<p>Australia on Tuesday announced that it will ban recreational vaping in an attempt to curb the use of e-cigarettes across the nation. Authorities are focused on tightening e-cigarette laws in the biggest crackdown on the tobacco industry in more than a decade. Australia aims to stop the alarming rise in teenage vaping, which experts have described as an "epidemic".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country will ban single-use disposable vapes, put a brake on imports of non-prescription versions, and also restrict how much nicotine e-cigarettes may contain. The disposable vapes, which are quite popular with the young generation, will also be banned.&nbsp;The government said that the sale of vapes will be restricted to pharmacies and they will also introduce a minimum quality standard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Health Minister Mark Butler said in a speech at the National Press Club: "Just like they did with smoking, Big Tobacco has taken another addictive product, wrapped it in shiny packaging and added flavours to create a new generation of nicotine addicts."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-man-dies-after-getting-trapped-in-cave-at-indoor-climbing-centre-588157">UK: Man dies after getting trapped in cave at indoor climbing centre</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Butler said, "Vaping has become the number one behavioural issue in high schools, and it's becoming widespread in primary schools."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian health minister said that vaping was sold to governments and communities around the world as a "therapeutic product to help long-term smokers quit".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was not sold as a recreational product -- especially not one for our kids," he said, further adding that the government will also increase taxes on tobacco sales by five per cent each year over the next three years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Heavy taxes on tobacco mean Australia has some of the most expensive cigarettes in the world - with a pack of 25 selling for around Aus$50 (US$33).&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-activist-interrupts-swiss-public-debate-on-live-tv-588178/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Does vaping help you to&nbsp;quit smoking?</strong></h2>

<p>It is widely claimed by people who use vapes that e-cigarette is a safer alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes. They also say that vapes help smokers quit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, vaping involves heating a liquid that contains nicotine in what is called an e-cigarette and turning it into a vapour that users inhale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the claims have been refuted by evidence-backed studies. A 2022 study by the Australian National University found adolescents who vaped were three times more likely to start smoking.</p>

<p>The researchers said at the time: "Nicotine use in children and adolescents can lead to lifelong addiction issues as well as difficulties in concentration and learning."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Vapes deliver hundreds of chemicals -- some of them known to be toxic and many others with unknown effects," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australia on Tuesday announced that it will ban recreational vaping in an attempt to curb the use of e-cigarettes across the nation. Authorities are focused on tightening e-cigarette laws in the biggest crackdown on the tobacco industry in more than a decade.

Australia on Tuesday announced that it will ban recreational vaping in an attempt to curb the use of e-cigarettes across the nation. Authorities are focused on tightening e-cigarette laws in the biggest crackdown on the tobacco industry in more than a decade. Australia aims to stop the alarming rise in teenage vaping, which experts have described as an "epidemic". The country will ban single-use disposable vapes, put a brake on imports of non-prescription versions, and also restrict how much nicotine e-cigarettes may contain. The disposable vapes, which are quite popular with the young generation, will also be banned. The government said that the sale of vapes will be restricted to pharmacies and they will also introduce a minimum quality standard. Health Minister Mark Butler said in a speech at the National Press Club: "Just like they did with smoking, Big Tobacco has taken another addictive product, wrapped it in shiny packaging and added flavours to create a new generation of nicotine addicts." ALSO READ | UK: Man dies after getting trapped in cave at indoor climbing centre Butler said, "Vaping has become the number one behavioural issue in high schools, and it's becoming widespread in primary schools." The Australian health minister said that vaping was sold to governments and communities around the world as a "therapeutic product to help long-term smokers quit". "It was not sold as a recreational product -- especially not one for our kids," he said, further adding that the government will also increase taxes on tobacco sales by five per cent each year over the next three years. Heavy taxes on tobacco mean Australia has some of the most expensive cigarettes in the world - with a pack of 25 selling for around Aus$50 (US$33). × Does vaping help you to quit smoking? It is widely claimed by people who use vapes that e-cigarette is a safer alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes. They also say that vapes help smokers quit. For the unversed, vaping involves heating a liquid that contains nicotine in what is called an e-cigarette and turning it into a vapour that users inhale. But the claims have been refuted by evidence-backed studies. A 2022 study by the Australian National University found adolescents who vaped were three times more likely to start smoking. The researchers said at the time: "Nicotine use in children and adolescents can lead to lifelong addiction issues as well as difficulties in concentration and learning." "Vapes deliver hundreds of chemicals -- some of them known to be toxic and many others with unknown effects," they added. (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.

Australia to ban recreational vaping, tighten other aspects of e-cigarette laws

<p>The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired". According to the US estimate, more than 20,000 Russian troops have died and another 80,000 were injured in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>John Kirby, who is the White House national security spokesperson, said that the latest figure is based on US intelligence estimates and the total also includes over 20,000 killed in action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby told reporters: "We estimate that Russia has suffered more than 100,000 casualties, including over 20,000 killed in action."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia's attempt at an offensive in the Donbas, largely through Bakhmut, has failed... Russia has been unable to seize any really strategically significant territory," Kirby added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said, "Last December, Russia initiated a broad offensive across multiple lines of advance, including toward Vuhledar, Avdiivka, Bakhmut, and Kreminna. Most of these efforts stalled and failed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby said that Russia's incremental gains in Bakhmut have come at a "terrible, terrible cost". He said that Russia has exhausted its military stockpiles and its armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-explosion-derails-freight-train-in-region-bordering-ukraine-587769">Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;A big year for India-US ties: US Pres Joe Biden to visit India in Sept for G20 summit&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-big-year-for-india-us-ties-us-pres-joe-biden-to-visit-india-in-sept-for-g20-summit-587945/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The official said, "The bottom line is that Russia's attempted offensive has backfired. After months of fighting and extraordinary losses, Russia continues to be focused on a single Ukrainian city with limited strategic value."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby also claimed that Ukraine's defences in the region remain strong, but didn't reveal estimates of Ukrainian casualties because "they are the victims here. Russia is the aggressor".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the White House will not put "information in the public domain that makes it any harder" for the close Western ally, whose army is being armed and trained by a US-led coalition of countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-air-defence-systems-repelling-russian-missile-attacks-in-kyiv-region-say-officials-587668">Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Battle of Bakhmut&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A top Ukrainian general claimed on Monday that they have ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut amid fierce battles. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Ukrainian commander of ground forces, said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "The situation (in Bakhmut) is quite difficult."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At the same time, in certain parts of the city, the enemy was counterattacked by our units and left some positions" in recent days, he said.</p>

<p>The West is also claiming that Russia is running out of weapons as Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Wagner, said on Telegram on Monday that his fighters needed some 300 tonnes of artillery shells a day for the assault on Bakhmut, but were receiving only a third of that amount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Three hundred tonnes a day is 10 cargo containers - not a lot at all," said Prigozhin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired".

The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired". According to the US estimate, more than 20,000 Russian troops have died and another 80,000 were injured in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut. John Kirby, who is the White House national security spokesperson, said that the latest figure is based on US intelligence estimates and the total also includes over 20,000 killed in action. Kirby told reporters: "We estimate that Russia has suffered more than 100,000 casualties, including over 20,000 killed in action." "Russia's attempt at an offensive in the Donbas, largely through Bakhmut, has failed... Russia has been unable to seize any really strategically significant territory," Kirby added. He further said, "Last December, Russia initiated a broad offensive across multiple lines of advance, including toward Vuhledar, Avdiivka, Bakhmut, and Kreminna. Most of these efforts stalled and failed." Kirby said that Russia's incremental gains in Bakhmut have come at a "terrible, terrible cost". He said that Russia has exhausted its military stockpiles and its armed forces. ALSO READ | Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine WATCH | A big year for India-US ties: US Pres Joe Biden to visit India in Sept for G20 summit × The official said, "The bottom line is that Russia's attempted offensive has backfired. After months of fighting and extraordinary losses, Russia continues to be focused on a single Ukrainian city with limited strategic value." Kirby also claimed that Ukraine's defences in the region remain strong, but didn't reveal estimates of Ukrainian casualties because "they are the victims here. Russia is the aggressor". He said that the White House will not put "information in the public domain that makes it any harder" for the close Western ally, whose army is being armed and trained by a US-led coalition of countries. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched Battle of Bakhmut A top Ukrainian general claimed on Monday that they have ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut amid fierce battles. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Ukrainian commander of ground forces, said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "The situation (in Bakhmut) is quite difficult." "At the same time, in certain parts of the city, the enemy was counterattacked by our units and left some positions" in recent days, he said. The West is also claiming that Russia is running out of weapons as Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Wagner, said on Telegram on Monday that his fighters needed some 300 tonnes of artillery shells a day for the assault on Bakhmut, but were receiving only a third of that amount. "Three hundred tonnes a day is 10 cargo containers - not a lot at all," said Prigozhin. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 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's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House

<p>Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched the world's most powerful rocket, but it exploded on its first integrated test flight. The blast occurred just four minutes after launching from Boca Chica, Texas on April 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX shared a video of the moment its Starship Super Heavy exploded and the residents in Port Isabel, Texas, shared their experiences and aftereffects on social media as sand and dust coated the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Videos were shared showing debris being blasted as far as the Gulf of Mexico, over 1,400 feet (425 metres) away, while a cloud of dust floated over a small town several miles (kilometres) away.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/esas-jupiter-bound-spacecraft-juice-experiences-glitch-with-antenna-in-deep-space-587366">ESA's Jupiter-bound spacecraft JUICE experiences glitch with antenna in deep space</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The court filings obtained by CNBC showed that the lawsuit against the FAA was filed in a district court in Washington DC on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plaintiffs included: The Center for Biological Diversity, the American Bird Conservancy, SurfRider Foundation, Save Rio Grande Valley (Save RGV) and a cultural heritage organization, the Carrizo-Comecrudo Nation of Texas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US-based news outlet wrote, "The FAA failed to take the requisite hard look at the proposed project and has concluded that significant adverse effects will not occur due to purported mitigation measures."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spacexs-starship-worlds-biggest-rocket-blows-up-minutes-into-inaugural-test-flight-584724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The SpaceX Starship explosion had spread particulate matter for miles as researchers were rushed to assess environmental and health impacts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) has said that the site from where the rocket was launched is also closer to vital habitat for protected species, including Kemp's ridley sea turtle and the piping plover bird. CBD is among the groups that filed the lawsuit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns have been raised as the FAA awarded SpaceX a license to launch 20 Starships a year for five years. Musk's company is required to carry out monitoring of vegetation and wildlife by a qualified biologist, including conducting a pre- and post-launch survey.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>These groups have said that these measures are not enough and there's an urgent need for a full environmental review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the CBD said in a statement, "It's vital that we protect life on Earth even as we look to the stars in this modern era of spaceflight." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Federal officials should defend vulnerable wildlife and frontline communities, not give a pass to corporate interests that want to use treasured coastal landscapes as a dumping ground for space waste," Margolis added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched the world's most powerful rocket, but it exploded on its first integrated test flight. The blast occurred just four minutes after launching from Boca Chica, Texas on April 20. SpaceX shared a video of the moment its Starship Super Heavy exploded and the residents in Port Isabel, Texas, shared their experiences and aftereffects on social media as sand and dust coated the city. Videos were shared showing debris being blasted as far as the Gulf of Mexico, over 1,400 feet (425 metres) away, while a cloud of dust floated over a small town several miles (kilometres) away. ALSO READ | ESA's Jupiter-bound spacecraft JUICE experiences glitch with antenna in deep space The court filings obtained by CNBC showed that the lawsuit against the FAA was filed in a district court in Washington DC on Monday. The plaintiffs included: The Center for Biological Diversity, the American Bird Conservancy, SurfRider Foundation, Save Rio Grande Valley (Save RGV) and a cultural heritage organization, the Carrizo-Comecrudo Nation of Texas. The US-based news outlet wrote, "The FAA failed to take the requisite hard look at the proposed project and has concluded that significant adverse effects will not occur due to purported mitigation measures." Watch this report: × The SpaceX Starship explosion had spread particulate matter for miles as researchers were rushed to assess environmental and health impacts. The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) has said that the site from where the rocket was launched is also closer to vital habitat for protected species, including Kemp's ridley sea turtle and the piping plover bird. CBD is among the groups that filed the lawsuit. Concerns have been raised as the FAA awarded SpaceX a license to launch 20 Starships a year for five years. Musk's company is required to carry out monitoring of vegetation and wildlife by a qualified biologist, including conducting a pre- and post-launch survey. These groups have said that these measures are not enough and there's an urgent need for a full environmental review. Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the CBD said in a statement, "It's vital that we protect life on Earth even as we look to the stars in this modern era of spaceflight." "Federal officials should defend vulnerable wildlife and frontline communities, not give a pass to corporate interests that want to use treasured coastal landscapes as a dumping ground for space waste," Margolis added. (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.

Environmental groups in US sue FAA over SpaceX Starship explosion

<p>Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 2 (Tuesday), Dzheppar tweeted: "We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in a distorted manner. #Ukraine &amp;its people respect unique #Indian culture&amp;highly appreciate🇮🇳support."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The minister added that the depiction has already been removed and Ukraine is determined to further increase cooperation in the spirit of "mutual respect and friendship".&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We regret <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceU</a> depicting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindu</a> goddess <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kali</a> in distorted manner. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> &amp;its people respect unique <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> culture&amp;highly appreciate🇮🇳support.The depiction has already been removed.🇺🇦is determined to further increase cooperation in spirit of mutual respect&amp;💪friendship.</p>
— Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmineDzheppar/status/1653109804393455632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-military-suffered-100000-casualties-in-last-five-months-white-house-588028">Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The post, with the caption "Work of art", sparked a huge row in India, and was later deleted. In the controversial image, created by Ukrainian artist Maksym Palenko, a bomb blast was shown merged with the famous American actress Marilyn Monroe's "flying skirt" pose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Indian users slammed the post for mocking the Hindu culture with the caricaturish depiction as it had notable similarities with the Hindu Goddess "Maa Kali" — the deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia launches another barrage of strikes, most repelled by Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-at-ukraine-russia-launches-another-barrage-of-strikes-most-repelled-by-ukraine-588029/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-explosion-derails-freight-train-in-region-bordering-ukraine-587769">Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A Twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha tweeted: "This is why you guys are not getting any support from India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another user, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted: "I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount."&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the netizens wrote, "Shocking! Official handle of Ukraine Defense Ministry is portraying Maa Kali in a demeaning pose. This is not a work of art. Our faith is not a matter of joke. Take it down and apologise @DefenceU" &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dzheppar's visit to India</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, Dzheppar visited India and met the Secretary (West), of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma and several other officials. While speaking to reporters, she said that India, as a global player, has the potential to be a leader in promoting peace and justice worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India as a global player really is the Visha guru of the world. I think it's crucial that we are the victim of the War, of unprovoked war, of the Neo-colonial war," she had said.</p>

<p>During her visit, she also said that she hoped that India will play an active role in addressing global issues and challenges, particularly in the areas of economics, energy, and nuclear policy. Asked about India-Russia energy ties, Dzheppar urged India to diversify its resources, including energy and military contracts, to avoid being dependent on any one country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not in the position of instructing India, in their economic ties with other countries. I think that India should be pragmatic in diversifying the energy resources, in diversifying military contracts, in diversifying political interaction," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose.

Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose. On May 2 (Tuesday), Dzheppar tweeted: "We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in a distorted manner. #Ukraine &its people respect unique #Indian culture&highly appreciate🇮🇳support." The minister added that the depiction has already been removed and Ukraine is determined to further increase cooperation in the spirit of "mutual respect and friendship". We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in distorted manner. #Ukraine &its people respect unique #Indian culture&highly appreciate🇮🇳support.The depiction has already been removed.🇺🇦is determined to further increase cooperation in spirit of mutual respect&💪friendship. — Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) May 1, 2023 × ALSO READ | Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House The post, with the caption "Work of art", sparked a huge row in India, and was later deleted. In the controversial image, created by Ukrainian artist Maksym Palenko, a bomb blast was shown merged with the famous American actress Marilyn Monroe's "flying skirt" pose. But Indian users slammed the post for mocking the Hindu culture with the caricaturish depiction as it had notable similarities with the Hindu Goddess "Maa Kali" — the deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck. WATCH | Russia launches another barrage of strikes, most repelled by Ukraine × ALSO READ | Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine A Twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha tweeted: "This is why you guys are not getting any support from India." Another user, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted: "I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount." One of the netizens wrote, "Shocking! Official handle of Ukraine Defense Ministry is portraying Maa Kali in a demeaning pose. This is not a work of art. Our faith is not a matter of joke. Take it down and apologise @DefenceU" Dzheppar's visit to India Last month, Dzheppar visited India and met the Secretary (West), of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma and several other officials. While speaking to reporters, she said that India, as a global player, has the potential to be a leader in promoting peace and justice worldwide. "India as a global player really is the Visha guru of the world. I think it's crucial that we are the victim of the War, of unprovoked war, of the Neo-colonial war," she had said. During her visit, she also said that she hoped that India will play an active role in addressing global issues and challenges, particularly in the areas of economics, energy, and nuclear policy. Asked about India-Russia energy ties, Dzheppar urged India to diversify its resources, including energy and military contracts, to avoid being dependent on any one country. "We are not in the position of instructing India, in their economic ties with other countries. I think that India should be pragmatic in diversifying the energy resources, in diversifying military contracts, in diversifying political interaction," she added. 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.

Ukraine 'regrets' depicting Hindu goddess Kali in distorted manner

<p>Jailed gangster and an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout case, Tillu Tajpuriya, was killed allegedly by members of the Gogi gang inside Tihar Jail early on Tuesday, officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prison officials said the incident took place around 6:30 am (local time). He was taken to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital where he was declared dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior prison official said 33-year-old Sunil alias Tillu Tajpuriya, who was lodged on the ground floor of the high-risk ward, was allegedly attacked by four inmates affiliated with the rival Gogi gang around 6:15 am (India time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attackers - Deepak alias Titar, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan - were lodged on the first floor of the same ward.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They allegedly cut the iron grille installed on the first floor of the high-security ward and used bedsheets to climb down to the ground floor before attacking Tajpuriya with an improvised sharp object, the official said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An injured Tajpuriya was rushed to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital after receiving medical attention at the jail outpatient department around 6:45 am (India time). He died during treatment at the hospital, the prison official said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had suffered multiple stab wounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Akshat Kaushal said information was received around 7 am from Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital regarding two undertrial prisoners from Tihar Jail being brought there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of the pair, Tajpuriya was brought in in an unconscious state. He was declared brought dead, Kaushal said. Another person, Rohit, is undergoing treatment and is said to be out of danger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September 2021, gangster Jitender Gogi was shot dead by two assailants dressed as lawyers inside the Rohini court complex. The assailants were then killed in retaliatory firing by the police.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Jailed gangster and an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout case, Tillu Tajpuriya, was killed allegedly by members of the Gogi gang inside Tihar Jail early on Tuesday, officials said.

Jailed gangster and an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout case, Tillu Tajpuriya, was killed allegedly by members of the Gogi gang inside Tihar Jail early on Tuesday, officials said. Prison officials said the incident took place around 6:30 am (local time). He was taken to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital where he was declared dead. A senior prison official said 33-year-old Sunil alias Tillu Tajpuriya, who was lodged on the ground floor of the high-risk ward, was allegedly attacked by four inmates affiliated with the rival Gogi gang around 6:15 am (India time). The attackers - Deepak alias Titar, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan - were lodged on the first floor of the same ward. They allegedly cut the iron grille installed on the first floor of the high-security ward and used bedsheets to climb down to the ground floor before attacking Tajpuriya with an improvised sharp object, the official said. An injured Tajpuriya was rushed to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital after receiving medical attention at the jail outpatient department around 6:45 am (India time). He died during treatment at the hospital, the prison official said. He had suffered multiple stab wounds. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Akshat Kaushal said information was received around 7 am from Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital regarding two undertrial prisoners from Tihar Jail being brought there. Of the pair, Tajpuriya was brought in in an unconscious state. He was declared brought dead, Kaushal said. Another person, Rohit, is undergoing treatment and is said to be out of danger. In September 2021, gangster Jitender Gogi was shot dead by two assailants dressed as lawyers inside the Rohini court complex. The assailants were then killed in retaliatory firing by the police. 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.

India: Rohini court shootout accused Tillu Tajpuriya killed by Gogi gang members in Tihar Jail

<p>Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Pawar, a &nbsp;four-time chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra, also announced a panel of senior party leaders to outline a future course of action. He has served as the union defence and agriculture minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," Pawar said at a press briefing, news agency PTI reported. The announcement received loud reactions from the gathering. Pawar was speaking at a book launch of his autobiography at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratisthan.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," says NCP chief Sharad Pawar <a href="https://t.co/tTiO8aCAcK">pic.twitter.com/tTiO8aCAcK</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1653300033721335808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He was a vital cog in bringing together an unlikely coalition of the NCP, Congress and then the ideologically opposite Shiv Sena to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government after the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision.

Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision. Pawar, a four-time chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra, also announced a panel of senior party leaders to outline a future course of action. He has served as the union defence and agriculture minister. "I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," Pawar said at a press briefing, news agency PTI reported. The announcement received loud reactions from the gathering. Pawar was speaking at a book launch of his autobiography at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratisthan. #WATCH | "I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," says NCP chief Sharad Pawar pic.twitter.com/tTiO8aCAcK — ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2023 × He was a vital cog in bringing together an unlikely coalition of the NCP, Congress and then the ideologically opposite Shiv Sena to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government after the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections. 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.

India: Sharad Pawar resigns as Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief

<p>An agreement between the United States and South Korea, which is aimed at strengthening deterrence against Pyongyang, has been criticised by North Korea, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 1) citing state media KCNA. North Korea has reacted angrily to the Yoon-Biden summit as it warned that the meeting consolidated its conviction to perfect its "nuclear war deterrent".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The response comes after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his US counterpart Joe Biden met in Washington last week to discuss issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington and Seoul vowed that North Korea would face a nuclear response and there would be an "end" of the leadership, in case it uses its own arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In its report, KCNA cited Choe Ju Hyon, terming him an international security analyst, as saying that the agreement stipulated the allies' willingness to take "the most hostile and aggressive action" against North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-isis-chief-killed-in-syria-says-turkey-president-587671">Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The report added that the deployment of American strategic assets has placed the situation of the Korean peninsula in a "quagmire of instability," and was intended to build "aggressive and exclusive military blocs" in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>KCNA said, "It is just aimed to dodge the responsibility for the worst-ever nuclear-related crimes it has committed by systematically destroying and violating the nuclear non-proliferation system, and in particular, pushing the situation of the Korean Peninsula to the brink of a nuclear war."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is the hegemonic sinister aim pursued by the U.S. to turn the whole of South Korea into its biggest nuclear war outpost in the Far East and effectively use it for attaining its strategy for dominating the world," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-south-korea-security-pact-will-worsen-situation-says-kim-jong-uns-sister-587196/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Kim's sister on the US-South Korea summit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the crucial summit, Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong said that the North was convinced that a nuclear deterrent "should be brought to further perfection".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by KCNA, Kim said, "The more the enemies are dead set on staging nuclear war exercises, and the more nuclear assets they deploy in the vicinity of the Korean peninsula, the stronger the exercise of our right to self-defence will become in direct proportion to them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further noted that the agreement would "only result in making peace and security of Northeast Asia and the world be exposed to more serious danger, and it is an act that can thus never be welcome".&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Korea has indicated it will not consider giving up nuclear weapons it views as insurance against regime change and has continued to work on its banned nuclear and missile programmes, despite sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


An agreement between the United States and South Korea, which is aimed at strengthening deterrence against Pyongyang, has been criticised by North Korea, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 1) citing state media KCNA.

An agreement between the United States and South Korea, which is aimed at strengthening deterrence against Pyongyang, has been criticised by North Korea, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 1) citing state media KCNA. North Korea has reacted angrily to the Yoon-Biden summit as it warned that the meeting consolidated its conviction to perfect its "nuclear war deterrent". The response comes after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his US counterpart Joe Biden met in Washington last week to discuss issues of mutual interest. Washington and Seoul vowed that North Korea would face a nuclear response and there would be an "end" of the leadership, in case it uses its own arsenal. In its report, KCNA cited Choe Ju Hyon, terming him an international security analyst, as saying that the agreement stipulated the allies' willingness to take "the most hostile and aggressive action" against North Korea. ALSO READ | Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president The report added that the deployment of American strategic assets has placed the situation of the Korean peninsula in a "quagmire of instability," and was intended to build "aggressive and exclusive military blocs" in the region. KCNA said, "It is just aimed to dodge the responsibility for the worst-ever nuclear-related crimes it has committed by systematically destroying and violating the nuclear non-proliferation system, and in particular, pushing the situation of the Korean Peninsula to the brink of a nuclear war." "It is the hegemonic sinister aim pursued by the U.S. to turn the whole of South Korea into its biggest nuclear war outpost in the Far East and effectively use it for attaining its strategy for dominating the world," it added. Watch this report: × Kim's sister on the US-South Korea summit In response to the crucial summit, Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong said that the North was convinced that a nuclear deterrent "should be brought to further perfection". As quoted by KCNA, Kim said, "The more the enemies are dead set on staging nuclear war exercises, and the more nuclear assets they deploy in the vicinity of the Korean peninsula, the stronger the exercise of our right to self-defence will become in direct proportion to them." She further noted that the agreement would "only result in making peace and security of Northeast Asia and the world be exposed to more serious danger, and it is an act that can thus never be welcome". North Korea has indicated it will not consider giving up nuclear weapons it views as insurance against regime change and has continued to work on its banned nuclear and missile programmes, despite sanctions. (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.

North Korea slams US-South Korea summit, says it will lead situation to 'brink of a nuclear war'

<p>Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India. The satellite images have been taken by Maxar Technologies.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Myanmar's Coco Islands is a small group of islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal and has been the centre of geopolitical tensions in the region.&nbsp;The islands have reportedly been witnessing military modernisation.<br />
<br />
Political analysts and experts have claimed that China is behind the military modernisation on the islands.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chatham House, an independent policy institute headquartered in the UK, published a detailed report about the images and their geopolitical relevance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The images by the satellite imagery firm reportedly showed two new hangars, a new causeway and what appears to be an accommodation bloc.&nbsp;As per the report, the freshly-built military infrastructures are visible in proximity to a freshly lengthened 2,300-metre runway and radar station.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc50dc95-442b-4512-87b5-0d3c8776a4d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Coco%20Islands.png" /></p>

<p><strong><em>(Image:&nbsp;The runway:&nbsp;Initially a length of 1,300m, the runway on Great Coco Island has been extended over the last decade to reach its current reported length of 2,300m.)</em></strong></p>

<p><img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c146a66d-03e2-475e-9640-b0b4aa1a554e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Great%20Coco%20%282%29.png" /></p>

<p><strong><em>(Image: This satellite image shows that building work for two aircraft hangars next to the runway is being carried out. The width of the hangar appears to be close to 40 metres, limiting the list of aircraft it may eventually accommodate but opening the possibility for high-performance aircraft be stationed there. The report also mentioned that there is clear "evidence" of land-clearing efforts, visible as of late March on the southern tip of Great Coco. It indicates construction work to come in future.)&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>The images suggest&nbsp;that Myanmar may soon be intending to conduct maritime surveillance operations from Great Coco Islands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously also, Myanmar faced accusations that it allowed a heavy presence of China's PLA (People’s Liberation Army) on the Coco Islands.</p>

<p>The most common allegation is that since the early 1990s, Naypyidaw has allowed a Chinese signals intelligence facility on the archipelago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Coco Islands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2aa62bad-a3af-4562-a3de-b5425cfabff5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/coco.png" /></p>

<p><strong><em>(Image: The causeway at the southern end of Great Coco Island can be seen under construction, connecting the tip of the main island to a neighbouring island.)</em></strong></p>

<p>Recent trends show growing ties between China and the Southeast Asian nation as the past two years of civil war in Myanmar have left it isolated internationally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beijing has staked a large investment in the country via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to access Indian Ocean sea lanes.&nbsp;Chatham House reported that the lanes act&nbsp;as a way to bypass the Strait of Malacca, which has acted as a critical sea lane for shipping destined for China's east coast, and direct energy imports instead over land into China's Yunnan province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest militarisation could pose a significant security challenge to India and the South Asian nation seeks to counter China's growing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such military construction will also impact India's strategic interests in the region as it poses a significant security challenge to India and its navy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide India's Eastern Fleet strategic depth in the Bay of Bengal and command approaches to the Strait of Malacca.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India.

Satellite images taken in January show new construction activity on and around Myanmar's Coco Islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, which can be a matter of concern for India. The satellite images have been taken by Maxar Technologies. Myanmar's Coco Islands is a small group of islands in the northeastern Bay of Bengal and has been the centre of geopolitical tensions in the region. The islands have reportedly been witnessing military modernisation. Political analysts and experts have claimed that China is behind the military modernisation on the islands. Chatham House, an independent policy institute headquartered in the UK, published a detailed report about the images and their geopolitical relevance. The images by the satellite imagery firm reportedly showed two new hangars, a new causeway and what appears to be an accommodation bloc. As per the report, the freshly-built military infrastructures are visible in proximity to a freshly lengthened 2,300-metre runway and radar station. (Image: The runway: Initially a length of 1,300m, the runway on Great Coco Island has been extended over the last decade to reach its current reported length of 2,300m.) (Image: This satellite image shows that building work for two aircraft hangars next to the runway is being carried out. The width of the hangar appears to be close to 40 metres, limiting the list of aircraft it may eventually accommodate but opening the possibility for high-performance aircraft be stationed there. The report also mentioned that there is clear "evidence" of land-clearing efforts, visible as of late March on the southern tip of Great Coco. It indicates construction work to come in future.) The images suggest that Myanmar may soon be intending to conduct maritime surveillance operations from Great Coco Islands. Previously also, Myanmar faced accusations that it allowed a heavy presence of China's PLA (People’s Liberation Army) on the Coco Islands. The most common allegation is that since the early 1990s, Naypyidaw has allowed a Chinese signals intelligence facility on the archipelago. (Image: The causeway at the southern end of Great Coco Island can be seen under construction, connecting the tip of the main island to a neighbouring island.) Recent trends show growing ties between China and the Southeast Asian nation as the past two years of civil war in Myanmar have left it isolated internationally. Beijing has staked a large investment in the country via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to access Indian Ocean sea lanes. Chatham House reported that the lanes act as a way to bypass the Strait of Malacca, which has acted as a critical sea lane for shipping destined for China's east coast, and direct energy imports instead over land into China's Yunnan province. The latest militarisation could pose a significant security challenge to India and the South Asian nation seeks to counter China's growing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region. Such military construction will also impact India's strategic interests in the region as it poses a significant security challenge to India and its navy. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide India's Eastern Fleet strategic depth in the Bay of Bengal and command approaches to the Strait of Malacca. (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.

Satellite pics show military build-up on Myanmar island near India. Is it Chinese ‘spy’ base?

<p>The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks.&nbsp;Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram: "An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed." The official further added that there were "no casualties".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images and videos from the site were shared on social media platforms, which showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen laying on their side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, Russian Railways, which is the country's rail operator, said the incident occurred at 10:17 (Moscow time) (0717 GMT). It said the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed and the locomotive caught fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian Railways said in a statement that the front locomotive and seven wagons derailed "after the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of railway transport" and as a result of the incident, "the locomotive caught fire".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-air-defence-systems-repelling-russian-missile-attacks-in-kyiv-region-say-officials-587668">Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The authorities also revealed that the region where the incident took place borders both Ukraine and Belarus. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the region has seen multiple attacks. The governor said four civilians died after Kyiv shelled a village just across the border on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The governor also mentioned that the emergency services were working at the scene. The rail traffic in the area had been suspended. As reported by the news agency AFP, the state operator said firefighters were working at the scene and that there could be delays on passenger trains from the area to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another incident, the governor of Russia's Leningrad region near St Petersburg said a power line had been blown up overnight. He also noted that an explosive device was discovered near a second line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his Telegram page on Monday, Governor Alexander Drozdenko shared images of destroyed power lines and metal supports. Without giving any details, the governor said that Russia's FSB federal security service was working on the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This train carrying oil products and construction material derailed in Bryansk Oblast, Russia. 7-8 cars have been compromised. It is said that an explosive device on the railway track was used. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bryansk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bryansk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/oy2SYLj9ff">pic.twitter.com/oy2SYLj9ff</a></p>
— (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tendar/status/1652965976663572481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Russian missile strikes on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Russia fired missiles at targets across Ukraine overnight in its second major air strike in three days. The strikes caused a huge blaze in the southeastern Pavlohrad district, where 34 people were wounded and dozens of homes damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian military described a fire in Sevastopol, on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, as part of the preparation for Ukraine's planned upcoming counteroffensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks.

The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks. Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram: "An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed." The official further added that there were "no casualties". Images and videos from the site were shared on social media platforms, which showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen laying on their side. As reported by the news agency Reuters, Russian Railways, which is the country's rail operator, said the incident occurred at 10:17 (Moscow time) (0717 GMT). It said the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed and the locomotive caught fire. Russian Railways said in a statement that the front locomotive and seven wagons derailed "after the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of railway transport" and as a result of the incident, "the locomotive caught fire". ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched The authorities also revealed that the region where the incident took place borders both Ukraine and Belarus. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the region has seen multiple attacks. The governor said four civilians died after Kyiv shelled a village just across the border on Saturday. The governor also mentioned that the emergency services were working at the scene. The rail traffic in the area had been suspended. As reported by the news agency AFP, the state operator said firefighters were working at the scene and that there could be delays on passenger trains from the area to Moscow. In another incident, the governor of Russia's Leningrad region near St Petersburg said a power line had been blown up overnight. He also noted that an explosive device was discovered near a second line. On his Telegram page on Monday, Governor Alexander Drozdenko shared images of destroyed power lines and metal supports. Without giving any details, the governor said that Russia's FSB federal security service was working on the site. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. This train carrying oil products and construction material derailed in Bryansk Oblast, Russia. 7-8 cars have been compromised. It is said that an explosive device on the railway track was used. #Bryansk #Russia pic.twitter.com/oy2SYLj9ff — (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) May 1, 2023 × Russian missile strikes on Ukraine Russia fired missiles at targets across Ukraine overnight in its second major air strike in three days. The strikes caused a huge blaze in the southeastern Pavlohrad district, where 34 people were wounded and dozens of homes damaged. The Ukrainian military described a fire in Sevastopol, on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, as part of the preparation for Ukraine's planned upcoming counteroffensive. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 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: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine

<p>Foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar highlighted India's relations with the world as he said that the nation is trying to ensure that all ties advance without seeking exclusivity and each engagement has its own particular significance, weight and focus — be with the United States, Europe, Russia or Japan. However, he said that China falls into a different category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For the first time in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a comprehensive view that spanned the entirety of the Indian Ocean and its Islands. These subsequently became the building blocks for the Indo-Pacific vision that emerged thereafter," Jaishankar said while speaking at the MIREX, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To the north, India has been similarly pursuing a strategy of connecting to Central Asia more effectively and this has taken the form of structured engagements across multiple domains," added Jaishankar, who was on a visit to the Dominican Republic from 27-29 April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These concentric circles of priority give you a conceptual sense of Indian diplomacy and one that we have pursued very assiduously over the last decade. But at a higher level, we are also practising the approach of engaging all significant centres of power, such multi-alignment reflects the reality of multipolarity," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Without the mention of China, he said that "whether it is the United States, Europe, Russia or Japan, we are trying to ensure that all ties, all these ties advance without seeking exclusivity" but China falls into a different category, because of the boundary dispute and the currently abnormal nature of our ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Making India's stand clear about China's activities at the Line of Actual Control, Mr Jaishankar said that is "an outcome of a violation of agreements regarding border management by them".</p>

<p>The foreign minister also pointed out China`s activities at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and made India's stand clear. He said that what the other nation is doing is "an outcome of a violation of agreements regarding border management by them". He added, "The rise of China and India in a parallel time frame is also not without its competitive aspects."&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has seen a dramatic expansion in connectivity, contacts, in cooperation across the region.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Visited Dominican Republic. A visit of many memorable firsts. And of friendships renewed and secured.<br />
<br />
Here are my thoughts. <a href="https://t.co/P0YtAx4bGf">pic.twitter.com/P0YtAx4bGf</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1652471333983223808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The exception to this of course is Pakistan in view of the cross-border terrorism that it supports. But whether it is the Covid challenge or more recent debt pressures, India has always stepped up for its neighbours," Mr Jaishankar said.</p>

<p>Jaishankar also talked about neighbouring nations to India's growth. He said that India's size and economic strength are for the collective benefit that India takes a generous and non-reciprocal approach to cooperation with smaller neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Inauguré el Pabellón de la India en el prestigioso museo Faro a Colón de la República Dominicana.<br />
<br />
Esta exposición aumentará el interés en la India y contribuirá al turismo. <a href="https://t.co/IITeK6ardV">https://t.co/IITeK6ardV</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1652353324983758848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>But also admitted that "the exception to this of course is Pakistan in view of the cross-border terrorism that it supports. But whether it is the Covid challenge or more recent debt pressures, India has always stepped up for its neighbours".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar highlighted India's relations with the world as he said that the nation is trying to ensure that all ties advance without seeking exclusivity and each engagement has its own particular significance, weight and focus — be with the United States, Europe, Russia or Japan.

Foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar highlighted India's relations with the world as he said that the nation is trying to ensure that all ties advance without seeking exclusivity and each engagement has its own particular significance, weight and focus — be with the United States, Europe, Russia or Japan. However, he said that China falls into a different category. "For the first time in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a comprehensive view that spanned the entirety of the Indian Ocean and its Islands. These subsequently became the building blocks for the Indo-Pacific vision that emerged thereafter," Jaishankar said while speaking at the MIREX, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. "To the north, India has been similarly pursuing a strategy of connecting to Central Asia more effectively and this has taken the form of structured engagements across multiple domains," added Jaishankar, who was on a visit to the Dominican Republic from 27-29 April. "These concentric circles of priority give you a conceptual sense of Indian diplomacy and one that we have pursued very assiduously over the last decade. But at a higher level, we are also practising the approach of engaging all significant centres of power, such multi-alignment reflects the reality of multipolarity," he added. ALSO READ | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch Without the mention of China, he said that "whether it is the United States, Europe, Russia or Japan, we are trying to ensure that all ties, all these ties advance without seeking exclusivity" but China falls into a different category, because of the boundary dispute and the currently abnormal nature of our ties. Making India's stand clear about China's activities at the Line of Actual Control, Mr Jaishankar said that is "an outcome of a violation of agreements regarding border management by them". The foreign minister also pointed out China`s activities at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and made India's stand clear. He said that what the other nation is doing is "an outcome of a violation of agreements regarding border management by them". He added, "The rise of China and India in a parallel time frame is also not without its competitive aspects." India has seen a dramatic expansion in connectivity, contacts, in cooperation across the region. Visited Dominican Republic. A visit of many memorable firsts. And of friendships renewed and secured. Here are my thoughts. pic.twitter.com/P0YtAx4bGf — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 30, 2023 × "The exception to this of course is Pakistan in view of the cross-border terrorism that it supports. But whether it is the Covid challenge or more recent debt pressures, India has always stepped up for its neighbours," Mr Jaishankar said. Jaishankar also talked about neighbouring nations to India's growth. He said that India's size and economic strength are for the collective benefit that India takes a generous and non-reciprocal approach to cooperation with smaller neighbours. Inauguré el Pabellón de la India en el prestigioso museo Faro a Colón de la República Dominicana. Esta exposición aumentará el interés en la India y contribuirá al turismo. https://t.co/IITeK6ardV — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 29, 2023 × But also admitted that "the exception to this of course is Pakistan in view of the cross-border terrorism that it supports. But whether it is the Covid challenge or more recent debt pressures, India has always stepped up for its neighbours". (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.

Jaishankar says India tries to 'ensure ties' across the world, but not with...

<p>The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&amp;K.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blood-man-of-kashmir-the-man-who-donated-182-pints-of-blood-587430/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.

The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources. The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&K. India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema. ALSO READ | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently. WATCH | Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood × The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages. The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them. (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.

India blocks 14 mobile messenger apps being used by terrorist groups

Labour Day: Chinese tourists flock to gambling hub Macau for holiday

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Srishti Sisodia

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.