Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region.

Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer"&nbsp;to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan.&nbsp;"We look forward to following up on that discussion,"&nbsp;she said.

The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously.

It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. 
Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this.

The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel.

"I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift,"&nbsp;said Lee.

The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15.

Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF).

The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions.

Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here.

The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base.

"For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again,"&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors.

The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity.

The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen

Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016.

This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement.

It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents.

Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests"&nbsp;in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives.

Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part"&nbsp;of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity.

"The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow,"&nbsp;she said.

The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development.

Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments.

Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts.

"Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement.

The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone.

A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties.

The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence.

There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions.

The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).

Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others.

In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage.

The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand".

"Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. 
"By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region,"&nbsp;it said.

Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets.

Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport.

The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks.

"Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. 
Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions.

The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart

Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement.

"Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity. Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region. Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer" to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan. "We look forward to following up on that discussion," she said. The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously. It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this. The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel. "I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift," said Lee. The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15. Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF). The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions. Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here. The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base. "For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again," he said. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors. The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity. The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016. This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement. It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents. Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests" in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives. Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part" of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity. "The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow," she said. The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development. Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments. Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts. "Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement. The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone. A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties. The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence. There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions. The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others. In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage. The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand". "Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. "By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region," it said. Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets. Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport. The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks. "Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions. The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement. "Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore offers tanker aircraft to US for Afghan evacuation as VP Harris holds talks with PM Lee

At least 8 people, including two children, were killed after Hurricane Grace pummelled eastern Mexico on Sunday, causing floods, mudslides, and wrecking homes.

The storm, blowing at maximum sustained winds of 125 miles (200 kilometres) per hour, made landfall in Mexico for the second time near Tecolutla in&nbsp;Veracruz state.

The state government said among the eight people killed, 6 belonged to a single-family. Among the deceased include a young girl who was killed by a mudslide that hit her home.

While an adult was killed by a collapsed roof in Poza Rica city, further north in the state, Veracruz governor Cuitlahuac Garcia told a news conference.

“The state of emergency has not ended," Reuters quoted Garcia as saying.

Local television showed severe flooding in Xalapa, with coffins from a local business floating down a waterlogged street. The nearby River Actopan burst its banks, shutting down a local highway, the officials said.

Some flights were cancelled at Mexico international airport due to the hurricane. The Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) national power utility reported 565,000 electricity users were affected by outages.

However, Grace fizzled quickly as it moved inland over the central highlands.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, Hurricane Grace battered Mexico's Caribbean coast, downing trees and resulting in power outages for nearly 7,00,000 people. However, no loss of life was reported, authorities said.

At least 8 people, including two children, were killed after Hurricane Grace pummelled eastern Mexico on Sunday, causing floods, mudslides, and wrecking homes. The storm, blowing at maximum sustained winds of 125 miles (200 kilometres) per hour, made landfall in Mexico for the second time near Tecolutla in Veracruz state.

At least 8 people, including two children, were killed after Hurricane Grace pummelled eastern Mexico on Sunday, causing floods, mudslides, and wrecking homes. The storm, blowing at maximum sustained winds of 125 miles (200 kilometres) per hour, made landfall in Mexico for the second time near Tecolutla in Veracruz state. The state government said among the eight people killed, 6 belonged to a single-family. Among the deceased include a young girl who was killed by a mudslide that hit her home. While an adult was killed by a collapsed roof in Poza Rica city, further north in the state, Veracruz governor Cuitlahuac Garcia told a news conference. “The state of emergency has not ended," Reuters quoted Garcia as saying. Local television showed severe flooding in Xalapa, with coffins from a local business floating down a waterlogged street. The nearby River Actopan burst its banks, shutting down a local highway, the officials said. Some flights were cancelled at Mexico international airport due to the hurricane. The Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) national power utility reported 565,000 electricity users were affected by outages. However, Grace fizzled quickly as it moved inland over the central highlands. Earlier in the week, Hurricane Grace battered Mexico's Caribbean coast, downing trees and resulting in power outages for nearly 7,00,000 people. However, no loss of life was reported, authorities said.

8, including 2 kids, killed after Hurricane Grace batters Mexico

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul.

Taliban spokesperson&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news.

“Our political officials met with leaders here in Kabul, their views are important, discussions are moving, InshaAllah, there is hope for an announcement on the government soon,” Mujahid was quoted as saying.

The announcement on the government formation comes even as thousands of Afghan locals try to flee the conflict-ridden state, fearing a harsher Islamic law, similar to the one imposed by the Taliban regime around two decades ago.

The situation has turned so worse that seven people were killed near the Kabul airport during the evacuation process.

Earlier on Saturday, members of the Taliban’s political office met with a number of politicians, including former president Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, the head of High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), in Kabul to hold discussions on “the overall political situation” in the state.&nbsp;

Abdullah Abdullah in a Facebook post later confirmed the meeting with the Taliban leaders, saying that the discussions were focused on the formation of an inclusive government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-dispatch-18-commercial-aircraft-to-lift-us-citizens-vulnerable-afghans-from-kabul-407644">Also read |&nbsp;US to dispatch 18 commercial aircraft to lift US citizens, ‘vulnerable’ Afghans from Kabul</a>

However, some Afghan political leaders criticized the way the discussions are being held.

“I don’t see this game as a good one because it looks like a game of individuals, everyone tries to promote himself and does not show respect for&nbsp;the Afghans,” Sayed Eshaq Gailani, the head of the Nahzat-e-Hambastagi Afghanistan party, said.

Meanwhile, Atta Mohammad Noor, the former governor of Balkh, said the next government will not be acceptable if it is not inclusive.

“The war has not ended, we have a long way to go, we will test them (the Taliban), we will emerge again ... either to resolve it through an inclusive government or war,” Noor said.

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news.

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news. “Our political officials met with leaders here in Kabul, their views are important, discussions are moving, InshaAllah, there is hope for an announcement on the government soon,” Mujahid was quoted as saying. The announcement on the government formation comes even as thousands of Afghan locals try to flee the conflict-ridden state, fearing a harsher Islamic law, similar to the one imposed by the Taliban regime around two decades ago. The situation has turned so worse that seven people were killed near the Kabul airport during the evacuation process. Earlier on Saturday, members of the Taliban’s political office met with a number of politicians, including former president Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, the head of High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), in Kabul to hold discussions on “the overall political situation” in the state. Abdullah Abdullah in a Facebook post later confirmed the meeting with the Taliban leaders, saying that the discussions were focused on the formation of an inclusive government. Also read | US to dispatch 18 commercial aircraft to lift US citizens, ‘vulnerable’ Afghans from Kabul However, some Afghan political leaders criticized the way the discussions are being held. “I don’t see this game as a good one because it looks like a game of individuals, everyone tries to promote himself and does not show respect for the Afghans,” Sayed Eshaq Gailani, the head of the Nahzat-e-Hambastagi Afghanistan party, said. Meanwhile, Atta Mohammad Noor, the former governor of Balkh, said the next government will not be acceptable if it is not inclusive. “The war has not ended, we have a long way to go, we will test them (the Taliban), we will emerge again ... either to resolve it through an inclusive government or war,” Noor said.

Taliban to soon form new government in Afghanistan

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages. The US National Hurricane Center said in its 11:00 am (1500 GMT) advisory that Henri was 15 miles (25 kilometers) southeast of Montauk Point in New York state.

The storm, earlier downgraded from a hurricane, was heading east towards Rhode Island where it was due to hit land early afternoon, the center said. Forecasters warned of heavy rainfall and the risk of surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, packing maximum sustained winds of 60 miles per hour, down from 75 mph earlier.

"There's still a lot to worry about. We're not out of harm's way," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters Sunday morning. As the surface layer of oceans warms due to climate change, cyclones are becoming more powerful and carry more water, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities, scientists say. Storm surges amplified by rising seas can be especially devastating and forecasters warned Henri could bring surges of up to five feet in coastal areas.

A swath of the northeastern coastline, including New York City, was under alert as the storm approached. If Henri is upgraded again then it would be the first hurricane to hit New England in 30 years. On Long Island, home to the plush Hamptons villages where wealthy New Yorkers retreat in summer, some residents made last-minute rushes to boarded-up convenience stores to stock up on water and other supplies. But roads were generally quiet as residents prepared to ride out the storm at home.

"We know we're going to get tail-whipped by this thing," said Amy Pedatella, a 46-year-old property manager who spent Saturday securing seaside homes in the Hamptons. Nasty weather that preceded Henri late Saturday forced New York City to halt a star-studded Central Park concert billed as a "homecoming" for a metropolis hard hit by the pandemic.

The approaching then-hurricane had prompted Cuomo to announce a state of emergency and the deployment of 500 National Guard soldiers in anticipation of response efforts. Henri was anticipated to miss New York City by several miles, but still caused tropical storm conditions overnight. The National Weather Service said 1.94 inches of rain fell on Central Park between 10 pm and 11 pm Saturday, the wettest hour on record in New York City. An announcer cut off pop legend Barry Manilow mid-song to urge revelers to proceed swiftly but calmly to the nearest exit.

"I guess for safety it makes sense. I mean I can hear the thunder," said attendee Maria Fuentes.

'Dangerous'

The NHC warned of "a dangerous storm surge, hurricane conditions and flooding" in areas of southern New England and Long Island. Henri is expected to produce three to six inches of rain (7.5 to 15 centimeters) across the region, with isolated maximum totals near 10 inches, the NHC warned.

The heavy rainfall "may result in considerable flash, urban, and small stream flooding" as well as river flooding. High winds are expected to knock out electricity for hundreds of thousands of people across the region and delay countless flights. Officials in New England -- which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont -- have warned people to get ready.

The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991. That storm killed at least 17 people. It has been almost a decade since such severe weather threatened the region. "The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City. The last hurricane to make landfall in Long Island was Gloria in 1985. The warnings have reignited memories of Hurricane Sandy, a more powerful storm that knocked out power for much of Manhattan and flooded subways in 2012. The US PGA Tour postponed the final round of the Northern Trust tournament in suburban New York to Monday because of Henri.

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages.

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages. The US National Hurricane Center said in its 11:00 am (1500 GMT) advisory that Henri was 15 miles (25 kilometers) southeast of Montauk Point in New York state. The storm, earlier downgraded from a hurricane, was heading east towards Rhode Island where it was due to hit land early afternoon, the center said. Forecasters warned of heavy rainfall and the risk of surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, packing maximum sustained winds of 60 miles per hour, down from 75 mph earlier. "There's still a lot to worry about. We're not out of harm's way," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters Sunday morning. As the surface layer of oceans warms due to climate change, cyclones are becoming more powerful and carry more water, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities, scientists say. Storm surges amplified by rising seas can be especially devastating and forecasters warned Henri could bring surges of up to five feet in coastal areas. A swath of the northeastern coastline, including New York City, was under alert as the storm approached. If Henri is upgraded again then it would be the first hurricane to hit New England in 30 years. On Long Island, home to the plush Hamptons villages where wealthy New Yorkers retreat in summer, some residents made last-minute rushes to boarded-up convenience stores to stock up on water and other supplies. But roads were generally quiet as residents prepared to ride out the storm at home. "We know we're going to get tail-whipped by this thing," said Amy Pedatella, a 46-year-old property manager who spent Saturday securing seaside homes in the Hamptons. Nasty weather that preceded Henri late Saturday forced New York City to halt a star-studded Central Park concert billed as a "homecoming" for a metropolis hard hit by the pandemic. The approaching then-hurricane had prompted Cuomo to announce a state of emergency and the deployment of 500 National Guard soldiers in anticipation of response efforts. Henri was anticipated to miss New York City by several miles, but still caused tropical storm conditions overnight. The National Weather Service said 1.94 inches of rain fell on Central Park between 10 pm and 11 pm Saturday, the wettest hour on record in New York City. An announcer cut off pop legend Barry Manilow mid-song to urge revelers to proceed swiftly but calmly to the nearest exit. "I guess for safety it makes sense. I mean I can hear the thunder," said attendee Maria Fuentes. 'Dangerous' The NHC warned of "a dangerous storm surge, hurricane conditions and flooding" in areas of southern New England and Long Island. Henri is expected to produce three to six inches of rain (7.5 to 15 centimeters) across the region, with isolated maximum totals near 10 inches, the NHC warned. The heavy rainfall "may result in considerable flash, urban, and small stream flooding" as well as river flooding. High winds are expected to knock out electricity for hundreds of thousands of people across the region and delay countless flights. Officials in New England -- which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont -- have warned people to get ready. The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991. That storm killed at least 17 people. It has been almost a decade since such severe weather threatened the region. "The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City. The last hurricane to make landfall in Long Island was Gloria in 1985. The warnings have reignited memories of Hurricane Sandy, a more powerful storm that knocked out power for much of Manhattan and flooded subways in 2012. The US PGA Tour postponed the final round of the Northern Trust tournament in suburban New York to Monday because of Henri.

Tropical Storm Henri bears down on US east coast

In northwest Nigeria, 15 high school students were released by bandits after their parents were forced to pay an undisclosed ransom to free them, officials said on Sunday.

The 15 students are among the 100 students who were kidnapped on July 5 from the Bethel Baptist High School in Kaduna.

Kaduna state`s commissioner for internal security, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed the release but declined to comment on the ransom payment.

“The students are already being released and would be handed over to their parents any moment from now,” School administrator Reverend John Hayab told Reuters.

Earlier, Hayab said the abductors were seeking 1 million naira (Rs 1.8 lakh approx) per student.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-bans-twitter-indefinitely-after-muhammadu-buharis-account-suspension-389533">Also read |&nbsp;Nigeria bans Twitter 'indefinitely' after Muhammadu Buhari's account suspension</a>

In July, the kidnappers released 28 children from the school following the release of the first group of 28, two days after the raid. Around 80 had remained in captivity before Sunday’s release.

Since December, armed bandits have abducted more than 1,000 students from schools in northwest Nigeria seeking ransom. Due to high levels of threat, Kaduna state schools remain closed, reports Reuters.

President Muhammadu Buhari in February called on state governments to stop paying bandits. But desperate parents and communities often raise and pay ransoms themselves.

In northwest Nigeria, 15 high school students were released by bandits after their parents were forced to pay an undisclosed ransom to free them, officials said on Sunday.

In northwest Nigeria, 15 high school students were released by bandits after their parents were forced to pay an undisclosed ransom to free them, officials said on Sunday. The 15 students are among the 100 students who were kidnapped on July 5 from the Bethel Baptist High School in Kaduna. Kaduna state`s commissioner for internal security, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed the release but declined to comment on the ransom payment. “The students are already being released and would be handed over to their parents any moment from now,” School administrator Reverend John Hayab told Reuters. Earlier, Hayab said the abductors were seeking 1 million naira (Rs 1.8 lakh approx) per student. Also read | Nigeria bans Twitter 'indefinitely' after Muhammadu Buhari's account suspension In July, the kidnappers released 28 children from the school following the release of the first group of 28, two days after the raid. Around 80 had remained in captivity before Sunday’s release. Since December, armed bandits have abducted more than 1,000 students from schools in northwest Nigeria seeking ransom. Due to high levels of threat, Kaduna state schools remain closed, reports Reuters. President Muhammadu Buhari in February called on state governments to stop paying bandits. But desperate parents and communities often raise and pay ransoms themselves.

Bandits release 15 high school students after parents pay ransom in northwest Nigeria

The United States will be sending 18 commercial planes to expedite the evacuation process, President Joe Biden said on Sunday.

The latest decision comes in the backdrop of Washington facing difficulty in carrying out the evacuation of US citizens and vulnerable Afghan citizens, who are fearful of the Taliban regime.

“The aircraft would not fly into Kabul but, would be used to carry people who have already been flown out of Afghanistan,” Reuters quoted Pentagon spokesman John Kirby as saying.

He asserted that it was only the beginning of the evacuation program, hinting that more commercial aircraft could be used.

Among the airlines that would be dispatched to Kabul include American Airlines, Atlas Air, Delta Air Lines and Omni Air would provide three aircraft each, two from Hawaiian Airlines, and four from United Airlines.

Kirby said in a statement that the Department of Defence “does not anticipate a major impact to commercial flights from this activation.”

There is also increasing concern about security in Kabul, where roughly 5,800 troops are protecting the airport.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday the United States has “secured the capacity to get large numbers of Americans safe passage through the airport and onto the airfield” in Afghanistan.

The United States will be sending 18 commercial planes to expedite the evacuation process, President Joe Biden said on Sunday. The latest decision comes in the backdrop of Washington facing difficulty in carrying out the evacuation of US citizens and vulnerable Afghan citizens, who are fearful of the Taliban regime.

The United States will be sending 18 commercial planes to expedite the evacuation process, President Joe Biden said on Sunday. The latest decision comes in the backdrop of Washington facing difficulty in carrying out the evacuation of US citizens and vulnerable Afghan citizens, who are fearful of the Taliban regime. “The aircraft would not fly into Kabul but, would be used to carry people who have already been flown out of Afghanistan,” Reuters quoted Pentagon spokesman John Kirby as saying. He asserted that it was only the beginning of the evacuation program, hinting that more commercial aircraft could be used. Among the airlines that would be dispatched to Kabul include American Airlines, Atlas Air, Delta Air Lines and Omni Air would provide three aircraft each, two from Hawaiian Airlines, and four from United Airlines. Kirby said in a statement that the Department of Defence “does not anticipate a major impact to commercial flights from this activation.” There is also increasing concern about security in Kabul, where roughly 5,800 troops are protecting the airport. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday the United States has “secured the capacity to get large numbers of Americans safe passage through the airport and onto the airfield” in Afghanistan.

US to dispatch 18 commercial aircraft to lift US citizens, ‘vulnerable’ Afghans from Kabul

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday said the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan would directly impact the security situation in Russia, while adding that he does not want Afghanistan militants arriving under the guise of refugees, local Russian media reported.

"Does that mean that they can be sent without visas to those countries, to our neighbours, while they themselves (the West) don't want to take them without visas?"&nbsp;TASS news agency quoted Putin as saying.

"Why is there such a humiliating approach to solving the problem?"&nbsp;he added.

His remarks came days after Putin demanded the countries to stop interfering in Afghanistan, saying the west “must stop the irresponsible policy of imposing foreign values from abroad”.

The Russian president said he hoped the Taliban would “guarantee the security of locals and foreign diplomats” and that the country would not break apart after the withdrawal of US-led forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/russia-says-anti-taliban-forces-are-gathering-north-of-kabul-406947">Also read |&nbsp;Russia says anti-Taliban forces are gathering north of Kabul</a>

Despite several western countries decrying the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, some regional countries like Russia&nbsp;and China&nbsp;have been attempting&nbsp;to establish formal relations with the militia group.

Recently, Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov declared that the Taliban are the “de facto” authority in the restive country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday said the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan would directly impact the security situation in Russia, while adding that he does not want Afghanistan militants arriving under the guise of refugees, local Russian media reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday said the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan would directly impact the security situation in Russia, while adding that he does not want Afghanistan militants arriving under the guise of refugees, local Russian media reported. "Does that mean that they can be sent without visas to those countries, to our neighbours, while they themselves (the West) don't want to take them without visas?" TASS news agency quoted Putin as saying. "Why is there such a humiliating approach to solving the problem?" he added. His remarks came days after Putin demanded the countries to stop interfering in Afghanistan, saying the west “must stop the irresponsible policy of imposing foreign values from abroad”. The Russian president said he hoped the Taliban would “guarantee the security of locals and foreign diplomats” and that the country would not break apart after the withdrawal of US-led forces. Also read | Russia says anti-Taliban forces are gathering north of Kabul Despite several western countries decrying the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, some regional countries like Russia and China have been attempting to establish formal relations with the militia group. Recently, Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov declared that the Taliban are the “de facto” authority in the restive country.

Don’t want Afghan militants in Russia, says Putin

A senior Taliban representative on Sunday blamed the United States for the chaotic situation at Kabul airport even as thousands of foreigners and Afghan nationals continued to throng the area in the hope of getting on board the evacuation flights.

“America, with all its power and facilities... has failed to bring order to the airport. There is peace and calm all over the country, but there is chaos only at Kabul airport," AFP quoted Taliban leader Amir Khan Mutaqi as saying.

Muttaqi was a higher education minister when the Taliban&nbsp;last ruled the country. He has been in touch with the Kabul leadership and former president Hamid Karzai after the Taliban took over Afghanistan.

For the past one week, Kabul airport has been witnessing desperate scenes with a large number of Afghan civilians and foreigners swamping the area in a desperate attempt to flee the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-takeover-of-afghanistan-a-us-backed-conspiracy-islamic-state-407284">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban takeover of Afghanistan a 'US-backed conspiracy': Islamic State</a>

While the US has been scrambling to expedite the evacuation process, the European Union admitted it was "impossible" to evacuate everyone at risk from the Taliban.

On Sunday, Britain's defence ministry said seven people had died in the crowds.

A journalist, who was among a group of fleeing media workers and academics fortunate enough to reach the airport, described desperate scenes of people surrounding their bus on the way in.

“They were showing us their passports and shouting ‘take us with you... please take us with you’,” AFP quoted the journalist as saying.

“The Taliban fighter in the truck ahead of us had to shoot in the air to make them go away,” the journalist said.

Britain’s Sky News on Saturday aired footage of at least three bodies covered in white tarpaulin outside the airport. It was not clear how they had died.

A senior Taliban representative on Sunday blamed the United States for the chaotic situation at Kabul airport even as thousands of foreigners and Afghan nationals continued to throng the area in the hope of getting on board the evacuation flights.

A senior Taliban representative on Sunday blamed the United States for the chaotic situation at Kabul airport even as thousands of foreigners and Afghan nationals continued to throng the area in the hope of getting on board the evacuation flights. “America, with all its power and facilities... has failed to bring order to the airport. There is peace and calm all over the country, but there is chaos only at Kabul airport," AFP quoted Taliban leader Amir Khan Mutaqi as saying. Muttaqi was a higher education minister when the Taliban last ruled the country. He has been in touch with the Kabul leadership and former president Hamid Karzai after the Taliban took over Afghanistan. For the past one week, Kabul airport has been witnessing desperate scenes with a large number of Afghan civilians and foreigners swamping the area in a desperate attempt to flee the country. Also read | Taliban takeover of Afghanistan a 'US-backed conspiracy': Islamic State While the US has been scrambling to expedite the evacuation process, the European Union admitted it was "impossible" to evacuate everyone at risk from the Taliban. On Sunday, Britain's defence ministry said seven people had died in the crowds. A journalist, who was among a group of fleeing media workers and academics fortunate enough to reach the airport, described desperate scenes of people surrounding their bus on the way in. “They were showing us their passports and shouting ‘take us with you... please take us with you’,” AFP quoted the journalist as saying. “The Taliban fighter in the truck ahead of us had to shoot in the air to make them go away,” the journalist said. Britain’s Sky News on Saturday aired footage of at least three bodies covered in white tarpaulin outside the airport. It was not clear how they had died.

Taliban blames US for ‘chaos’ at Kabul airport, says peace in rest of Afghanistan

A NATO official has said at least 20 people have lost their lives at Kabul airport during the evacuation process that began after the Taliban militants seized control of the capital city last week.

“The crisis outside the Kabul airport is unfortunate. Our focus is to evacuate all foreigners as soon as we can,” Reuters quoted the official, who didn’t wish to be named.

Large swathes of crowd have been gathering at the airport for the last one week in a last-ditched effort to fly out of the country amid fears of the return of stringent Sharia law the Taliban used to enforce when it was in power two decades ago.

Several western countries, including US, UK, had to suspend the evacuation process in the face of worsening security situation at the Taliban airport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ashraf-ghanis-brother-pledges-allegiance-to-taliban-report-407612">Also read |&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani's brother pledges allegiance to Taliban: Report</a>

“Our forces are maintaining strict distance from outer areas of the Kabul airport to prevent any clashes with the Taliban,” the NATO official added.

On Saturday, the United States and Germany told their citizens in Afghanistan to avoid travelling to Kabul airport, citing security risks.

Army major general William Taylor told a Pentagon briefing on Saturday that 5,800 US troops remain at the airport and that the facility “remains secure”. Taylor said some gates into the airport were temporarily closed and reopened over the past day to facilitate a safe influx of evacuees.

Australia ran four flights into Kabul on Saturday night, evacuating more than 300 people, including Australians, Afghan visa holders, New Zealanders, US and British citizens, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

&nbsp;

A NATO official has said at least 20 people have lost their lives at Kabul airport during the evacuation process that began after the Taliban militants seized control of the capital city last week.

A NATO official has said at least 20 people have lost their lives at Kabul airport during the evacuation process that began after the Taliban militants seized control of the capital city last week. “The crisis outside the Kabul airport is unfortunate. Our focus is to evacuate all foreigners as soon as we can,” Reuters quoted the official, who didn’t wish to be named. Large swathes of crowd have been gathering at the airport for the last one week in a last-ditched effort to fly out of the country amid fears of the return of stringent Sharia law the Taliban used to enforce when it was in power two decades ago. Several western countries, including US, UK, had to suspend the evacuation process in the face of worsening security situation at the Taliban airport. Also read | Ashraf Ghani's brother pledges allegiance to Taliban: Report “Our forces are maintaining strict distance from outer areas of the Kabul airport to prevent any clashes with the Taliban,” the NATO official added. On Saturday, the United States and Germany told their citizens in Afghanistan to avoid travelling to Kabul airport, citing security risks. Army major general William Taylor told a Pentagon briefing on Saturday that 5,800 US troops remain at the airport and that the facility “remains secure”. Taylor said some gates into the airport were temporarily closed and reopened over the past day to facilitate a safe influx of evacuees. Australia ran four flights into Kabul on Saturday night, evacuating more than 300 people, including Australians, Afghan visa holders, New Zealanders, US and British citizens, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

At least 20 died in a week during evacuation at Kabul airport: NATO official

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing.

“Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday.

However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-lithuanias-envoy-to-leave-beijing-over-taiwan-row-404881">Also read |&nbsp;China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row</a>

In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.”

The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult.

Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing.

However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision.

“While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement.

The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country. US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing. “Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday. However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”. Also read | China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.” The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult. Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing. However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision. “While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement. The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

US, Lithuania agree on ‘bilateral coordination action’ against China over Taiwan row

The Vatican has banned the former archbishop of Wroclaw in Poland from taking part in any public ceremonies, following his alleged role in “covering up” child sexual abuse cases in the church.

The move against retired Archbishop Marian Golebiewski, 83, was announced on Saturday by the Archdiocese of Wroclaw in western Poland. It was the latest case of alleged sexual abuse cover-up in predominantly Catholic Poland.

During the investigation, it was found that Golebiewski failed to give sufficient credence to sex abuse allegations from 1996 to 2013, the Vatican said.

“As a result, the 83-year-old was ordered to live in the spirit of penance and prayer,” Reuters quoted the Vatican as saying.

In a statement, the Vatican said he was banned from taking part in any public ceremonies and ordered to pay a “suitable sum” to a fund that helps the victims of abuse.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-experts-urge-vatican-to-end-child-sex-abuse-in-catholic-institutes-393012">Also read |&nbsp;UN experts urge Vatican to end child sex abuse in Catholic institutes</a>

The Church, which wields strong political influence in Poland, has been rocked by a series of abuse scandals in recent years.

The Vatican has sanctioned seven other Polish bishops accused of covering up abuses&nbsp;since last year.

Last month, the state committee on paedophilia, which was set up in 2019, revealed that about a third of the 345 child sexual abuse cases committed between 2017 and 2020 involved members of the clergy.

In its own report presented in June, the Polish church said it had received 368 allegations of abuse by clergy from July 2018 to 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Vatican has banned the former archbishop of Wroclaw in Poland from taking part in any public ceremonies, following his alleged role in “covering up” child sexual abuse cases in the church.

The Vatican has banned the former archbishop of Wroclaw in Poland from taking part in any public ceremonies, following his alleged role in “covering up” child sexual abuse cases in the church. The move against retired Archbishop Marian Golebiewski, 83, was announced on Saturday by the Archdiocese of Wroclaw in western Poland. It was the latest case of alleged sexual abuse cover-up in predominantly Catholic Poland. During the investigation, it was found that Golebiewski failed to give sufficient credence to sex abuse allegations from 1996 to 2013, the Vatican said. “As a result, the 83-year-old was ordered to live in the spirit of penance and prayer,” Reuters quoted the Vatican as saying. In a statement, the Vatican said he was banned from taking part in any public ceremonies and ordered to pay a “suitable sum” to a fund that helps the victims of abuse. Also read | UN experts urge Vatican to end child sex abuse in Catholic institutes The Church, which wields strong political influence in Poland, has been rocked by a series of abuse scandals in recent years. The Vatican has sanctioned seven other Polish bishops accused of covering up abuses since last year. Last month, the state committee on paedophilia, which was set up in 2019, revealed that about a third of the 345 child sexual abuse cases committed between 2017 and 2020 involved members of the clergy. In its own report presented in June, the Polish church said it had received 368 allegations of abuse by clergy from July 2018 to 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Vatican bans former Polish archbishop from public services for covering up child abuse

In the wake of worsening security situation at Kabul airport, Switzerland has decided to postpone a charter flight to Uzbekistan aimed at helping the evacuation effort from Afghanistan.

On Friday, Switzerland said it had organised a charter flight to Uzbekistan to expedite the evacuation of people from Afghanistan.

“The security situation around Kabul airport has worsened significantly in the last hours. A large number of people in front of the airport and sometimes violent confrontations are hindering access to the airport in Kabul,” Reuters quoted the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) as saying.

“Only a small number of people can currently be flown from Kabul to Tashkent. Since there is no need for evacuations from Tashkent at the moment, the FDFA has postponed the charter flight to the capital of Uzbekistan that was scheduled for today," it further said.

The US government has also issued an advisory asking its citizens in Afghanistan to refrain from travelling to Kabul airport citing “personal security threats.”

“Because of potential security threats outside the gates at the Kabul airport, we are advising US citizens to avoid travelling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a US government representative to do so,” the advisory said.

Meanwhile, France said it has evacuated over 570 people, including 407 Afghan citizens, from Kabul on its military aircraft since Monday.

US President Joe Biden said on Friday that about 13,000 people have been evacuated on US military aircraft since August 14.

In the wake of worsening security situation at Kabul airport, Switzerland has decided to postpone a charter flight to Uzbekistan aimed at helping the evacuation effort from Afghanistan.

In the wake of worsening security situation at Kabul airport, Switzerland has decided to postpone a charter flight to Uzbekistan aimed at helping the evacuation effort from Afghanistan. On Friday, Switzerland said it had organised a charter flight to Uzbekistan to expedite the evacuation of people from Afghanistan. “The security situation around Kabul airport has worsened significantly in the last hours. A large number of people in front of the airport and sometimes violent confrontations are hindering access to the airport in Kabul,” Reuters quoted the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) as saying. “Only a small number of people can currently be flown from Kabul to Tashkent. Since there is no need for evacuations from Tashkent at the moment, the FDFA has postponed the charter flight to the capital of Uzbekistan that was scheduled for today," it further said. The US government has also issued an advisory asking its citizens in Afghanistan to refrain from travelling to Kabul airport citing “personal security threats.” “Because of potential security threats outside the gates at the Kabul airport, we are advising US citizens to avoid travelling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a US government representative to do so,” the advisory said. Meanwhile, France said it has evacuated over 570 people, including 407 Afghan citizens, from Kabul on its military aircraft since Monday. US President Joe Biden said on Friday that about 13,000 people have been evacuated on US military aircraft since August 14.

Switzerland postpones evacuation plans as security at Kabul airport worsens

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Wionintern

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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