<p>Russia weighed in on the 12-point peace plan presented by China, terming it a political solution in Ukraine but also mentioned that the given conditions for a peaceful resolution of the war were not in place "at the moment".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Russia paid a "lot of attention to our Chinese friends' plan", he further added that "for now, we don't see any of the conditions that are needed to bring this whole story towards peace."&nbsp;</p>

<p>China recently said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine and came up with the so-called peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-be-killed-by-his-aides-zelensky-claims-in-ukraine-war-anniversary-documentary-566416">Putin will be killed by his aides, Zelensky claims in Ukraine war anniversary documentary</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova had also said Moscow was open to achieving the goals of the "special military operation" through political and diplomatic means.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, United States President Joe Biden had told media outlet ABC News in an interview that the idea that Beijing would be negotiating the outcome of the Ukraine war was not "rational".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US, NATO scramble to discuss China from supplying lethal aid&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-fires-senior-military-commander-without-citing-any-reason-566248">Zelensky fires senior military commander without citing any reason</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In the past few days, a glimmer of hope is seen with several mentions of diplomatic talks and proposals of peace plans. French President Emmanuel Macron also announced last week that he will visit China in early April, which will be his official visit—an&nbsp;attempt to seek Chinese help with ending the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Russia has hinted that any settlement of the conflict needed to recognise Russia's control over four Ukrainian regions as Moscow claims to have annexed the regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson but never fully controlled them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country needed to work with China, arguing "it seems to me that there is respect for our territorial integrity, security issues" from the Chinese perspective.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky also said he was convinced that only a country whose territory is under attack can initiate "any peace initiatives."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin on situation in Moldovan region&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin also said that it is concerned by the situation in Moldova's breakaway Transdniestria region, where it said Ukraine and other European countries were stirring up the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow last week told the West that it would view any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria as an attack on Russia itself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The warning came amid increased concerns in Moldova, a small ex-Soviet republic located between Romania and Ukraine, of a possible Russian threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Russia weighed in on the 12-point peace plan presented by China, terming it a political solution in Ukraine but also mentioned that the given conditions for a peaceful resolution of the war were not in place "at the moment".

Russia weighed in on the 12-point peace plan presented by China, terming it a political solution in Ukraine but also mentioned that the given conditions for a peaceful resolution of the war were not in place "at the moment". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Russia paid a "lot of attention to our Chinese friends' plan", he further added that "for now, we don't see any of the conditions that are needed to bring this whole story towards peace." China recently said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine and came up with the so-called peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations. ALSO READ | Putin will be killed by his aides, Zelensky claims in Ukraine war anniversary documentary The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova had also said Moscow was open to achieving the goals of the "special military operation" through political and diplomatic means. Meanwhile, United States President Joe Biden had told media outlet ABC News in an interview that the idea that Beijing would be negotiating the outcome of the Ukraine war was not "rational". WATCH | US, NATO scramble to discuss China from supplying lethal aid × ALSO READ | Zelensky fires senior military commander without citing any reason In the past few days, a glimmer of hope is seen with several mentions of diplomatic talks and proposals of peace plans. French President Emmanuel Macron also announced last week that he will visit China in early April, which will be his official visit—an attempt to seek Chinese help with ending the Russia-Ukraine war. However, Russia has hinted that any settlement of the conflict needed to recognise Russia's control over four Ukrainian regions as Moscow claims to have annexed the regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson but never fully controlled them. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country needed to work with China, arguing "it seems to me that there is respect for our territorial integrity, security issues" from the Chinese perspective. Zelensky also said he was convinced that only a country whose territory is under attack can initiate "any peace initiatives." Kremlin on situation in Moldovan region Kremlin also said that it is concerned by the situation in Moldova's breakaway Transdniestria region, where it said Ukraine and other European countries were stirring up the situation. Moscow last week told the West that it would view any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria as an attack on Russia itself. The warning came amid increased concerns in Moldova, a small ex-Soviet republic located between Romania and Ukraine, of a possible Russian threat. (With inputs from agencies) 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 weighs in on China's peace plan, says no conditions for peace 'at the moment' in Ukraine

Aerial view shows powerful images from the protests against Benjamin Netanyahu's justice plans

<p>The chief executive of Polish refiner PKN Orlen claimed on Saturday that Russia has halted supplies of oil to Poland via the Druzhba pipeline. The officials also said that the company would tap alternative sources to plug the gap.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Polish company said in a statement to the news agency AFP, "Deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline towards Poland were stopped by the Russian side."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news development regarding the halt in supplies via the pipeline came a day after Poland delivered its first Leopard tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-criticises-china-for-betting-on-an-aggressor-565915">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv criticises China for 'betting on an aggressor'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The pipeline has been exempted from the European Union sanctions which were imposed on Russia in the aftermath of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PKN Orlen Chief Executive Daniel Obajtek wrote on Twitter: "We're effectively securing supplies. Russia has halted supplies to Poland, for which we are prepared."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tweet added, "Only 10% of crude oil has been coming from Russia and we will replace it with oil from other sources."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have mentioned that PKN Orlen had imported about 10 per cent of its oil needs through the pipeline from Russia until now, and the rest from other countries through maritime routes.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pl">Skutecznie zabezpieczamy dostawy surowców. Rosja wstrzymała dostawy ropy do Polski, na co jesteśmy w pełni przygotowani. Z Rosji pochodziło już tylko 10% surowca i zastąpimy go ropą z innych kierunków. To efekt dywersyfikacji, którą przeprowadziliśmy w ciągu ostatnich lat.<br />
1/2</p>
— Daniel Obajtek (@DanielObajtek) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielObajtek/status/1629456652884750336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;G-20 finance meet, hosted by India, ends without a joint communique&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As mentioned in the tweet, Poland had also informed earlier this month that it was still buying 10 per cent of its oil supplies from Russia, despite the sanctions. Warsaw had said that it had a "radical plan" to stop all Russian oil imports by the end of 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maciej Malecki, who is the deputy minister for state assets, told parliament that Poland still has a valid contract with a Russian company Tatneft, which meant that the nation was still buying 200,000 tonnes of oil from Russia each month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The chief executive of Polish refiner PKN Orlen claimed on Saturday that Russia has halted supplies of oil to Poland via the Druzhba pipeline. The officials also said that the company would tap alternative sources to plug the gap.

The chief executive of Polish refiner PKN Orlen claimed on Saturday that Russia has halted supplies of oil to Poland via the Druzhba pipeline. The officials also said that the company would tap alternative sources to plug the gap. The Polish company said in a statement to the news agency AFP, "Deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline towards Poland were stopped by the Russian side." The news development regarding the halt in supplies via the pipeline came a day after Poland delivered its first Leopard tanks to Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv criticises China for 'betting on an aggressor' The pipeline has been exempted from the European Union sanctions which were imposed on Russia in the aftermath of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. PKN Orlen Chief Executive Daniel Obajtek wrote on Twitter: "We're effectively securing supplies. Russia has halted supplies to Poland, for which we are prepared." The tweet added, "Only 10% of crude oil has been coming from Russia and we will replace it with oil from other sources." Reports have mentioned that PKN Orlen had imported about 10 per cent of its oil needs through the pipeline from Russia until now, and the rest from other countries through maritime routes. Skutecznie zabezpieczamy dostawy surowców. Rosja wstrzymała dostawy ropy do Polski, na co jesteśmy w pełni przygotowani. Z Rosji pochodziło już tylko 10% surowca i zastąpimy go ropą z innych kierunków. To efekt dywersyfikacji, którą przeprowadziliśmy w ciągu ostatnich lat. 1/2 — Daniel Obajtek (@DanielObajtek) February 25, 2023 × WATCH | G-20 finance meet, hosted by India, ends without a joint communique × As mentioned in the tweet, Poland had also informed earlier this month that it was still buying 10 per cent of its oil supplies from Russia, despite the sanctions. Warsaw had said that it had a "radical plan" to stop all Russian oil imports by the end of 2022. Maciej Malecki, who is the deputy minister for state assets, told parliament that Poland still has a valid contract with a Russian company Tatneft, which meant that the nation was still buying 200,000 tonnes of oil from Russia each month. (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.

Polish energy group says Russia halted oil pipeline deliveries after Warsaw sends tanks to Kyiv

<p>Nokia, Finnish multinational telecommunications, floated plans on Sunday to rebrand itself for the first time in 60 years. The telecom released a new logo focused on aggressive growth in this competitive market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company dropped its old and iconic blue-coloured logo and introduced two brand new logos comprising five different shapes forming the word NOKIA. In the new logo, there is a range of colours for usage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with news agency Reuters, Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark said: "There was the association to smartphones and nowadays we are a business technology company."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The logo, which appears to be part of a new corporate strategy was announced a day before the annual Mobile World Congress (MWC2023), in which the company will unveil the business update. The annual event opens in Barcelona on Monday and runs until March 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lundmark has set out a strategy with three stages: reset, accelerate and scale; the second stage is beginning, with the reset stage now complete.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lundmark took over the top job at the struggling Finnish company in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lundmark said: "We had very good 21% growth last year in enterprise, which is currently about 8% of our sales, (or) 2 billion euros ($2.11 billion) roughly. We want to take that to double digits as quickly as possible."&nbsp;</p>

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Nokia, Finnish multinational telecommunications, floated plans on Sunday to rebrand itself for the first time in 60 years. The telecom released a new logo focused on aggressive growth in this competitive market.

Nokia, Finnish multinational telecommunications, floated plans on Sunday to rebrand itself for the first time in 60 years. The telecom released a new logo focused on aggressive growth in this competitive market. The company dropped its old and iconic blue-coloured logo and introduced two brand new logos comprising five different shapes forming the word NOKIA. In the new logo, there is a range of colours for usage. In an interview with news agency Reuters, Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark said: "There was the association to smartphones and nowadays we are a business technology company." The logo, which appears to be part of a new corporate strategy was announced a day before the annual Mobile World Congress (MWC2023), in which the company will unveil the business update. The annual event opens in Barcelona on Monday and runs until March 2. Lundmark has set out a strategy with three stages: reset, accelerate and scale; the second stage is beginning, with the reset stage now complete. Lundmark took over the top job at the struggling Finnish company in 2020. Lundmark said: "We had very good 21% growth last year in enterprise, which is currently about 8% of our sales, (or) 2 billion euros ($2.11 billion) roughly. We want to take that to double digits as quickly as possible." 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.

Nokia ditches iconic blue logo in an attempt to change brand identity

<p>India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sisodia was being interrogated by the officials of CBI since morning and arrested after more than nine hours of questioning. The officials said that Sisodia arrived at the CBI headquarters around 11.12am (local time) for the second round of questioning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-balakot-redemption-when-pakistani-propaganda-failed-to-pierce-through-indias-anti-terror-feat-566111">India's Balakot redemption: When Pakistani propaganda failed to pierce through India's anti-terror feat&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The politician had sought more time when he was asked to appear before the CBI last Sunday for questioning. He cited the pending work related to Delhi budget as he looks after the finance portfolio of the Arvind Kejriwal government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But CBI officials said they were not satisfied with Sisodia's responses and claimed that he was not cooperating in the probe and was avoiding clarifications sought by officials on crucial points, India-based news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Anti-Corruption Branch of CBI was questioning the top politician of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over his alleged links with Dinesh Arora and other accused mentioned in the FIR.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi | Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with liquor policy case. <a href="https://t.co/BT7D17aySX">pic.twitter.com/BT7D17aySX</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1629854348913303552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Although the chargesheet in the case doesn't mention Sisodia's name, CBI mentioned details of message exchanges from multiple phones among others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The CBI had filed a chargesheet against seven people, including middlemen and liquor traders, in November, alleging that the Delhi government’s policy to grant licences to liquor traders favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it.<br />
<br />
In a tweet earlier, Sisodia said he is ready for seven to eight months in jail. He wrote; "I don't care if I have to stay in jail for a few months. I am a follower of Bhagat Singh who was hanged for the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with a liquor policy case to maintain security.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s tweet earlier in the day:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We had asked AAP and its leaders why Manish Sisodia allowed cartelisation in the Excise policy.<br />
<br />
Besides, we asked some more pointed questions.<br />
<br />
However, we received no answer from them. They keep beating around the bush.<br />
<br />
- Dr. <a href="https://twitter.com/sambitswaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sambitswaraj</a> <a href="https://t.co/heRwvYCtqm">pic.twitter.com/heRwvYCtqm</a></p>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1629776381528899587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped.

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped. Sisodia was being interrogated by the officials of CBI since morning and arrested after more than nine hours of questioning. The officials said that Sisodia arrived at the CBI headquarters around 11.12am (local time) for the second round of questioning. ALSO READ | India's Balakot redemption: When Pakistani propaganda failed to pierce through India's anti-terror feat The politician had sought more time when he was asked to appear before the CBI last Sunday for questioning. He cited the pending work related to Delhi budget as he looks after the finance portfolio of the Arvind Kejriwal government. But CBI officials said they were not satisfied with Sisodia's responses and claimed that he was not cooperating in the probe and was avoiding clarifications sought by officials on crucial points, India-based news agency PTI reported. The Anti-Corruption Branch of CBI was questioning the top politician of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over his alleged links with Dinesh Arora and other accused mentioned in the FIR. Delhi | Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with liquor policy case. pic.twitter.com/BT7D17aySX — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2023 × Although the chargesheet in the case doesn't mention Sisodia's name, CBI mentioned details of message exchanges from multiple phones among others. The CBI had filed a chargesheet against seven people, including middlemen and liquor traders, in November, alleging that the Delhi government’s policy to grant licences to liquor traders favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it. In a tweet earlier, Sisodia said he is ready for seven to eight months in jail. He wrote; "I don't care if I have to stay in jail for a few months. I am a follower of Bhagat Singh who was hanged for the country." Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with a liquor policy case to maintain security. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s tweet earlier in the day: We had asked AAP and its leaders why Manish Sisodia allowed cartelisation in the Excise policy. Besides, we asked some more pointed questions. However, we received no answer from them. They keep beating around the bush. - Dr. @sambitswaraj pic.twitter.com/heRwvYCtqm — BJP (@BJP4India) February 26, 2023 × (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: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case

<p>Ayahuasca is a type of hallucinogenic brew, which is traditionally used among the indigenous people&nbsp;of the Amazon basin as socially and as a ceremonial or shamanic spiritual medicine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ayahuasca, the psychoactive brew, is made from ingredients with hallucinogenic properties and some even claim that it can benefit brain health and well-being.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is basically extracted from the "Banisteriopsis caapi" vine which has grown in the Amazon for thousands of years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ayahuasca has become popular in the outside world more recently in the Western society, despite being associated with several potential risks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a report by the news agency AFP, Cofan Avie, the master of Ayahuasca, lives in the heart of the Ecuadoran Amazon. It is said that the powerful concoction is known for opening the doors to the "spirit" world. In that particular region, people call it "yage" and consume it for health and wisdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Isidro Lucitante, who is the patriarch and shaman of nine Indigenous Cofan Avie families, said that "God once lived here on this planet".&nbsp;</p>

<p>While talking about Ayahuasca, the 63-year-old Lucitante said that this God "pulled out one of his hairs and planted it on the Earth. Thus was born the yage, source of knowledge and wisdom".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A tourist industry in neighbouring Peru has taken root around the vine that is now also available for sale, in capsules or as an infusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, for the Cofan Avie tribe, yage is not meant for business but an umbilical cord that connects them to one another and to long-dead ancestors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lucitante said, "Yage is not a drug. On the contrary, it is a remedy that makes us better. My grandfather drank yage every week, he lived to 115! We are all healthy!"&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Does Ayahuasca pose health risks?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In recent days, Ayahuasca has become increasingly fashionable and even punted as a treatment for drug addiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But according to medical experts, it can be dangerous for people who take antidepressants or suffer from heart or psychotic problems, epilepsy or asthma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Drug Enforcement Administration in the United States, in Ayahuasca, the active ingredient of dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is illegal, and also in some other countries.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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Ayahuasca is a type of hallucinogenic brew, which is traditionally used among the indigenous people of the Amazon basin as socially and as a ceremonial or shamanic spiritual medicine.

Ayahuasca is a type of hallucinogenic brew, which is traditionally used among the indigenous people of the Amazon basin as socially and as a ceremonial or shamanic spiritual medicine. Ayahuasca, the psychoactive brew, is made from ingredients with hallucinogenic properties and some even claim that it can benefit brain health and well-being. It is basically extracted from the "Banisteriopsis caapi" vine which has grown in the Amazon for thousands of years. Ayahuasca has become popular in the outside world more recently in the Western society, despite being associated with several potential risks. In a report by the news agency AFP, Cofan Avie, the master of Ayahuasca, lives in the heart of the Ecuadoran Amazon. It is said that the powerful concoction is known for opening the doors to the "spirit" world. In that particular region, people call it "yage" and consume it for health and wisdom. Isidro Lucitante, who is the patriarch and shaman of nine Indigenous Cofan Avie families, said that "God once lived here on this planet". While talking about Ayahuasca, the 63-year-old Lucitante said that this God "pulled out one of his hairs and planted it on the Earth. Thus was born the yage, source of knowledge and wisdom". A tourist industry in neighbouring Peru has taken root around the vine that is now also available for sale, in capsules or as an infusion. However, for the Cofan Avie tribe, yage is not meant for business but an umbilical cord that connects them to one another and to long-dead ancestors. Lucitante said, "Yage is not a drug. On the contrary, it is a remedy that makes us better. My grandfather drank yage every week, he lived to 115! We are all healthy!" Does Ayahuasca pose health risks? In recent days, Ayahuasca has become increasingly fashionable and even punted as a treatment for drug addiction. But according to medical experts, it can be dangerous for people who take antidepressants or suffer from heart or psychotic problems, epilepsy or asthma. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration in the United States, in Ayahuasca, the active ingredient of dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is illegal, and also in some other countries. (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.

What is Ayahuasca? Powerful hallucinogenic concoction said to open doors to 'spirit' world

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was spotted enjoying a cup of tea in the streets of India during his visit to the South Asian nation. In a Twitter post on Sunday by the German Embassy in India, Scholz was seen in front of a tea stall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The caption of the Twitter post read: "How can you experience India without a delicious cup of Chai? We took @Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz to our favorite tea shop at a street corner in Chanakyapuri. You should all go! A true taste of India."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How can you experience India without a delicious cup of Chai? We took <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundeskanzler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bundeskanzler</a> Olaf Scholz to our favorite tea shop at a street corner in Chanakyapuri. You should all go! A true taste of India. <a href="https://t.co/SeYXujmJf0">pic.twitter.com/SeYXujmJf0</a></p>
— German Embassy India (@GermanyinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/GermanyinIndia/status/1629721025440284672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Scholz on Saturday for a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scholz held comprehensive talks with PM Modi and discussed issues of mutual interest. The focus of talks was also on ways to boost bilateral ties in areas of clean energy, trade and new technologies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that Scholz's visit is an opportunity to further deepen the multifaceted India-Germany strategic partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-west-of-destabilising-g20-finance-chiefs-meet-in-india-565962">Russia accuses West of ‘destabilising’ G20 finance chiefs’ meet in India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi also gifted a 'Meghalaya Stole' and a 'Nagaland Shawl' to the German chancellor. The Meghalaya stoles have historic significance as the weaving of Meghalaya stoles has been passed down through generations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They were originally woven for the Khasi and Jaintia royalty. The stoles are considered a symbol of their power and status.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the shawls are known for their vibrant colours, intricate designs, and the use of traditional weaving techniques.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They are woven for centuries by the tribes in Nagaland and have been passed down from generation to generation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was spotted enjoying a cup of tea in the streets of India during his visit to the South Asian nation. In a Twitter post on Sunday by the German Embassy in India, Scholz was seen in front of a tea stall.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was spotted enjoying a cup of tea in the streets of India during his visit to the South Asian nation. In a Twitter post on Sunday by the German Embassy in India, Scholz was seen in front of a tea stall. The caption of the Twitter post read: "How can you experience India without a delicious cup of Chai? We took @Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz to our favorite tea shop at a street corner in Chanakyapuri. You should all go! A true taste of India." How can you experience India without a delicious cup of Chai? We took @Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz to our favorite tea shop at a street corner in Chanakyapuri. You should all go! A true taste of India. pic.twitter.com/SeYXujmJf0 — German Embassy India (@GermanyinIndia) February 26, 2023 × Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Scholz on Saturday for a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Scholz held comprehensive talks with PM Modi and discussed issues of mutual interest. The focus of talks was also on ways to boost bilateral ties in areas of clean energy, trade and new technologies. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that Scholz's visit is an opportunity to further deepen the multifaceted India-Germany strategic partnership. ALSO READ | Russia accuses West of ‘destabilising’ G20 finance chiefs’ meet in India PM Modi also gifted a 'Meghalaya Stole' and a 'Nagaland Shawl' to the German chancellor. The Meghalaya stoles have historic significance as the weaving of Meghalaya stoles has been passed down through generations. They were originally woven for the Khasi and Jaintia royalty. The stoles are considered a symbol of their power and status. Meanwhile, the shawls are known for their vibrant colours, intricate designs, and the use of traditional weaving techniques. They are woven for centuries by the tribes in Nagaland and have been passed down from generation to generation. (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.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz enjoys 'true taste of India' during his India visit - see pics

<p>Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports in Reuters, several hours of delay in some places was witnessed, while voting got underway more swiftly in others. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"As you can see, our people have turned out hugely. Voter enlightenment was high and people are excited to take part in the election," said Emmanuel Nwosu, a voter waiting for his polling station to open in the southeastern city of Onitsha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will wait. They were supposed to start accreditation by 8:30 a.m. but even if they come at 9 p.m. today we will stay and vote." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, head of the World Trade Organisation, said on Twitter that her polling station in her home village in southeastern Abia State opened about three hours late. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"The turnout is unbelievable, the largest I have ever seen in all the years I have voted in the village. Young and very old all are here," she said just after voting. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The candidates from two parties that have alternated in power since the end of army rule in 1999 are facing an unusually strong challenge from a minor party candidate popular among young voters. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With seats in the National Assembly also up for grabs, more than 93 million people are registered to vote at some 176,600 polling stations — which were supposed to be open between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (0730 GMT to 1330 GMT). &nbsp;</p>

<p>INEC made no comment on the delays but had said before election day that anyone who joined the queue on time would be able to vote even after the official closing time.</p>

<p>The final tally from the 36 states and federal capital Abuja is expected within five days of voting. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The election comes as Nigerians are struggling to cope with a shortage of cash caused by a botched plan to swap old banknotes for new ones that wreaked havoc on people's daily lives and led to scenes of violence at banks and cash machines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new president will also have to grapple with problems ranging from high inflation, deep poverty and energy shortages, to an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, industrial-scale oil theft in the south and rampant crime everywhere. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I hope that whoever becomes president will alleviate the suffering of the masses," said Umar Abdullahi, a tea seller waiting to vote in the northern city of Kano.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main contenders to succeed Buhari are former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, 76, of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, 61, of the smaller Labour Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;All three voted in their home states, surrounded by chaotic scrums of reporters and supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tinubu and Atiku, as he is known in Nigeria, are both political heavyweights with decades of networking behind them. Both Muslims, Tinubu is an ethnic Yoruba from the southwest and Atiku is a Fulani from the northeast.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.

Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari. According to reports in Reuters, several hours of delay in some places was witnessed, while voting got underway more swiftly in others. "As you can see, our people have turned out hugely. Voter enlightenment was high and people are excited to take part in the election," said Emmanuel Nwosu, a voter waiting for his polling station to open in the southeastern city of Onitsha. "We will wait. They were supposed to start accreditation by 8:30 a.m. but even if they come at 9 p.m. today we will stay and vote." Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, head of the World Trade Organisation, said on Twitter that her polling station in her home village in southeastern Abia State opened about three hours late. Watch this report: × "The turnout is unbelievable, the largest I have ever seen in all the years I have voted in the village. Young and very old all are here," she said just after voting. Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. The candidates from two parties that have alternated in power since the end of army rule in 1999 are facing an unusually strong challenge from a minor party candidate popular among young voters. With seats in the National Assembly also up for grabs, more than 93 million people are registered to vote at some 176,600 polling stations — which were supposed to be open between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (0730 GMT to 1330 GMT). INEC made no comment on the delays but had said before election day that anyone who joined the queue on time would be able to vote even after the official closing time. The final tally from the 36 states and federal capital Abuja is expected within five days of voting. The election comes as Nigerians are struggling to cope with a shortage of cash caused by a botched plan to swap old banknotes for new ones that wreaked havoc on people's daily lives and led to scenes of violence at banks and cash machines. The new president will also have to grapple with problems ranging from high inflation, deep poverty and energy shortages, to an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, industrial-scale oil theft in the south and rampant crime everywhere. "I hope that whoever becomes president will alleviate the suffering of the masses," said Umar Abdullahi, a tea seller waiting to vote in the northern city of Kano. The main contenders to succeed Buhari are former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, 76, of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, 61, of the smaller Labour Party. All three voted in their home states, surrounded by chaotic scrums of reporters and supporters. Tinubu and Atiku, as he is known in Nigeria, are both political heavyweights with decades of networking behind them. Both Muslims, Tinubu is an ethnic Yoruba from the southwest and Atiku is a Fulani from the northeast. (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.

Voting starts late across parts of Nigeria in crucial election amid high voter turnout

<p>The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said that a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Central Turkey on Saturday. EMSC said that the quake was at a depth of 10 km.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest tremors were felt after the death toll from the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria that struck both nations earlier this month surpassed 50,000. Turkey declared more than 44,000 people died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said the death toll in Turkey due to earthquakes rose to 44,218 on Friday night, with Syria's latest announced death toll of 5,914.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earthquake</a> 17 km NE of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Emirgazi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Emirgazi</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a>) 3 min ago (local time 13:27:09). Colored dots represent local shaking &amp; damage level reported by eyeswitnesses. Share your experience via:<br />
📱<a href="https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9">https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9</a><br />
🌐<a href="https://t.co/BfjiXalIPj">https://t.co/BfjiXalIPj</a> <a href="https://t.co/ADbBhImOyj">pic.twitter.com/ADbBhImOyj</a></p>
— EMSC (@LastQuake) <a href="https://twitter.com/LastQuake/status/1629428524611141634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Turkish authorities have widened the probe into the collapse of buildings due to the tremors. &nbsp;Bekir Bozdag, who is the Justice Minister, said that more than 600 people had been investigated in connection with collapsed buildings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bozdag's remarks came while speaking during a news conference in the southeastern city of Diyarbakir, which was among 10 provinces hit by the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that 79 building contractors, 74 owners of structures with a legal obligation, 13 property owners, and 18 people who had altered buildings are among those legally detained and placed in detention.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey beings work to rebuild homes after several damage | Turkey-Syria Earthquake Aftermath&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In the aftermath of massive earthquakes that jolted Turkey and parts of Syria, anger has been simmering over what many see as corrupt building practices.</p>

<p>People across the nation have expressed outrage at what they see as corrupt building practices and flawed urban developments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said that a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Central Turkey on Saturday. EMSC said that the quake was at a depth of 10 km.

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said that a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Central Turkey on Saturday. EMSC said that the quake was at a depth of 10 km. The latest tremors were felt after the death toll from the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria that struck both nations earlier this month surpassed 50,000. Turkey declared more than 44,000 people died. The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said the death toll in Turkey due to earthquakes rose to 44,218 on Friday night, with Syria's latest announced death toll of 5,914. #Earthquake 17 km NE of #Emirgazi (#Turkey) 3 min ago (local time 13:27:09). Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyeswitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9 🌐https://t.co/BfjiXalIPj pic.twitter.com/ADbBhImOyj — EMSC (@LastQuake) February 25, 2023 × Meanwhile, the Turkish authorities have widened the probe into the collapse of buildings due to the tremors. Bekir Bozdag, who is the Justice Minister, said that more than 600 people had been investigated in connection with collapsed buildings. Bozdag's remarks came while speaking during a news conference in the southeastern city of Diyarbakir, which was among 10 provinces hit by the disaster. He said that 79 building contractors, 74 owners of structures with a legal obligation, 13 property owners, and 18 people who had altered buildings are among those legally detained and placed in detention. WATCH | Turkey beings work to rebuild homes after several damage | Turkey-Syria Earthquake Aftermath × In the aftermath of massive earthquakes that jolted Turkey and parts of Syria, anger has been simmering over what many see as corrupt building practices. People across the nation have expressed outrage at what they see as corrupt building practices and flawed urban developments. (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.

Magnitude 5.5 earthquake strikes central Turkey region: EMSC

<p>Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, slammed China for "betting on aggressor" in the aftermath of Beijing's peace proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Podolyak tweeted, "If you claim to be a global player, you don't offer an unrealistic plan. You don't bet on an aggressor who broke international law and will lose the war."&nbsp;</p>

<p>China has said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the issue between Ukraine and Russia and also floated a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-chinese-manufacturer-negotiating-with-russian-military-over-supply-of-kamikaze-drones-565529">Is Chinese manufacturer negotiating with Russian military for supplying Kamikaze drones?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Russia commented on the plan and said that it welcomed the proposals to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement that Moscow was open to achieving the goals of the "special military operation" through political and diplomatic means.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zakharova said, "We appreciate the sincere desire of our Chinese friends to contribute to resolving the conflict in Ukraine by peaceful means... We share the views of Beijing."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi: Russia-Ukraine dispute can be resolved via dialogue&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>United States President Joe Biden told ABC News after China's proposal in an interview that the idea Beijing would be negotiating the outcome of the Ukraine war was not rational.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's applauding it, so how could it be any good? I've seen nothing in the plan that would indicate that there is something that would be beneficial to anyone other than Russia if the Chinese plan were followed," Biden said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The idea that China is going to be negotiating the outcome of a war that's a totally unjust war for Ukraine is just not rational," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Saturday that he will visit China in early April. His official visit is seen as an attempt to seek Chinese help with ending the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While talking about the so-called peace plan, Biden said that the fact that China engages in peace efforts is a "good thing".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, slammed China for "betting on aggressor" in the aftermath of Beijing's peace proposal. Podolyak tweeted, "If you claim to be a global player, you don't offer an unrealistic plan.

Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, slammed China for "betting on aggressor" in the aftermath of Beijing's peace proposal. Podolyak tweeted, "If you claim to be a global player, you don't offer an unrealistic plan. You don't bet on an aggressor who broke international law and will lose the war." China has said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the issue between Ukraine and Russia and also floated a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations. ALO READ | Is Chinese manufacturer negotiating with Russian military for supplying Kamikaze drones? Russia commented on the plan and said that it welcomed the proposals to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement that Moscow was open to achieving the goals of the "special military operation" through political and diplomatic means. Zakharova said, "We appreciate the sincere desire of our Chinese friends to contribute to resolving the conflict in Ukraine by peaceful means... We share the views of Beijing." WATCH | PM Modi: Russia-Ukraine dispute can be resolved via dialogue × United States President Joe Biden told ABC News after China's proposal in an interview that the idea Beijing would be negotiating the outcome of the Ukraine war was not rational. "(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's applauding it, so how could it be any good? I've seen nothing in the plan that would indicate that there is something that would be beneficial to anyone other than Russia if the Chinese plan were followed," Biden said. "The idea that China is going to be negotiating the outcome of a war that's a totally unjust war for Ukraine is just not rational," he added. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Saturday that he will visit China in early April. His official visit is seen as an attempt to seek Chinese help with ending the Russia-Ukraine war. While talking about the so-called peace plan, Biden said that the fact that China engages in peace efforts is a "good thing". (With inputs from agencies) 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-Ukraine war: Kyiv criticises China for 'betting on an aggressor'

<p>Chinese fighter jet confronted a US Navy plane amid simmering tension between Washington and Beijing, US media outlets reported on Friday (February 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports stated that the US Navy plane received a warning over the radio when it had been in the air over the South China Sea for a few hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US plane was 30 miles from the contested Paracel Islands, which is a group of about 130 small atolls - a disputed archipelago. CNN reported that the biggest of which is home to Chinese military bases.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/german-chancellor-meets-pm-modi-deepening-of-india-germany-ties-in-focus-565780">India ready to contribute to any peace process for resolving Ukraine crisis, says PM Modi</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>CNN also said that its crew got rare access aboard the US flight and witnessed the incident when it happened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The voice from a ground station, which is said to be belonging to China’s air force said, "American aircraft. Chinese airspace is 12 nautical miles. Not approaching any more or you bear all responsibility."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“The Chinese fighter jet was so close, the CNN crew could see the pilots turning their heads to look at them – and could make out the red star on the tail fins and the missiles it was armed with.” <a href="https://t.co/vADSwAmhso">https://t.co/vADSwAmhso</a></p>
— Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaitlancollins/status/1629467440521400320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This was my view of a Chinese J11 fighter jet about 500ft off the wing of a U.S. Navy surveillance plane…that was intercepted today over the South China Sea after stern radio warnings from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>’s PLA. We’ll take you on board the P8 on <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCNightlyNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBCNightlyNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBCNews</a>… <a href="https://t.co/knbl4CC7V9">pic.twitter.com/knbl4CC7V9</a></p>
— Janis Mackey Frayer (@janisfrayer) <a href="https://twitter.com/janisfrayer/status/1629261641396404224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The US jet was also intercepted by a Chinese J-11 fighter jet armed with air-to-air missiles just after a few minutes. The Chinese jet appeared about 500 feet off the left wing and it flew beside the American P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for over an hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NBC News also said that it was on board the US aircraft when the incident happened. Weighing on the incident, Capt. Will Toraason, who is the commander of US Navy surveillance aircraft, told NBC News that once a Chinese plane comes within 1,000 feet "we'll communicate with them".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Typically we don’t get a response, sometimes we’ll get nonverbal responses. But overall we’re trying to encourage a safe and professional encounter while we’re both operating in international airspace."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Territorial disputes in the South China Sea grab the attention of the world. It involves conflicting island and maritime claims in the region by several sovereign states, namely Brunei, China Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam.&nbsp;</p>

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Chinese fighter jet confronted a US Navy plane amid simmering tension between Washington and Beijing, US media outlets reported on Friday (February 24). The reports stated that the US Navy plane received a warning over the radio when it had been in the air over the South China Sea for a few hours.

Chinese fighter jet confronted a US Navy plane amid simmering tension between Washington and Beijing, US media outlets reported on Friday (February 24). The reports stated that the US Navy plane received a warning over the radio when it had been in the air over the South China Sea for a few hours. The US plane was 30 miles from the contested Paracel Islands, which is a group of about 130 small atolls - a disputed archipelago. CNN reported that the biggest of which is home to Chinese military bases. ALSO READ | India ready to contribute to any peace process for resolving Ukraine crisis, says PM Modi CNN also said that its crew got rare access aboard the US flight and witnessed the incident when it happened. The voice from a ground station, which is said to be belonging to China’s air force said, "American aircraft. Chinese airspace is 12 nautical miles. Not approaching any more or you bear all responsibility." Watch the video: “The Chinese fighter jet was so close, the CNN crew could see the pilots turning their heads to look at them – and could make out the red star on the tail fins and the missiles it was armed with.” https://t.co/vADSwAmhso — Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) February 25, 2023 × This was my view of a Chinese J11 fighter jet about 500ft off the wing of a U.S. Navy surveillance plane…that was intercepted today over the South China Sea after stern radio warnings from #China’s PLA. We’ll take you on board the P8 on @NBCNightlyNews @NBCNews… pic.twitter.com/knbl4CC7V9 — Janis Mackey Frayer (@janisfrayer) February 24, 2023 × The US jet was also intercepted by a Chinese J-11 fighter jet armed with air-to-air missiles just after a few minutes. The Chinese jet appeared about 500 feet off the left wing and it flew beside the American P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for over an hour. NBC News also said that it was on board the US aircraft when the incident happened. Weighing on the incident, Capt. Will Toraason, who is the commander of US Navy surveillance aircraft, told NBC News that once a Chinese plane comes within 1,000 feet "we'll communicate with them". He said, "Typically we don’t get a response, sometimes we’ll get nonverbal responses. But overall we’re trying to encourage a safe and professional encounter while we’re both operating in international airspace." Territorial disputes in the South China Sea grab the attention of the world. It involves conflicting island and maritime claims in the region by several sovereign states, namely Brunei, China Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam. 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.

WATCH: US Navy plane confronted and warned by Chinese fighter jet over South China Sea

<p>A senior Iranian general said on Friday that Tehran has developed a cruise missile with a range of 1,650km as he unveiled the missile, which could potentially reach Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with state television, he also reiterated Iran's desire to kill former United States president Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Amirali Hajizadeh, who is the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps aerospace force, said: Our cruise missile with a range of 1,650 km has been added to the missile arsenal of the Islamic Republic of Iran."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that this is the first footage of the missile that has been televised. He said that it has been called the "Paveh" cruise missile, which is in honour of Kurdistan's martyrs. Hajizadeh gave no further details of the missile apart from the range.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the television broadcast, the missile launch was seen, which then flew low over terrain before hitting a target.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: WION reports from Kherson, Dnieper river still not safe to visit&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>While mentioning the Ayn al Asad airbase attack in January 2020, Hajizadeh said that "some say there were too few or too many kills [during the attack]."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "We could've killed 1000 of them [American soldiers] that night if we wanted to, but they were just a bunch of poor soldiers who we weren't looking to kill."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"God willing, we are looking to kill Trump, Pompeo, or [General Kenneth F] McKenzie, the military generals who ordered this [the assassination of Soleimani]," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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A senior Iranian general said on Friday that Tehran has developed a cruise missile with a range of 1,650km as he unveiled the missile, which could potentially reach Israel.

A senior Iranian general said on Friday that Tehran has developed a cruise missile with a range of 1,650km as he unveiled the missile, which could potentially reach Israel. In an interview with state television, he also reiterated Iran's desire to kill former United States president Donald Trump. As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Amirali Hajizadeh, who is the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps aerospace force, said: Our cruise missile with a range of 1,650 km has been added to the missile arsenal of the Islamic Republic of Iran." He also said that this is the first footage of the missile that has been televised. He said that it has been called the "Paveh" cruise missile, which is in honour of Kurdistan's martyrs. Hajizadeh gave no further details of the missile apart from the range. In the television broadcast, the missile launch was seen, which then flew low over terrain before hitting a target. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: WION reports from Kherson, Dnieper river still not safe to visit × While mentioning the Ayn al Asad airbase attack in January 2020, Hajizadeh said that "some say there were too few or too many kills [during the attack]." He said, "We could've killed 1000 of them [American soldiers] that night if we wanted to, but they were just a bunch of poor soldiers who we weren't looking to kill." "God willing, we are looking to kill Trump, Pompeo, or [General Kenneth F] McKenzie, the military generals who ordered this [the assassination of Soleimani]," he 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.

Iran unveils new 'Paveh' cruise missile that can reach Israel

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