<p>Leader of the Proud Boys militia Joe Biggs, who had declared a “war” to ensure Donald Trump remains the US president, was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Thursday (August 31). This marked one of the longest prison sentences ever given over the 2021 Capitol attack in the United States.<br />
<br />
Prosecutors stated that Joe Biggs was a central figure in a “seditious conspiracy" to forcibly overturn the election victory of Joe Biden, as he led the supporters of Trump in a military-style assault on 6 January 2021.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-capitol-hill-riot-case-prosecutors-seek-33-yrs-jail-for-ex-proud-boys-chairperson-henry-tarrio-report-626977">US Capitol Hill riot case: Prosecutors seek 33 years jail for ex-Proud Boys chairperson Henry Tarrio</a></p>

<p>His prison sentence was one year less than the longest prison sentence given to those convicted for participation in the Capitol attack. Stewart Rhodes, the founder of another far-right militia&nbsp;Oath Keepers,&nbsp;which was also actively involved in the Capitol siege, was awarded 18 years of prison sentence.</p>

<h2><strong>Prosecutors appeal for 33 years&nbsp;imprisonment</strong></h2>

<p>However, the prison sentence given was only half of the 33 years which was appealed by the prosecutors as Judge Timothy Kelly stated that it was not a mass-casualty event and Biggs did not carry the intention of killing anyone amid the uprising.<br />
<br />
However, Kelly said, "There is a need for deterrence." The assault "broke our tradition of the peaceful transfer of power, which is one of the most precious things that we had as Americans," the judge stated.<br />
<br />
Before the prison sentence was announced, a tearful Biggs expressed his regrets and said that he would now not remain in touch with the Proud Boys and would only focus on the welfare of his daughter and wife.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Capitol Riots: Donald Trump expects to be indicted 'any day now'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"I'm so sorry," he said to the court. "I know that I messed up that day, but I'm not a terrorist," he added. Prosecutor Jason McCullough stated that what was done by Biggs and his fellow rioters in shutting down the Congress that day was "no different than the act of a spectacular bombing of a building."<br />
<br />
"They aimed to intimidate and terrify elected officials," he stated, as he equated the January 6 attack to terrorism. Biggs is among the first five figures of Proud Boys, which includes&nbsp;national chairman Enrique Tarrio, who will be sentenced this week.<br />
<br />
Four members were convicted for seditious conspiracy on May 4 and the fifth was found guilty by the court of lesser charges. All of them were convicted of obstruction of a congressional proceeding, destruction of government property and impeding law enforcement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Leader of the Proud Boys militia Joe Biggs, who had declared a “war” to ensure Donald Trump remains the US president, was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Thursday (August 31).

Leader of the Proud Boys militia Joe Biggs, who had declared a “war” to ensure Donald Trump remains the US president, was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Thursday (August 31). This marked one of the longest prison sentences ever given over the 2021 Capitol attack in the United States. Prosecutors stated that Joe Biggs was a central figure in a “seditious conspiracy" to forcibly overturn the election victory of Joe Biden, as he led the supporters of Trump in a military-style assault on 6 January 2021. ALSO READ | US Capitol Hill riot case: Prosecutors seek 33 years jail for ex-Proud Boys chairperson Henry Tarrio His prison sentence was one year less than the longest prison sentence given to those convicted for participation in the Capitol attack. Stewart Rhodes, the founder of another far-right militia Oath Keepers, which was also actively involved in the Capitol siege, was awarded 18 years of prison sentence. Prosecutors appeal for 33 years imprisonment However, the prison sentence given was only half of the 33 years which was appealed by the prosecutors as Judge Timothy Kelly stated that it was not a mass-casualty event and Biggs did not carry the intention of killing anyone amid the uprising. However, Kelly said, "There is a need for deterrence." The assault "broke our tradition of the peaceful transfer of power, which is one of the most precious things that we had as Americans," the judge stated. Before the prison sentence was announced, a tearful Biggs expressed his regrets and said that he would now not remain in touch with the Proud Boys and would only focus on the welfare of his daughter and wife. WATCH | Capitol Riots: Donald Trump expects to be indicted 'any day now' "I'm so sorry," he said to the court. "I know that I messed up that day, but I'm not a terrorist," he added. Prosecutor Jason McCullough stated that what was done by Biggs and his fellow rioters in shutting down the Congress that day was "no different than the act of a spectacular bombing of a building." "They aimed to intimidate and terrify elected officials," he stated, as he equated the January 6 attack to terrorism. Biggs is among the first five figures of Proud Boys, which includes national chairman Enrique Tarrio, who will be sentenced this week. Four members were convicted for seditious conspiracy on May 4 and the fifth was found guilty by the court of lesser charges. All of them were convicted of obstruction of a congressional proceeding, destruction of government property and impeding law enforcement. (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

Leader of Proud Boys militia sentenced to 17 years over US Capitol attack

<p>Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency.<br />
<br />
The 74-year-old billionaire, who was elected as the prime minister twice and was ousted in a 2006 military coup, was imprisoned last week immediately after he returned to the country from 15 years of self-exile.<br />
<br />
The homecoming of the former prime minister coincided with the return of his Pheu Thai party to power after forming an alliance with many pro-military parties, which ignited speculation that an agreement was finalised to decrease his time in prison.<br />
<br />
Caretaker justice minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said an application was submitted by Thaksin for a pardon from the eight-year prison term which he was serving after he was convicted for abuse of power and graft.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-ex-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-shifted-to-hospital-after-spending-one-night-in-jail-628145">Thailand’s ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra shifted to hospital after spending one night in jail</a></p>

<p>"We have received (the request), the rest will be according to the procedure," said Wissanu, speaking to the reporters. When questioned how long the process takes, Wissanu said, "It is purely based on royal grace. The procedure from the government is not long, but it depends on the length of (the king's) consideration."<br />
<br />
As per the law of Thailand, prisoners are free to submit a pardon application which goes through the justice minister to the prime minister and then to the privy council before reaching King Maha Vajiralongkorn. As per the officials, the process will likely take one to two months, if all the paperwork is submitted in order.<br />
<br />
After landing in Bangkok last week, the first public act of Thaksin was to prostrate himself in homage before the king's portrait at the airport.</p>

<h2><strong>A hero's welcome</strong></h2>

<p>Hours after landing in Bangkok, Thaksin received a hero's welcome from his numerous supporters. Meanwhile, Pheu Thai's Srettha Thavisin was announced as the prime minister on Tuesday which marked the appointment of the first premier of the party since Thaksin's sister Yingluck was removed in a coup in 2014.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM</strong></p>

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<p>Hours after he was imprisoned, Thaksin was shifted to a police hospital as prison medical officers said that he needed close monitoring because of various health problems, which included heart trouble.<br />
<br />
As reported by Thai media, Thaksin was staying in a private VIP suite on the Police General Hospital's 14th floor in downtown Bangkok. On Thursday afternoon, a small anti-Thaksin group gathered in Bangkok to demand he serve his time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency.

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency. The 74-year-old billionaire, who was elected as the prime minister twice and was ousted in a 2006 military coup, was imprisoned last week immediately after he returned to the country from 15 years of self-exile. The homecoming of the former prime minister coincided with the return of his Pheu Thai party to power after forming an alliance with many pro-military parties, which ignited speculation that an agreement was finalised to decrease his time in prison. Caretaker justice minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said an application was submitted by Thaksin for a pardon from the eight-year prison term which he was serving after he was convicted for abuse of power and graft. ALSO READ | Thailand’s ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra shifted to hospital after spending one night in jail "We have received (the request), the rest will be according to the procedure," said Wissanu, speaking to the reporters. When questioned how long the process takes, Wissanu said, "It is purely based on royal grace. The procedure from the government is not long, but it depends on the length of (the king's) consideration." As per the law of Thailand, prisoners are free to submit a pardon application which goes through the justice minister to the prime minister and then to the privy council before reaching King Maha Vajiralongkorn. As per the officials, the process will likely take one to two months, if all the paperwork is submitted in order. After landing in Bangkok last week, the first public act of Thaksin was to prostrate himself in homage before the king's portrait at the airport. A hero's welcome Hours after landing in Bangkok, Thaksin received a hero's welcome from his numerous supporters. Meanwhile, Pheu Thai's Srettha Thavisin was announced as the prime minister on Tuesday which marked the appointment of the first premier of the party since Thaksin's sister Yingluck was removed in a coup in 2014. WATCH | Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM Hours after he was imprisoned, Thaksin was shifted to a police hospital as prison medical officers said that he needed close monitoring because of various health problems, which included heart trouble. As reported by Thai media, Thaksin was staying in a private VIP suite on the Police General Hospital's 14th floor in downtown Bangkok. On Thursday afternoon, a small anti-Thaksin group gathered in Bangkok to demand he serve his time. (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

Thailand's former PM Thaksin Shinawatra appeals for royal pardon

<p>Hurricane Idalia, after turning powerful and dangerous in Florida on Wednesday (August 30) causing a potentially catastrophic storm surge to coastal communities and disrupting power supply for thousands, moved to neighbouring Georgia. It is now moving towards South Carolina.<br />
<br />
However, Idalia has now weakened to a tropical storm that has led to the region receiving rainfall of up to 10 inches (25 centimetres) and causing life-threatening inundations from rising water which is entering islands, said officials.<br />
<br />
The officials called Idalia and its dangerously high-surging waters 'a once-in-a-lifetime event' for the area around northwest Florida. No deaths were reported in Florida due to the hurricane and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emphasised "that very well may change," given the storm's magnitude.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idalia-makes-landfall-as-category-3-hurricane-in-florida-us-weather-agency-630588">'Don't mess with this storm': Idalia makes landfall as Category 3 hurricane in Florida with 125 mph winds</a></p>

<p>State officials stated that the first responders, which includes search and rescue teams, have been operational. However, the officials said that it may take more time to enter the remote areas which has been blocked by high water or fallen trees.</p>

<h2><strong>Idalia weakens to a Category 1 hurricane</strong></h2>

<p>Even though Idalia weakened to a Category 1 hurricane and slowly became a tropical storm which had winds at a speed of 70 miles per hour as it travelled towards Georgia, the residents were warned by the authorities of the aftermath and the dangers of high tide.<br />
<br />
The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said that the water levels were more than six feet above normal in Cedar Key, as a number of Florida islands jutted into the Gulf of Mexico, and said that the coastal waters were increasing rapidly.</p>

<h2><strong>Threat not over: Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Few Floridians also suggested that they had dodged a bullet as the projected ferocity of Idalia diminished. "We were really spared and blessed," said Sheriff Robert McCallum of Levy County, just south of the landfall zone, in a press briefing, adding that the storm surge was "not near what we had expected."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Hurricane Idalia: State of emergency declared in 46 countries | WION</strong></p>

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<p>However, US President Joe Biden said that the threat was not over. "The impact&nbsp;of the storm is being felt throughout the southeast. We have to remain vigilant,” he said at the White House.<br />
<br />
More than 1,000 emergency personnel were deployed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the disaster zone.<br />
<br />
"Idalia is the strongest storm... to make landfall in this part of Florida in over 100 years," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Hurricane Idalia, after turning powerful and dangerous in Florida on Wednesday (August 30) causing a potentially catastrophic storm surge to coastal communities and disrupting power supply for thousands, moved to neighbouring Georgia.

Hurricane Idalia, after turning powerful and dangerous in Florida on Wednesday (August 30) causing a potentially catastrophic storm surge to coastal communities and disrupting power supply for thousands, moved to neighbouring Georgia. It is now moving towards South Carolina. However, Idalia has now weakened to a tropical storm that has led to the region receiving rainfall of up to 10 inches (25 centimetres) and causing life-threatening inundations from rising water which is entering islands, said officials. The officials called Idalia and its dangerously high-surging waters 'a once-in-a-lifetime event' for the area around northwest Florida. No deaths were reported in Florida due to the hurricane and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emphasised "that very well may change," given the storm's magnitude. ALSO READ | 'Don't mess with this storm': Idalia makes landfall as Category 3 hurricane in Florida with 125 mph winds State officials stated that the first responders, which includes search and rescue teams, have been operational. However, the officials said that it may take more time to enter the remote areas which has been blocked by high water or fallen trees. Idalia weakens to a Category 1 hurricane Even though Idalia weakened to a Category 1 hurricane and slowly became a tropical storm which had winds at a speed of 70 miles per hour as it travelled towards Georgia, the residents were warned by the authorities of the aftermath and the dangers of high tide. The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said that the water levels were more than six feet above normal in Cedar Key, as a number of Florida islands jutted into the Gulf of Mexico, and said that the coastal waters were increasing rapidly. Threat not over: Biden Few Floridians also suggested that they had dodged a bullet as the projected ferocity of Idalia diminished. "We were really spared and blessed," said Sheriff Robert McCallum of Levy County, just south of the landfall zone, in a press briefing, adding that the storm surge was "not near what we had expected." WATCH | Hurricane Idalia: State of emergency declared in 46 countries | WION However, US President Joe Biden said that the threat was not over. "The impact of the storm is being felt throughout the southeast. We have to remain vigilant,” he said at the White House. More than 1,000 emergency personnel were deployed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the disaster zone. "Idalia is the strongest storm... to make landfall in this part of Florida in over 100 years," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. (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

Idalia downgraded to tropical storm after slamming Florida

<p>Russian officials on Thursday (August 31) said that fresh Ukrainian attacks were thwarted by them a day after at least six regions were targeted by Ukrainian drones. One of the drone strikes, which targeted an airfield far from the border of Ukraine, destroyed military transport planes.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Ukraine's military claimed that its six servicemen were killed in a crash of two helicopters near Bakhmut. In the latest announcements, Russia on the other hand said that two Ukrainian drones were downed by its anti-aircraft units in the southern Bryansk region.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-russia-north-korea-actively-advancing-in-negotiations-over-arms-deal-630701">US claims Russia, North Korea ‘actively advancing’ in negotiations over arms deal</a></p>

<p>The head of Crimea said that they had intercepted a Ukrainian cruise missile. Speaking about the attacks on Bryansk and five other regions including Moscow, the Russian foreign ministry stated that the attacks would "not go unpunished".<br />
<br />
In northern Russia, a military airfield caught massive fire in the city of Pskov where they have garrisoned elite paratroopers. As per TASS news agency, around four Il-76 transport planes suffered damages and two of them had "burst into flames".</p>

<h2><strong>Explosions occur at air base</strong></h2>

<p>The governor of Pskov shared a video on Telegram in which a huge fire and an explosion can be seen at the air base amid the sounds of sirens.<br />
<br />
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia has been trying to find the place from where the drones were launched so that further strikes can be prevented. President Vladimir Putin was immediately informed in the case as per&nbsp;protocols in such cases of "massive attacks", Peskov said.<br />
<br />
The government of Kyiv, in a statement, confirmed that the Russian planes were destroyed in Pskov. "Yes, four IL-76 transport planes were destroyed in Pskov at an airfield, they are beyond repair. Also, several other of those (aircraft) are damaged, but the information is being checked," said Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for the GUR military agency of Ukraine, while speaking to Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>'Gains made by Ukraine on southern front can open way to Crimea'</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the recent gains made by Ukrainian troops on the southern front can help in pushing the Russians to the annexed Crimean peninsula. He stated that this became possible after the "strategically important" village of Robotyne was liberated by Kyiv in the Zaporizhzhia region.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Two killed in biggest Russian air strike on Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>Addressing a recent meeting of French ambassadors in Paris, Kuleba said, "Having entrenched on its (Robotyne's) flanks, we are opening the way to Tokmak and, eventually, Melitopol and the administrative border with Crimea."<br />
<br />
Kuleba emphasised that the counter-offensive of Ukraine was ongoing, however, he admitted that it was an "extremely difficult" task.<br />
<br />
"The number of minefields and fortifications is unprecedented. Russian drones, helicopters and planes dominate the air. But we are gradually succeeding,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian officials on Thursday (August 31) said that fresh Ukrainian attacks were thwarted by them a day after at least six regions were targeted by Ukrainian drones.

Russian officials on Thursday (August 31) said that fresh Ukrainian attacks were thwarted by them a day after at least six regions were targeted by Ukrainian drones. One of the drone strikes, which targeted an airfield far from the border of Ukraine, destroyed military transport planes. Meanwhile, Ukraine's military claimed that its six servicemen were killed in a crash of two helicopters near Bakhmut. In the latest announcements, Russia on the other hand said that two Ukrainian drones were downed by its anti-aircraft units in the southern Bryansk region. ALSO READ | US claims Russia, North Korea ‘actively advancing’ in negotiations over arms deal The head of Crimea said that they had intercepted a Ukrainian cruise missile. Speaking about the attacks on Bryansk and five other regions including Moscow, the Russian foreign ministry stated that the attacks would "not go unpunished". In northern Russia, a military airfield caught massive fire in the city of Pskov where they have garrisoned elite paratroopers. As per TASS news agency, around four Il-76 transport planes suffered damages and two of them had "burst into flames". Explosions occur at air base The governor of Pskov shared a video on Telegram in which a huge fire and an explosion can be seen at the air base amid the sounds of sirens. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia has been trying to find the place from where the drones were launched so that further strikes can be prevented. President Vladimir Putin was immediately informed in the case as per protocols in such cases of "massive attacks", Peskov said. The government of Kyiv, in a statement, confirmed that the Russian planes were destroyed in Pskov. "Yes, four IL-76 transport planes were destroyed in Pskov at an airfield, they are beyond repair. Also, several other of those (aircraft) are damaged, but the information is being checked," said Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for the GUR military agency of Ukraine, while speaking to Reuters. 'Gains made by Ukraine on southern front can open way to Crimea' Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the recent gains made by Ukrainian troops on the southern front can help in pushing the Russians to the annexed Crimean peninsula. He stated that this became possible after the "strategically important" village of Robotyne was liberated by Kyiv in the Zaporizhzhia region. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Two killed in biggest Russian air strike on Kyiv Addressing a recent meeting of French ambassadors in Paris, Kuleba said, "Having entrenched on its (Robotyne's) flanks, we are opening the way to Tokmak and, eventually, Melitopol and the administrative border with Crimea." Kuleba emphasised that the counter-offensive of Ukraine was ongoing, however, he admitted that it was an "extremely difficult" task. "The number of minefields and fortifications is unprecedented. Russian drones, helicopters and planes dominate the air. But we are gradually succeeding,” he said. 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) 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

Russia claims to have thwarted fresh Ukrainian attacks as drones target airfield

<p>As per a newly released United States intelligence, Russia and North Korea are “actively advancing” potential arms deal negotiations that would provide significant ammunition for various types of weapons systems, including artillery.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday (August 30), the government of Joe Biden said that they have been concerned about the two pariah states which are in the middle of arms negotiations and that after the trip of Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu to North Korea last month, Russia's second delegation of officials visited Pyongyang to further discuss a potential deal.<br />
<br />
Along with the second delegation, letters were exchanged between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong, in which the two leaders are “pledging to increase their bilateral cooperation,” as reported by National Security Council strategic communications co-ordinator John Kirby.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-short-range-ballistic-missiles-amid-joint-us-south-korea-drills-630662">&nbsp;North Korea fires short-range ballistic missiles amid joint US-South Korea drills</a></p>

<p>“We remain concerned that the DPRK continues to consider providing military support to Russia’s military forces in Ukraine and we have new information which we are able to share today that arms negotiations between Russia and the DPRK are actively advancing,” Kirby stated. “Following these negotiations, high-level discussion may continue in coming months,” he added.<br />
<br />
“Under these potential deals, Russia would receive significant quantities and multiple types of munitions from the DPRK, which the Russian military plans to use in Ukraine. These potential deals could also include the provision of raw materials that would assist Russia’s defence industrial base,” Kirby stated, further promising that the US will take direct action for sanctioning any entities that are involved in a potential deal and appealed Pyongyang to cease the negotiations.</p>

<h2><strong>Letters exchanged were more at the surface level</strong></h2>

<p>He stated that the letters were “more at the surface level” but that North Korean and Russian weapons sales were advancing. The letters were exchanged by the leaders following the visit of Shoigu, he stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;North Korean state media: Four-year period of sealed borders end</strong></p>

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<p>“Following Shoigu’s visit another group of Russian officials travelled to Pyongyang for follow-on discussions about potential arms deals between the DPRK and Russia,” said Kirby.<br />
<br />
Earlier this month, a sanctions evasion network was sanctioned by the US Treasury which is aimed at supporting arms deals between Russia and North Korea. Kirby added that attempts were being made by Russia to source weapons from countries like North Korea and Iran which clearly showed the distress of Moscow.<br />
<br />
“There is no other way to look at that than desperation and weakness, quite frankly,” Kirby stated.</p>

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As per a newly released United States intelligence, Russia and North Korea are “actively advancing” potential arms deal negotiations that would provide significant ammunition for various types of weapons systems, including artillery.

As per a newly released United States intelligence, Russia and North Korea are “actively advancing” potential arms deal negotiations that would provide significant ammunition for various types of weapons systems, including artillery. On Wednesday (August 30), the government of Joe Biden said that they have been concerned about the two pariah states which are in the middle of arms negotiations and that after the trip of Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu to North Korea last month, Russia's second delegation of officials visited Pyongyang to further discuss a potential deal. Along with the second delegation, letters were exchanged between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong, in which the two leaders are “pledging to increase their bilateral cooperation,” as reported by National Security Council strategic communications co-ordinator John Kirby. ALSO READ | North Korea fires short-range ballistic missiles amid joint US-South Korea drills “We remain concerned that the DPRK continues to consider providing military support to Russia’s military forces in Ukraine and we have new information which we are able to share today that arms negotiations between Russia and the DPRK are actively advancing,” Kirby stated. “Following these negotiations, high-level discussion may continue in coming months,” he added. “Under these potential deals, Russia would receive significant quantities and multiple types of munitions from the DPRK, which the Russian military plans to use in Ukraine. These potential deals could also include the provision of raw materials that would assist Russia’s defence industrial base,” Kirby stated, further promising that the US will take direct action for sanctioning any entities that are involved in a potential deal and appealed Pyongyang to cease the negotiations. Letters exchanged were more at the surface level He stated that the letters were “more at the surface level” but that North Korean and Russian weapons sales were advancing. The letters were exchanged by the leaders following the visit of Shoigu, he stated. WATCH | North Korean state media: Four-year period of sealed borders end “Following Shoigu’s visit another group of Russian officials travelled to Pyongyang for follow-on discussions about potential arms deals between the DPRK and Russia,” said Kirby. Earlier this month, a sanctions evasion network was sanctioned by the US Treasury which is aimed at supporting arms deals between Russia and North Korea. Kirby added that attempts were being made by Russia to source weapons from countries like North Korea and Iran which clearly showed the distress of Moscow. “There is no other way to look at that than desperation and weakness, quite frankly,” Kirby stated. 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 claims Russia, North Korea ‘actively advancing’ in negotiations over arms deal

<p>A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics.<br />
<br />
This is the latest incident that occurred amid increasing violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.<br />
<br />
"A suspect armed with a knife committed a terrorist attack near Shivtei Israel light rail station in Jerusalem," said Israeli police in a statement. "The suspect was neutralised on the spot," it added.<br />
<br />
A border police officer, who was inside a moving tram, saw the attack as it occurred and took action, said the police. He "promptly disembarked from the train and fired", hitting the suspect, they stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-who-opened-fire-threw-grenade-at-israeli-forces-shot-dead-614053">Palestinian who opened fire, threw grenade at Israeli forces, shot dead</a></p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said that the "minor" attacker was from east Jerusalem, which is a predominantly Palestinian area.<br />
<br />
The 14-year-old teenager was from east Jerusalem's Beit Hanina neighbourhood and he was pronounced dead by the medical officials, he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Man stabbed by teenage attacker hospitalised</strong></h2>

<p>The Magen David Adom emergency service stated that they treated a 25-year-old man who was stabbed in the back. The injured man was later taken to the hospital. As per a statement issued by Shaare Zedek Hospital, the wounded man was in a "stable" condition.<br />
<br />
Dozens of Israeli security personnel had gathered at the station where many ultra-Orthodox Jews, wearing white shirts and black suits, were also present, as reported by an AFP correspondent. The body of the attacker kept on the ground and wrapped in a blanket was seen by an AFP photographer.<br />
<br />
Ice was used by some security officers to clean the site where blood stains were still present. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has the Gaza Strip under its control, said that a “heroic” operation was carried out by the attacker at the tram station.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine tension transcends borders: Woman killed near West Bank Hebron</strong></p>

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<p>Videos were posted by many gunmen accusing the Palestinian Authority (PA) for his killing. "We will not keep silent about this act, which aids the occupation forces in arresting and chasing the youths and those (on Israel's) wanted list," said one of the gunmen.<br />
<br />
Spokesperson for the PA security services Talal Dweikat, while speaking to Reuters news agency, said that the gunmen had opened fire at the forces, "prompting security forces to intervene, taking necessary measures to restore order".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics.

A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics. This is the latest incident that occurred amid increasing violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "A suspect armed with a knife committed a terrorist attack near Shivtei Israel light rail station in Jerusalem," said Israeli police in a statement. "The suspect was neutralised on the spot," it added. A border police officer, who was inside a moving tram, saw the attack as it occurred and took action, said the police. He "promptly disembarked from the train and fired", hitting the suspect, they stated. ALSO READ | Palestinian who opened fire, threw grenade at Israeli forces, shot dead Speaking to AFP, police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said that the "minor" attacker was from east Jerusalem, which is a predominantly Palestinian area. The 14-year-old teenager was from east Jerusalem's Beit Hanina neighbourhood and he was pronounced dead by the medical officials, he said. Man stabbed by teenage attacker hospitalised The Magen David Adom emergency service stated that they treated a 25-year-old man who was stabbed in the back. The injured man was later taken to the hospital. As per a statement issued by Shaare Zedek Hospital, the wounded man was in a "stable" condition. Dozens of Israeli security personnel had gathered at the station where many ultra-Orthodox Jews, wearing white shirts and black suits, were also present, as reported by an AFP correspondent. The body of the attacker kept on the ground and wrapped in a blanket was seen by an AFP photographer. Ice was used by some security officers to clean the site where blood stains were still present. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has the Gaza Strip under its control, said that a “heroic” operation was carried out by the attacker at the tram station. WATCH | Israel-Palestine tension transcends borders: Woman killed near West Bank Hebron Videos were posted by many gunmen accusing the Palestinian Authority (PA) for his killing. "We will not keep silent about this act, which aids the occupation forces in arresting and chasing the youths and those (on Israel's) wanted list," said one of the gunmen. Spokesperson for the PA security services Talal Dweikat, while speaking to Reuters news agency, said that the gunmen had opened fire at the forces, "prompting security forces to intervene, taking necessary measures to restore order". (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

Israeli police kill teenage attacker after stabbing incident in Jerusalem

<p>For the second time in almost a month, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell froze for a short span of time while addressing the reporters.<br />
<br />
At a press conference in Covington, Kentucky, the 81-year-old leader took a more than 30-second pause when he was asked whether he is willing to run for re-election in 2026.<br />
<br />
The aides flanking the senator tried to prompt him, but McConnell took more than several seconds to recover. After recovering, the leader&nbsp;answered two more questions from the reporters, which were repeated by the staff.<br />
<br />
No comments were made by him regarding his health before he left the press meet with his aides.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Republican Senator Mitch McConnell appears to have another medical emergency when he froze for nearly 30 seconds while speaking to reporters.<br />
<br />
I speak for most Americans when I say it’s time for McConnell to resign.<br />
<br />
Just last month, McConnell had a separate freezing… <a href="https://t.co/ltz9Poj1wV">pic.twitter.com/ltz9Poj1wV</a></p>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1696938709445390368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today," said a spokesperson, after the incident. He added that the leader "feels fine" but will consult a doctor before his next event as "a prudential measure".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-republican-leader-mitch-mcconnell-freezes-for-20-seconds-during-press-conference-619790">Republican leader Mitch McConnell freezes for 20 seconds during press conference</a></p>

<p>After speaking to McConnell on Wednesday afternoon, Senate Minority Whip John Thune said that “the leader sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits”, as per a spokesperson for the South Dakota Republican.</p>

<h2><strong>First verbal lapse of McConnell</strong></h2>

<p>The first verbal lapse of McConnell occurred when he was present at a press conference at the US Capitol in Washington DC on July 26.<br />
<br />
In the conference, the leader had paused for approximately 20 seconds in the middle of his sentence, before he was ushered away by his fellow Republican senators.<br />
<br />
Later, he returned to the press conference and informed the reporters that he was feeling "fine" and had felt "lightheaded".<br />
<br />
McConnell, who has been leading the narrow minority of the Republican party in the upper chamber of Congress, was hospitalised for a week after he suffered a fractured rib and a concussion following a fall outside a Washington area hotel in March.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US: NARA confirms Biden used Pseudonyms during his tenure as Vice President&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He was shifted to a rehabilitation facility and did not come back to the Senate till mid-April.<br />
<br />
The latest episode of the leader freezing for seconds will once again raise questions about the Kentucky senator's health as it is likely to be a busy autumn legislative session, as Congress tries to avoid a partial government shutdown at the end of October.<br />
<br />
Press Secretary of US President Joe Biden, Karine Jean-Pierre said that "we wish him well, a speedy recovery" when questioned during a press briefing.</p>

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For the second time in almost a month, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell froze for a short span of time while addressing the reporters. At a press conference in Covington, Kentucky, the 81-year-old leader took a more than 30-second pause when he was asked whether he is willing to run for re-election in 2026.

For the second time in almost a month, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell froze for a short span of time while addressing the reporters. At a press conference in Covington, Kentucky, the 81-year-old leader took a more than 30-second pause when he was asked whether he is willing to run for re-election in 2026. The aides flanking the senator tried to prompt him, but McConnell took more than several seconds to recover. After recovering, the leader answered two more questions from the reporters, which were repeated by the staff. No comments were made by him regarding his health before he left the press meet with his aides. BREAKING: Republican Senator Mitch McConnell appears to have another medical emergency when he froze for nearly 30 seconds while speaking to reporters. I speak for most Americans when I say it’s time for McConnell to resign. Just last month, McConnell had a separate freezing… pic.twitter.com/ltz9Poj1wV — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 30, 2023 × "Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today," said a spokesperson, after the incident. He added that the leader "feels fine" but will consult a doctor before his next event as "a prudential measure". ALSO READ | Republican leader Mitch McConnell freezes for 20 seconds during press conference After speaking to McConnell on Wednesday afternoon, Senate Minority Whip John Thune said that “the leader sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits”, as per a spokesperson for the South Dakota Republican. First verbal lapse of McConnell The first verbal lapse of McConnell occurred when he was present at a press conference at the US Capitol in Washington DC on July 26. In the conference, the leader had paused for approximately 20 seconds in the middle of his sentence, before he was ushered away by his fellow Republican senators. Later, he returned to the press conference and informed the reporters that he was feeling "fine" and had felt "lightheaded". McConnell, who has been leading the narrow minority of the Republican party in the upper chamber of Congress, was hospitalised for a week after he suffered a fractured rib and a concussion following a fall outside a Washington area hotel in March. WATCH | US: NARA confirms Biden used Pseudonyms during his tenure as Vice President He was shifted to a rehabilitation facility and did not come back to the Senate till mid-April. The latest episode of the leader freezing for seconds will once again raise questions about the Kentucky senator's health as it is likely to be a busy autumn legislative session, as Congress tries to avoid a partial government shutdown at the end of October. Press Secretary of US President Joe Biden, Karine Jean-Pierre said that "we wish him well, a speedy recovery" when questioned during a press briefing. 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

Watch | For second time, Mitch McConnell freezes during press conference in US

<p>United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again.<br />
<br />
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016. Trump didn't actually go through with it after assuming office.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-historic-trial-in-federal-election-case-to-begin-on-march-4-630047">Trump's historic trial in federal election case to begin on March 4, one day before Super Tuesday</a></p>

<p>In the interview, Beck said, “Do you regret not locking [Clinton] up? And if you’re president again, will you lock people up?” “The answer is you have no choice, because they’re doing it to us,” Trump stated.<br />
<br />
The former president has encouraged the “lock her up” chant against other opponents, however, he has himself been facing the considerable danger of getting locked up.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump's criminal trials and fear of being locked up</strong></h2>

<p>Under four indictments, Trump has been facing 91 criminal charges related to the retention of classified information, election subversion and hush-money payments to an adult film star. He has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he has been a victim of political persecution.<br />
<br />
In his interview telecasted on BlazeTV on Tuesday, Trump also stated that he “never hit Biden as hard as I could have” while in office.<br />
<br />
Speaking to Beck, Trump said that Biden had orchestrated all the indictments against him. He said that all of them were brought by prosecutors who are not associated with the White House: 44 by the Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, 34 by the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, and 13 by Fani Willis, the district attorney of Fulton county, Georgia.<br />
<br />
Trump further stated that “the woman that I never met, that they accused me of rape, that’s being run by a Democrat, a Democrat operative, and paid for by the Democrat [sic] party”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p><br />
The statement was made by Trump in reference to civil claims brought by writer E Jean Carroll, who stated that she was sexually assaulted by the former president in New York in the 1990s.<br />
<br />
Trump, who is also undergoing investigations of his business affairs, said that Democrats and other opponents were “sick people … evil people”.<br />
<br />
The former president, who has been twice impeached, four times indicted, and 91 times charged, also told Beck he “always had such great respect for the office of the president and the presidency”.</p>

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<main>
<section>
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United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again. Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016.

United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again. Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016. Trump didn't actually go through with it after assuming office. ALSO READ | Trump's historic trial in federal election case to begin on March 4, one day before Super Tuesday In the interview, Beck said, “Do you regret not locking [Clinton] up? And if you’re president again, will you lock people up?” “The answer is you have no choice, because they’re doing it to us,” Trump stated. The former president has encouraged the “lock her up” chant against other opponents, however, he has himself been facing the considerable danger of getting locked up. Trump's criminal trials and fear of being locked up Under four indictments, Trump has been facing 91 criminal charges related to the retention of classified information, election subversion and hush-money payments to an adult film star. He has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he has been a victim of political persecution. In his interview telecasted on BlazeTV on Tuesday, Trump also stated that he “never hit Biden as hard as I could have” while in office. Speaking to Beck, Trump said that Biden had orchestrated all the indictments against him. He said that all of them were brought by prosecutors who are not associated with the White House: 44 by the Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, 34 by the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, and 13 by Fani Willis, the district attorney of Fulton county, Georgia. Trump further stated that “the woman that I never met, that they accused me of rape, that’s being run by a Democrat, a Democrat operative, and paid for by the Democrat [sic] party”. WATCH | Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION The statement was made by Trump in reference to civil claims brought by writer E Jean Carroll, who stated that she was sexually assaulted by the former president in New York in the 1990s. Trump, who is also undergoing investigations of his business affairs, said that Democrats and other opponents were “sick people … evil people”. The former president, who has been twice impeached, four times indicted, and 91 times charged, also told Beck he “always had such great respect for the office of the president and the presidency”. 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 makes strange vow to 'lock up political foes' after comeback to White House

<p>The coup leaders in Gabon on Wednesday (August 30) announced the name of a general transitional president after it came to power following disputed elections in which they declared President Ali Bongo Ondimba as the winner. The family of President Ondimba has ruled the country for 55 years.<br />
<br />
The coup was condemned by the African Union (AU) and Nigeria was alarmed over "contagious autocracy" in a continent where power has been seized by the military in five other countries since 2020.<br />
<br />
Bongo, aged 64, who took over the seat of power from his father Omar in 2009, was kept under house arrest and one of his sons was arrested for treason, said the coup leaders. The group of coup leaders, in a dramatic pre-dawn address, declared "all the institutions of the republic" had been dissolved, the borders closed and the election results cancelled.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-after-niger-this-is-why-coup-in-gabon-is-receiving-public-support-630612">Explained | After Niger, this is why coup in Gabon is receiving public support</a></p>

<p>"Today, the country is going through a serious institutional, political, economic and social crisis," as per the statement broadcast on state TV. The elections "did not meet the conditions for a transparent, credible and inclusive ballot so much hoped for by the people of Gabon", the statement added.<br />
<br />
"Added to this is irresponsible and unpredictable governance, resulting in a continuing deterioration in social cohesion, with the risk of leading the country in chaos. We -- the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) on behalf of the people of Gabon and as guarantors of the institutions' protection -- have decided to defend peace by putting an end to the current regime," it further stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Putschists arrest leaders</strong></h2>

<p>In the TV images, the head of the Republican Guard General Brice Oligui Nguema was seen being carried in triumph by many soldiers amid cries of "Oligui president".<br />
<br />
Oligui Nguema was later named as "transitional president” by the coup leaders, as per a TV statement. Bongo's son and close adviser Noureddin Bongo Valentin, his chief of staff Ian Ghislain Ngoulou and his deputy, two other presidential advisers and the ruling Gabonese Democratic Party's (PDG) two top officials "have been arrested", said a military leader.<br />
<br />
The leaders have been accused of falsifying the president's signature, corruption, treason, and embezzlement, he stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Nightly curfew 'until further notice'</strong></h2>

<p>The military leaders of Gabon on Wednesday said that they have imposed a nightly curfew and the takeover by the army will remain in place until further notice.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Coup drama in Gabon following elections</strong></p>

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<p>"As of tomorrow (Thursday), Gabonese people will once again be able to freely go about their business between 6 am and 6 pm (0500 GMT to 1700 GMT). The traffic restriction remains in force<br />
from 6 pm to 6 am until further notice," stated a senior officer on local TV.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, the broadcasts of several French media outlets, which were suspended amid the ongoing coup, were resumed on Wednesday, according to a televised statement. The "temporary broadcast ban" was imposed exclusively on French-speaking media - France 24, RFI and TV5 Monde, which were "accused of a lack of objectivity and balance... in connection with the current general elections".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The coup leaders in Gabon on Wednesday (August 30) announced the name of a general transitional president after it came to power following disputed elections in which they declared President Ali Bongo Ondimba as the winner.

The coup leaders in Gabon on Wednesday (August 30) announced the name of a general transitional president after it came to power following disputed elections in which they declared President Ali Bongo Ondimba as the winner. The family of President Ondimba has ruled the country for 55 years. The coup was condemned by the African Union (AU) and Nigeria was alarmed over "contagious autocracy" in a continent where power has been seized by the military in five other countries since 2020. Bongo, aged 64, who took over the seat of power from his father Omar in 2009, was kept under house arrest and one of his sons was arrested for treason, said the coup leaders. The group of coup leaders, in a dramatic pre-dawn address, declared "all the institutions of the republic" had been dissolved, the borders closed and the election results cancelled. ALSO READ | Explained | After Niger, this is why coup in Gabon is receiving public support "Today, the country is going through a serious institutional, political, economic and social crisis," as per the statement broadcast on state TV. The elections "did not meet the conditions for a transparent, credible and inclusive ballot so much hoped for by the people of Gabon", the statement added. "Added to this is irresponsible and unpredictable governance, resulting in a continuing deterioration in social cohesion, with the risk of leading the country in chaos. We -- the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) on behalf of the people of Gabon and as guarantors of the institutions' protection -- have decided to defend peace by putting an end to the current regime," it further stated. Putschists arrest leaders In the TV images, the head of the Republican Guard General Brice Oligui Nguema was seen being carried in triumph by many soldiers amid cries of "Oligui president". Oligui Nguema was later named as "transitional president” by the coup leaders, as per a TV statement. Bongo's son and close adviser Noureddin Bongo Valentin, his chief of staff Ian Ghislain Ngoulou and his deputy, two other presidential advisers and the ruling Gabonese Democratic Party's (PDG) two top officials "have been arrested", said a military leader. The leaders have been accused of falsifying the president's signature, corruption, treason, and embezzlement, he stated. Nightly curfew 'until further notice' The military leaders of Gabon on Wednesday said that they have imposed a nightly curfew and the takeover by the army will remain in place until further notice. WATCH | Coup drama in Gabon following elections "As of tomorrow (Thursday), Gabonese people will once again be able to freely go about their business between 6 am and 6 pm (0500 GMT to 1700 GMT). The traffic restriction remains in force from 6 pm to 6 am until further notice," stated a senior officer on local TV. Meanwhile, the broadcasts of several French media outlets, which were suspended amid the ongoing coup, were resumed on Wednesday, according to a televised statement. The "temporary broadcast ban" was imposed exclusively on French-speaking media - France 24, RFI and TV5 Monde, which were "accused of a lack of objectivity and balance... in connection with the current general elections". (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

Coup leaders announce general transitional president in Gabon

<p>The rare blue supermoon, which will not appear for the next 14 years, dazzled the night skies of various countries across the world on Wednesday (August 30), including India, as the delighted sky watchers captured the phenomena.<br />
<br />
This is the closest distance the full moon will be seen this year, which is comparatively much closer than where it was a month earlier on August 1.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s a bird! 🦅 It’s a plane! ✈️ It’s a… supermoon! 🌕 Don’t forget to check out the “super blue moon” on Aug. 31. It is called a super blue moon because it is a supermoon and the second full moon in a single calendar month. Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/cA0Y9UQS88">https://t.co/cA0Y9UQS88</a> <a href="https://t.co/RDOcsB6fIm">pic.twitter.com/RDOcsB6fIm</a></p>
— NASA Space Place (@NASAspaceplace) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAspaceplace/status/1696145611865948373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This rare astronomical phenomenon has occurred due to the full moon coinciding with both a perigee moon and a blue moon. Astrologer Richard Nolle had originally coined the term ‘Super Blue Moon' in 1946.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/super-blue-moon-2023-live-heres-how-you-can-watch-the-brightest-moon-of-the-year-in-your-country-630532">Super Blue Moon 2023 Live: Here's how you can watch the brightest moon of the year in your country</a></p>

<p>The supermoon was observed by the naked eye in various cities in India and other countries like Vietnam, Greece, Turkey and Israel.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bihar: A super blue moon lights up the sky; visuals from Patna. <a href="https://t.co/Fe9XDrg5g1">pic.twitter.com/Fe9XDrg5g1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1696883281755562085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The super blue moon is visible in Irish skies for the first time since 2009 | Read more: <a href="https://t.co/Qcev5sJDML">https://t.co/Qcev5sJDML</a> <a href="https://t.co/S5Yxr63Jq1">pic.twitter.com/S5Yxr63Jq1</a></p>
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) <a href="https://twitter.com/rtenews/status/1696622704630116697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In Hanoi, the residents gathered at the city's West Lake to watch the 'blue supermoon' rise in the sky.</p>

<h2><strong>What is a Blue Supermoon?</strong></h2>

<p>Not reflecting its name, a blue supermoon is not blue in colour and shines in bright yellow colour. As per the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term 'blue moon' is used to refer to the second full moon that occurs in a calendar month, while a supermoon refers to a full moon that occurs when the moon is present at the closest point in its orbit.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Japan's Space Agency postpones 'moon sniper' lunar mission</strong></p>

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<p>Supermoons occur when it crosses its perigee, or the point considered closest to Earth during its elliptical orbit. The phenomena make the moon appear 14 per cent bigger compared to when it remains at its furthest point, and more brighter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Moon is doing the most: It's a Super Blue Moon!<br />
<br />
So-called "super" because it's slightly closer to Earth and "blue" because it's the second full moon in a month. It peaks at 9:36pm ET on Aug. 30 (0136 UTC on Aug. 31).<br />
<br />
Details &amp; other sky highlights: <a href="https://t.co/MLYxQ9lSKH">https://t.co/MLYxQ9lSKH</a> <a href="https://t.co/B9GYMJTjtM">pic.twitter.com/B9GYMJTjtM</a></p>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1696948200190427182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per NASA, the full moons are defined by the exact moment they are opposite the Sun. On Wednesday evening, the space agency posted on X, “The Moon is doing the most: It's a Super Blue Moon! So-called "super" because it's slightly closer to Earth and "blue" because it's the second full moon in a month. It peaks at 9:36 pm ET on Aug. 30 (0136 UTC on Aug. 31).”</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The rare blue supermoon, which will not appear for the next 14 years, dazzled the night skies of various countries across the world on Wednesday (August 30), including India, as the delighted sky watchers captured the phenomena.

The rare blue supermoon, which will not appear for the next 14 years, dazzled the night skies of various countries across the world on Wednesday (August 30), including India, as the delighted sky watchers captured the phenomena. This is the closest distance the full moon will be seen this year, which is comparatively much closer than where it was a month earlier on August 1. It’s a bird! 🦅 It’s a plane! ✈️ It’s a… supermoon! 🌕 Don’t forget to check out the “super blue moon” on Aug. 31. It is called a super blue moon because it is a supermoon and the second full moon in a single calendar month. Learn more: https://t.co/cA0Y9UQS88 pic.twitter.com/RDOcsB6fIm — NASA Space Place (@NASAspaceplace) August 28, 2023 × This rare astronomical phenomenon has occurred due to the full moon coinciding with both a perigee moon and a blue moon. Astrologer Richard Nolle had originally coined the term ‘Super Blue Moon' in 1946. ALSO READ | Super Blue Moon 2023 Live: Here's how you can watch the brightest moon of the year in your country The supermoon was observed by the naked eye in various cities in India and other countries like Vietnam, Greece, Turkey and Israel. #WATCH | Bihar: A super blue moon lights up the sky; visuals from Patna. pic.twitter.com/Fe9XDrg5g1 — ANI (@ANI) August 30, 2023 × The super blue moon is visible in Irish skies for the first time since 2009 | Read more: https://t.co/Qcev5sJDML pic.twitter.com/S5Yxr63Jq1 — RTÉ News (@rtenews) August 29, 2023 × In Hanoi, the residents gathered at the city's West Lake to watch the 'blue supermoon' rise in the sky. What is a Blue Supermoon? Not reflecting its name, a blue supermoon is not blue in colour and shines in bright yellow colour. As per the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term 'blue moon' is used to refer to the second full moon that occurs in a calendar month, while a supermoon refers to a full moon that occurs when the moon is present at the closest point in its orbit. WATCH | Japan's Space Agency postpones 'moon sniper' lunar mission Supermoons occur when it crosses its perigee, or the point considered closest to Earth during its elliptical orbit. The phenomena make the moon appear 14 per cent bigger compared to when it remains at its furthest point, and more brighter. The Moon is doing the most: It's a Super Blue Moon! So-called "super" because it's slightly closer to Earth and "blue" because it's the second full moon in a month. It peaks at 9:36pm ET on Aug. 30 (0136 UTC on Aug. 31). Details & other sky highlights: https://t.co/MLYxQ9lSKH pic.twitter.com/B9GYMJTjtM — NASA (@NASA) August 30, 2023 × As per NASA, the full moons are defined by the exact moment they are opposite the Sun. On Wednesday evening, the space agency posted on X, “The Moon is doing the most: It's a Super Blue Moon! So-called "super" because it's slightly closer to Earth and "blue" because it's the second full moon in a month. It peaks at 9:36 pm ET on Aug. 30 (0136 UTC on Aug. 31).” 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

Watch | Rare blue supermoon, appearing after 14 years, dazzles night skies across the world

<p>Novak Djokovic sailed into the US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York.</p>

<p>Djokovic climbed through the gears against 76th-ranked Bernabe Zapata Miralles, winning 13 of the last 15 games to ease through 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 in two hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium court.</p>

<p>Next up for the Serbian star is compatriot and 32nd seed Laslo Djere, with Djokovic keeping up his record of always reaching at least the last 32 in New York.</p>

<p>"At 36 years of age, after 20 years of coming to New York, I still have the hunger to play my best tennis on this court," said Djokovic, a three-time US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;champion.</p>

<p>"I have the experience and understanding of what needs to be done in the important moments. Preserving the energy and focusing on the present moment."</p>

<p>Defending champion and world number one Swiatek swept past Australia's Daria Saville 6-3, 6-4.</p>

<p>The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014.</p>

<p>"It wasn't easy but I'm happy I tried to play my game and play aggressively with a lot of intensity and I'm just happy to be in the third round," said Swiatek, aiming for her fifth Grand Slam triumph.</p>

<p>Swiatek will now play Slovenia's Kaja Juvan on Friday for a place in the last 16.</p>

<p>Gauff, 19, brushed aside 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the youngest player in the draw, 6-3, 6-2 to continue her strong run on hard courts this summer after titles in Washington and Cincinnati.</p>

<p>The sixth seed, viewed as one of the favourites in New York, takes on Belgium's Elise Mertens for a place in the last 16 after getting the better of Andreeva for the second time in three Grand Slams.</p>

<p>"I just learned to be aggressive, because if you give her something she is going to take advantage," said Gauff, who overcame Andreeva in three sets at Roland Garros in June.</p>

<p>"She has a great future in front of her - I think she is going to be back on this stage many more times."</p>

<p>Mertens, the 32nd seed, battled back from the brink by saving two match points in the second-set tie-break to knock off the dangerous Collins, last year's Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;runner-up.</p>

<p>The Belgian, who had the support of three-time US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;winner Kim Clijsters in her box, advanced 3-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-1 and now awaits Gauff.</p>

<h2><strong>Tsitsipas dumped out&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Stefanos Tsitsipas' miserable US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;run continued as he crashed out to 21-year-old Swiss qualifier Dominic Stricker in five sets.</p>

<p>Tsitsipas served for the match at 5-3 in the fourth set but the 128th-ranked Stricker rallied to prevail 7-5, 6-7 (2/7), 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in just over four hours.</p>

<p>"I don't know how. I did it somehow. Actually a bit speechless but it's a great day," said Stricker, who had won just one Grand Slam match before this week.</p>

<p>Greece's Tsitsipas, the seventh seed and a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has never progressed beyond round three in six visits to New York.</p>

<p>Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova, this year's French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;finalist, sailed past Magdalena Frech in straight sets.</p>

<p>Olympic gold medallist Belinda Bencic ended the run of British qualifier Lily Miyazaki 6-3, 6-3, but Brazilian 19th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia was dumped out by Taylor Townsend 7-6 (7/1), 7-5.</p>

<p>Fifth seed Casper Ruud, runner-up at three of the past six majors including last year's US&nbsp;Open, takes on China's Zhang Zhizhen in his second-round match on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Elena Rybakina, the women's fourth seed, plays Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the night session on Louis Armstrong, while old rivals Petra Kvitova and Caroline Wozniacki also meet under the lights.</p>

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Novak Djokovic sailed into the US Open third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York.

Novak Djokovic sailed into the US Open third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York. Djokovic climbed through the gears against 76th-ranked Bernabe Zapata Miralles, winning 13 of the last 15 games to ease through 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 in two hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Next up for the Serbian star is compatriot and 32nd seed Laslo Djere, with Djokovic keeping up his record of always reaching at least the last 32 in New York. "At 36 years of age, after 20 years of coming to New York, I still have the hunger to play my best tennis on this court," said Djokovic, a three-time US Open champion. "I have the experience and understanding of what needs to be done in the important moments. Preserving the energy and focusing on the present moment." Defending champion and world number one Swiatek swept past Australia's Daria Saville 6-3, 6-4. The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US Open crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014. "It wasn't easy but I'm happy I tried to play my game and play aggressively with a lot of intensity and I'm just happy to be in the third round," said Swiatek, aiming for her fifth Grand Slam triumph. Swiatek will now play Slovenia's Kaja Juvan on Friday for a place in the last 16. Gauff, 19, brushed aside 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the youngest player in the draw, 6-3, 6-2 to continue her strong run on hard courts this summer after titles in Washington and Cincinnati. The sixth seed, viewed as one of the favourites in New York, takes on Belgium's Elise Mertens for a place in the last 16 after getting the better of Andreeva for the second time in three Grand Slams. "I just learned to be aggressive, because if you give her something she is going to take advantage," said Gauff, who overcame Andreeva in three sets at Roland Garros in June. "She has a great future in front of her - I think she is going to be back on this stage many more times." Mertens, the 32nd seed, battled back from the brink by saving two match points in the second-set tie-break to knock off the dangerous Collins, last year's Australian Open runner-up. The Belgian, who had the support of three-time US Open winner Kim Clijsters in her box, advanced 3-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-1 and now awaits Gauff. Tsitsipas dumped out Stefanos Tsitsipas' miserable US Open run continued as he crashed out to 21-year-old Swiss qualifier Dominic Stricker in five sets. Tsitsipas served for the match at 5-3 in the fourth set but the 128th-ranked Stricker rallied to prevail 7-5, 6-7 (2/7), 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in just over four hours. "I don't know how. I did it somehow. Actually a bit speechless but it's a great day," said Stricker, who had won just one Grand Slam match before this week. Greece's Tsitsipas, the seventh seed and a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has never progressed beyond round three in six visits to New York. Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova, this year's French Open finalist, sailed past Magdalena Frech in straight sets. Olympic gold medallist Belinda Bencic ended the run of British qualifier Lily Miyazaki 6-3, 6-3, but Brazilian 19th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia was dumped out by Taylor Townsend 7-6 (7/1), 7-5. Fifth seed Casper Ruud, runner-up at three of the past six majors including last year's US Open, takes on China's Zhang Zhizhen in his second-round match on Wednesday. Elena Rybakina, the women's fourth seed, plays Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the night session on Louis Armstrong, while old rivals Petra Kvitova and Caroline Wozniacki also meet under the lights. 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

Djokovic ramps up US Open bid as Swiatek, Gauff stroll

<p>The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago.<br />
<br />
However, now India has agreed to make an exception for Singapore and allow the export of rice to fulfil the South East Asian country's food security requirements.<br />
<br />
“India and Singapore enjoy a very close strategic partnership, characterised by shared interests, close economic ties and strong people-to-people connect. In view of this special relationship, India has decided to allow the export of rice to meet the food security requirements of Singapore. Formal orders in this regard will be issued shortly,” said India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, while responding to media queries on the export of rice to Singapore.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our response to media queries on export of rice to Singapore:<a href="https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR">https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR</a> <a href="https://t.co/lzqbRlzesb">pic.twitter.com/lzqbRlzesb</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1696573307082994092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-rice-exporters-receiving-requests-for-early-shipments-of-basmati-rice-report-621108">Indian rice exporters receiving requests for early shipments of basmati rice: Report</a></p>

<p>The MEA spokesperson added that the government will soon issue formal orders in this regard. The government on August 27 had temporarily placed a ban on the export of any basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas.<br />
<br />
However, the rice shipments that have been contracted beyond that price threshold will be allowed to export.</p>

<h2><strong>Ban on exports of non-basmati white rice</strong></h2>

<p>The government of India on July 20 banned non-basmati white rice exports with the aim of boosting domestic supply and keeping retail prices in check. Out of the total rice exported from India, 25 per cent of the consignment comprises the non-basmati white rice.<br />
<br />
The export policy, from 'Free with export duty of 20%' to 'Prohibited', was amended by the government with immediate effect to ensure non-basmati white rice's constant availability in the Indian market and to stem the rise in local prices.<br />
<br />
On September 8, 2022, an export duty of 20 per cent was imposed by the government on non-basmati white rice to decrease the price and ensure its availability in the domestic market.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India imposes curbs on basmati rice exports. Details</strong></p>

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<p>After the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice was imposed, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) got in touch with the Indian authorities and sought an exemption from the ban.<br />
<br />
“SFA is working closely with importers to increase the import of different varieties of rice from various sources. Singapore is also in close contact with the Indian authorities to seek exemption from the ban,” stated SFA in its statement.&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago.

The Indian government placed a temporary ban on the export of any kind of basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas two days ago. However, now India has agreed to make an exception for Singapore and allow the export of rice to fulfil the South East Asian country's food security requirements. “India and Singapore enjoy a very close strategic partnership, characterised by shared interests, close economic ties and strong people-to-people connect. In view of this special relationship, India has decided to allow the export of rice to meet the food security requirements of Singapore. Formal orders in this regard will be issued shortly,” said India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, while responding to media queries on the export of rice to Singapore. Our response to media queries on export of rice to Singapore:https://t.co/RfmpXV38jR pic.twitter.com/lzqbRlzesb — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) August 29, 2023 × ALSO READ | Indian rice exporters receiving requests for early shipments of basmati rice: Report The MEA spokesperson added that the government will soon issue formal orders in this regard. The government on August 27 had temporarily placed a ban on the export of any basmati rice consignment which was being sold for less than $1,200 per tonne overseas. However, the rice shipments that have been contracted beyond that price threshold will be allowed to export. Ban on exports of non-basmati white rice The government of India on July 20 banned non-basmati white rice exports with the aim of boosting domestic supply and keeping retail prices in check. Out of the total rice exported from India, 25 per cent of the consignment comprises the non-basmati white rice. The export policy, from 'Free with export duty of 20%' to 'Prohibited', was amended by the government with immediate effect to ensure non-basmati white rice's constant availability in the Indian market and to stem the rise in local prices. On September 8, 2022, an export duty of 20 per cent was imposed by the government on non-basmati white rice to decrease the price and ensure its availability in the domestic market. WATCH | India imposes curbs on basmati rice exports. Details After the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice was imposed, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) got in touch with the Indian authorities and sought an exemption from the ban. “SFA is working closely with importers to increase the import of different varieties of rice from various sources. Singapore is also in close contact with the Indian authorities to seek exemption from the ban,” stated SFA in its statement. 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

India makes exception for Singapore, agrees to export non-basmati rice

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