The Ukrainian forces are losing ground in Eastern Ukraine. Russia has intensified military operations in Severodonetsk. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has now made an appeal to Western allies to speed up arms deliveries. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine pleads for more arms to win the war

Ukraine&nbsp;has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;from Denmark and self-propelled&nbsp;howitzers&nbsp;from the United States,&nbsp;arms&nbsp;that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday.

"The coastal defence of our country will not only be strengthened by Harpoon&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;– they will be used by trained Ukrainian teams," Reznikov wrote on his Facebook page.

He said Harpoon shore-to-ship&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;would be operated alongside Ukrainian Neptune&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;to defend the coast, including the southern port of Odesa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-may-retreat-from-luhansk-says-regions-governor-482802">Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor</a>

Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa regional military administration in southern&nbsp;Ukraine, said in an online post that "so many Harpoons have been handed over to us that we can sink the entire Russian Black Sea Fleet. Why not?"

Last month the Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, sank after what&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;said was an anti-ship missile attack. Moscow says a fire sparked an ammunition blast.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine: Macron, Scholz hold talks with Putin, calls for peace talks

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After launching its invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;on Feb. 24, Russia imposed a naval blockade on Ukrainian ports, hampering vital grain exports. It has also used its Black Sea fleet to launch missile attacks.

Reznikov said&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had also received a range of heavy artillery pieces, including modified U.\S-made M109 self-propelled&nbsp;howitzers&nbsp;that will allow the Ukrainian military to strike targets from longer distances.

Ukraine&nbsp;says it wants to secure deliveries of US-made long-range M270 multiple-rocket launchers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-zelensky-says-situation-indescribably-difficult-in-donbas-and-kharkiv-483058">Ukraine crisis: Zelensky says situation 'indescribably difficult' in Donbas and Kharkiv</a>

President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;said&nbsp;Ukraine, working to boost weapons supplies, was approaching the point where it would outnumber the Russians technologically and in terms of its ability to strike.

"Of course, a lot depends on our partners and their readiness to provide&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;with everything necessary to protect freedom. And I expect&nbsp;good&nbsp;news&nbsp;on this next week," he said in a late-night video, without giving details.

Zelenskiy&nbsp;adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said late on Saturday that "the weapons we so desperately need will most likely be delivered soon."

Key will be a NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels in mid-June, attended by Reznikov, Arestovych said on social media television. "If the allies in the West do not delay ... then around June 20 the situation on the front will change greatly in our favour."

Russia says its forces are on a "special operation" to demilitarise&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and rid it of radical anti-Russian nationalists.&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and its allies call that a false pretext to for a war of aggression.

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Ukraine has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship missiles from Denmark and self-propelled howitzers from the United States, arms that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday.

Ukraine has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship missiles from Denmark and self-propelled howitzers from the United States, arms that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday. "The coastal defence of our country will not only be strengthened by Harpoon missiles – they will be used by trained Ukrainian teams," Reznikov wrote on his Facebook page. He said Harpoon shore-to-ship missiles would be operated alongside Ukrainian Neptune missiles to defend the coast, including the southern port of Odesa. Also read | Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa regional military administration in southern Ukraine, said in an online post that "so many Harpoons have been handed over to us that we can sink the entire Russian Black Sea Fleet. Why not?" Last month the Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, sank after what Ukraine said was an anti-ship missile attack. Moscow says a fire sparked an ammunition blast. Watch | Russian invasion of Ukraine: Macron, Scholz hold talks with Putin, calls for peace talks After launching its invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, Russia imposed a naval blockade on Ukrainian ports, hampering vital grain exports. It has also used its Black Sea fleet to launch missile attacks. Reznikov said Ukraine had also received a range of heavy artillery pieces, including modified U.\S-made M109 self-propelled howitzers that will allow the Ukrainian military to strike targets from longer distances. Ukraine says it wants to secure deliveries of US-made long-range M270 multiple-rocket launchers. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Zelensky says situation 'indescribably difficult' in Donbas and Kharkiv President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine, working to boost weapons supplies, was approaching the point where it would outnumber the Russians technologically and in terms of its ability to strike. "Of course, a lot depends on our partners and their readiness to provide Ukraine with everything necessary to protect freedom. And I expect good news on this next week," he said in a late-night video, without giving details. Zelenskiy adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said late on Saturday that "the weapons we so desperately need will most likely be delivered soon." Key will be a NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels in mid-June, attended by Reznikov, Arestovych said on social media television. "If the allies in the West do not delay ... then around June 20 the situation on the front will change greatly in our favour." Russia says its forces are on a "special operation" to demilitarise Ukraine and rid it of radical anti-Russian nationalists. Ukraine and its allies call that a false pretext to for a war of aggression. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine get missiles, howitzers as Zelensky expects good news on arms

Jammu and Kashmir Police, on Thursday, arrested three over-the-ground workers (OGWs) involved in smuggling arms and ammunition across Line of Control (LoC). Arm and ammunition was seized from them. In North Kashmir's Kupwara district, JK Police arrested three OGWs involved in arms traficking in the district.&nbsp;

Police had an Input about the module working for the terror organisations operating in the valley. Based on specific information, a police team of Karnah police station led by its Station House Officer Mudasir Ahmed under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Syed Majeed arrested the trio from different localities of the area.&nbsp;

"The trio identified as Mohammed Amir, son of Mohammed Shakoor Kalas, Nisar Ahmad, son of Manzoor Kalas, residents of Hajitra Karnah and Kafeel Ahmad, son of Late Abdul Rehman Bhat, a resident of Sudhpora Karnah during their custodial interrogation revealed that they are involved in smuggling of arms and ammunition from across the LoC to further make it available to the active terrorists operating in the Valley," said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

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The Police also recovered one Chinese pistol along with a magazine and 14 live cartridges from the arrested. Police also say that more recoveries and arrests are expected in coming days. A case under sections 7/25 IA Act, 13, 18, 23, 39 UA(P) Act has been registered.

Jammu and Kashmir Police, on Thursday, arrested three over-the-ground workers (OGWs) involved in smuggling arms and ammunition across Line of Control (LoC). Arm and ammunition was seized from them.

Jammu and Kashmir Police, on Thursday, arrested three over-the-ground workers (OGWs) involved in smuggling arms and ammunition across Line of Control (LoC). Arm and ammunition was seized from them. In North Kashmir's Kupwara district, JK Police arrested three OGWs involved in arms traficking in the district. Police had an Input about the module working for the terror organisations operating in the valley. Based on specific information, a police team of Karnah police station led by its Station House Officer Mudasir Ahmed under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Syed Majeed arrested the trio from different localities of the area. "The trio identified as Mohammed Amir, son of Mohammed Shakoor Kalas, Nisar Ahmad, son of Manzoor Kalas, residents of Hajitra Karnah and Kafeel Ahmad, son of Late Abdul Rehman Bhat, a resident of Sudhpora Karnah during their custodial interrogation revealed that they are involved in smuggling of arms and ammunition from across the LoC to further make it available to the active terrorists operating in the Valley," said Jammu and Kashmir Police. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × The Police also recovered one Chinese pistol along with a magazine and 14 live cartridges from the arrested. Police also say that more recoveries and arrests are expected in coming days. A case under sections 7/25 IA Act, 13, 18, 23, 39 UA(P) Act has been registered.

Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists

The British foreign secretary has called for doubling down on support for Ukraine against Russia in a major speech in London. Liz Truss urged the West to provide more support and NATO standard weapons to Ukraine.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: UK calls on 'doubling down' support to Ukraine

Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its 51st day and there is now a possible new dimension to this conflict. In the latest, Moscow has warned Washington against supplying arms to Ukraine, this after the American President Joe Biden had announced that United States would be sending 800 million dollars more of military assistance to Ukraine.

Russia warns US of 'unpredictable consequences' if it provides arms to Ukraine

A joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police busted a terror hideout and recovered a large cache of arms &amp; ammunition near a village along the Line of Control in Poonch district.&nbsp;

The Indian Army said that a search operation was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs, following which a team consisting of the Poonch Brigade of White Knight Corps and a special operations group (SOG) raided Noorkote village of Haveli tehsil on Sunday evening.

“On Apr 3, the alert troops of Indian Army and SOG, carried out a joint operation and recovered arms and ammunition from a village along Line of Control in district Poonch(J&amp;K),” said PRO Defence, Jammu.

He added that the search team seized two AK-47 rifles, two AK 47 magazines, one 223 bore AK shape gun with handgrip, two magazines of 233 bore AK shape gun, one Chinese Pistol, one Chinese pistol magazine, 63 AK-47 rounds, twenty rounds of 223 bore AK Shape gun and four Chinese pistol rounds. “

The security forces have said that the terrorists were planning to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir, which has been foiled by them.

Officials said that no arrests were made during the search operation.

A joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police busted a terror hideout and recovered a large cache of arms & ammunition near a village along the Line of Control in Poonch district.

A joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police busted a terror hideout and recovered a large cache of arms & ammunition near a village along the Line of Control in Poonch district. The Indian Army said that a search operation was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs, following which a team consisting of the Poonch Brigade of White Knight Corps and a special operations group (SOG) raided Noorkote village of Haveli tehsil on Sunday evening. “On Apr 3, the alert troops of Indian Army and SOG, carried out a joint operation and recovered arms and ammunition from a village along Line of Control in district Poonch(J&K),” said PRO Defence, Jammu. He added that the search team seized two AK-47 rifles, two AK 47 magazines, one 223 bore AK shape gun with handgrip, two magazines of 233 bore AK shape gun, one Chinese Pistol, one Chinese pistol magazine, 63 AK-47 rounds, twenty rounds of 223 bore AK Shape gun and four Chinese pistol rounds. “ The security forces have said that the terrorists were planning to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir, which has been foiled by them. Officials said that no arrests were made during the search operation.

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorist hideout busted near LOC, huge cache of arms recovered

President Joe Biden said that the US has offered Ukraine $1bn in security aid, adding America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend themselves. We are joined exclusively by Sarang Shidore, director of studies, Quincy institute to shed more light on this.

Machine guns, body armour, helmets- US to send more arms to Ukraine | Sarang Shidore Exclusive

President Joe Biden said that the US has offered Ukraine $1bn in security aid, adding America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend themselves. WION's correspondent Susan Tehrani brings you more on this.

United States announces $1 billion arms aid to Ukraine

According to a research released on Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, certain Asian and Oceanian countries are increasing their weapons acquisitions as they become increasingly apprehensive of China's growing regional aspirations.

The analysis compares global weapons transactions from 2013 to 2021 to the previous five years from 2013 to 2016.

Six of the top ten weaponry importers were from Asia and Oceania, according to the report.

India was the leading importer, accounting for 11% of overall imports, yet imports into the region as a whole fell by 4.7%, indicating a wide disparity in buying among subregions, according to the report.

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‘Tensions between China and many states in Asia and Oceania are the main driver of arms imports in the region,’ said Siemon T. Wezeman, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Arms Transfers Programme.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-the-brahmos-missile-deal-matters-to-india-444670">Pictures: Why the BrahMos missile deal matters to India</a>

‘These tensions are also a major factor in US arms transfers to the region. The USA remains the largest supplier to Asia and Oceania, as arms exports are an important element of US foreign policy aimed at China.’ 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indias-major-defence-scams-bofors-barak-missiles-agustawestland-choppers-more-428943#bofors-howitzer-scam-428929">Pictures: India's major defence scams: Bofors, Barak missiles, AgustaWestland choppers &amp; more</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a research released on Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, certain Asian and Oceanian countries are increasing their weapons acquisitions as they become increasingly apprehensive of China's growing regional aspirations.

According to a research released on Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, certain Asian and Oceanian countries are increasing their weapons acquisitions as they become increasingly apprehensive of China's growing regional aspirations. The analysis compares global weapons transactions from 2013 to 2021 to the previous five years from 2013 to 2016. Six of the top ten weaponry importers were from Asia and Oceania, according to the report. India was the leading importer, accounting for 11% of overall imports, yet imports into the region as a whole fell by 4.7%, indicating a wide disparity in buying among subregions, according to the report. India was the world’s largest importer of weapons in 2017-2021. Five other countries, including Australia, China, South Korea, Pakistan and Japan, were among the top ten buyers of arms. × ‘Tensions between China and many states in Asia and Oceania are the main driver of arms imports in the region,’ said Siemon T. Wezeman, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Arms Transfers Programme. Pictures: Why the BrahMos missile deal matters to India ‘These tensions are also a major factor in US arms transfers to the region. The USA remains the largest supplier to Asia and Oceania, as arms exports are an important element of US foreign policy aimed at China.’ Pictures: India's major defence scams: Bofors, Barak missiles, AgustaWestland choppers & more (With inputs from agencies)

India, Australia and Japan imported most arms in last 5 years: SIPRI

Even before the war began Ukraine's military aircraft were massively outnumbered by those that had been amassed on the border by Russia but as Russia began its offensive the West began arming Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Will West's arms supply to Ukraine make any difference?

In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided. The statement published by the Kremlin said on Monday. &nbsp;

These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-third-news-company-shutters-amid-chinese-crackdown-on-dissent-441939" hreflang="en">Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent</a>

The statement said, “We affirm that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. As nuclear use would have far-reaching consequences, we also affirm that nuclear weapons — for as long as they continue to exist — should serve defensive purposes, deter aggression, and prevent war." &nbsp;

This development comes as bilateral ties between the United States and Moscow have deteriorated to the lowest point since the end of the Cold War. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-defense-academy-hit-by-cyber-attack-significant-damage-caused-441960" hreflang="en">UK’s Defense Academy hit by cyber attack; 'significant' damage caused</a>

Not just this, the relations between Washington and China are also at a new low. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said the statement could trigger rise in mutual trust and "replace competition among major powers with coordination and cooperation." &nbsp;

Zhaoxu added that China has a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, Xinhua reported. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided.

In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided. The statement published by the Kremlin said on Monday. These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. Also Read | Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent The statement said, “We affirm that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. As nuclear use would have far-reaching consequences, we also affirm that nuclear weapons — for as long as they continue to exist — should serve defensive purposes, deter aggression, and prevent war." This development comes as bilateral ties between the United States and Moscow have deteriorated to the lowest point since the end of the Cold War. Also Read: UK’s Defense Academy hit by cyber attack; 'significant' damage caused Not just this, the relations between Washington and China are also at a new low. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said the statement could trigger rise in mutual trust and "replace competition among major powers with coordination and cooperation." Zhaoxu added that China has a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, Xinhua reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Five most powerful countries of the world vow to avoid nuke war

Taiwan faces "severe threats" from China. It now wants to spend close to $9 billion extra for more arms. But that may not be enough to contain the tensions in the region. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Taiwan faces "severe threats" from China

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a&nbsp;'haste course of action'. India was among&nbsp;the 36 countries, including Russia and China,&nbsp;who abstained. In south Asia,&nbsp;Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained.&nbsp;

India's envoy to UN, TS&nbsp;Tirumurti&nbsp;speaking at UNGA said,&nbsp;"The fact that there is lack of support from all&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries as well as several&nbsp;countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those,&nbsp;who choose to pursue a hasty course of action".&nbsp;

The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being&nbsp;European.&nbsp;It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful&nbsp;resolution of the issue."&nbsp;

Since the coup in Myanmar on February&nbsp;1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even&nbsp;as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;address by Envoy&nbsp;Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative&nbsp;on Myanmar and called on&nbsp;'upholding&nbsp;the rule of law and release of detained&nbsp;leaders'.&nbsp;The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;

Expressing&nbsp;‘deep concern', he&nbsp;'strongly condemned the use of violence&nbsp;and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said,&nbsp;"We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and&nbsp;there can be no turning back on this."&nbsp;

Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership.&nbsp;

Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya&nbsp;refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh&nbsp;'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained.

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained. In south Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained. India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti speaking at UNGA said, "The fact that there is lack of support from all neighbouring countries as well as several countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those, who choose to pursue a hasty course of action". The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being European. It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution. The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the neighbouring countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful resolution of the issue." Since the coup in Myanmar on February 1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly. During the address by Envoy Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative on Myanmar and called on 'upholding the rule of law and release of detained leaders'. The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance. Expressing ‘deep concern', he 'strongly condemned the use of violence and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said, "We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and there can be no turning back on this." Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership. Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh 'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’. India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.

India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action' 

China is resisting bilateral talks with the United States on nuclear weapons, the US disarmament ambassador told a UN conference on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to advance efforts to reduce nuclear arms stockpiles.&nbsp;

"Despite the PRC's dramatic build-up of its nuclear arsenal, unfortunately it continues to resist discussing nuclear risk reduction bilaterally with the United States," said Robert Wood, referring to the People's Republic of China.&nbsp;

"To date, Beijing has not been willing to engage meaningfully or establish expert discussions similar to those we have with Russia. We sincerely hope that will change," he added.&nbsp;

In an apparent rebuttal, China's envoy later told the same virtual UN meeting that Beijing was prepared for dialogue.&nbsp;

"We stand ready to carry out positive dialogue and exchange with all parties to jointly explore effective measures to reduce nuclear risk and to contribute to global strategic security," Ji Zhaoyu said.&nbsp;

The exchange came at a discussion on the Prevention of Nuclear War at the 65-member UN Conference on Disarmament based in Geneva. The body, which makes decisions by consensus, has not reached a major agreement in decades but is often the theatre for tense rhetorical exchanges between superpowers.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Russia and the United States agreed to extend the New START arms control treaty for five years, preserving the last treaty limiting deployments of the world's two largest strategic nuclear arsenals.&nbsp;

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden are set to discuss arms control and security issues at a meeting and strategic nuclear stability will be on the agenda. Wood said on Tuesday, he hoped that such bilateral discussions may lay the groundwork for nuclear disarmament and future arms control treaties.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

China is resisting bilateral talks with the United States on nuclear weapons, the US disarmament ambassador told a UN conference on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to advance efforts to reduce nuclear arms stockpiles.

China is resisting bilateral talks with the United States on nuclear weapons, the US disarmament ambassador told a UN conference on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to advance efforts to reduce nuclear arms stockpiles. "Despite the PRC's dramatic build-up of its nuclear arsenal, unfortunately it continues to resist discussing nuclear risk reduction bilaterally with the United States," said Robert Wood, referring to the People's Republic of China. "To date, Beijing has not been willing to engage meaningfully or establish expert discussions similar to those we have with Russia. We sincerely hope that will change," he added. In an apparent rebuttal, China's envoy later told the same virtual UN meeting that Beijing was prepared for dialogue. "We stand ready to carry out positive dialogue and exchange with all parties to jointly explore effective measures to reduce nuclear risk and to contribute to global strategic security," Ji Zhaoyu said. The exchange came at a discussion on the Prevention of Nuclear War at the 65-member UN Conference on Disarmament based in Geneva. The body, which makes decisions by consensus, has not reached a major agreement in decades but is often the theatre for tense rhetorical exchanges between superpowers. Earlier this year, Russia and the United States agreed to extend the New START arms control treaty for five years, preserving the last treaty limiting deployments of the world's two largest strategic nuclear arsenals. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden are set to discuss arms control and security issues at a meeting and strategic nuclear stability will be on the agenda. Wood said on Tuesday, he hoped that such bilateral discussions may lay the groundwork for nuclear disarmament and future arms control treaties. (With inputs from agencies)

US says China is resisting nuclear arms talks 

A 193-member UN General Assembly vote on Tuesday on a draft resolution calling 'for an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale or transfer of all weapons and munitions' to Myanmar has been postponed, diplomats said. &nbsp;

A spokesman for the UN General Assembly president said earlier on Monday that the body was due to vote on Tuesday. It was not immediately known when a vote would be rescheduled. Some diplomats said it had been delayed in a bid to win more support. &nbsp;

The draft resolution calls on the Myanmar military, which seized power in a February 1 coup, to end a state of emergency, stop all violence against peaceful protesters and respect the will of the people as expressed in the results of a November election. &nbsp;

General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding but carry political weight. Unlike the 15-member Security Council, no country has a veto power in the General Assembly. &nbsp;

Myanmar has been in crisis since the army ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government and detained her and officials of her National League for Democracy party. The UN draft text calls for their release.&nbsp;

The military, which has set up a ruling junta of generals, complained of fraud in the November election that returned Suu Kyi to power. The election commission said the vote was fair.&nbsp;

The draft General Assembly resolution "calls upon the Myanmar armed forces to immediately stop all violence against peaceful demonstrators, members of civil society, women, youth, as well as children and others."&nbsp;

At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group.&nbsp;

The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the internet. The reporter cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers.&nbsp;

The UN text also urges the army to stop 'attacks on, harassment of and restrictions on medical personnel, human rights defenders, labor union members, journalists and media workers ... and restrictions on the internet and social media'.&nbsp;

If adopted, the draft resolution would urge the military to allow a visit by the UN special envoy on Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, and implement a plan by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to end the crisis.&nbsp;

The United States, Britain and Canada on Monday imposed new sanctions targeting Myanmar's junta.&nbsp;

Only the UN Security Council can impose legally binding sanctions or an arms embargo, but diplomats say Russia and China could likely use their veto to prevent such action on Myanmar. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

A 193-member UN General Assembly vote on Tuesday on a draft resolution calling 'for an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale or transfer of all weapons and munitions' to Myanmar has been postponed, diplomats said.

A 193-member UN General Assembly vote on Tuesday on a draft resolution calling 'for an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale or transfer of all weapons and munitions' to Myanmar has been postponed, diplomats said. A spokesman for the UN General Assembly president said earlier on Monday that the body was due to vote on Tuesday. It was not immediately known when a vote would be rescheduled. Some diplomats said it had been delayed in a bid to win more support. The draft resolution calls on the Myanmar military, which seized power in a February 1 coup, to end a state of emergency, stop all violence against peaceful protesters and respect the will of the people as expressed in the results of a November election. General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding but carry political weight. Unlike the 15-member Security Council, no country has a veto power in the General Assembly. Myanmar has been in crisis since the army ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government and detained her and officials of her National League for Democracy party. The UN draft text calls for their release. The military, which has set up a ruling junta of generals, complained of fraud in the November election that returned Suu Kyi to power. The election commission said the vote was fair. The draft General Assembly resolution "calls upon the Myanmar armed forces to immediately stop all violence against peaceful demonstrators, members of civil society, women, youth, as well as children and others." At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group. The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the internet. The reporter cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers. The UN text also urges the army to stop 'attacks on, harassment of and restrictions on medical personnel, human rights defenders, labor union members, journalists and media workers ... and restrictions on the internet and social media'. If adopted, the draft resolution would urge the military to allow a visit by the UN special envoy on Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, and implement a plan by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to end the crisis. The United States, Britain and Canada on Monday imposed new sanctions targeting Myanmar's junta. Only the UN Security Council can impose legally binding sanctions or an arms embargo, but diplomats say Russia and China could likely use their veto to prevent such action on Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies)

UN vote on call to stop arms supply to Myanmar postponed 

The UN General Assembly on Tuesday is set to consider a draft non-binding resolution calling for 'an immediate suspension' of the transfer of weapons to the military junta of Myanmar, a UN official said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are non-binding but carry strong political significance.&nbsp;

If an approval by consensus cannot be reached then the full General Assembly, 193 member states, will vote on the measure.&nbsp;

Introduced by Liechtenstein, with support from the European Union, Britain, and the United States, the measure will be considered at the plenary meeting set for Tuesday at 1900 GMT. &nbsp;

The draft resolution calls for "an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale, or transfer of all weapons, munitions, and other military-related equipment to Myanmar."&nbsp;

"The meeting will be in person," a UN spokesman said.&nbsp;

The draft, which has been under negotiation for weeks, is co-sponsored by 48 countries, with South Korea the sole Asian country.&nbsp;

It also calls on military to 'end the state of emergency' and immediately stop 'all violence against peaceful demonstrators’, as well as 'immediately and unconditionally release President Win Myint, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi' and everyone who has been 'arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested' since the February 1 coup.&nbsp;

The draft adds a call to 'swiftly implement' a five-point consensus reached with leaders from the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on April 24, to 'facilitate the visit' of the special UN envoy to Myanmar, and to provide 'safe and unimpeded humanitarian access’.&nbsp;

Several NGOs have long been calling for an arms embargo on Myanmar.&nbsp;

Since February 1, the Security Council has unanimously adopted four statements on Myanmar, but each time, they have been watered down in negotiations, notably by Beijing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The UN General Assembly on Tuesday is set to consider a draft non-binding resolution calling for 'an immediate suspension' of the transfer of weapons to the military junta of Myanmar, a UN official said on Sunday.

The UN General Assembly on Tuesday is set to consider a draft non-binding resolution calling for 'an immediate suspension' of the transfer of weapons to the military junta of Myanmar, a UN official said on Sunday. Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are non-binding but carry strong political significance. If an approval by consensus cannot be reached then the full General Assembly, 193 member states, will vote on the measure. Introduced by Liechtenstein, with support from the European Union, Britain, and the United States, the measure will be considered at the plenary meeting set for Tuesday at 1900 GMT. The draft resolution calls for "an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale, or transfer of all weapons, munitions, and other military-related equipment to Myanmar." "The meeting will be in person," a UN spokesman said. The draft, which has been under negotiation for weeks, is co-sponsored by 48 countries, with South Korea the sole Asian country. It also calls on military to 'end the state of emergency' and immediately stop 'all violence against peaceful demonstrators’, as well as 'immediately and unconditionally release President Win Myint, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi' and everyone who has been 'arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested' since the February 1 coup. The draft adds a call to 'swiftly implement' a five-point consensus reached with leaders from the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on April 24, to 'facilitate the visit' of the special UN envoy to Myanmar, and to provide 'safe and unimpeded humanitarian access’. Several NGOs have long been calling for an arms embargo on Myanmar. Since February 1, the Security Council has unanimously adopted four statements on Myanmar, but each time, they have been watered down in negotiations, notably by Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

UN General Assembly to consider call for Myanmar arms embargo 

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday.

A State Department spokesperson said the administration would move forward with the proposed sales to the&nbsp;UAE, "even as we continue reviewing details and consulting with Emirati officials" related to the use of the weapons.

The Democratic president's administration had paused the deals agreed to by former Republican President Donald Trump in order to review them. The sales to the Gulf nation were finalised right before Trump left office.

The Trump administration told Congress in November it had approved the U.S. sale to the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;as a side deal to the Abraham Accords, a US-brokered agreement in September in which the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;agreed to normalise relations with Israel.

In the last months of the Trump administration, Israel reached deals with the&nbsp;UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco as part of the accords.

The $23.37 billion package contained products from General Atomics, Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp, including 50 F-35 Lighting II aircraft, up to 18 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Systems and a package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.

YEMEN CONFLICT

Some US&nbsp;lawmakers have criticised the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;for its involvement in the war in Yemen, a conflict considered one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters, and worried that the weapons transfers might violate US&nbsp;guarantees that Israel will retain a military advantage in the region.

Israel said it did not object to the sales.

A legislative effort to stop the sales failed in December, as Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress backed his plans.

The Trump administration then finalised the massive sale to the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;on Jan. 20, about an hour before Biden was sworn in as president.

The Biden administration announced the review in late January and the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;said then it had anticipated the review and welcomed joint efforts to de-escalate tensions and for renewed regional dialogue.

The State Department spokesperson said on Tuesday the estimated delivery dates on the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;sales, if implemented, were for after 2025 or later.

The government anticipated "a robust and sustained dialogue with the&nbsp;UAE" to ensure a stronger security partnership, the spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

"We will also continue to reinforce with the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;and all recipients of US&nbsp;defence articles and services that US-origin defence equipment must be adequately secured and used in a manner that respects human rights and fully complies with the laws of armed conflict," the statement said.

US President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday.

US President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday. A State Department spokesperson said the administration would move forward with the proposed sales to the UAE, "even as we continue reviewing details and consulting with Emirati officials" related to the use of the weapons. The Democratic president's administration had paused the deals agreed to by former Republican President Donald Trump in order to review them. The sales to the Gulf nation were finalised right before Trump left office. The Trump administration told Congress in November it had approved the U.S. sale to the UAE as a side deal to the Abraham Accords, a US-brokered agreement in September in which the UAE agreed to normalise relations with Israel. In the last months of the Trump administration, Israel reached deals with the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco as part of the accords. The $23.37 billion package contained products from General Atomics, Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp, including 50 F-35 Lighting II aircraft, up to 18 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Systems and a package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions. YEMEN CONFLICT Some US lawmakers have criticised the UAE for its involvement in the war in Yemen, a conflict considered one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters, and worried that the weapons transfers might violate US guarantees that Israel will retain a military advantage in the region. Israel said it did not object to the sales. A legislative effort to stop the sales failed in December, as Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress backed his plans. The Trump administration then finalised the massive sale to the UAE on Jan. 20, about an hour before Biden was sworn in as president. The Biden administration announced the review in late January and the UAE said then it had anticipated the review and welcomed joint efforts to de-escalate tensions and for renewed regional dialogue. The State Department spokesperson said on Tuesday the estimated delivery dates on the UAE sales, if implemented, were for after 2025 or later. The government anticipated "a robust and sustained dialogue with the UAE" to ensure a stronger security partnership, the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "We will also continue to reinforce with the UAE and all recipients of US defence articles and services that US-origin defence equipment must be adequately secured and used in a manner that respects human rights and fully complies with the laws of armed conflict," the statement said.

Biden administration to proceed with $23 billion weapon sales to UAE

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'.&nbsp;

In a foreign and defence policy review published on Tuesday and endorsed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Britain said it needed to increase its nuclear arsenal in the face of evolving global security threats.&nbsp;

Britain said it would raise the upper limit on its nuclear warhead stock to 260 from 180. The same report also classified Russia as 'the most acute threat to our security' in the Euro-Atlantic region.&nbsp;

The Kremlin said at the time that it regretted the British nuclear decision, which it suggested would harm international stability, while the Russian foreign ministry described the move as a serious blow to international arms control.&nbsp;

Andrei Kelin, Russia's ambassador to Britain, went further in an interview due to be broadcast on the London-based LBC radio station on Sunday, saying the plan looked illegal.&nbsp;

"You are increasing the number of warheads by 40%. This is a violation of the treaty of non-proliferation and many, many other agreements that are saying only a decline or a reduction in the number of nukes," Kelin told LBC, according to a partial transcript on the radio station's website.&nbsp;

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which Britain has ratified, came into force in 1970. The UK government has said its plans do not violate the pact.&nbsp;

Russian news agencies cited Kelin as saying that political relations between London and Moscow, which have become strained from events from Russia's jailing of opposition politician Alexei Navalny to the poisoning in 2018 of a Russian double agent and his daughter, were 'nearly dead'.&nbsp;

They cited Kelin as saying that only cultural and economic ties remained, while LBC cited him as saying that the last time, he had spoken to British foreign minister Dominic Raab was in December 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'.

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'. In a foreign and defence policy review published on Tuesday and endorsed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Britain said it needed to increase its nuclear arsenal in the face of evolving global security threats. Britain said it would raise the upper limit on its nuclear warhead stock to 260 from 180. The same report also classified Russia as 'the most acute threat to our security' in the Euro-Atlantic region. The Kremlin said at the time that it regretted the British nuclear decision, which it suggested would harm international stability, while the Russian foreign ministry described the move as a serious blow to international arms control. Andrei Kelin, Russia's ambassador to Britain, went further in an interview due to be broadcast on the London-based LBC radio station on Sunday, saying the plan looked illegal. "You are increasing the number of warheads by 40%. This is a violation of the treaty of non-proliferation and many, many other agreements that are saying only a decline or a reduction in the number of nukes," Kelin told LBC, according to a partial transcript on the radio station's website. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which Britain has ratified, came into force in 1970. The UK government has said its plans do not violate the pact. Russian news agencies cited Kelin as saying that political relations between London and Moscow, which have become strained from events from Russia's jailing of opposition politician Alexei Navalny to the poisoning in 2018 of a Russian double agent and his daughter, were 'nearly dead'. They cited Kelin as saying that only cultural and economic ties remained, while LBC cited him as saying that the last time, he had spoken to British foreign minister Dominic Raab was in December 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

UK nuclear arms plan is illegal: Russian envoy  

The United States has imposed a temporary freeze on two big arms deals with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates which were approved in the final weeks of the Trump administration, a State Department official said.

The nearly week-old administration has already signaled it plans to end support for the Saudi-led, UAE-backed offensive in Yemen, which is facing a humanitarian catastrophe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-warns-china-over-expansionism-in-asia-359774">Also read | US President Joe Biden warns China over expansionism in Asia</a> 
 
A State Department spokesperson said the administration is "temporarily pausing the implementation" of a number of defense sales "to allow incoming leadership an opportunity to review."

"This is a routine administrative action typical to most any transition, and demonstrates the administration's commitment to transparency and good governance," the spokesperson said. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-suga-vow-to-strengthen-us-japan-alliance-359772" hreflang="en">Biden and Suga vow to strengthen US-Japan alliance</a>

The move is also aimed at "ensuring US arms sales meet our strategic objectives of building stronger, interoperable and more capable security partners."

The most high-profile sale is a $23 billion package of top-of-the-line F-35 jets to the United Arab Emirates.

Former president Donald Trump's administration agreed to the sale -- the first of the stealth-capable planes to an Arab nation -- after the United Arab Emirates agreed to recognize Israel.

A potential halt to the sale could raise questions about whether the United Arab Emirates will continue its normalization with Israel, which Trump saw as a key foreign policy achievement.

Lawmakers of Biden's Democratic Party had voiced misgivings over the deal, fearing it would set off an arms race, but failed in the Senate to block the sale while Trump was in office.

The package to the United Arab Emirates also included unarmed drones, while the United States has been preparing major sales of munitions to Saudi Arabia.

Trump had explicitly backed arms sales on commercial grounds, saying that the Saudis were creating US jobs by buying from US manufacturers.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during his confirmation hearing that the Saudi offensive against Yemen's Huthi rebels, who are backed by Iran, has contributed to the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has imposed a temporary freeze on two big arms deals with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates which were approved in the final weeks of the Trump administration, a State Department official said.

The United States has imposed a temporary freeze on two big arms deals with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates which were approved in the final weeks of the Trump administration, a State Department official said. The nearly week-old administration has already signaled it plans to end support for the Saudi-led, UAE-backed offensive in Yemen, which is facing a humanitarian catastrophe. Also read | US President Joe Biden warns China over expansionism in Asia A State Department spokesperson said the administration is "temporarily pausing the implementation" of a number of defense sales "to allow incoming leadership an opportunity to review." "This is a routine administrative action typical to most any transition, and demonstrates the administration's commitment to transparency and good governance," the spokesperson said. Also read: Biden and Suga vow to strengthen US-Japan alliance The move is also aimed at "ensuring US arms sales meet our strategic objectives of building stronger, interoperable and more capable security partners." The most high-profile sale is a $23 billion package of top-of-the-line F-35 jets to the United Arab Emirates. Former president Donald Trump's administration agreed to the sale -- the first of the stealth-capable planes to an Arab nation -- after the United Arab Emirates agreed to recognize Israel. A potential halt to the sale could raise questions about whether the United Arab Emirates will continue its normalization with Israel, which Trump saw as a key foreign policy achievement. Lawmakers of Biden's Democratic Party had voiced misgivings over the deal, fearing it would set off an arms race, but failed in the Senate to block the sale while Trump was in office. The package to the United Arab Emirates also included unarmed drones, while the United States has been preparing major sales of munitions to Saudi Arabia. Trump had explicitly backed arms sales on commercial grounds, saying that the Saudis were creating US jobs by buying from US manufacturers. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during his confirmation hearing that the Saudi offensive against Yemen's Huthi rebels, who are backed by Iran, has contributed to the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden freezes controversial arms deals with Saudi Arabia and UAE

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus.

On August 23, 1989 millions formed a human chain through the three Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to express their desire for independence.

On Sunday, thousands are expected to join a human chain stretching some 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius to the border with Belarus.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the opposition figurehead who fled from Belarus to Lithuania after a disputed presidential election, has said she may attend.

"It means a lot not only for me but all Belarusian people and they feel this support... It's very beautiful," she told AFP in an interview on Saturday.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, who took part in the original Baltic Way human chain, is also expected to attend the demonstration starting at 1600 GMT.

"Today is the time for our Belarusian brothers to express their desire for freedom. The Freedom Way is our extended hand for them," he told AFP.

Organisers say some 50,000 people are expected.

In Latvia, hundreds of campaigners marched along the border with Belarus and then formed a human chain in the village of Piedruja as Belarusian border guards looked on from the other side of the Daugava River.

"This is our Baltic way to express solidarity with all the people in Belarus," Inese Vaivare, the main organiser, told the cheering crowd in Piedruja.

Peteris Vasks, a Latvian composer who attended the event, said: "We don't have to live in a cowardly egoism, we can support people of other countries if they want to enjoy basic civic liberties like we do!"

More human chains are planned in the Estonian capital Tallinn and along the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague.

The Baltic Way human chain of 1989 has inspired similar initiatives by freedom-seekers the world over even in recent years -- from Hong Kong to Catalonia to Taiwan.

The original was 600 kilometres long and sent the strongest signal to date that the Soviet-occupied Baltic states were on the road towards restored independence, which they all won two years later.

All three are now EU and NATO members.

The Lithuanian human chain will start in Cathedral Square in Vilnius and end at the Medininkai border post -- the site of clashes with Soviet law enforcement in 1991 after Lithuania declared its independence.

Kiryl Krivicki, a 20-year-old Belarusian student living in Vilnius said the event "could become the same metaphor of freedom" as the one in 1989.

Tatsiana Chulitskaia, 44, a Belarusian researcher at Vytautas Magnus University, said: "It is important, even if it is a symbolic support.

"It is essential for Belarusians not to feel alone."

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus.

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus. On August 23, 1989 millions formed a human chain through the three Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to express their desire for independence. On Sunday, thousands are expected to join a human chain stretching some 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius to the border with Belarus. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the opposition figurehead who fled from Belarus to Lithuania after a disputed presidential election, has said she may attend. "It means a lot not only for me but all Belarusian people and they feel this support... It's very beautiful," she told AFP in an interview on Saturday. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, who took part in the original Baltic Way human chain, is also expected to attend the demonstration starting at 1600 GMT. "Today is the time for our Belarusian brothers to express their desire for freedom. The Freedom Way is our extended hand for them," he told AFP. Organisers say some 50,000 people are expected. In Latvia, hundreds of campaigners marched along the border with Belarus and then formed a human chain in the village of Piedruja as Belarusian border guards looked on from the other side of the Daugava River. "This is our Baltic way to express solidarity with all the people in Belarus," Inese Vaivare, the main organiser, told the cheering crowd in Piedruja. Peteris Vasks, a Latvian composer who attended the event, said: "We don't have to live in a cowardly egoism, we can support people of other countries if they want to enjoy basic civic liberties like we do!" More human chains are planned in the Estonian capital Tallinn and along the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague. The Baltic Way human chain of 1989 has inspired similar initiatives by freedom-seekers the world over even in recent years -- from Hong Kong to Catalonia to Taiwan. The original was 600 kilometres long and sent the strongest signal to date that the Soviet-occupied Baltic states were on the road towards restored independence, which they all won two years later. All three are now EU and NATO members. The Lithuanian human chain will start in Cathedral Square in Vilnius and end at the Medininkai border post -- the site of clashes with Soviet law enforcement in 1991 after Lithuania declared its independence. Kiryl Krivicki, a 20-year-old Belarusian student living in Vilnius said the event "could become the same metaphor of freedom" as the one in 1989. Tatsiana Chulitskaia, 44, a Belarusian researcher at Vytautas Magnus University, said: "It is important, even if it is a symbolic support. "It is essential for Belarusians not to feel alone."

Baltics link arms again in solidarity with Belarus

In order to tackle rising criminal activities amid COVID-19, police in Peru seized a huge cache of arms during a crackdown. The police have made over 100,000 arrests during the lockdown period.

Peru police seize huge cache of arms

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country.

The Rajya Sabha passed the bill one day after it was cleared in the Lok Sabha.

According to the bill, a prison sentence of seven years extending to life imprisonment will now be possible. The sentence will be given for possession of illegal weapons while perpetrators may face life imprisonment for snatching the weapons of police personnel.

The bill serves as an amendment to the Arms Act of 1959 ''to effectively curb crimes committed using illegal firearms''.

Proceedings in the Lok Sabha have been adjourned till 11 am Wednesday.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country.

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill one day after it was cleared in the Lok Sabha. According to the bill, a prison sentence of seven years extending to life imprisonment will now be possible. The sentence will be given for possession of illegal weapons while perpetrators may face life imprisonment for snatching the weapons of police personnel. The bill serves as an amendment to the Arms Act of 1959 ''to effectively curb crimes committed using illegal firearms''. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha have been adjourned till 11 am Wednesday. (With inputs from ANI)

Parliament passes Arms (Amendment) Bill, 2019

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