Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility.

Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020.

The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection.

There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant.

However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant.

Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility.

Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain. The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility. Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020. The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection. There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant. However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant. Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility. Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

UK COVID variant spreads faster but no evidence of worse symptoms: Study

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand.

"I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today," Chauvin said. He is facing murder and manslaughter charges.

Derek Chauvin was seen in a video pinning 46-year-old black man George Floyd down on the ground with his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Floyd could be seen saying "I can't breathe" in the video. He died soon afterward. The horrific incident took place on May 25, 2020.

George Floyd's death led to massive protests across US that sought to highlight police brutality targetted at African-Americans in the country. It was said that had George Floyd been a white man, he would not have received the unimaginable treatment resulting into his death.

(With inputs from agencies)

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand.

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand. "I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today," Chauvin said. He is facing murder and manslaughter charges. Derek Chauvin was seen in a video pinning 46-year-old black man George Floyd down on the ground with his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Floyd could be seen saying "I can't breathe" in the video. He died soon afterward. The horrific incident took place on May 25, 2020. George Floyd's death led to massive protests across US that sought to highlight police brutality targetted at African-Americans in the country. It was said that had George Floyd been a white man, he would not have received the unimaginable treatment resulting into his death. (With inputs from agencies)

George Floyd trial: Derek Chauvin chooses not to testify

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week.

The 2015 nuclear deal was struck with Iran by USA, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. Iran's refusal to hold direct talks with the US has had European intermediaries shuttling between separate hotels in Vienna last week.

Senior diplomats, excluding the United States, initially met to set the tone on Thursday in what diplomats anticipated would be a tougher round of talks to salvage the pact.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-programme-peaceful-mistake-for-us-to-express-concerns-rouhani-377735">Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani</a>

Two expert-level groups, seeking to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet, have now resumed their discussions.

"Currently I think the nuclear working group is more advanced, much more advanced, than (the) sanctions-lifting working group," Wang Qun, China`s ambassador to the U.N. atomic watchdog, told reporters after the Joint Commission meeting of senior officials.

"So currently we should do away with all disruptive factors, moving forward as swiftly as we can on the work of negotiation, especially by zeroing in on sanctions-lifting."

Iran`s foreign ministry said its negotiators had defended their decisions and expressed their disappointment at "the weak reaction" from European powers to the attack on Natanz.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week.

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week. The 2015 nuclear deal was struck with Iran by USA, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. Iran's refusal to hold direct talks with the US has had European intermediaries shuttling between separate hotels in Vienna last week. Senior diplomats, excluding the United States, initially met to set the tone on Thursday in what diplomats anticipated would be a tougher round of talks to salvage the pact. Also Read | Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani Two expert-level groups, seeking to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet, have now resumed their discussions. "Currently I think the nuclear working group is more advanced, much more advanced, than (the) sanctions-lifting working group," Wang Qun, China`s ambassador to the U.N. atomic watchdog, told reporters after the Joint Commission meeting of senior officials. "So currently we should do away with all disruptive factors, moving forward as swiftly as we can on the work of negotiation, especially by zeroing in on sanctions-lifting." Iran`s foreign ministry said its negotiators had defended their decisions and expressed their disappointment at "the weak reaction" from European powers to the attack on Natanz. (With inputs from agencies)

Talks resume in Vienna on Iran nuclear deal revival

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action".

US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's&nbsp;"destabilising activities", an alliance statement said.

"NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said.&nbsp;

Russia talks tough

Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'.

Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties.

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">Kremlin expressed its displeasure</a> as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions&nbsp;would&nbsp;"not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin</a>

Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack. The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action". US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's "destabilising activities", an alliance statement said. "NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said. Russia talks tough Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'. Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties. Earlier, Kremlin expressed its displeasure as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions would "not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. Also Read | US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation. (With inputs from agencies)

US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday.

He said that the main concern should not create "space for other disruptors" and therefore, see violence continue in Afghanistan.

India wants to see peace and tranquility returning to the region, he added.

"We would be very happy to provide whatever support we can in the development of Afghanistan and making sure peace returns to that nation. People have got tired and are looking at peace," General Rawat said speaking in a virtual discussion at the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2021.

Asked whether it was Iran and Pakistan that could exploit the situation, the Chief of Defence Staff said there are many nations that would like to step into Afghanistan.

"Many people are looking at the opportunity to exploit the vacuum that is being created. Afghanistan is a nation which is rich in resources," he said.

Noting there are nations "that tend to exploit resources for their own benefit without the benefit going to the community of that nation", he said: "The international community must step in to ensure Afghanistan is for the Afghans."

President Joe Biden announced in Washington on Wednesday that he will withdraw remaining US troops from the "forever war" in Afghanistan. His plan is to pull out all US forces -- numbering 2,500 now -- by this September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The UN, together with Turkey, and Qatar, announced on Tuesday that a high-level conference aimed at ending decades of conflict in Afghanistan will go ahead beginning on April 24. There would be representatives from both the Afghan government and the Taliban.

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday.

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday. He said that the main concern should not create "space for other disruptors" and therefore, see violence continue in Afghanistan. India wants to see peace and tranquility returning to the region, he added. "We would be very happy to provide whatever support we can in the development of Afghanistan and making sure peace returns to that nation. People have got tired and are looking at peace," General Rawat said speaking in a virtual discussion at the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2021. Asked whether it was Iran and Pakistan that could exploit the situation, the Chief of Defence Staff said there are many nations that would like to step into Afghanistan. "Many people are looking at the opportunity to exploit the vacuum that is being created. Afghanistan is a nation which is rich in resources," he said. Noting there are nations "that tend to exploit resources for their own benefit without the benefit going to the community of that nation", he said: "The international community must step in to ensure Afghanistan is for the Afghans." President Joe Biden announced in Washington on Wednesday that he will withdraw remaining US troops from the "forever war" in Afghanistan. His plan is to pull out all US forces -- numbering 2,500 now -- by this September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The UN, together with Turkey, and Qatar, announced on Tuesday that a high-level conference aimed at ending decades of conflict in Afghanistan will go ahead beginning on April 24. There would be representatives from both the Afghan government and the Taliban.

India concerned over US troops' forthcoming exit from Afghanistan

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".&nbsp;

Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go".

"Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb."

His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful". Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go". "Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb." His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani

Walmart-owned Flipkart said on Thursday that it will acquire Cleartrip, one of India's oldest online travel technology companies. Flipkart will acquire 100 per cent of Cleartrip's shareholding, it said in a statement.

Cleartrip will continue to operate as a separate brand. However, its operations will be acquired by Flipkart. All employees of Cleartrip will be retained.

The value of the deal has not been disclosed.

"The Flipkart Group is committed to transforming customer experiences through digital commerce. Cleartrip is synonymous with travel for many customers, and as we diversify and look at new areas of growth, this investment will help strengthen our wide range of offerings for customers," Flipkart Group CEO Kalyan Krishnamurthy said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/over-20-chinese-tech-giants-make-public-pact-to-abide-by-anti-monopoly-guidelines-377734">Over 20 Chinese tech giants make public pact to abide by anti-monopoly guidelines</a>

He added that the Cleartrip team, with its deep industry knowledge and technology capabilities, will help Flipkart Group provide deeper value and travel experiences for customers.

Stuart Crighton, CEO and co-founder of Cleartrip, said the company has been a pioneer in capitalising on technology to simplify the travel experience for our customers.

"This product-driven focus has enabled us to become the preferred travel partner of choice for consumers in a wide range of markets in the region," he added.

The deal closing will be subject to applicable regulatory approvals.

(With inputs from agencies)

Walmart-owned Flipkart said on Thursday that it will acquire Cleartrip, one of India's oldest online travel technology companies. Flipkart will acquire 100 per cent of Cleartrip's shareholding, it said in a statement.

Walmart-owned Flipkart said on Thursday that it will acquire Cleartrip, one of India's oldest online travel technology companies. Flipkart will acquire 100 per cent of Cleartrip's shareholding, it said in a statement. Cleartrip will continue to operate as a separate brand. However, its operations will be acquired by Flipkart. All employees of Cleartrip will be retained. The value of the deal has not been disclosed. "The Flipkart Group is committed to transforming customer experiences through digital commerce. Cleartrip is synonymous with travel for many customers, and as we diversify and look at new areas of growth, this investment will help strengthen our wide range of offerings for customers," Flipkart Group CEO Kalyan Krishnamurthy said. Also Read | Over 20 Chinese tech giants make public pact to abide by anti-monopoly guidelines He added that the Cleartrip team, with its deep industry knowledge and technology capabilities, will help Flipkart Group provide deeper value and travel experiences for customers. Stuart Crighton, CEO and co-founder of Cleartrip, said the company has been a pioneer in capitalising on technology to simplify the travel experience for our customers. "This product-driven focus has enabled us to become the preferred travel partner of choice for consumers in a wide range of markets in the region," he added. The deal closing will be subject to applicable regulatory approvals. (With inputs from agencies)

Walmart-owned Flipkart to acquire Cleartrip

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months.

Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks.

"I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani.

"The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-time-to-end-us-war-in-afghanistan-with-total-pullout-377585">Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout</a>

The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time.

Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations.

"It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist.

For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough.

"We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said.

The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces.

"If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks. The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months. Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks. "I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani. "The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring." Also Read | Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time. Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations. "It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist. For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough. "We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said. The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces. "If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Afghanistan on a surprise visit

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop.

Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police.

One of the eyewitnesses, photographer Jonathan Stengenga said it was "surreal" as he wiped tears off his face after running away from cloud of chemical irritants.

"They just shot another round of flash bangs, tear gas and pepper (spray) and bullets. Even with this mask it got it into my lungs and eyes. I had one flash bang hit right by my feet," Stengenga said in a video published on his Facebook page.

The man killed by police was identified by relatives and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Daunte Wright, 20. Walz said in a statement that he was monitoring the unrest as "our state mourns another life of a Black man taken by law enforcement."

Commissioner John Harrington of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said in a live-streamed news briefing that late on Sunday a group of about 100 to 200 protesters gathered around the Brooklyn Center police headquarters and threw projectiles at the police department. The group was later dispersed.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop. Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop. Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police. One of the eyewitnesses, photographer Jonathan Stengenga said it was "surreal" as he wiped tears off his face after running away from cloud of chemical irritants. "They just shot another round of flash bangs, tear gas and pepper (spray) and bullets. Even with this mask it got it into my lungs and eyes. I had one flash bang hit right by my feet," Stengenga said in a video published on his Facebook page. The man killed by police was identified by relatives and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Daunte Wright, 20. Walz said in a statement that he was monitoring the unrest as "our state mourns another life of a Black man taken by law enforcement." Commissioner John Harrington of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said in a live-streamed news briefing that late on Sunday a group of about 100 to 200 protesters gathered around the Brooklyn Center police headquarters and threw projectiles at the police department. The group was later dispersed.

Tear gas and flash bangs fired in Minnesota protest after police shoot Black man

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility.

"The U.S. was not involved in any manner," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in response to questions. "We have nothing to add on speculation about the causes or the impacts."

Iran vowed revenge for what it described as an act of "nuclear terrorism" that caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the uranium enrichment plant.

Israel fiercely opposes Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord that Iran and the new administration of President Joe Biden are engaged in trying to revive after then-U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

Iran and the global powers described as "constructive" talks last week to salvage the nuclear deal, which has unraveled as Iran has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility.

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility. "The U.S. was not involved in any manner," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in response to questions. "We have nothing to add on speculation about the causes or the impacts." Iran vowed revenge for what it described as an act of "nuclear terrorism" that caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the uranium enrichment plant. Israel fiercely opposes Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord that Iran and the new administration of President Joe Biden are engaged in trying to revive after then-U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. Iran and the global powers described as "constructive" talks last week to salvage the nuclear deal, which has unraveled as Iran has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

US was not involved in Iran nuclear site incident: White House

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The 101 hospitals where 60 per cent beds will be reserved for Covid patients include leading names such as St Stephens Hospital, Max East/West Block, Batra Hospital, HAHC Hospital, BLK Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Max SS Hospital, Patparganj; Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla, Indian Spinal Injury Centre, Vasant Kunj, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Shanti Mukand Hospital, Fortis SS Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Shree Agrasain International Hospital, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, among others.

This mobilisation gives an additional 5689 Covid ward beds to the Delhi government to handle the new wave of Covid cases.

It will mobilise 633 ICU beds from 82 hospitals where 60 per cent ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients.

Another 765 ICU beds will be mobilised from 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The Delhi government said in an order that the bed capacity dedicated for Covid needs to reach the November, 2020 levels.

At present, occupancy of Covid ICU beds has reached 100 per cent in almost all large private hospitals and more than 85 per cent in 57 out of 115 private hospitals. Similarly, the occupancy of Covid beds has reached 85 per cent in 32 out of 115 hospitals and 100 per cent in all large hospitals.

Designating 14 large private hospitals as fully-Covid will give the Delhi government 1135 ICU beds and 3202 ward beds.

So, in all 8891 Covid beds are being added and 2533 ICU beds are being added in the Delhi government order.

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment. The 101 hospitals where 60 per cent beds will be reserved for Covid patients include leading names such as St Stephens Hospital, Max East/West Block, Batra Hospital, HAHC Hospital, BLK Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Max SS Hospital, Patparganj; Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla, Indian Spinal Injury Centre, Vasant Kunj, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Shanti Mukand Hospital, Fortis SS Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Shree Agrasain International Hospital, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, among others. This mobilisation gives an additional 5689 Covid ward beds to the Delhi government to handle the new wave of Covid cases. It will mobilise 633 ICU beds from 82 hospitals where 60 per cent ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients. Another 765 ICU beds will be mobilised from 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment. The Delhi government said in an order that the bed capacity dedicated for Covid needs to reach the November, 2020 levels. At present, occupancy of Covid ICU beds has reached 100 per cent in almost all large private hospitals and more than 85 per cent in 57 out of 115 private hospitals. Similarly, the occupancy of Covid beds has reached 85 per cent in 32 out of 115 hospitals and 100 per cent in all large hospitals. Designating 14 large private hospitals as fully-Covid will give the Delhi government 1135 ICU beds and 3202 ward beds. So, in all 8891 Covid beds are being added and 2533 ICU beds are being added in the Delhi government order.

Delhi gets more than 11,000 beds in private hospitals to tackle fresh Covid wave

Shantir Ogrosena, a 10-day multinational military exercise in which troops of four countries including India participated, culminated on Monday at Bangabandhu Senanibas (BBS), Bangladesh.

The armed forces of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Sri Lanka along with observers from the US, UK, Turkey and Saudi Arabia among others participated in the multilateral UN-mandated counterterrorism exercise.

The aim of the exercise was to strengthen defence ties and enhance interoperability amongst neighbourhood countries to ensure effective peacekeeping operations, the Indian Army said on Monday.&nbsp;

The armies of all participating nations shared their wide experiences and enhanced their situational awareness through robust information exchange platforms.The exercise was held from April 4-12 to mark the birth centenary of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of the liberation of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

BBS is a Bangladeshi military cantonment near Bangabandhu Bridge in Bhuapur Upazila, Tangail District, Bangladesh.The Indian Army contingent was comprised of 30 personnel, including Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and jawans of a Battalion from the Dogra Regiment.

The exercise culminated with a validation phase and closing ceremony organised on the theme of Robust Peace Keeping Operations jointly undertaken by contingents of Indian Army, Royal Bhutanese Army, Sri Lankan Army and Bangladesh Army, preceded by an Army Chiefs Conclave, according to the Indian Army. General MM Naravane, Chief of the Army Staff witnessed the validation phase of the exercise.&nbsp;

He had also delivered a Keynote Address on "Changing Nature of Global Conflicts: Role of UN Peacekeepers" on April 11. Naravane also interacted with the senior officers of the participating nations and Military Observers from other countries.&nbsp;

Shantir Ogrosena, a 10-day multinational military exercise in which troops of four countries including India participated, culminated on Monday at Bangabandhu Senanibas (BBS), Bangladesh.

Shantir Ogrosena, a 10-day multinational military exercise in which troops of four countries including India participated, culminated on Monday at Bangabandhu Senanibas (BBS), Bangladesh. The armed forces of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Sri Lanka along with observers from the US, UK, Turkey and Saudi Arabia among others participated in the multilateral UN-mandated counterterrorism exercise. The aim of the exercise was to strengthen defence ties and enhance interoperability amongst neighbourhood countries to ensure effective peacekeeping operations, the Indian Army said on Monday. The armies of all participating nations shared their wide experiences and enhanced their situational awareness through robust information exchange platforms.The exercise was held from April 4-12 to mark the birth centenary of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of the liberation of Bangladesh. BBS is a Bangladeshi military cantonment near Bangabandhu Bridge in Bhuapur Upazila, Tangail District, Bangladesh.The Indian Army contingent was comprised of 30 personnel, including Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and jawans of a Battalion from the Dogra Regiment. The exercise culminated with a validation phase and closing ceremony organised on the theme of Robust Peace Keeping Operations jointly undertaken by contingents of Indian Army, Royal Bhutanese Army, Sri Lankan Army and Bangladesh Army, preceded by an Army Chiefs Conclave, according to the Indian Army. General MM Naravane, Chief of the Army Staff witnessed the validation phase of the exercise. He had also delivered a Keynote Address on "Changing Nature of Global Conflicts: Role of UN Peacekeepers" on April 11. Naravane also interacted with the senior officers of the participating nations and Military Observers from other countries.

Bangladesh: Multinational military exercise 'Shantir Ogroshena 2021' concludes

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.