made these efforts. That's not the case anymore," he said.

"Like Ukraine, I believe we have a very strong will to defend our country."

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen visited army reservists training under a new scheme to bolster war readiness on Saturday, a programme that has gotten added impetus from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, given China's bellicosity against the island.

The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed Taiwan about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force.

Taiwan's government announced late last year a reform of the training of its reserve forces, including doubling down on combat and shooting exercises.

Under the new programme which began this month, reservists get two weeks of training, rather than the previous five to seven days, and spend more time on combat training like firing guns.

Observing the training at the Nanshipu firing range outside the capital Taipei, Tsai, dressed in full military fatigues including body armour, said reservists were specifically getting trained in areas close to their homes.

"The recent situation in Ukraine once again proves that the protection of the country, in addition to international solidarity and assistance, depends on the unity of the whole people," she said, flanked by her top security officials.

Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters there were many lessons they could learn from Ukraine, where he said people were being given guns and sent to fight after only a few days of training.

"For our reservists, if they train for between seven and 14 days a year, that gives us a lot more confidence."

Taiwan has been gradually shifting from a conscript military to a volunteer-dominated professional force.

But Reuters has reported the switch was troublesome and has led to a gutting of the 2.31 million-strong reserve force. Some complained of wasting time on pointless drills and lectures during retraining.

The new system is being trialed in the first three quarters of this year on about 15,000 reservists and will be reviewed in the fourth quarter to see whether it will continue.

Taiwan and Ukraine's armed forces are both undermanned and undergunned compared to their giant neighbours.

Tsai has championed the concept of "asymmetric warfare" to make the military more mobile, harder to attack and better able to survive and strike back in a war, as Beijing steps up what Taipei views as its threats against the island.

Reservists are part of that plan.

The Defence Ministry has been heavily promoting the new scheme on its social media channels, showing pictures of reservists carrying out live-fire drills and being greeted by flag-waving children shouting messages of support.

Freddy Lim, an independent lawmaker who sits on parliament's defence and foreign affairs committee, told Reuters the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made many Taiwanese more determined to defend the island and has boosted public support for reservist training reform and civil defence.

"In the past, before Ukraine, we were called alarmist when we made these efforts. That's not the case anymore," he said.

"Like Ukraine, I believe we have a very strong will to defend our country."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has given new boost to Taiwan's military's level of alertness and military reservists reforms. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday visited army reservists training under a new scheme to bolster war readiness on Saturday, a programme that has gotten added impetus from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, given China's bellicosity against the island.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has given new boost to Taiwan's military's level of alertness and military reservists reforms. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday visited army reservists training under a new scheme to bolster war readiness on Saturday, a programme that has gotten added impetus from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, given China's bellicosity against the island. The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed Taiwan about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force. Taiwan's government announced late last year a reform of the training of its reserve forces, including doubling down on combat and shooting exercises. Under the new programme which began this month, reservists get two weeks of training, rather than the previous five to seven days, and spend more time on combat training like firing guns. Observing the training at the Nanshipu firing range outside the capital Taipei, Tsai, dressed in full military fatigues including body armour, said reservists were specifically getting trained in areas close to their homes. "The recent situation in Ukraine once again proves that the protection of the country, in addition to international solidarity and assistance, depends on the unity of the whole people," she said, flanked by her top security officials. Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters there were many lessons they could learn from Ukraine, where he said people were being given guns and sent to fight after only a few days of training. "For our reservists, if they train for between seven and 14 days a year, that gives us a lot more confidence." Taiwan has been gradually shifting from a conscript military to a volunteer-dominated professional force. But Reuters has reported the switch was troublesome and has led to a gutting of the 2.31 million-strong reserve force. Some complained of wasting time on pointless drills and lectures during retraining. The new system is being trialed in the first three quarters of this year on about 15,000 reservists and will be reviewed in the fourth quarter to see whether it will continue. Taiwan and Ukraine's armed forces are both undermanned and undergunned compared to their giant neighbours. Tsai has championed the concept of "asymmetric warfare" to make the military more mobile, harder to attack and better able to survive and strike back in a war, as Beijing steps up what Taipei views as its threats against the island. Reservists are part of that plan. The Defence Ministry has been heavily promoting the new scheme on its social media channels, showing pictures of reservists carrying out live-fire drills and being greeted by flag-waving children shouting messages of support. Freddy Lim, an independent lawmaker who sits on parliament's defence and foreign affairs committee, told Reuters the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made many Taiwanese more determined to defend the island and has boosted public support for reservist training reform and civil defence. "In the past, before Ukraine, we were called alarmist when we made these efforts. That's not the case anymore," he said. "Like Ukraine, I believe we have a very strong will to defend our country." Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen visited army reservists training under a new scheme to bolster war readiness on Saturday, a programme that has gotten added impetus from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, given China's bellicosity against the island. The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed Taiwan about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force. Taiwan's government announced late last year a reform of the training of its reserve forces, including doubling down on combat and shooting exercises. Under the new programme which began this month, reservists get two weeks of training, rather than the previous five to seven days, and spend more time on combat training like firing guns. Observing the training at the Nanshipu firing range outside the capital Taipei, Tsai, dressed in full military fatigues including body armour, said reservists were specifically getting trained in areas close to their homes. "The recent situation in Ukraine once again proves that the protection of the country, in addition to international solidarity and assistance, depends on the unity of the whole people," she said, flanked by her top security officials. Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters there were many lessons they could learn from Ukraine, where he said people were being given guns and sent to fight after only a few days of training. "For our reservists, if they train for between seven and 14 days a year, that gives us a lot more confidence." Taiwan has been gradually shifting from a conscript military to a volunteer-dominated professional force. But Reuters has reported the switch was troublesome and has led to a gutting of the 2.31 million-strong reserve force. Some complained of wasting time on pointless drills and lectures during retraining. The new system is being trialed in the first three quarters of this year on about 15,000 reservists and will be reviewed in the fourth quarter to see whether it will continue. Taiwan and Ukraine's armed forces are both undermanned and undergunned compared to their giant neighbours. Tsai has championed the concept of "asymmetric warfare" to make the military more mobile, harder to attack and better able to survive and strike back in a war, as Beijing steps up what Taipei views as its threats against the island. Reservists are part of that plan. The Defence Ministry has been heavily promoting the new scheme on its social media channels, showing pictures of reservists carrying out live-fire drills and being greeted by flag-waving children shouting messages of support. Freddy Lim, an independent lawmaker who sits on parliament's defence and foreign affairs committee, told Reuters the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made many Taiwanese more determined to defend the island and has boosted public support for reservist training reform and civil defence. "In the past, before Ukraine, we were called alarmist when we made these efforts. That's not the case anymore," he said. "Like Ukraine, I believe we have a very strong will to defend our country." (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict puts Taiwan on alert

Iran oil minister said on Sunday that US seizure of Iranian tankers in recent months hasn't stopped the sanctions-hit country from increasing oil exports.&nbsp;

“The United States has on several occasions in the past months violated Iranian oil tankers to prevent export of shipments," Javad Owji said in an interview carried by Iranian media.

"When the enemy realised it could not stop our exports and contracts, they went after our ships," Owji said.&nbsp;

His remarks follow reports of a recent seizure of an Iranian oil tanker in the Bahamas, even as indirect Iran-US&nbsp;talks in Vienna to revive a 2015 nuclear deal could see the lifting of US&nbsp;sanctions in return for Tehran curbing its nuclear work.

A last-minute demand by Russia, a close ally of Iran, has forced world powers meeting in the Austrian capital to pause for an undetermined time, despite having a largely completed text.

On March 5, Russia unexpectedly demanded sweeping guarantees its trade with Iran would not be affected by sanctions imposed on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine - a demand Western powers say is unacceptable and Washington has said it won't accept.

"Iran's oil exports have risen under the toughest sanctions and without waiting for the outcome of the Vienna talks," said Owji.

The increase was thanks to "different methods used to win contracts and finding different buyers," Owji said.

The rise had "even increased the bargaining power of friends in Vienna," he said, without elaborating.

Tehran's oil exports have been limited since former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2018 exited the 2015 nuclear accord and reimposed sanctions.

Iran views US&nbsp;sanctions as illegal and has said it will make every effort to sidestep them.

Its oil exports have risen to more than 1 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first time in almost three years, based on estimates from companies that track the flows, reflecting increased shipments to China.

Iran increased exports in 2021 despite the sanctions, according to estimates from oil industry consultants and analysts. But they remained well below the 2.5 million bpd shipped before sanctions were reintroduced.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran oil minister said on Sunday that US seizure of Iranian tankers in recent months hasn't stopped the sanctions-hit country from increasing oil exports. “The United States has on several occasions in the past months violated Iranian oil tankers to prevent export of shipments," Javad Owji said in an interview carried by Iranian media.

Iran oil minister said on Sunday that US seizure of Iranian tankers in recent months hasn't stopped the sanctions-hit country from increasing oil exports. “The United States has on several occasions in the past months violated Iranian oil tankers to prevent export of shipments," Javad Owji said in an interview carried by Iranian media. "When the enemy realised it could not stop our exports and contracts, they went after our ships," Owji said. His remarks follow reports of a recent seizure of an Iranian oil tanker in the Bahamas, even as indirect Iran-US talks in Vienna to revive a 2015 nuclear deal could see the lifting of US sanctions in return for Tehran curbing its nuclear work. A last-minute demand by Russia, a close ally of Iran, has forced world powers meeting in the Austrian capital to pause for an undetermined time, despite having a largely completed text. On March 5, Russia unexpectedly demanded sweeping guarantees its trade with Iran would not be affected by sanctions imposed on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine - a demand Western powers say is unacceptable and Washington has said it won't accept. "Iran's oil exports have risen under the toughest sanctions and without waiting for the outcome of the Vienna talks," said Owji. The increase was thanks to "different methods used to win contracts and finding different buyers," Owji said. The rise had "even increased the bargaining power of friends in Vienna," he said, without elaborating. Tehran's oil exports have been limited since former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2018 exited the 2015 nuclear accord and reimposed sanctions. Iran views US sanctions as illegal and has said it will make every effort to sidestep them. Its oil exports have risen to more than 1 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first time in almost three years, based on estimates from companies that track the flows, reflecting increased shipments to China. Iran increased exports in 2021 despite the sanctions, according to estimates from oil industry consultants and analysts. But they remained well below the 2.5 million bpd shipped before sanctions were reintroduced. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran oil exports unaffected by US seizing tankers, says minister

Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko. The action has come just a few days after the businessman was placed on European sanctions list.

The 143-metre (470-foot) Sailing Yacht A, which has a price tag of 530 million euros ($578 million), has been sequestered at the northern port of Trieste, the government said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-legalises-piracy-allows-patent-thefts-to-counter-west-sanctions-report-461502">Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report</a>

Designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug in Germany, the vessel is the world's biggest sailing yacht, the government said.

Melnichenko owns major fertiliser producer EuroChem Group and coal company SUEK.

Last week Italian police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros from five high-profile Russians who have been placed on the sanctions list.

The police operations were part of a coordinated drive by Western states to penalise wealthy Russians linked to President Vladimir Putin.

(With inputs from agencies)

Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko.

Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko. The action has come just a few days after the businessman was placed on European sanctions list. The 143-metre (470-foot) Sailing Yacht A, which has a price tag of 530 million euros ($578 million), has been sequestered at the northern port of Trieste, the government said. Also Read | Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report Designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug in Germany, the vessel is the world's biggest sailing yacht, the government said. Melnichenko owns major fertiliser producer EuroChem Group and coal company SUEK. Last week Italian police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros from five high-profile Russians who have been placed on the sanctions list. The police operations were part of a coordinated drive by Western states to penalise wealthy Russians linked to President Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian police seize superyacht belonging to Russian billionaire

"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound."

These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.

Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights.

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Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out."&nbsp;

The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there"

The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi.

During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done".&nbsp;

India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."

"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.

"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy. Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights. × Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out." The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there" The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi. During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done". India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."

'Happiest day of my life': Indian envoy in Ukraine Satpathy to evacuated students from Sumy

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that he would nominate Roselyn Tso to serve as director of the Indian Health Service, raising hopes of a fresh start for an agency that has drawn intense criticism over the years for failing to provide adequate care to tribal communities.

Tso, a member of the Navajo Nation, is currently the director of the Navajo Area of IHS, overseeing the delivery of health services to more than 240,000 Native Americans in the Southwest.

If confirmed, she would replace Elizabeth A. Fowler, a member of the Comanche Nation descended from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who has led the agency on an interim basis since January 2021. Rear Adm. Michael Weahkee led the agency during the Trump administration, but served in an acting capacity until April 2020.

Biden’s choice of Tso comes more than a year into his presidency. He made a campaign promise to address the long-standing issues plaguing the Indian Health Service, which has suffered from a lack of consistent permanent leadership.

Tso has been with the agency since 1984, with stints at the Portland Area office, in Oregon, and the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland.

“The Indian Health Service director plays a critical role in raising the health status of Native peoples and upholding the federal government’s trust responsibility to Native communities,” said Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I am committed to seeking Indian Country’s input on Ms. Tso’s nomination as the committee carefully considers her qualifications.”

The Indian Health Service consists of 26 hospitals, 56 health centers and 32 health stations, and provides care to 2.6 million members of the nation’s tribal communities — roughly half. The hospitals, scattered across a dozen administrative regions, range in size from four beds to 133.

The agency has long faced shortages of funding and supplies, but the pandemic brought those disparities to the fore, with disproportionally high rates of infection and death among Native Americans.

Critics say the agency, with an annual budget of more than $6 billion, has been chronically neglected by Congress and successive administrations. Staffing vacancies abound in its hospitals, and the Native American communities it serves have some of the worst health outcomes in the country.

The National Congress of American Indians, in a statement, applauded the Biden administration for taking steps to fill a position that is crucial to making sure that IHS is prepared to meet the needs of Indian Country.

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that he would nominate Roselyn Tso to serve as director of the Indian Health Service, raising hopes of a fresh start for an agency that has drawn intense criticism over the years for failing to provide adequate care to tribal communities.

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that he would nominate Roselyn Tso to serve as director of the Indian Health Service, raising hopes of a fresh start for an agency that has drawn intense criticism over the years for failing to provide adequate care to tribal communities. Tso, a member of the Navajo Nation, is currently the director of the Navajo Area of IHS, overseeing the delivery of health services to more than 240,000 Native Americans in the Southwest. If confirmed, she would replace Elizabeth A. Fowler, a member of the Comanche Nation descended from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who has led the agency on an interim basis since January 2021. Rear Adm. Michael Weahkee led the agency during the Trump administration, but served in an acting capacity until April 2020. Biden’s choice of Tso comes more than a year into his presidency. He made a campaign promise to address the long-standing issues plaguing the Indian Health Service, which has suffered from a lack of consistent permanent leadership. Tso has been with the agency since 1984, with stints at the Portland Area office, in Oregon, and the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland. “The Indian Health Service director plays a critical role in raising the health status of Native peoples and upholding the federal government’s trust responsibility to Native communities,” said Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I am committed to seeking Indian Country’s input on Ms. Tso’s nomination as the committee carefully considers her qualifications.” The Indian Health Service consists of 26 hospitals, 56 health centers and 32 health stations, and provides care to 2.6 million members of the nation’s tribal communities — roughly half. The hospitals, scattered across a dozen administrative regions, range in size from four beds to 133. The agency has long faced shortages of funding and supplies, but the pandemic brought those disparities to the fore, with disproportionally high rates of infection and death among Native Americans. Critics say the agency, with an annual budget of more than $6 billion, has been chronically neglected by Congress and successive administrations. Staffing vacancies abound in its hospitals, and the Native American communities it serves have some of the worst health outcomes in the country. The National Congress of American Indians, in a statement, applauded the Biden administration for taking steps to fill a position that is crucial to making sure that IHS is prepared to meet the needs of Indian Country.

Biden nominates Roselyn Tso, of the Navajo nation, to run Indian Health Service

Javier Silva and Jaime Nazar became first two men in Chile to tie the knot after law allowing same-sex marriages came into effect. The law was approved by Chile's Congress in December last year. The law guaranteed legal rights for same sex couples in the country.

Silva and Nazar have been together for seven years and have two young children. They've had a civil union for the last three years, but they say marriage is a significant step forward for their whole family.

Despite its long conservative tradition, Chile has been making progress in recent years in recognizing LGBT rights.

"My congratulations to Jaime and Javier for being the first couple to marry under the new #EqualMarriage law. To continue advancing for a Chile with equal rights and freedoms for all people," President-elect Gabriel Boric, who takes office on Friday, said on Twitter.

Same-sex marriage legislation was first discussed in 2017 and pushed by former President Michelle Bachelet, but was delayed until last year.

Before that, starting in 2015, same-sex couples were able register a Civil Union Agreement (AUC), which allowed some legal benefits.

"I think we're putting ourselves at the level the rest of the world is living in, which is great," Nazar said. "I know our society is very conservative, but I also know we have a promising future as a country."

(With inputs from agencies)

Javier Silva and Jaime Nazar became first two men in Chile to tie the knot after law allowing same-sex marriages came into effect. The law was approved by Chile's Congress in December last year.

Javier Silva and Jaime Nazar became first two men in Chile to tie the knot after law allowing same-sex marriages came into effect. The law was approved by Chile's Congress in December last year. The law guaranteed legal rights for same sex couples in the country. Silva and Nazar have been together for seven years and have two young children. They've had a civil union for the last three years, but they say marriage is a significant step forward for their whole family. Despite its long conservative tradition, Chile has been making progress in recent years in recognizing LGBT rights. "My congratulations to Jaime and Javier for being the first couple to marry under the new #EqualMarriage law. To continue advancing for a Chile with equal rights and freedoms for all people," President-elect Gabriel Boric, who takes office on Friday, said on Twitter. Same-sex marriage legislation was first discussed in 2017 and pushed by former President Michelle Bachelet, but was delayed until last year. Before that, starting in 2015, same-sex couples were able register a Civil Union Agreement (AUC), which allowed some legal benefits. "I think we're putting ourselves at the level the rest of the world is living in, which is great," Nazar said. "I know our society is very conservative, but I also know we have a promising future as a country." (With inputs from agencies)

Chile: First gay couple ties knot as same-sex marriage law comes into effect

Modern problems require modern solution is a catchphrase used in many memes but ingenuity of scientists and artists sometimes makes us believe the urban adage.

When one says the word 'bacteria' it generally elicits a negative sentiment. Armies of bacteria are ever ready to make us sick. But not all bacteria are bad. We are not talking about good bacteria that reside in our gut helping us digest food and all that but some other bacteria.

A truly bright idea allowed scientists to successfully restore a medieval masterpiece in Florence, Italy. The artist is none other than Michelangelo, the master of renaissance years.

The master created a chapel for the powerful Medici family in medieval Italy. The year was 1520. Passage of time meant that the chapel and the tomb of members of Medici family accumulated dirt and grime that was hard to clean.

Scientists thought of a novel approach to tackle this problem. They tested 11 strains (types) of bacteria for their effect on marble and selected a few from among them.

The strains that were selected were Serratia ficaria SH7, Pseudomonas stutzeri CONC11 and Rhodococcus sp. ZONT

Selecting the bacteria was an important task as it was absolutely necessary to ensure that the bacteria only cleaned the dirt and didn't cause any harm/ degrade the marble of which the invaluable artwork was made.

Bit it was observed that the carefully selected bacteria did the job they were expected to do.

Funnily enough, bacteria names Serratia ficaria causes urinary tract infection. But it was observed that it cleaned the marble within two days. The strains of bacteria were applied to the artwork in the form of a gel.

The chapel was presented to the public on 545th birth anniversary of Michelangelo.

Modern problems require modern solution is a catchphrase used in many memes but ingenuity of scientists and artists sometimes makes us believe the urban adage. When one says the word 'bacteria' it generally elicits a negative sentiment.

Modern problems require modern solution is a catchphrase used in many memes but ingenuity of scientists and artists sometimes makes us believe the urban adage. When one says the word 'bacteria' it generally elicits a negative sentiment. Armies of bacteria are ever ready to make us sick. But not all bacteria are bad. We are not talking about good bacteria that reside in our gut helping us digest food and all that but some other bacteria. A truly bright idea allowed scientists to successfully restore a medieval masterpiece in Florence, Italy. The artist is none other than Michelangelo, the master of renaissance years. The master created a chapel for the powerful Medici family in medieval Italy. The year was 1520. Passage of time meant that the chapel and the tomb of members of Medici family accumulated dirt and grime that was hard to clean. Scientists thought of a novel approach to tackle this problem. They tested 11 strains (types) of bacteria for their effect on marble and selected a few from among them. The strains that were selected were Serratia ficaria SH7, Pseudomonas stutzeri CONC11 and Rhodococcus sp. ZONT Selecting the bacteria was an important task as it was absolutely necessary to ensure that the bacteria only cleaned the dirt and didn't cause any harm/ degrade the marble of which the invaluable artwork was made. Bit it was observed that the carefully selected bacteria did the job they were expected to do. Funnily enough, bacteria names Serratia ficaria causes urinary tract infection. But it was observed that it cleaned the marble within two days. The strains of bacteria were applied to the artwork in the form of a gel. The chapel was presented to the public on 545th birth anniversary of Michelangelo.

Michelangelo's chapel in Florence restored with help from bacteria

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.&nbsp;

"Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'.

"Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

"Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maternity-hospital-occupied-by-azov-battalion-claims-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-after-strike-460951">Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike</a>

European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic".

"I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-attack-ukraine-with-chemical-weapons-claims-white-house-460940">Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House</a>

The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains. "Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting. Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'. "Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet. "Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. Also Read | Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic". "I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted. Also Read | Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage. (With inputs from agencies)

Sanctions on Russia may increase global food prices, claims Putin

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