<p>A US State Department official said on Thursday that the Chinese balloon shot down by American jets over the Atlantic Ocean last weekend had antennas likely capable of collecting communication signals and other sensitive information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a statement by a senior State Department official, the so-called "spy balloon" had equipment that was "clearly for intelligence surveillance," including "multiple antennas" that were "likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the official, the balloon could have been a part of a huge aerial spy program operated by the Chinese military, which apparently targeted more than 40 countries on five continents. The US is also confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon has a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA). &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-spy-balloons-have-flown-over-strategic-us-sites-in-the-past-pentagon-560169">Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past: Pentagon</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The official said that the detailed images taken by high-altitude U2s showed the balloon's payload equipment "was clearly for intelligence surveillance and inconsistent with the equipment onboard weather balloons".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the news agencies, the official said, on grounds of anonymity that "it [the balloon] had multiple antennas to include an array likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was equipped with solar panels large enough to produce the requisite power to operate multiple active intelligence collection sensors," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A recent report by The Washington Post already claimed that China has used spy balloons to spy on other countries, including India and Japan. The report added that such surveillance balloon effort has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was basically meant to collect information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the balloon was spotted flying across the US, it tracked it for a couple of days and eventually shot it down. The authorities collected the debris to analyse it further. A US State Department official said on Thursday that the Chinese balloon shot down by American jets over the Atlantic Ocean last weekend had antennas likely capable of collecting communications.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A US State Department official said on Thursday that the Chinese balloon shot down by American jets over the Atlantic Ocean last weekend had antennas likely capable of collecting communication signals and other sensitive information.

A US State Department official said on Thursday that the Chinese balloon shot down by American jets over the Atlantic Ocean last weekend had antennas likely capable of collecting communication signals and other sensitive information. According to a statement by a senior State Department official, the so-called "spy balloon" had equipment that was "clearly for intelligence surveillance," including "multiple antennas" that were "likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications." As per the official, the balloon could have been a part of a huge aerial spy program operated by the Chinese military, which apparently targeted more than 40 countries on five continents. The US is also confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon has a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA). ALSO READ | Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past: Pentagon The official said that the detailed images taken by high-altitude U2s showed the balloon's payload equipment "was clearly for intelligence surveillance and inconsistent with the equipment onboard weather balloons". As quoted by the news agencies, the official said, on grounds of anonymity that "it [the balloon] had multiple antennas to include an array likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications." "It was equipped with solar panels large enough to produce the requisite power to operate multiple active intelligence collection sensors," it added. Watch this report: × A recent report by The Washington Post already claimed that China has used spy balloons to spy on other countries, including India and Japan. The report added that such surveillance balloon effort has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast. It was basically meant to collect information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines. When the balloon was spotted flying across the US, it tracked it for a couple of days and eventually shot it down. The authorities collected the debris to analyse it further. A US State Department official said on Thursday that the Chinese balloon shot down by American jets over the Atlantic Ocean last weekend had antennas likely capable of collecting communications. (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.

Chinese balloon 'clearly' for spying, had antennas likely capable of collecting communications: US

<p>Three days after earthquakes rattled parts of Turkey and Syria, search and rescue workers are combing through the pile of rubble in the hope to find survivors. More than 21,000 died in the massive earthquakes and hundreds and thousands are injured and homeless, currently struggling in freezing temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With rescue operations underway, the chances of finding survivors have dimmed now. Experts have said that in the first 72 hours after the disaster, more than 90 per cent of quake survivors are believed to be rescued within the first three days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-earthquake-hospital-parking-turns-makeshift-morgue-as-people-scramble-to-identify-their-kins-560364">Hospital parking turns makeshift morgue as people scramble to identify their kin</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ilan Kelman, a professor of disasters and health at University College London, said that "generally, earthquakes do not kill people, collapsing infrastructure kills people".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kelman, who has published research on quake rescue responses, said that the most important factor is getting medical attention to people who are stuck in the rubble. He said that they must revive help before "their bodies fail" or they bleed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Turkey Earthquake: Anger grows over state of infrastructure&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling for more aid access to northwestern Syria from Turkey. Guterres sought an expanded mandate from the UN Security Council to allow UN help to be delivered through more than one border crossing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres told reporters: "Many non-UN relief agencies are already delivering through other crossings. I will be very happy if, in relation to the UN, there will be the possibility to do it also in as many crossings as possible."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Three days after earthquakes rattled parts of Turkey and Syria, search and rescue workers are combing through the pile of rubble in the hope to find survivors. More than 21,000 died in the massive earthquakes and hundreds and thousands are injured and homeless, currently struggling in freezing temperatures.

Three days after earthquakes rattled parts of Turkey and Syria, search and rescue workers are combing through the pile of rubble in the hope to find survivors. More than 21,000 died in the massive earthquakes and hundreds and thousands are injured and homeless, currently struggling in freezing temperatures. With rescue operations underway, the chances of finding survivors have dimmed now. Experts have said that in the first 72 hours after the disaster, more than 90 per cent of quake survivors are believed to be rescued within the first three days. ALSO READ | Hospital parking turns makeshift morgue as people scramble to identify their kin As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ilan Kelman, a professor of disasters and health at University College London, said that "generally, earthquakes do not kill people, collapsing infrastructure kills people". Kelman, who has published research on quake rescue responses, said that the most important factor is getting medical attention to people who are stuck in the rubble. He said that they must revive help before "their bodies fail" or they bleed out. WATCH | Gravitas: Turkey Earthquake: Anger grows over state of infrastructure × Meanwhile, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling for more aid access to northwestern Syria from Turkey. Guterres sought an expanded mandate from the UN Security Council to allow UN help to be delivered through more than one border crossing. Guterres told reporters: "Many non-UN relief agencies are already delivering through other crossings. I will be very happy if, in relation to the UN, there will be the possibility to do it also in as many crossings as possible." (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.

Turkey-Syria earthquake: Time running out to find survivors; death toll rises above 21,000

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that&nbsp;Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-prevents-ukraine-from-using-starlink-internet-for-controlling-drones-560371">SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear."&nbsp;</p>

<h2 data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="EU's Michel: We need to provide maximum support for Ukraine"><strong>'Provide maximum support for Ukraine'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Ukraine should become an EU member'</h2>

<p>Zelensky said&nbsp;Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons. The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally. Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris. The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament. ALSO READ | SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you." Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address. "I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them. WATCH | Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected × He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive. Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear." 'Provide maximum support for Ukraine' Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine. Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support." 'Ukraine should become an EU member' Zelensky said Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part. But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023". Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way." (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.

There's no free Europe without free Ukraine, says Zelensky at EU summit

<p>Many countries, including India, have sent humanitarian aid to help disaster-hit Turkey and Syria in the aftermath of massive earthquakes that killed thousands of people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rescue workers from around the world have reached the impacted regions to accelerate the work of finding survivors in the pile of rubble and debris. The combined death toll in Turkey and Syria has crossed 12,000 and it might rise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has sent a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team comprising 151 members with a dog squad and other equipment under 'Operation Dost' to Turkey to assist the other agencies engaged in the post-quake operations.</p>

<p>An official said on Thursday that the NDRF personnel managed to pull out a six-year-old girl alive from the debris. As reported by India-based news agencies, the official also said that&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud of our NDRF.<br />
<br />
In the rescue operations in Türkiye, Team IND-11 saved the life of a six-year-old girl, Beren, in Gaziantep city.<br />
<br />
Under the guidance of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, we are committed to making <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NDRFHQ</a> the world’s leading disaster response force. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationDost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationDost</a> <a href="https://t.co/NfvGZB24uK">pic.twitter.com/NfvGZB24uK</a></p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1623687544046227457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> &amp; National Disaster Response Force <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF</a> In Turkey.<br />
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Saving Life's<br />
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Proud to be an Indian. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TurkeySyriaEarthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TurkeySyriaEarthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquakeinturkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquakeinturkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationDost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationDost</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HelpTurkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HelpTurkey</a> <a href="https://t.co/yvEXr0UUlg">pic.twitter.com/yvEXr0UUlg</a></p>
— Pankaj Mishra (@nn_pankaj) <a href="https://twitter.com/nn_pankaj/status/1623722665172422657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationDost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationDost</a><br />
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In a joint ops with <a href="https://twitter.com/AFADTurkiye?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AFADTurkiye</a> the rescuers of NDRF successfully rescued a live victim (Child) @ 1300hrs.<br />
Name- Beren, Age- 06 Yrs (Female)<br />
From Street- 915, Bolo Sokak Bahcelievler Mah elevan, Nurdagi, Gaziantep.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BhallaAjay26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhallaAjay26</a> <a href="https://t.co/JVMQbJizrl">pic.twitter.com/JVMQbJizrl</a></p>
— NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ/status/1623694303381037059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Besides the minor girl, the NDRF personnel have also rescued a number of people trapped in the debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NDRF team has formed two teams to carry out the rescue work in Gaziantep, the city in Turkey which is worst-affected by the quake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's home ministry official said that "India stands with Turkey in this hour of crisis", adding the NDRF has been conducting rescue and relief operations at Ground Zero.&nbsp;</p>

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Many countries, including India, have sent humanitarian aid to help disaster-hit Turkey and Syria in the aftermath of massive earthquakes that killed thousands of people.

Many countries, including India, have sent humanitarian aid to help disaster-hit Turkey and Syria in the aftermath of massive earthquakes that killed thousands of people. Rescue workers from around the world have reached the impacted regions to accelerate the work of finding survivors in the pile of rubble and debris. The combined death toll in Turkey and Syria has crossed 12,000 and it might rise. India has sent a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team comprising 151 members with a dog squad and other equipment under 'Operation Dost' to Turkey to assist the other agencies engaged in the post-quake operations. An official said on Thursday that the NDRF personnel managed to pull out a six-year-old girl alive from the debris. As reported by India-based news agencies, the official also said that Proud of our NDRF. In the rescue operations in Türkiye, Team IND-11 saved the life of a six-year-old girl, Beren, in Gaziantep city. Under the guidance of PM @narendramodi, we are committed to making @NDRFHQ the world’s leading disaster response force. #OperationDost pic.twitter.com/NfvGZB24uK — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 9, 2023 × #IndianArmy & National Disaster Response Force #NDRF In Turkey. Saving Life's Proud to be an Indian. #TurkeySyriaEarthquake #earthquakeinturkey #OperationDost #HelpTurkey pic.twitter.com/yvEXr0UUlg — Pankaj Mishra (@nn_pankaj) February 9, 2023 × #OperationDost In a joint ops with @AFADTurkiye the rescuers of NDRF successfully rescued a live victim (Child) @ 1300hrs. Name- Beren, Age- 06 Yrs (Female) From Street- 915, Bolo Sokak Bahcelievler Mah elevan, Nurdagi, Gaziantep.@PMOIndia @HMOIndia @MEAIndia @BhallaAjay26 pic.twitter.com/JVMQbJizrl — NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) February 9, 2023 × Besides the minor girl, the NDRF personnel have also rescued a number of people trapped in the debris. The NDRF team has formed two teams to carry out the rescue work in Gaziantep, the city in Turkey which is worst-affected by the quake. India's home ministry official said that "India stands with Turkey in this hour of crisis", adding the NDRF has been conducting rescue and relief operations at Ground Zero. 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.

Turkey earthquake: India's NDRF rescues six-year-old girl - VIDEO

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and&nbsp;repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is Zelensky's first visit to London since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year on February 24. He hailed Britain as "one of the first" countries to support Ukraine after Russia invaded.&nbsp;Meanwhile, as Sunak joined President Volodymyr Zelensky inspecting crew being trained in southwest England, the UK Prime Minister said that UK Challenger 2 tanks would be deployed in Ukraine next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said on social media: "The United Kingdom was one of the first to come to Ukraine's aid. And today I'm in London to personally thank the British people for their support and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his leadership."</p>

<p>Zelensky was welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who received him at the airport. After their meeting, the presidency said in a statement the Ukrainian president has "emphasised the importance for Ukraine to receive the necessary weapons from allies to stop the Russian offensive and liberate all temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-air-force-helmet-as-state-gift-to-britain-zelensky-pushes-for-more-fighter-airplanes-560066">With air force helmet as state gift to Britain, Zelensky pushes for more fighter airplanes</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky also addressed the British parliament and&nbsp;the UK lawmakers applauded his speech. Zelensky thanked the UK for its support and pledged "freedom will win" while addressing members of the lower and upper houses in parliament's Westminster Hall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the historic address to the British parliament, Zelensky repeated his demand for combat aircraft. He said, "I appeal to you and the world... for combat aircraft for Ukraine, wings for freedom."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We know freedom will win, we know Russia will lose. The United Kingdom is marching with us towards the most... important victory of our lifetime. It will be a victory over the very idea of the war."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine will get 100 more tanks from Europe&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Allies have provided Ukraine with advanced weaponry systems to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. However, Britain has stopped short of offering Kyiv its Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets. UK said that it would require months if not years of training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides the UK, the United States also rejected any deliveries of F-16 warplanes to Ukraine. Kyiv says it needs the combat jets to help the soldiers fighting on the eastern front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Zelensky's plea, the UK said it will explore the possibility of sending fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak's Downing Street office said Wednesday that it would only be a "long-term" solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The prime minister has tasked the defence secretary with investigating what jets we might be able to give but, to be clear, this is a long-term solution rather than a short-term capability, which is what Ukraine needs most now," Sunak's spokesman said.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky meets King Charles III</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky also met the British monarch King Charles III and thanked him for his country's support to&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees during a meeting at Buckingham Palace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am grateful to His Majesty for the warm welcome and for supporting Ukrainian citizens who have taken refuge from the war in the United Kingdom," Zelensky said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances. This is Zelensky's first visit to London since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year on February 24. He hailed Britain as "one of the first" countries to support Ukraine after Russia invaded. Meanwhile, as Sunak joined President Volodymyr Zelensky inspecting crew being trained in southwest England, the UK Prime Minister said that UK Challenger 2 tanks would be deployed in Ukraine next month. Zelensky said on social media: "The United Kingdom was one of the first to come to Ukraine's aid. And today I'm in London to personally thank the British people for their support and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his leadership." Zelensky was welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who received him at the airport. After their meeting, the presidency said in a statement the Ukrainian president has "emphasised the importance for Ukraine to receive the necessary weapons from allies to stop the Russian offensive and liberate all temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories". ALSO READ | With air force helmet as state gift to Britain, Zelensky pushes for more fighter airplanes Zelensky also addressed the British parliament and the UK lawmakers applauded his speech. Zelensky thanked the UK for its support and pledged "freedom will win" while addressing members of the lower and upper houses in parliament's Westminster Hall. In the historic address to the British parliament, Zelensky repeated his demand for combat aircraft. He said, "I appeal to you and the world... for combat aircraft for Ukraine, wings for freedom." He added, "We know freedom will win, we know Russia will lose. The United Kingdom is marching with us towards the most... important victory of our lifetime. It will be a victory over the very idea of the war." WATCH | Ukraine will get 100 more tanks from Europe × Allies have provided Ukraine with advanced weaponry systems to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. However, Britain has stopped short of offering Kyiv its Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets. UK said that it would require months if not years of training. Besides the UK, the United States also rejected any deliveries of F-16 warplanes to Ukraine. Kyiv says it needs the combat jets to help the soldiers fighting on the eastern front. After Zelensky's plea, the UK said it will explore the possibility of sending fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak's Downing Street office said Wednesday that it would only be a "long-term" solution. "The prime minister has tasked the defence secretary with investigating what jets we might be able to give but, to be clear, this is a long-term solution rather than a short-term capability, which is what Ukraine needs most now," Sunak's spokesman said. Zelensky meets King Charles III Zelensky also met the British monarch King Charles III and thanked him for his country's support to Ukrainian refugees during a meeting at Buckingham Palace. "I am grateful to His Majesty for the warm welcome and for supporting Ukrainian citizens who have taken refuge from the war in the United Kingdom," Zelensky said on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky repeats demand for combat jets during his visit to UK

<p>SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Russia launched the invasion last year in February, SpaceX provided Ukraine with thousands of Starlink dishes. These devices help people to link with satellites and stay connected to the internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service has provided the Ukrainian military with broadband communications during the ongoing war. However, reports emerged that the military had used the Starlink service to control drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-italy-pm-meloni-criticises-french-president-macrons-invite-to-zelensky-560335">Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, who is SpaceX's president and chief operating officer, said during a conference in Washington, DC that it was "never never meant to be weaponised".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shotwell said, "However, Ukrainians have leveraged it in ways that were unintentional and not part of any agreement."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Russia-Ukraine war so far, Kyiv used unmanned aircraft effectively. As reported, they used drones for spotting enemy positions, targeting long-range fires and dropping bombs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shotwell said that "there are things that we can do to limit their ability to do that. There are things that we can do, and have done."&nbsp;Shotwell said that the use of Starlink with drones went beyond the scope of an agreement SpaceX has with the Ukrainian government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots, Zelensky makes 'wings for freedom' plea</strong></p>

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<p>She added that the contract was intended for humanitarian purposes such as providing broadband internet to hospitals, banks and families affected by Russia's invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "We know the military is using them for comms, and that's ok. But our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Choose between Ukraine and Russia'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that SpaceX should choose between Ukraine and Russia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a political adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, criticised the decision on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Podolyak wrote, "A year of Ukrainian resistance &amp; companies have to decide: Either they are on the side of Ukraine &amp; the right to freedom, and don’t seek ways to do harm. Or they are on Russia's side &amp; its 'right' to kill &amp; seize territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"SpaceX (Starlink) &amp; Mrs. Shotwell should choose a specific option," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes".

SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes". After Russia launched the invasion last year in February, SpaceX provided Ukraine with thousands of Starlink dishes. These devices help people to link with satellites and stay connected to the internet. SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service has provided the Ukrainian military with broadband communications during the ongoing war. However, reports emerged that the military had used the Starlink service to control drones. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, who is SpaceX's president and chief operating officer, said during a conference in Washington, DC that it was "never never meant to be weaponised". Shotwell said, "However, Ukrainians have leveraged it in ways that were unintentional and not part of any agreement." During the Russia-Ukraine war so far, Kyiv used unmanned aircraft effectively. As reported, they used drones for spotting enemy positions, targeting long-range fires and dropping bombs. Shotwell said that "there are things that we can do to limit their ability to do that. There are things that we can do, and have done." Shotwell said that the use of Starlink with drones went beyond the scope of an agreement SpaceX has with the Ukrainian government. WATCH | UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots, Zelensky makes 'wings for freedom' plea × She added that the contract was intended for humanitarian purposes such as providing broadband internet to hospitals, banks and families affected by Russia's invasion. She said, "We know the military is using them for comms, and that's ok. But our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes." 'Choose between Ukraine and Russia' Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that SpaceX should choose between Ukraine and Russia. Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a political adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, criticised the decision on Twitter. Podolyak wrote, "A year of Ukrainian resistance & companies have to decide: Either they are on the side of Ukraine & the right to freedom, and don’t seek ways to do harm. Or they are on Russia's side & its 'right' to kill & seize territories." "SpaceX (Starlink) & Mrs. Shotwell should choose a specific option," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones

<p>Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, amid growing criticism over poor response, Erdogan visited one of the hardest-hit spots, quake epicentre Kahramanmaras. He also acknowledged the issues that were reported in the response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Of course, there are shortcomings. The conditions are clear to see. It's not possible to be ready for a disaster like this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbreaking-image-show-father-holding-hand-of-daughter-who-died-in-turkey-earthquake-560073">Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. The world health body said there was a race against time to save lives and also ensure survivors stay alive in dire circumstances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Five heartbreaking videos from Turkey and Syria Earthquakes&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As quoted by the news agencies, Robert Holden, who is WHO's earthquake response incident manager, said that the focus was on saving lives but insisted it was "imperative to make sure that those who survived the initial disaster... continue to survive".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said, "We've got a lot of people who have survived now out in the open, in worsening and horrific conditions&nbsp;with disrupted access to water, fuel, electricity and communications."</p>

<p>Holden told a press conference in Geneva, "We are in real danger of seeing a secondary disaster which may cause harm to more people than the initial disaster if we don't move with the same pace and intensity as we are doing on the search and rescue."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is no easy task... The scale of the operation is massive," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Put politics aside'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a leading United Nations official urged to stop the politics and urged to facilitate aid access to rebel-held areas in Syria's northwest. The official warned that the relief stocks will soon be depleted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN's resident Syria coordinator El-Mostafa Benlamlih said in an interview with the news agency AFP: "Put politics aside and let us do our humanitarian work. We can't afford to wait and negotiate. By the time we negotiate, it's done, it's finished."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response.

Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries. Meanwhile, amid growing criticism over poor response, Erdogan visited one of the hardest-hit spots, quake epicentre Kahramanmaras. He also acknowledged the issues that were reported in the response. He said, "Of course, there are shortcomings. The conditions are clear to see. It's not possible to be ready for a disaster like this." ALSO READ | Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. The world health body said there was a race against time to save lives and also ensure survivors stay alive in dire circumstances. WATCH | Gravitas: Five heartbreaking videos from Turkey and Syria Earthquakes × As quoted by the news agencies, Robert Holden, who is WHO's earthquake response incident manager, said that the focus was on saving lives but insisted it was "imperative to make sure that those who survived the initial disaster... continue to survive". He further said, "We've got a lot of people who have survived now out in the open, in worsening and horrific conditions with disrupted access to water, fuel, electricity and communications." Holden told a press conference in Geneva, "We are in real danger of seeing a secondary disaster which may cause harm to more people than the initial disaster if we don't move with the same pace and intensity as we are doing on the search and rescue." "This is no easy task... The scale of the operation is massive," he added. 'Put politics aside' Meanwhile, a leading United Nations official urged to stop the politics and urged to facilitate aid access to rebel-held areas in Syria's northwest. The official warned that the relief stocks will soon be depleted. The UN's resident Syria coordinator El-Mostafa Benlamlih said in an interview with the news agency AFP: "Put politics aside and let us do our humanitarian work. We can't afford to wait and negotiate. By the time we negotiate, it's done, it's finished." (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.

Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll tops 15,000

<p>Two children died after a bus crashed into a daycare centre in Canada's Montreal on Wednesday (February 8). Emergency officials said that several children were injured. The 51-year-old driver had been arrested on suspicion of homicide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Erika Landry, a police spokeswoman in Laval, where the daycare is located said that six children transported to the hospital "are out of danger". Landry told reporters at the scene that the driver was arrested for "homicide and dangerous driving".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that he is "devastated". He told reporters in the halls of the Canadian parliament in Ottawa that he "can't imagine what the families are going through."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My heart is with the people of Laval today. No words can take away the pain and fear that parents, children, and workers are feeling – but we are here for you. I’m keeping everyone affected by this unfathomable, tragic event in my thoughts.</p>
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<p>As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Quebec's Families Minister Suzanne Roy said: "Everyone is terribly saddened by what has occurred," &nbsp;"When you leave your children at the daycare for the day, you know that they're in good hands ... when an event like that can happen, it shakes us and shatters us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far,&nbsp;the police have not provided more details as the investigation is still on. The officials have informed that the driver has worked for the transit system for 10 years and does not have a criminal record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened at about 8:30am (1330 GMT), when kids are usually dropped off by their parents at daycare centers.&nbsp;</p>

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Two children died after a bus crashed into a daycare centre in Canada's Montreal on Wednesday (February 8). Emergency officials said that several children were injured.

Two children died after a bus crashed into a daycare centre in Canada's Montreal on Wednesday (February 8). Emergency officials said that several children were injured. The 51-year-old driver had been arrested on suspicion of homicide. Erika Landry, a police spokeswoman in Laval, where the daycare is located said that six children transported to the hospital "are out of danger". Landry told reporters at the scene that the driver was arrested for "homicide and dangerous driving". Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that he is "devastated". He told reporters in the halls of the Canadian parliament in Ottawa that he "can't imagine what the families are going through." My heart is with the people of Laval today. No words can take away the pain and fear that parents, children, and workers are feeling – but we are here for you. I’m keeping everyone affected by this unfathomable, tragic event in my thoughts. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 8, 2023 × As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Quebec's Families Minister Suzanne Roy said: "Everyone is terribly saddened by what has occurred," "When you leave your children at the daycare for the day, you know that they're in good hands ... when an event like that can happen, it shakes us and shatters us." So far, the police have not provided more details as the investigation is still on. The officials have informed that the driver has worked for the transit system for 10 years and does not have a criminal record. The incident happened at about 8:30am (1330 GMT), when kids are usually dropped off by their parents at daycare centers. 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.

Canada: Bus rams into daycare centre killing two kids, driver arrested

<p>Russia on Thursday (February 9) responded to the claims made by the international prosecutors that there were "strong indications" that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, which killed all on board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dismissing the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia "could not accept" the results of the probe that the nation was involved. Peskov also said that the investigators had not publicly presented evidence to support their claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 298 passengers and crew members were killed when MH17 was shot down while flying over eastern Ukraine from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. The incident took place at a time when the Russian-backed separatists were fighting Ukrainian forces for control over the eastern Donbas region.</p>

<p>The prosecutors cited intercepted phone calls but noted that there wasn't conclusive evidence that would link the direct involvement of Putin or other Russian officials. Hence, they couldn't pursue a criminal conviction and had to halt their probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Investigators end MH17 downing probe despite 'indications' of Putin's involvement&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier also Russia had denied any direct or indirect involvement in the crash and now Peskov on Thursday dismissed the evidence which had been presented by investigators.</p>

<p>Peskov told reporters: "We know that a recording of a supposed phone call was published...in which not a single word is said about weapons. Even assuming that this conversation is real...there is not one word about weapons. Nobody has published anything else, so it's impossible to say anything."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov was asked specifically about the claim that Putin approved the delivery of BUK missile systems. He replied, "Russia did not take part in this investigation, so we cannot accept these results – especially since no basis for these statements has been made public."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Russia on Thursday (February 9) responded to the claims made by the international prosecutors that there were "strong indications" that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, which killed all on board.

Russia on Thursday (February 9) responded to the claims made by the international prosecutors that there were "strong indications" that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, which killed all on board. Dismissing the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia "could not accept" the results of the probe that the nation was involved. Peskov also said that the investigators had not publicly presented evidence to support their claims. A total of 298 passengers and crew members were killed when MH17 was shot down while flying over eastern Ukraine from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. The incident took place at a time when the Russian-backed separatists were fighting Ukrainian forces for control over the eastern Donbas region. The prosecutors cited intercepted phone calls but noted that there wasn't conclusive evidence that would link the direct involvement of Putin or other Russian officials. Hence, they couldn't pursue a criminal conviction and had to halt their probe. WATCH | Investigators end MH17 downing probe despite 'indications' of Putin's involvement × Earlier also Russia had denied any direct or indirect involvement in the crash and now Peskov on Thursday dismissed the evidence which had been presented by investigators. Peskov told reporters: "We know that a recording of a supposed phone call was published...in which not a single word is said about weapons. Even assuming that this conversation is real...there is not one word about weapons. Nobody has published anything else, so it's impossible to say anything." Peskov was asked specifically about the claim that Putin approved the delivery of BUK missile systems. He replied, "Russia did not take part in this investigation, so we cannot accept these results – especially since no basis for these statements has been made public." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia rejects prosecutors’ claim that Vladimir Putin was involved in MH17 downing

<p>Astronomers were left stunned after they spotted a Saturn-like ring of dust and debris around a dwarf planet called Quaoar. The dwarf planet Quaoar was named after a god of creation in Native American mythology. Quaoar is one of the trans-Neptunian objects and it was discovered in 2002.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new study published on Wednesday revealed that Quaoar, which is a mini-planet orbiting in the outer reaches of the solar system, has a ring that defies the rules of physics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study is titled—"A dense ring of the trans-Neptunian object Quaoar outside its Roche limit"—and it is published in the journal Nature.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-space-telescope-found-water-ice-in-the-rings-of-a-distant-asteroid-557416">James Webb Space Telescope found water ice in the rings of a distant asteroid</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The study mentions that so far, all known dense rings were located close enough to their parent bodies, being inside the Roche limit. It is a place where tidal forces prevent material with reasonable densities from aggregating into a satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the ring around the trans-Neptunian body (50000) Quaoar is different as it is outside its classical Roche limit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quaoar has an estimated radius of 555 km and also possesses a roughly 80-km satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The reality of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Astronomer Bruno Morgado of the Valongo Observatory and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, said: "This is the discovery of a ring located in a place that should not be possible." Morgado is the lead author of the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report found that the Roche limit cannot be the indicator that can determine where ring material can survive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Astronomer and study co-author Isabella Pagano said: "Ring systems may be due to debris from the same formation process that originated the central body or may be due to material resulting after a collision with another body and captured by the central body. We do not have hints at the moment on how the Quaoar ring formed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pagano is the director of Italian research institute INAF's Astrophysical Observatory of Catania.&nbsp;</p>

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Astronomers were left stunned after they spotted a Saturn-like ring of dust and debris around a dwarf planet called Quaoar. The dwarf planet Quaoar was named after a god of creation in Native American mythology.

Astronomers were left stunned after they spotted a Saturn-like ring of dust and debris around a dwarf planet called Quaoar. The dwarf planet Quaoar was named after a god of creation in Native American mythology. Quaoar is one of the trans-Neptunian objects and it was discovered in 2002. A new study published on Wednesday revealed that Quaoar, which is a mini-planet orbiting in the outer reaches of the solar system, has a ring that defies the rules of physics. The study is titled—"A dense ring of the trans-Neptunian object Quaoar outside its Roche limit"—and it is published in the journal Nature. ALSO READ | James Webb Space Telescope found water ice in the rings of a distant asteroid The study mentions that so far, all known dense rings were located close enough to their parent bodies, being inside the Roche limit. It is a place where tidal forces prevent material with reasonable densities from aggregating into a satellite. But the ring around the trans-Neptunian body (50000) Quaoar is different as it is outside its classical Roche limit. Quaoar has an estimated radius of 555 km and also possesses a roughly 80-km satellite. WATCH | Gravitas: The reality of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles × Astronomer Bruno Morgado of the Valongo Observatory and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, said: "This is the discovery of a ring located in a place that should not be possible." Morgado is the lead author of the study. The report found that the Roche limit cannot be the indicator that can determine where ring material can survive. Astronomer and study co-author Isabella Pagano said: "Ring systems may be due to debris from the same formation process that originated the central body or may be due to material resulting after a collision with another body and captured by the central body. We do not have hints at the moment on how the Quaoar ring formed." Pagano is the director of Italian research institute INAF's Astrophysical Observatory of Catania. 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.

Discovery of Saturn-like ring around trans-Neptunian object Quaoar amazes astronomers

<p>China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed. American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down on Sunday and collected the debris to analyse it.&nbsp;However, China has said that the balloon seen flying across the US was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior administration official familiar with the matter said that the Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Monday briefed officials from about 40 embassies about the latest on the balloon saga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by The Post, which is based on interviews with several anonymous defence and intelligence officials, mentioned that the surveillance balloon effort, which has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast, has collected information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-takes-unspecified-measures-after-north-korean-balloon-briefly-spotted-over-south-korea-559295">Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the report, the officials have claimed that these surveillance balloons have been spotted over five continents and are being operated in part by the Peoples Liberation Army air force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, one official said that "what the Chinese have done is taken an unbelievably old technology, and basically married it with modern communications and observation capabilities" to try to glean intelligence on other nations' militaries. the official said that "it's a massive effort".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, a recent report highlighted that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats. A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past. The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out."&nbsp;</p>

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China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed.

China has used spy balloons, similar to the one recently spotted in the United States airspace, to allegedly spy on other countries, including India and Japan, a report published by The Washington Post claimed. American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down on Sunday and collected the debris to analyse it. However, China has said that the balloon seen flying across the US was a civilian "airship" which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. A senior administration official familiar with the matter said that the Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Monday briefed officials from about 40 embassies about the latest on the balloon saga. The report by The Post, which is based on interviews with several anonymous defence and intelligence officials, mentioned that the surveillance balloon effort, which has operated for several years partly out of Hainan province off China's south coast, has collected information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines. ALSO READ | Seoul takes unspecified 'measures' after North Korean balloon briefly spotted over South Korea According to the report, the officials have claimed that these surveillance balloons have been spotted over five continents and are being operated in part by the Peoples Liberation Army air force. As quoted by the report, one official said that "what the Chinese have done is taken an unbelievably old technology, and basically married it with modern communications and observation capabilities" to try to glean intelligence on other nations' militaries. the official said that "it's a massive effort". WATCH | Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America × Meanwhile, a recent report highlighted that the US military failed to detect prior balloon threats. A senior commander, who oversees US forces in North America, said on Monday that there have been instances when Chinese balloon threats have gone undetected by the nation in the past. The official has highlighted the "awareness gap" which should be addressed by the government. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who is the commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and US Northern Command, said, "I will tell you that we did not detect those threats. And that’s a domain awareness gap that we have to figure out." 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.

Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan?

<p>Massive earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have killed thousands of people and altered the lives of millions, leaving them with heart-wrenching scenes and heartbreaking stories. The death toll has crossed 11,000 and is expected to rise further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Search and rescue workers are still racing against time in the hope to find survivors as they comb the rubble the entire day. The international community has come together to help those who lost everything in the disaster and now struggling in freezing temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A moving image from the streets of disaster-hit Turkey painted a picture of pain, sadness, hopelessness and suffering.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-baby-who-fell-down-13m-deep-well-rescued-after-dramatic-18-hour-rescue-operation-559997">Thai baby who fell down 13m deep well rescued after dramatic 18-hour rescue operation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Mesut Hancer, the father of a 15-year-old, was seen holding the hand of his daughter Irmak, who died in the earthquake in Kahramanmaras.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hancer was seen sitting on the pile of rubble in freezing conditions. He looked grief-stricken to speak but the picture spoke thousands of words.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency AFP reported that he refused to let go of his daughter's hand as her body lay lifeless among the slabs of concrete and strands of twisted rebar.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> - Mesut Hancer holds the hand of his 15-year-old daughter Irmak, who died in the earthquake in Kahramanmaras.<br />
📷 <a href="https://twitter.com/AdemAltan3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AdemAltan3</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFP</a> <a href="https://t.co/69ipyEOcJD">pic.twitter.com/69ipyEOcJD</a></p>
— AFP Photo (@AFPphoto) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFPphoto/status/1623205778524979200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He doesn’t want to let go of her Daughter’s hand 💔 <a href="https://t.co/p2n1423oEN">pic.twitter.com/p2n1423oEN</a></p>
— Nilofar Ayoubi (@NilofarAyoubi) <a href="https://twitter.com/NilofarAyoubi/status/1623101266741043201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey-Syria earthquake toll crosses 11,000; round-the-clock rescue operations underway&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The current situation is not so promising for those who survived the powerful quakes, which caused many multi-story buildings to collapse. Amid all the chaos, the frustration is also growing because help has been slow to arrive. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by AFP, Ali Sagiroglu in Kahramanmaras said, "I can't get my brother back from the ruins. I can't get my nephew back. Look around here. There is no state official here, for God's sake. For two days we haven't seen the state around here... Children are freezing from the cold."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Massive earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have killed thousands of people and altered the lives of millions, leaving them with heart-wrenching scenes and heartbreaking stories.

Massive earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have killed thousands of people and altered the lives of millions, leaving them with heart-wrenching scenes and heartbreaking stories. The death toll has crossed 11,000 and is expected to rise further. Search and rescue workers are still racing against time in the hope to find survivors as they comb the rubble the entire day. The international community has come together to help those who lost everything in the disaster and now struggling in freezing temperatures. A moving image from the streets of disaster-hit Turkey painted a picture of pain, sadness, hopelessness and suffering. ALSO READ | Thai baby who fell down 13m deep well rescued after dramatic 18-hour rescue operation Mesut Hancer, the father of a 15-year-old, was seen holding the hand of his daughter Irmak, who died in the earthquake in Kahramanmaras. Hancer was seen sitting on the pile of rubble in freezing conditions. He looked grief-stricken to speak but the picture spoke thousands of words. The news agency AFP reported that he refused to let go of his daughter's hand as her body lay lifeless among the slabs of concrete and strands of twisted rebar. #Turkey - Mesut Hancer holds the hand of his 15-year-old daughter Irmak, who died in the earthquake in Kahramanmaras. 📷 @AdemAltan3 #AFP pic.twitter.com/69ipyEOcJD — AFP Photo (@AFPphoto) February 8, 2023 × He doesn’t want to let go of her Daughter’s hand 💔 pic.twitter.com/p2n1423oEN — Nilofar Ayoubi (@NilofarAyoubi) February 7, 2023 × WATCH | Turkey-Syria earthquake toll crosses 11,000; round-the-clock rescue operations underway × The current situation is not so promising for those who survived the powerful quakes, which caused many multi-story buildings to collapse. Amid all the chaos, the frustration is also growing because help has been slow to arrive. As quoted by AFP, Ali Sagiroglu in Kahramanmaras said, "I can't get my brother back from the ruins. I can't get my nephew back. Look around here. There is no state official here, for God's sake. For two days we haven't seen the state around here... Children are freezing from the cold." (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.

Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake

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