Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The company said that the application was based on data from clinical trials on all variants of COVID-19 and if sanctioned, they will deliver the doses by September.&nbsp;

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The BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron have been the main reasons behind the latest surge of COVID-19 cases around the world. However, the fatality rate has gone down drastically and last week, Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech also sought US authorisation for their booster shot for the subvariants.&nbsp;

While Moderna’s booster shot will be available for emergency use among people who are 18 years old or above, Pfizer said that their product can be used by people above 12 years. &nbsp;

The booster shot designed by Moderna to combat the BA.1 Omicron variant has already been approved in the United Kingdom and it was also a part of their application to the FDA. The company told Reuters that they are looking to release both drugs at the same time in the US after the approval arrives.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-facing-worst-drought-in-almost-500-years-new-report-claims-509617">Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims</a>

The race among the companies to produce the new booster shots was sparked by the announcement of renewed vaccination drives by countries like the US and UK in the next few months. &nbsp;

While the number of cases is currently under control, most countries are trying to safeguard themselves from future surges.&nbsp;The FDA had earlier said that human testing is not mandatory for new shots.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.

Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The company said that the application was based on data from clinical trials on all variants of COVID-19 and if sanctioned, they will deliver the doses by September. ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia The BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron have been the main reasons behind the latest surge of COVID-19 cases around the world. However, the fatality rate has gone down drastically and last week, Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech also sought US authorisation for their booster shot for the subvariants. While Moderna’s booster shot will be available for emergency use among people who are 18 years old or above, Pfizer said that their product can be used by people above 12 years. The booster shot designed by Moderna to combat the BA.1 Omicron variant has already been approved in the United Kingdom and it was also a part of their application to the FDA. The company told Reuters that they are looking to release both drugs at the same time in the US after the approval arrives. ALSO READ | Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims The race among the companies to produce the new booster shots was sparked by the announcement of renewed vaccination drives by countries like the US and UK in the next few months. While the number of cases is currently under control, most countries are trying to safeguard themselves from future surges. The FDA had earlier said that human testing is not mandatory for new shots. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Moderna seeks FDA approval for booster shot aimed at Omicron BA.4, BA.5

A new report by a European Union agency claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property.&nbsp;

"The severe drought affecting many regions of Europe since the beginning of the year has been further expanding and worsening as of early August," the report said according to Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-vows-to-retake-annexed-crimea-from-russia-509597" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia</a>

The report, which was published by the European Drought Observatory (EDO), also claimed that the western part of Europe can face extremely warm weather till the end of November.&nbsp;

The wildfires in Greece, Spain and France have caused a lot of concern for the authorities in the past couple of months and the ongoing drought has also affected the production of crops. &nbsp;

It is evident from the fact that grain maze and soybean (two of the major summer crops) production in Europe has fallen by 16 and 15 per cent respectively due to lack of moisture in the soil.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-bolsonaro-businessmen-accused-of-coup-talk-raided-by-brazilian-police-509601">Pro-Bolsonaro businessmen accused of coup talk raided by Brazilian police</a>

“The combination of a severe drought and heatwaves has created an unprecedented stress on water levels in the entire EU,” European Innovation Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are currently noticing a wildfire season sensibly above the average and an important impact on crops production,” she added according to CNBC.&nbsp;

The report stated that "47 per cent of Europe is under warning conditions and 17 per cent in a state of alert”. It also claimed that if the trend continues, this can be one of the worst droughts in history.&nbsp;

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A new report by a European Union agency claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property.

A new report by a European Union agency claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property. "The severe drought affecting many regions of Europe since the beginning of the year has been further expanding and worsening as of early August," the report said according to Reuters. ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia The report, which was published by the European Drought Observatory (EDO), also claimed that the western part of Europe can face extremely warm weather till the end of November. The wildfires in Greece, Spain and France have caused a lot of concern for the authorities in the past couple of months and the ongoing drought has also affected the production of crops. It is evident from the fact that grain maze and soybean (two of the major summer crops) production in Europe has fallen by 16 and 15 per cent respectively due to lack of moisture in the soil. ALSO READ | Pro-Bolsonaro businessmen accused of coup talk raided by Brazilian police “The combination of a severe drought and heatwaves has created an unprecedented stress on water levels in the entire EU,” European Innovation Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said in a statement. “We are currently noticing a wildfire season sensibly above the average and an important impact on crops production,” she added according to CNBC. The report stated that "47 per cent of Europe is under warning conditions and 17 per cent in a state of alert”. It also claimed that if the trend continues, this can be one of the worst droughts in history. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims

Thailand's Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha from official duties on Wednesday, after deciding to hear a petition to review his legally mandated eight-year term limit.&nbsp;

The petition was filed by the main opposition party, which argued that Prayuth's time spent as head of a military junta after he staged a coup when he was army chief in 2014 should count towards his constitutionally stipulated eight-year term.

Though Prayuth could be restored to his position when the court makes its ruling, his surprise suspension threw Thai politics into confusion.

Prayuth will have 15 days to respond, the court told media in a statement, adding that a panel of judges ruled five to four in favour of his suspension, starting from Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-facing-worst-drought-in-almost-500-years-new-report-claims-509617">Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims</a>

"The court has considered the petition and related documents and sees that the facts from the petition are cause for questioning as demanded," it said.&nbsp;

Deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan is expected to take over as interim leader, another deputy prime minister, Wissanu Krea-ngam, told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;

It was not clear when the court would deliver a final ruling on the petition.

Prayuth ruled as head of a military council after he overthrew an elected government in 2014, and became a civilian prime minister in 2019, following an election held under a military-drafted constitution.

In its request for review, the main opposition party has argued that Prayuth should leave office this month because his time as junta chief should count towards his term.

Nearly two-thirds of Thais also want Prayuth out of office by this month, a recent poll showed.

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But some supporters argue his term started in 2017, when a new constitution took effect, or after the 2019 election, meaning that he should be allowed to stay in power until 2025 or 2027, if elected.

The controversy is the latest in a country that suffered intermittent political turmoil for nearly two decades, including two coups and violent protests, stemming broadly from opposition to military involvement in politics and demands for greater representation as political awareness grows.&nbsp;

Pro-democracy activists have campaigned against Prayuth and his government, arguing that the 2019 election was not legitimate.

But student-led demonstrations petered out over the past couple of years, with the imposition of COVID-19 bans on gatherings. Activists gathered in Bangkok on Tuesday calling on the court to suspend Prayuth.&nbsp;

Thailand's next general election is due by May next year.

Thailand's Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha from official duties on Wednesday, after deciding to hear a petition to review his legally mandated eight-year term limit.

Thailand's Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha from official duties on Wednesday, after deciding to hear a petition to review his legally mandated eight-year term limit. The petition was filed by the main opposition party, which argued that Prayuth's time spent as head of a military junta after he staged a coup when he was army chief in 2014 should count towards his constitutionally stipulated eight-year term. Though Prayuth could be restored to his position when the court makes its ruling, his surprise suspension threw Thai politics into confusion. Prayuth will have 15 days to respond, the court told media in a statement, adding that a panel of judges ruled five to four in favour of his suspension, starting from Wednesday. ALSO READ | Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims "The court has considered the petition and related documents and sees that the facts from the petition are cause for questioning as demanded," it said. Deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan is expected to take over as interim leader, another deputy prime minister, Wissanu Krea-ngam, told reporters on Monday. It was not clear when the court would deliver a final ruling on the petition. Prayuth ruled as head of a military council after he overthrew an elected government in 2014, and became a civilian prime minister in 2019, following an election held under a military-drafted constitution. In its request for review, the main opposition party has argued that Prayuth should leave office this month because his time as junta chief should count towards his term. Nearly two-thirds of Thais also want Prayuth out of office by this month, a recent poll showed. ALSO READ | UK Covid deaths doubled this summer compared to same period in 2021 But some supporters argue his term started in 2017, when a new constitution took effect, or after the 2019 election, meaning that he should be allowed to stay in power until 2025 or 2027, if elected. The controversy is the latest in a country that suffered intermittent political turmoil for nearly two decades, including two coups and violent protests, stemming broadly from opposition to military involvement in politics and demands for greater representation as political awareness grows. Pro-democracy activists have campaigned against Prayuth and his government, arguing that the 2019 election was not legitimate. But student-led demonstrations petered out over the past couple of years, with the imposition of COVID-19 bans on gatherings. Activists gathered in Bangkok on Tuesday calling on the court to suspend Prayuth. Thailand's next general election is due by May next year.

Thailand court suspends PM Prayuth Chan-ocha from duties over opposition's plea on term limit

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine resulted in a massive food shortage around the world due to the latter’s inability in exporting grains due to blockade of ports. Ukraine is one of the leading exporters of food grains in the world and the Russian blockage on the Black Sea led to a global crisis. The situation now&nbsp;is getting better and a United States official said that Ukraine&nbsp;is well on course to ship almost the same quantity of grains as it used to before the invasion after reaching an agreement with Russia.

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"Thanks to intensive international cooperation, Ukraine is on track to export as much as four million metric tonnes of agricultural products in August," a senior US State Department official told AFP.&nbsp;

The Russian invasion has dealt a massive blow to the supply chain all around the world and with no exports from Ukraine, the United Nations believed that the world could experience one of the worst food shortages in history. However, the current levels have brought respite to global concerns.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-ukraine-celebrates-independence-day-zelensky-vows-to-retake-annexed-crimea-509630" hreflang="en">LIVE: Ukraine celebrates Independence Day, Zelensky vows to retake Crimea</a>

According to the US authorities, around 720,000 tonnes of grain were carried out of Ukraine in the past few weeks with the help of 33 ships. The European Union has also introduced "Solidarity Lanes" — a system of vehicles on road and water — to solidify the distribution process of the exports from Ukraine.

The US has also announced that it will be contributing $68 million to the World Food Programme which will be used to buy 150,000 metric tonNEs of Ukrainian wheat in a bid to battle the global food crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine resulted in a massive food shortage around the world due to the latter’s inability in exporting grains due to blockade of ports.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine resulted in a massive food shortage around the world due to the latter’s inability in exporting grains due to blockade of ports. Ukraine is one of the leading exporters of food grains in the world and the Russian blockage on the Black Sea led to a global crisis. The situation now is getting better and a United States official said that Ukraine is well on course to ship almost the same quantity of grains as it used to before the invasion after reaching an agreement with Russia. Also read | Twitter accused of neglecting security problems: Everything you need to know "Thanks to intensive international cooperation, Ukraine is on track to export as much as four million metric tonnes of agricultural products in August," a senior US State Department official told AFP. The Russian invasion has dealt a massive blow to the supply chain all around the world and with no exports from Ukraine, the United Nations believed that the world could experience one of the worst food shortages in history. However, the current levels have brought respite to global concerns. Also read | LIVE: Ukraine celebrates Independence Day, Zelensky vows to retake Crimea According to the US authorities, around 720,000 tonnes of grain were carried out of Ukraine in the past few weeks with the help of 33 ships. The European Union has also introduced "Solidarity Lanes" — a system of vehicles on road and water — to solidify the distribution process of the exports from Ukraine. The US has also announced that it will be contributing $68 million to the World Food Programme which will be used to buy 150,000 metric tonNEs of Ukrainian wheat in a bid to battle the global food crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine grain exports are back to pre-war levels, says US official

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-forced-to-walk-along-eurotunnel-after-train-breaks-down-watch-509652" hreflang="en">Passengers forced to walk along Eurotunnel after train breaks down - WATCH</a>

The staff at Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa – the place where the portrait was kept – felt that there was something wrong as it did not match the other portraits taken by Karsh. The hotel also houses the portraits of Martin Luther King Jr, Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway and Queen Elizabeth II.&nbsp;

Jerry Fielder, who oversees Karsh’s estate, was contacted and he discovered that the original portrait was missing. “I’ve seen that signature for 43 years. So, it took me just one second to know that someone had tried to copy it,” Fielder told Guardian. “It was a fake.”&nbsp;

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The portrait was one out of the 15 gifted to the hotel by Karsh himself almost 24 years ago. Fielder explained that Karsh had a long relationship with the hotel as he had his first exhibition in the same venue. He even lived there for 20 years and as a result, decided to gift them his artwork.&nbsp;

“For the kinds of people that he photographed, they could spot a sycophant or a phoney a mile away. And when you were with Yousuf, you knew right away he was the real thing. And I think it allows people to feel that they can be themselves,” he&nbsp;said. “He just had a way with people and putting them at ease,” he said.&nbsp;

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941.

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941. Also read | Passengers forced to walk along Eurotunnel after train breaks down - WATCH The staff at Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa – the place where the portrait was kept – felt that there was something wrong as it did not match the other portraits taken by Karsh. The hotel also houses the portraits of Martin Luther King Jr, Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway and Queen Elizabeth II. Jerry Fielder, who oversees Karsh’s estate, was contacted and he discovered that the original portrait was missing. “I’ve seen that signature for 43 years. So, it took me just one second to know that someone had tried to copy it,” Fielder told Guardian. “It was a fake.” Also read | Scandal yet again: Finland's PM Sanna Marin apologises for controversial pic The portrait was one out of the 15 gifted to the hotel by Karsh himself almost 24 years ago. Fielder explained that Karsh had a long relationship with the hotel as he had his first exhibition in the same venue. He even lived there for 20 years and as a result, decided to gift them his artwork. “For the kinds of people that he photographed, they could spot a sycophant or a phoney a mile away. And when you were with Yousuf, you knew right away he was the real thing. And I think it allows people to feel that they can be themselves,” he said. “He just had a way with people and putting them at ease,” he said.

Renowned Winston Churchill portrait stolen from hotel in Canada

China has decided to issue visas for Indian students after keeping them away for more than two years due to the country’s tough COVID-19 restrictions. According to official data, around 23,000 Indian students will be returning to China for the first time since the pandemic started in order to resume their studies. The government has already submitted a list of students who wanted to immediately return to China and according to a PTI report, they are likely to get preference once the visa process restarts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-special-master-to-examine-mar-a-lago-documents-509307">Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents</a>

Apart from student visas, business visas will also be provided to Indians along with their families. The process will also include students who will be visiting China for the first time due to studies.

"Warmest congrats to #Indian #students! Your patience proves worthwhile. I can really share your excitement &amp; happiness. Welcome back to #China!," Ji Rong, Counsellor, Department of Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China tweeted with a detailed announcement about the visa process.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/509086" hreflang="en">Russia says apprehended IS operative was planning suicide attack in India</a>

China has relaxed its COVID-19 policies after a steady dip in daily cases, with students from Pakistan, Russia and a few other countries already returning to their universities. With the process opening up for more countries, Chinese authorities are looking to slowly relax most of the restrictions.

While the visa process will start soon, India and China are currently engaged in talks regarding the resumption of direct flights. In the last two years, air travel was completely stopped between the two countries and in July, a chartered flight carrying families of Indian businessmen landed in China.

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China has decided to issue visas for Indian students after keeping them away for more than two years due to the country’s tough COVID-19 restrictions. According to official data, around 23,000 Indian students will be returning to China for the first time since the pandemic started in order to resume their studies.

China has decided to issue visas for Indian students after keeping them away for more than two years due to the country’s tough COVID-19 restrictions. According to official data, around 23,000 Indian students will be returning to China for the first time since the pandemic started in order to resume their studies. The government has already submitted a list of students who wanted to immediately return to China and according to a PTI report, they are likely to get preference once the visa process restarts. Also read | Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents Apart from student visas, business visas will also be provided to Indians along with their families. The process will also include students who will be visiting China for the first time due to studies. "Warmest congrats to #Indian #students! Your patience proves worthwhile. I can really share your excitement & happiness. Welcome back to #China!," Ji Rong, Counsellor, Department of Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China tweeted with a detailed announcement about the visa process. Also read | Russia says apprehended IS operative was planning suicide attack in India China has relaxed its COVID-19 policies after a steady dip in daily cases, with students from Pakistan, Russia and a few other countries already returning to their universities. With the process opening up for more countries, Chinese authorities are looking to slowly relax most of the restrictions. While the visa process will start soon, India and China are currently engaged in talks regarding the resumption of direct flights. In the last two years, air travel was completely stopped between the two countries and in July, a chartered flight carrying families of Indian businessmen landed in China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

China relaxes visa ban on Indian students after over two years

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen had a strong message for China as she said that her country resisted the Chinese military 60 years ago and are ready to defend their homeland once again. During her meeting with the visiting group of American academics from Stanford University, Tsai spoke about the history Taiwan shares with China and referred to the Chinese attacks in August 1958.

"Sixty-four years ago, during the Aug 23 battle, our soldiers and civilians operated in solidarity and safeguarded Taiwan, so that we have the democratic Taiwan today," she said.

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"That battle to protect our homeland showed the world that no threat of any kind could shake the Taiwanese people's resolve to defend their nation, not in the past, not now, and not in the future.

"We too will show the world that the people of Taiwan have both the resolve and confidence to safeguard peace, security, freedom and prosperity for ourselves," she added, according to Reuters.

The Chinese military attacked Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu in 1958 but in that occasion, Taiwan was able to fight back with the help of the US, which provided them with weapons.

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"As Taiwan stands on the front line of authoritarian expansionism, we continue to bolster our defence autonomy, and we will also continue to work with the United States on this front," Tsai said.

In the past month, Taiwan has hosted a number of US politicians including House speaker Nancy Pelosi – a visit which caused a massive uproar in China. In retaliation, the Chinese military conducted a number of military drills with aircraft and ships positioned on the Taiwan strait border.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen had a strong message for China as she said that her country resisted the Chinese military 60 years ago and are ready to defend their homeland once again.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen had a strong message for China as she said that her country resisted the Chinese military 60 years ago and are ready to defend their homeland once again. During her meeting with the visiting group of American academics from Stanford University, Tsai spoke about the history Taiwan shares with China and referred to the Chinese attacks in August 1958. "Sixty-four years ago, during the Aug 23 battle, our soldiers and civilians operated in solidarity and safeguarded Taiwan, so that we have the democratic Taiwan today," she said. Also read | Russia planning strikes on Ukraine civilian infrastructure: US intelligence "That battle to protect our homeland showed the world that no threat of any kind could shake the Taiwanese people's resolve to defend their nation, not in the past, not now, and not in the future. "We too will show the world that the people of Taiwan have both the resolve and confidence to safeguard peace, security, freedom and prosperity for ourselves," she added, according to Reuters. The Chinese military attacked Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu in 1958 but in that occasion, Taiwan was able to fight back with the help of the US, which provided them with weapons. Also read | US legislators introduce bill to ease news media negotiations with Google, Facebook "As Taiwan stands on the front line of authoritarian expansionism, we continue to bolster our defence autonomy, and we will also continue to work with the United States on this front," Tsai said. In the past month, Taiwan has hosted a number of US politicians including House speaker Nancy Pelosi – a visit which caused a massive uproar in China. In retaliation, the Chinese military conducted a number of military drills with aircraft and ships positioned on the Taiwan strait border.

'Battle to protect our homeland': Taiwan president issues warning for China

80 users in 45 minutes – A Chinese company announced on Monday that they have developed a robot which can complete Covid tests at an unbelievable speed. The Chinese company BioTeke claimed that the robot is capable of operating faster than conventional methods and according to a report on South China Morning Post, the robot can study 320 samples at the same time. &nbsp;

The robot was unveiled at the World Robot Conference 2022 in Beijing and although it looks like a vending machine, the robot impressed a number of people with its effectiveness. Till now, there were some robots which could collect samples, but this new innovation takes it one step forward.

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The new robot can collect oral swab samples and also complete the testing by themselves.

“This new robot provides a one-stop alternative because it does test independently,” BioTeke engineer surnamed Meng told South China Morning Post in an interview on Monday.

“Researchers built models of human mouths and developed an image recognition algorithm for a high-accuracy mechanical arm. The arm is able to move autonomously and gently collect oral swab samples from a user’s throat,” he added while explaining the workings of the robot.

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The company has approached the Chinese authorities for using the robots in public areas and it can be a significant step in conducting tests at record speeds. The robot is currently being reviewed by National Medical Products Administration for widespread usage in places like airports.

“At this stage, epidemic prevention work mainly focuses on the mass screening of the population. The robot can serve as an affordable rapid screening method. We can recognise positive carriers before they start spreading the virus in the city to effectively avoid the spread of the epidemic.”

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80 users in 45 minutes – A Chinese company announced on Monday that they have developed a robot which can complete Covid tests at an unbelievable speed. The Chinese company BioTeke claimed that the robot is capable of operating faster than conventional methods and according to a report on South China Morning Post, the robot can study 320 samples at the same time.

80 users in 45 minutes – A Chinese company announced on Monday that they have developed a robot which can complete Covid tests at an unbelievable speed. The Chinese company BioTeke claimed that the robot is capable of operating faster than conventional methods and according to a report on South China Morning Post, the robot can study 320 samples at the same time. The robot was unveiled at the World Robot Conference 2022 in Beijing and although it looks like a vending machine, the robot impressed a number of people with its effectiveness. Till now, there were some robots which could collect samples, but this new innovation takes it one step forward. Also read | Explained: Pregnancy complications amid abortion row in the US The new robot can collect oral swab samples and also complete the testing by themselves. “This new robot provides a one-stop alternative because it does test independently,” BioTeke engineer surnamed Meng told South China Morning Post in an interview on Monday. “Researchers built models of human mouths and developed an image recognition algorithm for a high-accuracy mechanical arm. The arm is able to move autonomously and gently collect oral swab samples from a user’s throat,” he added while explaining the workings of the robot. Also read | Mind-blowing images of Jupiter taken by James Webb telescope released by NASA The company has approached the Chinese authorities for using the robots in public areas and it can be a significant step in conducting tests at record speeds. The robot is currently being reviewed by National Medical Products Administration for widespread usage in places like airports. “At this stage, epidemic prevention work mainly focuses on the mass screening of the population. The robot can serve as an affordable rapid screening method. We can recognise positive carriers before they start spreading the virus in the city to effectively avoid the spread of the epidemic.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

New COVID-19 testing robot can produce results in just 45 minutes

In pics - Ukraine shows off demolished Russian tanks during parade in Kyiv

The Artemis mission, which is aiming to put astronauts back on the moon almost 50 years later, has received the green light from NASA to conduct its first official launch on August 29. The United States space agency conducted a Flight Readiness Review on Monday where they assessed the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft as well as the launching site at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. &nbsp;

According to the official statement released by NASA, the launch is set to be conducted in a two-hour window on August 29 with backup launch plans on September 2 and September 5. While the infrastructure was completely reviewed by NASA. Concerns remain over possible bad weather.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-condemns-russia-on-targeting-civilians-warns-moscow-plans-to-hit-govt-buildings-509366" hreflang="en">US condemns Russia on targeting civilians, warns Moscow plans to hit govt buildings</a>

Mike Sarafin, NASA's Artemis mission manager, told Reuters that the team is currently happy with the preparations for the launch and one open team remains to be tested on the day of the launch.&nbsp;

“The test will occur during a quiescent point ahead of the final countdown”, said Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, Artemis I launch director at Kennedy Space Center, according to Space.com.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-covid-19-testing-robot-can-produce-results-in-just-45-minutes-509333" hreflang="en">New COVID-19 testing robot can produce results in just 45 minutes</a>

This year marked the 50th anniversary of NASA sending astronauts to the moon and the Artemis mission aims at repeating the feat. The launch, however, will be an unmanned one with the Orion spacecraft carrying “4.4 kilograms of mementos, including toys, Apollo 11 items and three mannequins”.&nbsp;

A mannequin called Commander Moonikin Campos will be seated at the commander’s seat in the aircraft and the simulation will help NASA scientists to understand how the journey will affect human astronauts. The final goal of Artemis is to complete a manned mission by 2025.&nbsp;

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The Artemis mission, which is aiming to put astronauts back on the moon almost 50 years later, has received the green light from NASA to conduct its first official launch on August 29.

The Artemis mission, which is aiming to put astronauts back on the moon almost 50 years later, has received the green light from NASA to conduct its first official launch on August 29. The United States space agency conducted a Flight Readiness Review on Monday where they assessed the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft as well as the launching site at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. According to the official statement released by NASA, the launch is set to be conducted in a two-hour window on August 29 with backup launch plans on September 2 and September 5. While the infrastructure was completely reviewed by NASA. Concerns remain over possible bad weather. ALSO READ | US condemns Russia on targeting civilians, warns Moscow plans to hit govt buildings Mike Sarafin, NASA's Artemis mission manager, told Reuters that the team is currently happy with the preparations for the launch and one open team remains to be tested on the day of the launch. “The test will occur during a quiescent point ahead of the final countdown”, said Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, Artemis I launch director at Kennedy Space Center, according to Space.com. ALSO READ | New COVID-19 testing robot can produce results in just 45 minutes This year marked the 50th anniversary of NASA sending astronauts to the moon and the Artemis mission aims at repeating the feat. The launch, however, will be an unmanned one with the Orion spacecraft carrying “4.4 kilograms of mementos, including toys, Apollo 11 items and three mannequins”. A mannequin called Commander Moonikin Campos will be seated at the commander’s seat in the aircraft and the simulation will help NASA scientists to understand how the journey will affect human astronauts. The final goal of Artemis is to complete a manned mission by 2025. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

NASA's Artemis moon mission gets green signal for August 29 launch

A Korean-owned auto parts maker and supplier of Hyundai Motors was accused of violating child labour laws by the US Department of Labour, according to Reuters. According to the court filings accessed by Reuters, the SL Alabama LLC company was employing underage workers in Alexander City.&nbsp;

The DOJ told the judge at the US District Court for the Middle District of Alabama that SL Alabama has been violating the regulations since last year as they employed “minors under the age of 16”. In a six-page report, the DOJ further&nbsp;said that the company was guilty of "employing oppressive child labour".&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rejects-volodymyr-zelenskys-request-to-impose-a-blanket-visa-ban-on-russians-509310" hreflang="en">US rejects Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians</a>

The court filing did not include the number of underage employees working in the company.&nbsp;

While the company did admit to flouting child labour regulations, the statement released by SL Alabama said that the labour was hired by an outside recruitment agency who were not named.&nbsp;

"We fully cooperated with the investigation by the Department of Labour, and we are in the process of complementing our verification system so that minors will not work going forward," it said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-elections-da-silva-calls-jair-bolsonaro-a-cheap-copy-of-donald-trump-509345">Brazil elections: Da Silva calls Bolsonaro a 'cheap copy' of Donald Trump</a>

This was the second instance where a company in Alabama was accused of similar malpractices as another Hyundai subsidiary SMART Alabama LLC was also found guilty of employing children.&nbsp;

Hyundai released a statement on Monday criticising the two affiliates for their actions and made it clear that "it does not tolerate illegal employment practices in any Hyundai entity”. "We have policies and procedures in place that require compliance with all local, state, and federal laws," the statement read.&nbsp;

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A Korean-owned auto parts maker and supplier of Hyundai Motors was accused of violating child labour laws by the US Department of Labour, according to Reuters. According to the court filings accessed by Reuters, the SL Alabama LLC company was employing underage workers in Alexander City.

A Korean-owned auto parts maker and supplier of Hyundai Motors was accused of violating child labour laws by the US Department of Labour, according to Reuters. According to the court filings accessed by Reuters, the SL Alabama LLC company was employing underage workers in Alexander City. The DOJ told the judge at the US District Court for the Middle District of Alabama that SL Alabama has been violating the regulations since last year as they employed “minors under the age of 16”. In a six-page report, the DOJ further said that the company was guilty of "employing oppressive child labour". Also read | US rejects Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians The court filing did not include the number of underage employees working in the company. While the company did admit to flouting child labour regulations, the statement released by SL Alabama said that the labour was hired by an outside recruitment agency who were not named. "We fully cooperated with the investigation by the Department of Labour, and we are in the process of complementing our verification system so that minors will not work going forward," it said. Also read | Brazil elections: Da Silva calls Bolsonaro a 'cheap copy' of Donald Trump This was the second instance where a company in Alabama was accused of similar malpractices as another Hyundai subsidiary SMART Alabama LLC was also found guilty of employing children. Hyundai released a statement on Monday criticising the two affiliates for their actions and made it clear that "it does not tolerate illegal employment practices in any Hyundai entity”. "We have policies and procedures in place that require compliance with all local, state, and federal laws," the statement read. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Hyundai parts supplier in US accused of child labour violations

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”.

Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-ukrainian-soldiers-accuse-russians-of-atrocities-in-prison-509299" hreflang="en">Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison</a>

He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”.

However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-special-master-to-examine-mar-a-lago-documents-509307">Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents</a>

"The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters.

"We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine.

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”. Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy." Also read | Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”. However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle. Also read | Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents "The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters. "We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians

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