The Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak has triggered panic buying. People around the world are stocking up on essential supplies. But, panic buying could create more trouble.

Global Pandemic: Stores run out of supplies in India

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus.

The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery.

There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday.

There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world.

The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000.

In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected.

The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively.

Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain.

Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

 
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The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65.

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus. The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery. There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday. There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world. The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000. In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected. The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively. Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain. Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

Coronavirus shuts down US, Europe

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe.

United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus.

"We also now expect these deep cuts to extend into the summer travel period," said chief executive Oscar Munoz and company president Scott Kirby in a letter to employees published on the airline's website on Sunday.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airline-crisis-worsens-as-us-puts-europeans-in-coronavirus-quarantine-285968">Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine</a>

In the first half of March -- usually the busiest month of the year United had "welcomed more than one million fewer customers on-board our aircraft than the same period last year."

Revenue for March 2020 was projected to be $1.5 billion lower than last March, the letter added.

The airline has begun speaking to unions "about how to reduce our payroll expense," it said, acknowledging this would be "painful" but that senior staff had already been told their salaries would be halved.

American Airlines said it would reduce all international capacity by 75 per cent.

"This suspension will last through May 6," the carrier said. "This change is in response to decreased demand and changes to US government travel restrictions due to coronavirus."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-qantas-virgin-atlantic-among-many-who-banned-flights-to-china-among-coronavirus-outbreak-280547">United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic among many who have extended flight ban to China on Coronavirus Fears</a>

It also said domestic service would be reduced by 20 per cent in April compared to last year.

Its competitor Delta said it would "significantly reduce its US to Europe flying beginning Monday, March 16, following the US government directive restricting travel between the US and Europe."

Southwest Airlines said it "will likely make service reductions based on demand."

The US restrictions on travel from Europe took effect at midnight Friday and were later extended to Britain and Ireland as of Tuesday.

US airlines had already suspended flights between the US and Italy, hard-hit by the virus, and earlier between the US and China where the new coronavirus emerged in December.

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe. United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus.

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe. United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus. "We also now expect these deep cuts to extend into the summer travel period," said chief executive Oscar Munoz and company president Scott Kirby in a letter to employees published on the airline's website on Sunday. Also Read: Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine In the first half of March -- usually the busiest month of the year United had "welcomed more than one million fewer customers on-board our aircraft than the same period last year." Revenue for March 2020 was projected to be $1.5 billion lower than last March, the letter added. The airline has begun speaking to unions "about how to reduce our payroll expense," it said, acknowledging this would be "painful" but that senior staff had already been told their salaries would be halved. American Airlines said it would reduce all international capacity by 75 per cent. "This suspension will last through May 6," the carrier said. "This change is in response to decreased demand and changes to US government travel restrictions due to coronavirus." Also Read: United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic among many who have extended flight ban to China on Coronavirus Fears It also said domestic service would be reduced by 20 per cent in April compared to last year. Its competitor Delta said it would "significantly reduce its US to Europe flying beginning Monday, March 16, following the US government directive restricting travel between the US and Europe." Southwest Airlines said it "will likely make service reductions based on demand." The US restrictions on travel from Europe took effect at midnight Friday and were later extended to Britain and Ireland as of Tuesday. US airlines had already suspended flights between the US and Italy, hard-hit by the virus, and earlier between the US and China where the new coronavirus emerged in December.

Air carriers in US cancel flights amid coronavirus crisis

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers.

Brent crude fell $1.13 to $32.72 a barrel by 0230 GMT, tumbling after last week's plunge of 25%, the largest weekly fall since 2008. The front-month price opened at a high of $35.84 but slipped to a low of $31.63.

US crude was at $31.01, down 72 cents after slipping below $30 earlier in the session, despite US President Donald Trump's pledge to fill strategic oil reserves in the world's largest oil consumer "to the top".

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-jump-to-61-over-opec-supply-cut-reports-265782">Oil prices jump to $61 over OPEC+ supply cut reports</a>

The US Fed slashed interest rates on Sunday in its second emergency cut this month and said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700 billion in coming weeks in a bid to ease tension in financial markets.

Oil prices have come under intense pressure on both demand and supply sides. Worries about the pandemic slashing oil buying persist, while oversupply fears have grown after top exporter Saudi Arabia ramped up output and slashed prices to increase sales to consumers in Asia and Europe.

Earlier this month, the Organization of the Petroleum Countries and Russia failed to extend a production cut agreement which has been supporting prices since 2016.

"Fear remains the crux of the problem here as market players remain unconvinced that monetary policy easing and liquidity injections will solve an essential healthcare crisis," OCBC Bank's economist Selena Ling said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-rise-10-after-russia-indicates-open-to-cooperation-with-opec-285465">Oil prices rise 10% after Russia indicates 'open to cooperation with OPEC'</a>

"The end-game to me remains not about more policy bazookas, but a peak in global COVID-19 infections and fatalities, and, or a COVID-19 vaccine cure in the horizon."

Despite the massive drop in both oil and natural gas prices last week, the US oil drilling rig count rose for a second week in a row to its highest since December, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said in its closely followed report on Friday.

Still, the number of rigs is expected to fall as producers deepen spending cuts on new drilling.

More pain will be felt by US producers as Brent's premium to WTI is close to its narrowest since 2016, making US crude oil uncompetitive in international markets. Exports are set to fall by 1 million barrels per day each in April and May, sources have said.

"The big loser will be US shale, where the Republican government will possibly face a bailout decision on a heavily indebted industry sooner rather than later," said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at Oanda in Singapore.

&nbsp;

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers.

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers. Brent crude fell $1.13 to $32.72 a barrel by 0230 GMT, tumbling after last week's plunge of 25%, the largest weekly fall since 2008. The front-month price opened at a high of $35.84 but slipped to a low of $31.63. US crude was at $31.01, down 72 cents after slipping below $30 earlier in the session, despite US President Donald Trump's pledge to fill strategic oil reserves in the world's largest oil consumer "to the top". Also Read: Oil prices jump to $61 over OPEC+ supply cut reports The US Fed slashed interest rates on Sunday in its second emergency cut this month and said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700 billion in coming weeks in a bid to ease tension in financial markets. Oil prices have come under intense pressure on both demand and supply sides. Worries about the pandemic slashing oil buying persist, while oversupply fears have grown after top exporter Saudi Arabia ramped up output and slashed prices to increase sales to consumers in Asia and Europe. Earlier this month, the Organization of the Petroleum Countries and Russia failed to extend a production cut agreement which has been supporting prices since 2016. "Fear remains the crux of the problem here as market players remain unconvinced that monetary policy easing and liquidity injections will solve an essential healthcare crisis," OCBC Bank's economist Selena Ling said. Also Read: Oil prices rise 10% after Russia indicates 'open to cooperation with OPEC' "The end-game to me remains not about more policy bazookas, but a peak in global COVID-19 infections and fatalities, and, or a COVID-19 vaccine cure in the horizon." Despite the massive drop in both oil and natural gas prices last week, the US oil drilling rig count rose for a second week in a row to its highest since December, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said in its closely followed report on Friday. Still, the number of rigs is expected to fall as producers deepen spending cuts on new drilling. More pain will be felt by US producers as Brent's premium to WTI is close to its narrowest since 2016, making US crude oil uncompetitive in international markets. Exports are set to fall by 1 million barrels per day each in April and May, sources have said. "The big loser will be US shale, where the Republican government will possibly face a bailout decision on a heavily indebted industry sooner rather than later," said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at Oanda in Singapore.

Oil prices slide again on coronavirus fears, price war

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-markets-plunge-deepens-as-coronavirus-panic-worsens-286011">World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens</a>

In a statement, the government also said travellers from countries including Italy, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and parts of France, German and Spain would be subject to a two-week isolation.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-can-live-in-infected-people-for-weeks-longer-than-first-thought-286046">Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought</a>

Estonia has 27 cases of coronavirus so far, one of over 115 countries with infections as the pathogen has spread rapidly around the world over recent weeks.

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday.

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday. Also read: World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens In a statement, the government also said travellers from countries including Italy, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and parts of France, German and Spain would be subject to a two-week isolation. Also see: Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought Estonia has 27 cases of coronavirus so far, one of over 115 countries with infections as the pathogen has spread rapidly around the world over recent weeks.

Estonia closes schools, events until May 1

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday.

The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community".

The Baloch political activists highlighted the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army as they have launched operations in Balochistan, killing civilians and destroying their houses.

Razzak Baloch, organiser, USA Chapter of Baloch Human Rights Council, said, "Every 10 miles there is a check post, Balochistan has become a bigger jail. People cannot move around. You cannot even question them as to why you are stopping us? Why are you searching for our bodies? Why are you searching for our women? Why are you searching for our children?"

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/geneva-activists-protest-seek-un-intervention-to-prevent-pak-inflicted-genocide-in-balochistan-284207">Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan</a>

"Life is very miserable. You cannot move around in Balochistan. Anybody talks and he`s vanished. Is this freedom? We want to be free. We want to breathe freely. It is the duty of our neighbours also to see what is going on in Balochistan," he added.

Taha Siddiqui, a Pakistani journalist, who is now living in exile, said, "In Balochistan, currently the biggest issue is that for a very long time there was abuse. There was a lot of atrocities by the Pakistani state, but now it is not just about these missing persons actually. What is the problem is that there are missing stories, there is an information black hole and things are not being reported independently or not even reported at all."

He added, "So, the worst thing that is going on in Balochistan is that we do not even have an idea of what is going on and that is worse than being able to report about it and talk about it. So in that sense, the way there are secret military operations going on, the abduction is going on, there is religious radicalisation going on and all of this is not being reported."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-in-pakistan-protest-against-violence-rape-honour-killings-285109">Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings</a>

Taha, who escaped his abduction in Pakistan by secret agencies told the source, "The media is not being allowed and we are seeing that this is intensifying ever since China has come into the equation."

He said that ever since China has invested in Balochistan, "the crackdown by the military and Pakistani state has worsened and they do not want to talk about Baloch issues, the human rights abuse or whatever is happening in Balochistan."

"Nothing negative can be reported from the country because China does not want it, so the Pakistan military does not want it," the Pakistani journalist added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/central-asia/womens-rights-activists-attacked-then-detained-in-kyrgyzstan-285086">Women's rights activists attacked then detained in Kyrgyzstan</a>

The event was also attended by a member of the European Parliament who talked about the persecution of people in the mineral-rich but the poorest province in Pakistan.

Ryszard Czarnecki, a Member of European Parliament (MEP) told the source, "You have a very active (Baloch) diaspora, especially in Europe. Representatives of this diaspora inform us, the members of the European Parliament about the real situation in Balochistan and about Pakistani violations and lack of respecting human rights in this region."

"Obviously, we should make an intervention at different international levels. The people in Balochistan should feel that they are not alone. I would like to express my solidarity with our brothers and sisters in this region," the MEP said.

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday. The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community".

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday. The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community". The Baloch political activists highlighted the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army as they have launched operations in Balochistan, killing civilians and destroying their houses. Razzak Baloch, organiser, USA Chapter of Baloch Human Rights Council, said, "Every 10 miles there is a check post, Balochistan has become a bigger jail. People cannot move around. You cannot even question them as to why you are stopping us? Why are you searching for our bodies? Why are you searching for our women? Why are you searching for our children?" Also read: Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan "Life is very miserable. You cannot move around in Balochistan. Anybody talks and he`s vanished. Is this freedom? We want to be free. We want to breathe freely. It is the duty of our neighbours also to see what is going on in Balochistan," he added. Taha Siddiqui, a Pakistani journalist, who is now living in exile, said, "In Balochistan, currently the biggest issue is that for a very long time there was abuse. There was a lot of atrocities by the Pakistani state, but now it is not just about these missing persons actually. What is the problem is that there are missing stories, there is an information black hole and things are not being reported independently or not even reported at all." He added, "So, the worst thing that is going on in Balochistan is that we do not even have an idea of what is going on and that is worse than being able to report about it and talk about it. So in that sense, the way there are secret military operations going on, the abduction is going on, there is religious radicalisation going on and all of this is not being reported." Also see: Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings Taha, who escaped his abduction in Pakistan by secret agencies told the source, "The media is not being allowed and we are seeing that this is intensifying ever since China has come into the equation." He said that ever since China has invested in Balochistan, "the crackdown by the military and Pakistani state has worsened and they do not want to talk about Baloch issues, the human rights abuse or whatever is happening in Balochistan." "Nothing negative can be reported from the country because China does not want it, so the Pakistan military does not want it," the Pakistani journalist added. Also read: Women's rights activists attacked then detained in Kyrgyzstan The event was also attended by a member of the European Parliament who talked about the persecution of people in the mineral-rich but the poorest province in Pakistan. Ryszard Czarnecki, a Member of European Parliament (MEP) told the source, "You have a very active (Baloch) diaspora, especially in Europe. Representatives of this diaspora inform us, the members of the European Parliament about the real situation in Balochistan and about Pakistani violations and lack of respecting human rights in this region." "Obviously, we should make an intervention at different international levels. The people in Balochistan should feel that they are not alone. I would like to express my solidarity with our brothers and sisters in this region," the MEP said.

Activists, experts raise issues of human rights abuse in Balochistan

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/turkey-and-china-tie-themselves-in-knots-over-syria-and-xinjiang-257735">Turkey and China tie themselves in knots over Syria and Xinjiang</a>

In an interview with state-owned Anadolu news agency, Cavusoglu said that EU visa liberalisation and an update of the country's customs union with the bloc must be implemented to help solve the migrant issue.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-to-discuss-migrant-issues-with-eu-on-monday-285115"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-to-discuss-migrant-issues-with-eu-on-monday-285115">Turkish President Erdogan to discuss migrant issues with EU on Monday</a>

Late on Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan left meetings in Brussels with European Union and NATO leaders without issuing a joint statement nor appearing at a joint press conference, as had been planned.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue. Also Read: Turkey and China tie themselves in knots over Syria and Xinjiang In an interview with state-owned Anadolu news agency, Cavusoglu said that EU visa liberalisation and an update of the country's customs union with the bloc must be implemented to help solve the migrant issue. Also Read: Turkish President Erdogan to discuss migrant issues with EU on Monday Late on Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan left meetings in Brussels with European Union and NATO leaders without issuing a joint statement nor appearing at a joint press conference, as had been planned.

Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through.

Thousands of migrants have made for Greece since Ankara said on Feb. 28 that it would let migrants cross its borders into Europe, reneging on a commitment to hold them on its territory under a 2016 deal with the European Union.

Ankara has accused Greek forces of shooting dead four migrants. a charge rejected by Athens, which says Turkish forces are helping the migrants to cross the border. Both sides used tear gas at the Kastanies border post on Wednesday.

<img alt="Migrants, who are part of a group who arrived in the previous days after crossing part of the Aegean Sea from Turkey to Greece, wait for an identification process before being transported to the mainland on a Greek Navy vessel from the port of Mytilene, on the island of Lesbos, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e231cc37-f68a-46c7-a271-380474c64c79" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2834%29.jpg" />

Turkey's interior minister, Suleyman Soylu, visited Edirne province bordering Greece on Thursday and announced the deployment of 1,000 special police to the area to halt the pushback of migrants towards its territory.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/eastern-mediterranean-region-a-microcosm-of-regional-and-global-battles-284505">Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles</a>

Soylu, who said on Wednesday that Turkey was preparing a case at the European Court of Human Rights over Greece's treatment of migrants, accused Greek forces of wounding 164 people and pushing back nearly 5,000 into Turkey.

The situation at the Kastanies border crossing was calm on Thursday. Migrants - many of whom are from Afghanistan and Pakistan as well as Syria and other Arab nations - huddled in tents and makeshift camps on the Turkish side of the border.

<img alt="Two migrants who crossed the border from Turkey to Greece run through a field, near the town of Soufli, in the region of Evros, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61481ed0-c3b4-4b90-a58c-3d672e2d8df1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2836%29_0.jpg" />

Greek border guards rebuffed nearly 7,000 attempts in the last 24 hours alone, taking the total since Feb. 29 to 34,778 and the number of arrests of those who got through to 244, the Greek government sources said.

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Migrants who arrived in Greece illegally after March 1 will be transferred to the northern city of Serres and deported back to their own countries, Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi said late on Wednesday.

"Our aim is to return them to their countries," he told the Athens News Agency.

<img alt="Greek soldiers walk on the railway tracks as they patrol next the Greek-Turkish border near the village of Marasia, in the region of Evros, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f438018-6855-4b40-9366-7fbb155f62a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2837%29_0.jpg" />

CRITICISM

Mitarachi also said migrants who entered Greece prior to Jan. 1, 2019 and are living on its Aegean islands would be transferred to the mainland in the coming days.

Athens announced on March 1 that it would not accept any new asylum applications for a month following the build-up of migrants at the border. This has triggered criticism from human rights agencies.

The Aegean Sea remained choppy on Thursday and there were no further sightings of dinghies carrying migrants to Lesbos and other Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast.

Lesbos already hosts more than 20,000 asylum seekers, many of them living in filthy conditions in overcrowded camps.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-police-fire-tear-gas-at-migrants-on-turkish-border-284256">Greek police fire tear gas at migrants on Turkish border</a>

Greece and the EU accuse Turkey of deliberately goading the migrants to cross the border as a way of pressuring Brussels into offering more money or supporting Ankara's geopolitical aims in the Syrian conflict.

Turkey, which already hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees and faces another influx from an upsurge in fighting in northwest Syria, says it cannot take in any more and complains that EU aid falls well short of what is needed for the refugees.

President Tayyip Erdogan discussed the migrant issue with senior EU officials in Ankara on Wednesday but his spokesman said the Europeans had made "no concrete proposition" on how to resolve the crisis.

Ankara's change in policy towards the migrants on its soil came after at least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed by Russian-backed Syrian government forces in an air strike in Syria.

Erdogan flew to Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russia's President Vladimir Putin over a potential ceasefire in Syria's Idlib, where their militaries are facing off in a war that has displaced nearly a million people in three months.

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through.

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through. Thousands of migrants have made for Greece since Ankara said on Feb. 28 that it would let migrants cross its borders into Europe, reneging on a commitment to hold them on its territory under a 2016 deal with the European Union. Ankara has accused Greek forces of shooting dead four migrants. a charge rejected by Athens, which says Turkish forces are helping the migrants to cross the border. Both sides used tear gas at the Kastanies border post on Wednesday. Turkey's interior minister, Suleyman Soylu, visited Edirne province bordering Greece on Thursday and announced the deployment of 1,000 special police to the area to halt the pushback of migrants towards its territory. Also read: Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles Soylu, who said on Wednesday that Turkey was preparing a case at the European Court of Human Rights over Greece's treatment of migrants, accused Greek forces of wounding 164 people and pushing back nearly 5,000 into Turkey. The situation at the Kastanies border crossing was calm on Thursday. Migrants - many of whom are from Afghanistan and Pakistan as well as Syria and other Arab nations - huddled in tents and makeshift camps on the Turkish side of the border. Greek border guards rebuffed nearly 7,000 attempts in the last 24 hours alone, taking the total since Feb. 29 to 34,778 and the number of arrests of those who got through to 244, the Greek government sources said. Watch: × Migrants who arrived in Greece illegally after March 1 will be transferred to the northern city of Serres and deported back to their own countries, Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi said late on Wednesday. "Our aim is to return them to their countries," he told the Athens News Agency. CRITICISM Mitarachi also said migrants who entered Greece prior to Jan. 1, 2019 and are living on its Aegean islands would be transferred to the mainland in the coming days. Athens announced on March 1 that it would not accept any new asylum applications for a month following the build-up of migrants at the border. This has triggered criticism from human rights agencies. The Aegean Sea remained choppy on Thursday and there were no further sightings of dinghies carrying migrants to Lesbos and other Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast. Lesbos already hosts more than 20,000 asylum seekers, many of them living in filthy conditions in overcrowded camps. Also read: Greek police fire tear gas at migrants on Turkish border Greece and the EU accuse Turkey of deliberately goading the migrants to cross the border as a way of pressuring Brussels into offering more money or supporting Ankara's geopolitical aims in the Syrian conflict. Turkey, which already hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees and faces another influx from an upsurge in fighting in northwest Syria, says it cannot take in any more and complains that EU aid falls well short of what is needed for the refugees. President Tayyip Erdogan discussed the migrant issue with senior EU officials in Ankara on Wednesday but his spokesman said the Europeans had made "no concrete proposition" on how to resolve the crisis. Ankara's change in policy towards the migrants on its soil came after at least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed by Russian-backed Syrian government forces in an air strike in Syria. Erdogan flew to Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russia's President Vladimir Putin over a potential ceasefire in Syria's Idlib, where their militaries are facing off in a war that has displaced nearly a million people in three months.

Greece blocks 35,000 migrants, plans to deport arrivals after March 1

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens.

The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners.

All standard-class journeys on public transport in the tiny and wealthy European country are now free of charge.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclists-are-unwelcome-in-this-city-281081">The city where cyclists are unwelcome</a>

Public transport will now&nbsp;be funded largely via taxes paid into the national budget, meaning travel savings for private households, especially "low earners," said Luxembourg Transport Minister Francois Bausch.

“The main reason is to have a better quality of mobility, and then the side reason is clearly also environmental issues,”&nbsp;he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-plans-to-make-metro-bus-travel-free-for-women-arvind-kejriwal-223674">Delhi government plans to make metro, bus travel free for women: Arvind Kejriwal</a>

"The scheme applies to residents, cross-border commuters and tourists alike," he also said.

The move will affect approximately 40 per cent of households and save each one about €100 per year.

Luxembourg has just over 600,000 inhabitants, but 214,000 more travel in for work every day from neighbouring Germany, Belgium and France, causing heavy traffic jams as the majority of workers commute by car. More than half of Luxembourg’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transport.

The exception to the free-for-all public transport system will be first-class travel on trains and certain night bus services.

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens. The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners.

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens. The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners. All standard-class journeys on public transport in the tiny and wealthy European country are now free of charge. Also read: The city where cyclists are unwelcome Public transport will now be funded largely via taxes paid into the national budget, meaning travel savings for private households, especially "low earners," said Luxembourg Transport Minister Francois Bausch. “The main reason is to have a better quality of mobility, and then the side reason is clearly also environmental issues,” he added. Also read: Delhi government plans to make metro, bus travel free for women: Arvind Kejriwal "The scheme applies to residents, cross-border commuters and tourists alike," he also said. The move will affect approximately 40 per cent of households and save each one about €100 per year. Luxembourg has just over 600,000 inhabitants, but 214,000 more travel in for work every day from neighbouring Germany, Belgium and France, causing heavy traffic jams as the majority of workers commute by car. More than half of Luxembourg’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transport. The exception to the free-for-all public transport system will be first-class travel on trains and certain night bus services.

First European country to provide free access to public transport

As the war rages on in Northern Syria, Europe is suffering from yet another refugee crisis. The situation at the greek border remains uncertain. Hundreds of Syrian refugees have been attempting to cross over after Turkey announced that it would allow passage into Europe. Greece has denied taking in the migrants and has warned of strong action if people try to cross over illegally.

Greek police fire tear gas at refugees, trying to strop them from entering illegally

Hundreds of migrants in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Turkey</a> were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates".

The movement of people came after 33 Turkish soldiers were killed in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib in an airstrike on Thursday blamed on Damascus.

Pro-government daily Sabah said the decision to "open the border gates" was taken following an emergency meeting chaired by President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib</a>

Nearly 300 migrants arrived in Edirne province on the border with Greece in a bid to go to Europe, the private DHA news agency reported.

The group included Syrians, Iranians, Iraqis, Moroccans and Pakistanis, who told the agency they had come to the border after hearing the news about the soldiers.

Another group of migrants arrived at the coast of Ayvacik in Canakkale, western Turkey, and wanted to go to Lesbos by boats after reading reports of an "open-door policy", DHA reported.

The agency published images of people carrying their belongings, walking in the dead of night in Edirne and Canakkale.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-turkish-troops-killed-in-syrias-idlib-defence-ministry-283030">Two Turkish troops killed in Syria's Idlib: Defence ministry</a>

Some 32 soldiers were also injured after the airstrike in Idlib, blamed on Damascus, the governor of Turkish border province Hatay said.

Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib as part of a 2018 deal with Russia to prevent a regime offensive.

But in recent months, Syrian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Bashar al-Assad</a> has pushed an assault to retake the last rebel bastion backed by Russian airstrikes, killing hundreds of civilians.

Hundreds of thousands more Syrians in Idlib have been forced to flee their homes and head towards the Turkish border.

Turkey, which is already home to around 3.6 million Syrian refugees, fears more people arriving in the country where there is growing popular discontent towards refugees.

"We said we could not handle the pressure of newly-arrived refugees," Erdogan's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster early Friday.

"Our refugee policy remains the same but there is a situation at hand and we are not in a position to hold this," Celik said.

"There is only one thing the European Union can do and that is help the Turkish republic," he added.

Erdogan previously threatened to open the gates to Europe late last year as he sought more international support.

Hundreds of migrants in Turkey were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates".

Hundreds of migrants in Turkey were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates". The movement of people came after 33 Turkish soldiers were killed in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib in an airstrike on Thursday blamed on Damascus. Pro-government daily Sabah said the decision to "open the border gates" was taken following an emergency meeting chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday. Also read: 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib Nearly 300 migrants arrived in Edirne province on the border with Greece in a bid to go to Europe, the private DHA news agency reported. The group included Syrians, Iranians, Iraqis, Moroccans and Pakistanis, who told the agency they had come to the border after hearing the news about the soldiers. Another group of migrants arrived at the coast of Ayvacik in Canakkale, western Turkey, and wanted to go to Lesbos by boats after reading reports of an "open-door policy", DHA reported. The agency published images of people carrying their belongings, walking in the dead of night in Edirne and Canakkale. Also read: Two Turkish troops killed in Syria's Idlib: Defence ministry Some 32 soldiers were also injured after the airstrike in Idlib, blamed on Damascus, the governor of Turkish border province Hatay said. Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib as part of a 2018 deal with Russia to prevent a regime offensive. But in recent months, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has pushed an assault to retake the last rebel bastion backed by Russian airstrikes, killing hundreds of civilians. Hundreds of thousands more Syrians in Idlib have been forced to flee their homes and head towards the Turkish border. Turkey, which is already home to around 3.6 million Syrian refugees, fears more people arriving in the country where there is growing popular discontent towards refugees. "We said we could not handle the pressure of newly-arrived refugees," Erdogan's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster early Friday. "Our refugee policy remains the same but there is a situation at hand and we are not in a position to hold this," Celik said. "There is only one thing the European Union can do and that is help the Turkish republic," he added. Erdogan previously threatened to open the gates to Europe late last year as he sought more international support.

Hundreds head towards Europe border after reports claim that Turkey 'opens gates'

The cases of the Wuhan coronavirus are growing around the world. A report from the Imperial College predicts that around two-thirds of cases exported from China are yet to be detected. On WION Edit - we assess if the world is staring at a global pandemic.

WION EDIT: Wuhan coronavirus, a global pandemic?

Storm Ciara disrupts life in Europe

Storm Ciara brought severe flooding and heavy winds to areas across Europe, killing at least five people, according to reports from news agencies and social media.

More than 200 flood warnings have been issued across Britain, which recorded a maximum wind speed of 93 miles per hour in wales.

One severe flood warning was put in place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/flights-axed-and-floods-feared-as-storm-ciara-clobbers-europe-279824#yorkshire-northern-england-279816">Yorkshire in Northern England</a>, where water was predicted to overflow flood defences and potentially threaten lives.

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The historic English county of Yorkshire has been among the worst hit.&nbsp;

Floodwaters submerged cars in Lancashire. Several commuters remained stranded as the inclement weather affected transport services.

Vehicles were seen driving through flooded roads in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-ciara-devastates-uk-yorkshire-worst-hit-279711"> Northern English </a>town of Brighouse as Storm Ciara swept in.

Strong winds and waves triggered yellow and amber weather warnings across Wales and Scotland.

Meanwhile, a plane aborted landing at London's Heathrow airport after hurricane-force wind, prevented pilots from making a safe touch down.

The jet landed safely during a second attempt.

The storm has also wreaked havoc in other parts of Europe. &nbsp;Thirty-five regions in northern France have been put on alert as strong winds destroyed properties.

Part of a building collapsed in the Belgian capital Brussels as Storm Ciara swept across the city.

Storm Ciara brought severe flooding and heavy winds to areas across Europe, killing at least five people, according to reports from news agencies and social media.

Storm Ciara brought severe flooding and heavy winds to areas across Europe, killing at least five people, according to reports from news agencies and social media. More than 200 flood warnings have been issued across Britain, which recorded a maximum wind speed of 93 miles per hour in wales. One severe flood warning was put in place in Yorkshire in Northern England, where water was predicted to overflow flood defences and potentially threaten lives. × The historic English county of Yorkshire has been among the worst hit. Floodwaters submerged cars in Lancashire. Several commuters remained stranded as the inclement weather affected transport services. Vehicles were seen driving through flooded roads in the Northern English town of Brighouse as Storm Ciara swept in. Strong winds and waves triggered yellow and amber weather warnings across Wales and Scotland. Meanwhile, a plane aborted landing at London's Heathrow airport after hurricane-force wind, prevented pilots from making a safe touch down. The jet landed safely during a second attempt. The storm has also wreaked havoc in other parts of Europe. Thirty-five regions in northern France have been put on alert as strong winds destroyed properties. Part of a building collapsed in the Belgian capital Brussels as Storm Ciara swept across the city.

5 dead as Storm Ciara wreaks havoc across Europe 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">Pope Francis</a> will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">Vatican </a>said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya.

The visit, to both the main island of Malta and the archipelago's island of Gozo, is the pontiff's first announced journey for 2020.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Pope </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">backs Iraqi call for its sovereignty to be respected</a>

Malta is on the front line of migration into Europe, situated 95 kilometres&nbsp;south of Sicily and due north of Libya's capital of Tripoli.

That makes it a central port of entry into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Europe </a>for the increasing numbers of migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing, fleeing the renewed fighting in Libya.&nbsp;

Francis has often spoken up for migrants and has called on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">European Union</a> to be more welcoming of those fleeing chaos in their home countries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Pope appoints new envoy to France after abuse claims</a>

The Argentine pontiff will meet Malta's new prime minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Robert Abela</a>, who took office in January promising to strengthen the rule of law there.

Malta has been gripped by a widespread allegations of corruption, another global problem regularly addressed in the pope's declarations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Malta: Robert Abela set to become new PM as Joseph Muscat steps down</a>

Malta's previous prime minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Joseph Muscat</a>, stepped down as the investigation into the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2017 implicated some of his closest collaborators.&nbsp;

According to Catholic tradition, St. Paul was shipwrecked in the Maltese archipelago on his way to his trial in Rome in the year 60 AD.&nbsp;

While no other papal trips have yet been announced for this year, he has been formally invited to visit Iraq, Cyprus, Indonesia and Montenegro.

He has also expressed an interest in visiting South Sudan, where he has personally interceded in efforts to end the civil war there.

Pope Francis will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the Vatican said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya.

Pope Francis will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the Vatican said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya. The visit, to both the main island of Malta and the archipelago's island of Gozo, is the pontiff's first announced journey for 2020. Also read: Pope backs Iraqi call for its sovereignty to be respected Malta is on the front line of migration into Europe, situated 95 kilometres south of Sicily and due north of Libya's capital of Tripoli. That makes it a central port of entry into Europe for the increasing numbers of migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing, fleeing the renewed fighting in Libya. Francis has often spoken up for migrants and has called on the European Union to be more welcoming of those fleeing chaos in their home countries. Also read: Pope appoints new envoy to France after abuse claims The Argentine pontiff will meet Malta's new prime minister, Robert Abela, who took office in January promising to strengthen the rule of law there. Malta has been gripped by a widespread allegations of corruption, another global problem regularly addressed in the pope's declarations. Also read: Malta: Robert Abela set to become new PM as Joseph Muscat steps down Malta's previous prime minister, Joseph Muscat, stepped down as the investigation into the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2017 implicated some of his closest collaborators. According to Catholic tradition, St. Paul was shipwrecked in the Maltese archipelago on his way to his trial in Rome in the year 60 AD. While no other papal trips have yet been announced for this year, he has been formally invited to visit Iraq, Cyprus, Indonesia and Montenegro. He has also expressed an interest in visiting South Sudan, where he has personally interceded in efforts to end the civil war there.

Pope Francis to visit Malta in May

As Storm Ciara gains traction in Europe, hundreds of flights cancelled amid potential floods

Rail operator Deutsche Bahn said Sunday it was halting long-distance train services in many parts of northwestern Germany because of disruptions caused by Storm Ciara.

"Since there have already been disruptions caused by the cyclone, we are temporarily halting long-distance travel in large parts of Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, North Rhine-Westphalia and Bremen with immediate effect," it said on its website.

Britain and Ireland were lashed by howling winds and inundated with driving rain Sunday as Storm Ciara left homes without power, wiped out sports events and disrupted travel around northwestern Europe.

The bad weather also hit France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany throughout Sunday, causing scores of flights to be cancelled.

In Britain, more than 30,000 homes were left without power, largely in eastern England.

The highest wind speed recorded was 93 miles (150 kilometres) per hour at Aberdaron, on the tip of northwest Wales's Llyn peninsula.

At Wet Sleddale Reservoir in northwest England's Lake District national park, 151.8 millimetres of rain fell in a 24-hour period.

Rail companies urged passengers not to travel and operated reduced timetables and speed restrictions.

In the central Scottish city of Perth, three people were injured after part of a pub roof collapsed on Saturday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfires-cyclone-torrential-rain-hit-australias-coasts-279552">Bushfires, cyclone, torrential rain hit Australia's coasts</a>

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Sports events were also hit.

The English Premier League fixture between champions Manchester City and strugglers West Ham was called off due to "extreme and escalating weather conditions", City said in a statement.

The entire Women's Super League football programme was called off, including derbies between Arsenal and Tottenham, and Everton and Liverpool.

The north London clash was a sell-out, while the latter was due to attract a 20,000-plus crowd to Goodison Park.

In London, organisers cancelled a 10-kilometre race in which 25,000 runners were due to take part, while major city parks closed.

In rugby league, both Super League fixtures were postponed.

Meanwhile Queen Elizabeth II, staying at her Sandringham country residence in eastern England, did not go to church due to the high winds. The 93-year-old is the supreme governor of the Church of England.

Flights grounded

About 120 flights to and from Amsterdam Schiphol, the third-busiest airport in Europe, were cancelled, largely affecting KLM, British Airways, easyJet and Lufthansa services.

Several airports in Germany had to cancel flights as the storm swept in from the north.

Frankfurt, Berlin, Munich, Cologne and Hanover were among those affected, while at Dusseldorf, 111 flights were scrapped on Sunday.

In Belgium, the Royal Meteorological Institute issued an alert for Sunday of winds reaching 130 kph, or more, with the risk of property damage nationwide.

Some 60 flights departing or arriving at Brussels Airport have been cancelled as a precaution, according to an airport spokesman, who said further delays were possible.

In Ireland, around 14,000 homes and businesses were without power, national broadcaster RTE said, as the republic began counting ballots in its general election.

Ireland's Met Eireann meteorological service said winds would occasionally reach storm force 10 on western and northern coastal waters.

"Storm Ciara will continue to produce very strong west to southwest winds over Ireland with mean speeds of 50-65 kph and gusts generally of between 90 and 110 kph, higher in Atlantic coastal areas," it said.

"A combination of spring tides and high seas will result in a significant risk of coastal flooding."

Saturday's opening ceremony of Galway's year as European Capital of Culture, was scrapped due to bad weather buffeting Ireland's west coast.

Earlier French forecaster Marion Pirat told AFP that high winds were expected in the north and northwest of the country, potentially strengthening to 120 kph overnight Sunday. In the Vosges, winds could hit speeds of 140 kph.

The storm could make tough going for the Six Nations rugby clash between France and visitors Italy at 1600 GMT at the Stade de France in Paris.

The Dutch Football Association announced that Sunday's four top-flight matches had been postponed, while the Belgian top division also called off its matches.

Rail operator Deutsche Bahn said Sunday it was halting long-distance train services in many parts of northwestern Germany because of disruptions caused by Storm Ciara.

Rail operator Deutsche Bahn said Sunday it was halting long-distance train services in many parts of northwestern Germany because of disruptions caused by Storm Ciara. "Since there have already been disruptions caused by the cyclone, we are temporarily halting long-distance travel in large parts of Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, North Rhine-Westphalia and Bremen with immediate effect," it said on its website. Britain and Ireland were lashed by howling winds and inundated with driving rain Sunday as Storm Ciara left homes without power, wiped out sports events and disrupted travel around northwestern Europe. The bad weather also hit France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany throughout Sunday, causing scores of flights to be cancelled. In Britain, more than 30,000 homes were left without power, largely in eastern England. The highest wind speed recorded was 93 miles (150 kilometres) per hour at Aberdaron, on the tip of northwest Wales's Llyn peninsula. At Wet Sleddale Reservoir in northwest England's Lake District national park, 151.8 millimetres of rain fell in a 24-hour period. Rail companies urged passengers not to travel and operated reduced timetables and speed restrictions. In the central Scottish city of Perth, three people were injured after part of a pub roof collapsed on Saturday. Also read: Bushfires, cyclone, torrential rain hit Australia's coasts × Sports events were also hit. The English Premier League fixture between champions Manchester City and strugglers West Ham was called off due to "extreme and escalating weather conditions", City said in a statement. The entire Women's Super League football programme was called off, including derbies between Arsenal and Tottenham, and Everton and Liverpool. The north London clash was a sell-out, while the latter was due to attract a 20,000-plus crowd to Goodison Park. In London, organisers cancelled a 10-kilometre race in which 25,000 runners were due to take part, while major city parks closed. In rugby league, both Super League fixtures were postponed. Meanwhile Queen Elizabeth II, staying at her Sandringham country residence in eastern England, did not go to church due to the high winds. The 93-year-old is the supreme governor of the Church of England. Flights grounded About 120 flights to and from Amsterdam Schiphol, the third-busiest airport in Europe, were cancelled, largely affecting KLM, British Airways, easyJet and Lufthansa services. Several airports in Germany had to cancel flights as the storm swept in from the north. Frankfurt, Berlin, Munich, Cologne and Hanover were among those affected, while at Dusseldorf, 111 flights were scrapped on Sunday. In Belgium, the Royal Meteorological Institute issued an alert for Sunday of winds reaching 130 kph, or more, with the risk of property damage nationwide. Some 60 flights departing or arriving at Brussels Airport have been cancelled as a precaution, according to an airport spokesman, who said further delays were possible. In Ireland, around 14,000 homes and businesses were without power, national broadcaster RTE said, as the republic began counting ballots in its general election. Ireland's Met Eireann meteorological service said winds would occasionally reach storm force 10 on western and northern coastal waters. "Storm Ciara will continue to produce very strong west to southwest winds over Ireland with mean speeds of 50-65 kph and gusts generally of between 90 and 110 kph, higher in Atlantic coastal areas," it said. "A combination of spring tides and high seas will result in a significant risk of coastal flooding." Saturday's opening ceremony of Galway's year as European Capital of Culture, was scrapped due to bad weather buffeting Ireland's west coast. Earlier French forecaster Marion Pirat told AFP that high winds were expected in the north and northwest of the country, potentially strengthening to 120 kph overnight Sunday. In the Vosges, winds could hit speeds of 140 kph. The storm could make tough going for the Six Nations rugby clash between France and visitors Italy at 1600 GMT at the Stade de France in Paris. The Dutch Football Association announced that Sunday's four top-flight matches had been postponed, while the Belgian top division also called off its matches.

Germany halts long-distance rail services in several states as Storm Ciara batters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-invite-nato-members-for-international-army-games-defence-minister-shoigu-276426">NATO&nbsp;</a>chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-invite-nato-members-for-international-army-games-defence-minister-shoigu-276426">Jens Stoltenberg</a> said on&nbsp;Monday that a&nbsp;massive&nbsp;transfer of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-us-of-causing-panic-and-spreading-fear-over-coronavirus-278347">US </a>and allied troops to Eastern&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;as part of a military exercise was not aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-invite-nato-members-for-international-army-games-defence-minister-shoigu-276426">Russia</a>.

About 37,000 soldiers from 18 countries are to participate in the US-run manoeuvre dubbed Defender&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;2020.

This is "the largest&nbsp;deployment&nbsp;of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-us-of-causing-panic-and-spreading-fear-over-coronavirus-278347">US </a>troops to&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;in more than 25 years," Stoltenberg said.

Also said:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-invite-nato-members-for-international-army-games-defence-minister-shoigu-276426">Russia to invite NATO members for international Army games</a>

The exercise "shows the strong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-us-of-causing-panic-and-spreading-fear-over-coronavirus-278347">US </a>commitment to&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;and to the freedom and security of&nbsp;Europe," he added.

The exercise will take place in May and June, mainly in Germany, Poland and the Baltic States.

The US will move 20,000 soldiers to&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;in the coming months.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Trump floats expanding NATO to add Middle East

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-floats-expanding-nato-to-add-middle-east-273325/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">"Defender&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;is not directed against any particular country," Stoltenberg said.</div>

"This defensive exercise demonstrates the ability to rapidly move a large force from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-us-of-causing-panic-and-spreading-fear-over-coronavirus-278347">United States</a> to&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;to help protect other&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;Allies if needed," he said.&nbsp;

The exercise comes amid doubts over whether the US is still prepared to defend&nbsp;Europe.&nbsp;

After his inauguration, US President Donald Trump initially described&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;as "obsolete".&nbsp;

But after Germany and the other European members pledged higher defence spending, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the alliance.&nbsp;

NATO's sense of purpose took a boost after the annexation of the Crimean peninsula by&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in 2014, fuelling fears among eastern&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;members.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-us-soldiers-killed-in-afghanistan-bomb-attack-says-nato-mission-273657">Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan bomb attack, says NATO mission</a>

The alliance has since significantly strengthened its presence in Eastern&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;and built the capability for rapid&nbsp;deployment&nbsp;of troops in the event of conflict.&nbsp;

Stoltenberg underlined that&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;members Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia celebrated their 30th anniversary of independence this year, referring to the three Baltic states' split from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

Portions of "Defender&nbsp;Europe" were to be held in the three countries.&nbsp;

"Russia&nbsp;has every right to feel safe within its borders, but so do our member states," said Stoltenberg.

A&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;official said there was nothing to be read into the fact that the exercise was taking place during 75th-anniversary celebrations in Moscow of&nbsp;Russia's victory over Nazi Germany on May 9th.&nbsp;

"The exercise will take place from February to June," an official said. "This is the time when many military exercises are held each year."&nbsp;

"We recognise the critical role played by the Soviet Union in the victory over Nazi Germany."&nbsp;

Stoltenberg pointed out that the US had informed&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and the other members of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;(OSCE) about the exercise in accordance with the guidelines on such matters.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday that a massive transfer of US and allied troops to Eastern Europe as part of a military exercise was not aimed at Russia.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday that a massive transfer of US and allied troops to Eastern Europe as part of a military exercise was not aimed at Russia. About 37,000 soldiers from 18 countries are to participate in the US-run manoeuvre dubbed Defender Europe 2020. This is "the largest deployment of US troops to Europe in more than 25 years," Stoltenberg said. Also said: Russia to invite NATO members for international Army games The exercise "shows the strong US commitment to NATO and to the freedom and security of Europe," he added. The exercise will take place in May and June, mainly in Germany, Poland and the Baltic States. The US will move 20,000 soldiers to Europe in the coming months. Watch: Trump floats expanding NATO to add Middle East "Defender Europe is not directed against any particular country," Stoltenberg said. "This defensive exercise demonstrates the ability to rapidly move a large force from the United States to Europe to help protect other NATO Allies if needed," he said. The exercise comes amid doubts over whether the US is still prepared to defend Europe. After his inauguration, US President Donald Trump initially described NATO as "obsolete". But after Germany and the other European members pledged higher defence spending, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the alliance. NATO's sense of purpose took a boost after the annexation of the Crimean peninsula by Russia in 2014, fuelling fears among eastern NATO members. Also read: Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan bomb attack, says NATO mission The alliance has since significantly strengthened its presence in Eastern Europe and built the capability for rapid deployment of troops in the event of conflict. Stoltenberg underlined that NATO members Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia celebrated their 30th anniversary of independence this year, referring to the three Baltic states' split from the Soviet Union. Portions of "Defender Europe" were to be held in the three countries. "Russia has every right to feel safe within its borders, but so do our member states," said Stoltenberg. A NATO official said there was nothing to be read into the fact that the exercise was taking place during 75th-anniversary celebrations in Moscow of Russia's victory over Nazi Germany on May 9th. "The exercise will take place from February to June," an official said. "This is the time when many military exercises are held each year." "We recognise the critical role played by the Soviet Union in the victory over Nazi Germany." Stoltenberg pointed out that the US had informed Russia and the other members of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) about the exercise in accordance with the guidelines on such matters.

Russia not target in US army's massive Europe deployment: National Atlantic Treaty Organisation

It was an emotional moment in the European Parliament. As the Brexit deal was passed, lawmakers stood up to sing "Auld Lang Syne" - as a goodbye gesture to the UK. Here is how Europe bid farewell to Britain.

Gravitas: European MPs bid emotional farewell to the UK

The culprit behind the draft resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act which is proposed to be tabled in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">European Parliament</a> later this week has been identified as a UK national and a Member of the European Parliament.

Originally from Pakistan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-shaffaq-mohammed-on-wion-gravitas-277162">Shaffaq Mohammed</a> is an MEP since 2019 and was awarded Member of the Order of British Empire in 2015 “for political service” as a councillor on the Sheffield City Council.

&nbsp;

Thought the proposed resolution is supposed by 154 of 751 members, the resolutions of the European Parliament are not binding on the European Commission. Debates on the draft resolution are to open on January 20 and voting on the matter is on January 30.

<img alt=" European Parliament in Brussels" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="184fa4fa-7967-46ea-9cbb-271824b6f9cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/European%20Parliament%20in%20Brussels%20Photograph-afp.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;European Parliament in Brussels (Courtesy: AFP) ]

Brussels will be hosting the next summit of India and the EU. One of the MEPs to have drafted the resolution stated that people familiar with Indo-Pak affairs and UK politics would not rule out influence from the Pakistan government behind the move by Mohammed.

A group of 154 MEPs belonging to the progressive forum 'S&amp;D Group' have stated that the CAA would trigger the “largest statelessness crisis in the world and cause widespread human suffering.” They have also drafted a formal five-page resolution to be tabled during the plenary session of the European Parliament starting in Brussels.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-origin-mep-behind-anti-caa-resolution-in-european-parliament-276859">Pak Origin MEP Behind Anti-CAA Resolution In European Parliament</a>

The resolution proposed states that India is violating its “international obligations” under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other Human Rights treaties, for the CAA is “discriminatory and dangerously divisive."

The European Parliament is the legislative branch of the European Union and one of its seven institutions. Together with the Council of the European Union, it adopts European legislation, normally on a proposal from the European Commission.

The European Parliament one of the seven institutions of the European Union. It embraces European legislation with the Council of the European Union, ordinarily on a proposition from the European Commission.

The Parliament delegates to the second-biggest democratic electorate on the planet (after the Indian Parliament) and the biggest trans-national democratic electorate on the planet (375 million qualified voters in 2009)

The European Parliament may favor or reject a legislative proposal or proposed changes to it, yet the European Council isn't lawfully obliged to assess Parliament's opinion. The European Parliament has in the past discussed nation-specific goals, including Turkey and Egypt.

The culprit behind the draft resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act which is proposed to be tabled in the European Parliament later this week has been identified as a UK national and a Member of the European Parliament.

The culprit behind the draft resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act which is proposed to be tabled in the European Parliament later this week has been identified as a UK national and a Member of the European Parliament. Originally from Pakistan Shaffaq Mohammed is an MEP since 2019 and was awarded Member of the Order of British Empire in 2015 “for political service” as a councillor on the Sheffield City Council. Thought the proposed resolution is supposed by 154 of 751 members, the resolutions of the European Parliament are not binding on the European Commission. Debates on the draft resolution are to open on January 20 and voting on the matter is on January 30. [ European Parliament in Brussels (Courtesy: AFP) ] Brussels will be hosting the next summit of India and the EU. One of the MEPs to have drafted the resolution stated that people familiar with Indo-Pak affairs and UK politics would not rule out influence from the Pakistan government behind the move by Mohammed. A group of 154 MEPs belonging to the progressive forum 'S&D Group' have stated that the CAA would trigger the “largest statelessness crisis in the world and cause widespread human suffering.” They have also drafted a formal five-page resolution to be tabled during the plenary session of the European Parliament starting in Brussels. Also Read: Pak Origin MEP Behind Anti-CAA Resolution In European Parliament The resolution proposed states that India is violating its “international obligations” under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other Human Rights treaties, for the CAA is “discriminatory and dangerously divisive." The European Parliament is the legislative branch of the European Union and one of its seven institutions. Together with the Council of the European Union, it adopts European legislation, normally on a proposal from the European Commission. The European Parliament one of the seven institutions of the European Union. It embraces European legislation with the Council of the European Union, ordinarily on a proposition from the European Commission. The Parliament delegates to the second-biggest democratic electorate on the planet (after the Indian Parliament) and the biggest trans-national democratic electorate on the planet (375 million qualified voters in 2009) The European Parliament may favor or reject a legislative proposal or proposed changes to it, yet the European Council isn't lawfully obliged to assess Parliament's opinion. The European Parliament has in the past discussed nation-specific goals, including Turkey and Egypt.

Anti-CAA move in European Parliament fueled by Pakistan-origin EU MP Shaffaq Mohammed

A lawmaker of Pakistani origin is wanted European Lawmakers to take a stand against India's new citizenship law. Shaffaq Mohammed says he is the 'lead mover' of resolutions in the European Parliament. A report says Pakistan is driving this campaign.

Gravitas: Is Pakistan driving anti-India resolutions in Europe?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-trip-to-get-costlier-as-schengen-visa-fee-hiked-to-eu80-from-february-2-274424">Europe</a>'s main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">coronavirus</a>.

In initial trades, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/london-braces-for-republic-day-protest-by-pakistan-backed-groups-276458">London</a>'s benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.6 per cent to 7,468.72 points compared with the close on Friday.

In the eurozone, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/deutsche-bank-predicts-meagre-growth-due-to-low-rates-267435">Frankfurt</a>'s DAX 30 index also lost 1.6 percent to 13,359.03 points and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Paris</a> CAC 40 dived 1.7 per cent to 5,923.36.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-economy-at-its-weakest-pace-since-global-financial-crisis-international-monetary-fund-256126"> World economy at its weakest pace since global financial crisis: International Monetary Fund</a>

"Market participants in Europe have grave concerns about&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;as the death toll increased to 80&nbsp;and more than 2,700 victims infected in China," said Ava Trade analyst Naeem Aslam.

He added: "The bottom line is that the virus has become deadly and it has caused a major panic in markets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">Also read:Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms&nbsp;</a>

The outbreak of the&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;has led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">China</a> to lock down the epicentre of the disease, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">Wuhan</a>,&nbsp;a city of 11 million people, while also imposing tight travel restrictions on a number of other cities including Beijing.

Europe's main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly coronavirus. In initial trades, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.

Europe's main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly coronavirus. In initial trades, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.6 per cent to 7,468.72 points compared with the close on Friday. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 index also lost 1.6 percent to 13,359.03 points and the Paris CAC 40 dived 1.7 per cent to 5,923.36. Also read: World economy at its weakest pace since global financial crisis: International Monetary Fund "Market participants in Europe have grave concerns about coronavirus as the death toll increased to 80 and more than 2,700 victims infected in China," said Ava Trade analyst Naeem Aslam. He added: "The bottom line is that the virus has become deadly and it has caused a major panic in markets." Also read:Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms The outbreak of the coronavirus has led China to lock down the epicentre of the disease, Wuhan, a city of 11 million people, while also imposing tight travel restrictions on a number of other cities including Beijing.

European stocks sink as coronavirus sparks investor panic

Under Hitler, Germany tried to wipe out the entire Jewish Community in Europe. At least six million people were killed in this genocide. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story of the Holocaust.

Gravitas: The story of the Holocaust

The European Commission has announced plans to ban the use of facial recognition in public areas for at least five years.

According to the officials, regulators want to stop the technology from being misused, BBC reported.

The facial recognition technology is mostly used by police forces around the world to curate watch lists, based on the CCTV footage.

According to BBC, exceptions will be made in this regard for reasons pertaining to security, research, and development.

In an 18-page document, the European Commission suggested new rules within existing regulations about privacy and data rights.

The Commission has suggested the creation of an authority to monitor new rules. Within the dictate of the proposal, rules will be imposed on both the developers and users of artificial intelligence.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="facial" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b3d592e-fe32-4ee1-be8d-f782f20c5f0d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_32.jpg" /> 
Image: AI (artificial intelligence) security cameras with facial recognition technology are seen at the 14th China International Exhibition on Public Safety and Security at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing on October 24, 2019 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The ban is expected to last between three and five years, and as BBC reported is "a sound methodology for assessing the impacts of this technology and possible risk management measures could be identified and developed".

There has major global outcry over the use of artificial intelligence and the role played by facial recognition and the data it gathers. Campaigners in the UK want the police to stop using facial recognition for public surveillance.

Recently, King’s Cross, a major rail hub, was at the centre of controversy when it was found that the owners were employing recognition technology without the informed consent of the public.&nbsp;

Many activists and campaigners feel that the facial technology, as it exists presently, is only partially accurate, highly intrusive and circumvents many fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens across democracies, like the right to privacy. &nbsp;

BBC reported that a recent study found facial recognition algorithms are racially incongruent. For clarity, the technology less accurate at identifying black and Asian faces compared with white faces.

<h6><img alt="facial" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45bebe0b-f01d-45c0-8812-ca57de10478a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_19.jpg" /> 
Image: A construction worker walks past facial recognition screens at the entrance to the terminal building of the new Beijing Daxing International Airport, in Beijing on March 1, 2019 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

China has been stepping up its public surveillance programmes with the help of facial recognition technologies. For instance, recently, the government had been tracking certain people in Shanghai's pharmacies for buying certain drugs.

As part of this scheme, people who intend to buy certain medicines, such as ones with psychotropic substances, will be forced to verify their identity using facial recognition technology.&nbsp;

China has been clamping down on drugs and this is the latest move in its aspiration to halt the production of illegal drugs.&nbsp;

And even though the West has shown reservations with facial recognition technology, China has embraced it with open arms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/racial-bias-found-in-facial-recognition-tools-us-government-study-269383">Racial bias found in facial recognition tools: US government study</a>

The European Commission has announced plans to ban the use of facial recognition in public areas for at least five years. According to the officials, regulators want to stop the technology from being misused, BBC reported.

The European Commission has announced plans to ban the use of facial recognition in public areas for at least five years. According to the officials, regulators want to stop the technology from being misused, BBC reported. The facial recognition technology is mostly used by police forces around the world to curate watch lists, based on the CCTV footage. According to BBC, exceptions will be made in this regard for reasons pertaining to security, research, and development. In an 18-page document, the European Commission suggested new rules within existing regulations about privacy and data rights. The Commission has suggested the creation of an authority to monitor new rules. Within the dictate of the proposal, rules will be imposed on both the developers and users of artificial intelligence. Image: AI (artificial intelligence) security cameras with facial recognition technology are seen at the 14th China International Exhibition on Public Safety and Security at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing on October 24, 2019 | AFP The ban is expected to last between three and five years, and as BBC reported is "a sound methodology for assessing the impacts of this technology and possible risk management measures could be identified and developed". There has major global outcry over the use of artificial intelligence and the role played by facial recognition and the data it gathers. Campaigners in the UK want the police to stop using facial recognition for public surveillance. Recently, King’s Cross, a major rail hub, was at the centre of controversy when it was found that the owners were employing recognition technology without the informed consent of the public. Many activists and campaigners feel that the facial technology, as it exists presently, is only partially accurate, highly intrusive and circumvents many fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens across democracies, like the right to privacy. BBC reported that a recent study found facial recognition algorithms are racially incongruent. For clarity, the technology less accurate at identifying black and Asian faces compared with white faces. Image: A construction worker walks past facial recognition screens at the entrance to the terminal building of the new Beijing Daxing International Airport, in Beijing on March 1, 2019 | AFP China has been stepping up its public surveillance programmes with the help of facial recognition technologies. For instance, recently, the government had been tracking certain people in Shanghai's pharmacies for buying certain drugs. As part of this scheme, people who intend to buy certain medicines, such as ones with psychotropic substances, will be forced to verify their identity using facial recognition technology. China has been clamping down on drugs and this is the latest move in its aspiration to halt the production of illegal drugs. And even though the West has shown reservations with facial recognition technology, China has embraced it with open arms. Also read: Racial bias found in facial recognition tools: US government study

European Union considering five-year ban on facial recognition technology at public places

Travelling to Europe may become a bit more expensive as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-no-visas-required-for-indians-transiting-from-france-155152">Schengen visa fee</a> is set to increase.

According to a report, the fee will be hiked to Euro 80 from Euro 60 and it will come into effect from February 2.

&nbsp;For children, the fee is hiked to Euro 40 from Euro 35. Infants and children below six years are exempted from the fee.

As per reports, the fee is hiked for travellers from all countries except with which the European Union has a visa facilitation agreement.

The Schengen visa is the most common visa for Europe which allows tourists to travel through the 26 European countries.

It is a short-stay visa that allows tourists to travel to any members of the Schengen Area.&nbsp;

Countries that come into Schengen area are, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

The person can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.

According to the official website, over 14.2 million people used their Schengen visa in 2018 to travel around Europe.

However, if a person is planning to study, work, or live in one of the Schengen countries for over 90 days, then they will have to apply for a national visa of that European country they are planning to visit.

Travelling to Europe may become a bit more expensive as the Schengen visa fee is set to increase. According to a report, the fee will be hiked to Euro 80 from Euro 60 and it will come into effect from February 2.

Travelling to Europe may become a bit more expensive as the Schengen visa fee is set to increase. According to a report, the fee will be hiked to Euro 80 from Euro 60 and it will come into effect from February 2. For children, the fee is hiked to Euro 40 from Euro 35. Infants and children below six years are exempted from the fee. As per reports, the fee is hiked for travellers from all countries except with which the European Union has a visa facilitation agreement. The Schengen visa is the most common visa for Europe which allows tourists to travel through the 26 European countries. It is a short-stay visa that allows tourists to travel to any members of the Schengen Area. Countries that come into Schengen area are, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. The person can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. According to the official website, over 14.2 million people used their Schengen visa in 2018 to travel around Europe. However, if a person is planning to study, work, or live in one of the Schengen countries for over 90 days, then they will have to apply for a national visa of that European country they are planning to visit.

Europe trip to get costlier as Schengen visa fee hiked

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-royal-family-mixes-pudding-in-anticipation-of-christmas-269546">United Kingdom</a>'s Prime Minister Boris Johnson today announced that the minimum wage in the country would be increased by four times over the inflation rate starting next year.

Starting April, the government will sanction a 6.2 per cent increase in the national living wage for people 25 an above. The minimum wage now will be £8.72. Earlier, it was £8.21.

The current UK inflation rate is 1.5 per cent. Following the EU referendum in 2016, the imports price went up.

This is the biggest Conservative party victory since the 1980s.

Watch:&nbsp;State opening of the UK Parliament, Queen lays out Boris Johnson's Brexit Plans

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/state-opening-of-the-uk-parliament-queen-lays-out-boris-johnsons-brexit-plans-269298/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In his campaign, Johnson had said that more investment would be brought in to reverse 10 years of austerity measures that were done by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-labour-party-leader-corbyn-declines-to-apologise-after-anti-semitism-claims-264760">previous governments</a>. 
 
"Raising wage floors will pile further pressure on cash flow and eat into training and investment budgets. For this policy to be sustainable, the government must offset these costs by reducing others and impose a moratorium on any further upfront costs for business", said the British Chambers of Commerce's co-executive director Hannah Essex.

Johnson recently won the UK general election after a long <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-votes-to-decide-the-fate-of-brexit-again-267803">Brexit</a> deadlock. His government said that three million people would benefit from the increase.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson today announced that the minimum wage in the country would be increased by four times over the inflation rate starting next year.

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson today announced that the minimum wage in the country would be increased by four times over the inflation rate starting next year. Starting April, the government will sanction a 6.2 per cent increase in the national living wage for people 25 an above. The minimum wage now will be £8.72. Earlier, it was £8.21. The current UK inflation rate is 1.5 per cent. Following the EU referendum in 2016, the imports price went up. This is the biggest Conservative party victory since the 1980s. Watch: State opening of the UK Parliament, Queen lays out Boris Johnson's Brexit Plans In his campaign, Johnson had said that more investment would be brought in to reverse 10 years of austerity measures that were done by previous governments. "Raising wage floors will pile further pressure on cash flow and eat into training and investment budgets. For this policy to be sustainable, the government must offset these costs by reducing others and impose a moratorium on any further upfront costs for business", said the British Chambers of Commerce's co-executive director Hannah Essex. Johnson recently won the UK general election after a long Brexit deadlock. His government said that three million people would benefit from the increase. (With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom's new government increases minimum wage to £8.72

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-die-as-storm-front-batters-greece-264668">A storm</a> across Spain, Portugal, and France has killed seven people. More violent winds are expected.

On Saturday, a 32-year-old South Korean woman was killed a day after being struck on the head by debris from a building in Madrid.&nbsp;

The building in question had cleared inspection back in 2015 "but weather like this, with heavy rain and wind, causes these fateful cases," Enrique Lopez told reporters.

Additionally, emergency services in the southwestern region of Andalusia said a 68-year-old Dutchman who went missing while windsurfing in rough weather in Huelva province Friday had drowned.

With these&nbsp;two recent deaths, the toll has increased to seven. The storm is currently causing chaos across Spain, Portugal, and southern France.

Flooded rivers, disrupted power lines, and interrupted modes of public transport were a common sight during Storm Elsa.

Out of the seven dead, five were killed in Spain and two in Portugal. In the latter country, extreme weather has interrupted train services between Lisbon, the capital and Porto.

Watch:&nbsp;Without urgent action, yearly extreme heat waves await Europeans, EU agency says

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/without-urgent-action-yearly-extreme-heat-waves-await-europeans-eu-agency-says-266203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With Storm Elsa now hovering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-for-brexit-trade-deal-but-not-at-any-price-european-union-268162">over Britain</a>, the three affected countries recently received a fresh threat.&nbsp;

In Spain, Storm Fabien has already brought winds of 170 kilometres per hour in Galicia.

The National Weather Office in Spain has put out a red alert, especially in the coast of Galicia, due to potential strong winds and high waves.&nbsp;

France's weather office placed 14 regions in the southwest of the country on orange alert Saturday expecting winds of up to 140 kilometres an hour on the coast.

Officials on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica said all the island's airports would be closed Sunday because of the approaching storm. Ferry services to the mainline have already been suspended.

(With inputs from agencies)

A storm across Spain, Portugal, and France has killed seven people. More violent winds are expected. On Saturday, a 32-year-old South Korean woman was killed a day after being struck on the head by debris from a building in Madrid.

A storm across Spain, Portugal, and France has killed seven people. More violent winds are expected. On Saturday, a 32-year-old South Korean woman was killed a day after being struck on the head by debris from a building in Madrid. The building in question had cleared inspection back in 2015 "but weather like this, with heavy rain and wind, causes these fateful cases," Enrique Lopez told reporters. Additionally, emergency services in the southwestern region of Andalusia said a 68-year-old Dutchman who went missing while windsurfing in rough weather in Huelva province Friday had drowned. With these two recent deaths, the toll has increased to seven. The storm is currently causing chaos across Spain, Portugal, and southern France. Flooded rivers, disrupted power lines, and interrupted modes of public transport were a common sight during Storm Elsa. Out of the seven dead, five were killed in Spain and two in Portugal. In the latter country, extreme weather has interrupted train services between Lisbon, the capital and Porto. Watch: Without urgent action, yearly extreme heat waves await Europeans, EU agency says With Storm Elsa now hovering over Britain, the three affected countries recently received a fresh threat. In Spain, Storm Fabien has already brought winds of 170 kilometres per hour in Galicia. The National Weather Office in Spain has put out a red alert, especially in the coast of Galicia, due to potential strong winds and high waves. France's weather office placed 14 regions in the southwest of the country on orange alert Saturday expecting winds of up to 140 kilometres an hour on the coast. Officials on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica said all the island's airports would be closed Sunday because of the approaching storm. Ferry services to the mainline have already been suspended. (With inputs from agencies)

Storm across Europe kills seven, connectivity disrupted

At least 58 migrants drowned as their boat sank near the Mauritanian coast after a week at sea, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../greek-camps-near-capacity-as-refugees-face- long-wait-for-asylum-259734">International Organization for Migration</a> said Thursday.

The U.N. agency said another 83 people swam to shore, while survivors said at least 150 people including women and children were aboard the vessel, which had set sail from The Gambia on November 27.

They said the boat was running low on fuel as it was nearing the coast of the northwestern African nation.

"The Mauritanian authorities are very efficiently coordinating the response with the agencies currently present in Nouadhibou," said Laura Lungarotti, IOM's chief of mission in Mauritania.

"Our common priority is to take care of all those who survived and bring them the support they need," she added.

The injured are being treated in hospital in Nouadhibou, Mauritania's westernmost town on the Atlantic coast, the IOM statement said.

Mauritanian authorities are in contact with Gambian consular services "to ensure that the necessary support is provided to the migrants", the statement said.

The Gambian Ambassador to Mauritania is headed to Nouadhibou, it added.

At least 58 migrants drowned as their boat sank near the Mauritanian coast after a week at sea, the International Organization for Migration said Thursday. The U.

At least 58 migrants drowned as their boat sank near the Mauritanian coast after a week at sea, the International Organization for Migration said Thursday. The U.N. agency said another 83 people swam to shore, while survivors said at least 150 people including women and children were aboard the vessel, which had set sail from The Gambia on November 27. They said the boat was running low on fuel as it was nearing the coast of the northwestern African nation. "The Mauritanian authorities are very efficiently coordinating the response with the agencies currently present in Nouadhibou," said Laura Lungarotti, IOM's chief of mission in Mauritania. "Our common priority is to take care of all those who survived and bring them the support they need," she added. The injured are being treated in hospital in Nouadhibou, Mauritania's westernmost town on the Atlantic coast, the IOM statement said. Mauritanian authorities are in contact with Gambian consular services "to ensure that the necessary support is provided to the migrants", the statement said. The Gambian Ambassador to Mauritania is headed to Nouadhibou, it added.

Dozens of migrants drown as boat sinks off Mauritania: U.N.

European Union&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;meeting in Brussels next week will&nbsp;push&nbsp;to agree to put the bloc on net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by&nbsp;2050, their draft joint statement showed on Monday, heralding a bitter fight looming at their gathering.

The December&nbsp;12-13 summit of the bloc's national&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;will aim to endorse "the objective of achieving a&nbsp;climate-neutral&nbsp;EU&nbsp;by&nbsp;2050", according to the&nbsp;document&nbsp;seen by Reuters.

Previous attempts, however, were blocked by Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic, who rely on highly polluting coal. They have previously said they oppose&nbsp;climate&nbsp;neutrality by&nbsp;2050&nbsp;for fear cutting greenhouse emissions will stifle their economies.

To convince the reluctant camp, the draft summit conclusions refer to "just and socially balanced transition", the&nbsp;European Investment Bank's announcement to unlock 1 trillion&nbsp;euros worth of green investment until 2030, the need to ensure energy security and competitiveness vis-à-vis foreign powers not pursuing such&nbsp;climate&nbsp;goals.

The draft, prepared in advance of the&nbsp;leaders' discussions, may still change. But it will eventually need unanimous backing of all&nbsp;EU&nbsp;national&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;for there to be an agreement at the summit.

The bloc's new executive&nbsp;European Commission also aims to&nbsp;push&nbsp;for&nbsp;climate&nbsp;neutrality by mid-century and wants to make the&nbsp;EU's 2030&nbsp;climate&nbsp;targets more ambitious.

Current targets envisage cutting the&nbsp;EU's greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent&nbsp;by 2030 from 1990 levels. The new Commission, led by Germany's Ursula von der Leyen, hopes to raise the goal to at least 50 per cent.

European Union leaders meeting in Brussels next week will push to agree to put the bloc on net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, their draft joint statement showed on Monday, heralding a bitter fight looming at their gathering.

European Union leaders meeting in Brussels next week will push to agree to put the bloc on net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, their draft joint statement showed on Monday, heralding a bitter fight looming at their gathering. The December 12-13 summit of the bloc's national leaders will aim to endorse "the objective of achieving a climate-neutral EU by 2050", according to the document seen by Reuters. Previous attempts, however, were blocked by Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic, who rely on highly polluting coal. They have previously said they oppose climate neutrality by 2050 for fear cutting greenhouse emissions will stifle their economies. To convince the reluctant camp, the draft summit conclusions refer to "just and socially balanced transition", the European Investment Bank's announcement to unlock 1 trillion euros worth of green investment until 2030, the need to ensure energy security and competitiveness vis-à-vis foreign powers not pursuing such climate goals. The draft, prepared in advance of the leaders' discussions, may still change. But it will eventually need unanimous backing of all EU national leaders for there to be an agreement at the summit. The bloc's new executive European Commission also aims to push for climate neutrality by mid-century and wants to make the EU's 2030 climate targets more ambitious. Current targets envisage cutting the EU's greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent by 2030 from 1990 levels. The new Commission, led by Germany's Ursula von der Leyen, hopes to raise the goal to at least 50 per cent.

European Union leaders to push for climate neutrality by 2050: Sources

Three emergency workers were killed in a helicopter crash near Marseille while on a rescue mission in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/floods-and-rain-kill-two-in-southern-france-265624">flood-hit southern France</a>, the interior ministry said Monday.

Their EC145 helicopter lost radio and radar contact while on a rescue and reconnaissance flight in the Var region Sunday night. The three were found dead at 1:30 am near the town of Rove, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner and his secretary of state Laurent Nunez said in a statement.

An investigation was underway to determine the circumstances of the crash.

"While France is preparing today to pay tribute to 13 of its soldiers who died serving it (in Mali), our country is losing three everyday heroes who gave their lives to protect the French," Castaner and Nunez said.

Two people were killed on Sunday by floods in the French Riviera, which has been hit by fresh torrential rains a week after extreme weather left six dead.

Three emergency workers were killed in a helicopter crash near Marseille while on a rescue mission in flood-hit southern France, the interior ministry said Monday.

Three emergency workers were killed in a helicopter crash near Marseille while on a rescue mission in flood-hit southern France, the interior ministry said Monday. Their EC145 helicopter lost radio and radar contact while on a rescue and reconnaissance flight in the Var region Sunday night. The three were found dead at 1:30 am near the town of Rove, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner and his secretary of state Laurent Nunez said in a statement. An investigation was underway to determine the circumstances of the crash. "While France is preparing today to pay tribute to 13 of its soldiers who died serving it (in Mali), our country is losing three everyday heroes who gave their lives to protect the French," Castaner and Nunez said. Two people were killed on Sunday by floods in the French Riviera, which has been hit by fresh torrential rains a week after extreme weather left six dead.

France: Three flood rescuers killed in helicopter crash

The sequel to Walt Disney Co's 2013 hit animated musical 'Frozen'&nbsp;is generating excitement among indigenous Sami people in northern Europe, whose culture the movie has taken inspiration from. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/frozen-2-review-elsa-and-anna-grow-up-and-take-charge-of-things-263883">'Frozen 2'</a>&nbsp;debuted in U.S. cinemas on Nov. 22 and is progressively rolling out worldwide. On its debut weekend, it grossed $350 million, making it "the biggest opening ever for Walt Disney Animation not including Pixar", according to a magazine. The movie opens in Norway on Christmas Day. 
 
Norway inspired many elements of the first 'Frozen'&nbsp;movie, such as character Anna's dress or the architecture of the fictional kingdom of Arendelle. The second film takes inspiration from the culture of the Sámi, an indigenous minority living across Norway, Sweden, Finland and northern Russia, who have faced discrimination against their language and culture. 
 
In Norway, a state-appointed truth and reconciliation commission is investigating the discrimination perpetrated on minorities including the Sami and Kven peoples. 
"I am planning to see the movie again with my whole family," said Aili Keskitalo, president of the consultative Sami Parliament in Norway, who attended the film's world premiere in Los Angeles with her 11-year-old daughter and set a scene from the movie as her Facebook profile picture. 
 
'Frozen 2'&nbsp;sees Anna and sister Elsa head north of Arendelle to find out the truth about a mystery. They meet the Northuldra, who live closely with the reindeer. Reindeer herding is a traditional Sámi activity. 
 
"Some of the beautiful costumes in the film took inspiration from our gakti. They also took inspiration from the guksi, our traditional wooden cup," said Anne Lajla Utsi, a member of a Sami advisory group that collaborated with the filmmakers. 
 
"We felt they really listened and that it was very important to them to do this right," Utsi, managing director of the International Sami Film Institute, told Reuters. 
 
Disney signed a contract with Sámi representatives to commit themselves to portray their culture respectfully. That included supporting the dubbing of the movie in North Sámi, the most spoken of the Sami languages, and release it at the same time as the Norwegian version. 
 
When Utsi posted a picture of the "Frozen 2" poster on Facebook with its Sami title, "Jik? on 2", it went viral. "My youngest daughter is really looking forward to watching the movie again in her language," said Keskitalo. 
 
"My elder daughters, who are 22 and 25 years old, are also very excited about seeing the movie. It is not often that we see a movie in North Sámi. I think a lot of adults will see the movie too".

The sequel to Walt Disney Co's 2013 hit animated musical 'Frozen' is generating excitement among indigenous Sami people in northern Europe, whose culture the movie has taken inspiration from.

The sequel to Walt Disney Co's 2013 hit animated musical 'Frozen' is generating excitement among indigenous Sami people in northern Europe, whose culture the movie has taken inspiration from. 'Frozen 2' debuted in U.S. cinemas on Nov. 22 and is progressively rolling out worldwide. On its debut weekend, it grossed $350 million, making it "the biggest opening ever for Walt Disney Animation not including Pixar", according to a magazine. The movie opens in Norway on Christmas Day. Norway inspired many elements of the first 'Frozen' movie, such as character Anna's dress or the architecture of the fictional kingdom of Arendelle. The second film takes inspiration from the culture of the Sámi, an indigenous minority living across Norway, Sweden, Finland and northern Russia, who have faced discrimination against their language and culture. In Norway, a state-appointed truth and reconciliation commission is investigating the discrimination perpetrated on minorities including the Sami and Kven peoples. "I am planning to see the movie again with my whole family," said Aili Keskitalo, president of the consultative Sami Parliament in Norway, who attended the film's world premiere in Los Angeles with her 11-year-old daughter and set a scene from the movie as her Facebook profile picture. 'Frozen 2' sees Anna and sister Elsa head north of Arendelle to find out the truth about a mystery. They meet the Northuldra, who live closely with the reindeer. Reindeer herding is a traditional Sámi activity. "Some of the beautiful costumes in the film took inspiration from our gakti. They also took inspiration from the guksi, our traditional wooden cup," said Anne Lajla Utsi, a member of a Sami advisory group that collaborated with the filmmakers. "We felt they really listened and that it was very important to them to do this right," Utsi, managing director of the International Sami Film Institute, told Reuters. Disney signed a contract with Sámi representatives to commit themselves to portray their culture respectfully. That included supporting the dubbing of the movie in North Sámi, the most spoken of the Sami languages, and release it at the same time as the Norwegian version. When Utsi posted a picture of the "Frozen 2" poster on Facebook with its Sami title, "Jik? on 2", it went viral. "My youngest daughter is really looking forward to watching the movie again in her language," said Keskitalo. "My elder daughters, who are 22 and 25 years old, are also very excited about seeing the movie. It is not often that we see a movie in North Sámi. I think a lot of adults will see the movie too".

Disney's 'Frozen 2' thrills Europe's indigenous Sami people

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