British border guards turned away Ukrainian refugees in Calais citing 'incomplete paperwork'. In France, right-wing leaders want to expel Arab refugees and welcome Ukrainians. Palki Sharma tells you how racism is shaping Europe's refugee policy.

Gravitas: Britain turns away Ukrainian refugees

The British government on Thursday announced sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich while freezing his assets. Amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several countries across the globe have imposed sanctions on the country while many sporting bodies have also banned Russian teams, athletes and staff from taking part in their tournaments.

Russia has been immense criticism from all corners as Ukraine continues to suffer in the ongoing war. Abramovich was among seven Russian billionaires sanctioned by the UK government in the wake of the Ukraine invasion. Abramovich, who is said to have close ties with Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin, had taken over Chelsea in 2003 and has since made the club a force to reckon with in club football.

Chelsea have won five English Premier League titles and two Champions League titles since&nbsp;Abramovich took over the club, including a European triumph last year. However, the club's future is now uncertain after the UK government's sanctions on its Russian owner.

Can Chelsea continue playing?

The sanctions imposed on Abramovich could have forced Chelsea to stop running as a business and barred the club from continuing in any of the competitions that they are part of, including the English Premier League. However, the UK government has issued a special license to Chelsea to continue operations with several restrictions. So Chelsea will be allowed to play but they will be banned from several marketing activities including ticket sales, merchandise sales and players transfers among others.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uk-govt-right-to-impose-sanctions-on-chelsea-owner-roman-abramovich-says-liverpool-manager-juergen-klopp-461372">UK govt right to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Abramovich, says Liverpool manager&nbsp;Klopp</a>

A look at things Chelsea are&nbsp;allowed to do:

Chelsea are allowed to play matches in all competitions that they are part of. However, there can only spend up to only&nbsp;500,000 pounds ($657,000) on playing each game at Stamford Bridge, including security and catering.

Only season-ticket holders are the ones who will be allowed to attend the club's remaining matches at their home stadium and away from home. The ticket sales have been prohibited.

The club will continue to receive broadcast money from their ongoing deals. However, the money will be frozen in the club's bank account and will be monitored by the UK government.

The club will continue to pay the wages to its staff and players. There are no restrictions on the wages, however, as per reports, Chelsea have laid off several staff members already.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/britain-to-work-with-chelsea-football-club-on-changes-to-its-licence-says-pms-spokesman-461357">Britain to work with Chelsea Football Club on changes to its licence, says PM's spokesman</a>

What are things Chelsea are not allowed to do?

No player recruitment or contract renewal of existing players. Chelsea will not be allowed to make any new signings or renew the deals of their existing players under the terms of the government license that runs till May 31 this year. This means the club might lose the services of the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta, Toni Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, who are all in the final year of their respective contracts.

No ticket sales. Chelsea will not be allowed to sell tickets and earn any match day revenue from their fans. Only the season-ticket holders, who have already purchased their tickets will be allowed to attend the matches both at home and in Europe till the sanction is in effect.

No merchandise sale. All Chelsea club stores have been shut down in the UK as the club has been banned from selling any merchandise under the current license. Chelsea won't be able to sell any club shirts, memorabilia or other items.

The sale of the club halted. Abramovich had listed Chelsea up for sale in the wake of outrage in the British parliament over his alleged ties with Putin. However, the British government's sanctions have handed him a huge blow in his aspirations as the club's sale has been stalled.&nbsp;Britain's technology minister Chris Philp on Friday said that any prospective bidders interested in taking over Chelsea should contact the British government directly.

 
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The British government on Thursday announced sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich while freezing his assets. Amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several countries across the globe have imposed sanctions on the country while many sporting bodies have also banned Russian teams, athletes and staff from taking part in their tournaments.

The British government on Thursday announced sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich while freezing his assets. Amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several countries across the globe have imposed sanctions on the country while many sporting bodies have also banned Russian teams, athletes and staff from taking part in their tournaments. Russia has been immense criticism from all corners as Ukraine continues to suffer in the ongoing war. Abramovich was among seven Russian billionaires sanctioned by the UK government in the wake of the Ukraine invasion. Abramovich, who is said to have close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, had taken over Chelsea in 2003 and has since made the club a force to reckon with in club football. Chelsea have won five English Premier League titles and two Champions League titles since Abramovich took over the club, including a European triumph last year. However, the club's future is now uncertain after the UK government's sanctions on its Russian owner. Can Chelsea continue playing? The sanctions imposed on Abramovich could have forced Chelsea to stop running as a business and barred the club from continuing in any of the competitions that they are part of, including the English Premier League. However, the UK government has issued a special license to Chelsea to continue operations with several restrictions. So Chelsea will be allowed to play but they will be banned from several marketing activities including ticket sales, merchandise sales and players transfers among others. Also Read: UK govt right to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Abramovich, says Liverpool manager Klopp A look at things Chelsea are allowed to do: Chelsea are allowed to play matches in all competitions that they are part of. However, there can only spend up to only 500,000 pounds ($657,000) on playing each game at Stamford Bridge, including security and catering. Only season-ticket holders are the ones who will be allowed to attend the club's remaining matches at their home stadium and away from home. The ticket sales have been prohibited. The club will continue to receive broadcast money from their ongoing deals. However, the money will be frozen in the club's bank account and will be monitored by the UK government. The club will continue to pay the wages to its staff and players. There are no restrictions on the wages, however, as per reports, Chelsea have laid off several staff members already. Also Read: Britain to work with Chelsea Football Club on changes to its licence, says PM's spokesman What are things Chelsea are not allowed to do? No player recruitment or contract renewal of existing players. Chelsea will not be allowed to make any new signings or renew the deals of their existing players under the terms of the government license that runs till May 31 this year. This means the club might lose the services of the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta, Toni Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, who are all in the final year of their respective contracts. No ticket sales. Chelsea will not be allowed to sell tickets and earn any match day revenue from their fans. Only the season-ticket holders, who have already purchased their tickets will be allowed to attend the matches both at home and in Europe till the sanction is in effect. No merchandise sale. All Chelsea club stores have been shut down in the UK as the club has been banned from selling any merchandise under the current license. Chelsea won't be able to sell any club shirts, memorabilia or other items. The sale of the club halted. Abramovich had listed Chelsea up for sale in the wake of outrage in the British parliament over his alleged ties with Putin. However, the British government's sanctions have handed him a huge blow in his aspirations as the club's sale has been stalled. Britain's technology minister Chris Philp on Friday said that any prospective bidders interested in taking over Chelsea should contact the British government directly.

Explained: What British government's sanctions on Roman Abramovich mean for Chelsea football club

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday.

"We're in constant contact with the club and the Premier League over any issues that have been raised through the sanctions and the licence that the Treasury have issued them," the spokesman told reporters.

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"It's now up to the club to apply for any amended licence. I believe Chelsea have said that they will do that, and we'll obviously work with the club and... the league to consider any operationally necessary changes."

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday.

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday. "We're in constant contact with the club and the Premier League over any issues that have been raised through the sanctions and the licence that the Treasury have issued them," the spokesman told reporters. ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi after 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid "It's now up to the club to apply for any amended licence. I believe Chelsea have said that they will do that, and we'll obviously work with the club and... the league to consider any operationally necessary changes."

Britain to work with Chelsea Football Club on changes to its licence, says PM's spokesman

English Premier League club Chelsea&nbsp;said Thursday they were pressing for talks with the UK government after their billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with a UK assets freeze and travel ban.

The club said in a statement it would fulfil its upcoming fixtures but indicated restrictions imposed on its day-to-day operations under a special licence were too harsh.

"This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the club to operate as normal as possible," it added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-football-clubs-sale-halted-as-uk-government-imposes-sanctions-on-roman-abramovich-460936">Chelsea football club's sale halted as UK government imposes sanctions on Roman Abramovich</a>

English Premier League club Chelsea said Thursday they were pressing for talks with the UK government after their billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with a UK assets freeze and travel ban.

English Premier League club Chelsea said Thursday they were pressing for talks with the UK government after their billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with a UK assets freeze and travel ban. The club said in a statement it would fulfil its upcoming fixtures but indicated restrictions imposed on its day-to-day operations under a special licence were too harsh. "This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the club to operate as normal as possible," it added. Also Read: Chelsea football club's sale halted as UK government imposes sanctions on Roman Abramovich

Chelsea says it will seek changes to post-sanctions operating licence from British government

A US&nbsp;judge on Tuesday ordered the dismissal of Virginia Giuffre's lawsuit accusing Britain's Prince Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was underage, as Britain's finance ministry confirmed that no public funds were used in their settlement.

The dismissal by US&nbsp;District Judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan federal court had been requested by Giuffre and&nbsp;Andrew, and was expected following the settlement announced on Feb. 15 between Giuffre and Queen Elizabeth's second son.

That accord included an undisclosed payment, with&nbsp;Andrew&nbsp;making a "substantial donation" to Giuffre's charity in support of victims' rights.

Andrew, the Duke of York, did not admit wrongdoing in agreeing to settle the civil lawsuit. He has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing.

The finance ministry issued its comment after The Sun, a British tabloid, said&nbsp;Andrew's older brother Prince Charles was bankrolling most of the settlement, with the queen chipping in.

Giuffre's case had focused on&nbsp;Andrew's friendship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, the financier and sex offender who the 38-year-old Giuffre said also sexually abused her.

Andrew, 62, denied Giuffre's accusations that he forced her to have sex when she was 17 at the London home of Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's mansion in Manhattan, and Epstein's private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The allegations and&nbsp;Andrew's relationship with Epstein severely damaged the&nbsp;prince's reputation, forcing him to give up his royal patronages and no longer be known as "His Royal Highness."

In a statement announcing the settlement,&nbsp;Andrew&nbsp;said he regretted his association with Epstein, and accepted that Giuffre had suffered as an abuse victim.

Epstein killed himself at age 66 in a Manhattan jail in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Maxwell is seeking a new trial after being convicted in December of recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein to abuse.

A US judge on Tuesday ordered the dismissal of Virginia Giuffre's lawsuit accusing Britain's Prince Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was underage, as Britain's finance ministry confirmed that no public funds were used in their settlement.

A US judge on Tuesday ordered the dismissal of Virginia Giuffre's lawsuit accusing Britain's Prince Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was underage, as Britain's finance ministry confirmed that no public funds were used in their settlement. The dismissal by US District Judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan federal court had been requested by Giuffre and Andrew, and was expected following the settlement announced on Feb. 15 between Giuffre and Queen Elizabeth's second son. That accord included an undisclosed payment, with Andrew making a "substantial donation" to Giuffre's charity in support of victims' rights. Andrew, the Duke of York, did not admit wrongdoing in agreeing to settle the civil lawsuit. He has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing. The finance ministry issued its comment after The Sun, a British tabloid, said Andrew's older brother Prince Charles was bankrolling most of the settlement, with the queen chipping in. Giuffre's case had focused on Andrew's friendship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, the financier and sex offender who the 38-year-old Giuffre said also sexually abused her. Andrew, 62, denied Giuffre's accusations that he forced her to have sex when she was 17 at the London home of Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's mansion in Manhattan, and Epstein's private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The allegations and Andrew's relationship with Epstein severely damaged the prince's reputation, forcing him to give up his royal patronages and no longer be known as "His Royal Highness." In a statement announcing the settlement, Andrew said he regretted his association with Epstein, and accepted that Giuffre had suffered as an abuse victim. Epstein killed himself at age 66 in a Manhattan jail in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Maxwell is seeking a new trial after being convicted in December of recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein to abuse.

Lawsuit against Prince Andrew is dismissed, Britain says no public funds in settlement

Amid reports that the United States and Britain would announce formal ban on Russian oil imports, oil prices rose on Tuesday as fears of shortage of supply mounted.

Benchmark Brent crude for May had climbed by almost 7% to $131.8 a barrel by 1517 GMT. U.S. crude for April delivery was up 7% at $127.82.

Prices climbed after a source said the United States, the world's biggest oil consumer, could announce a ban on Russian oil imports as soon as Tuesday in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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The White House said US&nbsp;President Biden would announce actions to hold Russia accountable at 1545 GMT after sources said Washington was willing to impose such a Russian oil import ban even without its European allies.

Britan is also expected to announce at 1600 GMT a ban on Russian oil imports, Politico reported, citing Whitehall officials.

The ban is expected to be a gradual phasing out over time and is expected to last about a year to try to stop people panic-buying fuel.

An import ban by Europe and the United States on Russian oil could send global oil prices to $200 a barrel, analysts at Oslo-based consultancy Rystad Energy said on Tuesday.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said prices could rise to more than $300 a barrel.

Many buyers are already avoiding Russian oil to avoid becoming entangled in existing sanctions.

Shell said it would stop all spot purchases of Russian crude after drawing criticism for a purchase on March 4.

Goldman Sachs raised its Brent forecast for 2022 to $135 from $98 and its 2023 outlook to $115 a barrel from $105, saying that the world economy could face the "largest energy supply shocks ever" because of Russia's key role.

Dimming expectations of an imminent return of Iranian crude to global markets have added to upward pressure on prices amid a slowdown in talks between Tehran and world powers over its nuclear activity.

Oil supply disruptions come as inventories continue to fall worldwide. Five analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that U.S. crude stockpiles decreased by about 800,000 barrels in the week to March 4.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amid reports that the United States and Britain would announce formal ban on Russian oil imports, oil prices rose on Tuesday as fears of shortage of supply mounted.

Amid reports that the United States and Britain would announce formal ban on Russian oil imports, oil prices rose on Tuesday as fears of shortage of supply mounted. Benchmark Brent crude for May had climbed by almost 7% to $131.8 a barrel by 1517 GMT. U.S. crude for April delivery was up 7% at $127.82. Prices climbed after a source said the United States, the world's biggest oil consumer, could announce a ban on Russian oil imports as soon as Tuesday in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. × The White House said US President Biden would announce actions to hold Russia accountable at 1545 GMT after sources said Washington was willing to impose such a Russian oil import ban even without its European allies. Britan is also expected to announce at 1600 GMT a ban on Russian oil imports, Politico reported, citing Whitehall officials. The ban is expected to be a gradual phasing out over time and is expected to last about a year to try to stop people panic-buying fuel. An import ban by Europe and the United States on Russian oil could send global oil prices to $200 a barrel, analysts at Oslo-based consultancy Rystad Energy said on Tuesday. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said prices could rise to more than $300 a barrel. Many buyers are already avoiding Russian oil to avoid becoming entangled in existing sanctions. Shell said it would stop all spot purchases of Russian crude after drawing criticism for a purchase on March 4. Goldman Sachs raised its Brent forecast for 2022 to $135 from $98 and its 2023 outlook to $115 a barrel from $105, saying that the world economy could face the "largest energy supply shocks ever" because of Russia's key role. Dimming expectations of an imminent return of Iranian crude to global markets have added to upward pressure on prices amid a slowdown in talks between Tehran and world powers over its nuclear activity. Oil supply disruptions come as inventories continue to fall worldwide. Five analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that U.S. crude stockpiles decreased by about 800,000 barrels in the week to March 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Oil prices shoot up as possible US ban on Russian import looms

Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin will not be able to race in the British Grand Prix on his Russian license after Motorsport UK on Wednesday banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The move by Britain's motor racing federation comes a day after the sport's governing body FIA said Russian and Belarusian drivers would be allowed to compete in a "neutral capacity" under an "FIA flag" following an extraordinary meeting of its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC).

By targeting the nationality of the licenses, Motorsport UK's decision will stop Russian and Belarusian drivers from racing in Britain, regardless of the flag they compete under.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-paralympics-athletes-from-russia-belarus-can-compete-as-neutrals-458193">Beijing Winter Paralympics: Athletes from Russia, Belarus can compete as neutrals</a>

"We stand united with the people of Ukraine and the motorsport community following the invasion and the unacceptable actions that have unfolded," said Motorsport UK Chair David Richards, who attended Tuesday's WMSC meeting, in a statement.

"This is a time for the international motorsport community to act and show support for the people of Ukraine and our colleagues at the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU)."

Motorsport UK said its decision was made in full consultation with the British Government and national sports governing bodies.

Mazepin, the only Russian on the Formula One grid, already faces an uncertain future after his U.S.-owned Haas team removed all branding related to Russian potash producer and title sponsor Uralkali on the final day of last week's Barcelona test.

Uralkali is owned by Mazepin's father, oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, and the fate of the partnership and the Russian`s continued presence at the team is set to be decided this week.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/drivers-from-russia-belarus-to-participate-only-in-their-neutral-capacity-says-fia-president-md-ben-sulayem-458137">Drivers from Russia, Belarus to participate only in their neutral capacity, says FIA President Md. Ben Sulayem</a>

Motorsport UK also announced a ban on Russian and Belarusian-licensed teams competing in the UK.

It banned the display of Russian or Belarusian national symbols, colours or flags, even on team uniforms, equipment and cars, at Motorsport UK-permitted events.

The organisation's move raises the prospect of other national motorsport federations applying similar restrictions for their home Formula One races.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The British Grand Prix is scheduled for July 3 at Silverstone.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roman-abramovich-wants-to-get-rid-of-chelsea-so-he-offered-to-sell-it-says-swiss-billionaire-hansjorg-wyss-458199">Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss</a>

Belarus has been a key staging area for the Russian invasion.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation."&nbsp;

Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin will not be able to race in the British Grand Prix on his Russian license after Motorsport UK on Wednesday banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin will not be able to race in the British Grand Prix on his Russian license after Motorsport UK on Wednesday banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The move by Britain's motor racing federation comes a day after the sport's governing body FIA said Russian and Belarusian drivers would be allowed to compete in a "neutral capacity" under an "FIA flag" following an extraordinary meeting of its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC). By targeting the nationality of the licenses, Motorsport UK's decision will stop Russian and Belarusian drivers from racing in Britain, regardless of the flag they compete under. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Paralympics: Athletes from Russia, Belarus can compete as neutrals "We stand united with the people of Ukraine and the motorsport community following the invasion and the unacceptable actions that have unfolded," said Motorsport UK Chair David Richards, who attended Tuesday's WMSC meeting, in a statement. "This is a time for the international motorsport community to act and show support for the people of Ukraine and our colleagues at the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU)." Motorsport UK said its decision was made in full consultation with the British Government and national sports governing bodies. Mazepin, the only Russian on the Formula One grid, already faces an uncertain future after his U.S.-owned Haas team removed all branding related to Russian potash producer and title sponsor Uralkali on the final day of last week's Barcelona test. Uralkali is owned by Mazepin's father, oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, and the fate of the partnership and the Russian`s continued presence at the team is set to be decided this week. ALSO READ: Drivers from Russia, Belarus to participate only in their neutral capacity, says FIA President Md. Ben Sulayem Motorsport UK also announced a ban on Russian and Belarusian-licensed teams competing in the UK. It banned the display of Russian or Belarusian national symbols, colours or flags, even on team uniforms, equipment and cars, at Motorsport UK-permitted events. The organisation's move raises the prospect of other national motorsport federations applying similar restrictions for their home Formula One races. The British Grand Prix is scheduled for July 3 at Silverstone. ALSO READ: Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss Belarus has been a key staging area for the Russian invasion. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation."

Motorsport UK bans Russian drivers from racing in Britain amid Ukraine invasion

Britain condemned on Wednesday the International Paralympic Committee's decision to let Russian and Belarusian athletes compete as neutral participants in the Winter Paralympics in Beijing.

"I am extremely disappointed in the IPC - this is the wrong decision and I call on them to urgently reconsider," Nadine Dorries, Britain's secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-paralympics-athletes-from-russia-belarus-can-compete-as-neutrals-458193">Beijing Winter Paralympics: Athletes from Russia, Belarus can compete as neutrals</a>

"They must join the rest of the world in condemning this barbaric invasion by banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing," she added.

Dorries said she would consult with British sports bodies on how best to protest this decision.

Britain condemned on Wednesday the International Paralympic Committee's decision to let Russian and Belarusian athletes compete as neutral participants in the Winter Paralympics in Beijing.

Britain condemned on Wednesday the International Paralympic Committee's decision to let Russian and Belarusian athletes compete as neutral participants in the Winter Paralympics in Beijing. "I am extremely disappointed in the IPC - this is the wrong decision and I call on them to urgently reconsider," Nadine Dorries, Britain's secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, said in a statement. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Paralympics: Athletes from Russia, Belarus can compete as neutrals "They must join the rest of the world in condemning this barbaric invasion by banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing," she added. Dorries said she would consult with British sports bodies on how best to protest this decision.

Beijing Winter Paralympics: Britain condemns participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will face a grilling about Ukraine. In his weekly session, he's likely to face questions in the house of commons about whether his government is doing enough to respond to the crisis.

British govt releases sanctions list, Boris Johnson to face UK parliament

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them.

The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie&nbsp;6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title.

Nadal, who won his third title in 2022, including the Australian Open for his record 21st Grand Slam singles title, is three victories from tying Ivan Lendl's total of 94 for third place for most championships in the Open Era. Jimmy Connors leads with 109 and Roger Federer has 103.

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The Spaniard won for the fourth time in Acapulco (2005, 2013 and 2020) where he is a fan favorite. Norrie, who was on an eight-game winning streak, was trying to become the first British man to win the Mexican Open in its 29-year history.

At the start of the match, Nadal had a break in the fifth game to take a 3-2 lead and went on to in the first set in 51 minutes.

In the second set, Nadal had a break in the first game, but Norrie returned it and appeared to be back into the match, but the Spaniard added breaks in the fifth and seventh games to take home the trophy.

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In the doubles final, Feliciano Lopez and Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer 7-5, 6-4.

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them. The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title.

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them. The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title. Nadal, who won his third title in 2022, including the Australian Open for his record 21st Grand Slam singles title, is three victories from tying Ivan Lendl's total of 94 for third place for most championships in the Open Era. Jimmy Connors leads with 109 and Roger Federer has 103. ALSO READ: Chelsea's Roman Abramovich hands over 'stewardship and care' of club The Spaniard won for the fourth time in Acapulco (2005, 2013 and 2020) where he is a fan favorite. Norrie, who was on an eight-game winning streak, was trying to become the first British man to win the Mexican Open in its 29-year history. At the start of the match, Nadal had a break in the fifth game to take a 3-2 lead and went on to in the first set in 51 minutes. In the second set, Nadal had a break in the first game, but Norrie returned it and appeared to be back into the match, but the Spaniard added breaks in the fifth and seventh games to take home the trophy. ALSO READ: Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL In the doubles final, Feliciano Lopez and Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer 7-5, 6-4.

Mexican Open: Rafael Nadal beats Britain's Cameron Norrie to win his 91st ATP title

Sri Lanka shipped out to Britain on Monday the last of several hundred containers filled with thousands of tonnes of illegally imported waste, officials said.

Several Asian countries have in recent years been pushing back against an onslaught of refuse from wealthier nations and have started turning back unwanted shipments.

The waste from Britain arrived in Sri Lanka between 2017 and 2019 and was listed as "used mattresses, carpets and rugs".

But in reality it also contained biowaste from hospitals including body parts from mortuaries, according to customs officials. The containers were not chilled and some of them gave off a powerful stench.

The 45 containers loaded onto a ship at a Colombo port on Monday were the final batch of 263 containers holding around 3,000 tonnes of waste.

"There could be fresh attempts to import such hazardous cargo, but we will be vigilant and ensure that this does not happen again," customs chief Vijitha Ravipriya said.

The first 21 containers holding medical waste were returned to Britain in September 2020, according to customs.

A local company had imported the waste from Britain, saying it planned to recover the springs from used mattresses as well as cotton to be reshipped to manufacturers abroad. But customs failed to find credible evidence of such "resource recovery".

A local environmental activist group filed a petition demanding the waste be returned to its sender and Sri Lanka's Court of Appeal upheld the petition in 2020.

Customs maintained that all the containers had been brought into the country in violation of international law governing the shipment of hazardous waste, including plastics.

A Sri Lankan investigation in 2019 found the importer had reshipped about 180 tonnes of waste brought into the island to India and Dubai in 2017 and 2018.

The Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia have also returned hundreds of containers of refuse back to their countries of origin.

Sri Lanka shipped out to Britain on Monday the last of several hundred containers filled with thousands of tonnes of illegally imported waste, officials said. Several Asian countries have in recent years been pushing back against an onslaught of refuse from wealthier nations and have started turning back unwanted shipments.

Sri Lanka shipped out to Britain on Monday the last of several hundred containers filled with thousands of tonnes of illegally imported waste, officials said. Several Asian countries have in recent years been pushing back against an onslaught of refuse from wealthier nations and have started turning back unwanted shipments. The waste from Britain arrived in Sri Lanka between 2017 and 2019 and was listed as "used mattresses, carpets and rugs". But in reality it also contained biowaste from hospitals including body parts from mortuaries, according to customs officials. The containers were not chilled and some of them gave off a powerful stench. The 45 containers loaded onto a ship at a Colombo port on Monday were the final batch of 263 containers holding around 3,000 tonnes of waste. "There could be fresh attempts to import such hazardous cargo, but we will be vigilant and ensure that this does not happen again," customs chief Vijitha Ravipriya said. The first 21 containers holding medical waste were returned to Britain in September 2020, according to customs. A local company had imported the waste from Britain, saying it planned to recover the springs from used mattresses as well as cotton to be reshipped to manufacturers abroad. But customs failed to find credible evidence of such "resource recovery". A local environmental activist group filed a petition demanding the waste be returned to its sender and Sri Lanka's Court of Appeal upheld the petition in 2020. Customs maintained that all the containers had been brought into the country in violation of international law governing the shipment of hazardous waste, including plastics. A Sri Lankan investigation in 2019 found the importer had reshipped about 180 tonnes of waste brought into the island to India and Dubai in 2017 and 2018. The Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia have also returned hundreds of containers of refuse back to their countries of origin.

‘Used mattresses, carpets, rugs’: Sri Lanka returns illegally imported waste to Britain

Office of UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that he intends to set out plans next week to remove the mandate of self-isolation for people who are infected with Covid.

If such relaxation comes into force, it will make Britain will become first major &nbsp;European country to allow people who know they are infected with COVID-19 to freely use shops, public transport and go to work -- a move many of his health advisors think is risky.

"Covid will not suddenly disappear, and we need to learn to live with this virus and continue to protect ourselves without restricting our freedoms," Johnson said in a statement.

Johnson will also give more details on how Britain will guard against future coronavirus variants through ongoing surveillance, amid reports that the government wants to end free testing and scale back public health studies.

Currently people in England are legally required to self-isolate for at least five days if instructed to by public health officials, and are advised to isolate even without a specific order if they have COVID-19 symptoms or test positive.

Removing the COVID-19 self-isolation legal requirements and replacing them with voluntary guidance would bring the disease in line with how Britain treats most other infections.

Some 85% of Britain's population aged 12 or over have had at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, and two thirds of the population - including the vast majority of those most at risk - have had three.

Britain's death toll of more than 160,000 fatalities within 28 days of infection is the second-highest in Europe after Russia's. Relative to the size of Britain's population, it is 6% higher than the average for the European Union.

COVID-19 restrictions are unpopular with many members of Johnson's Conservative Party, who view them as disproportionate given widespread take-up of vaccines.

"Pharmaceutical interventions, led by the vaccination programme, will continue to be our first line of defence," the government said. "An awareness of public health guidance should remain, as with all infectious diseases such as flu."

(With inputs from agencies)

Office of UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that he intends to set out plans next week to remove the mandate of self-isolation for people who are infected with Covid.

Office of UK PM Boris Johnson said on Saturday that he intends to set out plans next week to remove the mandate of self-isolation for people who are infected with Covid. If such relaxation comes into force, it will make Britain will become first major European country to allow people who know they are infected with COVID-19 to freely use shops, public transport and go to work -- a move many of his health advisors think is risky. "Covid will not suddenly disappear, and we need to learn to live with this virus and continue to protect ourselves without restricting our freedoms," Johnson said in a statement. Johnson will also give more details on how Britain will guard against future coronavirus variants through ongoing surveillance, amid reports that the government wants to end free testing and scale back public health studies. Currently people in England are legally required to self-isolate for at least five days if instructed to by public health officials, and are advised to isolate even without a specific order if they have COVID-19 symptoms or test positive. Removing the COVID-19 self-isolation legal requirements and replacing them with voluntary guidance would bring the disease in line with how Britain treats most other infections. Some 85% of Britain's population aged 12 or over have had at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, and two thirds of the population - including the vast majority of those most at risk - have had three. Britain's death toll of more than 160,000 fatalities within 28 days of infection is the second-highest in Europe after Russia's. Relative to the size of Britain's population, it is 6% higher than the average for the European Union. COVID-19 restrictions are unpopular with many members of Johnson's Conservative Party, who view them as disproportionate given widespread take-up of vaccines. "Pharmaceutical interventions, led by the vaccination programme, will continue to be our first line of defence," the government said. "An awareness of public health guidance should remain, as with all infectious diseases such as flu." (With inputs from agencies)

Britain plans to remove self-isolation mandate for Covid patients

At least 13 people have been killed by falling trees, flying debris and high winds in Europe.

It has also knocked 1.4 million households off the grid with emergency crews Saturday battling to restore power.

The storm caused mayhem with travel in Britain, shutting the English Channel port of Dover, closing bridges linking England and Wales and halting most trains in and out of London.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rare-red-alert-could-be-issued-as-storm-eunice-approaches-454030">Also read |&nbsp;UK: 'Rare' red alert could be issued as storm Eunice approaches</a>

Eunice is the second named storm to hit Europe this week, with the first storm killing at least five people in Germany and Poland.&nbsp;

It sparked the first-ever "red" weather warning for London on Friday. It was one of the most powerful tempests in Europe since the "Great Storm" hit Britain and northern France in 1987.

"Storm Eunice is really packing a punch," Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said. "We only issue red weather warnings when we think there is a threat to life from the weather."

Planes were buffeted so strongly by gusts at some British airports that pilots were forced to abandon landings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-eunice-crane-crashes-onto-the-roof-of-a-belgian-hospital-amid-extreme-weather-conditions-454483">Also read |&nbsp;Storm Eunice: Crane crashes onto the roof of a Belgian hospital amid extreme weather conditions</a>

Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading in England, attributed the storms to an unusually strong jet stream over the eastern Atlantic Ocean, with winds close to 200 mph (321 kph) at high altitudes.

“A strong jet stream like this can act like a production line for storms, generating a new storm every day or two,” Inness said.&nbsp;

“There have been many occasions in the recent past when two or more damaging storms have passed across the U.K. and other parts of Europe in the space of a few days.”

Germany’s biggest rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, cancelled all train services in the north of the country on Friday due to the storm.

In the Netherlands, authorities sent a push alert to mobile phone users on Friday afternoon, warning them to stay indoors.

In Denmark, strong winds prompted authorities to ban light vehicles from crossing the Storebælt tunnel and bridge linking the central island of Funen to Zealand, home to the capital, Copenhagen.

Storm Eunice produced heightened concern because it had the potential to produce a “sting jet,” a small area of intense winds that may exceed 100 mph.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 13 people have been killed by falling trees, flying debris and high winds in Europe. It has also knocked 1.4 million households off the grid with emergency crews Saturday battling to restore power.

At least 13 people have been killed by falling trees, flying debris and high winds in Europe. It has also knocked 1.4 million households off the grid with emergency crews Saturday battling to restore power. The storm caused mayhem with travel in Britain, shutting the English Channel port of Dover, closing bridges linking England and Wales and halting most trains in and out of London. Also read | UK: 'Rare' red alert could be issued as storm Eunice approaches Eunice is the second named storm to hit Europe this week, with the first storm killing at least five people in Germany and Poland. It sparked the first-ever "red" weather warning for London on Friday. It was one of the most powerful tempests in Europe since the "Great Storm" hit Britain and northern France in 1987. "Storm Eunice is really packing a punch," Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said. "We only issue red weather warnings when we think there is a threat to life from the weather." Planes were buffeted so strongly by gusts at some British airports that pilots were forced to abandon landings. Also read | Storm Eunice: Crane crashes onto the roof of a Belgian hospital amid extreme weather conditions Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading in England, attributed the storms to an unusually strong jet stream over the eastern Atlantic Ocean, with winds close to 200 mph (321 kph) at high altitudes. “A strong jet stream like this can act like a production line for storms, generating a new storm every day or two,” Inness said. “There have been many occasions in the recent past when two or more damaging storms have passed across the U.K. and other parts of Europe in the space of a few days.” Germany’s biggest rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, cancelled all train services in the north of the country on Friday due to the storm. In the Netherlands, authorities sent a push alert to mobile phone users on Friday afternoon, warning them to stay indoors. In Denmark, strong winds prompted authorities to ban light vehicles from crossing the Storebælt tunnel and bridge linking the central island of Funen to Zealand, home to the capital, Copenhagen. Storm Eunice produced heightened concern because it had the potential to produce a “sting jet,” a small area of intense winds that may exceed 100 mph. (With inputs from agencies)

13 dead in Europe due to Storm Eunice, power shut down in over one million homes

Britain has been stripped of its Olympic silver medal in the men's 4x100m relay in Tokyo last August after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld Chijindu Ujah's anti-doping violation on Friday.

Ujah has been provisionally suspended since Ostarine and S-23 -- both substances prohibited by world anti-doping organisation WADA -- were detected in his A and B samples following the final.

In a statement on Friday, CAS said its Anti-Doping Division had found that Ujah had committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation and that his team`s result from the 4x100m relay on Aug. 6 had been disqualified.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/athletics-integrity-unit-bans-nigerian-sprinter-blessing-okagbare-for-10-years-under-doping-charges-454431">Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges</a>

Ujah and his relay teammates Zharnel Hughes, Richard Kilty and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake finished narrowly second behind Italy. Canada will now be upgraded to silver with China moving into the bronze medal position.

In a statement CAS acknowledged that Ujah had not challenged the decision in his written submissions to the hearing and that he claimed he had "not knowingly or intentionally doped".

The 27-year-old said he had been left "devastated" by his anti-doping violation.

"I accept the decision issued by the Court of Arbitration for Sport today with sadness," Ujah said in a statement issued by UK Athletics on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-braisaz-bouchet-overcomes-rough-shooting-conditions-wins-gold-in-125-km-mass-start-454361">Beijing Olympics: Braisaz-Bouchet overcomes rough shooting conditions, wins gold in 12.5 km mass start</a>

"I would like to make it clear that I unknowingly consumed a contaminated supplement and this was the reason why an anti-doping rule violation occurred at the Tokyo Olympic Games.

"I would like to apologise to my teammates, their families and support teams for the impact which this has had on them. I'm sorry that this situation has cost my teammates the medals they worked so hard and so long for, and which they richly deserved. That is something I will regret for the rest of my life."

A UKA spokesperson added: "UKA continue to be in regular communication with the athletes concerned but will not be making public comment on the case until after the World Athletics/AIU process which will follow on from this CAS outcome."

Britain suffered a disappointing performance in track and field in Tokyo, failing to win a gold medal for the first time since the Atlanta Games in 1996.

Ujah was eliminated in the semi-finals of the individual 100m.

He will now have to wait for the Athletics Integrity Unit to determine the length of any ban, which could be as long as four years.

Britain has been stripped of its Olympic silver medal in the men's 4x100m relay in Tokyo last August after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld Chijindu Ujah's anti-doping violation on Friday.

Britain has been stripped of its Olympic silver medal in the men's 4x100m relay in Tokyo last August after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld Chijindu Ujah's anti-doping violation on Friday. Ujah has been provisionally suspended since Ostarine and S-23 -- both substances prohibited by world anti-doping organisation WADA -- were detected in his A and B samples following the final. In a statement on Friday, CAS said its Anti-Doping Division had found that Ujah had committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation and that his team`s result from the 4x100m relay on Aug. 6 had been disqualified. ALSO READ: Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges Ujah and his relay teammates Zharnel Hughes, Richard Kilty and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake finished narrowly second behind Italy. Canada will now be upgraded to silver with China moving into the bronze medal position. In a statement CAS acknowledged that Ujah had not challenged the decision in his written submissions to the hearing and that he claimed he had "not knowingly or intentionally doped". The 27-year-old said he had been left "devastated" by his anti-doping violation. "I accept the decision issued by the Court of Arbitration for Sport today with sadness," Ujah said in a statement issued by UK Athletics on Friday. ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics: Braisaz-Bouchet overcomes rough shooting conditions, wins gold in 12.5 km mass start "I would like to make it clear that I unknowingly consumed a contaminated supplement and this was the reason why an anti-doping rule violation occurred at the Tokyo Olympic Games. "I would like to apologise to my teammates, their families and support teams for the impact which this has had on them. I'm sorry that this situation has cost my teammates the medals they worked so hard and so long for, and which they richly deserved. That is something I will regret for the rest of my life." A UKA spokesperson added: "UKA continue to be in regular communication with the athletes concerned but will not be making public comment on the case until after the World Athletics/AIU process which will follow on from this CAS outcome." Britain suffered a disappointing performance in track and field in Tokyo, failing to win a gold medal for the first time since the Atlanta Games in 1996. Ujah was eliminated in the semi-finals of the individual 100m. He will now have to wait for the Athletics Integrity Unit to determine the length of any ban, which could be as long as four years.

Britain lose 4x100m relay olympic silver medal as CAS upholds Chijindu Ujah's doping violation

Met Office has issued rare red weather warning for parts of Britain as Storm Eunice began battering the country. The government has also urged people to stay at home.

Storm Eunice hits England and Wales, people urged to stay indoors

With Britain's Queen Elizabeth all set to celebrate 70 years on the throne, let us take a look at other Kings and Queens that had really long reigns.

Is Queen Elizabeth II the longest-ruling monarch?

The scandal with the poisoning of the former GRU agent Sergei Skripal is gaining momentum. Meanwhile, absolutely innocent creatures suffered because of the diplomatic war between the UK and Russia.

Remember that two dead guinea pigs and a black Persian cat in a critical condition were found in the ex-spy's home. The cat was taken to the Porton Down chemical weapons lab (not to a veterinary clinic which would be more expected). In the laboratory, chemists made a weird diagnosis, which they described as a "distressed state". The cat was euthanised. Its body, as well as those of the two guinea pigs, were immediately incinerated which was confirmed by the British government.

Shortly after the Russian Embassy in London posed the question on what happened to the animals that Sergey Skripal kept in his Salisbury house, the British side, first in an unnamed leak and then as a DEFRA comment, said that "when a vet was able to access the property, two guinea pigs had sadly died. A cat was also found in a distressed state and a decision was taken by a veterinary surgeon to euthanise the animal to alleviate its suffering".

This is, however, the sort of answer that brings about still more questions. Regarding the dead guinea pigs and the malnourished cat, it is said unofficially that they were taken to the Porton Down facility and incinerated there. But it remains unclear if their remains were ever tested for toxic substances, which would constitute useful evidence, and if not, why such a decision was made.

The fact that the animals were locked inside the house for several days suggests that the police did not access the alleged crime scene, which would be very unusual for such a high profile investigation. Such treatment of pets is also hardly consistent with UK laws on animal cruelty and comes as a blatant disregard for Skripal's rights as the owner and companion of the animals.

Overall, it is difficult to avoid the impression that the animals have been disposed of as an inconvenient piece of evidence. It is also to be noted that, according to Skripal's niece Viktoria, there were two cats, not one, in the house - and the whereabouts of the second one is still unknown.

Nevertheless, the way how the UK police treat animals is absolutely awful and unacceptable. Moreover, even their bodies could cast some light on this case. Instead, we have even more questions than before.

Firstly, why were the pets sealed in the house with no food and water? How is it possible to imagine such a mockery and careless attitude towards animals? British officials must be held accountable for their decision to leave the pets inside the sealed-up house without any nutrition. In fact, their actions can be classified as animal abuse, which resulted in their death.

Secondly, no matter how cynical this may sound, any living organism remained at the place where the potential poisoning occurred could indirectly help the investigation process. You don't even need to be an expert in chemistry to understand it. The use of such a potent substance as Novichok agent might have affected the pets as well. Unfortunately, we will never know this as their bodies were eliminated. No one even asked for their owners' permission for that.

It seems like the British side is trying to cover up the tracks and destroy all the evidence. In Hollywood movies, criminals act like this when a detective tells them their version is not valid. Draw your own conclusions.

But why was the fate of Skripal's pets tragic?

Actually, there are 6 potential answers:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The death of any animal is a tragedy. 
2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Any of the bad actors described above could have actually weaponised the pets using Porton Down technology - this demonstrates the ruthlessness of the British Secret Services and their involvement with Animal Testing - such a pointless and anti-human waste of life. 
3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The 3rd is a tragedy, because it was nearly a good news story: the escape to freedom of animals previously used in weapons testing: Apparently Porton Down uses Guinea Pigs to trial its chemical weaponry. Porton Down, as we now know, is only a few miles from Salisbury. Guinea pigs escaped from the laboratory (or from the nearby chemical weapons exercises, where perhaps they were being kept out in the field in the back of a truck - maybe to go in - like they used to use canaries in coal mines) and infected the Skripals. 
4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The fourth - because the Skripals were unable to speak when they were found, they couldn't inform the police about the pets at home, so they were not immediately rescued. The operatives who were sent into the home were not pet lovers, had not been trained in pet welfare and didn't have the pets at the top of their mind when investigating the house. No one thought to mention the welfare of the pets to a senior officer, everyone just assumed they would be OK - like when people leave their dogs in a car. Or if someone did mention it during the initial police investigation, no written note was made and it did not form part of the briefing to the ChemWeaps team who went to seal up the house. They just sealed up the house from the outside and didn’t think to check the inside for pets. That is a tragedy, because just one thought might have saved three innocent lives. 
5.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The fifth, the evidence from a proper examination of the pets while alive could have exonerated Russia from all suspicion. This is a tragedy for the fair conduct of the the enquiry and, potentially, a tragedy for world peace. 
6.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;This seems the most unlikely, but sometimes it is the unlikely that stacks up - particularly if it is a series of errors that leads to the outcome, rather than any multi-party conspiracy being required: PETA ("People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals") were the first to go on record about the pets in the UK. PETA are a UK-based, European Organisation. It also has significant presence in the US, where it has been the subject of newspaper criticism. In Sweden, which is one of the countries identified by Russia, as producing Novichok, there is also an active animal rights scene - they have had more success than the same organisations in the UK in raising the bar for animal protection. It is possible that Skripal had been reported to PETA by one of his neighbours - for animal cruelty in leaving them alone for extended periods of time. Perhaps Djurens Ratt (a 100-year-old animal protection body) picked up the report and decided to pay back Skripal. This would have been fine, had the guinea pigs lived outside (as is most common in the UK - it is possible that Skripal had only brought them indoors because of the recent exceptionally cold weather) or if there had been a catflap in fact neither was the case. This is a tragedy, because in a good faith attempt to rescue the pets, the rescuer in fact ended up killing them.

Reasons 2, 3 &amp; 5 have been hinted at by the Russians and, it seems, may have been a likely independent avenue of enquiry of theirs, had they been allowed one. The Russians have been denied any line of independent enquiry and this is a tragedy for the standing of the UK in the world.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The fact that the animals were locked inside the house for several days suggests that the police did not access the alleged crime scene.

The scandal with the poisoning of the former GRU agent Sergei Skripal is gaining momentum. Meanwhile, absolutely innocent creatures suffered because of the diplomatic war between the UK and Russia. Remember that two dead guinea pigs and a black Persian cat in a critical condition were found in the ex-spy's home. The cat was taken to the Porton Down chemical weapons lab (not to a veterinary clinic which would be more expected). In the laboratory, chemists made a weird diagnosis, which they described as a "distressed state". The cat was euthanised. Its body, as well as those of the two guinea pigs, were immediately incinerated which was confirmed by the British government. Shortly after the Russian Embassy in London posed the question on what happened to the animals that Sergey Skripal kept in his Salisbury house, the British side, first in an unnamed leak and then as a DEFRA comment, said that "when a vet was able to access the property, two guinea pigs had sadly died. A cat was also found in a distressed state and a decision was taken by a veterinary surgeon to euthanise the animal to alleviate its suffering". This is, however, the sort of answer that brings about still more questions. Regarding the dead guinea pigs and the malnourished cat, it is said unofficially that they were taken to the Porton Down facility and incinerated there. But it remains unclear if their remains were ever tested for toxic substances, which would constitute useful evidence, and if not, why such a decision was made. The fact that the animals were locked inside the house for several days suggests that the police did not access the alleged crime scene, which would be very unusual for such a high profile investigation. Such treatment of pets is also hardly consistent with UK laws on animal cruelty and comes as a blatant disregard for Skripal's rights as the owner and companion of the animals. Overall, it is difficult to avoid the impression that the animals have been disposed of as an inconvenient piece of evidence. It is also to be noted that, according to Skripal's niece Viktoria, there were two cats, not one, in the house - and the whereabouts of the second one is still unknown. Nevertheless, the way how the UK police treat animals is absolutely awful and unacceptable. Moreover, even their bodies could cast some light on this case. Instead, we have even more questions than before. Firstly, why were the pets sealed in the house with no food and water? How is it possible to imagine such a mockery and careless attitude towards animals? British officials must be held accountable for their decision to leave the pets inside the sealed-up house without any nutrition. In fact, their actions can be classified as animal abuse, which resulted in their death. Secondly, no matter how cynical this may sound, any living organism remained at the place where the potential poisoning occurred could indirectly help the investigation process. You don't even need to be an expert in chemistry to understand it. The use of such a potent substance as Novichok agent might have affected the pets as well. Unfortunately, we will never know this as their bodies were eliminated. No one even asked for their owners' permission for that. It seems like the British side is trying to cover up the tracks and destroy all the evidence. In Hollywood movies, criminals act like this when a detective tells them their version is not valid. Draw your own conclusions. But why was the fate of Skripal's pets tragic? Actually, there are 6 potential answers: 1. The death of any animal is a tragedy. 2. Any of the bad actors described above could have actually weaponised the pets using Porton Down technology - this demonstrates the ruthlessness of the British Secret Services and their involvement with Animal Testing - such a pointless and anti-human waste of life. 3. The 3rd is a tragedy, because it was nearly a good news story: the escape to freedom of animals previously used in weapons testing: Apparently Porton Down uses Guinea Pigs to trial its chemical weaponry. Porton Down, as we now know, is only a few miles from Salisbury. Guinea pigs escaped from the laboratory (or from the nearby chemical weapons exercises, where perhaps they were being kept out in the field in the back of a truck - maybe to go in - like they used to use canaries in coal mines) and infected the Skripals. 4. The fourth - because the Skripals were unable to speak when they were found, they couldn't inform the police about the pets at home, so they were not immediately rescued. The operatives who were sent into the home were not pet lovers, had not been trained in pet welfare and didn't have the pets at the top of their mind when investigating the house. No one thought to mention the welfare of the pets to a senior officer, everyone just assumed they would be OK - like when people leave their dogs in a car. Or if someone did mention it during the initial police investigation, no written note was made and it did not form part of the briefing to the ChemWeaps team who went to seal up the house. They just sealed up the house from the outside and didn’t think to check the inside for pets. That is a tragedy, because just one thought might have saved three innocent lives. 5. The fifth, the evidence from a proper examination of the pets while alive could have exonerated Russia from all suspicion. This is a tragedy for the fair conduct of the the enquiry and, potentially, a tragedy for world peace. 6. This seems the most unlikely, but sometimes it is the unlikely that stacks up - particularly if it is a series of errors that leads to the outcome, rather than any multi-party conspiracy being required: PETA ("People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals") were the first to go on record about the pets in the UK. PETA are a UK-based, European Organisation. It also has significant presence in the US, where it has been the subject of newspaper criticism. In Sweden, which is one of the countries identified by Russia, as producing Novichok, there is also an active animal rights scene - they have had more success than the same organisations in the UK in raising the bar for animal protection. It is possible that Skripal had been reported to PETA by one of his neighbours - for animal cruelty in leaving them alone for extended periods of time. Perhaps Djurens Ratt (a 100-year-old animal protection body) picked up the report and decided to pay back Skripal. This would have been fine, had the guinea pigs lived outside (as is most common in the UK - it is possible that Skripal had only brought them indoors because of the recent exceptionally cold weather) or if there had been a catflap in fact neither was the case. This is a tragedy, because in a good faith attempt to rescue the pets, the rescuer in fact ended up killing them. Reasons 2, 3 & 5 have been hinted at by the Russians and, it seems, may have been a likely independent avenue of enquiry of theirs, had they been allowed one. The Russians have been denied any line of independent enquiry and this is a tragedy for the standing of the UK in the world. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The mysterious fate of Skripal's pets

Scientists in Britain have made a major breakthrough they have smashed a previous record for generating sustained fusion energy if nuclear fusion can be successfully recreated on the planet What it means is unlimited supplies of cheap and clean energy.

British scientists' major breakthrough on nuclear fusion energy

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday reshuffled few ministers in his cabinet in an attempt to appease his lawmakers angered by a series of scandals. The changes do not include any of the senior cabinet positions.

PM Boris Johnson reshuffles cabinet to appease lawmakers

In the sex abuse lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre, Britain's Prince Andrew will give evidence next month, a report said on Saturday citing a source close to the prince. &nbsp;

The Duke of York will speak under oath in London, another report by the Daily Telegraph newspaper said. &nbsp;

Andrew has denied all accusations levelled by Giuffre. She claims that he sexually abused her two decades ago when she was 17. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-queen-elizabeth-ii-wants-prince-charles-wife-camilla-to-be-known-as-queen-consort-450812">Britain's Queen Elizabeth II wants Charles' wife to be known as Queen Consort</a>

"We agreed to voluntarily produce the Duke for a deposition on March 10. Despite repeated requests, Giuffre still hasn't committed to a date or location for her deposition," the source told Reuters. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Britain's Prince Andrew can no longer be known as 'His Royal Highness' now as his royal patronages and military links have been were removed by the royal family. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrew, 61, is Queen Elizabeth's third child. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnsons-photo-holding-beer-can-at-lockdown-breaching-party-handed-over-to-police-reports-450810" hreflang="en">UK PM's photo holding beer can at lockdown-breaching party handed over to cops</a>

In 2019, he was forced to step down from public duties because of his connections to convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and after a disastrous BBC TV interview, which the prince had hoped would clear his name. &nbsp;

This move by the royal family means he will now lose all his royal connections. &nbsp;

"With the queen's approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and royal patronages have been returned to the queen," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the sex abuse lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre, Britain's Prince Andrew will give evidence next month, a report said on Saturday citing a source close to the prince.

In the sex abuse lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre, Britain's Prince Andrew will give evidence next month, a report said on Saturday citing a source close to the prince. The Duke of York will speak under oath in London, another report by the Daily Telegraph newspaper said. Andrew has denied all accusations levelled by Giuffre. She claims that he sexually abused her two decades ago when she was 17. Also Read: Britain's Queen Elizabeth II wants Charles' wife to be known as Queen Consort "We agreed to voluntarily produce the Duke for a deposition on March 10. Despite repeated requests, Giuffre still hasn't committed to a date or location for her deposition," the source told Reuters. Meanwhile, Britain's Prince Andrew can no longer be known as 'His Royal Highness' now as his royal patronages and military links have been were removed by the royal family. Andrew, 61, is Queen Elizabeth's third child. Also Read: UK PM's photo holding beer can at lockdown-breaching party handed over to cops In 2019, he was forced to step down from public duties because of his connections to convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and after a disastrous BBC TV interview, which the prince had hoped would clear his name. This move by the royal family means he will now lose all his royal connections. "With the queen's approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and royal patronages have been returned to the queen," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

In Virginia Giuffre sex abuse lawsuit, Britain's Prince Andrew to give evidence next month, say reports

British PM Boris Johnson is in the middle of crisis. A recent survey carried out by Yougov reveals that 50 per cent of conservative voters who backed Johnson in 2019 now believe that Johnson is not doing a good job as the country's PM.

British voters loose faith in PM Boris Johnson, reveals Yougov poll

In Britain, scientists are recording the return of the Bluefin Tuna to UK waters. They're using high-tech acoustic tracking devices for the project.

In Britain, scientists are recording the return of the Bluefin Tuna to UK waters

Britain's Prince Andrew has asked for a US jury trial even as he continues to deny that he committed sexual assault on Virginia Giuffre over two decades ago.

Prince Andrew asks for a US jury trial even as he continues to deny sexual assault allegations

The West would stand together to fight for democracy against dictatorships, Britain warned Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The dictatorships were emboldened more than any time since the Cold War, it said. &nbsp;

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who will be speaking in Australia, will say the West must respond together to global threats. It should also deepen ties with democracies in the Indo-Pacific and "face down global aggressors". &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-clarifies-over-russia-remark-ukraine-says-there-are-no-minor-incursions-and-small-nations-446313" hreflang="en">Biden clarifies Russia remark; Ukraine says there are no 'minor incursions'</a>

In a speech at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Truss will say that global aggressors "are emboldened in a way we haven’t seen since the Cold War." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"They seek to export dictatorship as a service around the world. That is why regimes like Belarus, North Korea and Myanmar find their closest allies in Moscow and Beijing," Truss will further say. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-block-us-bid-to-impose-un-sanctions-on-north-koreans-446312">Russia, China block US bid to impose UN sanctions on North Koreans</a>

According to Truss, the West, should work with allies, such as India, Japan, Israel, Australia and Indonesia to "face down global aggressors", especially in the Pacific. &nbsp;

"It is time for the free world to stand its ground," Truss will add. &nbsp;

Truss will also warn Putin to "desist and step back from Ukraine before he makes a massive strategic mistake." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The West would stand together to fight for democracy against dictatorships, Britain warned Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday.

The West would stand together to fight for democracy against dictatorships, Britain warned Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. The dictatorships were emboldened more than any time since the Cold War, it said. British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who will be speaking in Australia, will say the West must respond together to global threats. It should also deepen ties with democracies in the Indo-Pacific and "face down global aggressors". Also Read: Biden clarifies Russia remark; Ukraine says there are no 'minor incursions' In a speech at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Truss will say that global aggressors "are emboldened in a way we haven’t seen since the Cold War." "They seek to export dictatorship as a service around the world. That is why regimes like Belarus, North Korea and Myanmar find their closest allies in Moscow and Beijing," Truss will further say. Also Read: Russia, China block US bid to impose UN sanctions on North Koreans According to Truss, the West, should work with allies, such as India, Japan, Israel, Australia and Indonesia to "face down global aggressors", especially in the Pacific. "It is time for the free world to stand its ground," Truss will add. Truss will also warn Putin to "desist and step back from Ukraine before he makes a massive strategic mistake." (With inputs from agencies)

West to stand together in fight against dictatorships, Britain warns Putin, Xi

India's fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya has lost the battle to keep his luxurious home in the British capital. Mallya could soon face eviction from the central London home that he currently occupies, the prospects of eviction follow a British high court ruling against Mallya.

India's fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya loses battle to keep  central London home

The united kingdom and India have formally launched free trade agreement talks in New Delhi, the aim is to wrap up a trade deal by the end of this year. both nations are hoping a deal will boost annual bilateral trade by billions of dollars, Britain has made a deal with India one of its post-Brexit priorities.

British trade secretary visits India to launch free trade agreement talks

Discovered in a reservoir in the county of Rutland, in the English East Midlands, the specimen is the largest and most complete ichthyosaur fossil ever found in the UK, measuring nearly 33 feet in length and with a skull weighing one ton.

Fossil remains of ichthyosaur discovered in Britain | Sea Dragon

Leaders of the five major nuclear powers- Russia, China, the United States, Britain and France have adopted a joint statement in which they affirmed that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought.

P5 nations reaffirm a goal of a nuke-free world

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday.

“We are considering options to strengthen controls on crossbows,” a spokesman for Britain’s Home Office said in a statement Tuesday, as part of a continuing review of rules on lethal weapons ordered this year by Priti Patel, the home secretary.

The renewed scrutiny comes days after an intruder breached the castle grounds on Christmas morning. A 19-year-old man was arrested “on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon,” according to police, while Queen Elizabeth II was on the premises with other members of the royal family.

The British monarch had celebrated the holiday at Windsor Castle instead of at her estate in Sandringham, Norfolk, as is her usual practice. Buckingham Palace said the decision was a “precautionary approach” because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The man arrested, whom police declined to identify, did not enter any buildings or endanger the royal family. But police officers said they found a crossbow after searching him, adding that he was in the care of medical professionals receiving treatment for mental health issues.

Under existing legislation, crossbows can be purchased over the counter or on the internet by those older than 18. Owners do not need a license or certificate to operate the weapons and, unlike shotguns and firearms, police do not have an official record of who owns them and how many are in circulation.

Detectives said they were reviewing a video as part of the investigation, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement Monday, but declined to give further details.

Controls on weapons such as crossbows drew particular concern in 2018 after a British man broke into a neighbor’s home in East Yorkshire, shooting and killing him with a crossbow and injuring his pregnant partner. In a 2021 report investigating the death of the man, a coroner for the county asked top policing officials, including Patel, to review legislation regulating the purchase and possession of crossbows.

“Evidence was heard about the power and lethal capabilities of these weapons, as well as the fact that they are essentially silent,” the coroner, professor Paul Marks, said in the report.

“In my opinion,” he added, “there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken.”

The Home Office said work reviewing the legislation was continuing after the episode in East Yorkshire, adding that it was already an offense to possess arrows, or possess offensive weapons in public spaces “without good reason or lawful authority.”

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday.

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday. “We are considering options to strengthen controls on crossbows,” a spokesman for Britain’s Home Office said in a statement Tuesday, as part of a continuing review of rules on lethal weapons ordered this year by Priti Patel, the home secretary. The renewed scrutiny comes days after an intruder breached the castle grounds on Christmas morning. A 19-year-old man was arrested “on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon,” according to police, while Queen Elizabeth II was on the premises with other members of the royal family. The British monarch had celebrated the holiday at Windsor Castle instead of at her estate in Sandringham, Norfolk, as is her usual practice. Buckingham Palace said the decision was a “precautionary approach” because of the coronavirus pandemic. The man arrested, whom police declined to identify, did not enter any buildings or endanger the royal family. But police officers said they found a crossbow after searching him, adding that he was in the care of medical professionals receiving treatment for mental health issues. Under existing legislation, crossbows can be purchased over the counter or on the internet by those older than 18. Owners do not need a license or certificate to operate the weapons and, unlike shotguns and firearms, police do not have an official record of who owns them and how many are in circulation. Detectives said they were reviewing a video as part of the investigation, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement Monday, but declined to give further details. Controls on weapons such as crossbows drew particular concern in 2018 after a British man broke into a neighbor’s home in East Yorkshire, shooting and killing him with a crossbow and injuring his pregnant partner. In a 2021 report investigating the death of the man, a coroner for the county asked top policing officials, including Patel, to review legislation regulating the purchase and possession of crossbows. “Evidence was heard about the power and lethal capabilities of these weapons, as well as the fact that they are essentially silent,” the coroner, professor Paul Marks, said in the report. “In my opinion,” he added, “there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken.” The Home Office said work reviewing the legislation was continuing after the episode in East Yorkshire, adding that it was already an offense to possess arrows, or possess offensive weapons in public spaces “without good reason or lawful authority.”

Britain’s crossbow rules in the crosshairs after Windsor Castle breach

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday. &nbsp;

In a statement, the Foreign Office, said, "These actions are a threat to regional and international security and we call on Iran to immediately cease its activities." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-seizes-approximately-1400-ak-47-assault-rifles-and-ammunition-from-a-stateless-vessel-439401" hreflang="en">US Navy seizes approximately 1,400 AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition from a stateless vessel</a>

The report of official IRNA news agency on Friday said that 16 missiles were fired in the ongoing exercise in the southern region of the country. &nbsp;

The names of these missiles were Sejjil, Emad, Zalzal, Ghadr, Dezful and Zolfaghar. The range of these missiles was from 350 to 2,000 kilometers, the report said. &nbsp;

The missiles had successfully hit a target at the same time as 10 drones also simultaneously hit their respective targets. The missile launch in the desert was showed by State TV. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-shows-china-is-helping-saudi-arabia-build-its-own-ballistic-missiles-report-439499" hreflang="en">US intel shows China is helping Saudi Arabia build its own ballistic missiles: Report</a>

Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, chief of staff, Iran's Armed Forces, said the drill was an answer to Israel's recent 'massive but pointless threats' to Iran. It was a tiny part of hundreds of missiles that can hit any target simultaneously. &nbsp;

Iran also launched cruise missiles on the second day of the drill on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday.

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday. In a statement, the Foreign Office, said, "These actions are a threat to regional and international security and we call on Iran to immediately cease its activities." Also Read: US Navy seizes approximately 1,400 AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition from a stateless vessel The report of official IRNA news agency on Friday said that 16 missiles were fired in the ongoing exercise in the southern region of the country. The names of these missiles were Sejjil, Emad, Zalzal, Ghadr, Dezful and Zolfaghar. The range of these missiles was from 350 to 2,000 kilometers, the report said. The missiles had successfully hit a target at the same time as 10 drones also simultaneously hit their respective targets. The missile launch in the desert was showed by State TV. Also Read | US intel shows China is helping Saudi Arabia build its own ballistic missiles: Report Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, chief of staff, Iran's Armed Forces, said the drill was an answer to Israel's recent 'massive but pointless threats' to Iran. It was a tiny part of hundreds of missiles that can hit any target simultaneously. Iran also launched cruise missiles on the second day of the drill on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain condemns launch of 16 ballistic missiles by Iran in military exercise

Britain's Vodafone will auction an NFT of the world’s first ever SMS text message which read ‘Merry Christmas’, and was sent on the network in December 1992.

Britain's Vodafone to auction first-ever 'Merry-Christmas' text message as NFT

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