<p>US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will visit Hawaii on August 21, where deadly wildfires have been wreaking havoc for over a week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House in a statement said Biden will meet first responders, survivors and government officials to assess the damage and take stock of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, at least 106 people have lost their lives in the Hawaii wildfires, along with the destruction of much of the historic town of Lahaina.</p>

<h2><strong>White House statement</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement released Wednesday (August 16), the White House said, “The president continues to marshal a whole-of-government response to the deadly Maui fires, and he has committed to delivering everything that the people of Hawaii need from the federal government as they recover from this disaster.”</p>

<p>Earlier, Biden on Tuesday vowed to visit the archipelago at an event in Wisconsin. He said, “My wife Jill and I are going to travel to Hawaii as soon as we can.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to review recovery efforts as death toll crosses 100</strong></p>

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<p>“That’s what we’ve been talking to the governor about, but I don’t want to get in the way. I’ve been to too many disaster areas, but I want to go and make sure we’ve got everything they need. I want to be sure we don’t disrupt the ongoing recovery efforts,” he was quoted as saying by CNBC.</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll to rise</strong></h2>

<p>State governor Josh Green has warned that the final death toll from the Hawaii wildfires could rise up to two or three times its present level.</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, Biden tried to justify why had not yet visited the crisis-hit region, while speaking to the media. He said he didn’t want to divert resources and attention from the humanitarian response.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-joe-biden-hits-back-at-reporter-calls-question-related-to-hunter-lousy-624331"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch: Joe Biden hits back at reporter, calls question related to son Hunter `lousy`</strong></a></p>

<p>"I don't want to get in the way. I've been to too many disaster areas," he said. "I want to be sure we don't disrupt ongoing recovery efforts," he was quoted as saying by BBC.</p>

<h2><strong>Loss pegged at $5.52bn</strong></h2>

<p>The Maui Emergency Management Agency has estimated the net loss to be around $5.52 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a lot of Hawaii residents have expressed their frustration with the ‘slow’ recovery efforts.</p>

<p>One resident was quoted by BBC as saying that he got only $500 from the authorities so far, which was even less than the price of a night in most hotel rooms on the island.</p>

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US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will visit Hawaii on August 21, where deadly wildfires have been wreaking havoc for over a week. The White House in a statement said Biden will meet first responders, survivors and government officials to assess the damage and take stock of the situation.

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will visit Hawaii on August 21, where deadly wildfires have been wreaking havoc for over a week. The White House in a statement said Biden will meet first responders, survivors and government officials to assess the damage and take stock of the situation. So far, at least 106 people have lost their lives in the Hawaii wildfires, along with the destruction of much of the historic town of Lahaina. White House statement In a statement released Wednesday (August 16), the White House said, “The president continues to marshal a whole-of-government response to the deadly Maui fires, and he has committed to delivering everything that the people of Hawaii need from the federal government as they recover from this disaster.” Earlier, Biden on Tuesday vowed to visit the archipelago at an event in Wisconsin. He said, “My wife Jill and I are going to travel to Hawaii as soon as we can.” Watch: Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to review recovery efforts as death toll crosses 100 × “That’s what we’ve been talking to the governor about, but I don’t want to get in the way. I’ve been to too many disaster areas, but I want to go and make sure we’ve got everything they need. I want to be sure we don’t disrupt the ongoing recovery efforts,” he was quoted as saying by CNBC. Death toll to rise State governor Josh Green has warned that the final death toll from the Hawaii wildfires could rise up to two or three times its present level. Earlier on Tuesday, Biden tried to justify why had not yet visited the crisis-hit region, while speaking to the media. He said he didn’t want to divert resources and attention from the humanitarian response. Also read: Watch: Joe Biden hits back at reporter, calls question related to son Hunter `lousy` "I don't want to get in the way. I've been to too many disaster areas," he said. "I want to be sure we don't disrupt ongoing recovery efforts," he was quoted as saying by BBC. Loss pegged at $5.52bn The Maui Emergency Management Agency has estimated the net loss to be around $5.52 billion. Meanwhile, a lot of Hawaii residents have expressed their frustration with the ‘slow’ recovery efforts. One resident was quoted by BBC as saying that he got only $500 from the authorities so far, which was even less than the price of a night in most hotel rooms on the island. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US President Biden to visit Hawaii next week as deadly wildfires claim 106 lives

<p>Russian lunar spacecraft <strong>Luna-25</strong> on Wednesday (August 16) entered the moon’s orbit, marking a major step towards realising the country’s ambition to land a spacecraft on the moon’s South Pole.</p>

<p>According to oberservers, it is the first time a Russian spacecraft has entered the moon’s orbit since the Soviet 1976 moon mission.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spacecraft entered the moon’s orbit at 11:57 AM (local time), said Russia’s space agency Roskosmos in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Landing on moon scheduled for August 21</strong></h2>

<p>After entering the orbit, Luna-25 will circle the moon for five days, before changing its trajectory to attempt a soft landing at the moon’s surface on August 21. The spacecraft, which is as big as a small car in size, will operate on the South Pole for a year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Chandrayaan-3 vs Russia's Luna-25 race to the moon</strong></p>

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<p>Anatoly Zak, the creator and publisher of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.RussianSpaceWeb.com" target="_blank">www.RussianSpaceWeb.com</a>, was quoted by Reuters as saying that "Entering lunar orbit is absolutely critical for the success of this project. This is a first for the post-Soviet period."</p>

<p>"Some are calling this the second lunar race so it is very important for Russia to resume this programme. Luna-25 is not just one mission - is it part of a much broader Russian strategy that stretches 10 years into the future," Zak added.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s the mission?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the New York Times, experiments involve gathering soil samples and excavating water-ice beneath the surface.</p>

<p>In 2008, Chandrayaan-1 confirmed the existence of ice at the Moon's South Pole using a US instrument. This discovery's significance extends to major space powers, potentially enabling longer human stays on the Moon and facilitating lunar resource extraction.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-vs-russias-luna-25-will-the-two-lunar-missions-get-in-each-others-way-623879"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3 vs Russia`s Luna-25: Will the two lunar missions get in each other’s way?</strong></a></p>

<p>Luna-25 spacecraft earlier took and transmitted its inaugural images from space. These black-and-white photos showcase the spacecraft's structure adorned with the Russian flag and mission patch, as well as captivating views of Earth and the Moon against the expansive backdrop of space.</p>
<img alt="Luna-25" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c88d3d7-36db-4d9f-a9ae-29d235ddc631" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/luna-25_pic_1.jpg" />
<h2><strong>Race with India’s Chandrayaan-3?</strong></h2>

<p>Luna-25 is scheduled to land between August 21 and 23, while India’s lunar mission Chandrayaan-3 is expected to land on August 23-24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The competition has gained traction as the South Pole of the Moon serves as the hub for upcoming lunar missions, attracting global attention to the Indian and Russian landings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This scenario also means that the first country to land there will achieve a historic milestone.</p>

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Russian lunar spacecraft Luna-25 on Wednesday (August 16) entered the moon’s orbit, marking a major step towards realising the country’s ambition to land a spacecraft on the moon’s South Pole.

Russian lunar spacecraft Luna-25 on Wednesday (August 16) entered the moon’s orbit, marking a major step towards realising the country’s ambition to land a spacecraft on the moon’s South Pole. According to oberservers, it is the first time a Russian spacecraft has entered the moon’s orbit since the Soviet 1976 moon mission. The spacecraft entered the moon’s orbit at 11:57 AM (local time), said Russia’s space agency Roskosmos in a statement. Landing on moon scheduled for August 21 After entering the orbit, Luna-25 will circle the moon for five days, before changing its trajectory to attempt a soft landing at the moon’s surface on August 21. The spacecraft, which is as big as a small car in size, will operate on the South Pole for a year. Watch: Gravitas: Chandrayaan-3 vs Russia's Luna-25 race to the moon × Anatoly Zak, the creator and publisher of www.RussianSpaceWeb.com, was quoted by Reuters as saying that "Entering lunar orbit is absolutely critical for the success of this project. This is a first for the post-Soviet period." "Some are calling this the second lunar race so it is very important for Russia to resume this programme. Luna-25 is not just one mission - is it part of a much broader Russian strategy that stretches 10 years into the future," Zak added. What’s the mission? According to the New York Times, experiments involve gathering soil samples and excavating water-ice beneath the surface. In 2008, Chandrayaan-1 confirmed the existence of ice at the Moon's South Pole using a US instrument. This discovery's significance extends to major space powers, potentially enabling longer human stays on the Moon and facilitating lunar resource extraction. Also read: Chandrayaan-3 vs Russia`s Luna-25: Will the two lunar missions get in each other’s way? Luna-25 spacecraft earlier took and transmitted its inaugural images from space. These black-and-white photos showcase the spacecraft's structure adorned with the Russian flag and mission patch, as well as captivating views of Earth and the Moon against the expansive backdrop of space. Race with India’s Chandrayaan-3? Luna-25 is scheduled to land between August 21 and 23, while India’s lunar mission Chandrayaan-3 is expected to land on August 23-24. The competition has gained traction as the South Pole of the Moon serves as the hub for upcoming lunar missions, attracting global attention to the Indian and Russian landings. This scenario also means that the first country to land there will achieve a historic milestone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia’s Luna-25 enters moon’s orbit ahead of scheduled landing on Aug 21-23

<p>A couple in Australia has been charged with five counts of bestiality after they allegedly engaged in sexual acts with two dogs in Queensland.</p>

<p>The couple, 37-year-old Crystal May Hoare and 28-year-old Jay Wade, was first arrested in July but released on bail after the initial court appearance.</p>

<p>Before further legal proceedings are taken, their case is required to be escalated to a higher court. On Monday (August 14), the charges against them were mentioned at Sarina Magistrates Court for the first time.</p>

<h2><strong>Statement by local officials</strong></h2>

<p>Local media outlets have quoted police officials as saying that the alleged incidents involving bestiality were caught on camera, and occurred between October 2021 and October 2022.</p>

<p>The pair was caught on video in the act with animals on October 18, 2021, as well as March 19, May 17, June 6 and October 25, 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: The mystery of killer mushrooms in Australia</strong></p>

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<p>A committal mention is set to take place later this year as legal proceedings have been adjourned in this case for now.</p>

<p>If found guilty, the pair faces a potential jail term of seven years.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous such instances</strong></h2>

<p>In a similar incident reported from the United States, a woman faced legal charges after she allegedly engaged in a disturbing act involving her dog, which was reportedly captured on video by her boyfriend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report from Fox News, Brittany McClure has been taken into custody on allegations of sodomy and animal abuse concerning their pet dog, Max.</p>

<p>Law enforcement officials have stated that McClure's boyfriend took action by reporting the incident to authorities. He had come across evidence of the act through surveillance cameras installed in their living room.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-governor-ron-desantis-bill-bans-mem-foxs-book-guess-what-labels-it-pornographic-592552"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Florida governor Ron DeSantis' bill bans Mem Fox's book Guess What? as 'pornographic'</strong></a></p>

<p>In January this year, an Australian couple was accused of having engaged in sexual acts with a fish. The incident came to light when a Tasmania woman flagged the incident and posted the video of the act on social media.</p>

<p>Police later stepped in and urged the users to not circulate the video on the internet.</p>

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A couple in Australia has been charged with five counts of bestiality after they allegedly engaged in sexual acts with two dogs in Queensland. The couple, 37-year-old Crystal May Hoare and 28-year-old Jay Wade, was first arrested in July but released on bail after the initial court appearance.

A couple in Australia has been charged with five counts of bestiality after they allegedly engaged in sexual acts with two dogs in Queensland. The couple, 37-year-old Crystal May Hoare and 28-year-old Jay Wade, was first arrested in July but released on bail after the initial court appearance. Before further legal proceedings are taken, their case is required to be escalated to a higher court. On Monday (August 14), the charges against them were mentioned at Sarina Magistrates Court for the first time. Statement by local officials Local media outlets have quoted police officials as saying that the alleged incidents involving bestiality were caught on camera, and occurred between October 2021 and October 2022. The pair was caught on video in the act with animals on October 18, 2021, as well as March 19, May 17, June 6 and October 25, 2022. Watch: Gravitas: The mystery of killer mushrooms in Australia × A committal mention is set to take place later this year as legal proceedings have been adjourned in this case for now. If found guilty, the pair faces a potential jail term of seven years. Previous such instances In a similar incident reported from the United States, a woman faced legal charges after she allegedly engaged in a disturbing act involving her dog, which was reportedly captured on video by her boyfriend. According to a report from Fox News, Brittany McClure has been taken into custody on allegations of sodomy and animal abuse concerning their pet dog, Max. Law enforcement officials have stated that McClure's boyfriend took action by reporting the incident to authorities. He had come across evidence of the act through surveillance cameras installed in their living room. Also read: Florida governor Ron DeSantis' bill bans Mem Fox's book Guess What? as 'pornographic' In January this year, an Australian couple was accused of having engaged in sexual acts with a fish. The incident came to light when a Tasmania woman flagged the incident and posted the video of the act on social media. Police later stepped in and urged the users to not circulate the video on the internet. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australian couple accused of having sex with dogs charged with five counts of bestiality

<p>Taiwan’s Air Force Tuesday (August 15) issued an apology to the country’s Coast Guard Administration (CGA) after one of its F-16 fighter jets errantly dropped a bomb too close to a CGA vessel.</p>

<p>The fighter jet was reportedly involved in a training session and badly missed its target. Air Force Chief of Staff General Tsao Chin-ping said the incident occurred on August 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During training, the jet missed its target in the sea and instead dropped the 2,000-pound MK-84 bomb off Pingtung's Jioupeng military base.</p>

<h2><strong>CGA vessel affected by the shockwave</strong></h2>

<p>The bomb triggered a massive shockwave after hitting the waters, which affected a manned CGA vessel faring in the vicinity. The General told the media that no casualties were reported as the vessel was sailing several nautical miles away from the spot where the bomb landed.</p>

<p>The Air Force has vowed to take strict action against the pilot and the instructor involved in the incident “for failing to properly supervise the bomb drop drill.”</p>

<h2><strong>CGA members vent frustration on social media</strong></h2>

<p>The incident came to light when several furious CGA members took to social media to express their disappointment with the Air Force drill.</p>

<p>Some of the members claimed they had to seek medical attention because of the shockwaves that the bomb triggered. Not just that, it was also revealed that a US-made MIM-104F (PAC-3) Patriot missile also exploded prematurely during Tuesday drills, information that was confirmed by&nbsp;General Tsao.</p>

<p>Local media reported it was the first time that a US missile had exploded prematurely before hitting the target. General Tsao said the Air Force and the military’s research unit were investigating what led to the premature explosion.</p>

<h2><strong>More about MK-84 bombs</strong></h2>

<p>Taiwanese F-16 fighter jets, armed with MK-84 bombs, frequently participate in military drills simulating scenarios of a potential Chinese invasion.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan Vice President in US: Lai's trip includes two layovers at New York and San Francisco</strong></p>

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<p>The American Mk-84 general-purpose bomb, weighing 2,000 pounds, consists of a 1,000-pound steel casing and 946 pounds of Tritonal filler—a blend of aluminium and TNT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This composition grants the Mk 84 an explosive power equivalent to nearly half a ton of TNT, taking into account Tritonal's approximately 20 per cent higher potency than TNT.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-will-not-back-down-to-threats-taiwan-vp-says-on-us-trip-625156"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan will not bow down to threats, says vice president on US trip</strong></a></p>

<p>With a lethal radius, the Mk 84 can cause fatalities within a range of up to 1,181 feet, while its capability to inflict severe injuries extends to distances of up to 2,624 feet.</p>

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Taiwan’s Air Force Tuesday (August 15) issued an apology to the country’s Coast Guard Administration (CGA) after one of its F-16 fighter jets errantly dropped a bomb too close to a CGA vessel.

Taiwan’s Air Force Tuesday (August 15) issued an apology to the country’s Coast Guard Administration (CGA) after one of its F-16 fighter jets errantly dropped a bomb too close to a CGA vessel. The fighter jet was reportedly involved in a training session and badly missed its target. Air Force Chief of Staff General Tsao Chin-ping said the incident occurred on August 9. During training, the jet missed its target in the sea and instead dropped the 2,000-pound MK-84 bomb off Pingtung's Jioupeng military base. CGA vessel affected by the shockwave The bomb triggered a massive shockwave after hitting the waters, which affected a manned CGA vessel faring in the vicinity. The General told the media that no casualties were reported as the vessel was sailing several nautical miles away from the spot where the bomb landed. The Air Force has vowed to take strict action against the pilot and the instructor involved in the incident “for failing to properly supervise the bomb drop drill.” CGA members vent frustration on social media The incident came to light when several furious CGA members took to social media to express their disappointment with the Air Force drill. Some of the members claimed they had to seek medical attention because of the shockwaves that the bomb triggered. Not just that, it was also revealed that a US-made MIM-104F (PAC-3) Patriot missile also exploded prematurely during Tuesday drills, information that was confirmed by General Tsao. Local media reported it was the first time that a US missile had exploded prematurely before hitting the target. General Tsao said the Air Force and the military’s research unit were investigating what led to the premature explosion. More about MK-84 bombs Taiwanese F-16 fighter jets, armed with MK-84 bombs, frequently participate in military drills simulating scenarios of a potential Chinese invasion. Watch: Taiwan Vice President in US: Lai's trip includes two layovers at New York and San Francisco × The American Mk-84 general-purpose bomb, weighing 2,000 pounds, consists of a 1,000-pound steel casing and 946 pounds of Tritonal filler—a blend of aluminium and TNT. This composition grants the Mk 84 an explosive power equivalent to nearly half a ton of TNT, taking into account Tritonal's approximately 20 per cent higher potency than TNT. Also read: Taiwan will not bow down to threats, says vice president on US trip With a lethal radius, the Mk 84 can cause fatalities within a range of up to 1,181 feet, while its capability to inflict severe injuries extends to distances of up to 2,624 feet. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taiwan Air Force almost blasts Coast Guard’s vessel, issues apology

<p>Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia.</p>

<p>Interviewed by BBC, over a dozen ex-detainees have claimed they were frequently subjected to torture, a gross violation of international humanitarian laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, BBC clarified that it was not able to independently verify the claims made by the former prisoners of war.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the allegations?</strong></h2>

<p>Quoted by BBC, the former detainees levelled grave allegations against Russian forces and guards at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two, in the city of Taganrog.</p>

<p>Men and women were frequently beaten. Russian guards would often hit in the kidneys and chest. Inspections would occur daily and detainees would be subjected to electric shocks.</p>

<p>Through violence, Russian forces would often force the detainees into giving false confessions, which Russia allegedly used as evidence in courts.</p>

<p>One of the captives quoted by BBC said they were often offered very little food and insufficient medical attention, which often led to the death of several inmates.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s attitude towards the allegations</strong></h2>

<p>BBC claimed Russia didn’t respond to the requests for comment; however, Moscow has denied such allegations in previous instances.</p>

<p>So far, the Russian authorities have not allowed any international body, including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to visit its detention facilities where Ukrainian fighters are kept.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that Russia has so far released 2,500 Ukrainians as part of a prisoners exchange programme and up to 10,000 captives are still believed to remain in Russian custody.</p>

<h2><strong>Observation by the UN</strong></h2>

<p>In March this year, a statement released by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) mentioned that Moscow had "failed to ensure the humane treatment" of prisoners, with "strong patterns of violations".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-commends-india-global-south-for-pursuing-realistic-solutions-in-ukraine-war-625998"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia commends India, Global South for pursuing realistic solutions in Ukraine war</strong></a></p>

<p>Kris Janowski, a spokesman for the office, said there was a "long list of bad things that have been done" to the detainees at the facility in Taganrog. The fact that a prison was being used to hold captives was, in itself, a breach of international humanitarian law, he said, as they should be kept in specially designated places. Ukraine also faced some accusations of mistreatment of detainees, according to the March report; but, overall, they were "treated in better fashion".</p>

<h2><strong>Latest from the frontlines</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, in the latest development from the frontlines, Ukraine on Wednesday (August 16) claimed it had recaptured the village of Urozhaine from Russian troops in the southeast and dug in on its outskirts.</p>

<p>Kyiv's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram, "Urozhaine liberated."<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

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Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia.

Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia. Interviewed by BBC, over a dozen ex-detainees have claimed they were frequently subjected to torture, a gross violation of international humanitarian laws. However, BBC clarified that it was not able to independently verify the claims made by the former prisoners of war. What are the allegations? Quoted by BBC, the former detainees levelled grave allegations against Russian forces and guards at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two, in the city of Taganrog. Men and women were frequently beaten. Russian guards would often hit in the kidneys and chest. Inspections would occur daily and detainees would be subjected to electric shocks. Through violence, Russian forces would often force the detainees into giving false confessions, which Russia allegedly used as evidence in courts. One of the captives quoted by BBC said they were often offered very little food and insufficient medical attention, which often led to the death of several inmates. Russia’s attitude towards the allegations BBC claimed Russia didn’t respond to the requests for comment; however, Moscow has denied such allegations in previous instances. So far, the Russian authorities have not allowed any international body, including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to visit its detention facilities where Ukrainian fighters are kept. Watch: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles × It must be noted that Russia has so far released 2,500 Ukrainians as part of a prisoners exchange programme and up to 10,000 captives are still believed to remain in Russian custody. Observation by the UN In March this year, a statement released by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) mentioned that Moscow had "failed to ensure the humane treatment" of prisoners, with "strong patterns of violations". Also read: Russia commends India, Global South for pursuing realistic solutions in Ukraine war Kris Janowski, a spokesman for the office, said there was a "long list of bad things that have been done" to the detainees at the facility in Taganrog. The fact that a prison was being used to hold captives was, in itself, a breach of international humanitarian law, he said, as they should be kept in specially designated places. Ukraine also faced some accusations of mistreatment of detainees, according to the March report; but, overall, they were "treated in better fashion". Latest from the frontlines Meanwhile, in the latest development from the frontlines, Ukraine on Wednesday (August 16) claimed it had recaptured the village of Urozhaine from Russian troops in the southeast and dug in on its outskirts. Kyiv's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram, "Urozhaine liberated." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia

<p>A blackout hit large parts of Brazil Tuesday (Aug 15) which left people without power in at least 19 states of the country, reported local media. The outage was first reported at 8:31 AM local time, causing a blackout in the north and northeast regions.</p>

<p>The massive outage disrupted public transportation and health services in some areas. Passengers had to be evacuated from subway lines in major cities, including Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte and Salvador. Traffic on the roads was also disrupted as traffic lights stopped working in major cities.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the cause of the blackout?</strong></h2>

<p>Brazil’s National System Operator (ONS) is yet to disclose the cause of the problem. However, G1 news website quoted an official as saying that the cause of the blackout must be “operational” as no drought alert could impact energy production and distribution.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Brazil's economic revival plan | World Business Watch</strong></p>

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<p>“The causes of the occurrence are still being investigated. The recomposition has already started in all regions and by 9:16 AM, 6 thousand MW have already been recomposed”, informed the ONS early this morning.</p>

<h2><strong>Energy minister returns from Paraguay</strong></h2>

<p>Brazil’s Mines and Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira returned to the country promptly after he was informed about the outage. He was accompanying President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on a trip to Paraguay for the inauguration of Santiago Pena.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the National Electric Energy Agency director Sandoval Feitosa said that the blackout was a “major event”.</p>

<h2><strong>Roraima: The only state that escaped the blackout</strong></h2>

<p>Roraima managed to avoid the power outage as it relies on local diesel-powered thermoelectric plants for its electricity, unlike the other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-police-raid-bolsonaro-aides-over-jewels-probe-624805"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Brazil: Police raid Bolsonaro aides over jewels probe</strong></a></p>

<p>Prior to 2019, a significant portion of its power came from Venezuela, but this arrangement was disrupted due to system issues and was not reinstated due to strained relations between Nicolás Maduro's government and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Lula administration has expressed its intention to engage in negotiations with the neighbouring country regarding this matter.</p>

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A blackout hit large parts of Brazil Tuesday (Aug 15) which left people without power in at least 19 states of the country, reported local media. The outage was first reported at 8:31 AM local time, causing a blackout in the north and northeast regions.

A blackout hit large parts of Brazil Tuesday (Aug 15) which left people without power in at least 19 states of the country, reported local media. The outage was first reported at 8:31 AM local time, causing a blackout in the north and northeast regions. The massive outage disrupted public transportation and health services in some areas. Passengers had to be evacuated from subway lines in major cities, including Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte and Salvador. Traffic on the roads was also disrupted as traffic lights stopped working in major cities. What was the cause of the blackout? Brazil’s National System Operator (ONS) is yet to disclose the cause of the problem. However, G1 news website quoted an official as saying that the cause of the blackout must be “operational” as no drought alert could impact energy production and distribution. Watch: Brazil's economic revival plan | World Business Watch × “The causes of the occurrence are still being investigated. The recomposition has already started in all regions and by 9:16 AM, 6 thousand MW have already been recomposed”, informed the ONS early this morning. Energy minister returns from Paraguay Brazil’s Mines and Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira returned to the country promptly after he was informed about the outage. He was accompanying President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on a trip to Paraguay for the inauguration of Santiago Pena. Meanwhile, the National Electric Energy Agency director Sandoval Feitosa said that the blackout was a “major event”. Roraima: The only state that escaped the blackout Roraima managed to avoid the power outage as it relies on local diesel-powered thermoelectric plants for its electricity, unlike the other areas. Also read: Brazil: Police raid Bolsonaro aides over jewels probe Prior to 2019, a significant portion of its power came from Venezuela, but this arrangement was disrupted due to system issues and was not reinstated due to strained relations between Nicolás Maduro's government and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro. The Lula administration has expressed its intention to engage in negotiations with the neighbouring country regarding this matter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mysterious blackout in Brazil leaves people without power in 19 states

<p>Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has declared on Telegram that his nation will boycott the 2024 Olympic Games scheduled to be held in France’s Paris if Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to participate.</p>

<p>He also claimed that during the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, the invading forces have killed at least 340 Ukrainian athletes and coaches, along with destroying 343 sports facilities.</p>

<p>“Ukraine is determined. A powerful international coalition for fair sport, including 35 states, has been formed,” he claimed.</p>

<p>“We are ready to boycott the Olympic Games in Paris together if the Russian Federation and Belarus are allowed to participate in the competition. We expect the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to make the right decision and resolutely suspend the aggressor from the Olympics," his statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Another U-turn from Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic reversal of policy, the Ukrainian government last month announced that its athletes could participate in sports events where Russian and Belarusian athletes are participating as neutral athletes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles</strong></p>

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<p>However, it seems that Ukraine has now shifted back to its old policy of barring its athletes from participating in those events where Russians and Belarusians were also competing.</p>

<h2><strong>What is International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) position?</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since Russia initiated its conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, the IOC has imposed sports-related penalties on Moscow and its ally Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, earlier this year, a recommendation was issued that said Russian and Belarusian athletes could participate as individuals under a neutral flag and without an anthem in qualifying events.</p>

<p>This decision sparked strong objections from the Ukrainian government and their athletes, who criticised the IOC for allegedly prioritising the human rights of Russian athletes over their own.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-ukraines-military-resources-are-almost-exhausted-625693"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia claims Ukraine`s military resources are `almost exhausted`</strong></a></p>

<p>As of now, the IOC has not reached a decision on whether Russian and Belarusian athletes can compete as neutral participants in the upcoming Paris Games, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine hopes Russian athletes to withdraw from the games</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine's Sports Minister, Vadym Gutzeit, said in an interview with AFP that he doesn't rule out the possibility of Russians voluntarily abstaining from attending the Paris Olympics next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the interview, Gutzeit mentioned that if the IOC allows Russians and Belarusians to compete neutrally in Paris, and Ukraine decides to boycott the Games, other nations with a history of suffering from Russian imperialism might also join the boycott.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has declared on Telegram that his nation will boycott the 2024 Olympic Games scheduled to be held in France’s Paris if Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to participate.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has declared on Telegram that his nation will boycott the 2024 Olympic Games scheduled to be held in France’s Paris if Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to participate. He also claimed that during the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, the invading forces have killed at least 340 Ukrainian athletes and coaches, along with destroying 343 sports facilities. “Ukraine is determined. A powerful international coalition for fair sport, including 35 states, has been formed,” he claimed. “We are ready to boycott the Olympic Games in Paris together if the Russian Federation and Belarus are allowed to participate in the competition. We expect the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to make the right decision and resolutely suspend the aggressor from the Olympics," his statement added. Another U-turn from Ukraine? In a dramatic reversal of policy, the Ukrainian government last month announced that its athletes could participate in sports events where Russian and Belarusian athletes are participating as neutral athletes. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles × However, it seems that Ukraine has now shifted back to its old policy of barring its athletes from participating in those events where Russians and Belarusians were also competing. What is International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) position? Ever since Russia initiated its conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, the IOC has imposed sports-related penalties on Moscow and its ally Minsk. However, earlier this year, a recommendation was issued that said Russian and Belarusian athletes could participate as individuals under a neutral flag and without an anthem in qualifying events. This decision sparked strong objections from the Ukrainian government and their athletes, who criticised the IOC for allegedly prioritising the human rights of Russian athletes over their own. Also read: Russia claims Ukraine`s military resources are `almost exhausted` As of now, the IOC has not reached a decision on whether Russian and Belarusian athletes can compete as neutral participants in the upcoming Paris Games, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, 2024. Ukraine hopes Russian athletes to withdraw from the games Ukraine's Sports Minister, Vadym Gutzeit, said in an interview with AFP that he doesn't rule out the possibility of Russians voluntarily abstaining from attending the Paris Olympics next year. In the interview, Gutzeit mentioned that if the IOC allows Russians and Belarusians to compete neutrally in Paris, and Ukraine decides to boycott the Games, other nations with a history of suffering from Russian imperialism might also join the boycott. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM

<p>The 19th round of <strong>India-China Corps Commander level meeting</strong> concluded on the Indian side on August 14 at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point, according to a statement released by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).</p>

<p>The statement noted that both sides had a “positive, constructive and in-depth discussion” regarding disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de-facto border between India and Tibet, in the Western sector.</p>

<p>“In line with the guidance provided by the leadership, they exchanged views in an open and forward looking manner”, the MEA statement said.</p>

<p>“They agreed to resolve the remaining issues in an expeditious manner and maintain the momentum of dialogue and negotiations through military and diplomatic channels. In the interim, the two sides agreed to maintain the peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas”, the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>No breakthrough</strong></h2>

<p>Hindustan Times reported that no major breakthrough emerged out of the 19th round of the bilateral talks.</p>

<p>Despite continued talks, tensions persist as both sides have deployed more than 60,000 troops each on their sides, along with advanced weaponry.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why</strong></p>

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<p>Conflicts regarding Depsang in the Daulet Beg Oldi sector and Charding Nullah Junction (CNJ) in the Demchok sector are yet to be solved and remain on negotiating table.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous negotiations between India and China</strong></h2>

<p>The 18th round of discussions between Indian and Chinese Corps Commanders took place on April 23 this year at the Chushul-Moldo border point on the Chinese side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting, both parties engaged in a candid and thorough conversation regarding resolving issues along the LAC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The goal of such talks is to establish peace and harmony in the border regions, facilitating progress in their bilateral relations.</p>

<p>The 18th round of talks came following “the guidance of their respective state leaders” and building upon discussions between foreign ministers in March 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Developments so far after the 2020 clash</strong></h2>

<p>Both sides have agreed to ensure security and stability in the Western Sector while maintaining ongoing communication through military and diplomatic channels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s intention is to reach a mutually acceptable solution to the remaining concerns as soon as possible. Thanks to these bilateral talks, India and China have successfully disengaged from multiple points of confrontation and adjusted their positions to prevent clashes and promote peaceful conflict resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-urges-swift-troop-disengagement-in-eastern-ladakh-during-high-level-talks-with-china-625498"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India urges swift troop disengagement in Eastern Ladakh during high-level talks with China</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite significant deployments, direct conflicts have been avoided, although India remains cautious about potential misadventures along the LAC. In December 2022, India effectively thwarted a Chinese Army incursion near Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh's Yang Tse region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The 19th round of India-China Corps Commander level meeting concluded on the Indian side on August 14 at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point, according to a statement released by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The 19th round of India-China Corps Commander level meeting concluded on the Indian side on August 14 at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point, according to a statement released by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The statement noted that both sides had a “positive, constructive and in-depth discussion” regarding disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de-facto border between India and Tibet, in the Western sector. “In line with the guidance provided by the leadership, they exchanged views in an open and forward looking manner”, the MEA statement said. “They agreed to resolve the remaining issues in an expeditious manner and maintain the momentum of dialogue and negotiations through military and diplomatic channels. In the interim, the two sides agreed to maintain the peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas”, the statement added. No breakthrough Hindustan Times reported that no major breakthrough emerged out of the 19th round of the bilateral talks. Despite continued talks, tensions persist as both sides have deployed more than 60,000 troops each on their sides, along with advanced weaponry. Watch: Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why × Conflicts regarding Depsang in the Daulet Beg Oldi sector and Charding Nullah Junction (CNJ) in the Demchok sector are yet to be solved and remain on negotiating table. Previous negotiations between India and China The 18th round of discussions between Indian and Chinese Corps Commanders took place on April 23 this year at the Chushul-Moldo border point on the Chinese side. During the meeting, both parties engaged in a candid and thorough conversation regarding resolving issues along the LAC. The goal of such talks is to establish peace and harmony in the border regions, facilitating progress in their bilateral relations. The 18th round of talks came following “the guidance of their respective state leaders” and building upon discussions between foreign ministers in March 2023. Developments so far after the 2020 clash Both sides have agreed to ensure security and stability in the Western Sector while maintaining ongoing communication through military and diplomatic channels. India’s intention is to reach a mutually acceptable solution to the remaining concerns as soon as possible. Thanks to these bilateral talks, India and China have successfully disengaged from multiple points of confrontation and adjusted their positions to prevent clashes and promote peaceful conflict resolution. Also read: India urges swift troop disengagement in Eastern Ladakh during high-level talks with China Despite significant deployments, direct conflicts have been avoided, although India remains cautious about potential misadventures along the LAC. In December 2022, India effectively thwarted a Chinese Army incursion near Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh's Yang Tse region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India-China Corps Commander level meeting concludes without any breakthrough

<p>Four Australian and two Indonesian surfers were found alive after their boat vanished Sunday (August 13) off the west coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra island.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that one of the Indonesian crew members was still missing. Authorities on Tuesday ( August 15) said two boats carrying a total of 17 people embarked for the private island of Pinang from Nias island on Sunday; however, one of the boats carrying seven people failed to arrive at the destination after having been hit by bad weather.</p>

<p>Dramatic video has emerged on the internet showing rescuers meeting with the missing tourists after almost 38 hours at sea. The tourists were identified as Elliot Foote, Steph Weisse, Will Teagle, Jordan Short and two unnamed Indonesian nationals.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Hi dad, Elliot here. I'm alive."<br />
<br />
Vision has emerged of the moments four Australian surfers are rescued and their families are contacted, after the group became lost at sea off the coast of Indonesia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9News?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9News</a><br />
<br />
MORE: <a href="https://t.co/ZUbfKU8ZRL">https://t.co/ZUbfKU8ZRL</a> <a href="https://t.co/JPhcMXTJAI">pic.twitter.com/JPhcMXTJAI</a></p>
— 9News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/9NewsSyd/status/1691334951424479232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The search for the third Indonesian tourist was still on.</p>

<h2><strong>Elliot Foote’s father speaks up to the media</strong></h2>

<p>Elliot Foote, one of the Australian tourists, had gotten separated from the rest of his group as he had gone looking for assistance.</p>

<p>He was later found by authorities after they rescued the other stranded tourists.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-is-boosting-its-green-ev-industry-by-burning-massive-amounts-of-coal-624348"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indonesia is boosting its green EV industry by burning massive amounts of coal</strong></a></p>

<p>Foote’s father, Peter Foote, expressed his delight while saying, “I’m really happy it’s all turned out well and I hope he continues with his holiday.”</p>

<p>“He’s in a great place to celebrate, with his girlfriend [Weisse] and 10 mates in paradise. He’s still got eight nights to enjoy then I’m looking forward to him coming straight home,” he was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p>According to local media reports, the Australian group was on a surf trip to mark Foote’s 30th birthday.</p>

<h2><strong>Search on for the missing Indonesian</strong></h2>

<p>The Australian government on Tuesday expressed gratitude for those involved in the search and rescue efforts.</p>

<p>Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in a post on X (Formerly Twitter) said, “The Australian government will continue to provide support to the four Australians and their families.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Sexual abuse at Miss Universe Indonesia</strong></p>

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<p>She added, “The search continues for a crew member who is still missing.”</p>

<p>The authorities haven't disclosed the names of the Indonesian crew members present on the boat.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Indonesia is popular among Australians?</strong></h2>

<p>Due to its proximity and availability of budget flights to destinations like Bali, Indonesia has always attracted Australian tourists.</p>

<p>While the western island of Sumatra is not frequently visited, the coral-fringed islands near Nias are favoured by adventurous surfers, offering numerous world-class breaks, especially around Lagundri Bay.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Four Australian and two Indonesian surfers were found alive after their boat vanished Sunday (August 13) off the west coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra island. Reuters reported that one of the Indonesian crew members was still missing.

Four Australian and two Indonesian surfers were found alive after their boat vanished Sunday (August 13) off the west coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra island. Reuters reported that one of the Indonesian crew members was still missing. Authorities on Tuesday ( August 15) said two boats carrying a total of 17 people embarked for the private island of Pinang from Nias island on Sunday; however, one of the boats carrying seven people failed to arrive at the destination after having been hit by bad weather. Dramatic video has emerged on the internet showing rescuers meeting with the missing tourists after almost 38 hours at sea. The tourists were identified as Elliot Foote, Steph Weisse, Will Teagle, Jordan Short and two unnamed Indonesian nationals. Watch the video here: "Hi dad, Elliot here. I'm alive." Vision has emerged of the moments four Australian surfers are rescued and their families are contacted, after the group became lost at sea off the coast of Indonesia. #9News MORE: https://t.co/ZUbfKU8ZRL pic.twitter.com/JPhcMXTJAI — 9News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) August 15, 2023 × The search for the third Indonesian tourist was still on. Elliot Foote’s father speaks up to the media Elliot Foote, one of the Australian tourists, had gotten separated from the rest of his group as he had gone looking for assistance. He was later found by authorities after they rescued the other stranded tourists. Also read: Indonesia is boosting its green EV industry by burning massive amounts of coal Foote’s father, Peter Foote, expressed his delight while saying, “I’m really happy it’s all turned out well and I hope he continues with his holiday.” “He’s in a great place to celebrate, with his girlfriend [Weisse] and 10 mates in paradise. He’s still got eight nights to enjoy then I’m looking forward to him coming straight home,” he was quoted as saying by CNN. According to local media reports, the Australian group was on a surf trip to mark Foote’s 30th birthday. Search on for the missing Indonesian The Australian government on Tuesday expressed gratitude for those involved in the search and rescue efforts. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in a post on X (Formerly Twitter) said, “The Australian government will continue to provide support to the four Australians and their families.” Watch: Gravitas: Sexual abuse at Miss Universe Indonesia × She added, “The search continues for a crew member who is still missing.” The authorities haven't disclosed the names of the Indonesian crew members present on the boat. Why Indonesia is popular among Australians? Due to its proximity and availability of budget flights to destinations like Bali, Indonesia has always attracted Australian tourists. While the western island of Sumatra is not frequently visited, the coral-fringed islands near Nias are favoured by adventurous surfers, offering numerous world-class breaks, especially around Lagundri Bay. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Authorities rescue Australian surfers off Indonesia coast missing for 38 hours

<p>India’s acclaimed social activist and Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak passed away on Tuesday (August 15) at the age of 80. He was earlier rushed to Delhi’s AIIMS hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at around 1:30 PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pathak was best known for his extensive campaign towards improving the condition of manual scavengers in India.</p>

<p>His Sulabh organisation built nearly 1.3 million toilets in Indian households, along with 54 million government toilets using cheap two-pit technology.</p>

<p>His organisation not only just built&nbsp;toilets but also discouraged manual cleaning of human waste across India.</p>

<h2><strong>The early life of Bindeshwar Pathak</strong></h2>

<p>Born in Rampur Baghel village in Bihar’s Vaishali district, Pathak completed his Sociology graduation in 1964 from Banaras Hindu University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He completed his master's degree in 1980 and his PhD in 1985 from the University of Patna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He founded Sulabh International Social Service in 1970, with the goal of addressing India's sanitation issues.</p>

<p>In 1991,&nbsp;Pathak received the Padma Bhushan for his efforts in liberating and rehabilitating manual scavengers, as well as implementing pour-flush toilet technology to combat environmental pollution, according to Sulabh's website.</p>

<h2><strong>April 14: Bindeshwar Pathak Day</strong></h2>

<p>In a rare tribute in 2016, New York City designated April 14 as 'Bindeshwar Pathak Day,' recognising the significant contributions of the Indian social worker, who improved the lives of those trapped in the most dehumanising conditions.</p>

<p>In November 2016, the Indian Railways partnered with Sulabh International and appointed Bindeshwar Pathak as the brand ambassador of the Swachh Rail Mission, intensifying efforts to maintain cleanliness on railway premises.</p>

<h2><strong>Manual scavenging in India</strong></h2>

<p>Despite several legislative efforts to eradicate the long-standing practice of manual scavenging in India, many scavengers are still exploited through subcontractors.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;What's new in toilet tech?</strong></p>

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<p>Referred&nbsp;to as "manual scavengers," these individuals engage in the undignified practice of collecting waste with their bare hands and no protective gear, a situation that Bindeshwar Pathak has aptly termed as "demeaning."</p>

<p>According to India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, only 508 out of 766 districts in the country have been declared manual-scavenging-free.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chinese-man-fired-after-spending-6-hours-a-day-in-toilet-during-work-stst-599717"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Chinese man fired after spending 6 hours a day in toilet during work</strong></a></p>

<p>This has raised concerns regarding the true extent of anti-manual scavenging efforts in India and the effectiveness of governmental efforts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India’s acclaimed social activist and Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak passed away on Tuesday (August 15) at the age of 80. He was earlier rushed to Delhi’s AIIMS hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at around 1:30 PM.

India’s acclaimed social activist and Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak passed away on Tuesday (August 15) at the age of 80. He was earlier rushed to Delhi’s AIIMS hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at around 1:30 PM. Pathak was best known for his extensive campaign towards improving the condition of manual scavengers in India. His Sulabh organisation built nearly 1.3 million toilets in Indian households, along with 54 million government toilets using cheap two-pit technology. His organisation not only just built toilets but also discouraged manual cleaning of human waste across India. The early life of Bindeshwar Pathak Born in Rampur Baghel village in Bihar’s Vaishali district, Pathak completed his Sociology graduation in 1964 from Banaras Hindu University. He completed his master's degree in 1980 and his PhD in 1985 from the University of Patna. He founded Sulabh International Social Service in 1970, with the goal of addressing India's sanitation issues. In 1991, Pathak received the Padma Bhushan for his efforts in liberating and rehabilitating manual scavengers, as well as implementing pour-flush toilet technology to combat environmental pollution, according to Sulabh's website. April 14: Bindeshwar Pathak Day In a rare tribute in 2016, New York City designated April 14 as 'Bindeshwar Pathak Day,' recognising the significant contributions of the Indian social worker, who improved the lives of those trapped in the most dehumanising conditions. In November 2016, the Indian Railways partnered with Sulabh International and appointed Bindeshwar Pathak as the brand ambassador of the Swachh Rail Mission, intensifying efforts to maintain cleanliness on railway premises. Manual scavenging in India Despite several legislative efforts to eradicate the long-standing practice of manual scavenging in India, many scavengers are still exploited through subcontractors. Watch: What's new in toilet tech? × Referred to as "manual scavengers," these individuals engage in the undignified practice of collecting waste with their bare hands and no protective gear, a situation that Bindeshwar Pathak has aptly termed as "demeaning." According to India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, only 508 out of 766 districts in the country have been declared manual-scavenging-free. Also read: Chinese man fired after spending 6 hours a day in toilet during work This has raised concerns regarding the true extent of anti-manual scavenging efforts in India and the effectiveness of governmental efforts. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Who was Bindeshwar Pathak? Man behind 'Sulabh', India’s toilet-building revolution, dies at 80

<p>The Indo-Pak War of 1971 began on December 3, and within a week, the top brass in the US was contemplating strategies to give India a bloody nose.</p>

<p>This betrayal by the United States came to light in 2005 when America’s National Security Archive (NSA) released a series of classified documents from the State Department.</p>

<p>The documents revealed how USA’s attitude towards the Indo-Pak war was shaped by its desire to bury the hatchet with communist China.</p>

<p>Many believe Washington DC wanted to protect Pakistan’s interests at any cost during the 1971 war as it sought Islamabad’s help in setting in motion its ‘Ping Pong Diplomacy’ with Beijing.</p>

<p>Apparently, it was Pakistan’s Yahya Khan who helped arrange the notable 1972 visit to China by Richard Nixon, the then US president. It was not merely a coincidence that the visit came just months after the Indo-Pak war ended on December 16.</p>

<h2><strong>The Betrayal</strong></h2>

<p>In the 1970s, the US viewed South Asia through the prism of the ultimate superiority of the US-Pakistan relationship. Pakistan had to be reinforced as it was necessary to demonstrate to China that the US never leaves its allies hanging when push comes to shove.</p>

<p>The documents revealed by security archives indicated how Henry Kissinger, the then US National Security Advisor (NSA), viewed India as a Soviet “stooge” and a force that needed to be kept in check to save ally Pakistan.</p>

<p>On December 8, both Nixon and Kissinger agreed to dispatch planes to Pakistan. They also sent an aircraft carrier and other naval forces in the Bay of Bengal to intimidate India which was “supported by Soviet arms.”</p>

<p>On December 10, the duo reportedly involved China in their discussion. Kissinger subtly encouraged China to take military action against India in return for security guarantees should the Soviets ever invade.</p>

<p>“If the People's Republic were to consider the situation on the Indian subcontinent a threat to security, and if it took measures to protect its security, the US would oppose efforts of others to interfere with the People's Republic,” Kissinger was quoted as saying in the documents.</p>

<p>The US defined the Indo-Pak war as a crisis in South Asia aimed at weakening its ally Pakistan and orchestrated by the Soviets and their ally India.</p>

<p>The US-Pakistan relationship was so vital to Nixon that his administration even downplayed the reports of the ongoing genocide in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) even as its consular office in Dacca (now Dhaka) privately criticised the attitude.</p>

<h2><strong>US, a two-headed snake?</strong></h2>

<p>Astonishingly, while the US administration in 1971 encouraged China to act against India, it also assured India of military support in case China engages on its northern frontier in the Himalayas.</p>

<p>A Times of India report from 2011 showed communications between the Indian embassy in Washington and the government in New Delhi. It highlighted how the US offered India “all out” help if China were to enter the Indo-Pak standoff to favour its all-weather friend.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Independence Day 2023: Geopolitics is changing, India becoming voice of global south: PM Modi</strong></p>

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<p>Indian ambassador to the US in 1971, LK Jha reported to New Delhi after having a meeting with Kissinger, “He (Kissinger) said that in a 1962 type of situation, US will not hesitate to give all-out help to India against China, and there is no change of position on this.”</p>

<p>Not just that, a few weeks prior, Kissinger told the then-Indian Defence Minister Jagjivan Ram, “I might tell you that we would take a very grave view of any Chinese move against India.”</p>

<h2><strong>“Bit*h Indira”</strong></h2>

<p>The declassified documents also revealed how Kissinger viewed the Indian leadership. In November 1971, a month before the war, India’s then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi visited Washington DC. Her motive was to urge the US to step up efforts to stop the ongoing genocide in East Pakistan against nationalist Bengalis.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-independence-day-2023-pm-modi-to-unfurl-national-flag-from-ramparts-of-iconic-red-fort-in-delhi-625505"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Independence Day: PM Modi says India becoming voice of global south</strong></a></p>

<p>When Indira left the US, Kissinger reportedly said, “Indians are bastards anyway. They are starting a war there [in Bangladesh] … While [Indira Gandhi] was a bitch, … she will not be able to go home and say that the United States didn’t give her a warm reception.”</p>

<h2><strong>China’s response</strong></h2>

<p>Although the US was itself sceptical of China’s capabilities to attack India, it just wanted to pile pressure on the Indian forces.</p>

<p>Kissinger and Nixon were soon informed that China was not prepared militarily to cause a headache for India. USA’s sources in Beijing confirmed that China would urge both warring sides to exercise restraint and nothing more than that.</p>

<p>China’s then Defence Minister Lin Biao had just died in September 1971 during a trip to Mongolia, and the Chinese didn’t want to jump straight into the hellfire just to serve American interests.</p>

<p>A few days later, Pakistan surrendered in Dhaka.</p>

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The Indo-Pak War of 1971 began on December 3, and within a week, the top brass in the US was contemplating strategies to give India a bloody nose. This betrayal by the United States came to light in 2005 when America’s National Security Archive (NSA) released a series of classified documents from the State Department.

The Indo-Pak War of 1971 began on December 3, and within a week, the top brass in the US was contemplating strategies to give India a bloody nose. This betrayal by the United States came to light in 2005 when America’s National Security Archive (NSA) released a series of classified documents from the State Department. The documents revealed how USA’s attitude towards the Indo-Pak war was shaped by its desire to bury the hatchet with communist China. Many believe Washington DC wanted to protect Pakistan’s interests at any cost during the 1971 war as it sought Islamabad’s help in setting in motion its ‘Ping Pong Diplomacy’ with Beijing. Apparently, it was Pakistan’s Yahya Khan who helped arrange the notable 1972 visit to China by Richard Nixon, the then US president. It was not merely a coincidence that the visit came just months after the Indo-Pak war ended on December 16. The Betrayal In the 1970s, the US viewed South Asia through the prism of the ultimate superiority of the US-Pakistan relationship. Pakistan had to be reinforced as it was necessary to demonstrate to China that the US never leaves its allies hanging when push comes to shove. The documents revealed by security archives indicated how Henry Kissinger, the then US National Security Advisor (NSA), viewed India as a Soviet “stooge” and a force that needed to be kept in check to save ally Pakistan. On December 8, both Nixon and Kissinger agreed to dispatch planes to Pakistan. They also sent an aircraft carrier and other naval forces in the Bay of Bengal to intimidate India which was “supported by Soviet arms.” On December 10, the duo reportedly involved China in their discussion. Kissinger subtly encouraged China to take military action against India in return for security guarantees should the Soviets ever invade. “If the People's Republic were to consider the situation on the Indian subcontinent a threat to security, and if it took measures to protect its security, the US would oppose efforts of others to interfere with the People's Republic,” Kissinger was quoted as saying in the documents. The US defined the Indo-Pak war as a crisis in South Asia aimed at weakening its ally Pakistan and orchestrated by the Soviets and their ally India. The US-Pakistan relationship was so vital to Nixon that his administration even downplayed the reports of the ongoing genocide in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) even as its consular office in Dacca (now Dhaka) privately criticised the attitude. US, a two-headed snake? Astonishingly, while the US administration in 1971 encouraged China to act against India, it also assured India of military support in case China engages on its northern frontier in the Himalayas. A Times of India report from 2011 showed communications between the Indian embassy in Washington and the government in New Delhi. It highlighted how the US offered India “all out” help if China were to enter the Indo-Pak standoff to favour its all-weather friend. Watch: Independence Day 2023: Geopolitics is changing, India becoming voice of global south: PM Modi × Indian ambassador to the US in 1971, LK Jha reported to New Delhi after having a meeting with Kissinger, “He (Kissinger) said that in a 1962 type of situation, US will not hesitate to give all-out help to India against China, and there is no change of position on this.” Not just that, a few weeks prior, Kissinger told the then-Indian Defence Minister Jagjivan Ram, “I might tell you that we would take a very grave view of any Chinese move against India.” “Bit*h Indira” The declassified documents also revealed how Kissinger viewed the Indian leadership. In November 1971, a month before the war, India’s then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi visited Washington DC. Her motive was to urge the US to step up efforts to stop the ongoing genocide in East Pakistan against nationalist Bengalis. Also read: Independence Day: PM Modi says India becoming voice of global south When Indira left the US, Kissinger reportedly said, “Indians are bastards anyway. They are starting a war there [in Bangladesh] … While [Indira Gandhi] was a bitch, … she will not be able to go home and say that the United States didn’t give her a warm reception.” China’s response Although the US was itself sceptical of China’s capabilities to attack India, it just wanted to pile pressure on the Indian forces. Kissinger and Nixon were soon informed that China was not prepared militarily to cause a headache for India. USA’s sources in Beijing confirmed that China would urge both warring sides to exercise restraint and nothing more than that. China’s then Defence Minister Lin Biao had just died in September 1971 during a trip to Mongolia, and the Chinese didn’t want to jump straight into the hellfire just to serve American interests. A few days later, Pakistan surrendered in Dhaka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | When Pakistan's ally US pushed China to attack India during Indo-Pak war of 1971

<p>Three people lost their lives on Tuesday (August 15) as a result of the Russian missile attacks in north-western Ukraine, local officials announced.</p>

<p>All three deceased were employees of a Swedish bearing maker SKF, which employs around 1,100 people in Ukraine. The company said in a statement its factory in Lutsk was hit by a Russian missile overnight.</p>

<p>"Last night there was an attack on the city of Lutsk in Ukraine and our factory has been hit in that attack," a spokesperson of the company said.</p>

<p>"We are very sad to confirm that three of our colleagues have been killed," the statement added.</p>

<p>The company said it was assessing the damage but its primary focus was to ensure the safety of its employees.</p>

<h2><strong>28 missiles launched overnight</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine’s air defence forces said they successfully repelled a barrage of Russian missiles launched overnight as they took down 16 out of at least 28 missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles</strong></p>

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<p>Lviv’s Mayor Andriy Sadovyi said more than 100 buildings in the city were damaged due to the Russian attack. A playground in the city was hit by a rocket, the mayor said, which left a 9m (29ft 5in) deep and 20m (65ft 5in) wide crater behind.</p>

<p>"More than 100 apartments were damaged, more than 500 windows were broken, and a kindergarten was destroyed" after a missile flew into its yard,” a resident of Lviv wrote on Telegram.</p>

<h2><strong>Latest from the frontlines&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On the frontlines, the Ukrainian military reported Monday (August 14) that it successfully ousted Russian forces from small areas of territory in the eastern and southern regions of the country, further advancing their challenging counter-offensive which began two months ago.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-ukraines-military-resources-are-almost-exhausted-625693"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia claims Ukraine`s military resources are `almost exhausted`</strong></a></p>

<p>Kyiv has openly acknowledged the slow pace of advancement against heavily fortified Russian positions, indicating recent gains have been limited to a handful of parcels of land near the war-torn city of Bakhmut.</p>

<p>Simultaneously, Russia reported its own progress in the eastern Kharkiv region, casting doubt on the success of Kyiv's much-anticipated campaign.</p>

<p>Ukraine launched its counter-offensive against Russian forces in June, which began after a massive downpour of military aid by the Western nations.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Three people lost their lives on Tuesday (August 15) as a result of the Russian missile attacks in north-western Ukraine, local officials announced. All three deceased were employees of a Swedish bearing maker SKF, which employs around 1,100 people in Ukraine.

Three people lost their lives on Tuesday (August 15) as a result of the Russian missile attacks in north-western Ukraine, local officials announced. All three deceased were employees of a Swedish bearing maker SKF, which employs around 1,100 people in Ukraine. The company said in a statement its factory in Lutsk was hit by a Russian missile overnight. "Last night there was an attack on the city of Lutsk in Ukraine and our factory has been hit in that attack," a spokesperson of the company said. "We are very sad to confirm that three of our colleagues have been killed," the statement added. The company said it was assessing the damage but its primary focus was to ensure the safety of its employees. 28 missiles launched overnight Ukraine’s air defence forces said they successfully repelled a barrage of Russian missiles launched overnight as they took down 16 out of at least 28 missiles. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles × Lviv’s Mayor Andriy Sadovyi said more than 100 buildings in the city were damaged due to the Russian attack. A playground in the city was hit by a rocket, the mayor said, which left a 9m (29ft 5in) deep and 20m (65ft 5in) wide crater behind. "More than 100 apartments were damaged, more than 500 windows were broken, and a kindergarten was destroyed" after a missile flew into its yard,” a resident of Lviv wrote on Telegram. Latest from the frontlines On the frontlines, the Ukrainian military reported Monday (August 14) that it successfully ousted Russian forces from small areas of territory in the eastern and southern regions of the country, further advancing their challenging counter-offensive which began two months ago. Also read: Russia claims Ukraine`s military resources are `almost exhausted` Kyiv has openly acknowledged the slow pace of advancement against heavily fortified Russian positions, indicating recent gains have been limited to a handful of parcels of land near the war-torn city of Bakhmut. Simultaneously, Russia reported its own progress in the eastern Kharkiv region, casting doubt on the success of Kyiv's much-anticipated campaign. Ukraine launched its counter-offensive against Russian forces in June, which began after a massive downpour of military aid by the Western nations. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Three dead as Russian missile hits Swedish bearing factory in Ukraine

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