Peru was busy distributing ballots in polling stations on Saturday (April 10) as the country's prepares to vote for a new president.

The election on Sunday (April 11) is being framed by a deadly surge in coronavirus cases and held under the long shadow of a constitutional crisis last year that saw the Andean nation go through three leaders in a week.

Ballots were distributed amid tight security provided by the National Police force.

As candidates closed their campaigns, pollsters say half a dozen of them are still in the running for a top two spot, which would see them move into a second round run-off vote in June. Predicting which two will make it, they say, is impossible.

The uncertainty over the elections comes as Peru battles the peak of COVID-19 cases with hospitals overwhelmed and after the world's no. 2 copper producer suffered its worst economic drop in three decades last year. The twists and turns have buffeted markets and Peru's sol currency.

In the final pre-election polls, Keiko Fujimori, 45, the daughter of the imprisoned ex-president Alberto Fujimori, has climbed to the top of the pack, but with a slim lead. A radical leftist professor Pedro Castillo, 51, has also shot up from nowhere.

No candidate has more than 13% of the voting intention and 'no vote' still remains the most popular single choice.

Close behind are Yonhy Lescano, 62, the recent poll leader whose populist style has lured voters, Opus Dei member Rafael López Aliaga, 60, liberal economist Hernando de Soto, 79, and leftist Verónika Mendoza, 40. Ex-soccer star George Forsyth, 38, also remains in the mix.

Castillo, who has surprised pollsters to suddenly arrive near the top of the pack, closed his campaign on Thursday night calling for a change to Peru's Magna Carta, something the country's youth had called for amid angry protests last year.

Pollsters said that Peru's 25 million registered voters were disenchanted with all candidates, and that more radical positions were gaining amid wider uncertainties.

There are 18 presidential candidates and Peruvians will also elect 130 members of the unicameral Congress. Voting is mandatory with a fine of up to $25.

The polls open at 0700 (1200 GMT) on Sunday and close 12 hours later, when pollster Ipsos Peru will give an exit poll. The electoral office has announced that it will offer its first partial result at 1130 pm local time (0430 GMT on Monday)

Peru was busy distributing ballots in polling stations on Saturday (April 10) as the country's prepares to vote for a new president. The election on Sunday (April 11) is being framed by a deadly surge in coronavirus cases and held under the long shadow of a constitutional crisis last year that saw the Andean nation go through three leaders in a week.

Peru was busy distributing ballots in polling stations on Saturday (April 10) as the country's prepares to vote for a new president. The election on Sunday (April 11) is being framed by a deadly surge in coronavirus cases and held under the long shadow of a constitutional crisis last year that saw the Andean nation go through three leaders in a week. Ballots were distributed amid tight security provided by the National Police force. As candidates closed their campaigns, pollsters say half a dozen of them are still in the running for a top two spot, which would see them move into a second round run-off vote in June. Predicting which two will make it, they say, is impossible. The uncertainty over the elections comes as Peru battles the peak of COVID-19 cases with hospitals overwhelmed and after the world's no. 2 copper producer suffered its worst economic drop in three decades last year. The twists and turns have buffeted markets and Peru's sol currency. In the final pre-election polls, Keiko Fujimori, 45, the daughter of the imprisoned ex-president Alberto Fujimori, has climbed to the top of the pack, but with a slim lead. A radical leftist professor Pedro Castillo, 51, has also shot up from nowhere. No candidate has more than 13% of the voting intention and 'no vote' still remains the most popular single choice. Close behind are Yonhy Lescano, 62, the recent poll leader whose populist style has lured voters, Opus Dei member Rafael López Aliaga, 60, liberal economist Hernando de Soto, 79, and leftist Verónika Mendoza, 40. Ex-soccer star George Forsyth, 38, also remains in the mix. Castillo, who has surprised pollsters to suddenly arrive near the top of the pack, closed his campaign on Thursday night calling for a change to Peru's Magna Carta, something the country's youth had called for amid angry protests last year. Pollsters said that Peru's 25 million registered voters were disenchanted with all candidates, and that more radical positions were gaining amid wider uncertainties. There are 18 presidential candidates and Peruvians will also elect 130 members of the unicameral Congress. Voting is mandatory with a fine of up to $25. The polls open at 0700 (1200 GMT) on Sunday and close 12 hours later, when pollster Ipsos Peru will give an exit poll. The electoral office has announced that it will offer its first partial result at 1130 pm local time (0430 GMT on Monday)

Peru distributes ballots as country prepares to vote

Buckingham Palace said on Saturday that Prince Philip's funeral would take place on April 17. Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth the Second's husband passed away at the age of 99 on Saturday (April 9).

As per the palace spokesman, who was quoted by BBC, it will be a "ceremonial royal funeral" and not a state funeral. This "very much reflects the duke's wishes" said the spokesman.

The Palace said the funeral will "celebrate and reflect" a life of service. The ceremony will be adapted considering the compulsions thrown up by coronavirus pandemic.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gun-salutes-fired-across-uk-as-tribute-to-prince-philip-376651">Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip</a>

On Saturday, gun salutes were fired across the UK and at the sea as a tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh.

Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gun-salutes-fired-across-uk-as-tribute-to-prince-philip-376651">The gun salutes</a> were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar.

Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames.

One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes "for a superhuman".

(With agency inputs)

Buckingham Palace said on Saturday that Prince Philip's funeral would take place on April 17. Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth the Second's husband passed away at the age of 99 on Saturday (April 9).

Buckingham Palace said on Saturday that Prince Philip's funeral would take place on April 17. Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth the Second's husband passed away at the age of 99 on Saturday (April 9). As per the palace spokesman, who was quoted by BBC, it will be a "ceremonial royal funeral" and not a state funeral. This "very much reflects the duke's wishes" said the spokesman. The Palace said the funeral will "celebrate and reflect" a life of service. The ceremony will be adapted considering the compulsions thrown up by coronavirus pandemic. Also Read | Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip On Saturday, gun salutes were fired across the UK and at the sea as a tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh. Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. The gun salutes were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar. Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames. One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes "for a superhuman". (With agency inputs)

Prince Philip's funeral to take place on April 17, says Buckingham Palace

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday.

Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. The gun salutes were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar.

Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as&nbsp;Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames.

One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes&nbsp;"for a superhuman".

Similar salutes -- the most according to military protocol -- were also held in Canberra and Wellington, as the queen is head of state in Australia and New Zealand.

Pope Praises Prince Philip

Joining the list of world leaders who praised and paid tribute to Prince Philip, Pope Francis saluted&nbsp;the late husband of Queen Elizabeth II, as a man devoted "to his marriage and family."

In a message to the British monarch, the 84-year-old Argentine pope offered "heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty and the members of the Royal Family."

Pope praised the prince for his "devotion to his marriage and family, his distinguished record of public service and his commitment to the education and advancement of future generations."&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday. Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander.

Gun salutes were fired across UK and at sea as a solemn tribute was paid to Prince Philip, who passed away at the age of 99 on Friday. Co-ordinated 41-round salutes were fired as a salute to Prince Philip, a former Royal Navy commander. The shots were fired at one round per minute from 12 pm (11 GMT) in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast in addition to the naval bases. The gun salutes were also fired from ships at sea and the British territory Gibraltar. Onlookers gathered near the Towe Bridge in London as Honourable Artillery Company fires shots on the banks of the River Thames. One of the persons in the crowd was quoted as saying that she had come to pay tributes "for a superhuman". Similar salutes -- the most according to military protocol -- were also held in Canberra and Wellington, as the queen is head of state in Australia and New Zealand. Pope Praises Prince Philip Joining the list of world leaders who praised and paid tribute to Prince Philip, Pope Francis saluted the late husband of Queen Elizabeth II, as a man devoted "to his marriage and family." In a message to the British monarch, the 84-year-old Argentine pope offered "heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty and the members of the Royal Family." Pope praised the prince for his "devotion to his marriage and family, his distinguished record of public service and his commitment to the education and advancement of future generations." (With AFP inputs)

Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades.

The whitish powder caked roads, homes and buildings after the powerful blasts from the volcano called La Soufriere that began Friday and continued into the night.

"Saturday morning on the island of over 110,000 residents looked like a winter wonderland, albeit blanketed by ash," the news portal news784.com said.

Visibility in some areas was extremely limited, while in the capital city Kingstown on the south of the island -- the volcano is in the north -- the ash caused a thin haze of dust, the portal said.

"Vincentians are waking up to extremely heavy ash fall and strong sulphur smells which have now advanced to the capital," the local emergency management agency tweeted.

The eruptions prompted thousands of people to flee for safety. Around 16,000 people live in areas that are now under evacuation orders.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said Saturday that water has been cut off in most areas and the country's air space is closed because of the ash. Around 3,000 people spent the night in shelters.

"It's a huge operation that is facing us," Gonsalves told NBC News.

He said his government has been in contact with other countries that want to provide aid. Guyana and Venezuela are sending ships with supplies, Gonsalves said. &nbsp;

The initial blast from La Soufriere, the highest peak in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sent plumes of hot ash and smoke 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the air Friday morning.

A second, smaller eruption took place Friday afternoon, belching out a 4,000-meter-high ash cloud, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said.

The 1,235-meter La Soufriere -- the name is French for "sulphur mine" -- had not erupted since 1979, and its largest blow-up happened over a century ago, killing more than 1,000 people in 1902.

It had been rumbling for months before it finally blew.

Evacuation orders

Zen Punnett, who lives on the 30-kilometer-long island, said people panicked Thursday night as the evacuation orders came out, but things were calmer Friday.

"I can feel and hear rumbling here in the green safe zone. We can see a huge ball of smoke. Keeping calm as much as possible and praying," Punnett said Friday.

As of early Friday afternoon, most of the people in the red zone had been moved to safety, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency said.

Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises said they were sending two ships to assist the evacuation effort.&nbsp;

'Scared out of their wits'

Gonsalves said Friday that more ships from cruise liner company Carnival were also on their way.

Those evacuated would be taken to shelters elsewhere in the island chain or other Caribbean territories that have offered assistance, such as Barbados and Saint Lucia, according to local media.

Philmore Mullin, director of Antigua and Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, told AFP the twin island nation was ready to receive evacuees from Saint Vincent.

"I know for sure they will be scared out of their wits. The question is, what will happen after they move? Volcanoes don't tell you what they are thinking," said Mullin.

"If it continues to erupt for a long time, it will be life-changing for them. And, depending on the type of eruption, they might not be able to get back home for years."

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades.

Ash covered much of the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent on Saturday, and the stench of sulphur filled the air after a series of eruptions from a volcano that had been quiet for decades. The whitish powder caked roads, homes and buildings after the powerful blasts from the volcano called La Soufriere that began Friday and continued into the night. "Saturday morning on the island of over 110,000 residents looked like a winter wonderland, albeit blanketed by ash," the news portal news784.com said. Visibility in some areas was extremely limited, while in the capital city Kingstown on the south of the island -- the volcano is in the north -- the ash caused a thin haze of dust, the portal said. "Vincentians are waking up to extremely heavy ash fall and strong sulphur smells which have now advanced to the capital," the local emergency management agency tweeted. The eruptions prompted thousands of people to flee for safety. Around 16,000 people live in areas that are now under evacuation orders. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said Saturday that water has been cut off in most areas and the country's air space is closed because of the ash. Around 3,000 people spent the night in shelters. "It's a huge operation that is facing us," Gonsalves told NBC News. He said his government has been in contact with other countries that want to provide aid. Guyana and Venezuela are sending ships with supplies, Gonsalves said. The initial blast from La Soufriere, the highest peak in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sent plumes of hot ash and smoke 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the air Friday morning. A second, smaller eruption took place Friday afternoon, belching out a 4,000-meter-high ash cloud, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre said. The 1,235-meter La Soufriere -- the name is French for "sulphur mine" -- had not erupted since 1979, and its largest blow-up happened over a century ago, killing more than 1,000 people in 1902. It had been rumbling for months before it finally blew. Evacuation orders Zen Punnett, who lives on the 30-kilometer-long island, said people panicked Thursday night as the evacuation orders came out, but things were calmer Friday. "I can feel and hear rumbling here in the green safe zone. We can see a huge ball of smoke. Keeping calm as much as possible and praying," Punnett said Friday. As of early Friday afternoon, most of the people in the red zone had been moved to safety, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency said. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises said they were sending two ships to assist the evacuation effort. 'Scared out of their wits' Gonsalves said Friday that more ships from cruise liner company Carnival were also on their way. Those evacuated would be taken to shelters elsewhere in the island chain or other Caribbean territories that have offered assistance, such as Barbados and Saint Lucia, according to local media. Philmore Mullin, director of Antigua and Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, told AFP the twin island nation was ready to receive evacuees from Saint Vincent. "I know for sure they will be scared out of their wits. The question is, what will happen after they move? Volcanoes don't tell you what they are thinking," said Mullin. "If it continues to erupt for a long time, it will be life-changing for them. And, depending on the type of eruption, they might not be able to get back home for years."

St Vincent evacuating thousands after volcano eruption, return unsure

Myanmar's security forces on Friday fired rifle grenades at protesters and killed more than 80 people as per a monitoring group. As per the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) monitoring group and a domestic news outlet, the horrific killings took place near Yangon.

As per witnesses, the security forces piled up the bodies in Zeyar Muni pagoda compound in the town of Bogo, 90 km northeast of Yangon.

The AAPP and Myanmar Now news outlet said on Saturday that 82 people were killed during the protest against the February 1 military coup in the country. Firing started before dawn on Friday and continued into the afternoon, Myanmar Now said.

"It is like genocide," the news outlet quoted a protest organiser called Ye Htut as saying. "They are shooting at every shadow."

As per social media posts, many residents of the town have fled.

AAPP, which has maintained a daily tally of protesters killed and arrested by security forces, has previously said 618 people have died since the coup.

That figure is disputed by the military, which says it staged the coup because a November election won by Aung San Suu Kyi's party was rigged. The election commission has dismissed the assertion.

Junta spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun told a news conference on Friday in the capital, Naypyitaw, that the military had recorded 248 civilian deaths and 16 police deaths, and said no automatic weapons had been used by security forces.

Myanmar's security forces on Friday fired rifle grenades at protesters and killed more than 80 people as per a monitoring group. As per the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) monitoring group and a domestic news outlet, the horrific killings took place near Yangon.

Myanmar's security forces on Friday fired rifle grenades at protesters and killed more than 80 people as per a monitoring group. As per the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) monitoring group and a domestic news outlet, the horrific killings took place near Yangon. As per witnesses, the security forces piled up the bodies in Zeyar Muni pagoda compound in the town of Bogo, 90 km northeast of Yangon. The AAPP and Myanmar Now news outlet said on Saturday that 82 people were killed during the protest against the February 1 military coup in the country. Firing started before dawn on Friday and continued into the afternoon, Myanmar Now said. "It is like genocide," the news outlet quoted a protest organiser called Ye Htut as saying. "They are shooting at every shadow." As per social media posts, many residents of the town have fled. AAPP, which has maintained a daily tally of protesters killed and arrested by security forces, has previously said 618 people have died since the coup. That figure is disputed by the military, which says it staged the coup because a November election won by Aung San Suu Kyi's party was rigged. The election commission has dismissed the assertion. Junta spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun told a news conference on Friday in the capital, Naypyitaw, that the military had recorded 248 civilian deaths and 16 police deaths, and said no automatic weapons had been used by security forces.

Myanmar security forces use rifle grenades, kill 80: Monitoring group

China`s Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine will not be given to Sri Lankans until the safety aspect of the vaccine is ensured by the health authorities, the country`s Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi has said.

In response to questions raised by the Opposition, Pavithra told the Sri Lankan Parliament on Thursday that their regulatory authority had been analyzing data on the vaccine to ensure the safety of the vaccine, Daily Mirror reported.

The minister also said that only the Chinese nationals were given the vaccine at present, adding that Sri Lankans will be given only after the World Health Organisation (WHO) approved it for emergency use.

This statement comes amid growing criticism of the Chinese vaccine. Last week, a Sri Lankan parliamentarian had said that Colombo has brought the Chinese-made Covid-19 vaccine to the country without the approval of the WHO showing disregard for the lives of their people.

Manusha Nanayakkara, an opposition leader from Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, on Sunday had said that four members of the country`s medicine regulatory authority had to leave because they did not approve the Chinese vaccine, Colombo Page reported.

"The government delayed the importation of the corona vaccine. Our experts say that the approval of the World Health Organisation has not been granted for the corona vaccine from China. However, when the doctors and officials of the National Medicines Regulatory Authority said they could not approve the Chinese vaccine, the government asked them to resign. That is how four people resigned refusing to approve the vaccine," Nanayakkara had said.

He further said that senior medical practitioners, both in the government and private sectors, have expressed concerns over the use of the Chinese vaccine, adding that country`s regulatory authority, which is the decision-making body for the importation of drugs into Sri Lanka has been politicised as well.

Earlier, Sri Lanka`s Cabinet co-spokesperson Dr Ramesh Pathirana had said that the WHO and their regulatory authority have not yet approved the use of the vaccine.

China`s Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine will not be given to Sri Lankans until the safety aspect of the vaccine is ensured by the health authorities, the country`s Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi has said.

China`s Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine will not be given to Sri Lankans until the safety aspect of the vaccine is ensured by the health authorities, the country`s Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi has said. In response to questions raised by the Opposition, Pavithra told the Sri Lankan Parliament on Thursday that their regulatory authority had been analyzing data on the vaccine to ensure the safety of the vaccine, Daily Mirror reported. The minister also said that only the Chinese nationals were given the vaccine at present, adding that Sri Lankans will be given only after the World Health Organisation (WHO) approved it for emergency use. This statement comes amid growing criticism of the Chinese vaccine. Last week, a Sri Lankan parliamentarian had said that Colombo has brought the Chinese-made Covid-19 vaccine to the country without the approval of the WHO showing disregard for the lives of their people. Manusha Nanayakkara, an opposition leader from Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, on Sunday had said that four members of the country`s medicine regulatory authority had to leave because they did not approve the Chinese vaccine, Colombo Page reported. "The government delayed the importation of the corona vaccine. Our experts say that the approval of the World Health Organisation has not been granted for the corona vaccine from China. However, when the doctors and officials of the National Medicines Regulatory Authority said they could not approve the Chinese vaccine, the government asked them to resign. That is how four people resigned refusing to approve the vaccine," Nanayakkara had said. He further said that senior medical practitioners, both in the government and private sectors, have expressed concerns over the use of the Chinese vaccine, adding that country`s regulatory authority, which is the decision-making body for the importation of drugs into Sri Lanka has been politicised as well. Earlier, Sri Lanka`s Cabinet co-spokesperson Dr Ramesh Pathirana had said that the WHO and their regulatory authority have not yet approved the use of the vaccine.

Sri Lanka: Chinese Sinopharm COVID vaccine not to be administered before safety clearance

Gun salutes were fired across the UK and at sea to pay tribute to Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth the Second. The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh passed away on Friday. Meanwhile, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Indonesia's Java Island on Saturday. There have been reports of life loss and property damage. In other news, Ukraine has warned that it may get provoked due to Russian 'aggression' at the Ukraine-Russia border.

Read this and more in our Top 10 World News brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gun-salutes-fired-across-uk-as-tribute-to-prince-philip-376651">Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip</a>

<img alt="Prince Philip" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f0c1252-4c9a-4372-ace2-a7a0ef8ad73e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Prince%20philip.JPG" />

The shots were fired in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and also at naval bases and on ships at sea

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-can-be-provoked-due-to-russian-aggression-376675">Ukraine: Can be provoked due to Russian 'aggression'</a>

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb5b2b30-4931-4126-a091-906e1cc75720" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ukraine.JPG" />

Ukraine has been raising the issue of buildup of Russian forces near the Ukraine-Russia border

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-clash-over-sanctions-us-sees-possible-impasse-376570">US, Iran clash over sanctions; US sees possible 'impasse'</a>

<img alt="US-Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3694572a-358b-4549-aeeb-96d773ce529b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Us%20Iran.JPG" />

The two nations laid out tough stances as indirect talks in Vienna on how to bring both back into full compliance with the agreement wound up for the week, with some delegates citing progress

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-battle-for-marib-heats-up-376658">Yemen: Battle for Marib heats up</a>

<img alt="Yemen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8b0f82e-f9a5-4a05-a029-e6d2de71feca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Marib.JPG" />

If oil-rich Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to Yemeni government

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-java-island-jolted-by-magnitude-60-earthquake-376669">Indonesia: Java island jolted by magnitude 6.0 earthquake</a>

<img alt="Indonesia earthquake" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71800c98-be5e-4243-863a-06511d8be606" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indonesia_1.JPG" />

The quake was felt in cities and towns across East Java, home to 40.7 million people, and nearby provinces, including the resort island of Bali, as per Indonesian media

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-starts-advanced-centrifuges-a-day-after-nuclear-deal-talks-376645">Iran starts advanced centrifuges a day after nuclear deal talks</a>

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02241a3b-f48a-4b0f-930c-20f0374c29aa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_10.JPG" />

Iran nuclear deal was struck by US and other world powers with Iran in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the accord in 2018

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fastest-to-administer-100-million-covid-vaccine-doses-376682">India fastest to administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses</a>

<img alt="Narendra Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="690b506e-edfa-409c-a81b-8eb759be22a1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India.JPG" />

The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/protest-erupts-in-pak-demanding-imran-khan-to-apologise-over-rape-statement-376617">Protest erupts in Pak demanding Imran Khan to apologise over rape statement&nbsp;</a> 
The demonstration was organised on Thursday by rights activist and civil society representatives outside the National Press Club here, Pakistan's News International reported

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-australia-braces-for-worst-case-scenario-as-cyclone-seroja-nears-376638">Western Australia braces for 'worst case scenario' as cyclone Seroja nears&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c785be8-b479-4bfc-8684-29d4a17d6b34" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Seroja.JPG" />

Residents in Western Australia's Mid West and Gascoyne regions are being urged to finalise their emergency plans, as the cyclone is expected to intensify to a category three overnight, battering a region where buildings are not made to withstand cyclonic winds

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-bank-says-to-commit-2-billion-to-vaccines-in-developing-countries-by-end-april-376641">World Bank says to commit $2 billion to vaccines in developing countries by end-April&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="World Bank" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c92d3763-aaac-4d0a-b910-19c7f2feb46f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/vaccine_3.JPG" />

The $2 billion is part of a pool of some $12 billion that the World Bank has made available overall for vaccine development, distribution and production in low-and middle-income countries, van Trotsenburg told a World Bank forum

Gun salutes were fired across the UK and at sea to pay tribute to Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth the Second. The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh passed away on Friday.

Gun salutes were fired across the UK and at sea to pay tribute to Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth the Second. The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh passed away on Friday. Meanwhile, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Indonesia's Java Island on Saturday. There have been reports of life loss and property damage. In other news, Ukraine has warned that it may get provoked due to Russian 'aggression' at the Ukraine-Russia border. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News brief. Gun salutes fired across UK as tribute to Prince Philip The shots were fired in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and also at naval bases and on ships at sea Ukraine: Can be provoked due to Russian 'aggression' Ukraine has been raising the issue of buildup of Russian forces near the Ukraine-Russia border US, Iran clash over sanctions; US sees possible 'impasse' The two nations laid out tough stances as indirect talks in Vienna on how to bring both back into full compliance with the agreement wound up for the week, with some delegates citing progress Yemen: Battle for Marib heats up If oil-rich Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to Yemeni government Indonesia: Java island jolted by magnitude 6.0 earthquake The quake was felt in cities and towns across East Java, home to 40.7 million people, and nearby provinces, including the resort island of Bali, as per Indonesian media Iran starts advanced centrifuges a day after nuclear deal talks Iran nuclear deal was struck by US and other world powers with Iran in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the accord in 2018 India fastest to administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic Protest erupts in Pak demanding Imran Khan to apologise over rape statement The demonstration was organised on Thursday by rights activist and civil society representatives outside the National Press Club here, Pakistan's News International reported Western Australia braces for 'worst case scenario' as cyclone Seroja nears Residents in Western Australia's Mid West and Gascoyne regions are being urged to finalise their emergency plans, as the cyclone is expected to intensify to a category three overnight, battering a region where buildings are not made to withstand cyclonic winds World Bank says to commit $2 billion to vaccines in developing countries by end-April The $2 billion is part of a pool of some $12 billion that the World Bank has made available overall for vaccine development, distribution and production in low-and middle-income countries, van Trotsenburg told a World Bank forum

Top 10 World News: Gun salute for Prince Philip, Indonesia earthquake, more

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark.

The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days.

A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population.

Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive.

The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too.

As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436.

Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages.

The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark. The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days. A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population. Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive. The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too. As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436. Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages. The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India fastest to administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses

Indonesia's Java island was hit with a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Saturday. The media reports say that the strong earthquake has damaged buildings in several cities. Country's disaster agency said that 6 people had been killed. The quake struck at the depth of 96 km. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre has put the intensity of the quake at 5.9

"The agency has recorded six dead and one person who sustained serious injuries," said National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Raditya Jati, adding that several villages in East Java had been evacuated.

The quake was felt in cities and towns across East Java, home to 40.7 million people, and nearby provinces, including the resort island of Bali, Indonesian media reported.

Reports of damage included parliamentary buildings, a school, a hospital and houses in several cities, while a large gorilla statue in an amusement park in the town of Batu lost its head.

Video shared by social media users showed people running out of a shopping mall in Malang city amid the strong tremor.

"I felt the earthquake twice, the first time for two seconds and then it stopped, but then it shook again for five seconds," Edo Afizal, a receptionist at a hotel in Blitar, told Reuters by phone.

Indonesia was struck last week by tropical cyclone Seroja, which triggered landslides and flash floods killing more than 160 people on islands in East Nusa Tenggara province.

(With agency inputs) 
&nbsp;

Indonesia's Java island was hit with a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Saturday. The media reports say that the strong earthquake has damaged buildings in several cities.

Indonesia's Java island was hit with a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Saturday. The media reports say that the strong earthquake has damaged buildings in several cities. Country's disaster agency said that 6 people had been killed. The quake struck at the depth of 96 km. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre has put the intensity of the quake at 5.9 "The agency has recorded six dead and one person who sustained serious injuries," said National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Raditya Jati, adding that several villages in East Java had been evacuated. The quake was felt in cities and towns across East Java, home to 40.7 million people, and nearby provinces, including the resort island of Bali, Indonesian media reported. Reports of damage included parliamentary buildings, a school, a hospital and houses in several cities, while a large gorilla statue in an amusement park in the town of Batu lost its head. Video shared by social media users showed people running out of a shopping mall in Malang city amid the strong tremor. "I felt the earthquake twice, the first time for two seconds and then it stopped, but then it shook again for five seconds," Edo Afizal, a receptionist at a hotel in Blitar, told Reuters by phone. Indonesia was struck last week by tropical cyclone Seroja, which triggered landslides and flash floods killing more than 160 people on islands in East Nusa Tenggara province. (With agency inputs)

Indonesia: Java island jolted by magnitude 6.0 earthquake

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours. Marib is the last significant pocket of territory under the Yemeni government's control in north Yemen. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize the oil-rich region since February.

"The rebels have managed to seize a bit of territory" in the latest fighting northwest of the city, a pro-government military source said, assessing the city of Marib itself was not under threat.

AFP quoted the same source to say that 22 government soldiers including five officers had been killed, along with 31 rebels. Houthis rarely announced casualties on their own side.&nbsp;

If Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to the Yemeni government. The government is&nbsp;currently based in the southern city of Aden.

The rebels have stepped up missile and drone strikes against neighbouring Saudi Arabia in recent months, demanding the opening of Yemen's airspace and ports.

They have rejected a Saudi proposal for a ceasefire.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels overran Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014. This prompted Saudi Arabia-led coalition to intervene in March 2015 in support of the Yemeni government.

(With AFP inputs)

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours.

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours. Marib is the last significant pocket of territory under the Yemeni government's control in north Yemen. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize the oil-rich region since February. "The rebels have managed to seize a bit of territory" in the latest fighting northwest of the city, a pro-government military source said, assessing the city of Marib itself was not under threat. AFP quoted the same source to say that 22 government soldiers including five officers had been killed, along with 31 rebels. Houthis rarely announced casualties on their own side. If Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to the Yemeni government. The government is currently based in the southern city of Aden. The rebels have stepped up missile and drone strikes against neighbouring Saudi Arabia in recent months, demanding the opening of Yemen's airspace and ports. They have rejected a Saudi proposal for a ceasefire. Iran-backed Houthi rebels overran Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014. This prompted Saudi Arabia-led coalition to intervene in March 2015 in support of the Yemeni government. (With AFP inputs)

Yemen: Battle for Marib heats up

Just a day after talks for rescuing the troubled nuclear deal got underway, Iran on Saturday announced that it had started up advanced Uranium enrichment centrifuges in a breach of its undertakings in the very deal.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani officially inaugurated the cascades of 164 IR-6 centrifuges and 30 IR-5 devices at Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment plant in a ceremony broadcast by state television.

No images of the centrifuge cascades were aired on TV. However, engineers at the plant were seen talking that they had introduced uranium hexafluoride gas to the cascades after receiving the order from Rouhani.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-clash-over-sanctions-us-sees-possible-impasse-376570">US, Iran clash over sanctions; US sees possible 'impasse'&nbsp;</a>

Iran nuclear deal was struck by US and other world powers with Iran in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the accord in 2018.&nbsp;

Tuesday saw first round of talks with representatives of the remaining parties to the nuclear deal on bringing the United States back into the deal.

The Vienna talks are focused not only on lifting crippling economic sanctions Trump reimposed, but also on bringing Iran back into compliance after it responded by suspending several of its own commitments.

All sides said the talks, in which Washington is not participating directly but has the European Union as intermediary, had got off to a good start.

The IR-5 and IR-6 centrifuges allow uranium to be enriched more quickly and in greater amounts than the Iran's first generation devices, which are the only ones that the 2015 deal allows it to use.

Rouhani again underlined at the ceremony, which coincided with Iran's National Nuclear Technology Day, that Tehran's nuclear programme is solely for "peaceful" purposes.

(With AFP inputs)

Just a day after talks for rescuing the troubled nuclear deal got underway, Iran on Saturday announced that it had started up advanced Uranium enrichment centrifuges in a breach of its undertakings in the very deal.

Just a day after talks for rescuing the troubled nuclear deal got underway, Iran on Saturday announced that it had started up advanced Uranium enrichment centrifuges in a breach of its undertakings in the very deal. Iran President Hassan Rouhani officially inaugurated the cascades of 164 IR-6 centrifuges and 30 IR-5 devices at Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment plant in a ceremony broadcast by state television. No images of the centrifuge cascades were aired on TV. However, engineers at the plant were seen talking that they had introduced uranium hexafluoride gas to the cascades after receiving the order from Rouhani. Also Read | US, Iran clash over sanctions; US sees possible 'impasse' Iran nuclear deal was struck by US and other world powers with Iran in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the accord in 2018. Tuesday saw first round of talks with representatives of the remaining parties to the nuclear deal on bringing the United States back into the deal. The Vienna talks are focused not only on lifting crippling economic sanctions Trump reimposed, but also on bringing Iran back into compliance after it responded by suspending several of its own commitments. All sides said the talks, in which Washington is not participating directly but has the European Union as intermediary, had got off to a good start. The IR-5 and IR-6 centrifuges allow uranium to be enriched more quickly and in greater amounts than the Iran's first generation devices, which are the only ones that the 2015 deal allows it to use. Rouhani again underlined at the ceremony, which coincided with Iran's National Nuclear Technology Day, that Tehran's nuclear programme is solely for "peaceful" purposes. (With AFP inputs)

Iran starts advanced centrifuges a day after nuclear deal talks

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy. The military toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1.

"The military needs to feel the cost associated with its horrific actions. The stability and prosperity of the region depends on swift action," US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told a Security Council meeting.

"The military has ignored our condemnations, posing a test for the Security Council," she said.

"Will the Council quibble over language in yet another statement or will we act to save the lives of the Burmese people?" she said, using Myanmar's former name of Burma.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-sentences-19-to-death-says-anti-coup-protests-dwindling-376559">Myanmar military sentences 19 to death, says anti-coup protests dwindling</a>

People of Myanmar have fiercely opposed military rule and have held demonstrations and protests across the country almost everyday since the military coup. The military has resorted to strong-handed tactics. Armed forces have opened fire on number of occasions and this had the death toll rise to hundreds.

Estonia, a non-permanent member of the Security Council, said that the 15-nation body needed to start drafting a resolution that could include sanctions on Myanmar including an international arms embargo.

"The United Nations Security Council is the only entity in the world, which has the legitimate power to protect nations at risk and must explore every tool in its toolbox to end this horrible situation," said Estonia's ambassador, Sven Jurgenson.

Russia and China both hold veto power and have historically opposed international sanctions, although Beijing -- the military's primary ally -- has voiced increasing concern about the instability in its neighbor.

The military on February 1 toppled democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi and has since violently suppressed pro-democracy protests, with the United Nations saying that more than 600 people have died.

(With AFP inputs)

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy.

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy. The military toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. "The military needs to feel the cost associated with its horrific actions. The stability and prosperity of the region depends on swift action," US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told a Security Council meeting. "The military has ignored our condemnations, posing a test for the Security Council," she said. "Will the Council quibble over language in yet another statement or will we act to save the lives of the Burmese people?" she said, using Myanmar's former name of Burma. Also Read | Myanmar military sentences 19 to death, says anti-coup protests dwindling People of Myanmar have fiercely opposed military rule and have held demonstrations and protests across the country almost everyday since the military coup. The military has resorted to strong-handed tactics. Armed forces have opened fire on number of occasions and this had the death toll rise to hundreds. Estonia, a non-permanent member of the Security Council, said that the 15-nation body needed to start drafting a resolution that could include sanctions on Myanmar including an international arms embargo. "The United Nations Security Council is the only entity in the world, which has the legitimate power to protect nations at risk and must explore every tool in its toolbox to end this horrible situation," said Estonia's ambassador, Sven Jurgenson. Russia and China both hold veto power and have historically opposed international sanctions, although Beijing -- the military's primary ally -- has voiced increasing concern about the instability in its neighbor. The military on February 1 toppled democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi and has since violently suppressed pro-democracy protests, with the United Nations saying that more than 600 people have died. (With AFP inputs)

US urges UNSC for action on Myanmar

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