US&nbsp;Special Envoy for&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;Robert Malley said on Sunday that he was not confident that a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal&nbsp;between world powers and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;was imminent after 11 months of talks in Vienna that have stalled.

"I can't be confident it is imminent.. a few months ago we thought we were pretty close as well," Malley said at the Doha Forum international conference.

"The sooner we get back into the&nbsp;deal, which is in our interest, and presumably&nbsp;Iran's interest, the more faithfully we implement it."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-eu-says-nuclear-agreement-with-iran-very-close-and-more-465755">Top 10 world news: EU says nuclear agreement with Iran very close and more</a>

His assessment of negotiations in Vienna to revive a 2015&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;accord seemed to contradict Kamal Kharrazi, a senior advisor to&nbsp;Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"Yes, it's imminent. It depends on the political will of the United States," Kharrazi told the conference.

Then-US&nbsp;President Donald Trump abandoned the pact in 2018, prompting Tehran to start violating its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;limits about a year later, and months of on-and-off talks to revive it paused in Vienna earlier this month after Russia presented a new obstacle.

Russia later said it had received written guarantees that it would be able to carry out its work as a party to the&nbsp;deal, suggesting Moscow could allow it to be resuscitated.

The failure of efforts to restore the pact could carry the risk of a regional war, or lead to more harsh Western sanctions on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and continued upward pressure on world oil prices that are already high due to the Ukraine conflict, analysts say.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-agreement-with-iran-very-close-says-eu-465690">Nuclear agreement with Iran very close, says EU</a>

Kharrazi said it was vital for Washington to remove the foreign terrorist organisation (FTO) designation against&nbsp;Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

"IRGC is a national army and a national army being listed as a terrorist group certainly is not acceptable," he said.

Tehran has also been pushing for guarantees that any future US&nbsp;president would not withdraw from the&nbsp;deal, which would curb Tehran's&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;programme in exchange for lifting tough sanctions which have hammered&nbsp;Iran's economy.

The extent to which sanctions would be rolled back is another sensitive subject.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia scuttle Iran nuclear deal?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russia-scuttle-iran-nuclear-deal-462985/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley said on Sunday that he was not confident that a nuclear deal between world powers and Iran was imminent after 11 months of talks in Vienna that have stalled.

US Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley said on Sunday that he was not confident that a nuclear deal between world powers and Iran was imminent after 11 months of talks in Vienna that have stalled. "I can't be confident it is imminent.. a few months ago we thought we were pretty close as well," Malley said at the Doha Forum international conference. "The sooner we get back into the deal, which is in our interest, and presumably Iran's interest, the more faithfully we implement it." Also read | Top 10 world news: EU says nuclear agreement with Iran very close and more His assessment of negotiations in Vienna to revive a 2015 nuclear accord seemed to contradict Kamal Kharrazi, a senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "Yes, it's imminent. It depends on the political will of the United States," Kharrazi told the conference. Then-US President Donald Trump abandoned the pact in 2018, prompting Tehran to start violating its nuclear limits about a year later, and months of on-and-off talks to revive it paused in Vienna earlier this month after Russia presented a new obstacle. Russia later said it had received written guarantees that it would be able to carry out its work as a party to the deal, suggesting Moscow could allow it to be resuscitated. The failure of efforts to restore the pact could carry the risk of a regional war, or lead to more harsh Western sanctions on Iran and continued upward pressure on world oil prices that are already high due to the Ukraine conflict, analysts say. Also read | Nuclear agreement with Iran very close, says EU Kharrazi said it was vital for Washington to remove the foreign terrorist organisation (FTO) designation against Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). "IRGC is a national army and a national army being listed as a terrorist group certainly is not acceptable," he said. Tehran has also been pushing for guarantees that any future US president would not withdraw from the deal, which would curb Tehran's nuclear programme in exchange for lifting tough sanctions which have hammered Iran's economy. The extent to which sanctions would be rolled back is another sensitive subject. Watch | Gravitas: Will Russia scuttle Iran nuclear deal?

US envoy not confident Iran nuclear deal is imminent

The play by Xiang Guangda,&nbsp;China's "Nickel&nbsp;King", was to use his influential market position to short the metal, wait for the price to drop, then soak up the rewards when the value bounced back.

But then Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and things got complicated -- fast.

Russia is one of the world's biggest producers of&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;ore, a key component of batteries for electric vehicles.&nbsp;

As concussive Western sanctions over the invasion struck, the price of the silver-white metal rocketed to a record above $100,000 per tonne.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-army-fired-again-at-a-nuclear-research-facility-in-kharkiv-says-ukraine-465843">Russian army fired again at a nuclear research facility in Kharkiv, says Ukraine</a>

That was too high for Xiang and the entire metals sector, forcing the 145-year-old London Metals Exchange (LME) to suspend trading for a week and leaving&nbsp;nickel-reliant manufacturers struggling to digest the spike in costs.

Stuck in its positions -- reports estimate it was holding at least 100,000 tonnes -- Xiang's company Tsingshan Holdings Group&nbsp;was suddenly&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;hook&nbsp;for&nbsp;billions&nbsp;of dollars.

Tsingshan, the world's biggest&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;producer, has been forced to buy back a large number of&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;contracts at higher prices to reduce its exposure.

A Bloomberg News report estimates the buy-back has contributed to a loss of $8 billion, suggesting the firm may need a possible bailout by Chinese authorities.

"Xiang is a shrewd player, but he was caught off guard with the Russian issue," Li Bin, a&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;trader in Shanghai said.

When&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;trading resumed last week prices plunged to about $37,200 a tonne -- still 50 percent higher than in February -- as volatility courses through the market.&nbsp;

"After the historic squeeze,&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;is still struggling to find a price," Susan Zou, senior metals analyst at Rystad Energy said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-its-not-for-biden-to-say-if-putin-stays-in-power-465827">Kremlin says it's not for Biden to say if Putin stays in power</a>

&nbsp;Self-made tycoon&nbsp;

The market for&nbsp;nickel, essential to make batteries for EVs and a key alloy in stainless steel, is dominated by a handful of players.

Those include Tsingshan, headquartered&nbsp;on&nbsp;China's eastern seaboard.

It was founded by Xiang, a self-made billionaire who is known among Chinese&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;traders as the "Nickel&nbsp;King" and "Big Shot".&nbsp;

Xiang started his career as a mechanic in a state fishery and now owns two sprawling&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;manufacturing hubs in Indonesia.&nbsp;

Those include the Morowali industrial park that spans 2,000 hectares with 44,000 workers and its own airport and is seen as a guarantee a cheap supply of ore for Tsingshan's&nbsp;China-side furnaces.

After his short went wrong, Tsingshan has to either pay off its debts or prove it has sufficient deliverable&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;to repay in kind.

"We are closely watching his next move because it could still roil markets," said Li, the Shanghai&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;trader.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-demands-military-hardware-from-west-asks-if-afraid-of-russia-465830">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky demands military hardware from West, asks if afraid of Russia</a>

Those rising costs are already being felt by makers of EVs including Tesla and 20 other Chinese rivals such as Xpeng and BYD, which have all hiked vehicle prices over the past two weeks citing a rise in raw material costs.&nbsp;

"The price and supply shocks have pushed major battery makers to look for alternative metals to power electric vehicles," analyst Zou said.

Beijing to the rescue?&nbsp;

Beijing could step in to rescue Tsingshan, Chinese media including financial news site Yicai reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

There are discussions over allowing the company to swap its low-grade&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;products that do not meet LME's quality standards with a purer form of the metal held in state stockpiles to settle its claims, Yicai said.

China&nbsp;is estimated to hold around 100,000 tonnes of&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;in state reserves, according to official data. Tsingshan and&nbsp;China's state reserves administration did not respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;

Xiang has moved markets before, most notably in 2018 when he released large volumes of&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;pig iron, a cheap alternative to pure&nbsp;nickel, that can be used to make stainless steel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-delays-retirement-amid-rise-in-pension-costs-report-465866">China delays retirement amid rise in pension costs: Report</a>

"Xiang has always believed that because he is one of the world's biggest players with ultra-low costs, he could keep the&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;price under his thumb," said a former employee at Tsingshan, who declined to be named.

"He has always bet&nbsp;on&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;prices falling because his production cost in Indonesia is as low as $10,000 per tonne."&nbsp;

Now Xiang has to decide whether to slowly unwind his wager and at what price.&nbsp;

On&nbsp;March 14, Tsingshan said it had reached an agreement with banks to hold&nbsp;on&nbsp;to the company's&nbsp;nickel&nbsp;positions, signalling the billionaire was digging in his heels to ride out the crisis.

That could beat the LME further and lead to more price uncertainty for&nbsp;nickel, trader Li said, and create challenges for battery producers trying to replace petrol cars.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Smoke engulfs Lviv after powerful explosions rock the city

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-smoke-engulfs-lviv-after-powerful-explosions-rock-the-city-465828/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The play by Xiang Guangda, China's "Nickel King", was to use his influential market position to short the metal, wait for the price to drop, then soak up the rewards when the value bounced back.

The play by Xiang Guangda, China's "Nickel King", was to use his influential market position to short the metal, wait for the price to drop, then soak up the rewards when the value bounced back. But then Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine and things got complicated -- fast. Russia is one of the world's biggest producers of nickel ore, a key component of batteries for electric vehicles. As concussive Western sanctions over the invasion struck, the price of the silver-white metal rocketed to a record above $100,000 per tonne. Also read | Russian army fired again at a nuclear research facility in Kharkiv, says Ukraine That was too high for Xiang and the entire metals sector, forcing the 145-year-old London Metals Exchange (LME) to suspend trading for a week and leaving nickel-reliant manufacturers struggling to digest the spike in costs. Stuck in its positions -- reports estimate it was holding at least 100,000 tonnes -- Xiang's company Tsingshan Holdings Group was suddenly on the hook for billions of dollars. Tsingshan, the world's biggest nickel producer, has been forced to buy back a large number of nickel contracts at higher prices to reduce its exposure. A Bloomberg News report estimates the buy-back has contributed to a loss of $8 billion, suggesting the firm may need a possible bailout by Chinese authorities. "Xiang is a shrewd player, but he was caught off guard with the Russian issue," Li Bin, a nickel trader in Shanghai said. When nickel trading resumed last week prices plunged to about $37,200 a tonne -- still 50 percent higher than in February -- as volatility courses through the market. "After the historic squeeze, nickel is still struggling to find a price," Susan Zou, senior metals analyst at Rystad Energy said. Also read | Kremlin says it's not for Biden to say if Putin stays in power Self-made tycoon The market for nickel, essential to make batteries for EVs and a key alloy in stainless steel, is dominated by a handful of players. Those include Tsingshan, headquartered on China's eastern seaboard. It was founded by Xiang, a self-made billionaire who is known among Chinese nickel traders as the "Nickel King" and "Big Shot". Xiang started his career as a mechanic in a state fishery and now owns two sprawling nickel manufacturing hubs in Indonesia. Those include the Morowali industrial park that spans 2,000 hectares with 44,000 workers and its own airport and is seen as a guarantee a cheap supply of ore for Tsingshan's China-side furnaces. After his short went wrong, Tsingshan has to either pay off its debts or prove it has sufficient deliverable nickel to repay in kind. "We are closely watching his next move because it could still roil markets," said Li, the Shanghai nickel trader. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky demands military hardware from West, asks if afraid of Russia Those rising costs are already being felt by makers of EVs including Tesla and 20 other Chinese rivals such as Xpeng and BYD, which have all hiked vehicle prices over the past two weeks citing a rise in raw material costs. "The price and supply shocks have pushed major battery makers to look for alternative metals to power electric vehicles," analyst Zou said. Beijing to the rescue? Beijing could step in to rescue Tsingshan, Chinese media including financial news site Yicai reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. There are discussions over allowing the company to swap its low-grade nickel products that do not meet LME's quality standards with a purer form of the metal held in state stockpiles to settle its claims, Yicai said. China is estimated to hold around 100,000 tonnes of nickel in state reserves, according to official data. Tsingshan and China's state reserves administration did not respond to requests for comment. Xiang has moved markets before, most notably in 2018 when he released large volumes of nickel pig iron, a cheap alternative to pure nickel, that can be used to make stainless steel. Also read | China delays retirement amid rise in pension costs: Report "Xiang has always believed that because he is one of the world's biggest players with ultra-low costs, he could keep the nickel price under his thumb," said a former employee at Tsingshan, who declined to be named. "He has always bet on nickel prices falling because his production cost in Indonesia is as low as $10,000 per tonne." Now Xiang has to decide whether to slowly unwind his wager and at what price. On March 14, Tsingshan said it had reached an agreement with banks to hold on to the company's nickel positions, signalling the billionaire was digging in his heels to ride out the crisis. That could beat the LME further and lead to more price uncertainty for nickel, trader Li said, and create challenges for battery producers trying to replace petrol cars. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Smoke engulfs Lviv after powerful explosions rock the city

How Ukraine war left China's 'Nickel King' on hook for billions

Globalisation, which has both fans and detractors alike, is being tested like never before after the one-two punch of Covid and&nbsp;war.

The&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;had already raised questions about the&nbsp;world's reliance on an economic model that has broken trade barriers, but made countries heavily reliant on each other as production was delocalised over the decades.

Companies have been struggling to cope with major bottlenecks in the global supply chain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-series-of-tweets-billionaire-elon-musk-suggests-new-platform-needed-to-compete-with-twitter-465871">In a series of tweets, billionaire Elon Musk suggests new platform needed to compete with Twitter</a>

Russia's&nbsp;war&nbsp;in Ukraine has raised fears about further disruptions, with everything from energy supplies to auto parts to exports of wheat and raw materials under threat.

Larry Fink, the head of financial giant BlackRock, put it bluntly: "The Russian invasion of Ukraine has put an end to the globalisation we have experienced over the last three decades."

"We had already seen connectivity between nations, companies and even people strained by two years of the&nbsp;pandemic," Fink wrote in a letter to shareholders on Thursday.

But US Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, disagrees.

"I really have to push back on that," she told CNBC in an interview.&nbsp;

"We're deeply involved in the global economy. I expect that to remain, it is something that has brought benefits to the United States, and many countries around the&nbsp;world."

An animal that evolves

Shortages of surgical masks at the outset of the&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;in 2020 became a symbol of the&nbsp;world's dependence on Chinese factories for all sorts of goods.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-army-fired-again-at-a-nuclear-research-facility-in-kharkiv-says-ukraine-465843">Russian army fired again at a nuclear research facility in Kharkiv, says Ukraine</a>

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has raised concerns about food shortages around the globe as the two agricultural powerhouses are among the major breadbaskets of the&nbsp;world.

It has also put a spotlight on Europe's -- and especially Germany's -- heavy dependence on gas supplies from Russia, now a state under crippling sanctions.

"A number of vulnerabilities" have emerged that show the limits of having supply chains spread out in different locations, the former director general of the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Trade Organization, Pascal Lamy, told AFP.

The global trade tensions have prompted the European Union, for instance, to seek "strategic autonomy" in critical sectors.

The production of semiconductors -- microchips that are vital to industries ranging from video games to cars -- is now a priority for Europe and the United States.

"The&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;did not bring radical changes in terms of reshoring (bringing back business from overseas)," said Ferdi De Ville, professor at Ghent Institute for International &amp; European Studies.

"But this time it might be different because (the conflict) will have an impact on how businesses think about their investment decisions, their supply chains," he said.

"They have realised that what was maybe unthinkable before the past month has now become realistic, in terms of far-reaching sanctions," said de Ville, author of an article on "The end of&nbsp;globalisation&nbsp;as we know it".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-people-are-not-our-enemy-us-president-joe-biden-says-465823">&nbsp;Russian people, are not our enemy, US President Joe Biden says</a>

The goal now is to redirect strategic dependence towards allies, what he coined as "friend-shoring" instead of "off-shoring".

A US-EU agreement Friday to create a task force to wean Europe off its reliance on Russian fossil fuels is the most recent example of friend-shoring.

For Lamy, this shows "there is no de-globalisation".

Globalisation, he said, is "an animal that evolves a lot".

Decoupling from China&nbsp;

Globalisation&nbsp;had already faced an existential crisis when former US president Donald Trump launched a trade&nbsp;war&nbsp;with China in 2018, triggering a tit-for-tat exchange of punitive tariffs.

His successor, Joe Biden, invoked the need to "buy American" in his sweeping investment plan to "rebuild America".

"We will buy American to make sure everything from&nbsp;the deck of an aircraft carrier to the steel on highway guardrails&nbsp;are made in America," he said in his State of the Union speech.

One concept that emerged during the Trump years was "decoupling" -- the idea of untangling the US and Chinese economies.

The threat has not subsided, especially with China refusing to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-its-not-for-biden-to-say-if-putin-stays-in-power-465827">Kremlin says it's not for Biden to say if Putin stays in power</a>

The United States has warned the&nbsp;world's second-biggest economy would face "consequences" if it provides material support to Russia in its&nbsp;war&nbsp;in Ukraine.

China already had other contentious issues with the West, such as Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy which Beijing has vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary.

"It is not in China's interest for now to go into competition with the West," said Xiaodong Bao, portfolio manager at the Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management firm.

But the&nbsp;war&nbsp;in Ukraine is a chance for China to reduce its reliance on the US dollar. The Wall Street Journal reported that Beijing is in talks with Saudi Arabia to buy oil in yuan instead of dollars.

"China will continue to build foundations for the future," Bao said. "The financial decoupling is accelerating."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The weapons being used in the Ukraine conflict

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-weapons-being-used-in-the-ukraine-conflict-464420/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Globalisation, which has both fans and detractors alike, is being tested like never before after the one-two punch of Covid and war. The pandemic had already raised questions about the world's reliance on an economic model that has broken trade barriers, but made countries heavily reliant on each other as production was delocalised over the decades.

Globalisation, which has both fans and detractors alike, is being tested like never before after the one-two punch of Covid and war. The pandemic had already raised questions about the world's reliance on an economic model that has broken trade barriers, but made countries heavily reliant on each other as production was delocalised over the decades. Companies have been struggling to cope with major bottlenecks in the global supply chain. Also read | In a series of tweets, billionaire Elon Musk suggests new platform needed to compete with Twitter Russia's war in Ukraine has raised fears about further disruptions, with everything from energy supplies to auto parts to exports of wheat and raw materials under threat. Larry Fink, the head of financial giant BlackRock, put it bluntly: "The Russian invasion of Ukraine has put an end to the globalisation we have experienced over the last three decades." "We had already seen connectivity between nations, companies and even people strained by two years of the pandemic," Fink wrote in a letter to shareholders on Thursday. But US Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, disagrees. "I really have to push back on that," she told CNBC in an interview. "We're deeply involved in the global economy. I expect that to remain, it is something that has brought benefits to the United States, and many countries around the world." An animal that evolves Shortages of surgical masks at the outset of the pandemic in 2020 became a symbol of the world's dependence on Chinese factories for all sorts of goods. Also read | Russian army fired again at a nuclear research facility in Kharkiv, says Ukraine The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has raised concerns about food shortages around the globe as the two agricultural powerhouses are among the major breadbaskets of the world. It has also put a spotlight on Europe's -- and especially Germany's -- heavy dependence on gas supplies from Russia, now a state under crippling sanctions. "A number of vulnerabilities" have emerged that show the limits of having supply chains spread out in different locations, the former director general of the World Trade Organization, Pascal Lamy, told AFP. The global trade tensions have prompted the European Union, for instance, to seek "strategic autonomy" in critical sectors. The production of semiconductors -- microchips that are vital to industries ranging from video games to cars -- is now a priority for Europe and the United States. "The pandemic did not bring radical changes in terms of reshoring (bringing back business from overseas)," said Ferdi De Ville, professor at Ghent Institute for International & European Studies. "But this time it might be different because (the conflict) will have an impact on how businesses think about their investment decisions, their supply chains," he said. "They have realised that what was maybe unthinkable before the past month has now become realistic, in terms of far-reaching sanctions," said de Ville, author of an article on "The end of globalisation as we know it". Also read | Russian people, are not our enemy, US President Joe Biden says The goal now is to redirect strategic dependence towards allies, what he coined as "friend-shoring" instead of "off-shoring". A US-EU agreement Friday to create a task force to wean Europe off its reliance on Russian fossil fuels is the most recent example of friend-shoring. For Lamy, this shows "there is no de-globalisation". Globalisation, he said, is "an animal that evolves a lot". Decoupling from China Globalisation had already faced an existential crisis when former US president Donald Trump launched a trade war with China in 2018, triggering a tit-for-tat exchange of punitive tariffs. His successor, Joe Biden, invoked the need to "buy American" in his sweeping investment plan to "rebuild America". "We will buy American to make sure everything from the deck of an aircraft carrier to the steel on highway guardrails are made in America," he said in his State of the Union speech. One concept that emerged during the Trump years was "decoupling" -- the idea of untangling the US and Chinese economies. The threat has not subsided, especially with China refusing to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Kremlin says it's not for Biden to say if Putin stays in power The United States has warned the world's second-biggest economy would face "consequences" if it provides material support to Russia in its war in Ukraine. China already had other contentious issues with the West, such as Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy which Beijing has vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary. "It is not in China's interest for now to go into competition with the West," said Xiaodong Bao, portfolio manager at the Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management firm. But the war in Ukraine is a chance for China to reduce its reliance on the US dollar. The Wall Street Journal reported that Beijing is in talks with Saudi Arabia to buy oil in yuan instead of dollars. "China will continue to build foundations for the future," Bao said. "The financial decoupling is accelerating." Watch | Gravitas: The weapons being used in the Ukraine conflict

New world order? Pandemic and war rattle globalisation

The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, return to Hollywood on Sunday (March 27) as nominees from top contending films gather in a grand, futuristic, glittering ballroom for the movie industry's biggest night.&nbsp;

The Academy Awards are awards for artistic and technical merit in the film industry and are regarded by many as the most prestigious and significant awards in the entertainment industry worldwide.&nbsp;

The awards are international recognition of excellence in cinematic achievements and it is given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The awards are given after being assessed by the Academy's voting membership.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sean-penn-calls-for-oscars-boycott-if-zelenskyy-not-invited-to-speak-vows-to-smelt-his-trophies-465873">Sean Penn calls for Oscars boycott if Zelenskyy not invited to speak, vows to 'smelt' his trophies</a>

But are the awards impacting the mental health of celebrities?

A report published by Daily Mail quoting Paracelsus Recovery says that out of the 60 performers who won either the Best Actor or Best Actress since 1992, 41 have suffered from mental health issues.&nbsp;

The analysis by Paracelsus Recovery, a clinic that has treated dozens of celebrities, shows that in the past 30 years, two-thirds of actors who have won Academy Awards, experienced disorders.&nbsp;

Depression, anxiety and substance abuse are apparently some of the common problems celebrities faced.&nbsp;

"Fame should come with a health warning," mentioned an analysis by Paracelsus Recovery as quoted by Daily Mail.&nbsp;

Psychotherapist Dr Paul Hokemeyer said, who is a leading expert on celebrity mental health as quoted by the media outlet said fame was often associated with "fear, pain and loneliness", and major success can lead to impostor syndrome.&nbsp;

Dr Hokemeyer said: "The level of success that Oscar-winning celebrities attain is beyond comprehension for about 99.9 per cent of the population."&nbsp;

"The drive, work and confluence of circumstances that it takes to get there are otherworldly. For this reason, once attained, the success feels empty and fraudulent. It feels undeserved," Dr Hokemeyer added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-year-futuristic-oscar-stage-will-be-covered-with-90000-swarovski-crystals-465787">This year's ‘futuristic’ Oscar stage will be covered with 90,000 Swarovski crystals!</a>

There are several examples for reference, for example, Daniel Day-Lewis, who has won the awards thrice, gave depression as the reason to quit acting in 2017.&nbsp;

Nicolas Cage talked about his alcohol abuse. He won the Best Actor award in 1996 for 'Leaving Las Vegas'.&nbsp;

Emma Stone won the award in 2017 for 'La La Land' and she has also mentioned mental health issues.&nbsp;

According to the research by Swiss and UK-based clinic Paracelsus Recovery, mental health issue rises to 68 per cent among Oscar winners. Meanwhile, data tells that ten per cent of the general population have a mental health problem.&nbsp;

The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, return to Hollywood on Sunday (March 27) as nominees from top contending films gather in a grand, futuristic, glittering ballroom for the movie industry's biggest night.

The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, return to Hollywood on Sunday (March 27) as nominees from top contending films gather in a grand, futuristic, glittering ballroom for the movie industry's biggest night. The Academy Awards are awards for artistic and technical merit in the film industry and are regarded by many as the most prestigious and significant awards in the entertainment industry worldwide. The awards are international recognition of excellence in cinematic achievements and it is given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The awards are given after being assessed by the Academy's voting membership. ALSO READ | Sean Penn calls for Oscars boycott if Zelenskyy not invited to speak, vows to 'smelt' his trophies But are the awards impacting the mental health of celebrities? A report published by Daily Mail quoting Paracelsus Recovery says that out of the 60 performers who won either the Best Actor or Best Actress since 1992, 41 have suffered from mental health issues. The analysis by Paracelsus Recovery, a clinic that has treated dozens of celebrities, shows that in the past 30 years, two-thirds of actors who have won Academy Awards, experienced disorders. Depression, anxiety and substance abuse are apparently some of the common problems celebrities faced. "Fame should come with a health warning," mentioned an analysis by Paracelsus Recovery as quoted by Daily Mail. Psychotherapist Dr Paul Hokemeyer said, who is a leading expert on celebrity mental health as quoted by the media outlet said fame was often associated with "fear, pain and loneliness", and major success can lead to impostor syndrome. Dr Hokemeyer said: "The level of success that Oscar-winning celebrities attain is beyond comprehension for about 99.9 per cent of the population." "The drive, work and confluence of circumstances that it takes to get there are otherworldly. For this reason, once attained, the success feels empty and fraudulent. It feels undeserved," Dr Hokemeyer added. ALSO READ | This year's ‘futuristic’ Oscar stage will be covered with 90,000 Swarovski crystals! There are several examples for reference, for example, Daniel Day-Lewis, who has won the awards thrice, gave depression as the reason to quit acting in 2017. Nicolas Cage talked about his alcohol abuse. He won the Best Actor award in 1996 for 'Leaving Las Vegas'. Emma Stone won the award in 2017 for 'La La Land' and she has also mentioned mental health issues. According to the research by Swiss and UK-based clinic Paracelsus Recovery, mental health issue rises to 68 per cent among Oscar winners. Meanwhile, data tells that ten per cent of the general population have a mental health problem.

'Fame should come with a health warning': Are Oscar winners more likely to suffer from mental health issues?

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;as "genocide" will bring some justice.

The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against&nbsp;Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority.

Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many&nbsp;Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-categorically-rejects-us-allegation-of-rohingya-genocide-464692">Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide</a>

"The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in&nbsp;Bangladesh.

The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into&nbsp;Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence.

They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;ensures the rights of the&nbsp;Rohingya.

Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group.

Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring&nbsp;Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border.

"We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their&nbsp;decision&nbsp;will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP.

Ullah, 33, who heads a&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

Young&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech&nbsp;on&nbsp;cellphones.

"I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their&nbsp;decision," Sawyeddollah said.

"America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's&nbsp;decision&nbsp;made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee.

Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States.&nbsp;

"I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP.

No genocidal intent

Myanmar's junta&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration.

"Myanmar&nbsp;has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-determines-myanmar-army-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-464174">United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya</a>

Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;at the International Court of Justice.

"I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;government so that they take back their people as they have already promised,"&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said.

He added however that&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community.

"The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said.

Mohammad Zafar, another&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon.

"I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said.

"The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice.

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice. The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority. Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many Rohingya. Also read | Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide "The Myanmar military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in Bangladesh. The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence. They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until Myanmar ensures the rights of the Rohingya. Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group. Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border. "We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their decision will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP. Ullah, 33, who heads a Rohingya rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past Young Rohingya activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US decision spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech on cellphones. "I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their decision," Sawyeddollah said. "America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's decision made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee. Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States. "I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP. No genocidal intent Myanmar's junta on Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration. "Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said. Also read | United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US decision overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. "I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure on the Myanmar government so that they take back their people as they have already promised," Bangladesh Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said. He added however that Myanmar was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700 Rohingya who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the Rohingya community. "The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said. Mohammad Zafar, another Rohingya community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon. "I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said. "The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'

WikiLeaks founder&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;Assange&nbsp;married&nbsp;his long-term partner Stella Moris inside a British high-security&nbsp;prison&nbsp;on Wednesday at a small ceremony attended by just four guests, two official witnesses and two guards.

Assange&nbsp;is being held in jail while U.S. authorities seek his extradition to face trial on 18 counts relating to WikiLeaks' release of vast troves of confidential U.S. military records and diplomatic cables more than a decade ago.

"I am very happy and very sad. I love&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;with all my heart, and I wish he were here," Moris said outside the gates of&nbsp;Belmarsh&nbsp;prison&nbsp;following the ceremony.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-provide-6000-missiles-to-ukraine-germany-says-further-strela-missiles-on-way-to-kyiv-465032">UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv</a>

The 50-year-old Australian, who denies any wrongdoing, has been in the southeast London jail since 2019, and before that was holed up in the Ecuadorean Embassy in the British capital for seven years.

While living at the embassy he fathered two children with Moris, a lawyer more than a decade his junior, whom he met in 2011 when she started work on his legal team. Their relationship began in 2015.

The registrar-led nuptials took place during visiting hours at the&nbsp;prison, where some of Britain's most notorious criminals have served sentences, including child murderer Ian Huntley. Afterwards, the guests were asked to leave immediately.

For the occasion, Moris wore a lilac satin wedding dress and&nbsp;Assange&nbsp;a kilt - a nod to his family ties to Scotland - which were created by British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, who has campaigned against his extradition.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-deal-with-uk-to-end-steel-aluminum-tariffs-464760">&nbsp;US announces deal with UK to end steel, aluminum tariffs</a>

The bridal dress featured an inscription of a personal message from Westwood, and the long veil was embroidered with words such as "valiant", "relentless" and "free enduring love".

"To me,&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;is a pure soul and a freedom fighter," Westwood said.

Outside the jail, Moris cut a wedding cake and gave a speech to supporters who had gathered for the occasion.

"You know what we are going through is cruel and inhuman," she said. "The love that we have for each other carries us through this situation and any other that will come. He is the most amazing person in the world. He is wonderful and he should be free."

Assange&nbsp;suffered a blow earlier this month when he was denied permission to launch an appeal at Britain's Supreme Court against a decision to extradite him. However, he could still challenge the government's ratification of the extradition.

Watch |&nbsp;WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange denies US extradition appeal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wikileaks-founder-julian-assange-denies-us-extradition-appeal-462507/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange married his long-term partner Stella Moris inside a British high-security prison on Wednesday at a small ceremony attended by just four guests, two official witnesses and two guards.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange married his long-term partner Stella Moris inside a British high-security prison on Wednesday at a small ceremony attended by just four guests, two official witnesses and two guards. Assange is being held in jail while U.S. authorities seek his extradition to face trial on 18 counts relating to WikiLeaks' release of vast troves of confidential U.S. military records and diplomatic cables more than a decade ago. "I am very happy and very sad. I love Julian with all my heart, and I wish he were here," Moris said outside the gates of Belmarsh prison following the ceremony. Also read | UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv The 50-year-old Australian, who denies any wrongdoing, has been in the southeast London jail since 2019, and before that was holed up in the Ecuadorean Embassy in the British capital for seven years. While living at the embassy he fathered two children with Moris, a lawyer more than a decade his junior, whom he met in 2011 when she started work on his legal team. Their relationship began in 2015. The registrar-led nuptials took place during visiting hours at the prison, where some of Britain's most notorious criminals have served sentences, including child murderer Ian Huntley. Afterwards, the guests were asked to leave immediately. For the occasion, Moris wore a lilac satin wedding dress and Assange a kilt - a nod to his family ties to Scotland - which were created by British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, who has campaigned against his extradition. Also read | US announces deal with UK to end steel, aluminum tariffs The bridal dress featured an inscription of a personal message from Westwood, and the long veil was embroidered with words such as "valiant", "relentless" and "free enduring love". "To me, Julian is a pure soul and a freedom fighter," Westwood said. Outside the jail, Moris cut a wedding cake and gave a speech to supporters who had gathered for the occasion. "You know what we are going through is cruel and inhuman," she said. "The love that we have for each other carries us through this situation and any other that will come. He is the most amazing person in the world. He is wonderful and he should be free." Assange suffered a blow earlier this month when he was denied permission to launch an appeal at Britain's Supreme Court against a decision to extradite him. However, he could still challenge the government's ratification of the extradition. Watch | WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange denies US extradition appeal

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange gets married in British high security prison

Another&nbsp;US&nbsp;state&nbsp;passed a&nbsp;law&nbsp;allowing&nbsp;abortion&nbsp;providers to be sued in civil court Wednesday, as conservatives across the country ramp up their effort to overturn long-held reproductive rights.

The bill in Idaho allows families of women who have had abortions -- and the father of the fetus -- to sue providers, taking enforcement out of the hands of the&nbsp;state, in a move modeled on a controversial Texas&nbsp;law.

Governor Brad Little, who signed the bill Wednesday, said he was an ardent supporter of the rights of "pre-born babies," but feared this approach rendered the&nbsp;law&nbsp;unconstitutional.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madeleine-albright-first-female-us-secretary-of-state-dies-at-84-465024">Madeleine Albright, first female US secretary of state, dies at 84</a>

"While I support the pro-life policy in this legislation, I fear the novel civil enforcement mechanism will in short order be proven both unconstitutional and unwise," he wrote in a letter to the&nbsp;state&nbsp;legislature.

"Deputizing private citizens to levy hefty monetary fines on the exercise of a disfavored but judicially recognized constitutional right for the purpose of evading court review undermines our constitutional form of government and weakens our collective liberties."

As critics of the Texas&nbsp;law&nbsp;also pointed out, Little said framing legislation in this way rendered vulnerable rights that conservatives hold dear, such as the right to own guns.

Civil rights groups and the White House lambasted the Idaho&nbsp;law.

"Lawmakers openly touted this bill as a 'clever' way to undermine&nbsp;abortion&nbsp;access by evading judicial review," said Lauren Bramwell of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

"It is irresponsible and politically motivated governing that will harm real people who deserve to decide for themselves what is best for them and their families, without political interference."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-due-to-visit-europe-today-expected-to-announce-new-sanctions-against-russia-464727">US President due to visit Europe today, expected to announce new sanctions against Russia</a>

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the Texas bill and copycat initiatives like the one in Idaho were a blatant attempt to undermine rights settled in the touchstone Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling that cemented a woman's right to&nbsp;abortion.

"This development is devastating for women in Idaho, as it will further impede women’s access to health care, especially those on low incomes and living in rural communities," she said.

"Over the last six months, Texas’ (law) has had profoundly negative effects, with women forced to travel hundreds of miles to access care, and clinics in neighboring states seeing a significant increase in demand."

Right-wing politicians have launched a full-frontal assault on&nbsp;abortion, a deeply divisive issue in the United States that is dear to their voters' hearts.

A total of 1,844 provisions relating to sexual and reproductive health and rights have been introduced in 46 US states during just the past two-and-a-half months, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which advocates for&nbsp;abortion&nbsp;rights.

Lawmakers in conservative Republican-led southern states have introduced bills tightening restrictions on&nbsp;abortion, while their counterparts in Democratic-ruled progressive states have submitted measures protecting a woman's right to choose.

The legislative frenzy comes as the Supreme Court, dominated by conservatives following the nomination of three justices by former president Donald Trump, looks poised to re-examine the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling.

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden arrives in Brussels, tighter sanctions against Russia likely

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-arrives-in-brussels-tighter-sanctions-against-russia-likely-465017/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another US state passed a law allowing abortion providers to be sued in civil court Wednesday, as conservatives across the country ramp up their effort to overturn long-held reproductive rights.

Another US state passed a law allowing abortion providers to be sued in civil court Wednesday, as conservatives across the country ramp up their effort to overturn long-held reproductive rights. The bill in Idaho allows families of women who have had abortions -- and the father of the fetus -- to sue providers, taking enforcement out of the hands of the state, in a move modeled on a controversial Texas law. Governor Brad Little, who signed the bill Wednesday, said he was an ardent supporter of the rights of "pre-born babies," but feared this approach rendered the law unconstitutional. Also read | Madeleine Albright, first female US secretary of state, dies at 84 "While I support the pro-life policy in this legislation, I fear the novel civil enforcement mechanism will in short order be proven both unconstitutional and unwise," he wrote in a letter to the state legislature. "Deputizing private citizens to levy hefty monetary fines on the exercise of a disfavored but judicially recognized constitutional right for the purpose of evading court review undermines our constitutional form of government and weakens our collective liberties." As critics of the Texas law also pointed out, Little said framing legislation in this way rendered vulnerable rights that conservatives hold dear, such as the right to own guns. Civil rights groups and the White House lambasted the Idaho law. "Lawmakers openly touted this bill as a 'clever' way to undermine abortion access by evading judicial review," said Lauren Bramwell of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). "It is irresponsible and politically motivated governing that will harm real people who deserve to decide for themselves what is best for them and their families, without political interference." Also read | US President due to visit Europe today, expected to announce new sanctions against Russia White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the Texas bill and copycat initiatives like the one in Idaho were a blatant attempt to undermine rights settled in the touchstone Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling that cemented a woman's right to abortion. "This development is devastating for women in Idaho, as it will further impede women’s access to health care, especially those on low incomes and living in rural communities," she said. "Over the last six months, Texas’ (law) has had profoundly negative effects, with women forced to travel hundreds of miles to access care, and clinics in neighboring states seeing a significant increase in demand." Right-wing politicians have launched a full-frontal assault on abortion, a deeply divisive issue in the United States that is dear to their voters' hearts. A total of 1,844 provisions relating to sexual and reproductive health and rights have been introduced in 46 US states during just the past two-and-a-half months, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which advocates for abortion rights. Lawmakers in conservative Republican-led southern states have introduced bills tightening restrictions on abortion, while their counterparts in Democratic-ruled progressive states have submitted measures protecting a woman's right to choose. The legislative frenzy comes as the Supreme Court, dominated by conservatives following the nomination of three justices by former president Donald Trump, looks poised to re-examine the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling. Watch | US President Joe Biden arrives in Brussels, tighter sanctions against Russia likely

Another US state passes abortion 'bounty hunter' law

Anatoly&nbsp;Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday.

A source close to&nbsp;Chubais&nbsp;told state news agency TASS that the 66-year-old, who has sometimes voiced criticisms of Putin's actions, had left the country, while the Kremlin did not confirm this.

"Chubais&nbsp;resigned according to his own desire. But whether he has left or not -- that's his personal business," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti state news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-google-over-inauthentic-information-on-ukraine-war-465012">Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war</a>

Peskov did not give a reason for&nbsp;Chubais's resignation and the politician has not made a public statement.

Chubais&nbsp;was an economist who oversaw liberal free market reforms in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union, including a privatisation drive, a role for which he remained highly unpopular in Russia.

Unlike some other liberals, he stayed working for Putin's regime.

He headed a state energy monopoly, followed by a post as chair of Rusnano, a group established by the Russian state to develop nano technology. In December 2020 he was appointed a special presidential envoy to international organisations, working on sustainable development.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-generations-of-women-flee-war-in-ukraine-for-spain-465015">Three generations of women flee war in Ukraine for Spain</a>

His recent posts on Facebook have included a photograph of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was murdered outside the Kremlin walls in 2015.&nbsp;

On March 19, he posted a photograph of Yegor Gaidar, a fellow liberal reformer who died in 2009, writing: "I didn't agree with him in our arguments about the future of Russia. But it seems that Gaidar understood the strategic risks better than me and I was wrong."

Chubais&nbsp;is married to television presenter and filmmaker Avdotya Smirnova.

RBK news agency reported, citing two acquaintances of&nbsp;Chubais, that the couple have flown to Istanbul, while one said the politician planned to return to Russia.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine: Russia attacks have killed 121 children

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-ukraine-russia-attacks-have-killed-121-children-465001/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Anatoly Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday.

Anatoly Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday. A source close to Chubais told state news agency TASS that the 66-year-old, who has sometimes voiced criticisms of Putin's actions, had left the country, while the Kremlin did not confirm this. "Chubais resigned according to his own desire. But whether he has left or not -- that's his personal business," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti state news agency. Also read | Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war Peskov did not give a reason for Chubais's resignation and the politician has not made a public statement. Chubais was an economist who oversaw liberal free market reforms in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union, including a privatisation drive, a role for which he remained highly unpopular in Russia. Unlike some other liberals, he stayed working for Putin's regime. He headed a state energy monopoly, followed by a post as chair of Rusnano, a group established by the Russian state to develop nano technology. In December 2020 he was appointed a special presidential envoy to international organisations, working on sustainable development. Also read | Three generations of women flee war in Ukraine for Spain His recent posts on Facebook have included a photograph of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was murdered outside the Kremlin walls in 2015. On March 19, he posted a photograph of Yegor Gaidar, a fellow liberal reformer who died in 2009, writing: "I didn't agree with him in our arguments about the future of Russia. But it seems that Gaidar understood the strategic risks better than me and I was wrong." Chubais is married to television presenter and filmmaker Avdotya Smirnova. RBK news agency reported, citing two acquaintances of Chubais, that the couple have flown to Istanbul, while one said the politician planned to return to Russia. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine: Russia attacks have killed 121 children

Liberal Anatoly Chubais quits as Putin envoy: Kremlin

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine.

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The UK announced new military and financial aid. A prosecutor in the US said in his resignation letter that he believes the former president is “guilty of numerous felony violations”. Click on headlines to read the full report: UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (March 23) said that Britain would send 6,000 missiles, consisting of anti-tank and high explosive weapons, and $33 million in financial aid to Ukraine's military. Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine A senior Pentagon official said on Wednesday (March 23) claimed that the Ukrainian forces have pushed back Russian forces on the frontlines east of Kyiv. Trump is guilty of 'numerous' felonies, senior prosecutor who resigned says in letter A prosecutor who had been leading a criminal investigation into Donald Trump before quitting last month said in his resignation letter that he believes the former president is “guilty of numerous felony violations” and he disagreed with the Manhattan district attorney’s decision not to seek an indictment. WATCH | US President Joe Biden arrives in Brussels, tighter sanctions against Russia likely US president Joe Biden has arrived in Brussels to highlight western partnership. He will be attending NATO, European council meetings during his visit to Europe. ×

Morning news brief: Russia's media regulator restricts Google News, military assistance to UK, and more

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (March 23) said that Britain would send 6,000 missiles, consisting of anti-tank and high explosive weapons, and $33 million in financial aid to Ukraine's military.&nbsp;

In a statement, Johnson said, "The United Kingdom will work with our allies to step up military and economic support to Ukraine, strengthening their defences as they turn the tide in this fight."&nbsp;

The announcements were made on the eve of NATO and G7 summits set to discuss the Russian invasion. Meanwhile, unveiling the new support package for Kyiv, the British leader said in the statement: "We cannot and will not stand by while Russia grinds Ukraine's towns and cities into dust."&nbsp;

ALSO&nbsp; READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-says-russian-army-taking-defensive-positions-in-ukraine-465022">Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine</a>

"The United Kingdom will work with our allies to step up military and economic support to Ukraine, strengthening their defences as they turn the tide in this fight," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday (March 23) that after delays in deliveries, further supplies of Strela missiles were on the way to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Strela missiles had been in the inventories of the former Communist East German army.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-uses-facial-recognition-to-identify-dead-russian-soldiers-and-tell-families-465016">Ukraine uses facial recognition to identify dead Russian soldiers and tell families</a>

Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted Germany to stage a historic reversal of its policy of not sending weapons to conflict zones, but the Ukrainian government has been frustrated by delays.&nbsp;

Baerbock told the Bundestag lower house of parliament, "I can clearly say that further Strela deliveries are on the way. We are one of the biggest weapons suppliers in this situation, it doesn't make us proud but it's what we must do to help Ukraine."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Putin asks EU to pay Roubles for gas, West remains divided on oil sanctions

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The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (March 23) said that Britain would send 6,000 missiles, consisting of anti-tank and high explosive weapons, and $33 million in financial aid to Ukraine's military.

The United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (March 23) said that Britain would send 6,000 missiles, consisting of anti-tank and high explosive weapons, and $33 million in financial aid to Ukraine's military. In a statement, Johnson said, "The United Kingdom will work with our allies to step up military and economic support to Ukraine, strengthening their defences as they turn the tide in this fight." The announcements were made on the eve of NATO and G7 summits set to discuss the Russian invasion. Meanwhile, unveiling the new support package for Kyiv, the British leader said in the statement: "We cannot and will not stand by while Russia grinds Ukraine's towns and cities into dust." ALSO READ | Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine "The United Kingdom will work with our allies to step up military and economic support to Ukraine, strengthening their defences as they turn the tide in this fight," he added. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday (March 23) that after delays in deliveries, further supplies of Strela missiles were on the way to Ukraine. Strela missiles had been in the inventories of the former Communist East German army. ALSO READ | Ukraine uses facial recognition to identify dead Russian soldiers and tell families Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted Germany to stage a historic reversal of its policy of not sending weapons to conflict zones, but the Ukrainian government has been frustrated by delays. Baerbock told the Bundestag lower house of parliament, "I can clearly say that further Strela deliveries are on the way. We are one of the biggest weapons suppliers in this situation, it doesn't make us proud but it's what we must do to help Ukraine." WATCH | Putin asks EU to pay Roubles for gas, West remains divided on oil sanctions ×

UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv

British finance minister Rishi&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy.

In a budget update, Chancellor of the Exchequer&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;unveiled measures to help household finances, including a cut on fuel duty and easing the tax burden for the lowest earners.

He also pledged to cut income tax in 2024, which is the last year when the next general election can be called by Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Britain's economy will grow far slower than expected this year owing to the Ukraine war and soaring global inflation,&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;told parliament.

The UK economy was set to grow 3.8 per cent in 2022, down from an official estimate of six per cent made in October.

'Prepare for worse'

Sunak&nbsp;said that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) -- the government's official economic forecaster -- "has not accounted for the full impacts of the war in Ukraine and we should be prepared for the economy and public finances to worsen, potentially significantly".

"Their initial view, combined with high global inflation and continuing supply chain pressures means" the UK economy is forecast to grow significantly slower than thought.

Gross domestic product was estimated to expand a further 1.8 per cent next year, down from an official prediction of 2.1 per cent.

The OBR warned that should "wholesale energy prices remain as high as markets expect, energy bills are set to rise... pushing inflation to a 40-year high of 8.7 per cent in the fourth quarter".

UK annual inflation accelerated to a 30-year high at 6.2 per cent in February, official data showed Wednesday.

Countries across the world are battling surging inflation fuelled by rocketing commodity prices over the Ukraine war and after nations exited pandemic lockdowns.

Sunak&nbsp;last month unveiled a package worth £9 billion ($11.9 billion, 11 billion euros) to help millions of low and middle-income households with energy bills in particular.

Many household incomes are set to shrink further in April owing to a planned tax hike on UK workers and businesses to fund care for the elderly.

The same month, a cap on domestic gas and electricity bills will be increased because of a spike in wholesale energy costs.

Wage erosion&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;has been comforted by news that UK unemployment has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, rising wages are being eroded at the fastest pace in eight years as inflation soars.

"Higher inflation will erode real incomes and consumption," the OBR said Wednesday.

It said that "with inflation outpacing growth in nominal earnings and net taxes due to rise in April", real living standards are set to fall by a record amount this year.

The main opposition Labour party attacked&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;for failing to help all financially-struggling families.

"For all his words it is clear that the chancellor does not understand the scale of the challenge," Rachel Reeves, finance spokesperson for the main opposition Labour party, said in response to the budget update.

"He talks about providing security for hard-working families but his choices are making the cost of living crisis worse."

Spiking global inflation has forced central banks around the world to lift interest rates, including the Bank of England.

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&nbsp;

British finance minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday launched plans to ease a cost of living crisis, with growth set for a massive slowdown as the war in Ukraine and decades-high inflation pummel the economy. In a budget update, Chancellor of the Exchequer Sunak unveiled measures to help household finances, including a cut on fuel duty and easing the tax burden for the lowest earners. He also pledged to cut income tax in 2024, which is the last year when the next general election can be called by Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Britain's economy will grow far slower than expected this year owing to the Ukraine war and soaring global inflation, Sunak told parliament. The UK economy was set to grow 3.8 per cent in 2022, down from an official estimate of six per cent made in October. 'Prepare for worse' Sunak said that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) -- the government's official economic forecaster -- "has not accounted for the full impacts of the war in Ukraine and we should be prepared for the economy and public finances to worsen, potentially significantly". "Their initial view, combined with high global inflation and continuing supply chain pressures means" the UK economy is forecast to grow significantly slower than thought. Gross domestic product was estimated to expand a further 1.8 per cent next year, down from an official prediction of 2.1 per cent. The OBR warned that should "wholesale energy prices remain as high as markets expect, energy bills are set to rise... pushing inflation to a 40-year high of 8.7 per cent in the fourth quarter". UK annual inflation accelerated to a 30-year high at 6.2 per cent in February, official data showed Wednesday. Countries across the world are battling surging inflation fuelled by rocketing commodity prices over the Ukraine war and after nations exited pandemic lockdowns. Sunak last month unveiled a package worth £9 billion ($11.9 billion, 11 billion euros) to help millions of low and middle-income households with energy bills in particular. Many household incomes are set to shrink further in April owing to a planned tax hike on UK workers and businesses to fund care for the elderly. The same month, a cap on domestic gas and electricity bills will be increased because of a spike in wholesale energy costs. Wage erosion While Sunak has been comforted by news that UK unemployment has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, rising wages are being eroded at the fastest pace in eight years as inflation soars. "Higher inflation will erode real incomes and consumption," the OBR said Wednesday. It said that "with inflation outpacing growth in nominal earnings and net taxes due to rise in April", real living standards are set to fall by a record amount this year. The main opposition Labour party attacked Sunak for failing to help all financially-struggling families. "For all his words it is clear that the chancellor does not understand the scale of the challenge," Rachel Reeves, finance spokesperson for the main opposition Labour party, said in response to the budget update. "He talks about providing security for hard-working families but his choices are making the cost of living crisis worse." Spiking global inflation has forced central banks around the world to lift interest rates, including the Bank of England. It's 6pm - the biggest cut to all fuel duty rates ever has just come into effect. #SpringStatement2022 pic.twitter.com/zd16vQ7wRH — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 23, 2022 × We’re supporting and investing in small and medium sized businesses across the country. #SpringStatement2022 Read more: https://t.co/GjjhPU7Is3 pic.twitter.com/hLTheBZ9At — HM Treasury (@hmtreasury) March 23, 2022 ×

Spring Statement 2022: UK confronts cost of living crisis with inflation-fighting budget

Tributes poured in Wednesday from diplomatic players around the world remembering&nbsp;Madeleine&nbsp;Albright, the first female US secretary of state and one of the most influential stateswomen of her generation, who has died at age 84.

Albright, who came to the United States as an 11-year-old political refugee, rose to serve as the country's top diplomat under president Bill Clinton from 1997 to 2001.

Clinton, as well as successors George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, hailed her historic service.&nbsp;

Albright&nbsp;"paved the way for progress in some of the most unstable corners of the world, and was a champion for democratic values. And as an immigrant herself, she brought a unique and important perspective to her trailblazing career," Obama said in a statement.

Born in Prague in 1937,&nbsp;Albright's family -- who were Jewish, although she did not know of her heritage until later in life -- fled ahead of the Nazi invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1939, losing several family members to extermination camps. She moved first to England, then to America a decade later.

"A Czechoslovak born leader, a strong advocate for democracy &amp; human rights. Today more than ever, Central Europe remembers her commitment to NATO enlargement. My heartfelt condolences to her family," the Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said on Twitter.&nbsp;

In a statement,&nbsp;Albright's family said she died of cancer, "surrounded by family and friends," and paid tribute to "a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend" as well as a "tireless champion of democracy and human rights."

'Trailblazer'&nbsp;

After studying political science,&nbsp;Albright&nbsp;made her entry into politics as a fund raiser, then a congressional aide -- and entered president Jimmy Carter's administration working for Polish-American Zbigniew Brzezinski, who was Carter's national security advisor.

Polish President Andrzej Duda wrote on Twitter that he was saddened by the death of&nbsp;Albright, who "brought enormous contribution to the transatlantic community of security and of values, including to the accession of Poland and of other European countries to NATO."

The United Nations, where&nbsp;Albright&nbsp;had served as US ambassador from 1993 to 1997, held a moment of silence for her.

Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he worked with&nbsp;Albright&nbsp;for years both in and out of government and will remember her as a dear friend.

"I was always struck by her wise counsel, deep experience, unique insights, abiding humanity, warmth and wit," Guterres said in a statement.

"Her life is powerful testament to the invaluable contributions refugees bring to countries that welcome them," Guterres added.&nbsp;

Albright&nbsp;-- whose global influence at the height of her career was compared to that of Margaret Thatcher in Britain -- knew she was part of a new generation of women in public service.

"It used to be that the only way a woman could truly make her foreign policy views felt was by marrying a diplomat and then pouring tea on an offending ambassador's lap,"&nbsp;Albright&nbsp;once said.

"Today, women are engaged in every facet of global affairs."&nbsp;

At her former department, of which she became the head in 1997, current US Secretary of State Antony Blinken remembered&nbsp;Albright's accomplishments as a "brilliant diplomat" and "courageous trailblazer," and reflected on his friendship with his predecessor.&nbsp;

"She was also a wonderful friend to many, including me. I'll miss her very much," Blinken said.&nbsp;

Tributes poured in Wednesday from diplomatic players around the world remembering Madeleine Albright, the first female US secretary of state and one of the most influential stateswomen of her generation, who has died at age 84.

Tributes poured in Wednesday from diplomatic players around the world remembering Madeleine Albright, the first female US secretary of state and one of the most influential stateswomen of her generation, who has died at age 84. Albright, who came to the United States as an 11-year-old political refugee, rose to serve as the country's top diplomat under president Bill Clinton from 1997 to 2001. Clinton, as well as successors George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, hailed her historic service. Albright "paved the way for progress in some of the most unstable corners of the world, and was a champion for democratic values. And as an immigrant herself, she brought a unique and important perspective to her trailblazing career," Obama said in a statement. Born in Prague in 1937, Albright's family -- who were Jewish, although she did not know of her heritage until later in life -- fled ahead of the Nazi invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1939, losing several family members to extermination camps. She moved first to England, then to America a decade later. "A Czechoslovak born leader, a strong advocate for democracy & human rights. Today more than ever, Central Europe remembers her commitment to NATO enlargement. My heartfelt condolences to her family," the Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said on Twitter. In a statement, Albright's family said she died of cancer, "surrounded by family and friends," and paid tribute to "a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend" as well as a "tireless champion of democracy and human rights." 'Trailblazer' After studying political science, Albright made her entry into politics as a fund raiser, then a congressional aide -- and entered president Jimmy Carter's administration working for Polish-American Zbigniew Brzezinski, who was Carter's national security advisor. Polish President Andrzej Duda wrote on Twitter that he was saddened by the death of Albright, who "brought enormous contribution to the transatlantic community of security and of values, including to the accession of Poland and of other European countries to NATO." The United Nations, where Albright had served as US ambassador from 1993 to 1997, held a moment of silence for her. Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he worked with Albright for years both in and out of government and will remember her as a dear friend. "I was always struck by her wise counsel, deep experience, unique insights, abiding humanity, warmth and wit," Guterres said in a statement. "Her life is powerful testament to the invaluable contributions refugees bring to countries that welcome them," Guterres added. Albright -- whose global influence at the height of her career was compared to that of Margaret Thatcher in Britain -- knew she was part of a new generation of women in public service. "It used to be that the only way a woman could truly make her foreign policy views felt was by marrying a diplomat and then pouring tea on an offending ambassador's lap," Albright once said. "Today, women are engaged in every facet of global affairs." At her former department, of which she became the head in 1997, current US Secretary of State Antony Blinken remembered Albright's accomplishments as a "brilliant diplomat" and "courageous trailblazer," and reflected on his friendship with his predecessor. "She was also a wonderful friend to many, including me. I'll miss her very much," Blinken said.

Madeleine Albright, first female US secretary of state, dies at 84

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