<p>In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton. Then in the middle of 2002 came the beginning of the end of the ‘good start’ for Moscow-Washington ties.</p>

<p>The then US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice asked her Russian counterpart how far Russia under Vladimir Putin was willing to integrate with NATO.</p>

<p>“Condi, forget it. We are not going to join an alliance where our vote is the same as a country like Latvia. You need not ask me that again,” Sergei Ivanov, secretary of the Russian Security Council told her.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<img alt="File photo Rice" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbe46852-c7f8-4a33-92b1-c4c4fc1f29be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T165311.233.png" /></p>

<p><em>File photo of former US National&nbsp;Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and&nbsp;Sergei Ivanov, former secretary of the Russian Security Council | state.gov</em></p>

<p>The incident finds its mention in ‘A Bonfire of Illusions’, a chapter in a Putin biography by Philip Short, which describes how the rift between the US-led West became too deep to heal by the time he completed his second four-year term as Russian president in 2008.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO’s ‘worst-kept secret’</strong></h2>

<p>During the NATO summit, that concluded earlier this month in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the absence of a timetable for his country’s formal entry to the alliance as 'absurd'.</p>

<p><img alt="Zelensky during NATO summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc92baf1-248c-48d0-95db-7f3e5b7a1778" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T165820.361.png" /></p>

<p><em>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a NATO leaders summit in Vilnius, Lithuania July 12, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>"We value our allies," Zelensky said but added that "Ukraine also deserves respect."</p>

<p>Not every nation has an equal weight in NATO. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The worst-kept secret of the US-led alliance is that an informal group consisting of the United States, Britain, France and Germany ‘pre-cook’ NATO decisions which the rest 27 members then endorse, Philip Short adds in 'Putin: Life and Times'.<img alt="French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23041f85-342e-407f-aa71-ac9399bba11d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T170053.420.png" /></p>

<p><em>French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954 | German Historical Institute</em></p>

<p>The informal group of NATO’s Big Four — US, France, Britain, and Germany — remains very much active during the ongoing war in Ukraine in boosting Kyiv’s war effort.</p>

<p>But the alliance has fallen short of accepting Ukraine as a fellow ally due to Zelensky’s inconsistencies towards joining NATO and Ukraine’s own fallacies.</p>

<p>An odd among NATO’s aces in Vilnius, while Zelensky appeared desperate to make Ukraine enter the alliance, he had called for "new institutions, new alliances" in his address to the US Congress in March 2023.</p>

<p>Furthermore, to meet one of the three main criteria for entry into NATO, a European nation must demonstrate a commitment to democracy, individual liberty and support for the rule of law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finland, the latest NATO entrant justifies this criteria while Ukraine’s record in these domains remains faltered.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky's big diplomatic illusion</strong></h2>

<p>For Kyiv, peace with Russia will not come from the capitals of the Big Four NATO countries, but from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By signing a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022 and then<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673"> throwing it into the ‘garbage of history’</a>, Kyiv with Zelensky at its helm has signed up for a prolonged conflict with Moscow, meaning further devastation for people in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By unsuccessfully trying to be yet another Latvia in NATO’s purported hierarchy dominated by the Big Four, Zelensky is playing into a bonfire of diplomatic illusions that are making him believe that the US-led NATO will support its war effort ‘for as long as it takes’.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton.

In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton. Then in the middle of 2002 came the beginning of the end of the ‘good start’ for Moscow-Washington ties. The then US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice asked her Russian counterpart how far Russia under Vladimir Putin was willing to integrate with NATO. “Condi, forget it. We are not going to join an alliance where our vote is the same as a country like Latvia. You need not ask me that again,” Sergei Ivanov, secretary of the Russian Security Council told her. File photo of former US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and Sergei Ivanov, former secretary of the Russian Security Council | state.gov The incident finds its mention in ‘A Bonfire of Illusions’, a chapter in a Putin biography by Philip Short, which describes how the rift between the US-led West became too deep to heal by the time he completed his second four-year term as Russian president in 2008. NATO’s ‘worst-kept secret’ During the NATO summit, that concluded earlier this month in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the absence of a timetable for his country’s formal entry to the alliance as 'absurd'. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a NATO leaders summit in Vilnius, Lithuania July 12, 2023 | Reuters "We value our allies," Zelensky said but added that "Ukraine also deserves respect." Not every nation has an equal weight in NATO. The worst-kept secret of the US-led alliance is that an informal group consisting of the United States, Britain, France and Germany ‘pre-cook’ NATO decisions which the rest 27 members then endorse, Philip Short adds in 'Putin: Life and Times'. French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954 | German Historical Institute The informal group of NATO’s Big Four — US, France, Britain, and Germany — remains very much active during the ongoing war in Ukraine in boosting Kyiv’s war effort. But the alliance has fallen short of accepting Ukraine as a fellow ally due to Zelensky’s inconsistencies towards joining NATO and Ukraine’s own fallacies. An odd among NATO’s aces in Vilnius, while Zelensky appeared desperate to make Ukraine enter the alliance, he had called for "new institutions, new alliances" in his address to the US Congress in March 2023. Furthermore, to meet one of the three main criteria for entry into NATO, a European nation must demonstrate a commitment to democracy, individual liberty and support for the rule of law. Finland, the latest NATO entrant justifies this criteria while Ukraine’s record in these domains remains faltered. Zelensky's big diplomatic illusion For Kyiv, peace with Russia will not come from the capitals of the Big Four NATO countries, but from Moscow. By signing a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022 and then throwing it into the ‘garbage of history’, Kyiv with Zelensky at its helm has signed up for a prolonged conflict with Moscow, meaning further devastation for people in the region. By unsuccessfully trying to be yet another Latvia in NATO’s purported hierarchy dominated by the Big Four, Zelensky is playing into a bonfire of diplomatic illusions that are making him believe that the US-led NATO will support its war effort ‘for as long as it takes’. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions

<p>From the corridors of power in Madrid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-elections-spaniards-vote-in-snap-polls-after-campaign-centered-on-womens-rights-618598">emerged the progressive discourse </a>over gender parity&nbsp;that dominated weeks of election campaigns in Spain.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government has been seen progressive laws on abortion and transgender rights. But such rights could bet stripped back if the right-wing Vox party comes to power, Sanchez has warned.<img alt="Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his opponent Santiago Abascal | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa4574ef-0f5a-4959-9625-0d37364d4763" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2819%29_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his opponent Santiago Abascal | Reuters</em></p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Vox party's&nbsp;Santiago Abascal is running on the agenda of reversing Sanchez's policies on gender parity, queer rights, and a reduction in the regional government's powers.</p>

<p>Opinion polls predict that Sanchez may very well lose to the right-wing alliance, worrying observers who in the past have hailed the country's laws to ensure gender parity. By the next edition of The Capitals, Madrid may have a new government or a new prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read this, and more, in The Capitals.</p>

<h2><strong>Pretoria, South Africa</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="076a21b0-59f7-45aa-93a3-fae847a3c2ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_4.png" /></p>

<p><em>South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters</em></p>

<p>The diplomatic tumult surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin's personal attendance at the BRICS summit in South Africa has taken a pause. Putin will attend the summit virtually and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-to-skip-brics-summit-in-south-africa-617528">not physically</a>, while foreign minister Sergey Lavrov will travel to South Africa for the summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Africa is a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court&nbsp;in 2002, under which it issued the warrant for Putin's arrest in March. Thus, South Africa would have had to arrest the Russian president if he had landed in the country for the BRICS summit.</p>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had asked the ICC for an exemption on the grounds that imposing detention could endanger the "security, peace and order of the state."</p>

<p>He also told the court: "It would be inconsistent with our constitution to risk war with Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>New Delhi, India</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi | Twitter/@narendramodi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0dbb8693-52bd-4f4c-94c6-7a7e1dcc5576" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2821%29_2.png" /></p>

<p><em>Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi | Twitter/@narendramodi</em></p>

<p>In the Indian capital, Colombo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-presidents-wickremesinghe-visits-india-holds-talks-with-india-pm-modi-618203">rode on a wave of optimism</a> unleashed by enhanced economic partnership between the two neighbours.</p>

<p>During Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to India earlier this week,&nbsp;mutual cooperation was enhanced in various sectors, such as tourism, power, trade, higher education and skill development.</p>

<p>Specific projects announced included passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka; a feasibility study on establishing a petroleum pipeline, a land bridge across the Palk Strait and the launch of India's Unified Payments Interface in Sri Lanka.</p>

<h2><strong>Phnom Penh, Cambodia</strong></h2>

<p><img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/23/368872-untitled-design-16.png" /></p>

<p><em>Cambodian leader Hun Sen and his son Hun Manet alongside the ancient Angkor Wat Temple | Reuters</em></p>

<p>Not many know of Cambodia beyond the ancient Angkor Wat temple. But the country had its national election this Sunday. The results have not been released but the declaration of elections is widely known.</p>

<p>Long-time leader Hun Sen, who is nearing the completion of his fourth decade in power, and his&nbsp;Cambodian People's Party (CPP), are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cambodia-elections-voting-begins-in-southeast-asian-country-where-boycott-is-criminal-offence-618557">expected&nbsp;to once again sweep</a> all 125 seats in parliament. The only significant challenger was disqualified in May. There has been no real opposition.</p>

<p>Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years.</p>

<h2><strong>Kabul, Afghanistan</strong></h2>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/22/368817-untitled-design-2023-07-22t202724302.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The defence minister in Afghanistan's Taliban government&nbsp;Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid advocated for the international legitimacy of the so-called Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have completed the requirements that a government should have. There aren't any requirements left to be met so that the world won't recognise us as a result. It might take some time for them to be ready to recognise us, but we ask countries that are not under the pressure of America and can recognise us, to recognise the government of&nbsp;Afghanistan," Mujahid said in an interview with Al Arabia TV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban's rule in Afghanistan has been marked by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-afghan-women-react-to-veiled-attempts-to-legitimise-talibans-rule-618494">repression of the rights of women</a> and the return of theological practices. The failure of Kabul's current rulers to mend their ways to ensure education rights for women remains the biggest impediment to the international recognition of their regime.</p>

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From the corridors of power in Madrid emerged the progressive discourse over gender parity that dominated weeks of election campaigns in Spain. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government has been seen progressive laws on abortion and transgender rights.

From the corridors of power in Madrid emerged the progressive discourse over gender parity that dominated weeks of election campaigns in Spain. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government has been seen progressive laws on abortion and transgender rights. But such rights could bet stripped back if the right-wing Vox party comes to power, Sanchez has warned. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his opponent Santiago Abascal | Reuters Meanwhile, Vox party's Santiago Abascal is running on the agenda of reversing Sanchez's policies on gender parity, queer rights, and a reduction in the regional government's powers. Opinion polls predict that Sanchez may very well lose to the right-wing alliance, worrying observers who in the past have hailed the country's laws to ensure gender parity. By the next edition of The Capitals, Madrid may have a new government or a new prime minister. Read this, and more, in The Capitals. Pretoria, South Africa South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters The diplomatic tumult surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin's personal attendance at the BRICS summit in South Africa has taken a pause. Putin will attend the summit virtually and not physically, while foreign minister Sergey Lavrov will travel to South Africa for the summit. South Africa is a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court in 2002, under which it issued the warrant for Putin's arrest in March. Thus, South Africa would have had to arrest the Russian president if he had landed in the country for the BRICS summit. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had asked the ICC for an exemption on the grounds that imposing detention could endanger the "security, peace and order of the state." He also told the court: "It would be inconsistent with our constitution to risk war with Russia." New Delhi, India Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi | Twitter/@narendramodi In the Indian capital, Colombo rode on a wave of optimism unleashed by enhanced economic partnership between the two neighbours. During Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to India earlier this week, mutual cooperation was enhanced in various sectors, such as tourism, power, trade, higher education and skill development. Specific projects announced included passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka; a feasibility study on establishing a petroleum pipeline, a land bridge across the Palk Strait and the launch of India's Unified Payments Interface in Sri Lanka. Phnom Penh, Cambodia Cambodian leader Hun Sen and his son Hun Manet alongside the ancient Angkor Wat Temple | Reuters Not many know of Cambodia beyond the ancient Angkor Wat temple. But the country had its national election this Sunday. The results have not been released but the declaration of elections is widely known. Long-time leader Hun Sen, who is nearing the completion of his fourth decade in power, and his Cambodian People's Party (CPP), are expected to once again sweep all 125 seats in parliament. The only significant challenger was disqualified in May. There has been no real opposition. Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years. Kabul, Afghanistan The defence minister in Afghanistan's Taliban government Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid advocated for the international legitimacy of the so-called Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. "We have completed the requirements that a government should have. There aren't any requirements left to be met so that the world won't recognise us as a result. It might take some time for them to be ready to recognise us, but we ask countries that are not under the pressure of America and can recognise us, to recognise the government of Afghanistan," Mujahid said in an interview with Al Arabia TV. Taliban's rule in Afghanistan has been marked by repression of the rights of women and the return of theological practices. The failure of Kabul's current rulers to mend their ways to ensure education rights for women remains the biggest impediment to the international recognition of their regime. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: Madrid's tryst with women's rights, Pretoria avoids 'risking war' with Moscow

<p>Over 12 years after Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant accident after a devastating tsunami, a fish caught near drainage outlets at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant was discovered to contain radioactive caesium levels 180 times above the safety limits.</p>

<p>The black rockfish, caught on 18 May, was found to have 18,000 becquerels per kilogram of caesium-137, surpassing the legal maximum level of 100 becquerels per kg.</p>

<p>The rockfish was caught in an area where rainwater from the regions around reactors one, two, and three, which experienced meltdowns during the March 2011 disaster, flows into the inner breakwater. The sediment in the inner breakwater's seabed has a caesium concentration of over 100,000 becquerels per kg.</p>

<p>Amid this latest discovery of lethal radioactivity, the prospect of Japan releasing 1.3 million tonnes of treated water from the Fukushima plant has raised concerns in the region and has worried the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-fukushima-controversy-japan-gets-approval-for-radioactive-water-release-611796">Explained: Japan gets OK to release Fukushima radioactive water. What's the row about?</a></b></p>

<p>Hong Kong has even threatened to ban food imports from 10 Japanese prefectures if the water release proceeds as planned.</p>

<p>In response, China has initiated blanket radioactivity testing of Japanese seafood imports, leading some wholesalers to stop handling produce from Japan.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact of release of treated Fukushima water minimal: Japan</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, when asked about the concerns surrounding the water discharge, a Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) official reassured that they were confident the impact on the public and environment would be minimal, the Guardian reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan gets IAEA nod to dispose Fukushima nuclear plant's waters in the ocean | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<p>TEPCO has been periodically removing fish from inside the port since 2012, using fishnets to prevent them from escaping the port. Between May 2022 and May 2023, a total of 44 fish with caesium levels exceeding 100 becquerels per kg have been found in the Fukushima plant port, with 90% of them caught in or near the inner breakwater. Notably, an eel caught in June 2022 and a rock trout caught in April 2023 also exhibited particularly high radioactivity levels.</p>

<h2><strong>Monitoring of radioactively contaminated fish</strong></h2>

<p>Regular monitoring of fish from the inner breakwater was suspended in January 2016 after the installation of nets to contain potentially contaminated fish within the area. However, after a black rockfish with excessive radioactive concentrations was caught off the coast of Soma in January 2022, monitoring resumed in the region.</p>

<p>As a consequence of the detected radiation, shipments of black rockfish caught off Fukushima prefecture were halted in February 2022. These shipments have not resumed since.</p>

<p>Authorities suspect that the high radioactivity levels found in the tested specimen indicate it might have escaped from the nuclear plant's port. All seafood species from the areas surrounding the plant are subject to regular radioactivity monitoring.</p>

<p>In August,&nbsp;Japan is set to commence the release of over 1.3 million tonnes of treated water from the Fukushima plant, a process expected to span decades. Although approved by the IAEA, this operation has faced criticism from China, and opposition parties in South Korea, and has raised concerns among some Pacific islands.</p>

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Over 12 years after Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant accident after a devastating tsunami, a fish caught near drainage outlets at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant was discovered to contain radioactive caesium levels 180 times above the safety limits.

Over 12 years after Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant accident after a devastating tsunami, a fish caught near drainage outlets at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant was discovered to contain radioactive caesium levels 180 times above the safety limits. The black rockfish, caught on 18 May, was found to have 18,000 becquerels per kilogram of caesium-137, surpassing the legal maximum level of 100 becquerels per kg. The rockfish was caught in an area where rainwater from the regions around reactors one, two, and three, which experienced meltdowns during the March 2011 disaster, flows into the inner breakwater. The sediment in the inner breakwater's seabed has a caesium concentration of over 100,000 becquerels per kg. Amid this latest discovery of lethal radioactivity, the prospect of Japan releasing 1.3 million tonnes of treated water from the Fukushima plant has raised concerns in the region and has worried the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Also read | Explained: Japan gets OK to release Fukushima radioactive water. What's the row about? Hong Kong has even threatened to ban food imports from 10 Japanese prefectures if the water release proceeds as planned. In response, China has initiated blanket radioactivity testing of Japanese seafood imports, leading some wholesalers to stop handling produce from Japan. Impact of release of treated Fukushima water minimal: Japan Meanwhile, when asked about the concerns surrounding the water discharge, a Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) official reassured that they were confident the impact on the public and environment would be minimal, the Guardian reported. Also watch | Japan gets IAEA nod to dispose Fukushima nuclear plant's waters in the ocean | WION Climate Tracker × TEPCO has been periodically removing fish from inside the port since 2012, using fishnets to prevent them from escaping the port. Between May 2022 and May 2023, a total of 44 fish with caesium levels exceeding 100 becquerels per kg have been found in the Fukushima plant port, with 90% of them caught in or near the inner breakwater. Notably, an eel caught in June 2022 and a rock trout caught in April 2023 also exhibited particularly high radioactivity levels. Monitoring of radioactively contaminated fish Regular monitoring of fish from the inner breakwater was suspended in January 2016 after the installation of nets to contain potentially contaminated fish within the area. However, after a black rockfish with excessive radioactive concentrations was caught off the coast of Soma in January 2022, monitoring resumed in the region. As a consequence of the detected radiation, shipments of black rockfish caught off Fukushima prefecture were halted in February 2022. These shipments have not resumed since. Authorities suspect that the high radioactivity levels found in the tested specimen indicate it might have escaped from the nuclear plant's port. All seafood species from the areas surrounding the plant are subject to regular radioactivity monitoring. In August, Japan is set to commence the release of over 1.3 million tonnes of treated water from the Fukushima plant, a process expected to span decades. Although approved by the IAEA, this operation has faced criticism from China, and opposition parties in South Korea, and has raised concerns among some Pacific islands. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Radioactive Fukushima fish found ahead of Japan's release of treated water from nuclear plant

<p>Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year.</p>

<p>They revealed that the iconic bird logo will be replaced, and the platform will be renamed "X." This transformation is expected to steer Twitter into new territories, focusing on payments, banking, and commerce, all powered by Artificial Intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linda Yaccarino expressed her enthusiasm for the future of "X," stating that it will revolutionise the way people connect with each other, incorporating cutting-edge features such as audio, video, messaging, and more.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-looks-to-change-twitter-logo-with-focus-on-branding-overhaul-618572">Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul</a></strong></p>

<p>Elon Musk, in a tweet over the weekend, confirmed the branding overhaul and bid farewell to the Twitter brand and its Larry the bird imagery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The billionaire business magnate shared a picture of the Twitter bird over a black and white marbled background, emphasising the shift towards the "X" identity.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Twitter set to replace its iconic bird logo, Elon Musk shares new design</strong></p>

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<p>Since Musk's acquisition of Twitter last year, the platform has faced challenges in its advertising business, leading to the exploration of new revenue streams. The introduction of payments and commerce appears to be a way to counterbalance the declining advertisement revenues.</p>

<h2><strong>So will you still tweet on Twitter successor 'X'?</strong></h2>

<p>No, you won't. You won't tweet on Twitter any longer. Under the new identity, posts on the platform will be referred to as "an X," and a suitable Art Deco-style logo is being sought.</p>

<p>A tweet has been fundamentally the voice of Larry the bird that has symbolised Twitter the social media platform and the expressions of people on the platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Musk's branding overhaul, the platform's association with birds will come to an end.</p>

<h2><strong>Is there any past precursor to X?</strong></h2>

<p>Yes, there is.</p>

<p>Elon Musk has been vocal about his vision for "X" to be an all-encompassing app, reminiscent of the X.com venture he founded in the past, which eventually evolved into PayPal.</p>

<p>Despite having around 200 million daily active users, Twitter has faced technical issues and user backlash since Musk's takeover. The imposition of charges for previously free services, changes to content moderation, and the return of previously banned accounts have received negative responses.</p>

<p>In light of Meta's recent launch of Threads, a text-based platform with a substantial user base, Twitter faces competition in the social media landscape.</p>

<p>With "X," Musk aims to create a global marketplace, bringing together ideas, goods, services, and opportunities in a limitless and interactive ecosystem.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year.

Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year. They revealed that the iconic bird logo will be replaced, and the platform will be renamed "X." This transformation is expected to steer Twitter into new territories, focusing on payments, banking, and commerce, all powered by Artificial Intelligence. Linda Yaccarino expressed her enthusiasm for the future of "X," stating that it will revolutionise the way people connect with each other, incorporating cutting-edge features such as audio, video, messaging, and more. Also read | Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul Elon Musk, in a tweet over the weekend, confirmed the branding overhaul and bid farewell to the Twitter brand and its Larry the bird imagery. The billionaire business magnate shared a picture of the Twitter bird over a black and white marbled background, emphasising the shift towards the "X" identity. Also watch | Twitter set to replace its iconic bird logo, Elon Musk shares new design × Since Musk's acquisition of Twitter last year, the platform has faced challenges in its advertising business, leading to the exploration of new revenue streams. The introduction of payments and commerce appears to be a way to counterbalance the declining advertisement revenues. So will you still tweet on Twitter successor 'X'? No, you won't. You won't tweet on Twitter any longer. Under the new identity, posts on the platform will be referred to as "an X," and a suitable Art Deco-style logo is being sought. A tweet has been fundamentally the voice of Larry the bird that has symbolised Twitter the social media platform and the expressions of people on the platform. With Musk's branding overhaul, the platform's association with birds will come to an end. Is there any past precursor to X? Yes, there is. Elon Musk has been vocal about his vision for "X" to be an all-encompassing app, reminiscent of the X.com venture he founded in the past, which eventually evolved into PayPal. Despite having around 200 million daily active users, Twitter has faced technical issues and user backlash since Musk's takeover. The imposition of charges for previously free services, changes to content moderation, and the return of previously banned accounts have received negative responses. In light of Meta's recent launch of Threads, a text-based platform with a substantial user base, Twitter faces competition in the social media landscape. With "X," Musk aims to create a global marketplace, bringing together ideas, goods, services, and opportunities in a limitless and interactive ecosystem. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Logo change on way: Tweet your last one because on Musk's Twitter, you will post an 'X'

<p>Cambodia concluded its election over the weekend following which Prime Minister Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party declared a landslide victory. The vote has been widely dismissed as a sham due to the election being a one-horse race. Voters destroyed their ballets in resistance to the vote in a country where an election boycott is a criminal offence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Hun Sen has warned such voters to turn themselves in or face legal consequences.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Colombia election: What are the results like?</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Hun Sen, who is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cambodia-elections-voting-begins-in-southeast-asian-country-where-boycott-is-criminal-offence-618557">edging the end of his fourth decade</a> in power posted on Telegram that of the 125 seats in the parliament, his party has won 120 seats while a royalist party won five.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hun Sen said the turnout - the second highest in three decades - proved calls by his mostly overseas-based rivals to undermine the election with protest ballots had failed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Cambodia's ruling party claims election victory</strong></p>

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<p>Hun Sen’s party has been described as a political behemoth with a vast war chest. He faced no viable opponent during Sunday’s elections after a ruthless, years-long crackdown on its rivals and ban on its only big opponent in May.</p>

<p>Polls on Sunday (July 23) closed with a turnout of 84 per cent according to the election committee, with 8.1 million people voting in a much-criticised contest between CPP and 17 mostly obscure parties.</p>

<p>"We have won in a landslide,” said CPP spokesperson Sok Eysan.</p>

<h2><strong>Cambodia election: Prime Minister Hun Sen's son Hun Manet likely to succeed</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Hun Sen has ruled Cambodia for 38 years. With a calibrated transition to anointing his eldest son Hun Manet as successor, the leader has effectively eliminated obstacles in the form of competition in Cambodian politics.</p>

<p>Hun Sen has signalled his son Hun Manet – who currently commands the Royal Cambodian Army – “could be” the prime minister next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and an atrocious Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Sunday’s election is Hun Sen’s seventh consecutive win.</p>

<p>Hun Sen has managed to consolidate his authoritarian leadership by controlling the military, police, and influential interests, neutralising opponents through various means such as co-opting, imprisoning, or exiling them.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Cambodia concluded its election over the weekend following which Prime Minister Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party declared a landslide victory. The vote has been widely dismissed as a sham due to the election being a one-horse race.

Cambodia concluded its election over the weekend following which Prime Minister Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party declared a landslide victory. The vote has been widely dismissed as a sham due to the election being a one-horse race. Voters destroyed their ballets in resistance to the vote in a country where an election boycott is a criminal offence. Prime Minister Hun Sen has warned such voters to turn themselves in or face legal consequences. Colombia election: What are the results like? Prime Minister Hun Sen, who is edging the end of his fourth decade in power posted on Telegram that of the 125 seats in the parliament, his party has won 120 seats while a royalist party won five. Hun Sen said the turnout - the second highest in three decades - proved calls by his mostly overseas-based rivals to undermine the election with protest ballots had failed. Also watch | Cambodia's ruling party claims election victory × Hun Sen’s party has been described as a political behemoth with a vast war chest. He faced no viable opponent during Sunday’s elections after a ruthless, years-long crackdown on its rivals and ban on its only big opponent in May. Polls on Sunday (July 23) closed with a turnout of 84 per cent according to the election committee, with 8.1 million people voting in a much-criticised contest between CPP and 17 mostly obscure parties. "We have won in a landslide,” said CPP spokesperson Sok Eysan. Cambodia election: Prime Minister Hun Sen's son Hun Manet likely to succeed Prime Minister Hun Sen has ruled Cambodia for 38 years. With a calibrated transition to anointing his eldest son Hun Manet as successor, the leader has effectively eliminated obstacles in the form of competition in Cambodian politics. Hun Sen has signalled his son Hun Manet – who currently commands the Royal Cambodian Army – “could be” the prime minister next month. Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and an atrocious Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years. Sunday’s election is Hun Sen’s seventh consecutive win. Hun Sen has managed to consolidate his authoritarian leadership by controlling the military, police, and influential interests, neutralising opponents through various means such as co-opting, imprisoning, or exiling them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cambodia elections: Prime Minister Hun Sen's party wins seventh one-horse election in a row

<p>An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats&nbsp;of elephants in&nbsp;Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as <em>Ludwigia peruviana</em>, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months.</p>

<p>According to a report in <em>The Hindu</em>, the state forest department clarified that most of these swamps are situated in private estates where they were purportedly sown for ornamental purposes.&nbsp;Incorrect removal attempts could inadvertently facilitate its spread even further.</p>

<p>The weed's invasion has limited the growth of native grasses and plants that elephants and other animals, like gaur, rely on for sustenance.</p>

<h2><strong>Where exactly is weed invasion affecting habitat of elephants?</strong></h2>

<p>The invasion is reportedly more intense in Valparai, within the Annamalai Tiger Reserve. The area serves as crucial habitat for elephants that migrate between Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tourists-flock-to-elephant-camp-in-tamil-nadu-as-the-elephant-whisperers-wins-an-oscar-571824">Tourists flock to elephant camp in Tamil Nadu as The Elephant Whisperers wins an Oscar</a></strong></p>

<p>Until the recent past, the region was known for human-elephant conflicts. But the vigilance of forest departments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states has been largely effective in preventing such conflicts.</p>

<p>The last human death due to an elephant attack occurred over two years ago on June 4, 2021, according to The Hindu newspaper.</p>

<h2><strong>What are swamps?</strong></h2>

<p>Swamps are vital habitats that support various wildlife, including amphibians and otters, in addition to large herbivorous animals.</p>

<p>They act as important water storage areas that require preservation. However, the invasion of swamps by Ludwigia disrupts the natural ecosystem, leading to wild animals' migration to other regions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch| Foreign vets rush to Pakistan to save an ailing elephant | Inside South Asia</strong></p>

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<p><em>Ludwigia</em> is among the 22 priority invasive plants in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The focus of the state's removal efforts is primarily on other invasive species such as<em> Lantana camara, Senna spectabilis,</em> and <em>Acacia mearnsii</em> (wattle) while removal of&nbsp;<em>Ludwigia&nbsp;</em>is emerging as the responsibility of private estate owners under a law to protect forests in the state.</p>

<p>The elimination of&nbsp;<em>Ludwigia </em>presents a unique challenge compared to other invasive plants because it grows in swamps, limiting the use of machinery to tackle the problem without damaging the ecosystem further. Even manual removal is tricky as the plant breaks easily, and new growth can emerge from the root or broken stems that fall back into the swamp.</p>

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An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats of elephants in Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as Ludwigia peruviana, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months.

An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats of elephants in Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as Ludwigia peruviana, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months. According to a report in The Hindu, the state forest department clarified that most of these swamps are situated in private estates where they were purportedly sown for ornamental purposes. Incorrect removal attempts could inadvertently facilitate its spread even further. The weed's invasion has limited the growth of native grasses and plants that elephants and other animals, like gaur, rely on for sustenance. Where exactly is weed invasion affecting habitat of elephants? The invasion is reportedly more intense in Valparai, within the Annamalai Tiger Reserve. The area serves as crucial habitat for elephants that migrate between Tamil Nadu and Kerala states. Also read | Tourists flock to elephant camp in Tamil Nadu as The Elephant Whisperers wins an Oscar Until the recent past, the region was known for human-elephant conflicts. But the vigilance of forest departments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states has been largely effective in preventing such conflicts. The last human death due to an elephant attack occurred over two years ago on June 4, 2021, according to The Hindu newspaper. What are swamps? Swamps are vital habitats that support various wildlife, including amphibians and otters, in addition to large herbivorous animals. They act as important water storage areas that require preservation. However, the invasion of swamps by Ludwigia disrupts the natural ecosystem, leading to wild animals' migration to other regions. Also watch| Foreign vets rush to Pakistan to save an ailing elephant | Inside South Asia × Ludwigia is among the 22 priority invasive plants in Tamil Nadu. The focus of the state's removal efforts is primarily on other invasive species such as Lantana camara, Senna spectabilis, and Acacia mearnsii (wattle) while removal of Ludwigia is emerging as the responsibility of private estate owners under a law to protect forests in the state. The elimination of Ludwigia presents a unique challenge compared to other invasive plants because it grows in swamps, limiting the use of machinery to tackle the problem without damaging the ecosystem further. Even manual removal is tricky as the plant breaks easily, and new growth can emerge from the root or broken stems that fall back into the swamp. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South American weed gives Indian elephants a run for their habitat

<p>Spaniards across Spain began to cast their votes in snap polls on Sunday, July 23 including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a polling station in Madrid.&nbsp;&nbsp;The polls are expected to be a&nbsp;close-run affair in a political discourse marked by ideological differences and chances of Spain's first right-wing government since military general Francisco Franco’s dictatorship ended in 1975.</p>

<p>"I ask for the greatest mobilization so that the government that comes out of the polls is strong and Spain can advance four more years," Prime Minister Sanchez wrote in a tweet after casting his vote.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) is up against Alberto Nunez Feijoo's People’s Party (PP), described as right-wing by observers.</p>

<p>The voting has started amid a sweltering heatwave. The country's postal service reported on Friday that postal votes had passed a record 2.4 million.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been Spain's Prime Minister&nbsp;since 2018. The tumbling of his support in recent years has been marked by the economic downturn in the country during and immediately after the Covid pandemic. The worsening of Madrid's balance sheet under Prime Minister Sanchez was aggravated by the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sanchez’s Partido Socialista Obrero Espanol (PSOE)&nbsp;party is currently in a coalition with far-left Unidas Podemos.&nbsp;Sanchez called the election early after his coalition&nbsp;suffered a serious defeat in local elections in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The final result is expected to be decided by fewer than a million votes and less than 10 seats in the 350-seat parliament, according to experts.</p>

<h2><strong>Spain's progressive laws in the spotlight</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Sanchez's government has been marked with progressive laws on abortion and transgender rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-move-spain-approves-menstrual-leave-first-such-step-in-europe-562747">Historic move: Spain approves ‘menstrual leave’, first such step in entire Europe</a></strong></p>

<p>Under his rule, Spain has passed progressive laws on euthanasia, transgender rights, abortion and animal rights. Prime Minister Sanchez's legislative agenda related to women's rights has faced the opposition's ire. Sanchez has warned that such rights could be stripped back if the Vox party becomes part of the next government, a fear described as unfounded by his critics.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-spain-debates-abolition-of-prostitution-heres-a-list-of-countries-where-it-is-legal-486901">As Spain debates abolition of prostitution, here’s a list of countries where it is legal</a></strong></p>

<p>According to&nbsp;opinion polls, Sanchez's chances of winning another term are thin.</p>

<p>"Nothing is set in stone. Of course, the Socialists are going to fight back and get a better result. We are in a position to become the largest party in parliament," Prime Minister said ahead of polling.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spain elections: PP-Vox party alliance's agenda</strong></h2>

<p>Vox party's&nbsp;Santiago Abascal is running on the agenda of reversing Sanchez's policies on gender parity, queer rights, and a reduction in regional governmental power in a country where a separatist movement in Catalonia region has simmered every now and then.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Spain passes sexual, reproductive health law; abortion now free in public health clinics</strong></p>

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<p>The Vox Party wants to repeal gender-based violence laws, block abortion access, shut down the Ministry of Equality, and revoke the&nbsp;<i>solo sí es sí&nbsp;</i>("only yes means yes") law.</p>

<p>Vox Party's extreme positions have worried its ally Feijoo's People’s Party (PP).</p>

<p>Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the PP leader who polls suggest will be Spain’s next Prime Minister, has distanced himself from the rhetoric of some Vox leaders during the election campaign.</p>

<p>"Whatever happens on Sunday, the [Socialists] will remain a force in Spanish politics. And the rise of Vox only dates to 2019," Omar Encarnacion, an expert on Spanish politics and professor at Bard College in the United States, was quoted as saying by DW News.</p>

<p>"That said, an unavoidable impression would be the rising fortunes of the far right."</p>

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Spaniards across Spain began to cast their votes in snap polls on Sunday, July 23 including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a polling station in Madrid. The polls are expected to be a close-run affair in a political discourse marked by ideological differences and chances of Spain's first right-wing government since military general Francisco Franco’s dictatorship ended in 1975.

Spaniards across Spain began to cast their votes in snap polls on Sunday, July 23 including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a polling station in Madrid. The polls are expected to be a close-run affair in a political discourse marked by ideological differences and chances of Spain's first right-wing government since military general Francisco Franco’s dictatorship ended in 1975. "I ask for the greatest mobilization so that the government that comes out of the polls is strong and Spain can advance four more years," Prime Minister Sanchez wrote in a tweet after casting his vote. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) is up against Alberto Nunez Feijoo's People’s Party (PP), described as right-wing by observers. The voting has started amid a sweltering heatwave. The country's postal service reported on Friday that postal votes had passed a record 2.4 million. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been Spain's Prime Minister since 2018. The tumbling of his support in recent years has been marked by the economic downturn in the country during and immediately after the Covid pandemic. The worsening of Madrid's balance sheet under Prime Minister Sanchez was aggravated by the war in Ukraine. Sanchez’s Partido Socialista Obrero Espanol (PSOE) party is currently in a coalition with far-left Unidas Podemos. Sanchez called the election early after his coalition suffered a serious defeat in local elections in May. The final result is expected to be decided by fewer than a million votes and less than 10 seats in the 350-seat parliament, according to experts. Spain's progressive laws in the spotlight Prime Minister Sanchez's government has been marked with progressive laws on abortion and transgender rights. Also read | Historic move: Spain approves ‘menstrual leave’, first such step in entire Europe Under his rule, Spain has passed progressive laws on euthanasia, transgender rights, abortion and animal rights. Prime Minister Sanchez's legislative agenda related to women's rights has faced the opposition's ire. Sanchez has warned that such rights could be stripped back if the Vox party becomes part of the next government, a fear described as unfounded by his critics. Also read | As Spain debates abolition of prostitution, here’s a list of countries where it is legal According to opinion polls, Sanchez's chances of winning another term are thin. "Nothing is set in stone. Of course, the Socialists are going to fight back and get a better result. We are in a position to become the largest party in parliament," Prime Minister said ahead of polling. Spain elections: PP-Vox party alliance's agenda Vox party's Santiago Abascal is running on the agenda of reversing Sanchez's policies on gender parity, queer rights, and a reduction in regional governmental power in a country where a separatist movement in Catalonia region has simmered every now and then. Also watch | Spain passes sexual, reproductive health law; abortion now free in public health clinics × The Vox Party wants to repeal gender-based violence laws, block abortion access, shut down the Ministry of Equality, and revoke the solo sí es sí ("only yes means yes") law. Vox Party's extreme positions have worried its ally Feijoo's People’s Party (PP). Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the PP leader who polls suggest will be Spain’s next Prime Minister, has distanced himself from the rhetoric of some Vox leaders during the election campaign. "Whatever happens on Sunday, the [Socialists] will remain a force in Spanish politics. And the rise of Vox only dates to 2019," Omar Encarnacion, an expert on Spanish politics and professor at Bard College in the United States, was quoted as saying by DW News. "That said, an unavoidable impression would be the rising fortunes of the far right." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women's rights

<p>A man suspected of deliberately setting a bar on fire in Mexico, resulting in the death&nbsp;of 11 people near the Arizona border in Sonora, has been arrested, Mexican authorities said.</p>

<p>The tragic incident occurred during the wee hours of Saturday (July 22) at a bar in San Luis Rio Colorado, located close to the United States border city of San Luis, Arizona.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-arson-attack-on-bar-in-northern-mexico-claims-lives-of-11-618522">Suspected arson attack on bar in northern Mexico claims lives of 11</a></strong></p>

<p>Among the victims were a 17-year-old individual and a female American citizen, as disclosed by Gustavo Rómulo Salas Chávez, Sonora's attorney general, during a news conference on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the statement, the suspect responsible for starting the fire was heavily intoxicated and threw a flaming object at the bar's doors after he was expelled allegedly due to his disrespectful behaviour towards women present in the bar.</p>

<p>The object used in the attack was described by the prosecutor's office as a "Molotov cocktail".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-at-least-25-killed-in-tragic-bus-accident-in-oaxaca-state-612436">Mexico: At least 27 killed in tragic bus accident in Oaxaca state</a></strong></p>

<p>The main suspect is currently under interrogation, according to the attorney general's update on Saturday.</p>

<p>Additionally, at least six people sustained injuries during the incident, with one person still receiving medical care in the hospital, two others discharged, and the remaining three transferred to US hospitals for treatment.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mexico: 29 Killed; 19 Injured severely after Bus falls Into Ravine</strong></p>

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<p>This is the second such attack in Mexico within two weeks.</p>

<p>Earlier, a suspected arson attack claimed the lives of at least nine people on July 10 in a sprawling wholesale market in central Mexico.</p>

<h2><strong>What is a Molotov cocktail?</strong></h2>

<p>A Molotov cocktail is a hand-thrown weapon typically made from a glass bottle filled with flammable substances and is&nbsp;equipped with a fuse. In use, the fuse attached to the container is lit and the weapon is thrown, shattering on impact.</p>

<p>Due to their relative ease of production, the improvised usage of Molotov cocktails is common among criminals, rioters, hooligans, urban guerrillas, terrorists, irregular soldiers, and even regular soldiers.</p>

<p>Many modern militaries, with or without budgetary constraints exercise the use of Molotov cocktails.</p>

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A man suspected of deliberately setting a bar on fire in Mexico, resulting in the death of 11 people near the Arizona border in Sonora, has been arrested, Mexican authorities said.

A man suspected of deliberately setting a bar on fire in Mexico, resulting in the death of 11 people near the Arizona border in Sonora, has been arrested, Mexican authorities said. The tragic incident occurred during the wee hours of Saturday (July 22) at a bar in San Luis Rio Colorado, located close to the United States border city of San Luis, Arizona. Also read | Suspected arson attack on bar in northern Mexico claims lives of 11 Among the victims were a 17-year-old individual and a female American citizen, as disclosed by Gustavo Rómulo Salas Chávez, Sonora's attorney general, during a news conference on Saturday. According to the statement, the suspect responsible for starting the fire was heavily intoxicated and threw a flaming object at the bar's doors after he was expelled allegedly due to his disrespectful behaviour towards women present in the bar. The object used in the attack was described by the prosecutor's office as a "Molotov cocktail". Also read | Mexico: At least 27 killed in tragic bus accident in Oaxaca state The main suspect is currently under interrogation, according to the attorney general's update on Saturday. Additionally, at least six people sustained injuries during the incident, with one person still receiving medical care in the hospital, two others discharged, and the remaining three transferred to US hospitals for treatment. Also watch | Mexico: 29 Killed; 19 Injured severely after Bus falls Into Ravine × This is the second such attack in Mexico within two weeks. Earlier, a suspected arson attack claimed the lives of at least nine people on July 10 in a sprawling wholesale market in central Mexico. What is a Molotov cocktail? A Molotov cocktail is a hand-thrown weapon typically made from a glass bottle filled with flammable substances and is equipped with a fuse. In use, the fuse attached to the container is lit and the weapon is thrown, shattering on impact. Due to their relative ease of production, the improvised usage of Molotov cocktails is common among criminals, rioters, hooligans, urban guerrillas, terrorists, irregular soldiers, and even regular soldiers. Many modern militaries, with or without budgetary constraints exercise the use of Molotov cocktails. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mexican authorities arrest women harasser-turned-arsonist who set a bar on flames, killing 11

<p>Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet on Sunday, the billionaire business magnate added: "If a good enough X logo is posted tonight, we'll make go live worldwide tomorrow."&nbsp;</p>

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— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1682978324375543808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>With Musk at the helm of affairs&nbsp;since he bought the social media platform last&nbsp;October, the company has changed its business name to X Corp.</p>

<p>Musk aims to create a "super app" like China's WeChat.</p>

<p>Twitter's bird was temporarily replaced in April by Dogecoin's Shiba Inu dog, following which a surge in the meme coin's market value was recorded.</p>

<p>Recently, the&nbsp;company was widely criticised by users and&nbsp;marketing professionals alike when Musk announced that Twitter would limit how many tweets per day various accounts can read.</p>

<p>Twitter's most recent woe&nbsp;was a lawsuit filed earlier this week that&nbsp;claimed the firm owes at least $500 million in severance pay to former employees. Twitter has laid off more than half its workforce to cut costs since Musk's takeover of the platform.</p>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds.

Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds. In a tweet on Sunday, the billionaire business magnate added: "If a good enough X logo is posted tonight, we'll make go live worldwide tomorrow." pic.twitter.com/IwcbqMnQtA — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 23, 2023 × With Musk at the helm of affairs since he bought the social media platform last October, the company has changed its business name to X Corp. Musk aims to create a "super app" like China's WeChat. Twitter's bird was temporarily replaced in April by Dogecoin's Shiba Inu dog, following which a surge in the meme coin's market value was recorded. Recently, the company was widely criticised by users and marketing professionals alike when Musk announced that Twitter would limit how many tweets per day various accounts can read. Twitter's most recent woe was a lawsuit filed earlier this week that claimed the firm owes at least $500 million in severance pay to former employees. Twitter has laid off more than half its workforce to cut costs since Musk's takeover of the platform. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul

<p>People in Cambodia began casting their votes during the country's national&nbsp;elections on Sunday (July 23) with the dominance of&nbsp;long-time leader, Hun Sen, who is nearing the completion of his fourth decade in power.</p>

<p>Voters in the capital&nbsp;Phnom Penh expect the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) to once again sweep all 125 seats in parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>Cambodia elections: Who is Hun Sen?</strong></h2>

<p>Hun Sen has held on to power for 38 years. He&nbsp;faces no real opposition as the only significant challenger deemed credible in media reports was disqualified in May.</p>

<p>Critics have dismissed the election as a mere facade. Many Western nations, including the United States, have expressed concerns about the&nbsp;integrity of elections.</p>

<p>While campaigning for re-election, Hun Sen has hinted that this might be his final term, as he plans to hand over control to his eldest son, Hun Manet, who currently commands the Royal Cambodian Army.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Cambodia Elections 2023: Hun Sen has retained power for four decades</strong></p>

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<p>These indications have raised questions about the state of democracy&nbsp;under Hun Sen's rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years. He has managed to consolidate his authority by controlling the military, police, and influential interests, neutralising opponents through various means such as co-opting, imprisoning, or exiling them.</p>

<h2><strong>Cambodia elections: Boycotting elections a criminal offence</strong></h2>

<p>To boost voter turnout despite the lack of choices, the government has made it a criminal offence to boycott the election or tamper with ballot papers.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elephant-used-to-transport-ballot-boxes-as-cambodia-heads-to-polls-618480">Elephant used to transport ballot boxes as Cambodia heads to polls</a></strong></p>

<p>The disqualification of the main opposition party, the Candlelight Party, on a technicality, further solidifies Hun Sen's grip on power, after they garnered significant support in the previous local elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Cambodia elections: How many parties are contesting?</strong></h2>

<p>A total of 17 other parties are participating in this year's election.</p>

<p>They are mostly small, new, or aligned with the ruling party, making them unlikely to pose any credible challenge.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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People in Cambodia began casting their votes during the country's national elections on Sunday (July 23) with the dominance of long-time leader, Hun Sen, who is nearing the completion of his fourth decade in power.

People in Cambodia began casting their votes during the country's national elections on Sunday (July 23) with the dominance of long-time leader, Hun Sen, who is nearing the completion of his fourth decade in power. Voters in the capital Phnom Penh expect the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) to once again sweep all 125 seats in parliament. Cambodia elections: Who is Hun Sen? Hun Sen has held on to power for 38 years. He faces no real opposition as the only significant challenger deemed credible in media reports was disqualified in May. Critics have dismissed the election as a mere facade. Many Western nations, including the United States, have expressed concerns about the integrity of elections. While campaigning for re-election, Hun Sen has hinted that this might be his final term, as he plans to hand over control to his eldest son, Hun Manet, who currently commands the Royal Cambodian Army. Also watch | Cambodia Elections 2023: Hun Sen has retained power for four decades × These indications have raised questions about the state of democracy under Hun Sen's rule. Since the 1990s, when the United Nations helped Cambodia transition into a functioning democracy after years of civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime, Hun Sen's party has won all six national elections every five years. He has managed to consolidate his authority by controlling the military, police, and influential interests, neutralising opponents through various means such as co-opting, imprisoning, or exiling them. Cambodia elections: Boycotting elections a criminal offence To boost voter turnout despite the lack of choices, the government has made it a criminal offence to boycott the election or tamper with ballot papers. Also watch | Elephant used to transport ballot boxes as Cambodia heads to polls The disqualification of the main opposition party, the Candlelight Party, on a technicality, further solidifies Hun Sen's grip on power, after they garnered significant support in the previous local elections. Cambodia elections: How many parties are contesting? A total of 17 other parties are participating in this year's election. They are mostly small, new, or aligned with the ruling party, making them unlikely to pose any credible challenge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cambodia elections: Voting begins in Southeast Asian country where boycott is criminal offence

<p>The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage.</p>

<p>In a statement on Friday (July 21), Trump said that the trial date is a "major setback" to the justice department's "crusade" against him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-week trial would take place in Fort Pierce, Florida, judge Aileen Cannon said. The trial could begin as early as May 20, 2024. A pre-trial hearing in the case will be held on May 14 next year.</p>

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<h2><strong>Mar-a-Lago trial date: What did Trump say on imprisonment question?</strong></h2>

<p>Former President Donald Trump while speaking on 'The Simon Conway Show', said that an imprisonment prospect is "very dangerous thing to even talk about".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-classified-documents-case-trail-set-for-may-20-2024-months-before-us-prez-polls-618231">Donald Trump classified documents case trial set for May 20, months before US prez polls</a></strong></p>

<p>"Because we do have a tremendously passionate group of voters. [They have] much more passion that they had in 2020 and&nbsp; much more passion than they had in 2016. I think it would be very dangerous," Trump said.</p>

<h2><strong>Mar-a-Lago classified documents case: Will Trump be imprisoned?</strong></h2>

<p>Trump's imprisonment is least likely. This is because for the prosecutors to secure a conviction, the jury's decision must be unanimous. Some of them were appointed by Donald Trump during his times in the White House and have shown conservative inclinations in their recent judgments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former president pleaded not guilty to over three dozne&nbsp;federal counts during an arraignment in Miami last month.</p>

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The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year.

The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage. In a statement on Friday (July 21), Trump said that the trial date is a "major setback" to the justice department's "crusade" against him. The two-week trial would take place in Fort Pierce, Florida, judge Aileen Cannon said. The trial could begin as early as May 20, 2024. A pre-trial hearing in the case will be held on May 14 next year. Mar-a-Lago trial date: What did Trump say on imprisonment question? Former President Donald Trump while speaking on 'The Simon Conway Show', said that an imprisonment prospect is "very dangerous thing to even talk about". Also read | Donald Trump classified documents case trial set for May 20, months before US prez polls "Because we do have a tremendously passionate group of voters. [They have] much more passion that they had in 2020 and much more passion than they had in 2016. I think it would be very dangerous," Trump said. Mar-a-Lago classified documents case: Will Trump be imprisoned? Trump's imprisonment is least likely. This is because for the prosecutors to secure a conviction, the jury's decision must be unanimous. Some of them were appointed by Donald Trump during his times in the White House and have shown conservative inclinations in their recent judgments. The former president pleaded not guilty to over three dozne federal counts during an arraignment in Miami last month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Classified documents case: Trump's threat on being imprisoned in spotlight after release of trial date

<p>Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.</p>

<p>The weapons&nbsp;were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine',&nbsp;further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries.</p>

<p>The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems.</p>

<h2><strong>US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk?</strong></h2>

<p>The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential&nbsp;diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war.</p>

<p>The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported&nbsp;lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><b>Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen</b></h2>

<p>The report revealed instances when&nbsp;organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies.</p>

<p>For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly&nbsp;intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots.</p>

<p>Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges.</p>

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Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.

Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed. The weapons were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia. The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine', further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered. The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries. The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems. US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk? The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war. The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine. Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen The report revealed instances when organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies. For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests. Also watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War × The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots. Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How weapons sent by West got stolen in Ukraine, Pentagon report reveals

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