Shiv Sena (UBT) is facing fresh turbulence after two rebel MPs publicly declared their support for Eknath Shinde. With reports suggesting that as many as six MPs could switch camps, pressure is mounting on Uddhav Thackeray, who has called an urgent meeting to assess the fallout and formulate the party's response amid the growing rebellion.

Shinde's 'Operation Tiger' Strikes Shive Sena(UBT); Uddhav Calls Emergency Meet

Two government ministers who defected from Sri Lanka's main opposition were sacked from the cabinet Friday after the Supreme Court upheld disciplinary action against them.

Sri Lankan Supreme Court upholds expulsion of defected ministers

Ben Houchen recently said the Conservatives were “fighting like rats in a sack” and needed to urgently unite ahead of the general election. Watch to know more.

UK: Can Tories mend cracks in the party?

Reports from Ukrainian and Spanish media revealed a grim discovery last week - the body of Maxim Kuzminov, a Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with his helicopter in August of the previous year, was found in an underground garage in Spain. His body bore the markings of multiple bullet wounds.

The Spanish state news agency EFE said that the body was found on February 13th in Villajoyosa, a town near Alicante in southern Spain. Kuzminov had been residing in Spain under a Ukrainian passport using an alias.

A spokesperson for Ukraine's GUR military intelligence confirmed the tragic demise of Kuzminov in Spain, though the precise cause of his death was not specified. The Ukrainian outlet Ukrainska Pravda also reported his death, noting that he had been discovered shot dead. Meanwhile, Spanish authorities, while confirming the discovery of the body of a gunshot victim in Villajoyosa, withheld the victim's identity. A source within Spain's Guardia Civil police force, as cited by Reuters hinted that Kuzminov might have been living under a fabricated identity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-400-detained-across-russia-at-gatherings-in-memory-of-alexei-navalny-691636">Also read |&nbsp;Over 400 detained across Russia at gatherings held for Alexei Navalny</a>

Initial reports from Spain's La Informacion newspaper, which first broke the news of the shooting, indicated that investigators were actively seeking two suspects who had fled the scene in a vehicle, later found burnt in a nearby town. The hunt for these suspects intensified as authorities delved deeper into the circumstances surrounding Kuzminov's untimely demise.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine’s businesses raise concerns over mobilisation legislation

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<h2>The significance of Kuzminov's defection</h2>

Kuzminov's defection to Ukraine, presented as a significant victory for Kyiv, was orchestrated by the GUR, as announced at the time of his arrival. His decision to defect, accompanied by his Mi-8 helicopter, was emblematic of the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine. However, the promising turn of events quickly soured with Kuzminov's tragic end, leaving both Ukrainian and Spanish authorities grappling with unanswered questions and a pursuit for justice.

The mysterious death of Maxim Kuzminov, once hailed as a defector of great importance, has cast a shadow over the geopolitical landscape, prompting intense scrutiny and investigation.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Reports from Ukrainian and Spanish media revealed a grim discovery last week - the body of Maxim Kuzminov, a Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with his helicopter in August of the previous year, was found in an underground garage in Spain.

Reports from Ukrainian and Spanish media revealed a grim discovery last week - the body of Maxim Kuzminov, a Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with his helicopter in August of the previous year, was found in an underground garage in Spain. His body bore the markings of multiple bullet wounds. The Spanish state news agency EFE said that the body was found on February 13th in Villajoyosa, a town near Alicante in southern Spain. Kuzminov had been residing in Spain under a Ukrainian passport using an alias. A spokesperson for Ukraine's GUR military intelligence confirmed the tragic demise of Kuzminov in Spain, though the precise cause of his death was not specified. The Ukrainian outlet Ukrainska Pravda also reported his death, noting that he had been discovered shot dead. Meanwhile, Spanish authorities, while confirming the discovery of the body of a gunshot victim in Villajoyosa, withheld the victim's identity. A source within Spain's Guardia Civil police force, as cited by Reuters hinted that Kuzminov might have been living under a fabricated identity. Also read | Over 400 detained across Russia at gatherings held for Alexei Navalny Initial reports from Spain's La Informacion newspaper, which first broke the news of the shooting, indicated that investigators were actively seeking two suspects who had fled the scene in a vehicle, later found burnt in a nearby town. The hunt for these suspects intensified as authorities delved deeper into the circumstances surrounding Kuzminov's untimely demise. Also watch | Ukraine’s businesses raise concerns over mobilisation legislation The significance of Kuzminov's defection Kuzminov's defection to Ukraine, presented as a significant victory for Kyiv, was orchestrated by the GUR, as announced at the time of his arrival. His decision to defect, accompanied by his Mi-8 helicopter, was emblematic of the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine. However, the promising turn of events quickly soured with Kuzminov's tragic end, leaving both Ukrainian and Spanish authorities grappling with unanswered questions and a pursuit for justice. The mysterious death of Maxim Kuzminov, once hailed as a defector of great importance, has cast a shadow over the geopolitical landscape, prompting intense scrutiny and investigation. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian pilot, who defected to Ukraine last year, fatally shot in Spain, reports say

Even as Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi is busy touring across India for his ‘Bharat Jodo’ (unite India) rally, eight of its lawmakers from Goa, including former chief minister Digambar Kamat, joined the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Following the defection of 8 MLAs, Congress is left with only three lawmakers in the 40-member state Assembly.

One of the defectors, Michael Lobo, indicated that more people are about to leave the Congress party, saying that it is riddled with infighting.

“All top Congress leaders who strengthened the party will leave it in the coming days because of too much of differences among themselves. We're representing the people, will have to hear their voices; told us to leave and we are leaving,” Michael Lobo told ANI news agency shortly after joining BJP.

“People of Goa have told us that 'Bharat Jodo yatra' is not going to be a success because of big infighting amongst the topmost leaders of the Congress party,” he added.

Addressing a press conference with state BJP chief Sadanant Shet Tanavade, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that BJP's strength in the 40-member Assembly has increased to 28, with the inclusion&nbsp;of eight new entrants.

"With today's development, the BJP now enjoys the support of 33 MLAs (including two of the Maharashtravadi Gomantak Party and three Independents). These Congress MLAs have joined the BJP unconditionally," Sawant said.

Taking pot shots, Sawant said that 'the Congress chhodo yatra' (leave Congress rally) has begun from Goa and expressed confidence that the BJP will win another Lok Sabha seat in Goa in the next elections.

The latest defection comes almost a month after veteran Kashmir leader Ghulam Nabi Azad quit Congress, saying that the party was comprehensively destroyed while slamming Rahul Gandhi for "demolishing" its entire consultative mechanism.

The defections had also cost Congress over the years, as lost power in states such as Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka following infighting among the members.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Even as Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi is busy touring across India for his ‘Bharat Jodo’ (unite India) rally, eight of its lawmakers from Goa, including former chief minister Digambar Kamat, joined the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Even as Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi is busy touring across India for his ‘Bharat Jodo’ (unite India) rally, eight of its lawmakers from Goa, including former chief minister Digambar Kamat, joined the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Following the defection of 8 MLAs, Congress is left with only three lawmakers in the 40-member state Assembly. One of the defectors, Michael Lobo, indicated that more people are about to leave the Congress party, saying that it is riddled with infighting. “All top Congress leaders who strengthened the party will leave it in the coming days because of too much of differences among themselves. We're representing the people, will have to hear their voices; told us to leave and we are leaving,” Michael Lobo told ANI news agency shortly after joining BJP. “People of Goa have told us that 'Bharat Jodo yatra' is not going to be a success because of big infighting amongst the topmost leaders of the Congress party,” he added. Addressing a press conference with state BJP chief Sadanant Shet Tanavade, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that BJP's strength in the 40-member Assembly has increased to 28, with the inclusion of eight new entrants. "With today's development, the BJP now enjoys the support of 33 MLAs (including two of the Maharashtravadi Gomantak Party and three Independents). These Congress MLAs have joined the BJP unconditionally," Sawant said. Taking pot shots, Sawant said that 'the Congress chhodo yatra' (leave Congress rally) has begun from Goa and expressed confidence that the BJP will win another Lok Sabha seat in Goa in the next elections. The latest defection comes almost a month after veteran Kashmir leader Ghulam Nabi Azad quit Congress, saying that the party was comprehensively destroyed while slamming Rahul Gandhi for "demolishing" its entire consultative mechanism. The defections had also cost Congress over the years, as lost power in states such as Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka following infighting among the members. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eight Congress lawmakers from Goa jump ship to BJP

In a major setback to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, three of his allies in the ruling collation have joined the opposition alliance days ahead of the no-confidence motion.

The voting on the no-confidence motion in Pakistan's National Assembly is scheduled to take place on Friday, (March 25).

Geo News, quoting sources, said that three parties—the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P), Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP)— have decided to withdraw support to the government. The three parties have 17 elected members in the Parliament.

This comes after several 24 MPs defected from Khan's government and announced to vote in favour of the no-trust move.

Khan has been facing criticism for economic mismanagement, poor governance and inflation.

However, Khan seems to be unfazed by the recent setbacks. Earlier in the day, the Pakistani premiere claimed to have a “trick up his sleeve”, saying that he would emerge victorious in the no-confidence motion against his opponents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ahead-of-no-confidence-vote-imran-khans-bizarre-warning-to-dissenters-no-one-will-marry-your-children-464482" hreflang="en">Ahead of no-confidence, Khan warns dissenters: 'No one will marry your kids'</a>

"The opposition has already shown all their cards," he said while speaking to a group of journalists in Islamabad on Wednesday, according to the Dawn newspaper.

He added, “They are in for a big surprise.”

Notably, in the 342-member National Assembly, the Imran Khan government requires at least 172 members to sail through the no-confidence plea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-pm-post-at-stake-imran-khan-rakes-kashmir-issue-says-nobody-takes-oic-seriously-464550" hreflang="en">With PM post at stake, Imran Khan rakes up Kashmir issue at OIC meet</a>

Warning the opposition that they "will be shocked by the loss of voters on their side", Khan asserted that he would not tender his resignation.

"Should I give up under the pressure of thieves even before the fight is over?"

"It may be someone's misconception that I will sit at home," he remarked, making it clear that he did not plan on stepping down as the country's chief executive.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran khan stares at an exit from power?

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(With inputs from agencies)

In a major setback to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, three of his allies in the ruling collation have joined the opposition alliance days ahead of the no-confidence motion.

In a major setback to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, three of his allies in the ruling collation have joined the opposition alliance days ahead of the no-confidence motion. The voting on the no-confidence motion in Pakistan's National Assembly is scheduled to take place on Friday, (March 25). Geo News, quoting sources, said that three parties—the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P), Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP)— have decided to withdraw support to the government. The three parties have 17 elected members in the Parliament. This comes after several 24 MPs defected from Khan's government and announced to vote in favour of the no-trust move. Khan has been facing criticism for economic mismanagement, poor governance and inflation. However, Khan seems to be unfazed by the recent setbacks. Earlier in the day, the Pakistani premiere claimed to have a “trick up his sleeve”, saying that he would emerge victorious in the no-confidence motion against his opponents. Also read | Ahead of no-confidence, Khan warns dissenters: 'No one will marry your kids' "The opposition has already shown all their cards," he said while speaking to a group of journalists in Islamabad on Wednesday, according to the Dawn newspaper. He added, “They are in for a big surprise.” Notably, in the 342-member National Assembly, the Imran Khan government requires at least 172 members to sail through the no-confidence plea. Also read | With PM post at stake, Imran Khan rakes up Kashmir issue at OIC meet Warning the opposition that they "will be shocked by the loss of voters on their side", Khan asserted that he would not tender his resignation. "Should I give up under the pressure of thieves even before the fight is over?" "It may be someone's misconception that I will sit at home," he remarked, making it clear that he did not plan on stepping down as the country's chief executive. Watch | Pakistan PM Imran khan stares at an exit from power? (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of no-confidence vote, 3 allies of Khan join opposition; Pak PM says ‘won’t resign'

In what can be called a rare defection, a South Korean crossed the heavily armed border to enter Kim Jong Un-ruled North Korea, military of South Korea said on Sunday. &nbsp;

After detecting a person around 9:20 pm (1220 GMT) on Saturday on the eastern side of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a search operation was carried out, said the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-new-political-cry-in-south-korea-out-with-man-haters-441674" hreflang="en">The new political cry in South Korea: 'Out with man haters'</a>

"We've confirmed that the person crossed the Military Demarcation Line border about 10:40 pm (1340 GMT) and defected to the North," the JCS added. &nbsp;

Although the JCS sent a notice to the North through military hotline, asking for his protection, it could not confirm if the person was alive. &nbsp;

The two Koreas are separated by DMZ. The crossing of border is illegal in South Korea. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-gaza-militants-celebrate-new-year-with-exchange-of-rocket-fire-441686" hreflang="en">Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with exchange of rocket fire</a>

This comes as North Korea has imposed strict anti-coronavirus measures since shutting its borders in early 2020. It has till now not confirmed any infections of the disease. &nbsp;

After North Korean troops shot dead a South Korean fisheries’ official, who had went missing at sea in September 2020, a public and political uproar had emerged in the region. Pyongyang had apologised and blamed the anti-virus rules for the incident. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a rare defection, a South Korean crossed the heavily armed border to enter Kim Jong Un-ruled North Korea, military of South Korea said on Sunday.

In what can be called a rare defection, a South Korean crossed the heavily armed border to enter Kim Jong Un-ruled North Korea, military of South Korea said on Sunday. After detecting a person around 9:20 pm (1220 GMT) on Saturday on the eastern side of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a search operation was carried out, said the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). Also Read: The new political cry in South Korea: 'Out with man haters' "We've confirmed that the person crossed the Military Demarcation Line border about 10:40 pm (1340 GMT) and defected to the North," the JCS added. Although the JCS sent a notice to the North through military hotline, asking for his protection, it could not confirm if the person was alive. The two Koreas are separated by DMZ. The crossing of border is illegal in South Korea. Also Read: Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with exchange of rocket fire This comes as North Korea has imposed strict anti-coronavirus measures since shutting its borders in early 2020. It has till now not confirmed any infections of the disease. After North Korean troops shot dead a South Korean fisheries’ official, who had went missing at sea in September 2020, a public and political uproar had emerged in the region. Pyongyang had apologised and blamed the anti-virus rules for the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

In rare defection, South Korean crosses fortified border to enter Kim Jong Un-ruled North

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