Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

Ursula von der Leyen backed the EU candidacy for Ukraine as she said that Ukrainians were ready to die to deepen their ties to the European Union.&nbsp;

"We all know that Ukrainians are ready to die for the European perspective. We want them to live with us for the European dream," von der Leyen told reporters.&nbsp;

The bid was supposed to be approved by all 27 member states to get finalised. The move could open up a years-long path toward joining the bloc.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-seek-support-from-tech-firms-ukraines-president-volodymyr-zelensky-appears-as-hologram-in-paris-489027">To seek support from tech firms, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky appears as hologram in Paris</a>&nbsp;

While responding to the backing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday praised a decision.&nbsp;

"It's the first step on the EU membership path that'll certainly bring our victory closer," Zelensky wrote on social media, adding that he was "grateful" to EU chief and "each EC member for a historic decision".&nbsp;

Here's Russia's reaction

Russia's foreign ministry accused Brussels of "manipulating"&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;"We see how for many years the Western community has been manipulating the idea of some kind of involvement of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in their integration structures," ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian spy posing as a Brazilian national caught in the Netherlands

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A day before, during their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday, the European leaders had backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron told a joint press conference with Italian and German leaders that "all four of us support the status of immediate candidate for accession."&nbsp;

Macron, Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi arrived in Ukraine by train in a show of support for the war-torn nation. They were later joined in Kyiv by Romania's President Klaus Iohannis.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was present during the press conference, had promised the nation was ready to put in the work to become a fully-fledged EU member.&nbsp;

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Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said.

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said. Ursula von der Leyen backed the EU candidacy for Ukraine as she said that Ukrainians were ready to die to deepen their ties to the European Union. "We all know that Ukrainians are ready to die for the European perspective. We want them to live with us for the European dream," von der Leyen told reporters. The bid was supposed to be approved by all 27 member states to get finalised. The move could open up a years-long path toward joining the bloc. ALSO READ | To seek support from tech firms, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky appears as hologram in Paris While responding to the backing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday praised a decision. "It's the first step on the EU membership path that'll certainly bring our victory closer," Zelensky wrote on social media, adding that he was "grateful" to EU chief and "each EC member for a historic decision". Here's Russia's reaction Russia's foreign ministry accused Brussels of "manipulating" Ukraine. "We see how for many years the Western community has been manipulating the idea of some kind of involvement of Ukraine in their integration structures," ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. WATCH | Russian spy posing as a Brazilian national caught in the Netherlands × A day before, during their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday, the European leaders had backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership. French President Emmanuel Macron told a joint press conference with Italian and German leaders that "all four of us support the status of immediate candidate for accession." Macron, Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi arrived in Ukraine by train in a show of support for the war-torn nation. They were later joined in Kyiv by Romania's President Klaus Iohannis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was present during the press conference, had promised the nation was ready to put in the work to become a fully-fledged EU member. 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.

'Manipulation': Russia slams European Union move to give 'candidate status' to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (June 17) that Kyiv wants to introduce visas for Russians from July 1. This announcement comes four months into Moscow's invasion of Ukraine that has left the country in tatters. The introduction of visas would mean that Ukraine is scrapping visa-free entry for Russians that began when Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991. Now Russians will be required to obtain visas to enter Ukraine.&nbsp;

On his Telegram account, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is introducing a visa regime for citizens of the Russian Federation." He also said that the requirement would take effect on "July 1, 2022". A government decision on the same is expected "today".&nbsp;

Andriy Yermak, who is Zelensky's chief of staff, said the move was being taken to bolster the country's defensive efforts also in the consideration of because of Russia's ongoing invasion that began on February 24.&nbsp;

He said, "Due to the full-scale war launched by the Russian Federation, we need to strengthen the control over the entry of Russian nationals into our territory. Security is a priority."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-commission-recommends-eu-candidate-status-for-ukraine-489054">European Commission recommends EU 'candidate status' for Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine are neighbours and they share a border stretching almost 2,300 kilometres. Citizens from both countries also share extensive family links.&nbsp;

It is understood that the number of Russians travelling to Ukraine fell sharply after Moscow's 2014 annexation of the Crimean peninsula. The move had led to a war with pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine that was apparently backed by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Andrey Demchenko, a spokesman for Ukraine's border guards, told AFP that in 2013, 10.8 million Russians visited Ukraine but a year later, that figure plummeted to 2.5 million. And between 2015 and 2019, it further dropped to some 1.5 million a year.&nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021 as the Covid pandemic took hold, the number of Russian travellers did not exceed 500,000 a year, he said.&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (June 17) that Kyiv wants to introduce visas for Russians from July 1. This announcement comes four months into Moscow's invasion of Ukraine that has left the country in tatters.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (June 17) that Kyiv wants to introduce visas for Russians from July 1. This announcement comes four months into Moscow's invasion of Ukraine that has left the country in tatters. The introduction of visas would mean that Ukraine is scrapping visa-free entry for Russians that began when Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991. Now Russians will be required to obtain visas to enter Ukraine. On his Telegram account, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is introducing a visa regime for citizens of the Russian Federation." He also said that the requirement would take effect on "July 1, 2022". A government decision on the same is expected "today". Andriy Yermak, who is Zelensky's chief of staff, said the move was being taken to bolster the country's defensive efforts also in the consideration of because of Russia's ongoing invasion that began on February 24. He said, "Due to the full-scale war launched by the Russian Federation, we need to strengthen the control over the entry of Russian nationals into our territory. Security is a priority." ALSO READ | European Commission recommends EU 'candidate status' for Ukraine Russia and Ukraine are neighbours and they share a border stretching almost 2,300 kilometres. Citizens from both countries also share extensive family links. It is understood that the number of Russians travelling to Ukraine fell sharply after Moscow's 2014 annexation of the Crimean peninsula. The move had led to a war with pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine that was apparently backed by the Kremlin. Andrey Demchenko, a spokesman for Ukraine's border guards, told AFP that in 2013, 10.8 million Russians visited Ukraine but a year later, that figure plummeted to 2.5 million. And between 2015 and 2019, it further dropped to some 1.5 million a year. In 2020 and 2021 as the Covid pandemic took hold, the number of Russian travellers did not exceed 500,000 a year, he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No more free entry: Ukraine to launch visas for Russians from July 1, says Zelensky

Apple is facing another multi-million-pound lawsuit to reimburse millions of iPhone users for deliberately slowing down the performance of older iPhones in 2017 to force customers into buying newer models of iPhones, reported The Guardian.

In January 2017, a software update that was released by an unknown battery management system slowed down older versions of iPhones to stop them from shutting down without warning. However, Apple didn't give a provision to users to disable that setting and also did not inform users about their intentional throttling of the phones.

Consumer rights campaigner Justin Gutmann filed a lawsuit at the Competition Appeals Tribunal accusing Apple of abusing its market presence to engage in manipulative and unfair commercial practices to exploit consumers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ios16-here-are-all-the-important-features-coming-to-iphones-this-year-486466">iOS16: Here are all the important features coming to iPhones this year</a>

Gutmann has appealed on behalf of 25 million UK iPhone users&nbsp;who have used one of the ten different models of iPhone. The lawsuit relates to the use of iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, and iPhone X models.

Gutmann told The Guardian, "I'm launching this case so that millions of iPhone users across the UK will receive redress for the harm suffered by Apple's actions."

According to Gutmann, Apple deliberately did not inform consumers that their older iPhone batteries could not cope with the new demands, and the company released a new software update knowingly that it would make the phones worse, which would push consumers to buy newer versions.

Watch |&nbsp;From CarPlay updates to M2 chip: Top announcements at Apple Developers Conference

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Apple has been sued several times in other countries over the iPhone throttling issue.

"Instead of doing the honourable and legal thing by their customers and offering a free replacement, repair service or compensation, Apple instead misled people by concealing a tool in software updates that slowed their devices by up to 58%," The Guardian reported quoting Gutmann.

"If this case is successful, I hope dominant companies will re-evaluate their business models and refrain from this kind of conduct," he added.

The throttling issue was acknowledged by Apple nearly one year after it was introduced. The company claimed that the battery was in poor condition and was not able to supply the required maximum current that the phone's processor demanded at full speed. According to Apple, the update helped with the phone shutting down and was intended rather to allow the phone to continue functioning, just at a slower pace.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-court-annuls-qualcomms-billion-euro-antitrust-fine-488650">European Union court annuls Qualcomm's billion-euro antitrust fine</a>

Guardian quoted a statement made by Apple on Thursday, "We have never and would never do anything to intentionally shorten the life of any Apple product, or degrade the user experience to drive customer upgrades."

"Our goal has always been to create products that our customers love, and making iPhones last as long as possible is an important part of that," the statement added.

iPhones presently have an option on the settings menu that shows a report about whether the throttling is in effect.&nbsp;

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Apple is facing another multi-million-pound lawsuit to reimburse millions of iPhone users for deliberately slowing down the performance of older iPhones in 2017 to force customers into buying newer models of iPhones, reported The Guardian.

Apple is facing another multi-million-pound lawsuit to reimburse millions of iPhone users for deliberately slowing down the performance of older iPhones in 2017 to force customers into buying newer models of iPhones, reported The Guardian. In January 2017, a software update that was released by an unknown battery management system slowed down older versions of iPhones to stop them from shutting down without warning. However, Apple didn't give a provision to users to disable that setting and also did not inform users about their intentional throttling of the phones. Consumer rights campaigner Justin Gutmann filed a lawsuit at the Competition Appeals Tribunal accusing Apple of abusing its market presence to engage in manipulative and unfair commercial practices to exploit consumers. Also read | iOS16: Here are all the important features coming to iPhones this year Gutmann has appealed on behalf of 25 million UK iPhone users who have used one of the ten different models of iPhone. The lawsuit relates to the use of iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, and iPhone X models. Gutmann told The Guardian, "I'm launching this case so that millions of iPhone users across the UK will receive redress for the harm suffered by Apple's actions." According to Gutmann, Apple deliberately did not inform consumers that their older iPhone batteries could not cope with the new demands, and the company released a new software update knowingly that it would make the phones worse, which would push consumers to buy newer versions. Watch | From CarPlay updates to M2 chip: Top announcements at Apple Developers Conference Apple has been sued several times in other countries over the iPhone throttling issue. "Instead of doing the honourable and legal thing by their customers and offering a free replacement, repair service or compensation, Apple instead misled people by concealing a tool in software updates that slowed their devices by up to 58%," The Guardian reported quoting Gutmann. "If this case is successful, I hope dominant companies will re-evaluate their business models and refrain from this kind of conduct," he added. The throttling issue was acknowledged by Apple nearly one year after it was introduced. The company claimed that the battery was in poor condition and was not able to supply the required maximum current that the phone's processor demanded at full speed. According to Apple, the update helped with the phone shutting down and was intended rather to allow the phone to continue functioning, just at a slower pace. Also read | European Union court annuls Qualcomm's billion-euro antitrust fine Guardian quoted a statement made by Apple on Thursday, "We have never and would never do anything to intentionally shorten the life of any Apple product, or degrade the user experience to drive customer upgrades." "Our goal has always been to create products that our customers love, and making iPhones last as long as possible is an important part of that," the statement added. iPhones presently have an option on the settings menu that shows a report about whether the throttling is in effect. 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.

Claim for $935 million against Apple launched over alleging battery ‘throttling’

The Russian Orthodox Church on Thursday dismissed sanctions against its leader, Patriarch&nbsp;Kirill, imposed by Britain for his support of Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Attempts to intimidate the primate of the Russian Church with something or to force him to renounce his views are senseless, absurd and unpromising," church spokesman Vladimir Legoyda said on Telegram.&nbsp;

"The church -- now especially -- is the last bridge, a means of communication, which they are trying to destroy for some reason," Legoyda said.

"This may be necessary only for those political forces that have the escalation of conflict and the alienation of peace as their important goal," he added.

"There is no other way I can explain such absurd and counterproductive measures, which contribute to only one thing -- breaking the already severely damaged communication between the European community and Russia," he said.&nbsp;

Britain on Thursday sanctioned the 75-year-old cleric and ally of President Vladimir Putin two weeks after the EU dropped him from their own sanctions list after opposition from Hungary.

The new UK list also includes Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian children's rights commissioner, for allegedly overseeing the forced adoption in Russia of some 2,000 Ukrainian children.

The Russian Orthodox Church on Thursday dismissed sanctions against its leader, Patriarch Kirill, imposed by Britain for his support of Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine.

The Russian Orthodox Church on Thursday dismissed sanctions against its leader, Patriarch Kirill, imposed by Britain for his support of Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine. "Attempts to intimidate the primate of the Russian Church with something or to force him to renounce his views are senseless, absurd and unpromising," church spokesman Vladimir Legoyda said on Telegram. "The church -- now especially -- is the last bridge, a means of communication, which they are trying to destroy for some reason," Legoyda said. "This may be necessary only for those political forces that have the escalation of conflict and the alienation of peace as their important goal," he added. "There is no other way I can explain such absurd and counterproductive measures, which contribute to only one thing -- breaking the already severely damaged communication between the European community and Russia," he said. Britain on Thursday sanctioned the 75-year-old cleric and ally of President Vladimir Putin two weeks after the EU dropped him from their own sanctions list after opposition from Hungary. The new UK list also includes Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian children's rights commissioner, for allegedly overseeing the forced adoption in Russia of some 2,000 Ukrainian children.

UK sanctions on Russia's Patriarch Kirill 'absurd': Church

Amid nationwide protests, the Indian government on Thursday (June 16) has raised the age limit for the 'Agnipath' military recruitment scheme to 23 from 21.&nbsp;

In a statement, the country's defence ministry noted that the government has granted a one-time waiver in the upper age limit for the 'Agnipath' scheme. The ministry further said that the decision has been taken as no recruitment had taken place in the last two years.&nbsp;

In a release, the government said: "​Cognizant of the fact that it has not been possible to undertake the recruitment during the last two years, the Government has decided that a one-time waiver shall be granted for the proposed recruitment cycle for 2022."&nbsp;

WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;How gig economy is helping India in generating employment

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Protests erupted in various parts of the country after some aspirants for the armed forces are unhappy with the changes introduced under the new recruitment scheme.&nbsp;

Concerns were raised over the length of service, no pension provisions for those released early and the previously said 17.5 to 21-year age restriction.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Union Cabinet approved the Agnipath recruitment scheme which provides an opportunity for Indian youth to serve in the regular cadre of the Armed Forces for a period of four years. Soldiers who are recruited under this scheme will be known as Agniveers.&nbsp;

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Amid nationwide protests, the Indian government on Thursday (June 16) has raised the age limit for the 'Agnipath' military recruitment scheme to 23 from 21. In a statement, the country's defence ministry noted that the government has granted a one-time waiver in the upper age limit for the 'Agnipath' scheme.

Amid nationwide protests, the Indian government on Thursday (June 16) has raised the age limit for the 'Agnipath' military recruitment scheme to 23 from 21. In a statement, the country's defence ministry noted that the government has granted a one-time waiver in the upper age limit for the 'Agnipath' scheme. The ministry further said that the decision has been taken as no recruitment had taken place in the last two years. In a release, the government said: "Cognizant of the fact that it has not been possible to undertake the recruitment during the last two years, the Government has decided that a one-time waiver shall be granted for the proposed recruitment cycle for 2022." WATCH | How gig economy is helping India in generating employment × Protests erupted in various parts of the country after some aspirants for the armed forces are unhappy with the changes introduced under the new recruitment scheme. Concerns were raised over the length of service, no pension provisions for those released early and the previously said 17.5 to 21-year age restriction. On Tuesday, the Union Cabinet approved the Agnipath recruitment scheme which provides an opportunity for Indian youth to serve in the regular cadre of the Armed Forces for a period of four years. Soldiers who are recruited under this scheme will be known as Agniveers. 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.

Indian govt increases upper-age limit to 23 for recruitment under 'Agnipath' scheme for 2022

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South&nbsp;Korean and U.S. officials say&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;might conduct a nuclear test any day.

Preparation work at the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Facility's Tunnel No. 3 was apparently complete and ready for a possible nuclear test, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said in a report, citing commercial satellite imagery.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;conducted six underground nuclear tests at the site from 2006 to 2017.

The research group said that for the first time, analysts spotted new construction activity at the facility's Tunnel No. 4, "strongly suggesting an effort to re-enable it for potential future testing".

Outside Tunnel No. 3, images showed a retaining wall and some minor landscaping with small trees or bushes, likely in anticipation of a visit by senior officials, it said.

The two tunnels were never previously used for nuclear tests and their entrances were demolished in 2018, when&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;declared a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

Leader Kim Jong Un has said he is no longer bound by that moratorium because of a lack of reciprocal steps by the United States during denuclearisation talks, and&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;resumed testing ICBMs this year.

South&nbsp;Korean officials said this week that&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;was poised to conduct a nuclear test "at any time" and that the timing would be decided by Kim.

South&nbsp;Korea's defence ministry spokesman, when asked about the report, said it was closely monitoring developments on&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear activity together with U.S. intelligence authorities but declined to make any further comment.

South&nbsp;Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said on Monday after talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington that any provocation by&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea, including a nuclear test, would be met with a united, firm response.

He urged China, for years&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's only major ally, to use its influence.

Park also vowed to work to normalise an intelligence sharing pact with Japan "as soon as possible" to boost their responses to&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear and missile threats.

The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), had been a backbone of trilateral security information sharing by South&nbsp;Korea, the United States and Japan.

But South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;had considered scrapping the pact with Japan in late 2019, during a period of strained ties, before a last-minute decision https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-japan-idUSKBN1XW087 to renew it in the face of U.S. pressure.

South&nbsp;Korean officials have said that since then, intelligence sharing with Japan had not been as smooth as it was before.

North Korea appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South Korean and U.S. officials say North Korea might conduct a nuclear test any day.

North Korea appears to be expanding work at its nuclear test site to include a second tunnel, a U.S.-based think tank said on Thursday, as South Korean and U.S. officials say North Korea might conduct a nuclear test any day. Preparation work at the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Facility's Tunnel No. 3 was apparently complete and ready for a possible nuclear test, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said in a report, citing commercial satellite imagery. North Korea conducted six underground nuclear tests at the site from 2006 to 2017. The research group said that for the first time, analysts spotted new construction activity at the facility's Tunnel No. 4, "strongly suggesting an effort to re-enable it for potential future testing". Outside Tunnel No. 3, images showed a retaining wall and some minor landscaping with small trees or bushes, likely in anticipation of a visit by senior officials, it said. The two tunnels were never previously used for nuclear tests and their entrances were demolished in 2018, when North Korea declared a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Leader Kim Jong Un has said he is no longer bound by that moratorium because of a lack of reciprocal steps by the United States during denuclearisation talks, and North Korea resumed testing ICBMs this year. South Korean officials said this week that North Korea was poised to conduct a nuclear test "at any time" and that the timing would be decided by Kim. South Korea's defence ministry spokesman, when asked about the report, said it was closely monitoring developments on North Korea's nuclear activity together with U.S. intelligence authorities but declined to make any further comment. South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said on Monday after talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington that any provocation by North Korea, including a nuclear test, would be met with a united, firm response. He urged China, for years North Korea's only major ally, to use its influence. Park also vowed to work to normalise an intelligence sharing pact with Japan "as soon as possible" to boost their responses to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), had been a backbone of trilateral security information sharing by South Korea, the United States and Japan. But South Korea had considered scrapping the pact with Japan in late 2019, during a period of strained ties, before a last-minute decision https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-japan-idUSKBN1XW087 to renew it in the face of U.S. pressure. South Korean officials have said that since then, intelligence sharing with Japan had not been as smooth as it was before.

North Korea expands work at nuclear test site to second tunnel: Report

During their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday (June 16), the European leaders backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership.

During their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday (June 16), the European leaders backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership. French President Emmanuel Macron told a joint press conference with Italian and German leaders that "all four of us support the status of immediate candidate for accession." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was present during the press conference, promised the nation was ready to put in the work to become a fully-fledged EU member. He said that amid Russia's invasion of the country, the Ukrainians have already proved themselves worthy of candidate status. On Friday, the European Commission will meet to give its official opinion on Ukraine's formal bid for EU candidacy. The bid must be approved by all 27 member states to get finalised. ALSO READ | Dutch intelligence stops Russian spy from entering ICC investigating war crimes in Ukraine Apart from Macron, Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi arrived in Ukraine by train in a show of support for the war-torn nation. They walked through the ruined buildings of the Ukrainian town of Irpin and Draghi even promised that Italy will help Ukraine build everything. Macron praised Ukrainian "heroism" against Moscow's invasion. "It's here, among other places, that the Ukrainians stopped the Russian army descending onto Kyiv," the French leader said. French, German and Italian leaders were later joined in Kyiv by Romania's President Klaus Iohannis. After that, they met Zelensky to discuss the current situation. Zelensky ask for weapon supplies In his statement, Zelensky said, "We are expecting new deliveries, above all heavy weapons, modern reactive artillery, anti-aircraft defence systems". He said that "every day of delayed or postponed decisions provides the possibility for the Russian military to kill Ukrainians." On being asked about Macron's phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky said that "it’s president Emmanuel Macron’s choice." He added, "I'm not sure there are leaders in the world today who could individually force Russia to stop the war." ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war leads to a 'noodle crisis' around the world WATCH | United States to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine amid ongoing Russian offensives × Kremlin reacts to European leaders' visit Kremlin said that it hoped the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Emmanuel Macron, Olaf Scholz and Mario Draghi should use their time with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to take a "realistic look at the state of affairs". Kremlin also warned against new Western weapons supplies to Ukraine. Peskov said that such supplies would be "absolutely useless and will cause further damage to the country". 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.

France, Germany, Italy, Romania back Ukraine's EU membership bid during crucial Kyiv visit

At the 12th Ministerial Meeting (MC12), World Trade Organization (WTO) members reached a provisional deal on Thursday (June 16). Citing two trade sources involved in the discussions, Reuters reported that the agreement has done to extend a moratorium on applying duties to electronic transmissions until the next ministerial meeting.

At the 12th Ministerial Meeting (MC12), World Trade Organization (WTO) members reached a provisional deal on Thursday (June 16). Citing two trade sources involved in the discussions, Reuters reported that the agreement has done to extend a moratorium on applying duties to electronic transmissions until the next ministerial meeting. Major concerns among businesses were raised over the prospect of ending the moratorium, which has exempted data flows from cross-border tariffs since 1998. The agreement showed, "We agree to maintain the current practice of not imposing customs duties on electronic transmissions until MC13 which should ordinarily be held by 31 December 2023." India-based media outlet Business Standard, citing an Indian trade negotiator, reported that the 164 WTO members have finalised a historic trade deal. Although, an official statement is still awaited. The official who spoke on condition of anonymity, told the media outlet: "India has agreed to the proposal of no export restrictions on the World Food Programme. But internal food security concerns will take precedence." "There is no work programme on agriculture, which could be considered as a good outcome for India as our agri subsidy will not face any further scrutiny," the source added. WTO talks went deep into overtime on Thursday with key holdout India talking up the prospects for a landmark deal spanning food security, fishing and combating COVID-19. Ministers from the global trade body's 164 members have been negotiating face-to-face since Sunday at the WTO's headquarters in Geneva. India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal was confident as he told reporters, "India is convinced that this will turn out to be one of the most successful ministerial that the WTO has seen in a long time." "We are very confident that the progress made... and the positivity with which everybody is engaged truly is a matter of celebration for the world. I'm sure that that spirit will help us cross the hump. We have taken some solid decisions... subject to a few issues being sorted out," 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.

WTO provisionally agrees to extend e-commerce tariff moratorium: Sources

Macron, Scholz, Draghi visit Kyiv, vow to back Ukraine against Russia - see pics

Kremlin hopes the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Downing Street published a letter from Johnson's former ethics adviser Lord Geidt who resigned suddenly. Beyonce's teased fans with the details of her new album after raising speculations for a few days.&nbsp;

Click on the links to read the full report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kremlin-hopes-european-leaders-will-discuss-more-than-just-weapons-during-kyiv-visit-488828">Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin hopes European leaders will discuss more than just weapons during Kyiv visit</a> 
In a response to a crucial high-profile visit of European leaders to a war-damaged Ukrainian town of Irpin, Kremlin said on Thursday (June 16) that it hoped the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b896c7de-e024-46e6-9eb8-5522783234bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mariinsky%20Palace.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lord-geidt-uk-ethics-adviser-quit-after-being-placed-in-impossible-and-odious-position-488797">Lord Geidt: UK ethics adviser quit after being placed in 'impossible and odious position'</a> 
Downing Street has published a letter from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former ethics adviser Lord Geidt who resigned suddenly on Wednesday (June 15).&nbsp;

<img alt="Lord Geidt" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ca0ef08-74c6-445a-b248-a620c64bf262" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Boris%20Johnson%20and%20Lord%20Geidt.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-intelligence-stops-russian-spy-from-entering-icc-investigating-war-crimes-in-ukraine-488854">Dutch intelligence stops Russian spy from entering ICC investigating war crimes in Ukraine</a> 
The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine.

<img alt="Dutch intelligence" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aff07854-c71c-48ad-b13f-c9273c0a91fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dutch%20intelligence.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-crisis-sydney-residents-told-to-cut-power-use-to-help-avoid-blackouts-488858">Amid crisis, Sydney residents told to cut power use to help avoid blackouts</a> 
Australia's energy minister urged millions of residents of New South Wales to switch off their lights and conserve power in order to avoid blackouts.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7eb46dba-28ea-44e2-b331-6699022e7391" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sydney%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mariupol-horrors-inflicted-on-civilian-population-will-leave-indelible-mark-says-un-rights-chief-488824">Mariupol: Horrors inflicted on civilian population will leave ‘indelible mark’, says UN rights chief</a> 
The United Nations rights chief said on Thursday that the extent of death and destruction in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol suggests serious international law violations, warning that the horrors would mark future generations.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mariupol" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59c7dfd3-2ec7-4e9c-9b9f-1e720ecd4b0c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mariupol%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-shot-at-ronald-reagan-granted-full-freedom-488810">'Freedom at last': Man who shot at Ronald Reagan granted full freedom</a> 
John Hinckley, the man who shot at former US president Ronald Reagan in 1981 was given full freedom on Wednesday (June 15). This step was taken six years after he was released from a psychiatric hospital.&nbsp;

<img alt="John Hinckley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44434267-3b2b-480f-9593-1d9c0517644e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/John%20Hinckley.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chilean-swimmer-breaks-guinness-world-record-becomes-first-person-to-ever-swim-three-nautical-miles-488802">Chilean swimmer breaks Guinness world record; becomes first person to ever swim three nautical miles</a> 
Chilean swimmer Barbara Hernandez announced on Tuesday that she had received a Guinness world record after swimming between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans in Cabo de Hornos, in southern Chile.

<img alt="Barbara Hernandez" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37375ddc-8f21-4a9a-84c0-0587d4dd25ba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Barbara%20Hernandez.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-twitter-and-meta-pledge-to-fight-fake-news-488792">Google, Twitter and Meta pledge to fight fake news</a> 
Google, Meta, Twitter and Microsoft agreed on Thursday to take a firm stance against disinformation as part of an amended European Union of conduct, which could result in large fines if they don’t.&nbsp;

<img alt="Google" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2007e06-ff84-4ff8-a26d-ecc8863a288b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Google_1.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/music/beyonce-announces-her-16-track-album-renaissance-set-to-release-on-this-date-488781">Beyonce announces her 16 track album 'Renaissance', set to release on this date</a> 
Beyonce's social media accounts, along with the official accounts of music streamer Tidal, teased fans with the details of her new album after raising speculations for a few days.

<img alt="Beyonce" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="315cff17-5eeb-411c-9e18-0f740b5cf875" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Beyonce.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-my-next-captain-in-line-after-rohit-sharma-in-white-ball-formats-wasim-jaffer-on-star-india-player-488815">'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player</a> 
On Wednesday (June 15), Hardik Pandya was named as India's captain for their upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin.

<img alt="Hardik Pandya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ee49390-7b33-4ed9-9cd8-3c3d3b885e28" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hardik%20Pandya.jpg" />

Kremlin hopes the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Downing Street published a letter from Johnson's former ethics adviser Lord Geidt who resigned suddenly.

Kremlin hopes the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Downing Street published a letter from Johnson's former ethics adviser Lord Geidt who resigned suddenly. Beyonce's teased fans with the details of her new album after raising speculations for a few days. Click on the links to read the full report Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin hopes European leaders will discuss more than just weapons during Kyiv visit In a response to a crucial high-profile visit of European leaders to a war-damaged Ukrainian town of Irpin, Kremlin said on Thursday (June 16) that it hoped the leaders of France, Germany and Italy would discuss matters other than the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Lord Geidt: UK ethics adviser quit after being placed in 'impossible and odious position' Downing Street has published a letter from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former ethics adviser Lord Geidt who resigned suddenly on Wednesday (June 15). Dutch intelligence stops Russian spy from entering ICC investigating war crimes in Ukraine The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine. Amid crisis, Sydney residents told to cut power use to help avoid blackouts Australia's energy minister urged millions of residents of New South Wales to switch off their lights and conserve power in order to avoid blackouts. Mariupol: Horrors inflicted on civilian population will leave ‘indelible mark’, says UN rights chief The United Nations rights chief said on Thursday that the extent of death and destruction in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol suggests serious international law violations, warning that the horrors would mark future generations. 'Freedom at last': Man who shot at Ronald Reagan granted full freedom John Hinckley, the man who shot at former US president Ronald Reagan in 1981 was given full freedom on Wednesday (June 15). This step was taken six years after he was released from a psychiatric hospital. Chilean swimmer breaks Guinness world record; becomes first person to ever swim three nautical miles Chilean swimmer Barbara Hernandez announced on Tuesday that she had received a Guinness world record after swimming between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans in Cabo de Hornos, in southern Chile. Google, Twitter and Meta pledge to fight fake news Google, Meta, Twitter and Microsoft agreed on Thursday to take a firm stance against disinformation as part of an amended European Union of conduct, which could result in large fines if they don’t. Beyonce announces her 16 track album 'Renaissance', set to release on this date Beyonce's social media accounts, along with the official accounts of music streamer Tidal, teased fans with the details of her new album after raising speculations for a few days. 'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player On Wednesday (June 15), Hardik Pandya was named as India's captain for their upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin.

Top 10 world news: European leaders visit Ukraine, UK ethics adviser quit, and more

Google, Meta, Twitter and Microsoft agreed on Thursday to take a firm stance against disinformation as part of an amended European Union of conduct, which could result in large fines if they don’t. The new Code of Practice on Disinformation has more than 30 signatories, including advertising groups. They agreed to do more combat deep fakes, fake accounts and political advertising with fines of up to 6 per cent of a company’s global revenue, as per the European Commission, confirmed by a Reuters report last week. The firms including, Amazon’s live streaming, TikTok, and Twitch, have six months to meet their commitments. They must submit a progress report at the start of 2023, the Reuters report added.&nbsp;

Vera Jourova, Vice-President of the Commission said, "The new code is a testimony that Europe has learned its lessons and that we are not naive any longer." She further added that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Brexit have expedited the Union’s fight against fake news.&nbsp;

According to Thierry Breton, industry chief of the European Union the sanctions could include barring companies from operating in Europe.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-says-fake-accounts-comprise-of-less-than-5-users-476032">Twitter says fake accounts comprise of less than 5% users</a>&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;EU signs gas deal with Israel, Egypt to reduce dependency on Russia&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-signs-gas-deal-with-israel-egypt-to-reduce-dependency-on-russia-488610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-artist-accused-of-spreading-fake-news-after-replacing-grocery-price-tags-with-anti-war-slogans-471629">Russian artist accused of spreading 'fake news' after replacing grocery price tags with anti-war slogans</a>&nbsp;

The critics such as the Association of Commercial Television and Video on Demand and Video on Demand Services in Europe (ACT) pointed out some serious flaws in the updated code of the Union.&nbsp;

It stated, “The Review does not offer concrete commitments to limit 'impermissible manipulative behavior'. Commitments go no further than a blanket statement to follow the law which is obvious and does not require a Code.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

&nbsp;

Google, Meta, Twitter and Microsoft agreed on Thursday to take a firm stance against disinformation as part of an amended European Union of conduct, which could result in large fines if they don’t.

Google, Meta, Twitter and Microsoft agreed on Thursday to take a firm stance against disinformation as part of an amended European Union of conduct, which could result in large fines if they don’t. The new Code of Practice on Disinformation has more than 30 signatories, including advertising groups. They agreed to do more combat deep fakes, fake accounts and political advertising with fines of up to 6 per cent of a company’s global revenue, as per the European Commission, confirmed by a Reuters report last week. The firms including, Amazon’s live streaming, TikTok, and Twitch, have six months to meet their commitments. They must submit a progress report at the start of 2023, the Reuters report added. Vera Jourova, Vice-President of the Commission said, "The new code is a testimony that Europe has learned its lessons and that we are not naive any longer." She further added that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Brexit have expedited the Union’s fight against fake news. According to Thierry Breton, industry chief of the European Union the sanctions could include barring companies from operating in Europe. Also read | Twitter says fake accounts comprise of less than 5% users Watch | EU signs gas deal with Israel, Egypt to reduce dependency on Russia Also read | Russian artist accused of spreading 'fake news' after replacing grocery price tags with anti-war slogans The critics such as the Association of Commercial Television and Video on Demand and Video on Demand Services in Europe (ACT) pointed out some serious flaws in the updated code of the Union. It stated, “The Review does not offer concrete commitments to limit 'impermissible manipulative behavior'. Commitments go no further than a blanket statement to follow the law which is obvious and does not require a Code.” (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.

Google, Twitter and Meta pledge to fight fake news

Australia's energy minister urged millions of residents of New South Wales to switch off their lights and conserve power in order to avoid blackouts. The request came a day after Australia suspended its spot electricity market due to unscheduled outages at ageing coal-fired utilities. In Australia, several coal-fired units have gone offline due to scheduled maintenance and unexpected faults.&nbsp;

Chris Bowen, who is the Climate Change and Energy Minister urged households to save power without sacrificing essentials such as heating. He also said that the efforts are focused on restoring units to normal operations. During a televised media conference in Canberra, he said, "We are confident we can avoid blackouts. If you have a choice about when to run certain items, don't run them from 6 to 8 (pm)."&nbsp;

Matt Kean, who is NSW Treasurer and Energy Minister also asked Sydney residents to reduce their energy usage from 5.30pm to 8.30pm (local time).&nbsp;

As quoted by news.com.au, Kean said on Wednesday, "A number of the generators that we rely on to produce our electricity haven’t come online in the way we expect them to."&nbsp;

"We're not telling people to turn off their heating … we're just saying maybe if you’re washing the dishwasher at 7.30pm, to delay it until 8.30pm. What we’re doing is focused on making sure that we get through tonight and the next couple of days," he added.&nbsp;

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said energy will be on the agenda at a dinner with state leaders on Thursday and a meeting Friday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, several social media users have pointed out the expansive light show that was apparently still operating despite fears of blackouts and power outages.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sydney please stop wasting electricity. Turn off the air con. Dim the lights. We're trying to keep Vivid switched on. <a href="https://t.co/iCBfnfMvP1">pic.twitter.com/iCBfnfMvP1</a>
— Craig Wilson (@mediahunter) <a href="https://twitter.com/mediahunter/status/1537002236689076235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We need to limit power usage in households tonight BUT Vivid will still go ahead 🤔
— Michelle Stephenson (@MishStephenson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MishStephenson/status/1536976982205816832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Don’t use your dishwasher, people. We need the power for Vivid.
— James Morrow (@pwafork) <a href="https://twitter.com/pwafork/status/1537005993024167936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Vivid looking an absolute treat tonight on my arvo walk - let’s see if there’s still power to keep the lights on in a few hours 😳😳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vivid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vivid</a> <a href="https://t.co/607LPZ5Ukr">pic.twitter.com/607LPZ5Ukr</a>
— Naveen Razik 🏳️‍🌈 (@naveenjrazik) <a href="https://twitter.com/naveenjrazik/status/1536987110762516480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Australia's energy minister urged millions of residents of New South Wales to switch off their lights and conserve power in order to avoid blackouts. The request came a day after Australia suspended its spot electricity market due to unscheduled outages at ageing coal-fired utilities.

Australia's energy minister urged millions of residents of New South Wales to switch off their lights and conserve power in order to avoid blackouts. The request came a day after Australia suspended its spot electricity market due to unscheduled outages at ageing coal-fired utilities. In Australia, several coal-fired units have gone offline due to scheduled maintenance and unexpected faults. Chris Bowen, who is the Climate Change and Energy Minister urged households to save power without sacrificing essentials such as heating. He also said that the efforts are focused on restoring units to normal operations. During a televised media conference in Canberra, he said, "We are confident we can avoid blackouts. If you have a choice about when to run certain items, don't run them from 6 to 8 (pm)." Matt Kean, who is NSW Treasurer and Energy Minister also asked Sydney residents to reduce their energy usage from 5.30pm to 8.30pm (local time). As quoted by news.com.au, Kean said on Wednesday, "A number of the generators that we rely on to produce our electricity haven’t come online in the way we expect them to." "We're not telling people to turn off their heating … we're just saying maybe if you’re washing the dishwasher at 7.30pm, to delay it until 8.30pm. What we’re doing is focused on making sure that we get through tonight and the next couple of days," he added. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said energy will be on the agenda at a dinner with state leaders on Thursday and a meeting Friday. Meanwhile, several social media users have pointed out the expansive light show that was apparently still operating despite fears of blackouts and power outages. Sydney please stop wasting electricity. Turn off the air con. Dim the lights. We're trying to keep Vivid switched on. pic.twitter.com/iCBfnfMvP1 — Craig Wilson (@mediahunter) June 15, 2022 × We need to limit power usage in households tonight BUT Vivid will still go ahead 🤔 — Michelle Stephenson (@MishStephenson) June 15, 2022 × Don’t use your dishwasher, people. We need the power for Vivid. — James Morrow (@pwafork) June 15, 2022 × Vivid looking an absolute treat tonight on my arvo walk - let’s see if there’s still power to keep the lights on in a few hours 😳😳 #vivid pic.twitter.com/607LPZ5Ukr — Naveen Razik 🏳️‍🌈 (@naveenjrazik) June 15, 2022 × (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.

Amid crisis, Sydney residents told to cut power use to help avoid blackouts

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