India urged Germany to send Indian baby&nbsp;back to the country at the earliest asserting that it is important for the child to be in her linguistic, religious, cultural and social environment.

The child has been living in foster care in Berlin for over 20 months. The German authorities had taken her custody on September 23, 2021, when she was seven months old.

As per ANI reports, the baby was accidentally hurt by her grandmother in September 2021 after which the German authorities took her away.

While addressing the briefing on Friday, EAM spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We are dismayed to learn that the child was abruptly shifted away from her current foster parent to a specialised foster care arrangement. The manner in which this shift was carried out is a matter of concern. We and the parents believe that this rapid change is not in the child's best interest and could have far-reaching consequences for her emotional and mental development."

He further stated, "We would like to reiterate that the baby is an Indian national and her nationality and socio-cultural background is the most important determinant of where her foster care is to be provided. We urge German authorities to do all that is necessary to send the baby&nbsp;to India at the earliest, which is also her inalienable right as an Indian national. We remain committed to ensuring the return of the child to India."

Talking about the case, Bagchi said that the Ministry of External Affairs and the Embassy of India, Berlin, have been persistently advocating for the return of the child&nbsp;to India, "The child is an Indian national and she was placed in the custody of Germany's Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) on 23 September 2021, when she was 7 months old. She has now been in foster care for more than 20 months," he said. &nbsp;

"Cultural background is the most important determinant of where her foster care is to be provided. We urge German authorities to do all that is necessary to send [name of the child] to India at the earliest, which is also her inalienable right as an Indian national. We remain committed to ensuring the return of the baby to India."

"The German authorities have been made aware of India's child protection system and the details of potential foster parents have also been shared with them," he said.

"The child's continued placement in German foster care and infringement of her social, cultural and linguistic rights is of deep concern to the Government of India and the parents."

<h2>Jaishankar conveys concerns over bringing child back to his German counterpart</h2>

Last year, in the month of December, Indian EAM Jaishankar conveyed to his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock the concerns over bringing the baby girl back to India.

"Our efforts have been guided by the best interests of the child, which we believe can be fully realised only when she is in her home country where her socio-cultural rights can be safeguarded," Bagchi said.

"Accordingly, we have been requesting Germany to return the child to India. The embassy has repeatedly requested German authorities to ensure that [child's name]'s connection with her cultural, religious and linguistic background is not compromised and sought consular access to the child," he added.

Bagchi said Baerbock, during her visit to India, had also conveyed that the German side was also bearing in mind the cultural identity of each child that is taken care of by the youth offices in Germany.

"Unfortunately our requests in this regard for safeguarding the child's national and cultural identity have not been met," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India urged Germany to send Indian baby back to the country at the earliest asserting that it is important for the child to be in her linguistic, religious, cultural and social environment.

India urged Germany to send Indian baby back to the country at the earliest asserting that it is important for the child to be in her linguistic, religious, cultural and social environment. The child has been living in foster care in Berlin for over 20 months. The German authorities had taken her custody on September 23, 2021, when she was seven months old. As per ANI reports, the baby was accidentally hurt by her grandmother in September 2021 after which the German authorities took her away. While addressing the briefing on Friday, EAM spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We are dismayed to learn that the child was abruptly shifted away from her current foster parent to a specialised foster care arrangement. The manner in which this shift was carried out is a matter of concern. We and the parents believe that this rapid change is not in the child's best interest and could have far-reaching consequences for her emotional and mental development." He further stated, "We would like to reiterate that the baby is an Indian national and her nationality and socio-cultural background is the most important determinant of where her foster care is to be provided. We urge German authorities to do all that is necessary to send the baby to India at the earliest, which is also her inalienable right as an Indian national. We remain committed to ensuring the return of the child to India." Talking about the case, Bagchi said that the Ministry of External Affairs and the Embassy of India, Berlin, have been persistently advocating for the return of the child to India, "The child is an Indian national and she was placed in the custody of Germany's Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) on 23 September 2021, when she was 7 months old. She has now been in foster care for more than 20 months," he said. "Cultural background is the most important determinant of where her foster care is to be provided. We urge German authorities to do all that is necessary to send [name of the child] to India at the earliest, which is also her inalienable right as an Indian national. We remain committed to ensuring the return of the baby to India." "The German authorities have been made aware of India's child protection system and the details of potential foster parents have also been shared with them," he said. "The child's continued placement in German foster care and infringement of her social, cultural and linguistic rights is of deep concern to the Government of India and the parents." Jaishankar conveys concerns over bringing child back to his German counterpart Last year, in the month of December, Indian EAM Jaishankar conveyed to his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock the concerns over bringing the baby girl back to India. "Our efforts have been guided by the best interests of the child, which we believe can be fully realised only when she is in her home country where her socio-cultural rights can be safeguarded," Bagchi said. "Accordingly, we have been requesting Germany to return the child to India. The embassy has repeatedly requested German authorities to ensure that [child's name]'s connection with her cultural, religious and linguistic background is not compromised and sought consular access to the child," he added. Bagchi said Baerbock, during her visit to India, had also conveyed that the German side was also bearing in mind the cultural identity of each child that is taken care of by the youth offices in Germany. "Unfortunately our requests in this regard for safeguarding the child's national and cultural identity have not been met," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India presses Germany to send back Indian baby in Berlin foster care, calls it ‘infringement of rights’

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is in New Delhi. The high-level visit aims to facilitate bilateral defence cooperation and explore avenues for strategic partnership. India was one of the first countries to end the state of war with post-war Germany in 1951. It was also amongst the first countries to recognize the federal republic of Germany.

India and Germany focus on defence cooperation | Berlin among New Delhi's Indo-Pacific allies

Diplomatic relations between Berlin and Moscow continue to deteriorate in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Now, a spokesperson for Germany’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Russia&nbsp;has been asked to shut down four consulates operating on its soil. "We have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of four of the five Russian consulates operating in Germany," the spokesperson said.

This comes after the Kremlin imposed tighter limits on Berlin regarding the number of employees Germany’s embassy and cultural institutions can hire in Russia. The ongoing tussle between the two nations has been referred to as a “diplomatic declaration of war” by the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung.

<h2>Tit-for-tat diplomatic strikes</h2>

In April, Moscow placed new limits on people the German embassy and institutes like the Goethe Institute language school can hire in Russia. The rule will go into effect from June 1st, resulting in the expulsion of hundreds of German diplomats, teachers and employees from Russia.&nbsp;

Reuters quoted a source from the German foreign ministry as saying, "This limit, set by Russia for the beginning of June, requires a major cut in all areas of our presence in Russia."

Watch:&nbsp;Poland seizes school run by Russian embassy

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Earlier in April, the two nations had expelled 40 workers from their respective embassies after declaring them personae non grata. Following this, the German foreign ministry in a statement said, “In view of this unilateral, unjustified, and incomprehensible decision, the Federal Government is now concerned with ensuring a minimum presence of intermediaries in Russia while also maintaining a diplomatic presence.”

<h2>Diplomatic standoff between EU and Russia</h2>

Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, European nations have expelled several&nbsp;Russian diplomats. In March alone, four European nations expelled at least 40 Russian diplomats suspected of spying.&nbsp;

Russia and Germany are known for having deep cultural and economic links,&nbsp;however, things have turned upside down over the last 15 months. Russia has been accusing Berlin of escalating conflict in Ukraine as the latter in January announced it will send Leopard 2 tanks to the war-torn nation. Following this announcement, Russia accused Germany of abandoning its "historical responsibility to Russia" arising from Nazi crimes in World War Two.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-expel-34-out-of-over-90-german-diplomats-working-in-moscow-585173">Also Read |&nbsp;Russia to expel 34 out of over 90 German diplomats working in Moscow</a>

In early May, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that his nation will back Ukraine "for as long as it is necessary", while further promising military aid worth €2.7bn ($2.9bn).

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Diplomatic relations between Berlin and Moscow continue to deteriorate in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Now, a spokesperson for Germany’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Russia has been asked to shut down four consulates operating on its soil.

Diplomatic relations between Berlin and Moscow continue to deteriorate in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Now, a spokesperson for Germany’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Russia has been asked to shut down four consulates operating on its soil. "We have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of four of the five Russian consulates operating in Germany," the spokesperson said. This comes after the Kremlin imposed tighter limits on Berlin regarding the number of employees Germany’s embassy and cultural institutions can hire in Russia. The ongoing tussle between the two nations has been referred to as a “diplomatic declaration of war” by the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung. Tit-for-tat diplomatic strikes In April, Moscow placed new limits on people the German embassy and institutes like the Goethe Institute language school can hire in Russia. The rule will go into effect from June 1st, resulting in the expulsion of hundreds of German diplomats, teachers and employees from Russia. Reuters quoted a source from the German foreign ministry as saying, "This limit, set by Russia for the beginning of June, requires a major cut in all areas of our presence in Russia." Watch: Poland seizes school run by Russian embassy × Earlier in April, the two nations had expelled 40 workers from their respective embassies after declaring them personae non grata. Following this, the German foreign ministry in a statement said, “In view of this unilateral, unjustified, and incomprehensible decision, the Federal Government is now concerned with ensuring a minimum presence of intermediaries in Russia while also maintaining a diplomatic presence.” Diplomatic standoff between EU and Russia Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, European nations have expelled several Russian diplomats. In March alone, four European nations expelled at least 40 Russian diplomats suspected of spying. Russia and Germany are known for having deep cultural and economic links, however, things have turned upside down over the last 15 months. Russia has been accusing Berlin of escalating conflict in Ukraine as the latter in January announced it will send Leopard 2 tanks to the war-torn nation. Following this announcement, Russia accused Germany of abandoning its "historical responsibility to Russia" arising from Nazi crimes in World War Two. Also Read | Russia to expel 34 out of over 90 German diplomats working in Moscow In early May, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that his nation will back Ukraine "for as long as it is necessary", while further promising military aid worth €2.7bn ($2.9bn). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Diplomatic declaration of war’: Russia asked to vacate its four consulates in Germany

European Sleeper, a startup railway company launched the first direct sleeper train between Berlin and Brussels in more than a decade this week, and it is now operational. Passengers were served champagne on board to commemorate the event. &nbsp;

The aim of the company is to push for less polluting alternatives to air travel in Europe.&nbsp;

The sleeper train is the only direct nightly service between the two capitals since 2009. The first train left Brussels at 7:22pm (1722 GMT) on Friday and was scheduled to arrive in Berlin at 8:01am (0601 GMT) on Saturday.&nbsp;

European Sleeper was set up in 2021 and its first overnight route is from Brussels to Berlin. The railway will be expanded to Dresden and Prague in 2024, with further routes planned.&nbsp;

European Sleeper's co-founder Chris Engelsman said, "We're making good progress" when it comes to the financing side for extra carriages and "this is one of the areas where the European Commission can help".&nbsp;

With the inauguration of the Brussels-Berlin route, Engelsman also hopes to capitalise on a sudden increase in interest in rail which is seen as a green alternative to cheap airfares.&nbsp;

Engelsman said, "It's a nice way to travel - especially by night train, it is a very pleasant way, it's very comfortable and it's also an adventure. Your holidays start when you are boarding."&nbsp;

He also weighed in on the challenges, as he stated that establishing the service had been tough due to the lack of cross-border slots and a lack of cooperation across national railway networks.&nbsp;

"We think there is a major challenge in the administrative and bureaucratic processes on the track access, the infrastructure managers because they are organised nationally in essence and they are all different. The rules are all different. The regulations are terrible," Engelsman added.&nbsp;

Engelsman said that he got Belgian subsidies to establish the route. An upcoming night service train from Amsterdam to Barcelona, which is scheduled to start in 2025, will be one of ten pilot cross-border train services slated to get financial backing from the European Commission, he further mentioned.&nbsp;

<h2>'Nice way to travel'&nbsp;</h2>

Laurence Couvreur, 49, a passenger and doctor living in Brussels, told news agency Reuters, "I think it's the best (means of transport). It's the best for the climate but it's also a nice way to travel."&nbsp;

"It's a nice way to meet people, to meet people from the country, to take time. For me, it was already nice before (the Brussels-Berlin night service was suspended in 2009). And that it came back - I find it amazing - except the price," Couvreur added.&nbsp;

On being asked about why she picked the train, Heather Grabbe, 52, a passenger and political scientist living in Brussels, told Reuters, "I love trains both because they are sustainable. I believe that we must have low-carbon transport and trains are by far the best way of travelling with much lower impact on the environment than flying and also than driving. So I want to support the train industry."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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European Sleeper, a startup railway company launched the first direct sleeper train between Berlin and Brussels in more than a decade this week, and it is now operational.

European Sleeper, a startup railway company launched the first direct sleeper train between Berlin and Brussels in more than a decade this week, and it is now operational. Passengers were served champagne on board to commemorate the event. The aim of the company is to push for less polluting alternatives to air travel in Europe. The sleeper train is the only direct nightly service between the two capitals since 2009. The first train left Brussels at 7:22pm (1722 GMT) on Friday and was scheduled to arrive in Berlin at 8:01am (0601 GMT) on Saturday. European Sleeper was set up in 2021 and its first overnight route is from Brussels to Berlin. The railway will be expanded to Dresden and Prague in 2024, with further routes planned. European Sleeper's co-founder Chris Engelsman said, "We're making good progress" when it comes to the financing side for extra carriages and "this is one of the areas where the European Commission can help". With the inauguration of the Brussels-Berlin route, Engelsman also hopes to capitalise on a sudden increase in interest in rail which is seen as a green alternative to cheap airfares. Engelsman said, "It's a nice way to travel - especially by night train, it is a very pleasant way, it's very comfortable and it's also an adventure. Your holidays start when you are boarding." He also weighed in on the challenges, as he stated that establishing the service had been tough due to the lack of cross-border slots and a lack of cooperation across national railway networks. "We think there is a major challenge in the administrative and bureaucratic processes on the track access, the infrastructure managers because they are organised nationally in essence and they are all different. The rules are all different. The regulations are terrible," Engelsman added. Engelsman said that he got Belgian subsidies to establish the route. An upcoming night service train from Amsterdam to Barcelona, which is scheduled to start in 2025, will be one of ten pilot cross-border train services slated to get financial backing from the European Commission, he further mentioned. 'Nice way to travel' Laurence Couvreur, 49, a passenger and doctor living in Brussels, told news agency Reuters, "I think it's the best (means of transport). It's the best for the climate but it's also a nice way to travel." "It's a nice way to meet people, to meet people from the country, to take time. For me, it was already nice before (the Brussels-Berlin night service was suspended in 2009). And that it came back - I find it amazing - except the price," Couvreur added. On being asked about why she picked the train, Heather Grabbe, 52, a passenger and political scientist living in Brussels, told Reuters, "I love trains both because they are sustainable. I believe that we must have low-carbon transport and trains are by far the best way of travelling with much lower impact on the environment than flying and also than driving. So I want to support the train industry." (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Night train connecting Brussels-Berlin starts operations. Push for less polluting alternatives to air travel

Last week, Roger Waters, the co-founder and former lyricist of the rock band Pink Floyd, drew flak for donning a 'Nazi-style uniform' at a concert in Berlin.

As per the local media reports, Waters performed at Germany's Mercedes-Benz Arena on May 17, where the words, "The show will start in 10 minutes and a court in Frankfurt has ruled that I am not an antisemite, just to be clear, I condemn antisemitism unreservedly," were projected on a screen.

On Friday (26 May), Berlin police released a statement saying that they were investigating Waters for incitement to hatred.

As per the images circulated on social media, Waters could be seen wearing a long, black coat with red armbands on stage at the Mercedes-Benz arena last week.

"We are investigating on suspicion of incitement to public hatred because the clothing worn on stage could be used to used to glorify or justify Nazi rule, thereby disturbing the public peace," police spokesman Martin Halweg told AFP, confirming an earlier report by Jewish News.

"The clothing resembles the clothing of an SS officer," Halweg added.

Waters is known to be a pro-Palestinian activist and has also been condemned for holding anti-Jewish views.&nbsp;

In recent weeks, the singer has performed in several German cities as part of his "This Is Not A Drill" tour.

The crooner has denied the anti-Semitism condemnations arguing that he was demonstrating against Israeli policies and not the Jewish people.

As per AFP reports, at the controversial Berlin concert, Waters flashed the names of several deceased people on a large screen, including that of Anne Frank, the Jewish teenager who died in a Nazi concentration camp.

<h2>Israeli Foreign Ministry condemns Roger Waters</h2>

What drew particular outrage from social media users in Israel and the Israeli Foreign Ministry was Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh being listed immediately before Holocaust victim Anne Frank.

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Good morning to every one but Roger Waters who spent the evening in Berlin (Yes Berlin) desecrating the memory of Anne Frank and the 6 million Jews murdered in the Holocaust. <a href="https://t.co/4tcrV6f8mt">pic.twitter.com/4tcrV6f8mt</a>
— Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1661272469238435840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Good morning to everyone but Roger Waters who spent the evening in Berlin (Yes Berlin) desecrating the memory of Anne Frank and the 6 million Jews murdered in the Holocaust," Israel's foreign ministry tweeted earlier this week.

The Simon Wiesenthal Centre also took to Twitter and criticised the event further calling for the German authorities to officially charge Waters for invoking and distorting Holocaust images.

"Shame on Frankfurt authorities and Mercedes Benz arena in Berlin — a place from where Jews were deported by the Nazis — for providing anti-Semite #RogerWaters this venue for his concert with no concern/care for the Jewish community," the centre tweeted.

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Shame on Frankfurt authorities and Mercedes Benz arena in Berlin — a place from where Jews were deported by the Nazis — for providing anti-Semite <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerWaters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerWaters</a> this venue for his concert with no concern/care for the Jewish community. <a href="https://t.co/XYAS4bFi7h">https://t.co/XYAS4bFi7h</a>
— SimonWiesenthalCntr (@simonwiesenthal) <a href="https://twitter.com/simonwiesenthal/status/1661144197578248193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Will Germany prosecute #RogerWaters for Holocaust distortion or will promoters rush to book the anti-Semite for more lurid 3-D anti-Israel + #Antisemitic hatefests masquerading as concerts?" it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

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Last week, Roger Waters, the co-founder and former lyricist of the rock band Pink Floyd, drew flak for donning a 'Nazi-style uniform' at a concert in Berlin. As per the local media reports, Waters performed at Germany's Mercedes-Benz Arena on May 17, where the words, "The show will start in 10 minutes and a court in Frankfurt has ruled that I am not an antisemite, just to be clear, I condemn antisemitism unreservedly," were projected on a screen.

Last week, Roger Waters, the co-founder and former lyricist of the rock band Pink Floyd, drew flak for donning a 'Nazi-style uniform' at a concert in Berlin. As per the local media reports, Waters performed at Germany's Mercedes-Benz Arena on May 17, where the words, "The show will start in 10 minutes and a court in Frankfurt has ruled that I am not an antisemite, just to be clear, I condemn antisemitism unreservedly," were projected on a screen. On Friday (26 May), Berlin police released a statement saying that they were investigating Waters for incitement to hatred. As per the images circulated on social media, Waters could be seen wearing a long, black coat with red armbands on stage at the Mercedes-Benz arena last week. "We are investigating on suspicion of incitement to public hatred because the clothing worn on stage could be used to used to glorify or justify Nazi rule, thereby disturbing the public peace," police spokesman Martin Halweg told AFP, confirming an earlier report by Jewish News. "The clothing resembles the clothing of an SS officer," Halweg added. Waters is known to be a pro-Palestinian activist and has also been condemned for holding anti-Jewish views. In recent weeks, the singer has performed in several German cities as part of his "This Is Not A Drill" tour. The crooner has denied the anti-Semitism condemnations arguing that he was demonstrating against Israeli policies and not the Jewish people. As per AFP reports, at the controversial Berlin concert, Waters flashed the names of several deceased people on a large screen, including that of Anne Frank, the Jewish teenager who died in a Nazi concentration camp. Israeli Foreign Ministry condemns Roger Waters What drew particular outrage from social media users in Israel and the Israeli Foreign Ministry was Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh being listed immediately before Holocaust victim Anne Frank. Good morning to every one but Roger Waters who spent the evening in Berlin (Yes Berlin) desecrating the memory of Anne Frank and the 6 million Jews murdered in the Holocaust. pic.twitter.com/4tcrV6f8mt — Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) May 24, 2023 × "Good morning to everyone but Roger Waters who spent the evening in Berlin (Yes Berlin) desecrating the memory of Anne Frank and the 6 million Jews murdered in the Holocaust," Israel's foreign ministry tweeted earlier this week. The Simon Wiesenthal Centre also took to Twitter and criticised the event further calling for the German authorities to officially charge Waters for invoking and distorting Holocaust images. "Shame on Frankfurt authorities and Mercedes Benz arena in Berlin — a place from where Jews were deported by the Nazis — for providing anti-Semite #RogerWaters this venue for his concert with no concern/care for the Jewish community," the centre tweeted. Shame on Frankfurt authorities and Mercedes Benz arena in Berlin — a place from where Jews were deported by the Nazis — for providing anti-Semite #RogerWaters this venue for his concert with no concern/care for the Jewish community. https://t.co/XYAS4bFi7h — SimonWiesenthalCntr (@simonwiesenthal) May 23, 2023 × "Will Germany prosecute #RogerWaters for Holocaust distortion or will promoters rush to book the anti-Semite for more lurid 3-D anti-Israel + #Antisemitic hatefests masquerading as concerts?" it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Berlin police to investigate Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters for inciting hatred by donning ‘Nazi-style’ uniform

A court in Berlin on Monday banned the display of Russian flags and symbols around three Soviet memorials in the city during Second World War commemorations. The higher administrative court was in agreement with the police who thought that Russian flags and St George ribbons may get interpreted as symbols of support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"In the current context, they could be understood as a declaration of sympathy for the war" and "convey a willingness to use violence", the court said in a statement.&nbsp;

Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The European Union joined the US in imposing sanctions on Russia. Germany has also been involved in efforts to impose sanctions on Russia and provide humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine.

Watch | EU takes aim at companies aiding Russia's war machine

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Initially, the police had prohibited both, Ukrainian and Russian flags at the memorials on May 8 and 9. The end of the Second World War is commemorated on these days.

While prohibiting Ukrainian as well as Russian flags at the memorial&nbsp;the police had argued that "respect for these memorials and monuments must be preserved against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accumulated-billions-of-rupees-in-indian-banks-but-why-cant-use-it-590244">Russia accumulated billions of rupees in Indian banks. But why can't it use it?</a>

But a lower court in the German capital on Saturday overturned the ban after the police decision was challenged by Ukrainian and Russian organisations. The court cited a "different view on our threat assessment".

Ukrainian activists welcomed the chance to fly their own flags but raised concerns over the green light for Russian symbols.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-speaks-of-developing-military-facilities-in-kyrghyzstan-590376">Russia speaks of developing military facilities in Kyrgyzstan</a>

Vitsche, an association of young Ukrainians in Germany, said the St George ribbon "has been used since 2014 to justify and glorify the Russian attack against Ukraine".&nbsp;

Police filed an appeal against the decision on Russian symbols, which was upheld on Monday by the higher court.&nbsp;

The decision to allow Ukrainian flags was unaffected since the police did not appeal against lifting the ban.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A court in Berlin on Monday banned the display of Russian flags and symbols around three Soviet memorials in the city during Second World War commemorations. The higher administrative court was in agreement with the police who thought that Russian flags and St George ribbons may get interpreted as symbols of support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

A court in Berlin on Monday banned the display of Russian flags and symbols around three Soviet memorials in the city during Second World War commemorations. The higher administrative court was in agreement with the police who thought that Russian flags and St George ribbons may get interpreted as symbols of support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "In the current context, they could be understood as a declaration of sympathy for the war" and "convey a willingness to use violence", the court said in a statement. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The European Union joined the US in imposing sanctions on Russia. Germany has also been involved in efforts to impose sanctions on Russia and provide humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine. Watch | EU takes aim at companies aiding Russia's war machine × Initially, the police had prohibited both, Ukrainian and Russian flags at the memorials on May 8 and 9. The end of the Second World War is commemorated on these days. While prohibiting Ukrainian as well as Russian flags at the memorial the police had argued that "respect for these memorials and monuments must be preserved against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war". Also Read | Russia accumulated billions of rupees in Indian banks. But why can't it use it? But a lower court in the German capital on Saturday overturned the ban after the police decision was challenged by Ukrainian and Russian organisations. The court cited a "different view on our threat assessment". Ukrainian activists welcomed the chance to fly their own flags but raised concerns over the green light for Russian symbols. Also Read | Russia speaks of developing military facilities in Kyrgyzstan Vitsche, an association of young Ukrainians in Germany, said the St George ribbon "has been used since 2014 to justify and glorify the Russian attack against Ukraine". Police filed an appeal against the decision on Russian symbols, which was upheld on Monday by the higher court. The decision to allow Ukrainian flags was unaffected since the police did not appeal against lifting the ban. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

No Russian flags at memorials on WW II anniversary, rules Berlin court

Climate protesters in Berlin brought traffic to a standstill on Monday. They did this during rush hour, enraging some commuters. They protested by super gluing themselves to the tarmac and sitting in front of busy intersections. All this, in a bid to press the government to do more in the fight against climate change.

Climate activists superglue themselves to Berlin's streets

The fight for the German capital to become carbon neutral comes to an end. Turns out, not enough voters in Berlin supported a push to make the capital city carbon-neutral by 2030. The results from a referendum were declared on Sunday.

Berlin climate change fails to get enough votes

German police detained a 61-year-old man on Saturday after&nbsp;three people were injured in a hand grenade and knife assault in Berlin.&nbsp;

Two women, 42 and 48, and a 61-year-old male were injured when the assailant threw a grenade into the door of an apartment building in the Reinickendorf district of Berlin, according to police.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-skip-earth-hour-2023-designates-wwf-a-foreign-agent-575636">Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent</a>

The suspect reportedly then rushed in the direction of two of the victims, assaulted them with a knife, and injured them. The victims were moved to a hospital. According to a statement from the police, the man's injuries were potentially fatal.

The assailant ran away and was later apprehended by police in a neighbouring yard.

Authorities were still looking into the attack's potential causes and if the perpetrator and victims were acquainted. As is typical in Germany, they withheld any information on the victims' or attackers' identities.

However, as per German news agency DPA, the injured man is from Bosnia-Herzegovina, while the suspected assailant is a Serb and the two ladies are also of Serbian origin, reports said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eric-garcetti-sworn-in-as-us-ambassador-to-india-575688">Eric Garcetti sworn in as US ambassador to India</a>

There have been a number of deadly knife assaults in Germany. Several knife assaults have been linked to persons having major psychiatric issues, however, some have been discovered to have been committed by extremists.

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-on-a-diplomatic-blitz-as-ukraine-war-rages-peace-plan-too-vague-to-make-a-difference-wion-575604">China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference?&nbsp;</a> 
 
In May 2021, a Syrian man was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murdering a German man and injuring his partner in a homophobic attack in the eastern city of Dresden.

Another Syrian man was sentenced to 14 years in jail in December 2022 for using a knife to hurt four people on a train. In 2021, a Somali national who had fatally stabbed three persons in the southern German city of Wurzburg was admitted to a mental health facility. 
 
 
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German police detained a 61-year-old man on Saturday after three people were injured in a hand grenade and knife assault in Berlin. Two women, 42 and 48, and a 61-year-old male were injured when the assailant threw a grenade into the door of an apartment building in the Reinickendorf district of Berlin, according to police.

German police detained a 61-year-old man on Saturday after three people were injured in a hand grenade and knife assault in Berlin. Two women, 42 and 48, and a 61-year-old male were injured when the assailant threw a grenade into the door of an apartment building in the Reinickendorf district of Berlin, according to police. Also Read | Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent The suspect reportedly then rushed in the direction of two of the victims, assaulted them with a knife, and injured them. The victims were moved to a hospital. According to a statement from the police, the man's injuries were potentially fatal. The assailant ran away and was later apprehended by police in a neighbouring yard. Authorities were still looking into the attack's potential causes and if the perpetrator and victims were acquainted. As is typical in Germany, they withheld any information on the victims' or attackers' identities. However, as per German news agency DPA, the injured man is from Bosnia-Herzegovina, while the suspected assailant is a Serb and the two ladies are also of Serbian origin, reports said. Also Read | Eric Garcetti sworn in as US ambassador to India There have been a number of deadly knife assaults in Germany. Several knife assaults have been linked to persons having major psychiatric issues, however, some have been discovered to have been committed by extremists. WATCH | China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? In May 2021, a Syrian man was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murdering a German man and injuring his partner in a homophobic attack in the eastern city of Dresden. Another Syrian man was sentenced to 14 years in jail in December 2022 for using a knife to hurt four people on a train. In 2021, a Somali national who had fatally stabbed three persons in the southern German city of Wurzburg was admitted to a mental health facility. 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.

German police detain 61-year-old man for injuring three in Berlin grenade, knife attack

Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities.

The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless.

The complainant, whose identity was not revealed by the authorities, reached the senate’s ombudsperson’s office where she demanded equal treatment and argued that women must be allowed to go topless if they choose to do so.

The authorities accepted that the victims have faced discrimination and said that all visitors to the pools of Berlin are now free to go topless, irrespective of their gender.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-decides-to-not-excavate-remains-of-soldiers-who-died-during-wwi-report-561221">Germany decides to not excavate remains of soldiers who died during WWI: Report</a>

As a result of the complaint, the Berliner Baederbetriebe, which has been running the public pools of Berlin, made changes in its clothing rules accordingly.

“The ombudsperson’s office very much welcomes the decision of the Baederbetriebe, because it establishes equal rights for all Berliners, whether male, female or non-binary, and because it also creates legal certainty for the staff at the Baederbetriebe,“ Doris Liebscher, the head of the ombudsperson's office, said

“Now it is important that the regulation is applied consistently and that no more expulsions or house bans are issued,” Liebscher added.

The outcome is likely to be received as a piece of good news by those who follow Germany’s freikörperkultur, or “free body culture”.

In 2022, various cities of the country brought the concept of topless swimming in public pools, including Gottingen in Lower Saxony and Siegen in North Rhine-Westphalia.

WATCH | World leaders gather in Germany for Munich Security Conference

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The bathing regulations were also changed in the Lower Saxony state capital of Hanover at the end of 2022, which that stated only “primary sex organs” have to be covered “in the wet area” of municipal baths.

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Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities. The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless.

Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities. The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless. The complainant, whose identity was not revealed by the authorities, reached the senate’s ombudsperson’s office where she demanded equal treatment and argued that women must be allowed to go topless if they choose to do so. The authorities accepted that the victims have faced discrimination and said that all visitors to the pools of Berlin are now free to go topless, irrespective of their gender. ALSO READ | Germany decides to not excavate remains of soldiers who died during WWI: Report As a result of the complaint, the Berliner Baederbetriebe, which has been running the public pools of Berlin, made changes in its clothing rules accordingly. “The ombudsperson’s office very much welcomes the decision of the Baederbetriebe, because it establishes equal rights for all Berliners, whether male, female or non-binary, and because it also creates legal certainty for the staff at the Baederbetriebe,“ Doris Liebscher, the head of the ombudsperson's office, said “Now it is important that the regulation is applied consistently and that no more expulsions or house bans are issued,” Liebscher added. The outcome is likely to be received as a piece of good news by those who follow Germany’s freikörperkultur, or “free body culture”. In 2022, various cities of the country brought the concept of topless swimming in public pools, including Gottingen in Lower Saxony and Siegen in North Rhine-Westphalia. WATCH | World leaders gather in Germany for Munich Security Conference The bathing regulations were also changed in the Lower Saxony state capital of Hanover at the end of 2022, which that stated only “primary sex organs” have to be covered “in the wet area” of municipal baths. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Berlin to permit women to swim topless in public pools

David Smith, a British national, has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for&nbsp;betraying his nation and colleagues by selling information to Russia while working as a security guard at&nbsp;the British&nbsp;embassy in Berlin.&nbsp;Smith, allegedly&nbsp;started gathering confidential papers in 2018.&nbsp;In 2020, he wrote two letters to top Russian embassy employees, one of which included the name and contact information of a former diplomat called X who had served in Russia, said a report&nbsp;in the Guardian.&nbsp;

Authorities opened an inquiry after identifying Smith as the writer of the second letter sent in November 2020 to a military envoy at the Russian embassy. Two players were used as a fictitious Russian defector and intelligence officer in an undercover sting operation in August 2021.

Police discovered Smith's cache of critical and confidential documents after his arrest, including letters from ministers to the previous prime minister&nbsp;Boris Johnson.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-george-soros-who-broke-uks-central-bank-what-he-said-on-pm-modi-adani-know-all-his-controversies-563116">Who is George Soros who broke UK's central bank? What he said on PM Modi &amp; Adani? Know all his controversies</a>

By acting in a way that endangered state security or other interests, Smith, 58, admitted guilt to eight offences brought under the Official Secrets Act.

In a televised sentencing at the Old Bailey on Friday, the judge sentenced Smith&nbsp;to 13 years and two months.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;UK: King Charles faces 'Not My King' protest during walkabout

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The senior judge said that during Smith’s “subversive activities”, dating back to 2018, he had duplicated a “significant amount of material”.

“You were fully aware that you should not have copied any of these documents and equally aware that were these documents to get into the wrong hands, they might harm British interests or pose a threat to those working at the British embassy," the judge said.&nbsp;

Smith said that he was a proud Scot and that he was now "ashamed" of his actions. He said that once his Ukrainian wife of 20 years left for her native country, he became enraged at his employer, sad, and was drinking seven pints every day, reported Guardian.&nbsp;

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David Smith, a British national, has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for betraying his nation and colleagues by selling information to Russia while working as a security guard at the British embassy in Berlin.

David Smith, a British national, has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for betraying his nation and colleagues by selling information to Russia while working as a security guard at the British embassy in Berlin. Smith, allegedly started gathering confidential papers in 2018. In 2020, he wrote two letters to top Russian embassy employees, one of which included the name and contact information of a former diplomat called X who had served in Russia, said a report in the Guardian. Authorities opened an inquiry after identifying Smith as the writer of the second letter sent in November 2020 to a military envoy at the Russian embassy. Two players were used as a fictitious Russian defector and intelligence officer in an undercover sting operation in August 2021. Police discovered Smith's cache of critical and confidential documents after his arrest, including letters from ministers to the previous prime minister Boris Johnson. ALSO READ | Who is George Soros who broke UK's central bank? What he said on PM Modi & Adani? Know all his controversies By acting in a way that endangered state security or other interests, Smith, 58, admitted guilt to eight offences brought under the Official Secrets Act. In a televised sentencing at the Old Bailey on Friday, the judge sentenced Smith to 13 years and two months. ALSO WATCH | UK: King Charles faces 'Not My King' protest during walkabout The senior judge said that during Smith’s “subversive activities”, dating back to 2018, he had duplicated a “significant amount of material”. “You were fully aware that you should not have copied any of these documents and equally aware that were these documents to get into the wrong hands, they might harm British interests or pose a threat to those working at the British embassy," the judge said. Smith said that he was a proud Scot and that he was now "ashamed" of his actions. He said that once his Ukrainian wife of 20 years left for her native country, he became enraged at his employer, sad, and was drinking seven pints every day, reported Guardian. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British guard turns Russian spy: David Smith sentenced to 13 years in prison for leaking data to Russia

A German ballet director has become famous for all the wrong reasons on the internet after he smeared dog faeces on the face of a reviewer. Marco Goecke, the head choreographer and director of Hanover State Opera’s ballet company was not overly impressed when a reviewer described his production as 'boring' and 'disjointed'.&nbsp;

On Sunday night, during the interval of his show, Goecke spotted Wiebke Hüster, a critic at Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) who wrote the scathing review. He approached an unsuspecting Hüster, blocked her way and asked what she was doing at the premiere.&nbsp;

Continuing his verbal assault, Goecke threatened that he would get Hüster banned from the venue. However not satisfied, he pulled out a paper bag with the dog faeces and smothered it across the face of the critic.&nbsp;

The police have launched an investigation into the matter after criminal charges were filed. The Hanover State Opera has suspended Goecke on an immediate basis, terming the incident as 'shocking'.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zombie-fungus-fungal-pandemic-can-turn-humans-into-zombies-556908">WATCH |&nbsp;Zombie Fungus: Fungal pandemic can turn humans into zombies?</a>

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50-year-old Goecke, who has previously trained at the royal conservatory in The Hague had been leading the lines of the ballet group since 2019.

Hüster in her review had written, 'One alternates between a state of feeling insane and being killed by boredom' which seemingly irked Goecke.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-comes-up-with-40000-toxic-chemicals-in-6-hours-scientists-warn-could-be-used-to-make-biological-weapons-561636">Read more:&nbsp;AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons</a>

Meanwhile, the newspaper has dubbed Goecke's act as 'humiliating' and an attempt to 'intimidate the free, critical view of art'.&nbsp;

"We take the deliberate degradation and humiliation that results from the prepared excrement attack very seriously. It bears witness to the fatal self-image of a personality in a highly subsidised management position, who believes that he is above all critical judgment," said the publication.&nbsp;

The newspaper, however, refused to accept the explanation offered by the State Opera saying, "The State Opera's explanation of the incident is completely inadequate, because the attack on the journalist from the FAZ is also an attack on freedom of the press.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A German ballet director has become famous for all the wrong reasons on the internet after he smeared dog faeces on the face of a reviewer. Marco Goecke, the head choreographer and director of Hanover State Opera’s ballet company was not overly impressed when a reviewer described his production as 'boring' and 'disjointed'.

A German ballet director has become famous for all the wrong reasons on the internet after he smeared dog faeces on the face of a reviewer. Marco Goecke, the head choreographer and director of Hanover State Opera’s ballet company was not overly impressed when a reviewer described his production as 'boring' and 'disjointed'. On Sunday night, during the interval of his show, Goecke spotted Wiebke Hüster, a critic at Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) who wrote the scathing review. He approached an unsuspecting Hüster, blocked her way and asked what she was doing at the premiere. Continuing his verbal assault, Goecke threatened that he would get Hüster banned from the venue. However not satisfied, he pulled out a paper bag with the dog faeces and smothered it across the face of the critic. The police have launched an investigation into the matter after criminal charges were filed. The Hanover State Opera has suspended Goecke on an immediate basis, terming the incident as 'shocking'. WATCH | Zombie Fungus: Fungal pandemic can turn humans into zombies? × 50-year-old Goecke, who has previously trained at the royal conservatory in The Hague had been leading the lines of the ballet group since 2019. Hüster in her review had written, 'One alternates between a state of feeling insane and being killed by boredom' which seemingly irked Goecke. Read more: AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons Meanwhile, the newspaper has dubbed Goecke's act as 'humiliating' and an attempt to 'intimidate the free, critical view of art'. "We take the deliberate degradation and humiliation that results from the prepared excrement attack very seriously. It bears witness to the fatal self-image of a personality in a highly subsidised management position, who believes that he is above all critical judgment," said the publication. The newspaper, however, refused to accept the explanation offered by the State Opera saying, "The State Opera's explanation of the incident is completely inadequate, because the attack on the journalist from the FAZ is also an attack on freedom of the press.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

SHOCKING! Angered by review, ballet director smears critic's face with dog faeces

All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute. At least 300 flights and as many as 35,000 passengers scheduled to pass through the airport have been affected, as per media reports. It is also the first time since 2018 that strikes have led to so many flight cancellations.&nbsp;

“We hope that the pressure is enough,”&nbsp;said Enrico Ruemker, a representative of the trade union Verdi, that organised the strike. He added, “When you see how high the inflation rate is and consider that the colleagues from this area have not had a salary increase for many, many years, this offer is of course a slap in the face for the colleagues,”&nbsp;reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The walkout began at 3:30 am (local time) when several workers gathered in front of the main terminal building of the airport for a strike which was set to last throughout the day. Meanwhile, the airlines have rescheduled some flights for Thursday and others have been diverted to the country’s other airports in Dresden and Leipzig.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The trade union called on airport staff in ground services, aviation security and the airport company for a one-day stoppage over a wage dispute across three parallels over what they reportedly&nbsp;described&nbsp;as insufficient progress in the talks. As many as 1,500 workers are expected to participate in the strikes, the union had previously said, as per DW.&nbsp;

According to Ruemker, the airport company had proposed a two-year term under which salaries would increase by three per cent on June 1 and by an additional two per cent on May 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the trade union has demanded a 12-month collective bargaining contract under which airport employees and the ground handling services would receive a monthly hike of $540 in their salaries. On the other hand, employers have proposed a much longer contract.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute.

All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute. At least 300 flights and as many as 35,000 passengers scheduled to pass through the airport have been affected, as per media reports. It is also the first time since 2018 that strikes have led to so many flight cancellations. “We hope that the pressure is enough,” said Enrico Ruemker, a representative of the trade union Verdi, that organised the strike. He added, “When you see how high the inflation rate is and consider that the colleagues from this area have not had a salary increase for many, many years, this offer is of course a slap in the face for the colleagues,” reported Reuters. The walkout began at 3:30 am (local time) when several workers gathered in front of the main terminal building of the airport for a strike which was set to last throughout the day. Meanwhile, the airlines have rescheduled some flights for Thursday and others have been diverted to the country’s other airports in Dresden and Leipzig. The trade union called on airport staff in ground services, aviation security and the airport company for a one-day stoppage over a wage dispute across three parallels over what they reportedly described as insufficient progress in the talks. As many as 1,500 workers are expected to participate in the strikes, the union had previously said, as per DW. According to Ruemker, the airport company had proposed a two-year term under which salaries would increase by three per cent on June 1 and by an additional two per cent on May 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the trade union has demanded a 12-month collective bargaining contract under which airport employees and the ground handling services would receive a monthly hike of $540 in their salaries. On the other hand, employers have proposed a much longer contract. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Germany: Over 300 flights at Berlin’s Brandenburg airport impacted due to labour strike

As per reports, Germany’s new defense minister Boris Pistorius plans to visit Ukraine soon, as Berlin faces pressure to allow the shipment of German-made tanks to Ukraine.

Report: New German defense minister planning to visit Ukraine soon

So far China insisted on using domestic vaccines to combat covid19 but for the first time Beijing is all set to get foreign covid vaccines. Germany sends BioNTech covid vaccines to China.

China soon to get first batch of foreign covid vaccines sent from Berlin

German authorities on Saturday (Dec 17) said that they had found a "considerable portion" of 31 items of 18th-century jewellery from a 2019 robbery at Berlin's museum.&nbsp;The discovery came during the trial of the six suspects over the night-time raid on the Green Vault museum in November 2019, AFP reported.&nbsp;

German media reported the incident as the biggest art robbery, with insurance experts estimating that the stolen items were worth at least 113.8 million euros ($120 million).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/450-celtic-coins-worth-millions-of-euros-stolen-from-germany-museum-536767">Also read |&nbsp;450 Celtic coins worth millions of euros stolen from Germany museum in high security zone</a>

The thieves stole a total of 21 items of jewellery and other items&nbsp;from the Saxon ruler Augustus the Strong, with more than 4,300 individual diamonds.&nbsp;

A sword with a diamond-studded hilt and a shoulder piece that had a renowned 49-carat Dresden white diamond were among the precious items.&nbsp;

With ongoing "explanatory talks" some pieces, including a brooch of Queen Amalie Auguste of Saxony, are still missing.&nbsp;

Members of "Remmo clan," are the suspects in the raid trial.&nbsp;The trial which began in January is set to resume on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-returns-192-stolen-artefacts-worth-34-million-to-pakistan-seven-found-guilty-533655">Also read |&nbsp;US returns 192 stolen artifacts worth $3.4mn to Pakistan; 7 found guilty of theft, trafficking</a>

If found guilty, the suspects might spend up to 10 years in prison.&nbsp;

Police and prosecutors said that nearly 40 people are believed to be involved in the daring theft.&nbsp;

Dresden from the state&nbsp;prosecutor's office said that a 54-year-old suspect was detained for offering a valuable robbed item.&nbsp;

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German authorities on Saturday (Dec 17) said that they had found a "considerable portion" of 31 items of 18th-century jewellery from a 2019 robbery at Berlin's museum.

German authorities on Saturday (Dec 17) said that they had found a "considerable portion" of 31 items of 18th-century jewellery from a 2019 robbery at Berlin's museum. The discovery came during the trial of the six suspects over the night-time raid on the Green Vault museum in November 2019, AFP reported. German media reported the incident as the biggest art robbery, with insurance experts estimating that the stolen items were worth at least 113.8 million euros ($120 million). Also read | 450 Celtic coins worth millions of euros stolen from Germany museum in high security zone The thieves stole a total of 21 items of jewellery and other items from the Saxon ruler Augustus the Strong, with more than 4,300 individual diamonds. A sword with a diamond-studded hilt and a shoulder piece that had a renowned 49-carat Dresden white diamond were among the precious items. With ongoing "explanatory talks" some pieces, including a brooch of Queen Amalie Auguste of Saxony, are still missing. Members of "Remmo clan," are the suspects in the raid trial. The trial which began in January is set to resume on Tuesday. Also read | US returns 192 stolen artifacts worth $3.4mn to Pakistan; 7 found guilty of theft, trafficking If found guilty, the suspects might spend up to 10 years in prison. Police and prosecutors said that nearly 40 people are believed to be involved in the daring theft. Dresden from the state prosecutor's office said that a 54-year-old suspect was detained for offering a valuable robbed item. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German authorities recover 31 jewellery items worth millions of euros robbed in 2019 Berlin museum heist

World’s one of the largest freestanding aquariums placed in a hotel in central Berlin burst on Friday, spilling one&nbsp;million litres of water and debris onto a major road in the busy Mitte district.

The 14-metre-high cylindrical aquarium housed 1,500 tropical fish of 80 different species.

According to reports, the incident at the AquaDom aquarium happened around 5.50 am (local time). The cause of the burst is being investigated.

There are claims that freezing temperatures had contributed to the leak, but police spokesman Martin Stralau the cause of the incident was still being investigated, reports AP news agency.

Berlin police on Twitter said, “In addition to the unbelievable maritime damage... two people were injured by glass splinters.”

Berlin's public transport office said on Twitter that the nearby Karl-Liebknecht street has been partially closed off because there is "an extreme amount of water on the road".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Berlin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Berlin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a>🇩🇪- AquaDom Sea Life, the world's largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium bursts at the Radisson Blu Hotel in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mitte?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mitte</a>; large volume of water and up to 1,500 tropical fish spilling out including onto the streets, VIZ and police have said (📹<a href="https://twitter.com/niklas_scheele?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@niklas_scheele</a>) <a href="https://t.co/yZltPtLzL1">pic.twitter.com/yZltPtLzL1</a>
— CyclistAnons🚲 (@CyclistAnons) <a href="https://twitter.com/CyclistAnons/status/1603687840650366976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Berlin fire brigade has been rushed to the site even as there are reports of emergency responders being unable to access the ground floor of the building due to the debris.

A spokesperson of the Berlin fire brigade said that search and rescue dogs have also been sent to the scene.

More than 350 people, who are said to be staying at the hotel in the complex, have been asked to leave the premises immediately.

Police said that buses were dispatched to the complex to provide shelter for people leaving the hotel as outside temperatures in Berlin were around minus 7 degrees Celsius.

According to the operators, the aquarium has the biggest cylindrical tank in the world. It was last modernized in 2020 and is a major tourist magnet in Berlin.

One of the major highlights of the attraction was the 10-minute elevator ride through the tank.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

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World’s one of the largest freestanding aquariums placed in a hotel in central Berlin burst on Friday, spilling one million litres of water and debris onto a major road in the busy Mitte district.

World’s one of the largest freestanding aquariums placed in a hotel in central Berlin burst on Friday, spilling one million litres of water and debris onto a major road in the busy Mitte district. The 14-metre-high cylindrical aquarium housed 1,500 tropical fish of 80 different species. According to reports, the incident at the AquaDom aquarium happened around 5.50 am (local time). The cause of the burst is being investigated. There are claims that freezing temperatures had contributed to the leak, but police spokesman Martin Stralau the cause of the incident was still being investigated, reports AP news agency. Berlin police on Twitter said, “In addition to the unbelievable maritime damage... two people were injured by glass splinters.” Berlin's public transport office said on Twitter that the nearby Karl-Liebknecht street has been partially closed off because there is "an extreme amount of water on the road". #Berlin #Germany🇩🇪- AquaDom Sea Life, the world's largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium bursts at the Radisson Blu Hotel in #Mitte; large volume of water and up to 1,500 tropical fish spilling out including onto the streets, VIZ and police have said (📹@niklas_scheele) pic.twitter.com/yZltPtLzL1 — CyclistAnons🚲 (@CyclistAnons) December 16, 2022 × The Berlin fire brigade has been rushed to the site even as there are reports of emergency responders being unable to access the ground floor of the building due to the debris. A spokesperson of the Berlin fire brigade said that search and rescue dogs have also been sent to the scene. More than 350 people, who are said to be staying at the hotel in the complex, have been asked to leave the premises immediately. Police said that buses were dispatched to the complex to provide shelter for people leaving the hotel as outside temperatures in Berlin were around minus 7 degrees Celsius. According to the operators, the aquarium has the biggest cylindrical tank in the world. It was last modernized in 2020 and is a major tourist magnet in Berlin. One of the major highlights of the attraction was the 10-minute elevator ride through the tank. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World’s largest freestanding aquarium bursts in Berlin, leaving trail of destruction, 1500 fish lost

Berlin’s aquarium busted early on Friday. The aquarium was home for around 1,500 exotic fish. The burst spilled 1 million liters of water and debris onto a major road.

Berlin's largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium bursts

A huge aquarium burst in capital city of Berlin. About 100 emergency responders rushed to the scene. The aquarium was situated in a complex that houses a hotel, a museum, shops and restaurants. It was reportedly the world's largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium measuring around 46 feet in height.

BREAKING: Huge aquarium bursts in Berlin, emergency responders on site

Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma. 
 
The audio guide titled "We Have Always Been Everywhere" narrates the story of Berlin's famed red-light district in central Schoeneberg, starting from the 1880s. 
 
The project, which has been launched by local sex workers with the support of the Schwules Museum of LGBTQ life and the city government, claims prostitution, although a taboo, is a time-honoured part of the city.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-largest-freestanding-aquarium-bursts-in-berlin-leaving-trail-of-destruction-543686">World’s largest freestanding aquarium bursts in Berlin, leaving trail of destruction</a> 
 
“We've been here for generations and we belong here and we deserve to work here safely," Emma Pankhurst, one of the initiators, said. Three years ago, Pankhurst had emigrated from the US to carry on her trade legally, without fearing any arrest. 
 
She said that though liberal prostitution laws of Germany marked social progress compared to the situation of full criminalisation in the US, however, Berlin has not been able to prove itself as a sexual safe haven. 
 
Schoeneberg is "one of the gay paradises of the world", said Pankhurst. "That in part is due to the sex worker community being here first and the gay community following suit," she added.

WATCH|&nbsp;Germany to tighten gun control laws; more than 1,000 weapons confiscated

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She said that gentrification is making things difficult for her and her colleagues. 
 
"Real estate prices are through the roof and that means there's quite a lot of money to be made here. People don't want to see sex workers on the street,” said Pankhurst. 
 
She further stated that they also faced the negative impact of the nine-month prostitution ban which was imposed during, which further became an excuse for violence and harassment.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma.

Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma. The audio guide titled "We Have Always Been Everywhere" narrates the story of Berlin's famed red-light district in central Schoeneberg, starting from the 1880s. The project, which has been launched by local sex workers with the support of the Schwules Museum of LGBTQ life and the city government, claims prostitution, although a taboo, is a time-honoured part of the city. ALSO READ| World’s largest freestanding aquarium bursts in Berlin, leaving trail of destruction “We've been here for generations and we belong here and we deserve to work here safely," Emma Pankhurst, one of the initiators, said. Three years ago, Pankhurst had emigrated from the US to carry on her trade legally, without fearing any arrest. She said that though liberal prostitution laws of Germany marked social progress compared to the situation of full criminalisation in the US, however, Berlin has not been able to prove itself as a sexual safe haven. Schoeneberg is "one of the gay paradises of the world", said Pankhurst. "That in part is due to the sex worker community being here first and the gay community following suit," she added. WATCH| Germany to tighten gun control laws; more than 1,000 weapons confiscated She said that gentrification is making things difficult for her and her colleagues. "Real estate prices are through the roof and that means there's quite a lot of money to be made here. People don't want to see sex workers on the street,” said Pankhurst. She further stated that they also faced the negative impact of the nine-month prostitution ban which was imposed during, which further became an excuse for violence and harassment. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex workers in Berlin emerge from shadows to narrate their history through audio app

From Berlin Process Summit for the Western Balkans to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Jordan's Amman, here are some impactful images from around the world on 03 November, 2022.

World in Pictures: Berlin Process Summit for the Western Balkans; Sergei Lavrov in Jordan's Amman

People across the world are seating with anger with women on the forefront. Protests in Iran against the death of 22 year old Kurdish woman Mahasa Amini have spilled over to other countries as well. People from North America to Europe to Asia have been demonstrating against the Iranian government and in support of the protesters in the Islamic Republic.

Amini Hijab Row: World rallies in solidarity with Iran protests, tens of thousands march in Berlin

IN PICS: Festival of Lights celebrations underway in Berlin, Germany

Since Moscow announced partial military mobilisation, there have been some pretty unusual images that have been emerging from along the Russian borders, where residents have been seen lining up to immediately flee from the country. Berlin has now urged the Russian deserters to apply for asylum in Germany.

Berlin urges Russian deserters to seek asylum in Germany, voluntary surrender by forces a crime

Russians flee 'partial mobilisation'; Berlin extends helping hand to deserters

Do you love your expensive footwear collection but are unable to take proper care of them? This new innovative tech by LG was unveiled at the IFA tech fair in Berlin and it will take care of your favourite footwear.

Tech in Trend: This tech helps you take care of your favourite footwear

After a two-year gap, Olympic stadium in Berlin hosted the Pyronale Fireworks World Championship on Friday. Crowds gathered to watch fireworks and classical music.

Berlin: Olympic stadium hosts Pyronale fireworks World Championship

Poland has made an assessment of the financial damages caused by Nazi Germany's invasion during World War Two. According to a parliamentary committee, Poland lost over $1 trillion. The leader of Poland's ruling party wants Berlin to pay reparations. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Poland wants Germany to pay $1.3 trillion

Here's a little glimpse at Europe's largest electronic fair IFA which is going to open to the public from 2 September. The event made a comeback after a pandemic-enforced hiatus.

Berlin's IFA tech fair makes a comeback after a pandemic-enforced hiatus

An explosion at a police ammunition dump near Germany's capital triggered a huge fire in one of the biggest city forests. More than 100 firefighters were deployed to battle the blaze that was spreading quickly.

WION Climate Tracker: Explosion at detonation site triggers wildfire near Berlin

Berlin has decided to dim the lights of several monuments and historic buildings overnight as part of a national effort to save energy amid fears of winter shortages.

Germany: Berlin dims lights of monumental buildings to conserve energy

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