<p>Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Considering their (drones) low cost, multi-use and dense proliferation, the threat will no doubt increase manifold in the years to come," he said during a webinar organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS).</p>

<p>He said the "third dimension" threats like drones may take precedence in the near future and the Army needs to plan for them now.</p>

<p>"Both hard kill and soft kill counter-drone solutions, including swarm technology, are the need of the hour," Saini noted.<br />
He was addressing the webinar titled "Force Protection India 2020" during which various issues pertaining to requirements for armed forces' protection were discussed.</p>

<p>"Among other threats, drones and UAVs stand out in their innovative employment and destructive potential," Saini mentioned.</p>

<p>He said a large number of the Army's troops are deployed in extremely high altitude areas where the temperature touches -50 degrees celsius but India is still importing cold-weather clothing and equipment for them due to "lack of viable indigenous solutions".</p>

<p>"A collaborative effort needs to be put in this field to fulfil our vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>Saini said the Indian Army has evolved considerably in terms of modern arms, ammunition, protection, kitting and clothing but there is still much scope for innovation.</p>

<p>"There is a requirement to focus on night-vision goggles, combat helmets, bulletproof jackets, light portable communication sets and many more," he added.</p>

<p>The Army vice chief said the threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is here to stay as it seems to be gaining traction as a favoured tool among terrorists and anti-national elements.</p>

<p>"The threat (from the IEDs) is sophisticated and can be used while avoiding direct contact. It ends up causing both physical and psychological trauma and seriously impairs own readiness, by forcing us to commit scarce resources for our own protection," he stated.</p>

<p>Technological innovation is key to combating the threat from the IEDs, Saini said.</p>

<p>"A combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and big data analysis could provide a possible answer," he added.<br />
Security of defence establishments and vital installations across the country is another key area where the Army has focused its efforts in the past few years, as these present lucrative and high profile targets, he said.</p>

<p>"Though the industry has stepped up to the challenge (of providing security to defence establishments), the solutions provided, however, lack innovation and integration," Saini mentioned.</p>

<p>He added that the effort in this field must be to ensure a reduction in manpower commitment by integrating physical and electronic surveillance and incorporating automation and innovation in perimeter fencing, intrusion detection systems, etc.</p>

<p>Saini said the Army's deployment footprint extends across the length and breadth of the country and across varying terrains and the sheer magnitude of its requirements presents a golden opportunity to the industry, scientists and entrepreneurs.</p>


Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday.

Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday. "Considering their (drones) low cost, multi-use and dense proliferation, the threat will no doubt increase manifold in the years to come," he said during a webinar organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS). He said the "third dimension" threats like drones may take precedence in the near future and the Army needs to plan for them now. "Both hard kill and soft kill counter-drone solutions, including swarm technology, are the need of the hour," Saini noted. He was addressing the webinar titled "Force Protection India 2020" during which various issues pertaining to requirements for armed forces' protection were discussed. "Among other threats, drones and UAVs stand out in their innovative employment and destructive potential," Saini mentioned. He said a large number of the Army's troops are deployed in extremely high altitude areas where the temperature touches -50 degrees celsius but India is still importing cold-weather clothing and equipment for them due to "lack of viable indigenous solutions". "A collaborative effort needs to be put in this field to fulfil our vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat," he added. Saini said the Indian Army has evolved considerably in terms of modern arms, ammunition, protection, kitting and clothing but there is still much scope for innovation. "There is a requirement to focus on night-vision goggles, combat helmets, bulletproof jackets, light portable communication sets and many more," he added. The Army vice chief said the threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is here to stay as it seems to be gaining traction as a favoured tool among terrorists and anti-national elements. "The threat (from the IEDs) is sophisticated and can be used while avoiding direct contact. It ends up causing both physical and psychological trauma and seriously impairs own readiness, by forcing us to commit scarce resources for our own protection," he stated. Technological innovation is key to combating the threat from the IEDs, Saini said. "A combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and big data analysis could provide a possible answer," he added. Security of defence establishments and vital installations across the country is another key area where the Army has focused its efforts in the past few years, as these present lucrative and high profile targets, he said. "Though the industry has stepped up to the challenge (of providing security to defence establishments), the solutions provided, however, lack innovation and integration," Saini mentioned. He added that the effort in this field must be to ensure a reduction in manpower commitment by integrating physical and electronic surveillance and incorporating automation and innovation in perimeter fencing, intrusion detection systems, etc. Saini said the Army's deployment footprint extends across the length and breadth of the country and across varying terrains and the sheer magnitude of its requirements presents a golden opportunity to the industry, scientists and entrepreneurs.

Threat from drones will increase manifold in years to come: Army vice chief

<p>Amid political chaos in the country, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyrgyzstan-president-says-ready-to-resign-once-new-cabinet-appointed-333716">Kyrgyz </a>President Sooronbai Jeenbekov allies in parliament elected a new prime minister while former president Almazbek Atambayev was rearrested on Saturday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-clash-in-kyrgyzstan-as-president-jeenbekov-says-ready-to-resign-334087">Also Read:&nbsp;Protesters clash in Kyrgyzstan as President Jeenbekov says 'ready to resign'</a></p>

<p>President Jeenbekov had earlier ordered a state of emergency in capital Bishkek as political opponents clashed on the streets while declaring that he was "ready to resign".</p>

<p>The political unrest in the &nbsp;Central Asian country began last Sunday after a disputed election which was swept by Jeenbekov's allies but was subsequently annulled by electoral authorities, however, each political parties announced its own interim prime minister leading to chaos.</p>

<p>At least one person has been killed in clashes and over a thousand injured as parties clashed on the streets. The state authorities said there would be other arrests along with Atambayev plunging the country into full-scale political upheaval.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jeenbekov had earlier called in the military as supporters of rival political groups fought on the streets.</p>

<p>Jeenbekov's office said curfew and security restrictions would be in effect from 8pm on Friday until 8am on October 21 with the military instructed to set up checkpoints and prevent clashes.</p>

<p>Fresh clashes had broken out on Friday between rival politicians in capital Bishkek with five injured during the violence.</p>

<p>Amid the unrest, Jeenbekov had announced that he was ready to step down once a new government is formed "and we are back on the path of lawfulness", however later on Friday the president imposed 12-day state of emergency in capital Bishkek.</p>


Amid political chaos in the country, Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov allies in parliament elected a new prime minister while former president Almazbek Atambayev was rearrested on Saturday.

Amid political chaos in the country, Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov allies in parliament elected a new prime minister while former president Almazbek Atambayev was rearrested on Saturday. Also Read: Protesters clash in Kyrgyzstan as President Jeenbekov says 'ready to resign' President Jeenbekov had earlier ordered a state of emergency in capital Bishkek as political opponents clashed on the streets while declaring that he was "ready to resign". The political unrest in the Central Asian country began last Sunday after a disputed election which was swept by Jeenbekov's allies but was subsequently annulled by electoral authorities, however, each political parties announced its own interim prime minister leading to chaos. At least one person has been killed in clashes and over a thousand injured as parties clashed on the streets. The state authorities said there would be other arrests along with Atambayev plunging the country into full-scale political upheaval. Jeenbekov had earlier called in the military as supporters of rival political groups fought on the streets. Jeenbekov's office said curfew and security restrictions would be in effect from 8pm on Friday until 8am on October 21 with the military instructed to set up checkpoints and prevent clashes. Fresh clashes had broken out on Friday between rival politicians in capital Bishkek with five injured during the violence. Amid the unrest, Jeenbekov had announced that he was ready to step down once a new government is formed "and we are back on the path of lawfulness", however later on Friday the president imposed 12-day state of emergency in capital Bishkek.

Kyrgyz ex-president re-arrested, new PM named amid political unrest

<p>EU commissioner Mariya Gabriel tested positive for COVID-19 as Europe continued to grapple with the virus with the UK set to announce a three-tier lockdown system amid a surge in coronavirus cases in northern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1800-students-staff-at-north-england-universities-test-positive-for-coronavirus-334203">England</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-may-lead-to-a-spike-in-child-marriages-334250/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The EU commissioner for research and innovation, Mariya Gabriel in a tweet said: "After a first negative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-is-medication-free-describes-coronavirus-battle-334171">COVID-19</a> test on Monday, my second one is positive."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After a first negative <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> test on Monday, my second one is positive. I have been in self-isolation since Monday and continue staying at home, following the established regulations. Keep yourself healthy and stay safe!</p>
— Mariya Gabriel (@GabrielMariya) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabrielMariya/status/1314890374788378632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I have been in self-isolation since Monday and continue staying at home, following the established regulations. Keep yourself healthy and stay safe!" Gabriel added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Germany which had earlier kept a check over virus cases announced curfews in bars and cafes amid tighter social gathering restrictions for Berlin and Frankfurt as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-imposes-fines-for-not-wearing-face-masks-as-covid-19-cases-surge-334295">virus </a>cases mounted this week.</p>

<p>In Berlin, authorities have restricted meetings between 11pm and 6am with only up to 50 people allowed to meet during the day in one place. Despite the tight restrictions, the German capital reported 1,500 confirmed coronavirus cases in the past week.</p>

<p>In Frankfurt, curfew was announced from 10pm for restaurants while serving alcohol in public places has been banned.</p>

<p>In Brussels, curfew has been declared from 11pm on bars and cafes. As cases rise in the UK, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce tough new measures for northern England and the Midlands including Livepoool, reports said.</p>

<p>Tier three is the highest level of coronavirus alert, if implemented it would mean no social contact allowed for anyone outside a person's household which includes outdoor activities with the tier-three lockdown set to kick in from Tuesday, according to reports.</p>

<p>Britain has been the hardest-hit country in Europe with over 42,000 fatalities. According to the UK's Office of National Statistics, 1 in 240 in England had coronavirus during the week from September 25 to October 1.</p>


EU commissioner Mariya Gabriel tested positive for COVID-19 as Europe continued to grapple with the virus with the UK set to announce a three-tier lockdown system amid a surge in coronavirus cases in northern England.

EU commissioner Mariya Gabriel tested positive for COVID-19 as Europe continued to grapple with the virus with the UK set to announce a three-tier lockdown system amid a surge in coronavirus cases in northern England. Watch: The EU commissioner for research and innovation, Mariya Gabriel in a tweet said: "After a first negative COVID-19 test on Monday, my second one is positive." After a first negative #COVID19 test on Monday, my second one is positive. I have been in self-isolation since Monday and continue staying at home, following the established regulations. Keep yourself healthy and stay safe! — Mariya Gabriel (@GabrielMariya) October 10, 2020 × "I have been in self-isolation since Monday and continue staying at home, following the established regulations. Keep yourself healthy and stay safe!" Gabriel added. Germany which had earlier kept a check over virus cases announced curfews in bars and cafes amid tighter social gathering restrictions for Berlin and Frankfurt as the virus cases mounted this week. In Berlin, authorities have restricted meetings between 11pm and 6am with only up to 50 people allowed to meet during the day in one place. Despite the tight restrictions, the German capital reported 1,500 confirmed coronavirus cases in the past week. In Frankfurt, curfew was announced from 10pm for restaurants while serving alcohol in public places has been banned. In Brussels, curfew has been declared from 11pm on bars and cafes. As cases rise in the UK, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce tough new measures for northern England and the Midlands including Livepoool, reports said. Tier three is the highest level of coronavirus alert, if implemented it would mean no social contact allowed for anyone outside a person's household which includes outdoor activities with the tier-three lockdown set to kick in from Tuesday, according to reports. Britain has been the hardest-hit country in Europe with over 42,000 fatalities. According to the UK's Office of National Statistics, 1 in 240 in England had coronavirus during the week from September 25 to October 1.

COVID-19: Berlin, Frankfurt impose curfew as UK braces for tier-three lockdown

<p>As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-is-trying-to-wear-out-taiwans-air-force-by-incursions-says-defence-minister-334046">Taiwan </a>celebrated its National Day on Saturday, the country's defence ministry said that one Chinese PLA Y-8 ASW aircraft entered the&nbsp;southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ).</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-national-day-taiwan-pledges-strong-defences-334273/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The defence ministry said it deployed patrolling aircraft and air defence missile systems to monitor the aircraft's activity.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One PLA Y-8 ASW aircraft entered <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a>’s southwest ADIZ on Oct. 10, the flight path as illustrated. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ROCAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ROCAF</a> deployed patrolling aircraft and air defense missile systems to monitor the activity. No matter what happened, we keep <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/guard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#guard</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/protectourcountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#protectourcountry</a> day and night. <a href="https://t.co/JW6GTFNb9v">pic.twitter.com/JW6GTFNb9v</a></p>
— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1314894602688585728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="Also Read: Taiwan releases new passport design to assert independent identity">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan releases new passport design to assert independent identity</a></p>

<p>"No matter what happened, we keep guard and protect our country day and night," the defence ministry said in a statement. Taiwan's defence ministry had said earlier that Chinese jets had entered Taiwan's air defence zone for the seventh time this month and the fourth day inside a week.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyNationalDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyNationalDay</a>. As an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndoPacific?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndoPacific</a> region member, we are not only determined to defend our country, but will continue to contribute towards keeping the region safe, peaceful and free. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ROCArmedForces?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ROCArmedForces</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> <a href="https://t.co/q6HBzffQMp">pic.twitter.com/q6HBzffQMp</a></p>
— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1314822261115744257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, President Tsai Ing-wen while speaking on Taiwan's National Day said: "I am also aware that the leader across the Strait (Xi) has publicly stated in a video message to the United Nations General Assembly that China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or a sphere of influence ... we hope this is the beginning of genuine change."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are committed to upholding cross-strait stability, but this is not something Taiwan can shoulder alone -- it is the joint responsibility of both sides," the Taiwan president added.</p>

<p>President Tsai Ing-wen asserted that the international community was concerned about the "expanding hegemony" of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As long as the Beijing authorities are willing to resolve antagonisms and improve cross-strait relations... we are willing to work together to facilitate meaningful dialogue," she said.</p>


As Taiwan celebrated its National Day on Saturday, the country's defence ministry said that one Chinese PLA Y-8 ASW aircraft entered the southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

As Taiwan celebrated its National Day on Saturday, the country's defence ministry said that one Chinese PLA Y-8 ASW aircraft entered the southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ). Watch: The defence ministry said it deployed patrolling aircraft and air defence missile systems to monitor the aircraft's activity. One PLA Y-8 ASW aircraft entered #Taiwan’s southwest ADIZ on Oct. 10, the flight path as illustrated. #ROCAF deployed patrolling aircraft and air defense missile systems to monitor the activity. No matter what happened, we keep #guard and #protectourcountry day and night. pic.twitter.com/JW6GTFNb9v — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) October 10, 2020 × Also Read: Taiwan releases new passport design to assert independent identity "No matter what happened, we keep guard and protect our country day and night," the defence ministry said in a statement. Taiwan's defence ministry had said earlier that Chinese jets had entered Taiwan's air defence zone for the seventh time this month and the fourth day inside a week. #HappyNationalDay. As an #IndoPacific region member, we are not only determined to defend our country, but will continue to contribute towards keeping the region safe, peaceful and free. #ROCArmedForces #Taiwan pic.twitter.com/q6HBzffQMp — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) October 10, 2020 × Meanwhile, President Tsai Ing-wen while speaking on Taiwan's National Day said: "I am also aware that the leader across the Strait (Xi) has publicly stated in a video message to the United Nations General Assembly that China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or a sphere of influence ... we hope this is the beginning of genuine change." "We are committed to upholding cross-strait stability, but this is not something Taiwan can shoulder alone -- it is the joint responsibility of both sides," the Taiwan president added. President Tsai Ing-wen asserted that the international community was concerned about the "expanding hegemony" of China. "As long as the Beijing authorities are willing to resolve antagonisms and improve cross-strait relations... we are willing to work together to facilitate meaningful dialogue," she said.

National Day row: Chinese Y-8 ASW aircraft enters Taiwan air space

<p>After witnessing a huge spurt in coronavirus cases, Iran on Saturday imposed fines on citizens for not wearing a mask including businesses for not observing health protocols.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-parents-worry-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-in-iran-331391/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Iran had reported 4,392 coronavirus cases on Tuesday with 239 fatalities reported on Wednesday worrying health officials in the country. The virus has so far infected 492,300 people leading to the death of over 28,000 patients.</p>

<p>The Rouhani government decided to impose fines even as the country battles US sanctions while fighting a deep recession. The fines range from $1.60 on individuals&nbsp;to $32.80 for businesses which do not follow the government's health guidelines.</p>

<p>Amid a surge in cases, deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi said that non-emergency patients would not be allowed hospitalization for some time due to severe shortages of hospital beds.</p>

<p>The government had already closed schools, mosques, shops, restaurants and other public places in capital Tehran on October 3 as COVID-19 cases began to rise with similar measures undertaken in Zanjan province, northwest Tehran including in other cities and provinces.</p>

<p>President Hassan Rouhani while conducting a weekly televised speech on COVID-19 said that the police, paramilitary and health officials will have to power to impose fines with the offenders allowed two weeks to make payment into the health ministry account.</p>

<p>Iran's health ministry had said earlier that nearly the whole country was on COVID-19 "red alert" due to the dangerous rise in cases with 26 of Iran's 31 provinces in "red zones".</p>

<p>Iran has blocked flights to Iraq barring citizens to travel to the neighbouring country for the annual pilgrimage of Arbaeen and closed its land border with the country.&nbsp;</p>


After witnessing a huge spurt in coronavirus cases, Iran on Saturday imposed fines on citizens for not wearing a mask including businesses for not observing health protocols.

After witnessing a huge spurt in coronavirus cases, Iran on Saturday imposed fines on citizens for not wearing a mask including businesses for not observing health protocols. Watch: Iran had reported 4,392 coronavirus cases on Tuesday with 239 fatalities reported on Wednesday worrying health officials in the country. The virus has so far infected 492,300 people leading to the death of over 28,000 patients. The Rouhani government decided to impose fines even as the country battles US sanctions while fighting a deep recession. The fines range from $1.60 on individuals to $32.80 for businesses which do not follow the government's health guidelines. Amid a surge in cases, deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi said that non-emergency patients would not be allowed hospitalization for some time due to severe shortages of hospital beds. The government had already closed schools, mosques, shops, restaurants and other public places in capital Tehran on October 3 as COVID-19 cases began to rise with similar measures undertaken in Zanjan province, northwest Tehran including in other cities and provinces. President Hassan Rouhani while conducting a weekly televised speech on COVID-19 said that the police, paramilitary and health officials will have to power to impose fines with the offenders allowed two weeks to make payment into the health ministry account. Iran's health ministry had said earlier that nearly the whole country was on COVID-19 "red alert" due to the dangerous rise in cases with 26 of Iran's 31 provinces in "red zones". Iran has blocked flights to Iraq barring citizens to travel to the neighbouring country for the annual pilgrimage of Arbaeen and closed its land border with the country.

Iran imposes fines for not wearing face masks as COVID-19 cases surge

'Not a single person with virus': North Korea conducts pre-dawn military parade

<p>Amid street protests in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-opposition-leader-says-trial-for-lukashenko-subject-to-negotiation-333612">Belarus</a>, Britain on Saturday withdrew its ambassador as President Lukashenko expelled diplomats from Poland and Lithuania.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/belarus-opposition-leader-sviatlana-tsikhanouskaya-on-russias-wanted-list-333459/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"UK condemns Belarus' decision to expel Polish and Lithuanian diplomats. Completely unjustified and will only isolate the Belarusian people. In solidarity, we are temporarily recalling our ambassador for consultations on the situation in Belarus," UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇬🇧 condemns Belarus’ decision to expel Polish &amp; Lithuanian diplomats. Completely unjustified and will only isolate the Belarusian people. In solidarity, we are temporarily recalling our Ambassador for consultations on the situation in Belarus</p>
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1314652079143649281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lukashenko's government had accused ambassadors of Lithuania and Poland of backing the protests which had erupted over disputed election results on August 9.</p>

<p>European nations Latvia, Estonia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania have already withdrawn their ambassadors from Belarus. Britain and Canada had earlier imposed sanctions on <strong>Lukashenko</strong>, his son and senior government officials over alleged human rights violations.</p>

<p>Slovak foreign minister Ivan Korcok said: "I have decided to recall our Head of Mission in #Minsk for consultations to Slovakia as (an) expression of solidarity with Lithuania and Poland."</p>

<p>"Steps taken by Belarus authorities against other<strong> EU </strong>member states are unacceptable. EU remains united in its support of (the) people of Belarus," Korcok added as Bulgaria's foreign ministry said it was pulling out its ambassadors to &nbsp;"in a show of solidarity" with Lithuania and Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bulgaria also called for free and fair elections in Belarus while urging the government to open dialogue with the Opposition.</p>

<p>The Belarus government had earlier urged Lithuania and Poland to reduce the number of diplomats amid protests in the country while calling for "the immediate and unconditional release of all the (jailed) political prisoners in Belarus."</p>

<p>Lukashenko has reportedly jailed several Opposition leaders and arrested thousands and later freed them. However, it has denied abusing detainees.</p>


Amid street protests in Belarus, Britain on Saturday withdrew its ambassador as President Lukashenko expelled diplomats from Poland and Lithuania. Watch: "UK condemns Belarus' decision to expel Polish and Lithuanian diplomats.

Amid street protests in Belarus, Britain on Saturday withdrew its ambassador as President Lukashenko expelled diplomats from Poland and Lithuania. Watch: "UK condemns Belarus' decision to expel Polish and Lithuanian diplomats. Completely unjustified and will only isolate the Belarusian people. In solidarity, we are temporarily recalling our ambassador for consultations on the situation in Belarus," UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab said. 🇬🇧 condemns Belarus’ decision to expel Polish & Lithuanian diplomats. Completely unjustified and will only isolate the Belarusian people. In solidarity, we are temporarily recalling our Ambassador for consultations on the situation in Belarus — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) October 9, 2020 × Lukashenko's government had accused ambassadors of Lithuania and Poland of backing the protests which had erupted over disputed election results on August 9. European nations Latvia, Estonia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania have already withdrawn their ambassadors from Belarus. Britain and Canada had earlier imposed sanctions on Lukashenko, his son and senior government officials over alleged human rights violations. Slovak foreign minister Ivan Korcok said: "I have decided to recall our Head of Mission in #Minsk for consultations to Slovakia as (an) expression of solidarity with Lithuania and Poland." "Steps taken by Belarus authorities against other EU member states are unacceptable. EU remains united in its support of (the) people of Belarus," Korcok added as Bulgaria's foreign ministry said it was pulling out its ambassadors to "in a show of solidarity" with Lithuania and Poland. Bulgaria also called for free and fair elections in Belarus while urging the government to open dialogue with the Opposition. The Belarus government had earlier urged Lithuania and Poland to reduce the number of diplomats amid protests in the country while calling for "the immediate and unconditional release of all the (jailed) political prisoners in Belarus." Lukashenko has reportedly jailed several Opposition leaders and arrested thousands and later freed them. However, it has denied abusing detainees.

After several EU nations, UK withdraws envoy from Belarus

<p>Despite a ceasefire, Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other of carrying out new attacks over the Nagorno-Karabakh region as fighting continued between the two sides.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-france-us-and-russia-meet-on-nagorno-karabakh-seek-ceasefire-334023/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Both warring countries had announced a ceasefire agreement in Moscow after nearly two weeks of fighting which erupted on September 27 over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.</p>

<p>Armenian defence ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan said: "In disregard of the previously declared humanitarian ceasefire, Azerbaijani forces at 12:05 launched an attack towards Karakhanbeyli," adding,"the Karabakh army is taking measures to repel the attack."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-enters-into-force-in-nagorno-karabakh-region-after-moscow-deal-334161">Also Read:&nbsp;Ceasefire enters into force in Nagorno-Karabakh region after Moscow deal</a></p>

<p>Azerbaijan's defence ministry on the other hand said that shelling had started half an hour after the ceasefire was to come into effect. Russia played a key role in the talks with foreign minister Lavrov ensuring a ceasefire after over 10 hours of negotiations.</p>

<p>However, the loosely knit ceasefire agreement still could not be explained as Lavrov said: "The specific terms of the ceasefire still need to be agreed." Both sides were tight-lipped about the intricacies of the deal which wasn't revealed although the Russian foreign minister added that both countries had agreed on "substantive negotiations" to put an end to decades-long dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.</p>

<p>Azerbaijan's ally Turkey welcomed the deal calling it "significant first step" but added that it "will not stand for a lasting solution".</p>

<p>"Turkey emphasized that it will support any solution approved by Azerbaijan. Turkey will continue to stand by Azerbaijan in the field and at the table," Turkey's foreign ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>Both countries were to halt hostilities by mid-day even as Nagorno-Karabakh authorities said 28 defence officials were killed in action in the last 24 hours.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Despite a ceasefire, Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other of carrying out new attacks over the Nagorno-Karabakh region as fighting continued between the two sides.

Despite a ceasefire, Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other of carrying out new attacks over the Nagorno-Karabakh region as fighting continued between the two sides. Watch: Both warring countries had announced a ceasefire agreement in Moscow after nearly two weeks of fighting which erupted on September 27 over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenian defence ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan said: "In disregard of the previously declared humanitarian ceasefire, Azerbaijani forces at 12:05 launched an attack towards Karakhanbeyli," adding,"the Karabakh army is taking measures to repel the attack." Also Read: Ceasefire enters into force in Nagorno-Karabakh region after Moscow deal Azerbaijan's defence ministry on the other hand said that shelling had started half an hour after the ceasefire was to come into effect. Russia played a key role in the talks with foreign minister Lavrov ensuring a ceasefire after over 10 hours of negotiations. However, the loosely knit ceasefire agreement still could not be explained as Lavrov said: "The specific terms of the ceasefire still need to be agreed." Both sides were tight-lipped about the intricacies of the deal which wasn't revealed although the Russian foreign minister added that both countries had agreed on "substantive negotiations" to put an end to decades-long dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Azerbaijan's ally Turkey welcomed the deal calling it "significant first step" but added that it "will not stand for a lasting solution". "Turkey emphasized that it will support any solution approved by Azerbaijan. Turkey will continue to stand by Azerbaijan in the field and at the table," Turkey's foreign ministry said in a statement. Both countries were to halt hostilities by mid-day even as Nagorno-Karabakh authorities said 28 defence officials were killed in action in the last 24 hours.

After ceasefire, Armenia says Azerbaijan launching attacks towards Karakhanbeyli

<p>American poet Louise Glück has been awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature “for her unmistakable poetic voice that with austere beauty makes individual existence universal.”</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In one of Literature Laureate Louise Glück’s most lauded collections, ‘The Wild Iris’ (1992), she describes the miraculous return of life after winter in the poem ‘Snowdrops’.<br />
<br />
Read the poem at: <a href="https://t.co/P3I8RhCeKh">https://t.co/P3I8RhCeKh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NobelPrize?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NobelPrize</a></p>
— The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) <a href="https://twitter.com/NobelPrize/status/1314159460798136327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Literature Laureate Louise Glück made her debut in 1968 with "Firstborn" and was soon acclaimed as one of the most prominent poets in American contemporary literature. She has published twelve collections of poetry and some volumes of essays on poetry," the Nobel Committee said.</p>

<p>The Nobel committee while awarding this year's prize said: "Louise Glück seeks the universal, and in this she takes inspiration from myths and classical motifs, present in most of her works."</p>

<p>"The works by 2020 Literature Laureate Louise Glück is characterised by a striving for clarity. Childhood and family life, the close relationship with parents and siblings, is a thematic that has remained central with her," it added.</p>

<p>The Swedish academy citing one of her works said that "Averno’ (2006) is a masterly collection, a visionary interpretation of the myth of Persephone’s descent into hell in the captivity of Hades, the god of&nbsp;</p>


American poet Louise Glück has been awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature “for her unmistakable poetic voice that with austere beauty makes individual existence universal.

American poet Louise Glück has been awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature “for her unmistakable poetic voice that with austere beauty makes individual existence universal.” In one of Literature Laureate Louise Glück’s most lauded collections, ‘The Wild Iris’ (1992), she describes the miraculous return of life after winter in the poem ‘Snowdrops’. Read the poem at: https://t.co/P3I8RhCeKh#NobelPrize — The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 8, 2020 × "Literature Laureate Louise Glück made her debut in 1968 with "Firstborn" and was soon acclaimed as one of the most prominent poets in American contemporary literature. She has published twelve collections of poetry and some volumes of essays on poetry," the Nobel Committee said. The Nobel committee while awarding this year's prize said: "Louise Glück seeks the universal, and in this she takes inspiration from myths and classical motifs, present in most of her works." "The works by 2020 Literature Laureate Louise Glück is characterised by a striving for clarity. Childhood and family life, the close relationship with parents and siblings, is a thematic that has remained central with her," it added. The Swedish academy citing one of her works said that "Averno’ (2006) is a masterly collection, a visionary interpretation of the myth of Persephone’s descent into hell in the captivity of Hades, the god of

American Louise Glück wins Nobel Prize in Literature

<p>The next US presidential debate between President Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden will be "virtual", organizers said on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/harris-vs-pence-on-the-vice-presidential-debate-discuss-trumps-response-on-pandemic-333373/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, according to reports, Trump said he will not "participate"&nbsp;in a virtual presidential debate.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-debate-2020-kamala-harris-im-speaking-snub-to-pence-appears-on-t-shirts-mugs-online-333370">Also Read:&nbsp;Kamala Harris' 'I'm speaking' snub to Pence appears on t-shirts, mugs online</a></p>

<p>"I'm not going to do a virtual debate," the US president told a TV news network while adding that it was "not acceptable to us."</p>

<p>Amid the confusion,&nbsp;Trump's campaign manager Bill Stepien said: "An in-person town hall debate, with questions from voters, "should happen on October 22, and accordingly, the third debate should then be shifted back one week to October 29."</p>

<p>However, Biden's team asserted that President Trump cannot "rewrite the calendar".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joe Biden had earlier expressed concern over appearing for the next TV debate after President Trump was detected with the virus.</p>

<p>"I'm looking forward to being able to debate him, but I just hope all the protocols are followed," Biden had said, adding," "If he still has COVID, we shouldn't have a debate."</p>

<p>Biden and Trump are set to clash again on October 15. Trump had tested positive for COVID-19 just two days after his first debate with Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden and Trump are set to clash again on October 15.</p>


The next US presidential debate between President Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden will be "virtual", organizers said on Thursday. Watch: However, according to reports, Trump said he will not "participate" in a virtual presidential debate.

The next US presidential debate between President Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden will be "virtual", organizers said on Thursday. Watch: However, according to reports, Trump said he will not "participate" in a virtual presidential debate. Also Read: Kamala Harris' 'I'm speaking' snub to Pence appears on t-shirts, mugs online "I'm not going to do a virtual debate," the US president told a TV news network while adding that it was "not acceptable to us." Amid the confusion, Trump's campaign manager Bill Stepien said: "An in-person town hall debate, with questions from voters, "should happen on October 22, and accordingly, the third debate should then be shifted back one week to October 29." However, Biden's team asserted that President Trump cannot "rewrite the calendar". Joe Biden had earlier expressed concern over appearing for the next TV debate after President Trump was detected with the virus. "I'm looking forward to being able to debate him, but I just hope all the protocols are followed," Biden had said, adding," "If he still has COVID, we shouldn't have a debate." Biden and Trump are set to clash again on October 15. Trump had tested positive for COVID-19 just two days after his first debate with Biden. Biden and Trump are set to clash again on October 15.

After refusing to participate in 'virtual' debate, Trump team pushes for schedule changes; Biden refuses

<p>On October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force(IAF) was established as a supporting fleet to her majesty's Royal Air Force.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-aircraft-show-resolve-capability-on-air-force-day-333488">In Pics:&nbsp;Indian aircraft show resolve, capability on Air Force Day</a></p>

<p>Back then, six officers and 19 sepoys is what constituted the Air Force in India. However, 88 years later, it has grown into the world's fourth-largest Air Force with 139,576 active personnel and approximately 140,000 reserve personnel with more than 1,750 aircraft.</p>

<p>The Indian Air Force today celebrated its 88th foundation day and as always the main event was the parade and the fly-past at the Hindon Airbase. India's high-end acquisitions were on display - the Mig-29s, Sukhois and the newly inducted Rafale jets.</p>

<p>India's Air Force chief talked about how the new acquisitions have boosted India's air strength. The Air Force has given India a decisive edge over its regional rivals. In the 1965 war, the IAF had raided multiple airbases inside Pakistan, again in 1971, during the Bangladesh liberation war, it turned the tide in India's favour flying 2,000 sorties over east Pakistan providing cover to Indian troops.</p>

<p>Another landmark operation was the Balakot airstrikes when twelve IAF fighters crossed the Line of Control(LoC) targetting the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Pakistan's Balakot. The airstrikes were a successful display of the IAF's covert striking capacity while the IAF is undoubtedly a well-oiled war machine, it has also been crucial in humanitarian missions as well.</p>

<p>In 2013, when the northern state of Uttarkhand was ravaged by floods, it was the IAF that came to the rescue under Operation Rahat, as many as 20,000 people were airlifted to safety which was the biggest civilian rescue operation ever undertaken by an Air Force.</p>

<p>However, the IAF does have its work cut out, its squadron strength is far below the sanctioned requirement of 42. Foreign dependence continues to remain high despite a concerted effort to "buy Indian". Indigenisation is likely to be the IAF's biggest challenge in the coming years.</p>


On October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force(IAF) was established as a supporting fleet to her majesty's Royal Air Force. In Pics: Indian aircraft show resolve, capability on Air Force Day Back then, six officers and 19 sepoys is what constituted the Air Force in India.

On October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force(IAF) was established as a supporting fleet to her majesty's Royal Air Force. In Pics: Indian aircraft show resolve, capability on Air Force Day Back then, six officers and 19 sepoys is what constituted the Air Force in India. However, 88 years later, it has grown into the world's fourth-largest Air Force with 139,576 active personnel and approximately 140,000 reserve personnel with more than 1,750 aircraft. The Indian Air Force today celebrated its 88th foundation day and as always the main event was the parade and the fly-past at the Hindon Airbase. India's high-end acquisitions were on display - the Mig-29s, Sukhois and the newly inducted Rafale jets. India's Air Force chief talked about how the new acquisitions have boosted India's air strength. The Air Force has given India a decisive edge over its regional rivals. In the 1965 war, the IAF had raided multiple airbases inside Pakistan, again in 1971, during the Bangladesh liberation war, it turned the tide in India's favour flying 2,000 sorties over east Pakistan providing cover to Indian troops. Another landmark operation was the Balakot airstrikes when twelve IAF fighters crossed the Line of Control(LoC) targetting the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Pakistan's Balakot. The airstrikes were a successful display of the IAF's covert striking capacity while the IAF is undoubtedly a well-oiled war machine, it has also been crucial in humanitarian missions as well. In 2013, when the northern state of Uttarkhand was ravaged by floods, it was the IAF that came to the rescue under Operation Rahat, as many as 20,000 people were airlifted to safety which was the biggest civilian rescue operation ever undertaken by an Air Force. However, the IAF does have its work cut out, its squadron strength is far below the sanctioned requirement of 42. Foreign dependence continues to remain high despite a concerted effort to "buy Indian". Indigenisation is likely to be the IAF's biggest challenge in the coming years.

Indian Air Force displays Rafale, Sukhoi fighters on 88th foundation day

<p>Russia on Friday reported 12,126 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-invokes-state-of-emergency-over-madrid-lockdown-as-europe-grapples-with-virus-334020">coronavirus</a> cases taking the total number of cases to 1,272,238 as authorities contemplate closing bars and nightclubs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-lockdowns-punishing-for-communities-and-society-who-334120">Also Read |&nbsp;Massive lockdowns punishing for communities and society: WHO</a></p>

<p>Amid the virus surge, authorities have told residents to stay home over the weekend as Kremlin said there were no plans to impose a lockdown although it said authorities at the regional level would decide on measures to curb the virus.</p>

<p>The virus surge comes as Russia announced it would begin administring the <strong>Sputnik V vaccine </strong>on a mass scale this month. Putin had said earlier that "around 50 people" in his inner circle had been vaccinated.</p>

<p>Authorities have asked those over the over the age of 65 to isolate themselves even as 201 <strong>COVID-19 </strong>related deaths were reported on Friday with the total death toll climbing to &nbsp;22,257.</p>

<p>Moscow which was the epicentre of the virus earlier has made it mandatory to wear masks. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has asked employers to allow third of its staff to work remotely. Russia had ordered a strict lockdown in March but began lifting restrictions as cases began to drop in May.</p>

<p>Moscow, however, reimposed some tough measures last month. Russia now has the fourth-highest confirmed cases of coronavirus in the world.</p>


Russia on Friday reported 12,126 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 1,272,238 as authorities contemplate closing bars and nightclubs. Also Read | Massive lockdowns punishing for communities and society: WHO Amid the virus surge, authorities have told residents to stay home over the weekend as Kremlin said there were no plans to impose a lockdown although it said authorities at the regional level would decide on measures to curb the virus.

Russia on Friday reported 12,126 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 1,272,238 as authorities contemplate closing bars and nightclubs. Also Read | Massive lockdowns punishing for communities and society: WHO Amid the virus surge, authorities have told residents to stay home over the weekend as Kremlin said there were no plans to impose a lockdown although it said authorities at the regional level would decide on measures to curb the virus. The virus surge comes as Russia announced it would begin administring the Sputnik V vaccine on a mass scale this month. Putin had said earlier that "around 50 people" in his inner circle had been vaccinated. Authorities have asked those over the over the age of 65 to isolate themselves even as 201 COVID-19 related deaths were reported on Friday with the total death toll climbing to 22,257. Moscow which was the epicentre of the virus earlier has made it mandatory to wear masks. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has asked employers to allow third of its staff to work remotely. Russia had ordered a strict lockdown in March but began lifting restrictions as cases began to drop in May. Moscow, however, reimposed some tough measures last month. Russia now has the fourth-highest confirmed cases of coronavirus in the world.

Russia records highest daily surge in virus as Kremlin rejects lockdown

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