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Gravitas: Europe wants to neutralise Chinese debt traps

European countries desperate for a long-term and reliable source of energy to help reach ambitious climate goals are turning to an answer that caused earlier generations to shudder: nuclear power.

Poland wants a fleet of smaller nuclear power stations to help end its reliance on coal. Britain is betting on Rolls-Royce to produce cheap modular reactors to complement wind and solar energy. And in France, President Emmanuel Macron plans to build on the nation’s huge nuclear program.

As world leaders pledge to avert a climate catastrophe, the nuclear industry sees an opportunity for a revival. Sidelined for years after the disasters at Fukushima and Chernobyl, advocates are wrangling to win recognition of nuclear energy, alongside solar and wind, as an acceptable source of clean power.

More than half a dozen European countries recently announced plans to build a new generation of nuclear reactors. Some are smaller and cheaper than older designs, occupying the space of two football fields and costing a fraction of the price of standard nuclear plants. The Biden administration is also backing such technology as a tool of “mass decarbonization” for the United States.

“Nuclear is going mainstream in the climate movement,” said Kirsty Gogan, a member of Britain’s Nuclear Innovation Research and Advisory Board and a founder of TerraPraxis, a nonprofit that supports nuclear energy in the shift to a green economy. “This is a critical decade, and I think we’re going to see real change.”

But not everyone is buying the idea that nuclear is a solution to climate change.

Ten years ago, a few months after an earthquake and tsunami caused a meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan, which forced the evacuation of over 150,000 people, the German government announced it would gradually shut down its nuclear program. Now Germany is at the head of a group of nations that want to defuse efforts to include more nuclear power in Europe’s green energy mix. They are worried about a proliferation of nuclear plants on European soil, and the radioactive waste they produce.

The pushback is creating tensions with France, Europe’s largest nuclear energy producer, which has forged an unusual alliance with Eastern European countries that want to attract more investment for nuclear power, including Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Romania.

The group is pressing the European Union to classify nuclear energy as a “sustainable” investment, a move that would unlock billions of euros of state aid and investment from pension funds, banks and other investors seeking to put money in environmental causes. Austria, Denmark, Luxembourg and Spain have joined Germany in trying to beat back the initiative in Brussels.

The nuclear industry’s main selling point is a technology involving scaled-down plants, or small modular reactors, that supporters say are safe, cheap and efficient. The argument is that wind and solar power alone won’t be enough to help countries meet the goals outlined at the U.N. climate summit this month in Glasgow, Scotland.

Nearly 200 countries at the conference pledged new efforts to prevent Earth from heating more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, compared with preindustrial levels. Past that threshold, the risk of deadly heat waves and storms, water scarcity and ecosystem collapse escalates immensely, scientists warn.

But countries are falling far short even as they step up investments in wind and solar power, whose output varies with the elements. The reopening of the global economy from the coronavirus pandemic caused a recent spike in energy prices and set European governments scrambling to secure alternative supplies of power.

Nuclear advocates say that experience shows the need for a new generation of nuclear power.

“Nuclear has a really important role to play in getting to net zero for many countries,” said Tom Samson, chief executive of Rolls-Royce SMR, which has been working for six years on a commercial small modular nuclear reactor design — and feels its moment has arrived.

Rolls-Royce, which announced the venture this month, is jumping into a multibillion-dollar market for small nuclear reactors, competing with companies like NuScale, GE Hitachi and TerraPower (which has Bill Gates as its chairman) in the United States; Électricité de France, the French state-owned power company; China’s National Nuclear Corp.; and KEPCO in South Korea.

Samson pitches the venture as a new approach to an industry notorious for delays and cost overruns, and mostly avoided by investors. Rolls-Royce, which makes jet engines and supplies the power plant for the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet, hopes to build 16 of the plants in Britain and generate export sales as well.

The cookie-cutter components will be factory-built and transportable by truck or ship. Initially the plants are expected to cost 2.2 billion pounds ($3 billion) each, compared with an estimated 22.5 billion pound price tag for a full-size plant now under construction in western England.

Drawings of the Rolls-Royce reactor show a compact, futuristic building in a verdant landscape. One reactor would have roughly one-seventh the output of the largest modern nuclear stations and could power 1 million homes.

Labor unions in Britain and Europe back the initiatives, arguing that nuclear plants generate jobs and are preferable to renewable technologies like a solar field, which don’t require many workers to maintain.

Critics say nuclear power is hardly a solution for accelerating the push to net-zero emissions.

For one thing, new nuclear stations, even small ones, will take up to a decade or more to come online, in part because of regulatory requirements, nowhere near fast enough to address a climate emergency. The first Rolls-Royce reactor wouldn’t be in operation until 2031.

And safety questions have lingered after high-profile nuclear accidents, along with unresolved concerns over the storage of radioactive waste.

Croatia is opposing a nuclear reactor project in Slovenia that would deposit some nuclear waste near their border. Germany is objecting to a planned Polish reactor that the German Green party said would most likely contaminate Germany in the event of an accident.

The ability of small nuclear reactors to produce energy quickly or cheaply enough to matter for countries is also unclear, said Mark Hibbs, a senior fellow and a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Hibbs, who is based in Germany, noted that 10 such reactors might be required to do the same job as one large modern nuclear power station.

Said Doug Parr, chief scientist for Greenpeace in Britain: “It doesn’t solve the problems for society; it solves the problems for the nuclear industry.” He added, “They want to come up with a new concept that does not have the bad image of large nuclear.”

Those pushing for a nuclear revival say such concerns are overblown.

In France, Macron this month announced he would reboot the nation’s atomic program to “live up to” France’s commitments to slash carbon emissions. A recent government-commissioned report concluded France probably can’t achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 with only renewable energy.

His government is expected to authorize state-owned Électricité de France to build six new pressurized reactors and spend billions to help EDF produce small modular nuclear reactors by 2030. The work would be a lifeline for EDF, which is over 40 billion euros ($45 billion) in debt after contending with nuclear plant construction delays and cost overruns.

In Eastern Europe, the rush is already underway.

Poland, Romania and Ukraine, long reliant on coal-burning power plants, are among those signing contracts with U.S. and European companies for small-reactor technology. Poland alone plans to build large nuclear reactors and at least half a dozen small ones at coal sites to produce power and create jobs.

“The ability to bring new electric power generation in a shorter time frame and with a lower total project cost is a primary driver,” said John Kotek, vice president for policy development and public affairs at the Nuclear Energy Institute, an industry group in Washington.

Still, Europe’s divide over nuclear power remains sharp enough that policymakers may not be ready to support a nuclear buildup program — even if they sorely want to achieve climate change targets.

“It would be impossible to build any consensus policy in Brussels that would strongly support member states’ investment in nuclear power,” said Hibbs of the Carnegie Endowment. “It would be left up to the national governments to do that.”

But as investors look at where to deploy trillions of dollars in assets in the shift away from fossil fuels, nuclear power is becoming harder to ignore.

“The general consensus in climate circles is nuclear is a clean energy source,” said Marisa Drew, chief sustainability officer at Credit Suisse. “If someone can deliver something that is economically viable and scalable and truly green, and do it in a safe way, then we have to embrace that.”

European countries desperate for a long-term and reliable source of energy to help reach ambitious climate goals are turning to an answer that caused earlier generations to shudder: nuclear power.

European countries desperate for a long-term and reliable source of energy to help reach ambitious climate goals are turning to an answer that caused earlier generations to shudder: nuclear power. Poland wants a fleet of smaller nuclear power stations to help end its reliance on coal. Britain is betting on Rolls-Royce to produce cheap modular reactors to complement wind and solar energy. And in France, President Emmanuel Macron plans to build on the nation’s huge nuclear program. As world leaders pledge to avert a climate catastrophe, the nuclear industry sees an opportunity for a revival. Sidelined for years after the disasters at Fukushima and Chernobyl, advocates are wrangling to win recognition of nuclear energy, alongside solar and wind, as an acceptable source of clean power. More than half a dozen European countries recently announced plans to build a new generation of nuclear reactors. Some are smaller and cheaper than older designs, occupying the space of two football fields and costing a fraction of the price of standard nuclear plants. The Biden administration is also backing such technology as a tool of “mass decarbonization” for the United States. “Nuclear is going mainstream in the climate movement,” said Kirsty Gogan, a member of Britain’s Nuclear Innovation Research and Advisory Board and a founder of TerraPraxis, a nonprofit that supports nuclear energy in the shift to a green economy. “This is a critical decade, and I think we’re going to see real change.” But not everyone is buying the idea that nuclear is a solution to climate change. Ten years ago, a few months after an earthquake and tsunami caused a meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan, which forced the evacuation of over 150,000 people, the German government announced it would gradually shut down its nuclear program. Now Germany is at the head of a group of nations that want to defuse efforts to include more nuclear power in Europe’s green energy mix. They are worried about a proliferation of nuclear plants on European soil, and the radioactive waste they produce. The pushback is creating tensions with France, Europe’s largest nuclear energy producer, which has forged an unusual alliance with Eastern European countries that want to attract more investment for nuclear power, including Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Romania. The group is pressing the European Union to classify nuclear energy as a “sustainable” investment, a move that would unlock billions of euros of state aid and investment from pension funds, banks and other investors seeking to put money in environmental causes. Austria, Denmark, Luxembourg and Spain have joined Germany in trying to beat back the initiative in Brussels. The nuclear industry’s main selling point is a technology involving scaled-down plants, or small modular reactors, that supporters say are safe, cheap and efficient. The argument is that wind and solar power alone won’t be enough to help countries meet the goals outlined at the U.N. climate summit this month in Glasgow, Scotland. Nearly 200 countries at the conference pledged new efforts to prevent Earth from heating more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, compared with preindustrial levels. Past that threshold, the risk of deadly heat waves and storms, water scarcity and ecosystem collapse escalates immensely, scientists warn. But countries are falling far short even as they step up investments in wind and solar power, whose output varies with the elements. The reopening of the global economy from the coronavirus pandemic caused a recent spike in energy prices and set European governments scrambling to secure alternative supplies of power. Nuclear advocates say that experience shows the need for a new generation of nuclear power. “Nuclear has a really important role to play in getting to net zero for many countries,” said Tom Samson, chief executive of Rolls-Royce SMR, which has been working for six years on a commercial small modular nuclear reactor design — and feels its moment has arrived. Rolls-Royce, which announced the venture this month, is jumping into a multibillion-dollar market for small nuclear reactors, competing with companies like NuScale, GE Hitachi and TerraPower (which has Bill Gates as its chairman) in the United States; Électricité de France, the French state-owned power company; China’s National Nuclear Corp.; and KEPCO in South Korea. Samson pitches the venture as a new approach to an industry notorious for delays and cost overruns, and mostly avoided by investors. Rolls-Royce, which makes jet engines and supplies the power plant for the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet, hopes to build 16 of the plants in Britain and generate export sales as well. The cookie-cutter components will be factory-built and transportable by truck or ship. Initially the plants are expected to cost 2.2 billion pounds ($3 billion) each, compared with an estimated 22.5 billion pound price tag for a full-size plant now under construction in western England. Drawings of the Rolls-Royce reactor show a compact, futuristic building in a verdant landscape. One reactor would have roughly one-seventh the output of the largest modern nuclear stations and could power 1 million homes. Labor unions in Britain and Europe back the initiatives, arguing that nuclear plants generate jobs and are preferable to renewable technologies like a solar field, which don’t require many workers to maintain. Critics say nuclear power is hardly a solution for accelerating the push to net-zero emissions. For one thing, new nuclear stations, even small ones, will take up to a decade or more to come online, in part because of regulatory requirements, nowhere near fast enough to address a climate emergency. The first Rolls-Royce reactor wouldn’t be in operation until 2031. And safety questions have lingered after high-profile nuclear accidents, along with unresolved concerns over the storage of radioactive waste. Croatia is opposing a nuclear reactor project in Slovenia that would deposit some nuclear waste near their border. Germany is objecting to a planned Polish reactor that the German Green party said would most likely contaminate Germany in the event of an accident. The ability of small nuclear reactors to produce energy quickly or cheaply enough to matter for countries is also unclear, said Mark Hibbs, a senior fellow and a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Hibbs, who is based in Germany, noted that 10 such reactors might be required to do the same job as one large modern nuclear power station. Said Doug Parr, chief scientist for Greenpeace in Britain: “It doesn’t solve the problems for society; it solves the problems for the nuclear industry.” He added, “They want to come up with a new concept that does not have the bad image of large nuclear.” Those pushing for a nuclear revival say such concerns are overblown. In France, Macron this month announced he would reboot the nation’s atomic program to “live up to” France’s commitments to slash carbon emissions. A recent government-commissioned report concluded France probably can’t achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 with only renewable energy. His government is expected to authorize state-owned Électricité de France to build six new pressurized reactors and spend billions to help EDF produce small modular nuclear reactors by 2030. The work would be a lifeline for EDF, which is over 40 billion euros ($45 billion) in debt after contending with nuclear plant construction delays and cost overruns. In Eastern Europe, the rush is already underway. Poland, Romania and Ukraine, long reliant on coal-burning power plants, are among those signing contracts with U.S. and European companies for small-reactor technology. Poland alone plans to build large nuclear reactors and at least half a dozen small ones at coal sites to produce power and create jobs. “The ability to bring new electric power generation in a shorter time frame and with a lower total project cost is a primary driver,” said John Kotek, vice president for policy development and public affairs at the Nuclear Energy Institute, an industry group in Washington. Still, Europe’s divide over nuclear power remains sharp enough that policymakers may not be ready to support a nuclear buildup program — even if they sorely want to achieve climate change targets. “It would be impossible to build any consensus policy in Brussels that would strongly support member states’ investment in nuclear power,” said Hibbs of the Carnegie Endowment. “It would be left up to the national governments to do that.” But as investors look at where to deploy trillions of dollars in assets in the shift away from fossil fuels, nuclear power is becoming harder to ignore. “The general consensus in climate circles is nuclear is a clean energy source,” said Marisa Drew, chief sustainability officer at Credit Suisse. “If someone can deliver something that is economically viable and scalable and truly green, and do it in a safe way, then we have to embrace that.”

Europe revisits nuclear power as climate deadlines loom

After more than a week sleeping in a frigid encampment on the border between Belarus and Poland, and an abortive foray across the frontier repelled by pepper spray and police batons, Mohammad Faraj gave up this month and retreated to a warm hotel in Minsk, the capital of Belarus.

Soon after, however, he watched with surprise and excitement a video report on Facebook claiming that Poland was about to open its border and urging all those who wanted to enter the European Union to gather at a gas station near the encampment that the migrants had nicknamed “the jungle.”

Faraj, a 35-year-old ethnic Kurd from Iraq, rushed back to the squalid camp he had just left, traveling 190 miles from Minsk to the gas station just in time for the opening of the border in early November that he had heard about on Facebook.

The Polish border, of course, remained tightly shut, and Faraj spent the next 10 days back in what he described as “like something out of a horror movie.”

The EU, offering robust support to Poland’s hard-line stand against migrants, has blamed the traumas of recent weeks on its eastern border on the authoritarian leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarusian authorities certainly have helped stoke the crisis, offering easy tourist visas to thousands of Iraqis and easing their way to the border with Poland.

But social media, particularly Facebook, also have given Lukashenko a vital assist, as an unpredictable accelerant to the hopes and illusions of people who have fallen prey to the empty promises of profiteers and charlatans on the internet.

Some were in it for money, promising to smuggle migrants across borders for hefty fees; some appeared to bask in the attention they received as online “influencers” for sharing information; others seemed motivated by a genuine desire to help people suffering. There has been no evidence to suggest a coordinated campaign by Lukashenko to target migrants with fake information online.

Fake news on Facebook, said Faraj, who last week was moved from the border encampment along with 2,000 other denizens of “the jungle,” to a giant nearby warehouse converted into a migrant holding center, “poured mud on our heads and destroyed our lives.”

Since July, activity on Facebook in Arabic and Kurdish related to migration to the EU through Belarus has been “skyrocketing,” said Monika Richter, head of research and analysis for Semantic Visions, an intelligence firm that tracked social media activity related to the crisis.

“Facebook exacerbated this humanitarian crisis, and now you have all these people who were brought over and explicitly misled and ripped off,” Richter said.

Researchers said smugglers openly shared their phone numbers and advertised their services on Facebook, including video testimonials from people said to have reached Germany successfully via Belarus and Poland. In one post, a smuggler advertised “daily trips from Minsk to Germany with only a 20 km walking distance.” The journey, a writer warned in another post Oct. 19, is “not suitable for children due to the cold.” Another smuggler with the Facebook username “Visa Visa” pitched trips to Germany from Belarus through Poland. The smuggler said the trip would take eight to 15 hours but added a warning: “Don’t call if you are afraid.”

Friday, despite the bitter experience of so many promises on Facebook that turned out to be false, a ripple of excitement swept across despondent people huddled in the warehouse after reports on social media that it was still possible to get into Europe — for anyone willing to pay $7,000 to a guide who claimed to know any easy route across the Belarus-Poland frontier and through massed ranks of Polish soldiers and border guards on the other side.

Rekar Hamid, a former math teacher in Iraqi Kurdistan who had already paid around $10,000 to travel agents in Iraq for a “package tour” that was supposed to get himself, his wife and young child to Europe but only got them locked up in a warehouse, scoffed at the latest offer as yet another scam. “They keep saying the door is opening, but look where we all are now,” he said, gesturing toward a mass of people huddled on the concrete floor.

Musa Hama, another Kurd from Iraq confined to the warehouse, lamented that no amount of fact-checking would prevent people grasping at straws of hope provided by Facebook. “People are desperate so they believe anything,” he said.

The stampede by migrants to Belarus in the hope of getting into the EU began earlier this year when the authoritarian former Soviet republic relaxed tightfisted visa policies for certain countries, notably Iraq. The relaxation was ostensibly an effort to boost tourism at a time when most Westerners were staying away following a brutal crackdown by Lukashenko in response a contested presidential election.

Sensing a lucrative business opportunity, travel companies in Iraq’s semiautonomous Kurdistan Region started advertising on Facebook and other platforms about the availability of visas to Belarus. Smugglers used social media to pitch Belarus as an easy backdoor to Europe.

Since July, Semantic Visions has identified dozens of Facebook groups created to share information about migration routes and used by smugglers to advertise their services.

A private group titled “Migration of the powerful from Belarus to Europe” exploded from 13,600 members in early September to roughly 30,000 currently, according to Semantic Visions. Another group, “Belarus Online,” grew from 7,700 members to 23,700 during the same period. On Telegram, a messaging and chat room platform, channels devoted to Belarus as a route to Europe have also attracted thousands of members.

“Our findings reveal the extent to which social media platforms — particularly Facebook — have been used as a de facto market for smuggling into the European Union,” Semantic Visions concluded in a recent report that has been circulated among EU officials.

Facebook, now officially known as Meta after a corporate name change, said it prohibited material that facilitates or promotes human smuggling and has dedicated teams to monitor and detect material related to the crisis. It added that the company was working with law enforcement agencies and nongovernmental organizations to counter the flood of fake news relating to migration.

“People smuggling across international borders is illegal and ads, posts, pages or groups that provide, facilitate or coordinate this activity are not allowed on Facebook,” the company said in an emailed statement. “We remove this content as soon as we become aware of it.”

But the events in Belarus have exposed how, even after Facebook experienced a similar abuse of its services during the European migration crisis in 2015, the company still struggles to keep banned material off its platform, especially in non-English languages.

“Facebook is not taking their responsibility seriously, and as a direct consequence of that we see desperate people in the cold, in the mud, in the forest in Belarus, in a desperate situation, all because they believe the misinformation that was provided to them through Facebook,” said Jeroen Lenaers, a member of the European Parliament from the Netherlands who is a leader on the legislature’s committee that handles migration issues.

It is unclear what, if any, steps Facebook has taken to deal with misleading and potentially dangerous information.

One Kurdish-German influencer widely known online as Karwan Rawanduzy is a popular figure among would-be migrants to Europe, but his online videos and other reports frequently promote bogus stories, like the claim that Poland would open its border in early November.

Rawanduzy’s live posts on a Facebook page named Kurdisch News had more than 100,000 followers before it was disabled in November after the Kurdish-German influencer said a Polish politician had publicly accused him of helping to fuel the crisis. The page also featured videos sent by hungry and cold migrants trapped along the border.

Reached by phone in Hamburg, Germany, Rawanduzy said he was repeating information about pressure on Poland to open the border that he said had been reported by German media. He blamed smugglers and countries including Poland for the misery faced by migrants and that he was simply trying to help the asylum-seekers.

Rawanduzy, 42, describes himself as an immigration activist and a former refugee who left Iraq in 2009, two years after a suicide bombing in Irbil wounded him.

Faraj is still furious that he followed the advice of Rawanduzy, widely known by his first name, Karwan, by rushing from Minsk back to the border. “Everyone knows him, and everyone follows him,” he said. He added: “Karwan tricked us all on Facebook.”

Rawanduzy, who also owns a restaurant, said it was “not for me to feel bad or guilty” about people persuaded by his posts. “It is up to the Iraqi and Kurdish government to feel bad for all the reasons people want to escape.”

After more than a week sleeping in a frigid encampment on the border between Belarus and Poland, and an abortive foray across the frontier repelled by pepper spray and police batons, Mohammad Faraj gave up this month and retreated to a warm hotel in Minsk, the capital of Belarus.

After more than a week sleeping in a frigid encampment on the border between Belarus and Poland, and an abortive foray across the frontier repelled by pepper spray and police batons, Mohammad Faraj gave up this month and retreated to a warm hotel in Minsk, the capital of Belarus. Soon after, however, he watched with surprise and excitement a video report on Facebook claiming that Poland was about to open its border and urging all those who wanted to enter the European Union to gather at a gas station near the encampment that the migrants had nicknamed “the jungle.” Faraj, a 35-year-old ethnic Kurd from Iraq, rushed back to the squalid camp he had just left, traveling 190 miles from Minsk to the gas station just in time for the opening of the border in early November that he had heard about on Facebook. The Polish border, of course, remained tightly shut, and Faraj spent the next 10 days back in what he described as “like something out of a horror movie.” The EU, offering robust support to Poland’s hard-line stand against migrants, has blamed the traumas of recent weeks on its eastern border on the authoritarian leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko. Belarusian authorities certainly have helped stoke the crisis, offering easy tourist visas to thousands of Iraqis and easing their way to the border with Poland. But social media, particularly Facebook, also have given Lukashenko a vital assist, as an unpredictable accelerant to the hopes and illusions of people who have fallen prey to the empty promises of profiteers and charlatans on the internet. Some were in it for money, promising to smuggle migrants across borders for hefty fees; some appeared to bask in the attention they received as online “influencers” for sharing information; others seemed motivated by a genuine desire to help people suffering. There has been no evidence to suggest a coordinated campaign by Lukashenko to target migrants with fake information online. Fake news on Facebook, said Faraj, who last week was moved from the border encampment along with 2,000 other denizens of “the jungle,” to a giant nearby warehouse converted into a migrant holding center, “poured mud on our heads and destroyed our lives.” Since July, activity on Facebook in Arabic and Kurdish related to migration to the EU through Belarus has been “skyrocketing,” said Monika Richter, head of research and analysis for Semantic Visions, an intelligence firm that tracked social media activity related to the crisis. “Facebook exacerbated this humanitarian crisis, and now you have all these people who were brought over and explicitly misled and ripped off,” Richter said. Researchers said smugglers openly shared their phone numbers and advertised their services on Facebook, including video testimonials from people said to have reached Germany successfully via Belarus and Poland. In one post, a smuggler advertised “daily trips from Minsk to Germany with only a 20 km walking distance.” The journey, a writer warned in another post Oct. 19, is “not suitable for children due to the cold.” Another smuggler with the Facebook username “Visa Visa” pitched trips to Germany from Belarus through Poland. The smuggler said the trip would take eight to 15 hours but added a warning: “Don’t call if you are afraid.” Friday, despite the bitter experience of so many promises on Facebook that turned out to be false, a ripple of excitement swept across despondent people huddled in the warehouse after reports on social media that it was still possible to get into Europe — for anyone willing to pay $7,000 to a guide who claimed to know any easy route across the Belarus-Poland frontier and through massed ranks of Polish soldiers and border guards on the other side. Rekar Hamid, a former math teacher in Iraqi Kurdistan who had already paid around $10,000 to travel agents in Iraq for a “package tour” that was supposed to get himself, his wife and young child to Europe but only got them locked up in a warehouse, scoffed at the latest offer as yet another scam. “They keep saying the door is opening, but look where we all are now,” he said, gesturing toward a mass of people huddled on the concrete floor. Musa Hama, another Kurd from Iraq confined to the warehouse, lamented that no amount of fact-checking would prevent people grasping at straws of hope provided by Facebook. “People are desperate so they believe anything,” he said. The stampede by migrants to Belarus in the hope of getting into the EU began earlier this year when the authoritarian former Soviet republic relaxed tightfisted visa policies for certain countries, notably Iraq. The relaxation was ostensibly an effort to boost tourism at a time when most Westerners were staying away following a brutal crackdown by Lukashenko in response a contested presidential election. Sensing a lucrative business opportunity, travel companies in Iraq’s semiautonomous Kurdistan Region started advertising on Facebook and other platforms about the availability of visas to Belarus. Smugglers used social media to pitch Belarus as an easy backdoor to Europe. Since July, Semantic Visions has identified dozens of Facebook groups created to share information about migration routes and used by smugglers to advertise their services. A private group titled “Migration of the powerful from Belarus to Europe” exploded from 13,600 members in early September to roughly 30,000 currently, according to Semantic Visions. Another group, “Belarus Online,” grew from 7,700 members to 23,700 during the same period. On Telegram, a messaging and chat room platform, channels devoted to Belarus as a route to Europe have also attracted thousands of members. “Our findings reveal the extent to which social media platforms — particularly Facebook — have been used as a de facto market for smuggling into the European Union,” Semantic Visions concluded in a recent report that has been circulated among EU officials. Facebook, now officially known as Meta after a corporate name change, said it prohibited material that facilitates or promotes human smuggling and has dedicated teams to monitor and detect material related to the crisis. It added that the company was working with law enforcement agencies and nongovernmental organizations to counter the flood of fake news relating to migration. “People smuggling across international borders is illegal and ads, posts, pages or groups that provide, facilitate or coordinate this activity are not allowed on Facebook,” the company said in an emailed statement. “We remove this content as soon as we become aware of it.” But the events in Belarus have exposed how, even after Facebook experienced a similar abuse of its services during the European migration crisis in 2015, the company still struggles to keep banned material off its platform, especially in non-English languages. “Facebook is not taking their responsibility seriously, and as a direct consequence of that we see desperate people in the cold, in the mud, in the forest in Belarus, in a desperate situation, all because they believe the misinformation that was provided to them through Facebook,” said Jeroen Lenaers, a member of the European Parliament from the Netherlands who is a leader on the legislature’s committee that handles migration issues. It is unclear what, if any, steps Facebook has taken to deal with misleading and potentially dangerous information. One Kurdish-German influencer widely known online as Karwan Rawanduzy is a popular figure among would-be migrants to Europe, but his online videos and other reports frequently promote bogus stories, like the claim that Poland would open its border in early November. Rawanduzy’s live posts on a Facebook page named Kurdisch News had more than 100,000 followers before it was disabled in November after the Kurdish-German influencer said a Polish politician had publicly accused him of helping to fuel the crisis. The page also featured videos sent by hungry and cold migrants trapped along the border. Reached by phone in Hamburg, Germany, Rawanduzy said he was repeating information about pressure on Poland to open the border that he said had been reported by German media. He blamed smugglers and countries including Poland for the misery faced by migrants and that he was simply trying to help the asylum-seekers. Rawanduzy, 42, describes himself as an immigration activist and a former refugee who left Iraq in 2009, two years after a suicide bombing in Irbil wounded him. Faraj is still furious that he followed the advice of Rawanduzy, widely known by his first name, Karwan, by rushing from Minsk back to the border. “Everyone knows him, and everyone follows him,” he said. He added: “Karwan tricked us all on Facebook.” Rawanduzy, who also owns a restaurant, said it was “not for me to feel bad or guilty” about people persuaded by his posts. “It is up to the Iraqi and Kurdish government to feel bad for all the reasons people want to escape.”

How fake news on Facebook helped fuel a border crisis in Europe

The European Union's drug regulator has approved the use of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. The approval comes as Europe is again the epicenter of the pandemic.

EU regulator gives go-ahead to first COVID-19 shot or 5-11-year-olds

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million as cases in some of the countries continue to increase. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said.&nbsp;

In a published report, WHO also stated that last week, reported deaths due to the deadly virus increased to close to 4200 a day, doubling from 2100 deaths a day at the end of September.&nbsp;

The world health governing body also said that it is expected that there will be high or extreme stress on hospital beds in 25 countries, and high or extreme stress in intensive care units in 49 out of 53 countries between now and 1 March 2022.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-burn-down-parliament-building-police-station-in-solomon-islands-431715">Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands</a>

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines."

"Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added.&nbsp;

WHO also highlighted possible reasons for the surge in cases as the reports mentioned that the European region is "Delta dominant" and the Delta variant of the virus is highly transmissible, with no country reporting more than one per cent of any other variant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China</a>

Easing of measures with no caution is another reason for the spread of virus and a large number of people who are still not vaccinated are left vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp;

World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday said Europe is once again the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic amid a "false sense of security" over the protection offered by vaccines.&nbsp;

"In many countries and communities, we are concerned about a false sense of security that vaccines have ended the pandemic, and that people who are vaccinated do not need to take any other precautions," he said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million as cases in some of the countries continue to increase. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said. In a published report, WHO also stated that last week, reported deaths due to the deadly virus increased to close to 4200 a day, doubling from 2100 deaths a day at the end of September. The world health governing body also said that it is expected that there will be high or extreme stress on hospital beds in 25 countries, and high or extreme stress in intensive care units in 49 out of 53 countries between now and 1 March 2022. ALSO READ | Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines." "Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added. WHO also highlighted possible reasons for the surge in cases as the reports mentioned that the European region is "Delta dominant" and the Delta variant of the virus is highly transmissible, with no country reporting more than one per cent of any other variant. ALSO READ | Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China Easing of measures with no caution is another reason for the spread of virus and a large number of people who are still not vaccinated are left vulnerable to the virus. World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday said Europe is once again the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic amid a "false sense of security" over the protection offered by vaccines. "In many countries and communities, we are concerned about a false sense of security that vaccines have ended the pandemic, and that people who are vaccinated do not need to take any other precautions," he said.

WHO warns as Europe could hit over 2 million COVID-19 deaths by March 2022

Taiwan is looking at cooperating with three Eastern European countries on semiconductors, a minister said on Thursday, a move likely to find favour in Brussels which has been courting Taiwanese semiconductor firms to manufacture in the bloc.

Tech powerhouse Taiwan, home to companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC), has become front and centre of efforts to resolve a shortage of chips that has shut some auto production lines around the world and whose impact is now being felt in consumer electronics too.

While TSMC is building a $12 billion chip fabrication plant in the US&nbsp;state of Arizona, it has given no suggestion of interest in a similar facility in Europe, despite EU efforts&nbsp;to spur such investment.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lithuania-urges-europe-to-increase-indo-pacific-ties-in-face-of-chinese-coercion-431908">Lithuania urges Europe to increase Indo-Pacific ties in face of Chinese 'coercion'</a>

Kung Ming-hsin, who heads Taiwan's National Development Council, told reporters following his visit to Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Lithuania last month that all three countries had mentioned they wanted to work on chips with the island.

Taiwan will set up working groups with the three countries to work out how to cooperate on chips, while Taiwan will also give scholarships for technical training, he added.

"The whole semiconductor supply chain is enormous. Many countries can play different roles," Kung said.

Taiwan has been keen to express its gratitude to the three countries for their donations of COVID-19 vaccines, and also, for Lithuania and the Czech Republic's support as Taiwan faced growing political pressure from China.

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Neither the EU nor its member states have formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed and democratically-ruled Taiwan, but Taipei has sought to bolster its relations with the bloc by stressing their shared values of freedom and democracy.

The European Commission has proposed legislation to boost chip production, and has angled for Taiwan's involvement.

Kung said it would be hard for Europe to do that on its own.

"So they hope to cooperate with Taiwan," he added.

Taiwan is looking at cooperating with three Eastern European countries on semiconductors, a minister said on Thursday, a move likely to find favour in Brussels which has been courting Taiwanese semiconductor firms to manufacture in the bloc.

Taiwan is looking at cooperating with three Eastern European countries on semiconductors, a minister said on Thursday, a move likely to find favour in Brussels which has been courting Taiwanese semiconductor firms to manufacture in the bloc. Tech powerhouse Taiwan, home to companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC), has become front and centre of efforts to resolve a shortage of chips that has shut some auto production lines around the world and whose impact is now being felt in consumer electronics too. While TSMC is building a $12 billion chip fabrication plant in the US state of Arizona, it has given no suggestion of interest in a similar facility in Europe, despite EU efforts to spur such investment. ALSO READ | Lithuania urges Europe to increase Indo-Pacific ties in face of Chinese 'coercion' Kung Ming-hsin, who heads Taiwan's National Development Council, told reporters following his visit to Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Lithuania last month that all three countries had mentioned they wanted to work on chips with the island. Taiwan will set up working groups with the three countries to work out how to cooperate on chips, while Taiwan will also give scholarships for technical training, he added. "The whole semiconductor supply chain is enormous. Many countries can play different roles," Kung said. Taiwan has been keen to express its gratitude to the three countries for their donations of COVID-19 vaccines, and also, for Lithuania and the Czech Republic's support as Taiwan faced growing political pressure from China. ALSO READ | Pakistan petroleum dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins Neither the EU nor its member states have formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed and democratically-ruled Taiwan, but Taipei has sought to bolster its relations with the bloc by stressing their shared values of freedom and democracy. The European Commission has proposed legislation to boost chip production, and has angled for Taiwan's involvement. Kung said it would be hard for Europe to do that on its own. "So they hope to cooperate with Taiwan," he added.

Taiwan looking at chip cooperation with Eastern European nations

Lithuania&nbsp;will adapt to "short-term" economic pain dealt by China over its moves to enhance ties with Taiwan, foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said on Wednesday, while urging Europe to brace against Beijing's economic "coercion" by getting more involved in the Indo-Pacific.

China downgraded diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Lithuania&nbsp;on Sunday over the Baltic country's move to allow self-ruled Taiwan to open a de facto embassy there.&nbsp;Lithuania&nbsp;has formal relations with China and not Taiwan.

Beijing views democratically-governed Taiwan as a province, and&nbsp;Lithuanian officials say China has also sought to inflict pain such as cutting trade links in retaliation for its decision.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-petroleum-dealers-launch-nationwide-strike-against-lower-profit-margins-431887">Pakistan petroleum dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins</a>

Landsbergis told Reuters in an interview in Washington that such losses would be short-lived as&nbsp;Lithuania&nbsp;was working to make its supply chains less dependent on China.

"In the short term, it is painful for any country when your contracts are cut," Landsbergis said. "But it is short term, because markets adapt. Companies adapt."

Landsbergis said China had not only cut links with&nbsp;Lithuanian companies, but had approached companies in third countries to press them not to do business with&nbsp;Lithuania.

"So much of what we produce is partially produced with, or within, China. This is why we need to find ways to create supply chains and how to make them more resilient so they can withstand this coercion, the cutting of contracts, the secondary sanctions," Landsbergis said.

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He said&nbsp;Lithuania&nbsp;would provide a model for countries on how to withstand such pressure, but European nations in particular should become more involved in the Indo-Pacific to enhance their economic security.

"We have to understand that every country now is involved in the Indo-Pacific," Landsbergis said.

"Some of our NATO allies are taking big responsibility in the region, offering security guarantees to countries, and that means that we also have to at least have an understanding of what's going on, or probably play some part in this," he said.

Landsbergis met earlier with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, who according to a State Department statement, underscored "ironclad U.S. solidarity" with its NATO ally.

Sherman welcomed&nbsp;Lithuania, a country of about three million, expanding ties with democracies in the Indo-Pacific.

Washington has sought to carve out more space for Taiwan in the international system, one of the main factors in increasingly sour relations with Beijing. Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell said last week that U.S. attempts to expand cooperation with its partners and allies in the region were causing China "heartburn." Beijing described the moves as Cold War thinking.

Lithuania will adapt to "short-term" economic pain dealt by China over its moves to enhance ties with Taiwan, foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said on Wednesday, while urging Europe to brace against Beijing's economic "coercion" by getting more involved in the Indo-Pacific.

Lithuania will adapt to "short-term" economic pain dealt by China over its moves to enhance ties with Taiwan, foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said on Wednesday, while urging Europe to brace against Beijing's economic "coercion" by getting more involved in the Indo-Pacific. China downgraded diplomatic ties with Lithuania on Sunday over the Baltic country's move to allow self-ruled Taiwan to open a de facto embassy there. Lithuania has formal relations with China and not Taiwan. Beijing views democratically-governed Taiwan as a province, and Lithuanian officials say China has also sought to inflict pain such as cutting trade links in retaliation for its decision. ALSO READ | Pakistan petroleum dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins Landsbergis told Reuters in an interview in Washington that such losses would be short-lived as Lithuania was working to make its supply chains less dependent on China. "In the short term, it is painful for any country when your contracts are cut," Landsbergis said. "But it is short term, because markets adapt. Companies adapt." Landsbergis said China had not only cut links with Lithuanian companies, but had approached companies in third countries to press them not to do business with Lithuania. "So much of what we produce is partially produced with, or within, China. This is why we need to find ways to create supply chains and how to make them more resilient so they can withstand this coercion, the cutting of contracts, the secondary sanctions," Landsbergis said. ALSO READ | 'Entire nation is crying': Maryam Nawaz slams Pakistan PM Imran Khan He said Lithuania would provide a model for countries on how to withstand such pressure, but European nations in particular should become more involved in the Indo-Pacific to enhance their economic security. "We have to understand that every country now is involved in the Indo-Pacific," Landsbergis said. "Some of our NATO allies are taking big responsibility in the region, offering security guarantees to countries, and that means that we also have to at least have an understanding of what's going on, or probably play some part in this," he said. Landsbergis met earlier with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, who according to a State Department statement, underscored "ironclad U.S. solidarity" with its NATO ally. Sherman welcomed Lithuania, a country of about three million, expanding ties with democracies in the Indo-Pacific. Washington has sought to carve out more space for Taiwan in the international system, one of the main factors in increasingly sour relations with Beijing. Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell said last week that U.S. attempts to expand cooperation with its partners and allies in the region were causing China "heartburn." Beijing described the moves as Cold War thinking.

Lithuania urges Europe to increase Indo-Pacific ties in face of Chinese 'coercion'

Coronavirus cases are hitting&nbsp;a new record high in various European countries. Amid a surge in cases, the EU health agency on Wednesday appealed to member states to "urgently" introduce measures.&nbsp;

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) on Wednesday said that it has predicted a grim outcome if measures were not taken "urgently".

"The potential burden of disease in the EU/EEA from the Delta variant will be very high in December and January unless public health measures are applied now in combination with continued efforts to increase vaccine uptake in the total population," it said in a statement.

"We need to urgently focus on closing this immunity gap, offer booster doses to all adults, and reintroduce non-pharmaceutical measures," ECDC director Andrea Ammon said.

ECDC has recommended vaccine boosters for all adults prioritising those over 40. "Available evidence emerging from Israel and the UK shows a significant increase in protection against infection and severe disease following a booster dose in all age groups in the short term," the ECDC.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-as-europe-could-hit-over-2-million-covid-19-deaths-by-march-2022-431737">Also read |&nbsp;WHO warns as Europe could hit over 2 million COVID-19 deaths by March 2022</a>

Many countries in Europe have already started rolling out the booster shots.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday tweeted that "boosters should be available for adults, with priority for people over 40 and vulnerable people."

Slovakia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and Hungary have reported new highs in daily infections.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the WHO has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million.

The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-crosses-100000-covid-deaths-as-weekly-incidence-rate-hits-another-high-431779">Also read |&nbsp;Germany crosses 100,000 Covid deaths as weekly incidence rate hits another high</a>

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines."

"Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus cases are hitting a new record high in various European countries. Amid a surge in cases, the EU health agency on Wednesday appealed to member states to "urgently" introduce measures.

Coronavirus cases are hitting a new record high in various European countries. Amid a surge in cases, the EU health agency on Wednesday appealed to member states to "urgently" introduce measures. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) on Wednesday said that it has predicted a grim outcome if measures were not taken "urgently". "The potential burden of disease in the EU/EEA from the Delta variant will be very high in December and January unless public health measures are applied now in combination with continued efforts to increase vaccine uptake in the total population," it said in a statement. "We need to urgently focus on closing this immunity gap, offer booster doses to all adults, and reintroduce non-pharmaceutical measures," ECDC director Andrea Ammon said. ECDC has recommended vaccine boosters for all adults prioritising those over 40. "Available evidence emerging from Israel and the UK shows a significant increase in protection against infection and severe disease following a booster dose in all age groups in the short term," the ECDC. Also read | WHO warns as Europe could hit over 2 million COVID-19 deaths by March 2022 Many countries in Europe have already started rolling out the booster shots. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday tweeted that "boosters should be available for adults, with priority for people over 40 and vulnerable people." Slovakia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and Hungary have reported new highs in daily infections. Meanwhile, the WHO has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said. Also read | Germany crosses 100,000 Covid deaths as weekly incidence rate hits another high Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines." "Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

As Covid cases break records in Europe, ECDC urges to 'urgently' introduce measures

Europe remains in the firm grip of the deadly covid-19 pandemic, several countries in the region continue to report worrying trends. The World Health Organization has warned that the death toll in Europe can top 2.2 million this winter if the current trends continue.

Slovakia, Netherlands, Hungary post record covid cases

The World Health Organization has warned that the death toll in Europe can top 2.2 million this winter if the current trends continue.

WHO: Europe staring at 2.2 million deaths this winter

Europe has been witnessing a rising number of coronavirus cases across the continent.

Covid surge in Europe: Protests against new rules

Europe is witnessing a surge in Wuhan virus cases. But measures to contain the spread are triggering violence. Thousands of people are protesting against vaccine mandates & fresh restrictions. Palki Sharma tells you how anti-vaxxers are driving Europe's 5th wave.

Gravitas: Are anti-vaxxers driving Europe's fifth wave?

Crude oil fell to seven-week lows today, on concerns about excess supply after Japan said it was weighing releasing oil reserves and over demand from a worsening Covid-19 situation in Europe.

Oil hits 7-week lows on supply release expectations, Europe covid surge to impact demand

Countries one after another is going in lockdown prompting protests and in many cases inciting violence. Starting with the Netherlands, it has been witnessing three straight nights of protests against covid restrictions.

Europe: The new hotspot of Covid-19, protests break out as Netherlands impose curbs

About 35,000 people took to the streets of Brussels to protest against government-imposed COVID-19 restrictions. Police used tear gas to disperse the protestors.

Covid-19 restrictions in Europe: Protests erupt across European cities

At least five people have been killed and more than 40 injured after an SUV drove through a crowded Christmas parade in Waukesha, U.S. Police has detained a person in the case and the vehicle has also been recovered.

Christmas parade tragedy: Death toll climbs to 5, one person detained

Thousands of people took to the streets of Austria's capital city Vienna to protest against the new restrictions introduced against the deadly coronavirus. The government has imposed a new lockdown and mandated anti-Covid vaccines from next year onwards.

As per police, crowds of nearly 35,000 people gathered in the city whistling, clapping and banging drums. Many were seen waving Austrian and other flags. Protestors were also seen with placards that read “no to vaccination”, “enough is enough” or “down with the fascist dictatorship”.

Not just Vienna but various other European cities are seeing protests.&nbsp;

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Protest in Vienna, Austria against the lockdown of the entire population from Monday and mandatory vaccinations for every citizen starting February next year. 
 
Call it what it is... Medical Tyranny.<a href="https://t.co/4yhwyDmYpu">pic.twitter.com/4yhwyDmYpu</a>
— The House of Darren (@WeAreTheNewz) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTheNewz/status/1462078216345169923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vienna, Austria... <a href="https://t.co/t1rbOCE1Yq">pic.twitter.com/t1rbOCE1Yq</a>
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We are fighting here, it is a shame, but yesterday was a great day in Vienna, but still we need every help! Make this public in the US! Thank you for your help! <a href="https://t.co/NmIxQedgVO">pic.twitter.com/NmIxQedgVO</a>
— Guenter Schwabl🟢 (@GuenterSchwabl) <a href="https://twitter.com/GuenterSchwabl/status/1462330392669827077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who were angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-worried-who-warns-of-500000-deaths-by-march-amid-new-wave-in-europe-430872">Also read |&nbsp;'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe</a>

Fireworks were set off and police fired several warning shots," Rotterdam police said in a statement.

The police further said that the riot police later launched charges at the demonstrators as they said, "The water launcher has been deployed."

Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Meanwhile, the WHO said that it is "very worried" about the new wave of Covid-19 infections in Europe amid a surge in cases.

WHO’s Europe director, Dr Hans Kluge, while speaking to BBC has warned that 500,000 more deaths could be recorded by March.&nbsp;

As per Kluge, various factors have contributed to the growing cases, including winter season, insufficient vaccine coverage and increasing cases of transmissible Delta variant.&nbsp;

Talking about mandating vaccines, he said that this should be seen as "last resort." However, he added that it would be "very timely" to have a "legal and societal debate" about the issue.

Europe continues to record a wave of Covid-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus.&nbsp;

Thousands of people took to the streets of Austria's capital city Vienna to protest against the new restrictions introduced against the deadly coronavirus. The government has imposed a new lockdown and mandated anti-Covid vaccines from next year onwards.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Austria's capital city Vienna to protest against the new restrictions introduced against the deadly coronavirus. The government has imposed a new lockdown and mandated anti-Covid vaccines from next year onwards. As per police, crowds of nearly 35,000 people gathered in the city whistling, clapping and banging drums. Many were seen waving Austrian and other flags. Protestors were also seen with placards that read “no to vaccination”, “enough is enough” or “down with the fascist dictatorship”. Not just Vienna but various other European cities are seeing protests. Protest in Vienna, Austria against the lockdown of the entire population from Monday and mandatory vaccinations for every citizen starting February next year. Call it what it is... Medical Tyranny.pic.twitter.com/4yhwyDmYpu — The House of Darren (@WeAreTheNewz) November 20, 2021 × Vienna, Austria... pic.twitter.com/t1rbOCE1Yq — Braudel (@Kukicat7) November 20, 2021 × We are fighting here, it is a shame, but yesterday was a great day in Vienna, but still we need every help! Make this public in the US! Thank you for your help! pic.twitter.com/NmIxQedgVO — Guenter Schwabl🟢 (@GuenterSchwabl) November 21, 2021 × The Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who were angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets. Also read | 'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe Fireworks were set off and police fired several warning shots," Rotterdam police said in a statement. The police further said that the riot police later launched charges at the demonstrators as they said, "The water launcher has been deployed." Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia. Meanwhile, the WHO said that it is "very worried" about the new wave of Covid-19 infections in Europe amid a surge in cases. WHO’s Europe director, Dr Hans Kluge, while speaking to BBC has warned that 500,000 more deaths could be recorded by March. As per Kluge, various factors have contributed to the growing cases, including winter season, insufficient vaccine coverage and increasing cases of transmissible Delta variant. Talking about mandating vaccines, he said that this should be seen as "last resort." However, he added that it would be "very timely" to have a "legal and societal debate" about the issue. Europe continues to record a wave of Covid-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus.

Nearly 35,000 people protest in Vienna against new Covid restrictions

The World Health Organization is "very worried" about the new wave of Covid-19 infections in Europe amid a surge in cases. WHO’s Europe director, Dr Hans Kluge, while speaking to BBC has warned that 500,000 more deaths could be recorded by March.&nbsp;

As per Kluge, various factors have contributed to the growing cases, including winter season, insufficient vaccine coverage and increasing cases of transmissible Delta variant. While speaking to BBC, he said, "Covid-19 has become once again the number one cause of mortality in our region." He further added "We know what needs to be done" in order to fight the virus."

Talking about mandating vaccines, he said that this should be seen as "last resort." However, he added that &nbsp;it would be "very timely" to have a "legal and societal debate" about the issue.

Europe continues to record a wave of Covid-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europeans-protest-against-partial-lockdown-in-several-countries-7-people-injured-in-rotterdam-430724">Also read |&nbsp;Europeans protest against partial lockdown in several countries; 7 people injured in Rotterdam</a>

Various countries have introduced restrictions. The Netherlands has introduced a partial lockdown to curb the spread of Covid.&nbsp;

Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia.

People came down on the streets as they protested again the new curbs.&nbsp;

Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who have been angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets.&nbsp;

Not just Rotterdam, but people in Austria have also been angered after the landlocked country made vaccines mandatory and introduced a full lockdown, starting from Monday.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization is "very worried" about the new wave of Covid-19 infections in Europe amid a surge in cases. WHO’s Europe director, Dr Hans Kluge, while speaking to BBC has warned that 500,000 more deaths could be recorded by March.

The World Health Organization is "very worried" about the new wave of Covid-19 infections in Europe amid a surge in cases. WHO’s Europe director, Dr Hans Kluge, while speaking to BBC has warned that 500,000 more deaths could be recorded by March. As per Kluge, various factors have contributed to the growing cases, including winter season, insufficient vaccine coverage and increasing cases of transmissible Delta variant. While speaking to BBC, he said, "Covid-19 has become once again the number one cause of mortality in our region." He further added "We know what needs to be done" in order to fight the virus." Talking about mandating vaccines, he said that this should be seen as "last resort." However, he added that it would be "very timely" to have a "legal and societal debate" about the issue. Europe continues to record a wave of Covid-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus. Also read | Europeans protest against partial lockdown in several countries; 7 people injured in Rotterdam Various countries have introduced restrictions. The Netherlands has introduced a partial lockdown to curb the spread of Covid. Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia. People came down on the streets as they protested again the new curbs. Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who have been angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets. Not just Rotterdam, but people in Austria have also been angered after the landlocked country made vaccines mandatory and introduced a full lockdown, starting from Monday.

'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe

In Pics: Protests against Covid measures rock Europe, Australia

At least 7 people have been hurt after Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who have been angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets.&nbsp;

"A demonstration that started tonight at 8 pm on the Coolsingel has resulted in riots. Fires have been set in several places.

Fireworks were set off and police fired several warning shots," Rotterdam police said in a statement. 
The police further said that the riot police later launched charges at the demonstrators as they said, "The water launcher has been deployed."

The Netherlands has introduced a partial lockdown to curb the spread of Covid.

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NOW - Violent protests against Covid-restrictions in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rotterdam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rotterdam</a>, Netherlands.<a href="https://t.co/xCTyqiy609">pic.twitter.com/xCTyqiy609</a>
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🇳🇱 Netherlands - Rotterdam [Nov 19, 2021] 
 
Huge protest breaks out against COVID restrictions and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2GRegel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2GRegel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QRCode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QRCode</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoVaccinePassports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoVaccinePassports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoVaccineMandates?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoVaccineMandates</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rotterdam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rotterdam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoGreenPass?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoGreenPass</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NonAuPassSanitaire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NonAuPassSanitaire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeenQR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeenQR</a> 
 
Watch LIVE:<a href="https://t.co/mxmfQNqmIj">https://t.co/mxmfQNqmIj</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDRQNFPcXY">pic.twitter.com/jDRQNFPcXY</a>
— 🍌 BMedia 🇳🇱 (@BananaMediaQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/BananaMediaQ/status/1461781732680679424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;"This is a very serious situation which requires action with the highest priority," said the emergency order by the Rotterdam municipality.

"It is therefore necessary to issue this emergency order so as to maintain public order and to protect the safety of persons." The Dutch government has said it will review the situation on December 3.

Not just Rotterdam, but people in Austria have also been angered after the landlocked country made vaccines mandatory and introduced a full lockdown, starting&nbsp;from Monday.&nbsp;

Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Europe continues to record a wave of COVID-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 7 people have been hurt after Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who have been angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus.

At least 7 people have been hurt after Dutch police fired warning shots on protestors in Rotterdam who have been angered by the new restrictions introduced to battle the deadly coronavirus. The police also used water cannons to disperse demonstrators as they set off fireworks in one of the main shopping streets. "A demonstration that started tonight at 8 pm on the Coolsingel has resulted in riots. Fires have been set in several places. Fireworks were set off and police fired several warning shots," Rotterdam police said in a statement. The police further said that the riot police later launched charges at the demonstrators as they said, "The water launcher has been deployed." The Netherlands has introduced a partial lockdown to curb the spread of Covid. NOW - Violent protests against Covid-restrictions in #Rotterdam, Netherlands.pic.twitter.com/xCTyqiy609 — Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) November 19, 2021 × 🇳🇱 Netherlands - Rotterdam [Nov 19, 2021] Huge protest breaks out against COVID restrictions and #2GRegel #QRCode #NoVaccinePassports #NoVaccineMandates #Rotterdam #NoGreenPass #NonAuPassSanitaire #GeenQR Watch LIVE:https://t.co/mxmfQNqmIj pic.twitter.com/jDRQNFPcXY — 🍌 BMedia 🇳🇱 (@BananaMediaQ) November 19, 2021 × "This is a very serious situation which requires action with the highest priority," said the emergency order by the Rotterdam municipality. "It is therefore necessary to issue this emergency order so as to maintain public order and to protect the safety of persons." The Dutch government has said it will review the situation on December 3. Not just Rotterdam, but people in Austria have also been angered after the landlocked country made vaccines mandatory and introduced a full lockdown, starting from Monday. Restrictions have also been imposed for the unvaccinated people in Germany. People have been banned from restaurants. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Czech Republic and Slovakia. Europe continues to record a wave of COVID-19 cases with countries struggling to battle the deadly coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

Europeans protest against partial lockdown in several countries; 7 people injured in Rotterdam

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains.

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-deploys-bomber-along-border-with-india-report-430463">China deploys bomber along border with India: Report</a>

Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), reports claim the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains.

<img alt="China deploys bomber" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1cb3916-e4b3-4a9e-8fb9-08ebbe8d680d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China%20deploys%20bomber.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-to-impose-lockdown-as-europe-grapples-with-virus-surge-430542">Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge</a>

The Austrian government announced it will impose&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in the country from next Monday amid a surge in coronavirus cases. Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced that everyone in the country should be&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;by February 1.

<img alt="Austrian government" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="801bbe67-d94c-4f41-b361-d91a8bdef09e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Austrian%20government.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-to-bar-promotion-re-enlistment-for-soldiers-who-refuse-to-take-covid-vaccine-430505">US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine</a>

The US Army has warned thousands of soldiers that they would not be permitted to continue their service if they persist with their resistance against getting Covid vaccine.

<img alt="US Army" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0e7e9e79-4580-411c-ae57-003ba0459216" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20Army.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-brushes-aside-reports-of-tensions-with-biden-administration-says-excited-about-the-work-430540">Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration</a>

US Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kamala Harris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c41cdb5b-172c-4141-aa07-a361f47faef2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kamala%20Harris.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-announces-490-billion-stimulus-package-to-tackle-covid-knockdown-430557">Japan announces $490 billion stimulus package to tackle Covid knockdown</a>

Japan's government announced a record $490 billion spending package on Friday to cushion the economic blow from the COVID-19 pandemic, bucking a global trend towards withdrawing crisis-mode stimulus measures and adding strains to its already tattered finances.

<img alt="Japan's government" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94d06fd5-0f11-4968-a88b-d2c9bf7047a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Japan%27s%20government.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-warns-los-angeles-police-not-to-create-fake-accounts-stop-collecting-user-data-430563">Facebook warns Los Angeles police not to create fake accounts, stop collecting user data</a>

Reports claim&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;has asked the Los Angeles police to stop making fake accounts and halt attempts to collect data of users. Facebook in a letter reportedly told the Los Angles Police Department (LAPD) that it had set up fake accounts to carry out surveillance as it directed the department not to undertake such activities.

<img alt="Facebook" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be68dcee-8eab-4cab-879e-0c1028fb2fa5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Facebook_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wrong-identification-of-tea-as-drugs-forces-mother-daughter-to-spend-months-in-australian-jail-430537">Wrong identification of tea as drugs forces mother, daughter to spend months in Australian jail</a>

In a tormenting tale, a mother and daughter duo were forced to spend around four months in Australian jail after authorities mistakenly identified tea as drugs. One little mix-up has cost huge agony to the victims.

<img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="750d6c4e-f3cd-4535-a62b-e47756fe6767" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Australia%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/red-dots-over-delhi-nasa-shares-satellite-images-of-dangerous-pollution-levels-in-indian-capital-430548">Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital</a>

Nasa&nbsp;has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution.&nbsp;

<img alt="pollution levels" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c3a66c5-96bb-451e-92e3-ed6e3718cf82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nasa%20images.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-hales-apologises-for-wearing-blackface-days-after-denying-racial-connotation-behind-dogs-name-430504">Alex Hales apologises for wearing blackface, days after denying 'racial connotation' behind dog's name</a>

England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party.

<img alt="Alex Hales" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="788b967a-7247-4fb5-9c1e-d477e6f5516b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alex%20Hales%20%282%29.jpg" />

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A US-based rights group has cast suspicion over Chinese media reports which claim that Chinese star Peng Shuai is 'safe'. Peng has been incommunicado since she accused a former ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader of pressuring her into a sexual relationship, Radio Free Asia reported.

<img alt="Peng Shuai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48c39bed-4e55-4e62-ad91-5df798e31bd6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Peng%20Shuai.jpg" />

&nbsp;

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India.

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains. Here are the top 10 stories from across the world: China deploys bomber along border with India: Report Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), reports claim the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains. Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge The Austrian government announced it will impose lockdown in the country from next Monday amid a surge in coronavirus cases. Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced that everyone in the country should be vaccinated by February 1. US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine The US Army has warned thousands of soldiers that they would not be permitted to continue their service if they persist with their resistance against getting Covid vaccine. Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration US Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. Japan announces $490 billion stimulus package to tackle Covid knockdown Japan's government announced a record $490 billion spending package on Friday to cushion the economic blow from the COVID-19 pandemic, bucking a global trend towards withdrawing crisis-mode stimulus measures and adding strains to its already tattered finances. Facebook warns Los Angeles police not to create fake accounts, stop collecting user data Reports claim Facebook has asked the Los Angeles police to stop making fake accounts and halt attempts to collect data of users. Facebook in a letter reportedly told the Los Angles Police Department (LAPD) that it had set up fake accounts to carry out surveillance as it directed the department not to undertake such activities. Wrong identification of tea as drugs forces mother, daughter to spend months in Australian jail In a tormenting tale, a mother and daughter duo were forced to spend around four months in Australian jail after authorities mistakenly identified tea as drugs. One little mix-up has cost huge agony to the victims. Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital Nasa has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution. Alex Hales apologises for wearing blackface, days after denying 'racial connotation' behind dog's name England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party. US Rights group casts suspicion over Chinese media reports claiming tennis player Peng Shuai is 'safe' A US-based rights group has cast suspicion over Chinese media reports which claim that Chinese star Peng Shuai is 'safe'. Peng has been incommunicado since she accused a former ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader of pressuring her into a sexual relationship, Radio Free Asia reported.

Top 10 world news: Austria to impose lockdown, Harris on reports of tensions with Biden administration & more

Belarus has announced that it has cleared migrant camps on its border with Poland and moved them to a nearby warehouse that the government has converted into a processing center. This came after Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke twice to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on the telephone.

Belarus clears migrant camps after Merkel speaks to Lukashenko

European Union's watchdog said that Europe must close the COVID-19 vaccination gap to stop its Coronavirus surge, with the un-jabbed driving a rise in hospitalisations.

Watchdog: Europe must close COVID-19 vaccination gap

The covid-19 situation in Europe is getting worse by the day. Low rate of vaccination and skyrocketing cases after lifting of curbs. It is the same story in many countries that are dealing with the escalating crisis.

COVID-19 situation in Europe gets worse by the day

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