British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year. 
 
"I hope that we get a deal, it's up to our friends," he told the BBC, after the two sides concluded a week of talks with warnings that serious differences were holding up agreement by a mid-October deadline. 
 
"They've done a (free trade) deal with Canada of a kind that we want, why shouldn't they do it with us?" Johnson said. 
 
"We're so near, we've been (EU) members for 45 years. It's all there, it's just up to them," he added, insisting there was "every chance to get a deal" if the EU were "common-sensical".

The British government is concerned&nbsp;that time was running out for a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union before a mid-October deadline.

Britain's chief negotiator David Frost said on Friday&nbsp;"outlines of an agreement are visible" in many areas but there was "limited progress" on fair competition and state subsidy rules, and a deal on fisheries looked "impossible" without EU movement.

"I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council (EU summit) on 15 October," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-eu-takes-legal-action-against-uk-over-internal-market-bill-331695" hreflang="en">Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill</a>

The European Union launched a legal case against the United Kingdom on Thursday for undercutting their earlier divorce deal and a senior UK minister said differences remained in talks on a post-Brexit&nbsp;trade agreement.

Controversy over the UK's new Internal Market Bill has thrown the tortuous&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;process into a fresh crisis while disagreements over corporate subsidies, fisheries and ways to solve disputes are overshadowing parallel trade negotiations.

"We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill by the end of September," the head of the EU's executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen said. "The deadline lapsed yesterday."

With London not budging, she said the Commission started a so-called infringement, an EU legal procedure against countries that violate the bloc's laws, while continuing to work towards implementing the divorce deal, or Withdrawal Agreement.

he United Kingdom says its nations cannot trade freely with each other after&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;if there is no new trade deal with the EU without breaking the divorce deal provisions on the sensitive Irish border. A government spokesman said on Thursday it had made that clear.

The EU is adamant, however, that it would not implement any new UK deal as long as London undermines the divorce treaty.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year. "I hope that we get a deal, it's up to our friends," he told the BBC, after the two sides concluded a week of talks with warnings that serious differences were holding up agreement by a mid-October deadline. "They've done a (free trade) deal with Canada of a kind that we want, why shouldn't they do it with us?" Johnson said. "We're so near, we've been (EU) members for 45 years. It's all there, it's just up to them," he added, insisting there was "every chance to get a deal" if the EU were "common-sensical". The British government is concerned that time was running out for a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union before a mid-October deadline. Britain's chief negotiator David Frost said on Friday "outlines of an agreement are visible" in many areas but there was "limited progress" on fair competition and state subsidy rules, and a deal on fisheries looked "impossible" without EU movement. "I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council (EU summit) on 15 October," he added. Also read: Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill The European Union launched a legal case against the United Kingdom on Thursday for undercutting their earlier divorce deal and a senior UK minister said differences remained in talks on a post-Brexit trade agreement. Controversy over the UK's new Internal Market Bill has thrown the tortuous Brexit process into a fresh crisis while disagreements over corporate subsidies, fisheries and ways to solve disputes are overshadowing parallel trade negotiations. "We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill by the end of September," the head of the EU's executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen said. "The deadline lapsed yesterday." With London not budging, she said the Commission started a so-called infringement, an EU legal procedure against countries that violate the bloc's laws, while continuing to work towards implementing the divorce deal, or Withdrawal Agreement. he United Kingdom says its nations cannot trade freely with each other after Brexit if there is no new trade deal with the EU without breaking the divorce deal provisions on the sensitive Irish border. A government spokesman said on Thursday it had made that clear. The EU is adamant, however, that it would not implement any new UK deal as long as London undermines the divorce treaty.

UK PM Johnson says Brexit trade deal 'up to European Union'

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a possible contender for the upcoming Nobel&nbsp;Peace Prize award.

The WHO is an agency of the United Nations set up in 1948 to improve health globally. It has more than 7,000 people working in 150 country offices, six regional offices and its Geneva headquarters.

The organization's&nbsp;director-general,&nbsp;currently the Ethiopian Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,&nbsp;is elected for a five-year term. Tedros' five-year term began on July 1, 2017.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-world-health-organisation-must-answer-these-hard-questions-in-its-coronavirus-inquiry-300191">The World Health Organisation must answer these hard questions in its coronavirus inquiry</a>

WHO has been accused of botching its response to the pandemic that emerged in China and being too close to Beijing.

The United States formally started its withdrawal from the WHO in July, making good on Trump's threats to deprive the&nbsp;organisation&nbsp;of its top donor.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-nominated-for-nobel-peace-prize-2021-following-israel-uae-deal-326247">US President Donald Trump nominated for Nobel Peace Prize 2021 following Israel-UAE deal</a>

Against the backdrop of Trump's criticisms, WHO member states in May agreed a resolution calling for an "impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation... to review experience gained and lessons learned from the WHO-coordinated international&nbsp;health&nbsp;response" to the pandemic.

The WHO's stated aim is "to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable".

It has no power to impose health policies on national governments, but acts as an adviser and offers guidance on best practice in disease prevention and health improvement.

The WHO has 194 member states: every country except Liechtenstein which is a member of the United Nations but not of its global health agency. They appoint representatives to The World Health Assembly, which convenes annually and sets WHO policies. These policies are implemented by the WHO's Executive Board, composed of members technically qualified in health.

The winner of the $1 million prize, arguably the world's top accolade, will be announced in Oslo on October 9.

The Nobel Peace Prize Award Ceremony will take place in Oslo on December 10.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a possible contender for the upcoming Nobel Peace Prize award. The WHO is an agency of the United Nations set up in 1948 to improve health globally.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a possible contender for the upcoming Nobel Peace Prize award. The WHO is an agency of the United Nations set up in 1948 to improve health globally. It has more than 7,000 people working in 150 country offices, six regional offices and its Geneva headquarters. The organization's director-general, currently the Ethiopian Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, is elected for a five-year term. Tedros' five-year term began on July 1, 2017. Also read: The World Health Organisation must answer these hard questions in its coronavirus inquiry WHO has been accused of botching its response to the pandemic that emerged in China and being too close to Beijing. The United States formally started its withdrawal from the WHO in July, making good on Trump's threats to deprive the organisation of its top donor. Also read: US President Donald Trump nominated for Nobel Peace Prize 2021 following Israel-UAE deal Against the backdrop of Trump's criticisms, WHO member states in May agreed a resolution calling for an "impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation... to review experience gained and lessons learned from the WHO-coordinated international health response" to the pandemic. The WHO's stated aim is "to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable". It has no power to impose health policies on national governments, but acts as an adviser and offers guidance on best practice in disease prevention and health improvement. The WHO has 194 member states: every country except Liechtenstein which is a member of the United Nations but not of its global health agency. They appoint representatives to The World Health Assembly, which convenes annually and sets WHO policies. These policies are implemented by the WHO's Executive Board, composed of members technically qualified in health. The winner of the $1 million prize, arguably the world's top accolade, will be announced in Oslo on October 9. The Nobel Peace Prize Award Ceremony will take place in Oslo on December 10.

World Health Organization possible contender for Nobel Peace Prize

President Donald Trump’s announcement on Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus has raised many questions about what the infection could mean for the health of America’s top leader.

In a statement, the president’s physician said Trump, who is 74, was “well” but did not say whether he was experiencing symptoms. He said the president would stay isolated in the White House for now.

Here is what we know about how the virus could affect people with his general profile.

Older men are at greater risk of becoming seriously sick

Older men are up to twice as likely to die from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, as women of the same age are, according to an analysis by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Another study, published in Nature in August, found that this was because men produce a weaker immune response than do women.

The potential for needing hospitalization rises after the age of 50, said Raina MacIntyre, who heads the biosecurity program at the Kirby Institute of the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.

Obesity poses another risk factor for dying — particularly among men, according to an analysis of thousands of patients treated at a Southern California health system.

“If you don’t know anything about Donald Trump, just knowing that he’s a male, over 70, and appears to be overweight, right away, you can say he’s in the high-risk group,” said Michael Baker, a professor with the department of global health at the University of Otago in Wellington who is an adviser to the New Zealand government.

Still, many people his age have recovered from COVID-19

Even though the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, most people who contract it get well quickly with minimal symptoms.

“The good news is that even people who have a number of risk factors, on average, do well,” Baker said. “Only a minority have illness and severe consequences.”

“A lot of people his age who get COVID are actually fine,” said Benjamin Cowling, head of the division of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Hong Kong.

The outcome could be complicated if Trump has certain underlying health conditions, which researchers widely agree pose a risk of serious illness.

Trump, White House officials and his doctor have maintained in recent months that the president was in good health. But Trump loves cheeseburgers and does not exercise much, aside from playing golf. In June, Trump’s doctor said the president weighed 244 pounds, which makes him obese.

“If he doesn’t have diabetes, high blood pressure or any long-term illness, then the outcome probably won’t be severe,” said David Hui, the director of the Stanley Ho Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

It’s hard to say how long it would take for Trump to recover

Experts agree that the next week will be critical in determining the course of Trump’s illness.

If Trump does not develop symptoms, antibodies will appear 10 days after the onset of illness and he will recover, according to Hui at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has said that “the good news about COVID-19” is that about 40 per cent&nbsp;of those who get infected never develop symptoms.

Current estimates suggest that symptoms, if they appear, could do so as soon as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus.

If Trump develops mild symptoms such as a cough, fever or shortness of breath, it could take him a week to recover. A severe illness, which could mean developing lung lesions and pneumonia, could require hospitalization, possible ventilation and months of treatment.

“You couldn’t put a specific time on it,” said Dominic Dwyer, a medical virologist at the University of Sydney. “Irrespective of what one thinks about politics, you wouldn’t wish this on anyone.”

Treatment will depend on the severity of his illness

Experts agree that Trump’s treatment regimen will depend on whether he develops symptoms in the coming days.

As long as he has no symptoms, or limited symptoms, maintaining a comfortable environment in which he can be isolated for 14 days and be regularly assessed by doctors would suffice.

There is, of course, no cure yet for COVID-19. But if Trump develops pneumonia and respiratory failure and other signs of a more serious condition, a number of treatments that have been used widely by doctors and nurses would be available to him.

Remdesivir, an antiviral drug designed to treat both hepatitis and a common respiratory virus, has shown to be useful for treating severely ill patients. A steroid called dexamethasone has also reduced mortality in such patients, according to scientists at the University of Oxford.

President Donald Trump’s announcement on Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus has raised many questions about what the infection could mean for the health of America’s top leader.

President Donald Trump’s announcement on Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus has raised many questions about what the infection could mean for the health of America’s top leader. In a statement, the president’s physician said Trump, who is 74, was “well” but did not say whether he was experiencing symptoms. He said the president would stay isolated in the White House for now. Here is what we know about how the virus could affect people with his general profile. Older men are at greater risk of becoming seriously sick Older men are up to twice as likely to die from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, as women of the same age are, according to an analysis by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Another study, published in Nature in August, found that this was because men produce a weaker immune response than do women. The potential for needing hospitalization rises after the age of 50, said Raina MacIntyre, who heads the biosecurity program at the Kirby Institute of the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. Obesity poses another risk factor for dying — particularly among men, according to an analysis of thousands of patients treated at a Southern California health system. “If you don’t know anything about Donald Trump, just knowing that he’s a male, over 70, and appears to be overweight, right away, you can say he’s in the high-risk group,” said Michael Baker, a professor with the department of global health at the University of Otago in Wellington who is an adviser to the New Zealand government. Still, many people his age have recovered from COVID-19 Even though the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, most people who contract it get well quickly with minimal symptoms. “The good news is that even people who have a number of risk factors, on average, do well,” Baker said. “Only a minority have illness and severe consequences.” “A lot of people his age who get COVID are actually fine,” said Benjamin Cowling, head of the division of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Hong Kong. The outcome could be complicated if Trump has certain underlying health conditions, which researchers widely agree pose a risk of serious illness. Trump, White House officials and his doctor have maintained in recent months that the president was in good health. But Trump loves cheeseburgers and does not exercise much, aside from playing golf. In June, Trump’s doctor said the president weighed 244 pounds, which makes him obese. “If he doesn’t have diabetes, high blood pressure or any long-term illness, then the outcome probably won’t be severe,” said David Hui, the director of the Stanley Ho Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. It’s hard to say how long it would take for Trump to recover Experts agree that the next week will be critical in determining the course of Trump’s illness. If Trump does not develop symptoms, antibodies will appear 10 days after the onset of illness and he will recover, according to Hui at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has said that “the good news about COVID-19” is that about 40 per cent of those who get infected never develop symptoms. Current estimates suggest that symptoms, if they appear, could do so as soon as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. If Trump develops mild symptoms such as a cough, fever or shortness of breath, it could take him a week to recover. A severe illness, which could mean developing lung lesions and pneumonia, could require hospitalization, possible ventilation and months of treatment. “You couldn’t put a specific time on it,” said Dominic Dwyer, a medical virologist at the University of Sydney. “Irrespective of what one thinks about politics, you wouldn’t wish this on anyone.” Treatment will depend on the severity of his illness Experts agree that Trump’s treatment regimen will depend on whether he develops symptoms in the coming days. As long as he has no symptoms, or limited symptoms, maintaining a comfortable environment in which he can be isolated for 14 days and be regularly assessed by doctors would suffice. There is, of course, no cure yet for COVID-19. But if Trump develops pneumonia and respiratory failure and other signs of a more serious condition, a number of treatments that have been used widely by doctors and nurses would be available to him. Remdesivir, an antiviral drug designed to treat both hepatitis and a common respiratory virus, has shown to be useful for treating severely ill patients. A steroid called dexamethasone has also reduced mortality in such patients, according to scientists at the University of Oxford.

Trump has the coronavirus. What risks does he face?

Russian journalists working for two state-owned media outlets are among the first to be offered the new Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine outside of the framework of a clinical trial.

The measure comes after&nbsp;Russian Deputy Communications Minister Alexei Volin noted that&nbsp;journalists are a part of&nbsp;a ''high risk group'' that are contracting the novel virus.

Russia&nbsp;began vaccinating members of the general public seen at high risk of coronavirus infection earlier this month, while separately launching a large-scale trial. So far about 400 people have received the jabs under that scheme, the health ministry said this week.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-you-want-to-know-about-russias-coronavirus-vaccine-sputnik-v-319775">All you want to know about Russia's coronavirus vaccine 'Sputnik V'</a>

The government last month published a list of jobs considered high risk, which included health workers, journalists and teachers.

With hundreds of potential COVID-19 vaccines in various stages of development around the world,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;was the first country to license its vaccine for public use and alongside China has been deploying the shots before full efficacy trials are complete.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-second-covid-19-vaccine-trials-complete-epivaccorona-331610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-russia-these-covid-19-vaccines-set-to-unveil-soon-319760">After Russia, these COVID-19 vaccines set to unveil soon!</a>

Two journalists at the state-run RIA news agency and two at the&nbsp;Russian state television holding company VGTRK, which operates&nbsp;Russia-1 and&nbsp;Russia-24 news channels, said they had been offered a COVID-19 shot on a voluntary basis.

One of the RIA journalists said his impression was that the majority of his colleagues had declined the offer. One of the VGTRK journalists also said many of his colleagues declined.

The RIA news agency confirmed the inoculation program. "We granted employees who constantly work from the office (not remotely), at events, and in the field, the option to receive a Sputnik V vaccination," it said in a statement.

RIA did not say how many employees received the vaccine and VGTRK did not respond to a request for comment. Both companies employ hundreds of people.

At RIA and VGTRK headquarters in Moscow, media workers who spoke to Reuters said they had a basic medical check-up and coronavirus PCR and antibody tests.

In an interview, the chief scientist behind the vaccine's development said people vaccinated outside of a trial undergo a less rigorous medical examination, though they can submit additional health data via an online platform.

At the time of its registration, the vaccine had been tested officially on fewer than 100 volunteers as part of early-stage clinical trials. Late stage trials began last month, with the first volunteer of a 40,000-strong cohort vaccinated on September&nbsp;9.

Russian journalists working for two state-owned media outlets are among the first to be offered the new Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine outside of the framework of a clinical trial.

Russian journalists working for two state-owned media outlets are among the first to be offered the new Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine outside of the framework of a clinical trial. The measure comes after Russian Deputy Communications Minister Alexei Volin noted that journalists are a part of a ''high risk group'' that are contracting the novel virus. Russia began vaccinating members of the general public seen at high risk of coronavirus infection earlier this month, while separately launching a large-scale trial. So far about 400 people have received the jabs under that scheme, the health ministry said this week. Also see: All you want to know about Russia's coronavirus vaccine 'Sputnik V' The government last month published a list of jobs considered high risk, which included health workers, journalists and teachers. With hundreds of potential COVID-19 vaccines in various stages of development around the world, Russia was the first country to license its vaccine for public use and alongside China has been deploying the shots before full efficacy trials are complete. Also see: After Russia, these COVID-19 vaccines set to unveil soon! Two journalists at the state-run RIA news agency and two at the Russian state television holding company VGTRK, which operates Russia-1 and Russia-24 news channels, said they had been offered a COVID-19 shot on a voluntary basis. One of the RIA journalists said his impression was that the majority of his colleagues had declined the offer. One of the VGTRK journalists also said many of his colleagues declined. The RIA news agency confirmed the inoculation program. "We granted employees who constantly work from the office (not remotely), at events, and in the field, the option to receive a Sputnik V vaccination," it said in a statement. RIA did not say how many employees received the vaccine and VGTRK did not respond to a request for comment. Both companies employ hundreds of people. At RIA and VGTRK headquarters in Moscow, media workers who spoke to Reuters said they had a basic medical check-up and coronavirus PCR and antibody tests. In an interview, the chief scientist behind the vaccine's development said people vaccinated outside of a trial undergo a less rigorous medical examination, though they can submit additional health data via an online platform. At the time of its registration, the vaccine had been tested officially on fewer than 100 volunteers as part of early-stage clinical trials. Late stage trials began last month, with the first volunteer of a 40,000-strong cohort vaccinated on September 9.

Russian state journalists among first to receive Sputnik V vaccine

Ireland's Supreme Court has ruled that bread sold by the fast food chain Subway contains so much sugar that it cannot be legally defined as bread.

The ruling came in a tax dispute brought by Bookfinders Limited, an Irish Subway franchisee, which argued that some of its takeaway products, including teas, coffees and heated sandwiches, were not liable for value-added tax.

A panel of judges rejected the appeal Tuesday, ruling that the bread sold by Subway contains too much sugar to be categorized as a ''staple food,''&nbsp;which is not taxed.

''There is no dispute that the bread supplied by Subway in its heated sandwiches has a sugar content of 10% of the weight of the flour included in the dough, and thus exceeds the 2 per cent&nbsp;specified,''&nbsp;the judgement read.

The law makes a distinction between ''bread as a staple food,&nbsp;and other baked goods, which are, or approach, confectionery or fancy baked goods,''&nbsp;the judgement said.

Bookfinders was appealing a 2006 decision by authorities who refused to refund value-added tax payments. Lower courts had dismissed the case before it reached the Supreme Court.

Ireland's Supreme Court has ruled that bread sold by the fast food chain Subway contains so much sugar that it cannot be legally defined as bread. The ruling came in a tax dispute brought by Bookfinders Limited, an Irish Subway franchisee, which argued that some of its takeaway products, including teas, coffees and heated sandwiches, were not liable for value-added tax.

Ireland's Supreme Court has ruled that bread sold by the fast food chain Subway contains so much sugar that it cannot be legally defined as bread. The ruling came in a tax dispute brought by Bookfinders Limited, an Irish Subway franchisee, which argued that some of its takeaway products, including teas, coffees and heated sandwiches, were not liable for value-added tax. A panel of judges rejected the appeal Tuesday, ruling that the bread sold by Subway contains too much sugar to be categorized as a ''staple food,'' which is not taxed. ''There is no dispute that the bread supplied by Subway in its heated sandwiches has a sugar content of 10% of the weight of the flour included in the dough, and thus exceeds the 2 per cent specified,'' the judgement read. The law makes a distinction between ''bread as a staple food, and other baked goods, which are, or approach, confectionery or fancy baked goods,'' the judgement said. Bookfinders was appealing a 2006 decision by authorities who refused to refund value-added tax payments. Lower courts had dismissed the case before it reached the Supreme Court.

Here is why an Irish court ruled Subway bread 'is not a bread'

The internet exploded with memes after US President Donald Trump tested positive for the fatal coronavirus on Friday.

Netizens couldn't help but recall the time when Trump had called downplayed the severeness of COVID-19, calling it&nbsp; a ''hoax'' and compared it to the flu. He refused to wear facemasks initially but took a u-turn after facing criticism.

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BUT...IT'S A HOAX AND WILL MAGICALLY DISAPPEAR!!! CAN YOU SAY...CLOROX? <a href="https://t.co/6LIcMAuW4Z">pic.twitter.com/6LIcMAuW4Z</a>
— TRUMP'S GOTTA GOOOOOO 😷🌊🇺🇸 (@isitreallysin) <a href="https://twitter.com/isitreallysin/status/1311974558799458305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Many called the announcement a ''mere excuse'' of escaping the second presidential debate against his Democratic rival Joe Biden.&nbsp;Earlier, on Thursday night's debate, the president predicted that the end of the pandemic was in sight.

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That's a nice way to save you ass from next debate.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/LtxZY9vtzw">pic.twitter.com/LtxZY9vtzw</a>
— Umair (@Umair56097041) <a href="https://twitter.com/Umair56097041/status/1311899726644736000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Can’t handle any war of any kind <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DebateDodger?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DebateDodger</a> <a href="https://t.co/L8rBt4XYSM">pic.twitter.com/L8rBt4XYSM</a>
— NonyaBiz! 🏳️‍🌈 (@LSD122070) <a href="https://twitter.com/LSD122070/status/1311962405942026240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One Twitter user said that coronavirus was defeating Trump by 19-0.

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COVID 19 
TRUMP 0<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpHasCovid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpHasCovid</a>
— Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) <a href="https://twitter.com/harikondabolu/status/1311912178375557120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump: *says the virus is fake* 
Covid: <a href="https://t.co/sHATzGXIlR">pic.twitter.com/sHATzGXIlR</a>
— Dezirae 👻 (@dezirae29) <a href="https://twitter.com/dezirae29/status/1311904568402350083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The president,&nbsp;who is tested regularly for COVID-19, has kept up a rigorous travel schedule across the country in recent weeks, holding rallies with thousands of people in the run-up to the November&nbsp;3 election, despite warnings from public health professionals against having events with large crowds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-wife-melania-test-positive-for-coronavirus-world-leaders-wish-speedy-recovery-331890" hreflang="en">Trump, wife Melania test positive for COVID; world leaders wish fast recovery</a>

Trump has come under sharp criticism for his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States alone. The president has, however, touted his management of the crisis as one of the best in the world.

The internet exploded with memes after US President Donald Trump tested positive for the fatal coronavirus on Friday. Netizens couldn't help but recall the time when Trump had called downplayed the severeness of COVID-19, calling it a ''hoax'' and compared it to the flu.

The internet exploded with memes after US President Donald Trump tested positive for the fatal coronavirus on Friday. Netizens couldn't help but recall the time when Trump had called downplayed the severeness of COVID-19, calling it a ''hoax'' and compared it to the flu. He refused to wear facemasks initially but took a u-turn after facing criticism. BUT...IT'S A HOAX AND WILL MAGICALLY DISAPPEAR!!! CAN YOU SAY...CLOROX? pic.twitter.com/6LIcMAuW4Z — TRUMP'S GOTTA GOOOOOO 😷🌊🇺🇸 (@isitreallysin) October 2, 2020 × Many called the announcement a ''mere excuse'' of escaping the second presidential debate against his Democratic rival Joe Biden. Earlier, on Thursday night's debate, the president predicted that the end of the pandemic was in sight. That's a nice way to save you ass from next debate.#DonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/LtxZY9vtzw — Umair (@Umair56097041) October 2, 2020 × Can’t handle any war of any kind #DebateDodger pic.twitter.com/L8rBt4XYSM — NonyaBiz! 🏳️‍🌈 (@LSD122070) October 2, 2020 × One Twitter user said that coronavirus was defeating Trump by 19-0. COVID 19 TRUMP 0#TrumpHasCovid — Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) October 2, 2020 × Trump: *says the virus is fake* Covid: pic.twitter.com/sHATzGXIlR — Dezirae 👻 (@dezirae29) October 2, 2020 × The president, who is tested regularly for COVID-19, has kept up a rigorous travel schedule across the country in recent weeks, holding rallies with thousands of people in the run-up to the November 3 election, despite warnings from public health professionals against having events with large crowds. Also read: Trump, wife Melania test positive for COVID; world leaders wish fast recovery Trump has come under sharp criticism for his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States alone. The president has, however, touted his management of the crisis as one of the best in the world.

Internet explodes with memes after Trump, who called COVID-19 a 'hoax', tests positive

Polish divers say they have found the wreck of a German World War Two ship which may help solve a decades-old mystery, the whereabouts of the Amber Room, an ornate chamber from a tsarist palace in Russia that was looted by the Nazis.

Decorated with amber and gold, the Amber Room was part of the Catherine Palace near St Petersburg, but was last seen in Koenigsberg, then a Baltic port city in Germany but now the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.

It was from Koenigsberg that the Karlsruhe steamer set sail in 1945 with a heavy cargo, before being sunk by Soviet warplanes off the coast of Poland.

Divers from the Baltictech group say they have found the wreck of the Karlsruhe.

“We have been looking for the wreckage since last year when we realised there could be the most interesting, undiscovered story lying at the bottom of the Baltic Sea,” diver Tomasz Stachura said in a statement.

“It is practically intact. In its holds, we discovered military vehicles, porcelain and many crates with contents still unknown.”

The Karlsruhe had been taking part in Operation Hannibal, one of the largest sea evacuations in history which helped more than one million German troops and civilians from East Prussia escape the Soviet advance towards the end of World War Two.

Documentation from the time suggests the boat left Koenigsberg in a hurry, with a large cargo and 1,083 people on board.

“All this, put together, stimulates the human imagination. Finding the German steamer and the crates with contents as yet unknown resting on the bottom of the Baltic Sea may be significant for the whole story,” said diver Tomasz Zwara.

The Amber Room was constructed in Prussia and then given to Tsar Peter the Great of Russia in 1716 as a present.

The Germans dismantled it and took it to Koenigsberg during the war where it then disappeared during Allied bombing raids on the city. Many believe it was destroyed. Russian craftsmen have constructed a replica Amber Room in the Catherine Palace.

Polish divers say they have found the wreck of a German World War Two ship which may help solve a decades-old mystery, the whereabouts of the Amber Room, an ornate chamber from a tsarist palace in Russia that was looted by the Nazis.

Polish divers say they have found the wreck of a German World War Two ship which may help solve a decades-old mystery, the whereabouts of the Amber Room, an ornate chamber from a tsarist palace in Russia that was looted by the Nazis. Decorated with amber and gold, the Amber Room was part of the Catherine Palace near St Petersburg, but was last seen in Koenigsberg, then a Baltic port city in Germany but now the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. It was from Koenigsberg that the Karlsruhe steamer set sail in 1945 with a heavy cargo, before being sunk by Soviet warplanes off the coast of Poland. Divers from the Baltictech group say they have found the wreck of the Karlsruhe. “We have been looking for the wreckage since last year when we realised there could be the most interesting, undiscovered story lying at the bottom of the Baltic Sea,” diver Tomasz Stachura said in a statement. “It is practically intact. In its holds, we discovered military vehicles, porcelain and many crates with contents still unknown.” The Karlsruhe had been taking part in Operation Hannibal, one of the largest sea evacuations in history which helped more than one million German troops and civilians from East Prussia escape the Soviet advance towards the end of World War Two. Documentation from the time suggests the boat left Koenigsberg in a hurry, with a large cargo and 1,083 people on board. “All this, put together, stimulates the human imagination. Finding the German steamer and the crates with contents as yet unknown resting on the bottom of the Baltic Sea may be significant for the whole story,” said diver Tomasz Zwara. The Amber Room was constructed in Prussia and then given to Tsar Peter the Great of Russia in 1716 as a present. The Germans dismantled it and took it to Koenigsberg during the war where it then disappeared during Allied bombing raids on the city. Many believe it was destroyed. Russian craftsmen have constructed a replica Amber Room in the Catherine Palace.

Nazi shipwreck found off Poland may solve Amber Room treasure mystery

Nine people were killed and 14 have been hospitalised as a series of forest fires swept through part of the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk, the emergency service said on Thursday.

The fires, assisted by strong wind, threatened 31 settlements and engulfed an area of about 11,000 hectares the service said in a statement, adding that 120 people had been evacuated.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/greece-thousands-of-migrants-become-homeless-after-fire-destroys-europes-largest-camp-327372">Greece: Thousands of migrants become homeless after fire destroys Europe's largest camp</a>

Ukraine&nbsp;has sent 1,200 firefighters to battle the blaze which officials in one village near the frontline said was detonating unexploded shells previously fired over by pro-Russian separatists.

Investigators were trying to determine the cause of the fire that has forced the evacuation of more than a hundred residents from nearby villages since it broke out on Wednesday following unusually hot weather.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oregon-wildfires-nearly-500000-evacuated-amid-climate-change-warning-326996">Oregon wildfires: Nearly 500,000 evacuated amid climate change warning</a>

More than 20 villages were under threat from the fire, fanned by dry conditions and strong winds.

The fire was blazing just a few kilometres from an area where fighting between Kiev forces and Russian-backed separatists erupts sporadically.

A ceasefire brokered two months ago has largely held and the authorities have not said whether the fire has affected the fighting.

Local officials in one village near the frontline, Stanytsa Luganska, said that numerous unexploded shells fired over by Russia-backed separatists were detonating due to the high temperature of the fire, threatening firefighters and local residents.

Regional officials said they had temporarily closed a crossing point into separatist-held territory due to the approaching fire.

The Ukrainian presidency said in a statement that it was important to establish what started the fire and how it had spread so quickly.

Ukraine&nbsp;has been hit by unprecedented heat waves this year, fuelling fires that are hard to bring under control.

"This is not the best year for our country in terms of natural disasters and other tragedies,"&nbsp;Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said at a briefing on Thursday.

In July, forest fires in the Lugansk region killed five people and injured around 30.

Scientists predict that climate change will increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as catastrophic fires.

Fires in April ravaged more than 66,000 hectares in the exclusion zone around Chernobyl in northern&nbsp;Ukraine, the scene of one of the world's worst nuclear accidents in 1986.

Nine people were killed and 14 have been hospitalised as a series of forest fires swept through part of the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk, the emergency service said on Thursday.

Nine people were killed and 14 have been hospitalised as a series of forest fires swept through part of the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk, the emergency service said on Thursday. The fires, assisted by strong wind, threatened 31 settlements and engulfed an area of about 11,000 hectares the service said in a statement, adding that 120 people had been evacuated. Also see: Greece: Thousands of migrants become homeless after fire destroys Europe's largest camp Ukraine has sent 1,200 firefighters to battle the blaze which officials in one village near the frontline said was detonating unexploded shells previously fired over by pro-Russian separatists. Investigators were trying to determine the cause of the fire that has forced the evacuation of more than a hundred residents from nearby villages since it broke out on Wednesday following unusually hot weather. Also read: Oregon wildfires: Nearly 500,000 evacuated amid climate change warning More than 20 villages were under threat from the fire, fanned by dry conditions and strong winds. The fire was blazing just a few kilometres from an area where fighting between Kiev forces and Russian-backed separatists erupts sporadically. A ceasefire brokered two months ago has largely held and the authorities have not said whether the fire has affected the fighting. Local officials in one village near the frontline, Stanytsa Luganska, said that numerous unexploded shells fired over by Russia-backed separatists were detonating due to the high temperature of the fire, threatening firefighters and local residents. Regional officials said they had temporarily closed a crossing point into separatist-held territory due to the approaching fire. The Ukrainian presidency said in a statement that it was important to establish what started the fire and how it had spread so quickly. Ukraine has been hit by unprecedented heat waves this year, fuelling fires that are hard to bring under control. "This is not the best year for our country in terms of natural disasters and other tragedies," Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said at a briefing on Thursday. In July, forest fires in the Lugansk region killed five people and injured around 30. Scientists predict that climate change will increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as catastrophic fires. Fires in April ravaged more than 66,000 hectares in the exclusion zone around Chernobyl in northern Ukraine, the scene of one of the world's worst nuclear accidents in 1986.

Nine killed, 14 hospitalised in forest fires blazing in eastern Ukraine

A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Thursday ordered the seizure of assets of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his failure to appear in the Toshakhana graft case, days after he was declared an absconder in the matter that allegedly caused a heavy loss to the national exchequer.

An anti-corruption court on September 9 indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yusuf Raza Gillani, while declared Sharif an absconder in the case.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-high-court-slams-nawaz-sharif-for-failing-to-appear-before-court-331684" hreflang="en">Pakistan High Court slams Nawaz Sharif for failing to appear before court</a>

The Islamabad-based accountability court was hearing the case filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which submitted a detailed record of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo's movable and immovable properties.

The accountability Judge Asghar Ali ordered the authorities to freeze Sharif's national and international bank accounts and seize his 206 acres of agricultural land in Lahore and 12.75 acres in Sheikhupura, as well as his house in Murree in Punjab province.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-push-for-nawaz-sharifs-deportation-from-uk-331398" hreflang="en">Pakistan government to push for Nawaz Sharif's deportation from UK</a>

Two tractors and cars that the 70-year-old leader allegedly obtained from the Toshakhana (state gift depository) after paying 15 per cent of the price are also included among assets the court has ordered to seize.

The Toshakhana graft case is about alleged relaxation of rules by Gilani, 68, for the benefit of Zardari, 65, and Sharif to buy vehicles gifted by foreign countries.

Sharif is accused of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house by paying just 15 per cent of the price of these vehicles.

imilarly, Zardari and Gilani, are also accused of receiving luxury vehicles and gifts from the treasure house.

The court had issued non-bailable arrest warrant against Sharif in the case in June and the next month directed the Foreign Office to execute the arrest warrants through the Pakistan High Commission in London.

Last month, the court declared him a proclaimed offender after he failed to present himself before the court as he is in London for treatment for several health complications.

He went abroad after securing bail for medical treatment in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case and the Al Azizia case.

His Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party in a meeting on Tuesday asked him to stay there until the completion of his treatment.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Imran Khan asked relevant authorities to take steps to bring back Sharif from London and to ensure that the former premier faces the corruption cases pending against him in various Pakistani courts.

The three-time premier, his daughter Maryam and son-in-law Muhammad Safdar were convicted in the Avenfield properties case on July 6, 2018. Sharif was also sentenced to seven years in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in December 2018. But Sharif was bailed out in both cases and also allowed to go to London for medical treatment.

In November last year, Sharif was allowed to travel abroad for his treatment, while Maryam had to stay behind ?till further orders?. 
In May, a picture of Sharif having tea at a London cafe along with his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on the seriousness of his health condition.

The Pakistan government came under further criticism when last month Sharif's photos surfaced online, showing him strolling in a street, prompting calls from within the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to bring him back.&nbsp;

A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Thursday ordered the seizure of assets of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his failure to appear in the Toshakhana graft case, days after he was declared an absconder in the matter that allegedly caused a heavy loss to the national exchequer.

A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Thursday ordered the seizure of assets of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his failure to appear in the Toshakhana graft case, days after he was declared an absconder in the matter that allegedly caused a heavy loss to the national exchequer. An anti-corruption court on September 9 indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yusuf Raza Gillani, while declared Sharif an absconder in the case. Also read: Pakistan High Court slams Nawaz Sharif for failing to appear before court The Islamabad-based accountability court was hearing the case filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which submitted a detailed record of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo's movable and immovable properties. The accountability Judge Asghar Ali ordered the authorities to freeze Sharif's national and international bank accounts and seize his 206 acres of agricultural land in Lahore and 12.75 acres in Sheikhupura, as well as his house in Murree in Punjab province. Also read: Pakistan government to push for Nawaz Sharif's deportation from UK Two tractors and cars that the 70-year-old leader allegedly obtained from the Toshakhana (state gift depository) after paying 15 per cent of the price are also included among assets the court has ordered to seize. The Toshakhana graft case is about alleged relaxation of rules by Gilani, 68, for the benefit of Zardari, 65, and Sharif to buy vehicles gifted by foreign countries. Sharif is accused of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house by paying just 15 per cent of the price of these vehicles. imilarly, Zardari and Gilani, are also accused of receiving luxury vehicles and gifts from the treasure house. The court had issued non-bailable arrest warrant against Sharif in the case in June and the next month directed the Foreign Office to execute the arrest warrants through the Pakistan High Commission in London. Last month, the court declared him a proclaimed offender after he failed to present himself before the court as he is in London for treatment for several health complications. He went abroad after securing bail for medical treatment in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case and the Al Azizia case. His Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party in a meeting on Tuesday asked him to stay there until the completion of his treatment. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Imran Khan asked relevant authorities to take steps to bring back Sharif from London and to ensure that the former premier faces the corruption cases pending against him in various Pakistani courts. The three-time premier, his daughter Maryam and son-in-law Muhammad Safdar were convicted in the Avenfield properties case on July 6, 2018. Sharif was also sentenced to seven years in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in December 2018. But Sharif was bailed out in both cases and also allowed to go to London for medical treatment. In November last year, Sharif was allowed to travel abroad for his treatment, while Maryam had to stay behind ?till further orders?. In May, a picture of Sharif having tea at a London cafe along with his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on the seriousness of his health condition. The Pakistan government came under further criticism when last month Sharif's photos surfaced online, showing him strolling in a street, prompting calls from within the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to bring him back.

Pak court orders seizure of Nawaz Sharif's assets in Toshakhana graft case

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the breakthrough, which comes after several weeks of talks between military officials from the two alliance members.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

The two NATO members agreed to the talks after a standoff over gas exploration in contested waters led to a dramatic ramping-up of tensions, stoking fears that conflict could erupt, perhaps by accident.

"Following a series of technical meetings between the military representatives of Greece and Turkey at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, a bilateral military de-confliction mechanism was established on Thursday," NATO said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The mechanism is designed to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the Eastern Mediterranean. It includes the creation of a hotline between Greece and Turkey, to facilitate de-confliction at sea or in the air."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a>

Tensions between Greece and Turkey have eased somewhat in the last couple of weeks and the two governments have agreed to begin exploratory talks to resolve their dispute.

Stoltenberg thanked both sides for their "constructive engagement".

"This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute and we stand ready to develop it further," Stoltenberg said.

The announcement of the breakthrough came as EU leaders began tough summit talks on their relations with Turkey.

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said.

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the breakthrough, which comes after several weeks of talks between military officials from the two alliance members. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes The two NATO members agreed to the talks after a standoff over gas exploration in contested waters led to a dramatic ramping-up of tensions, stoking fears that conflict could erupt, perhaps by accident. "Following a series of technical meetings between the military representatives of Greece and Turkey at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, a bilateral military de-confliction mechanism was established on Thursday," NATO said in a statement. "The mechanism is designed to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the Eastern Mediterranean. It includes the creation of a hotline between Greece and Turkey, to facilitate de-confliction at sea or in the air." Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea Tensions between Greece and Turkey have eased somewhat in the last couple of weeks and the two governments have agreed to begin exploratory talks to resolve their dispute. Stoltenberg thanked both sides for their "constructive engagement". "This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute and we stand ready to develop it further," Stoltenberg said. The announcement of the breakthrough came as EU leaders began tough summit talks on their relations with Turkey.

Greece, Turkey set up hotline to avoid clashes in Eastern Mediterranean, says NATO

Sri Lanka's social mediascape is ablaze following what has been termed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IshiniGate?src=hashtag_click">#IshiniGate</a>, a fundraiser organized on behalf of Sri Lanka's Easter attack victims.

The fundraiser organised by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ishiniw/">Ishini Weerasinghe</a>, a Sri Lankan expat currently residing in Canada has become the subject of much debate after donors charging Weerasinghe of siphoning nearly $82,882 in amassed funds.

Donors charge that Weerasinghe who is also a famed instagram influencer has failed to provide any tangible proof on the dispersion of the amassed funds raised on behalf of Sri Lanka's Easter attack victims following the lapse of one and a half years.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IshiniGate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IshiniGate</a> — update 1: Just got off the phone with Parish priest of Katuwapitiya who said he doesn’t recall being approached by a donor by name of Ishini Weerasinghe; but agreed to double check &amp; revert ASAP. Now we wait.
— Crystal Koelmeyer (@crysxkoel) <a href="https://twitter.com/crysxkoel/status/1310104479644090368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Someone who organizes financial donations in and from Canada for folks in Sri Lanka also just shared their most recent receipt. Even further proof that you do, in fact, get receipts for donating in Sri Lanka, even if it's as simple as this paper receipt that's dated and signed. <a href="https://t.co/zWcXtLqUyp">pic.twitter.com/zWcXtLqUyp</a>
— Mathusha (@thushaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/thushaa/status/1310055662622257157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The fundraiser on <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/sri-lanka039s-6-bombing-attacks">gofundme.com</a> was created on 21 April 2019.

According to several updates on her fundraising campaign, Weerasinghe claims to have withdrawn the funds amounting to approximately 15 million sri lankan rupees in mid-June 2019.

She also claims that she faced several issues with regards to the disbursal of funds due to the church politics in sri lanka and various other obstacles.

Weerasinghe also claims that she has entrusted the collection of recipts to an individual, which according to her may serve as proof of the funds being genuinely distributed among Sri Lanka's easter attack victims.

However, individual clarifications on fund disbursan, particularly in the negombo parish, have turned up to the disappointment of many who supported ishni weerasinghe's initiative on gofundme.Com.

Ishni Weerasinghe has also been accused of misusing her fame in order to dupe and manipulate unsuspecting individuals.

Up against the overwhelming accusations against her, ishni weerasinghe has thus far not yet been able to provide any concrete proof regarding the disbursal of funds through her fundraising campaign for sri lanka's easter attack victims and their families.

The Catholic church in Sri Lanka meanwhile has not issues a clarification or expressed its opinion in this regard.

Sri Lanka's social mediascape is ablaze following what has been termed #IshiniGate, a fundraiser organized on behalf of Sri Lanka's Easter attack victims. The fundraiser organised by Ishini Weerasinghe, a Sri Lankan expat currently residing in Canada has become the subject of much debate after donors charging Weerasinghe of siphoning nearly $82,882 in amassed funds.

Sri Lanka's social mediascape is ablaze following what has been termed #IshiniGate, a fundraiser organized on behalf of Sri Lanka's Easter attack victims. The fundraiser organised by Ishini Weerasinghe, a Sri Lankan expat currently residing in Canada has become the subject of much debate after donors charging Weerasinghe of siphoning nearly $82,882 in amassed funds. Donors charge that Weerasinghe who is also a famed instagram influencer has failed to provide any tangible proof on the dispersion of the amassed funds raised on behalf of Sri Lanka's Easter attack victims following the lapse of one and a half years. #IshiniGate — update 1: Just got off the phone with Parish priest of Katuwapitiya who said he doesn’t recall being approached by a donor by name of Ishini Weerasinghe; but agreed to double check & revert ASAP. Now we wait. — Crystal Koelmeyer (@crysxkoel) September 27, 2020 × Someone who organizes financial donations in and from Canada for folks in Sri Lanka also just shared their most recent receipt. Even further proof that you do, in fact, get receipts for donating in Sri Lanka, even if it's as simple as this paper receipt that's dated and signed. pic.twitter.com/zWcXtLqUyp — Mathusha (@thushaa) September 27, 2020 × The fundraiser on gofundme.com was created on 21 April 2019. According to several updates on her fundraising campaign, Weerasinghe claims to have withdrawn the funds amounting to approximately 15 million sri lankan rupees in mid-June 2019. She also claims that she faced several issues with regards to the disbursal of funds due to the church politics in sri lanka and various other obstacles. Weerasinghe also claims that she has entrusted the collection of recipts to an individual, which according to her may serve as proof of the funds being genuinely distributed among Sri Lanka's easter attack victims. However, individual clarifications on fund disbursan, particularly in the negombo parish, have turned up to the disappointment of many who supported ishni weerasinghe's initiative on gofundme.Com. Ishni Weerasinghe has also been accused of misusing her fame in order to dupe and manipulate unsuspecting individuals. Up against the overwhelming accusations against her, ishni weerasinghe has thus far not yet been able to provide any concrete proof regarding the disbursal of funds through her fundraising campaign for sri lanka's easter attack victims and their families. The Catholic church in Sri Lanka meanwhile has not issues a clarification or expressed its opinion in this regard.

#IshiniGate: Sri Lankan influencer accused of siphoning $82,000 raised for Easter attack victims

India's factory activity expanded at its fastest pace in over eight years in September as a relaxation in coronavirus lockdown restrictions drove a surge in demand and output, a private survey showed on Thursday, though layoffs continued.

Signs of recovery are welcome news for Asia's third-largest economy, which has registered a coronavirus recovery rate at a whopping high of 83.53 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-recovery-rate-improves-as-daily-cases-keep-rising-rapidly-331650" hreflang="en">India’s recovery rate improves as daily cases keep rising rapidly</a>

The Nikkei Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index, compiled by IHS Markit, jumped to 56.8 in September from 52.0 in August, above the 50-level separating growth from contraction for a second straight month. It was the highest reading since January 2012.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-jumps-450-points-nifty-above-11350-as-bank-331620" hreflang="en">Sensex jumps 450 points, Nifty above 11,350 as bank</a>

"The&nbsp;Indian manufacturing industry continued to move in the right direction, with PMI data for September highlighting many positives. Due to loosened COVID-19 restrictions, factories went full steam ahead for production, supported by a surge in new work," noted Pollyanna De Lima, economics associate director at IHS Markit.

"While uncertainty about the COVID-19 pandemic remains, producers can at least for now enjoy the recovery."

A sub-index tracking output hit its highest since December 2007 and new orders expanded at the sharpest pace since February 2012, helped by both domestic and foreign demand which grew for the first time in seven months.

Although input prices increased at a slower rate in September, manufacturers raised their selling prices after having cut them since March to secure sales.

Despite the significant rebound, firms cut staff for the sixth month in a row. Coronavirus-related distortions have already made millions jobless.

The sector is unlikely to get much support from the Reserve Bank of&nbsp;India&nbsp;over the coming months as persistently high inflation is expected to force the RBI to remain on the sidelines.

The RBI early this week postponed a policy committee meeting that was slated for Sept.29-Oct. 1 and said it would be rescheduled. It did not give a reason for the move.

Still, business optimism about the coming 12 months hit its highest since August 2016.

India's factory activity expanded at its fastest pace in over eight years in September as a relaxation in coronavirus lockdown restrictions drove a surge in demand and output, a private survey showed on Thursday, though layoffs continued.

India's factory activity expanded at its fastest pace in over eight years in September as a relaxation in coronavirus lockdown restrictions drove a surge in demand and output, a private survey showed on Thursday, though layoffs continued. Signs of recovery are welcome news for Asia's third-largest economy, which has registered a coronavirus recovery rate at a whopping high of 83.53 per cent. Also read: India’s recovery rate improves as daily cases keep rising rapidly The Nikkei Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index, compiled by IHS Markit, jumped to 56.8 in September from 52.0 in August, above the 50-level separating growth from contraction for a second straight month. It was the highest reading since January 2012. Also read: Sensex jumps 450 points, Nifty above 11,350 as bank "The Indian manufacturing industry continued to move in the right direction, with PMI data for September highlighting many positives. Due to loosened COVID-19 restrictions, factories went full steam ahead for production, supported by a surge in new work," noted Pollyanna De Lima, economics associate director at IHS Markit. "While uncertainty about the COVID-19 pandemic remains, producers can at least for now enjoy the recovery." A sub-index tracking output hit its highest since December 2007 and new orders expanded at the sharpest pace since February 2012, helped by both domestic and foreign demand which grew for the first time in seven months. Although input prices increased at a slower rate in September, manufacturers raised their selling prices after having cut them since March to secure sales. Despite the significant rebound, firms cut staff for the sixth month in a row. Coronavirus-related distortions have already made millions jobless. The sector is unlikely to get much support from the Reserve Bank of India over the coming months as persistently high inflation is expected to force the RBI to remain on the sidelines. The RBI early this week postponed a policy committee meeting that was slated for Sept.29-Oct. 1 and said it would be rescheduled. It did not give a reason for the move. Still, business optimism about the coming 12 months hit its highest since August 2016.

India's September factory activity grew at fastest pace in over eight years

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