Prince William and Kate are in the Caribbean to mark Queen Elizabeth's platinum jubilee. The visit has been criticised as a PR disaster by royal watchers in Britain. Palki Sharma tells you why the Caribbean is not buying this royal cringe.

Gravitas: A royal disaster: William and Kate in the Caribbean

The Dutch antitrust watchdog on Monday fined apple Apple 5 million euros ($5.72 million) for a third time for failing to allow software application makers in the Netherlands to use non-Apple payment methods for dating apps listed in the company's App Store.

Dutch watchdog fines Apple $5.7 million again in App Store dispute

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country.

France fisheries minister Annick Girardin said the images were shocking and that there would be an investigation to find out whether the incident was deliberate.

The spill, which took place in early Thursday, was caused by a tear in the trawler’s net, said fishing industry group Pelagic Freezer-Trawler Association (PFA), which represents the vessel's owner.

In a statement, the group called the spill a “very rare occurrence”.

Environmental activists have often criticised such trawlers for using drag nets for more than a kilometre long and processing the fish in onboard factories.

The dumped fish were blue whiting, a sub-species of cod, which is used by the industry to mass-produce fish fingers, fish oil and meal.

The French arm of campaign group Sea Shepherd first published images of the spill, showing the ocean's surface covered by a 3,000 sq m.

Environmental activists who spotted the fish described it as a “floating carpet of carcasses”.

Sea Shepherd France, a non-profit, marine conservation activism organization, said it did not believe that the incident was accidental, reported The Guardian.

The organisation claimed that the trawler deliberately discharged the fish as it did not want to process, a practice known as discharging bycatch which is banned under EU fishing rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country.

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country. France fisheries minister Annick Girardin said the images were shocking and that there would be an investigation to find out whether the incident was deliberate. The spill, which took place in early Thursday, was caused by a tear in the trawler’s net, said fishing industry group Pelagic Freezer-Trawler Association (PFA), which represents the vessel's owner. In a statement, the group called the spill a “very rare occurrence”. Environmental activists have often criticised such trawlers for using drag nets for more than a kilometre long and processing the fish in onboard factories. The dumped fish were blue whiting, a sub-species of cod, which is used by the industry to mass-produce fish fingers, fish oil and meal. The French arm of campaign group Sea Shepherd first published images of the spill, showing the ocean's surface covered by a 3,000 sq m. Environmental activists who spotted the fish described it as a “floating carpet of carcasses”. Sea Shepherd France, a non-profit, marine conservation activism organization, said it did not believe that the incident was accidental, reported The Guardian. The organisation claimed that the trawler deliberately discharged the fish as it did not want to process, a practice known as discharging bycatch which is banned under EU fishing rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch trawler dumps over 100,000 dead fish into Atlantic Ocean off French coast, triggering fury

The first-ever exhibition of Van Gogh's self portraits has opened in London. It gives a window into the life of the last few years of the Dutch post impressionist.

First-ever exhibition of Van Gogh's self portraits opened in London

iPhone maker Apple was fined 5 million euros by the Dutch antitrust regulator for failing to comply with an order to open its app store to allow dating app providers in the Netherlands to use alternative payment methods.

Dutch watchdog fines apple $5.65 million

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations. Thierry Baudet, the MP who drew court's ire heads the populist Forum for Democracy Party.

He had said on Twitter that "the unvaccinated are the new Jews, those who look away from the exclusions are the new Nazis".

He also posted side-by-side a photo of a young Dutch boy prevented from attending a festive St Nicholas party and one of a Jewish boy from a Polish ghetto before his deportation during World War II.

Baudet, 38, must delete the relevant social media posts within 48 hours and can no longer use pictures of the Holocaust in debates over Dutch health restrictions, local media reported.

He risks incurring a daily fine of 25,000 euros ($28,000) for breaking the court order.

A judge ruled against Baudet for "pointlessly offending Holocaust victims and their relatives".

"The right to freedom of expression is not unlimited for a representative of the people," Dutch press agency ANP quoted the judge as saying. 
Baudet had also shared a photo of the Buchenwald concentration camp in Germany with the comment: "How is it POSSIBLE to not see how history is repeating itself."

Four Jewish World War II survivors, Dutch Jewish organisations and an anti-Semitism monitoring group had initiated proceedings.

"Incomprehensible, crazy ruling. We are angry and ready to fight. And of course, we will appeal," Baudet wrote on Twitter afterwards.

Baudet, who is well-known for his opposition to Covid-19 vaccinations and health measures, received a warning from Twitter in March 2021, one week before legislative elections.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations.

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations. Thierry Baudet, the MP who drew court's ire heads the populist Forum for Democracy Party. He had said on Twitter that "the unvaccinated are the new Jews, those who look away from the exclusions are the new Nazis". He also posted side-by-side a photo of a young Dutch boy prevented from attending a festive St Nicholas party and one of a Jewish boy from a Polish ghetto before his deportation during World War II. Baudet, 38, must delete the relevant social media posts within 48 hours and can no longer use pictures of the Holocaust in debates over Dutch health restrictions, local media reported. He risks incurring a daily fine of 25,000 euros ($28,000) for breaking the court order. A judge ruled against Baudet for "pointlessly offending Holocaust victims and their relatives". "The right to freedom of expression is not unlimited for a representative of the people," Dutch press agency ANP quoted the judge as saying. Baudet had also shared a photo of the Buchenwald concentration camp in Germany with the comment: "How is it POSSIBLE to not see how history is repeating itself." Four Jewish World War II survivors, Dutch Jewish organisations and an anti-Semitism monitoring group had initiated proceedings. "Incomprehensible, crazy ruling. We are angry and ready to fight. And of course, we will appeal," Baudet wrote on Twitter afterwards. Baudet, who is well-known for his opposition to Covid-19 vaccinations and health measures, received a warning from Twitter in March 2021, one week before legislative elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Court punishes Dutch MP for comparing Covid restrictions to Holocaust

A group of Dutch students has created sleeves that could help its wearer understand almost any foreign language. The device created by the team named HART converts words into a sequence of vibrations.

Dutch students create sleeves which could help wearer understand foreign languages

Fresh rioting broke out in the Netherlands on Saturday over the Dutch government's latest Coronavirus measures. The government plans to restrict access for unvaccinated people to some venues.

Fresh riot breaks out in Netherlands over COVID-19 measures

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise.

Dutch government coalitions often take months to form, but this year's post-election talks have been especially drawn out. For months, parties failed to even move beyond the question of who would be allowed at the negotiation table.

Meanwhile, pressing matters such as climate change, health care and the strained housing market have been left untouched.

"It's remarkable," said political historian and cabinet formation expert Carla van Baalen. "We have never seen a situation in which no real talks were held for months following the elections."

Talks came to a standstill shortly after the elections as parties tried to mend relations following a failed no-confidence vote in Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

As efforts to bring other parties to the table failed, the four parties that have governed the Netherlands since 2017 finally agreed to try to extend their coalition last month, but no real progress has been reported since.

The lack of fully-functioning government does not seem to have hurt the Dutch economy. It has rebounded strongly from a COVID-19 slump and boasts one of the strongest growth rates in Europe.

But pressing longer-term problems are being neglected as long as the coalition remains in caretaker status.

"Only urgent problems, such as immediate measures to fight COVID-19, are addressed", Van Baalen said.

The March elections were won by the conservative VVD party led by Rutte, who has been Prime Minister since 2010. But with only 22% of the vote, Rutte needs the support of at least three junior partners to secure a majority in parliament.

Party leaders were expected to grasp the nettle during a three-day retreat that started last Wednesday, but as they convened Rutte made it clear that a compromise was still not in sight.

"We'll have more talks next week, and probably in the week after too", Rutte said. "There is still a lot of work to do."

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise.

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise. Dutch government coalitions often take months to form, but this year's post-election talks have been especially drawn out. For months, parties failed to even move beyond the question of who would be allowed at the negotiation table. Meanwhile, pressing matters such as climate change, health care and the strained housing market have been left untouched. "It's remarkable," said political historian and cabinet formation expert Carla van Baalen. "We have never seen a situation in which no real talks were held for months following the elections." Talks came to a standstill shortly after the elections as parties tried to mend relations following a failed no-confidence vote in Prime Minister Mark Rutte. As efforts to bring other parties to the table failed, the four parties that have governed the Netherlands since 2017 finally agreed to try to extend their coalition last month, but no real progress has been reported since. The lack of fully-functioning government does not seem to have hurt the Dutch economy. It has rebounded strongly from a COVID-19 slump and boasts one of the strongest growth rates in Europe. But pressing longer-term problems are being neglected as long as the coalition remains in caretaker status. "Only urgent problems, such as immediate measures to fight COVID-19, are addressed", Van Baalen said. The March elections were won by the conservative VVD party led by Rutte, who has been Prime Minister since 2010. But with only 22% of the vote, Rutte needs the support of at least three junior partners to secure a majority in parliament. Party leaders were expected to grasp the nettle during a three-day retreat that started last Wednesday, but as they convened Rutte made it clear that a compromise was still not in sight. "We'll have more talks next week, and probably in the week after too", Rutte said. "There is still a lot of work to do."

Why rush? Dutch government formation talks drag on for record 226 days

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne.

Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia, 17, is the heir apparent to King Willem-Alexander.

PM Rutte was responding to questions from parliament that were after publishing of a recent book, "Amalia, Duty Calls".

It argued that old laws would appear to exclude the possibility of a same-sex couple on the throne. However, same-sex marriage has been legal in the Netherlands since 2001.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chat-checkouts-dutch-supermarket-makes-an-effort-to-get-rid-of-loneliness-amid-pandemic-419907">'Chat checkouts': Dutch supermarket makes an effort to get rid of loneliness amid pandemic</a>

"The government believes that the heir can also marry a person of the same sex," Rutte wrote in his response to parliament.

"The cabinet therefore does not see that an heir to the throne or the King should abdicate if he/she would like to marry a partner of the same sex."

Also Reads | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-behind-identical-twins-solved-by-dutch-scientists-417122">Mystery behind identical twins solved by Dutch scientists</a>

Royal marriages do need the approval of parliament, however, and members of the royal house have on occasion given up their place in the line of succession, either to marry someone without permission or because they seemed unlikely to obtain it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne. Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia, 17, is the heir apparent to King Willem-Alexander. PM Rutte was responding to questions from parliament that were after publishing of a recent book, "Amalia, Duty Calls". It argued that old laws would appear to exclude the possibility of a same-sex couple on the throne. However, same-sex marriage has been legal in the Netherlands since 2001. Also Read | 'Chat checkouts': Dutch supermarket makes an effort to get rid of loneliness amid pandemic "The government believes that the heir can also marry a person of the same sex," Rutte wrote in his response to parliament. "The cabinet therefore does not see that an heir to the throne or the King should abdicate if he/she would like to marry a partner of the same sex." Also Reads | Mystery behind identical twins solved by Dutch scientists Royal marriages do need the approval of parliament, however, and members of the royal house have on occasion given up their place in the line of succession, either to marry someone without permission or because they seemed unlikely to obtain it. (With inputs from agencies)

Game of thrones! Gay marriage of Dutch crown princess won't force her to give up the throne

Feelings of loneliness and isolation have become a regular part of pandemic life. In an effort to keep a check on people during these tough times, a Dutch supermarket chain has introduced an option for customers who are not in a hurry and are looking for a chat.

In the Netherlands, grocery store Jumbo has introduced "chat checkouts." This allows the people to linger a bit and chat with the folks at the registers.

The chain has said that it will introduce 200 talking self-service checkout registers in its grocery stores.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-hot-new-back-to-school-accessory-an-air-quality-monitor-419860">Also read |&nbsp;The hot new back-to-school accessory? An air quality monitor.</a>

The first chat register, or "kletskassa" in Dutch, was tested in 2019 and received a lot of positive feedback. Jumbo says that it will prioritise installing the chat registers in areas where loneliness is a major issue.

As per a study, 26 per cent of Dutch people older than 15 feel some loneliness. The rate jumps to 33 per cent for people over 75.

Some people want to checkout as quickly as they can. This is symbolic of the way technology has made our world move faster and faster.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeff-bezos-shares-an-old-article-predicting-amazons-failure-elon-musk-replies-419819">Also read |&nbsp;Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies</a>

The Dutch are attempting to slow things down and provide a human touch.

Jumbo will also be opening some "cozy chat corners," where customers can have a cup of coffee have a chat with each other.

Feelings of loneliness and isolation have become a regular part of pandemic life. In an effort to keep a check on people during these tough times, a Dutch supermarket chain has introduced an option for customers who are not in a hurry and are looking for a chat.

Feelings of loneliness and isolation have become a regular part of pandemic life. In an effort to keep a check on people during these tough times, a Dutch supermarket chain has introduced an option for customers who are not in a hurry and are looking for a chat. In the Netherlands, grocery store Jumbo has introduced "chat checkouts." This allows the people to linger a bit and chat with the folks at the registers. The chain has said that it will introduce 200 talking self-service checkout registers in its grocery stores. Also read | The hot new back-to-school accessory? An air quality monitor. The first chat register, or "kletskassa" in Dutch, was tested in 2019 and received a lot of positive feedback. Jumbo says that it will prioritise installing the chat registers in areas where loneliness is a major issue. As per a study, 26 per cent of Dutch people older than 15 feel some loneliness. The rate jumps to 33 per cent for people over 75. Some people want to checkout as quickly as they can. This is symbolic of the way technology has made our world move faster and faster. Also read | Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies The Dutch are attempting to slow things down and provide a human touch. Jumbo will also be opening some "cozy chat corners," where customers can have a cup of coffee have a chat with each other.

'Chat checkouts': Dutch supermarket makes an effort to get rid of loneliness amid pandemic

Afghan interpreters who worked for the Netherlands have been summoned to appear in court by the Taliban who have threatened their families, Dutch public television NOS reported on Friday.

The interpreters are in hiding but their family members will be held responsible if they fail to show up in court "and severely punished to teach other traitors a lesson," said a letter from the Taliban, which was aired by the broadcaster.

NOS said the recipient, who worked for the EU's policing agency Europol in Afghanistan, was accused of taking "dishonourable and forbidden money" from foreigners.

"We will take revenge. If we are not able to get hold of you, we will settle scores with your near ones," said another letter to an interpreter whom the Taliban accused of being responsible for the deaths of some of their fighters.

All indications show that the letters, which bear official seals, were despatched by the Taliban, NOS said.

It said it had contacted about 10 interpreters or people who had worked for the Dutch and who all said their situation was becoming increasing difficult.

The Taliban in June urged interpreters who had worked for foreign forces to repent but urged them to stay on in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of foreign forces and assured them they would not be harmed.

Just after taking power, the Taliban declared a general amnesty for Afghan government and military officials.

But despite their pledges not to avenge themselves, a confidential United Nations report said the Taliban were tracking down people who worked with foreign forces. 
&nbsp;

Afghan interpreters who worked for the Netherlands have been summoned to appear in court by the Taliban who have threatened their families, Dutch public television NOS reported on Friday.

Afghan interpreters who worked for the Netherlands have been summoned to appear in court by the Taliban who have threatened their families, Dutch public television NOS reported on Friday. The interpreters are in hiding but their family members will be held responsible if they fail to show up in court "and severely punished to teach other traitors a lesson," said a letter from the Taliban, which was aired by the broadcaster. NOS said the recipient, who worked for the EU's policing agency Europol in Afghanistan, was accused of taking "dishonourable and forbidden money" from foreigners. "We will take revenge. If we are not able to get hold of you, we will settle scores with your near ones," said another letter to an interpreter whom the Taliban accused of being responsible for the deaths of some of their fighters. All indications show that the letters, which bear official seals, were despatched by the Taliban, NOS said. It said it had contacted about 10 interpreters or people who had worked for the Dutch and who all said their situation was becoming increasing difficult. The Taliban in June urged interpreters who had worked for foreign forces to repent but urged them to stay on in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of foreign forces and assured them they would not be harmed. Just after taking power, the Taliban declared a general amnesty for Afghan government and military officials. But despite their pledges not to avenge themselves, a confidential United Nations report said the Taliban were tracking down people who worked with foreign forces.

Afghan interpreters who worked for the Dutch summoned by Taliban: TV

Scientists in the Netherlands have solved the medical mystery of what causes some twins to be born identical. It is because these identical twins form after a fertilised egg called a zygote, which splits into two embryos sharing the same genes.&nbsp;

However, the reason for the split is unknown.

Published in the journal Nature Communications, the research looked at the epigenetic modifications in twins’ DNA, factors that can switch genes “on” or “off” without changing their underlying sequence.&nbsp;

It was concluded that identical twins from across the world shared similar marks at 834 points across their genome, which happens to be the total of an organism’s DNA.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mont-blanc-has-shrunk-by-almost-1-metre-since-its-last-measurement-417097">Also read |&nbsp;Mont Blanc has shrunk by almost 1 metre since its last measurement</a>

As per the scientists, the shared marks can allow researchers to determine, with up to 80 per cent accuracy whether an individual is an identical twin.&nbsp;

Nancy Segal, a developmental psychologist at California State University, told the Science News publication that it was “a very, very important finding”, as identical twins are predisposed for a variety of conditions, including spina bifida.

However, it is yet to be proved that the chemical marks on the DNA are the cause of identical twins being conceived.&nbsp;

Also, as many as 12 per cent of human pregnancies may start as multiple embryos but just under 2 per cent carry to term, with many people unaware of the fact that they had a twin.

Scientists in the Netherlands have solved the medical mystery of what causes some twins to be born identical. It is because these identical twins form after a fertilised egg called a zygote, which splits into two embryos sharing the same genes.

Scientists in the Netherlands have solved the medical mystery of what causes some twins to be born identical. It is because these identical twins form after a fertilised egg called a zygote, which splits into two embryos sharing the same genes. However, the reason for the split is unknown. Published in the journal Nature Communications, the research looked at the epigenetic modifications in twins’ DNA, factors that can switch genes “on” or “off” without changing their underlying sequence. It was concluded that identical twins from across the world shared similar marks at 834 points across their genome, which happens to be the total of an organism’s DNA. Also read | Mont Blanc has shrunk by almost 1 metre since its last measurement As per the scientists, the shared marks can allow researchers to determine, with up to 80 per cent accuracy whether an individual is an identical twin. Nancy Segal, a developmental psychologist at California State University, told the Science News publication that it was “a very, very important finding”, as identical twins are predisposed for a variety of conditions, including spina bifida. However, it is yet to be proved that the chemical marks on the DNA are the cause of identical twins being conceived. Also, as many as 12 per cent of human pregnancies may start as multiple embryos but just under 2 per cent carry to term, with many people unaware of the fact that they had a twin.

Mystery behind identical twins solved by Dutch scientists

Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag resigned on Thursday after parliament formally condemned her handling of the Afghanistan evacuation crisis.Watch this report for more details.

Dutch foreign minister Sigrid Kaag resigns over Afghan crisis

Dutch Foreign Minister&nbsp;Sigrid&nbsp;Kaag&nbsp;resigned on Thursday after parliament formally condemned her handling of the Afghanistan evacuation crisis.

Lawmakers approved a motion criticising the government for failing to evacuate some Afghans, and for missing signs of an imminent Taliban takeover.

Kaag's resignation comes a day after Britain's Dominic Raab was demoted from his position as foreign minister over the way he dealt with the situation in Afghanistan.

"The House considers that the government has acted irresponsibly,"&nbsp;Kaag&nbsp;said in a statement to parliament after parliament voted by 78 votes to 72 to condemn her.

"And although I stand by our commitment, I can only accept the consequences of this judgement as the minister with ultimate responsibility," she added.

"In my view on democracy and the culture of our administration, a minister should go if the policy is disapproved of.&nbsp;I will therefore submit my resignation as minister of foreign affairs to his majesty the king."

Dutch Defence Minister Ank Bijleveld however refused to resign despite also being hit with a so-called censure motion by parliament.

Kaag&nbsp;said she would stay on as leader of the centre-left D66 party, which is in coalition talks with Prime Minister Mark Rutte after winning the second-most seats in elections in March.

Rutte said her resignation was a "great loss" to the cabinet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africa-covid-19-jab-shortfall-could-take-world-back-to-square-one-says-who-413652">Also read |&nbsp;Africa COVID-19 jab shortfall could take world 'back to square one', says WHO</a>

The Netherlands evacuated more than 1,500 people, both Dutch nationals and eligible Afghans, in the final chaotic days before the US pulled out of Afghanistan.

But many Afghans were left behind, including 22 interpreters, according to the government, despite calls from MPs to evacuate them months ago.

'Blind spot'

Kaag&nbsp;admitted during the debate that the government "had a whole blind spot in how quickly it would get that bad" in Afghanistan, but said other countries had been in a similar position.

Dutch lawmakers from across the political spectrum lined up to criticise the government during a parliamentary debate on Afghanistan on Tuesday.

"How is it possible that there are still dozens of defence interpreters in Kabul?" said Jeroen van Wijngaarden, an MP from Prime Minister Rutte's VVD party.

Ministers were accused of being "apathetic" and mired in "slowness and vagueness" during the evacuation crisis.

The sense of chaos was fuelled by reports in local media that the Dutch ambassador had been begging the government since March 2020 to make preparations, but that ministers only decided two days before the fall of Kabul.

The debacle has stirred bitter memories in the Netherlands of another foreign policy failure, when Dutch peacekeepers failed to prevent the 1995 Srebrenica massacre during the Bosnian War.&nbsp;

Dutch broadcaster NOS said it would have been "very difficult" for&nbsp;Kaag&nbsp;to stay on, given that after elections she had made strong calls for political change.

Kaag&nbsp;had herself called on Rutte to resign in April after he too was condemned by parliament over claims he lied about coalition talks, but the premier clung on.

The Afghan row now threatens to further complicate coalition talks that have dragged on since the elections, with a caretaker government still in place six months on.

Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag resigned on Thursday after parliament formally condemned her handling of the Afghanistan evacuation crisis. Lawmakers approved a motion criticising the government for failing to evacuate some Afghans, and for missing signs of an imminent Taliban takeover.

Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag resigned on Thursday after parliament formally condemned her handling of the Afghanistan evacuation crisis. Lawmakers approved a motion criticising the government for failing to evacuate some Afghans, and for missing signs of an imminent Taliban takeover. Kaag's resignation comes a day after Britain's Dominic Raab was demoted from his position as foreign minister over the way he dealt with the situation in Afghanistan. "The House considers that the government has acted irresponsibly," Kaag said in a statement to parliament after parliament voted by 78 votes to 72 to condemn her. "And although I stand by our commitment, I can only accept the consequences of this judgement as the minister with ultimate responsibility," she added. "In my view on democracy and the culture of our administration, a minister should go if the policy is disapproved of. I will therefore submit my resignation as minister of foreign affairs to his majesty the king." Dutch Defence Minister Ank Bijleveld however refused to resign despite also being hit with a so-called censure motion by parliament. Kaag said she would stay on as leader of the centre-left D66 party, which is in coalition talks with Prime Minister Mark Rutte after winning the second-most seats in elections in March. Rutte said her resignation was a "great loss" to the cabinet. Also read | Africa COVID-19 jab shortfall could take world 'back to square one', says WHO The Netherlands evacuated more than 1,500 people, both Dutch nationals and eligible Afghans, in the final chaotic days before the US pulled out of Afghanistan. But many Afghans were left behind, including 22 interpreters, according to the government, despite calls from MPs to evacuate them months ago. 'Blind spot' Kaag admitted during the debate that the government "had a whole blind spot in how quickly it would get that bad" in Afghanistan, but said other countries had been in a similar position. Dutch lawmakers from across the political spectrum lined up to criticise the government during a parliamentary debate on Afghanistan on Tuesday. "How is it possible that there are still dozens of defence interpreters in Kabul?" said Jeroen van Wijngaarden, an MP from Prime Minister Rutte's VVD party. Ministers were accused of being "apathetic" and mired in "slowness and vagueness" during the evacuation crisis. The sense of chaos was fuelled by reports in local media that the Dutch ambassador had been begging the government since March 2020 to make preparations, but that ministers only decided two days before the fall of Kabul. The debacle has stirred bitter memories in the Netherlands of another foreign policy failure, when Dutch peacekeepers failed to prevent the 1995 Srebrenica massacre during the Bosnian War. Dutch broadcaster NOS said it would have been "very difficult" for Kaag to stay on, given that after elections she had made strong calls for political change. Kaag had herself called on Rutte to resign in April after he too was condemned by parliament over claims he lied about coalition talks, but the premier clung on. The Afghan row now threatens to further complicate coalition talks that have dragged on since the elections, with a caretaker government still in place six months on.

Dutch foreign minister resigns over Afghan crisis

Netherland is a top tourist destination due to its art and culture. The government of the Netherlands is preparing to preserve its art and culture through a collective art centre and is planning to keep around 500,000 paintings under one Roof.

Netherland to preserve collective art memory through Dutch collection centre

Gold medal favourites the United States began their bid for a fifth women's Olympic football title with an embarrassing 3-0 loss to Sweden, while Team GB kicked off their campaign at the Tokyo Games by beating Chile on Wednesday and the Netherlands put 10 past fellow debutants Zambia.

The US have won four of six Olympic titles since women's football was introduced to the programme in 1996 but suffered a heavy defeat by the same team that knocked them out on penalties in the quarter-finals in Rio.

Stina Blackstenius scored twice before substitute Lina Hurtig added a third for 2016 silver medallists Sweden at a game played in an empty Tokyo Stadium due to strict Covid-19 restrictions.

The loss ended a 44-match unbeaten run for the Americans dating back to the start of 2019. It was also only the second time they had lost a game in 90 minutes at the Olympics.

"They're (Sweden) one of the best teams in the world," said US forward Megan Rapinoe. "There's really no time to dwell or think about if Sweden is living in our heads or not. We've got another game in three days."

The Dutch made history in Miyagi as Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedama scored four times in a remarkable 10-3 thumping of Zambia.

Lieke Martens netted twice, while Shanice van de Sanden, Jill Roord, Lineth Beerensteyn and Victoria Pevlova also got on the scoresheet.

It was the highest-scoring game in women's Olympic history and the most scored by one team in a match, but Zambia avoided a record margin of defeat as Barbra Banda scored twice late on to secure a hat-trick.

The largest win remains Germany's 8-0 thrashing of China in 2004.

In Sapporo, Great Britain won their Group E opener 2-0, with Manchester City striker Ellen White scoring twice and having a goal disallowed by VAR for offside.

Hege Riise's side&nbsp;are bidding to become the first British team to win an Olympic football medal.

"When you get into a competition, it's really important you win that first game," said Team GB captain Steph Houghton.

"There's still a lot of stuff to improve on but three points on the board, we're really pleased."

Brazil star Marta bagged two goals in a 5-0 rout of China in Group F, meaning she has now scored in five straight Olympics.

Debinha scored in between Marta's brace before a late Andressa penalty and Beatriz strike completed a comprehensive victory in Rifu.&nbsp;

In the other Group E game, hosts Japan rescued a 1-1 draw with Canada as Aston Villa's Mana Iwabuchi scored an 84th-minute equaliser.

Christine Sinclair had put the Canadians in front, marking her 300th appearance for her country with a record-extending 187th international goal.

Australia sit second in the early Group D table behind Sweden after Sam Kerr found the net in a 2-1 victory over New Zealand.

&nbsp;

Gold medal favourites the United States began their bid for a fifth women's Olympic football title with an embarrassing 3-0 loss to Sweden, while Team GB kicked off their campaign at the Tokyo Games by beating Chile on Wednesday and the Netherlands put 10 past fellow debutants Zambia.

Gold medal favourites the United States began their bid for a fifth women's Olympic football title with an embarrassing 3-0 loss to Sweden, while Team GB kicked off their campaign at the Tokyo Games by beating Chile on Wednesday and the Netherlands put 10 past fellow debutants Zambia. The US have won four of six Olympic titles since women's football was introduced to the programme in 1996 but suffered a heavy defeat by the same team that knocked them out on penalties in the quarter-finals in Rio. Stina Blackstenius scored twice before substitute Lina Hurtig added a third for 2016 silver medallists Sweden at a game played in an empty Tokyo Stadium due to strict Covid-19 restrictions. The loss ended a 44-match unbeaten run for the Americans dating back to the start of 2019. It was also only the second time they had lost a game in 90 minutes at the Olympics. "They're (Sweden) one of the best teams in the world," said US forward Megan Rapinoe. "There's really no time to dwell or think about if Sweden is living in our heads or not. We've got another game in three days." The Dutch made history in Miyagi as Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedama scored four times in a remarkable 10-3 thumping of Zambia. Lieke Martens netted twice, while Shanice van de Sanden, Jill Roord, Lineth Beerensteyn and Victoria Pevlova also got on the scoresheet. It was the highest-scoring game in women's Olympic history and the most scored by one team in a match, but Zambia avoided a record margin of defeat as Barbra Banda scored twice late on to secure a hat-trick. The largest win remains Germany's 8-0 thrashing of China in 2004. In Sapporo, Great Britain won their Group E opener 2-0, with Manchester City striker Ellen White scoring twice and having a goal disallowed by VAR for offside. Hege Riise's side are bidding to become the first British team to win an Olympic football medal. "When you get into a competition, it's really important you win that first game," said Team GB captain Steph Houghton. "There's still a lot of stuff to improve on but three points on the board, we're really pleased." Brazil star Marta bagged two goals in a 5-0 rout of China in Group F, meaning she has now scored in five straight Olympics. Debinha scored in between Marta's brace before a late Andressa penalty and Beatriz strike completed a comprehensive victory in Rifu. In the other Group E game, hosts Japan rescued a 1-1 draw with Canada as Aston Villa's Mana Iwabuchi scored an 84th-minute equaliser. Christine Sinclair had put the Canadians in front, marking her 300th appearance for her country with a record-extending 187th international goal. Australia sit second in the early Group D table behind Sweden after Sam Kerr found the net in a 2-1 victory over New Zealand.

USA women thumped while Dutch score 10 in Olympic football

Dutch&nbsp;Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced a number of measures Friday to curb a rapid spike in coronavirus infections in the country, including closing discos and nightclubs and curbing restaurant hours.

Infections rose sevenfold in the lowlands country in one week, with 7,000 new cases reported on Friday, Rutte said, forcing the government to walk back an easing of restrictions.

"There is a dark cloud in front of the sun. At the moment infection rates are rocketing, mainly because of the highly-infectuous Delta variant," Rutte told a news conference.

"If we don't do something the tempo of infections are&nbsp;simply going to rise. It's clear that we need to nip the rapid spread of the virus in the bud," he said.

The government, therefore, decided to order the closure of all discos and nightclubs and the closure of restaurants at midnight.

All visitors to restaurants and cafes must now adhere to the 1.5-metre social distancing rule, Rutte said, adding that no live music or entertainment would be allowed.

Events lasting longer than 24 hours have been put on ice, the top&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;official added.

Measures will start at 6 am (0400 GMT) on Saturday and last until at least August 13.

"Two weeks ago all signals were on green,"&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;Health Minister Hugo de Jonge told journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-police-clash-with-anti-lockdown-rioters-in-two-cities-359117">Also read |&nbsp;Dutch police clash with anti-lockdown rioters in two cities</a>

"But now there's a reason to intervene. This is a result of the rapid spread of the Delta variant in Europe and the Netherlands," he said.

"This is unprecedented. The previous week we sat at around 500 new cases per day. Today there are 7,000 new infections," De Jonge said.

But the new measures did not mean the Netherlands would return to a lockdown or curfew as in previous months, or a compulsory rule to wear face masks indoors.

Rutte however urged people to "stick to the basic rules -- keeping social distance and washing hands".

"If we do that, we can yet make it a beautiful summer," he said.

The nation of 17 million has recorded more than 1.7 million coronavirus cases and over 17,700 deaths during the pandemic.

Around 80 percent of the population have received at least one vaccine jab, while about 50 percent received two, De Jonge said.

Most of the infections were among younger people, the health minister added.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced a number of measures Friday to curb a rapid spike in coronavirus infections in the country, including closing discos and nightclubs and curbing restaurant hours.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced a number of measures Friday to curb a rapid spike in coronavirus infections in the country, including closing discos and nightclubs and curbing restaurant hours. Infections rose sevenfold in the lowlands country in one week, with 7,000 new cases reported on Friday, Rutte said, forcing the government to walk back an easing of restrictions. "There is a dark cloud in front of the sun. At the moment infection rates are rocketing, mainly because of the highly-infectuous Delta variant," Rutte told a news conference. "If we don't do something the tempo of infections are simply going to rise. It's clear that we need to nip the rapid spread of the virus in the bud," he said. The government, therefore, decided to order the closure of all discos and nightclubs and the closure of restaurants at midnight. All visitors to restaurants and cafes must now adhere to the 1.5-metre social distancing rule, Rutte said, adding that no live music or entertainment would be allowed. Events lasting longer than 24 hours have been put on ice, the top Dutch official added. Measures will start at 6 am (0400 GMT) on Saturday and last until at least August 13. "Two weeks ago all signals were on green," Dutch Health Minister Hugo de Jonge told journalists. Also read | Dutch police clash with anti-lockdown rioters in two cities "But now there's a reason to intervene. This is a result of the rapid spread of the Delta variant in Europe and the Netherlands," he said. "This is unprecedented. The previous week we sat at around 500 new cases per day. Today there are 7,000 new infections," De Jonge said. But the new measures did not mean the Netherlands would return to a lockdown or curfew as in previous months, or a compulsory rule to wear face masks indoors. Rutte however urged people to "stick to the basic rules -- keeping social distance and washing hands". "If we do that, we can yet make it a beautiful summer," he said. The nation of 17 million has recorded more than 1.7 million coronavirus cases and over 17,700 deaths during the pandemic. Around 80 percent of the population have received at least one vaccine jab, while about 50 percent received two, De Jonge said. Most of the infections were among younger people, the health minister added.

Dutch reimpose some curbs after virus spike

Flying full-back Denzel Dumfries scored a late winner to earn the Netherlands a 3-2 victory over Ukraine in a thrilling Group C opener at the European Championship on Sunday after the Dutch had thrown away a two-goal lead.

Dumfries rescued all three points for the home team five minutes from time after Ukraine had fought their way back into the match at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

The Dutch were 2-0 up with 15 minutes left, only to allow their opponents two quick goals and the chance to share the points before Dumfries headed home a dramatic winner to the delight of the home fans.

Captain Georginio Wijnaldum and striker Wout Weghorst netted within seven minutes early in the second half as the Dutch sought a successful return to a major tournament -- after a seven-year absence -- in front of 16,000 spectators.

Wijnaldum’s left-foot finish in the 52nd minute opened the scoring before Weghorst quickly added a second.

That put the Dutch in command but Ukraine ensured a nervy finish when captain Andriy Yarmolenko pulled one back in the 75th minute with a superb strike and Roman Yaremchuk equalized four minutes later.

Wijnaldum scored for a fifth time in his last eight appearances for his country as he snapped up a clearance from Ukraine goalkeeper Georgiy Buschcan, who was attempting to push a square pass away from the dangerous Memphis Depay.

It was set up after another strong run down the flank from the Dutch, whose right wing-back Dumfries was particularly dangerous and deserved his big moment at the end.

Dumfries was also the provider of the second in the 59th minute although Ukraine complained he had fouled Rutland Malinovskyi in trying to wrestle his way closer to goal.

Weghorst reacted quickest to a poor clearance from Mykola Matviyenko for his second goal in as many games as he repaid coach Frank de Boer’s faith in his hustling ability upfront.

Yarmolenko brought Ukraine back into the game with a fine curling shot from outside the box after exchanging quick passes with Malinovskyi.

It was the first goal in six matches at the finals for Ukraine and was followed by an equally adept finish as Yaremchuk headed home Malinovskyi’s perfectly weighted free-kick.

Parity lasted only six minutes, however, as Dumfries headed home Nathan Ake’s cross.

"I am relieved," Wijnaldum said. "Overall, we played a good game, but we gave them two chances in 10 minutes which were two goals. We need to learn that if we play such a match we need to finish it off well. We let them get back into the game and that needs to improve."

Flying full-back Denzel Dumfries scored a late winner to earn the Netherlands a 3-2 victory over Ukraine in a thrilling Group C opener at the European Championship on Sunday after the Dutch had thrown away a two-goal lead.

Flying full-back Denzel Dumfries scored a late winner to earn the Netherlands a 3-2 victory over Ukraine in a thrilling Group C opener at the European Championship on Sunday after the Dutch had thrown away a two-goal lead. Dumfries rescued all three points for the home team five minutes from time after Ukraine had fought their way back into the match at the Johan Cruyff Arena. The Dutch were 2-0 up with 15 minutes left, only to allow their opponents two quick goals and the chance to share the points before Dumfries headed home a dramatic winner to the delight of the home fans. Captain Georginio Wijnaldum and striker Wout Weghorst netted within seven minutes early in the second half as the Dutch sought a successful return to a major tournament -- after a seven-year absence -- in front of 16,000 spectators. Wijnaldum’s left-foot finish in the 52nd minute opened the scoring before Weghorst quickly added a second. That put the Dutch in command but Ukraine ensured a nervy finish when captain Andriy Yarmolenko pulled one back in the 75th minute with a superb strike and Roman Yaremchuk equalized four minutes later. Wijnaldum scored for a fifth time in his last eight appearances for his country as he snapped up a clearance from Ukraine goalkeeper Georgiy Buschcan, who was attempting to push a square pass away from the dangerous Memphis Depay. It was set up after another strong run down the flank from the Dutch, whose right wing-back Dumfries was particularly dangerous and deserved his big moment at the end. Dumfries was also the provider of the second in the 59th minute although Ukraine complained he had fouled Rutland Malinovskyi in trying to wrestle his way closer to goal. Weghorst reacted quickest to a poor clearance from Mykola Matviyenko for his second goal in as many games as he repaid coach Frank de Boer’s faith in his hustling ability upfront. Yarmolenko brought Ukraine back into the game with a fine curling shot from outside the box after exchanging quick passes with Malinovskyi. It was the first goal in six matches at the finals for Ukraine and was followed by an equally adept finish as Yaremchuk headed home Malinovskyi’s perfectly weighted free-kick. Parity lasted only six minutes, however, as Dumfries headed home Nathan Ake’s cross. "I am relieved," Wijnaldum said. "Overall, we played a good game, but we gave them two chances in 10 minutes which were two goals. We need to learn that if we play such a match we need to finish it off well. We let them get back into the game and that needs to improve."

Football: Denzel Dumfries header secures Dutch win after Ukraine fightback

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start.

It is a return to a major tournament for the first time since the Dutch finished third at the 2014 World Cup.

Missing out on the last Euros in France and then the 2018 World Cup in Russia were a major setback and re-establishing their reputation as a&nbsp;footballing force is top priority for coach Frank de Boer and his team.

The Netherlands will need a positive start after their build-up was marred by media disapproval of the more defensive tactics employed in warm-ups against Scotland and Georgia.

There are also few more critical fans than the Dutch, who demand not only success but also swagger from their team and are quick to voice their displeasure when this is not the case.

There will be 16,000 on hand at the Johan Cruyff Arena, sure to be clad in the team's distinctive colors, providing a lift for the home side and an intimidating presence for the visitors.

"The European Championship at home without fans is no championship. I'm looking forward to it enormously," said captain Georginio Wijnaldum.

"It also feels that we are at the end of a really tiresome period and we are at the beginning of a much brighter, nicer time."

Ukraine, whose pre-tournament preparations have been overshadowed by controversy over their kit, are a side capable of upsetting the odds but lack consistency.

In their three World Cup qualifiers in March, they held world champions France to a 1-1 draw in Paris, only to then drop points at home to the lowly likes of Finland and Kazakhstan.

There has, however, been marked improvement under coach Andriy Shevchenko, appointed after they lost all three group games at Euro 2016 in France.

"Hopefully there will be surprises at the tournament and we will certainly be looking to create them," warned battling midfielder Taras Stepanenko this week.

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start.

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start. It is a return to a major tournament for the first time since the Dutch finished third at the 2014 World Cup. Missing out on the last Euros in France and then the 2018 World Cup in Russia were a major setback and re-establishing their reputation as a footballing force is top priority for coach Frank de Boer and his team. The Netherlands will need a positive start after their build-up was marred by media disapproval of the more defensive tactics employed in warm-ups against Scotland and Georgia. There are also few more critical fans than the Dutch, who demand not only success but also swagger from their team and are quick to voice their displeasure when this is not the case. There will be 16,000 on hand at the Johan Cruyff Arena, sure to be clad in the team's distinctive colors, providing a lift for the home side and an intimidating presence for the visitors. "The European Championship at home without fans is no championship. I'm looking forward to it enormously," said captain Georginio Wijnaldum. "It also feels that we are at the end of a really tiresome period and we are at the beginning of a much brighter, nicer time." Ukraine, whose pre-tournament preparations have been overshadowed by controversy over their kit, are a side capable of upsetting the odds but lack consistency. In their three World Cup qualifiers in March, they held world champions France to a 1-1 draw in Paris, only to then drop points at home to the lowly likes of Finland and Kazakhstan. There has, however, been marked improvement under coach Andriy Shevchenko, appointed after they lost all three group games at Euro 2016 in France. "Hopefully there will be surprises at the tournament and we will certainly be looking to create them," warned battling midfielder Taras Stepanenko this week.

Football: Back again, Dutch seek to restore past reputation

The Dutch celebrated their king's birthday&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday in muted fashion as a coronavirus lockdown prevented large-scale street parties for the second year running.&nbsp;

This year, the national holiday comes with lockdown fatigue rising and a day before an easing of some restrictions even though hospitals are having to postpone regular medical procedures so they can focus on the high level of COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;

King Willem-Alexander was marking his 54th birthday in the southern city of Eindhoven, a city that brands itself as a hub for high-tech innovation, for a digital version of the annual royal walkabout.&nbsp;

The King's Day national holiday is usually an occasion for the Dutch to drape themselves in orange clothes, hats and feather boas, sell old toys and books in street markets and crowd the streets of major cities.&nbsp;

This year, for the second straight year, cities are encouraging people to stay home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The capital, Amsterdam, urged residents to celebrate according to lockdown guidelines with a maximum of one visitor, but added,&nbsp;you can still dig out the orange T-shirt or silly hat and hang out the flag.&nbsp;

A man wearing an orange robe cycled down a near deserted street in the city, while people stood in socially distanced lines waiting to buy pastries topped with icing in the national color orange.&nbsp;

The central city of Arnhem, meanwhile, was bracing for possible violent confrontations between football hooligans and a protest against the government.&nbsp;

In an attempt to prevent rioting, the city's mayor, Ahmed&nbsp;Marcouch, gave police special powers for the day to check people coming into Arnhem and imposed a limit of 500 people for a demonstration at the central market place.&nbsp;

Marcouch&nbsp;said that demonstrations are a constitutional right, but that signals of the risk of rioting at different locations in the city endanger that right to demonstrate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the national lockdown is being eased with measures including the end of a nationwide curfew imposed in mid-January and cafes allowed to reopen their outdoor terraces under strict conditions from noon to 6&nbsp;pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Dutch celebrated their king's birthday on Tuesday in muted fashion as a coronavirus lockdown prevented large-scale street parties for the second year running.

The Dutch celebrated their king's birthday on Tuesday in muted fashion as a coronavirus lockdown prevented large-scale street parties for the second year running. This year, the national holiday comes with lockdown fatigue rising and a day before an easing of some restrictions even though hospitals are having to postpone regular medical procedures so they can focus on the high level of COVID-19 patients. King Willem-Alexander was marking his 54th birthday in the southern city of Eindhoven, a city that brands itself as a hub for high-tech innovation, for a digital version of the annual royal walkabout. The King's Day national holiday is usually an occasion for the Dutch to drape themselves in orange clothes, hats and feather boas, sell old toys and books in street markets and crowd the streets of major cities. This year, for the second straight year, cities are encouraging people to stay home. The capital, Amsterdam, urged residents to celebrate according to lockdown guidelines with a maximum of one visitor, but added, you can still dig out the orange T-shirt or silly hat and hang out the flag. A man wearing an orange robe cycled down a near deserted street in the city, while people stood in socially distanced lines waiting to buy pastries topped with icing in the national color orange. The central city of Arnhem, meanwhile, was bracing for possible violent confrontations between football hooligans and a protest against the government. In an attempt to prevent rioting, the city's mayor, Ahmed Marcouch, gave police special powers for the day to check people coming into Arnhem and imposed a limit of 500 people for a demonstration at the central market place. Marcouch said that demonstrations are a constitutional right, but that signals of the risk of rioting at different locations in the city endanger that right to demonstrate. On Wednesday, the national lockdown is being eased with measures including the end of a nationwide curfew imposed in mid-January and cafes allowed to reopen their outdoor terraces under strict conditions from noon to 6 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

Muted celebrations of Dutch king's birthday amid pandemic 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a virtual summit with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte today (Friday). During the summit the two leaders will discuss issues of bilateral cooperation and will look at new ways of strengthening the relationship.

Indian PM Modi to hold virtual summit with his Dutch counterpart Rutte

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s prospects of forming a new government waned on Saturday as a coalition partner seen as vital for securing a parliamentary majority ruled out joining a new administration led by him.

This threw already stalled talks about forming a new government further into disarray, setting them back by weeks if not months and making it virtually impossible to predict the outcome.

Rutte, 54, had narrowly survived a no-confidence vote on Friday after parliament passed a motion disapproving of his behaviour during government formation talks following last month’s election.

But ChristenUnie leader Gert Jan Segers, in an interview with newspaper Nederlands Dagblad, said: "We don’t want to return to ‘business as usual’. We cannot be part of a fourth Rutte government".

ChristenUnie has been one of four parties in the government led by Rutte’s conservative VVD party since 2017.

Parliament will next week appoint an independent official tasked with mapping out ways to get the government formation process moving again.

But the two parties seen as indispensable for the VVD, the Christian Democrats and pro-European Union D66, filed the motion of disapproval on Friday and made it clear it would be very hard for Rutte to return to the negotiating table.

Rutte, who has been in office since 2010 and is often an influential figure in the European Union, was the decisive winner in the national elections two weeks ago.

But he only narrowly survived the no-confidence vote, which accused him of having not spoken the truth about suggestions he made over the possible future of a critical lawmaker from another party.&nbsp;

All the parties outside his coalition voted to have him removed immediately.&nbsp;That seemed to have left the current coalition as the only viable option for Rutte to form his fourth consecutive government, until Segers’ move on Saturday blocked that path.

"Without support of the ChristenUnie a fourth Rutte Cabinet seems unthinkable", political scientist Tom Louwerse said on Twitter.

"The best scenario might be for Rutte to not be involved in the formation of a new government, but stay on as caretaker Prime Minister until there is a new administration."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s prospects of forming a new government waned on Saturday as a coalition partner seen as vital for securing a parliamentary majority ruled out joining a new administration led by him.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s prospects of forming a new government waned on Saturday as a coalition partner seen as vital for securing a parliamentary majority ruled out joining a new administration led by him. This threw already stalled talks about forming a new government further into disarray, setting them back by weeks if not months and making it virtually impossible to predict the outcome. Rutte, 54, had narrowly survived a no-confidence vote on Friday after parliament passed a motion disapproving of his behaviour during government formation talks following last month’s election. But ChristenUnie leader Gert Jan Segers, in an interview with newspaper Nederlands Dagblad, said: "We don’t want to return to ‘business as usual’. We cannot be part of a fourth Rutte government". ChristenUnie has been one of four parties in the government led by Rutte’s conservative VVD party since 2017. Parliament will next week appoint an independent official tasked with mapping out ways to get the government formation process moving again. But the two parties seen as indispensable for the VVD, the Christian Democrats and pro-European Union D66, filed the motion of disapproval on Friday and made it clear it would be very hard for Rutte to return to the negotiating table. Rutte, who has been in office since 2010 and is often an influential figure in the European Union, was the decisive winner in the national elections two weeks ago. But he only narrowly survived the no-confidence vote, which accused him of having not spoken the truth about suggestions he made over the possible future of a critical lawmaker from another party. All the parties outside his coalition voted to have him removed immediately. That seemed to have left the current coalition as the only viable option for Rutte to form his fourth consecutive government, until Segers’ move on Saturday blocked that path. "Without support of the ChristenUnie a fourth Rutte Cabinet seems unthinkable", political scientist Tom Louwerse said on Twitter. "The best scenario might be for Rutte to not be involved in the formation of a new government, but stay on as caretaker Prime Minister until there is a new administration." (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch PM's prospects of forming new government wane as coalition partner quits

A polling station sent the Dutch health minister home to get a valid passport after he presented an expired one while trying to vote in a national election on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Hugo de Jonge, who heads the Netherlands'&nbsp;response to the coronavirus pandemic, was attempting to vote at a drive-through polling station in Rotterdam.&nbsp;

"And another piece of advice: take a VALID identification with you," he said in a statement on Twitter afterwards, with the hashtag&nbsp;'alittledumb'.&nbsp;

Dutch newspaper&nbsp;Algemeen&nbsp;Dagblad&nbsp;quoted the top official at the polling station as saying they could not bend the voting rules for a politician.&nbsp;

Wednesday was the third and final day of a national election that is seen as a referendum on the conservative government's handling of the pandemic. De Jonge is from a&nbsp;centre-right party in the ruling coalition that is expected to stay in power.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A polling station sent the Dutch health minister home to get a valid passport after he presented an expired one while trying to vote in a national election on Wednesday.

A polling station sent the Dutch health minister home to get a valid passport after he presented an expired one while trying to vote in a national election on Wednesday. Hugo de Jonge, who heads the Netherlands' response to the coronavirus pandemic, was attempting to vote at a drive-through polling station in Rotterdam. "And another piece of advice: take a VALID identification with you," he said in a statement on Twitter afterwards, with the hashtag 'alittledumb'. Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad quoted the top official at the polling station as saying they could not bend the voting rules for a politician. Wednesday was the third and final day of a national election that is seen as a referendum on the conservative government's handling of the pandemic. De Jonge is from a centre-right party in the ruling coalition that is expected to stay in power. (With inputs from agencies)

Rules are rules: Dutch health minister's passport rejected at polling station 

Netherlands voters headed to the voting stations on the third and final day of the national election amid the pandemic. With the final votes cast the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is expected to stay on at the office.

Netherlands Election: Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte set to win big

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections. Hundreds gathered in a park to demonstrate against Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Some of the protesters also criticised the coronavirus restrictions his government put in place.

Police arrested several people, Dutch media reported. Riot officers with a dog pinned one man to the ground before detaining him, an AFP photographer saw.

"Today it's mainly because we have elections next week and we don't want the same government again," Elsvis Vanheenst, 32, who is unemployed, told AFP.

"Because they are lying about everything and they are only working for themselves, and not for the people. So that's mainly why I'm here today."

Riot police with shields, batons and dogs moved in after some of the protesters refused to leave at the scheduled end of the protest, detaining a number of them.&nbsp;

Police on horseback then charged at the demonstrators, few of whom wore masks.

Police finally fired water cannon but many of the demonstrators sheltered underneath yellow umbrellas from the spray. The yellow umbrellas have been a feature at several anti-lockdown protests.

The Hague police later also confirmed a "warning shot" was fired and said the cause was being investigated.&nbsp;

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections.

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections. Hundreds gathered in a park to demonstrate against Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Some of the protesters also criticised the coronavirus restrictions his government put in place. Police arrested several people, Dutch media reported. Riot officers with a dog pinned one man to the ground before detaining him, an AFP photographer saw. "Today it's mainly because we have elections next week and we don't want the same government again," Elsvis Vanheenst, 32, who is unemployed, told AFP. "Because they are lying about everything and they are only working for themselves, and not for the people. So that's mainly why I'm here today." Riot police with shields, batons and dogs moved in after some of the protesters refused to leave at the scheduled end of the protest, detaining a number of them. Police on horseback then charged at the demonstrators, few of whom wore masks. Police finally fired water cannon but many of the demonstrators sheltered underneath yellow umbrellas from the spray. The yellow umbrellas have been a feature at several anti-lockdown protests. The Hague police later also confirmed a "warning shot" was fired and said the cause was being investigated.

Dutch police clear anti-government protest on election eve

A global campaign to call out China's genocide is underway. After Canada, the Dutch parliament has passed a resolution - labelling China's treatment of the Uighurs as genocide. What do these indictments mean for China? WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Now, A European Nation is blaming China for genocide

The Dutch parliament passed a non-binding motion saying the treatment of the Uighur Muslim minority in China amounts to genocide, the first such move by a European country.

Motion: China's Uighurs facing genocide

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites.

Snow had stopped falling after the country was hit by the first major snowstorm in a decade on Sunday, dubbed Storm Darcy, but the Netherlands remained under weather alerts.

Coronavirus test and vaccination locations in at least eight towns including Haarlem, Alphen aan den Rijn and Den Helder were staying shut because of the wintry conditions, the GGD public health service said.

Primary schools across the country that were closed in early December as part of the Netherlands' toughest coronavirus restrictions since the start of the pandemic were meanwhile allowed to reopen on Monday.

But dozens of schools in the capital Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam, Utrecht and other locations were staying shut, mainly because of transport difficulties for pupils and staff, public broadcaster NOS said.

Trains were slowly getting back to normal, but road traffic remained disrupted, with part of the A1 motorway from Apeldoor to Amersfoort closed due to snow and ice.

The Dutch infrastructure agency reported 450 accidents since the weekend.

The sub-zero conditions are set to grip the Netherlands into next week, with daytime temperatures of minus 6 degrees Celsius (21.2 Fahrenheit) and falling as low as minus 11 degrees Celsius at night.

The big freeze has raised hopes that the Netherlands' famed canals will ice over in some places by around Thursday, allowing people to go ice-skating, a national obsession.

Dutch media reported that many shops had already sold out of skates in anticipation of the first such chance to take to the ice since 2018.

If the icy conditions continue, it could raise pressure on authorities to allow a traditional 200-kilometre (125-mile) ice-skating marathon through 11 cities called the Elfstedentocht to be held for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;

Dutch authorities have so far ruled it out even if the conditions are right, because of the risk of coronavirus transmission if crowds gather to watch.

Storm Darcy, which also caused transport disruption in Germany, was now heading across the North Sea towards Britain.&nbsp;

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites.

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites. Snow had stopped falling after the country was hit by the first major snowstorm in a decade on Sunday, dubbed Storm Darcy, but the Netherlands remained under weather alerts. Coronavirus test and vaccination locations in at least eight towns including Haarlem, Alphen aan den Rijn and Den Helder were staying shut because of the wintry conditions, the GGD public health service said. Primary schools across the country that were closed in early December as part of the Netherlands' toughest coronavirus restrictions since the start of the pandemic were meanwhile allowed to reopen on Monday. But dozens of schools in the capital Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam, Utrecht and other locations were staying shut, mainly because of transport difficulties for pupils and staff, public broadcaster NOS said. Trains were slowly getting back to normal, but road traffic remained disrupted, with part of the A1 motorway from Apeldoor to Amersfoort closed due to snow and ice. The Dutch infrastructure agency reported 450 accidents since the weekend. The sub-zero conditions are set to grip the Netherlands into next week, with daytime temperatures of minus 6 degrees Celsius (21.2 Fahrenheit) and falling as low as minus 11 degrees Celsius at night. The big freeze has raised hopes that the Netherlands' famed canals will ice over in some places by around Thursday, allowing people to go ice-skating, a national obsession. Dutch media reported that many shops had already sold out of skates in anticipation of the first such chance to take to the ice since 2018. If the icy conditions continue, it could raise pressure on authorities to allow a traditional 200-kilometre (125-mile) ice-skating marathon through 11 cities called the Elfstedentocht to be held for the first time since 1997. Dutch authorities have so far ruled it out even if the conditions are right, because of the risk of coronavirus transmission if crowds gather to watch. Storm Darcy, which also caused transport disruption in Germany, was now heading across the North Sea towards Britain.

Dutch snow keeps some Covid sites, schools closed

After struggling to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country, the Dutch premier Mark Rutte has urged locals to exercise caution while heading out to skate.

Keeping in mind the social distancing and masks, Rutte has requested locals to avoid crowding the parks and skating rinks.

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He also asked locals to make sure they follow social distancing when skating. "Of course you can go skating with one person or some other people. But be careful and keep your distance," he said in his weekly press conference.

Rutte also requested people not to overwhelm the hospitals that are already struggling to provide resources to coronavirus patients.

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"And please don't fall and have to go to the hospital because it is already so busy there," he said.

The warning came as the country is bracing for several days of heavy snowfall with the temperature falling as low as minus 5 degrees Celsius (23 Fahrenheit), which may cause up to 20 centimetres (8 inches) of snow in some areas.

After struggling to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country, the Dutch premier Mark Rutte has urged locals to exercise caution while heading out to skate.

After struggling to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country, the Dutch premier Mark Rutte has urged locals to exercise caution while heading out to skate. Keeping in mind the social distancing and masks, Rutte has requested locals to avoid crowding the parks and skating rinks. Also read| Netherlands begins flight ban, first curfew since World War II He also asked locals to make sure they follow social distancing when skating. "Of course you can go skating with one person or some other people. But be careful and keep your distance," he said in his weekly press conference. Rutte also requested people not to overwhelm the hospitals that are already struggling to provide resources to coronavirus patients. Also read| Government in Netherlands resigns after benefit scandal "And please don't fall and have to go to the hospital because it is already so busy there," he said. The warning came as the country is bracing for several days of heavy snowfall with the temperature falling as low as minus 5 degrees Celsius (23 Fahrenheit), which may cause up to 20 centimetres (8 inches) of snow in some areas.

Please do not fall: Dutch PM warns skaters amid coronavirus pandemic

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday.

The GGD confirmed a media report that data had been stolen and apologised for what it said were two separate leaks. It said in a statement it did not know how many people were affected by the data theft, but they could number in the thousands.

Confirmation of the leaks follows violent protests over a government decision to impose a night-time curfew in addition to a months-long lockdown to try to control the pandemic.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte is also under fire because the Netherlands was the last among European Union countries to begin COVID-19 vaccinations.

The GGD said the data leaks were from its core track-and-trace system, and not related to a tracking smartphone app that had been closely scrutinised for potential privacy weaknesses.

In one instance, GGD employees targeted the personal information of a small number of prominent individuals. In the other, an entire data set was leaked and offered for sale online though it was not clear whether anyone bought the data.

"If people who mean ill intentionally take data out of a system, that`s almost impossible to stop," the GGD said.

The GGD acknowledged people may now be reluctant to participate in its track-and-trace programme, but said it would do its best to restore public confidence.

"We are working closely with the police, justice and data and cybercrime specialists," it said.

"People who have crossed the line will be fired, simply, and weak spots in our security will be identified and strengthened."

Broadcaster RTL first reported news of the leak. The GGD confirmed the leaks included names, addresses, social security numbers, telephone numbers, and test results.

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday.

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday. The GGD confirmed a media report that data had been stolen and apologised for what it said were two separate leaks. It said in a statement it did not know how many people were affected by the data theft, but they could number in the thousands. Confirmation of the leaks follows violent protests over a government decision to impose a night-time curfew in addition to a months-long lockdown to try to control the pandemic. Prime Minister Mark Rutte is also under fire because the Netherlands was the last among European Union countries to begin COVID-19 vaccinations. The GGD said the data leaks were from its core track-and-trace system, and not related to a tracking smartphone app that had been closely scrutinised for potential privacy weaknesses. In one instance, GGD employees targeted the personal information of a small number of prominent individuals. In the other, an entire data set was leaked and offered for sale online though it was not clear whether anyone bought the data. "If people who mean ill intentionally take data out of a system, that`s almost impossible to stop," the GGD said. The GGD acknowledged people may now be reluctant to participate in its track-and-trace programme, but said it would do its best to restore public confidence. "We are working closely with the police, justice and data and cybercrime specialists," it said. "People who have crossed the line will be fired, simply, and weak spots in our security will be identified and strengthened." Broadcaster RTL first reported news of the leak. The GGD confirmed the leaks included names, addresses, social security numbers, telephone numbers, and test results.

Personal data stolen from Dutch coronavirus track-and-trace programme

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