As the coronavirus death toll continued to mount, Britain said today it is set to evacuate nearly 200 citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-in-india-kerala-reports-first-confirmed-case-277500">Also Read:&nbsp;First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive</a>

"We are pleased to have confirmation from the Chinese authorities that the evacuation flight from Wuhan airport to the UK can depart at 0500 local time on Friday, 31 January," UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab said, adding, "the safety and security of British nationals is our top priority."&nbsp;

"Our embassy in Beijing and consular teams remain in close contact with British nationals in the region to ensure they have the latest information they need," Raab added.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-news-india-confirms-first-coronavirus-case-277528/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, An A380 jet left Portugal to repatriate more than 300 EU citizens even as the death toll from the virus climbed to 170 in China.

Several Asian countries sealed their borders to protect the spread of the virus into their country.&nbsp;Hong Kong sealed 14 mainland crossings as Russia declared it was closing its borders with China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-attack-deadly-virus-outbreaks-across-the-world-which-created-panic-in-the-past-276895">In Pics: Deadly virus outbreaks across the world which created panic in the past</a>

Kazakhstan had announced earlier that it had cut off transport links with China over the outbreak. Mongolia too has closed its borders with China to cars and suspended public events.

Nepal's Rasuwagadi checkpoint was closed by authorities on January 29 for 15 days.

Malaysia has banned visitors from Wuhan and surrounding Hubei province with the Maldives banning direct flights from China from Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">Also Read:&nbsp;As death toll climbs, infection spreads to every Chinese region</a>

At least 7,000 people have been&nbsp;infected by the virus. The SARS-like virus which has now spread to 15 countries was first detected on December 8 last year. China informed the WHO on December 31, since then it has spread rapidly both inside China and to other countries.

China had announced the first death from the virus on January 11, a man in Wuhan. The virus has now reached the United States, Nepal, France, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan including India.

As the coronavirus death toll continued to mount, Britain said today it is set to evacuate nearly 200 citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the virus. Also Read: First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive "We are pleased to have confirmation from the Chinese authorities that the evacuation flight from Wuhan airport to the UK can depart at 0500 local time on Friday, 31 January," UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab said, adding, "the safety and security of British nationals is our top priority.

As the coronavirus death toll continued to mount, Britain said today it is set to evacuate nearly 200 citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the virus. Also Read: First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive "We are pleased to have confirmation from the Chinese authorities that the evacuation flight from Wuhan airport to the UK can depart at 0500 local time on Friday, 31 January," UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab said, adding, "the safety and security of British nationals is our top priority." "Our embassy in Beijing and consular teams remain in close contact with British nationals in the region to ensure they have the latest information they need," Raab added. Watch Video: Meanwhile, An A380 jet left Portugal to repatriate more than 300 EU citizens even as the death toll from the virus climbed to 170 in China. Several Asian countries sealed their borders to protect the spread of the virus into their country. Hong Kong sealed 14 mainland crossings as Russia declared it was closing its borders with China. In Pics: Deadly virus outbreaks across the world which created panic in the past Kazakhstan had announced earlier that it had cut off transport links with China over the outbreak. Mongolia too has closed its borders with China to cars and suspended public events. Nepal's Rasuwagadi checkpoint was closed by authorities on January 29 for 15 days. Malaysia has banned visitors from Wuhan and surrounding Hubei province with the Maldives banning direct flights from China from Friday. Also Read: As death toll climbs, infection spreads to every Chinese region At least 7,000 people have been infected by the virus. The SARS-like virus which has now spread to 15 countries was first detected on December 8 last year. China informed the WHO on December 31, since then it has spread rapidly both inside China and to other countries. China had announced the first death from the virus on January 11, a man in Wuhan. The virus has now reached the United States, Nepal, France, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan including India.

Several countries seal border with China as coronavirus death toll increases

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-will-continue-to-strengthen-deep-friendship-with-india-277448">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on Thursday hailed US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deal-signed-amid-trumps-impeachment-277533">Donald Trump</a>'s Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-fund-in-vitro-fertilization-to-boom-to-battle-population-slump-277550">Vladimir&nbsp;Putin</a>.

"I think there's a new and perhaps unique opportunity here," said the Israeli premier, who stood alongside Trump at the White House when the plan was announced Tuesday and called it a victory for Israel.

Trump's plan angered Palestinians by proposing Israel retain control over Jerusalem as its "undivided capital" and giving the green light to annex Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-meet-the-man-behind-middle-east-peace-plan-277295">Jared Kushner: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan</a>

"I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace," Netanyahu told&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;at the start of their Kremlin meeting.

"You're actually the first leader I'm speaking with after my visit to Washington about President Trump's Deal of the Century," he added.

The Russian leader did not mention the peace plan in his public remarks.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump's Middle East 'Peace Plan' rejected by Palestine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-middle-east-peace-plan-rejected-by-palestine-277357/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu, facing graft charges, is contesting March elections and hoping the proposal will boost his re-election chances.

The March 2 vote is Israel's third in less than a year, with polls suggesting the prime minister's rightwing Likud is again neck-and-neck with the centrist Blue and White party led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz.

Netanyahu was visiting Russia on the same day that it released a young US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking over a small amount of cannabis found in her luggage as she transited a Moscow airport.&nbsp;

Her case caused an outcry in Israel and her release came after Netanyahu pleaded her case with&nbsp;Putin, who issued a pardon.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President Vladimir Putin.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President Vladimir Putin. "I think there's a new and perhaps unique opportunity here," said the Israeli premier, who stood alongside Trump at the White House when the plan was announced Tuesday and called it a victory for Israel. Trump's plan angered Palestinians by proposing Israel retain control over Jerusalem as its "undivided capital" and giving the green light to annex Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Also read: Jared Kushner: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan "I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace," Netanyahu told Putin at the start of their Kremlin meeting. "You're actually the first leader I'm speaking with after my visit to Washington about President Trump's Deal of the Century," he added. The Russian leader did not mention the peace plan in his public remarks. Watch: Trump's Middle East 'Peace Plan' rejected by Palestine Netanyahu, facing graft charges, is contesting March elections and hoping the proposal will boost his re-election chances. The March 2 vote is Israel's third in less than a year, with polls suggesting the prime minister's rightwing Likud is again neck-and-neck with the centrist Blue and White party led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz. Netanyahu was visiting Russia on the same day that it released a young US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking over a small amount of cannabis found in her luggage as she transited a Moscow airport. Her case caused an outcry in Israel and her release came after Netanyahu pleaded her case with Putin, who issued a pardon.

Middle East peace plan a new opportunity: Netanyahu to Putin

A US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking in Russia flew into Tel Aviv with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday after she was pardoned by President Vladimir Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-tells-vladimir-putin-mideast-deal-a-new-opportunity-277570">Also Read:&nbsp;Middle East Peace plan a new opportunity: Netanyahu to Putin</a>

Israeli TV stations screened live coverage of 26-year-old Naama Issachar's arrival at Ben Gurion airport, near Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

"I just want to say thank you to everyone for all the support," she said smiling. "Right now I'm still in shock from the whole situation." &nbsp;

Russia freed her from prison shortly before Netanyahu met Putin at the Kremlin to discuss US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan.

Bringing Issachar home after 10 months in prison was a publicity coup for Netanyahu ahead of March 2 elections.

Her fate had sparked a wave of sympathy in Israel, where the veteran premier had pledged to do everything for her release.

She was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport in April 2019 while in transit from India to Israel.

Russian authorities said they found nine grammes (0.3 ounces) of cannabis in her checked luggage and she was sentenced in October to seven and a half years in prison.&nbsp;

Her case was controversial because she was arrested whilst in the airport's transit zone, while the drugs were in her hold luggage.

Netanyahu posted a video on Twitter showing him and his wife hugging and kissing Issachar and her mother at a Moscow airport before their departure.

"We're excited to see you. Now, we're going home," his office quoted Netanyahu as telling Issachar.

&nbsp; 
- 'Didn't cross border' -&nbsp; 
Putin had pardoned Issachar on Wednesday after she submitted a request at the weekend.&nbsp;

"Guided by the principles of humanity, I pardon Naama Issachar," he said in a decree cited by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

The prison service said early Thursday that she had been released from a penal colony in the Moscow region.

Putin told Netanyahu that it was lucky for Issachar that she did not cross the border, suggesting this would have complicated the pardon procedure.

"She -- thank God, it's very good for her -- didn't even cross the Russian border," Putin said, adding that the drugs were found in her luggage while it was being moved from one plane to another.

"Give my very best regards to her, her family and her mum," he told Netanyahu.

In December, Issachar lost an appeal against her sentence, which Netanyahu had described as disproportionate.

During the appeal hearing, Issachar had proclaimed her innocence, denouncing the charges against her as absurd.

After initially refusing to appeal to Putin, on Sunday she signed a request for a pardon.

The Russian leader met Issachar's mother and Netanyahu while visiting Israel last week to commemorate the liberation of the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz 75 years ago.&nbsp;

The Israeli foreign ministry had called the verdict "harsh and disproportionate" and President Reuven Rivlin had appealed to Putin's "mercy and compassion" when asking him to intervene in the case.

Netanyahu and Putin on Thursday also discussed Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, but Putin did not comment on the proposal in front of the reporters.

Netanyahu had stood alongside Trump at the White House when the peace plan was announced Tuesday, and called it a victory for Israel.

He told Putin he was the first foreign leader he had spoken to about the plan, adding: "I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace."

Russia has said it will study Trump's plan and called on Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate directly to find a "mutually acceptable compromise".

A US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking in Russia flew into Tel Aviv with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday after she was pardoned by President Vladimir Putin.

A US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking in Russia flew into Tel Aviv with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday after she was pardoned by President Vladimir Putin. Also Read: Middle East Peace plan a new opportunity: Netanyahu to Putin Israeli TV stations screened live coverage of 26-year-old Naama Issachar's arrival at Ben Gurion airport, near Tel Aviv. "I just want to say thank you to everyone for all the support," she said smiling. "Right now I'm still in shock from the whole situation." Russia freed her from prison shortly before Netanyahu met Putin at the Kremlin to discuss US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan. Bringing Issachar home after 10 months in prison was a publicity coup for Netanyahu ahead of March 2 elections. Her fate had sparked a wave of sympathy in Israel, where the veteran premier had pledged to do everything for her release. She was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport in April 2019 while in transit from India to Israel. Russian authorities said they found nine grammes (0.3 ounces) of cannabis in her checked luggage and she was sentenced in October to seven and a half years in prison. Her case was controversial because she was arrested whilst in the airport's transit zone, while the drugs were in her hold luggage. Netanyahu posted a video on Twitter showing him and his wife hugging and kissing Issachar and her mother at a Moscow airport before their departure. "We're excited to see you. Now, we're going home," his office quoted Netanyahu as telling Issachar. - 'Didn't cross border' - Putin had pardoned Issachar on Wednesday after she submitted a request at the weekend. "Guided by the principles of humanity, I pardon Naama Issachar," he said in a decree cited by the Kremlin. The prison service said early Thursday that she had been released from a penal colony in the Moscow region. Putin told Netanyahu that it was lucky for Issachar that she did not cross the border, suggesting this would have complicated the pardon procedure. "She -- thank God, it's very good for her -- didn't even cross the Russian border," Putin said, adding that the drugs were found in her luggage while it was being moved from one plane to another. "Give my very best regards to her, her family and her mum," he told Netanyahu. In December, Issachar lost an appeal against her sentence, which Netanyahu had described as disproportionate. During the appeal hearing, Issachar had proclaimed her innocence, denouncing the charges against her as absurd. After initially refusing to appeal to Putin, on Sunday she signed a request for a pardon. The Russian leader met Issachar's mother and Netanyahu while visiting Israel last week to commemorate the liberation of the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz 75 years ago. The Israeli foreign ministry had called the verdict "harsh and disproportionate" and President Reuven Rivlin had appealed to Putin's "mercy and compassion" when asking him to intervene in the case. Netanyahu and Putin on Thursday also discussed Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, but Putin did not comment on the proposal in front of the reporters. Netanyahu had stood alongside Trump at the White House when the peace plan was announced Tuesday, and called it a victory for Israel. He told Putin he was the first foreign leader he had spoken to about the plan, adding: "I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace." Russia has said it will study Trump's plan and called on Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate directly to find a "mutually acceptable compromise".

US-Israeli woman pardoned by Putin flies home with PM Netanyahu

Teen climate activist Greta Thunberg and the global protest movement "Fridays for Future" were nominated Thursday for the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize by two Swedish lawmakers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-files-application-to-patent-her-name-and-campaign-fridays-for-future-277459">Also Read:&nbsp;Thunberg files application to patent her name and campaign 'Fridays For Future'</a>

"Greta Thunberg is a climate activist, and the main reason she deserves the Nobel Peace Prize is that despite her young age, she has worked hard to make politicians open their eyes to the climate crisis," Left Party parliamentarians Jens Holm and Hakan Svenneling wrote in a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee.

"The climate crisis will produce new conflicts and ultimately wars. Action for reducing our emissions and complying with the Paris Agreement is therefore also an act of making peace," they said.

The pair added that without the Fridays For Future movement and Greta Thunberg, "the climate issue would not have been on the agenda to such an extent as it is today."&nbsp;

Thunberg, 17, was mentioned as a possible Nobel Peace Prize winner in 2019, when the honour ultimately went to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his efforts to resolve a long-running conflict with neighbouring Eritrea.

In just over a year, the climate activist, who suffers from a form of autism called Asperger's, has become the voice of a generation haunted by the climate crisis.

She began her "School Strike for the Climate" outside the Swedish parliament in August 2018, and has since inspired and mobilised millions of young people to get involved.

Nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize must be submitted by February 1 to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Thousands of people are eligible to propose candidates, including former laureates, some university professors, lawmakers and government ministers around the world, and current and former Norwegian Nobel Committee members.

The committee never reveals the names of the nominees, but those who propose candidates are allowed to disclose their choice.

Teen climate activist Greta Thunberg and the global protest movement "Fridays for Future" were nominated Thursday for the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize by two Swedish lawmakers.

Teen climate activist Greta Thunberg and the global protest movement "Fridays for Future" were nominated Thursday for the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize by two Swedish lawmakers. Also Read: Thunberg files application to patent her name and campaign 'Fridays For Future' "Greta Thunberg is a climate activist, and the main reason she deserves the Nobel Peace Prize is that despite her young age, she has worked hard to make politicians open their eyes to the climate crisis," Left Party parliamentarians Jens Holm and Hakan Svenneling wrote in a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. "The climate crisis will produce new conflicts and ultimately wars. Action for reducing our emissions and complying with the Paris Agreement is therefore also an act of making peace," they said. The pair added that without the Fridays For Future movement and Greta Thunberg, "the climate issue would not have been on the agenda to such an extent as it is today." Thunberg, 17, was mentioned as a possible Nobel Peace Prize winner in 2019, when the honour ultimately went to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his efforts to resolve a long-running conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. In just over a year, the climate activist, who suffers from a form of autism called Asperger's, has become the voice of a generation haunted by the climate crisis. She began her "School Strike for the Climate" outside the Swedish parliament in August 2018, and has since inspired and mobilised millions of young people to get involved. Nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize must be submitted by February 1 to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Thousands of people are eligible to propose candidates, including former laureates, some university professors, lawmakers and government ministers around the world, and current and former Norwegian Nobel Committee members. The committee never reveals the names of the nominees, but those who propose candidates are allowed to disclose their choice.

Swedish lawmakers nominate Greta Thunberg for Nobel Peace Prize

Defending champion Novak Djokovic easily beat Roger Federer in the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2020-dominic-thiem-beats-rafael-nadal-to-enter-semi-finals-277380">Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals</a>

Djokovic beat Federer in straight sets 7-6(7-1), 6-4, 6-3 to enter the finals of the tournament.

Djokovic kept Federer at bay throughout the match and although served lesser aces than the Swiss (15 against 11), the Serb held on to win the match effortlessly in the end.

Djokovic broke Federer on four occasions to clinch the three sets even as Federer failed to keep pace with the Serbian champion.

"It's never easy to play Roger. I mean, obviously he was hurting. You could see it in his movement. Respect to him for trying his best," Djokovic said after winning the match.

"After losing the first set, he got a medical (timeout). He came back and played all the way through. It's unfortunate that he was not at his best," the defending champion said.

This was the duo's fiftieth&nbsp;clash. Federer, 38, had beaten 100th-ranked Tennys Sandgren on Tuesday at Melbourne Park to set up a clash against Djokovic.

"Today was horrible, to go through what I did. Nice entrance, nice sendoff, and in between is one to forget because you know you have a three per cent chance to win,"&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"It's frustrating. (But) I don't think I would have gone on court if I felt like I had no chance to win. We saw I was still being able to make a match out of it," he added.&nbsp;

Seven-time Australian Open champion Djokovic who has been in fine form had beaten Milos Raonic 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/1) in the quarter-finals.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic easily beat Roger Federer in the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Thursday. Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals Djokovic beat Federer in straight sets 7-6(7-1), 6-4, 6-3 to enter the finals of the tournament.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic easily beat Roger Federer in the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Thursday. Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals Djokovic beat Federer in straight sets 7-6(7-1), 6-4, 6-3 to enter the finals of the tournament. Djokovic kept Federer at bay throughout the match and although served lesser aces than the Swiss (15 against 11), the Serb held on to win the match effortlessly in the end. Djokovic broke Federer on four occasions to clinch the three sets even as Federer failed to keep pace with the Serbian champion. "It's never easy to play Roger. I mean, obviously he was hurting. You could see it in his movement. Respect to him for trying his best," Djokovic said after winning the match. "After losing the first set, he got a medical (timeout). He came back and played all the way through. It's unfortunate that he was not at his best," the defending champion said. This was the duo's fiftieth clash. Federer, 38, had beaten 100th-ranked Tennys Sandgren on Tuesday at Melbourne Park to set up a clash against Djokovic. "Today was horrible, to go through what I did. Nice entrance, nice sendoff, and in between is one to forget because you know you have a three per cent chance to win," Federer said. "It's frustrating. (But) I don't think I would have gone on court if I felt like I had no chance to win. We saw I was still being able to make a match out of it," he added. Seven-time Australian Open champion Djokovic who has been in fine form had beaten Milos Raonic 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/1) in the quarter-finals.

Djokovic overpowers Federer to enter Australian Open final

Facebook shares came under heavy selling pressure Thursday as the latest earnings report for the leading social network highlighted mushrooming costs in dealing with privacy, abuse and misinformation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-sued-in-us-federal-court-for-alleged-anti-competitive-conduct-274773">Also Read:&nbsp;Facebook sued in US federal court for alleged anti competitive conduct</a>

Shares plunged seven per cent in opening trade to $207.57 as investors soured on Facebook even after a fourth quarter update largely in line with analyst estimates.

Profit rose seven per cent from a year ago to $7.3 billion, while revenue increased 25 per cent to $21 billion in the final three months of last year, the update showed.

The number of people using Facebook monthly climbed eight per cent to 2.5 billion. For all its apps including Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp, the figure was 2.89 billion.

Some analysts said the results pointed to weaker growth ahead for Facebook.

"The spectre of slowing growth took the edge off what has been an excellent run for the shares during 2019," said independent analyst Richard Windsor on his Radio Free Mobile blog.

"Despite the seemingly endless series of leaks and scandals, growth had remained strong, but some cracks are finally beginning to show."

Highlighting those concerns, Facebook acknowledged it agreed to pay a $550 million settlement in a class action suit based on allegations that users' biometric data was illegally gathered using photo-scanning technology and then stored.&nbsp;

The lawsuit stemmed from an Illinois law on biometric privacy, underscoring concerns on the costs of dealing with a range of data protection measures in Europe, California and elsewhere.

Analyst Michael Levine of Pivotal Research Group downgraded Facebook after the earnings reporting, citing weaker-than-expected ad revenues and "headwinds" that could limit its ability to collect data for targeted ads, the largest source of revenue.

"More of the headwinds are ahead of us rather than behind us," Levine said in a research note.

Investors appear concerned about the continuing increases in the amount of money Facebook spends as it pours resources into protecting privacy and preventing the network from being used as a platform for hate speech, abuse, and disinformation.

Costs in the recently ended fourth quarter rose 34 percent to $12.2 billion. Facebook ended the year with its employee ranks up 26 per cent to nearly 45,000.

Facebook is likely to see pressure from privacy rules hobbling the company's ability to effectively target its money-making ads.

Chief financial officer David Wehner told analysts the company expects revenue growth to slow, in part due to regulations and "other ad-targeting related headwinds."

Recent data privacy regulations in Europe and California as well as enhancements to browser or operating system software from Google and Apple, along with tools added by Facebook itself, are expected to limit the ability of the social network to use "signals" from third-party websites to more finely target ads, Wehner said.

Chief executive Mark Zuckerberg welcomed what he called "a good quarter and a strong end to the year" while noting that the company had much work to do.

He said Facebook was ramping up efforts to comply with a record $5 billion settlement with the US Federal Trade Commission on privacy controls while also fighting manipulation efforts during the US election campaign.

"As part of our FTC settlement, we committed to building privacy controls and auditing that will set a new standard for our industry -- going beyond anything that's required by law today," Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.

"We're very focused on election integrity -- and this is an area where I'm proud of the progress we've made preventing foreign interference.&nbsp;

"We were behind in 2016, but after working to protect elections in countries across the world from the EU to India to Mexico to the US midterms for the past few years, we think our systems are now more advanced than any other company."

- Some still upbeat - 
Some analysts remained upbeat on Facebook, noting that advertising revenues, &nbsp;the vast majority of cash it generates, rose 25 percent at $20.7 billion in the quarter.&nbsp;

Morningstar analyst Ali Mogharabi said Facebook still has a "moat" as the largest social network, which will attract advertisers.

"The growth in users and user engagement, along with the valuable data that they generate, makes Facebook attractive to advertisers in the short and long term," Mogharabi said in a note to clients.

Debra Aho Williamson said Facebook has been able to maintain momentum despite a barrage of criticism and regulatory issues.

"Despite all of the concerns that have been swirling around the company in the past two years, it beat expectations on revenue, and it demonstrated continued growth in its user base," she said.

Facebook shares came under heavy selling pressure Thursday as the latest earnings report for the leading social network highlighted mushrooming costs in dealing with privacy, abuse and misinformation.

Facebook shares came under heavy selling pressure Thursday as the latest earnings report for the leading social network highlighted mushrooming costs in dealing with privacy, abuse and misinformation. Also Read: Facebook sued in US federal court for alleged anti competitive conduct Shares plunged seven per cent in opening trade to $207.57 as investors soured on Facebook even after a fourth quarter update largely in line with analyst estimates. Profit rose seven per cent from a year ago to $7.3 billion, while revenue increased 25 per cent to $21 billion in the final three months of last year, the update showed. The number of people using Facebook monthly climbed eight per cent to 2.5 billion. For all its apps including Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp, the figure was 2.89 billion. Some analysts said the results pointed to weaker growth ahead for Facebook. "The spectre of slowing growth took the edge off what has been an excellent run for the shares during 2019," said independent analyst Richard Windsor on his Radio Free Mobile blog. "Despite the seemingly endless series of leaks and scandals, growth had remained strong, but some cracks are finally beginning to show." Highlighting those concerns, Facebook acknowledged it agreed to pay a $550 million settlement in a class action suit based on allegations that users' biometric data was illegally gathered using photo-scanning technology and then stored. The lawsuit stemmed from an Illinois law on biometric privacy, underscoring concerns on the costs of dealing with a range of data protection measures in Europe, California and elsewhere. Analyst Michael Levine of Pivotal Research Group downgraded Facebook after the earnings reporting, citing weaker-than-expected ad revenues and "headwinds" that could limit its ability to collect data for targeted ads, the largest source of revenue. "More of the headwinds are ahead of us rather than behind us," Levine said in a research note. Investors appear concerned about the continuing increases in the amount of money Facebook spends as it pours resources into protecting privacy and preventing the network from being used as a platform for hate speech, abuse, and disinformation. Costs in the recently ended fourth quarter rose 34 percent to $12.2 billion. Facebook ended the year with its employee ranks up 26 per cent to nearly 45,000. Facebook is likely to see pressure from privacy rules hobbling the company's ability to effectively target its money-making ads. Chief financial officer David Wehner told analysts the company expects revenue growth to slow, in part due to regulations and "other ad-targeting related headwinds." Recent data privacy regulations in Europe and California as well as enhancements to browser or operating system software from Google and Apple, along with tools added by Facebook itself, are expected to limit the ability of the social network to use "signals" from third-party websites to more finely target ads, Wehner said. Chief executive Mark Zuckerberg welcomed what he called "a good quarter and a strong end to the year" while noting that the company had much work to do. He said Facebook was ramping up efforts to comply with a record $5 billion settlement with the US Federal Trade Commission on privacy controls while also fighting manipulation efforts during the US election campaign. "As part of our FTC settlement, we committed to building privacy controls and auditing that will set a new standard for our industry -- going beyond anything that's required by law today," Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page. "We're very focused on election integrity -- and this is an area where I'm proud of the progress we've made preventing foreign interference. "We were behind in 2016, but after working to protect elections in countries across the world from the EU to India to Mexico to the US midterms for the past few years, we think our systems are now more advanced than any other company." - Some still upbeat - Some analysts remained upbeat on Facebook, noting that advertising revenues, the vast majority of cash it generates, rose 25 percent at $20.7 billion in the quarter. Morningstar analyst Ali Mogharabi said Facebook still has a "moat" as the largest social network, which will attract advertisers. "The growth in users and user engagement, along with the valuable data that they generate, makes Facebook attractive to advertisers in the short and long term," Mogharabi said in a note to clients. Debra Aho Williamson said Facebook has been able to maintain momentum despite a barrage of criticism and regulatory issues. "Despite all of the concerns that have been swirling around the company in the past two years, it beat expectations on revenue, and it demonstrated continued growth in its user base," she said.

Facebook shares plunge over surge in quarterly expenses

The United Nations said recently that its offices in Geneva and Vienna were targeted by a "well-resourced" cyber attack in the middle of last year that exposed a list of user accounts.

The hack targeted an active user directory, which contained the&nbsp;IDs of the UN staff and devices.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-instructs-officials-not-to-use-whatsapp-not-supported-as-a-secure-mechanism-says-spokesman-276367">Also Read: UN instructs officials not to use WhatsApp</a>

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, however, added that "the damage related to the specific attack has been contained and additional measures implemented."

Hackers reportedly targeted the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) which collects data on rights abuses across the world.

"The UN responds to multiple attacks at various levels of sophistication on a daily basis, this particular attack is not a landmark event," the spokesman added.

The world body said the hackers "did not compromise sensitive information" while adding that it faces "frequent attempts to access our computer systems".

Post the unprecedented cyber hack, additional mitigation measures have been implemented by the UN amid continuing threats of future attacks.&nbsp;

In June last year, the UN world body had directed its officials not to use WhatsApp to communicate because of it not qualifying as a secured mechanism.&nbsp;

Headquartered in New York, the United Nations has its offices in Geneva, home to to the Human Rights Council, the High Commissioner for human rights, the World Health Organization and the World Trade Organization.

The United Nations said recently that its offices in Geneva and Vienna were targeted by a "well-resourced" cyber attack in the middle of last year that exposed a list of user accounts.

The United Nations said recently that its offices in Geneva and Vienna were targeted by a "well-resourced" cyber attack in the middle of last year that exposed a list of user accounts. The hack targeted an active user directory, which contained the IDs of the UN staff and devices. Also Read: UN instructs officials not to use WhatsApp UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, however, added that "the damage related to the specific attack has been contained and additional measures implemented." Hackers reportedly targeted the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) which collects data on rights abuses across the world. "The UN responds to multiple attacks at various levels of sophistication on a daily basis, this particular attack is not a landmark event," the spokesman added. The world body said the hackers "did not compromise sensitive information" while adding that it faces "frequent attempts to access our computer systems". Post the unprecedented cyber hack, additional mitigation measures have been implemented by the UN amid continuing threats of future attacks. In June last year, the UN world body had directed its officials not to use WhatsApp to communicate because of it not qualifying as a secured mechanism. Headquartered in New York, the United Nations has its offices in Geneva, home to to the Human Rights Council, the High Commissioner for human rights, the World Health Organization and the World Trade Organization.

United Nations confirms Geneva, Vienna offices hacked

Sri Lanka's central bank Thursday announced a 50 basis point cut in its benchmark interest rates, the third reduction since the Easter bombings that killed at least 269 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-shakes-up-intelligence-agency-after-easter-attacks-267208">Also Read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka shakes up intelligence agency after Easter attacks</a>

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) said it was reducing its lending rate from 8.0 per cent to 7.5 per cent while the deposit rate was also cut by 50 basis points to 6.5 per cent.

It said the two previous rates cuts of 50 basis points each since the April 21 suicide bombings against three churches and three luxury hotels had not adequately brought down market interest rates for consumers.

The Monetary Board of the CBSL "was of the view that it is essential that market lending rates reduce further in order to support the envisaged pickup in credit growth and economic activity," the bank said in a statement.

It said tourism had picked up after the devastating Easter bombings, but the number of tourist arrivals and income from the sector was below 2018 levels.

Sri Lanka's new government which came to power in November has also initiated several schemes to freeze repayments on bank loans of local companies affected by the downturn following the attacks.

The bank said domestic economic activity remained subdued last year, but it expected a revival after a raft of stimulus measures announced by the government to help private enterprises.

Sri Lanka's growth picked up to 2.7 per cent in the third quarter of last year compared to 1.5 per cent in the previous quarter, but down from 3.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2018.

Sri Lanka expects growth of about 3.0 to 3.5 per cent in calendar 2020.

Sri Lanka's central bank Thursday announced a 50 basis point cut in its benchmark interest rates, the third reduction since the Easter bombings that killed at least 269 people.

Sri Lanka's central bank Thursday announced a 50 basis point cut in its benchmark interest rates, the third reduction since the Easter bombings that killed at least 269 people. Also Read: Sri Lanka shakes up intelligence agency after Easter attacks The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) said it was reducing its lending rate from 8.0 per cent to 7.5 per cent while the deposit rate was also cut by 50 basis points to 6.5 per cent. It said the two previous rates cuts of 50 basis points each since the April 21 suicide bombings against three churches and three luxury hotels had not adequately brought down market interest rates for consumers. The Monetary Board of the CBSL "was of the view that it is essential that market lending rates reduce further in order to support the envisaged pickup in credit growth and economic activity," the bank said in a statement. It said tourism had picked up after the devastating Easter bombings, but the number of tourist arrivals and income from the sector was below 2018 levels. Sri Lanka's new government which came to power in November has also initiated several schemes to freeze repayments on bank loans of local companies affected by the downturn following the attacks. The bank said domestic economic activity remained subdued last year, but it expected a revival after a raft of stimulus measures announced by the government to help private enterprises. Sri Lanka's growth picked up to 2.7 per cent in the third quarter of last year compared to 1.5 per cent in the previous quarter, but down from 3.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2018. Sri Lanka expects growth of about 3.0 to 3.5 per cent in calendar 2020.

Sri Lanka announces third rate cut since Easter bombings to boost economy

A new coronavirus that has killed 170 people in China and spread to over a dozen other countries has roiled global commodity markets, raising fears of weaker demand and disrupting raw material supply chains in the world's most populous country.

A new coronavirus that has killed 170 people in China and spread to over a dozen other countries has roiled global commodity markets, raising fears of weaker demand and disrupting raw material supply chains in the world's most populous country. All but around 100 of the nearly 8,000 cases so far identified have been in mainland China, but the virus has caused global alarm because it is still too early to know how dangerous it is and how easily it spreads among people. The World Health Organisation will meet on Thursday to decide whether its rapid spread amounts to a global health emergency. Commodity Markets impacted the most Oil prices slumped to 3-month lows this week in response to the widening spread of the virus in China, the world's top oil importer, prompting OPEC to look to extend current oil output cuts until at least June from March, as well as consider deeper cuts if oil demand is badly hit. China is the second-largest oil refiner and a critical growth engine for the global economy, so any material contraction in Chinese economic activity is expected to have far-reaching repercussions across several industries. The aviation sector was a high-profile coronavirus casualty, with scores of flights to and from China cancelled this week. Jet fuel prices and production margins in Asia slumped in response, hurting refiners and fuel exporters. Greatly reduced mobility within China also hit gasoline demand, with Asia's benchmark gasoline price falling the most in four years on Tuesday. Also Read: Barclays sees $2 per barrel impact to oil prices as virus fears threaten demand Other commodity markets affected Palm oil prices slumped as much as 10% on Tuesday as traders reacted to the widening shutdowns of offices, malls, and factories within China. Palm oil is used mainly in food courts and by catering companies in China, the second-largest palm importer behind India, so reduced consumption is expected over the near to medium term. Base metals have also taken a hit as manufacturing plants and factories take protracted Lunar New Year breaks while they assess the fallout from the virus. Toyota Motor Corp and other firms announced extended plant shutdowns. Industrial bellwether copper fell to near a fourth-month on Thursday and was set for an 11th straight session of losses on fears of an economic slowdown in the world's top metals consumer. Commodities futures exchanges have also remained shut longer than planned due to the virus, with the Shanghai Futures Exchange (ShFE) and Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) announcing extended closures. Gold has won some support during a time of uncertainty, hitting a three-week high early in the week, and analysts expect the precious metal to remain bid while worries about the virus persist.

Coronavirus in China impacts global commodity market

South Korean battery maker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-aged-21-phones-are-a-greater-threat-than-guns-in-vermont-273423">Samsung</a> SDI Co Ltd said on Thursday its first-quarter earnings could be negatively affected by a virus outbreak in China.

The total number of confirmed deaths from the virus in China had risen by 38 to 170 as of Wednesday, and the number of infected patients had risen to over 7,700.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/the-transformation-tale-of-mobile-phones-how-we-evolved-from-nokia-3310-to-samsung-galaxy-fold-271299">Samsung</a> SDI, an affiliate of South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, counts Volvo and Volkswagen among its customers.

<img alt="Samsung" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54388805-24c3-4d63-ba45-10cc68d8944a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2815%29_11.jpg" /> 
[ A customer stands near Samsung logo during Galaxy Note 8 consumer launch event (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apples-iphone-sales-in-china-up-18-in-december-sources-273217">Apple's iPhone sales in China up 18 per cent in December: Report</a>

Meanwhile, &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-supplier-japan-display-to-receive-830-million-from-asset-manager-ichigo-267874">Apple</a> said it had baked into its outlook uncertainty related to a virus outbreak in China that has killed 132 and infected nearly 6,000. Companies also asked the staff there to work from home.

Apple closed one of its retail stores in China, reduced hours at others and prevented employees from travelling.

South Korean battery maker Samsung SDI Co Ltd said on Thursday its first-quarter earnings could be negatively affected by a virus outbreak in China. The total number of confirmed deaths from the virus in China had risen by 38 to 170 as of Wednesday, and the number of infected patients had risen to over 7,700.

South Korean battery maker Samsung SDI Co Ltd said on Thursday its first-quarter earnings could be negatively affected by a virus outbreak in China. The total number of confirmed deaths from the virus in China had risen by 38 to 170 as of Wednesday, and the number of infected patients had risen to over 7,700. Samsung SDI, an affiliate of South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, counts Volvo and Volkswagen among its customers. [ A customer stands near Samsung logo during Galaxy Note 8 consumer launch event (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Also Read: Apple's iPhone sales in China up 18 per cent in December: Report Meanwhile, Apple said it had baked into its outlook uncertainty related to a virus outbreak in China that has killed 132 and infected nearly 6,000. Companies also asked the staff there to work from home. Apple closed one of its retail stores in China, reduced hours at others and prevented employees from travelling.

Apple prepares for Coronavirus fallout, Samsung fears it may affect earnings

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-critical-picture-in-restaurant-goes-viral-274259">Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif</a> to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported.

In a letter written by the provincial Home Department, dated January 28, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-decision-to-extend-nawaz-sharifs-stay-abroad-due-next-week-270782">Sharif </a>has been asked to submit the requisite reports, failing&nbsp;which the concerned authorities would decide on his application, seeking an extension of his stay abroad, based on existing records.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/forced-conversions-grow-in-pakistan-minorities-face-discrimination-277229">Forced conversions grow in Pakistan, Minorities face discrimination</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-punjab-govt-constitutes-committee-to-decide-on-nawazs-stay-abroad-270263">Sharif </a>had gone to London in November 2019 after the government gave him one-time permission to travel abroad for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds.

In December, last year, the former Prime Minister had sought an extension in his stay abroad on the expiry of the four weeks granted by the Lahore High Court.

Earlier this month, a picture of Sharif at a restaurant in London had gone viral following which Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government leaders have raised questions over the 'critical' nature of his health.

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported.

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported. In a letter written by the provincial Home Department, dated January 28, Sharif has been asked to submit the requisite reports, failing which the concerned authorities would decide on his application, seeking an extension of his stay abroad, based on existing records. Also Read: Forced conversions grow in Pakistan, Minorities face discrimination Sharif had gone to London in November 2019 after the government gave him one-time permission to travel abroad for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds. In December, last year, the former Prime Minister had sought an extension in his stay abroad on the expiry of the four weeks granted by the Lahore High Court. Earlier this month, a picture of Sharif at a restaurant in London had gone viral following which Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government leaders have raised questions over the 'critical' nature of his health.

Pak: Punjab govt seeks fresh medical reports from Nawaz Sharif within 3 days

Airstrikes&nbsp;killed 10 civilians near a bakery and a medical clinic in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-bombing-kills-7-in-syrias-rebel-held-azaz-monitor-276730">Syria</a>'s rebel-held Idlib region on Thursday, as government forces kept up a ground offensive.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Russian warplanes hit the Idlib province town of Ariha, but the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-fund-in-vitro-fertilization-to-boom-to-battle-population-slump-277550">Russian </a>defence ministry said its "aviation did not carry out any combat tasks in this area of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-bombing-kills-7-in-syrias-rebel-held-azaz-monitor-276730">Syria</a>."

The government and its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-fund-in-vitro-fertilization-to-boom-to-battle-population-slump-277550">Russian</a> allies have upped their deadly bombardment of Syria's last major rebel bastion, slowly chipping away at it from the south.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-bombing-kills-7-in-syrias-rebel-held-azaz-monitor-276730">Car bombing kills 7 in Syria's rebel-held Azaz</a>

Rebel-held territory has shrunk to just over half of Idlib province, along with slivers of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia, following a series of government gains.

Early on Thursday, Russian airstrikes hit near a bakery and the Al-Shami clinic in Ariha which is now out of service, the Observatory said.

The monitor says it determines whose planes carried out strikes according to type, location, flight patterns and munitions.

Nearby, three entire buildings had collapsed and several vehicles were reduced to mangled wrecks.&nbsp;

Ground offensive 

The latest deaths bring to 21 the number of civilians killed by Russian airstrikes in Idlib since Wednesday, the Observatory said.

Earlier this month, Russia denied launching any combat operations in the region since a ceasefire it agreed with rebel supporter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/baby-born-as-earthquake-rocks-turkey-276939">Turkey</a> went into effect on January 12.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-pulled-from-rubble-as-turkey-quake-toll-hits-35-276666">Dozens pulled from rubble as Turkey quake toll hits 35</a>

But the truce has since become a dead letter and the number of reported Russian raids has risen sharply in an area dominated by jihadists of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance.&nbsp;

Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-states-that-haftar-cannot-be-expected-to-respect-libya-truce-276633">Recep Tayyip Erdogan </a>accused Moscow&nbsp;on Wednesday of "not honouring" several deals intended to avert a broad military offensive in the area.

It was a rare critical remark from Erdogan, who has largely sought to keep good relations with Russian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/vladimir-putin-a-brief-profile-of-the-russian-president-728">Vladimir Putin</a> since a 2016 rapprochement.

Thousands of Russian troops are deployed across Syria in support of the army, while a contingent of Russian private security personnel also operates on the ground.

Moscow's military intervention in 2015, four years into the Syrian conflict, helped keep <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/efforts-to-return-syrias-bashar-al-assad-to-arab-fold-amount-to-hollow-victory-for-autocrats-186828">President Bashar al-Assad</a> in power and started a long, bloody reconquest of territory lost to rebels in the early stages of the war.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-strikes-in-syria-kill-12-civilians-monitor-275774">Russian air strikes in Syria kill 12 civilians</a>

Government forces pushed north from Maaret al-Numan, on Thursday towards the town of Saraqib, whose residents have mostly fled in the face of heavy bombardment.

The front line is now within five kilometres of the town, the Observatory said.&nbsp;

Both Maarat al-Numan and Saraqib lie on the key M5 highway connecting the capital Damascus to&nbsp;second city Aleppo.

The road has been in the government's sights as it seeks to revive a moribund economy ravaged by almost nine years of war.

Some 50 kilometres of the M5 remain outside regime control, the Britain-based Observatory said.

Airstrikes killed 10 civilians near a bakery and a medical clinic in Syria's rebel-held Idlib region on Thursday, as government forces kept up a ground offensive.

Airstrikes killed 10 civilians near a bakery and a medical clinic in Syria's rebel-held Idlib region on Thursday, as government forces kept up a ground offensive. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Russian warplanes hit the Idlib province town of Ariha, but the Russian defence ministry said its "aviation did not carry out any combat tasks in this area of Syria." The government and its Russian allies have upped their deadly bombardment of Syria's last major rebel bastion, slowly chipping away at it from the south. Also read: Car bombing kills 7 in Syria's rebel-held Azaz Rebel-held territory has shrunk to just over half of Idlib province, along with slivers of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia, following a series of government gains. Early on Thursday, Russian airstrikes hit near a bakery and the Al-Shami clinic in Ariha which is now out of service, the Observatory said. The monitor says it determines whose planes carried out strikes according to type, location, flight patterns and munitions. Nearby, three entire buildings had collapsed and several vehicles were reduced to mangled wrecks. Ground offensive The latest deaths bring to 21 the number of civilians killed by Russian airstrikes in Idlib since Wednesday, the Observatory said. Earlier this month, Russia denied launching any combat operations in the region since a ceasefire it agreed with rebel supporter Turkey went into effect on January 12. Also read: Dozens pulled from rubble as Turkey quake toll hits 35 But the truce has since become a dead letter and the number of reported Russian raids has risen sharply in an area dominated by jihadists of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Moscow on Wednesday of "not honouring" several deals intended to avert a broad military offensive in the area. It was a rare critical remark from Erdogan, who has largely sought to keep good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin since a 2016 rapprochement. Thousands of Russian troops are deployed across Syria in support of the army, while a contingent of Russian private security personnel also operates on the ground. Moscow's military intervention in 2015, four years into the Syrian conflict, helped keep President Bashar al-Assad in power and started a long, bloody reconquest of territory lost to rebels in the early stages of the war. Also read: Russian air strikes in Syria kill 12 civilians Government forces pushed north from Maaret al-Numan, on Thursday towards the town of Saraqib, whose residents have mostly fled in the face of heavy bombardment. The front line is now within five kilometres of the town, the Observatory said. Both Maarat al-Numan and Saraqib lie on the key M5 highway connecting the capital Damascus to second city Aleppo. The road has been in the government's sights as it seeks to revive a moribund economy ravaged by almost nine years of war. Some 50 kilometres of the M5 remain outside regime control, the Britain-based Observatory said.

Air strikes kill at least 10 in Syria's Idlib as government forces continue offensive

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