The hackers that paralysed Colonial Pipeline operations have stolen a large amount of data, reported Bloomberg News citing people familiar with the matter.

The attackers, part of a cybercrime group called DarkSide and have been reported to have stolen 100 GB data in just two hours on Thursday (May 6).

The massive cyberattack forced Colonial Pipeline to shut its operations. The top pipeline network supplies nearly half of US East Coast's fuel supply.

The company transports 2.5 million barrels per day of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and other refined products through 5,500 miles (8,850 km) of pipelines linking refiners on the Gulf Coast to the eastern and southern United States.

The cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline involved ransomware.

(With inputs from agencies)

The hackers that paralysed Colonial Pipeline operations have stolen a large amount of data, reported Bloomberg News citing people familiar with the matter. The attackers, part of a cybercrime group called DarkSide and have been reported to have stolen 100 GB data in just two hours on Thursday (May 6).

The hackers that paralysed Colonial Pipeline operations have stolen a large amount of data, reported Bloomberg News citing people familiar with the matter. The attackers, part of a cybercrime group called DarkSide and have been reported to have stolen 100 GB data in just two hours on Thursday (May 6). The massive cyberattack forced Colonial Pipeline to shut its operations. The top pipeline network supplies nearly half of US East Coast's fuel supply. The company transports 2.5 million barrels per day of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and other refined products through 5,500 miles (8,850 km) of pipelines linking refiners on the Gulf Coast to the eastern and southern United States. The cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline involved ransomware. (With inputs from agencies)

Colonial Pipeline hackers stole large amount of data, says report

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday.

Myanmar's army has struggled to impose order since seizing power on February&nbsp;1 and detaining elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Bombings are reported daily and local militias have been formed to confront the army while anti-junta protests have not stopped across the Southeast Asian country and strikes by opponents of the coup have paralysed the economy.

The National Unity Government (NUG), which operates undercover and itself describes the army as a terrorist force, announced this week that it would set up a People's Defence Force.

"Their acts caused so much terrorism in many places," state television MRTV said, announcing that the NUG, a committee of ousted lawmakers known as the CRPH and the new force would all now be covered by the anti-terrorism law.

"There were bombs, fires, murder and threats to destroy the administrative mechanism of the government," the announcement said.

The anti-terrorism law bans not only membership of the groups, but also any contact with them. The junta had previously accused its opponents of treason.

Protesters marched against the junta in dozens of places on Saturday. At least 774 civilians have been killed by security forces and 3,778 are detained, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-anti-junta-unity-government-says-it-has-formed-defence-force-383019">Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force</a>

The junta disputes those figures and says at least two dozen members of the security forces have been killed in protests.

Fighting has also flared on Myanmar's periphery with ethnic armies that have been fighting for decades and some of which have rallied behind the protesters. State television said the army had advanced against the Kachin Independence Army in northern Myanmar, but there was no independent confirmation.

In western Myanmar, the newly formed Chinland Defence Force said it had overrun an army camp. The army made no comment on the report.

Myanmar's army took power alleging fraud in a November election that was swept by the party of Suu Kyi, who fought for democracy for decades before tentative reforms began a decade ago. The electoral commission had rejected the army's complaints.

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday.

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday. Myanmar's army has struggled to impose order since seizing power on February 1 and detaining elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Bombings are reported daily and local militias have been formed to confront the army while anti-junta protests have not stopped across the Southeast Asian country and strikes by opponents of the coup have paralysed the economy. The National Unity Government (NUG), which operates undercover and itself describes the army as a terrorist force, announced this week that it would set up a People's Defence Force. "Their acts caused so much terrorism in many places," state television MRTV said, announcing that the NUG, a committee of ousted lawmakers known as the CRPH and the new force would all now be covered by the anti-terrorism law. "There were bombs, fires, murder and threats to destroy the administrative mechanism of the government," the announcement said. The anti-terrorism law bans not only membership of the groups, but also any contact with them. The junta had previously accused its opponents of treason. Protesters marched against the junta in dozens of places on Saturday. At least 774 civilians have been killed by security forces and 3,778 are detained, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group. Also read | Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force The junta disputes those figures and says at least two dozen members of the security forces have been killed in protests. Fighting has also flared on Myanmar's periphery with ethnic armies that have been fighting for decades and some of which have rallied behind the protesters. State television said the army had advanced against the Kachin Independence Army in northern Myanmar, but there was no independent confirmation. In western Myanmar, the newly formed Chinland Defence Force said it had overrun an army camp. The army made no comment on the report. Myanmar's army took power alleging fraud in a November election that was swept by the party of Suu Kyi, who fought for democracy for decades before tentative reforms began a decade ago. The electoral commission had rejected the army's complaints.

Myanmar's junta brands rival government a terrorist group

Hoping to lure back tourists, Greece reopens beaches after lockdown

US pipeline operator Colonial Pipeline shut its entire network after a cyber attack believed to have been caused by ransomware. The pipeline network of Colonial Pipeline conveys nearly half of US East Coast's fuel supply.

The company transports 2.5 million barrels per day of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and other refined products through 5,500 miles (8,850 km) of pipelines linking refiners on the Gulf Coast to the eastern and southern United States.

Colonial Pipelines said in its statement that it shut down systems to contain the threat after it learnt about it on Friday.

Reuters quoted a former US government official and two industry sources who said that the hackers are likely from a highly professional cybercriminal group. US government investigation is underway.

Investigators are looking into whether a group dubbed "DarkSide" by the cybersecurity research community is responsible, the former government official said.

DarkSide is known for deploying ransomware and extorting victims, while selectively avoiding targets in post-Soviet states.

The malicious software used in the attack was ransomware, two cybersecurity industry sources familiar with the matter said. Ransomware is a type of malware that is designed to lock down systems by encrypting data and demanding payment to regain access. The malware has grown in popularity over the last five years.

Colonial has engaged a third-party cybersecurity firm to launch an investigation and contacted law enforcement and other federal agencies, it said.

Cybersecurity company FireEye has been brought in to respond to the attack, the cybersecurity industry sources said. FireEye declined to comment when asked if it was working on the incident.

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration told Reuters it is working with other agencies on the situation.

Colonial did not give further details or say for how long its pipelines would be shut.

(With inputs from agencies)

US pipeline operator Colonial Pipeline shut its entire network after a cyber attack believed to have been caused by ransomware. The pipeline network of Colonial Pipeline conveys nearly half of US East Coast's fuel supply.

US pipeline operator Colonial Pipeline shut its entire network after a cyber attack believed to have been caused by ransomware. The pipeline network of Colonial Pipeline conveys nearly half of US East Coast's fuel supply. The company transports 2.5 million barrels per day of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and other refined products through 5,500 miles (8,850 km) of pipelines linking refiners on the Gulf Coast to the eastern and southern United States. Colonial Pipelines said in its statement that it shut down systems to contain the threat after it learnt about it on Friday. Reuters quoted a former US government official and two industry sources who said that the hackers are likely from a highly professional cybercriminal group. US government investigation is underway. Investigators are looking into whether a group dubbed "DarkSide" by the cybersecurity research community is responsible, the former government official said. DarkSide is known for deploying ransomware and extorting victims, while selectively avoiding targets in post-Soviet states. The malicious software used in the attack was ransomware, two cybersecurity industry sources familiar with the matter said. Ransomware is a type of malware that is designed to lock down systems by encrypting data and demanding payment to regain access. The malware has grown in popularity over the last five years. Colonial has engaged a third-party cybersecurity firm to launch an investigation and contacted law enforcement and other federal agencies, it said. Cybersecurity company FireEye has been brought in to respond to the attack, the cybersecurity industry sources said. FireEye declined to comment when asked if it was working on the incident. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration told Reuters it is working with other agencies on the situation. Colonial did not give further details or say for how long its pipelines would be shut. (With inputs from agencies)

Top US fuel pipeline network shut down due to cyber attack

The first batch of 83 women military soldiers from the Corps of Military Police Centre and School was inducted into the Indian Army at the Dronacharya Parade Ground in Bengaluru on Saturday.

As per a statement, an attestation parade was held as a low-key event while observing all COVID protocols.

The Commandant of the CMP Centre and School, while reviewing the parade, complimented the newly attested soldiers for their impeccable drill and congratulated them on their successful completion of the intense 61 weeks of training.

The training included aspects related to Basic Military training, Provost training to include all forms of policing duties and management of prisoners of war, ceremonial duties and skill development to include driving and maintenance of all vehicles and signal communications.

The Commandant also expressed his confidence that the training imparted to them and the standards achieved would hold them in good stead and help them prove to be a force multiplier at their new units, located across varied terrain and operational conditions in the country.&nbsp;

The first batch of 83 women military soldiers from the Corps of Military Police Centre and School was inducted into the Indian Army at the Dronacharya Parade Ground in Bengaluru on Saturday.

The first batch of 83 women military soldiers from the Corps of Military Police Centre and School was inducted into the Indian Army at the Dronacharya Parade Ground in Bengaluru on Saturday. As per a statement, an attestation parade was held as a low-key event while observing all COVID protocols. The Commandant of the CMP Centre and School, while reviewing the parade, complimented the newly attested soldiers for their impeccable drill and congratulated them on their successful completion of the intense 61 weeks of training. The training included aspects related to Basic Military training, Provost training to include all forms of policing duties and management of prisoners of war, ceremonial duties and skill development to include driving and maintenance of all vehicles and signal communications. The Commandant also expressed his confidence that the training imparted to them and the standards achieved would hold them in good stead and help them prove to be a force multiplier at their new units, located across varied terrain and operational conditions in the country.

First batch of 83 women soldiers inducted into Indian Army

Apex court judge and chairperson of the Supreme Court Juvenile Justice Committee S Ravindra Bhat Saturday said there was a need to step up measures to ensure better care, protection and well-being of children during the second wave of COVID-19.

He made the remarks during a review meeting held by the Juvenile Justice Committee of the Supreme Court to take stock of actions taken by various states on care, protection and wellbeing of children during this COVID-19 wave.

In the meeting, held in coordination with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), possible measures and actions that need to be taken to ensure that every child in need gets appropriate care and protection during this time, were also deliberated upon.

Bhat said some children have lost either one or both parents to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> and there are many without parental supervision and care when their parents are in hospital or under medical care.

"These children are more vulnerable now than ever before. Concerted efforts should be made by all the key stakeholders to ensure the care and protection of children during the second wave of COVID," he said.

He suggested developing a mechanism to address interim care and needs of orphan, separated, or unaccompanied children, including clear guidance on steps to be taken in the event such a child has been exposed or has symptoms of the virus and requires a period of isolation and treatment.

He further emphasised that caregivers and employees of care institutions - both government-managed and private - should be vaccinated, as frontline professionals and also that the services of these institutions should be declared as essential services.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-spread-coronavirus-more-efficiently-than-adults-study-383559">Children spread coronavirus 'more efficiently' than adults: Study</a>

Some key priorities outlined by Justice Bhat were - screening and medical care for the children in the institutional care, provision of emergency medicine, supplies, emergency access to hospitals, and a roster of doctors available for teleconsultation,&nbsp;and on priority&nbsp;vaccination of all staff working in the Child Care Institutions and other frontline Child Protection workers.

Nomination of state and district level nodal officers empowered to take decisions and constitute a task force for rapid emergency response for children during COVID-19 was also highlighted.

On the needs of orphaned children, he reiterated that a coordinated response, in each district, by a committee to ensure temporary foster homes as well as gather and secure all information relating to the deceased parent or parents, for future use should be set up.

Each district CWC should compile all the details of such children, and their needs, it was emphasised.

Justice Bhat also stated that "prevention of and response to the second wave of COVID surge requires close coordination and collaboration between child protection system and health system, a multi-sectoral response ensures that children and caregivers' needs are addressed holistically and it leads to a better outcome for children".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-covid-surge-why-children-could-be-at-risk-383575/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the review meeting, judges of all high courts and officials of various states and union territories presented the measures which are being undertaken for the care, protection, and well-being of the children during the second wave of COVID.

Some of the measures by the state and union territories were setting up a state-level nodal officers and district task force for rapid response for care and protection children during the current pandemic, sponsorship for the children lost parents or the bread earners lost income or facing economic hardship.

High Court juvenile justice committees represented by judges, as well as state and union territories also highlighted the measures they are taking to stop the spread of COVID-19 in child care institutions and the medical treatment and care of the children who contracted the disease.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-3rd-wave-may-hit-kids-mumbai-prepares-pediatric-wards-382729">Covid in India: 3rd wave may hit kids, Mumbai prepares pediatric wards</a>

Aastha Khatwani, joint secretary in the Ministry of Women and Child Development, said, "Considering the emergency need, the ministry has issued the advisory to stop illegal adoption and care and protection of the children who have lost one either or both the parents to COVID."

She further added that the ministry has developed clear, coordinated, easy to understand, community messaging on children's unique risks, vulnerabilities and need of care and protection during COVID-19, and these messages are disseminated and broadcast through social media and other channels.

Vandhana Kandhari, child protection specialist of UNICEF India highlighted that "efforts to pre-emptively scale up the capacity of family-based care and social protection systems are critical to enhance family resilience and prevent unnecessary recourse to residential care".

Kandhari added that in order to provide interim care to the children, extended family members, trusted friends, good neighbours and or community members can be declared a 'fit person'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/novavax-starts-covid-vaccine-trials-on-children-382694">Novavax starts Covid vaccine trials on children</a>

The review meeting was held with the chairpersons and members of juvenile justice committees of various high courts and was also attended by officials of Departments of Women and Child Development, Social Welfare and Health from various states and union territories.

Apex court judge and chairperson of the Supreme Court Juvenile Justice Committee S Ravindra Bhat Saturday said there was a need to step up measures to ensure better care, protection and well-being of children during the second wave of COVID-19.

Apex court judge and chairperson of the Supreme Court Juvenile Justice Committee S Ravindra Bhat Saturday said there was a need to step up measures to ensure better care, protection and well-being of children during the second wave of COVID-19. He made the remarks during a review meeting held by the Juvenile Justice Committee of the Supreme Court to take stock of actions taken by various states on care, protection and wellbeing of children during this COVID-19 wave. In the meeting, held in coordination with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), possible measures and actions that need to be taken to ensure that every child in need gets appropriate care and protection during this time, were also deliberated upon. Bhat said some children have lost either one or both parents to COVID-19 and there are many without parental supervision and care when their parents are in hospital or under medical care. "These children are more vulnerable now than ever before. Concerted efforts should be made by all the key stakeholders to ensure the care and protection of children during the second wave of COVID," he said. He suggested developing a mechanism to address interim care and needs of orphan, separated, or unaccompanied children, including clear guidance on steps to be taken in the event such a child has been exposed or has symptoms of the virus and requires a period of isolation and treatment. He further emphasised that caregivers and employees of care institutions - both government-managed and private - should be vaccinated, as frontline professionals and also that the services of these institutions should be declared as essential services. Also read | Children spread coronavirus 'more efficiently' than adults: Study Some key priorities outlined by Justice Bhat were - screening and medical care for the children in the institutional care, provision of emergency medicine, supplies, emergency access to hospitals, and a roster of doctors available for teleconsultation, and on priority vaccination of all staff working in the Child Care Institutions and other frontline Child Protection workers. Nomination of state and district level nodal officers empowered to take decisions and constitute a task force for rapid emergency response for children during COVID-19 was also highlighted. On the needs of orphaned children, he reiterated that a coordinated response, in each district, by a committee to ensure temporary foster homes as well as gather and secure all information relating to the deceased parent or parents, for future use should be set up. Each district CWC should compile all the details of such children, and their needs, it was emphasised. Justice Bhat also stated that "prevention of and response to the second wave of COVID surge requires close coordination and collaboration between child protection system and health system, a multi-sectoral response ensures that children and caregivers' needs are addressed holistically and it leads to a better outcome for children". In the review meeting, judges of all high courts and officials of various states and union territories presented the measures which are being undertaken for the care, protection, and well-being of the children during the second wave of COVID. Some of the measures by the state and union territories were setting up a state-level nodal officers and district task force for rapid response for care and protection children during the current pandemic, sponsorship for the children lost parents or the bread earners lost income or facing economic hardship. High Court juvenile justice committees represented by judges, as well as state and union territories also highlighted the measures they are taking to stop the spread of COVID-19 in child care institutions and the medical treatment and care of the children who contracted the disease. Also read | Covid in India: 3rd wave may hit kids, Mumbai prepares pediatric wards Aastha Khatwani, joint secretary in the Ministry of Women and Child Development, said, "Considering the emergency need, the ministry has issued the advisory to stop illegal adoption and care and protection of the children who have lost one either or both the parents to COVID." She further added that the ministry has developed clear, coordinated, easy to understand, community messaging on children's unique risks, vulnerabilities and need of care and protection during COVID-19, and these messages are disseminated and broadcast through social media and other channels. Vandhana Kandhari, child protection specialist of UNICEF India highlighted that "efforts to pre-emptively scale up the capacity of family-based care and social protection systems are critical to enhance family resilience and prevent unnecessary recourse to residential care". Kandhari added that in order to provide interim care to the children, extended family members, trusted friends, good neighbours and or community members can be declared a 'fit person'. Also read | Novavax starts Covid vaccine trials on children The review meeting was held with the chairpersons and members of juvenile justice committees of various high courts and was also attended by officials of Departments of Women and Child Development, Social Welfare and Health from various states and union territories.

Need to step up measures for well-being, protection of children during COVID-19 second wave: SC judge

A 300-bed Covid isolation centre came up at Calvary Temple at Miyapur here. 
 
The Calvary Temple founded by Brother Satish decided to open their premises for the treatment of Covid positive patients from an underprivileged background. 
 
The facility, inaugurated by Telangana Legislative Council Member K. Kavitha on Saturday, will offer free treatment, medicine and food to the Covid patients. 
 
The isolation centre has been developed in association with Ankura Hospital and Theresa Hospital. 
 
This facility, which will start functioning from May 10, consists of 50 oxygen beds and 250 normal beds with a staff of over 100 to look after the patients. 
 
Kavitha congratulated and thanked Brother Satish, Ankura Hospital and Theresa Hospital for their noble gesture swift initiative to cater to the needs of ailing needy and poor people. She also appealed to people to be safe and be vigilant about the safety of others. 
 
Kavitha, who is the daughter of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, requested people to adhere to Covid Protocols and practice all the precautionary measures that have been laid down for protection against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19.</a>

A 300-bed Covid isolation centre came up at Calvary Temple at Miyapur here. The Calvary Temple founded by Brother Satish decided to open their premises for the treatment of Covid positive patients from an underprivileged background.

A 300-bed Covid isolation centre came up at Calvary Temple at Miyapur here. The Calvary Temple founded by Brother Satish decided to open their premises for the treatment of Covid positive patients from an underprivileged background. The facility, inaugurated by Telangana Legislative Council Member K. Kavitha on Saturday, will offer free treatment, medicine and food to the Covid patients. The isolation centre has been developed in association with Ankura Hospital and Theresa Hospital. This facility, which will start functioning from May 10, consists of 50 oxygen beds and 250 normal beds with a staff of over 100 to look after the patients. Kavitha congratulated and thanked Brother Satish, Ankura Hospital and Theresa Hospital for their noble gesture swift initiative to cater to the needs of ailing needy and poor people. She also appealed to people to be safe and be vigilant about the safety of others. Kavitha, who is the daughter of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, requested people to adhere to Covid Protocols and practice all the precautionary measures that have been laid down for protection against Covid-19.

300-bed COVID isolation centre comes up in Hyderabad's Calvary Temple

They haven't been allowed to have each other over to their homes for a year now because of Covid. So come rain or shine, two 73-year-old&nbsp;Swedish&nbsp;twins&nbsp;have met every Saturday, each on their side of the border, on a bridge that links Norway and Sweden.

Every week, Ola and Pontus Berglund each keep well behind a thin, yet impassable line on the ground, toting camping chairs, thermoses, sandwiches, and plenty of good cheer.

"We're not allowed to cross the border. I have to stay one metre (yard) away on my side and he has to stay back one metre on his side," Ola explains, the little Norwegian and&nbsp;Swedish&nbsp;flags they've attached to the bridge fluttering in the wind.

"So basically there has to be two metres between us," he says, pushing his chair back, suddenly aware that he is too close.

At his feet, painted on the road, is a simple white line, the words "Norge" and "Sverige" on either side.

The pandemic has put a halt to the identical&nbsp;twins' weekly visits to each other's homes.

Ola lives in Halden, in southeastern Norway, where he moved almost 40 years ago for love, while Pontus lives a half-hour drive away in the southwestern&nbsp;Swedish&nbsp;town of Stromstad.

Instead, they come together here, at a more or less respectful distance, on the old Svinesund bridge that straddles a fjord between the two countries.

They've celebrated their 72nd and 73rd birthdays this way on April 20.

"It's very strange but it's become a need, a pressing need, because we used to see each other every week and we wanted to continue that," says Pontus from the&nbsp;Swedish&nbsp;side.

"The pandemic hasn't stopped us from seeing each other and for us, that's a victory."

While the local restrictions have changed over the months as the virus situation has evolved, the border has remained closed.

The closure has angered Norwegians, many of whom own summer homes in Sweden, where life is cheaper, to such an extent that they sued the Norwegian state to get it to lift the mandatory quarantine required when they return home.

'A little party'&nbsp;

The few motorists who use the bridge usually smile or wave at the two grey-bearded gents sitting in their chairs.

Ola, a former nursing assistant who now spends his time making scenery for a theatre, and Pontus, an artist and amateur ornithologist, have become local celebrities, with some people driving up to five hours just to take their photograph.

"That's not very important to us. The important thing to us is to be able to get together and talk about whatever we want," says Ola, sporting a red bow tie "because it's May 1st".

From their privileged perch, the two have, on occasion, found themselves in the role of benevolent smugglers, like the day when they delivered a puppy born in Sweden to its new family in Norway.&nbsp;

That's their fondest memory, they say.

In more than a year, they've only missed their weekly rendezvous three times, because of stubborn police who wouldn't let them onto the bridge.

Otherwise, they've kept to their schedule through blizzards or heatwaves, simply dressing for the weather.

Before the vaccination rollout, many elderly reported feeling a sense of isolation during the pandemic, as a result of having to shield themselves from the virus.

"Each meeting has been a little party," says Pontus, who is divorced. "For me who lives alone, it's really important to see Ola. Without that I'd be depressed."&nbsp;

Does he miss hugging his brother?

"Yes," he says with a contagious laugh.

"So sometimes I hug myself -- since we're identical."&nbsp;

They haven't been allowed to have each other over to their homes for a year now because of Covid. So come rain or shine, two 73-year-old Swedish twins have met every Saturday, each on their side of the border, on a bridge that links Norway and Sweden.

They haven't been allowed to have each other over to their homes for a year now because of Covid. So come rain or shine, two 73-year-old Swedish twins have met every Saturday, each on their side of the border, on a bridge that links Norway and Sweden. Every week, Ola and Pontus Berglund each keep well behind a thin, yet impassable line on the ground, toting camping chairs, thermoses, sandwiches, and plenty of good cheer. "We're not allowed to cross the border. I have to stay one metre (yard) away on my side and he has to stay back one metre on his side," Ola explains, the little Norwegian and Swedish flags they've attached to the bridge fluttering in the wind. "So basically there has to be two metres between us," he says, pushing his chair back, suddenly aware that he is too close. At his feet, painted on the road, is a simple white line, the words "Norge" and "Sverige" on either side. The pandemic has put a halt to the identical twins' weekly visits to each other's homes. Ola lives in Halden, in southeastern Norway, where he moved almost 40 years ago for love, while Pontus lives a half-hour drive away in the southwestern Swedish town of Stromstad. Instead, they come together here, at a more or less respectful distance, on the old Svinesund bridge that straddles a fjord between the two countries. They've celebrated their 72nd and 73rd birthdays this way on April 20. "It's very strange but it's become a need, a pressing need, because we used to see each other every week and we wanted to continue that," says Pontus from the Swedish side. "The pandemic hasn't stopped us from seeing each other and for us, that's a victory." While the local restrictions have changed over the months as the virus situation has evolved, the border has remained closed. The closure has angered Norwegians, many of whom own summer homes in Sweden, where life is cheaper, to such an extent that they sued the Norwegian state to get it to lift the mandatory quarantine required when they return home. 'A little party' The few motorists who use the bridge usually smile or wave at the two grey-bearded gents sitting in their chairs. Ola, a former nursing assistant who now spends his time making scenery for a theatre, and Pontus, an artist and amateur ornithologist, have become local celebrities, with some people driving up to five hours just to take their photograph. "That's not very important to us. The important thing to us is to be able to get together and talk about whatever we want," says Ola, sporting a red bow tie "because it's May 1st". From their privileged perch, the two have, on occasion, found themselves in the role of benevolent smugglers, like the day when they delivered a puppy born in Sweden to its new family in Norway. That's their fondest memory, they say. In more than a year, they've only missed their weekly rendezvous three times, because of stubborn police who wouldn't let them onto the bridge. Otherwise, they've kept to their schedule through blizzards or heatwaves, simply dressing for the weather. Before the vaccination rollout, many elderly reported feeling a sense of isolation during the pandemic, as a result of having to shield themselves from the virus. "Each meeting has been a little party," says Pontus, who is divorced. "For me who lives alone, it's really important to see Ola. Without that I'd be depressed." Does he miss hugging his brother? "Yes," he says with a contagious laugh. "So sometimes I hug myself -- since we're identical."

Border divides, and unites, Swedish twins separated by Covid

IAG, owner of&nbsp;British&nbsp;Airways&nbsp;and other European airlines, posted on Friday a net loss of 1.1 billion euros ($1.3 billion) in the first quarter as the coronavirus pandemic grounded planes.

It was a reduction, however, on the company's net loss of 1.68 billion euros in the first three months of 2020 as Covid took off, IAG said in an earnings statement.

It added that group revenue collapsed 79 per cent to 968 million euros in the first quarter of this year.

Passenger numbers dived 87 per cent compared to a year earlier at the company that owns also Spanish airline Iberia and Ireland's Aer Lingus.

"We're doing everything in our power to emerge in a stronger competitive position," IAG chief executive Luis Gallego said in the earnings statement.

Its earnings update came a day after rival Air France-KLM posted a net loss totalling 1.5 billion euros for the first quarter.

International travel

IAG said it would not be providing 2021 profit guidance "given the uncertainty over the timing of the lifting of government travel restrictions and the continued impact and duration of Covid-19".

Britain's government is Friday set to reveal which foreign destinations people can fly to without quarantining.

The UK has set a date of May 17 to relaunch international travel using a "traffic-light" system.

Travel destinations will be ranked green, amber or red according to virus risk, according to the government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

International travel to and from the UK is banned except for a handful of permitted reasons. This has created massive pent-up demand for summer holidays abroad.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-air-france-klm-falls-further-into-red-as-european-recovery-lags-383389/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We're absolutely confident that a safe re-start to travel can happen as shown by the scientific data," Gallego added in the earnings statement.

"We're ready to fly, but government action is needed."

He called for "travel corridors without restrictions between countries with successful vaccination rollouts and effective testing such as the UK and the US".

Gallego added there needed to be affordable and simple testing, well-staffed borders and digital passes for testing and vaccination documentation.

"These measures will enable a safe re-opening of our skies," the IAG boss said.&nbsp;

"There's a high level of pent-up demand and aviation will play a critical role in reconnecting people and getting economies back up and running again."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-starts-distributing-15-billion-in-payroll-aid-to-airlines-357099">US Treasury starts distributing $15 billion in payroll aid to airlines</a>

Owing to Covid fallout, IAG has axed around 10,000 jobs at&nbsp;British&nbsp;Airways, or one quarter of the carrier's workforce and has cut 500 positions at Aer Lingus.

IAG meanwhile plunged into a record annual net loss of 6.9 billion euros in 2020.

IAG, owner of British Airways and other European airlines, posted on Friday a net loss of 1.1 billion euros ($1.3 billion) in the first quarter as the coronavirus pandemic grounded planes.

IAG, owner of British Airways and other European airlines, posted on Friday a net loss of 1.1 billion euros ($1.3 billion) in the first quarter as the coronavirus pandemic grounded planes. It was a reduction, however, on the company's net loss of 1.68 billion euros in the first three months of 2020 as Covid took off, IAG said in an earnings statement. It added that group revenue collapsed 79 per cent to 968 million euros in the first quarter of this year. Passenger numbers dived 87 per cent compared to a year earlier at the company that owns also Spanish airline Iberia and Ireland's Aer Lingus. "We're doing everything in our power to emerge in a stronger competitive position," IAG chief executive Luis Gallego said in the earnings statement. Its earnings update came a day after rival Air France-KLM posted a net loss totalling 1.5 billion euros for the first quarter. International travel IAG said it would not be providing 2021 profit guidance "given the uncertainty over the timing of the lifting of government travel restrictions and the continued impact and duration of Covid-19". Britain's government is Friday set to reveal which foreign destinations people can fly to without quarantining. The UK has set a date of May 17 to relaunch international travel using a "traffic-light" system. Travel destinations will be ranked green, amber or red according to virus risk, according to the government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. International travel to and from the UK is banned except for a handful of permitted reasons. This has created massive pent-up demand for summer holidays abroad. "We're absolutely confident that a safe re-start to travel can happen as shown by the scientific data," Gallego added in the earnings statement. "We're ready to fly, but government action is needed." He called for "travel corridors without restrictions between countries with successful vaccination rollouts and effective testing such as the UK and the US". Gallego added there needed to be affordable and simple testing, well-staffed borders and digital passes for testing and vaccination documentation. "These measures will enable a safe re-opening of our skies," the IAG boss said. "There's a high level of pent-up demand and aviation will play a critical role in reconnecting people and getting economies back up and running again." Also read | US Treasury starts distributing $15 billion in payroll aid to airlines Owing to Covid fallout, IAG has axed around 10,000 jobs at British Airways, or one quarter of the carrier's workforce and has cut 500 positions at Aer Lingus. IAG meanwhile plunged into a record annual net loss of 6.9 billion euros in 2020.

British Airlines parent IAG loss tops 1 billion Euros in first quarter

Scottish National Party (SNP) on Saturday appeared likely to fall short of gaining absolute majority in the devolved parliament. The SNP strongly favours a fresh Scottiosh independence referendum. The plan has been termed reckless by UK PM Boris Johnson.

The UK voted in local and regional elections on "Super Thursday" in its first major polls since Brexit and the pandemic. The count is much slower than usual due to virus safety measures.

Johnson's Conservative Party has performed strongly in England, outdoing Labour in its traditional heartlands and taking control of northeastern Hartlepool in a key parliamentary by-election.

Labour held onto power in the Senedd Cymru devolved parliament in Wales and also won several high-profile mayoral races.

However, the focus remained on Scotland. where a vote for the devolved parliament in Edinburgh saw the ruling SNP seek a parliamentary majority as a mandate for a fresh referendum on independence, or "indyref2", that could reshape the UK.

SNP has so far won 60 of the 71 declared seats. However, it has had to concede defeat on several target seats. The BBC has projected that SNP would get 63 seats in total.

Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon said Saturday the devolved parliament would undoubtedly have a majority of members who back independence from the United Kingdom following elections.

SNP is going towards fourth successive term in power but to claim majority, it would need 65 out of 129 seats.

Scots vote twice, once for a constituency MSP and once for a party, with those votes allocated regionally.&nbsp;

The proportional representation system is designed to prevent a single party like the SNP dominating.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Scottish National Party (SNP) on Saturday appeared likely to fall short of gaining absolute majority in the devolved parliament. The SNP strongly favours a fresh Scottiosh independence referendum.

Scottish National Party (SNP) on Saturday appeared likely to fall short of gaining absolute majority in the devolved parliament. The SNP strongly favours a fresh Scottiosh independence referendum. The plan has been termed reckless by UK PM Boris Johnson. The UK voted in local and regional elections on "Super Thursday" in its first major polls since Brexit and the pandemic. The count is much slower than usual due to virus safety measures. Johnson's Conservative Party has performed strongly in England, outdoing Labour in its traditional heartlands and taking control of northeastern Hartlepool in a key parliamentary by-election. Labour held onto power in the Senedd Cymru devolved parliament in Wales and also won several high-profile mayoral races. However, the focus remained on Scotland. where a vote for the devolved parliament in Edinburgh saw the ruling SNP seek a parliamentary majority as a mandate for a fresh referendum on independence, or "indyref2", that could reshape the UK. SNP has so far won 60 of the 71 declared seats. However, it has had to concede defeat on several target seats. The BBC has projected that SNP would get 63 seats in total. Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon said Saturday the devolved parliament would undoubtedly have a majority of members who back independence from the United Kingdom following elections. SNP is going towards fourth successive term in power but to claim majority, it would need 65 out of 129 seats. Scots vote twice, once for a constituency MSP and once for a party, with those votes allocated regionally. The proportional representation system is designed to prevent a single party like the SNP dominating. (With inputs from agencies)

Scottish National Party projected to fall short of majority

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud.

In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months.

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6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support &amp; special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed <a href="https://t.co/PRZMNChT7f">pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f</a>
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1390690145079218184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270.

401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676.

Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom. Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months. 6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support & special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f — Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) May 7, 2021 × India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270. 401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676. Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia steps up, assures supply of medical Oxygen to India

Multiple blasts targeted a school in the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday killing at least 40 people and wounding dozens more, mostly students, a senior interior ministry official said.

The official told Reuters on condition of anonymity that most of the casualties were students coming out of the Sayed ul Shuhada school.

A spokesman for the interior ministry, Tariq Arian, put the death toll at least 25 and did not specify the cause or the target.

Ghulam Dastagir Nazari, the spokesman for the health ministry, said 46 people had been taken to hospitals so far.

Kabul is on high alert since Washington announced plans last month to pull out all US&nbsp;troops by September&nbsp;11, with Afghan officials saying the Taliban have stepped up attacks across the country.

No group has claimed responsibility for Saturday's attack. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid denied the insurgent group's involvement and condemned the incident.

The explosions took place in the western part of Kabul, a heavily Shi’ite Muslim neighbourhood that has frequently been attacked by Islamic State militants over the years.

The school is a joint high school for girls and boys, who study in three shifts, the second of which is for female students, Najiba Arian, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Education, told Reuters.

The wounded are mostly female students, she said.

"The horrendous attack in Dasht-i Barchi area in Kabul, is an despicable act of terrorism," the European Union's mission in Afghanistan said on Twitter.

"Targeting primarily students in a girls’ school, makes this an attack on the future of Afghanistan."

Multiple blasts targeted a school in the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday killing at least 40 people and wounding dozens more, mostly students, a senior interior ministry official said.

Multiple blasts targeted a school in the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday killing at least 40 people and wounding dozens more, mostly students, a senior interior ministry official said. The official told Reuters on condition of anonymity that most of the casualties were students coming out of the Sayed ul Shuhada school. A spokesman for the interior ministry, Tariq Arian, put the death toll at least 25 and did not specify the cause or the target. Ghulam Dastagir Nazari, the spokesman for the health ministry, said 46 people had been taken to hospitals so far. Kabul is on high alert since Washington announced plans last month to pull out all US troops by September 11, with Afghan officials saying the Taliban have stepped up attacks across the country. No group has claimed responsibility for Saturday's attack. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid denied the insurgent group's involvement and condemned the incident. The explosions took place in the western part of Kabul, a heavily Shi’ite Muslim neighbourhood that has frequently been attacked by Islamic State militants over the years. The school is a joint high school for girls and boys, who study in three shifts, the second of which is for female students, Najiba Arian, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Education, told Reuters. The wounded are mostly female students, she said. "The horrendous attack in Dasht-i Barchi area in Kabul, is an despicable act of terrorism," the European Union's mission in Afghanistan said on Twitter. "Targeting primarily students in a girls’ school, makes this an attack on the future of Afghanistan."

Blasts targetting Afghan school in Kabul kill 40, injure dozens

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