A&nbsp;series&nbsp;of&nbsp;explosions&nbsp;were&nbsp;heard&nbsp;and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern&nbsp;port&nbsp;city of&nbsp;Odesa&nbsp;in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;witness&nbsp;said.

Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city.

Odesa&nbsp;was attacked by missiles and there were reports of fires in some areas, the city council said in an online post.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irpin-bucha-gostomel-and-the-whole-kyiv-region-liberated-ukraine-467833">&nbsp;Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine</a>

One of the city's "critical infrastructure facilities" was hit, regional administration spokesperson Sergey Bratchuk told Ukraine's public broadcaster.

"We hope there will be no casualties," Bratchuk said.

Ukraine's military said on Friday (April 1) that its anti-air defences had foiled an attempted Russian missile attack on critical infrastructure in the major Black Sea&nbsp;port&nbsp;city.

Governor Maksym Marchenko said three missiles had hit a residential area earlier on Friday, adding there were casualties.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mykolaivs-governor-says-at-least-35-killed-from-russian-strike-on-government-building-467790">&nbsp;Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building</a>

Reuters&nbsp;could not immediately verify the&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;statement at the time.

Russia has denied targeting civilians in its war in Ukraine that began on February 24 in what Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise its southwestern neighbour.

Western countries call it an unprovoked war of aggression.

Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky says 3,000 rescued from Mariupol amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

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A series of explosions were heard and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a Reuters witness said. Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city.

A series of explosions were heard and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a Reuters witness said. Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city. Odesa was attacked by missiles and there were reports of fires in some areas, the city council said in an online post. Also read | Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine One of the city's "critical infrastructure facilities" was hit, regional administration spokesperson Sergey Bratchuk told Ukraine's public broadcaster. "We hope there will be no casualties," Bratchuk said. Ukraine's military said on Friday (April 1) that its anti-air defences had foiled an attempted Russian missile attack on critical infrastructure in the major Black Sea port city. Governor Maksym Marchenko said three missiles had hit a residential area earlier on Friday, adding there were casualties. Also read | Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building Reuters could not immediately verify the Ukrainian statement at the time. Russia has denied targeting civilians in its war in Ukraine that began on February 24 in what Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise its southwestern neighbour. Western countries call it an unprovoked war of aggression. Watch | Zelensky says 3,000 rescued from Mariupol amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine war: Series of explosions heard in Ukrainian port of Odesa, say reports

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices.

But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-looks-to-reopen-migrant-detention-camp-at-guantanamo-bay-to-tackle-surge-in-asylum-seekers-415331">US looks to reopen migrant detention camp at Guantánamo Bay to tackle surge in asylum seekers</a>

In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement.

A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers.

Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said.

Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted.

The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guantanamo-911-trial-suspended-amid-covid-19-scare-413888">Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare</a>

Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future.

The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay facility."

The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;-- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility.

Watch |&nbsp;20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

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The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged. Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices. But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges. Also read | US looks to reopen migrant detention camp at Guantánamo Bay to tackle surge in asylum seekers In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement. A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers. Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said. Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted. The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban. Also read | Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future. The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility." The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at Guantanamo -- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility. Watch | 20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

US says Algerian at Guantanamo has been repatriated

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;announced on Sunday a&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer.

"As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the&nbsp;Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

"If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-recognise-taliban-regime-when-conditions-are-ripe-report-467395">China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report</a>

The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also&nbsp;banned.

Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering&nbsp;banking, business and development.

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts.

Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;members told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/world-bank-suspends-projects-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-prohibit-girls-from-school-466909">World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school</a>

The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat.

Taliban&nbsp;sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months.

A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;would&nbsp;ban&nbsp;its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family.

"Other crops are just not profitable," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

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&nbsp;

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada. "If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said. Also read | China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also banned. Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering banking, business and development. The Taliban banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts. Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and Taliban members told Reuters. Also read | World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat. Taliban sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the ban on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months. A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the Taliban would ban its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family. "Other crops are just not profitable," he said. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

Taliban ban poppy cultivation in Afghanistan

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional.

President Arif Alvi's move came moments after Khan said in his address to the nation, “I call upon the people of Pakistan to prepare for elections.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prepare-for-elections-imrans-dramatic-tv-speech-amid-no-confidence-motion-467893">Also Read:&nbsp;Imran's dramatic TV speech amid no-confidence motion</a>

His remarks came almost simultaneously as Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-confidence motion against Khan-led PTI government as "unconstitutional".&nbsp;

In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament.

Suri himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser, against whom the opposition had submitted a no-confidence motion just hours before the session started.

Watch: Pakistan deputy speaker dissolves assembly session

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Fawad Choudhury, information minister in the government who earlier slammed in parliament the no-trust move as a "foreign conspiracy", tweeted that Khan would continue as prime minister till elections are held, adding that the cabinet was dissolved.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister will continue his duties under Article 224 of the Constitution. The Cabinet has been dissolved," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Opposition members shouted slogans inside the parliament, while supporters of Khan were arrested and removed from the Parliament House premises.&nbsp;

Pakistan People's Party leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the united opposition will stage a sit-in inside the National Assembly and its lawyers will challenge the move by Khan in the Supreme Court.

Security has been made tight both in Islamabad and other cities and large gatherings banned in the capital.

The Supreme Court had banned earlier any gatherings inside the so-called Red Zone, a high-security area in the capital.&nbsp;

Junior minister for Information and Broadcasting Farrukh Habib tweeted that fresh elections will be held in 90 days, but it remains to be seen if that's possible, given the opposition's legal challenge.

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional.

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional. President Arif Alvi's move came moments after Khan said in his address to the nation, “I call upon the people of Pakistan to prepare for elections.” Also Read: Imran's dramatic TV speech amid no-confidence motion His remarks came almost simultaneously as Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-confidence motion against Khan-led PTI government as "unconstitutional". In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament. Suri himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser, against whom the opposition had submitted a no-confidence motion just hours before the session started. Watch: Pakistan deputy speaker dissolves assembly session Fawad Choudhury, information minister in the government who earlier slammed in parliament the no-trust move as a "foreign conspiracy", tweeted that Khan would continue as prime minister till elections are held, adding that the cabinet was dissolved. "The Prime Minister will continue his duties under Article 224 of the Constitution. The Cabinet has been dissolved," he tweeted. Opposition members shouted slogans inside the parliament, while supporters of Khan were arrested and removed from the Parliament House premises. Pakistan People's Party leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the united opposition will stage a sit-in inside the National Assembly and its lawyers will challenge the move by Khan in the Supreme Court. Security has been made tight both in Islamabad and other cities and large gatherings banned in the capital. The Supreme Court had banned earlier any gatherings inside the so-called Red Zone, a high-security area in the capital. Junior minister for Information and Broadcasting Farrukh Habib tweeted that fresh elections will be held in 90 days, but it remains to be seen if that's possible, given the opposition's legal challenge.

Pak political drama: Parliament, cabinet dissolved as no-trust session against PM Imran Khan junked

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.&nbsp;

Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power.&nbsp;

"Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-parliament-no-confidence-procedure-voting-bells-open-counting-and-final-verdict-467852">Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict</a>

His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move.&nbsp;

Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest

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Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house.&nbsp;

Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities.&nbsp;

Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament.&nbsp;

The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years.&nbsp;

This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday. Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power. "Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said. Also Read: Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution. Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move. Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament. Watch: 'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest × Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house. Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities. Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament. The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years. This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.

Breaking: No-trust session dispersed, Pak PM Imran Khan asks to dissolve parliament, seeks fresh election 

Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported.

Fu Zhenghua, 67, who reportedly helped in bringing down China’s former security chief Zhou Yongkang a few years ago, has been removed from public office for serious violations of party discipline and laws, according to news agency Xinhua, which attributed the decisions to Beijing’s top anti-graft body.

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The Chinese version of Thursdays’ announcement – which has been widely publicised across the country’s tightly controlled media- hinted Fu’s case was linked to that of Sun Lijun, who was also charged last year with severe “political ambition” and leading a corrupt and luxurious lifestyle.

“[Fu has] never been loyal to the party and the people; [he has] participated in Sun Lijun’s political gang; [he has] befriended several ‘political frauds’ for a long time,” the announcement said.

In October 2021, Fu was placed under investigation with “serious violations.” According to Dr Ling Li, a Chinese politics and law expert at the University of Vienna, said the fact that the matter now has been submitted to the procuratorate for prosecution “shows that the investigator is satisfied with whatever evidence they have obtained for the criminal charge and the prosecution”.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-leaves-for-china-to-attend-conclave-on-afghanistan-466700">&nbsp;Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi leaves for China to attend conclave on Afghanistan</a>

Former rising political star, Fu, was appointed to lead the investigation of China’s former security chief Zhou, who was sentenced life to prison in 2015 for power abuse and corruption. However, some Chinese political observers interpreted Fu’s role indicating a tight relationship with country’s top leader, Xi Jinping.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks<o:p></o:p>

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Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported.

Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported. Fu Zhenghua, 67, who reportedly helped in bringing down China’s former security chief Zhou Yongkang a few years ago, has been removed from public office for serious violations of party discipline and laws, according to news agency Xinhua, which attributed the decisions to Beijing’s top anti-graft body. Also read | Won't allow Chinese military base and knows 'ramification': Solomon Islands The Chinese version of Thursdays’ announcement – which has been widely publicised across the country’s tightly controlled media- hinted Fu’s case was linked to that of Sun Lijun, who was also charged last year with severe “political ambition” and leading a corrupt and luxurious lifestyle. “[Fu has] never been loyal to the party and the people; [he has] participated in Sun Lijun’s political gang; [he has] befriended several ‘political frauds’ for a long time,” the announcement said. In October 2021, Fu was placed under investigation with “serious violations.” According to Dr Ling Li, a Chinese politics and law expert at the University of Vienna, said the fact that the matter now has been submitted to the procuratorate for prosecution “shows that the investigator is satisfied with whatever evidence they have obtained for the criminal charge and the prosecution”. Also read | Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi leaves for China to attend conclave on Afghanistan Former rising political star, Fu, was appointed to lead the investigation of China’s former security chief Zhou, who was sentenced life to prison in 2015 for power abuse and corruption. However, some Chinese political observers interpreted Fu’s role indicating a tight relationship with country’s top leader, Xi Jinping. Watch | Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks

Former justice minister Fu Zhenghua expelled from Chinese Communist Party in latest purge

Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a&nbsp;US court was told during a hearing.

Between 2012 and 2015, a group of three British men known as “the Beatles”, took more than 20 westerners hostage under IS’s reign of terror. Prosecutors allege that El Shafee Elshiekh, who currently is on trial in Virginia, US, was the member nicknamed as Ringo by the hostages.

Federico Motka, an Italian-born aid worker, who grew up in UK, told the federal courthouse that he and David Haines, a British fellow aid worker, were forced to fight John Cantlie, an American journalist James Foley and a British war correspondent and photographer, in a “royal rumble” organised by the militant group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-bashar-al-assad-visits-uae-in-first-trip-to-arab-state-since-2011-463729">Syria's Bashar al-Assad visits UAE in first trip to Arab state since 2011</a>

“They were super excited about it,” Motka, describing 14 months of brutality at the hands of his IS kidnappers, told the court on Thursday. “We were so weak and shattered we could barely lift our arms.”

He further added that the trio humiliated them even more by mocking their forced fight, the Daily Telegraph reported. According to the Associated Press, during the summer of 2013, the hostages were told that the losers of the fight were being held captive at a facility known as “the box” that would be waterboarded.

Motka, in 2013, was surveying the needs of refugee camps, when he and Haines were captured.

He is the first surveying captive to testify at Elsheikh’s trial.

“They said I was a posh wanker because I went to boarding school,” Motka testified. “They said I was arrogant, and they were going to take me down a peg.”

When the judge stepped in to ask what the phrase “posh wanker” meant, there was a moment of uncomfortable laughter, forcing Motka to explain the term’s meaning.

He further told all the things that happened with them, from playing games with them, to giving them dog names to which they were supposed to respond immediately, made them wear orange jumpsuits to replicate the “conditions to the detainees at Guantánamo Bay”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-promises-to-pay-syrian-army-fighters-1100-to-fight-in-ukraine-watchdog-462529">Russia promises to pay Syrian army fighters $1,100 to fight in Ukraine: Watchdog</a>

The United States and United Kingdom did not pay for the release of hostages, which further led to the execution of Haines, British aid worker Alan Henning and four other Americans named in Elsheikh’s indictment – Foley, Steven Sotloff, Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig. He is accused of being involved in their murders.

In opening statements, the prosecutors mentioned three British citizens - Elsheikh, his long-term friend Alenxanda Kotey and Mohammed Emwazi, who is also known as “Jihadi John,” who frequently carried out the job of executioner.

Mohammed Emwazi was killed in a drone strike, while Kotey and Elsheikh were transferred to Virginia to face trials.

Lat year, Kotey pleaded guilty in a plea bargain.

The trials still continue as Elshiekh’s defence lawyer Edward MacMahon said there was “no dispute” about the horror the hostages’ fate.

MacMahon&nbsp;further said, there was no doubt that Elsheikh has gone to Syria to fight the IS, and there is no evidence to support that he was one of the members of “Beatles.”

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post: Syria's Assad returns to the world stage

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Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a US court was told during a hearing.

Several aid workers and journalists kidnapped in Syria by a group of British Islamic State terrorists were forced to fight each other until they passed out, a US court was told during a hearing. Between 2012 and 2015, a group of three British men known as “the Beatles”, took more than 20 westerners hostage under IS’s reign of terror. Prosecutors allege that El Shafee Elshiekh, who currently is on trial in Virginia, US, was the member nicknamed as Ringo by the hostages. Federico Motka, an Italian-born aid worker, who grew up in UK, told the federal courthouse that he and David Haines, a British fellow aid worker, were forced to fight John Cantlie, an American journalist James Foley and a British war correspondent and photographer, in a “royal rumble” organised by the militant group. Also read | Syria's Bashar al-Assad visits UAE in first trip to Arab state since 2011 “They were super excited about it,” Motka, describing 14 months of brutality at the hands of his IS kidnappers, told the court on Thursday. “We were so weak and shattered we could barely lift our arms.” He further added that the trio humiliated them even more by mocking their forced fight, the Daily Telegraph reported. According to the Associated Press, during the summer of 2013, the hostages were told that the losers of the fight were being held captive at a facility known as “the box” that would be waterboarded. Motka, in 2013, was surveying the needs of refugee camps, when he and Haines were captured. He is the first surveying captive to testify at Elsheikh’s trial. “They said I was a posh wanker because I went to boarding school,” Motka testified. “They said I was arrogant, and they were going to take me down a peg.” When the judge stepped in to ask what the phrase “posh wanker” meant, there was a moment of uncomfortable laughter, forcing Motka to explain the term’s meaning. He further told all the things that happened with them, from playing games with them, to giving them dog names to which they were supposed to respond immediately, made them wear orange jumpsuits to replicate the “conditions to the detainees at Guantánamo Bay”. Also read | Russia promises to pay Syrian army fighters $1,100 to fight in Ukraine: Watchdog The United States and United Kingdom did not pay for the release of hostages, which further led to the execution of Haines, British aid worker Alan Henning and four other Americans named in Elsheikh’s indictment – Foley, Steven Sotloff, Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig. He is accused of being involved in their murders. In opening statements, the prosecutors mentioned three British citizens - Elsheikh, his long-term friend Alenxanda Kotey and Mohammed Emwazi, who is also known as “Jihadi John,” who frequently carried out the job of executioner. Mohammed Emwazi was killed in a drone strike, while Kotey and Elsheikh were transferred to Virginia to face trials. Lat year, Kotey pleaded guilty in a plea bargain. The trials still continue as Elshiekh’s defence lawyer Edward MacMahon said there was “no dispute” about the horror the hostages’ fate. MacMahon further said, there was no doubt that Elsheikh has gone to Syria to fight the IS, and there is no evidence to support that he was one of the members of “Beatles.” Watch | The West Asia Post: Syria's Assad returns to the world stage

Islamic States captives were forced to fight each other until they passed out, trial told

With the Russia-Ukraine crisis in foresight, the US and Europe fear that Chinese President Xi Jinping will take the opportunity to attack Taiwan.The start of Russia's "military operation" last month has pushed Taiwan to the forefront of geopolitics again.

While the western countries are afraid that Taiwan will face the same situation as Ukraine, the leaders of both the country (Taiwan and China) insisted that Taiwan and Ukraine are not on the same platform, American editorial magazine National Review reported.

On the other hand, Beijing stated that Taiwan is their internal matter and linking it to Ukraine would only add this matter to the western developed conspiracy "democracy against dictatorship". While Taipei emphasizes that they are different from Ukraine in terms of its geostrategic and global supply-chain importance.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imitation-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery-french-president-discards-suits-dons-sweatshirt-copying-zelensky-462399">&nbsp;Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky?</a>

Russia started its military operation in Ukraine on the grounds of protecting its people from the so-called "genocide" in Ukraine, NATO's expansion to the east and the need to "demilitarize" and "denazify" Ukraine.

The Washington-based magazine argues these justifications as an excuse for their aggression against Ukraine. The editorial claimed that Xi is an accomplice to Putin's war of aggression.

It says that the Chinese President has greatly increased his military intimidation of Taiwan since coming to power. On the same day that Putin started its military operation in Ukraine, nine Chinese military planes were seen inside Taiwan, violating Taiwan's air-defence identification zone, according to National Review.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-confirms-chinese-military-plane-crashed-into-south-china-sea-461836">Taiwan confirms Chinese military plane crashed into South China Sea</a>

The editorial magazine also believes that China will attack Taiwan, regardless of the outcome of the Ukraine-Russia crisis. It further added that there are high chances of Xi launching its military operation in Taiwan. The Chinese President has already ordered his military to accelerate war preparation by achieving the People's Liberation Army's centenary goal of "liberating Taiwan" by 2027, National Review reported.

The National Review also stated that the US and other western countries need to be firm and clear in their resolve to defend Taiwan. And China's one-China policy needs to be abandoned so that the sovereignty of Taiwan won't be impacted.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-optimistic-about-round-4-of-talks-462334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The U.S. passed the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979 after cutting off their diplomatic ties with China, promising that the US would "maintain the capacity of the United States to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security, or the social or economic system, of the people on Taiwan," and subsequently than US President Reagan made "six assurances" and called for arms sales for Taiwan's defence.

However, these are not binding obligations under international law, but rather unilateral commitments, according to National Review.

With the Russia-Ukraine crisis in foresight, the US and Europe fear that Chinese President Xi Jinping will take the opportunity to attack Taiwan.The start of Russia's "military operation" last month has pushed Taiwan to the forefront of geopolitics again.

With the Russia-Ukraine crisis in foresight, the US and Europe fear that Chinese President Xi Jinping will take the opportunity to attack Taiwan.The start of Russia's "military operation" last month has pushed Taiwan to the forefront of geopolitics again. While the western countries are afraid that Taiwan will face the same situation as Ukraine, the leaders of both the country (Taiwan and China) insisted that Taiwan and Ukraine are not on the same platform, American editorial magazine National Review reported. On the other hand, Beijing stated that Taiwan is their internal matter and linking it to Ukraine would only add this matter to the western developed conspiracy "democracy against dictatorship". While Taipei emphasizes that they are different from Ukraine in terms of its geostrategic and global supply-chain importance. Also read | Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky? Russia started its military operation in Ukraine on the grounds of protecting its people from the so-called "genocide" in Ukraine, NATO's expansion to the east and the need to "demilitarize" and "denazify" Ukraine. The Washington-based magazine argues these justifications as an excuse for their aggression against Ukraine. The editorial claimed that Xi is an accomplice to Putin's war of aggression. It says that the Chinese President has greatly increased his military intimidation of Taiwan since coming to power. On the same day that Putin started its military operation in Ukraine, nine Chinese military planes were seen inside Taiwan, violating Taiwan's air-defence identification zone, according to National Review. Also read | Taiwan confirms Chinese military plane crashed into South China Sea The editorial magazine also believes that China will attack Taiwan, regardless of the outcome of the Ukraine-Russia crisis. It further added that there are high chances of Xi launching its military operation in Taiwan. The Chinese President has already ordered his military to accelerate war preparation by achieving the People's Liberation Army's centenary goal of "liberating Taiwan" by 2027, National Review reported. The National Review also stated that the US and other western countries need to be firm and clear in their resolve to defend Taiwan. And China's one-China policy needs to be abandoned so that the sovereignty of Taiwan won't be impacted. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks The U.S. passed the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979 after cutting off their diplomatic ties with China, promising that the US would "maintain the capacity of the United States to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security, or the social or economic system, of the people on Taiwan," and subsequently than US President Reagan made "six assurances" and called for arms sales for Taiwan's defence. However, these are not binding obligations under international law, but rather unilateral commitments, according to National Review.

Amid Ukraine crisis, US, Europe fears possible Chinese offensive against Taiwan

The&nbsp;son&nbsp;of&nbsp;Turkmenistan's autocrat leader, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov,&nbsp;decisively won the&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;election,&nbsp;officials&nbsp;said Tuesday, paving the way for hereditary succession in one of the world's most tightly controlled countries.

Serdar Berdymukhamedov, 40, won the ballot held last Saturday with 73 percent of the&nbsp;vote, the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) said in a statement on its website.

Nine candidates stood in the poll in the isolated country of six million people, but few doubted that Berdymukhamedov's only&nbsp;son&nbsp;Serdar -- who has pledged to pursue his father's course -- would take over the country's top job.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkmenistan-votes-for-father-son-transition-461643">Turkmenistan votes for father-son transition</a>

Berdymukhamedov senior, who is now&nbsp;Turkmenistan's outgoing president, chair of the cabinet and senate chief, has been the regime's top decision-maker for the last 15 years.

The&nbsp;strongman&nbsp;known as the gas-rich country's "protector" has dominated public life since the country's founding president, Saparmurat Niyazov, died in 2006 and he tolerates no dissent.

Last month Berdymukhamedov said he would step aside and allow "young leaders" to govern, triggering a snap&nbsp;vote.

In the end Berdymukhamedov junior obtained a victory margin far lower than the 98- and 97-percent routs posted by his 64-year-old father in the hermit state's previous two&nbsp;elections.

No change to neutrality

Observers say his father will still be holding the reins, after the family patriarch pledged to remain in politics as head of the senate.

One thing that is unlikely to change is the republic's neutral status in international affairs.

Serdar Berdymukhamedov told journalists last Saturday that status would remain if he won because it "allows&nbsp;Turkmenistan&nbsp;to develop fully-fledged relations with all states".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkmenistan-one-of-the-worlds-worst-emitters-of-planet-warming-methane-422645">&nbsp;Turkmenistan: One of the world’s worst emitters of planet-warming methane</a>

The country that honours its leaders with ostentatious gold statues remains strongly dependent on China, which dominates purchases of its natural gas.&nbsp;

Smaller volumes purchased by Russia's Gazprom, meanwhile, could be threatened by the impact of sanctions targeting Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine -- a conflict that Turkmen state media has all but ignored.

The country has also not admitted any coronavirus cases since the outbreak of the pandemic.

The now-confirmed father-son&nbsp;leadership transition will be the first of its kind in Central Asia, a former communist region that also includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

CEC&nbsp;officials&nbsp;in&nbsp;Turkmenistan&nbsp;had taken their time to announce the results of one of the world's most predictable&nbsp;elections, which saw Berdymukhamedov face off against relatively unknown civil servants and provincial&nbsp;officials.

On Sunday, CEC's chairman Gulmyrat Myradov told journalists who had attended a press conference in expectation of hearing the results that the latter were being delayed due to "the need for a thorough count".

Across the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region, Azerbaijan became the first former Soviet country to establish a dynasty, when President Ilham Aliyev took the helm upon father Heydar Aliyev's death in 2003.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Turkmenistan: President Berdymukhamedov instructs officials to extinguish fire at 'Gateway to Hell'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkmenistan-president-berdymukhamedov-instructs-officials-to-extinguish-fire-at-gateway-to-hell-443403/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tajikistan, the ex-Soviet bloc's poorest successor state, is expected to follow a similar path. Upper house head Rustam Emomali, 34, is in pole position to succeed veteran leader Emomali Rakhmon, 69, should Rakhmon retire or prove unable to fulfil his duties.

The younger Berdymukhamedov's inauguration is scheduled for next Saturday.

The son of Turkmenistan's autocrat leader, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, decisively won the presidential election, officials said Tuesday, paving the way for hereditary succession in one of the world's most tightly controlled countries.

The son of Turkmenistan's autocrat leader, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, decisively won the presidential election, officials said Tuesday, paving the way for hereditary succession in one of the world's most tightly controlled countries. Serdar Berdymukhamedov, 40, won the ballot held last Saturday with 73 percent of the vote, the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) said in a statement on its website. Nine candidates stood in the poll in the isolated country of six million people, but few doubted that Berdymukhamedov's only son Serdar -- who has pledged to pursue his father's course -- would take over the country's top job. Also read | Turkmenistan votes for father-son transition Berdymukhamedov senior, who is now Turkmenistan's outgoing president, chair of the cabinet and senate chief, has been the regime's top decision-maker for the last 15 years. The strongman known as the gas-rich country's "protector" has dominated public life since the country's founding president, Saparmurat Niyazov, died in 2006 and he tolerates no dissent. Last month Berdymukhamedov said he would step aside and allow "young leaders" to govern, triggering a snap vote. In the end Berdymukhamedov junior obtained a victory margin far lower than the 98- and 97-percent routs posted by his 64-year-old father in the hermit state's previous two elections. No change to neutrality Observers say his father will still be holding the reins, after the family patriarch pledged to remain in politics as head of the senate. One thing that is unlikely to change is the republic's neutral status in international affairs. Serdar Berdymukhamedov told journalists last Saturday that status would remain if he won because it "allows Turkmenistan to develop fully-fledged relations with all states". Also read | Turkmenistan: One of the world’s worst emitters of planet-warming methane The country that honours its leaders with ostentatious gold statues remains strongly dependent on China, which dominates purchases of its natural gas. Smaller volumes purchased by Russia's Gazprom, meanwhile, could be threatened by the impact of sanctions targeting Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine -- a conflict that Turkmen state media has all but ignored. The country has also not admitted any coronavirus cases since the outbreak of the pandemic. The now-confirmed father-son leadership transition will be the first of its kind in Central Asia, a former communist region that also includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. CEC officials in Turkmenistan had taken their time to announce the results of one of the world's most predictable elections, which saw Berdymukhamedov face off against relatively unknown civil servants and provincial officials. On Sunday, CEC's chairman Gulmyrat Myradov told journalists who had attended a press conference in expectation of hearing the results that the latter were being delayed due to "the need for a thorough count". Across the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region, Azerbaijan became the first former Soviet country to establish a dynasty, when President Ilham Aliyev took the helm upon father Heydar Aliyev's death in 2003. Watch | Turkmenistan: President Berdymukhamedov instructs officials to extinguish fire at 'Gateway to Hell' Tajikistan, the ex-Soviet bloc's poorest successor state, is expected to follow a similar path. Upper house head Rustam Emomali, 34, is in pole position to succeed veteran leader Emomali Rakhmon, 69, should Rakhmon retire or prove unable to fulfil his duties. The younger Berdymukhamedov's inauguration is scheduled for next Saturday.

Turkmenistan strongman's son wins presidential vote: Official results

India&nbsp;is reviewing its standard operating&nbsp;procedures&nbsp;for weapons systems and will immediately fix any shortcomings&nbsp;after&nbsp;accidentally launching a&nbsp;missile&nbsp;into&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;last week, its defence minister said on Tuesday.

Pakistan&nbsp;said it was not satisfied and reiterated a demand for a joint investigation into the incident by the nuclear-armed arch rivals.

Although tensions between&nbsp;India&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;have calmed in recent months, military experts have previously warned against the possibility of accidents or miscalculations by the South Asian neighbours, who have fought three wars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-demands-joint-probe-to-accurately-establish-facts-on-accidental-firing-of-indian-missile-461817">Pakistan demands joint probe into 'accidental firing' of Indian missile</a>

The&nbsp;missile, released around 7 p.m. last Wednesday during routine maintenance and inspection, landed in&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;without causing any casualties,&nbsp;India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told parliament.

"We attach the highest priority to the safety and security of our weapon systems," Singh said in the first public statement by an&nbsp;Indian official on the incident first reported by&nbsp;Pakistan's military on Thursday.

"I would also like to state that a review of the standard operating&nbsp;procedures&nbsp;for operations, maintenance and inspections is being conducted," Singh added.

Pakistan&nbsp;Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said at a news conference that the statement was "incomplete and insufficient".

"Pakistan&nbsp;cannot be satisfied by the explanation given, and I reject it," he said, adding that Islamabad wanted a joint probe.

Pakistan&nbsp;has demanded New Delhi give details about the safety mechanisms in place to prevent&nbsp;accidental&nbsp;missile&nbsp;launches and asked the international community to help maintain regional stability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wearing-hijab-is-not-an-essential-religious-practice-says-indian-court-as-it-upholds-hijab-ban-462378">Wearing hijab is not an essential religious practice, says Indian court as it upholds hijab ban</a>

China urged the two countries to set up a reporting mechanism to avoid such incidents and share information, said Zhao Lijian, a spokesman at its foreign ministry.

"Pakistan&nbsp;and&nbsp;India&nbsp;are both important countries in South Asia, bearing responsibilities for maintaining regional security and stability," he told reporters on Monday.

While&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;appreciated China's statement, Qureshi said that the U.S. State Department spokesperson had "skirted the issue" a day earlier and had not taken a position on the matter, which he stressed could have lead to war.

He added he had written to the UN Security Council too, but said the international community was not taking the matter seriously enough.

Watch |&nbsp;India’s missile system ‘highly secure and safe’, says Rajnath Singh

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-missile-system-highly-secure-and-safe-says-rajnath-singh-462467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Delivering short statements in both houses of&nbsp;India's parliament, Singh said the safety&nbsp;procedures&nbsp;and protocols for the country's&nbsp;missile&nbsp;systems were of the highest standard and reviewed periodically.

"I can assure the House that the&nbsp;missile&nbsp;system is very reliable and safe," he said, without saying which&nbsp;missile&nbsp;had been&nbsp;accidentally launched.

India is reviewing its standard operating procedures for weapons systems and will immediately fix any shortcomings after accidentally launching a missile into Pakistan last week, its defence minister said on Tuesday.

India is reviewing its standard operating procedures for weapons systems and will immediately fix any shortcomings after accidentally launching a missile into Pakistan last week, its defence minister said on Tuesday. Pakistan said it was not satisfied and reiterated a demand for a joint investigation into the incident by the nuclear-armed arch rivals. Although tensions between India and Pakistan have calmed in recent months, military experts have previously warned against the possibility of accidents or miscalculations by the South Asian neighbours, who have fought three wars. Also read | Pakistan demands joint probe into 'accidental firing' of Indian missile The missile, released around 7 p.m. last Wednesday during routine maintenance and inspection, landed in Pakistan without causing any casualties, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told parliament. "We attach the highest priority to the safety and security of our weapon systems," Singh said in the first public statement by an Indian official on the incident first reported by Pakistan's military on Thursday. "I would also like to state that a review of the standard operating procedures for operations, maintenance and inspections is being conducted," Singh added. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said at a news conference that the statement was "incomplete and insufficient". "Pakistan cannot be satisfied by the explanation given, and I reject it," he said, adding that Islamabad wanted a joint probe. Pakistan has demanded New Delhi give details about the safety mechanisms in place to prevent accidental missile launches and asked the international community to help maintain regional stability. Also read | Wearing hijab is not an essential religious practice, says Indian court as it upholds hijab ban China urged the two countries to set up a reporting mechanism to avoid such incidents and share information, said Zhao Lijian, a spokesman at its foreign ministry. "Pakistan and India are both important countries in South Asia, bearing responsibilities for maintaining regional security and stability," he told reporters on Monday. While Pakistan appreciated China's statement, Qureshi said that the U.S. State Department spokesperson had "skirted the issue" a day earlier and had not taken a position on the matter, which he stressed could have lead to war. He added he had written to the UN Security Council too, but said the international community was not taking the matter seriously enough. Watch | India’s missile system ‘highly secure and safe’, says Rajnath Singh Delivering short statements in both houses of India's parliament, Singh said the safety procedures and protocols for the country's missile systems were of the highest standard and reviewed periodically. "I can assure the House that the missile system is very reliable and safe," he said, without saying which missile had been accidentally launched.

India is reviewing procedures after accidental firing of missile into Pakistan : Indian defence minister

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;will offer&nbsp;4,000&nbsp;special&nbsp;visas&nbsp;to&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;fleeing the Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;if they have family in the southern hemisphere nation, its government said Tuesday.

Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi said it was&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's largest special visa category in decades in support of an international aid effort.

Over 2.8 million people have fled&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;since Russia invaded on February 24, according to UN estimates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refugee-exodus-in-20-days-28-million-people-have-fled-ukraine-462361">Europe's fastest growing refugee crisis: In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine</a>

"It's a two-year visa to help people escape the current conflict and to shelter here in the hope they can return home when the&nbsp;war&nbsp;ends," Faafoi said.

For one year, the estimated 1,600 Ukrainian-born citizens and residents in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;will be allowed to sponsor family members for the special visa, under which they will be allowed to work.

Relatives included in the scheme include parents, grandparents and their adult siblings or adult children and their immediate family who have fled&nbsp;Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-having-early-discussions-about-biden-traveling-to-europe-462458">White House having early discussions about Biden traveling to Europe</a>

"New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;has moved quickly to condemn the brutal and intolerable invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine," the minister said.

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;also announced an extra NZ$4&nbsp;million (US$2.7 million) in humanitarian funding.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Under Attack: Shelling prevents humanitarian aid from entering Mariupol

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-under-attack-shelling-prevents-humanitarian-aid-from-entering-mariupol-462465/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Alongside other diplomatic measures, we have acted urgently to respond to Russia's hostility by instituting travel bans, export controls, passing the Russia Sanctions Act 2022, and providing aid funding to support crucial humanitarian work," the minister said.

New Zealand will offer 4,000 special visas to refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine if they have family in the southern hemisphere nation, its government said Tuesday.

New Zealand will offer 4,000 special visas to refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine if they have family in the southern hemisphere nation, its government said Tuesday. Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi said it was New Zealand's largest special visa category in decades in support of an international aid effort. Over 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia invaded on February 24, according to UN estimates. Also read | Europe's fastest growing refugee crisis: In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine "It's a two-year visa to help people escape the current conflict and to shelter here in the hope they can return home when the war ends," Faafoi said. For one year, the estimated 1,600 Ukrainian-born citizens and residents in New Zealand will be allowed to sponsor family members for the special visa, under which they will be allowed to work. Relatives included in the scheme include parents, grandparents and their adult siblings or adult children and their immediate family who have fled Ukraine. Also read | White House having early discussions about Biden traveling to Europe "New Zealand has moved quickly to condemn the brutal and intolerable invasion of Ukraine," the minister said. New Zealand also announced an extra NZ$4 million (US$2.7 million) in humanitarian funding. Watch | Ukraine Under Attack: Shelling prevents humanitarian aid from entering Mariupol "Alongside other diplomatic measures, we have acted urgently to respond to Russia's hostility by instituting travel bans, export controls, passing the Russia Sanctions Act 2022, and providing aid funding to support crucial humanitarian work," the minister said.

New Zealand offers visas to 4,000 Ukraine war refugees

China&nbsp;does&nbsp;not&nbsp;want&nbsp;to be impacted by Western economic&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on&nbsp;Russia, the&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;ministry said Tuesday, as pressure grows on Beijing to withdraw support from an isolated Moscow.

Beijing has refused to condemn its close ally&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;over its invasion of Ukraine, while blaming the United States and NATO's "eastward expansion" for worsening tensions.

Moscow and Beijing have grown closer in recent times, in what Washington sees as an increasingly hostile alliance of the authoritarian nuclear powers.

"China&nbsp;is not a party to the crisis, still less wants to be&nbsp;affected&nbsp;by the&nbsp;sanctions,"&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Wang Yi said, according to a readout of a phone call with his Spanish counterpart Jose Manuel Albares published on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-hikes-china-us-prices-for-second-time-within-a-week-462382">Tesla hikes China, US prices for second time within a week</a>

China&nbsp;has "always opposed using&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;to solve problems, let alone unilateral&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;that have no basis in international law", Wang said, according to the readout.

Around three weeks after Russian troops marched into Ukraine, Moscow's forces have bombarded and besieged several towns and cities.

Wang's comments were published after a seven-hour meeting between high-ranking US and Chinese officials in Rome, at which Washington said the US had expressed concern about "alignment" between&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;China.

US media has reported that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has asked&nbsp;China&nbsp;for military and economic assistance, as its troops struggle to make ground and its economy faces devastation from Western&nbsp;sanctions.

The New York Times, citing unnamed US officials, said there was no indication whether&nbsp;China&nbsp;had responded.

But Beijing has so far sent mixed signals on&nbsp;Russia's bloody invasion and US officials say the jury is still out on how&nbsp;China&nbsp;will act.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeking-military-assistance-from-china-for-ukraine-invasion-report-462010">&nbsp;US warns China against providing any support to Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict</a>

Foreign&nbsp;ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Tuesday told reporters that Beijing "strongly urges the US not to harm&nbsp;China's legitimate rights and interests when handling relations with&nbsp;Russia".

Asked about articles saying Moscow had asked Beijing for help, Zhao accused the US of "spreading disinformation" against&nbsp;China.

"Our aim is very clear, that is, to promote de-escalation of the situation... and end the conflict," he added.

Deep concerns

In the Rome meeting on Monday with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan,&nbsp;China's senior diplomat Yang Jiechi reiterated the country's stance that Beijing is "committed to promoting peace talks", the official Xinhua news agency reported Tuesday.

China&nbsp;called on all parties to exercise "maximum restraint" and "protect civilians" in the Ukraine crisis at the meeting.

The international community should support such talks to achieve substantive results as soon as possible, Yang said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US warns China against helping Russia

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Although Beijing&nbsp;does&nbsp;not back Western&nbsp;sanctions, the White House is pressuring the world's second-largest economy to refrain from rescuing&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;from potential default or sending weaponry.

"We've communicated very clearly to Beijing that we won't stand by," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.&nbsp;

"We will not allow any country to compensate&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;for its losses."

China does not want to be impacted by Western economic sanctions on Russia, the foreign ministry said Tuesday, as pressure grows on Beijing to withdraw support from an isolated Moscow.

China does not want to be impacted by Western economic sanctions on Russia, the foreign ministry said Tuesday, as pressure grows on Beijing to withdraw support from an isolated Moscow. Beijing has refused to condemn its close ally Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, while blaming the United States and NATO's "eastward expansion" for worsening tensions. Moscow and Beijing have grown closer in recent times, in what Washington sees as an increasingly hostile alliance of the authoritarian nuclear powers. "China is not a party to the crisis, still less wants to be affected by the sanctions," Foreign Minister Wang Yi said, according to a readout of a phone call with his Spanish counterpart Jose Manuel Albares published on Tuesday. Also read | Tesla hikes China, US prices for second time within a week China has "always opposed using sanctions to solve problems, let alone unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law", Wang said, according to the readout. Around three weeks after Russian troops marched into Ukraine, Moscow's forces have bombarded and besieged several towns and cities. Wang's comments were published after a seven-hour meeting between high-ranking US and Chinese officials in Rome, at which Washington said the US had expressed concern about "alignment" between Russia and China. US media has reported that Russia has asked China for military and economic assistance, as its troops struggle to make ground and its economy faces devastation from Western sanctions. The New York Times, citing unnamed US officials, said there was no indication whether China had responded. But Beijing has so far sent mixed signals on Russia's bloody invasion and US officials say the jury is still out on how China will act. Also read | US warns China against providing any support to Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Tuesday told reporters that Beijing "strongly urges the US not to harm China's legitimate rights and interests when handling relations with Russia". Asked about articles saying Moscow had asked Beijing for help, Zhao accused the US of "spreading disinformation" against China. "Our aim is very clear, that is, to promote de-escalation of the situation... and end the conflict," he added. Deep concerns In the Rome meeting on Monday with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, China's senior diplomat Yang Jiechi reiterated the country's stance that Beijing is "committed to promoting peace talks", the official Xinhua news agency reported Tuesday. China called on all parties to exercise "maximum restraint" and "protect civilians" in the Ukraine crisis at the meeting. The international community should support such talks to achieve substantive results as soon as possible, Yang said. Watch | Gravitas: US warns China against helping Russia Although Beijing does not back Western sanctions, the White House is pressuring the world's second-largest economy to refrain from rescuing Russia from potential default or sending weaponry. "We've communicated very clearly to Beijing that we won't stand by," State Department spokesman Ned Price said. "We will not allow any country to compensate Russia for its losses."

China wary of being impacted by Russia sanctions: Foreign minister

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Zee News Rajasthan

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