As Russia's nuclear rhetoric intensifies, the U.S. is taking Putin's threats seriously. Reports say, America is upgrading the nukes it stores in Europe. Older weapons are making way for newer & more lethal bombs. Which bombs are these? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: U.S. is upgrading nukes in Europe

Unseasonably warm autumn is being witnessed in Europe. High temperatures are expected to continue till November. Watch this report.

WION Climate Tracker: Unseasonably warm autumn in Europe; High temperatures expected till Nov

The eight-month-old Russia-Ukraine war raised concerns that a nuclear weapon could be deployed that would lead to massive destruction. In the past couple of months, the issue has been raised by world leaders, who are urging Moscow and Kyiv to end the conflict peacefully.&nbsp;

In a recent report, US-based media outlet POLITICO cited United States diplomatic cable and two people familiar with the issue who said that the nation is apparently speeding up its plan to store a more accurate version of its mainstay nuclear weapons at&nbsp;NATO bases in Europe.&nbsp;

The cable revealed that the US officials informed NATO allies this month that the arrival of the upgraded B61-12 air-dropped gravity bomb, which was originally scheduled for next spring, is now planned for this December, the report added.&nbsp;

As quoted by POLITICO, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said via an email, "While we aren't going to discuss details of our nuclear arsenal, modernisation of US B61 nuclear weapons has been underway for years and plans to safely and responsibly swap out older weapons for the upgraded B61-12 versions is part of a long-planned and scheduled modernisation effort. It is in no way linked to current events in Ukraine and was not sped up in any way."

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia rehearses nuclear attack response as tensions rise over dirty bomb blame game&nbsp;

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Rising fears of nuclear weapons' use

On Wednesday, Russia's strategic forces carried out drills, including a test launch of a ballistic missile from a submarine. Not just in the Ukraine war, similar tensions have been simmering in the Korean Peninsula as well, with North Korea continuing with its record pace of weapon testing this year, including the firing of a short-range ballistic missile.&nbsp;

The United States, Japan and South Korea warned Wednesday that a North Korean nuclear test would warrant an "unprecedentedly strong response". They also promised unity after a blitz of missile launches by North Korea.&nbsp;

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The eight-month-old Russia-Ukraine war raised concerns that a nuclear weapon could be deployed that would lead to massive destruction. In the past couple of months, the issue has been raised by world leaders, who are urging Moscow and Kyiv to end the conflict peacefully.

The eight-month-old Russia-Ukraine war raised concerns that a nuclear weapon could be deployed that would lead to massive destruction. In the past couple of months, the issue has been raised by world leaders, who are urging Moscow and Kyiv to end the conflict peacefully. In a recent report, US-based media outlet POLITICO cited United States diplomatic cable and two people familiar with the issue who said that the nation is apparently speeding up its plan to store a more accurate version of its mainstay nuclear weapons at NATO bases in Europe. The cable revealed that the US officials informed NATO allies this month that the arrival of the upgraded B61-12 air-dropped gravity bomb, which was originally scheduled for next spring, is now planned for this December, the report added. As quoted by POLITICO, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said via an email, "While we aren't going to discuss details of our nuclear arsenal, modernisation of US B61 nuclear weapons has been underway for years and plans to safely and responsibly swap out older weapons for the upgraded B61-12 versions is part of a long-planned and scheduled modernisation effort. It is in no way linked to current events in Ukraine and was not sped up in any way." WATCH | Russia rehearses nuclear attack response as tensions rise over dirty bomb blame game × Rising fears of nuclear weapons' use On Wednesday, Russia's strategic forces carried out drills, including a test launch of a ballistic missile from a submarine. Not just in the Ukraine war, similar tensions have been simmering in the Korean Peninsula as well, with North Korea continuing with its record pace of weapon testing this year, including the firing of a short-range ballistic missile. The United States, Japan and South Korea warned Wednesday that a North Korean nuclear test would warrant an "unprecedentedly strong response". They also promised unity after a blitz of missile launches by North Korea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade its nukes at NATO bases in Europe?

The United States has planned to store upgraded nuclear warheads in Europe. Experts say the move can mount tensions in Europe. 100 bombs are already stored in NATO bases in Europe.

U.S. speeds up plans to store upgraded nukes in Europe

In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police.

After being detained on 13&nbsp;September in Tehran for wearing "wrong apparel," Amini passed away three days later in the hospital. This death sparked waves of protests that resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people, including teenage females.

At the US&nbsp;National Mall, thousands of women and men of all ages — donning green, white and red, the colors of the Iran flag — chanted. "Be scared. Be scared. We are one in this," some shouted, ahead of the group's march to the White House. "Say her name! Mahsa!"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-again-rejects-ukraine-drone-claims-slams-west-over-provocative-approaches-527626">Iran rejects Ukraine drone claims yet again, slams West over 'provocative approaches'</a>

Iranians from all over the Washington, D.C., area attended the demonstrations, some of whom travelled from Toronto to participate. They were organised by grassroots activists from across the United States.

The largest concentration of Iranians outside of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-iranian-troops-assisting-russia-in-use-of-kamikaze-drones-527345">Iran</a> can be seen in Los Angeles, where a crowd of demonstrators formed a slow-moving procession along blocks of a closed downtown roadway. They waved hundreds of Iranian flags at the horizon, turning it into an undulating wave of red, white, and green as they yelled for the overthrow of the Iranian regime.

Nearly 40,000 people showed up in Berlin to offer support for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-sworn-in-as-italys-first-woman-prime-minister-527605">women</a> and activists who have been spearheading the movement in Iran for the past several weeks.

The Woman's Life Freedom Collective organised the demonstrations in Berlin, which started near the Victory Column in the Tiergarten park and continued as a march through the heart of the city.

Thousands of people showed up in Paris to support Iranian citizens.

Iranians, French feminist organisations, and politicians were among those who gathered at Republique Plaza in October before leading a march through eastern Paris.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police.

In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police. After being detained on 13 September in Tehran for wearing "wrong apparel," Amini passed away three days later in the hospital. This death sparked waves of protests that resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people, including teenage females. At the US National Mall, thousands of women and men of all ages — donning green, white and red, the colors of the Iran flag — chanted. "Be scared. Be scared. We are one in this," some shouted, ahead of the group's march to the White House. "Say her name! Mahsa!" Also read | Iran rejects Ukraine drone claims yet again, slams West over 'provocative approaches' Iranians from all over the Washington, D.C., area attended the demonstrations, some of whom travelled from Toronto to participate. They were organised by grassroots activists from across the United States. The largest concentration of Iranians outside of Iran can be seen in Los Angeles, where a crowd of demonstrators formed a slow-moving procession along blocks of a closed downtown roadway. They waved hundreds of Iranian flags at the horizon, turning it into an undulating wave of red, white, and green as they yelled for the overthrow of the Iranian regime. Nearly 40,000 people showed up in Berlin to offer support for the women and activists who have been spearheading the movement in Iran for the past several weeks. The Woman's Life Freedom Collective organised the demonstrations in Berlin, which started near the Victory Column in the Tiergarten park and continued as a march through the heart of the city. Thousands of people showed up in Paris to support Iranian citizens. Iranians, French feminist organisations, and politicians were among those who gathered at Republique Plaza in October before leading a march through eastern Paris. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thousands march in US, Europe to support Iran's anti-hijab protests

High inflation is taking a toll on Europe. To reduce the pressure, some EU members want to impose a cap on the price of imported gas. But the latest summit in Brussels could not break the stalemate.

WION Fineprint:  EU can't agree on a gas price cap

EU members participate in a two-day summit in Brussels, with an agenda to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war, Europe's energy crisis and its relationship with China. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | The EU's relationship with China

Germany has urged a "strong answer" from the European Union against US' huge spending on climate protection initiatives, warning that they could draw investors away from Europe.

WION Climate Tracker: Germany seeks 'strong answer' against US climate spending

China has told its state-owned gas importers to stop reselling LNG to Europe and Asia the move has not been made public yet American Media reports quoted some Chinese officials they say the decision was taken to ensure that the demands of its own people are met first.

Europe stares at tough winter as China bans LNG supply

European Union is grappling with an economic conundrum. According to a Eurostat report released on Wednesday, inflation hit an average of 10.9 per cent across the 27-nation bloc in September, up&nbsp;0.8 per cent from the record set in August.&nbsp;

The report by the EU's statistics office added that the annual rate of inflation in the Eurozone was 9.9 per cent in September, compared to 9.1 per cent in August.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-economy-live-updates-october-19-asian-shares-were-mostly-higher-but-hong-kong-stocks-drop-at-open-526612">Read more:&nbsp;Global Economy LIVE updates (October 19): EU inflation rose to 10.9% in September</a>

Notably, last month, 19 eurozone countries reported double-digit overall inflation. Meanwhile, former EU member, Britain's inflation rose to a 40-year high in September, rising above 10 per cent on soaring food prices, official data released on Wednesday revealed.&nbsp;

The September rate matched the level in July and is the highest in 40 years as a result also of sky-high energy bills.

"I understand that families across the country are struggling with rising prices and higher energy bills," Britain's new finance minister Jeremy Hunt said in a separate statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-inflation-accelerates-to-40-year-high-amid-rising-food-prices-526733">Read more:&nbsp;UK inflation accelerates to 40-year high amid rising food prices</a>

The situation in the continent has been exacerbated by the eight-month-long Russia-Ukraine war. Moscow has stopped the supply of natural gas through its Nord Stream pipeline and the immediate effect has been the jacked-up fuel prices.

With the winter season fast approaching and utility bills soaring, inflation has gone up manifolds. Most of the countries across Europe do not have energy reserves that can last them the entire season.&nbsp;

Thus, inflation is expected to rapidly climb in the coming weeks. The banks have been increasing interest rates to arrest the slide but so far, it has had little to no influence on the ground.&nbsp;

The EU leaders on Tuesday convened and proposed a $39.2 billion package to aid small and medium-sized firms battling the energy crisis. However, it ought to be an entirely different conversation if the proposal receives the nod of all 27 countries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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European Union is grappling with an economic conundrum. According to a Eurostat report released on Wednesday, inflation hit an average of 10.9 per cent across the 27-nation bloc in September, up 0.

European Union is grappling with an economic conundrum. According to a Eurostat report released on Wednesday, inflation hit an average of 10.9 per cent across the 27-nation bloc in September, up 0.8 per cent from the record set in August. The report by the EU's statistics office added that the annual rate of inflation in the Eurozone was 9.9 per cent in September, compared to 9.1 per cent in August. Read more: Global Economy LIVE updates (October 19): EU inflation rose to 10.9% in September Notably, last month, 19 eurozone countries reported double-digit overall inflation. Meanwhile, former EU member, Britain's inflation rose to a 40-year high in September, rising above 10 per cent on soaring food prices, official data released on Wednesday revealed. The September rate matched the level in July and is the highest in 40 years as a result also of sky-high energy bills. "I understand that families across the country are struggling with rising prices and higher energy bills," Britain's new finance minister Jeremy Hunt said in a separate statement. Read more: UK inflation accelerates to 40-year high amid rising food prices The situation in the continent has been exacerbated by the eight-month-long Russia-Ukraine war. Moscow has stopped the supply of natural gas through its Nord Stream pipeline and the immediate effect has been the jacked-up fuel prices. With the winter season fast approaching and utility bills soaring, inflation has gone up manifolds. Most of the countries across Europe do not have energy reserves that can last them the entire season. Thus, inflation is expected to rapidly climb in the coming weeks. The banks have been increasing interest rates to arrest the slide but so far, it has had little to no influence on the ground. The EU leaders on Tuesday convened and proposed a $39.2 billion package to aid small and medium-sized firms battling the energy crisis. However, it ought to be an entirely different conversation if the proposal receives the nod of all 27 countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

European Union's inflation average hits 10.9% in September

The Russia-Ukraine war is intensifying. The conflict is posing a greater risk of a Nuclear Armageddon. The west has warned against taking nuclear threats by Vladimir Putin lightly. Amid all the geopolitical tensions, have a look at countries that have deployed or possess nuclear weapons in Europe.

Which countries in Europe have Nuclear weapons? Has U.S. also deployed nuclear warheads in Europe?

Europe might one day be powered by giant floating solar panels orbiting the planet. The European space agency has unveiled a plan to capture the sun's energy in space and beam it back down to earth.

WION Climate Tracker: European city’s aim to develop a solar farm in space

Some European nations like Greece are rapidly moving away from fossil fuels and to its cheaper and greener renewable electricity. The Greek electrical system has hit a new milestone after running completely on clean renewable energy.

WION Climate Tracker: Greek electric grid runs on 100% green energy for first time

Austria is electing its next president and the counting is almost over. Exit polls showing a second six-year term for Alexander Van Der Bellen. He has received just over 56% of the votes.

Austria presidential election: Van Der Bellen says 'Europe has won'

A new Covid-19 wave appears to be looming over Europe and as winter is arriving public health experts are warning about potential vaccine shortages. Experts also say that there is also confusion over types of vaccines available.

WION Fineprint: Covid hospitalisations in UK jump to 45%

The leaders of more than 40 countries that support Ukraine over its attempts to fend off Russia's invasion attended a summit in Prague, what many said was a united stand against Russia's war on Ukraine.

European leaders meet in Prague in show of unity against Russia

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (October 7) signed an executive order, which is designed to protect the privacy of personal data transfers between the EU and America.

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (October 7) signed an executive order, which is designed to protect the privacy of personal data transfers between the EU and America. The order will also address European concerns about US intelligence collection activities. While responding, the European Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders said that the signature "marks a significant step in our determination to restore safe and free transatlantic data flows". Reynders tweeted: "Today’s signing of the Executive Order by @POTUS marks a significant step in our determination to restore safe & free transatlantic data flows. Thank you @SecRaimondo & AG Garland for the excellent collaboration. We will now start the work for proposing a new #AdequacyDecision". Today’s signing of the Executive Order by @POTUS marks a significant step in our determination to restore safe & free transatlantic data flows. Thank you @SecRaimondo & AG Garland for the excellent collaboration. We will now start the work for proposing a new #AdequacyDecision pic.twitter.com/mUTPrvkaTb — Didier Reynders (@dreynders) October 7, 2022 × The White House said that the presidential order provides a new legal foundation for trans-Atlantic data flows, which are vital to the digital economy. Now the next process is expected to take several months as the order will be subject to review and ratification by the European Commission. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters: "This is a culmination of our joint efforts to restore trust and stability to trans-Atlantic data flows. It will enable a continued flow of data that underpins more than a trillion dollars in cross-border trade and investment every year." ALSO READ | Nobel Peace Prize 2022 winners: Who are the human rights activists in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine? WATCH | WION Dispatch: Israel rejects Lebanon's maritime deal × What was the need for such an order? The executive order addresses issues that the Court of Justice of the European Union raised when it determined that the earlier Privacy Shield structure did not offer sufficient security, the White House said. US tech giants have faced a barrage of lawsuits from EU privacy activists concerned about the ability of US intelligence services to access the personal data of Europeans. Europe's top court has invalidated previous arrangements after hearing complaints that US laws violate the fundamental rights of EU citizens. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

President Joe Biden signs executive order to implement US-EU data privacy framework

Europe's fresh Covid wave; booster campaign makes a slow start

Stretching from Iceland to Turkey, the leaders of the 44 European countries are now meeting in Prague. The agenda of the meeting is to build a new order and take a united stand against Russia's war in Ukraine.

European club seeks 'new order' without Russia, 44 countries meet in Prague

France&nbsp;will turn off the hot water in the toilets of public buildings and order municipalities to reduce water temperatures at public swimming pools by one degree Celsius as part of broader plans to reduce energy consumption, the energy ministry said.

President Emmanuel Macron's government is due to announce sector-by-sector energy saving measures on Thursday designed to avoid power outages or shortfalls in gas supplies during the winter.

It has tasked industry, households, and municipal authorities to trim their energy consumption by 10 per cent&nbsp;&nbsp;in response to Russia's cut to gas supplies and spiralling energy prices.

Le Parisien newspaper reported that hot water production in administration buildings alone accounts for 10 per cent of the energy bill of the French state, which employs over five million people.

With an energy crisis looming over Europe,&nbsp;France&nbsp;has made "la sobriete energetique" (energy efficiency) its central policy pillar to avoiding over-straining the country's power grid, which is also beset by nuclear reactor outages.

Watch |&nbsp;Europe's cost of living crisis worsens; demand for yurts rise in Hungary

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"The government will ask public-sector workers to travel by train rather than by plane for journeys under four hours,"&nbsp;a government source told Reuters.

An adviser to the transport minister said the ministry was working on a plan to offer people using car-sharing financial benefits.

The government will also launch a public communication campaign to urge citizens to save energy in all aspects of their everyday life.

Macron has also pledged to reduce&nbsp;France's energy consumption by 40% by 2050 to live up to promises made in international accords to fight climate change.

"This requires a lasting change in our habits and behaviour,"&nbsp;the energy ministry said in a statement ahead of Thursday's announcements.

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France will turn off the hot water in the toilets of public buildings and order municipalities to reduce water temperatures at public swimming pools by one degree Celsius as part of broader plans to reduce energy consumption, the energy ministry said.

France will turn off the hot water in the toilets of public buildings and order municipalities to reduce water temperatures at public swimming pools by one degree Celsius as part of broader plans to reduce energy consumption, the energy ministry said. President Emmanuel Macron's government is due to announce sector-by-sector energy saving measures on Thursday designed to avoid power outages or shortfalls in gas supplies during the winter. It has tasked industry, households, and municipal authorities to trim their energy consumption by 10 per cent in response to Russia's cut to gas supplies and spiralling energy prices. Le Parisien newspaper reported that hot water production in administration buildings alone accounts for 10 per cent of the energy bill of the French state, which employs over five million people. With an energy crisis looming over Europe, France has made "la sobriete energetique" (energy efficiency) its central policy pillar to avoiding over-straining the country's power grid, which is also beset by nuclear reactor outages. Watch | Europe's cost of living crisis worsens; demand for yurts rise in Hungary "The government will ask public-sector workers to travel by train rather than by plane for journeys under four hours," a government source told Reuters. An adviser to the transport minister said the ministry was working on a plan to offer people using car-sharing financial benefits. The government will also launch a public communication campaign to urge citizens to save energy in all aspects of their everyday life. Macron has also pledged to reduce France's energy consumption by 40% by 2050 to live up to promises made in international accords to fight climate change. "This requires a lasting change in our habits and behaviour," the energy ministry said in a statement ahead of Thursday's announcements. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

France to turn off hot water in public offices to save energy, cut down bills

The European Union's Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has said that Europe has experienced its worst bird flu crisis ever. The agency added that persistence of the virus may cause widespread infections next season. Nearly 50 million poultry birds have been culled in the continent.&nbsp;

Spread of bird flu, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), has been a cause of concern for governments and the poultry industry. The disease can cause devastation to flocks and also raises possibility of trade restrictions and human transmission.

An unprecedented number of outbreaks were reported in wild and domestic birds this summer, causing massive mortality among sea bird breeding colonies on the north Atlantic coast according to a joint overview by the EFSA, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the EU reference laboratory.

Bird flu usually hits during autumn and winter months. It is transmitted by infected migrating wild birds' faeces or direct contact with contaminated feed, clothing and equipment.

"As autumn migration begins and the number of wild birds wintering in Europe increases, they are likely at higher risk of HPAI infection than previous years due to the observed persistence of the virus in Europe," Guilhem de Seze, a senior official at the EFSA, said in a statement on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union's Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has said that Europe has experienced its worst bird flu crisis ever. The agency added that persistence of the virus may cause widespread infections next season.

The European Union's Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has said that Europe has experienced its worst bird flu crisis ever. The agency added that persistence of the virus may cause widespread infections next season. Nearly 50 million poultry birds have been culled in the continent. Spread of bird flu, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), has been a cause of concern for governments and the poultry industry. The disease can cause devastation to flocks and also raises possibility of trade restrictions and human transmission. An unprecedented number of outbreaks were reported in wild and domestic birds this summer, causing massive mortality among sea bird breeding colonies on the north Atlantic coast according to a joint overview by the EFSA, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the EU reference laboratory. Bird flu usually hits during autumn and winter months. It is transmitted by infected migrating wild birds' faeces or direct contact with contaminated feed, clothing and equipment. "As autumn migration begins and the number of wild birds wintering in Europe increases, they are likely at higher risk of HPAI infection than previous years due to the observed persistence of the virus in Europe," Guilhem de Seze, a senior official at the EFSA, said in a statement on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bird flu crisis in Europe termed worst ever

There is a growing concern about increase in bird flu cases. France has raised its bird flu alert level, restrictions have been imposed in parts of the UK, penguins are dying in South Africa. Should you be worried? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Growing concern over bird flu cases in Europe, U.K.

According to forecasting models created by the EU's meteorological office, Europe is set to have a cooler, drier, and less windy early winter, as the UK energy regulator warned there is a "significant risk" of gas shortages this winter.

Will Colder early winter in Europe worsen the cost of living crisis?

A fourth leak has been detected on the Nord Stream gas pipelines. European leaders say the gas pipelines were sabotaged. Russia says the leaks appear to be an act of "state-sponsored terrorism". Who is right? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Fourth leak found on Nord Stream pipelines

Europe has been facing the ripple effects of Russian invasion of Ukraine and the energy prices are on the rise. Price of heating systems have surged drastically in Hungary and Hungarian camera technician forced to live in a yurt.

Europe's cost of living crisis worsens; demand for yurts rise in Hungary

The Nord Stream's operator&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;(September 29) said that it is difficult&nbsp;to instantly analyse the damage to the pipes connecting Russia to Europe. The operator said that it intends to start examining the damage to the pipeline as soon as it receives permission from officials.

Sweden recently discovered a fourth leak and NATO denounced "acts of sabotage." There have been three leaks noted. Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the North Stream 1 and 2 pipelines as Russia halted gas supplies to Russia following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fourth-leak-found-on-nord-stream-pipelines-says-swedish-coast-guard-520806">Also read |&nbsp;Fourth leak detected in Nord Stream pipelines, says Swedish coast guard</a>

The operator stated it is impossible to predict the timeframe for restoration of the gas transmission structure until the damage assessment is finished.

The damage has been remade as an act of deliberate, reckless by NATO. The Western alliance issued a warning and committed to "prepare for, deter, and defend against the coercive use of energy and other hybrid tactics. Any deliberate attack against the Allies' critical infrastructure would be met with a united and determined response," AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-leak-more-than-half-of-gas-in-pipelines-has-escaped-says-denmark-520624">Also read |&nbsp;Nord Stream leak: More than half of gas in pipelines has escaped, says Denmark</a>

Russia, on the other hand, indicated that a foreign state is likely to be to blame for the blasts and denied being behind them. It further asserted on Wednesday that Washington should provide an explanation if it was responsible for the leaks; the US deemed this claim to be "ridiculous."

The pipelines still have gas in them even though they aren't in use right now. It is hard to instantly investigate the structures because of the massive leaks, which have created undersea gas plumes and substantial bubbling at the sea's surface several hundred metres wide.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Nord Stream's operator on Thursday (September 29) said that it is difficult to instantly analyse the damage to the pipes connecting Russia to Europe. The operator said that it intends to start examining the damage to the pipeline as soon as it receives permission from officials.

The Nord Stream's operator on Thursday (September 29) said that it is difficult to instantly analyse the damage to the pipes connecting Russia to Europe. The operator said that it intends to start examining the damage to the pipeline as soon as it receives permission from officials. Sweden recently discovered a fourth leak and NATO denounced "acts of sabotage." There have been three leaks noted. Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the North Stream 1 and 2 pipelines as Russia halted gas supplies to Russia following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Fourth leak detected in Nord Stream pipelines, says Swedish coast guard The operator stated it is impossible to predict the timeframe for restoration of the gas transmission structure until the damage assessment is finished. The damage has been remade as an act of deliberate, reckless by NATO. The Western alliance issued a warning and committed to "prepare for, deter, and defend against the coercive use of energy and other hybrid tactics. Any deliberate attack against the Allies' critical infrastructure would be met with a united and determined response," AFP reported. Also read | Nord Stream leak: More than half of gas in pipelines has escaped, says Denmark Russia, on the other hand, indicated that a foreign state is likely to be to blame for the blasts and denied being behind them. It further asserted on Wednesday that Washington should provide an explanation if it was responsible for the leaks; the US deemed this claim to be "ridiculous." The pipelines still have gas in them even though they aren't in use right now. It is hard to instantly investigate the structures because of the massive leaks, which have created undersea gas plumes and substantial bubbling at the sea's surface several hundred metres wide. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nord Stream leaks: No timeframe for fixing the pipelines, says operator

Once unthinkable, mobile phones could go dark around Europe this winter if power cuts or energy rationing knocks out parts of the mobile networks across the region.

Russia's decision to halt gas supplies via Europe's key supply route in the wake of the Ukraine conflict has increased the chances of power shortages. In France, the situation is made worse by several nuclear power plants shutting down for maintenance.

Telecoms industry officials say they fear a severe winter will put Europe's telecoms infrastructure to the test, forcing companies and governments to try to mitigate the impact.

Currently there are not enough back-up systems in many European countries to handle widespread power cuts, four telecoms executives said, raising the prospect of mobile phone outages.

European Union countries, including France, Sweden and Germany, are trying to ensure communications can continue even if power cuts end up exhausting back-up batteries installed on the thousands of cellular antennas spread across their territory.

Europe has nearly half a million telecom towers and most of them have battery backups that last around 30 minutes to run the mobile antennas.

FRANCE

In France, a plan put forward by electricity distributor Enedis, includes potential power cuts of up to two hours in a worst case scenario, two sources familiar with the matter said.

The general black-outs would affect only parts of the country on a rotating basis. Essential services such as hospitals, police and government will not be impacted, the sources said.

The French government, telecoms operators and Enedis, a unit of state-controlled utility EDF, have held talks on the issue over the summer, the French government and the sources said.

The French Federation of Telecoms (FFT), a lobby group representing Orange, Bouygues Telecom and Altice's SFR, put the spotlight on Enedis for being unable to exempt antennas from the power cuts.

Enedis declined to comment on the content of the talks held with the government on the matter.

Enedis said in a statement to Reuters all regular customers were treated on an equal footing in the event of exceptional outages.

It said it was able to isolate sections of the network to supply priority customers, such as hospitals, key industrial installations and the military and that it was up to local authorities to add telecoms operators infrastructure to the list of priority customers.

"Maybe we'll improve our knowledge on the matter by this winter, but it's not easy to isolate a mobile antenna (from the rest of the network)," said a French finance ministry official with knowledge of the talks.

A French finance ministry spokesperson declined to comment on the talks with Enedis, the telecoms groups and the government.

SWEDEN, GERMANY &amp; ITALY

Telcos in Sweden and Germany have also raised concerns over potential electricity shortages with their governments, several sources familiar with the matter said.

Swedish telecom regulator PTS is working with telecom operators and other government agencies to find solutions, it said. That includes talks about what will happen if electricity is rationed.

PTS is financing the purchase of transportable fuel stations and mobile base stations that connect to mobile phones to handle longer power outages, a PTS spokesperson said.

The Italian telecoms lobby told Reuters it wants the mobile network to be excluded from any power cut or energy saving stoppage and will raise this with Italy's new government.

The power outages increase the probability of electronic components failing if subjected to abrupt interruptions, telecoms lobby chief Massimo Sarmi said in an interview.

TRAFFIC FLOW

Telecom gear makers Nokia and Ericsson are working with mobile operators to mitigate the impact of a power shortage, three sources familiar with the matter said.&nbsp;

Both companies declined to comment.

The European telecom operators must review their networks to reduce extra power usage and modernise their equipment by using more power efficient radio designs, the four telecom executives said.

To save power, telecom companies are using software to optimise traffic flow, make towers "sleep" when not in use and switch off different spectrum bands, the sources familiar with the matter said.

The telecom operators are also working with national governments to check if plans are in place to maintain critical services.&nbsp;

In Germany, Deutsche Telekom has 33,000 mobile radio sites (towers) and its mobile emergency power systems can only support a small number of them at the same time, a company spokesperson said.

Deutsche Telekom will use mobile emergency power systems which mainly rely on diesel in the event of prolonged power failures, it said.

France has about 62,000 mobile towers, and the industry will not be able to equip all antennas with new batteries, the FFT's president Liza Bellulo said.

Accustomed to uninterrupted power supply for decades, European countries usually do not have generators backing up power for longer durations.

"We are a bit spoiled maybe in large parts of Europe where electricity is pretty stable and good," a telecom industry executive said. "The investments in the energy storage area have maybe been less than in some other countries."

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Once unthinkable, mobile phones could go dark around Europe this winter if power cuts or energy rationing knocks out parts of the mobile networks across the region.

Once unthinkable, mobile phones could go dark around Europe this winter if power cuts or energy rationing knocks out parts of the mobile networks across the region. Russia's decision to halt gas supplies via Europe's key supply route in the wake of the Ukraine conflict has increased the chances of power shortages. In France, the situation is made worse by several nuclear power plants shutting down for maintenance. Telecoms industry officials say they fear a severe winter will put Europe's telecoms infrastructure to the test, forcing companies and governments to try to mitigate the impact. Currently there are not enough back-up systems in many European countries to handle widespread power cuts, four telecoms executives said, raising the prospect of mobile phone outages. European Union countries, including France, Sweden and Germany, are trying to ensure communications can continue even if power cuts end up exhausting back-up batteries installed on the thousands of cellular antennas spread across their territory. Europe has nearly half a million telecom towers and most of them have battery backups that last around 30 minutes to run the mobile antennas. FRANCE In France, a plan put forward by electricity distributor Enedis, includes potential power cuts of up to two hours in a worst case scenario, two sources familiar with the matter said. The general black-outs would affect only parts of the country on a rotating basis. Essential services such as hospitals, police and government will not be impacted, the sources said. The French government, telecoms operators and Enedis, a unit of state-controlled utility EDF, have held talks on the issue over the summer, the French government and the sources said. The French Federation of Telecoms (FFT), a lobby group representing Orange, Bouygues Telecom and Altice's SFR, put the spotlight on Enedis for being unable to exempt antennas from the power cuts. Enedis declined to comment on the content of the talks held with the government on the matter. Enedis said in a statement to Reuters all regular customers were treated on an equal footing in the event of exceptional outages. It said it was able to isolate sections of the network to supply priority customers, such as hospitals, key industrial installations and the military and that it was up to local authorities to add telecoms operators infrastructure to the list of priority customers. "Maybe we'll improve our knowledge on the matter by this winter, but it's not easy to isolate a mobile antenna (from the rest of the network)," said a French finance ministry official with knowledge of the talks. A French finance ministry spokesperson declined to comment on the talks with Enedis, the telecoms groups and the government. SWEDEN, GERMANY & ITALY Telcos in Sweden and Germany have also raised concerns over potential electricity shortages with their governments, several sources familiar with the matter said. Swedish telecom regulator PTS is working with telecom operators and other government agencies to find solutions, it said. That includes talks about what will happen if electricity is rationed. PTS is financing the purchase of transportable fuel stations and mobile base stations that connect to mobile phones to handle longer power outages, a PTS spokesperson said. The Italian telecoms lobby told Reuters it wants the mobile network to be excluded from any power cut or energy saving stoppage and will raise this with Italy's new government. The power outages increase the probability of electronic components failing if subjected to abrupt interruptions, telecoms lobby chief Massimo Sarmi said in an interview. TRAFFIC FLOW Telecom gear makers Nokia and Ericsson are working with mobile operators to mitigate the impact of a power shortage, three sources familiar with the matter said. Both companies declined to comment. The European telecom operators must review their networks to reduce extra power usage and modernise their equipment by using more power efficient radio designs, the four telecom executives said. To save power, telecom companies are using software to optimise traffic flow, make towers "sleep" when not in use and switch off different spectrum bands, the sources familiar with the matter said. The telecom operators are also working with national governments to check if plans are in place to maintain critical services. In Germany, Deutsche Telekom has 33,000 mobile radio sites (towers) and its mobile emergency power systems can only support a small number of them at the same time, a company spokesperson said. Deutsche Telekom will use mobile emergency power systems which mainly rely on diesel in the event of prolonged power failures, it said. France has about 62,000 mobile towers, and the industry will not be able to equip all antennas with new batteries, the FFT's president Liza Bellulo said. Accustomed to uninterrupted power supply for decades, European countries usually do not have generators backing up power for longer durations. "We are a bit spoiled maybe in large parts of Europe where electricity is pretty stable and good," a telecom industry executive said. "The investments in the energy storage area have maybe been less than in some other countries." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Europe braces for mobile network blackouts - sources

Injuries&nbsp;across&nbsp;Europe's&nbsp;top&nbsp;five&nbsp;leagues&nbsp;rose by&nbsp;20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in the 2021/22 season, according to a study published on Wednesday, as arguments intensify over&nbsp;football's congested calendar ahead of the World Cup.

The study by insurance brokers Howden found clubs paid a record-high price for&nbsp;injuries&nbsp;of £513 million ($550 million) last season. Injury&nbsp;cost was calculated by multiplying the cost per day of a player by the number of days they were unavailable because of an&nbsp;injury.

World players' union FIFPRO says structures must be put in place to limit player workloads. For the first time this year a European campaign will be interrupted by a mid-season World Cup, causing further fixture congestion either side of the tournament in Qatar, which starts on November&nbsp;20.

European governing body UEFA has increased the number of competitive games with the addition of the Nations League to the international schedule and is expanding European club competitions from 2024. World governing body FIFA is set to follow suit, with the World Cup expanded to 48 teams from 2026.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messi-nearly-taken-down-by-security-as-he-tries-to-sign-pitch-invaders-bare-back-in-usa-520535">WATCH: Lionel Messi nearly taken down by security as he tries to sign pitch invader's bare back in USA</a>

The Premier League had the highest&nbsp;injury&nbsp;cost of any of the&nbsp;top&nbsp;five divisions at nearly £185 million, with La Liga in Spain a distant second on £109 million. French champions Paris Saint-Germain had the highest&nbsp;injury&nbsp;cost of any club in&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;at £34 million.

Injuries&nbsp;in the Premier League were&nbsp;up&nbsp;to 1,231 in 2021/22, compared to 938 the season before. The permanent adoption of five substitutions per side by&nbsp;football's lawmakers IFAB is designed to lessen the load on players.

But FIFPRO is urging FIFA to go further by mandating minimum rest periods of four weeks in the off-season and a mid-season break of two weeks for each player.

Injuries across Europe's top five leagues rose by 20 per cent in the 2021/22 season, according to a study published on Wednesday, as arguments intensify over football's congested calendar ahead of the World Cup.

Injuries across Europe's top five leagues rose by 20 per cent in the 2021/22 season, according to a study published on Wednesday, as arguments intensify over football's congested calendar ahead of the World Cup. The study by insurance brokers Howden found clubs paid a record-high price for injuries of £513 million ($550 million) last season. Injury cost was calculated by multiplying the cost per day of a player by the number of days they were unavailable because of an injury. World players' union FIFPRO says structures must be put in place to limit player workloads. For the first time this year a European campaign will be interrupted by a mid-season World Cup, causing further fixture congestion either side of the tournament in Qatar, which starts on November 20. European governing body UEFA has increased the number of competitive games with the addition of the Nations League to the international schedule and is expanding European club competitions from 2024. World governing body FIFA is set to follow suit, with the World Cup expanded to 48 teams from 2026. ALSO READ | WATCH: Lionel Messi nearly taken down by security as he tries to sign pitch invader's bare back in USA The Premier League had the highest injury cost of any of the top five divisions at nearly £185 million, with La Liga in Spain a distant second on £109 million. French champions Paris Saint-Germain had the highest injury cost of any club in Europe at £34 million. Injuries in the Premier League were up to 1,231 in 2021/22, compared to 938 the season before. The permanent adoption of five substitutions per side by football's lawmakers IFAB is designed to lessen the load on players. But FIFPRO is urging FIFA to go further by mandating minimum rest periods of four weeks in the off-season and a mid-season break of two weeks for each player.

Football injuries 'up 20%' across Europe's top leagues in 2021-22 season: Study

Unexplained leaks in the Nord Stream pipelines 1 and 2 that carries gas from Russia to Europe into the Baltic Sea continue to worry leaders across the globe. The gas leaks as a result of suspected sabotage has also heightened security concerns.

Fourth leak detected in Nord Stream pipelines; UN to convene on Friday over pipeline leaks

Europe considers charging American tech giants for the amount of internet bandwidth they use. The EU wants technology companies to pay for upgrading internet infrastructure. Molly Gambhir tells you about what Europe plans to do.

WION Fineprint: Europe considers charging big tech firms for their usage of internet bandwidth

A series of unexpected leaks on two natural gas pipelines running from Russia under the Baltic Sea to Germany triggered concerns about sabotage Tuesday. The pipelines have been at the center of an energy war between Europe and Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in late February.

Leaks in Nord stream gas pipelines raises Europe's concerns about sabotage

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Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade its nukes at NATO bases in Europe?

U.S. speeds up plans to store upgraded nukes in Europe

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WION Climate Tracker: Greek electric grid runs on 100% green energy for first time

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European leaders meet in Prague in show of unity against Russia

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