The United States approved the sale of AH-64E &nbsp;Apache attack helicopters to Poland on Monday (August 21). The giant deal with a frontline ally helping Ukraine in its war against Russian aggression is valued at up to $12 billion, the Pentagon said.

The Pentagon said that Poland has asked for 96 Apache attack helicopters and equipment related to it, along with 1,844 Hellfire missiles and 508 Stinger missiles.

The sale "will improve Poland's capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force that is capable of deterring adversaries and participating in NATO operations," a State Department statement said.

Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak confirmed the purchase on social media, stating that "until the procedures are completed and the purchased helicopters are delivered to Poland, the US Army will provide us with Apache helicopters from its own resources."

Last year, Poland decided to acquire the Apaches to replace its age-old Soviet-era helicopter fleet after concerns grew over Russia's military action in neighbouring Ukraine.

The NATO member has actively backed US-led measures to support Ukraine against Russian invasion with billion-dollar investment in US weapons delivered to Ukraine traversing the border through Poland.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-to-start-release-of-wastewater-on-thursday-627718"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-to-start-release-of-wastewater-on-thursday-627718">Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant to start releasing wastewater on Thursday</a>

In the month of January, Poland announced that it plans to spend four per cent of its gross domestic product on defence this year, above the NATO target of two per cent.&nbsp;

<h2>Poland gets first batch of Abrams&nbsp;</h2>

Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks in June this year.&nbsp;

"The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak had said hailing the Abrams as "the best tanks in the world."

The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the US. The shipment was part of a deal worth $1.4 billion&nbsp;for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps.&nbsp;

In June, Poland also announced a deal worth up to $15 billion for Patriot missile defence systems.

"The proposed sale will improve Poland's missile defence capability and contribute to Poland’s military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies," the agency said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States approved the sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to Poland on Monday (August 21). The giant deal with a frontline ally helping Ukraine in its war against Russian aggression is valued at up to $12 billion, the Pentagon said.

The United States approved the sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to Poland on Monday (August 21). The giant deal with a frontline ally helping Ukraine in its war against Russian aggression is valued at up to $12 billion, the Pentagon said. The Pentagon said that Poland has asked for 96 Apache attack helicopters and equipment related to it, along with 1,844 Hellfire missiles and 508 Stinger missiles. The sale "will improve Poland's capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force that is capable of deterring adversaries and participating in NATO operations," a State Department statement said. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak confirmed the purchase on social media, stating that "until the procedures are completed and the purchased helicopters are delivered to Poland, the US Army will provide us with Apache helicopters from its own resources." Last year, Poland decided to acquire the Apaches to replace its age-old Soviet-era helicopter fleet after concerns grew over Russia's military action in neighbouring Ukraine. The NATO member has actively backed US-led measures to support Ukraine against Russian invasion with billion-dollar investment in US weapons delivered to Ukraine traversing the border through Poland. Also read: Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant to start releasing wastewater on Thursday In the month of January, Poland announced that it plans to spend four per cent of its gross domestic product on defence this year, above the NATO target of two per cent. Poland gets first batch of Abrams Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks in June this year. "The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak had said hailing the Abrams as "the best tanks in the world." The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the US. The shipment was part of a deal worth $1.4 billion for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps. In June, Poland also announced a deal worth up to $15 billion for Patriot missile defence systems. "The proposed sale will improve Poland's missile defence capability and contribute to Poland’s military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies," the agency said in a statement. (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.

US approves Apache helicopter sale worth $12 billion to Poland

South Korea on Tuesday (August 22) called on North Korea to immediately drop its plan of launching a satellite saying that the launch would be an "illegal act" as it would require the use of banned ballistic projectile technology.

"North Korea's so-called 'satellite launch' is a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions... No matter what excuses North Korea tries to make, it cannot justify this illegal act," South Korea's Unification Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Pyongyang, on Tuesday, told Japan's Coast Guard that it would launch a satellite between August 24 to August 31, which would fly over the Yellow Sea, East China Sea and the Pacific.

The announcement prompted Tokyo to muster ships and its PAC-3 projectile defence system in case it were to land in its territory.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also released a statement urging North Korea to call off the launch and said that his country was working with South Korea and the United States to gather more information.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-thai-pm-returns-to-thailand-after-15-year-self-exile-following-2006-coup-627724">Ex-Thai PM returns to Thailand after 15-year self-exile following 2006 coup</a>

Tokyo is taking "all possible measures to prepare for any unforeseen eventuality", Kishida said.

"A launch would be extremely regrettable," he told reporters.

<h2>Kim Jong Un plans satellite launch as US and South Korea hold drills</h2>

North Korea's satellite launch announcement comes after the United States and South Korea kicked off their major annual joint military drills on Monday (August 21), which are being done to counter rising threats from the nuclear-armed North.

Named as Ulchi Freedom Shield, the exercises are scheduled to run through August 31.

Pyongyang issued a stern denouncement of the rehearsals saying that it would take "overwhelming" action in response.

In a commentary, KCNA warned that if the drills involve a "nuclear provocation", the possibility "of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic".&nbsp;

The launch plan also comes shortly after leaders from the US, South Korea and Japan met at Camp David.&nbsp;

As per a report by North Korea's KCNA news agency, Pyongyang said that the recent trilateral Camp David summit was a platform for devising a "nuclear war provocation."&nbsp;

The commentary expressed concern that "If the agreements fabricated at the Camp David Resort are additionally put into practice in the war drill ... the possibility of an outbreak of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic."

It further said that the prevailing situation requires its military to "take the initiative, offensive and overwhelming action for a war." As per Reuters, the nation did not elaborate on this remark.

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea on Tuesday (August 22) called on North Korea to immediately drop its plan of launching a satellite saying that the launch would be an "illegal act" as it would require the use of banned ballistic projectile technology.

South Korea on Tuesday (August 22) called on North Korea to immediately drop its plan of launching a satellite saying that the launch would be an "illegal act" as it would require the use of banned ballistic projectile technology. "North Korea's so-called 'satellite launch' is a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions... No matter what excuses North Korea tries to make, it cannot justify this illegal act," South Korea's Unification Ministry said in a statement. Pyongyang, on Tuesday, told Japan's Coast Guard that it would launch a satellite between August 24 to August 31, which would fly over the Yellow Sea, East China Sea and the Pacific. The announcement prompted Tokyo to muster ships and its PAC-3 projectile defence system in case it were to land in its territory. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also released a statement urging North Korea to call off the launch and said that his country was working with South Korea and the United States to gather more information. Also read: Ex-Thai PM returns to Thailand after 15-year self-exile following 2006 coup Tokyo is taking "all possible measures to prepare for any unforeseen eventuality", Kishida said. "A launch would be extremely regrettable," he told reporters. Kim Jong Un plans satellite launch as US and South Korea hold drills North Korea's satellite launch announcement comes after the United States and South Korea kicked off their major annual joint military drills on Monday (August 21), which are being done to counter rising threats from the nuclear-armed North. Named as Ulchi Freedom Shield, the exercises are scheduled to run through August 31. Pyongyang issued a stern denouncement of the rehearsals saying that it would take "overwhelming" action in response. In a commentary, KCNA warned that if the drills involve a "nuclear provocation", the possibility "of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic". The launch plan also comes shortly after leaders from the US, South Korea and Japan met at Camp David. As per a report by North Korea's KCNA news agency, Pyongyang said that the recent trilateral Camp David summit was a platform for devising a "nuclear war provocation." The commentary expressed concern that "If the agreements fabricated at the Camp David Resort are additionally put into practice in the war drill ... the possibility of an outbreak of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic." It further said that the prevailing situation requires its military to "take the initiative, offensive and overwhelming action for a war." As per Reuters, the nation did not elaborate on this remark. (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.

South Korea urges Pyongyang to immediately drop plan of launching satellite

Bad Tourist Behaviour: Bizarre Things Vacationers Did  

Recently a spate of incidents related to bad tourist behaviour have been reported.

Recently a spate of incidents related to bad tourist behaviour have been reported where vacationers have engaged in some very bizarre acts. Let’s take a look. 

Woman climbs into Rome’s Trevi Fountain to fill water bottle 

A woman stepped into Rome’s iconic tourist attraction, Trevi Fountain, to fill her water bottle. The video, captured by an onlooker while she was filling her bottle, took the internet by storm and infuriated social media users. 

Tourist captured carving names on Colosseum 

In another bizarre incident, a tourist, later identified as Ivan Dimitrov (27) from England, was seen carving his and his fiancee’s names on the walls of the Colosseum using a key. 

Man jumps off the Eiffel Tower with parachute 

A man was arrested in Paris on Thursday (August 17) after he jumped off Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower with a parachute on. 

Drunk American tourists found sleeping atop Eiffel Tower 

Two drunk tourists from the US were found sleeping atop the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris on Monday (Aug 13) after evading security the night before. 

Teenager defaces 8th-century UNESCO-listed temple in Japan 

A Canadian teenager carved his name, with fingernails, into an eighth-century UNESCO-listed temple in the historic city of Nara. The incident took place in the 1,200-year-old Toshodaiji Kondo temple complex on July 7. 

A teen girl from Switzerland, last month, was captured carving the letter ‘N’ on a wall of the 2,000-year-old monument.

Canada's western province of British Columbia declared a state of emergency on Friday as firefighters in the country fight the 'worst wildfires' The blaze has triggered thousands of evacuations and the officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also visited an evacuation centre for Northwest Territories residents and said that the federal government will make all the possible efforts to help communities rebuild the “terrible losses”. In other news, a UK-born Indian doctor in northern England helped catch nurse Lucy Letby who was on Friday (August 18) convicted of killing seven newborns. Dr Ravi Jayaram from the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester said that the consultants first began raising concerns after three babies lost their lives in June 2015.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read the full report:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-british-columbia-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-worst-wildfires-626892">Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires'</a>

Canada's western province of British Columbia, on Friday (August 18), declared a state of emergency after wildfires tore through the mountains above the town of West Kelowna forcing thousands of evacuations. The officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/19/374107-succession-2023-08-19t082742618.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-doctor-helped-catch-uk-nurse-who-killed-seven-newborns-626885">Indian-origin doctor helped catch UK nurse who killed seven newborns</a>

A UK-born Indian doctor in northern England helped catch nurse Lucy Letby who was on Friday (August 18) convicted of killing seven newborns. According to a report by the news agency PTI late Friday, Letby was a colleague of Dr Ravi Jayaram from the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester. Speaking to a news channel, Dr Jayaram said some of the seven newborns could have been saved if his concerns about Letby, 33, had been heeded and the police were alerted sooner.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/19/374102-2023-08-18t141322z2lynxmpej7h0j4rtroptp3britain-crime-nurse.JPG?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister&nbsp;says 'nothing will happen' to President Bazoum</a>

Niger's new Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine says no harm will come to President Mohamed Bazoum. Speaking during an interview with the New York Times, Zeine, who had previously served as the finance minister in a past government, said that the generals who overthrew Bazoum during the coup on July 26 will do him no harm.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/19/374099-new-wion-17.jpg?imwidth=256" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netherlands-dutch-far-right-activist-edwin-wagensveld-tears-up-tramples-on-quran-during-protest-626874">Netherlands: Dutch far-right activist Edwin Wagensveld tears up, tramples Quran during protest</a>

A demonstration in the Netherlands took a dark turn when on Friday (August 18th) a Dutch far-right activist tore up and trampled on a copy of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during a demonstration outside the Turkish embassy in The Hague.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/19/374096-new-wion-15.jpg?imwidth=640" />

India, China likely to hold major general-level talks

In order to increase confidence-building measures and reduce friction and the trust gap between the two forces until the two big face-offs at Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh can be addressed, India and China are now set to hold talks at the Major General level.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-likely-to-hold-major-general-level-talks-626890/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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Canada's western province of British Columbia declared a state of emergency on Friday as firefighters in the country fight the 'worst wildfires' The blaze has triggered thousands of evacuations and the officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical.

Canada's western province of British Columbia declared a state of emergency on Friday as firefighters in the country fight the 'worst wildfires' The blaze has triggered thousands of evacuations and the officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also visited an evacuation centre for Northwest Territories residents and said that the federal government will make all the possible efforts to help communities rebuild the “terrible losses”. In other news, a UK-born Indian doctor in northern England helped catch nurse Lucy Letby who was on Friday (August 18) convicted of killing seven newborns. Dr Ravi Jayaram from the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester said that the consultants first began raising concerns after three babies lost their lives in June 2015. Click on headlines to read the full report: Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires' Canada's western province of British Columbia, on Friday (August 18), declared a state of emergency after wildfires tore through the mountains above the town of West Kelowna forcing thousands of evacuations. The officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical. Indian-origin doctor helped catch UK nurse who killed seven newborns A UK-born Indian doctor in northern England helped catch nurse Lucy Letby who was on Friday (August 18) convicted of killing seven newborns. According to a report by the news agency PTI late Friday, Letby was a colleague of Dr Ravi Jayaram from the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester. Speaking to a news channel, Dr Jayaram said some of the seven newborns could have been saved if his concerns about Letby, 33, had been heeded and the police were alerted sooner. Niger's new Prime Minister says 'nothing will happen' to President Bazoum Niger's new Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine says no harm will come to President Mohamed Bazoum. Speaking during an interview with the New York Times, Zeine, who had previously served as the finance minister in a past government, said that the generals who overthrew Bazoum during the coup on July 26 will do him no harm. Netherlands: Dutch far-right activist Edwin Wagensveld tears up, tramples Quran during protest A demonstration in the Netherlands took a dark turn when on Friday (August 18th) a Dutch far-right activist tore up and trampled on a copy of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during a demonstration outside the Turkish embassy in The Hague. India, China likely to hold major general-level talks In order to increase confidence-building measures and reduce friction and the trust gap between the two forces until the two big face-offs at Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh can be addressed, India and China are now set to hold talks at the Major General level.

Morning news brief: Wildfires in Canada, Indian-origin doctor helped catch 'killer' nurse, and more

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi drove to Pangong Lake in Ladakh on Saturday (19 August), to mark his father, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary on August 20.

Taking to social media platform, he shared his pictures along with the caption, "On our way to Pangong Lake, which my father used to say, is one of the most beautiful places in the world."

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The official handle of Congress also shared some pictures of his ride on X, formerly Twitter. "Upwards and onwards - Unstoppable!" the caption of the post read.

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This is the Congress leader's very first visit to Ladakh since Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories, Ladakh and J-K, after Articles 370 and 35 (A) were abrogated on August 5, 2019.

Gandhi arrived in Leh to commence his two-day visit to the Union Territory on Thursday (August 17) but his tour was extended till August 25, news agency ANI reported citing party sources said.

On Friday (August 18), he interacted with the youth of Leh. The sources further added that the Congress leader is set to watch a football match there.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-addresses-g20-digital-economy-ministers-meet-announces-new-ai-powered-language-translation-platform-626940">PM Modi addresses G20 Digital Economy Ministers' meet, announces new AI-powered language translation platform</a>

His visit comes ahead of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil elections which are scheduled to take place on August 25.

<h2>Will Rahul Gandhi contest from Amethi?</h2>

The newly appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, Ajay Rai, after making claims that Rahul Gandhi will contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, on Saturday (August 19), said that the Amethi residents consider him as a part of their family as he fulfilled all his promises.&nbsp;

“The people of Amethi consider him (Rahul Gandhi)&nbsp;as their family because he fulfilled the promises. Rahul Gandhi has connected with local people by doing the Bharat Jodo Yatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and people now believe that it is the Gandhi family who understands our problems and concerns. The people want Congress to come into power."

“In 2019, Smriti Irani had said that if you press the BJP button in the election, you will get sugar for Rs 13 per kilo. People of Amethi are still looking for that sugar. Who has eaten it?,” Rai said.

Gandhi was defeated in the 2019 general elections by BJP's Smriti Irani.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi drove to Pangong Lake in Ladakh on Saturday (19 August), to mark his father, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary on August 20.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi drove to Pangong Lake in Ladakh on Saturday (19 August), to mark his father, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary on August 20. Taking to social media platform, he shared his pictures along with the caption, "On our way to Pangong Lake, which my father used to say, is one of the most beautiful places in the world." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi) × The official handle of Congress also shared some pictures of his ride on X, formerly Twitter. "Upwards and onwards - Unstoppable!" the caption of the post read. Upwards and onwards - Unstoppable! pic.twitter.com/waZmOhv6dy — Congress (@INCIndia) August 19, 2023 × This is the Congress leader's very first visit to Ladakh since Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories, Ladakh and J-K, after Articles 370 and 35 (A) were abrogated on August 5, 2019. Gandhi arrived in Leh to commence his two-day visit to the Union Territory on Thursday (August 17) but his tour was extended till August 25, news agency ANI reported citing party sources said. On Friday (August 18), he interacted with the youth of Leh. The sources further added that the Congress leader is set to watch a football match there. Also read: PM Modi addresses G20 Digital Economy Ministers' meet, announces new AI-powered language translation platform His visit comes ahead of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil elections which are scheduled to take place on August 25. Will Rahul Gandhi contest from Amethi? The newly appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, Ajay Rai, after making claims that Rahul Gandhi will contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, on Saturday (August 19), said that the Amethi residents consider him as a part of their family as he fulfilled all his promises. “The people of Amethi consider him (Rahul Gandhi) as their family because he fulfilled the promises. Rahul Gandhi has connected with local people by doing the Bharat Jodo Yatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and people now believe that it is the Gandhi family who understands our problems and concerns. The people want Congress to come into power." “In 2019, Smriti Irani had said that if you press the BJP button in the election, you will get sugar for Rs 13 per kilo. People of Amethi are still looking for that sugar. Who has eaten it?,” Rai said. Gandhi was defeated in the 2019 general elections by BJP's Smriti Irani. (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.

Rahul Gandhi embarks on bike ride to Pangong Lake in Ladakh

Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19).

Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault. However, it did not specify as to what happened to the other two drones.

Russian forces "attacked from the north with 'Shahed-136/131' attack UAVs. A total of 17 attack drones were launched from the Kursk region," the Ukrainian force said on Telegram.

It added that air defences were activated in "northern and central, as well as in the western regions".

"15 enemy drones were destroyed by the forces and means of the Air Force in cooperation with the air defence systems of other components of the Defence Forces of Ukraine."

<h2>Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone&nbsp;</h2>

Russian forces on Friday (August 18) said that they had shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeted at Moscow and its Black Sea Fleet. The drone, according to the reports, disrupted air traffic at all the civilian airports of the Russian capital.

The Russian defence ministry and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that there were no casualties after air defences destroyed the drone which plummeted over a non-residential building in the capital city's Expo Center complex on Friday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-fumio-kishida-to-visit-fukushima-nuclear-plant-before-governments-decision-on-water-release-626925">Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release</a>

"The UAV, after being exposed to air defence weapons, changed its flight path and fell on a non-residential building in the Krasnopresnenskaya embankment area of Moscow," the ministry said on Telegram.

"The wreckage of the UAV fell in the area of the Expo Centre, and did not cause significant damage to the building," Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram.

As per the state-run news agency TASS, one of the walls of the venue's pavilion had partially collapsed.

"The area of the collapse is about 30 square meters (323 square feet)," emergency services told TASS.

Citing aviation services, TASS reported that the airspace near the international airport of Vnukovo was briefly closed, delaying departures and arrivals.

(Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos)

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19). Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault.

Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19). Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault. However, it did not specify as to what happened to the other two drones. Russian forces "attacked from the north with 'Shahed-136/131' attack UAVs. A total of 17 attack drones were launched from the Kursk region," the Ukrainian force said on Telegram. It added that air defences were activated in "northern and central, as well as in the western regions". "15 enemy drones were destroyed by the forces and means of the Air Force in cooperation with the air defence systems of other components of the Defence Forces of Ukraine." Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone Russian forces on Friday (August 18) said that they had shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeted at Moscow and its Black Sea Fleet. The drone, according to the reports, disrupted air traffic at all the civilian airports of the Russian capital. The Russian defence ministry and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that there were no casualties after air defences destroyed the drone which plummeted over a non-residential building in the capital city's Expo Center complex on Friday. Also read: Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release "The UAV, after being exposed to air defence weapons, changed its flight path and fell on a non-residential building in the Krasnopresnenskaya embankment area of Moscow," the ministry said on Telegram. "The wreckage of the UAV fell in the area of the Expo Centre, and did not cause significant damage to the building," Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram. As per the state-run news agency TASS, one of the walls of the venue's pavilion had partially collapsed. "The area of the collapse is about 30 square meters (323 square feet)," emergency services told TASS. Citing aviation services, TASS reported that the airspace near the international airport of Vnukovo was briefly closed, delaying departures and arrivals. (Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos) (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.

Ukraine says it shot down 15 Russian drones overnight

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is all set to return to the country on Tuesday (August 22), said his daughter, amid a political deadlock.

Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is also one of the Pheu Thai Party's candidates for prime minister, took to social media on Saturday (August 19) and said in a post that she would meet her father at Bangkok's Don Muang Airport on Tuesday, August 22.

"On Tuesday, August 22, 9 am I will pick up my father Thaksin at Don Muang Airport," his daughter said.

In the year 2006, the former 74-year-old business tycoon was ousted in a military coup and has spent 15 years in self-exile.

Thaksin, in the past, has stated his ardent desire to visit his homeland several times but he faces multiple criminal charges, which according to him are politically motivated.

<h2>I'm old, I miss my grandchildren:&nbsp;Thaksin</h2>

As per news agency AFP reports, Thaksin said in an interview with BBC Thai that he misses his grandchildren and that he wants to be around his family members.

"I don't want to offend people. I want everyone to love each other. I want the country to be peaceful," he told BBC Thai on Saturday.

"I'm old, I miss my grandchildren, I want to be with my family."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-chinese-military-drills-around-taiwan-taipei-accuses-beijing-of-trying-to-shape-upcoming-poll-626945">After Chinese military drills around Taiwan, Taipei accuses Beijing of trying to shape upcoming poll</a>

His return on Tuesday coincides with a key parliamentary vote that will determine if Srettha Thavisin takes up the position of power to become the prime minister ending political uncertainty looming in the country since general elections that took place earlier this year in May.

Thaksin, who earlier postponed his return from August 10, citing the need for a medical checkup, still faces up to 10 years in prison. The 74-year-old would be subject to the judicial process upon his return, news agency Reuters reported citing police chief Surachate Hakparn.

As per some analysts, Thaksin's return suggests Pheu Thai reached a deal with political parties on forming a government after receiving support from military-backed parties.

"Thaksin's return on the voting day shows that he is confident that Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidate will be elected in one round," said Thanaporn Sriyakul, chair of the Political Science Association of Kasetsart University.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is all set to return to the country on Tuesday (August 22), said his daughter, amid a political deadlock. Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is also one of the Pheu Thai Party's candidates for prime minister, took to social media on Saturday (August 19) and said in a post that she would meet her father at Bangkok's Don Muang Airport on Tuesday, August 22.

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is all set to return to the country on Tuesday (August 22), said his daughter, amid a political deadlock. Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is also one of the Pheu Thai Party's candidates for prime minister, took to social media on Saturday (August 19) and said in a post that she would meet her father at Bangkok's Don Muang Airport on Tuesday, August 22. "On Tuesday, August 22, 9 am I will pick up my father Thaksin at Don Muang Airport," his daughter said. In the year 2006, the former 74-year-old business tycoon was ousted in a military coup and has spent 15 years in self-exile. Thaksin, in the past, has stated his ardent desire to visit his homeland several times but he faces multiple criminal charges, which according to him are politically motivated. I'm old, I miss my grandchildren: Thaksin As per news agency AFP reports, Thaksin said in an interview with BBC Thai that he misses his grandchildren and that he wants to be around his family members. "I don't want to offend people. I want everyone to love each other. I want the country to be peaceful," he told BBC Thai on Saturday. "I'm old, I miss my grandchildren, I want to be with my family." Also read: After Chinese military drills around Taiwan, Taipei accuses Beijing of trying to shape upcoming poll His return on Tuesday coincides with a key parliamentary vote that will determine if Srettha Thavisin takes up the position of power to become the prime minister ending political uncertainty looming in the country since general elections that took place earlier this year in May. Thaksin, who earlier postponed his return from August 10, citing the need for a medical checkup, still faces up to 10 years in prison. The 74-year-old would be subject to the judicial process upon his return, news agency Reuters reported citing police chief Surachate Hakparn. As per some analysts, Thaksin's return suggests Pheu Thai reached a deal with political parties on forming a government after receiving support from military-backed parties. "Thaksin's return on the voting day shows that he is confident that Pheu Thai's prime ministerial candidate will be elected in one round," said Thanaporn Sriyakul, chair of the Political Science Association of Kasetsart University. (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.

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to return amid political deadlock

Brazil wishes to re-establish its trade and political ties with Cuba, said a top foreign aide to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday (August 18), after a meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana.&nbsp;

"We want to make the relationship between Brazil and Cuba one of great friendships," Lula's adviser Celso Amorim said during the trip to Havana.

"That will contribute to peace in our region, and that's the greatest goal of diplomacy, alongside economic growth," said Amorim, who previously served as foreign minister under both Lula and former President Itamar Franco.

He also said that health expert groups and representatives from Brazil's agricultural sector will soon travel to Cuba.&nbsp;

The relations between Brazil and Cuba were strong during Lula's leftist Workers Party's regime, which was between the years 2003 and 2016. The ties were strained when far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro came to power.

In 2019, which was the first year of Bolsonaro's administration, for the very first time Brazil had voted against an annual United Nations resolution where it denounced and called for an end to the US economic embargo on Communist-ruled Cuba.

However, after Lula resumed office in January this year to serve his third non-consecutive term, Latin America's largest economy has been looking to once again bolster its ties with the Caribbean island nation. &nbsp;

Cuba played a significant role in Brazil's "More Doctors" which was an initiative taken by the government that recruited foreign doctors to work primarily in remote areas of the country.

Bolsonaro was a critic of the program and ended it when he came to power, a decision that led to tension with the Cuban government.

Lula and Diaz-Canel had already held talks in June in Paris, in a meeting the Cuban leader described as "fraternal."

(With inputs from the agencies) 
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Brazil wishes to re-establish its trade and political ties with Cuba, said a top foreign aide to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday (August 18), after a meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana.

Brazil wishes to re-establish its trade and political ties with Cuba, said a top foreign aide to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday (August 18), after a meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana. "We want to make the relationship between Brazil and Cuba one of great friendships," Lula's adviser Celso Amorim said during the trip to Havana. "That will contribute to peace in our region, and that's the greatest goal of diplomacy, alongside economic growth," said Amorim, who previously served as foreign minister under both Lula and former President Itamar Franco. He also said that health expert groups and representatives from Brazil's agricultural sector will soon travel to Cuba. The relations between Brazil and Cuba were strong during Lula's leftist Workers Party's regime, which was between the years 2003 and 2016. The ties were strained when far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro came to power. In 2019, which was the first year of Bolsonaro's administration, for the very first time Brazil had voted against an annual United Nations resolution where it denounced and called for an end to the US economic embargo on Communist-ruled Cuba. However, after Lula resumed office in January this year to serve his third non-consecutive term, Latin America's largest economy has been looking to once again bolster its ties with the Caribbean island nation. Cuba played a significant role in Brazil's "More Doctors" which was an initiative taken by the government that recruited foreign doctors to work primarily in remote areas of the country. Bolsonaro was a critic of the program and ended it when he came to power, a decision that led to tension with the Cuban government. Lula and Diaz-Canel had already held talks in June in Paris, in a meeting the Cuban leader described as "fraternal." (With inputs from the 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.

Brazil intends to restore trade and political ties with Cuba

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meet on Friday (August 18), via video message, emphasised on the country's digital transformation and its commitment to inclusive digital development.

PM Modi underlined how Bengaluru is home to technology, science and the spirit of entrepreneurship saying, "There is no better place than Bengaluru to discuss the digital economy."

He then stressed the progress made by India in the field of technology and digitalization, which he said was initiated with the launch of the Digital India initiative in the year 2015.

“India’s digital transformation over the last nine years is unprecedented. It all started with the launch of our Digital India initiative in 2015. It is powered by our unshakeable belief in innovation. It is driven by our commitment to speedy implementation and it is motivated by our spirit of inclusion, leaving no one behind,” he said.&nbsp;

Attributing this transformation to innovation, speedy implementation, and a spirit of inclusion, he said, "The scale, speed, and scope of this transformation is beyond imagination."

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Sharing my remarks at G20 Digital Economy Ministers Meeting in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/g20org?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@g20org</a> <a href="https://t.co/ai6pbrR6wl">https://t.co/ai6pbrR6wl</a>
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&nbsp;

Listing out examples of Aadhaar, he laid emphasis on how technology was deployed in the country to digitally transform governance.&nbsp;

Citing JAM trinity — Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar, and Mobile — he threw light on the Direct Benefits Transfer plugging leakages in the system.

“We have used the power of JAM trinity — Jan Dhan Bank accounts, Aadhaar and Mobile — to revolutionise financial inclusion in India. Every month, nearly 10 billion transactions take place on UPI, our instant payment system. More than 45% of the global real-time payments happen in India,” the Indian prime minister said

“Fully digitised taxation systems are promoting transparency and e-governance”, he added.

The prime minister emphasised that India's diverse landscape makes it an ideal place to test scalable, secure, and inclusive solutions that can benefit the entire world.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-doctor-helped-catch-uk-nurse-who-killed-seven-newborns-626885">Indian-origin doctor helped catch UK nurse who killed seven newborns</a>

Further noting that the digital economy will face security threats and challenges in future, he stressed on building a consensus on the G20 high-level principles for a secure, trusted, and resilient digital economy.

“As the digital economy spreads globally, it will face security threats and challenges. In this context, it is important to build consensus on the G20 high-level principles for a secure, trusted, and resilient digital economy. We in G20 have a unique opportunity to lay the foundation for an inclusive, prosperous and secure global digital future,” the Prime Minister declared in his opening remarks.

The event, which is being held in Karnataka's capital city Bengaluru, is attended by dignitaries from across the world, aimed at providing a platform for discussions around the future of the digital economy.

<h2>PM Modi announces AI-powered language translation platform 'Bhashini'</h2>

PM Modi in his video address also announced that India was building “Bhashini” which is an AI-powered language translation platform that would be available in all Indian languages.&nbsp;

“India is an incredibly diverse country. We have dozens of languages. and hundreds of dialects. It is home to every religion in the world and innumerable cultural practices from ancient traditions to the latest technology - India has something for everyone. With such diversity, India is an ideal testing lab for everyone. A solution that succeeds in India can be easily applied anywhere in the world,” the Prime Minister said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meet on Friday (August 18), via video message, emphasised on the country's digital transformation and its commitment to inclusive digital development.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meet on Friday (August 18), via video message, emphasised on the country's digital transformation and its commitment to inclusive digital development. PM Modi underlined how Bengaluru is home to technology, science and the spirit of entrepreneurship saying, "There is no better place than Bengaluru to discuss the digital economy." He then stressed the progress made by India in the field of technology and digitalization, which he said was initiated with the launch of the Digital India initiative in the year 2015. “India’s digital transformation over the last nine years is unprecedented. It all started with the launch of our Digital India initiative in 2015. It is powered by our unshakeable belief in innovation. It is driven by our commitment to speedy implementation and it is motivated by our spirit of inclusion, leaving no one behind,” he said. Attributing this transformation to innovation, speedy implementation, and a spirit of inclusion, he said, "The scale, speed, and scope of this transformation is beyond imagination." Sharing my remarks at G20 Digital Economy Ministers Meeting in Bengaluru. @g20org https://t.co/ai6pbrR6wl — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 19, 2023 × Listing out examples of Aadhaar, he laid emphasis on how technology was deployed in the country to digitally transform governance. Citing JAM trinity — Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar, and Mobile — he threw light on the Direct Benefits Transfer plugging leakages in the system. “We have used the power of JAM trinity — Jan Dhan Bank accounts, Aadhaar and Mobile — to revolutionise financial inclusion in India. Every month, nearly 10 billion transactions take place on UPI, our instant payment system. More than 45% of the global real-time payments happen in India,” the Indian prime minister said “Fully digitised taxation systems are promoting transparency and e-governance”, he added. The prime minister emphasised that India's diverse landscape makes it an ideal place to test scalable, secure, and inclusive solutions that can benefit the entire world. Also read: Indian-origin doctor helped catch UK nurse who killed seven newborns Further noting that the digital economy will face security threats and challenges in future, he stressed on building a consensus on the G20 high-level principles for a secure, trusted, and resilient digital economy. “As the digital economy spreads globally, it will face security threats and challenges. In this context, it is important to build consensus on the G20 high-level principles for a secure, trusted, and resilient digital economy. We in G20 have a unique opportunity to lay the foundation for an inclusive, prosperous and secure global digital future,” the Prime Minister declared in his opening remarks. The event, which is being held in Karnataka's capital city Bengaluru, is attended by dignitaries from across the world, aimed at providing a platform for discussions around the future of the digital economy. PM Modi announces AI-powered language translation platform 'Bhashini' PM Modi in his video address also announced that India was building “Bhashini” which is an AI-powered language translation platform that would be available in all Indian languages. “India is an incredibly diverse country. We have dozens of languages. and hundreds of dialects. It is home to every religion in the world and innumerable cultural practices from ancient traditions to the latest technology - India has something for everyone. With such diversity, India is an ideal testing lab for everyone. A solution that succeeds in India can be easily applied anywhere in the world,” the Prime Minister said. (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.

PM Modi addresses G20 Digital Economy Ministers' meet, announces new AI-powered language translation platform

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20).

His visit to the nuclear plant will be ahead of the government's final verdict on when it will begin discharging treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

"The government is at the final stage of when it has to make a decision," Kishida said in the United States.

During the press briefing, he declined to comment on when the country will begin discharging the water.

Tokyo is planning to release wastewater of same volume&nbsp;as 500 Olympic-size swimming pools from the wrecked facility into the ocean.

<h2>South Korean activists protest against Japan's decision</h2>

Last week, hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul and staged a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge water contaminated with radioactive substances.

"If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest.

"We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-british-columbia-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-worst-wildfires-626892">Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires'</a>

Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers. &nbsp;

Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per &nbsp;Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food.

"There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20).

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20). His visit to the nuclear plant will be ahead of the government's final verdict on when it will begin discharging treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked power plant into the Pacific Ocean. "The government is at the final stage of when it has to make a decision," Kishida said in the United States. During the press briefing, he declined to comment on when the country will begin discharging the water. Tokyo is planning to release wastewater of same volume as 500 Olympic-size swimming pools from the wrecked facility into the ocean. South Korean activists protest against Japan's decision Last week, hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul and staged a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge water contaminated with radioactive substances. "If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest. "We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind." Also read: Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires' Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers. Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food. "There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said. (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.

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release

Canada's western province of British Columbia, on Friday (August 18), declared a state of emergency after wildfires tore through the mountains above the town of West Kelowna forcing thousands of evacuations.

The officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical.

“We are declaring a provincial state of emergency to ensure that we have rapid access to any tools that we may need to respond to this situation. And these tools are necessary to support communities, to support families and support those brave frontline workers who are battling the fires in our forests and in our communities," said British Columbia Premier David Eby.

“That right now we are facing the worst wildfire season in our province's history. This unprecedented situation has come to a head this evening in just the last 24 hours the situation has evolved and deteriorated quite rapidly. In just the last hour we've gone from about 4,500 homes under evacuation to about 15,000 homes, families being evacuated from their homes across the province,” he added.

"Over the past 24 hours, the situation has evolved rapidly and we are in for an extremely challenging situation in the days ahead," the government of British Columbia said in a statement.

"We fought hard last night to protect our community," Jason Brolund, West Kelowna fire chief, told reporters. "Night turned to day because of the orange glow of the clouds and the fire."

The officials further added that more than 2,400 buildings were evacuated and thousands more were on alert. Brolund said that several structures were destroyed in West Kelowna during the night.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/escalating-wildfire-threatens-washington-state-residents-triggers-urgent-evacuations-626882">Escalating wildfire threatens Washington state residents, triggers urgent evacuations</a>

Situated towards the east of Vancouver, West Kelowna is home to 36,000 people. The wildfires also prompted evacuations in Kelowna, where a population of about 150,000 resides.

<h2>Trudeau visits evacuation centre&nbsp;</h2>

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, after his visit to an evacuation centre for Northwest Territories residents, said that the government will make all the possible efforts to help communities rebuild the “terrible losses”.

"The federal government is there with the significant military assets. We're coordinating the air evacuations, we're making sure that we're there to respond to all the needs of the community now, and we’ll be there in the coming months and years as we look to keep people safe moving forward even as we rebuild in places where there are terrible losses," the Canadian Prime Minister said.

He also paid tributes to first responders, police and volunteers for all their efforts saying that the way Canadians were looking out for each other was “truly extraordinary”.&nbsp;

"It's, it really is a recognised reflection of the extraordinary generosity not just the people in Edmonton, but people right across, right across the country, welcoming up their home, opening up their homes and their communities to people fleeing what has been an extraordinarily difficult summer," Trudeau said.

"And this is something we've seen right across the country this summer. From the east coast, the fires in Nova Scotia, to dealing with floods across the country with wildfires in just about every province across this country. Terrible loss, increased extreme weather events. And all through it. We've seen Canadians step up, obviously, first responders, firefighters, police, volunteers, Red Cross have been incredible in supporting and responding to people," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
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Canada's western province of British Columbia, on Friday (August 18), declared a state of emergency after wildfires tore through the mountains above the town of West Kelowna forcing thousands of evacuations.

Canada's western province of British Columbia, on Friday (August 18), declared a state of emergency after wildfires tore through the mountains above the town of West Kelowna forcing thousands of evacuations. The officials released a statement saying that the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most critical. “We are declaring a provincial state of emergency to ensure that we have rapid access to any tools that we may need to respond to this situation. And these tools are necessary to support communities, to support families and support those brave frontline workers who are battling the fires in our forests and in our communities," said British Columbia Premier David Eby. “That right now we are facing the worst wildfire season in our province's history. This unprecedented situation has come to a head this evening in just the last 24 hours the situation has evolved and deteriorated quite rapidly. In just the last hour we've gone from about 4,500 homes under evacuation to about 15,000 homes, families being evacuated from their homes across the province,” he added. "Over the past 24 hours, the situation has evolved rapidly and we are in for an extremely challenging situation in the days ahead," the government of British Columbia said in a statement. "We fought hard last night to protect our community," Jason Brolund, West Kelowna fire chief, told reporters. "Night turned to day because of the orange glow of the clouds and the fire." The officials further added that more than 2,400 buildings were evacuated and thousands more were on alert. Brolund said that several structures were destroyed in West Kelowna during the night. Also read: Escalating wildfire threatens Washington state residents, triggers urgent evacuations Situated towards the east of Vancouver, West Kelowna is home to 36,000 people. The wildfires also prompted evacuations in Kelowna, where a population of about 150,000 resides. Trudeau visits evacuation centre Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, after his visit to an evacuation centre for Northwest Territories residents, said that the government will make all the possible efforts to help communities rebuild the “terrible losses”. "The federal government is there with the significant military assets. We're coordinating the air evacuations, we're making sure that we're there to respond to all the needs of the community now, and we’ll be there in the coming months and years as we look to keep people safe moving forward even as we rebuild in places where there are terrible losses," the Canadian Prime Minister said. He also paid tributes to first responders, police and volunteers for all their efforts saying that the way Canadians were looking out for each other was “truly extraordinary”. "It's, it really is a recognised reflection of the extraordinary generosity not just the people in Edmonton, but people right across, right across the country, welcoming up their home, opening up their homes and their communities to people fleeing what has been an extraordinarily difficult summer," Trudeau said. "And this is something we've seen right across the country this summer. From the east coast, the fires in Nova Scotia, to dealing with floods across the country with wildfires in just about every province across this country. Terrible loss, increased extreme weather events. And all through it. We've seen Canadians step up, obviously, first responders, firefighters, police, volunteers, Red Cross have been incredible in supporting and responding to people," he added. (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.

Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid ‘worst wildfires’

A&nbsp;Sikh man in his 20s was charged with stabbing two people during a community event in Southall, west London, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement on Thursday (August 17).

Gurpreet Singh, 25, was charged with several offences as he appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court in London.

The charges against him include&nbsp;a count of attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, two counts of GBH with intent, one count of affray, one count of threats with a bladed article, and two counts of possession of a bladed article, the police said on Thursday, as per news agency PTI.

Singh, who has been remanded to custody, has been asked to appear at Isleworth Crown Court in London on September 14.

The incident reportedly took place during a community event which was related to India's Independence Day in Southall on Tuesday (August 17) night, some videos of which also emerged on social media, reportedly showing a clash involving some pro-Khalistani extremists and police officers chasing suspects.

"I recognise the enormous concern this incident will have caused, both in Southall and in the Sikh communities around London and further afield, in what was an otherwise largely peaceful and celebratory event,” said Metropolitan Police Superintendent Sean Lynch, responsible for neighbourhood policing in Ealing, west London.

“Our urgent investigation continues. We are aware of footage circulating on social media, with people also commenting on what they think happened. We would urge people to avoid echoing or adding to the speculation. Fortunately, none of those injured were seriously hurt and there were no fatalities," he said.&nbsp;

As per PTI reports, another man who was in his 20s was also arrested at the scene but was later released on police bail pending further enquiries.

The police also said that a female officer at the spot, who was involved in detaining one of the aggressors, sustained a small wound in her hand but did not require medical intervention.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-executes-us-national-convicted-of-torturing-killing-his-egyptian-father-626325">Saudi Arabia executes US national convicted of torturing, killing his Egyptian father</a>

The probe into the matter is being conducted by Met Police detectives from West Area CID. A Section 35 Dispersal Order authorised to disperse crowds in the area has since been lifted.

Recently, several incidents, and protests, have been reported in many countries related to pro-Khalistani activists like the United States, Australia and Canada.&nbsp;

<h2>Khalistani protests fizzle out amid tight security in US</h2>

Security was tightened outside the Indian embassy in Washington DC in the wake of protests called by Khalistani supporters on Indian Independence Day (August 15). Several police personnel were deployed outside the embassy along with makeshift barricades.&nbsp;

Last month, Khalistani supporters allegedly attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco. There was no major damage nor any injuries and police launched an investigation.

“The US strongly condemns the reported vandalism and attempted arson against the Indian Consulate in San Francisco on Saturday. Vandalism or violence against diplomatic facilities or foreign diplomats in the US is a criminal offence," US Department of State Spokesperson, Matthew Miller wrote in a post on X.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

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A Sikh man in his 20s was charged with stabbing two people during a community event in Southall, west London, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement on Thursday (August 17).

A Sikh man in his 20s was charged with stabbing two people during a community event in Southall, west London, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement on Thursday (August 17). Gurpreet Singh, 25, was charged with several offences as he appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court in London. The charges against him include a count of attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, two counts of GBH with intent, one count of affray, one count of threats with a bladed article, and two counts of possession of a bladed article, the police said on Thursday, as per news agency PTI. Singh, who has been remanded to custody, has been asked to appear at Isleworth Crown Court in London on September 14. The incident reportedly took place during a community event which was related to India's Independence Day in Southall on Tuesday (August 17) night, some videos of which also emerged on social media, reportedly showing a clash involving some pro-Khalistani extremists and police officers chasing suspects. "I recognise the enormous concern this incident will have caused, both in Southall and in the Sikh communities around London and further afield, in what was an otherwise largely peaceful and celebratory event,” said Metropolitan Police Superintendent Sean Lynch, responsible for neighbourhood policing in Ealing, west London. “Our urgent investigation continues. We are aware of footage circulating on social media, with people also commenting on what they think happened. We would urge people to avoid echoing or adding to the speculation. Fortunately, none of those injured were seriously hurt and there were no fatalities," he said. As per PTI reports, another man who was in his 20s was also arrested at the scene but was later released on police bail pending further enquiries. The police also said that a female officer at the spot, who was involved in detaining one of the aggressors, sustained a small wound in her hand but did not require medical intervention. Also read: Saudi Arabia executes US national convicted of torturing, killing his Egyptian father The probe into the matter is being conducted by Met Police detectives from West Area CID. A Section 35 Dispersal Order authorised to disperse crowds in the area has since been lifted. Recently, several incidents, and protests, have been reported in many countries related to pro-Khalistani activists like the United States, Australia and Canada. Khalistani protests fizzle out amid tight security in US Security was tightened outside the Indian embassy in Washington DC in the wake of protests called by Khalistani supporters on Indian Independence Day (August 15). Several police personnel were deployed outside the embassy along with makeshift barricades. Last month, Khalistani supporters allegedly attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco. There was no major damage nor any injuries and police launched an investigation. “The US strongly condemns the reported vandalism and attempted arson against the Indian Consulate in San Francisco on Saturday. Vandalism or violence against diplomatic facilities or foreign diplomats in the US is a criminal offence," US Department of State Spokesperson, Matthew Miller wrote in a post on X. (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.

UK: Man charged with stabbing two people during Indian Independence Day celebrations in London

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