CIA Director William Burns, who recently visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and intelligence officials, said that the war has given a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity' to recruit Russian spies. 
 
“Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago,” the official said while speaking to CNN. 
 
“As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression,” he added. 
 
The official clarified that Burns travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, hence it was not discussed between the two leaders.

ALSO READ |&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>

Speaking to CNN, another official confirmed that Burns held talks with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Naryshkin after the Wagner group's rebellion and reiterated that there was no involvement of the United States in the armed resurrection. 
 
He stated the mutiny was an "internal Russian affair in which the United States has had and will have no part.” Burns added that Russia's "future as a junior partner and economic colony of China" was being shaped "by Putin's mistakes."

 
“Disaffection with the war will continue to gnaw away at the Russian leadership, beneath the steady diet of state propaganda and practised repression,” said Burns on Saturday in remarks to the Ditchley Foundation in England, as per his speech's transcript. 
 
“That disaffection creates a once-in-a-generation opportunity for us at CIA, at our core a human intelligence service. We’re not letting it go to waste,” he added.

<h2 lang="en-US">Social media campaign to recruit spies</h2>

Earlier, it was reported by CNN that a new effort has been launched by the CIA for recruiting Russian spies, which includes a social media campaign aimed at convincing Russians, who are not happy with their life in Russia and the ongoing war against Ukraine, to share their secrets. 
 
Speaking about the Wagner Group's rebellion, Burns said that the actions and speech of Prigozhin before the attempted march to Moscow by his group show how the war has undermined the power of Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky

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“It is striking that Prigozhin preceded his actions with a scathing indictment of the Kremlin’s mendacious rationale for its invasion of Ukraine, and of the Russian military leadership’s conduct of the war,” Burns stated. 
 
"The impact of those words and those actions will play out for some time - a vivid reminder of the corrosive effect of Putin's war on his own society and his own regime,” he added.&nbsp;

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CIA Director William Burns, who recently visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and intelligence officials, said that the war has given a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity' to recruit Russian spies.

CIA Director William Burns, who recently visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and intelligence officials, said that the war has given a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity' to recruit Russian spies. “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago,” the official said while speaking to CNN. “As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression,” he added. The official clarified that Burns travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, hence it was not discussed between the two leaders. ALSO READ | Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US Speaking to CNN, another official confirmed that Burns held talks with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Naryshkin after the Wagner group's rebellion and reiterated that there was no involvement of the United States in the armed resurrection. He stated the mutiny was an "internal Russian affair in which the United States has had and will have no part.” Burns added that Russia's "future as a junior partner and economic colony of China" was being shaped "by Putin's mistakes." “Disaffection with the war will continue to gnaw away at the Russian leadership, beneath the steady diet of state propaganda and practised repression,” said Burns on Saturday in remarks to the Ditchley Foundation in England, as per his speech's transcript. “That disaffection creates a once-in-a-generation opportunity for us at CIA, at our core a human intelligence service. We’re not letting it go to waste,” he added. Social media campaign to recruit spies Earlier, it was reported by CNN that a new effort has been launched by the CIA for recruiting Russian spies, which includes a social media campaign aimed at convincing Russians, who are not happy with their life in Russia and the ongoing war against Ukraine, to share their secrets. Speaking about the Wagner Group's rebellion, Burns said that the actions and speech of Prigozhin before the attempted march to Moscow by his group show how the war has undermined the power of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky “It is striking that Prigozhin preceded his actions with a scathing indictment of the Kremlin’s mendacious rationale for its invasion of Ukraine, and of the Russian military leadership’s conduct of the war,” Burns stated. "The impact of those words and those actions will play out for some time - a vivid reminder of the corrosive effect of Putin's war on his own society and his own regime,” 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

CIA director calls Russia-Ukraine war 'once-in-a-generation opportunity' to recruit spies

Paris continued to be marred by violent protests after a teen's fatal police shooting. The protesters clashed with police officials and luxury stores were looted, increasing pressure on President Emmanuel Macron. After Supreme Court's decision to bring down the student loan relief programme faced the anger of millions of Americans, United States President Joe Biden announced fresh measures for easing the financial burden. Meanwhile, a bus caught fire in the Indian state of Maharashtra in which 25 people were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-protests-hundreds-arrested-as-macron-appeals-for-calm-mbappe-reacts-610727">France protests: Hundreds arrested as Macron appeals for calm; Mbappé reacts</a> 
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The violent protests in France triggered by the fatal police shooting of a teen continued for a fourth straight night. Violent protesters, mostly young, clashed with police and looted luxury stores, putting further pressure on President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-announces-new-measures-for-student-loan-relief-after-supreme-court-setback-610717">US President Joe Biden announces new measures for student loan relief after Supreme Court setback</a> 
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After millions of Americans expressed anger over Supreme Court bringing down the student loan relief program, United States President Joe Biden announced new measures to ease the financial burden.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-25-people-charred-to-death-eight-injured-after-bus-catches-fire-on-maharashtra-expressway-610728">India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured after bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway</a>

<img alt="Bus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81abbdbe-2993-451d-bbf2-5ffcdda3d86b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-01T100142.888.png" />

Around 25 people, including three children,&nbsp;were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries after a bus, in which they were travelling, caught fire on the Maharashtra expressway.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/road-crash-in-kenya-claims-lives-of-at-least-48-610700">Road crash in Kenya claims lives of at least 48</a> 
<img alt="Kenya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8f392737-7fcc-4b22-abf6-94327411a086" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-01T100207.909.png" />

At least 48 people lost their lives after a truck rammed into several other vehicles at a busy junction in western Kenya on Friday night, said the police.

Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Paris continued to be marred by violent protests after a teen's fatal police shooting. The protesters clashed with police officials and luxury stores were looted, increasing pressure on President Emmanuel Macron.

Paris continued to be marred by violent protests after a teen's fatal police shooting. The protesters clashed with police officials and luxury stores were looted, increasing pressure on President Emmanuel Macron. After Supreme Court's decision to bring down the student loan relief programme faced the anger of millions of Americans, United States President Joe Biden announced fresh measures for easing the financial burden. Meanwhile, a bus caught fire in the Indian state of Maharashtra in which 25 people were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries. Click on the headlines to read more: France protests: Hundreds arrested as Macron appeals for calm; Mbappé reacts The violent protests in France triggered by the fatal police shooting of a teen continued for a fourth straight night. Violent protesters, mostly young, clashed with police and looted luxury stores, putting further pressure on President Emmanuel Macron. US President Joe Biden announces new measures for student loan relief after Supreme Court setback After millions of Americans expressed anger over Supreme Court bringing down the student loan relief program, United States President Joe Biden announced new measures to ease the financial burden. India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured after bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway Around 25 people, including three children, were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries after a bus, in which they were travelling, caught fire on the Maharashtra expressway. Road crash in Kenya claims lives of at least 48 At least 48 people lost their lives after a truck rammed into several other vehicles at a busy junction in western Kenya on Friday night, said the police. Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong

Morning brief: France protests, Joe Biden's new measures for student loan relief, and more

Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood. 
 
Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing." 
 
He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-president-lukashenko-asks-wagner-army-to-train-his-military-610780">Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military</a>

"What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added. 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia. 
 
Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks."

<h2 lang="en-US">Slow speed aimed at saving lives</h2>

Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed

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"Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added. 
 
Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery." 
 
He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added.

<main>
<section>
(With inputs from agencies)

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</section>
</main>

Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood.

Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood. Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing." He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said. ALSO READ | Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military "What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia. Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks." Slow speed aimed at saving lives Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance. WATCH | Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed "Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added. Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery." He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency. 
 
"In Kyiv already. I wanted the first act of the Spanish presidency of the Council of the European Union to be in Ukraine" with its president, wrote Sanchez on his official Twitter account, stating he would convey "all of Europe's solidarity". 
 
"We will keep supporting the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe," added the prime minister, who had announced his visit during an EU summit on Thursday, claiming that its aim was to show the "unfaltering support" of the EU for Kyiv as it continues to battle the Russian invasion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-orders-tighter-security-at-ukraine-belarus-border-after-arrival-of-wagner-fighters-610721">Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters</a>

A year ago, Ukraine was given the EU candidacy status and this year, it hopes to start formal negotiations on what it is required to do to firm up its membership bid.

<h2 lang="en-US">Kyiv plans to win over LatAm through Spain's presidency</h2>

Ukraine has been hoping to use the EU presidency of Spain to try to "gain influence" in Latin America, where many countries have opposed the efforts of Kyiv to retake territories which have been occupied by Russia, said President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to Spanish media. 
 
Speaking on Friday, Zelensky said that the invitation to participate in an EU-Latin American summit in Brussels on July 17-18 was extended to him by Sanchez, however, many unspecified countries had blocked it. 
 
"We have a peace formula, and Pedro has supported us a lot. He has a constant dialogue with Latin America and they listen to him, it's a fact. But I'll say frankly that some Latin American countries are blocking the decision and this invitation," he stated, in remarks from Kyiv which aired by state broadcaster TVE.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky

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"I want them not only to join the peace formula but to stand against war," he stated. Earlier this year, Western countries were irritated by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva when he stated that the West had been "encouraging" war by arming Ukraine. 
 
Zelensky, in the interview, also appealed for a concrete plan for Ukraine to join NATO. Kyiv has been working with allies to get major international support for a peace blueprint, without any territorial compromises. 
 
Senior officials from the EU, Ukraine, G7 countries, and nations like Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Turkey held a meeting on Saturday in Denmark to discuss the concept and stated that some progress was made by them, however, any summit for endorsing a document was at least months away.&nbsp;

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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency. "In Kyiv already. I wanted the first act of the Spanish presidency of the Council of the European Union to be in Ukraine" with its president, wrote Sanchez on his official Twitter account, stating he would convey "all of Europe's solidarity". "We will keep supporting the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe," added the prime minister, who had announced his visit during an EU summit on Thursday, claiming that its aim was to show the "unfaltering support" of the EU for Kyiv as it continues to battle the Russian invasion. ALSO READ | Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters A year ago, Ukraine was given the EU candidacy status and this year, it hopes to start formal negotiations on what it is required to do to firm up its membership bid. Kyiv plans to win over LatAm through Spain's presidency Ukraine has been hoping to use the EU presidency of Spain to try to "gain influence" in Latin America, where many countries have opposed the efforts of Kyiv to retake territories which have been occupied by Russia, said President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to Spanish media. Speaking on Friday, Zelensky said that the invitation to participate in an EU-Latin American summit in Brussels on July 17-18 was extended to him by Sanchez, however, many unspecified countries had blocked it. "We have a peace formula, and Pedro has supported us a lot. He has a constant dialogue with Latin America and they listen to him, it's a fact. But I'll say frankly that some Latin American countries are blocking the decision and this invitation," he stated, in remarks from Kyiv which aired by state broadcaster TVE. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky "I want them not only to join the peace formula but to stand against war," he stated. Earlier this year, Western countries were irritated by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva when he stated that the West had been "encouraging" war by arming Ukraine. Zelensky, in the interview, also appealed for a concrete plan for Ukraine to join NATO. Kyiv has been working with allies to get major international support for a peace blueprint, without any territorial compromises. Senior officials from the EU, Ukraine, G7 countries, and nations like Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Turkey held a meeting on Saturday in Denmark to discuss the concept and stated that some progress was made by them, however, any summit for endorsing a document was at least months away. 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

Spanish PM Sanchez reaches Kyiv to kick off Madrid's EU presidency

Executives, who have been working in state-owned financial institutions of China, said that they are bracing for “one of the toughest years” they have seen, as Beijing plans to tighten its grip on the sector. 
 
This means that pay cuts and long hours of compulsory ideological training will become a norm in the sector. Since the sector's overhaul was announced in March, the morale has plummeted as stated by four executives who are working at state financial institutions. 
 
The plan, which was initiated by President Xi Jinping, is aimed at fighting corruption in the sector and ensuring that it is under the ruling Communist Party's direct control.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-manufacturing-sector-continues-to-contract-heightening-growth-concerns-610401">China's manufacturing sector continues to contract, heightening growth concerns</a>

The executives stated that the campaign is now their companies' top priority and was expected to run well into autumn. The executives emphasised the uncertainty brought by the “relentless” ideological and anti-corruption drives, sharp pay cuts in their basic salaries, which range from 15 to 20 per cent and slashing of annual bonuses by at least 30 per cent this year.

<h2 lang="en-US">Ideological study session</h2>

A state-owned securities firm's manager in Shanghai stated that his company held a recent ideological study session which was based on the Red Army’s Long March. 
 
“Probably our party secretary wants us to be mentally prepared for tougher times ahead,” he stated. “State-owned financial companies aren’t an exception. They’re also part of China’s austerity drive at a time when the economy isn’t doing well, and as many civil servants get their pay cut too,” he added. 
 
He stated that the financial sector's pay cuts were in accordance with Xi’s “common prosperity” goal to bridge&nbsp;the wealth gap in China. Beijing has promised to end extravagance among “financial elites” in the country's state sector, as Xi makes efforts to make its institutions more compliant with his vision.

WATCH |&nbsp;China: Unauthorised acquisition of data to be termed a 'spying offence'

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As tensions rise between China and the West, the United States in particular, Beijing is appealing to its state banks to allocate more funds in areas which are identified as priorities for the country, such as technology self-reliance projects and advanced manufacturing. 
 
The bankers and financial regulators are also being closely watched by Beijing for any sign of collusion with any foreign financial institutions to facilitate large outflows of Chinese funds. 
 
China has also been concerned about increasing local government debt and wishes lenders to exercise caution on loans, and at the same time is observing the weaker financial institutions amid a banking crisis in the United States.

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Executives, who have been working in state-owned financial institutions of China, said that they are bracing for “one of the toughest years” they have seen, as Beijing plans to tighten its grip on the sector.

Executives, who have been working in state-owned financial institutions of China, said that they are bracing for “one of the toughest years” they have seen, as Beijing plans to tighten its grip on the sector. This means that pay cuts and long hours of compulsory ideological training will become a norm in the sector. Since the sector's overhaul was announced in March, the morale has plummeted as stated by four executives who are working at state financial institutions. The plan, which was initiated by President Xi Jinping, is aimed at fighting corruption in the sector and ensuring that it is under the ruling Communist Party's direct control. ALSO READ | China's manufacturing sector continues to contract, heightening growth concerns The executives stated that the campaign is now their companies' top priority and was expected to run well into autumn. The executives emphasised the uncertainty brought by the “relentless” ideological and anti-corruption drives, sharp pay cuts in their basic salaries, which range from 15 to 20 per cent and slashing of annual bonuses by at least 30 per cent this year. Ideological study session A state-owned securities firm's manager in Shanghai stated that his company held a recent ideological study session which was based on the Red Army’s Long March. “Probably our party secretary wants us to be mentally prepared for tougher times ahead,” he stated. “State-owned financial companies aren’t an exception. They’re also part of China’s austerity drive at a time when the economy isn’t doing well, and as many civil servants get their pay cut too,” he added. He stated that the financial sector's pay cuts were in accordance with Xi’s “common prosperity” goal to bridge the wealth gap in China. Beijing has promised to end extravagance among “financial elites” in the country's state sector, as Xi makes efforts to make its institutions more compliant with his vision. WATCH | China: Unauthorised acquisition of data to be termed a 'spying offence' As tensions rise between China and the West, the United States in particular, Beijing is appealing to its state banks to allocate more funds in areas which are identified as priorities for the country, such as technology self-reliance projects and advanced manufacturing. The bankers and financial regulators are also being closely watched by Beijing for any sign of collusion with any foreign financial institutions to facilitate large outflows of Chinese funds. China has also been concerned about increasing local government debt and wishes lenders to exercise caution on loans, and at the same time is observing the weaker financial institutions amid a banking crisis in the United States. 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

China’s state-owned financial sector prepares for ‘one of the toughest years’

A terracotta Yakshi plaque, which belongs to the 1st century BC and was stolen from “eastern India” along with a 10th-century Kubera and a 9th-century red sandstone Dancing Ganesha – both hailing from central India – will be part of the 105 antiquities that are set to be given back to India by the United States, stated a report published in The Indian Express. 
 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his state visit to the United States, announced that more than 100 stolen antiquities will be returned to India. 
 
“I am happy that the American government has decided to return more than 100 Indian antiquities that had been stolen from us. These antiquities may have gotten to the international market in different ways — some legal, some illegal. I express my gratitude to the American government for returning these items,” the prime minister had said. It is suspected that most of these antiquities were smuggled abroad by antique dealer Subhash Kapoor, who is now imprisoned.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-says-238-stolen-smuggled-antiquities-brought-back-to-country-since-2014-590610">Indian govt says 238 stolen, smuggled antiquities brought back to country since 2014</a>

On March 14, The Indian Express, after carrying out an investigation in collaboration with the UK-based Finance Uncovered and International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), reported that at least 77 antiquities are present in the catalogue of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which are linked to Subhash Kapoor.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="en-US">16 antiquities returned&nbsp;to India</h2>

Last month, Metropolitan Museum said that they have returned 16 of these antiquities to India. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which has been made the custodian of all repatriated artefacts, has already verified some of the 105 antiquities which are set to be returned to India. 
 
A team of senior ASI officials will be flying to the US soon for carrying out verification of the remaining artefacts, the report added. “We are regularly processing the retrieval of our antiquities that are traced abroad. Approximately 105 such pieces are in the process of returning from the US,” stated an ASI spokesperson.

WATCH |&nbsp;Antique Buddha statue likely from the 12th Century China to be auctioned in Paris

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The antiquities, which are in various mediums such as sandstone, terracotta and marble, span a period of 1,600 years, hailing from the 1st century BC to the 15th century AD, and have significant market and historical value, stated official sources. 
 
The antiquities include an 11th-century sculpture of Vishnu and Lakshmi made of sandstone, an 11th-century standing Surya sculpture, two 14th-century sandstone Apsara figures from central India and a 12th-13th century miniature Jain shrine made of marble from Gujarat/ Maharashtra. 
 
Once the antiquities are returned to India, the ASI, which falls under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, will take a decision over whether these objects should be placed in their original place or should be given to the respective state government, or if they should be put on a display at a museum which has been dedicated for repatriated antiquities at Delhi’s Purana Qila.&nbsp;

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A terracotta Yakshi plaque, which belongs to the 1st century BC and was stolen from “eastern India” along with a 10th-century Kubera and a 9th-century red sandstone Dancing Ganesha – both hailing from central India – will be part of the 105 antiquities that are set to be given back to India by the United States, stated a report published in The Indian Express.

A terracotta Yakshi plaque, which belongs to the 1st century BC and was stolen from “eastern India” along with a 10th-century Kubera and a 9th-century red sandstone Dancing Ganesha – both hailing from central India – will be part of the 105 antiquities that are set to be given back to India by the United States, stated a report published in The Indian Express. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his state visit to the United States, announced that more than 100 stolen antiquities will be returned to India. “I am happy that the American government has decided to return more than 100 Indian antiquities that had been stolen from us. These antiquities may have gotten to the international market in different ways — some legal, some illegal. I express my gratitude to the American government for returning these items,” the prime minister had said. It is suspected that most of these antiquities were smuggled abroad by antique dealer Subhash Kapoor, who is now imprisoned. ALSO READ | Indian govt says 238 stolen, smuggled antiquities brought back to country since 2014 On March 14, The Indian Express, after carrying out an investigation in collaboration with the UK-based Finance Uncovered and International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), reported that at least 77 antiquities are present in the catalogue of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which are linked to Subhash Kapoor. 16 antiquities returned to India Last month, Metropolitan Museum said that they have returned 16 of these antiquities to India. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which has been made the custodian of all repatriated artefacts, has already verified some of the 105 antiquities which are set to be returned to India. A team of senior ASI officials will be flying to the US soon for carrying out verification of the remaining artefacts, the report added. “We are regularly processing the retrieval of our antiquities that are traced abroad. Approximately 105 such pieces are in the process of returning from the US,” stated an ASI spokesperson. WATCH | Antique Buddha statue likely from the 12th Century China to be auctioned in Paris The antiquities, which are in various mediums such as sandstone, terracotta and marble, span a period of 1,600 years, hailing from the 1st century BC to the 15th century AD, and have significant market and historical value, stated official sources. The antiquities include an 11th-century sculpture of Vishnu and Lakshmi made of sandstone, an 11th-century standing Surya sculpture, two 14th-century sandstone Apsara figures from central India and a 12th-13th century miniature Jain shrine made of marble from Gujarat/ Maharashtra. Once the antiquities are returned to India, the ASI, which falls under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, will take a decision over whether these objects should be placed in their original place or should be given to the respective state government, or if they should be put on a display at a museum which has been dedicated for repatriated antiquities at Delhi’s Purana Qila. 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 to receive 1st century BC Yakshi plaque as part of 105 antiquities to be returned by US

Around 25 people, including three children,&nbsp;were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries after a bus, in which they were travelling, caught fire on the Maharashtra expressway. 
 
Officials stated that the bus, which was headed to Pune, was carrying around 33 people and added that the incident that took place on the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway had occurred at around 2 am (local time). The police officials informed that the bus rammed into a divider which led to a tyre burst after which it caught fire near Buldhana.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-six-electrocuted-to-death-after-live-wire-falls-on-chariot-during-rath-yatra-609794">India: Six electrocuted as live wire falls on chariot during Rath Yatra in Tripura</a>

"25 people were burnt to death in the accident. The injured, including the bus driver, have been shifted to a hospital for treatment,” said Sunil Kadasane, Superintendent of Police, Buldhana. He stated that they have registered a case and an investigation into the incident is going on. 
 
Buldhana SP Kadasane further confirmed that 33 people were on the bus when the unfortunate incident took place. 
 
Buldhana Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni had earlier said, “25 bodies were extracted from the bus. A total of 33 people were travelling on the bus. 6-8 people were injured. The injured are being shifted to Buldhana Civil Hospital.”

<h2 lang="en-US">Injured people shifted to another hospital</h2>

Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni, speaking to news agency ANI, said that they are shifting the injured people to Buldhana Civil Hospital. 
 
“A total of 33 people were travelling on the bus out of which 26 people died and 7 people sustained injuries. The driver of the bus also survived and said that the bus overturned after a tyre burst and caught fire,” stated Buldhana Police Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni.

WATCH |&nbsp;New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION

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The government has announced a sum of Rs 5 lakhs as compensation for the families of the victims involved in the Buldhana bus accident.

"The priority at this moment is to identify the bodies and hand them over to their family members," said Kadasane. 
 
The accident site will be visited by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde along with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. An investigation into the incident has been ordered by the chief minister.

Reacting to the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the devastating bus mishap in Buldhana, Maharashtra. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected."

"An ex-gratia of Rs&nbsp;2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the bus mishap in Buldhana. Rs&nbsp;50,000 would be given to the injured," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Around 25 people, including three children, were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries after a bus, in which they were travelling, caught fire on the Maharashtra expressway.

Around 25 people, including three children, were charred to death and eight others suffered injuries after a bus, in which they were travelling, caught fire on the Maharashtra expressway. Officials stated that the bus, which was headed to Pune, was carrying around 33 people and added that the incident that took place on the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway had occurred at around 2 am (local time). The police officials informed that the bus rammed into a divider which led to a tyre burst after which it caught fire near Buldhana. ALSO READ | India: Six electrocuted as live wire falls on chariot during Rath Yatra in Tripura "25 people were burnt to death in the accident. The injured, including the bus driver, have been shifted to a hospital for treatment,” said Sunil Kadasane, Superintendent of Police, Buldhana. He stated that they have registered a case and an investigation into the incident is going on. Buldhana SP Kadasane further confirmed that 33 people were on the bus when the unfortunate incident took place. Buldhana Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni had earlier said, “25 bodies were extracted from the bus. A total of 33 people were travelling on the bus. 6-8 people were injured. The injured are being shifted to Buldhana Civil Hospital.” Injured people shifted to another hospital Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni, speaking to news agency ANI, said that they are shifting the injured people to Buldhana Civil Hospital. “A total of 33 people were travelling on the bus out of which 26 people died and 7 people sustained injuries. The driver of the bus also survived and said that the bus overturned after a tyre burst and caught fire,” stated Buldhana Police Deputy SP Baburao Mahamuni. WATCH | New Zealand fire: At least 10 killed, many injured after fire in a hostel in Wellington | WION The government has announced a sum of Rs 5 lakhs as compensation for the families of the victims involved in the Buldhana bus accident. "The priority at this moment is to identify the bodies and hand them over to their family members," said Kadasane. The accident site will be visited by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde along with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. An investigation into the incident has been ordered by the chief minister. Reacting to the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the devastating bus mishap in Buldhana, Maharashtra. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected." "An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the bus mishap in Buldhana. Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured as bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway

NASA's connection with the intrepid Ingenuity Mars Helicopter has been re-established after a radio silence of more than two months, said the space agency on Friday. 
 
The mini rotorcraft went on the ride, along with the Perseverance rover, to Mars in early 2021 and managed to survive well even after its mission, which was slated for 30 days and was aimed at proving its technology's feasibility in five test flights. 
 
The rotorcraft, since then, has been deployed many times and act as an aerial scout in assisting the Perseverance rover in looking for signs of ancient microbial life from billions of years ago when the red planet was comparatively much wetter and warmer than today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-hint-of-life-in-universe-nasa-makes-breakthrough-discovery-of-carbon-molecule-in-space-608984">A hint of life in universe? NASA makes breakthrough discovery of carbon molecule in space</a>

On April 26, Ingenuity's 52nd flight was launched, however, the contact was lost by mission controllers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California as the rotorcraft descended to the surface after its two minute, 1,191-foot (363-metre) hop. 
 
"The portion of Jezero Crater the rover and helicopter are currently exploring a lot of rugged terrains, which makes communications dropouts more likely," said Ingenuity team lead Josh Anderson, of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, in a statement. 
 
"The team’s goal is to keep Ingenuity ahead of Perseverance, which occasionally involves temporarily pushing beyond communication limits. We're excited to be back in communications range with Ingenuity and receive confirmation of Flight 52,” Anderson added.

<h2 lang="en-US">Hill breaks the communication</h2>

The scientists were expecting a loss of communications because of the presence of a hill between Ingenuity and Perseverance, which works as a relay between the Earth and the drone. 
 
Nonetheless, "this has been the longest we've gone without hearing from Ingenuity so far in the mission," said Joshua Anderson, Ingenuity team lead at JPL.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why is NASA eyeing lunar mining trials within the next decade?

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"Ingenuity is designed to take care of itself when communication gaps like this occur, but we all still had a sense of relief finally hearing back," he added. 
 
So far, the data received indicates that the helicopter is in good shape. If everything is normal in further health checks, Ingenuity will be geared up for its next flight westwards and will head to a rocky outcrop which the Perseverance team will be exploring. 
 
This is not the first time that Ingenuity has gone through downed communications. An ancient river delta was being scoured by the helicopter when it went missing for around six days in April, "an agonisingly long time," wrote chief engineer Travis Brown in a blog post.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA's connection with the intrepid Ingenuity Mars Helicopter has been re-established after a radio silence of more than two months, said the space agency on Friday.

NASA's connection with the intrepid Ingenuity Mars Helicopter has been re-established after a radio silence of more than two months, said the space agency on Friday. The mini rotorcraft went on the ride, along with the Perseverance rover, to Mars in early 2021 and managed to survive well even after its mission, which was slated for 30 days and was aimed at proving its technology's feasibility in five test flights. The rotorcraft, since then, has been deployed many times and act as an aerial scout in assisting the Perseverance rover in looking for signs of ancient microbial life from billions of years ago when the red planet was comparatively much wetter and warmer than today. ALSO READ | A hint of life in universe? NASA makes breakthrough discovery of carbon molecule in space On April 26, Ingenuity's 52nd flight was launched, however, the contact was lost by mission controllers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California as the rotorcraft descended to the surface after its two minute, 1,191-foot (363-metre) hop. "The portion of Jezero Crater the rover and helicopter are currently exploring a lot of rugged terrains, which makes communications dropouts more likely," said Ingenuity team lead Josh Anderson, of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, in a statement. "The team’s goal is to keep Ingenuity ahead of Perseverance, which occasionally involves temporarily pushing beyond communication limits. We're excited to be back in communications range with Ingenuity and receive confirmation of Flight 52,” Anderson added. Hill breaks the communication The scientists were expecting a loss of communications because of the presence of a hill between Ingenuity and Perseverance, which works as a relay between the Earth and the drone. Nonetheless, "this has been the longest we've gone without hearing from Ingenuity so far in the mission," said Joshua Anderson, Ingenuity team lead at JPL. WATCH | Why is NASA eyeing lunar mining trials within the next decade? "Ingenuity is designed to take care of itself when communication gaps like this occur, but we all still had a sense of relief finally hearing back," he added. So far, the data received indicates that the helicopter is in good shape. If everything is normal in further health checks, Ingenuity will be geared up for its next flight westwards and will head to a rocky outcrop which the Perseverance team will be exploring. This is not the first time that Ingenuity has gone through downed communications. An ancient river delta was being scoured by the helicopter when it went missing for around six days in April, "an agonisingly long time," wrote chief engineer Travis Brown in a blog post. (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

Home calling | NASA's Mars helicopter Ingenuity 'dials home', breaking 63-day silence

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow. 
 
According to state news agency Belta, Lukashenko said, “Unfortunately, they (Wagner mercenaries) are not here. “And if their instructors, as I already told them, come and pass on combat experience to us, we will accept this experience.” 
 
The proposal of Lukashenko comes just a week after he was given the credit for defusing Wagner forces' armed insurrection against Moscow. In a shocking series of events which seemed to threaten the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin in decades, Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin had marched towards Moscow along with his forces and taken control of military facilities in two cities of Russia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-orders-tighter-security-at-ukraine-belarus-border-after-arrival-of-wagner-fighters-610721">Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters</a>

The crisis came to an end after Lukashenko successfully brokered a deal according to which Prigozhin had to move to Belarus. In the same deal, Wagner troops were given the option to either go to Belarus, sign up with the Russian military or law enforcement agencies, or go back to their family and friends. 
 
Lukashenko, in his speech, said that he did not fear the members of the Wagner Group and had “known them for a long time.” “These are people who fought all over the world to establish a normal civilisation. The West hates them to the core,” he added. 
 
He further warned a “world-scale military-political crisis unprecedented in the history of mankind” was brewing, and slammed the West for not understanding the need for dialogue to resolve the situation.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus?

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The European Union and the United States were accused of “arming Poland at an accelerated pace” and claimed that the West was making Poland into “a proxy training ground” to use against Russia and Belarus. 
 
“Thus, another hotbed of tension is being created, another stronghold is being created for the aggression of the most aggressive country in the world and, unfortunately, the most powerful – the United States,” he stated.

<h2 lang="en-US">CIA director meets Zelensky</h2>

Recently, CIA Director William Burns visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials, as per a US official. 
 
Speaking to CNN, the official said, “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago. As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.” 
 
He noted that Director Burns had travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Yevgeny Prigozhin.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow.

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow. According to state news agency Belta, Lukashenko said, “Unfortunately, they (Wagner mercenaries) are not here. “And if their instructors, as I already told them, come and pass on combat experience to us, we will accept this experience.” The proposal of Lukashenko comes just a week after he was given the credit for defusing Wagner forces' armed insurrection against Moscow. In a shocking series of events which seemed to threaten the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin in decades, Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin had marched towards Moscow along with his forces and taken control of military facilities in two cities of Russia. ALSO READ | Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters The crisis came to an end after Lukashenko successfully brokered a deal according to which Prigozhin had to move to Belarus. In the same deal, Wagner troops were given the option to either go to Belarus, sign up with the Russian military or law enforcement agencies, or go back to their family and friends. Lukashenko, in his speech, said that he did not fear the members of the Wagner Group and had “known them for a long time.” “These are people who fought all over the world to establish a normal civilisation. The West hates them to the core,” he added. He further warned a “world-scale military-political crisis unprecedented in the history of mankind” was brewing, and slammed the West for not understanding the need for dialogue to resolve the situation. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus? The European Union and the United States were accused of “arming Poland at an accelerated pace” and claimed that the West was making Poland into “a proxy training ground” to use against Russia and Belarus. “Thus, another hotbed of tension is being created, another stronghold is being created for the aggression of the most aggressive country in the world and, unfortunately, the most powerful – the United States,” he stated. CIA director meets Zelensky Recently, CIA Director William Burns visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials, as per a US official. Speaking to CNN, the official said, “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago. As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.” He noted that Director Burns had travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Yevgeny Prigozhin. (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

Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military

Scientists have discovered what might possibly be the oldest evidence of cannibalism in the history of human civilisation.&nbsp;

A fossilised leg bone which has cut marks that appear to have been made by stone tools might be the oldest evidence that proves ancient humans butchered each other and ate their flesh, reported Independent.

In the study which was published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers observed that nine cut marks are present on a 1.45 million-year-old left shin bone which belongs to modern human ancestors and was discovered in northern Kenya.

"This could be the oldest instance of cannibalism in a human relative species known with a high degree of confidence and specificity," they stated.

Smithsonian Institution palaeoanthropologist Briana Pobiner was combing through fossils present at a museum in Nairobi, Kenya and finding clues related to prehistoric predators that ate ancient relatives of humans.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-pizza-history-archaeologists-discover-painting-of-pizzas-ancestor-in-ruins-of-pompeii-609401">A pizza history | Archaeologists discover painting of pizza's 'ancestor' in ruins of Pompeii</a>

<h2>Marks of butchery&nbsp;</h2>

Dr Pobiner observed what "looked to her like marks of butchery" and then the samples were compared with controlled experiments.

It was observed that two bite marks were of a big cat, however, the other nine marks appeared similar to butchery marks present on animal fossils that seemed to have been hunted and eaten by humans and their ancestors.

She stated that the cuts resembled those which are said to be made by stone tools.

<img alt="photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="422f3e08-1723-4e54-81b7-17816ceb142e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-28T231126.833.png" />

(Image: Cut marks on fossilised bone. Source: Nature.com)

"The cuts are located on the shin where a calf muscle would have attached to the bone — a good place to cut if the goal is to remove a chunk of flesh. These cut marks look very similar to what I've seen on animal fossils that were being processed for consumption. It seems most likely that the meat from this leg was eaten and that it was eaten for nutrition as opposed to for a ritual," Dr Pobiner stated.

<h2>Not enough evidence to prove cannibalism&nbsp;</h2>

Although only the cut marks won't be able to prove that human ancestors ate each other, however, Dr Pobiner stated that this was the most likely scenario. She stated that the discovery was ''shocking, honestly, and very surprising, but very exciting''.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The history of America's pride movement

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The scientists, however, argue that not enough evidence is present to conclusively infer that it is a sign of cannibalism since it would need the &nbsp;eater and the eaten to hail from the same species

Zeresenay Alemseged, who is a palaeoanthropologist at the University of Chicago, Illinois, stated, ''The evidence is so sporadic at this point, all we're doing is connecting the dots. We are trying to go inside the brains of the early hominids, which means it's going to be very complex.''

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Scientists have discovered what might possibly be the oldest evidence of cannibalism in the history of human civilisation. A fossilised leg bone which has cut marks that appear to have been made by stone tools might be the oldest evidence that proves ancient humans butchered each other and ate their flesh, reported Independent.

Scientists have discovered what might possibly be the oldest evidence of cannibalism in the history of human civilisation. A fossilised leg bone which has cut marks that appear to have been made by stone tools might be the oldest evidence that proves ancient humans butchered each other and ate their flesh, reported Independent. In the study which was published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers observed that nine cut marks are present on a 1.45 million-year-old left shin bone which belongs to modern human ancestors and was discovered in northern Kenya. "This could be the oldest instance of cannibalism in a human relative species known with a high degree of confidence and specificity," they stated. Smithsonian Institution palaeoanthropologist Briana Pobiner was combing through fossils present at a museum in Nairobi, Kenya and finding clues related to prehistoric predators that ate ancient relatives of humans. ALSO READ | A pizza history | Archaeologists discover painting of pizza's 'ancestor' in ruins of Pompeii Marks of butchery Dr Pobiner observed what "looked to her like marks of butchery" and then the samples were compared with controlled experiments. It was observed that two bite marks were of a big cat, however, the other nine marks appeared similar to butchery marks present on animal fossils that seemed to have been hunted and eaten by humans and their ancestors. She stated that the cuts resembled those which are said to be made by stone tools. (Image: Cut marks on fossilised bone. Source: Nature.com) "The cuts are located on the shin where a calf muscle would have attached to the bone — a good place to cut if the goal is to remove a chunk of flesh. These cut marks look very similar to what I've seen on animal fossils that were being processed for consumption. It seems most likely that the meat from this leg was eaten and that it was eaten for nutrition as opposed to for a ritual," Dr Pobiner stated. Not enough evidence to prove cannibalism Although only the cut marks won't be able to prove that human ancestors ate each other, however, Dr Pobiner stated that this was the most likely scenario. She stated that the discovery was ''shocking, honestly, and very surprising, but very exciting''. WATCH | Gravitas: The history of America's pride movement The scientists, however, argue that not enough evidence is present to conclusively infer that it is a sign of cannibalism since it would need the eater and the eaten to hail from the same species Zeresenay Alemseged, who is a palaeoanthropologist at the University of Chicago, Illinois, stated, ''The evidence is so sporadic at this point, all we're doing is connecting the dots. We are trying to go inside the brains of the early hominids, which means it's going to be very complex.'' 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

A cannibal history ? Fossils suggest human ancestors butchered and ate each other

In an act of protest, a man tore up and set fire to the pages of the Quran outside the central mosque of Stockholm on Wednesday, in an incident which can upset Turkey as Sweden continues to bid to join NATO.&nbsp;

The Swedish police had granted permission for the protest to take place. Later, the man was charged by the police with agitation against a national or ethnic group.

Ankara, whose support is needed by Sweden for getting entry to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, has been offended by multiple demonstrations in Stockholm against Islam and for Kurdish rights.

Sweden has been seeking membership in NATO in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia last year. However, the process has been held up by the alliance member Turkey, which accuses Sweden of harbouring people who are considered terrorists and seeking their extradition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-police-allow-quran-burning-protest-outside-stockholms-main-mosque-609615">Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque</a>

<h2>Turkey condemns the protest</h2>

In a tweet, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned the act of burning the Quran and said that it was unacceptable to permit anti-Islam protests in the name of freedom of expression.

"It is unacceptable to allow these anti-Islamic actions under the pretext of freedom of expression. Turning a blind eye to such atrocious acts is to be complicit," Fidan wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Stockholm police, in its written decision granting permission for the protest, said that the security risks related to the burning "were not of a nature that could justify, under current laws, a decision to reject the request".&nbsp;

37-year-old Salwan Momika, who had fled to Sweden from Iraq several years ago, had requested permission from the police to burn the Muslim holy book "to express my opinion about the Quran".&nbsp;

Before the protest, Momika told news agency TT that he wished to highlight the importance of freedom of speech. "This is democracy. It is in danger if they tell us we can't do this," Momika stated.

"I want to protest in front of the large mosque in Stockholm, and I want to express my opinion about the Quran... I will tear up the Quran and burn it," Momika had earlier stated.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Sweden permits Quran burning protests

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<h2>Protester faces charge of agitation</h2>

Amid heavy police presence and with dozen opponents surrounding and shouting at him in Arabic, Momika who was wearing beige trousers and a shirt, addressed the crowd of several dozen people through a megaphone.

Amid the crowd, Momika stomped on the Quran, placed strips of bacon in it, burnt a few pages before slamming it shut, and finally kicked it while waving Swedish flags, AFP correspondents present at the scene reported.

Later, police in a statement said that the protest had not caused "disturbances to order," however, added that they have opened up an investigation regarding "agitation against an ethnic group" since the man had burnt the Quran so close to a mosque.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an act of protest, a man tore up and set fire to the pages of the Quran outside the central mosque of Stockholm on Wednesday, in an incident which can upset Turkey as Sweden continues to bid to join NATO.

In an act of protest, a man tore up and set fire to the pages of the Quran outside the central mosque of Stockholm on Wednesday, in an incident which can upset Turkey as Sweden continues to bid to join NATO. The Swedish police had granted permission for the protest to take place. Later, the man was charged by the police with agitation against a national or ethnic group. Ankara, whose support is needed by Sweden for getting entry to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, has been offended by multiple demonstrations in Stockholm against Islam and for Kurdish rights. Sweden has been seeking membership in NATO in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia last year. However, the process has been held up by the alliance member Turkey, which accuses Sweden of harbouring people who are considered terrorists and seeking their extradition. ALSO READ | Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque Turkey condemns the protest In a tweet, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned the act of burning the Quran and said that it was unacceptable to permit anti-Islam protests in the name of freedom of expression. "It is unacceptable to allow these anti-Islamic actions under the pretext of freedom of expression. Turning a blind eye to such atrocious acts is to be complicit," Fidan wrote on Twitter. Stockholm police, in its written decision granting permission for the protest, said that the security risks related to the burning "were not of a nature that could justify, under current laws, a decision to reject the request". 37-year-old Salwan Momika, who had fled to Sweden from Iraq several years ago, had requested permission from the police to burn the Muslim holy book "to express my opinion about the Quran". Before the protest, Momika told news agency TT that he wished to highlight the importance of freedom of speech. "This is democracy. It is in danger if they tell us we can't do this," Momika stated. "I want to protest in front of the large mosque in Stockholm, and I want to express my opinion about the Quran... I will tear up the Quran and burn it," Momika had earlier stated. WATCH | Sweden permits Quran burning protests Protester faces charge of agitation Amid heavy police presence and with dozen opponents surrounding and shouting at him in Arabic, Momika who was wearing beige trousers and a shirt, addressed the crowd of several dozen people through a megaphone. Amid the crowd, Momika stomped on the Quran, placed strips of bacon in it, burnt a few pages before slamming it shut, and finally kicked it while waving Swedish flags, AFP correspondents present at the scene reported. Later, police in a statement said that the protest had not caused "disturbances to order," however, added that they have opened up an investigation regarding "agitation against an ethnic group" since the man had burnt the Quran so close to a mosque. (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

Protester sets fire to Quran at Stockholm mosque on Bakrid holiday, faces police action

At least six people, which included two children, lost their lives and 15 others suffered injuries after an overhead high-voltage electric wire came in contact with a chariot during the Rath Yatra in Indian state Tripura's Unakoti district on Wednesday.&nbsp;

As per the police, the unfortunate incident took place amid the "Ulto Rath" procession, which marks the Hindu god Lord&nbsp;Jagannath and his two siblings' return journey after the annual Rath Yatra festival. The chariot was constructed using iron and the devotees had heavily decorated it.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, as the chariot came into contact with an overhead electric wire, it led to a surge of electricity, leading to the death of six people on the spot.&nbsp;

The people who suffered injuries in the accident were rushed to a nearby hospital. As per media reports, many of them remain in critical condition. The injured people will be transferred to Unakoti District Hospital.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-woman-dies-of-electrocution-at-national-capitals-railway-station-amid-rains-608493">India: Woman dies of electrocution on New Delhi railway station premises amid rain</a>

“We have got information about 15 others who were injured in the incident. They were rushed to Unakoti District Hospital at Kailashahar,” said Assistant Inspector General (Law and Order) Jyotishman Das Chowdhury, while speaking to Indian Express.&nbsp;

&nbsp;An investigation has been launched by the police into the incident and the officials are trying to understand how the electric wire came in contact with the chariot.&nbsp;

<h2>Condolences pour in</h2>

The deaths were condoled by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha who announced on social media that he is heading towards Kumarghat from Agartala, where he will take stock of the situation.

"In a tragic accident at Kumarghat, several pilgrims lost their lives and several others were injured due to electrocution while pulling the 'Ulta Rath'. I am deeply saddened by this incident. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Also, I wish the injured persons a speedy recovery. The state government stands by them in this difficult time," Saha wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, chief of Opposition TIPRA Motha Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma also extended his condolences.&nbsp;

“Hearing about a terrible incident in Kumarghat during the rath yatra, my prayers and condolences to all those who have been affected. I have immediately asked all my local MLAs and MDC to extend all help possible,” he tweeted.

WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi's US visit a success: Big thumbs up to the India rising story

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter to send his condolences over the tragic incident.&nbsp;

"The mishap during the Ulta Rath Yatra at Kumarghat is saddening. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this mishap. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to those affected," PM Modi said. &nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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At least six people, which included two children, lost their lives and 15 others suffered injuries after an overhead high-voltage electric wire came in contact with a chariot during the Rath Yatra in Indian state Tripura's Unakoti district on Wednesday.

At least six people, which included two children, lost their lives and 15 others suffered injuries after an overhead high-voltage electric wire came in contact with a chariot during the Rath Yatra in Indian state Tripura's Unakoti district on Wednesday. As per the police, the unfortunate incident took place amid the "Ulto Rath" procession, which marks the Hindu god Lord Jagannath and his two siblings' return journey after the annual Rath Yatra festival. The chariot was constructed using iron and the devotees had heavily decorated it. On Wednesday, as the chariot came into contact with an overhead electric wire, it led to a surge of electricity, leading to the death of six people on the spot. The people who suffered injuries in the accident were rushed to a nearby hospital. As per media reports, many of them remain in critical condition. The injured people will be transferred to Unakoti District Hospital. ALSO READ | India: Woman dies of electrocution on New Delhi railway station premises amid rain “We have got information about 15 others who were injured in the incident. They were rushed to Unakoti District Hospital at Kailashahar,” said Assistant Inspector General (Law and Order) Jyotishman Das Chowdhury, while speaking to Indian Express. An investigation has been launched by the police into the incident and the officials are trying to understand how the electric wire came in contact with the chariot. Condolences pour in The deaths were condoled by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha who announced on social media that he is heading towards Kumarghat from Agartala, where he will take stock of the situation. "In a tragic accident at Kumarghat, several pilgrims lost their lives and several others were injured due to electrocution while pulling the 'Ulta Rath'. I am deeply saddened by this incident. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Also, I wish the injured persons a speedy recovery. The state government stands by them in this difficult time," Saha wrote on Twitter. Meanwhile, chief of Opposition TIPRA Motha Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma also extended his condolences. “Hearing about a terrible incident in Kumarghat during the rath yatra, my prayers and condolences to all those who have been affected. I have immediately asked all my local MLAs and MDC to extend all help possible,” he tweeted. WATCH | PM Modi's US visit a success: Big thumbs up to the India rising story Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter to send his condolences over the tragic incident. "The mishap during the Ulta Rath Yatra at Kumarghat is saddening. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this mishap. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to those affected," PM Modi said. 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: Six electrocuted as live wire falls on chariot during Rath Yatra in Tripura

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