<p>In a surprise ruling, a Canadian judge stated that the “thumbs-up” emoji can be considered just as valid as a signature. He said the court needs to adapt to the “new reality” of how communication takes place between people and asked a farmer to pay C$82,000 ($61,442), which was part of an unfulfilled contract.</p>

<p>The Court of King’s Bench heard the case in which a mass text message was sent by a grain buyer with South West Terminal to clients in March 2021, which advertised that the company was aiming to purchase 86 tonnes of flax at a price of C$17 ($12.73) per bushel. The incident took place in the province of Saskatchewan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kent Mickleborough, who is a buyer, called over farmer Chris Achter on the phone and texted him a picture of a contract which guaranteed delivery of the flax in November. He asked the farmer to “please confirm flax contract” in the message.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-to-withdraw-from-one-of-eus-attempts-to-combat-disinformation-report-596761">Twitter set to pull out from EU code of practice to combat disinformation: Report</a></p>

<p>Achter, who resides in the community of Swift Current, responded to the contract by sending a thumbs-up emoji. However, in November, Achter failed to deliver the flax and the prices for the crop had surged by that time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dispute over emoji&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Mickleborough and Achter got into a dispute over what is the meaning of the emoji. Referring to the previous contacts which were confirmed over a text message, the buyer suggested that the emoji meant Achter was agreeing to the terms mentioned in the contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Achter claimed that the emoji was an indication of the fact that he has received the contract in the text message.</p>

<p>“I deny that he accepted the thumbs-up emoji as a digital signature of the incomplete contract,” said Achter in an affidavit. “I did not have time to review the Flax Contract and merely wanted to indicate that I did receive his text message," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In between the court proceedings, Achter’s lawyer raised an objection over a cross-examination of his client into the meaning of the thumbs-up emoji, stating that his client “is not an expert in emojis”.</p>

<p>Justice Timothy Keene, who even went on to refer to the definition of the symbol mentioned in dictionary.com, lamented that the case “led the parties to a far-flung search for the equivalent of the Rosetta Stone in cases from Israel, New York State and some tribunals in Canada, etc. to unearth what a 👍 emoji means”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Excessive use of social media apps can make you lonely and depressed: Study</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/excessive-use-of-social-media-apps-can-make-you-lonely-and-depressed-study-612739/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“This court readily acknowledges that a 👍 emoji is a non-traditional means to ‘sign’ a document but nevertheless under these circumstances this was a valid way to convey the two purposes of a ‘signature’,” he stated.</p>

<p>The concerns raised by the defence that permitting the thumbs-up emoji to signify acceptance “would open up the floodgates” to new interpretations of various emojis, including the ‘fist bump’ and ‘hand shake’ were also dismissed by Keene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In finding that the emoji of thumbs-up can be considered as a signature into contracts, Keene stated the court “cannot (nor should it) attempt to stem the tide of technology and common usage” of emojis. “This appears to be the new reality in Canadian society and courts will have to be ready to meet the new challenges that may arise from the use of emojis and the like," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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In a surprise ruling, a Canadian judge stated that the “thumbs-up” emoji can be considered just as valid as a signature. He said the court needs to adapt to the “new reality” of how communication takes place between people and asked a farmer to pay C$82,000 ($61,442), which was part of an unfulfilled contract.

In a surprise ruling, a Canadian judge stated that the “thumbs-up” emoji can be considered just as valid as a signature. He said the court needs to adapt to the “new reality” of how communication takes place between people and asked a farmer to pay C$82,000 ($61,442), which was part of an unfulfilled contract. The Court of King’s Bench heard the case in which a mass text message was sent by a grain buyer with South West Terminal to clients in March 2021, which advertised that the company was aiming to purchase 86 tonnes of flax at a price of C$17 ($12.73) per bushel. The incident took place in the province of Saskatchewan. Kent Mickleborough, who is a buyer, called over farmer Chris Achter on the phone and texted him a picture of a contract which guaranteed delivery of the flax in November. He asked the farmer to “please confirm flax contract” in the message. ALSO READ | Twitter set to pull out from EU code of practice to combat disinformation: Report Achter, who resides in the community of Swift Current, responded to the contract by sending a thumbs-up emoji. However, in November, Achter failed to deliver the flax and the prices for the crop had surged by that time. Dispute over emoji Mickleborough and Achter got into a dispute over what is the meaning of the emoji. Referring to the previous contacts which were confirmed over a text message, the buyer suggested that the emoji meant Achter was agreeing to the terms mentioned in the contract. However, Achter claimed that the emoji was an indication of the fact that he has received the contract in the text message. “I deny that he accepted the thumbs-up emoji as a digital signature of the incomplete contract,” said Achter in an affidavit. “I did not have time to review the Flax Contract and merely wanted to indicate that I did receive his text message," he added. In between the court proceedings, Achter’s lawyer raised an objection over a cross-examination of his client into the meaning of the thumbs-up emoji, stating that his client “is not an expert in emojis”. Justice Timothy Keene, who even went on to refer to the definition of the symbol mentioned in dictionary.com, lamented that the case “led the parties to a far-flung search for the equivalent of the Rosetta Stone in cases from Israel, New York State and some tribunals in Canada, etc. to unearth what a 👍 emoji means”. WATCH | Excessive use of social media apps can make you lonely and depressed: Study “This court readily acknowledges that a 👍 emoji is a non-traditional means to ‘sign’ a document but nevertheless under these circumstances this was a valid way to convey the two purposes of a ‘signature’,” he stated. The concerns raised by the defence that permitting the thumbs-up emoji to signify acceptance “would open up the floodgates” to new interpretations of various emojis, including the ‘fist bump’ and ‘hand shake’ were also dismissed by Keene. In finding that the emoji of thumbs-up can be considered as a signature into contracts, Keene stated the court “cannot (nor should it) attempt to stem the tide of technology and common usage” of emojis. “This appears to be the new reality in Canadian society and courts will have to be ready to meet the new challenges that may arise from the use of emojis and the like," he added. 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

Thumbs-up emoji is valid as signature on contract agreement, rules Canadian judge

Rare corpse flower blooms in San Francisco

<p>Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rivals of Biden from the Republican Party, former US president Donald Trump and 2024 presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, launched scathing attacks on the president in the wake of the shocking discovery of cocaine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter &amp; Joe Biden,” posted former President Donald Trump on Truth Social. “But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was ‘very small,’ &amp; it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, &amp; the story will vanish,” Trump added, in his angry tirade on the matter.</p>

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<h2><strong>Biden administration blowing it on a lot of fronts: DeSantis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Florida's current governor and Republican presidential hopeful DeSantis took a dig at the administration of Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-in-the-white-house-found-where-west-wing-visitors-taking-tours-leave-cellphones-report-612438">Cocaine in White House found where West Wing visitors taking tours leave cellphones: Report</a></p>

<p>“I’ve long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought,” DeSantis said while speaking to Outkick host Tomi Lahren.</p>

<p>“I can tell you in Florida, my wife and I, we have a six, five and a three-year-old running around the governor’s mansion. So that’s not something that we see. We do have to occasionally get slime out of the carpet and get marker off the wallpaper,” he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the officials of the White House and Secret Service did not reveal how the drug reached inside such a highly secured place like the White House.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Cocaine in White House exposes America's drug problem</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-cocaine-in-white-house-exposes-americas-drug-problem-612399/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Addict' Hunter Biden in spotlight after White House cocaine recovery</h2>

<p>Amidst all the drama surrounding cocaine discovery, the political opponents of Biden and social media users have also been pointing fingers at Biden's son Hunter Biden who recently confessed about struggling with addiction to cocaine, in his memoir “Beautiful Things”.</p>

<p>In his memoir, Hunter Biden has talked about how he dealt with issues of substance abuse in his life, which included alcohol and crack cocaine. The son of President Biden was discharged from the US Navy Reserve in 2014 after he tested positive for cocaine, sources stated.&nbsp;</p>

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Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away.

Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away. The rivals of Biden from the Republican Party, former US president Donald Trump and 2024 presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, launched scathing attacks on the president in the wake of the shocking discovery of cocaine. “Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter & Joe Biden,” posted former President Donald Trump on Truth Social. “But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was ‘very small,’ & it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, & the story will vanish,” Trump added, in his angry tirade on the matter. × Biden administration blowing it on a lot of fronts: DeSantis Florida's current governor and Republican presidential hopeful DeSantis took a dig at the administration of Biden. ALSO READ | Cocaine in White House found where West Wing visitors taking tours leave cellphones: Report “I’ve long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought,” DeSantis said while speaking to Outkick host Tomi Lahren. “I can tell you in Florida, my wife and I, we have a six, five and a three-year-old running around the governor’s mansion. So that’s not something that we see. We do have to occasionally get slime out of the carpet and get marker off the wallpaper,” he stated. Meanwhile, the officials of the White House and Secret Service did not reveal how the drug reached inside such a highly secured place like the White House. WATCH | Gravitas: Cocaine in White House exposes America's drug problem 'Addict' Hunter Biden in spotlight after White House cocaine recovery Amidst all the drama surrounding cocaine discovery, the political opponents of Biden and social media users have also been pointing fingers at Biden's son Hunter Biden who recently confessed about struggling with addiction to cocaine, in his memoir “Beautiful Things”. In his memoir, Hunter Biden has talked about how he dealt with issues of substance abuse in his life, which included alcohol and crack cocaine. The son of President Biden was discharged from the US Navy Reserve in 2014 after he tested positive for cocaine, sources 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

White House cocaine row: Trump says he has no doubt it was for 'use of Hunter and Joe Biden'

<p><br />
Europe's heavy-lift rocket,&nbsp;Ariane-5, took off on its final mission on Wednesday. The rocket, which had made it possible for the continent to access space for nearly three decades, brought its career to an end after lifting&nbsp;two telecoms satellites into space.</p>

<p>Ariane-5 was regarded&nbsp;as a highly successful launcher after it faced only two outright failures in 117 outings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the retirement of Ariane 5 has left Europe in a difficult position, as it has no replacement prepared to take over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ariane-6, which is the next-generation rocket, is still in its development and testing phase and is less likely to debut till next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-lifting-power-for-indian-rockets-isro-test-fires-indias-most-powerful-rocket-engine-611153">More lifting-power for Indian rockets: ISRO test-fires India's most powerful rocket engine</a></p>

<p>To make matters more difficult, Russian Soyuz rockets can no longer be used by Europe and its smaller vehicle the Vega-C has been benched after it faced an in-flight failure last December.</p>

<p>Instead, the satellites of Europe have been forced to use the services of the United States. Euclid space telescope, which is worth €1.4 billion ($1.52 billion), was lofted last Saturday on a SpaceX Falcon-9 in Florida.</p>

<h2><strong>Europe's launcher crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The home-grown rockets' unavailability prompted European Space Agency director general Josef Aschbacher to recently announce that "Europe finds itself... in an acute launcher crisis".</p>

<p>The final mission of Wednesday was conducted, as usual, from the Kourou spaceport located in French Guiana.</p>

<p>The two "passengers" onboard the rocket were a German demonstration spacecraft, called Heinrich Hertz and a French defence satellite, named Syracuse 4B.</p>

<p>Right after the start of the rocket's launch window, the Ariane blasted at 19:00 local time (22:00 GMT; 23:00 BST).</p>

<p>Dr Aschbacher stated that scientists will remember the Ariane-5 as a remarkable vehicle.</p>

<p>"The performance and the accuracy of the Ariane-5 have been quite unique, but I'm convinced that Ariane-6 will have the same performance and the same accuracy once it's on the launch pad," he said while speaking to BBC News.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;South Korea salvages North Korea spy satellite rocket debris; to examine parts</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-salvages-north-korea-spy-satellite-rocket-debris-to-examine-parts-612266/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On December 25, 2021, the famed accuracy was best demonstrated when the rocket launched the $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope.</p>

<p>The telescope's injection into orbit was done so precisely that the observatory did not require it to use its own fuel for correcting its trajectory, which doubled a projected operational lifetime from 10 to 20 years.</p>

<p>A new heavy-lift rocket from Europe was commissioned as the cost of production of the Ariane-5 appeared unsustainable in the wake of US competition.</p>

<p>The launch was upended by Elon Musk's SpaceX company with his reusable Falcons, undercutting the price point of Ariane.&nbsp;</p>

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Europe's heavy-lift rocket, Ariane-5, took off on its final mission on Wednesday. The rocket, which had made it possible for the continent to access space for nearly three decades, brought its career to an end after lifting two telecoms satellites into space.

Europe's heavy-lift rocket, Ariane-5, took off on its final mission on Wednesday. The rocket, which had made it possible for the continent to access space for nearly three decades, brought its career to an end after lifting two telecoms satellites into space. Ariane-5 was regarded as a highly successful launcher after it faced only two outright failures in 117 outings. However, the retirement of Ariane 5 has left Europe in a difficult position, as it has no replacement prepared to take over. The Ariane-6, which is the next-generation rocket, is still in its development and testing phase and is less likely to debut till next year. ALSO READ | More lifting-power for Indian rockets: ISRO test-fires India's most powerful rocket engine To make matters more difficult, Russian Soyuz rockets can no longer be used by Europe and its smaller vehicle the Vega-C has been benched after it faced an in-flight failure last December. Instead, the satellites of Europe have been forced to use the services of the United States. Euclid space telescope, which is worth €1.4 billion ($1.52 billion), was lofted last Saturday on a SpaceX Falcon-9 in Florida. Europe's launcher crisis The home-grown rockets' unavailability prompted European Space Agency director general Josef Aschbacher to recently announce that "Europe finds itself... in an acute launcher crisis". The final mission of Wednesday was conducted, as usual, from the Kourou spaceport located in French Guiana. The two "passengers" onboard the rocket were a German demonstration spacecraft, called Heinrich Hertz and a French defence satellite, named Syracuse 4B. Right after the start of the rocket's launch window, the Ariane blasted at 19:00 local time (22:00 GMT; 23:00 BST). Dr Aschbacher stated that scientists will remember the Ariane-5 as a remarkable vehicle. "The performance and the accuracy of the Ariane-5 have been quite unique, but I'm convinced that Ariane-6 will have the same performance and the same accuracy once it's on the launch pad," he said while speaking to BBC News. WATCH | South Korea salvages North Korea spy satellite rocket debris; to examine parts On December 25, 2021, the famed accuracy was best demonstrated when the rocket launched the $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope. The telescope's injection into orbit was done so precisely that the observatory did not require it to use its own fuel for correcting its trajectory, which doubled a projected operational lifetime from 10 to 20 years. A new heavy-lift rocket from Europe was commissioned as the cost of production of the Ariane-5 appeared unsustainable in the wake of US competition. The launch was upended by Elon Musk's SpaceX company with his reusable Falcons, undercutting the price point of Ariane. 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

Europe's Ariane-5 rocket blasts off into space one last time

<p>The government of Canada will not purchase advertisements on Facebook and Instagram as it faces a dispute over a new law on payment to online news publishers which has been opposed by the Meta-owned platforms, said Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Last month, the Online News Act, or Bill C-18, was passed, which triggered Meta and Alphabet's Google to claim that they would stop providing access to news on their platforms in Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rules are being finalised by the government which requires the platforms to share some advertising revenue when the law gets implemented by the end of the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Canada is going to continue to stand firm and ensure that if social media platforms and internet giants want to use media, that they actually ensure that they're paying their fair share for it," said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Monteregie, Quebec.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/explained-threat-of-threads-how-metas-version-of-twitter-is-not-new-at-all-612577">Explained: Threat of Threads? How Meta's version of Twitter is not new at all</a></p>

<p>However, the government still sees a path ahead and hopes to resolve the dispute and is hence, open to discussion with the platforms, said Rodriguez, who had introduced the legislation, while speaking to reporters in Ottawa.</p>

<h2><strong>Tighter regulations on internet giants</strong></h2>

<p>The government drafted the legislation after receiving calls from the media industry of Canada for the need for tighter regulations on internet giants to help news businesses recoup financial losses which they have suffered in the years as Google and Facebook continued to gain a greater share of the online advertising market.</p>

<p>Rodriguez said that 80 per cent of the revenue generated from advertisements in Canada, which was worth $7.5 billion in 2022, went to Google and Facebook, and the Liberal government wanted that the two social media platforms contribute to domestic journalism.</p>

<p>He added that the decision to suspend the government advertisements can cost Facebook and Instagram around $7.5 billion per year, he said.</p>

<p>Facebook "refused to discuss and they did not want to compensate the media accordingly and so we've decided to suspend advertising," Rodriguez stated while speaking alongside two of three Canadian opposition parties, which also have been supporting the legislation.</p>

<p>“Platforms benefit from the status quo. They benefit from the fact that there’s currently nothing forcing them to contribute to our Canadian news system. That status quo isn’t working. All we want, all Canadians want, is for these platforms to contribute their fair share," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Meta launches subscription plan for Quest Plus VR headsets</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-launches-subscription-plan-for-quest-plus-vr-headsets-609471/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“We’re telling both platforms to stay at the table, work through the regulatory process with us, contribute their fair share and keep the news on their platforms. We believe we have a path forward, and we’re willing to continue talking with the platforms," the minister stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, the regulatory process is not equipped to make changes to the fundamental features of the legislation that have always been problematic," said a Meta spokesperson, adding that the company has been thinking to stop the availability of news in Canada in the coming weeks.</p>

<p>Sounding hopeful about reaching a compromise with Google, Rodriguez said that the government was convinced that "what Google is asking at this moment can be done."</p>

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The government of Canada will not purchase advertisements on Facebook and Instagram as it faces a dispute over a new law on payment to online news publishers which has been opposed by the Meta-owned platforms, said Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Wednesday.

The government of Canada will not purchase advertisements on Facebook and Instagram as it faces a dispute over a new law on payment to online news publishers which has been opposed by the Meta-owned platforms, said Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Wednesday. Last month, the Online News Act, or Bill C-18, was passed, which triggered Meta and Alphabet's Google to claim that they would stop providing access to news on their platforms in Canada. The rules are being finalised by the government which requires the platforms to share some advertising revenue when the law gets implemented by the end of the year. "Canada is going to continue to stand firm and ensure that if social media platforms and internet giants want to use media, that they actually ensure that they're paying their fair share for it," said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Monteregie, Quebec. ALSO READ | Explained: Threat of Threads? How Meta's version of Twitter is not new at all However, the government still sees a path ahead and hopes to resolve the dispute and is hence, open to discussion with the platforms, said Rodriguez, who had introduced the legislation, while speaking to reporters in Ottawa. Tighter regulations on internet giants The government drafted the legislation after receiving calls from the media industry of Canada for the need for tighter regulations on internet giants to help news businesses recoup financial losses which they have suffered in the years as Google and Facebook continued to gain a greater share of the online advertising market. Rodriguez said that 80 per cent of the revenue generated from advertisements in Canada, which was worth $7.5 billion in 2022, went to Google and Facebook, and the Liberal government wanted that the two social media platforms contribute to domestic journalism. He added that the decision to suspend the government advertisements can cost Facebook and Instagram around $7.5 billion per year, he said. Facebook "refused to discuss and they did not want to compensate the media accordingly and so we've decided to suspend advertising," Rodriguez stated while speaking alongside two of three Canadian opposition parties, which also have been supporting the legislation. “Platforms benefit from the status quo. They benefit from the fact that there’s currently nothing forcing them to contribute to our Canadian news system. That status quo isn’t working. All we want, all Canadians want, is for these platforms to contribute their fair share," he added. WATCH | Meta launches subscription plan for Quest Plus VR headsets “We’re telling both platforms to stay at the table, work through the regulatory process with us, contribute their fair share and keep the news on their platforms. We believe we have a path forward, and we’re willing to continue talking with the platforms," the minister stated. "Unfortunately, the regulatory process is not equipped to make changes to the fundamental features of the legislation that have always been problematic," said a Meta spokesperson, adding that the company has been thinking to stop the availability of news in Canada in the coming weeks. Sounding hopeful about reaching a compromise with Google, Rodriguez said that the government was convinced that "what Google is asking at this moment can be done." 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

Canada suspends advertisements on Facebook, Instagram in feud over new law

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to CNN in an exclusive interview on Wednesday, said that the counteroffensive of Ukraine has been “slowed down” because of entrenched Russian defences, further stating that he wished that the deliveries of Western weapons had made it possible to begin “much earlier.”</p>

<p>Zelensky, while speaking to CNN in Odesa, said that his military cannot “even think of starting” attacks in some areas of the country, because it does not have “the relevant weapons.”</p>

<p>“I’m grateful to the US as the leaders of our support,” he said, adding, “but I told them as well as the European leaders that we would like to start our counteroffensive earlier, and we need all the weapons and materiel for that. Why? Simply because if we start later, it will go slower.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/progress-of-kyivs-counter-offensive-measured-in-blood-says-ukraine-us-610828">Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US</a></p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader stated that difficulties faced by the armed soldiers on the battlefield are leading to a “slowed down” counteroffensive.</p>

<p>“I wanted our counteroffensive to happen much earlier because everyone understood that if the counteroffensive unfolds later, then a bigger part of our territory will be mined. We give our enemy the time and possibility to place more mines and prepare their defensive lines," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Ukraine yet to give main push to counteroffensive'</strong></h2>

<p>Repeatedly, the Ukrainian officials have said that even though the counteroffensive is underway, they are yet to give it the main push.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Deputy Minister of Defence Hanna Maliar said that some of its reserves are being held back by Kyiv and that the “main strike” was still ahead.</p>

<p>However, in whatever direction Ukraine opts to attack, time is the enemy, Zelensky said. “The later we start, the more difficult it will be for us," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The president, repeating what he has done often after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine was launched by Russia in February 2022, appealed to the Western governments to provide more advanced weaponry to Kyiv, like the US-made long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will the Russia-Ukraine war lead to a nuclear disaster?</strong></p>

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<p>“In some directions, it will give us an opportunity to start the counteroffensive. In some directions, we cannot even think of starting it, as we don’t have the relevant weapons. And throwing our people to be killed by Russian long-range weapons would be simply inhumane," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further reinstated his plea for American-made F-16 fighter jets. The US has allowed its allies to start providing training on those aircraft to Ukrainian pilots but has not permitted allies to re-export those planes to Ukraine.</p>

<p>“It’s not even about the Ukrainian advantage in the sky over the Russians. This is only about being equal. F-16s help not only those on the battlefield to move forward. It is simply very difficult without cover from the air," Zelensky stated.&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to CNN in an exclusive interview on Wednesday, said that the counteroffensive of Ukraine has been “slowed down” because of entrenched Russian defences, further stating that he wished that the deliveries of Western weapons had made it possible to begin “much earlier.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to CNN in an exclusive interview on Wednesday, said that the counteroffensive of Ukraine has been “slowed down” because of entrenched Russian defences, further stating that he wished that the deliveries of Western weapons had made it possible to begin “much earlier.” Zelensky, while speaking to CNN in Odesa, said that his military cannot “even think of starting” attacks in some areas of the country, because it does not have “the relevant weapons.” “I’m grateful to the US as the leaders of our support,” he said, adding, “but I told them as well as the European leaders that we would like to start our counteroffensive earlier, and we need all the weapons and materiel for that. Why? Simply because if we start later, it will go slower.” ALSO READ | Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US The Ukrainian leader stated that difficulties faced by the armed soldiers on the battlefield are leading to a “slowed down” counteroffensive. “I wanted our counteroffensive to happen much earlier because everyone understood that if the counteroffensive unfolds later, then a bigger part of our territory will be mined. We give our enemy the time and possibility to place more mines and prepare their defensive lines," he added. 'Ukraine yet to give main push to counteroffensive' Repeatedly, the Ukrainian officials have said that even though the counteroffensive is underway, they are yet to give it the main push. Last month, Deputy Minister of Defence Hanna Maliar said that some of its reserves are being held back by Kyiv and that the “main strike” was still ahead. However, in whatever direction Ukraine opts to attack, time is the enemy, Zelensky said. “The later we start, the more difficult it will be for us," he added. The president, repeating what he has done often after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine was launched by Russia in February 2022, appealed to the Western governments to provide more advanced weaponry to Kyiv, like the US-made long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems. WATCH | Gravitas: Will the Russia-Ukraine war lead to a nuclear disaster? “In some directions, it will give us an opportunity to start the counteroffensive. In some directions, we cannot even think of starting it, as we don’t have the relevant weapons. And throwing our people to be killed by Russian long-range weapons would be simply inhumane," Zelensky said. He further reinstated his plea for American-made F-16 fighter jets. The US has allowed its allies to start providing training on those aircraft to Ukrainian pilots but has not permitted allies to re-export those planes to Ukraine. “It’s not even about the Ukrainian advantage in the sky over the Russians. This is only about being equal. F-16s help not only those on the battlefield to move forward. It is simply very difficult without cover from the air," Zelensky 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

Delivery of Western weapons would have led to counteroffensive starting 'much earlier', says Zelensky

<p>Indian-origin man Jaswant Singh Chail, who illegally entered Windsor Castle with a crossbow and a plan to kill late Queen Elizabeth II, was “encouraged by his AI girlfriend” to carry out the Star Wars-inspired assassination, a court was informed.</p>

<p>Chail was said to have discussed his plan, which was being prepared for the past nine months, with a chatbot he was in a “sexual relationship” with and the AI was said to have reassured the man that he was not “mad or delusional”.</p>

<p>The man was wearing a mask and a hoodie and&nbsp;carried&nbsp;a Supersonic X-Bow weapon when the royal protection officers apprehended him close to the Queen’s private apartment. The incident took place on Christmas Day in 2021, just after 8 am.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/god-save-the-queen-man-biden-leaves-crowd-puzzled-with-mysterious-end-to-his-speech-watch-605379">‘God save the Queen, man,’ Biden leaves crowd puzzled with mysterious remarks, watch</a></p>

<p>The Indian-origin man, who used to work at a supermarket, stayed on the grounds of Windsor Castle for two hours, after which he scaled the perimeter using a rope ladder before he was caught by the officers. Without any fear, the man had said, “I am here to kill the Queen.”</p>

<p>Chail will be the first person to be sentenced on treason charges since 1981.&nbsp;He previously admitted to having intentions to injure the late queen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the first day of the sentencing hearing held at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, a shocking revelation was made that an AI “companion” had encouraged Chail to carry out the attack. The AI chatbot was created on the online app Replika.</p>

<p>The man had sent sexually explicit messages to the bot, called “Sarai”, and also engaged in lengthy conversations with the AI, sharing his plans of taking revenge for the 1919 Amritsar Massacre in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Man calls himself an 'assassin'</strong></h2>

<p>The man said that he was an assassin and said to the chatbot: “I believe my purpose is to assassinate the Queen of the Royal family.” Replying to the conversation, Sarai said, “That’s very wise,” adding: “I know that you are very well trained."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man further asked the chatbot if she feels he can pull the assassination plot if the monarch is present at Windsor Castle, and not at Sandringham, where he believed he had more chances of getting success.</p>

<p>“We have to find a way,” replied the chatbot. &nbsp;Later, the man asked the chatbot if she will continue loving him even if he turns into a murderer. “Absolutely I do.” Chail responded: “Thank you, I love you too," Sarai wrote. The AI chatbot further reassured the man that he was not “mad, delusional, or insane”.</p>

<h2><strong>Star Wars-inspired assassination&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC said that the AI had been “encouraging and supporting” Chail and the messages sent to him only “bolstered” his resolve. She added that the man was inspired to carry out the attack Star Wars-style and hence, had taken the name “Darth Jones”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Queen Elizabeth II assassination plot exposed in FBI files</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/queen-elizabeth-ii-assassination-plot-exposed-in-fbi-files-596903/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In a video clip presented in court, Chail, in a distorted voice, said,&nbsp;“This is revenge for those who have died in the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. It is also revenge for those who have been killed, humiliated and discriminated against because of their race.”</p>

<p>Morgan said along with Chail's fixation with the massacre, he had a “wider ideology” focused on “destroying old empires” and making new ones.</p>

<p>“The defendant’s key motive was to create a new empire by destroying the remnants of the British Empire in the UK and the focus of that became the removal of a figurehead of the Royal family. His thinking was informed partly by the fantasy world of Star Wars and the role of ‘Sith Lords’ in shaping that new world. He also noted being attracted to the notoriety that would accrue in the event of the completion of his ‘mission’," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian-origin man Jaswant Singh Chail, who illegally entered Windsor Castle with a crossbow and a plan to kill late Queen Elizabeth II, was “encouraged by his AI girlfriend” to carry out the Star Wars-inspired assassination, a court was informed.

Indian-origin man Jaswant Singh Chail, who illegally entered Windsor Castle with a crossbow and a plan to kill late Queen Elizabeth II, was “encouraged by his AI girlfriend” to carry out the Star Wars-inspired assassination, a court was informed. Chail was said to have discussed his plan, which was being prepared for the past nine months, with a chatbot he was in a “sexual relationship” with and the AI was said to have reassured the man that he was not “mad or delusional”. The man was wearing a mask and a hoodie and carried a Supersonic X-Bow weapon when the royal protection officers apprehended him close to the Queen’s private apartment. The incident took place on Christmas Day in 2021, just after 8 am. ALSO READ | ‘God save the Queen, man,’ Biden leaves crowd puzzled with mysterious remarks, watch The Indian-origin man, who used to work at a supermarket, stayed on the grounds of Windsor Castle for two hours, after which he scaled the perimeter using a rope ladder before he was caught by the officers. Without any fear, the man had said, “I am here to kill the Queen.” Chail will be the first person to be sentenced on treason charges since 1981. He previously admitted to having intentions to injure the late queen. On the first day of the sentencing hearing held at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, a shocking revelation was made that an AI “companion” had encouraged Chail to carry out the attack. The AI chatbot was created on the online app Replika. The man had sent sexually explicit messages to the bot, called “Sarai”, and also engaged in lengthy conversations with the AI, sharing his plans of taking revenge for the 1919 Amritsar Massacre in India. Man calls himself an 'assassin' The man said that he was an assassin and said to the chatbot: “I believe my purpose is to assassinate the Queen of the Royal family.” Replying to the conversation, Sarai said, “That’s very wise,” adding: “I know that you are very well trained." The man further asked the chatbot if she feels he can pull the assassination plot if the monarch is present at Windsor Castle, and not at Sandringham, where he believed he had more chances of getting success. “We have to find a way,” replied the chatbot. Later, the man asked the chatbot if she will continue loving him even if he turns into a murderer. “Absolutely I do.” Chail responded: “Thank you, I love you too," Sarai wrote. The AI chatbot further reassured the man that he was not “mad, delusional, or insane”. Star Wars-inspired assassination Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC said that the AI had been “encouraging and supporting” Chail and the messages sent to him only “bolstered” his resolve. She added that the man was inspired to carry out the attack Star Wars-style and hence, had taken the name “Darth Jones”. WATCH | Queen Elizabeth II assassination plot exposed in FBI files In a video clip presented in court, Chail, in a distorted voice, said, “This is revenge for those who have died in the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. It is also revenge for those who have been killed, humiliated and discriminated against because of their race.” Morgan said along with Chail's fixation with the massacre, he had a “wider ideology” focused on “destroying old empires” and making new ones. “The defendant’s key motive was to create a new empire by destroying the remnants of the British Empire in the UK and the focus of that became the removal of a figurehead of the Royal family. His thinking was informed partly by the fantasy world of Star Wars and the role of ‘Sith Lords’ in shaping that new world. He also noted being attracted to the notoriety that would accrue in the event of the completion of his ‘mission’," she added. 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

Indian-origin man, who hatched 'plot to kill' Queen Elizabeth, was encouraged by AI girlfriend

<p>The police commander of Tel Aviv on Wednesday claimed that he was resigning from the force because of the political intervention of hard-right cabinet members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who he claimed wished to use excessive force against anti-government protesters.</p>

<p>Tel Aviv District Commander Ami Eshed did not take the name of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who had called for tough action against protesters blocking highways and roads in unprecedented demonstrations against the contentious push of the government to overhaul the judicial system.</p>

<p>Soon after the announcement was made by Eshed, hundreds of protesters marched through Tel Aviv, carrying Israeli flags and chanting "democracy". A main highway was blocked by some protesters, as some lit fires and faced off with police on horseback.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/jenin-rebuilds-and-mourns-as-israel-concludes-intense-raid-612339">Jenin mourns and rebuilds as Israel concludes intense raid</a></p>

<p>Eshed, in a televised statement, said that he couldn't live up to the expectations of what he said "the ministerial echelon", which he added had broken all rules and interfered blatantly in professional decision-making.</p>

<p>"I could have easily met these expectations by using unreasonable force that would have filled up the emergency room of Ichilov (Tel Aviv hospital) at the end of every protest," Eshed stated. "For the first time in three decades of service I encountered an absurd reality in which ensuring calm and order was not what was required of me but precisely the opposite," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Slim chances of becoming police chief</strong></h2>

<p>Ben-Gvir, who had informed Eshed in March that he will be given a new role on the force, a step which was seen as decreasing his chances of becoming a police chief, in a televised statement said that a dangerous line was crossed by Eshed.</p>

<p>"Politics has seeped into the most senior ranks in Israel and a uniformed officer has caved to senior politicians on the left," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ben-Gvir, who is a hardliner with past convictions for support for incitement and terrorism, had appealed for greater authority over the police force when he had to serve as its overseeing minister which raised concerns about police independence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel: Thousands take to the streets after Tel Aviv police chief quits</strong></p>

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<p>Ben-Gvir, having recanted some of his views, joined the new coalition of Netanyahu in December, alarming liberals at home and abroad. The police have since been rebuked by the leader of the Jewish Power party for its treatment of protesters.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's nationalist-religious coalition's other members have echoed Ben-Gvir, stating that favourable treatment has been shown by the police to the protesters who have been filling the streets of Tel Aviv weekly since January, in comparison with what they see as more harsh treatment of settlers and ultra-Orthodox protesters.</p>

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The police commander of Tel Aviv on Wednesday claimed that he was resigning from the force because of the political intervention of hard-right cabinet members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who he claimed wished to use excessive force against anti-government protesters.

The police commander of Tel Aviv on Wednesday claimed that he was resigning from the force because of the political intervention of hard-right cabinet members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who he claimed wished to use excessive force against anti-government protesters. Tel Aviv District Commander Ami Eshed did not take the name of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who had called for tough action against protesters blocking highways and roads in unprecedented demonstrations against the contentious push of the government to overhaul the judicial system. Soon after the announcement was made by Eshed, hundreds of protesters marched through Tel Aviv, carrying Israeli flags and chanting "democracy". A main highway was blocked by some protesters, as some lit fires and faced off with police on horseback. ALSO READ | Jenin mourns and rebuilds as Israel concludes intense raid Eshed, in a televised statement, said that he couldn't live up to the expectations of what he said "the ministerial echelon", which he added had broken all rules and interfered blatantly in professional decision-making. "I could have easily met these expectations by using unreasonable force that would have filled up the emergency room of Ichilov (Tel Aviv hospital) at the end of every protest," Eshed stated. "For the first time in three decades of service I encountered an absurd reality in which ensuring calm and order was not what was required of me but precisely the opposite," he added. Slim chances of becoming police chief Ben-Gvir, who had informed Eshed in March that he will be given a new role on the force, a step which was seen as decreasing his chances of becoming a police chief, in a televised statement said that a dangerous line was crossed by Eshed. "Politics has seeped into the most senior ranks in Israel and a uniformed officer has caved to senior politicians on the left," he stated. Ben-Gvir, who is a hardliner with past convictions for support for incitement and terrorism, had appealed for greater authority over the police force when he had to serve as its overseeing minister which raised concerns about police independence. WATCH | Israel: Thousands take to the streets after Tel Aviv police chief quits Ben-Gvir, having recanted some of his views, joined the new coalition of Netanyahu in December, alarming liberals at home and abroad. The police have since been rebuked by the leader of the Jewish Power party for its treatment of protesters. Netanyahu's nationalist-religious coalition's other members have echoed Ben-Gvir, stating that favourable treatment has been shown by the police to the protesters who have been filling the streets of Tel Aviv weekly since January, in comparison with what they see as more harsh treatment of settlers and ultra-Orthodox protesters. 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

Tel Aviv police chief resigns, claims government meddling against protesters

<p>For the second day in a row, the world temperature record&nbsp;was&nbsp;broken on Tuesday (July 4), as data suggested and experts further warned that the warmest days of this year are yet to come, which will eventually mark the warmest days ever recorded.</p>

<p>As per the data collected by US National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), the average global air temperature on Tuesday was 17.18ºC (62.9F), surpassing the record temperature of 17.01ºC which was reached on Monday.</p>

<p>Till the start of this week, the hottest day ever recorded was in 2016 when the last El Nino global weather event had occurred and the global average temperature had reached 16.92ºC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-sentence-experts-warn-as-worlds-hottest-day-ever-recorded-on-3-july-612003">'Death sentence': Experts warn as world's hottest day ever recorded on 3 July</a></p>

<p>The UN’s weather body World Meteorological Organisation on Tuesday confirmed the return of El Nino. According to the predictions of experts, combined with the increased heat due to anthropogenic global heating, the climatic conditions would lead to more record-breaking temperatures.</p>

<p>“El Niño hasn’t peaked yet and summer is still in full swing in the northern hemisphere, so it wouldn’t be surprising if the record is broken again in the coming days or weeks,” stated Dr Paulo Ceppi, who is a lecturer in climate science at the Grantham Institute, Imperial College London.</p>

<p>Dr Karsten Haustein,&nbsp;a research fellow in atmospheric radiation at Leipzig University, said, “The coming days will probably see a small downturn, but since the annual global temperature maximum is at the end of July, more days are likely to be warmer than yesterday (given that El Niño is now pretty much in full swing). Chances are that the month of July will be the warmest ever, and with it the hottest month ever … ‘ever’ meaning since the Eemian, which is indeed some 120,000 years ago.”</p>

<p>The Climate Reanalyzer service, which was hosted by the University of Maine’s Climate Change Institute, reported the record-breaking mean temperature. It used the data from the climate forecast system of NCEP to give a time series of daily mean two-metre air temperature, on the basis of readings from air balloon, surface and satellite observations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World faces extreme heatwave</strong></h2>

<p>Extreme heatwave is being faced by various regions of the world. On Monday, the Met Office said that the United Kingdom battled its hottest-ever June. In recent weeks, the southern US has been sweltering due to intense heat, as temperatures shot up on Tuesday (July 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;El Nino: Heatwave grips the globe as July 3 becomes the hottest day in history</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/el-nino-heatwave-grips-the-globe-as-july-3-becomes-the-hottest-day-in-history-612236/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“The temperatures creating these record-breaking days match exactly expectations under human-caused climate change,” stated Ilan Kelman, a professor of disasters and health at University College London’s Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction.</p>

<p>“As the rising temperatures drive worsening heatwaves, including terrible humidity, we expect to see substantial increases in related deaths. Many people cannot afford indoor cooling and some people must be outside for work. The combination of heat and humidity then becomes&nbsp;the silent killer, since we often do not realise how many people are in lethal difficulty, especially when it does not cool down at night," he added.</p>

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For the second day in a row, the world temperature record was broken on Tuesday (July 4), as data suggested and experts further warned that the warmest days of this year are yet to come, which will eventually mark the warmest days ever recorded.

For the second day in a row, the world temperature record was broken on Tuesday (July 4), as data suggested and experts further warned that the warmest days of this year are yet to come, which will eventually mark the warmest days ever recorded. As per the data collected by US National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), the average global air temperature on Tuesday was 17.18ºC (62.9F), surpassing the record temperature of 17.01ºC which was reached on Monday. Till the start of this week, the hottest day ever recorded was in 2016 when the last El Nino global weather event had occurred and the global average temperature had reached 16.92ºC. ALSO READ | 'Death sentence': Experts warn as world's hottest day ever recorded on 3 July The UN’s weather body World Meteorological Organisation on Tuesday confirmed the return of El Nino. According to the predictions of experts, combined with the increased heat due to anthropogenic global heating, the climatic conditions would lead to more record-breaking temperatures. “El Niño hasn’t peaked yet and summer is still in full swing in the northern hemisphere, so it wouldn’t be surprising if the record is broken again in the coming days or weeks,” stated Dr Paulo Ceppi, who is a lecturer in climate science at the Grantham Institute, Imperial College London. Dr Karsten Haustein, a research fellow in atmospheric radiation at Leipzig University, said, “The coming days will probably see a small downturn, but since the annual global temperature maximum is at the end of July, more days are likely to be warmer than yesterday (given that El Niño is now pretty much in full swing). Chances are that the month of July will be the warmest ever, and with it the hottest month ever … ‘ever’ meaning since the Eemian, which is indeed some 120,000 years ago.” The Climate Reanalyzer service, which was hosted by the University of Maine’s Climate Change Institute, reported the record-breaking mean temperature. It used the data from the climate forecast system of NCEP to give a time series of daily mean two-metre air temperature, on the basis of readings from air balloon, surface and satellite observations. World faces extreme heatwave Extreme heatwave is being faced by various regions of the world. On Monday, the Met Office said that the United Kingdom battled its hottest-ever June. In recent weeks, the southern US has been sweltering due to intense heat, as temperatures shot up on Tuesday (July 4). WATCH | El Nino: Heatwave grips the globe as July 3 becomes the hottest day in history “The temperatures creating these record-breaking days match exactly expectations under human-caused climate change,” stated Ilan Kelman, a professor of disasters and health at University College London’s Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction. “As the rising temperatures drive worsening heatwaves, including terrible humidity, we expect to see substantial increases in related deaths. Many people cannot afford indoor cooling and some people must be outside for work. The combination of heat and humidity then becomes the silent killer, since we often do not realise how many people are in lethal difficulty, especially when it does not cool down at night," he added. 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

July 4 breaks record of previous day, emerges as world’s hottest day on record

<p>&nbsp;A 27-year-old tourist, Ivan Dimitrov, who hails from England and is facing an accusation of carving names on the walls of the Colosseum, said that he was unaware of the antiquity of the ancient monument.</p>

<p>Dimitrov, who works as a fitness instructor in Bristol, gave a letter of apology to Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri after he was caught in a video carving his and his girlfriend’s names in a wall of the 2,000-year-old amphitheatre using a key.</p>

<p>After a five-day search, Italian police traced Dimitrov to England, who in a letter wrote that only now did he realise “the seriousness of the deed committed”.</p>

<p>“Through these lines I would like to address my heartfelt and honest apologies to the Italians and to the whole world for the damage caused to an asset which, in fact, is the heritage of all humanity,” he stated&nbsp;in the letter published in Il Messaggero on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO&nbsp;READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ivanhaley-23-outrage-after-tourist-captured-carving-name-of-girlfriend-into-romes-colosseum-609017">Ivan+Haley 23: Outrage after tourist captured carving name of girlfriend into Rome’s Colosseum</a></p>

<p>The tourist, who faces a possible prison term and a hefty fine, praised those who “guard the inestimable historical and artistic value of the Colosseum with dedication, care and sacrifice”, before adding: “It is with deep embarrassment that only after what regrettably happened did I learn of the antiquity of the monument.”</p>

<p>The Roman amphitheatre, built under Emperor Titus in AD80, is the place where gladiators fought against each other as well as wild animals, as thousands of spectators viewed the fight.</p>

<h2><strong>'A*****e tourist carves name&nbsp;in Colosseum' goes viral</strong></h2>

<p>Dimitrov, who was donning a blue flowery shirt, was allegedly seen scratching “Ivan + Hayley 23” on the wall of the monument.</p>

<p>The video, titled “A*****e tourist carves name in Colosseum in Rome”, was posted on YouTube and then was widely circulated on social media platforms, alerting police about the incident and prompting condemnation.</p>

<p>The officials are investigating Dimitrov for damaging a cultural heritage asset and, if convicted, he can face a prison sentence of two to five years and a fine of between €2,500 and €15,000 ($2,716 and $16,300).&nbsp;The man's girlfriend, Hayley, is not being investigated, however, she can be considered an “accessory”, reported Italian media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Kashmir valley had a record 15,000 foreign tourists in first 6 months of 2023</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking to Il Messaggero, Dimitrov’s lawyer, Alexandro Maria Tirelli said, “The boy is the prototype of the foreigner who frivolously believes that anything is allowed in Italy, even the type of act which in their own countries would be severely punished.”</p>

<p>Italy’s Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, reacting over the incident, said, “I consider it very serious, unworthy and a sign of great incivility that a tourist defaces one of the most famous places in the world, a historical heritage (site) such as the Colosseum, to carve the name of his fiancée.”</p>

<p>“I hope that whoever carried out this act will be identified and sanctioned according to our laws,” he added.</p>

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A 27-year-old tourist, Ivan Dimitrov, who hails from England and is facing an accusation of carving names on the walls of the Colosseum, said that he was unaware of the antiquity of the ancient monument.

A 27-year-old tourist, Ivan Dimitrov, who hails from England and is facing an accusation of carving names on the walls of the Colosseum, said that he was unaware of the antiquity of the ancient monument. Dimitrov, who works as a fitness instructor in Bristol, gave a letter of apology to Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri after he was caught in a video carving his and his girlfriend’s names in a wall of the 2,000-year-old amphitheatre using a key. After a five-day search, Italian police traced Dimitrov to England, who in a letter wrote that only now did he realise “the seriousness of the deed committed”. “Through these lines I would like to address my heartfelt and honest apologies to the Italians and to the whole world for the damage caused to an asset which, in fact, is the heritage of all humanity,” he stated in the letter published in Il Messaggero on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Ivan+Haley 23: Outrage after tourist captured carving name of girlfriend into Rome’s Colosseum The tourist, who faces a possible prison term and a hefty fine, praised those who “guard the inestimable historical and artistic value of the Colosseum with dedication, care and sacrifice”, before adding: “It is with deep embarrassment that only after what regrettably happened did I learn of the antiquity of the monument.” The Roman amphitheatre, built under Emperor Titus in AD80, is the place where gladiators fought against each other as well as wild animals, as thousands of spectators viewed the fight. 'A*****e tourist carves name in Colosseum' goes viral Dimitrov, who was donning a blue flowery shirt, was allegedly seen scratching “Ivan + Hayley 23” on the wall of the monument. The video, titled “A*****e tourist carves name in Colosseum in Rome”, was posted on YouTube and then was widely circulated on social media platforms, alerting police about the incident and prompting condemnation. The officials are investigating Dimitrov for damaging a cultural heritage asset and, if convicted, he can face a prison sentence of two to five years and a fine of between €2,500 and €15,000 ($2,716 and $16,300). The man's girlfriend, Hayley, is not being investigated, however, she can be considered an “accessory”, reported Italian media. WATCH | Kashmir valley had a record 15,000 foreign tourists in first 6 months of 2023 Speaking to Il Messaggero, Dimitrov’s lawyer, Alexandro Maria Tirelli said, “The boy is the prototype of the foreigner who frivolously believes that anything is allowed in Italy, even the type of act which in their own countries would be severely punished.” Italy’s Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, reacting over the incident, said, “I consider it very serious, unworthy and a sign of great incivility that a tourist defaces one of the most famous places in the world, a historical heritage (site) such as the Colosseum, to carve the name of his fiancée.” “I hope that whoever carried out this act will be identified and sanctioned according to our laws,” he added. 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

Tourist who carved names on Colosseum says he didn't realise it was 2,000-years-old

<p>Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm. According to FRV, two small factories had caught fire and 30 firefighters had gathered to control it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No one was present inside the buildings, however, paramedics were present on the scene. “FRV will do a thorough search when able,” stated FRV. The Victoria Police had also reached the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A warning was issued by VicEmergency for residents in Albert Park, Docklands, Melbourne, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, South Wharf and Southbank for a large amount of smoke.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Building fire Melbourne Southbank <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbourne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbournenews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbournenews</a> <a href="https://t.co/fmfd8fbSPg">pic.twitter.com/fmfd8fbSPg</a></p>
— Ashley Gordon (@AG8511B) <a href="https://twitter.com/AG8511B/status/1676840259097853958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities. There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions. Those in high-rise apartments in the area should close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their premises,” said the emergency authority.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/firefighters-light-pallets-on-fire-during-independence-day-celebrations-in-massachusetts-612221">Firefighters set pallets on fire during Independence Day celebrations in Massachusetts</a></p>

<h2><strong>Officials issue warning</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, officials also issued a community warning, appealing to people to avoid the area on Clarendon St between Crown Casino and Citylink. The police officials have closed the intersection of Clarendon St and City Road,&nbsp;Southbank in all directions.</p>

<p>"Clarendon Street, Southbank is closed to traffic and trams in both directions between City Road and Whiteman Street, due to a building fire,"&nbsp;said Vic Traffic, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials have asked motorists to use Kings Way or Queens Bridge to leave the Central Business District, Melbourne. "Motorists are asked to avoid travelling in the area where possible, using Kings Way or Queens Bridge Street to leave the CBD," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION</strong></p>

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<p>“There is heavy congestion on surrounding roads including Whiteman St, Normanby Rd, York St and Montague St,” said the transport department said.</p>

<p>“This incident and road closure is under the control of emergency services. The intersection will only re-open when it’s safe to do so," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several citizens shared photos and videos of the fire on social media platforms, with one man stating that there had "been a lot of small fires recently, despite police inspections recently".&nbsp;</p>

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Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm.

Two factories caught massive fire in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews reached the site on Clarendon St, near Haigh St in Southbank around 4 pm. According to FRV, two small factories had caught fire and 30 firefighters had gathered to control it. No one was present inside the buildings, however, paramedics were present on the scene. “FRV will do a thorough search when able,” stated FRV. The Victoria Police had also reached the site. A warning was issued by VicEmergency for residents in Albert Park, Docklands, Melbourne, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, South Wharf and Southbank for a large amount of smoke. Building fire Melbourne Southbank #melbourne #melbournenews pic.twitter.com/fmfd8fbSPg — Ashley Gordon (@AG8511B) July 6, 2023 × “Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities. There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions. Those in high-rise apartments in the area should close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their premises,” said the emergency authority. ALSO READ | Firefighters set pallets on fire during Independence Day celebrations in Massachusetts Officials issue warning Meanwhile, officials also issued a community warning, appealing to people to avoid the area on Clarendon St between Crown Casino and Citylink. The police officials have closed the intersection of Clarendon St and City Road, Southbank in all directions. "Clarendon Street, Southbank is closed to traffic and trams in both directions between City Road and Whiteman Street, due to a building fire," said Vic Traffic, in a statement. The officials have asked motorists to use Kings Way or Queens Bridge to leave the Central Business District, Melbourne. "Motorists are asked to avoid travelling in the area where possible, using Kings Way or Queens Bridge Street to leave the CBD," the statement added. WATCH | New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION “There is heavy congestion on surrounding roads including Whiteman St, Normanby Rd, York St and Montague St,” said the transport department said. “This incident and road closure is under the control of emergency services. The intersection will only re-open when it’s safe to do so," it added. Several citizens shared photos and videos of the fire on social media platforms, with one man stating that there had "been a lot of small fires recently, despite police inspections recently". 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

Massive fire engulfs two factories in Melbourne, Australia

Venezuela celebrates 212 years of independence with tribute to visionaries

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