Delegates of the Taliban and the European Union held meetings in Doha to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. As per the report, political and economic issues along with humanitarian aid was discussed.

EU hold talks with Taliban in Doha, to release funds, reopen embassies

EU and NATO leaders on Sunday vowed to counter "hybrid threats" on visits to Lithuania and Latvia dominated by the Belarus migrant crisis and Russia's military build-up near Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also repeated his call on Russia to "de-escalate" its military build-up on the border with Ukraine and warned of "consequences" if it used force.

The visit by Stoltenberg and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen comes ahead of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Latvia this week.

Stoltenberg and von der Leyen both accused Belarus of orchestrating the migrant crisis on its border as a "hybrid" threat against the European Union -- a charge that the regime has denied.

A hybrid threat is a security challenge combining traditional military means and non-military tactics such as disinformation.

"To respond to such events, it is important that the European Union and NATO work hand in hand," von der Leyen said at a joint news conference with Stoltenberg and Lithuanian leaders in Vilnius.

Stoltenberg said: "We discussed how we could step up our joint work between NATO and the EU".

- Russian actions 'very concerning' -

Von der Leyen also said the EU had decided to triple to 200 million euros ($226 million) its funding for border management in Latvia, Lithuania and Poland for 2021 and 2022.

She said the money would go on patrol vehicles and electronic surveillance, including drones.

Thousands of migrants -- mostly from the Middle East -- have crossed or tried to cross the Belarus border in recent months into the eastern members of the EU and NATO: Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

Referring to the situation on the Belarus border, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that "if the security situation gets even worse, we do not rule out consultations under NATO's Article 4".

Under the article in NATO's founding treaty, any member can convene a meeting of the alliance to consult when it feels its security threatened.

Poland has also said it may invoke this article.

The two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers starting in Latvia on Tuesday is also expected to address Russia's military build-up near Ukraine.

Stoltenberg said the "unusual" build-up of tanks, artillery, drones and thousands of combat-ready troops was "very concerning for many reasons", also "because it is unprovoked and unexplained".

"The message to Russia is that they should de-escalate, reduce tensions and be transparent" he said, adding that "if they decide to use force, then of course, there will be consequences".

"We stand ready to defend all our allies and we will continue to provide our partner Ukraine with political and practical support," he said.

EU and NATO leaders on Sunday vowed to counter "hybrid threats" on visits to Lithuania and Latvia dominated by the Belarus migrant crisis and Russia's military build-up near Ukraine.

EU and NATO leaders on Sunday vowed to counter "hybrid threats" on visits to Lithuania and Latvia dominated by the Belarus migrant crisis and Russia's military build-up near Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also repeated his call on Russia to "de-escalate" its military build-up on the border with Ukraine and warned of "consequences" if it used force. The visit by Stoltenberg and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen comes ahead of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Latvia this week. Stoltenberg and von der Leyen both accused Belarus of orchestrating the migrant crisis on its border as a "hybrid" threat against the European Union -- a charge that the regime has denied. A hybrid threat is a security challenge combining traditional military means and non-military tactics such as disinformation. "To respond to such events, it is important that the European Union and NATO work hand in hand," von der Leyen said at a joint news conference with Stoltenberg and Lithuanian leaders in Vilnius. Stoltenberg said: "We discussed how we could step up our joint work between NATO and the EU". - Russian actions 'very concerning' - Von der Leyen also said the EU had decided to triple to 200 million euros ($226 million) its funding for border management in Latvia, Lithuania and Poland for 2021 and 2022. She said the money would go on patrol vehicles and electronic surveillance, including drones. Thousands of migrants -- mostly from the Middle East -- have crossed or tried to cross the Belarus border in recent months into the eastern members of the EU and NATO: Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. Referring to the situation on the Belarus border, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that "if the security situation gets even worse, we do not rule out consultations under NATO's Article 4". Under the article in NATO's founding treaty, any member can convene a meeting of the alliance to consult when it feels its security threatened. Poland has also said it may invoke this article. The two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers starting in Latvia on Tuesday is also expected to address Russia's military build-up near Ukraine. Stoltenberg said the "unusual" build-up of tanks, artillery, drones and thousands of combat-ready troops was "very concerning for many reasons", also "because it is unprovoked and unexplained". "The message to Russia is that they should de-escalate, reduce tensions and be transparent" he said, adding that "if they decide to use force, then of course, there will be consequences". "We stand ready to defend all our allies and we will continue to provide our partner Ukraine with political and practical support," he said.

EU, NATO vow action against hybrid threats on Baltic visit

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant.

"We know we are now in a race against time," von der Leyen said. She was on a visit to Riga, Latvia. She called for the public to take precautions in order to give scientists time to understand the new variant.

"The scientists and manufacturers need two to three weeks to have a full picture about the quality of the mutations of this Omicron variant," she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-is-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-432552">Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association&nbsp;</a>

"We need to buy time," she added, urging people to vaccinate, wear masks and practise social distancing.

She said that a contract struck in the summer by the European Commission with BioNTech-Pfizer for 1.8 billion vaccine doses included a clause in case of an "escape variant" -- a strain that can evade vaccine immunity.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

A clause in the contract states "that if a variant turns into an escape variant... BioNTech-Pfizer is able to adapt its vaccine within 100 days," she said.

The new, heavily mutated Covid-19 variant has spread across the globe, shutting borders, renewing curbs and sparking fears for the fight against the nearly two-year-old coronavirus pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant. "We know we are now in a race against time," von der Leyen said. She was on a visit to Riga, Latvia. She called for the public to take precautions in order to give scientists time to understand the new variant. "The scientists and manufacturers need two to three weeks to have a full picture about the quality of the mutations of this Omicron variant," she said. Also Read | Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association "We need to buy time," she added, urging people to vaccinate, wear masks and practise social distancing. She said that a contract struck in the summer by the European Commission with BioNTech-Pfizer for 1.8 billion vaccine doses included a clause in case of an "escape variant" -- a strain that can evade vaccine immunity. Also Read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron A clause in the contract states "that if a variant turns into an escape variant... BioNTech-Pfizer is able to adapt its vaccine within 100 days," she said. The new, heavily mutated Covid-19 variant has spread across the globe, shutting borders, renewing curbs and sparking fears for the fight against the nearly two-year-old coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

World in 'race against time' to tackle Omicron Covid variant, says EU chief

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), the EU’s regulator for medicines and related equipment, on Thursday gave its nod to for the use of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of five and 11.

However, the final approval will be given by the EU's executive branch, the European Commission, which typically follows the EMA guidelines.

According to Reuters, the commission would likely take the decision on&nbsp;Friday.

The drug regulator’s decision comes as several EU countries are struggling to contain a resurgent COVID-19 outbreak.

The vaccine, also known as Comirnaty, had already been approved across 27 EU countries for use in people between the ages of 12 and 17 years since May and for adults since December 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-becoming-covid-19s-epicentre-yet-again-some-countries-planning-lockdown-booster-shots-428986">Europe becoming COVID-19’s epicentre yet again, some countries planning lockdown, booster shots</a>

EMA said the vaccine should be given to children in two doses of 10 micrograms three weeks apart as an injection in the upper arm. Adult doses contain 30 micrograms.

"The benefits of Comirnaty in children aged 5 to 11 outweigh the risks, particularly in those with conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19," EMA said.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
‼️ EMA recommends approval of BioNTech/Pfizer’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19vaccine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19vaccine</a>, Comirnaty, for children aged 5 to 11. 
 
In this population, the dose of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Comirnaty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Comirnaty</a> will be lower than that used in people aged 12 and above. 
 
Read the full press release: <a href="https://t.co/uqqBAklVvl">https://t.co/uqqBAklVvl</a> <a href="https://t.co/NZQhli4SDl">pic.twitter.com/NZQhli4SDl</a>
— EU Medicines Agency (@EMA_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/EMA_News/status/1463837597558624264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pfizer and BioNTech have said their vaccine showed 90.7 per cent efficacy against the coronavirus in a clinical trial of children aged five to 11.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-worried-who-warns-of-500000-deaths-by-march-amid-new-wave-in-europe-430872">'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe</a>

EU becomes the latest country to approve vaccines for the five to 11 age group. So far, United States, Canada, Israel, China and Saudi Arabia have cleared vaccines for children in this age group and younger.

But the EU countries won’t be able to begin the inoculation drive for the kids until next month.

A spokeswoman for BioNTech told Reuters that the first of the low-dose paediatric versions will be delivered on December 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), the EU’s regulator for medicines and related equipment, on Thursday gave its nod to for the use of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of five and 11.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), the EU’s regulator for medicines and related equipment, on Thursday gave its nod to for the use of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of five and 11. However, the final approval will be given by the EU's executive branch, the European Commission, which typically follows the EMA guidelines. According to Reuters, the commission would likely take the decision on Friday. The drug regulator’s decision comes as several EU countries are struggling to contain a resurgent COVID-19 outbreak. The vaccine, also known as Comirnaty, had already been approved across 27 EU countries for use in people between the ages of 12 and 17 years since May and for adults since December 2020. Also read | Europe becoming COVID-19’s epicentre yet again, some countries planning lockdown, booster shots EMA said the vaccine should be given to children in two doses of 10 micrograms three weeks apart as an injection in the upper arm. Adult doses contain 30 micrograms. "The benefits of Comirnaty in children aged 5 to 11 outweigh the risks, particularly in those with conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19," EMA said. ‼️ EMA recommends approval of BioNTech/Pfizer’s #COVID19vaccine, Comirnaty, for children aged 5 to 11. In this population, the dose of #Comirnaty will be lower than that used in people aged 12 and above. Read the full press release: https://t.co/uqqBAklVvl pic.twitter.com/NZQhli4SDl — EU Medicines Agency (@EMA_News) November 25, 2021 × Pfizer and BioNTech have said their vaccine showed 90.7 per cent efficacy against the coronavirus in a clinical trial of children aged five to 11. Also read | 'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe EU becomes the latest country to approve vaccines for the five to 11 age group. So far, United States, Canada, Israel, China and Saudi Arabia have cleared vaccines for children in this age group and younger. But the EU countries won’t be able to begin the inoculation drive for the kids until next month. A spokeswoman for BioNTech told Reuters that the first of the low-dose paediatric versions will be delivered on December 20. (With inputs from agencies)

EU medical agency gives go ahead to BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 age group

Rarely in the world have women’s and girls’ rights been challenged as they have been in Afghanistan. The latest developments give cause for great concern.&nbsp;The EU has made it clear that future development assistance to Afghanistan will depend on the respect for the international legal framework and for norms on human rights, including women’s and girls’ rights. The EU is determined and committed to continue to support the women and girls of Afghanistan and worldwide, sticking to our values and beliefs.&nbsp;

Together with human rights, freedom and democracy, equality represents one of the core values that make the European Union what it is. It enriches our societies and strengthens their resilience. Gender equality is a core part of peace, security, economic prosperity and sustainable development. Moreover, defending and promoting gender equality is required by the EU Treaties.&nbsp;

That is why working politically, operationally and financially to promote and safeguard progress on gender equality is a political priority and a key objective for the EU. The EU Gender Action Plan III and the new EU external action budget provide a roadmap for global action towards a gender-equal world. We work closely together with multilateral, regional and bilateral partners, including civil society organisations, to achieve those objectives. We still have a long way to go; there is no room for complacency. However, we are stronger together while many challenges remain.

In many countries, the COVID-19 crisis has exacerbated existing gender inequalities across different areas: education, vocational training, health, security and safety, sexual and reproductive health and rights, decision-making, and economic opportunities.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 lockdowns have often seen an increase in gender-based violence, in particular domestic violence, while women and girls’ access to sexual and reproductive health services has been reduced. At the same time, a significant part of the care burden has fallen on women and girls. Workers in the informal economy and in low-skilled jobs (most of whom are women), migrants, and those belonging to minorities, have been more at risk and face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.&nbsp;

Moreover, school closures have exposed girls to an increased risk of sexual exploitation, early pregnancy, child labour and forced marriage. The Malala Fund estimates that 20 million more girls risk dropping out of school, adding up to a total of 150 million girls – equivalent to a third of the EU population – without educational prospects.

According to a recent UN report, military spending in 2020 still outplaced the worldwide expenses on health, even in a year that was dominated by the corona pandemic. For a sustainable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to redouble our efforts to promote gender equality.&nbsp;

Now is the time to do more&nbsp;

This challenge requires a global response and needs to be tackled now, when we are building the future we wish for our children and grandchildren to grow up in a post-pandemic world that is more equal, more diverse, and where equal opportunities are a reality. We need to address the root causes of gender inequality and gender-based discrimination in order to achieve sustainable change.

The European Union and its members states, as well as the European financial institutions have stood with the women and girls of the world throughout the pandemic. As Team Europe, we have already mobilised €46 billion in support of over 130 partner countries, with a particular focus on women and youth.

Three examples as an illustration: In Nepal, we helped one million girls and boys continue their education through radio-based learning. In Togo, we supported the creation of a universal income scheme and the appointment of women to head new municipalities. Worldwide, the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative has helped 650,000 women and girls prevent or address violence against them, and educated 880,000 men and boys on positive masculinity, non-violent conflict resolution and parenting.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Still, to meet the growing challenges, we need to do more and better. That is the purpose of the Gender Action Plan III. It promotes leadership and meaningful participation of women, girls and young people in political, economic, social and cultural life, as well as in all matters related to peace and security, worldwide.

We work to get human development back on track

We are now making this plan a reality with the help of the new €79.5 billion NDICI-Global Europe instrument that will support the EU’s external action for the next seven years.&nbsp;

Support for education and particularly girls’ education will have a central role. Just as we support education in emergencies, the EU has worked with partner countries throughout the pandemic to minimise its impact on learning and the well-being of children and to facilitate a safe return to school.&nbsp;

We already provide more than half of all global aid to education as Team Europe. But we will increase funding further, to promote gender equality through quality education at all levels. Our joint €1.7 billion pledge to the Global Partnership for Education in July – to transform education for girls and boys in up to 90 countries and territories – is part of this new beginning.&nbsp;

We are multiplying our efforts across the board, from supporting women and girls’ education and economic opportunities to improving their access to sexual and reproductive health services. By 2025, 85% of all the EU’s new external actions, across all sectors, will contribute to gender equality and women's empowerment.

This is now being finalised with our partner countries based on close consultation with civil society organisations, women's rights activists and youth.&nbsp;

We need to put human development back on track and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, leaving no woman or girl behind.&nbsp;

It is crucial that we get it right.

This article was written on the occasion of International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, which falls on November 25.

Authored by: Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/VP of the European Commission; Jutta Urpilainen, EU’s Commissioner for International Partnerships, and EU Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Development from 24 Member States.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Rarely in the world have women’s and girls’ rights been challenged as they have been in Afghanistan. The latest developments give cause for great concern. The EU has made it clear that future development assistance to Afghanistan will depend on the respect for the international legal framework and for norms on human rights, including women’s and girls’ rights.

Rarely in the world have women’s and girls’ rights been challenged as they have been in Afghanistan. The latest developments give cause for great concern. The EU has made it clear that future development assistance to Afghanistan will depend on the respect for the international legal framework and for norms on human rights, including women’s and girls’ rights. The EU is determined and committed to continue to support the women and girls of Afghanistan and worldwide, sticking to our values and beliefs. Together with human rights, freedom and democracy, equality represents one of the core values that make the European Union what it is. It enriches our societies and strengthens their resilience. Gender equality is a core part of peace, security, economic prosperity and sustainable development. Moreover, defending and promoting gender equality is required by the EU Treaties. That is why working politically, operationally and financially to promote and safeguard progress on gender equality is a political priority and a key objective for the EU. The EU Gender Action Plan III and the new EU external action budget provide a roadmap for global action towards a gender-equal world. We work closely together with multilateral, regional and bilateral partners, including civil society organisations, to achieve those objectives. We still have a long way to go; there is no room for complacency. However, we are stronger together while many challenges remain. In many countries, the COVID-19 crisis has exacerbated existing gender inequalities across different areas: education, vocational training, health, security and safety, sexual and reproductive health and rights, decision-making, and economic opportunities. The COVID-19 lockdowns have often seen an increase in gender-based violence, in particular domestic violence, while women and girls’ access to sexual and reproductive health services has been reduced. At the same time, a significant part of the care burden has fallen on women and girls. Workers in the informal economy and in low-skilled jobs (most of whom are women), migrants, and those belonging to minorities, have been more at risk and face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. Moreover, school closures have exposed girls to an increased risk of sexual exploitation, early pregnancy, child labour and forced marriage. The Malala Fund estimates that 20 million more girls risk dropping out of school, adding up to a total of 150 million girls – equivalent to a third of the EU population – without educational prospects. According to a recent UN report, military spending in 2020 still outplaced the worldwide expenses on health, even in a year that was dominated by the corona pandemic. For a sustainable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to redouble our efforts to promote gender equality. Now is the time to do more This challenge requires a global response and needs to be tackled now, when we are building the future we wish for our children and grandchildren to grow up in a post-pandemic world that is more equal, more diverse, and where equal opportunities are a reality. We need to address the root causes of gender inequality and gender-based discrimination in order to achieve sustainable change. The European Union and its members states, as well as the European financial institutions have stood with the women and girls of the world throughout the pandemic. As Team Europe, we have already mobilised €46 billion in support of over 130 partner countries, with a particular focus on women and youth. Three examples as an illustration: In Nepal, we helped one million girls and boys continue their education through radio-based learning. In Togo, we supported the creation of a universal income scheme and the appointment of women to head new municipalities. Worldwide, the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative has helped 650,000 women and girls prevent or address violence against them, and educated 880,000 men and boys on positive masculinity, non-violent conflict resolution and parenting. Still, to meet the growing challenges, we need to do more and better. That is the purpose of the Gender Action Plan III. It promotes leadership and meaningful participation of women, girls and young people in political, economic, social and cultural life, as well as in all matters related to peace and security, worldwide. We work to get human development back on track We are now making this plan a reality with the help of the new €79.5 billion NDICI-Global Europe instrument that will support the EU’s external action for the next seven years. Support for education and particularly girls’ education will have a central role. Just as we support education in emergencies, the EU has worked with partner countries throughout the pandemic to minimise its impact on learning and the well-being of children and to facilitate a safe return to school. We already provide more than half of all global aid to education as Team Europe. But we will increase funding further, to promote gender equality through quality education at all levels. Our joint €1.7 billion pledge to the Global Partnership for Education in July – to transform education for girls and boys in up to 90 countries and territories – is part of this new beginning. We are multiplying our efforts across the board, from supporting women and girls’ education and economic opportunities to improving their access to sexual and reproductive health services. By 2025, 85% of all the EU’s new external actions, across all sectors, will contribute to gender equality and women's empowerment. This is now being finalised with our partner countries based on close consultation with civil society organisations, women's rights activists and youth. We need to put human development back on track and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, leaving no woman or girl behind. It is crucial that we get it right. This article was written on the occasion of International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, which falls on November 25. Authored by: Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/VP of the European Commission; Jutta Urpilainen, EU’s Commissioner for International Partnerships, and EU Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Development from 24 Member States. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Putting gender equality first 

Thousands of migrants are stuck at Europe's border, what they hope was for a better future but they have instead become pawns in a geopolitical politics.

Humanitarian crisis at Poland-Belarus border, hundreds attempted crossings to Poland | World News

Over the past 20 months, Israeli intelligence operatives have assassinated Iran’s chief nuclear scientist and triggered major explosions at four Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, hoping to cripple the centrifuges that produce nuclear fuel and delay the day when Tehran’s new government might be able to build a bomb.

But American intelligence officials and international inspectors say the Iranians have quickly gotten the facilities back online — often installing newer machines that can enrich uranium at a far more rapid pace. When a plant that made key centrifuge parts suffered what looked like a crippling explosion in late spring — destroying much of the parts inventory and the cameras and sensors installed by international inspectors — production resumed by late summer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/either-we-agree-on-everything-or-agree-on-nothing-iran-warns-us-over-nuclear-deal-427765">Either we agree on everything or agree on nothing: Iran warns US over nuclear deal</a>

One senior American official wryly called it Tehran’s Build Back Better plan.

That punch and counterpunch are only part of the escalation in recent months between Iran and the West, a confrontation that is about to come to a head, once again, in Vienna. For the first time since President Ebrahim Raisi took office this past summer, Iranian negotiators plan to meet with their European, Chinese and Russian counterparts at the end of the month to discuss the future of the 2015 nuclear agreement that sharply limited Iran’s activities.

American officials have warned their Israeli counterparts that the repeated attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities may be tactically satisfying, but they are ultimately counterproductive, according to several officials familiar with the behind-the-scenes discussions. Israeli officials have said they have no intention of letting up, waving away warnings that they may only be encouraging a sped-up rebuilding of the programme — one of many areas in which the United States and Israel disagree on the benefits of using diplomacy rather than force.

At the Vienna meeting, American officials will be in the city but not inside the room — because Iran will not meet with them after President Donald Trump pulled out of the accord more than three years ago, leaving the deal in tatters. While five months ago those officials seemed optimistic that the 2015 deal was about to be restored, with the text largely agreed upon, they return to Vienna far more pessimistic than when they last left it, in mid-June. Today that text looks dead, and President Joe Biden’s vision of reentering the agreement in his first year, then building something “longer and stronger,” appears all but gone.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-claims-it-stopped-us-from-seizing-oil-tanker-in-sea-of-oman-426798">&nbsp;Ahead of nuclear talks, Iran conducts military exercise</a>

It is a sign of the changed mood that Ali Bagheri Kani, Iran’s newly appointed chief nuclear negotiator, does not refer to the upcoming talks as nuclear negotiations at all. Bagheri Kani, a deputy foreign minister, said in Paris last week that “we have no such thing as nuclear negotiations.” Instead, he refers to them as “negotiations to remove unlawful and inhuman sanctions.” Iran says it will insist on the lifting of both nuclear and non-nuclear sanctions, and that it needs a guarantee that no future president could unilaterally abandon the agreement, as Trump did. Biden administration officials say the president would never make such a commitment.

Watch |&nbsp;US envoy to Iran says time shrinking for nuclear deal

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Iran, as always, denies that it has any intention of ever building a nuclear weapon. But the more likely scenario is that it wants a “threshold capability” — one that would leave it able to produce a weapon in weeks or months if it felt the need.

Publicly, the United States is hinting that if Iran stonewalls in Vienna, it may have to consider new sanctions.

Robert Malley, the State Department’s Iran envoy, said recently that while “it is in Iran’s hands to choose” which path to take, the United States and other allies need to be prepared for whichever choice Tehran makes.

He noted that Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken “have both said if diplomacy fails, we have other tools — and we will use other tools to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.”

But inside the White House, there has been a scramble in recent days to explore whether some kind of interim deal might be possible to freeze Iran’s production of more enriched uranium and its conversion of that fuel to metallic form — a necessary step in fabricating a warhead. In return, the United States might ease a limited number of sanctions. That would not solve the problem. But it might buy time for negotiations while holding off Israeli threats to bomb Iranian facilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-is-short-for-iran-to-return-to-nuclear-deal-us-envoy-430764">'Time is short' for Iran to return to nuclear deal: US envoy</a>

Buying time, perhaps lots of it may prove essential. Many of Biden’s advisers are doubtful that introducing new sanctions on Iran’s leadership, its military or its oil trade — atop the 1,500 Trump imposed — would be any more successful than past efforts to pressure Iran to change course.

And more aggressive steps that were successful years ago may not yield the kind of results they have in mind. Inside the National Security Agency and US&nbsp;Cyber Command, there is consensus that it is much harder now to pull off the kind of cyberattack that the United States and Israel conducted more than a decade ago, when a secret operation, code-named “Olympic Games,” crippled centrifuges at the Natanz nuclear enrichment site for more than a year.

Current and former American and Israeli officials note that the Iranians have since improved their defences and built their own cyber forces, which the administration warned last week were increasingly active inside the United States.

The Iranians have also continued to bar inspectors from key sites, despite a series of agreements with Rafael M. Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations’ watchdog, to preserve data from the agency’s sensors at key locations. The inspectors’ cameras and sensors that were destroyed in the plant explosion in late spring have not been replaced.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-again-boosted-uranium-stockpile-iaea-reports-430382">Iran has again boosted uranium stockpile, IAEA reports</a>

“From my perspective, what counts is the inspections that you have in place,” Grossi said in a recent interview in Washington, where he spent a week talking with American officials and warning them that his agency was slowly “going blind” in Iran. He is scheduled to arrive in Tehran on Monday, in a last-ditch effort to revive monitoring and inspections before the agency’s board of governors meets this week.

The inspection gap is particularly worrisome because the Iranians are declaring that they have now produced roughly 55 pounds of uranium enriched to 60% purity. That purity is below the 90% normally used to produce a weapon, but not by much. It is a level “that only countries making bombs have,” Grossi said. “That doesn’t mean that Iran is doing that. But it means that it is very high.”

And while Iranian officials have given many explanations for why they are taking the step — for example, to fuel naval nuclear reactors, which Iran does not possess — the real reason seems to be to build pressure.

This month, the spokesperson for Iran’s atomic energy agency, Behrouz Kamalvandi, noted with pride that only countries with nuclear weapons have shown that they can enrich uranium to this level. (He is wrong: Several non-nuclear states have done so.)

“In this organisation now, if we have the will, we can do anything,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-nuclear-talks-would-fail-unless-biden-provides-guarantees-426395">Iran warns nuclear talks would fail unless Biden provides guarantees</a>

Before Trump decided to scrap the deal, Iran had adhered to the limits of the 2015 agreement — which by most estimates kept it about a year from “breakout,” the point where it has enough material for a bomb. While estimates vary, that buffer is now down to somewhere between three weeks and a few months, which would change the geopolitical calculation throughout the Middle East.

When Biden took office, several of his top aides had high hopes that the original deal — parts of which they had negotiated — could be revived. At that time, the Iranians who had agreed to the accord were still in place: Iran’s president, Hassan Rouhani, and his foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, remained in office, even if their power was greatly diminished.

But the administration spent two months determining how to approach a negotiation, and European officials complain that, in retrospect, that lost time proved damaging.

It was only at the end of March that the two sides agreed to return to the table; the Vienna talks began in early April.

By June, an agreement “was largely complete,” one senior administration official said. Then it became clear that Iran was stalling until its presidential elections, which brought in Raisi, a hard-line former head of the judiciary.

Initially, American officials hoped Raisi would just take the agreement that had been negotiated, make minor alterations and celebrate a lifting of most Western sanctions. Anything that went wrong, they calculated, the new president could blame on the former president and foreign minister.

But that proved a miscalculation. In late September, the country’s new foreign minister, Hossain Amirabdollahian, told The New York Times that he had no interest in conducting the kind of detailed negotiation that his predecessor had worked on for years.

The spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Saeed Khatibzadeh, said at a recent news conference that Iran had three conditions for Washington to return to the deal: It must admit to wrongdoing in pulling out of the deal, it must lift all sanctions at once, and it must offer a guarantee that no other administration will exit the deal as Trump did.

“It is absolutely impossible for Iran to give the level of concession to the U.S. that Rouhani’s government gave,” said Gheis Ghoreishi, a foreign policy adviser close to Iran’s government. “We are not going to give all our cards and then wait around to see if the US&nbsp;or EU&nbsp;are going to be committed to the deal or not; this is no way going to happen.”

While European officials say they do not want to consider a “Plan B” if a standoff develops, a variety of such plans — ranging from economic isolation to sabotage — have been the regular subject of meetings at the White House, the Pentagon and the State Department. Asked about the Plan B discussions at a news conference more than two weeks ago, Biden paused a moment, then said, “I’m not going to comment on Iran now.”

But the Israelis are commenting. This month Israel’s army chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi, said the Israeli military was “speeding up the operational plans and readiness for dealing with Iran and the nuclear military threat.” It was a reference to the fact that the new prime minister, Naftali Bennett, has authorised more funding for planning and practising attacks. Israeli officials insist they have developed a bunker-busting capability that obviates the need for the kind of help they sought from the Bush administration 13 years ago. Whether that is true or a bluff remains unclear.

At some point, Biden administration officials say they may be forced to declare that Iran’s nuclear programme is simply too advanced for anyone to safely return to the 2015 agreement. “This is not a chronological clock; it’s a technological clock,” Malley said in a briefing last month. “At some point,” he added, the agreement “will have been so eroded because Iran will have made advances that cannot be reversed.”

He added: “You can’t revive a dead corpse.”

Over the past 20 months, Israeli intelligence operatives have assassinated Iran’s chief nuclear scientist and triggered major explosions at four Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, hoping to cripple the centrifuges that produce nuclear fuel and delay the day when Tehran’s new government might be able to build a bomb.

Over the past 20 months, Israeli intelligence operatives have assassinated Iran’s chief nuclear scientist and triggered major explosions at four Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, hoping to cripple the centrifuges that produce nuclear fuel and delay the day when Tehran’s new government might be able to build a bomb. But American intelligence officials and international inspectors say the Iranians have quickly gotten the facilities back online — often installing newer machines that can enrich uranium at a far more rapid pace. When a plant that made key centrifuge parts suffered what looked like a crippling explosion in late spring — destroying much of the parts inventory and the cameras and sensors installed by international inspectors — production resumed by late summer. Also read | Either we agree on everything or agree on nothing: Iran warns US over nuclear deal One senior American official wryly called it Tehran’s Build Back Better plan. That punch and counterpunch are only part of the escalation in recent months between Iran and the West, a confrontation that is about to come to a head, once again, in Vienna. For the first time since President Ebrahim Raisi took office this past summer, Iranian negotiators plan to meet with their European, Chinese and Russian counterparts at the end of the month to discuss the future of the 2015 nuclear agreement that sharply limited Iran’s activities. American officials have warned their Israeli counterparts that the repeated attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities may be tactically satisfying, but they are ultimately counterproductive, according to several officials familiar with the behind-the-scenes discussions. Israeli officials have said they have no intention of letting up, waving away warnings that they may only be encouraging a sped-up rebuilding of the programme — one of many areas in which the United States and Israel disagree on the benefits of using diplomacy rather than force. At the Vienna meeting, American officials will be in the city but not inside the room — because Iran will not meet with them after President Donald Trump pulled out of the accord more than three years ago, leaving the deal in tatters. While five months ago those officials seemed optimistic that the 2015 deal was about to be restored, with the text largely agreed upon, they return to Vienna far more pessimistic than when they last left it, in mid-June. Today that text looks dead, and President Joe Biden’s vision of reentering the agreement in his first year, then building something “longer and stronger,” appears all but gone. Also Read: Ahead of nuclear talks, Iran conducts military exercise It is a sign of the changed mood that Ali Bagheri Kani, Iran’s newly appointed chief nuclear negotiator, does not refer to the upcoming talks as nuclear negotiations at all. Bagheri Kani, a deputy foreign minister, said in Paris last week that “we have no such thing as nuclear negotiations.” Instead, he refers to them as “negotiations to remove unlawful and inhuman sanctions.” Iran says it will insist on the lifting of both nuclear and non-nuclear sanctions, and that it needs a guarantee that no future president could unilaterally abandon the agreement, as Trump did. Biden administration officials say the president would never make such a commitment. Watch | US envoy to Iran says time shrinking for nuclear deal Iran, as always, denies that it has any intention of ever building a nuclear weapon. But the more likely scenario is that it wants a “threshold capability” — one that would leave it able to produce a weapon in weeks or months if it felt the need. Publicly, the United States is hinting that if Iran stonewalls in Vienna, it may have to consider new sanctions. Robert Malley, the State Department’s Iran envoy, said recently that while “it is in Iran’s hands to choose” which path to take, the United States and other allies need to be prepared for whichever choice Tehran makes. He noted that Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken “have both said if diplomacy fails, we have other tools — and we will use other tools to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.” But inside the White House, there has been a scramble in recent days to explore whether some kind of interim deal might be possible to freeze Iran’s production of more enriched uranium and its conversion of that fuel to metallic form — a necessary step in fabricating a warhead. In return, the United States might ease a limited number of sanctions. That would not solve the problem. But it might buy time for negotiations while holding off Israeli threats to bomb Iranian facilities. Also read | 'Time is short' for Iran to return to nuclear deal: US envoy Buying time, perhaps lots of it may prove essential. Many of Biden’s advisers are doubtful that introducing new sanctions on Iran’s leadership, its military or its oil trade — atop the 1,500 Trump imposed — would be any more successful than past efforts to pressure Iran to change course. And more aggressive steps that were successful years ago may not yield the kind of results they have in mind. Inside the National Security Agency and US Cyber Command, there is consensus that it is much harder now to pull off the kind of cyberattack that the United States and Israel conducted more than a decade ago, when a secret operation, code-named “Olympic Games,” crippled centrifuges at the Natanz nuclear enrichment site for more than a year. Current and former American and Israeli officials note that the Iranians have since improved their defences and built their own cyber forces, which the administration warned last week were increasingly active inside the United States. The Iranians have also continued to bar inspectors from key sites, despite a series of agreements with Rafael M. Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations’ watchdog, to preserve data from the agency’s sensors at key locations. The inspectors’ cameras and sensors that were destroyed in the plant explosion in late spring have not been replaced. Also Read | Iran has again boosted uranium stockpile, IAEA reports “From my perspective, what counts is the inspections that you have in place,” Grossi said in a recent interview in Washington, where he spent a week talking with American officials and warning them that his agency was slowly “going blind” in Iran. He is scheduled to arrive in Tehran on Monday, in a last-ditch effort to revive monitoring and inspections before the agency’s board of governors meets this week. The inspection gap is particularly worrisome because the Iranians are declaring that they have now produced roughly 55 pounds of uranium enriched to 60% purity. That purity is below the 90% normally used to produce a weapon, but not by much. It is a level “that only countries making bombs have,” Grossi said. “That doesn’t mean that Iran is doing that. But it means that it is very high.” And while Iranian officials have given many explanations for why they are taking the step — for example, to fuel naval nuclear reactors, which Iran does not possess — the real reason seems to be to build pressure. This month, the spokesperson for Iran’s atomic energy agency, Behrouz Kamalvandi, noted with pride that only countries with nuclear weapons have shown that they can enrich uranium to this level. (He is wrong: Several non-nuclear states have done so.) “In this organisation now, if we have the will, we can do anything,” he said. Also read | Iran warns nuclear talks would fail unless Biden provides guarantees Before Trump decided to scrap the deal, Iran had adhered to the limits of the 2015 agreement — which by most estimates kept it about a year from “breakout,” the point where it has enough material for a bomb. While estimates vary, that buffer is now down to somewhere between three weeks and a few months, which would change the geopolitical calculation throughout the Middle East. When Biden took office, several of his top aides had high hopes that the original deal — parts of which they had negotiated — could be revived. At that time, the Iranians who had agreed to the accord were still in place: Iran’s president, Hassan Rouhani, and his foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, remained in office, even if their power was greatly diminished. But the administration spent two months determining how to approach a negotiation, and European officials complain that, in retrospect, that lost time proved damaging. It was only at the end of March that the two sides agreed to return to the table; the Vienna talks began in early April. By June, an agreement “was largely complete,” one senior administration official said. Then it became clear that Iran was stalling until its presidential elections, which brought in Raisi, a hard-line former head of the judiciary. Initially, American officials hoped Raisi would just take the agreement that had been negotiated, make minor alterations and celebrate a lifting of most Western sanctions. Anything that went wrong, they calculated, the new president could blame on the former president and foreign minister. But that proved a miscalculation. In late September, the country’s new foreign minister, Hossain Amirabdollahian, told The New York Times that he had no interest in conducting the kind of detailed negotiation that his predecessor had worked on for years. The spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Saeed Khatibzadeh, said at a recent news conference that Iran had three conditions for Washington to return to the deal: It must admit to wrongdoing in pulling out of the deal, it must lift all sanctions at once, and it must offer a guarantee that no other administration will exit the deal as Trump did. “It is absolutely impossible for Iran to give the level of concession to the U.S. that Rouhani’s government gave,” said Gheis Ghoreishi, a foreign policy adviser close to Iran’s government. “We are not going to give all our cards and then wait around to see if the US or EU are going to be committed to the deal or not; this is no way going to happen.” While European officials say they do not want to consider a “Plan B” if a standoff develops, a variety of such plans — ranging from economic isolation to sabotage — have been the regular subject of meetings at the White House, the Pentagon and the State Department. Asked about the Plan B discussions at a news conference more than two weeks ago, Biden paused a moment, then said, “I’m not going to comment on Iran now.” But the Israelis are commenting. This month Israel’s army chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi, said the Israeli military was “speeding up the operational plans and readiness for dealing with Iran and the nuclear military threat.” It was a reference to the fact that the new prime minister, Naftali Bennett, has authorised more funding for planning and practising attacks. Israeli officials insist they have developed a bunker-busting capability that obviates the need for the kind of help they sought from the Bush administration 13 years ago. Whether that is true or a bluff remains unclear. At some point, Biden administration officials say they may be forced to declare that Iran’s nuclear programme is simply too advanced for anyone to safely return to the 2015 agreement. “This is not a chronological clock; it’s a technological clock,” Malley said in a briefing last month. “At some point,” he added, the agreement “will have been so eroded because Iran will have made advances that cannot be reversed.” He added: “You can’t revive a dead corpse.”

As hopes for nuclear deal fade, Iran rebuilds and risks grow

The&nbsp;EU's drug watchdog on Friday backed Merck's anti-Covid&nbsp;pill&nbsp;for emergency use ahead of its formal authorisation and started reviewing Pfizer's antiviral treatment as cases soar across Europe.

The two pills by the US pharma giants represent a potentially groundbreaking step in the fight against coronavirus as studies show they cut the risk of hospitalisation and death in high-risk patients.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said that while the Merck&nbsp;pill&nbsp;was not yet approved, it had "issued advice" so that individual countries in the 27-nation&nbsp;EU&nbsp;could decide whether to use it in case of a surge in infections.

"The medicine, which is currently not authorised in the&nbsp;EU, can be used to treat adults with&nbsp;COVID-19 who do not require supplemental oxygen and who are at increased risk of developing severe&nbsp;COVID-19," the EMA said in a statement.

"EMA issued this advice to support national authorities who may decide on possible early use of the medicine prior to&nbsp;marketing authorisation, for example in emergency use settings, in light of rising rates of infection and deaths due to&nbsp;Covid-19 across the&nbsp;EU."

The Merck&nbsp;pill&nbsp;should not be used by pregnant women or women who are not using contraception and could get pregnant, the EMA said.

"These recommendations are given as laboratory studies in animals have shown that high doses of (the Merck&nbsp;pill) can impact the growth and development of the foetus," it added.

The&nbsp;pill&nbsp;should be given as soon as possible after&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;symptoms start, at the latest within five days. It should then be taken for five days, the EMA said.

The Amsterdam-based watchdog says it hopes to decide on formal approval for the Merck&nbsp;pill, also known as molnupiravir, by the end of the year.

<h2>&nbsp;'Shortest possible timeframe'&nbsp;</h2>

Separately&nbsp;the EMA said it had started a review of Pfizer's&nbsp;pill&nbsp;so that it could give similar advice.

"EMA is reviewing currently available data on the use of Paxlovid, an oral treatment for&nbsp;COVID-19 developed by Pfizer," the EMA said.

A full "rolling review" for formal approval is expected to start next week, but the EMA said it wanted to be able to help national authorities "in the shortest possible timeframe".

Trials show both pills are particularly effective in treating newly-infected high-risk patients when given within days of the onset of the disease.

They are both cheaper and easier to administer than other antivirals which need to be taken intravenously, and also cheaper than vaccines to make, with a simpler supply chain.

Merck's&nbsp;pill&nbsp;decreases the ability of the coronavirus to multiply by increasing the number of mutations in its genetic material (or RNA).

The Pfizer&nbsp;pill&nbsp;uses a different method, belonging to a class of antivirals called "protease inhibitors", which block the action of an enzyme that is critical to viral replication.&nbsp;

It is a combination of a new molecule, PF-07321332, and HIV antiviral ritonavir.

Europe has been searching for whatever methods it can to curb a fourth wave of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;cases that has already prompted several countries to tighten restrictions.

The EMA warned on Thursday that countries should "close the gap" on vaccinations as many of those in hospitals were unvaccinated.

The EU's drug watchdog on Friday backed Merck's anti-Covid pill for emergency use ahead of its formal authorisation and started reviewing Pfizer's antiviral treatment as cases soar across Europe.

The EU's drug watchdog on Friday backed Merck's anti-Covid pill for emergency use ahead of its formal authorisation and started reviewing Pfizer's antiviral treatment as cases soar across Europe. The two pills by the US pharma giants represent a potentially groundbreaking step in the fight against coronavirus as studies show they cut the risk of hospitalisation and death in high-risk patients. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said that while the Merck pill was not yet approved, it had "issued advice" so that individual countries in the 27-nation EU could decide whether to use it in case of a surge in infections. "The medicine, which is currently not authorised in the EU, can be used to treat adults with COVID-19 who do not require supplemental oxygen and who are at increased risk of developing severe COVID-19," the EMA said in a statement. "EMA issued this advice to support national authorities who may decide on possible early use of the medicine prior to marketing authorisation, for example in emergency use settings, in light of rising rates of infection and deaths due to Covid-19 across the EU." The Merck pill should not be used by pregnant women or women who are not using contraception and could get pregnant, the EMA said. "These recommendations are given as laboratory studies in animals have shown that high doses of (the Merck pill) can impact the growth and development of the foetus," it added. The pill should be given as soon as possible after Covid symptoms start, at the latest within five days. It should then be taken for five days, the EMA said. The Amsterdam-based watchdog says it hopes to decide on formal approval for the Merck pill, also known as molnupiravir, by the end of the year. 'Shortest possible timeframe' Separately the EMA said it had started a review of Pfizer's pill so that it could give similar advice. "EMA is reviewing currently available data on the use of Paxlovid, an oral treatment for COVID-19 developed by Pfizer," the EMA said. A full "rolling review" for formal approval is expected to start next week, but the EMA said it wanted to be able to help national authorities "in the shortest possible timeframe". Trials show both pills are particularly effective in treating newly-infected high-risk patients when given within days of the onset of the disease. They are both cheaper and easier to administer than other antivirals which need to be taken intravenously, and also cheaper than vaccines to make, with a simpler supply chain. Merck's pill decreases the ability of the coronavirus to multiply by increasing the number of mutations in its genetic material (or RNA). The Pfizer pill uses a different method, belonging to a class of antivirals called "protease inhibitors", which block the action of an enzyme that is critical to viral replication. It is a combination of a new molecule, PF-07321332, and HIV antiviral ritonavir. Europe has been searching for whatever methods it can to curb a fourth wave of Covid cases that has already prompted several countries to tighten restrictions. The EMA warned on Thursday that countries should "close the gap" on vaccinations as many of those in hospitals were unvaccinated.

EU regulator grants emergency nod to Merck's anti-Covid pill

Hundreds of&nbsp;Iraqis&nbsp;who have camped for weeks at&nbsp;Belarus' borders with the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;checked in for a&nbsp;flight&nbsp;back to Iraq on Thursday, the Iraqi foreign ministry said.

Some 430 migrants, mostly Iraqi Kurds, were to board a&nbsp;flight&nbsp;in Minsk bound for Erbil in Iraq's autonomous northern Kurdistan region, and then on to Baghdad.

Iraqis, especially Kurds, make up a significant number of the estimated 4,000 migrants now waiting in freezing&nbsp;Belarusian forests and trying to cross into Lithuania, Latvia and Poland.

For months,&nbsp;EU&nbsp;countries have accused&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;President Alexander Lukashenko of orchestrating the migrant crisis to avenge sanctions imposed&nbsp;after&nbsp;he won a disputed 2020 election and authorities cracked down on mass protests against him.

They said&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;had made it easier for people&nbsp;from&nbsp;the Middle East to fly to Minsk and try to get into the bloc - an accusation he denies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catastrophic-flooding-triggers-state-of-emergency-in-canada-430285">Also read |&nbsp;'Catastrophic' flooding triggers state of emergency in Canada</a>

Now, hundreds of would-be migrants are returning&nbsp;home&nbsp;having failed to cross the heavily guarded frontier. Some described the harsh conditions of living in the forest in winter, often with young children, and of beatings by border guards.

A 30-year-old Iraqi Kurd, who declined to give his name, decided to register for the evacuation&nbsp;flight&nbsp;with his wife&nbsp;after&nbsp;they attempted to cross at least eight time&nbsp;from&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;to Lithuania and Poland.

"I would not go back (to Iraq) if it wasn't for my wife," he told Reuters a day ahead of the evacuation&nbsp;flight. "She does not want to go back with me to the border, because she saw too many horrors over there."

Brussels will hope that a combination of pressure on airlines to stop flying migrants to Minsk and migrants giving up attempts to&nbsp;enter&nbsp;the bloc will eventually see the crisis ease.

Several airlines have already agreed to halt&nbsp;flights into the&nbsp;Belarusian capital for most passengers&nbsp;from&nbsp;countries including Iraq and Syria.

At least eight people have died at the border in recent months, including a 19-year-old Syrian man who drowned in a river trying to cross to the&nbsp;EU.

Hundreds of Iraqis who have camped for weeks at Belarus' borders with the EU checked in for a flight back to Iraq on Thursday, the Iraqi foreign ministry said. Some 430 migrants, mostly Iraqi Kurds, were to board a flight in Minsk bound for Erbil in Iraq's autonomous northern Kurdistan region, and then on to Baghdad.

Hundreds of Iraqis who have camped for weeks at Belarus' borders with the EU checked in for a flight back to Iraq on Thursday, the Iraqi foreign ministry said. Some 430 migrants, mostly Iraqi Kurds, were to board a flight in Minsk bound for Erbil in Iraq's autonomous northern Kurdistan region, and then on to Baghdad. Iraqis, especially Kurds, make up a significant number of the estimated 4,000 migrants now waiting in freezing Belarusian forests and trying to cross into Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. For months, EU countries have accused Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko of orchestrating the migrant crisis to avenge sanctions imposed after he won a disputed 2020 election and authorities cracked down on mass protests against him. They said Belarus had made it easier for people from the Middle East to fly to Minsk and try to get into the bloc - an accusation he denies. Also read | 'Catastrophic' flooding triggers state of emergency in Canada Now, hundreds of would-be migrants are returning home having failed to cross the heavily guarded frontier. Some described the harsh conditions of living in the forest in winter, often with young children, and of beatings by border guards. A 30-year-old Iraqi Kurd, who declined to give his name, decided to register for the evacuation flight with his wife after they attempted to cross at least eight time from Belarus to Lithuania and Poland. "I would not go back (to Iraq) if it wasn't for my wife," he told Reuters a day ahead of the evacuation flight. "She does not want to go back with me to the border, because she saw too many horrors over there." Brussels will hope that a combination of pressure on airlines to stop flying migrants to Minsk and migrants giving up attempts to enter the bloc will eventually see the crisis ease. Several airlines have already agreed to halt flights into the Belarusian capital for most passengers from countries including Iraq and Syria. At least eight people have died at the border in recent months, including a 19-year-old Syrian man who drowned in a river trying to cross to the EU.

Iraqis check in for flight home after failing to enter EU from Belarus

The crisis at European Union's eastern border is only escalating, clashes have broken out at the Poland-Belarus border. Police forces fired tear gas at the migrants after they resorted to stone-pelting.

Poland-Belarus migrant crisis worsens; Police forces fire tear gas, migrants pelt stones

Belarus says that it is working to repatriate migrants at its border with Poland in an apparent attempt in diffusing the crisis; this comes as the EU prepares new sanctions against Belarus.

'Belarus border situation unacceptable,' EU readies sanctions over migrant crisis

Josep Borrell, foreign policy chief of European Union warned Belarus of not using people as weapons. Borrell on Sunday spoke with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei on phone and discussed migrant crisis on the country's border with Poland. Borrell also spoke of EU sanctions against Belarus.

Borrell wrote on Twitter that he had raised "the precarious humanitarian situation at the border with the EU".

"Peoples lives must be protected and humanitarian agencies allowed access," he wrote. "The current situation is unacceptable and must stop. People should not be used as weapons."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> Foreign Minister Makei to raise the precarious humanitarian situation at the border with the EU. Peoples lives must be protected and humanitarian agencies allowed access. 
 
The current situation is unacceptable and must stop. People should not be used as weapons.
— Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) <a href="https://twitter.com/JosepBorrellF/status/1459897935181848576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The EU and Belarus held talks the day before the EU plans to impose new sanctions on Minsk to include airlines and travel agencies thought to be involved in bringing migrants to the bloc's border.

"Futility of sanctions was highlighted... by the Belarusian side," the Belarusian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Thousands of migrants, seeking to cross into Poland have travelled to Belarus. However, they have found themselves trapped on the border in freezing conditions.

Belarus faces accusations from Europe that it is mounting "a hybrid attack' by flying in migrants and pushing them to cross illegally into Poland. Belarus denies the accusations.

Makei informed his counterpart about steps taken by Belarus to reduce the migrant flow and providing them with humanitarian aid on the border, the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Josep Borrell, foreign policy chief of European Union warned Belarus of not using people as weapons. Borrell on Sunday spoke with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei on phone and discussed migrant crisis on the country's border with Poland.

Josep Borrell, foreign policy chief of European Union warned Belarus of not using people as weapons. Borrell on Sunday spoke with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei on phone and discussed migrant crisis on the country's border with Poland. Borrell also spoke of EU sanctions against Belarus. Borrell wrote on Twitter that he had raised "the precarious humanitarian situation at the border with the EU". "Peoples lives must be protected and humanitarian agencies allowed access," he wrote. "The current situation is unacceptable and must stop. People should not be used as weapons." Spoke to #Belarus Foreign Minister Makei to raise the precarious humanitarian situation at the border with the EU. Peoples lives must be protected and humanitarian agencies allowed access. The current situation is unacceptable and must stop. People should not be used as weapons. — Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) November 14, 2021 × The EU and Belarus held talks the day before the EU plans to impose new sanctions on Minsk to include airlines and travel agencies thought to be involved in bringing migrants to the bloc's border. "Futility of sanctions was highlighted... by the Belarusian side," the Belarusian foreign ministry said in a statement. Thousands of migrants, seeking to cross into Poland have travelled to Belarus. However, they have found themselves trapped on the border in freezing conditions. Belarus faces accusations from Europe that it is mounting "a hybrid attack' by flying in migrants and pushing them to cross illegally into Poland. Belarus denies the accusations. Makei informed his counterpart about steps taken by Belarus to reduce the migrant flow and providing them with humanitarian aid on the border, the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't use people as weapons, EU chief diplomat warns Belarus

The migrant crisis at the Poland-Belarus border has now transformed into a massive political row involving the European Union, Belarus, Russia and now Ukraine; the crisis is worsening further. Belarus has now threatened to cut off gas to the EU.

Poland-Belarus migrant crisis: Belarus threatens to cut off gas to EU

The migrant crisis at the Poland-Belarus border has now transformed into a massive political row involving the European Union, Belarus, Russia and now Ukraine; the crisis is worsening further.

Thousands of migrants trapped in limbo, Russia urges EU to talk to Belarus

The European Union has blamed Belarus for the migrant crisis at the Poland border. But, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki claims the crisis was orchestrated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Is Putin destabilising the European Union? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Putin destabilising the European Union?

Ethiopia's government has dismissed international calls for a ceasefire and has instead vowed to fight on. The government's communication office has put out an aggressive statement saying that it is not a country that crumbles under foreign propaganda.

Ethiopian government vows to fight rebels; EU calls for immediate, meaningful ceasefire

The tensions are escalating between China and Taiwan and along with this, there is also talk of war. There is a complex situation between China, Taiwan and the United States that is feeding the public with a sense of crisis in the near future.

EU Parliament delegation visits Taiwan for the 1st time

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018.

US and EU end long standing dispute over steel and aluminum tariff

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US&nbsp;steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US&nbsp;officials said on Saturday.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US&nbsp;"Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent&nbsp;on steel and 10 per cent&nbsp;aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-deal-joe-biden-tells-emmanuel-macron-that-us-was-clumsy-425127">AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy'</a>

It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries.

EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter&nbsp; that "we have agreed with US&nbsp;to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday.

US&nbsp;officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs.

The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US&nbsp;officials said.

The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from

China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. 
Europe exported&nbsp;around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds.

"The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time.

US&nbsp;steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China.

Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-of-blackmail-eu-court-imposes-massive-fine-of-over-1-million-per-day-on-poland-424592">'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland</a>

The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US&nbsp;products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December&nbsp;1, US&nbsp;officials said.

"The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US&nbsp;distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys.

Record Steel Prices

Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US&nbsp;manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation.

US&nbsp;primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group.

American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs."

"We urge the US&nbsp;and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures."

Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US&nbsp;allies including Japan. The US&nbsp;Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday.

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US "Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free. Also Read | AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy' It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter that "we have agreed with US to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday. US officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs. The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US officials said. The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. Europe exported around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds. "The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time. US steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China. Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets. Also Read | 'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December 1, US officials said. "The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys. Record Steel Prices Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation. US primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group. American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs." "We urge the US and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures." Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US allies including Japan. The US Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

US, EU end Trump-era tariff war over steel and aluminum

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it.

The WHO and the EU hope a treaty on future pandemics would help prevent the initial chaos when the novel coronavirus started spreading around the world from China in late 2019 and early 2020, causing a deep global recession as countries went into lockdowns to prevent mass infections.

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Speaking on the sidelines of the summit of leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies (G20), Charles Michel told reporters such a treaty would spell out how to better prevent and detect pandemics and share data.

It would also provide a framework for coordination and cooperation in dealing with future pandemics, for vaccine production and for sharing intellectual property for vaccine and treatment technology through the World Trade Organisation.

"I am cautiously optimistic. It means I feel that it goes in the right direction, but there are still difficulties," said Michel, who launched the treaty idea in November 2020. It was endorsed by all 27 EU leaders last May.

Watch |&nbsp;G20 summit in Rome: India to raise issues related to cross border terrorism

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20-summit-in-rome-india-to-raise-issues-related-to-cross-border-terrorism-425122/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said the General Assembly of the WHO would decide next month what mandate to endorse for such treaty negotiations, a decision that could be crucial to win the support of countries like China.

"In principle, China is positive. But it is not a simple 'yes'&nbsp;or 'no'&nbsp;-- it is more complex than that. It is based on what will be the exact mandate that will be given," Michel said.

"A 'yes'&nbsp;with some caveats that, in fact, could mean: 'we are not yet convinced'," he said, adding that talks over the next two weeks would be crucial for securing a green light for the project.

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it.

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it. The WHO and the EU hope a treaty on future pandemics would help prevent the initial chaos when the novel coronavirus started spreading around the world from China in late 2019 and early 2020, causing a deep global recession as countries went into lockdowns to prevent mass infections. Also Read | 'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland Speaking on the sidelines of the summit of leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies (G20), Charles Michel told reporters such a treaty would spell out how to better prevent and detect pandemics and share data. It would also provide a framework for coordination and cooperation in dealing with future pandemics, for vaccine production and for sharing intellectual property for vaccine and treatment technology through the World Trade Organisation. "I am cautiously optimistic. It means I feel that it goes in the right direction, but there are still difficulties," said Michel, who launched the treaty idea in November 2020. It was endorsed by all 27 EU leaders last May. Watch | G20 summit in Rome: India to raise issues related to cross border terrorism He said the General Assembly of the WHO would decide next month what mandate to endorse for such treaty negotiations, a decision that could be crucial to win the support of countries like China. "In principle, China is positive. But it is not a simple 'yes' or 'no' -- it is more complex than that. It is based on what will be the exact mandate that will be given," Michel said. "A 'yes' with some caveats that, in fact, could mean: 'we are not yet convinced'," he said, adding that talks over the next two weeks would be crucial for securing a green light for the project.

EU leaders' chairman cautiously optimistic on global treaty on pandemics

European Union’s (EU) digital Covid certificates bearing Adolf Hitler’s name and date of birth has been doing the rounds online, raising questions over the safety and efficacy of the vaccine passport system.

Several users found a QR code online on Tuesday, and when they tried to scan with verifications apps, they found that it was a digital Covid certificate with the name ‘Adolf Hitler’ written on it, along with the date of birth stating January 1,1900, according to a report by Russia Today.

It was reported that several versions of the code were shared on tech forums, some with the name capitalised, while others with a different birthday.

According to Italian news agency ANSA, which has quoted sources, some of the keys used to generate the European Green Pass were stolen and distributed on programming networks to create false COVID-19 health certificates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-passport-the-european-covid-certificate-a-users-guide-386729">Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide</a>

However, it couldn’t be verified whether the stolen keys used to generate fake Covid passes were forged to validate Hitler’s European Green Pass.

Following the revelations, a series of meetings were held at the EU level on Wednesday to examine the situation, ANSA reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-up-covishields-absence-from-the-european-unions-green-pass-list-394418">India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list</a>

The officials decided to cancel all the passes created with those keys, and said the theft of the generation keys did not take place in Italy.

According to reports, the private key used to verify Hitler’s pass was revoked as of Wednesday, but a Polish user on one tech forum still claimed to be selling working certificates, as did some posters on the so-called ‘dark web.’

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-warns-eu-over-vaccine-certificate-inequality-394861">African Union warns EU over vaccine certificate 'inequality'</a>

This is not the first time that fake Covid vaccine certificates have proliferated the markets in Europe. There have been reports of people in France splurging hundreds of euros for fake health passes in an online black market.

A black market for fraudulent health passes had sprung up on Snapchat —despite the risk of jail sentences.

Accounts on the social networking app that rarely last for more than a were found to openly advertise their counterfeit documents.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Union’s (EU) digital Covid certificates bearing Adolf Hitler’s name and date of birth has been doing the rounds online, raising questions over the safety and efficacy of the vaccine passport system.

European Union’s (EU) digital Covid certificates bearing Adolf Hitler’s name and date of birth has been doing the rounds online, raising questions over the safety and efficacy of the vaccine passport system. Several users found a QR code online on Tuesday, and when they tried to scan with verifications apps, they found that it was a digital Covid certificate with the name ‘Adolf Hitler’ written on it, along with the date of birth stating January 1,1900, according to a report by Russia Today. It was reported that several versions of the code were shared on tech forums, some with the name capitalised, while others with a different birthday. According to Italian news agency ANSA, which has quoted sources, some of the keys used to generate the European Green Pass were stolen and distributed on programming networks to create false COVID-19 health certificates. Also read | Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide However, it couldn’t be verified whether the stolen keys used to generate fake Covid passes were forged to validate Hitler’s European Green Pass. Following the revelations, a series of meetings were held at the EU level on Wednesday to examine the situation, ANSA reported. Also read | India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list The officials decided to cancel all the passes created with those keys, and said the theft of the generation keys did not take place in Italy. According to reports, the private key used to verify Hitler’s pass was revoked as of Wednesday, but a Polish user on one tech forum still claimed to be selling working certificates, as did some posters on the so-called ‘dark web.’ Also read | African Union warns EU over vaccine certificate 'inequality' This is not the first time that fake Covid vaccine certificates have proliferated the markets in Europe. There have been reports of people in France splurging hundreds of euros for fake health passes in an online black market. A black market for fraudulent health passes had sprung up on Snapchat —despite the risk of jail sentences. Accounts on the social networking app that rarely last for more than a were found to openly advertise their counterfeit documents. (With inputs from agencies)

EU’s 'Green Pass' hacked? Adolf Hitler’s Covid certificate doing rounds online: Report

The European Union has imposed a fine of $1.16 million per day on Poland over a dispute of the rule of the law.

EU court fines Poland $1.16 million per day over judicial reform

The European Union and Iran officials are set to meet in Brussels this week for talks on restarting negotiations over Iran’s nuclear deal. This comes after International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that Iran is once again expanding its Uranium enrichment program beyond the allowed limit.

Iran, EU to hold nuclear talks in Brussels this week

The European Union medicines agency has approved Moderna's COVID-19 booster vaccine for people aged 18 and above. It is the second booster vaccine to be approved in the EU.

EU medicines agency approves Moderna's booster shot for people aged 18 and above

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". &nbsp;

At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". &nbsp;

Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-welcomes-navalnys-award-of-top-eu-rights-prize-423372" hreflang="en">NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize</a>

In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. &nbsp;

The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-plus-variant-may-be-more-easily-transmissible-uk-health-experts-423357" hreflang="en">Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts</a>&nbsp;

Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. &nbsp;

So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions".

According to a statement issued by the UK government on Saturday, a team from the European Commission will travel to London on Tuesday "for several days of intensive discussions". At the end of the week, British minister David Frost and EU Commission Vice President Sefcovic will meet to "take stock and assess progress so far". Commenting over the talks, the UK government has said, that talks over the previous days had been "constructive" but "substantial gaps" remain. Also Read: NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize In order to ease tensions within the loyalist community over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Brussels has put forward a raft of proposals. The protocol is the part of the Brexit deal, which deals with the British province. The proposals put forward include reduced customs checks and paperwork on British products intended for Northern Ireland. The loyalists, however, complain these proposals are driving a wedge between Belfast and London. It is also building momentum for the republican push for a united Ireland. Also Read: Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts Despite any headway on customs checks, the European Union has said it will not accept UK's demands for an alternative arbitrator to settle post-Brexit trade disputes involving Northern Ireland. So, Britain is threatening to trigger the protocol's Article 16. The article provides both parties with unilateral power to take action if they believe the agreement is causing "serious economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist". (With inputs from agencies)

Northern Ireland Brexit issues: As talks resume, UK warns of 'gaps' with EU

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday&nbsp;that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

"I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release.

Navalny, 45, who was poisoned in August 2020 by what Western nations said was a nerve agent, is serving a 2-1/2-year sentence for parole violations he calls trumped up. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russian officials over Navalny's poisoning and imprisonment.

Moscow denies any wrongdoing and accuses the EU of interfering in its domestic affairs. It has also denied Western accusations that Navalny was jailed for his political activities and said he was punished for breaking the law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-former-king-juan-carlos-injected-with-female-hormones-to-control-his-sex-drive-ex-cop-423290">Also read |&nbsp;Spain’s former king Juan Carlos ‘injected with female hormones’ to control his sex drive: Ex-cop</a>

Stoltenberg also reacted to Russia's decision to close its mission to NATO saying the move did not foster cooperation.

"We regret this decision which does not promote dialogue and mutual understanding but NATO's policy remains consistent and we remain open to dialogue," he said.

NATO said on October 6 it had expelled eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance who it said were "undeclared Russian intelligence officers".

Moscow said at the time that the expulsions undermined hopes that relations with the U.S.-led alliance could normalise.

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. "I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release.

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. "I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release. Navalny, 45, who was poisoned in August 2020 by what Western nations said was a nerve agent, is serving a 2-1/2-year sentence for parole violations he calls trumped up. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russian officials over Navalny's poisoning and imprisonment. Moscow denies any wrongdoing and accuses the EU of interfering in its domestic affairs. It has also denied Western accusations that Navalny was jailed for his political activities and said he was punished for breaking the law. Also read | Spain’s former king Juan Carlos ‘injected with female hormones’ to control his sex drive: Ex-cop Stoltenberg also reacted to Russia's decision to close its mission to NATO saying the move did not foster cooperation. "We regret this decision which does not promote dialogue and mutual understanding but NATO's policy remains consistent and we remain open to dialogue," he said. NATO said on October 6 it had expelled eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance who it said were "undeclared Russian intelligence officers". Moscow said at the time that the expulsions undermined hopes that relations with the U.S.-led alliance could normalise.

NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize

The EU is going through an existential crisis as Poland's top court challenges its supremacy. There are questions rising about the future of Warsaw, watch this report for more.

'EU treaty unconstitutional,' Polish Prime Minister questions EU's supremacy

Facebook is planning to hire 10,000 people in the European Union in order to develop a metaverse, which is an online world where people can game, work and communicate in a virtual environment, often using VR headsets.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has been a leading voice for the new concept.&nbsp;

In a blog post, Facebook said, "The metaverse has the potential to help unlock access to new creative, social, and economic opportunities. And Europeans will be shaping it right from the start."

This will create new jobs for people over the next five years. This will specifically include "highly specialised engineers".

Facebook said that investing in EU offered many advantages, including access to a large consumer market, first-class universities and high-quality talent.&nbsp;

Facebook claims that the metaverse "won't be built overnight by a single company" and has promised to collaborate.

However, it thinks the true metaverse idea will take another 10 to 15 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-speech-for-profit-facebook-whistleblower-reveals-identity-418061">Also read |&nbsp;Hate speech for profit: Facebook whistleblower reveals identity</a>

As per critics, this latest announcement is an attempt to re-establish the company's reputation and divert attention.

This includes revelations made by Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen who shared a trove of Facebook documents alleging that the social media giant knew its products were fueling hate and harming children's mental health revealed her identity on Sunday in a televised interview.&nbsp;

Frances Haugen, a 37-year-old data scientist from Iowa, accused the company of choosing "profit over safety."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-weakens-our-democracy-harms-kids-top-quotes-from-whistleblower-frances-haugens-testimony-418489">Also read |&nbsp;'Facebook weakens our democracy, harms kids': Top quotes from whistleblower Frances Haugen’s testimony</a>

In an interview with the CBS news show "60 Minutes", she said that Facebook was "substantially worse" than anything she had seen before. "Facebook over and over again has shown it chooses profit over safety. It is subsidising, it is paying for its profits with our safety," Haugen said.

Haugen as an unnamed whistleblower shared documents with US lawmakers and The Wall Street Journal that detailed how Facebook knew its products, including Instagram, were harming young girls, especially around body image.

Facebook is planning to hire 10,000 people in the European Union in order to develop a metaverse, which is an online world where people can game, work and communicate in a virtual environment, often using VR headsets.

Facebook is planning to hire 10,000 people in the European Union in order to develop a metaverse, which is an online world where people can game, work and communicate in a virtual environment, often using VR headsets. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has been a leading voice for the new concept. In a blog post, Facebook said, "The metaverse has the potential to help unlock access to new creative, social, and economic opportunities. And Europeans will be shaping it right from the start." This will create new jobs for people over the next five years. This will specifically include "highly specialised engineers". Facebook said that investing in EU offered many advantages, including access to a large consumer market, first-class universities and high-quality talent. Facebook claims that the metaverse "won't be built overnight by a single company" and has promised to collaborate. However, it thinks the true metaverse idea will take another 10 to 15 years. Also read | Hate speech for profit: Facebook whistleblower reveals identity As per critics, this latest announcement is an attempt to re-establish the company's reputation and divert attention. This includes revelations made by Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen who shared a trove of Facebook documents alleging that the social media giant knew its products were fueling hate and harming children's mental health revealed her identity on Sunday in a televised interview. Frances Haugen, a 37-year-old data scientist from Iowa, accused the company of choosing "profit over safety." Also read | 'Facebook weakens our democracy, harms kids': Top quotes from whistleblower Frances Haugen’s testimony In an interview with the CBS news show "60 Minutes", she said that Facebook was "substantially worse" than anything she had seen before. "Facebook over and over again has shown it chooses profit over safety. It is subsidising, it is paying for its profits with our safety," Haugen said. Haugen as an unnamed whistleblower shared documents with US lawmakers and The Wall Street Journal that detailed how Facebook knew its products, including Instagram, were harming young girls, especially around body image.

Facebook plans on hiring 10,000 people in EU to work on metaverse

The European Union (EU) parliament published an 18-page resolution on a new EU-China strategy on September 16 whose fundamental message was that Beijing poses serious political, economic, security, and technological challenges to the group. Di Valerio Fabbri, writing in Geopolitica.info said that quite aptly, the resolution was released soon after the United States announced the creation of a new alliance with the United Kingdom and Australia (AUKUS).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-cuts-chinas-growth-forecast-amid-disorderly-corporate-debt-defaults-420197">IMF cuts China's growth forecast amid 'disorderly corporate debt defaults'</a>

The fundamental message of the resolution is that "China is asserting a stronger global role both as an economic power and as a foreign-policy actor, which poses serious political, economic, security and technological challenges to the EU.&nbsp;In turn, this has significant and long-lasting consequences for the world order and poses serious threats to rules-based multilateralism and core democratic values. True to its core values, the EU also highlighted every aspect of the complicated relationship with China, including Bejing's gross violation of human rights in Xinjiang and Tibet.

In this regard, particular attention was paid to the Chinese government's 'Strike hard against violent terrorism'&nbsp;campaign launched in 2014, which has led to a rapid deterioration in the condition of the situation of Uyghur in Xinjiang, reported Geopolitica.info.

Perhaps the most recent illustration of the totalitarian nature of the Chinese state, which also finds mention in the EU document, is the departure of some foreign correspondents from the mainland, said Fabbri.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dasu-bus-blast-china-demands-38-million-from-pakistan-for-the-dead-workers-420930">Dasu bus blast: China demands $38 million from Pakistan for the dead workers</a>

Furthermore, the ridiculous labelling by the Chinese government of the Foreign Correspondents&nbsp;Club, the professional association of Beijing-based journalists reporting on China globally, as an 'illegal organisation'&nbsp;is the latest in a long and increasing instances of harassment and obstruction of foreign journalists. This is part of the effort to police speech about China globally and, as the EU rightly concludes, to determine what kind of speech and discussions are allowed as part of a totalitarian threat, said Fabbri.

The document also expressed regret over China's one-party system and its commitment to Marxism-Leninism, which precludes the possibility to embrace "democratic values such as individual freedom, freedom of speech and freedom of religion". The latest report makes a number of recommendations, including calls to adopt targeted sanctions against senior Chinese officials responsible for abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. It called for better coordination to counter Beijing's growing global influence and anti-rights agenda and for a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing, reported Geopolitica.info.

The European Parliament also urged the EU's foreign policy branch to seek a more effective and benchmark-based human rights dialogue.Moreover, the EU perceives the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a "threat stemming from China," among other initiatives like the "dual circulation strategy, Made in China 2025, China Standards 2035" and other policies, including its military modernization and capacity build-up. For this reason, the EU welcomed the G7 leaders&nbsp;agreement to develop a partnership called Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative as an alternative to China's BRI.

The European Union (EU) parliament published an 18-page resolution on a new EU-China strategy on September 16 whose fundamental message was that Beijing poses serious political, economic, security, and technological challenges to the group.

The European Union (EU) parliament published an 18-page resolution on a new EU-China strategy on September 16 whose fundamental message was that Beijing poses serious political, economic, security, and technological challenges to the group. Di Valerio Fabbri, writing in Geopolitica.info said that quite aptly, the resolution was released soon after the United States announced the creation of a new alliance with the United Kingdom and Australia (AUKUS). Also Read | IMF cuts China's growth forecast amid 'disorderly corporate debt defaults' The fundamental message of the resolution is that "China is asserting a stronger global role both as an economic power and as a foreign-policy actor, which poses serious political, economic, security and technological challenges to the EU. In turn, this has significant and long-lasting consequences for the world order and poses serious threats to rules-based multilateralism and core democratic values. True to its core values, the EU also highlighted every aspect of the complicated relationship with China, including Bejing's gross violation of human rights in Xinjiang and Tibet. In this regard, particular attention was paid to the Chinese government's 'Strike hard against violent terrorism' campaign launched in 2014, which has led to a rapid deterioration in the condition of the situation of Uyghur in Xinjiang, reported Geopolitica.info. Perhaps the most recent illustration of the totalitarian nature of the Chinese state, which also finds mention in the EU document, is the departure of some foreign correspondents from the mainland, said Fabbri. Also Read | Dasu bus blast: China demands $38 million from Pakistan for the dead workers Furthermore, the ridiculous labelling by the Chinese government of the Foreign Correspondents Club, the professional association of Beijing-based journalists reporting on China globally, as an 'illegal organisation' is the latest in a long and increasing instances of harassment and obstruction of foreign journalists. This is part of the effort to police speech about China globally and, as the EU rightly concludes, to determine what kind of speech and discussions are allowed as part of a totalitarian threat, said Fabbri. The document also expressed regret over China's one-party system and its commitment to Marxism-Leninism, which precludes the possibility to embrace "democratic values such as individual freedom, freedom of speech and freedom of religion". The latest report makes a number of recommendations, including calls to adopt targeted sanctions against senior Chinese officials responsible for abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. It called for better coordination to counter Beijing's growing global influence and anti-rights agenda and for a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing, reported Geopolitica.info. The European Parliament also urged the EU's foreign policy branch to seek a more effective and benchmark-based human rights dialogue.Moreover, the EU perceives the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a "threat stemming from China," among other initiatives like the "dual circulation strategy, Made in China 2025, China Standards 2035" and other policies, including its military modernization and capacity build-up. For this reason, the EU welcomed the G7 leaders agreement to develop a partnership called Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative as an alternative to China's BRI.

China poses serious political, economic, security, technological challenges to EU

The European Union and United Kingdom are facing their next standoff, Northern Ireland is once again at the heart of it. The European commission will soon setup proposals to address tensions over trade.

European Union-United Kingdom dispute over Northern Ireland escalates

Russia's energy minister said Wednesday new contracts would need to be agreed for increases in natural gas deliveries to Europe, which is struggling with a surge in prices.

"If there are requests, that will only be via the establishment of new contractual obligations," Nikolai Shulginov said, describing Russia as a "reliable supplier".

Critics are blaming Russia, which supplies more than a third of European gas, for the increase in prices.&nbsp;

They argue that Moscow is intentionally not boosting supplies to put pressure on Europe, to push for more long-term contracts and for the certification of the controversial Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline.

Russian officials have repeatedly said that suppliers are fulfilling their obligations under its contracts with European buyers.

However, Moscow is not increasing deliveries available on the short-term spot markets, which the EU prefers, arguing that it is more competitive.

Demand in Europe is rallying as economies ramp up after the end of pandemic lockdowns and there are dips in supplies from renewables like wind.

Russia has said a speedy launch of Nord Stream 2 would help combat the surge in prices and President Vladimir Putin this month blamed the crisis on "mistakes" made in Europe.

Regulators in Germany are yet to approve the launch of the pipeline, which is seen by Kremlin critics as a geopolitical weapon.

Russia's energy minister said Wednesday new contracts would need to be agreed for increases in natural gas deliveries to Europe, which is struggling with a surge in prices.

Russia's energy minister said Wednesday new contracts would need to be agreed for increases in natural gas deliveries to Europe, which is struggling with a surge in prices. "If there are requests, that will only be via the establishment of new contractual obligations," Nikolai Shulginov said, describing Russia as a "reliable supplier". Critics are blaming Russia, which supplies more than a third of European gas, for the increase in prices. They argue that Moscow is intentionally not boosting supplies to put pressure on Europe, to push for more long-term contracts and for the certification of the controversial Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline. Russian officials have repeatedly said that suppliers are fulfilling their obligations under its contracts with European buyers. However, Moscow is not increasing deliveries available on the short-term spot markets, which the EU prefers, arguing that it is more competitive. Demand in Europe is rallying as economies ramp up after the end of pandemic lockdowns and there are dips in supplies from renewables like wind. Russia has said a speedy launch of Nord Stream 2 would help combat the surge in prices and President Vladimir Putin this month blamed the crisis on "mistakes" made in Europe. Regulators in Germany are yet to approve the launch of the pipeline, which is seen by Kremlin critics as a geopolitical weapon.

New contracts needed to boost Europe gas supplies: Russia

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