Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country.

Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official.

The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000).

Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security".

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic.

Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage.

Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff.

Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata".

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country. Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official. The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000). Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security". Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic. Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014 Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff. Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days.

If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation.

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Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling.

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

(With inputs from agencies)

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation. FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days. If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation. × Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling. Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court may declare Alexei Navalny's group an extremist outfit

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave.

In his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast, Modi spoke to doctors, nurses and frontline workers, who shared their experience and views on the disease, and expressed confidence that people will soon come out of this crisis.

The over 30-minute broadcast was entirely focussed on the pandemic, which has been rampaging across the country for weeks, with Modi asserting that defeating the disease is the biggest priority.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

He urged countrymen to go for vaccination against the disease and cautioned them against rumours about it. 
The Centre, he said, will continue to provide jabs free of cost to the eligible people (those over 45 years of age) and has been helping states in their efforts to deal with the disease with its full might.

"We have to give priority to the expert and scientific advice at this time to win this battle," he said.

While people are getting affected by the disease, they are also recovering from it in big numbers, he said.

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave.

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast, Modi spoke to doctors, nurses and frontline workers, who shared their experience and views on the disease, and expressed confidence that people will soon come out of this crisis. The over 30-minute broadcast was entirely focussed on the pandemic, which has been rampaging across the country for weeks, with Modi asserting that defeating the disease is the biggest priority. Also Read | US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic He urged countrymen to go for vaccination against the disease and cautioned them against rumours about it. The Centre, he said, will continue to provide jabs free of cost to the eligible people (those over 45 years of age) and has been helping states in their efforts to deal with the disease with its full might. "We have to give priority to the expert and scientific advice at this time to win this battle," he said. While people are getting affected by the disease, they are also recovering from it in big numbers, he said.

Mann Ki Baat: We will soon come out of Covid crisis, says PM Modi

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days.

The strikes hit what the military described as "terror targets" operated by Gaza's Islamist ruling party Hamas. They included a "training facility, an anti-aircraft missile launcher post, a concrete production plant &amp; terror tunnel infrastructure".

Witnesses and security sources said the strikes hit two militant "training sites" in southern Gaza and another target in central Gaza.A Hamas spokesman said that despite the Israeli action, "Gaza still fights and doesn't break."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nighttime-clashes-in-east-jerusalem-flare-palestine-israel-tensions-379636">Nighttime clashes in East Jerusalem flare Palestine-Israel tensions</a>

The strikes came hours after militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket into southern Israel.&nbsp;An Israeli army spokesperson said the rocket hit open ground and caused no casualties or damage.

It was the second such exchange in recent days. Late Thursday, Palestinian militants fired a rocket at southern Israel, prompting the army to launch retaliatory air strikes on Gaza that caused no casualties.

Israel imposed a blockade of Gaza's sea and land borders after Hamas seized control in 2007. The two sides have since fought three wars.&nbsp;A fragile truce has endured in recent years despite occasional flareups, with Palestinians firing rockets at Israel and the Jewish state responding with airstrikes on the coastal enclave.

&nbsp;

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days.

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days. The strikes hit what the military described as "terror targets" operated by Gaza's Islamist ruling party Hamas. They included a "training facility, an anti-aircraft missile launcher post, a concrete production plant & terror tunnel infrastructure". Witnesses and security sources said the strikes hit two militant "training sites" in southern Gaza and another target in central Gaza.A Hamas spokesman said that despite the Israeli action, "Gaza still fights and doesn't break." Also Read | Nighttime clashes in East Jerusalem flare Palestine-Israel tensions The strikes came hours after militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket into southern Israel. An Israeli army spokesperson said the rocket hit open ground and caused no casualties or damage. It was the second such exchange in recent days. Late Thursday, Palestinian militants fired a rocket at southern Israel, prompting the army to launch retaliatory air strikes on Gaza that caused no casualties. Israel imposed a blockade of Gaza's sea and land borders after Hamas seized control in 2007. The two sides have since fought three wars. A fragile truce has endured in recent years despite occasional flareups, with Palestinians firing rockets at Israel and the Jewish state responding with airstrikes on the coastal enclave.

Israel strikes Gaza after rocket attack

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks.

The Nikkei newspaper said on Sunday the government will open a vaccination site in central Tokyo as early as May&nbsp;

The paper said that the site will be open to anyone living and working in Tokyo. Medically trained staff from Japan's self defence forces will assist with vaccination.

While Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by many countries, the government has come under sharp criticism for its sluggish vaccination roll-out, which has been handled mostly by municipal authorities. Only about 1% of its population has been vaccinated, according to a Reuters tracker.

There has been a recent surge in infections. This has been driven by the spread of &nbsp;a variant has also stoked alarm and there is a critical shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas.

Japan only started vaccinating its sizable elderly population this month and health experts say it may take till the winter or longer for most of the general populace to get access to shots.

Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said on Sunday if the government was able to secure enough vaccines to inoculate the elderly by the end of July, vaccinations for those under 65 could start that month, according to a Kyodo report.

Japan's third state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka and two other prefectures began on Sunday, affecting nearly a quarter of the population as the country attempts to combat the surge in cases three months before the Tokyo Olympics is set to open.

Japan has had about 550,000 cases and 9,761 deaths to date.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks.

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks. The Nikkei newspaper said on Sunday the government will open a vaccination site in central Tokyo as early as May The paper said that the site will be open to anyone living and working in Tokyo. Medically trained staff from Japan's self defence forces will assist with vaccination. While Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by many countries, the government has come under sharp criticism for its sluggish vaccination roll-out, which has been handled mostly by municipal authorities. Only about 1% of its population has been vaccinated, according to a Reuters tracker. There has been a recent surge in infections. This has been driven by the spread of a variant has also stoked alarm and there is a critical shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas. Japan only started vaccinating its sizable elderly population this month and health experts say it may take till the winter or longer for most of the general populace to get access to shots. Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said on Sunday if the government was able to secure enough vaccines to inoculate the elderly by the end of July, vaccinations for those under 65 could start that month, according to a Kyodo report. Japan's third state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka and two other prefectures began on Sunday, affecting nearly a quarter of the population as the country attempts to combat the surge in cases three months before the Tokyo Olympics is set to open. Japan has had about 550,000 cases and 9,761 deaths to date. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to open vaccination centres capable of handling 10,000 people: Report 

The European Union called out China on Saturday for endangering peace in the South China Sea and urged all parties to abide by a 2016 tribunal ruling which rejected most of China's claim to sovereignty in the sea, but which Beijing has rejected.

The EU last week released a new policy aimed at stepping up its influence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's rising power.

The Philippines on Friday protested to China over its failure to withdraw what it called as "threatening" boats believed to be manned by maritime militia around the disputed Whitsun Reef, which Manila calls the Julian Felipe Reef.

"Tensions in the South China Sea, including the recent presence of large Chinese vessels at Whitsun Reef, endanger peace and stability in the region," a EU spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday.

EU reiterated its strong opposition to "unilateral actions that could undermine regional stability and international rules-based order".

It urged all parties to resolve disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, and highlighted a 2016 international arbitration that had ruled in favor of the Philippines while invalidating most of China's claims in the South China Sea.

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China rejected EU's accusation that its ships at Whitsun Reef, which China calls Niu'E Jiao, had endangered peace and security.

The Chinese Mission to the EU in a statement on Saturday reiterated that the reef is part of China's Nansha Islands, or Spratly Islands, and that it was "reasonable and lawful" for Chinese fishing boats to operate there and shelter from the wind.

The Chinese statement also insisted that China's sovereignty, rights and interests in the South China Sea were formed in the "long course of history and consistent with international law" and rejected the 2016 tribunal ruling as "null and void".

"The South China Sea should not become a tool for certain countries to contain and suppress China, much less a wrestling ground for major-power rivalry," the Chinese statement said.

China is increasingly worried that Europe and other countries are heeding U.S. President Joe Biden's call for a "coordinated approach" towards China, which had so far materialised in the form of sanctions over its security crackdown in Hong Kong and treatment of Uyghur Muslims.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month said Washington "stands by its ally, the Philippines," in the face of China’s massing maritime militia at Whitsun Reef.

The European Union called out China on Saturday for endangering peace in the South China Sea and urged all parties to abide by a 2016 tribunal ruling which rejected most of China's claim to sovereignty in the sea, but which Beijing has rejected.

The European Union called out China on Saturday for endangering peace in the South China Sea and urged all parties to abide by a 2016 tribunal ruling which rejected most of China's claim to sovereignty in the sea, but which Beijing has rejected. The EU last week released a new policy aimed at stepping up its influence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's rising power. The Philippines on Friday protested to China over its failure to withdraw what it called as "threatening" boats believed to be manned by maritime militia around the disputed Whitsun Reef, which Manila calls the Julian Felipe Reef. "Tensions in the South China Sea, including the recent presence of large Chinese vessels at Whitsun Reef, endanger peace and stability in the region," a EU spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday. EU reiterated its strong opposition to "unilateral actions that could undermine regional stability and international rules-based order". It urged all parties to resolve disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, and highlighted a 2016 international arbitration that had ruled in favor of the Philippines while invalidating most of China's claims in the South China Sea. China rejected EU's accusation that its ships at Whitsun Reef, which China calls Niu'E Jiao, had endangered peace and security. The Chinese Mission to the EU in a statement on Saturday reiterated that the reef is part of China's Nansha Islands, or Spratly Islands, and that it was "reasonable and lawful" for Chinese fishing boats to operate there and shelter from the wind. The Chinese statement also insisted that China's sovereignty, rights and interests in the South China Sea were formed in the "long course of history and consistent with international law" and rejected the 2016 tribunal ruling as "null and void". "The South China Sea should not become a tool for certain countries to contain and suppress China, much less a wrestling ground for major-power rivalry," the Chinese statement said. China is increasingly worried that Europe and other countries are heeding U.S. President Joe Biden's call for a "coordinated approach" towards China, which had so far materialised in the form of sanctions over its security crackdown in Hong Kong and treatment of Uyghur Muslims. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month said Washington "stands by its ally, the Philippines," in the face of China’s massing maritime militia at Whitsun Reef.

EU blames China for endangering peace in South China Sea

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

According to the data updated at 8 am, the death toll increased to 1,92,311 with&nbsp;a record 2,767&nbsp;daily new fatalities.

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 26,82,751, this figure comprises&nbsp;about 15.82 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has now further dropped to 83.05 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,40,85,110, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.13 per cent, the data stated.&nbsp;

Taking a look at last year's figures, India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,00,000&nbsp;mark on August 7, 3,00,000&nbsp;on August 23, 4,00,000 on September 5 and 500,000 on September 16. It went past 600,000 on September 28, 7,00,000 on October 11, crossed 8,00,000 on October 29, 9,00,000 on November 20 and surpassed the 10 Million&nbsp;mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of 15 Million on April 19. According to the ICMR, 27,79,18,810 samples have been tested up to April 25 with 17,19,588 samples being tested on Saturday.&nbsp;

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. According to the data updated at 8 am, the death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 26,82,751, this figure comprises about 15.82 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has now further dropped to 83.05 per cent. Also read | US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,40,85,110, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.13 per cent, the data stated. Taking a look at last year's figures, India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,00,000 mark on August 7, 3,00,000 on August 23, 4,00,000 on September 5 and 500,000 on September 16. It went past 600,000 on September 28, 7,00,000 on October 11, crossed 8,00,000 on October 29, 9,00,000 on November 20 and surpassed the 10 Million mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 15 Million on April 19. According to the ICMR, 27,79,18,810 samples have been tested up to April 25 with 17,19,588 samples being tested on Saturday.

India adds record over 349,000 new COVID-19 cases in single day

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday.

"We have affirmed our availability to observe a truce, a ceasefire... but this morning we were bombarded again", Mahamat Mahadi Ali, head of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) said when contacted by AFP from Libreville in Gabon.&nbsp;

But Mahadi Ali warned that the ceasefire had to be observed by both sides.

"We cannot respect the truce unilaterally. A truce must be made on both sides. We will not fold our arms and let ourselves be massacred," he said.

In response, a spokesman for the military council headed by Idriss Deby's son and successor, Mahamat Idriss Deby, said: "They are rebels, which is why we are bombing them. We are waging war, that's all."&nbsp;

On Friday, Chad staged a state funeral for Idriss Deby Itno, a linchpin in the fight against the Sahel's jihadist insurgency, and France and regional allies voiced backing for Mahamat Idriss Deby.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron, in his tribute to the fallen president, said: "You lived as a soldier, you died as a soldier, weapons in your hands".

"France will never let anyone, either today or tomorrow, challenge Chad's stability and integrity," Macron pledged.

But Macron also called on the newly-appointed military government to foster "stability, inclusion, dialogue, democratic transition".

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday.

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday. "We have affirmed our availability to observe a truce, a ceasefire... but this morning we were bombarded again", Mahamat Mahadi Ali, head of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) said when contacted by AFP from Libreville in Gabon. But Mahadi Ali warned that the ceasefire had to be observed by both sides. "We cannot respect the truce unilaterally. A truce must be made on both sides. We will not fold our arms and let ourselves be massacred," he said. In response, a spokesman for the military council headed by Idriss Deby's son and successor, Mahamat Idriss Deby, said: "They are rebels, which is why we are bombing them. We are waging war, that's all." On Friday, Chad staged a state funeral for Idriss Deby Itno, a linchpin in the fight against the Sahel's jihadist insurgency, and France and regional allies voiced backing for Mahamat Idriss Deby. French President Emmanuel Macron, in his tribute to the fallen president, said: "You lived as a soldier, you died as a soldier, weapons in your hands". "France will never let anyone, either today or tomorrow, challenge Chad's stability and integrity," Macron pledged. But Macron also called on the newly-appointed military government to foster "stability, inclusion, dialogue, democratic transition".

Chad rebels 'prepared to observe ceasefire', chief tells AFP

The US has indicated that it will help India in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan tweeted to say that work was underway 'round the clock' to come to India's aid. In other news, Myanmar's shadow government has welcomed ASEAN leaders' call for an end to violence in the country. Read this and more in our morning news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

<img alt="Jake Sullivan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f03ec8c2-6581-4280-bf27-af48a9ab6efc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jake%20Sullivan.JPG" />

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said further that US was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-shadow-government-welcomes-asean-call-for-an-end-to-violence-379969">Myanmar shadow government welcomes ASEAN call for an end to violence</a>

<img alt="ASEAN" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9285d29-6b94-448a-a320-04872b7c6ae0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ASEAN.JPG" />

Myanmar military junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing attended a high-level summit on Saturday with leaders from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccine-doses-cross-one-billion-mark-worldwide-379965">Covid vaccine doses cross one billion mark worldwide</a>

<img alt="Covid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c119d2c-540f-4ab5-910b-2f3d0daf413e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/One%20billion.JPG" />

The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-fire-at-covid-hospital-claims-at-least-23-lives-379960">Iraq: Fire at Covid hospital claims at least 23 lives</a>

<img alt="Iraq" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="476830cc-05a9-422d-8f88-fb6650504b23" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iraq_0.JPG" />

The prime minister has called for an investigation

Bharat Biotech releases Covaxin's price ahead of India's phase 3 of vaccination

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&nbsp;

The US has indicated that it will help India in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan tweeted to say that work was underway 'round the clock' to come to India's aid.

The US has indicated that it will help India in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan tweeted to say that work was underway 'round the clock' to come to India's aid. In other news, Myanmar's shadow government has welcomed ASEAN leaders' call for an end to violence in the country. Read this and more in our morning news brief. US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said further that US was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation Myanmar shadow government welcomes ASEAN call for an end to violence Myanmar military junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing attended a high-level summit on Saturday with leaders from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations Covid vaccine doses cross one billion mark worldwide The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019 Iraq: Fire at Covid hospital claims at least 23 lives The prime minister has called for an investigation Bharat Biotech releases Covaxin's price ahead of India's phase 3 of vaccination ×

Morning news brief: US to help India fight pandemic, Myanmar updates, more

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections. Sullivan said that US was "deeply concerned" about the latest Covid outbreak in India&nbsp;and that it was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation.

"The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic," tweeted Sullivan.

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The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon.
— Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeSullivan46/status/1386154975668080644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes," tweeted Antony Blinken

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Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1386148447179493380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Reuters quoted a White House spokesperson to say that US was planning to quickly deploy additional support to Indian government.

"We are in active conversations at high levels and plan to quickly deploy additional support to the Government of India and Indian health care workers as they battle this latest severe outbreak. We will have more to share very soon," the spokeswoman told Reuters via email.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections. Sullivan said that US was "deeply concerned" about the latest Covid outbreak in India and that it was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation. "The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic," tweeted Sullivan. The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon. — Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) April 25, 2021 × "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes," tweeted Antony Blinken Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) April 25, 2021 × Reuters quoted a White House spokesperson to say that US was planning to quickly deploy additional support to Indian government. "We are in active conversations at high levels and plan to quickly deploy additional support to the Government of India and Indian health care workers as they battle this latest severe outbreak. We will have more to share very soon," the spokeswoman told Reuters via email. (With inputs from agencies)

US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic

Myanmar's shadow government comprising of ousted lawmakers has welcomed a call by leaders of Southeast Asian nations for end to "military violence". Myanmar military junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing attended a high-level summit on Saturday with leaders from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations. The ASEAN leaders discussed mounting crisis in Myanmar.

Myanmar military ousted civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. The country has been rocked by pro-democracy protests ever since. Security forces have adopted a strong-handed approach to quell the dissent.

The ASEAN meeting produced a consensus that there would be "an immediate cessation of violence in Myanmar", said a statement released by the bloc Saturday night.

ASEAN will also have a special envoy to "facilitate mediation" between all parties, and this representative will be able to travel to Myanmar.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nations-say-reach-consensus-on-ending-myanmar-crisis-at-asean-meet-379887">Nations say reach consensus on ending Myanmar crisis at ASEAN meet&nbsp;</a>

A spokesperson from a shadow government of ousted lawmakers -- many of whom are from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party -- on Saturday welcomed the call for an end to violence in Myanmar as "encouraging news".

"This is what the National Unity Government has been calling for," said the NUG's minister of international cooperation known as Dr Sasa, who is currently in hiding with the rest of his fellow lawmakers.

"We eagerly await the engagement by the (ASEAN) secretary general... we look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and restore our democracy and freedom for our people and for the region."&nbsp;

The lawmakers of the NUG are currently wanted for high treason by the junta.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar's shadow government comprising of ousted lawmakers has welcomed a call by leaders of Southeast Asian nations for end to "military violence". Myanmar military junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing attended a high-level summit on Saturday with leaders from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations.

Myanmar's shadow government comprising of ousted lawmakers has welcomed a call by leaders of Southeast Asian nations for end to "military violence". Myanmar military junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing attended a high-level summit on Saturday with leaders from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations. The ASEAN leaders discussed mounting crisis in Myanmar. Myanmar military ousted civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. The country has been rocked by pro-democracy protests ever since. Security forces have adopted a strong-handed approach to quell the dissent. The ASEAN meeting produced a consensus that there would be "an immediate cessation of violence in Myanmar", said a statement released by the bloc Saturday night. ASEAN will also have a special envoy to "facilitate mediation" between all parties, and this representative will be able to travel to Myanmar. Also Read | Nations say reach consensus on ending Myanmar crisis at ASEAN meet A spokesperson from a shadow government of ousted lawmakers -- many of whom are from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party -- on Saturday welcomed the call for an end to violence in Myanmar as "encouraging news". "This is what the National Unity Government has been calling for," said the NUG's minister of international cooperation known as Dr Sasa, who is currently in hiding with the rest of his fellow lawmakers. "We eagerly await the engagement by the (ASEAN) secretary general... we look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and restore our democracy and freedom for our people and for the region." The lawmakers of the NUG are currently wanted for high treason by the junta. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar shadow government welcomes ASEAN call for an end to violence

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally.

The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019.

In addition to spike in number of infections in India, Thailand was seen to be grappling with increasing caseload. Thailand had long avoided worst of the pandemic. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said on Saturday that more than 1400 Covid-19 patients were awaiting admission in hospitals.

In India, one "oxygen express" carrying 30,000 litres of oxygen arrived in northern Lucknow at dawn on Saturday.

In Iraq, at least 23 lives were lost in a tragic fire at a Covid hospital.

Accelerating rollouts

With the pandemic still showing no sign of slowing, governments around the world are placing their hopes in vaccines. Worldwide, the number of vaccine doses administered has doubled in less than a month

Nevertheless, while the majority of poor countries have also started to vaccinate -- mainly thanks to the Covax programme -- inoculation is still largely a privilege of high-income countries, home to 16 percent of the world's population, administering 47 percent of vaccine doses.

A stark contrast can be seen in low-income countries which account for just 0.2 per cent of coronavirus vaccine shots thus far.

 
In the US, regulators have approved the re-start of a rollout of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines halted over blood clotting concerns.

In Europe, Belgium said Saturday it would authorise the J&amp;J shot for all adults, having already received 36,000 doses and expecting a total of 1.4 million between April and June.

The European Union as a whole said it would have enough vaccines to immunise 70 percent of its adult population by the end of July.&nbsp;

Lockdown protests

But despite the optimism, the threat of the virus remains ever-present, with Germany implementing tougher new lockdown rules, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections.

The controversial new rules -- passed this week amid huge protests in Berlin -- will apply in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days. 
And in Britain, ongoing restrictions are continuing to fuel anger.

Police in London said they arrested five people, and eight officers were injured, after disorder at large-scale protests against England's remaining coronavirus restrictions, the mandatory use of masks and possible introduction of so-called vaccine passports.

Britain began to gradually lift Covid-19 restrictions last month after months of curbs and a successful mass vaccination campaign. Pubs were allowed to serve customers outdoors this month and non-essential shops reopened.

The demonstrators marched along several major arteries, including the main shopping district Oxford Street, with videos and photos showing thousands in attendance.

Hundreds then rallied in Hyde Park late afternoon following the march.

Organisers used various websites and online platform pages to encourage turnout, despite curbs which limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally.

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally. The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019. In addition to spike in number of infections in India, Thailand was seen to be grappling with increasing caseload. Thailand had long avoided worst of the pandemic. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said on Saturday that more than 1400 Covid-19 patients were awaiting admission in hospitals. In India, one "oxygen express" carrying 30,000 litres of oxygen arrived in northern Lucknow at dawn on Saturday. In Iraq, at least 23 lives were lost in a tragic fire at a Covid hospital. Accelerating rollouts With the pandemic still showing no sign of slowing, governments around the world are placing their hopes in vaccines. Worldwide, the number of vaccine doses administered has doubled in less than a month Nevertheless, while the majority of poor countries have also started to vaccinate -- mainly thanks to the Covax programme -- inoculation is still largely a privilege of high-income countries, home to 16 percent of the world's population, administering 47 percent of vaccine doses. A stark contrast can be seen in low-income countries which account for just 0.2 per cent of coronavirus vaccine shots thus far. In the US, regulators have approved the re-start of a rollout of Johnson & Johnson vaccines halted over blood clotting concerns. In Europe, Belgium said Saturday it would authorise the J&J shot for all adults, having already received 36,000 doses and expecting a total of 1.4 million between April and June. The European Union as a whole said it would have enough vaccines to immunise 70 percent of its adult population by the end of July. Lockdown protests But despite the optimism, the threat of the virus remains ever-present, with Germany implementing tougher new lockdown rules, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections. The controversial new rules -- passed this week amid huge protests in Berlin -- will apply in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days. And in Britain, ongoing restrictions are continuing to fuel anger. Police in London said they arrested five people, and eight officers were injured, after disorder at large-scale protests against England's remaining coronavirus restrictions, the mandatory use of masks and possible introduction of so-called vaccine passports. Britain began to gradually lift Covid-19 restrictions last month after months of curbs and a successful mass vaccination campaign. Pubs were allowed to serve customers outdoors this month and non-essential shops reopened. The demonstrators marched along several major arteries, including the main shopping district Oxford Street, with videos and photos showing thousands in attendance. Hundreds then rallied in Hyde Park late afternoon following the march. Organisers used various websites and online platform pages to encourage turnout, despite curbs which limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccine doses cross one billion mark worldwide

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