There is no evidence that unexplained aerial phenomena spotted in recent years by US military personnel are aliens, an upcoming government report quoted by The New York Times Thursday said, but officials still can't explain the mysterious aircraft.

The newspaper, which cited senior administration officials briefed on the findings of the highly anticipated report, said they were able to confirm the unusual vessels were not the product of secret Pentagon technology.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/occams-razor-harvard-astronomer-says-that-alien-vessel-paid-us-a-visit-362060">'Occam's razor': Harvard astronomer says that alien vessel paid us a visit</a>

But the review of more than 120 incidents over the past two decades was unable to explain the mysterious movements of the craft, which include unusual acceleration, direction changes and the ability to rapidly submerge.

And while senior officials told the Times the lack of clear findings means that while there's no evidence of&nbsp;alien&nbsp;technology behind the phenomena, it's also impossible to rule out.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-invasion-spectacular-display-of-lights-across-us-sparks-conspiracy-theories-373462">'Alien invasion': Spectacular display of lights across US sparks conspiracy theories</a>

One senior official briefed on the report said intelligence and military officials increasingly worry the phenomena could be China or Russia experimenting with hypersonic technology.

The upcoming report,&nbsp;expected to be released to Congress by June 25, will have a classified annex, officials told the Times, which will likely fuel speculation that aliens are actually behind the encounters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-recently-scanned-10-million-stars-for-alien-technology-what-did-they-find-326020">Scientists recently scanned 10 million stars for alien technology, what did they find?</a>

The Pentagon&nbsp;last year released videos taken by US Navy pilots showing in-flight encounters with the unusual aircraft.

And the mystery was further drummed up by former officials with access to classified intelligence.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chain-of-resonance-six-alien-planets-with-rhythmic-movement-are-locked-in-a-rare-orbital-dance-362329">'Chain of resonance': Six alien planets with rhythmic movement are locked in a rare orbital dance</a>

"What is true, and I'm actually being serious here, is that there's footage and records of objects in the skies that we don't know exactly what they are," former president Barack Obama told "The Late Late Show" last month.

The US military no longer describes them as unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, instead using the term "unidentified aerial phenomena."

There is no evidence that unexplained aerial phenomena spotted in recent years by US military personnel are aliens, an upcoming government report quoted by The New York Times Thursday said, but officials still can't explain the mysterious aircraft.

There is no evidence that unexplained aerial phenomena spotted in recent years by US military personnel are aliens, an upcoming government report quoted by The New York Times Thursday said, but officials still can't explain the mysterious aircraft. The newspaper, which cited senior administration officials briefed on the findings of the highly anticipated report, said they were able to confirm the unusual vessels were not the product of secret Pentagon technology. Also Read | 'Occam's razor': Harvard astronomer says that alien vessel paid us a visit But the review of more than 120 incidents over the past two decades was unable to explain the mysterious movements of the craft, which include unusual acceleration, direction changes and the ability to rapidly submerge. And while senior officials told the Times the lack of clear findings means that while there's no evidence of alien technology behind the phenomena, it's also impossible to rule out. Also Read | 'Alien invasion': Spectacular display of lights across US sparks conspiracy theories One senior official briefed on the report said intelligence and military officials increasingly worry the phenomena could be China or Russia experimenting with hypersonic technology. The upcoming report, expected to be released to Congress by June 25, will have a classified annex, officials told the Times, which will likely fuel speculation that aliens are actually behind the encounters. Also Read | Scientists recently scanned 10 million stars for alien technology, what did they find? The Pentagon last year released videos taken by US Navy pilots showing in-flight encounters with the unusual aircraft. And the mystery was further drummed up by former officials with access to classified intelligence. Also Read | 'Chain of resonance': Six alien planets with rhythmic movement are locked in a rare orbital dance "What is true, and I'm actually being serious here, is that there's footage and records of objects in the skies that we don't know exactly what they are," former president Barack Obama told "The Late Late Show" last month. The US military no longer describes them as unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, instead using the term "unidentified aerial phenomena."

No evidence mystery UFOs seen by US Navy are alien spacecraft: Report

Australia's&nbsp;Victoria&nbsp;state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp;virus&nbsp;variant&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;in the&nbsp;latest&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in&nbsp;cases.

"That&nbsp;variant&nbsp;is the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant, it is now infamous in India and increasingly found in the United Kingdom. It is a&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of significant concern,"&nbsp;Victoria&nbsp;state Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told reporters in Melbourne.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-one-of-three-strains-of-b1617-variant-now-a-variant-of-concern-who-388917">Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO</a>

Sutton said the new&nbsp;variant&nbsp;had not been linked to any sequenced&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;infection&nbsp;cases&nbsp;across Australia from hotel quarantine or elsewhere.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-says-only-one-strain-of-delta-variant-is-now-of-concern-388961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Canberra, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that he had agreed with the&nbsp;Victorian government to develop a new quarantine facility in Melbourne, and wanted to see mandatory <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> for aged care workers across the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-victoria-state-lockdown-end-date-in-doubt-after-new-covid-19-cases-388785">Australia: Victoria state lockdown end date in doubt after new COVID-19 cases</a>

Four new locally acquired&nbsp;cases&nbsp;were reported on Friday, versus three a day earlier.

Australia's Victoria state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious Delta COVID-19 virus variant for the first time in the latest outbreak in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in cases.

Australia's Victoria state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious Delta COVID-19 virus variant for the first time in the latest outbreak in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in cases. "That variant is the Delta variant, it is now infamous in India and increasingly found in the United Kingdom. It is a variant of significant concern," Victoria state Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told reporters in Melbourne. Also Read | Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO Sutton said the new variant had not been linked to any sequenced COVID-19 infection cases across Australia from hotel quarantine or elsewhere. In Canberra, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that he had agreed with the Victorian government to develop a new quarantine facility in Melbourne, and wanted to see mandatory vaccination for aged care workers across the country. Also Read | Australia: Victoria state lockdown end date in doubt after new COVID-19 cases Four new locally acquired cases were reported on Friday, versus three a day earlier.

Australia's Victoria detects two cases of Delta Covid-19 variant for first time in latest outbreak

Multiple recipes featuring&nbsp;cicadas&nbsp;have surfaced in the United States as billions of the bugs emerge from 17 years underground, prompting authorities to warn the hungry and curious to think twice before taking a bite.

"Yep! We have to say it! Don't eat #cicadas&nbsp;if you're allergic to seafood as these insects share a family relation to shrimp and lobsters," said a tweet Wednesday from Food and Drug Administration regulators.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trillions-of-cicadas-to-emerge-after-spending-nearly-2-decades-underground-382220">'Trillions' of cicadas to emerge after spending nearly 2 decades underground</a>

Billions of cicada nymphs that have been living underground since 2004 have begun bursting out of the soil to shed their skin, mate, lay eggs and then die, all against the backdrop of the deafening noise that males make to attract females.&nbsp;

US states including Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee have all seen the translucent-winged, red-eyed insects.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cicadas-to-swarm-southwestern-us-after-17-years-300923">Cicadas to swarm southwestern US after 17 years</a>

Their arrival, on a regular cycle every 17 years, has been delayed and spotty this year due to cold temperatures and heavy downpours in some areas.

But the craze for the&nbsp;cicadas&nbsp;has not dimmed, especially among peckish birds, dogs and the occasional human.

Bun Lai, a chef and advocate for the sustainable food movement, invited locals for an insect hunt in a Washington park followed by a taste of his fried cicada sushi.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cicada-sushi-anyone-us-chef-serves-up-sustainable-brood-x-delicacy-387274">Cicada sushi, anyone? US chef serves up sustainable 'Brood X' delicacy</a>&nbsp;

"Free cicada hunt and cookout," Bun tweeted. "Bring ingredients to cook with and join me in getting creative or just eat!"&nbsp;

Multiple recipes featuring cicadas have surfaced in the United States as billions of the bugs emerge from 17 years underground, prompting authorities to warn the hungry and curious to think twice before taking a bite.

Multiple recipes featuring cicadas have surfaced in the United States as billions of the bugs emerge from 17 years underground, prompting authorities to warn the hungry and curious to think twice before taking a bite. "Yep! We have to say it! Don't eat #cicadas if you're allergic to seafood as these insects share a family relation to shrimp and lobsters," said a tweet Wednesday from Food and Drug Administration regulators. Also Read | 'Trillions' of cicadas to emerge after spending nearly 2 decades underground Billions of cicada nymphs that have been living underground since 2004 have begun bursting out of the soil to shed their skin, mate, lay eggs and then die, all against the backdrop of the deafening noise that males make to attract females. US states including Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee have all seen the translucent-winged, red-eyed insects. Also Read | Cicadas to swarm southwestern US after 17 years Their arrival, on a regular cycle every 17 years, has been delayed and spotty this year due to cold temperatures and heavy downpours in some areas. But the craze for the cicadas has not dimmed, especially among peckish birds, dogs and the occasional human. Bun Lai, a chef and advocate for the sustainable food movement, invited locals for an insect hunt in a Washington park followed by a taste of his fried cicada sushi. Also Read | Cicada sushi, anyone? US chef serves up sustainable 'Brood X' delicacy "Free cicada hunt and cookout," Bun tweeted. "Bring ingredients to cook with and join me in getting creative or just eat!"

Allergic to seafood? Don't eat swarming cicadas, US warns

France&nbsp;will start offering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid-19 vaccines</a> to all young people aged 12-18 years starting on June 15, President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday.

During a visit to the village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in southern&nbsp;France, Macron also noted that 50 per cent of French adults have now received at least one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> vaccine jab, calling it "truly a turning point" in the country's inoculation drive.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-in-europe-britain-records-zero-deaths-germany-france-ramp-up-vaccination-388850">COVID-19 in Europe: Britain records zero deaths; Germany, France ramp up vaccination</a>

Vaccine supplies have increased sharply recently, prompting officials to open up appointments to all adults earlier this week, several weeks ahead of schedule.

With the country just beginning to bounce back from a severe third wave of infections, Macron's government is keen to quickly expand the vaccine coverage to slow the spread of variants.

But Macron urged people to remain "extremely careful and vigilant" and said wearing face masks outdoors would still be required in several regions for the time being.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-coronavirus-cases-cross-171-million-death-toll-at-3557281-388897">Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 171 million, death toll at 3,557,281</a>

The 43-year-old president, who caught Covid last December, announced Monday that he and his wife had also had the jab.

Later Wednesday, Health Minister Olivier Veran told TF1 television that the vaccination programme for teenagers would not be compulsory, but on a voluntary basis and with the agreement of parents.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-reimposes-strict-covid-curbs-on-travel-from-uk-387998">France reimposes strict Covid curbs on travel from UK</a>

Starting the vaccinations for adolescents now would make it easier to avoid schools closures at the beginning of the next academic year in September, he added.&nbsp;

The country is emerging from its third nationwide lockdown, with restaurants and cafes now allowed to serve clients outside. Indoor dining is due to resume from June 9.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-paris-venue-hosts-indoor-rock-concert---with-masks-and-virus-tests-388334">Paris venue hosts indoor rock concert - with masks and virus tests</a>

Pressure on hospitals has eased, with the number of Covid patients in intensive care falling steadily in recent weeks, with 2,754 serious cases as of Wednesday, down from more than 6,000 in late April.&nbsp;

Macron was in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie to launch a nationwide tour ahead of next year's presidential election, as well as regional elections set for later this month.

France will start offering Covid-19 vaccines to all young people aged 12-18 years starting on June 15, President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday. During a visit to the village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in southern France, Macron also noted that 50 per cent of French adults have now received at least one Covid vaccine jab, calling it "truly a turning point" in the country's inoculation drive.

France will start offering Covid-19 vaccines to all young people aged 12-18 years starting on June 15, President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday. During a visit to the village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in southern France, Macron also noted that 50 per cent of French adults have now received at least one Covid vaccine jab, calling it "truly a turning point" in the country's inoculation drive. Also Read | COVID-19 in Europe: Britain records zero deaths; Germany, France ramp up vaccination Vaccine supplies have increased sharply recently, prompting officials to open up appointments to all adults earlier this week, several weeks ahead of schedule. With the country just beginning to bounce back from a severe third wave of infections, Macron's government is keen to quickly expand the vaccine coverage to slow the spread of variants. But Macron urged people to remain "extremely careful and vigilant" and said wearing face masks outdoors would still be required in several regions for the time being. Also Read | Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 171 million, death toll at 3,557,281 The 43-year-old president, who caught Covid last December, announced Monday that he and his wife had also had the jab. Later Wednesday, Health Minister Olivier Veran told TF1 television that the vaccination programme for teenagers would not be compulsory, but on a voluntary basis and with the agreement of parents. Also Read | France reimposes strict Covid curbs on travel from UK Starting the vaccinations for adolescents now would make it easier to avoid schools closures at the beginning of the next academic year in September, he added. The country is emerging from its third nationwide lockdown, with restaurants and cafes now allowed to serve clients outside. Indoor dining is due to resume from June 9. Also Read | Paris venue hosts indoor rock concert - with masks and virus tests Pressure on hospitals has eased, with the number of Covid patients in intensive care falling steadily in recent weeks, with 2,754 serious cases as of Wednesday, down from more than 6,000 in late April. Macron was in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie to launch a nationwide tour ahead of next year's presidential election, as well as regional elections set for later this month.

France to widen Covid vaccine drive to 12 to 18-year-olds from June 15

Australian researchers are launching a&nbsp;koala&nbsp;"facial recognition"&nbsp;study that aims to better monitor the marsupials' behaviour and ultimately aid in their conservation.

The team from Griffith University&nbsp;is attempting to use artificial intelligence (AI) to recognise individual furry mammals&nbsp;when they use wildlife road crossings in Queensland state.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-gears-up-for-the-great-koala-count-using-drones-droppings-and-dogs-348189">Australia gears up for the great Koala count, using drones, droppings and dogs</a>

The underground pathways and bridges are installed at busy roads near&nbsp;koala&nbsp;habitats to offer them a safer route away from cars.&nbsp;

Associate professor Jun Zhou, who is leading the pilot study, said it was hoped AI would end the need for manual camera checks to determine which species were using the crossings.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/habitat-loss-in-an-australian-state-may-drive-koalas-to-extinction-by-2050-309664">Habitat loss in an Australian state may drive koalas to extinction by 2050</a>

"Now, with artificial intelligence developing very quickly over the past 10 years, the technology is powerful enough to help recognise not only koalas generally, but which individual koalas are using the crossings," he said.

Researchers have previously also used identification tags and GPS to track koalas.

Griffith University said the team would work with conservation groups on training AI to distinguish between individual animals based on their appearance and movements.

They hope the data will offer a greater understanding of how koalas use the wildlife crossings and if the crossings could be better located to protect the animals from getting injured by cars.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thing-of-the-past-experts-fear-australias-iconic-koala-could-go-extinct-by-2050-309749">Thing of the past? Experts fear Australia's iconic koala could go extinct by 2050</a>

he government-funded project is set to get underway at 20 camera sites near Brisbane in July.

Koalas live along Australia's eastern coast, but are considered vulnerable to extinction and face a raft of threats including habitat loss from logging, development and bushfires which destroyed swathes of forests in 2019-2020.

Australian researchers are launching a koala "facial recognition" study that aims to better monitor the marsupials' behaviour and ultimately aid in their conservation.

Australian researchers are launching a koala "facial recognition" study that aims to better monitor the marsupials' behaviour and ultimately aid in their conservation. The team from Griffith University is attempting to use artificial intelligence (AI) to recognise individual furry mammals when they use wildlife road crossings in Queensland state. Also Read | Australia gears up for the great Koala count, using drones, droppings and dogs The underground pathways and bridges are installed at busy roads near koala habitats to offer them a safer route away from cars. Associate professor Jun Zhou, who is leading the pilot study, said it was hoped AI would end the need for manual camera checks to determine which species were using the crossings. Also Read | Habitat loss in an Australian state may drive koalas to extinction by 2050 "Now, with artificial intelligence developing very quickly over the past 10 years, the technology is powerful enough to help recognise not only koalas generally, but which individual koalas are using the crossings," he said. Researchers have previously also used identification tags and GPS to track koalas. Griffith University said the team would work with conservation groups on training AI to distinguish between individual animals based on their appearance and movements. They hope the data will offer a greater understanding of how koalas use the wildlife crossings and if the crossings could be better located to protect the animals from getting injured by cars. Also Read | Thing of the past? Experts fear Australia's iconic koala could go extinct by 2050 he government-funded project is set to get underway at 20 camera sites near Brisbane in July. Koalas live along Australia's eastern coast, but are considered vulnerable to extinction and face a raft of threats including habitat loss from logging, development and bushfires which destroyed swathes of forests in 2019-2020.

Artificial Intelligence for conservation: Australian researchers to test koala 'facial recognition'

NASA&nbsp;announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived.

"These two sister missions both aim to understand how Venus became an inferno-like world, capable of melting lead at the surface," said Bill Nelson, the agency's newly-confirmed administrator.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-nasa-is-sending-bioluminescent-baby-squids-tardigrades-into-space-on-june-3-389016">Why NASA is sending bioluminescent baby squids, tardigrades into space on June 3</a>

"They will offer the entire science community the chance to investigate a planet we haven't been to in more than 30 years."

The missions have been awarded about $500 million under&nbsp;NASA's Discovery Program, and each is expected to launch in the 2028-2030 timeframe.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-curiosity-rover-clicks-rare-shiny-clouds-on-mars-388591">NASA's Curiosity Rover clicks rare shiny clouds on Mars</a>

Both missions were picked from a competitive, peer-reviewed process based on their scientific value and feasibility of their plans.

DAVINCI+, which stands for Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging, will gather more detail on the composition of Venus' primarily carbon dioxide atmosphere, to learn how it formed and evolved.

The mission also seeks to determine whether the planet once had an ocean.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-piece-of-space-debris-recently-damaged-the-international-space-station-388585">A piece of space debris recently damaged the International Space Station</a>

A descent sphere will plunge through the dense atmosphere which is laced with sulfuric acid clouds.&nbsp;

It will precisely measure the levels of noble gases and other elements to learn what gave rise to the runaway greenhouse effect we see today.

DAVINCI+ will also beam back the first high resolution images of the planet's "tesserae," geological features roughly comparable with Earth's continents whose existence suggests Venus has plate tectonics.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-proposed-venus-mission-attracts-international-payload-proposals-344846">India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals</a>

The results could reshape scientists' understanding of terrestrial planet formation.

The other mission is called VERITAS, an acronym for Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy.

This will aim to map the Venusian surface from orbit and delve into the planet's geologic history.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-venus-a-russian-planet-the-countrys-space-agency-chief-seems-to-think-so-327958">Is Venus a 'Russian planet'? The country's space agency chief seems to think so!</a>

Using a form of radar that is used to create three-dimensional constructions, it will chart surface elevations and confirm whether volcanoes and earthquakes are still happening on the planet.

It will also use infrared scanning to determine rock type, which is largely unknown, and whether active volcanoes are releasing water vapor into the atmosphere.

While the mission is&nbsp;NASA&nbsp;led, the German Aerospace Center will provide the infrared mapper, while the Italian&nbsp;Space&nbsp;Agency and France's Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales will contribute to the radar and other parts of the mission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-parker-solar-probe-sends-stunning-image-of-venus-and-its-terrain-367178">Also Read |&nbsp;NASA's Parker Solar Probe sends stunning image of Venus and its terrain</a>

"It is astounding how little we know about Venus, but the combined results of these missions will tell us about the planet from the clouds in its sky through the volcanoes on its surface all the way down to its very core," said Tom Wagner,&nbsp;NASA's Discovery Program scientist.&nbsp;

"It will be as if we have rediscovered the planet."

NASA's last Venus orbiter was Magellan, which arrived in 1990, but other vessels have made fly-bys since then.

NASA announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived.

NASA announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived. "These two sister missions both aim to understand how Venus became an inferno-like world, capable of melting lead at the surface," said Bill Nelson, the agency's newly-confirmed administrator. Also Read | Why NASA is sending bioluminescent baby squids, tardigrades into space on June 3 "They will offer the entire science community the chance to investigate a planet we haven't been to in more than 30 years." The missions have been awarded about $500 million under NASA's Discovery Program, and each is expected to launch in the 2028-2030 timeframe. Also Read | NASA's Curiosity Rover clicks rare shiny clouds on Mars Both missions were picked from a competitive, peer-reviewed process based on their scientific value and feasibility of their plans. DAVINCI+, which stands for Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging, will gather more detail on the composition of Venus' primarily carbon dioxide atmosphere, to learn how it formed and evolved. The mission also seeks to determine whether the planet once had an ocean. Also Read | A piece of space debris recently damaged the International Space Station A descent sphere will plunge through the dense atmosphere which is laced with sulfuric acid clouds. It will precisely measure the levels of noble gases and other elements to learn what gave rise to the runaway greenhouse effect we see today. DAVINCI+ will also beam back the first high resolution images of the planet's "tesserae," geological features roughly comparable with Earth's continents whose existence suggests Venus has plate tectonics. Also Read | India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals The results could reshape scientists' understanding of terrestrial planet formation. The other mission is called VERITAS, an acronym for Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy. This will aim to map the Venusian surface from orbit and delve into the planet's geologic history. Also Read | Is Venus a 'Russian planet'? The country's space agency chief seems to think so! Using a form of radar that is used to create three-dimensional constructions, it will chart surface elevations and confirm whether volcanoes and earthquakes are still happening on the planet. It will also use infrared scanning to determine rock type, which is largely unknown, and whether active volcanoes are releasing water vapor into the atmosphere. While the mission is NASA led, the German Aerospace Center will provide the infrared mapper, while the Italian Space Agency and France's Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales will contribute to the radar and other parts of the mission. Also Read | NASA's Parker Solar Probe sends stunning image of Venus and its terrain "It is astounding how little we know about Venus, but the combined results of these missions will tell us about the planet from the clouds in its sky through the volcanoes on its surface all the way down to its very core," said Tom Wagner, NASA's Discovery Program scientist. "It will be as if we have rediscovered the planet." NASA's last Venus orbiter was Magellan, which arrived in 1990, but other vessels have made fly-bys since then.

NASA announces two new missions to Venus

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>.

The government is considering crafting a new economic stimulus package before the expected snap election, the Asahi newspaper said on Thursday, citing several anonymous ruling party executives.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/10000-olympic-volunteers-quit-ahead-of-games-organisers-389106">10,000 Olympic volunteers quit ahead of Games: Organisers</a>

"We're not examining a new stimulus package," the government's top spokesman Katsunobu Kato told a news conference on Thursday.

"But we see the need to revive the economy ... and hope to take necessary steps flexibly," he said, when asked about the chance of a possible new stimulus plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-newspaper-sponsoring-tokyo-olympics-urges-cancellation-387435">Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation</a>

Suga agreed on Wednesday with the head of his ruling coalition partner not to extend the current parliament session when it closes on June 16, according to media reports.

That means&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;will forgo compiling a supplementary budget for now and tap nearly 4 trillion yen ($36.50 billion) left in reserves to pay for immediate spending to combat the pandemic, the Asahi said.

The government's public relations official declined to comment on Asahi's report on Suga's election plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-chief-rules-out-delay-despite-pandemic-fears-389114">Tokyo 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears</a>

"It's obvious we need an extra budget, but parliament is closing so we don't have time to pass it," ruling party lawmaker Shoji Nishida told Reuters last week.

"But there should be debate within the party on compiling another stimulus package and an extra budget," he said.

Suga has said he would focus on dealing with the pandemic, and that&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;will go ahead with the Games under strict virus-protection measures.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-japan-looks-to-extend-covid-19-states-of-emergency-ahead-of-games-387932">Olympics: Japan looks to extend COVID-19 states of emergency ahead of Games</a>

Some ruling party lawmakers have called on the government to boost spending to revive an economy hit by new state of emergency curbs to prevent the spread of the virus.

Slow vaccine rollouts and strong public opposition to holding the Games have led to a plunge in Suga's support ratings, heightening uncertainty over his administration's fate.

With the Tokyo Olympic Games starting on July 23, the most likely scenario is for Suga to dissolve parliament after the Sept. 5 end of the Paralympic Games and call a snap election, the Asahi said.

($1 = 109.5900 yen)

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The government is considering crafting a new economic stimulus package before the expected snap election, the Asahi newspaper said on Thursday, citing several anonymous ruling party executives. Also Read | 10,000 Olympic volunteers quit ahead of Games: Organisers "We're not examining a new stimulus package," the government's top spokesman Katsunobu Kato told a news conference on Thursday. "But we see the need to revive the economy ... and hope to take necessary steps flexibly," he said, when asked about the chance of a possible new stimulus plan. Also Read | Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation Suga agreed on Wednesday with the head of his ruling coalition partner not to extend the current parliament session when it closes on June 16, according to media reports. That means Japan will forgo compiling a supplementary budget for now and tap nearly 4 trillion yen ($36.50 billion) left in reserves to pay for immediate spending to combat the pandemic, the Asahi said. The government's public relations official declined to comment on Asahi's report on Suga's election plan. Also Read | Tokyo 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears "It's obvious we need an extra budget, but parliament is closing so we don't have time to pass it," ruling party lawmaker Shoji Nishida told Reuters last week. "But there should be debate within the party on compiling another stimulus package and an extra budget," he said. Suga has said he would focus on dealing with the pandemic, and that Japan will go ahead with the Games under strict virus-protection measures. Also Read | Olympics: Japan looks to extend COVID-19 states of emergency ahead of Games Some ruling party lawmakers have called on the government to boost spending to revive an economy hit by new state of emergency curbs to prevent the spread of the virus. Slow vaccine rollouts and strong public opposition to holding the Games have led to a plunge in Suga's support ratings, heightening uncertainty over his administration's fate. With the Tokyo Olympic Games starting on July 23, the most likely scenario is for Suga to dissolve parliament after the Sept. 5 end of the Paralympic Games and call a snap election, the Asahi said. ($1 = 109.5900 yen)

Japan PM Suga likely to call snap election after Tokyo Olympic Games: Report

The head of a Japanese doctors' union warned on Tuesday that holding the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, with tens of thousands of people from around the world, could lead to the emergence of an "Olympic" strain of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japans-tokyo-olympics-conundrum-worsens-amid-raging-pandemic-380850">Japan's Tokyo Olympics conundrum worsens amid raging pandemic</a>

Japan has pledged to hold a "safe and secure" 2020&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in Tokyo after a year-long postponement but it is struggling to contain the fourth wave of infections and preparing to extend a state of emergency in much of the country.

Japanese officials,&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have all vowed the Games will go ahead, albeit under strict virus-prevention measures. Foreign spectators have been banned and a decision on domestic ones is expected next month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overseas-fans-barred-from-tokyo-olympics-over-virus-fears-371916">Overseas fans barred from Tokyo Olympics over virus fears</a>

But even with those steps, worries remain about the influx of athletes and officials into Japan, where a vaccination drive remains glacially slow, with just over 5 per cent of the population having had a shot.

With people from more than 200 nations and territories set to arrive, the Games, due to begin in eight weeks, pose a danger, said Naoto Ueyama, head of the Japan Doctors Union.

"All of the different mutant strains of the virus which exist in different places will be concentrated and gathering here in Tokyo. We cannot deny the possibility of even a new strain of the virus potentially emerging," he told a news conference.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/osaka-wants-discussion-on-olympics-amid-virus-surge-in-japan-384061">Osaka wants 'discussion' on Olympics amid virus surge in Japan</a>

"If such a situation were to arise, it could even mean a Tokyo Olympic strain of the virus being named in this way, which would be a huge tragedy and something which would be the target of criticism, even for 100 years."

But Kenji Shibuya, director of the Institute of Population Health at King’s College, London, who has recently been helping the vaccination campaign in Japan, played down dangers specific to the Games.

"Mutation takes place when virus stays in immunocompromised or partially immunised people for a long period of time," Shibuya said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-thinking-of-cancelling-the-olympics-says-tokyo-2020-chief-amid-surge-in-covid-infections-377930">Not thinking of cancelling the Olympics', says Tokyo 2020 chief amid surge in COVID infections</a>

"So the current situation in Japan is more dangerous than (during) the Tokyo Games, in my opinion."

State of Emergency

The Asahi Shimbun, an official partner of the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, carried an editorial on Wednesday urging the Games be cancelled, but former IOC vice president Dick Pound said later in the day the sports extravaganza should and would go ahead.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-newspaper-sponsoring-tokyo-olympics-urges-cancellation-387435">Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation</a>

The government is currently preparing to extend a state of emergency across much of the nation originally set to be lifted on May 31, most likely well into June, officials have said - just weeks before the Games are set to open on July 23.

But IOC member John Coates has said the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;could be held even under a state of emergency, an opinion Ueyama said was infuriating.

"In regards to these statements, the people of Japan are indeed holding great anger towards this, and this is even more the case for healthcare and medical professionals," Ueyama said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/citing-covid-risk-us-warns-against-travel-to-olympic-host-japan-387229">Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan</a>

Earlier this week, the United States advised against travel to Japan, but&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;organisers have said this will not affect the Games. The White House on Wednesday said it had been assured by Japan's government that it will keep in close contact about concerns over the&nbsp;Olympics.

In a sign of how uncertain the situation remains, however, Australia's major sports leagues and Olympic hopefuls were left scrambling to make contingency plans after authorities announced a seven-day lockdown in the southern state of Victoria to contain a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne.

Chiba prefecture, which borders Tokyo, announced on Thursday that it was cancelling its stretch of the Olympic torch relay out of safety concerns, becoming the latest area to scale back events.

The head of a Japanese doctors' union warned on Tuesday that holding the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, with tens of thousands of people from around the world, could lead to the emergence of an "Olympic" strain of the coronavirus.

The head of a Japanese doctors' union warned on Tuesday that holding the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, with tens of thousands of people from around the world, could lead to the emergence of an "Olympic" strain of the coronavirus. Also Read | Japan's Tokyo Olympics conundrum worsens amid raging pandemic Japan has pledged to hold a "safe and secure" 2020 Olympics in Tokyo after a year-long postponement but it is struggling to contain the fourth wave of infections and preparing to extend a state of emergency in much of the country. Japanese officials, Olympics organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have all vowed the Games will go ahead, albeit under strict virus-prevention measures. Foreign spectators have been banned and a decision on domestic ones is expected next month. Also Read | Overseas fans barred from Tokyo Olympics over virus fears But even with those steps, worries remain about the influx of athletes and officials into Japan, where a vaccination drive remains glacially slow, with just over 5 per cent of the population having had a shot. With people from more than 200 nations and territories set to arrive, the Games, due to begin in eight weeks, pose a danger, said Naoto Ueyama, head of the Japan Doctors Union. "All of the different mutant strains of the virus which exist in different places will be concentrated and gathering here in Tokyo. We cannot deny the possibility of even a new strain of the virus potentially emerging," he told a news conference. Also Read | Osaka wants 'discussion' on Olympics amid virus surge in Japan "If such a situation were to arise, it could even mean a Tokyo Olympic strain of the virus being named in this way, which would be a huge tragedy and something which would be the target of criticism, even for 100 years." But Kenji Shibuya, director of the Institute of Population Health at King’s College, London, who has recently been helping the vaccination campaign in Japan, played down dangers specific to the Games. "Mutation takes place when virus stays in immunocompromised or partially immunised people for a long period of time," Shibuya said. Also Read | Not thinking of cancelling the Olympics', says Tokyo 2020 chief amid surge in COVID infections "So the current situation in Japan is more dangerous than (during) the Tokyo Games, in my opinion." State of Emergency The Asahi Shimbun, an official partner of the Tokyo Olympics, carried an editorial on Wednesday urging the Games be cancelled, but former IOC vice president Dick Pound said later in the day the sports extravaganza should and would go ahead. Also Read | Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation The government is currently preparing to extend a state of emergency across much of the nation originally set to be lifted on May 31, most likely well into June, officials have said - just weeks before the Games are set to open on July 23. But IOC member John Coates has said the Olympics could be held even under a state of emergency, an opinion Ueyama said was infuriating. "In regards to these statements, the people of Japan are indeed holding great anger towards this, and this is even more the case for healthcare and medical professionals," Ueyama said. Also Read | Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan Earlier this week, the United States advised against travel to Japan, but Olympics organisers have said this will not affect the Games. The White House on Wednesday said it had been assured by Japan's government that it will keep in close contact about concerns over the Olympics. In a sign of how uncertain the situation remains, however, Australia's major sports leagues and Olympic hopefuls were left scrambling to make contingency plans after authorities announced a seven-day lockdown in the southern state of Victoria to contain a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne. Chiba prefecture, which borders Tokyo, announced on Thursday that it was cancelling its stretch of the Olympic torch relay out of safety concerns, becoming the latest area to scale back events.

Tokyo Games could lead to "Olympic virus" strain, Japanese doctor warns

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

Osaka said in the build-up to the tournament that she would not attend the obligatory press conferences for players after matches, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being.

The four-time Grand Slam champion made good on her threat on Sunday when, after winning her first-round match, she did not hold a press conference.

She was fined $15,000 by the Roland Garros referee, and Grand Slam organizers later issued a strongly worded statement warning of possible expulsion from the French Open and future majors if she failed to change her stance.

On Monday, world No. 2 decided to take matters into her own hands to end the stand-off.

"This isn't a situation I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago," the 23-year-old Osaka said on Twitter.

"I think now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;going on in Paris.

"I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer."

Osaka, one of the biggest names in women's sport, went on to say she had suffered from depression since 2018.

"The truth is that I have suffered long bouts of depression since the U.S. Open in 2018 and I have had a really hard time coping with that," she said.

"Anyone that knows me knows I'm introverted, and anyone that has seen me at the tournaments will notice that I'm often wearing headphones as that helps dull my social anxiety."

The French&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation (FFT), organizers of the tournament, called her withdrawal "unfortunate."

Reading from a prepared statement at a news conference, FFT president Gilles Moretton said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka... we wish her the best and quickest possible recovery, and we look forward to having Naomi at our tournament next year. He added that the major&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;bodies were committed to athletes' well-being and improving their tournament experience, including their interaction with the media.

The Women's&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Association (WTA) said mental health was one of the highest priorities of the organization. "We remain here to support and assist Naomi in any way possible and we hope to see her back on the court soon," it said in a statement.

After beating Serena Williams to claim her first major at the 2018 U.S. Open, Osaka was booed by the crowd during the presentation ceremony as her victory was overshadowed by the American's outburst following a row with the umpire.

Osaka said that since then, she has struggled with being in the spotlight. On Monday, Osaka said she suffers "huge waves of anxiety" before speaking to the world's media.

Williams offered support to Osaka.

"The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug," the 39-year-old American said after her first-round win. "Because I know what it's like. I've been in those positions."

American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open and finished runner-up at Roland Garros last year, said dealing with the media demands of elite&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;was "definitely not easy" but it is what players "signed up for."

"There are expectations from the outside, sponsors, and everyone. You just have to somehow manage it. You have to have a good team around you who support you," the American said.

Osaka, who according to sports business website Sportico earned $55.2 million over the past 12 months, added that she would take some time away from&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and hoped later to meet the sport's organizers to improve the system.

"I wrote privately to the tournament apologizing and saying that I would be more than happy to speak with them after the tournament as the slams are intense," Osaka said.

"I'm gonna take some time away from the court now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press, and fans."

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the tennis world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the tennis world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years. Osaka said in the build-up to the tournament that she would not attend the obligatory press conferences for players after matches, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being. The four-time Grand Slam champion made good on her threat on Sunday when, after winning her first-round match, she did not hold a press conference. She was fined $15,000 by the Roland Garros referee, and Grand Slam organizers later issued a strongly worded statement warning of possible expulsion from the French Open and future majors if she failed to change her stance. On Monday, world No. 2 decided to take matters into her own hands to end the stand-off. "This isn't a situation I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago," the 23-year-old Osaka said on Twitter. "I think now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris. "I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer." Osaka, one of the biggest names in women's sport, went on to say she had suffered from depression since 2018. "The truth is that I have suffered long bouts of depression since the U.S. Open in 2018 and I have had a really hard time coping with that," she said. "Anyone that knows me knows I'm introverted, and anyone that has seen me at the tournaments will notice that I'm often wearing headphones as that helps dull my social anxiety." The French Tennis Federation (FFT), organizers of the tournament, called her withdrawal "unfortunate." Reading from a prepared statement at a news conference, FFT president Gilles Moretton said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka... we wish her the best and quickest possible recovery, and we look forward to having Naomi at our tournament next year. He added that the major tennis bodies were committed to athletes' well-being and improving their tournament experience, including their interaction with the media. The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) said mental health was one of the highest priorities of the organization. "We remain here to support and assist Naomi in any way possible and we hope to see her back on the court soon," it said in a statement. After beating Serena Williams to claim her first major at the 2018 U.S. Open, Osaka was booed by the crowd during the presentation ceremony as her victory was overshadowed by the American's outburst following a row with the umpire. Osaka said that since then, she has struggled with being in the spotlight. On Monday, Osaka said she suffers "huge waves of anxiety" before speaking to the world's media. Williams offered support to Osaka. "The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug," the 39-year-old American said after her first-round win. "Because I know what it's like. I've been in those positions." American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open and finished runner-up at Roland Garros last year, said dealing with the media demands of elite tennis was "definitely not easy" but it is what players "signed up for." "There are expectations from the outside, sponsors, and everyone. You just have to somehow manage it. You have to have a good team around you who support you," the American said. Osaka, who according to sports business website Sportico earned $55.2 million over the past 12 months, added that she would take some time away from tennis and hoped later to meet the sport's organizers to improve the system. "I wrote privately to the tournament apologizing and saying that I would be more than happy to speak with them after the tournament as the slams are intense," Osaka said. "I'm gonna take some time away from the court now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press, and fans."

Tennis: Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open in wake of row over media boycott

Beijing's office that oversees matters in Hong Kong has warned of threats made to a judge, who sentenced media tycoon Jimmy Lai and other democracy activists for their roles in an unauthorised assembly on October&nbsp;1, 2019. 
 
A representative for the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office (HKMAO) said the presiding judge had received threatening phone calls, which the office said would not be tolerated. 
 
"This is a serious threat to the personal safety of judges, a flagrant challenge to the judicial system in Hong Kong and a gross violation of the rule of law and order in Hong Kong," Xinhua quoted a statement by HKMAO as saying late on Sunday. 
 
The statement followed one by Hong Kong's Department of Justice late on Friday that said a judge had been intimidated, without providing details. 
 
On Friday, judge Amanda Woodcock sentenced Lai, an ardent critic of Beijing, to 14 months in jail, and nine others to up to 18 months for their roles in the rally. 
 
Hong Kong arrested more than 10,000 people over anti-government protests in 2019, and some of those cases are now making their way through the court system. 
 
The unrest led Beijing to impose a contentious national security law on its freest city in June 2020, and more than 100 people have been arrested under the law so far, including Lai. 
 
The law punishes what Beijing broadly defines as secession, sedition, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail. 
 
Forty-seven democracy activists charged with conspiracy to commit subversion are set to appear in court on Monday, in a case that has drawn criticism from Western governments and international rights groups. 
 
Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with a guarantee of a high degree of autonomy until 2047. Critics say authorities are chipping away at those freedoms, an assertion officials in Hong Kong and Beijing reject. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Beijing's office that oversees matters in Hong Kong has warned of threats made to a judge, who sentenced media tycoon Jimmy Lai and other democracy activists for their roles in an unauthorised assembly on October 1, 2019.

Beijing's office that oversees matters in Hong Kong has warned of threats made to a judge, who sentenced media tycoon Jimmy Lai and other democracy activists for their roles in an unauthorised assembly on October 1, 2019. A representative for the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office (HKMAO) said the presiding judge had received threatening phone calls, which the office said would not be tolerated. "This is a serious threat to the personal safety of judges, a flagrant challenge to the judicial system in Hong Kong and a gross violation of the rule of law and order in Hong Kong," Xinhua quoted a statement by HKMAO as saying late on Sunday. The statement followed one by Hong Kong's Department of Justice late on Friday that said a judge had been intimidated, without providing details. On Friday, judge Amanda Woodcock sentenced Lai, an ardent critic of Beijing, to 14 months in jail, and nine others to up to 18 months for their roles in the rally. Hong Kong arrested more than 10,000 people over anti-government protests in 2019, and some of those cases are now making their way through the court system. The unrest led Beijing to impose a contentious national security law on its freest city in June 2020, and more than 100 people have been arrested under the law so far, including Lai. The law punishes what Beijing broadly defines as secession, sedition, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail. Forty-seven democracy activists charged with conspiracy to commit subversion are set to appear in court on Monday, in a case that has drawn criticism from Western governments and international rights groups. Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with a guarantee of a high degree of autonomy until 2047. Critics say authorities are chipping away at those freedoms, an assertion officials in Hong Kong and Beijing reject. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing's Hong Kong office slams intimidation of judge in tycoon Jimmy Lai's case

Britain's health minister&nbsp;Matt&nbsp;Hancock&nbsp;will face questions in the House of Commons on Thursday (May 27) after the prime minister's former top adviser Dominic Cummings said he should have been fired for lying in government meetings on COVID-19 .

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-ineptitude-led-to-tens-of-thousands-of-covid-deaths-says-ex-aide-387648">UK PM's ineptitude led to tens of thousands of Covid deaths, says ex-aide</a>

"I think that the Secretary of State for Health (Hancock), should have been fired for at least 15, 20 things including lying to everybody in multiple occasions in meeting after meeting in the cabinet room and publicly," Cummings told a parliamentary committee on Wednesday (May 26).

Asked for an example, Cummings said&nbsp;Hancock&nbsp;had said that all patients got the treatment they needed during the first peak of the virus. Cummings said that was contrary to briefings from the government's health experts, who had said some patients had not received necessary treatment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-covid-disaster-to-be-laid-bare-by-pm-johnsons-ex-chief-adviser-dominic-cummings-387398">UK's Covid 'disaster' to be laid bare by PM Johnson's ex-chief adviser&nbsp;Dominic Cummings</a>

He also said&nbsp;Hancock&nbsp;had told ministers that the supply of personal protective equipment was under control in April, but that had later proved not been the case. Cummings also said the country's top civil servant had told him he had lost confidence in&nbsp;Hancock's honesty.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-sceptic-boris-johnson-considered-injecting-himself-with-covid-says-former-aide-cummings-387473">Virus-sceptic Boris Johnson considered injecting himself with Covid, says former aide Cummings</a>

A spokesman for&nbsp;Hancock&nbsp;rejected the extensive criticism from Cummings, saying he will continue to work supporting the National Health Service (NHS).

"We absolutely reject Mr. Cummings' claims about the Health Secretary," the spokesman said. "The Health Secretary will continue to work closely with the prime minister to deliver the vaccine rollout, tackle the risks posed by variants and support the NHS."

Britain's health minister Matt Hancock will face questions in the House of Commons on Thursday (May 27) after the prime minister's former top adviser Dominic Cummings said he should have been fired for lying in government meetings on COVID-19 .

Britain's health minister Matt Hancock will face questions in the House of Commons on Thursday (May 27) after the prime minister's former top adviser Dominic Cummings said he should have been fired for lying in government meetings on COVID-19 . Also Read | UK PM's ineptitude led to tens of thousands of Covid deaths, says ex-aide "I think that the Secretary of State for Health (Hancock), should have been fired for at least 15, 20 things including lying to everybody in multiple occasions in meeting after meeting in the cabinet room and publicly," Cummings told a parliamentary committee on Wednesday (May 26). Asked for an example, Cummings said Hancock had said that all patients got the treatment they needed during the first peak of the virus. Cummings said that was contrary to briefings from the government's health experts, who had said some patients had not received necessary treatment. Also Read | UK's Covid 'disaster' to be laid bare by PM Johnson's ex-chief adviser Dominic Cummings He also said Hancock had told ministers that the supply of personal protective equipment was under control in April, but that had later proved not been the case. Cummings also said the country's top civil servant had told him he had lost confidence in Hancock's honesty. Also Read | Virus-sceptic Boris Johnson considered injecting himself with Covid, says former aide Cummings A spokesman for Hancock rejected the extensive criticism from Cummings, saying he will continue to work supporting the National Health Service (NHS). "We absolutely reject Mr. Cummings' claims about the Health Secretary," the spokesman said. "The Health Secretary will continue to work closely with the prime minister to deliver the vaccine rollout, tackle the risks posed by variants and support the NHS."

UK's health minister Hancock to face questions after Cummings brands him a liar

France on Wednesday appointed Laurence des Cars, known for promoting social issues through art, as the new head of the&nbsp;Louvre, the first time a woman will be in charge of the world's biggest&nbsp;museum&nbsp;more than two centuries after it first opened.

Des Cars currently runs the Musee d'Orsay, the Paris landmark&nbsp;museum&nbsp;dedicated to 19th-century art, where she is already the first-ever woman boss.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-louis-vuitton-journeys-to-fashion-antiquity-at-the-louvre-369599">Louis Vuitton journeys to fashion antiquity at the Louvre</a>

Her legacy there includes boosting young visitor numbers and giving art and visitors more physical space.

During her four years at the Orsay, the 54-year old art historian has taken a stance on some controversial topics, including by coming out in favour of restituting works looted by Nazis.

"A great&nbsp;museum&nbsp;must face history, including by looking back at the history of our owns institutions," she told AFP in an interview in April.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-france-to-return-klimt-painting-looted-by-nazis-to-holocaust-victim-371134">France to return Klimt painting looted by Nazis to Holocaust victim</a>

She was instrumental in the French government's decision for the Orsay to hand back a Gustav Klimt painting, "Roses", to the heirs of its previous owner Nora Stiasny. The Nazis had stolen it from her in Vienna in 1938.

Under Des Cars's leadership, the&nbsp;museum's 2019 exhibition "Black Models: From Gericault to Matisse" explored racial and social issues through the representation of black figures in visual arts.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pariss-louvre-museum-closes-over-staff-coronavirus-fears-283741">Paris's Louvre museum closes over staff coronavirus fears</a>

A&nbsp;museum's shows should reflect "the big issues in society, and thus attract new generations" of visitors "of all ages and from all social-cultural backgrounds", she told AFP.

Des Cars, who comes from a family of writers and journalists, will in September succeed Jean-Luc Martinez, the current&nbsp;Louvre&nbsp;chief who is credited with making the&nbsp;museum&nbsp;more accessible and less elitist.

He was rewarded by a record annual visitor number of over 10 million in 2019 before COVID-19 restrictions reduced visits to a trickle.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-paris-louvre-museum-visitors-fell-by-three-quarters-in-2020-due-to-covid-crisis-355862">Paris' Louvre museum visitors fell by three quarters in 2020 due to COVID crisis</a>

The&nbsp;Louvre, best known as the home of the Mona Lisa, is the world's largest art&nbsp;museum.

It opened in 1793 in the aftermath of the French Revolution, with an exhibition of just over 500 paintings.

It now owns hundreds of thousands of pieces of art, with less than 10 per cent of the total on permanent display.

France on Wednesday appointed Laurence des Cars, known for promoting social issues through art, as the new head of the Louvre, the first time a woman will be in charge of the world's biggest museum more than two centuries after it first opened.

France on Wednesday appointed Laurence des Cars, known for promoting social issues through art, as the new head of the Louvre, the first time a woman will be in charge of the world's biggest museum more than two centuries after it first opened. Des Cars currently runs the Musee d'Orsay, the Paris landmark museum dedicated to 19th-century art, where she is already the first-ever woman boss. Also Read | Louis Vuitton journeys to fashion antiquity at the Louvre Her legacy there includes boosting young visitor numbers and giving art and visitors more physical space. During her four years at the Orsay, the 54-year old art historian has taken a stance on some controversial topics, including by coming out in favour of restituting works looted by Nazis. "A great museum must face history, including by looking back at the history of our owns institutions," she told AFP in an interview in April. Also Read | France to return Klimt painting looted by Nazis to Holocaust victim She was instrumental in the French government's decision for the Orsay to hand back a Gustav Klimt painting, "Roses", to the heirs of its previous owner Nora Stiasny. The Nazis had stolen it from her in Vienna in 1938. Under Des Cars's leadership, the museum's 2019 exhibition "Black Models: From Gericault to Matisse" explored racial and social issues through the representation of black figures in visual arts. Also Read | Paris's Louvre museum closes over staff coronavirus fears A museum's shows should reflect "the big issues in society, and thus attract new generations" of visitors "of all ages and from all social-cultural backgrounds", she told AFP. Des Cars, who comes from a family of writers and journalists, will in September succeed Jean-Luc Martinez, the current Louvre chief who is credited with making the museum more accessible and less elitist. He was rewarded by a record annual visitor number of over 10 million in 2019 before COVID-19 restrictions reduced visits to a trickle. Also Read | Paris' Louvre museum visitors fell by three quarters in 2020 due to COVID crisis The Louvre, best known as the home of the Mona Lisa, is the world's largest art museum. It opened in 1793 in the aftermath of the French Revolution, with an exhibition of just over 500 paintings. It now owns hundreds of thousands of pieces of art, with less than 10 per cent of the total on permanent display.

Laurence des Cars: World's biggest museum Louvre to have woman boss for first time in its history

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.