Japan on Thursday (September 7) launched a rocket carrying what it plans to be the country's first successful Moon lander, as was seen in the live footage shared by the country's space agency. 
 
The H2-A rocket, carrying the precision "Moon Sniper" lander blasted off at 8:42 am (2342 GMT Wednesday) and is expected to touch down on the lunar surface in a span of four to six months. 
 
The rocket was launched from Tanegashima in southern Japan after getting postponed three times due to bad weather and garnered around 35,000 online viewers. 
 
The rocket is also carrying a research satellite which has been developed by NASA, the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-poised-to-make-giant-leap-in-its-space-endeavors-to-launch-moon-sniper-on-sept-7-633074">Japan poised to make giant leap in its space endeavours, to launch 'moon sniper' on Sept 7</a>

<h2>SLIM designed to land within 100 metres of target</h2>

The moon lander was launched by Japan just a month after India's craft landed near the south pole of the Moon, which was seen as a historic triumph for the country. 
 
The compact lander of Japan, officially called the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), has been designed to successfully land within 100 metres of the specific target on the Moon's surface. 
 
"By creating the SLIM lander humans will make a qualitative shift towards being able to land where we want and not just where it is easy to land," said JAXA, before the launch. 
 
"By achieving this, it will become possible to land on planets even more resource-scarce than the Moon. Globally there are no previous instances of pinpoint landing on celestial bodies with significant gravity such as the Moon," it added. 
 
Till now, India, the United States, Russia and China have been able to place their spacecraft on the surface of the Moon and India became the first country to do so on the south pole. All the previous attempts by Japan have failed, including a lunar probe named Omotenashi sent by it last year as part of the Artemis programme of the United States.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Unification Church to be dissolved in Japan?

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Omotenashi, which was the size of a backpack, would have been the smallest Moon lander in the world. However, after the probe was launched by the powerful rocket of NASA from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the mission faced issues and finally they lost communication with it. 
 
Japan also faced problems with launch rockets, after the next-generation H3 model failed after liftoff in March and reliable solid-fuel Epsilon was unsuccessful last October.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan on Thursday (September 7) launched a rocket carrying what it plans to be the country's first successful Moon lander, as was seen in the live footage shared by the country's space agency.

Japan on Thursday (September 7) launched a rocket carrying what it plans to be the country's first successful Moon lander, as was seen in the live footage shared by the country's space agency. The H2-A rocket, carrying the precision "Moon Sniper" lander blasted off at 8:42 am (2342 GMT Wednesday) and is expected to touch down on the lunar surface in a span of four to six months. The rocket was launched from Tanegashima in southern Japan after getting postponed three times due to bad weather and garnered around 35,000 online viewers. The rocket is also carrying a research satellite which has been developed by NASA, the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). ALSO READ | Japan poised to make giant leap in its space endeavours, to launch 'moon sniper' on Sept 7 SLIM designed to land within 100 metres of target The moon lander was launched by Japan just a month after India's craft landed near the south pole of the Moon, which was seen as a historic triumph for the country. The compact lander of Japan, officially called the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), has been designed to successfully land within 100 metres of the specific target on the Moon's surface. "By creating the SLIM lander humans will make a qualitative shift towards being able to land where we want and not just where it is easy to land," said JAXA, before the launch. "By achieving this, it will become possible to land on planets even more resource-scarce than the Moon. Globally there are no previous instances of pinpoint landing on celestial bodies with significant gravity such as the Moon," it added. Till now, India, the United States, Russia and China have been able to place their spacecraft on the surface of the Moon and India became the first country to do so on the south pole. All the previous attempts by Japan have failed, including a lunar probe named Omotenashi sent by it last year as part of the Artemis programme of the United States. WATCH | Gravitas: Unification Church to be dissolved in Japan? Omotenashi, which was the size of a backpack, would have been the smallest Moon lander in the world. However, after the probe was launched by the powerful rocket of NASA from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the mission faced issues and finally they lost communication with it. Japan also faced problems with launch rockets, after the next-generation H3 model failed after liftoff in March and reliable solid-fuel Epsilon was unsuccessful last October. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan's 'Moon Sniper' lander blasts off into space after three postponements

A judge in Georgia on Wednesday (September 6) said that he was “very sceptical” about former US president Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants going through a trial together next month in a criminal case in which they stand accused of conspiring to reverse the presidential election results in 2020. 
 
The prosecutors were granted 10 days by Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee to explain how they “could possibly keep these defendants together” with a number of outstanding legal questions and the deadline of speedy trial set next month for defendants who have asked for one.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-finds-trump-liable-for-defamation-in-e-jean-carrolls-second-lawsuit-633091">Judge finds Trump liable for defamation in E Jean Carroll's second lawsuit</a>

The remarks that were made during a hearing of the case in Atlanta emphasised the challenge of shepherding multiple people to trial as soon as October 23.

<h2>Trial likely to stretch for four months</h2>

The prosecutors in the Georgia racketeering case said that the trial is likely to take four months and will include approximately 150 witnesses. 
 
"So the other things to keep in mind is this is going to be a case with a lot of pretrial motions. And again, I don't know how many hearings we're going to need to have to sort through all of those. But if we compress our timeline to 40-something days, our ability to even be able to really weigh those and think through these issues again, it just seems a bit unrealistic to think that we can handle all 19 in 40-something days. That's that's my initial reaction,” agreed Judge McAfee. 
 
No date has been set for the trial yet, although prosecutors have been hoping to start on October 23. Any wrongdoing has been denied by the former president and his co-defendants, who have pleaded not guilty. 
 
State prosecutor Nathan Wade said in court on Wednesday that the estimated timeline has not included jury selection which is likely to add months to the process. 
 
Judge Scott McAfee said that he plans to finalise questions regarding the schedule of the trial by "either the end of this week or early next week". In the case, all 19 co-defendants have pleaded not guilty and appealed for their right to in-person arraignments.

WATCH |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION

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During the court session on Wednesday, Judge McAfee also heard arguments on whether there is a possibility of a few defendants severing their cases from the wider racketeering. 
 
Attorneys for Kenneth Chesebro looked for ways to decrease the counts against him, as did attorneys for former Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, who has appealed for a speedy trial. The two will now go on trial together on October 23 after a motion to sever their cases from one another was denied by Judge McAfee. 
 
The judge, in the court, said that he does not believe that "the severance for Mr Cheseboro or Ms Powell is necessary to achieve a fair determination of the guilt or innocence for either defendant in this case".

(With inputs from agencies)

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A judge in Georgia on Wednesday (September 6) said that he was “very sceptical” about former US president Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants going through a trial together next month in a criminal case in which they stand accused of conspiring to reverse the presidential election results in 2020.

A judge in Georgia on Wednesday (September 6) said that he was “very sceptical” about former US president Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants going through a trial together next month in a criminal case in which they stand accused of conspiring to reverse the presidential election results in 2020. The prosecutors were granted 10 days by Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee to explain how they “could possibly keep these defendants together” with a number of outstanding legal questions and the deadline of speedy trial set next month for defendants who have asked for one. ALSO READ | Judge finds Trump liable for defamation in E Jean Carroll's second lawsuit The remarks that were made during a hearing of the case in Atlanta emphasised the challenge of shepherding multiple people to trial as soon as October 23. Trial likely to stretch for four months The prosecutors in the Georgia racketeering case said that the trial is likely to take four months and will include approximately 150 witnesses. "So the other things to keep in mind is this is going to be a case with a lot of pretrial motions. And again, I don't know how many hearings we're going to need to have to sort through all of those. But if we compress our timeline to 40-something days, our ability to even be able to really weigh those and think through these issues again, it just seems a bit unrealistic to think that we can handle all 19 in 40-something days. That's that's my initial reaction,” agreed Judge McAfee. No date has been set for the trial yet, although prosecutors have been hoping to start on October 23. Any wrongdoing has been denied by the former president and his co-defendants, who have pleaded not guilty. State prosecutor Nathan Wade said in court on Wednesday that the estimated timeline has not included jury selection which is likely to add months to the process. Judge Scott McAfee said that he plans to finalise questions regarding the schedule of the trial by "either the end of this week or early next week". In the case, all 19 co-defendants have pleaded not guilty and appealed for their right to in-person arraignments. WATCH | Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION During the court session on Wednesday, Judge McAfee also heard arguments on whether there is a possibility of a few defendants severing their cases from the wider racketeering. Attorneys for Kenneth Chesebro looked for ways to decrease the counts against him, as did attorneys for former Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, who has appealed for a speedy trial. The two will now go on trial together on October 23 after a motion to sever their cases from one another was denied by Judge McAfee. The judge, in the court, said that he does not believe that "the severance for Mr Cheseboro or Ms Powell is necessary to achieve a fair determination of the guilt or innocence for either defendant in this case". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Trump Georgia election case: Judge 'very skeptical' of trying all defendants together

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits. 
 
In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-leaves-for-indonesia-to-take-part-in-asean-india-summit-east-asia-summit-633034">Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Indonesia to take part in ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit</a>

"Good morning. We have just arrived here at Jakarta International Airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is about to depart from the plane. He's been given a warm ceremonial welcome here at Jakarta Airport," said External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a video he shared on social media platform X, earlier known as Twitter.

"This is very early in the morning, but he has a packed schedule here. A few hours later, he goes for the India-ASEAN summit and thereafter for the East Asia summit. There are important engagements. Both these activities entail. He will thereafter come back here and take the flight back to New Delhi. So literally a few hours in Jakarta, but we look forward to a very productive day. Prime Minister has come here despite the busy schedule for the G 20 that starts effectively on Friday evening and just emphasizes the importance that you attached to this visit. We will continue to bring you updates on this visit as it unfolds," he stated. 
 
Meanwhile, PM Modi posted on X, “Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN-related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet.”

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Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet. <a href="https://t.co/aKpwLnk3ky">pic.twitter.com/aKpwLnk3ky</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1699548364961153109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Engagement with ASEAN an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy: PM</h2>

Before his departure from New Delhi, Modi said that India's comprehensive strategic partnership with the ASEAN nations injected new dynamism into the ties of the group with New Delhi. 
 
During his visit to Jakarta, Modi will participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and will also attend the East Asia Summit. 
 
Immediately after the meeting ends, PM Modi will return to India, which is hosting the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. 
 
"Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy," said Modi, in his departure statement.

WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi reacts to 'India-Bharat' row

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“My first engagement will be the 20th ASEAN-India Summit. I look forward to discussing with ASEAN leaders the future contours of our partnership, which has entered its fourth decade. Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership entered into last year has injected new dynamism in our ties,” PM Modi said.

“After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical co-operation measures to collectively address these global challenges,” the prime minister added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits. In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits. In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region. ALSO READ | Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Indonesia to take part in ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit "Good morning. We have just arrived here at Jakarta International Airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is about to depart from the plane. He's been given a warm ceremonial welcome here at Jakarta Airport," said External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a video he shared on social media platform X, earlier known as Twitter. "This is very early in the morning, but he has a packed schedule here. A few hours later, he goes for the India-ASEAN summit and thereafter for the East Asia summit. There are important engagements. Both these activities entail. He will thereafter come back here and take the flight back to New Delhi. So literally a few hours in Jakarta, but we look forward to a very productive day. Prime Minister has come here despite the busy schedule for the G 20 that starts effectively on Friday evening and just emphasizes the importance that you attached to this visit. We will continue to bring you updates on this visit as it unfolds," he stated. Meanwhile, PM Modi posted on X, “Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN-related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet.” Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet. pic.twitter.com/aKpwLnk3ky — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2023 × Engagement with ASEAN an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy: PM Before his departure from New Delhi, Modi said that India's comprehensive strategic partnership with the ASEAN nations injected new dynamism into the ties of the group with New Delhi. During his visit to Jakarta, Modi will participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and will also attend the East Asia Summit. Immediately after the meeting ends, PM Modi will return to India, which is hosting the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. "Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy," said Modi, in his departure statement. WATCH | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'India-Bharat' row “My first engagement will be the 20th ASEAN-India Summit. I look forward to discussing with ASEAN leaders the future contours of our partnership, which has entered its fourth decade. Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership entered into last year has injected new dynamism in our ties,” PM Modi said. “After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical co-operation measures to collectively address these global challenges,” the prime minister added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi lands in Indonesia to participate in ASEAN-India, East Asia summits

In a landmark judgement, the Supreme Court of Mexico decriminalised abortion on Thursday (September 7) across the country. 
 
“The First Chamber of the Court ruled that the legal system that penalises abortion in the Federal Criminal Code is unconstitutional since it violates the human rights of women and people with the capacity to gestate,” said the Supreme Court on social media. 
 
The judgement follows a similar ruling two years ago that stated abortion is not a crime. That declaration came after a constitutional challenge to the northern state of Coahuila's penal code, which gave women access to abortion without fear of prosecution in the country. 
 
The Information Group on Reproductive Choice (GIRE), which has been carrying out campaigns for abortion rights, welcomed the step of decriminalising abortion at the national level.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/gender-reveal-party-turns-tragic-a-pilot-dies-during-plane-crash-632150">Mexico: Gender reveal party turns tragic as pilot dies in plane crash</a>

It said that the court concluded that the federal penal code's portion which criminalises abortion is no longer effective. “No woman or pregnant person, nor any health worker will be able to be punished for abortion,” said the group, in a statement. 
 
"Federal health institutions throughout the country will have to provide abortion services to women and people with the capacity to gestate who request it," said the group, on social media.

<h2>Decriminalisation of abortion in Mexican states</h2>

Previously, abortion was decriminalised in a dozen Mexico states, with the capital Mexico City becoming the first to do so in 2007. 
 
But, along with the lack of facilities for carrying out the procedure, "many women don't know that they have this right because local governments have not carried out publicity campaigns about it," said women's rights activist Sara Lovera. 
 
"That's why today's decision of the Supreme Court is important," Lovera said while speaking to AFP.

WATCH |&nbsp;US-Mexico border: Migrants risk death crossing treacherous Rio Grande River | World News | WION

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The central state of Aguascalientes last week became the 12th state to decriminalise the procedure. Judges in states&nbsp;where abortion has been criminalised, will have to consider the ruling of the top court. 
 
The court gave the decision amid a trend of decreasing restrictions on abortion in the country, even though the procedure's access remains limited in parts of the United States. Some American women have already been taking help from Mexican abortion activists to get the pills used for ending their pregnancies. 
 
Throughout Latin America, countries have taken steps to lift abortion restrictions in the last few years, which has been called a “green wave”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a landmark judgement, the Supreme Court of Mexico decriminalised abortion on Thursday (September 7) across the country. “The First Chamber of the Court ruled that the legal system that penalises abortion in the Federal Criminal Code is unconstitutional since it violates the human rights of women and people with the capacity to gestate,” said the Supreme Court on social media.

In a landmark judgement, the Supreme Court of Mexico decriminalised abortion on Thursday (September 7) across the country. “The First Chamber of the Court ruled that the legal system that penalises abortion in the Federal Criminal Code is unconstitutional since it violates the human rights of women and people with the capacity to gestate,” said the Supreme Court on social media. The judgement follows a similar ruling two years ago that stated abortion is not a crime. That declaration came after a constitutional challenge to the northern state of Coahuila's penal code, which gave women access to abortion without fear of prosecution in the country. The Information Group on Reproductive Choice (GIRE), which has been carrying out campaigns for abortion rights, welcomed the step of decriminalising abortion at the national level. ALSO READ | Mexico: Gender reveal party turns tragic as pilot dies in plane crash It said that the court concluded that the federal penal code's portion which criminalises abortion is no longer effective. “No woman or pregnant person, nor any health worker will be able to be punished for abortion,” said the group, in a statement. "Federal health institutions throughout the country will have to provide abortion services to women and people with the capacity to gestate who request it," said the group, on social media. Decriminalisation of abortion in Mexican states Previously, abortion was decriminalised in a dozen Mexico states, with the capital Mexico City becoming the first to do so in 2007. But, along with the lack of facilities for carrying out the procedure, "many women don't know that they have this right because local governments have not carried out publicity campaigns about it," said women's rights activist Sara Lovera. "That's why today's decision of the Supreme Court is important," Lovera said while speaking to AFP. WATCH | US-Mexico border: Migrants risk death crossing treacherous Rio Grande River | World News | WION The central state of Aguascalientes last week became the 12th state to decriminalise the procedure. Judges in states where abortion has been criminalised, will have to consider the ruling of the top court. The court gave the decision amid a trend of decreasing restrictions on abortion in the country, even though the procedure's access remains limited in parts of the United States. Some American women have already been taking help from Mexican abortion activists to get the pills used for ending their pregnancies. Throughout Latin America, countries have taken steps to lift abortion restrictions in the last few years, which has been called a “green wave”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mexico's Supreme Court decriminalises abortion across country

The Justice Department of the United States on Wednesday (September 6) said that special counsel David Weiss will be seeking an indictment against President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden in relation to the gun charges this month. 
 
Previously, Hunter Biden reached a deal which involved a gun possession charge and would have helped him escape prosecution if certain conditions were met by him over 24 months. However, the future of the gun deal was in limbo after his plea deal fell apart in court. 
 
“The Speedy Trial Act requires that the Government obtain the return of an indictment by a grand jury by Friday, September 29, 2023, at the earliest. The Government intends to seek the return of an indictment in this case before that date,” said the special counsel’s office&nbsp;in a court filing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-admits-receiving-664k-from-company-backed-by-chinese-communist-party-620344">Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party</a>

In July, the 53-year-old's planned plea bargain for resolving his tax and gun counts fell apart. It was the first time the sitting president's son was charged by the justice department.

<h2>Special counsel sets deadline of September 29</h2>

The office of special counsel Weiss set a deadline of September 29 for the new indictment. 
 
David Weiss, who was appointed to the position of US special counsel in August by US Attorney General Merrick Garland, in the court filing said that the grand jury indictment will be sought under the Speedy Trial Act. 
 
"The government intends to seek the return of an indictment in this case before that date," said Weiss in a status report submitted to US District Judge Maryellen Noreika. 
 
The court filing is related to the felony gun charge against Hunter Biden for possessing a gun illegally while he was a drug user.

WATCH |&nbsp;US President’s son Hunter Biden stares at criminal charges for tax evasion

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Responding to the court filing, the legal team of Hunter Biden said that the US president's son has been abiding by the so-called diversion agreement's terms that have been approved by a probation office as per which he must remain out of trouble for two years. 
 
Meanwhile, House Republicans submitted their first official demand for documents related to the defunct plea agreement from Hunter Biden’s attorneys, as reported by CNN. 
 
“Should you refuse to provide the Committee with the requested information because of any purported privilege, the Committee may need to seek testimony from you and/or Hunter Biden regarding the disclosure of these documents and communications,” the letter sent by the committee chairs to lawyers of Hunter Biden read.

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The Justice Department of the United States on Wednesday (September 6) said that special counsel David Weiss will be seeking an indictment against President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden in relation to the gun charges this month.

The Justice Department of the United States on Wednesday (September 6) said that special counsel David Weiss will be seeking an indictment against President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden in relation to the gun charges this month. Previously, Hunter Biden reached a deal which involved a gun possession charge and would have helped him escape prosecution if certain conditions were met by him over 24 months. However, the future of the gun deal was in limbo after his plea deal fell apart in court. “The Speedy Trial Act requires that the Government obtain the return of an indictment by a grand jury by Friday, September 29, 2023, at the earliest. The Government intends to seek the return of an indictment in this case before that date,” said the special counsel’s office in a court filing. ALSO READ | Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party In July, the 53-year-old's planned plea bargain for resolving his tax and gun counts fell apart. It was the first time the sitting president's son was charged by the justice department. Special counsel sets deadline of September 29 The office of special counsel Weiss set a deadline of September 29 for the new indictment. David Weiss, who was appointed to the position of US special counsel in August by US Attorney General Merrick Garland, in the court filing said that the grand jury indictment will be sought under the Speedy Trial Act. "The government intends to seek the return of an indictment in this case before that date," said Weiss in a status report submitted to US District Judge Maryellen Noreika. The court filing is related to the felony gun charge against Hunter Biden for possessing a gun illegally while he was a drug user. WATCH | US President’s son Hunter Biden stares at criminal charges for tax evasion Responding to the court filing, the legal team of Hunter Biden said that the US president's son has been abiding by the so-called diversion agreement's terms that have been approved by a probation office as per which he must remain out of trouble for two years. Meanwhile, House Republicans submitted their first official demand for documents related to the defunct plea agreement from Hunter Biden’s attorneys, as reported by CNN. “Should you refuse to provide the Committee with the requested information because of any purported privilege, the Committee may need to seek testimony from you and/or Hunter Biden regarding the disclosure of these documents and communications,” the letter sent by the committee chairs to lawyers of Hunter Biden read. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hunter Biden to face indictment on gun charges this month: DOJ

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on Wednesday (September 6) appealed for an "urgent investigation" into debris, which is suspected to be the remains of a drone, that was found on its soil after attacks in neighbouring Ukraine. 
 
The revelation was made after Romania continuously rejected claims made by Kyiv that Iranian-made Russian drones were detonated on Romanian territory amid a strike on the Ukrainian port of Izmail. 
 
"Investigators discovered elements resembling drone debris in the evening of 5 September," said the defence ministry, in a press release. The debris was found near Plauru, a village in Romania on the other side of the Danube. It added that experts will now carry out a technical analysis to "determine (the debris') origin and characteristics".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romania-claims-fresh-ukraine-attacks-very-close-to-border-632710">Romania claims fresh Ukraine attacks 'very close' to border</a>

President Iohannis after stating that no debris or drone was found on its soil earlier this week, appeared to row back and call for "an urgent and professional investigation". 
 
"If it is confirmed that these elements belonged to a Russian drone, such a situation would be completely inadmissible and a serious violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Romania, a NATO ally," he stated, before the start of the Three Seas Initiative summit which was hosted by Bucharest.

<h2>NATO expresses 'solidarity' with Romania</h2>

Iohannis stated the NATO Secretary General and NATO allies of Bucharest were informed about the new development through the ambassador. 
 
The Alliance allies "expressed strong solidarity with Romania" at a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, stated NATO spokesman Dylan White, in a statement sent to AFP. 
 
"We continue to monitor the situation closely, and we remain in close contact with our Ally Romania,” he said. As per NATO treaty, member states carry the obligation of mutual defence. 
 
Opposition leader of the centre-right party USR Catalin Drula accused Romania of trying to cover things up. "They lied for two days. Ukraine told the truth. Their instinct is to sweep it under the rug," he said on Facebook.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says Russian drone hit NATO member Romania

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The attacks by Russia on Ukraine's Danube infrastructure have been strongly condemned by Bucharest. One person died in fresh Russian drone attacks carried out on Wednesday over a port district in Ukraine's southwestern Odesa. 
 
"People are panicking a bit. There are only 370 metres between our borders," said the mayor of the Romanian border village Chilia Veche Timur Cius, while speaking to AFP. 
 
"We heard everything, of course. By now we are already used to the sound of sirens and whatnot. But we feel safe here because we are in a NATO country," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on Wednesday (September 6) appealed for an "urgent investigation" into debris, which is suspected to be the remains of a drone, that was found on its soil after attacks in neighbouring Ukraine.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on Wednesday (September 6) appealed for an "urgent investigation" into debris, which is suspected to be the remains of a drone, that was found on its soil after attacks in neighbouring Ukraine. The revelation was made after Romania continuously rejected claims made by Kyiv that Iranian-made Russian drones were detonated on Romanian territory amid a strike on the Ukrainian port of Izmail. "Investigators discovered elements resembling drone debris in the evening of 5 September," said the defence ministry, in a press release. The debris was found near Plauru, a village in Romania on the other side of the Danube. It added that experts will now carry out a technical analysis to "determine (the debris') origin and characteristics". ALSO READ | Romania claims fresh Ukraine attacks 'very close' to border President Iohannis after stating that no debris or drone was found on its soil earlier this week, appeared to row back and call for "an urgent and professional investigation". "If it is confirmed that these elements belonged to a Russian drone, such a situation would be completely inadmissible and a serious violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Romania, a NATO ally," he stated, before the start of the Three Seas Initiative summit which was hosted by Bucharest. NATO expresses 'solidarity' with Romania Iohannis stated the NATO Secretary General and NATO allies of Bucharest were informed about the new development through the ambassador. The Alliance allies "expressed strong solidarity with Romania" at a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, stated NATO spokesman Dylan White, in a statement sent to AFP. "We continue to monitor the situation closely, and we remain in close contact with our Ally Romania,” he said. As per NATO treaty, member states carry the obligation of mutual defence. Opposition leader of the centre-right party USR Catalin Drula accused Romania of trying to cover things up. "They lied for two days. Ukraine told the truth. Their instinct is to sweep it under the rug," he said on Facebook. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says Russian drone hit NATO member Romania The attacks by Russia on Ukraine's Danube infrastructure have been strongly condemned by Bucharest. One person died in fresh Russian drone attacks carried out on Wednesday over a port district in Ukraine's southwestern Odesa. "People are panicking a bit. There are only 370 metres between our borders," said the mayor of the Romanian border village Chilia Veche Timur Cius, while speaking to AFP. "We heard everything, of course. By now we are already used to the sound of sirens and whatnot. But we feel safe here because we are in a NATO country," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Romania calls for 'urgent investigation' into suspected drone debris near Ukraine

At least 31 people were killed in an extratropical cyclone which was caused by torrential rain and winds in southern Brazil, said officials on Wednesday&nbsp;(September 6), while issuing more warnings of floods to come in days ahead. 
 
In a press conference, Governor Eduardo Leite said that it is the latest in several weather disasters that have hit Brazil and the deadliest ever to have hit the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

"Unfortunately, I received confirmation of four more deaths," stated Governor Eduardo Leite, updating the latest total death toll to 31.

"There are still a lot of families stranded on the roofs of their houses. There are thousands of people who still need to be rescued," he stated.

The officials stated that the storms, which began on Monday, forced more than 3,700 people from their homes. In less than 24 hours, the state received more than 300 millimetres of rain and hail which triggered landslides and floods.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-largest-ever-wildfires-greece-witnesses-heavy-rains-and-flooding-one-dead-632590">&nbsp;After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead</a>

<h2>President Lula sends message of solidarity</h2>

Hundreds of people were rescued from their rooftops in the small town of Mucum after more than 85 per cent of the city was flooded by the Taquari River, as per local news site GZH. 
 
"There are still people missing. The death toll might climb higher," said Mayor Mateus Trojan, while speaking to Radio Gaucha. "The town of Mucum as we knew it no longer exists,” he added. 
 
Helicopters were used by rescue workers to reach isolated areas which were cut off due to the flooding. A message of solidarity was sent by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to those affected, stating that the federal government is "ready to help." 
 
The authorities said that more than 60 cities were hit by the storms in all, which affected more than 50,000 people. One death was also recorded in the neighbouring state of Santa Catarina, as per news site G1.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine Fumes as Russian Energy Floods EU; Urges West to Close Sanctions 'loophole'

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Considering more rain forecast for Thursday, the authorities issued a warning of the possibility of flooding. As per officials, such disasters are becoming deadlier due to irregular houses&nbsp;built on hillsides and unchecked urbanisation. 
 
Around 9.5 million of Brazil's 203 million population lives in areas which stand at high risk of landslides or flooding. 
 
Another cyclone hit Rio Grande do Sul in June, leaving&nbsp;13 people dead and forcing&nbsp;thousands of citizens to leave their homes. 
 
In February, 65 people were killed in landslides which were caused by record flooding that hit the southeastern resort town of Sao Sebastiao, located on the coast of Sao Paulo state.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 31 people were killed in an extratropical cyclone which was caused by torrential rain and winds in southern Brazil, said officials on Wednesday (September 6), while issuing more warnings of floods to come in days ahead.

At least 31 people were killed in an extratropical cyclone which was caused by torrential rain and winds in southern Brazil, said officials on Wednesday (September 6), while issuing more warnings of floods to come in days ahead. In a press conference, Governor Eduardo Leite said that it is the latest in several weather disasters that have hit Brazil and the deadliest ever to have hit the state of Rio Grande do Sul. "Unfortunately, I received confirmation of four more deaths," stated Governor Eduardo Leite, updating the latest total death toll to 31. "There are still a lot of families stranded on the roofs of their houses. There are thousands of people who still need to be rescued," he stated. The officials stated that the storms, which began on Monday, forced more than 3,700 people from their homes. In less than 24 hours, the state received more than 300 millimetres of rain and hail which triggered landslides and floods. ALSO READ | After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead President Lula sends message of solidarity Hundreds of people were rescued from their rooftops in the small town of Mucum after more than 85 per cent of the city was flooded by the Taquari River, as per local news site GZH. "There are still people missing. The death toll might climb higher," said Mayor Mateus Trojan, while speaking to Radio Gaucha. "The town of Mucum as we knew it no longer exists,” he added. Helicopters were used by rescue workers to reach isolated areas which were cut off due to the flooding. A message of solidarity was sent by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to those affected, stating that the federal government is "ready to help." The authorities said that more than 60 cities were hit by the storms in all, which affected more than 50,000 people. One death was also recorded in the neighbouring state of Santa Catarina, as per news site G1. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine Fumes as Russian Energy Floods EU; Urges West to Close Sanctions 'loophole' Considering more rain forecast for Thursday, the authorities issued a warning of the possibility of flooding. As per officials, such disasters are becoming deadlier due to irregular houses built on hillsides and unchecked urbanisation. Around 9.5 million of Brazil's 203 million population lives in areas which stand at high risk of landslides or flooding. Another cyclone hit Rio Grande do Sul in June, leaving 13 people dead and forcing thousands of citizens to leave their homes. In February, 65 people were killed in landslides which were caused by record flooding that hit the southeastern resort town of Sao Sebastiao, located on the coast of Sao Paulo state. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Torrential rains, cyclone kill 31 in Southern Brazil

WeWork on Wednesday (September 6) announced that it has begun the process of engagement with landlords around the world for renegotiating almost all its leases, which led to its share prices shooting up as much as 9 per cent in morning trade. 
 
The SoftBank-backed company stated that it is aiming to negotiate with its landlords on favourable terms and has been planning to exit the underperforming and unfit locations so as to reinvest in its other assets. 
 
"We intend to remain in the majority of our buildings and markets," the company, in a statement, said. The office space group had earlier warned about “substantial doubt” in its ability to continue functioning as an ongoing concern.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wework-once-valued-at-47-billion-issues-bankruptcy-warning-624039">WeWork, once valued at $47 billion, issues bankruptcy&nbsp;warning</a>

The drive of the New York-based company to cut down lease costs has been stated as “dramatically out of step with current market conditions” which is threatening the commercial real estate industry, which is already under pressure due to excess capacity after work-from-home culture came in during the pandemic. 
 
Till June, WeWork had offices in 777 locations in 39 countries along with long-term lease obligations worth more than $13 billion, which are due in or after 2028.

<h2>Unfit and underperforming locations to be exited</h2>

The plan was announced by WeWork after the landlords were “strongly advised” to participate in a listen-only call on Wednesday morning, during which the important business update was shared. 
 
Chief Executive David Tolley informed the landlords about WeWork expecting to exit some “unfit and underperforming locations”, further stating that it is likely to remain in most of its buildings. 
 
After the call, Tolley in a statement said WeWork was “taking immediate action to permanently fix our inflexible and high-cost lease portfolio” that was described by him as a legacy of a “period of unsustainable hypergrowth”.

WATCH |&nbsp;WeWork on the brink of bankruptcy

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Meanwhile, the landlords are looking to reduce their exposure to a company which has an outsized share of the office market in cities like London and New York and has got on its payroll a series of bankruptcy experts in the last few weeks. 
 
“We’ve been approached by about 70 landlords since 2020 and have ended up taking over eight or nine (WeWork spaces). The approaches are accelerating right now,” stated Jamie Hodari, the chief executive of Industrious, an office space company. 
 
Hodari stated that calls from WeWork customers have “inundated” his company since it started raising concerns in August.

(With inputs from agencies)

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WeWork on Wednesday (September 6) announced that it has begun the process of engagement with landlords around the world for renegotiating almost all its leases, which led to its share prices shooting up as much as 9 per cent in morning trade.

WeWork on Wednesday (September 6) announced that it has begun the process of engagement with landlords around the world for renegotiating almost all its leases, which led to its share prices shooting up as much as 9 per cent in morning trade. The SoftBank-backed company stated that it is aiming to negotiate with its landlords on favourable terms and has been planning to exit the underperforming and unfit locations so as to reinvest in its other assets. "We intend to remain in the majority of our buildings and markets," the company, in a statement, said. The office space group had earlier warned about “substantial doubt” in its ability to continue functioning as an ongoing concern. ALSO READ | WeWork, once valued at $47 billion, issues bankruptcy warning The drive of the New York-based company to cut down lease costs has been stated as “dramatically out of step with current market conditions” which is threatening the commercial real estate industry, which is already under pressure due to excess capacity after work-from-home culture came in during the pandemic. Till June, WeWork had offices in 777 locations in 39 countries along with long-term lease obligations worth more than $13 billion, which are due in or after 2028. Unfit and underperforming locations to be exited The plan was announced by WeWork after the landlords were “strongly advised” to participate in a listen-only call on Wednesday morning, during which the important business update was shared. Chief Executive David Tolley informed the landlords about WeWork expecting to exit some “unfit and underperforming locations”, further stating that it is likely to remain in most of its buildings. After the call, Tolley in a statement said WeWork was “taking immediate action to permanently fix our inflexible and high-cost lease portfolio” that was described by him as a legacy of a “period of unsustainable hypergrowth”. WATCH | WeWork on the brink of bankruptcy Meanwhile, the landlords are looking to reduce their exposure to a company which has an outsized share of the office market in cities like London and New York and has got on its payroll a series of bankruptcy experts in the last few weeks. “We’ve been approached by about 70 landlords since 2020 and have ended up taking over eight or nine (WeWork spaces). The approaches are accelerating right now,” stated Jamie Hodari, the chief executive of Industrious, an office space company. Hodari stated that calls from WeWork customers have “inundated” his company since it started raising concerns in August. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WeWork share prices shoot as it begins to renegotiate leases globally

Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Third seed Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, rallied from a break down in all three sets as he condemned a frustrated Rublev to a ninth straight Grand Slam quarter-final loss.

Medvedev will play Alcaraz or German 12th seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final after an energy-sapping duel against the eighth-ranked Rublev as the temperature hit 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) in New York.

At one point during the third set Medvedev muttered to a nearby TV camera "one player is going to die and they're going to see" as he grabbed a towel mid-game.

"The conditions were brutal. The only good thing is that both players suffer, so it's tough for both of us," Medvedev said after the 2hr 48min encounter, during which the extreme heat policy was in effect.

"At the end of the first set I kind of couldn't see the ball anymore. I kind of just played with sensations," he said.

Medvedev overturned a 3-0 defeat in the opening set in a repeat of their 2020 quarter-final here.

He dropped serve twice in the second set but hit back for a 4-3 lead before summoning the trainer complaining of breathing difficulties.

Medvedev resisted three break points the very next game and broke once more to claim a two-set lead.

He then used the time between sets to cool down off court.

"I couldn't wait to go to the cold shower, but the thing about that is when you come out either you can't move because your body blocks or you feel better," said Medvedev.

"I just thought I don't care, I'm just going to do it, but I didn't need to, so I am going to do it now," he added.

Rublev twice surged in front in the third set only for Medvedev to respond on both occasions, sealing victory&nbsp;in a marathon final game courtesy of his nine break of the match.

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Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. Third seed Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, rallied from a break down in all three sets as he condemned a frustrated Rublev to a ninth straight Grand Slam quarter-final loss. Medvedev will play Alcaraz or German 12th seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final after an energy-sapping duel against the eighth-ranked Rublev as the temperature hit 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) in New York. At one point during the third set Medvedev muttered to a nearby TV camera "one player is going to die and they're going to see" as he grabbed a towel mid-game. "The conditions were brutal. The only good thing is that both players suffer, so it's tough for both of us," Medvedev said after the 2hr 48min encounter, during which the extreme heat policy was in effect. "At the end of the first set I kind of couldn't see the ball anymore. I kind of just played with sensations," he said. Medvedev overturned a 3-0 defeat in the opening set in a repeat of their 2020 quarter-final here. He dropped serve twice in the second set but hit back for a 4-3 lead before summoning the trainer complaining of breathing difficulties. Medvedev resisted three break points the very next game and broke once more to claim a two-set lead. He then used the time between sets to cool down off court. "I couldn't wait to go to the cold shower, but the thing about that is when you come out either you can't move because your body blocks or you feel better," said Medvedev. "I just thought I don't care, I'm just going to do it, but I didn't need to, so I am going to do it now," he added. Rublev twice surged in front in the third set only for Medvedev to respond on both occasions, sealing victory in a marathon final game courtesy of his nine break of the match. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Open 2023: Medvedev douses Rublev with 'cold shower' to reach semis

The baby grand piano Queen frontman Freddie Mercury used to compose almost all of his greatest songs and the original manuscript for "Bohemian Rhapsody" were snapped up Wednesday at auction in London.&nbsp;

The Yamaha quarter-tail piano went for £1,742,000 ($2,198,927), including buyer's premium and fees, while the manuscript for the hit song &nbsp;"Bohemian Rhapsody" fetched £1,379,000 ($1,740,712).

The items were among over 1,400 lots of Mercury memorabilia up for grabs at Sotheby’s, with the famous auction house's facade decorated with a huge moustache for the occasion.&nbsp;

Auctioneer Oliver Barker called the "Bohemian Rhapsody" lyrics -- contained in 15-pages of pencil and ballpoint pen remarks -- a "modern cultural icon".

The manuscript also reveals that the title was originally going to be "Mongolian Rhapsody".

Barker said Mercury's cherished baby grand was purchased by the charismatic star in 1975 after an exhaustive six-month search for "the ideal instrument to bring to life" his compositions.

A record 2,000 bidders from 61 countries registered to take part in the sale.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John Aids Foundation, two organisations involved in the fight against AIDS.&nbsp;

In a message read out by Barker before the auction began, John paid tribute to his friend.

"I miss Freddie to this day. He was a wonderful friend more full of love and life than anyone I've ever met, as well as a brilliant performer whose music has inspired and thrilled millions," he said.

"He was kind, generous and funny and it is a tragedy that AIDS took him from the world much too soon," he added.

<h2>Graffiti tributes&nbsp;</h2>

The auction kicked off with the green door of Mercury's garden on which fans scrawled tributes.

The door to his Garden Lodge home in west London sold for £412,750 far in excess of the £15,000-25,000 estimate.

Other items being sold off at the auction include furniture, paintings and knick-knacks.

Wednesday's "evening sale" will be followed by two other live auctions and three online sales over the next week.

Paintings by Chagall, Dali and Picasso that adorned Mercury's home, as well as the last painting he bought a month before his death from AIDS in 1991 &nbsp;-- an oil on canvas by James Jacques Joseph Tissot -- feature in the sale.

The entire collection is being offered for sale by Mary Austin, a close friend and one-time fiancee of Mercury's.

"Mary Austin has lived with the collection and has cared for the collection for more than three decades," Gabriel Heaton, a books and manuscripts specialist at Sotheby's, told AFP.

Mercury "was not interested in having a museum of his life but he loved auctions", to the point of being a regular at Sotheby's sales, said Heaton.

Austin believes the artist -- who was 45 when he died -- would have "loved" this sale, he added.

<h2>Moustache comb&nbsp;</h2>

Mercury's most flamboyant stage costumes, Hawaiian shirt and Superman tank top will also find new homes along with his personal polaroids and legendary snapper Mick Rock's shots.

Also included are the finest bottles from his cellar, such as Dom Perignon champagne, alongside more intimate items, such as a book of personally annotated poetry and a moustache comb.

Among the more playful items are a set of games including travel Scrabble, at which Mercury excelled.

Before the sale, the auction house hosted the collection at a month-long exhibition, open to the public free of charge.&nbsp;

Sotheby's estimated when the auction was announced in April that the lots would fetch at least £6 million.&nbsp;

The auction house says it is the largest collection, by volume, of a cultural icon to go to auction since the Elton John sale in 1988, when 2,000 lots sold for a total of £4.8 million.

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The baby grand piano Queen frontman Freddie Mercury used to compose almost all of his greatest songs and the original manuscript for "Bohemian Rhapsody" were snapped up Wednesday at auction in London.

The baby grand piano Queen frontman Freddie Mercury used to compose almost all of his greatest songs and the original manuscript for "Bohemian Rhapsody" were snapped up Wednesday at auction in London. The Yamaha quarter-tail piano went for £1,742,000 ($2,198,927), including buyer's premium and fees, while the manuscript for the hit song "Bohemian Rhapsody" fetched £1,379,000 ($1,740,712). The items were among over 1,400 lots of Mercury memorabilia up for grabs at Sotheby’s, with the famous auction house's facade decorated with a huge moustache for the occasion. Auctioneer Oliver Barker called the "Bohemian Rhapsody" lyrics -- contained in 15-pages of pencil and ballpoint pen remarks -- a "modern cultural icon". The manuscript also reveals that the title was originally going to be "Mongolian Rhapsody". Barker said Mercury's cherished baby grand was purchased by the charismatic star in 1975 after an exhaustive six-month search for "the ideal instrument to bring to life" his compositions. A record 2,000 bidders from 61 countries registered to take part in the sale. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John Aids Foundation, two organisations involved in the fight against AIDS. In a message read out by Barker before the auction began, John paid tribute to his friend. "I miss Freddie to this day. He was a wonderful friend more full of love and life than anyone I've ever met, as well as a brilliant performer whose music has inspired and thrilled millions," he said. "He was kind, generous and funny and it is a tragedy that AIDS took him from the world much too soon," he added. Graffiti tributes The auction kicked off with the green door of Mercury's garden on which fans scrawled tributes. The door to his Garden Lodge home in west London sold for £412,750 far in excess of the £15,000-25,000 estimate. Other items being sold off at the auction include furniture, paintings and knick-knacks. Wednesday's "evening sale" will be followed by two other live auctions and three online sales over the next week. Paintings by Chagall, Dali and Picasso that adorned Mercury's home, as well as the last painting he bought a month before his death from AIDS in 1991 -- an oil on canvas by James Jacques Joseph Tissot -- feature in the sale. The entire collection is being offered for sale by Mary Austin, a close friend and one-time fiancee of Mercury's. "Mary Austin has lived with the collection and has cared for the collection for more than three decades," Gabriel Heaton, a books and manuscripts specialist at Sotheby's, told AFP. Mercury "was not interested in having a museum of his life but he loved auctions", to the point of being a regular at Sotheby's sales, said Heaton. Austin believes the artist -- who was 45 when he died -- would have "loved" this sale, he added. Moustache comb Mercury's most flamboyant stage costumes, Hawaiian shirt and Superman tank top will also find new homes along with his personal polaroids and legendary snapper Mick Rock's shots. Also included are the finest bottles from his cellar, such as Dom Perignon champagne, alongside more intimate items, such as a book of personally annotated poetry and a moustache comb. Among the more playful items are a set of games including travel Scrabble, at which Mercury excelled. Before the sale, the auction house hosted the collection at a month-long exhibition, open to the public free of charge. Sotheby's estimated when the auction was announced in April that the lots would fetch at least £6 million. The auction house says it is the largest collection, by volume, of a cultural icon to go to auction since the Elton John sale in 1988, when 2,000 lots sold for a total of £4.8 million. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Prized Freddie Mercury memorabilia snapped up at auction

The Pentagon on Wednesday (September 6) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with depleted uranium tank ammunition, as part of a $175 million aid package. 
 
In a statement, the Pentagon said that the 120mm rounds will be for the US M1 Abrams, as it referred to the tanks that Washington has provided to provide to Kyiv. The uranium's density, which is around 1.7 times that of lead, helps the ammunition punch through heavy armour. 
 
However, it is controversial to provide depleted uranium as it has generally been associated with health hazards such as birth defects and cancer in past conflicts, although the munitions have never been definitively proven to be the cause of such health issues.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-russian-strike-kills-at-least-16-in-east-ukraine-market-632988">Zelensky claims Russian strike kills at least 17 in east Ukraine market</a>

<h2>Blinken says US will 'maximise' support to Ukraine, announces&nbsp;over $1 bn of new aid&nbsp;</h2>

US diplomat Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv on Wednesday, said that he will "maximise" efforts for supporting Ukraine, as its nation continued its counteroffensive against Russia. He further announced over $1 billion of new assistance to Ukraine&nbsp;in a package, which he stated would help Ukraine's counteroffensive "build momentum".

The comments were made hours after a dozen people were killed in a market in Eastern Ukraine due to a Russian artillery strike. 
 
"President Biden asked me to come to reaffirm strongly our support, to ensure that we are maximising the efforts that we're making," Blinken said to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 
 
"We see the important progress that's being made now in the counteroffensive and that's very, very encouraging," he added.

"Today, we're announcing new assistance totalling more than one billion dollars... That includes $665.5 million in new military and civilian security assistance," said Blinken, in&nbsp;a press conference with Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba.

Zelensky, during his meeting with Blinken, thanked the US for extending its support to the war-ravaged country, especially ahead of winter. "We're happy that we're not alone through this winter, we will do it together with our partners," he said to Blinken.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine: At least 16 killed in Russian missile attack in Eastern Ukraine's Donetsk

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<h2>White House condemns 'brutal' attacks by Russia</h2>

The White House condemned the fresh strikes by Russia on Ukraine on Wednesday after 17 people lost their lives in a strike on a market. 
 
"These brutal Russian attacks underscore the importance of continuing to support the people of Ukraine as they defend their territory," said White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre in a daily briefing. 
 
Meanwhile, Zelensky on Wednesday denounced the attack as "heinous" and repeatedly warned that Russia has been targeting civilian infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Pentagon on Wednesday (September 6) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with depleted uranium tank ammunition, as part of a $175 million aid package.

The Pentagon on Wednesday (September 6) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with depleted uranium tank ammunition, as part of a $175 million aid package. In a statement, the Pentagon said that the 120mm rounds will be for the US M1 Abrams, as it referred to the tanks that Washington has provided to provide to Kyiv. The uranium's density, which is around 1.7 times that of lead, helps the ammunition punch through heavy armour. However, it is controversial to provide depleted uranium as it has generally been associated with health hazards such as birth defects and cancer in past conflicts, although the munitions have never been definitively proven to be the cause of such health issues. ALSO READ | Zelensky claims Russian strike kills at least 17 in east Ukraine market Blinken says US will 'maximise' support to Ukraine, announces over $1 bn of new aid US diplomat Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv on Wednesday, said that he will "maximise" efforts for supporting Ukraine, as its nation continued its counteroffensive against Russia. He further announced over $1 billion of new assistance to Ukraine in a package, which he stated would help Ukraine's counteroffensive "build momentum". The comments were made hours after a dozen people were killed in a market in Eastern Ukraine due to a Russian artillery strike. "President Biden asked me to come to reaffirm strongly our support, to ensure that we are maximising the efforts that we're making," Blinken said to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "We see the important progress that's being made now in the counteroffensive and that's very, very encouraging," he added. "Today, we're announcing new assistance totalling more than one billion dollars... That includes $665.5 million in new military and civilian security assistance," said Blinken, in a press conference with Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. Zelensky, during his meeting with Blinken, thanked the US for extending its support to the war-ravaged country, especially ahead of winter. "We're happy that we're not alone through this winter, we will do it together with our partners," he said to Blinken. WATCH | Ukraine: At least 16 killed in Russian missile attack in Eastern Ukraine's Donetsk White House condemns 'brutal' attacks by Russia The White House condemned the fresh strikes by Russia on Ukraine on Wednesday after 17 people lost their lives in a strike on a market. "These brutal Russian attacks underscore the importance of continuing to support the people of Ukraine as they defend their territory," said White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre in a daily briefing. Meanwhile, Zelensky on Wednesday denounced the attack as "heinous" and repeatedly warned that Russia has been targeting civilian infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US to provide depleted uranium tank ammunition to Ukraine: Pentagon

Russian mercenary outfit Wagner Group is set to be banned in Britain as a terrorist organisation, as per media reports on Tuesday (September 5) which quoted Home Secretary Suella Braverman as saying. 
 
The UK, under the country's anti-terror laws, is set to declare the Wagner Group a "proscribed" organisation which will place it at par with al-Qaeda and Islamic State, a report in the Daily Mail stated. 
 
"Wagner is a violent and destructive organisation which has acted as a military tool of Vladimir Putin's Russia overseas," Braverman was quoted by the newspaper as saying. 
 
"While Putin's regime decides what to do with the monster it created, Wagner's continuing destabilising activities only continue to serve the Kremlin's political goals,” the minister added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-general-surovikin-reportedly-seen-in-public-for-first-time-since-aborted-wagner-mutiny-632549">Russian General Surovikin reportedly seen in public for first time since aborted Wagner mutiny</a>

The Terrorism Act 2000 has bestowed power to the home secretary to proscribe an organisation&nbsp;they believe is involved in terrorism. After a proscription order is issued, supporting the group becomes a criminal offence. 
 
"They are terrorists, plain and simple - and this proscription order makes that clear in UK law," the minister was quoted in a BBC report as saying. "Wagner has been involved in looting, torture and barbarous murders," Braverman stated, as reported by the Daily Mail. 
 
The group's operations in Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa "are a threat to global security. That is why we are proscribing this terrorist organisation and continuing to aid Ukraine wherever we can in its fight against Russia,” she said.

<h2>Draft measures to be tabled in Parliament</h2>

Draft measures for banning the Wagner Group, in accordance with the act, will be tabled in the Parliament on Wednesday (September 6), said the reports. 
 
In July, sanctions were announced against 13 businesses and individuals in Britain who were said to have links with Russian groups in Africa and were accused of crimes that included torture and killings.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia- Ukraine war: Sergei Surovikin 'seen in first photo' since Wagner mutiny

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-sergei-surovikin-seen-in-first-photo-since-wagner-mutiny-632531/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
The entities and people accused were not able to deal with UK citizens, companies and banks, and get access to any assets that were frozen in the UK and were alleged to have been involved in the activities of the Wagner in Mali, Sudan and Central African Republic (CAR). 
 
The people include Wagner's purported head in Mali Ivan Aleksandrovitch Maslov; its chief in CAR Vitalii Viktorovitch Perfilev and the operation head of the group Konstantin Aleksandrovitch Pikalov.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Russian mercenary outfit Wagner Group is set to be banned in Britain as a terrorist organisation, as per media reports on Tuesday (September 5) which quoted Home Secretary Suella Braverman as saying.

Russian mercenary outfit Wagner Group is set to be banned in Britain as a terrorist organisation, as per media reports on Tuesday (September 5) which quoted Home Secretary Suella Braverman as saying. The UK, under the country's anti-terror laws, is set to declare the Wagner Group a "proscribed" organisation which will place it at par with al-Qaeda and Islamic State, a report in the Daily Mail stated. "Wagner is a violent and destructive organisation which has acted as a military tool of Vladimir Putin's Russia overseas," Braverman was quoted by the newspaper as saying. "While Putin's regime decides what to do with the monster it created, Wagner's continuing destabilising activities only continue to serve the Kremlin's political goals,” the minister added. ALSO READ | Russian General Surovikin reportedly seen in public for first time since aborted Wagner mutiny The Terrorism Act 2000 has bestowed power to the home secretary to proscribe an organisation they believe is involved in terrorism. After a proscription order is issued, supporting the group becomes a criminal offence. "They are terrorists, plain and simple - and this proscription order makes that clear in UK law," the minister was quoted in a BBC report as saying. "Wagner has been involved in looting, torture and barbarous murders," Braverman stated, as reported by the Daily Mail. The group's operations in Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa "are a threat to global security. That is why we are proscribing this terrorist organisation and continuing to aid Ukraine wherever we can in its fight against Russia,” she said. Draft measures to be tabled in Parliament Draft measures for banning the Wagner Group, in accordance with the act, will be tabled in the Parliament on Wednesday (September 6), said the reports. In July, sanctions were announced against 13 businesses and individuals in Britain who were said to have links with Russian groups in Africa and were accused of crimes that included torture and killings. WATCH | Russia- Ukraine war: Sergei Surovikin 'seen in first photo' since Wagner mutiny The entities and people accused were not able to deal with UK citizens, companies and banks, and get access to any assets that were frozen in the UK and were alleged to have been involved in the activities of the Wagner in Mali, Sudan and Central African Republic (CAR). The people include Wagner's purported head in Mali Ivan Aleksandrovitch Maslov; its chief in CAR Vitalii Viktorovitch Perfilev and the operation head of the group Konstantin Aleksandrovitch Pikalov. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner Group to be banned as 'terrorist' organisation in UK: Reports

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