<p>US President Joe Biden has pointed a finger at his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin after reports emerged on Wednesday (August 24) of a private plane crash in Moscow's Tver region and it was mentioned that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-wagner-mercenary-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dies-in-plane-crash-628479">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin</a> was on the list of passengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency has said&nbsp;that the Wagner boss was on board the plane, but still, there have been claims and counterclaims over his apparent death. Flowers were laid for the late Wagner chief outside the organisation's headquarters in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media reports, the aviation agency also said that the carrier that operated the plane released the names of those who were on board. In addition to Prigozhin, others&nbsp;named are Sergey Propustin, Evgeniy Makaryan, Aleksandr Totmin, Valeriy Chekalov, Dmitriy Utkin, and Nikolay Matuseev.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-second-attempt-to-launch-spy-satellite-fails-state-media-628585">North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Biden said, "I don't know for a fact what happened, but I'm not surprised. There's not much that happens in Russia that Putin's not behind. But I don't know enough to know the answer."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month in Helsinki, Biden jokingly warned that Prigozhin should watch his step after his abortive rebellion. "If I were he, I'd be careful what I ate. I'd keep my eye on my menu," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just Biden, White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson also said Wednesday that no one should be surprised about Prigozhin's sudden death, if confirmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watson said, "The disastrous war in Ukraine led to a private army marching on Moscow, and now -- it would seem -- to this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-paves-way-for-expansion-agrees-on-framework-to-add-new-member-nations-628502">BRICS paves way for expansion, agrees on framework to add new member nations</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a senior aide to the Ukrainian presidency said that the plane crash can be seen as a signal from the Kremlin. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak wrote on social media: "The demonstrative elimination of Prigozhin and the Wagner command two months after the coup attempt is a signal from Putin to Russia's elites ahead of the 2024 elections. 'Beware! Disloyalty equals death'."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's drone attacks challenge Russian air defences&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Wagner mutiny</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Notably, the crash came two months after he sent Wagner mercenaries on a short-lived rebellious march on Moscow. As per reports, the aim was to force the removal of the country's military leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had also launched scathing attacks on the Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden has pointed a finger at his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin after reports emerged on Wednesday (August 24) of a private plane crash in Moscow's Tver region and it was mentioned that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was on the list of passengers.

US President Joe Biden has pointed a finger at his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin after reports emerged on Wednesday (August 24) of a private plane crash in Moscow's Tver region and it was mentioned that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was on the list of passengers. The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency has said that the Wagner boss was on board the plane, but still, there have been claims and counterclaims over his apparent death. Flowers were laid for the late Wagner chief outside the organisation's headquarters in St. Petersburg. According to local media reports, the aviation agency also said that the carrier that operated the plane released the names of those who were on board. In addition to Prigozhin, others named are Sergey Propustin, Evgeniy Makaryan, Aleksandr Totmin, Valeriy Chekalov, Dmitriy Utkin, and Nikolay Matuseev. Also read: North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media Biden said, "I don't know for a fact what happened, but I'm not surprised. There's not much that happens in Russia that Putin's not behind. But I don't know enough to know the answer." Last month in Helsinki, Biden jokingly warned that Prigozhin should watch his step after his abortive rebellion. "If I were he, I'd be careful what I ate. I'd keep my eye on my menu," Biden said. Not just Biden, White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson also said Wednesday that no one should be surprised about Prigozhin's sudden death, if confirmed. Watson said, "The disastrous war in Ukraine led to a private army marching on Moscow, and now -- it would seem -- to this." Also read: BRICS paves way for expansion, agrees on framework to add new member nations Meanwhile, a senior aide to the Ukrainian presidency said that the plane crash can be seen as a signal from the Kremlin. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak wrote on social media: "The demonstrative elimination of Prigozhin and the Wagner command two months after the coup attempt is a signal from Putin to Russia's elites ahead of the 2024 elections. 'Beware! Disloyalty equals death'." Watch: Ukraine's drone attacks challenge Russian air defences × Wagner mutiny Notably, the crash came two months after he sent Wagner mercenaries on a short-lived rebellious march on Moscow. As per reports, the aim was to force the removal of the country's military leadership. He had also launched scathing attacks on the Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Not surprised': Joe Biden hints at Vladimir Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death

India, Russia, China, Brazil, and South Africa, or BRICS, are some of the world's most powerful economic blocs. The BRICS leaders of State and government Summit is currently underway in Johannesburg, South Africa for the third day.

BRICS Summit: Major announcement on expansion expected

<p>Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy said, "I'm the only candidate on stage who isn't bought and paid for, so I can say this. Climate change is a hoax… The reality is more people are dying of bad climate change policies than they are of actual climate change."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Climate change is evident in the form of long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-republican-presidential-debate-live-8-gop-biggies-take-centrestae-while-trump-skips-primary-628516">First Republican presidential debate LIVE</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid urgent calls for global support to tackle the issues, the crowd booed Ramaswamy's remarks. He was slammed by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who compared the entrepreneur to ChatGPT and former President Obama.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old Ramaswamy was born in Ohio to immigrant parents from southern India. He was raised in the Hindu faith by his parents but went to a Catholic high school. He earned a biology degree at Harvard University before moving on to Yale Law School.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tucker-carlson-interview-former-prez-justifies-skipping-republican-debate-628548">Trump-Tucker Carlson interview: Former prez justifies skipping Republican debate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He has been criticised also as he has become a fierce conservative. In his 2021 bestseller 'Woke, Inc.', Ramaswamy decries&nbsp;decisions by some big companies to base business strategy around social justice and climate change concerns and lambasts&nbsp;"wokeism" as an insidious influence on hard work, capitalism, religious faith and patriotism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina Gov. called for China and India to cut emissions. She said, "First of all, we do care about clean air, clean water. We want to see that taken care of, but there is a right way to do it. The right way is first of all, yes, is climate change real? Yes, it is. But if you want to go and really change the environment, we need to start telling China and India that they have to lower their emissions."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ramaswamy on the Ukraine war&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy also said that if he was elected president, he would not support an increase in aid to Ukraine and called US support of Ukraine "disastrous". He added that the resources that are going to Kyiv should instead be used domestically.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "This is disastrous we are protecting against an invasion across somebody else's border when we should use those same military resources to prevent the invasion across our southern border here in the United States of America."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His comments were slammed by Haley, who said she would support more funding for the war in Ukraine. "He wants to hand Ukraine to Russia. He wants to let China eat Taiwan. He wants to go and stop funding Israel. You don't do that to friends. What you do instead is you have the backs of your friends," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate.

Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate. Ramaswamy said, "I'm the only candidate on stage who isn't bought and paid for, so I can say this. Climate change is a hoax… The reality is more people are dying of bad climate change policies than they are of actual climate change." Climate change is evident in the form of long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels. First Republican presidential debate LIVE Amid urgent calls for global support to tackle the issues, the crowd booed Ramaswamy's remarks. He was slammed by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who compared the entrepreneur to ChatGPT and former President Obama. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy was born in Ohio to immigrant parents from southern India. He was raised in the Hindu faith by his parents but went to a Catholic high school. He earned a biology degree at Harvard University before moving on to Yale Law School. Also read: Trump-Tucker Carlson interview: Former prez justifies skipping Republican debate He has been criticised also as he has become a fierce conservative. In his 2021 bestseller 'Woke, Inc.', Ramaswamy decries decisions by some big companies to base business strategy around social justice and climate change concerns and lambasts "wokeism" as an insidious influence on hard work, capitalism, religious faith and patriotism. Meanwhile, Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina Gov. called for China and India to cut emissions. She said, "First of all, we do care about clean air, clean water. We want to see that taken care of, but there is a right way to do it. The right way is first of all, yes, is climate change real? Yes, it is. But if you want to go and really change the environment, we need to start telling China and India that they have to lower their emissions." Watch this report × Ramaswamy on the Ukraine war Ramaswamy also said that if he was elected president, he would not support an increase in aid to Ukraine and called US support of Ukraine "disastrous". He added that the resources that are going to Kyiv should instead be used domestically. He said: "This is disastrous we are protecting against an invasion across somebody else's border when we should use those same military resources to prevent the invasion across our southern border here in the United States of America." His comments were slammed by Haley, who said she would support more funding for the war in Ukraine. "He wants to hand Ukraine to Russia. He wants to let China eat Taiwan. He wants to go and stop funding Israel. You don't do that to friends. What you do instead is you have the backs of your friends," she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

GOP debate: Vivek Ramaswamy calls climate change a 'hoax', aid to Ukraine 'disastrous'

<p>Taiwan will spend an extra T$94.3 billion ($2.97 billion) to buy weapons next year including fighter jets to bolster its defences against China, the government said on Thursday, and will get a further boost from new F-16 fighter jet tracking systems.</p>

<p>China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has ramped up military and political pressure over the past three years to assert those claims, which Taipei strongly rejects.</p>

<p>Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen already announced on Monday that overall proposed defence spending for 2024 would be set at T$606.8 billion, a 3.5% increase from the previous year.</p>

<p>About half of the T$94.3 billion additional spend would be used to purchase fighter jets, and the remainder will go into bolstering naval defences, the government's statistics department said after a cabinet meeting to discuss the budget.</p>

<p>The United States on Wednesday approved a possible $500 million sale to Taiwan of infrared search and track systems for F-16 fighter jets, as well as other equipment.</p>

<p>Taiwan deputy defence minister Po Horng-huei told reporters the search and tracking systems were the same as those used by F-35 and F-22 fighters, among the most advanced the United States operates.</p>

<p>"These will help to target the J-20 stealth fighter over the Taiwan Strait in the future," Po said, referring to the new generation of Chinese jets.</p>

<p>It will allow Taiwan to more effectively deter Chinese air activity, he added.</p>

<p>China, which routinely denounces any foreign arms sales to Taiwan, urged the United States to immediately cancel the planned sale, its foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>Taiwan's defence budget will have to be approved by parliament, where Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party has a majority. The island's defence spending for next year will amount to 2.5% of its gross domestic product.</p>

<p>Tsai has overseen a military modernisation programme to make the armed forces better able to face China, including upgrading a fleet of F-16 fighter jets and developing submarines.</p>

<p>Tsai said on Monday the first prototype indigenous submarine was expected to be unveiled next month as scheduled.</p>

<p>Taiwan has been converting 141 F-16A/B jets into the F-16V type and has ordered 66 new F-16Vs, which have advanced avionics, weapons and radar systems to better face down the Chinese air force, including its J-20 stealth fighters.</p>

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Taiwan will spend an extra T$94.3 billion ($2.97 billion) to buy weapons next year including fighter jets to bolster its defences against China, the government said on Thursday, and will get a further boost from new F-16 fighter jet tracking systems.

Taiwan will spend an extra T$94.3 billion ($2.97 billion) to buy weapons next year including fighter jets to bolster its defences against China, the government said on Thursday, and will get a further boost from new F-16 fighter jet tracking systems. China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has ramped up military and political pressure over the past three years to assert those claims, which Taipei strongly rejects. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen already announced on Monday that overall proposed defence spending for 2024 would be set at T$606.8 billion, a 3.5% increase from the previous year. About half of the T$94.3 billion additional spend would be used to purchase fighter jets, and the remainder will go into bolstering naval defences, the government's statistics department said after a cabinet meeting to discuss the budget. The United States on Wednesday approved a possible $500 million sale to Taiwan of infrared search and track systems for F-16 fighter jets, as well as other equipment. Taiwan deputy defence minister Po Horng-huei told reporters the search and tracking systems were the same as those used by F-35 and F-22 fighters, among the most advanced the United States operates. "These will help to target the J-20 stealth fighter over the Taiwan Strait in the future," Po said, referring to the new generation of Chinese jets. It will allow Taiwan to more effectively deter Chinese air activity, he added. China, which routinely denounces any foreign arms sales to Taiwan, urged the United States to immediately cancel the planned sale, its foreign ministry said. Taiwan's defence budget will have to be approved by parliament, where Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party has a majority. The island's defence spending for next year will amount to 2.5% of its gross domestic product. Tsai has overseen a military modernisation programme to make the armed forces better able to face China, including upgrading a fleet of F-16 fighter jets and developing submarines. Tsai said on Monday the first prototype indigenous submarine was expected to be unveiled next month as scheduled. Taiwan has been converting 141 F-16A/B jets into the F-16V type and has ordered 66 new F-16Vs, which have advanced avionics, weapons and radar systems to better face down the Chinese air force, including its J-20 stealth fighters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan proposes $3 billion spending on new weapons, gets F-16 boost

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-officials-expands-as-ramaphosa-announces-six-new-members-628689">new members of BRICS</a> as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and UAE will become full members of BRICS and their&nbsp;membership will come into force from January 1, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken the decision to expand this forum. India has always fully supported this expansion. Such an expansion will make BRICS stronger and more effective."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In that spirit, India welcomes Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE into the BRICS family," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-pm-modis-attendance-underscores-aseans-indo-pacific-importance-says-indonesian-ambassador-628738">PM Modi's attendance underscores ASEAN's Indo-Pacific importance, says Indonesian ambassador</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Modi said that the modernisation and expansion of the grouping is a message that all global institutions need to transform considering the changing times.&nbsp;He said that the decision to expand the grouping will also further strengthen the belief of many countries in a multipolar world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said:&nbsp;"I am happy that our teams have agreed on guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures for the expansion of BRICS.&nbsp;I am happy that many positive outcomes came out of three days of deliberations."&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi&nbsp;said he was confident that "we would be able to give new dynamism to BRICS by working with new member countries of the grouping" as referred to countries being admitted as new BRICS members.</p>

<p>He noted that India has had very deep and historic relations with all of them.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | “I believe that BRICS and all the nations present here can help strengthen the multi-polar world,” says PM Modi while addressing a session during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRICSSummit2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICSSummit2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/w8XK6cPCvJ">pic.twitter.com/w8XK6cPCvJ</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-african-government-refutes-allegations-of-pm-modi-snub-amid-brics-summit-628477">South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's bilateral with Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit as both leaders had a brief conversation with each other. The meeting was held in the presence of envoys from both countries. The Indian PM said on X: "We discussed ways to boost ties in sectors like trade, defence and people to people relations."&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also held talks with Senegal President Macky Sall. "India considers Senegal to be a valued developmental partner. We discussed sectors like energy, infrastructure, defence and more in our meeting," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the new members of BRICS as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the new members of BRICS as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and UAE will become full members of BRICS and their membership will come into force from January 1, 2024. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken the decision to expand this forum. India has always fully supported this expansion. Such an expansion will make BRICS stronger and more effective." "In that spirit, India welcomes Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE into the BRICS family," he added. Also read: PM Modi's attendance underscores ASEAN's Indo-Pacific importance, says Indonesian ambassador Modi said that the modernisation and expansion of the grouping is a message that all global institutions need to transform considering the changing times. He said that the decision to expand the grouping will also further strengthen the belief of many countries in a multipolar world. He said: "I am happy that our teams have agreed on guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures for the expansion of BRICS. I am happy that many positive outcomes came out of three days of deliberations." PM Modi said he was confident that "we would be able to give new dynamism to BRICS by working with new member countries of the grouping" as referred to countries being admitted as new BRICS members. He noted that India has had very deep and historic relations with all of them. VIDEO | “I believe that BRICS and all the nations present here can help strengthen the multi-polar world,” says PM Modi while addressing a session during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.#BRICSSummit2023 pic.twitter.com/w8XK6cPCvJ — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 24, 2023 × Also read: South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit PM Modi's bilateral with Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit as both leaders had a brief conversation with each other. The meeting was held in the presence of envoys from both countries. The Indian PM said on X: "We discussed ways to boost ties in sectors like trade, defence and people to people relations." PM Modi also held talks with Senegal President Macky Sall. "India considers Senegal to be a valued developmental partner. We discussed sectors like energy, infrastructure, defence and more in our meeting," PM Modi said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi says BRICS expansion is message to all global institutions

<p>Several people are feared trapped in debris after a huge landslide in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday (August 24). The landslide in Kullu district destroyed several houses and videos and images circulated on social media appeared to show many multi-storeyed buildings collapsing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official said on Thursday that the Kullu-Mandi Highway in the state was damaged following heavy rainfall in the district. &nbsp;Hundreds of vehicles were stranded on the route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A red alert warning of imminent heavy to very heavy rainfall has been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Himachal Pradesh for the next two days starting today.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-govt-approves-proposals-worth-944-million-to-enhance-operational-capabilities-of-armed-forces-628768">India approves proposals worth $944 million to enhance operational capabilities of armed forces</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A commuter told the news agency ANI, "There is a traffic jam stretching to nearly 5-10 kilometres. We have nothing to eat or drink. People are starving here. The snarl should be cleared soon".</p>

<p>An official said the Public Works Department was trying to restore the normal flow of traffic at the earliest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sakshi Verma, Superintendent of Police, Kullu, said: "The road connecting Kullu and Mandi has been damaged. An alternative route via Pandoh has also been damaged. Hence, the movement of traffic is suspended for now."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-india-trade-deal-negotiations-in-their-final-trickier-stage-report-628688">UK-India trade deal negotiations in their 'final, trickier'&nbsp;stage: Report</a> &nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Huge loss reported</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>According to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state has suffered losses of Rs120 billion so far amid continuing rains in several parts of Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall, the state has seen three major spells of heavy rains this monsoon season. The first was on July 9 and 10, whihc destroyed Mandi and Kullu districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After that, the Shimla and Solan districts were hit. The second spell was between August 14 and 15. And the third one is currently underway. The national highway between Mandi-Kullu has been severely impacted due to heavy landslides near Pandoh and relief camps have been set up along the stretch of Pandoh and Aut besides Bajaura.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Priyanka Gandhi's appeal to Centre&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday appealed to the Centre to declare the current Himachal Pradesh situation as a national disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She posted on X that many states have taken commendable and sensitive steps to help the state. She said: "It is an appeal to the central government that in view of the huge losses caused by the tragedy, the disaster in Himachal Pradesh should be declared a national disaster so that our sisters and brothers who are suffering from it can get proper and immediate relief."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Several people are feared trapped in debris after a huge landslide in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday (August 24). The landslide in Kullu district destroyed several houses and videos and images circulated on social media appeared to show many multi-storeyed buildings collapsing.

Several people are feared trapped in debris after a huge landslide in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday (August 24). The landslide in Kullu district destroyed several houses and videos and images circulated on social media appeared to show many multi-storeyed buildings collapsing. An official said on Thursday that the Kullu-Mandi Highway in the state was damaged following heavy rainfall in the district. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded on the route. A red alert warning of imminent heavy to very heavy rainfall has been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Himachal Pradesh for the next two days starting today. Also read: India approves proposals worth $944 million to enhance operational capabilities of armed forces A commuter told the news agency ANI, "There is a traffic jam stretching to nearly 5-10 kilometres. We have nothing to eat or drink. People are starving here. The snarl should be cleared soon". An official said the Public Works Department was trying to restore the normal flow of traffic at the earliest. Sakshi Verma, Superintendent of Police, Kullu, said: "The road connecting Kullu and Mandi has been damaged. An alternative route via Pandoh has also been damaged. Hence, the movement of traffic is suspended for now." Also read: UK-India trade deal negotiations in their 'final, trickier' stage: Report Huge loss reported According to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state has suffered losses of Rs120 billion so far amid continuing rains in several parts of Himachal Pradesh. Overall, the state has seen three major spells of heavy rains this monsoon season. The first was on July 9 and 10, whihc destroyed Mandi and Kullu districts. After that, the Shimla and Solan districts were hit. The second spell was between August 14 and 15. And the third one is currently underway. The national highway between Mandi-Kullu has been severely impacted due to heavy landslides near Pandoh and relief camps have been set up along the stretch of Pandoh and Aut besides Bajaura. Watch this report: × Priyanka Gandhi's appeal to Centre Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday appealed to the Centre to declare the current Himachal Pradesh situation as a national disaster. She posted on X that many states have taken commendable and sensitive steps to help the state. She said: "It is an appeal to the central government that in view of the huge losses caused by the tragedy, the disaster in Himachal Pradesh should be declared a national disaster so that our sisters and brothers who are suffering from it can get proper and immediate relief." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Himachal Pradesh: Several feared trapped as houses collapse due to landslides in Kullu

<p>A plane reportedly carrying Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, crashed on Wednesday (August 23), killing all 10 on board. Russian officials confirmed that Prigozhin’s name was on the list but it can not be confirmed if he was actually on the plane. Flight tracking data showed that soon after the crash, a second private jet thought to be&nbsp;linked to Prigozhin also appeared to be heading to St. Petersburg, but it was turned back to Moscow and later landed.</p>

<h2><strong>Was the plane shot down?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Some bizarre theories have been doing the rounds since the news of the plane crash broke. A Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner claimed on Wednesday that the plane was “shot down” in the sky over the Tver region by the Russian Defence Ministry.</p>

<p>According to the Telegram channel linked to the Wagner Grey Zone,&nbsp;"The plane was shot down in the sky over the Tver region by air defence forces of the Russian Defense Ministry."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-apart-from-wagner-boss-who-else-was-on-board-plane-that-crashed-628699">Apart from Wagner boss, who else was on board plane that crashed</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The post added, "It is reported that one of the Embraer Legacy 600 private planes belonging to Yevgeny Prigozhin disappeared from the radar at 18:20, the dispatchers tried to contact the crew, but to no avail, after which the air traffic controllers notified the Russian Ministry of Defense and air defence units about the incident."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The channel added that the second plane was also owned by Prigozhin. According to the Grey Zone, "The second Embraer 600 business jet with tail number RA-02795, which also belonged to the head of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, landed at the Ostafyevo airport near Moscow."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same channel also pronounced him dead, hailing him as a hero and a patriot who it said had died at the hands of unidentified people it called "traitors to Russia". Details of the post have been carried out by some media outlets, but WION can't independently verify them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>What do we know about the plane?</strong></h2>

<p>The Embraer executive jet model that crashed in Russia is pretty safe. It has only recorded one accident in more than 20 years of service, and that was not related to mechanical failure. Russia’s TASS news agency said the plane was a Brazilian Embraer jet.</p>

<p>Embraer said it was aware of a plane crash in Russia involving a Legacy 600 aircraft, but it did not have further information about the case and had not been providing support services for the jet since 2019.</p>

<p>"Embraer has complied with international sanctions imposed on Russia," the planemaker said. Sanctions block Western plane makers from providing parts or support for planes operated in Russia.</p>

<p>The aircraft, manufactured in 2007, fell under US Treasury sanctions in 2019 when it was listed under a prior registration, M-SAAN, according to a US government press release.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dead-heres-what-we-know-so-far-628679">Is Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dead? Here's what we know so far</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who is behind the crash?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden’s reaction to the plane crash was quite blunt and striking as he alleged involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Biden said, "I don't know for a fact what happened, but I'm not surprised. There's not much that happens in Russia that Putin's not behind. But I don't know enough to know the answer."&nbsp;</p>

<p>France also said that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash.<br />
But experts have said that whoever or whatever was behind the crash, his death would rid Putin of someone who had mounted the most serious challenge to the Russian leader's authority since he came to power in 1999. Notably, in June this year, Prigozhin staged a coup against Putin which eventually failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just Wagner chief, others who have opposed Putin or his interests have also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhin-death-news-this-is-what-happened-to-other-putin-foes-628714">died under unclear circumstances</a> or come close to death in the past, including outspoken political leaders and journalists. Such claims have always been denied by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abbas Gallyamov, a former Putin speech writer turned critic suggested&nbsp;without evidence that the Russian leader was behind the crash. Gallyamov wrote on Telegram: "The establishment is now convinced that it will not be possible to oppose Putin. Putin is strong enough and capable of revenge."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bill Browder, a businessman and another Kremlin critic, wrote on X: "Putin never forgives and never forgets. He looked like a humiliated weakling with Prigozhin running around without a care in the world (after the mutiny). This will cement his authority." Browder has years of experience in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who else was onboard the plane that crashed?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency released the names of two pilots and one flight attendant who lost their lives in the deadly crash. The agency cited the airline to confirm that Captain Aleksei Levshin, co-pilot Rustam Karimov, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova died in the crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency also released the names of those who were onboard, apart from Prigozhin. The list includes Sergey Propustin, Evgeniy Makaryan, Aleksandr Totmin, and Nikolay Matuseev. Two names stood out — Valeriy Chekalov and Dmitry Utkin. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Chekalov was a senior aide to Prigozhin designated by the US Treasury for acting "for or on behalf of Prigozhin and has facilitated shipments of munitions to the Russian Federation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Utkin was Prigozhin's right-hand man who helped establish the mercenary group and bore the call sign "Wagner".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A plane reportedly carrying Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, crashed on Wednesday (August 23), killing all 10 on board. Russian officials confirmed that Prigozhin’s name was on the list but it can not be confirmed if he was actually on the plane.

A plane reportedly carrying Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, crashed on Wednesday (August 23), killing all 10 on board. Russian officials confirmed that Prigozhin’s name was on the list but it can not be confirmed if he was actually on the plane. Flight tracking data showed that soon after the crash, a second private jet thought to be linked to Prigozhin also appeared to be heading to St. Petersburg, but it was turned back to Moscow and later landed. Was the plane shot down? Some bizarre theories have been doing the rounds since the news of the plane crash broke. A Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner claimed on Wednesday that the plane was “shot down” in the sky over the Tver region by the Russian Defence Ministry. According to the Telegram channel linked to the Wagner Grey Zone, "The plane was shot down in the sky over the Tver region by air defence forces of the Russian Defense Ministry." Also read: Apart from Wagner boss, who else was on board plane that crashed The post added, "It is reported that one of the Embraer Legacy 600 private planes belonging to Yevgeny Prigozhin disappeared from the radar at 18:20, the dispatchers tried to contact the crew, but to no avail, after which the air traffic controllers notified the Russian Ministry of Defense and air defence units about the incident." The channel added that the second plane was also owned by Prigozhin. According to the Grey Zone, "The second Embraer 600 business jet with tail number RA-02795, which also belonged to the head of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, landed at the Ostafyevo airport near Moscow." The same channel also pronounced him dead, hailing him as a hero and a patriot who it said had died at the hands of unidentified people it called "traitors to Russia". Details of the post have been carried out by some media outlets, but WION can't independently verify them. Watch this report: × What do we know about the plane? The Embraer executive jet model that crashed in Russia is pretty safe. It has only recorded one accident in more than 20 years of service, and that was not related to mechanical failure. Russia’s TASS news agency said the plane was a Brazilian Embraer jet. Embraer said it was aware of a plane crash in Russia involving a Legacy 600 aircraft, but it did not have further information about the case and had not been providing support services for the jet since 2019. "Embraer has complied with international sanctions imposed on Russia," the planemaker said. Sanctions block Western plane makers from providing parts or support for planes operated in Russia. The aircraft, manufactured in 2007, fell under US Treasury sanctions in 2019 when it was listed under a prior registration, M-SAAN, according to a US government press release. Also read: Is Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dead? Here's what we know so far Who is behind the crash? US President Joe Biden’s reaction to the plane crash was quite blunt and striking as he alleged involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Biden said, "I don't know for a fact what happened, but I'm not surprised. There's not much that happens in Russia that Putin's not behind. But I don't know enough to know the answer." France also said that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash. But experts have said that whoever or whatever was behind the crash, his death would rid Putin of someone who had mounted the most serious challenge to the Russian leader's authority since he came to power in 1999. Notably, in June this year, Prigozhin staged a coup against Putin which eventually failed. Not just Wagner chief, others who have opposed Putin or his interests have also died under unclear circumstances or come close to death in the past, including outspoken political leaders and journalists. Such claims have always been denied by Russia. Abbas Gallyamov, a former Putin speech writer turned critic suggested without evidence that the Russian leader was behind the crash. Gallyamov wrote on Telegram: "The establishment is now convinced that it will not be possible to oppose Putin. Putin is strong enough and capable of revenge." Bill Browder, a businessman and another Kremlin critic, wrote on X: "Putin never forgives and never forgets. He looked like a humiliated weakling with Prigozhin running around without a care in the world (after the mutiny). This will cement his authority." Browder has years of experience in Russia. Who else was onboard the plane that crashed? Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency released the names of two pilots and one flight attendant who lost their lives in the deadly crash. The agency cited the airline to confirm that Captain Aleksei Levshin, co-pilot Rustam Karimov, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova died in the crash. The agency also released the names of those who were onboard, apart from Prigozhin. The list includes Sergey Propustin, Evgeniy Makaryan, Aleksandr Totmin, and Nikolay Matuseev. Two names stood out — Valeriy Chekalov and Dmitry Utkin. Chekalov was a senior aide to Prigozhin designated by the US Treasury for acting "for or on behalf of Prigozhin and has facilitated shipments of munitions to the Russian Federation". On the other hand, Utkin was Prigozhin's right-hand man who helped establish the mercenary group and bore the call sign "Wagner". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Yevgeny Prigozhin presumed dead: Was plane shot down by missile? Who is behind the crash?

<p>The head of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, reportedly died on Wednesday (August 24) in a private plane crash that killed all 10 onboard, including crew members in Moscow's Tver region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency released the names of two pilots and one flight attendant who lost their lives in the deadly crash. The agency cited the airline to confirm that Captain Aleksei Levshin, co-pilot Rustam Karimov, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency also released the names of those who were onboard, apart from Prigozhin. The list includes&nbsp;<strong>Sergey Propustin</strong>, <strong>Evgeniy Makaryan</strong>, <strong>Aleksandr Totmin</strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Nikolay Matuseev</strong>. Two names stood out —&nbsp;<strong>Valeriy Chekalov </strong>and <strong>Dmitry Utkin</strong>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dead-heres-what-we-know-so-far-628679">Is Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dead? Here's what we know so far</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Chekalov was a senior aide to Prigozhin designated by the US Treasury for acting "for or on behalf of Prigozhin and has facilitated shipments of munitions to the Russian Federation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Utkin was Prigozhin's right-hand man who helped establish the mercenary group and bore the call sign "Wagner".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin stayed mum on the Wagner chief's death, but Russian investigators said they had opened a criminal investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some unnamed sources told Russian media that they believed the plane had been shot down by one or more surface-to-air missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-shows-the-moment-wagner-chiefs-plane-tumbled-toward-ground-crashing-in-fireball-628645">A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Wagner chief's plane crash</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What did Ukraine and the West say?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A senior aide to the Ukrainian presidency said that the crash of a plane was a signal from the Kremlin. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak wrote on social media: "The demonstrative elimination of Prigozhin and the Wagner command two months after the coup attempt is a signal from Putin to Russia's elites ahead of the 2024 elections. 'Beware! Disloyalty equals death'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said he was "not surprised" at the news that Prigozhin may have died. He even suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin was involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France said Thursday that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The head of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, reportedly died on Wednesday (August 24) in a private plane crash that killed all 10 onboard, including crew members in Moscow's Tver region.

The head of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, reportedly died on Wednesday (August 24) in a private plane crash that killed all 10 onboard, including crew members in Moscow's Tver region. Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency released the names of two pilots and one flight attendant who lost their lives in the deadly crash. The agency cited the airline to confirm that Captain Aleksei Levshin, co-pilot Rustam Karimov, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova died. Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency also released the names of those who were onboard, apart from Prigozhin. The list includes Sergey Propustin, Evgeniy Makaryan, Aleksandr Totmin, and Nikolay Matuseev. Two names stood out — Valeriy Chekalov and Dmitry Utkin. Also read: Is Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dead? Here's what we know so far Chekalov was a senior aide to Prigozhin designated by the US Treasury for acting "for or on behalf of Prigozhin and has facilitated shipments of munitions to the Russian Federation". On the other hand, Utkin was Prigozhin's right-hand man who helped establish the mercenary group and bore the call sign "Wagner". The Kremlin stayed mum on the Wagner chief's death, but Russian investigators said they had opened a criminal investigation. Some unnamed sources told Russian media that they believed the plane had been shot down by one or more surface-to-air missiles. Also read: A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Wagner chief's plane crash Watch this report: × What did Ukraine and the West say? A senior aide to the Ukrainian presidency said that the crash of a plane was a signal from the Kremlin. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak wrote on social media: "The demonstrative elimination of Prigozhin and the Wagner command two months after the coup attempt is a signal from Putin to Russia's elites ahead of the 2024 elections. 'Beware! Disloyalty equals death'." Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said he was "not surprised" at the news that Prigozhin may have died. He even suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin was involved. France said Thursday that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia: Apart from Wagner boss, who else was onboard plane that crashed

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, has been presumed dead after it was claimed by Russian agencies that he was on board a plane that crashed on Wednesday (August 23). Officials have said that all 10 passengers were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin or the defence ministry has not responded yet and there are multiple claims and counterclaims about&nbsp;the deadly crash, with some suggesting Prigozhin was not on it, and some claiming the opposite. &nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden alleged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin's involvement, and France said on Thursday that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash. French government spokesman Olivier Veran told France 2 television: "We don't yet know the circumstances of this crash. We can have some reasonable doubts."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Theories have been floating online, with some linking the crash to the mutiny which happened in June after Prigozhin launched a short-lived rebellion, seen as the biggest challenge to Putin's authority since becoming the president. Since then uncertainty has surrounded the fate of Wagner and its controversial chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-shows-the-moment-wagner-chiefs-plane-tumbled-toward-ground-crashing-in-fireball-628645">A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Wagner chief's plane crash</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The answer to the question of whether or not the Wagner&nbsp;boss is dead is getting murkier. H<strong>ere are all the details that have been confirmed through official channels:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>-Russian officials said that the plane departed from Moscow and was en route to St. Petersburg. It crashed near the village of Kuzhenkino, in Russia’s western Tver region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>-The plane was an Embraer. Brazilian makers have said they had stopped providing any support for aircraft in 2019 because of sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-hints-at-vladimir-putins-involvement-in-wagner-chiefs-apparent-death-628598">Joe Biden hints at Vladimir Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>-The Flightradar24 online tracker showed that the Embraer plane (registration number RA-02795) had dropped off the radar at 6:11 pm (1511 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p>-The plane reached an altitude of some 28,000 feet before it suddenly stopped transmitting tracking details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>-Officials published the names of all 10 people on board the downed plane, which included Prigozhin. Preliminary information revealed all 10 people on board died, including three crew members.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, has been presumed dead after it was claimed by Russian agencies that he was on board a plane that crashed on Wednesday (August 23).

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, has been presumed dead after it was claimed by Russian agencies that he was on board a plane that crashed on Wednesday (August 23). Officials have said that all 10 passengers were killed. The Kremlin or the defence ministry has not responded yet and there are multiple claims and counterclaims about the deadly crash, with some suggesting Prigozhin was not on it, and some claiming the opposite. US President Joe Biden alleged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin's involvement, and France said on Thursday that there were "reasonable doubts" about the cause of the plane crash. French government spokesman Olivier Veran told France 2 television: "We don't yet know the circumstances of this crash. We can have some reasonable doubts." Theories have been floating online, with some linking the crash to the mutiny which happened in June after Prigozhin launched a short-lived rebellion, seen as the biggest challenge to Putin's authority since becoming the president. Since then uncertainty has surrounded the fate of Wagner and its controversial chief. Also read: A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Wagner chief's plane crash The answer to the question of whether or not the Wagner boss is dead is getting murkier. Here are all the details that have been confirmed through official channels: -Russian officials said that the plane departed from Moscow and was en route to St. Petersburg. It crashed near the village of Kuzhenkino, in Russia’s western Tver region. -The plane was an Embraer. Brazilian makers have said they had stopped providing any support for aircraft in 2019 because of sanctions. Also read: Joe Biden hints at Vladimir Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death Watch this report: × -The Flightradar24 online tracker showed that the Embraer plane (registration number RA-02795) had dropped off the radar at 6:11 pm (1511 GMT). -The plane reached an altitude of some 28,000 feet before it suddenly stopped transmitting tracking details. -Officials published the names of all 10 people on board the downed plane, which included Prigozhin. Preliminary information revealed all 10 people on board died, including three crew members. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dead? Here's what we know so far

<p>A video shared by Russian agencies and widely circulated on social media platforms showed a plane crashing to the ground in Russia's Tver region north of Moscow. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-wagner-mercenary-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dies-in-plane-crash-628479">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin</a> was on the list of 10 passengers, but it wasn't immediately clear if he was on board. Russian officials said that all passengers were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of the plane crash has gone viral now. Media reports said that a local woman witnessed the crash and she said she saw parts of the plane flaking off when it was free falling on the ground. Another woman said she saw two massive explosions ring out in the moments before its fatal descent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agency Reuters, a 72-year-old eyewitness, identified as Vitaly Stepenok, said: "I hear an explosion or a bang. Usually, if an explosion happens on the ground then you get an echo, but it was just a bang and I looked up and saw white smoke.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"One wing flew off in one direction and the fuselage went like that (GESTURES). And then it glided down on one wing. It didn't nose-dive, it was gliding," Stepenok added. The local said that he was afraid it would fall onto the village.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-hints-at-vladimir-putins-involvement-in-wagner-chiefs-apparent-death-628598">Joe Biden hints at Vladimir Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Another eyewitness, Anatoly, said: "In terms of what might have happened, I'll just say this: it wasn't thunder, it was a metallic bang - let's put it that way. I've heard things like that before."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media outlet BAZA reported that among the charred remains was one corpse which was missing a head, and another with a face described as "shattered". A source who had seen the wreck said: Four bodies were picked open, and then it is still not clear." The source also claimed that the plane burned out completely and the front part, windows and a piece of hardware remained.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wagner Leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who launched an attempted coup against Putin in June, along with atleast 10 others, have been killed in a plane crash in Russia's Tver region.<a href="https://t.co/JEbslRy2zB">pic.twitter.com/JEbslRy2zB</a></p>
— Africizen- Pan African (@Africizen) <a href="https://twitter.com/Africizen/status/1694569848976613651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin was listed as a passenger in a plane crash with no survivors, Russian authorities said. The Wagner Group had incurred President Vladimir Putin's wrath after staging an abortive armed mutiny against the army's top brass <a href="https://t.co/eRIu8XnreN">https://t.co/eRIu8XnreN</a> <a href="https://t.co/qEsrpGbkRi">pic.twitter.com/qEsrpGbkRi</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1694542543885877481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-second-attempt-to-launch-spy-satellite-fails-state-media-628585">North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine and the West have linked the crash to the Wagner mercenary group's attempted coup against Russia's military leadership in June, with US President Joe Biden even suggesting a direct involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin's short-lived rebellion was seen as the biggest challenge to Putin's authority since he came to power. Since then, uncertainty has surrounded the fate of Wagner and its controversial chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the Kremlin and the defence ministry have not reacted yet.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A video shared by Russian agencies and widely circulated on social media platforms showed a plane crashing to the ground in Russia's Tver region north of Moscow.

A video shared by Russian agencies and widely circulated on social media platforms showed a plane crashing to the ground in Russia's Tver region north of Moscow. Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was on the list of 10 passengers, but it wasn't immediately clear if he was on board. Russian officials said that all passengers were killed. The video of the plane crash has gone viral now. Media reports said that a local woman witnessed the crash and she said she saw parts of the plane flaking off when it was free falling on the ground. Another woman said she saw two massive explosions ring out in the moments before its fatal descent. As quoted by news agency Reuters, a 72-year-old eyewitness, identified as Vitaly Stepenok, said: "I hear an explosion or a bang. Usually, if an explosion happens on the ground then you get an echo, but it was just a bang and I looked up and saw white smoke. "One wing flew off in one direction and the fuselage went like that (GESTURES). And then it glided down on one wing. It didn't nose-dive, it was gliding," Stepenok added. The local said that he was afraid it would fall onto the village. Also read: Joe Biden hints at Vladimir Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death Another eyewitness, Anatoly, said: "In terms of what might have happened, I'll just say this: it wasn't thunder, it was a metallic bang - let's put it that way. I've heard things like that before." Local media outlet BAZA reported that among the charred remains was one corpse which was missing a head, and another with a face described as "shattered". A source who had seen the wreck said: Four bodies were picked open, and then it is still not clear." The source also claimed that the plane burned out completely and the front part, windows and a piece of hardware remained. Watch the video here: Wagner Leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who launched an attempted coup against Putin in June, along with atleast 10 others, have been killed in a plane crash in Russia's Tver region.pic.twitter.com/JEbslRy2zB — Africizen- Pan African (@Africizen) August 24, 2023 × Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin was listed as a passenger in a plane crash with no survivors, Russian authorities said. The Wagner Group had incurred President Vladimir Putin's wrath after staging an abortive armed mutiny against the army's top brass https://t.co/eRIu8XnreN pic.twitter.com/qEsrpGbkRi — Reuters (@Reuters) August 24, 2023 × Also read: North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media Ukraine and the West have linked the crash to the Wagner mercenary group's attempted coup against Russia's military leadership in June, with US President Joe Biden even suggesting a direct involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Prigozhin's short-lived rebellion was seen as the biggest challenge to Putin's authority since he came to power. Since then, uncertainty has surrounded the fate of Wagner and its controversial chief. But the Kremlin and the defence ministry have not reacted yet. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A metallic bang and smoke: Witnesses describe the scene of Prigozhin's plane crash

<p>Leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez and surprise challenger, business scion Daniel Noboa, won the first round of Ecuador's presidential election, beating&nbsp;six rivals in a race clouded by the murder of anti-graft candidate Fernando Villavicencio.</p>

<p>Gonzalez, a protege of former President Rafael Correa, who has promised to revive his social programmes, was tallying 33% support, with more than 70% of ballot boxes counted, according to figures from the National Electoral Council.</p>

<p>"We are celebrating because we are making history, even though so many of us have been ignored, today we begin moving toward a different history," Gonzalez told journalists and supporters at an event in southern Quito.</p>

<p>Former lawmaker Daniel Noboa, son of prominent banana businessman and former presidential candidate Alvaro Noboa, was a surprise second-place with 24 per cent&nbsp;of the vote.</p>

<p>"The Ecuadorean people have won," the 35-year-old Noboa told journalists in Guayaquil. "The youth candidate, of the people who are seeking hope, who want to change Ecuador, has triumphed."</p>

<p>Noboa said he looked forward to a second round against Gonzalez, scheduled for Oct. 15.</p>

<p>Anti-corruption candidate Villavicencio, who was fatally shot as he left a campaign event earlier this month, was tallying 16 per cent.</p>

<p>Villavicencio has been replaced by fellow investigative journalist Christian Zurita but appeared on the ballot because they were printed before his murder. Zurita, along with several other candidates, conceded defeat on Sunday evening.</p>

<p>Candidates had pledged to fight sharp increases in crime, which the current government blames on drug gangs, and improve the struggling economy, whose woes have caused an uptick in unemployment and migration.</p>

<p>Security took centre stage in the contest after Villavicencio's killing. Other candidates have reported attacks against them, although in several cases police have said that the violence was not directed at the hopefuls themselves.</p>

<p>Gonzalez supporters gathering ahead of a speech by her said they wanted a return of Correa's programmes and better work opportunities.</p>

<p>"I feel that as a woman she will fight for the people," said Fany Tarqui, 52, who brought her two daughters and their dog to the rally. "I want peace and sources of work."</p>

<p>"Work is scarce for everyone, that's why migration has gotten so high," said retired teacher Wilson Lopez, 64.</p>

<p>Six suspects, all Colombians who police say belong to criminal gangs, were charged with Villavicencio's murder and are being held in custody. Another suspect died from wounds sustained in a shootout with authorities.</p>

<h2><strong>CYBER ATTACKS</strong></h2>

<p>A webpage set up for some Ecuadoreans living abroad to cast their ballots suffered cyber attacks, the head of the national electoral council said, but the integrity of the vote was not affected by the issue.</p>

<p>The cyber attacks on the webpage for voters abroad were launched from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Russia, Ukraine, Indonesia and China, said council president Diana Atamaint.</p>

<p>"The online platform suffered cyber attacks that affected the fluidity of access to voting. We clarify and emphasize that the recorded votes have not been violated," Atamaint said.</p>

<p>Multiple candidates had denounced problems with the webpage and Gonzalez called on Sunday evening for a do-over of the foreign vote.</p>

<p>More than 82 per cent&nbsp;of those required to vote did so, Atamaint added. Voting is mandatory for those between 18 and 65.</p>

<p>Gonzalez has promised to free up $2.5 billion from international reserves to bolster Ecuador's economy and bring back million-dollar social initiatives implemented by Correa - who has since been convicted of corruption - during his decade in power.</p>

<p>Noboa seemingly gained support after performing well in the only televised debate of the campaign.</p>

<p>A lawmaker until current President Guillermo Lasso dissolved the national assembly and called early elections, Noboa has focused his campaign on job creation, tax incentives for new businesses and jail sentences for serious tax evasion.</p>

<p>Also on Sunday's ballot were two environmental referendums that could block mining in a forest near Quito and the development of an oil block in the Amazon.</p>

<p>The vote on the Yasuni oil block showed support for a ban on development, leading with 58% support, with about 24% of ballot boxes counted. A ban on mining in the Choco Andino forest was also winning with 67% support.</p>

<p>Correa's Citizens' Revolution party was leading the count for seats in the national assembly, with about 40% support, while Villavicencio's Construye party tallied 21%, with about 35% of ballot boxes counted.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez and surprise challenger, business scion Daniel Noboa, won the first round of Ecuador's presidential election, beating six rivals in a race clouded by the murder of anti-graft candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

Leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez and surprise challenger, business scion Daniel Noboa, won the first round of Ecuador's presidential election, beating six rivals in a race clouded by the murder of anti-graft candidate Fernando Villavicencio. Gonzalez, a protege of former President Rafael Correa, who has promised to revive his social programmes, was tallying 33% support, with more than 70% of ballot boxes counted, according to figures from the National Electoral Council. "We are celebrating because we are making history, even though so many of us have been ignored, today we begin moving toward a different history," Gonzalez told journalists and supporters at an event in southern Quito. Former lawmaker Daniel Noboa, son of prominent banana businessman and former presidential candidate Alvaro Noboa, was a surprise second-place with 24 per cent of the vote. "The Ecuadorean people have won," the 35-year-old Noboa told journalists in Guayaquil. "The youth candidate, of the people who are seeking hope, who want to change Ecuador, has triumphed." Noboa said he looked forward to a second round against Gonzalez, scheduled for Oct. 15. Anti-corruption candidate Villavicencio, who was fatally shot as he left a campaign event earlier this month, was tallying 16 per cent. Villavicencio has been replaced by fellow investigative journalist Christian Zurita but appeared on the ballot because they were printed before his murder. Zurita, along with several other candidates, conceded defeat on Sunday evening. Candidates had pledged to fight sharp increases in crime, which the current government blames on drug gangs, and improve the struggling economy, whose woes have caused an uptick in unemployment and migration. Security took centre stage in the contest after Villavicencio's killing. Other candidates have reported attacks against them, although in several cases police have said that the violence was not directed at the hopefuls themselves. Gonzalez supporters gathering ahead of a speech by her said they wanted a return of Correa's programmes and better work opportunities. "I feel that as a woman she will fight for the people," said Fany Tarqui, 52, who brought her two daughters and their dog to the rally. "I want peace and sources of work." "Work is scarce for everyone, that's why migration has gotten so high," said retired teacher Wilson Lopez, 64. Six suspects, all Colombians who police say belong to criminal gangs, were charged with Villavicencio's murder and are being held in custody. Another suspect died from wounds sustained in a shootout with authorities. CYBER ATTACKS A webpage set up for some Ecuadoreans living abroad to cast their ballots suffered cyber attacks, the head of the national electoral council said, but the integrity of the vote was not affected by the issue. The cyber attacks on the webpage for voters abroad were launched from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Russia, Ukraine, Indonesia and China, said council president Diana Atamaint. "The online platform suffered cyber attacks that affected the fluidity of access to voting. We clarify and emphasize that the recorded votes have not been violated," Atamaint said. Multiple candidates had denounced problems with the webpage and Gonzalez called on Sunday evening for a do-over of the foreign vote. More than 82 per cent of those required to vote did so, Atamaint added. Voting is mandatory for those between 18 and 65. Gonzalez has promised to free up $2.5 billion from international reserves to bolster Ecuador's economy and bring back million-dollar social initiatives implemented by Correa - who has since been convicted of corruption - during his decade in power. Noboa seemingly gained support after performing well in the only televised debate of the campaign. A lawmaker until current President Guillermo Lasso dissolved the national assembly and called early elections, Noboa has focused his campaign on job creation, tax incentives for new businesses and jail sentences for serious tax evasion. Also on Sunday's ballot were two environmental referendums that could block mining in a forest near Quito and the development of an oil block in the Amazon. The vote on the Yasuni oil block showed support for a ban on development, leading with 58% support, with about 24% of ballot boxes counted. A ban on mining in the Choco Andino forest was also winning with 67% support. Correa's Citizens' Revolution party was leading the count for seats in the national assembly, with about 40% support, while Villavicencio's Construye party tallied 21%, with about 35% of ballot boxes counted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ecuador election: Leftist Luisa Gonzalez, businessman Noboa set to go to second round

<p>Tropical Storm&nbsp;Hilary has left the people in Southern California cleaning after flooding&nbsp;streets, toppling&nbsp;trees, downing&nbsp;power lines and triggering mudslides on Monday (August 21). Reports say that the system marched northward, triggering flood watches and warnings in more than a half dozen states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It emerged as the first tropical storm to make landfall in Southern California since September 25, 1939. Hilary led to a record-breaking downpour overnight as up to 28 centimetres of rain was recorded in some areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Hurricane Center in Miami warned that "continued life-threatening and locally catastrophic flooding" was expected over portions of the southwestern US after the rainfall, but it also mentioned that the tropical storm had lost much of its strength.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hilary arrived in California as a rare tropical storm that dumped 10 to 12 cm of rain on coastal areas and 25 cm or more in the mountains.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-tours-wildfire-damaged-maui-offers-comfort-to-affected-residents-627700">US President Biden tours wildfire-damaged Maui, offers comfort to affected residents</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>It made landfall on Sunday on Mexico's northwestern Pacific Coast as a hurricane and then headed towards California. Its centre slammed into the north of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hilary was a Category 4 hurricane, which is the second-most powerful on the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, but it was downgraded to a tropical storm as it crossed into the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials have not reported deaths, or life-threatening injuries so far,&nbsp;but warnings have been issued over risks in the mountainous regions where the wet hillsides could unleash mudslides.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Tropical storm Hilary brings flooding in Southern California&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cal Fire Battalion Chief Alison Hesterly said that in the San Bernardino Mountains, east of Los Angeles, crews were working to clear mud that has been blocking the homes of about 800 residents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports have mentioned that the remnants of Hilary were expected to dump heavy rains in Nevada and Utah and into the Northwest, where more than four&nbsp;million people remained under the threat of flooding until Monday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maui-wildfires-us-president-joe-biden-to-visit-hawaii-to-survey-massive-destruction-627492">Maui Wildfires: US President Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to survey massive destruction</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are working around the clock responding to the effects of Hurricane Hilary. PLEASE: if you don’t need to travel, stay home. Caltrans and other state agencies can do our work more efficiently AND it’s safer for you. <a href="https://t.co/600ON09jKb">pic.twitter.com/600ON09jKb</a></p>
— Caltrans HQ (@CaltransHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/CaltransHQ/status/1693714592852308020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you to all first responders, staff, &amp; volunteers who have been working around the clock to monitor the storm &amp; keep people safe.<br />
<br />
This morning, Governor <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GavinNewsom</a> dropped by the <a href="https://twitter.com/LACity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LACity</a> Emergency Operations Center to deliver donuts &amp; gratitude on behalf of our state. <a href="https://t.co/sCbRClmyvl">pic.twitter.com/sCbRClmyvl</a></p>
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAgovernor/status/1693699601063436443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell told reporters aboard Air Force One: "Fortunately, Californians listened to their local officials and took the necessary preparedness actions to help protect themselves and their families."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The office of California Governor Gavin Newsom said that authorities opened five storm shelters and deployed more than 7,500 personnel, including several hundred National Guard soldiers as well as swift water rescue teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Tropical Storm Hilary has left the people in Southern California cleaning after flooding streets, toppling trees, downing power lines and triggering mudslides on Monday (August 21).

Tropical Storm Hilary has left the people in Southern California cleaning after flooding streets, toppling trees, downing power lines and triggering mudslides on Monday (August 21). Reports say that the system marched northward, triggering flood watches and warnings in more than a half dozen states. It emerged as the first tropical storm to make landfall in Southern California since September 25, 1939. Hilary led to a record-breaking downpour overnight as up to 28 centimetres of rain was recorded in some areas. The National Hurricane Center in Miami warned that "continued life-threatening and locally catastrophic flooding" was expected over portions of the southwestern US after the rainfall, but it also mentioned that the tropical storm had lost much of its strength. Hilary arrived in California as a rare tropical storm that dumped 10 to 12 cm of rain on coastal areas and 25 cm or more in the mountains. Also read: US President Biden tours wildfire-damaged Maui, offers comfort to affected residents It made landfall on Sunday on Mexico's northwestern Pacific Coast as a hurricane and then headed towards California. Its centre slammed into the north of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. Hilary was a Category 4 hurricane, which is the second-most powerful on the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, but it was downgraded to a tropical storm as it crossed into the US. The officials have not reported deaths, or life-threatening injuries so far, but warnings have been issued over risks in the mountainous regions where the wet hillsides could unleash mudslides. Watch: Tropical storm Hilary brings flooding in Southern California × Cal Fire Battalion Chief Alison Hesterly said that in the San Bernardino Mountains, east of Los Angeles, crews were working to clear mud that has been blocking the homes of about 800 residents. Local reports have mentioned that the remnants of Hilary were expected to dump heavy rains in Nevada and Utah and into the Northwest, where more than four million people remained under the threat of flooding until Monday night. Also read: Maui Wildfires: US President Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to survey massive destruction We are working around the clock responding to the effects of Hurricane Hilary. PLEASE: if you don’t need to travel, stay home. Caltrans and other state agencies can do our work more efficiently AND it’s safer for you. pic.twitter.com/600ON09jKb — Caltrans HQ (@CaltransHQ) August 21, 2023 × Thank you to all first responders, staff, & volunteers who have been working around the clock to monitor the storm & keep people safe. This morning, Governor @GavinNewsom dropped by the @LACity Emergency Operations Center to deliver donuts & gratitude on behalf of our state. pic.twitter.com/sCbRClmyvl — Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) August 21, 2023 × FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell told reporters aboard Air Force One: "Fortunately, Californians listened to their local officials and took the necessary preparedness actions to help protect themselves and their families." The office of California Governor Gavin Newsom said that authorities opened five storm shelters and deployed more than 7,500 personnel, including several hundred National Guard soldiers as well as swift water rescue teams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After drenching Southern California and Southwest, tropical storm Hilary moves north

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