<p>German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency.</p>

<p>“So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel&nbsp;reported.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have.</p>

<p>Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment.</p>

<p>In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Poland’s tiff with Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified.</p>

<p>Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetans-seek-autonomy-not-political-separation-from-china-dalai-lama-639609">Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama</a></p>

<p>The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-moodys-hot-humid-claims-over-aadhaars-efficiency-639602">India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security</a></p>

<p>“We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine. "It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency. “So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying. Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel reported. The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have. Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment. In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine. Poland’s tiff with Ukraine The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified. Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market. Also read | Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future. Also read | India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security “We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German minister admits Berlin sending outdated weapons to Ukraine for Russian war: Report

<p>The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon. This comes a day after the group was warned against doing so.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Images and videos on social media show climate activists from the Last Generation climate action group, known for spectacular stunts to raise awareness, spraying orange paint onto the track within sight of the start two minutes before the go-ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-climate-protesters-spray-paint-on-berlins-iconic-brandenburg-gate-636897">Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate</a></strong></p>

<p>Subsequently, some of them were seen being detained by the German police and volunteers at the event, in which 45,000 runners took part, minutes before the start of the race in the German capital.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Climate activists from 'The Last Generation' disrupt Berlin marathon, splashing orange paint and obstructing the course as 45,000 runners participate. 🏃‍♂️🌍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateAction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateAction</a><a href="https://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p">https://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p</a></p>
— Iris (@Iris_i_Life) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iris_i_Life/status/1705898177273201147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The group had been warned</strong></h2>

<p>The latest stunt by the group comes after its members who said they would protest at the Berlin Marathon, were warned by organisers of the Berlin Marathon to not disrupt this weekend’s race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We hope nothing untoward happens in terms of a demonstration but we have plans for such eventualities,” Juergen Lock, managing director of SCC events which organised the marathon in the German capital, told reporters, on Friday (Sept 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-activists-in-germany-accused-of-580-offences-after-crackdown-603137">Climate activists in Germany accused of 580 offences</a></strong></p>

<p>He added that his team was working closely with police “to make sure the race goes on smoothly”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are looking forward to an enjoyable and peaceful weekend of sport,” said Lock. He added, “We ask anyone who is planning to demonstrate not to interfere with the events themselves.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the members of the Letzte Generation, whose tactics have divided public opinion, in a statement said, “Because there seems to be confusion: yes we will interrupt the Berlin marathon.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We can't run away from the climate catastrophe.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Climate activists from the Letzte Generation, on Sunday (September 17) morning, sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate. Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-or-business-climate-activist-group-last-generation-speaks-to-wion-after-police-crackdown-596920">Climate or business climate? Activist group Last Generation speaks to WION after police crackdown</a></strong></p>

<p>The climate activist group has been demanding the government move away from coal and fossil fuels by 2030 and while Germany aims to be climate-neutral by 2045, it has reportedly missed its targets for the last two years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon.

The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon. This comes a day after the group was warned against doing so. What happened? Images and videos on social media show climate activists from the Last Generation climate action group, known for spectacular stunts to raise awareness, spraying orange paint onto the track within sight of the start two minutes before the go-ahead. ALSO READ | Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate Subsequently, some of them were seen being detained by the German police and volunteers at the event, in which 45,000 runners took part, minutes before the start of the race in the German capital. × Climate activists from 'The Last Generation' disrupt Berlin marathon, splashing orange paint and obstructing the course as 45,000 runners participate. 🏃‍♂️🌍 #ClimateActionhttps://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p — Iris (@Iris_i_Life) September 24, 2023 × The group had been warned The latest stunt by the group comes after its members who said they would protest at the Berlin Marathon, were warned by organisers of the Berlin Marathon to not disrupt this weekend’s race. “We hope nothing untoward happens in terms of a demonstration but we have plans for such eventualities,” Juergen Lock, managing director of SCC events which organised the marathon in the German capital, told reporters, on Friday (Sept 22). ALSO READ | Climate activists in Germany accused of 580 offences He added that his team was working closely with police “to make sure the race goes on smoothly”. “We are looking forward to an enjoyable and peaceful weekend of sport,” said Lock. He added, “We ask anyone who is planning to demonstrate not to interfere with the events themselves.” This comes after the members of the Letzte Generation, whose tactics have divided public opinion, in a statement said, “Because there seems to be confusion: yes we will interrupt the Berlin marathon.” It added, “We can't run away from the climate catastrophe.” Climate activists from the Letzte Generation, on Sunday (September 17) morning, sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate. Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers. ALSO READ | Climate or business climate? Activist group Last Generation speaks to WION after police crackdown The climate activist group has been demanding the government move away from coal and fossil fuels by 2030 and while Germany aims to be climate-neutral by 2045, it has reportedly missed its targets for the last two years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Climate activists attempt to disrupt Berlin marathon

Germany summoned the Polish ambassador on Tuesday, and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser spoke to her Polish counterpart to discuss allegations about a cash-for-visas deal for migrants that has roiled Polish politics, government sources told news agency.

Germany summons Polish ambassador over cash-for-visas affair

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday called on the Polish government to clarify allegations about a cash-for-visas deal for migrants that has roiled Polish politics, as a debate about immigration heats up in Germany.</p>

<p>The demand from Scholz marks stepped up rhetoric from Poland's powerful western neighbour, coming just days after sources said Germany summoned the Polish ambassador and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser spoke to her Polish counterpart on the topic.</p>

<p>Since earlier this month, the Polish government has been facing accusations by opposition parties that it was complicit in a system in which migrants received Polish visas at an accelerated pace without proper checks after paying intermediaries.</p>

<p>Arrivals to Poland could easily cross into other European Union countries given that borders are open.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Germany summons Polish ambassador over cash-for-visas affair</strong></p>

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<p>Poland's government has written to the European Union's security commissioner to say that the scandal was an exaggerated "media fact" timed to discredit the ruling nationalists in a tough battle for re-election next month.</p>

<p>"The visa scandal that is taking place in Poland needs to be clarified," Scholz said on Saturday at an event. "I don't want people from Poland to simply be waved through," he added.</p>

<p>Scholz hinted that Germany could take steps to control the border with Poland.</p>

<p>In recent years, Germany has already coped with floods of migrants and asylum seekers from Syria and Ukraine.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-sit-idly-china-claps-back-after-germany-insinuates-ban-on-huawei-zte-5g-parts-638390"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;`Won`t sit idly...`: China claps back after Germany insinuates ban on Huawei, ZTE 5G parts</strong></a></p>

<p>In a letter to Polish Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson demanded full clarification of the scandal of up to 350,000 purchased work visas for the EU-Schengen area, BILD reported this week.</p>

<p>In the letter made available to BILD, the commissioner points out that the behaviour of the Polish authorities could mean "a violation of EU law and in particular of the EU Visa Code."</p>

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday called on the Polish government to clarify allegations about a cash-for-visas deal for migrants that has roiled Polish politics, as a debate about immigration heats up in Germany.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday called on the Polish government to clarify allegations about a cash-for-visas deal for migrants that has roiled Polish politics, as a debate about immigration heats up in Germany. The demand from Scholz marks stepped up rhetoric from Poland's powerful western neighbour, coming just days after sources said Germany summoned the Polish ambassador and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser spoke to her Polish counterpart on the topic. Since earlier this month, the Polish government has been facing accusations by opposition parties that it was complicit in a system in which migrants received Polish visas at an accelerated pace without proper checks after paying intermediaries. Arrivals to Poland could easily cross into other European Union countries given that borders are open. Watch: Germany summons Polish ambassador over cash-for-visas affair × Poland's government has written to the European Union's security commissioner to say that the scandal was an exaggerated "media fact" timed to discredit the ruling nationalists in a tough battle for re-election next month. "The visa scandal that is taking place in Poland needs to be clarified," Scholz said on Saturday at an event. "I don't want people from Poland to simply be waved through," he added. Scholz hinted that Germany could take steps to control the border with Poland. In recent years, Germany has already coped with floods of migrants and asylum seekers from Syria and Ukraine. Also read: `Won`t sit idly...`: China claps back after Germany insinuates ban on Huawei, ZTE 5G parts In a letter to Polish Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson demanded full clarification of the scandal of up to 350,000 purchased work visas for the EU-Schengen area, BILD reported this week. In the letter made available to BILD, the commissioner points out that the behaviour of the Polish authorities could mean "a violation of EU law and in particular of the EU Visa Code." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Germany demands clarification from Poland after 'cash-for-visa' scandal emerges

<p>Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following a visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa – which has recently witnessed a record number of migrant arrivals and announced a state of emergency – promised a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy deal with the situation.</p>

<h2><strong>Italian president’s statement</strong></h2>

<p>During a visit to the Italian region of Sicily, on Thursday (Sept 21), with his German counterpart, Mattarella said the EU rules for migrant distribution were “prehistoric” and called for “new, courageous” solutions to deal with the surge of migration into Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also spoke about how it is necessary to think “how to use the rudimentary and outdated tools differently in the face of a totally new phenomenon,” adding that “the Dublin regulations are prehistoric” and drawn up “in another world, the phenomenon of mass migration had not begun.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-flat-out-refuses-to-welcome-migrants-from-lampedusa-637695">France flat out refuses to 'welcome' migrants from Lampedusa</a></strong></p>

<p>Similarly, the German president reiterated the criticism of the so-called Dublin procedure – which requires irregular migrants to be registered in the EU country they first enter – and said, “There must be progress here, that’s not even in question.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also hoped that the two countries would again meet on migration policy in the months to come after his meeting with Mattarella where the two heads of state visited a centre for refugees.</p>

<p>Notably, the Dublin procedure also says that should the irregular migrants head to another nation in the 27-nation bloc, they could be returned to their first port of call. Ahead of his visit, Steinmeier had also called for “fair distribution” of migrants arriving irregularly in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, the German president said both Rome and Berlin were “at their limits” and stressed the need for “stronger controls and surveillance at our external borders.”</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening in Lampedusa?</strong></h2>

<p>During her visit to the Italian island, the European Commission president vowed a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy which includes using the EU’s external borders agency Frontex to identify migrants arriving and repatriate those not eligible for asylum.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-crisis-eu-chief-and-italys-pm-visit-lampedusa-call-for-swift-action-636962">Migrant crisis: EU chief and Italy's PM visit Lampedusa, promise swift action</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes after nearly 126,000 migrants have arrived in Italy just this year, which is almost double the figure by the same date in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not to mention the island saw a sharp rise in the number of people arriving by boat, with more than 7,000 landing last week which prompted Lampedusa’s mayor, Filippo Mannino, to declare a state of emergency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the situation, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Tuesday (Sept 19) said that while his government has good diplomatic relations with Italy, they will not welcome any migrants coming from Lampedusa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa. Earlier this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following a visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa – which has recently witnessed a record number of migrant arrivals and announced a state of emergency – promised a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy deal with the situation. Italian president’s statement During a visit to the Italian region of Sicily, on Thursday (Sept 21), with his German counterpart, Mattarella said the EU rules for migrant distribution were “prehistoric” and called for “new, courageous” solutions to deal with the surge of migration into Europe. He also spoke about how it is necessary to think “how to use the rudimentary and outdated tools differently in the face of a totally new phenomenon,” adding that “the Dublin regulations are prehistoric” and drawn up “in another world, the phenomenon of mass migration had not begun.” ALSO READ | France flat out refuses to 'welcome' migrants from Lampedusa Similarly, the German president reiterated the criticism of the so-called Dublin procedure – which requires irregular migrants to be registered in the EU country they first enter – and said, “There must be progress here, that’s not even in question.” He also hoped that the two countries would again meet on migration policy in the months to come after his meeting with Mattarella where the two heads of state visited a centre for refugees. Notably, the Dublin procedure also says that should the irregular migrants head to another nation in the 27-nation bloc, they could be returned to their first port of call. Ahead of his visit, Steinmeier had also called for “fair distribution” of migrants arriving irregularly in Europe. In an interview with Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, the German president said both Rome and Berlin were “at their limits” and stressed the need for “stronger controls and surveillance at our external borders.” What is happening in Lampedusa? During her visit to the Italian island, the European Commission president vowed a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy which includes using the EU’s external borders agency Frontex to identify migrants arriving and repatriate those not eligible for asylum. ALSO READ | Migrant crisis: EU chief and Italy's PM visit Lampedusa, promise swift action This comes after nearly 126,000 migrants have arrived in Italy just this year, which is almost double the figure by the same date in 2022. Not to mention the island saw a sharp rise in the number of people arriving by boat, with more than 7,000 landing last week which prompted Lampedusa’s mayor, Filippo Mannino, to declare a state of emergency. In response to the situation, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Tuesday (Sept 19) said that while his government has good diplomatic relations with Italy, they will not welcome any migrants coming from Lampedusa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italian president calls EU rules on sharing migrants ‘prehistoric’, urges for reforms

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<p>A day after reports claimed that Germany was considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks, Beijing has responded. The Chinese embassy in Berlin said the country will not stand by idly if the German government goes ahead with the proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the German government really decides to move in this direction without proving that Chinese products pose a security threat to Germany, we will not stand by idly," the embassy was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.</p>

<p>"Should Germany unjustifiably exclude Chinese companies, this would not only be a violation of the principle of fair competition but would also harm Chinese companies and Germany itself," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The embassy stated that both companies had long operated in the European nation in harmony with German law.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What has Germany proposed?</strong></h2>

<p>Germany's interior ministry has chalked up a proposal under which the said Chinese companies will be eliminated from the country's "core network" as part of a "de-risking" strategy. The ministry is expected to submit its proposal to the cabinet next week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from issuing a full ban on the new parts made by Chinese companies, the German government will also extend the ban on those parts that have already been installed. It wants to start by phasing out parts made by Huawei and ZTE in Germany's "access and transport network".</p>

<p>The telecom operators, however, have expressed their opposition to these proposed changes. Huawei Germany, in particular, condemned what it viewed as the "politicisation" of cybersecurity within the country.</p>

<p>Deutsche Telekom criticised the 2026 deadline, deeming it unrealistic and drawing comparisons to the protracted efforts in the United Kingdom to impose restrictions on Huawei.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-considering-ban-on-huawei-zte-parts-in-5g-networks-report-638040" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Germany considering ban on Huawei, ZTE parts in 5G networks: Report</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is the de-risking strategy?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had talked about the 'de-risking' strategy concerning China in July while publishing a 64-page document which seeks to redefine the relationship with Beijing - both as a partner and a systemic rival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The contents of the document urged the German companies to reduce their reliance on Asia's rising superpower and said the government was examining if its current toolbox was sufficient to encourage this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want to reduce critical dependencies in future," said Scholz at the time, adding that many companies had already adjusted to this new worldview.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hes-a-dictator-german-fms-remarks-on-xi-trigger-firestorm-637669"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm</strong></a></p>

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<p>Despite pushback from most European nations, Germany has remained reluctant to take a defiant position on China. The strategy was delayed, partly because of&nbsp;wrangling between the SPD and the Greens over how far to toughen the stance on China and because Beijing remains Berlin's largest trade partner.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A day after reports claimed that Germany was considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks, Beijing has responded. The Chinese embassy in Berlin said the country will not stand by idly if the German government goes ahead with the proposal.

A day after reports claimed that Germany was considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks, Beijing has responded. The Chinese embassy in Berlin said the country will not stand by idly if the German government goes ahead with the proposal. "If the German government really decides to move in this direction without proving that Chinese products pose a security threat to Germany, we will not stand by idly," the embassy was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. "Should Germany unjustifiably exclude Chinese companies, this would not only be a violation of the principle of fair competition but would also harm Chinese companies and Germany itself," it added. The embassy stated that both companies had long operated in the European nation in harmony with German law. What has Germany proposed? Germany's interior ministry has chalked up a proposal under which the said Chinese companies will be eliminated from the country's "core network" as part of a "de-risking" strategy. The ministry is expected to submit its proposal to the cabinet next week. Apart from issuing a full ban on the new parts made by Chinese companies, the German government will also extend the ban on those parts that have already been installed. It wants to start by phasing out parts made by Huawei and ZTE in Germany's "access and transport network". The telecom operators, however, have expressed their opposition to these proposed changes. Huawei Germany, in particular, condemned what it viewed as the "politicisation" of cybersecurity within the country. Deutsche Telekom criticised the 2026 deadline, deeming it unrealistic and drawing comparisons to the protracted efforts in the United Kingdom to impose restrictions on Huawei. Also read | Germany considering ban on Huawei, ZTE parts in 5G networks: Report What is the de-risking strategy? German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had talked about the 'de-risking' strategy concerning China in July while publishing a 64-page document which seeks to redefine the relationship with Beijing - both as a partner and a systemic rival. The contents of the document urged the German companies to reduce their reliance on Asia's rising superpower and said the government was examining if its current toolbox was sufficient to encourage this. "We want to reduce critical dependencies in future," said Scholz at the time, adding that many companies had already adjusted to this new worldview. Watch | Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm × Despite pushback from most European nations, Germany has remained reluctant to take a defiant position on China. The strategy was delayed, partly because of wrangling between the SPD and the Greens over how far to toughen the stance on China and because Beijing remains Berlin's largest trade partner. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Won't sit idly...': China claps back after Germany insinuates ban on Huawei, ZTE 5G parts

International tensions are on the rise as Germany contemplates restricting the use of components from Chinese tech giants Huawei and ZTE in its 5g network. The Chinese embassy in berlin has issued a stern warning, stating that china will not stand idly by if Germany proceeds with this decision without proving a security threat.

Tensions rise as Germany considers restrictions on Chinese tech giants

<p>In a move that has sparked intense debate and resistance from telecom operators, Germany's Interior Ministry is considering imposing strict regulations to reduce the use of equipment from Chinese tech giants, Huawei and ZTE, according to a report by The Economic Times.</p>

<p>An anonymous government official told The Economic Times that the ministry's proposal is driven by concerns about Germany's heavy dependence on these Chinese suppliers within its critical infrastructure, particularly in the realm of 5G networks.</p>

<p>As Berlin seeks to redefine its relationship with China, which it regards as both a partner and a systemic rival, this decision holds significant implications for the country's telecom landscape.</p>

<p>To mitigate potential disruptions, the Interior Ministry has devised a phased approach. By 2026, telecom operators will be required to eliminate all critical components sourced from Chinese vendors in their 5G core networks. Moreover, they must reduce the proportion of Chinese components in their Radio Access Network (RAN) and transport networks to a maximum of 25 per cent by October 1, 2026.</p>

<p>The telecom operators, however, have expressed their opposition to these proposed changes. Huawei Germany, in particular, condemned what it viewed as the "politicisation" of cybersecurity within the country.</p>

<p>The Economic Times quoted the statement issued by the company asserting, "Such an approach will have a negative impact on the digital transformation in Germany, inhibit innovation, and significantly increase construction and operating costs for network operators." They argued that these additional costs would ultimately be passed on to German consumers.</p>

<p>Deutsche Telekom criticised the 2026 deadline, deeming it unrealistic and drawing comparisons to the protracted efforts in the United Kingdom to impose restrictions on Huawei. The company also warned of the potential deterioration in the quality of service for its customers. Meanwhile, Telefonica Deutschland indicated its intent to explore legal action against the German government and seek damages.</p>

<p>At present, Huawei holds a commanding 59 per cent share of Germany's 5G RAN networks, as per a survey by telecommunications consultancy Strand Consult. Notably, in particularly sensitive regions like Berlin, where the federal government is located, Chinese technology is advised against entirely, a distinction that Strand Consult found to be "arbitrary."</p>

<p>The Interior Ministry intends to present its strategy to the cabinet next week. Nevertheless, it may encounter opposition from the Ministry for Digital Affairs, which is concerned that these measures could further hinder Germany's slow progress in digitalisation. A spokesperson for the Ministry for Digital Affairs emphasised the importance of maintaining stable, fast, and affordable access to mobile internet.</p>

<p>Germany has been criticised for lagging behind in the implementation of the European Union's security measures for 5G networks. These measures, aimed at curbing the use of "high-risk" vendors like Huawei and ZTE, were agreed upon three years ago due to concerns about possible sabotage or surveillance, allegations that both Chinese companies vehemently deny. Notably, the government recently revealed that it had not prohibited the use of any new Chinese critical components in 5G networks, a fact that has drawn criticism from opposition conservatives.</p>

<p>As Germany takes a tougher stance on China and seeks to reduce its dependence on individual countries, especially in light of the energy crisis exacerbated by reliance on Russian gas, the use of Huawei has come under increased public scrutiny. The Interior Ministry sees this decision as an "urgent need" to prevent a repetition of the Nord Stream situation—pipelines designed to deliver Russian gas to Germany but now abandoned.</p>


In a move that has sparked intense debate and resistance from telecom operators, Germany's Interior Ministry is considering imposing strict regulations to reduce the use of equipment from Chinese tech giants, Huawei and ZTE, according to a report by The Economic Times.

In a move that has sparked intense debate and resistance from telecom operators, Germany's Interior Ministry is considering imposing strict regulations to reduce the use of equipment from Chinese tech giants, Huawei and ZTE, according to a report by The Economic Times. An anonymous government official told The Economic Times that the ministry's proposal is driven by concerns about Germany's heavy dependence on these Chinese suppliers within its critical infrastructure, particularly in the realm of 5G networks. As Berlin seeks to redefine its relationship with China, which it regards as both a partner and a systemic rival, this decision holds significant implications for the country's telecom landscape. To mitigate potential disruptions, the Interior Ministry has devised a phased approach. By 2026, telecom operators will be required to eliminate all critical components sourced from Chinese vendors in their 5G core networks. Moreover, they must reduce the proportion of Chinese components in their Radio Access Network (RAN) and transport networks to a maximum of 25 per cent by October 1, 2026. The telecom operators, however, have expressed their opposition to these proposed changes. Huawei Germany, in particular, condemned what it viewed as the "politicisation" of cybersecurity within the country. The Economic Times quoted the statement issued by the company asserting, "Such an approach will have a negative impact on the digital transformation in Germany, inhibit innovation, and significantly increase construction and operating costs for network operators." They argued that these additional costs would ultimately be passed on to German consumers. Deutsche Telekom criticised the 2026 deadline, deeming it unrealistic and drawing comparisons to the protracted efforts in the United Kingdom to impose restrictions on Huawei. The company also warned of the potential deterioration in the quality of service for its customers. Meanwhile, Telefonica Deutschland indicated its intent to explore legal action against the German government and seek damages. At present, Huawei holds a commanding 59 per cent share of Germany's 5G RAN networks, as per a survey by telecommunications consultancy Strand Consult. Notably, in particularly sensitive regions like Berlin, where the federal government is located, Chinese technology is advised against entirely, a distinction that Strand Consult found to be "arbitrary." The Interior Ministry intends to present its strategy to the cabinet next week. Nevertheless, it may encounter opposition from the Ministry for Digital Affairs, which is concerned that these measures could further hinder Germany's slow progress in digitalisation. A spokesperson for the Ministry for Digital Affairs emphasised the importance of maintaining stable, fast, and affordable access to mobile internet. Germany has been criticised for lagging behind in the implementation of the European Union's security measures for 5G networks. These measures, aimed at curbing the use of "high-risk" vendors like Huawei and ZTE, were agreed upon three years ago due to concerns about possible sabotage or surveillance, allegations that both Chinese companies vehemently deny. Notably, the government recently revealed that it had not prohibited the use of any new Chinese critical components in 5G networks, a fact that has drawn criticism from opposition conservatives. As Germany takes a tougher stance on China and seeks to reduce its dependence on individual countries, especially in light of the energy crisis exacerbated by reliance on Russian gas, the use of Huawei has come under increased public scrutiny. The Interior Ministry sees this decision as an "urgent need" to prevent a repetition of the Nord Stream situation—pipelines designed to deliver Russian gas to Germany but now abandoned.

Germany contemplates restrictions on Huawei, prompting backlash from telecoms

Germany, once coveted by the entire world for its cutting-edge technologies and high standard of living, is now struggling to keep its economy moving in the direction of growth.

Tracking Germany’s rise & fall in the 21st century | World Business Watch

Germany once considered envy of the world for its cutting-edge technologies and high-quality of life is now struggling to keep its economy in a growth trajectory.

Why Germany is struggling with growth | State of German economy decoded | World DNA

<p>If reports are to be believed, Germany is considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks from as early as 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quoting government sources, news agency AFP made the claims, adding that the Chinese companies will be eliminated from the country's&nbsp;"core network" as part of a "de-risking" strategy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from issuing a full ban on the new parts made by Chinese companies, the German government will also extend the ban on those parts that have already been installed. It wants to start by phasing out&nbsp;parts made by Huawei and ZTE in Germany's "access and transport network".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz talked about the 'de-risking' strategy concerning China in July while publishing a 64-page document.</p>

<p>The contents of the document&nbsp;urged the German companies to reduce their reliance on Asia's rising superpower and said the government was examining if its current toolbox was sufficient to encourage this.</p>

<p>"We want to reduce critical dependencies in future," said Scholz at the time, adding that many companies had already adjusted to this new worldview.</p>

<p>"Many companies will continue to invest heavily in China and export to China...but they will also use the opportunities they have to invest, build up supply chains and export elsewhere," Scholz added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hes-a-dictator-german-fms-remarks-on-xi-trigger-firestorm-637669"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Huawei, ZTE and the US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Huawei and ZTE, two&nbsp;leading tech companies&nbsp;from China, pioneering in the 5G sphere, have been unable to get going in the Western world after former US president Donald Trump started a highly animated campaign against them. Washington alleges that Huawei, ZTE and other Chinese tech behemoths&nbsp;clandestinely access&nbsp;data passed through its network products and send it to the Politburo offices in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite pushback from most European nations, Germany has remained reluctant to take a defiant position on China. The strategy was delayed, partly because of&nbsp;wrangling between the SPD and the Greens over how far to toughen the stance on China and because Beijing remains Berlin's largest trade partner.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lodges-complaint-over-german-foreign-ministers-dictator-jibe-637186"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;China lodges complaint over German foreign minister's 'dictator' jibe</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the&nbsp;decision to impose the proposed ban might be expedited, especially after the recent controversy surrounding&nbsp;German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Chinese President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After&nbsp;Baerbock referred to Xi as a 'dictator', the Chinese foreign ministry termed this as both "absurd" and an "open political provocation"&nbsp;- suggesting a bitter diplomatic standoff was currently underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the German side’s remarks, which are extremely absurd, a serious infringement of China’s political dignity and an open political provocation," Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said Monday (September 18).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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If reports are to be believed, Germany is considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks from as early as 2026. Quoting government sources, news agency AFP made the claims, adding that the Chinese companies will be eliminated from the country's "core network" as part of a "de-risking" strategy.

If reports are to be believed, Germany is considering a ban on parts made by Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks from as early as 2026. Quoting government sources, news agency AFP made the claims, adding that the Chinese companies will be eliminated from the country's "core network" as part of a "de-risking" strategy. Apart from issuing a full ban on the new parts made by Chinese companies, the German government will also extend the ban on those parts that have already been installed. It wants to start by phasing out parts made by Huawei and ZTE in Germany's "access and transport network". Notably, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz talked about the 'de-risking' strategy concerning China in July while publishing a 64-page document. The contents of the document urged the German companies to reduce their reliance on Asia's rising superpower and said the government was examining if its current toolbox was sufficient to encourage this. "We want to reduce critical dependencies in future," said Scholz at the time, adding that many companies had already adjusted to this new worldview. "Many companies will continue to invest heavily in China and export to China...but they will also use the opportunities they have to invest, build up supply chains and export elsewhere," Scholz added. Watch | Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm × Huawei, ZTE and the US Huawei and ZTE, two leading tech companies from China, pioneering in the 5G sphere, have been unable to get going in the Western world after former US president Donald Trump started a highly animated campaign against them. Washington alleges that Huawei, ZTE and other Chinese tech behemoths clandestinely access data passed through its network products and send it to the Politburo offices in Beijing. Despite pushback from most European nations, Germany has remained reluctant to take a defiant position on China. The strategy was delayed, partly because of wrangling between the SPD and the Greens over how far to toughen the stance on China and because Beijing remains Berlin's largest trade partner. Also read | China lodges complaint over German foreign minister's 'dictator' jibe However, the decision to impose the proposed ban might be expedited, especially after the recent controversy surrounding German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Chinese President Xi Jinping. After Baerbock referred to Xi as a 'dictator', the Chinese foreign ministry termed this as both "absurd" and an "open political provocation" - suggesting a bitter diplomatic standoff was currently underway. “China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the German side’s remarks, which are extremely absurd, a serious infringement of China’s political dignity and an open political provocation," Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said Monday (September 18). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany considering ban on Huawei, ZTE parts in 5G networks: Report

Four-time Champions Germany is set to appoint Julian Nagelsmann as the successor to Hansi Flick. The 36-year-old will take charge of the side until the European Championships in 2024.

Germany set to appoint Julian Nagelsmann as Hansi Flick's successor

The German Foreign Minister has called Xi Jinping a dictator. This comes days after Italy called the BRI a 'wicked project'. Are European Nations distancing themselves from China? Here's what Molly Gambhir has to say.

Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm

Climate activists in Berlin sprayed orange and yellow paint on the columns of the Brandenburg gate. Their action was to raise awareness about their demand to end use of fossil fuels by 2030.

Climate group 'last generation' colour Brandenburg gate

<p>Climate activists in Germany sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate on Sunday (September 17) morning. The protesters urged the government to take more urgent action against climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital on Sunday morning using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Berlin police, local officers on patrol saw the cherry picker vehicle used by the group and were able to stop activists climbing the Brandenburg Gate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/summer-2023-was-hottest-on-record-since-1880-confirms-nasa-636886">Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In a post on social media platform X, the police said that protesters were detained on-site. They said that police have started a probe into possible charges for damage to property.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press release, 'Letzte Generation' said that the action was part of a 'turning moment' protest against a lack of government action on shifting away from fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group said: "The protest makes it clear: It is time for a political change. Away from fossil fuels — towards fairness."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamy-vows-to-gut-h1-b-visa-system-if-wins-presidential-elections-report-636840">Vivek Ramaswamy vows to 'gut' H1-B visa system if wins presidential elections: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Chinese city hunts for 5 runaway crocodiles</strong></p>

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<p>In German politics and society, the group best known for its rallies in which activists glue themselves to highways and stop traffic plays a provocative and polarising role.</p>

<p>Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner slammed the actions of the group, saying that their tactics go beyond legitimate forms of protest.</p>

<p>"With these actions, this group is not only damaging the historic Brandenburg Gate but also our free discourse about the important issues of our time and future," he told German news agency dpa.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Climate activists in Germany sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate on Sunday (September 17) morning. The protesters urged the government to take more urgent action against climate change.

Climate activists in Germany sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate on Sunday (September 17) morning. The protesters urged the government to take more urgent action against climate change. Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital on Sunday morning using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers. According to Berlin police, local officers on patrol saw the cherry picker vehicle used by the group and were able to stop activists climbing the Brandenburg Gate. Also read: Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA NEWS: Climate activists Spray Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate in Orange Paint pic.twitter.com/66N2m6FMmb — LWNC (@LwncNews) September 17, 2023 × In a post on social media platform X, the police said that protesters were detained on-site. They said that police have started a probe into possible charges for damage to property. In a press release, 'Letzte Generation' said that the action was part of a 'turning moment' protest against a lack of government action on shifting away from fossil fuels. The group said: "The protest makes it clear: It is time for a political change. Away from fossil fuels — towards fairness." Also read: Vivek Ramaswamy vows to 'gut' H1-B visa system if wins presidential elections: Report Watch: Chinese city hunts for 5 runaway crocodiles × In German politics and society, the group best known for its rallies in which activists glue themselves to highways and stop traffic plays a provocative and polarising role. Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner slammed the actions of the group, saying that their tactics go beyond legitimate forms of protest. "With these actions, this group is not only damaging the historic Brandenburg Gate but also our free discourse about the important issues of our time and future," he told German news agency dpa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate

<p>Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month&nbsp;under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move is set to infuriate Tehran and put the viability of the deal in jeopardy. The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to&nbsp;European Union External Affairs Chief, Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted.</p>

<p>"In direct response to Iran’s consistent and severe non-compliance with its Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) commitments since 2019, the governments of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom intend to maintain nuclear proliferation-related measures on Iran, as well as arms and missile embargoes, after JCPOA Transition Day on 18 October 2023," a spokesperson for the three countries, known as the E3, said in a statement.</p>

<p>Justifying the decision, the E3 said the agreement signed eight years ago contained mechanisms in case of any&nbsp;dispute about whether one side was in breach of the deal.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran violated the deal: EU</strong></h2>

<p>Borell confirmed he had received the letter from the E3 with the said proposal and transferred it to the other participants of the deal. Borell added that Iran has been in non-compliance since 2019 and the issue had not been resolved through the JCPOA dispute resolution mechanism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/irans-nuclear-deal-with-west-nuclear-bomb-fears-are-false-excuse-says-ali-khamenei-603387"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Iran's Nuclear deal with West: 'Nuclear bomb fears are false excuse,' says Ali Khamenei</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to a Reuters report, three major reasons cited for keeping the sanctions were:&nbsp;Russia using Iranian drones against Ukraine in the ongoing war; the possibility that Iran might sell&nbsp;ballistic missiles to Russia; and&nbsp;depriving Iran of the nuclear deal's benefits given Tehran has violated the accord, albeit only after the United States did so first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our commitment to finding a diplomatic solution remains. This decision does not amount to imposing additional sanctions nor to triggering the snapback mechanism. We stand ready to reverse our decision, should Iran fully implement its JCPoA commitments," the E3 said, referring to a mechanism that would immediately restore all UN sanctions against Iran.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The move is set to infuriate Tehran and put the viability of the deal in jeopardy. The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones. However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to European Union External Affairs Chief, Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted. "In direct response to Iran’s consistent and severe non-compliance with its Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) commitments since 2019, the governments of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom intend to maintain nuclear proliferation-related measures on Iran, as well as arms and missile embargoes, after JCPOA Transition Day on 18 October 2023," a spokesperson for the three countries, known as the E3, said in a statement. Justifying the decision, the E3 said the agreement signed eight years ago contained mechanisms in case of any dispute about whether one side was in breach of the deal. Iran violated the deal: EU Borell confirmed he had received the letter from the E3 with the said proposal and transferred it to the other participants of the deal. Borell added that Iran has been in non-compliance since 2019 and the issue had not been resolved through the JCPOA dispute resolution mechanism. Watch | Iran's Nuclear deal with West: 'Nuclear bomb fears are false excuse,' says Ali Khamenei × According to a Reuters report, three major reasons cited for keeping the sanctions were: Russia using Iranian drones against Ukraine in the ongoing war; the possibility that Iran might sell ballistic missiles to Russia; and depriving Iran of the nuclear deal's benefits given Tehran has violated the accord, albeit only after the United States did so first. "Our commitment to finding a diplomatic solution remains. This decision does not amount to imposing additional sanctions nor to triggering the snapback mechanism. We stand ready to reverse our decision, should Iran fully implement its JCPoA commitments," the E3 said, referring to a mechanism that would immediately restore all UN sanctions against Iran. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA

<p>Kyiv, on Sunday (September 10) blamed Russia for the death of two aid workers, one Canadian and the other Spanish, in eastern Ukraine. It was previously reported that Russian shelling hit a van which was carrying a team of four people working with a Ukrainian non-governmental organisation near the war-battered city of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the aid workers’ death?</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv accused Moscow’s troops of killing Emma Igual, a Spanish citizen, and Anthony Ihnat, a Canadian citizen, both working for the NGO Road to Relief. They said two German citizens working for the aid group had also been injured after the Russian shelling in the eastern Donetsk region.</p>

<p>The organisation on its Instagram page said that the volunteers were helping evacuate the wounded from the front-line areas and were trapped inside the van as it flipped over and caught fire after being struck by shells near the two of Chasiv Yar.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-barrage-of-drone-attacks-on-kyiv-overnight-634310">Russia deploys 32 kamikaze drones in attack on Kyiv, 25 intercepted</a></strong></p>

<p>The other two volunteers were identified as German medical volunteer Ruben Mawick and Swedish volunteer Johan Mathias Thyr, who were seriously wounded, according to the organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, they also said that the organisation was unable to find the van’s fourth passenger, Igual. The death of the 32-year-old Spanish citizen, who was also the organisation’s director, was confirmed by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Unfortunately, I can confirm a missile hit a vehicle in which this Spanish worker was travelling who was working for a humanitarian NGO in Ukraine. We have verbal confirmation of her death,” said Albares, during a press conference in New Delhi where he was in the midst of attending the G20 Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-war-g20-leaders-call-for-upholding-territorial-integrity-sovereignty-634125">Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>‘A painful, irreparable loss’: Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian officials called the deaths of the two volunteers, “a painful, irreparable loss” and said that the aid workers had dedicated themselves to limiting the harm to civilians caught in the conflict. The volunteers also carried out evacuations and distributed humanitarian relief to those affected, said the officials in Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the aid organisation, the volunteers were on their way to assess the needs of civilians on the outskirts of Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city that witnessed some of the longest and bloodiest battles before it was occupied by Russian forces back in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-didnt-expect-that-russias-lavrov-about-g20-leaders-declaration-634570">‘We didn’t expect that…’: Russia’s Lavrov about G20 Leaders’ declaration</a></strong><br />
<br />
Earlier this year, 33-year-old United States medic Pete Reed was killed near Bakhmut when his evacuation vehicle was hit by a missile, back in February. In May, AFP video journalist Arman Soldin was killed in Chasiv Yar near Bakhmut by missile fire.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Kyiv, on Sunday (September 10) blamed Russia for the death of two aid workers, one Canadian and the other Spanish, in eastern Ukraine. It was previously reported that Russian shelling hit a van which was carrying a team of four people working with a Ukrainian non-governmental organisation near the war-battered city of Bakhmut.

Kyiv, on Sunday (September 10) blamed Russia for the death of two aid workers, one Canadian and the other Spanish, in eastern Ukraine. It was previously reported that Russian shelling hit a van which was carrying a team of four people working with a Ukrainian non-governmental organisation near the war-battered city of Bakhmut. What do we know about the aid workers’ death? Kyiv accused Moscow’s troops of killing Emma Igual, a Spanish citizen, and Anthony Ihnat, a Canadian citizen, both working for the NGO Road to Relief. They said two German citizens working for the aid group had also been injured after the Russian shelling in the eastern Donetsk region. The organisation on its Instagram page said that the volunteers were helping evacuate the wounded from the front-line areas and were trapped inside the van as it flipped over and caught fire after being struck by shells near the two of Chasiv Yar. ALSO READ | Russia deploys 32 kamikaze drones in attack on Kyiv, 25 intercepted The other two volunteers were identified as German medical volunteer Ruben Mawick and Swedish volunteer Johan Mathias Thyr, who were seriously wounded, according to the organisation. At the time, they also said that the organisation was unable to find the van’s fourth passenger, Igual. The death of the 32-year-old Spanish citizen, who was also the organisation’s director, was confirmed by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. “Unfortunately, I can confirm a missile hit a vehicle in which this Spanish worker was travelling who was working for a humanitarian NGO in Ukraine. We have verbal confirmation of her death,” said Albares, during a press conference in New Delhi where he was in the midst of attending the G20 Summit. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations ‘A painful, irreparable loss’: Kyiv The Ukrainian officials called the deaths of the two volunteers, “a painful, irreparable loss” and said that the aid workers had dedicated themselves to limiting the harm to civilians caught in the conflict. The volunteers also carried out evacuations and distributed humanitarian relief to those affected, said the officials in Kyiv. According to the aid organisation, the volunteers were on their way to assess the needs of civilians on the outskirts of Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city that witnessed some of the longest and bloodiest battles before it was occupied by Russian forces back in May. ALSO READ | ‘We didn’t expect that…’: Russia’s Lavrov about G20 Leaders’ declaration Earlier this year, 33-year-old United States medic Pete Reed was killed near Bakhmut when his evacuation vehicle was hit by a missile, back in February. In May, AFP video journalist Arman Soldin was killed in Chasiv Yar near Bakhmut by missile fire. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine blames Russia for deaths of Spanish and Canadian foreign aid workers

Prime Minister Modi will meet separately with the leaders of the UK, Japan, Germany, and Italy. On the sidelines of the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have more than 15 bilateral meetings with international leaders.

G20 Summit 2023: PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with leaders of UK, Japan, Germany and Italy

<p>Germany stunned the United States to reach the Basketball World Cup final against Serbia with a 113-111 win over the Americans on Friday.</p>

<p>Germany went toe-to-toe with their more celebrated opponents for the full game in Manila and were rewarded with a first-ever final appearance.</p>

<p>The result means the United States will miss the final for the second straight tournament, after finishing seventh in China in 2019.</p>

<p>Andreas Obst, who was a constant thorn in the Americans' side, finished as Germany's top scorer with 24 points.</p>

<p>Franz Wagner with 22 points and Daniel Theis with 21 also made a huge contribution to Germany's win.</p>

<p>Things started to go wrong for the United States in the third quarter when Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson both made simple mistakes to hand Germany a six-point lead.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-eyes-chris-gayles-unique-odi-record-showers-praise-on-rahul-dravid-633713">Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid</a></p>

<p>Germany built on the advantage and Dennis Schroder nailed a shot to put his team 94-84 ahead at the end of the third quarter.</p>

<p>Germany kept their discipline to see out the win with the Americans pushing hard in the fourth quarter.</p>

<p>Serbia will face them in Sunday's final after beating Canada 95-86 earlier in the day.</p>

<p>It was the United States' second defeat of the tournament, having lost to Lithuania in the second round.</p>

<p>Anthony Edwards was the Americans' top scorer with 23 points, followed by Austin Reaves on 21.</p>

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Germany stunned the United States to reach the Basketball World Cup final against Serbia with a 113-111 win over the Americans on Friday. Germany went toe-to-toe with their more celebrated opponents for the full game in Manila and were rewarded with a first-ever final appearance.

Germany stunned the United States to reach the Basketball World Cup final against Serbia with a 113-111 win over the Americans on Friday. Germany went toe-to-toe with their more celebrated opponents for the full game in Manila and were rewarded with a first-ever final appearance. The result means the United States will miss the final for the second straight tournament, after finishing seventh in China in 2019. Andreas Obst, who was a constant thorn in the Americans' side, finished as Germany's top scorer with 24 points. Franz Wagner with 22 points and Daniel Theis with 21 also made a huge contribution to Germany's win. Things started to go wrong for the United States in the third quarter when Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson both made simple mistakes to hand Germany a six-point lead. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid Germany built on the advantage and Dennis Schroder nailed a shot to put his team 94-84 ahead at the end of the third quarter. Germany kept their discipline to see out the win with the Americans pushing hard in the fourth quarter. Serbia will face them in Sunday's final after beating Canada 95-86 earlier in the day. It was the United States' second defeat of the tournament, having lost to Lithuania in the second round. Anthony Edwards was the Americans' top scorer with 23 points, followed by Austin Reaves on 21. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Basketball: Germany stun US in World Cup semis; to face Serbia in final

WION’s principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal sat with German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann to discuss India’s G20 presidency. The discussion revolved around India’s role in building consensus on the G20 forum, which has remained heavily divided, especially in the wake of the Ukraine crisis.

G20: German Ambassador says Xi Jinping's absence at Summit is not big deal

Olaf Scholz addressed the German Parliament about the state of economy, Scholz called on the ruling coalition democratic Opposition and local authorities to pull together to overcome the hurdle.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: Excessive bureaucracy paralyses economy

<p>German chancellor Olaf Scholz shared a photo of himself wearing an eyepatch after suffering an injury on his face while jogging, which sparked a meme fest on X.<br />
<br />
The minor injuries were sustained by Scholz after he fell while running during the weekend which also led to the cancellation of some of his appointment.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Wer den Schaden hat…<br />
Bin gespannt auf die Memes. Danke für die guten Wünsche, sieht schlimmer aus, als es ist! <a href="https://t.co/bB5INX8HnM">pic.twitter.com/bB5INX8HnM</a></p>
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundeskanzler/status/1698627434508063228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Monday (September 4), Scholz shared his picture on X, which was earlier known as Twitter, in which he was seen sporting a black patch over his injured right eye, and red scrape marks can be seen visible around the edge.<br />
<br />
“Thanks for the well wishes. It looks worse than it is!” he posted along with the picture on his official account, stating, “Excited to see the memes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Meme fest</strong></h2>

<p>His post was followed by plenty of memes which included pictures featuring a pirate at a ship’s wheel, a cartoon pirate brandishing a cutlass, Scholz wearing a hat with crossbones and a skull on it, and carrying a sword.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/naked-and-mysterious-wolf-man-seen-roaming-in-harz-mountains-in-germany-629112">Naked and mysterious 'wolf man' seen roaming in Harz mountains of Germany</a></p>

<p>The post&nbsp;also received many messages that wished the leader a speedy recovery. Soon after the tweet was posted, it received more than 9,000 likes and 2,000 comments.<br />
<br />
Chancellor’s spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said that Scholz, who has been running regularly for many years, was in good shape despite the injury. This week, he had planned to attend his scheduled appointments, which included a speech in the parliament on Wednesday and a tour of the IAA car show to be held in Munich on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
“He’s doing well under the circumstances,” Hebestreit said&nbsp;in a regular press briefing. “He was in a good mood this morning, although he still looks a little battered,” he added.<br />
<br />
As per local media, Scholz fell while he was running in his hometown of Potsdam, which is 28 kilometres (17 miles) southwest of Berlin.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Germany: New Ganesh Hindu Temple in Berlin set to be opened during Diwali</strong></p>

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<p>Since December 2021, Scholz has been leading Germany. He earlier served as the finance and labour minister of the country and also held the position of Hamburg's mayor.<br />
<br />
In a profile uploaded on the website of his party, Scholz stated that he disliked sports when he was studying in the school but acquired its taste from his wife Britta Ernst. “Today I jog as often as I can,” he said.<br />
<br />
Scholz has said that he tries to find time for rowing, jogging, or walking two or three times a week and also loves cycling.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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German chancellor Olaf Scholz shared a photo of himself wearing an eyepatch after suffering an injury on his face while jogging, which sparked a meme fest on X. The minor injuries were sustained by Scholz after he fell while running during the weekend which also led to the cancellation of some of his appointment.

German chancellor Olaf Scholz shared a photo of himself wearing an eyepatch after suffering an injury on his face while jogging, which sparked a meme fest on X. The minor injuries were sustained by Scholz after he fell while running during the weekend which also led to the cancellation of some of his appointment. Wer den Schaden hat… Bin gespannt auf die Memes. Danke für die guten Wünsche, sieht schlimmer aus, als es ist! pic.twitter.com/bB5INX8HnM — Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) September 4, 2023 × On Monday (September 4), Scholz shared his picture on X, which was earlier known as Twitter, in which he was seen sporting a black patch over his injured right eye, and red scrape marks can be seen visible around the edge. “Thanks for the well wishes. It looks worse than it is!” he posted along with the picture on his official account, stating, “Excited to see the memes.” Meme fest His post was followed by plenty of memes which included pictures featuring a pirate at a ship’s wheel, a cartoon pirate brandishing a cutlass, Scholz wearing a hat with crossbones and a skull on it, and carrying a sword. ALSO READ | Naked and mysterious 'wolf man' seen roaming in Harz mountains of Germany The post also received many messages that wished the leader a speedy recovery. Soon after the tweet was posted, it received more than 9,000 likes and 2,000 comments. Chancellor’s spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said that Scholz, who has been running regularly for many years, was in good shape despite the injury. This week, he had planned to attend his scheduled appointments, which included a speech in the parliament on Wednesday and a tour of the IAA car show to be held in Munich on Tuesday. “He’s doing well under the circumstances,” Hebestreit said in a regular press briefing. “He was in a good mood this morning, although he still looks a little battered,” he added. As per local media, Scholz fell while he was running in his hometown of Potsdam, which is 28 kilometres (17 miles) southwest of Berlin. WATCH | Germany: New Ganesh Hindu Temple in Berlin set to be opened during Diwali Since December 2021, Scholz has been leading Germany. He earlier served as the finance and labour minister of the country and also held the position of Hamburg's mayor. In a profile uploaded on the website of his party, Scholz stated that he disliked sports when he was studying in the school but acquired its taste from his wife Britta Ernst. “Today I jog as often as I can,” he said. Scholz has said that he tries to find time for rowing, jogging, or walking two or three times a week and also loves cycling. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Germany’s Olaf Scholz sports eyepatch post-injury, says 'excited to see the memes'

After bearing financial hardship for nearly 20 years the largest Hindu temple in Berlin is on track to be open for worshipers this Diwali. The construction of the Sri Ganesh Hindu temple on the edge of Berlin's Hasenheit Park is almost finished.

Germany: New Ganesh Hindu Temple in Berlin set to be opened during Diwali

<p>This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago.</p>

<p>While the temple structure has been built, it still stands ‘without the gods,’ as Krishnamurthy plans a massive, six-day-long opening celebration in November. "We're waiting for the gods," he was quoted as saying by DW News.</p>

<p>Krishnamurthy came to Berlin almost 50 years ago and always dreamed of setting up a temple there for the community.</p>

<p>As he worked for the electrical company AEG, he founded an association to build the Sri-Ganesha Hindu Temple.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The construction part</strong></h2>

<p>How Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy toiled up a perilous path of 20 years to complete the project is a case study in itself. The journey began in 2004 when the temple association was established. Shortly after, the Berlin district authority allotted him the plot of land on the edge of Hasenheide Park, between the districts of Kreuzberg, Neukölln and Tempelhof.</p>

<p>Due to financial constraints, the construction work that was supposed to commence in 2007 could not start till 2010.</p>

<p>However, financial problems still loomed large. The construction would regularly stop due to four major problems—regulations, approval procedures, deadlines and financing plans.</p>

<p>"We have carried this through with our own donations. There was no support from the Berlin Senate, from the district authority or from the federal government. I can also understand that," Krishnamurthy said.</p>

<h2><strong>How young Indians rose to the occasion?</strong></h2>

<p>The donations went drastically up in recent years, thanks to the influx of young Indian techies in Berlin. The tallest building, meant for Amazon, is currently under construction in Berlin, and that is where the majority of Indian techies will be earning their living.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Heavy rainfall ravages North and Western areas of Germany</strong></p>

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<p>"In the past five years," Krishnamurthy says, "we have had a significant growth in donations. Young people are prepared to give generously."</p>

<p>Some of the young people even made four-figure donations.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Awaiting gods now’</strong></h2>

<p>Krishnamurthy says the gods were still not there yet. Solid stone figures, crafted especially according to 5000-year-old specifications, will be brought here from India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There should be 27 of them in total, he says.</p>

<p>In November, near the time of the festival of lights, he wants it to be finished, and then the six-day Kumbhabhishekham consecration ceremony can begin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wild-pigs-in-germany-are-radioactive-a-new-study-explains-why-630945"><strong>Also read: Wild pigs in Germany are radioactive. A new study explains why</strong></a></p>

<p>"We believe in God, that he supports us," he says.</p>

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This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago.

This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago. While the temple structure has been built, it still stands ‘without the gods,’ as Krishnamurthy plans a massive, six-day-long opening celebration in November. "We're waiting for the gods," he was quoted as saying by DW News. Krishnamurthy came to Berlin almost 50 years ago and always dreamed of setting up a temple there for the community. As he worked for the electrical company AEG, he founded an association to build the Sri-Ganesha Hindu Temple. The construction part How Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy toiled up a perilous path of 20 years to complete the project is a case study in itself. The journey began in 2004 when the temple association was established. Shortly after, the Berlin district authority allotted him the plot of land on the edge of Hasenheide Park, between the districts of Kreuzberg, Neukölln and Tempelhof. Due to financial constraints, the construction work that was supposed to commence in 2007 could not start till 2010. However, financial problems still loomed large. The construction would regularly stop due to four major problems—regulations, approval procedures, deadlines and financing plans. "We have carried this through with our own donations. There was no support from the Berlin Senate, from the district authority or from the federal government. I can also understand that," Krishnamurthy said. How young Indians rose to the occasion? The donations went drastically up in recent years, thanks to the influx of young Indian techies in Berlin. The tallest building, meant for Amazon, is currently under construction in Berlin, and that is where the majority of Indian techies will be earning their living. Watch: Heavy rainfall ravages North and Western areas of Germany × "In the past five years," Krishnamurthy says, "we have had a significant growth in donations. Young people are prepared to give generously." Some of the young people even made four-figure donations. ‘Awaiting gods now’ Krishnamurthy says the gods were still not there yet. Solid stone figures, crafted especially according to 5000-year-old specifications, will be brought here from India. There should be 27 of them in total, he says. In November, near the time of the festival of lights, he wants it to be finished, and then the six-day Kumbhabhishekham consecration ceremony can begin. Also read: Wild pigs in Germany are radioactive. A new study explains why "We believe in God, that he supports us," he says. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After almost a 20-year wait, largest Hindu temple in Berlin is finally ready to 'welcome gods'

<p>Some relatives of the six Italian civilians who were hanged by occupying German soldiers during Second World War are set to get share of 12 million euros (USD 13 million) 80&nbsp;years after the incident. The civilians were hanged as a collective punishment for killing of a soldier who was foraging for food.</p>

<p>The compensation has been awarded by an Italian court for the families' trauma.</p>

<p>"We still mark the event every year. It hasn't been forgotten," said Mauro Petrarca, the great-grandson of one of those killed, Domenico Lancellotta, a 52-year-old Roman Catholic father of five daughters and a son.</p>

<p>All but one of the family members alive at the time of the killings are now dead. However, under Italian law, damages owed can still be passed on to the heirs. This means that Petrarca will receive about 130,000 euros (USD 142,000) under the terms of the court ruling which came in 2020.</p>

<p>The compensation would, however, be paid by Italy and not Germany as Italy has lost a battle in International Court of Justice over whether Germany could still be held liable for damages related to World War Two crimes and atrocities.</p>

<p>Jewish organisations in Italy have opined in past that Germany should pay to fulfill its historic responsibility. Victims groups also fear that Italy is dragging its feet while dealing with deluge of compensation claims that could eventually be burdensome to state accounts.</p>

<p>"This is a very tormented issue, both from a political and a legal perspective," said Giulio Disegni, the vice president of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities (UCEI), which has been following the issue on behalf of Jewish victims of Nazi horrors.</p>

<p>German government funded a study, published in 2016, which estimated that 22,000 Italians were victims of Nazi war crimes. These included up to 8000 Jews who were deported to death camps. Thousands of more people in Italy were forced to work as enslaved labourers in Germany.</p>

<p>The six men were hanged in Italian village of Fornelli. Their descendents are likely to be first to be benefitted from the new government fund set up to deal with compensation claims.</p>

<p>The killing of the six men came a month after Italy signed armistice with the Allied forces thus ending their participation in the World War. This meant that Italy's alliance with the Nazis was at an end. Nazi forces then began to occupy Italy.</p>

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Some relatives of the six Italian civilians who were hanged by occupying German soldiers during Second World War are set to get share of 12 million euros (USD 13 million) 80 years after the incident.

Some relatives of the six Italian civilians who were hanged by occupying German soldiers during Second World War are set to get share of 12 million euros (USD 13 million) 80 years after the incident. The civilians were hanged as a collective punishment for killing of a soldier who was foraging for food. The compensation has been awarded by an Italian court for the families' trauma. "We still mark the event every year. It hasn't been forgotten," said Mauro Petrarca, the great-grandson of one of those killed, Domenico Lancellotta, a 52-year-old Roman Catholic father of five daughters and a son. All but one of the family members alive at the time of the killings are now dead. However, under Italian law, damages owed can still be passed on to the heirs. This means that Petrarca will receive about 130,000 euros (USD 142,000) under the terms of the court ruling which came in 2020. The compensation would, however, be paid by Italy and not Germany as Italy has lost a battle in International Court of Justice over whether Germany could still be held liable for damages related to World War Two crimes and atrocities. Jewish organisations in Italy have opined in past that Germany should pay to fulfill its historic responsibility. Victims groups also fear that Italy is dragging its feet while dealing with deluge of compensation claims that could eventually be burdensome to state accounts. "This is a very tormented issue, both from a political and a legal perspective," said Giulio Disegni, the vice president of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities (UCEI), which has been following the issue on behalf of Jewish victims of Nazi horrors. German government funded a study, published in 2016, which estimated that 22,000 Italians were victims of Nazi war crimes. These included up to 8000 Jews who were deported to death camps. Thousands of more people in Italy were forced to work as enslaved labourers in Germany. The six men were hanged in Italian village of Fornelli. Their descendents are likely to be first to be benefitted from the new government fund set up to deal with compensation claims. The killing of the six men came a month after Italy signed armistice with the Allied forces thus ending their participation in the World War. This meant that Italy's alliance with the Nazis was at an end. Nazi forces then began to occupy Italy. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Families of Italian victims of Nazi crime to finally get compensation, after 80 years

<p>NATO countries on the Baltic Sea as well as other nations from the United States-led military alliance will participate in a major naval drill involving some 30 ships and over 3,000 service members for the first time to practise how to respond to a Russian attack in the region, said the German navy chief on Friday (September 1).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the upcoming navy drills</strong></h2>

<p>The upcoming drills will begin on September 9 and involve troops from all NATO countries on the Baltic Sea, plus soon-to-be member Sweden and non-Baltic allies which include the US, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium and France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the two-week Northern Coasts exercise, the countries will practise amphibious operations and strikes from sea to land, reported Reuters. “We are sending a clear message of vigilance to Russia: Not on our watch,” Vice-Admiral Jan Christian Kaack told reporters in Berlin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Credible deterrence must include the ability to attack.” The exercise will also focus on securing the sea routes through the Baltic Sea and will take place off the coasts of Latvia and Estonia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Finland and the Baltic states depend to almost 100% on the maritime supply routes through the Baltic Sea,” Kaack noted. He added, “Should the Suwalki Gap be blocked - and this can be done easily as there are only two roads and one railroad line - then we are left with the sea routes only, and that’s where we will then have to make our way through.”</p>

<p>The Suwalki Gap is a 65-kilometre narrow land corridor and the only connection between the Baltic states to Poland and NATO’s main territory in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaack also noted that the upcoming exercise will be the first exercise of this size that the German navy, which is also the biggest navy on the Baltic Sea, will command from its new maritime headquarters in Rostock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The maritime base recently reached operational readiness and aims to act as a regional maritime headquarters for NATO capable of leading the alliance’s operations in the Baltic Sea in case of a conflict, said the German official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ships leave Ukrainian port Black Sea port under temporary corridor: Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian deputy prime minister, on Friday (September 1) said that two cargo vessels have left a port near Odesa through the Black Sea temporary corridor for civilian vessels months after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637">Russia formally backed out</a> of the deal which allowed a safe-passage for ships carrying grain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksandr Kubrakov said Liberia-flagged Anna-Theresa and Marshall Islands-flagged Ocean Courtesy bulk carriers had left the port of Pivdennyi from the “humanitarian corridor” hugging the western Black Sea coast near Romania and Bulgaria.</p>

<p>The Anna-Theresa, according to the Ukrainian official, had been stuck in the Ukrainian port since February 22, 2022, and the Ocean Courtesy from February 16 of the same year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Anna-Theresa and Ocean Courtesy were carrying 56,000 metric tons of pig iron and 172,000 tons of iron ore concentrate, respectively, said Kubrakov, on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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NATO countries on the Baltic Sea as well as other nations from the United States-led military alliance will participate in a major naval drill involving some 30 ships and over 3,000 service members for the first time to practise how to respond to a Russian attack in the region, said the German navy chief on Friday (September 1).

NATO countries on the Baltic Sea as well as other nations from the United States-led military alliance will participate in a major naval drill involving some 30 ships and over 3,000 service members for the first time to practise how to respond to a Russian attack in the region, said the German navy chief on Friday (September 1). About the upcoming navy drills The upcoming drills will begin on September 9 and involve troops from all NATO countries on the Baltic Sea, plus soon-to-be member Sweden and non-Baltic allies which include the US, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium and France. During the two-week Northern Coasts exercise, the countries will practise amphibious operations and strikes from sea to land, reported Reuters. “We are sending a clear message of vigilance to Russia: Not on our watch,” Vice-Admiral Jan Christian Kaack told reporters in Berlin. He added, “Credible deterrence must include the ability to attack.” The exercise will also focus on securing the sea routes through the Baltic Sea and will take place off the coasts of Latvia and Estonia. “Finland and the Baltic states depend to almost 100% on the maritime supply routes through the Baltic Sea,” Kaack noted. He added, “Should the Suwalki Gap be blocked - and this can be done easily as there are only two roads and one railroad line - then we are left with the sea routes only, and that’s where we will then have to make our way through.” The Suwalki Gap is a 65-kilometre narrow land corridor and the only connection between the Baltic states to Poland and NATO’s main territory in Europe. Kaack also noted that the upcoming exercise will be the first exercise of this size that the German navy, which is also the biggest navy on the Baltic Sea, will command from its new maritime headquarters in Rostock. The maritime base recently reached operational readiness and aims to act as a regional maritime headquarters for NATO capable of leading the alliance’s operations in the Baltic Sea in case of a conflict, said the German official. Ships leave Ukrainian port Black Sea port under temporary corridor: Kyiv Ukrainian deputy prime minister, on Friday (September 1) said that two cargo vessels have left a port near Odesa through the Black Sea temporary corridor for civilian vessels months after Russia formally backed out of the deal which allowed a safe-passage for ships carrying grain. Oleksandr Kubrakov said Liberia-flagged Anna-Theresa and Marshall Islands-flagged Ocean Courtesy bulk carriers had left the port of Pivdennyi from the “humanitarian corridor” hugging the western Black Sea coast near Romania and Bulgaria. The Anna-Theresa, according to the Ukrainian official, had been stuck in the Ukrainian port since February 22, 2022, and the Ocean Courtesy from February 16 of the same year. The Anna-Theresa and Ocean Courtesy were carrying 56,000 metric tons of pig iron and 172,000 tons of iron ore concentrate, respectively, said Kubrakov, on social media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Baltic Sea drills involving NATO nations to focus on repelling Russian attack for the first time

<p>Wild boars in the forests of southern Germany are known to have high levels of radioactive caesium. The levels are high enough that they have been deemed unsafe to eat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some reports have even claimed that they sometimes bite and charge at humans with their tusks. They also appear to be highly protective of their young ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alert over them being radioactive has become a bigger concern, which has been attributed to the Chornobyl disaster in 1986. The levels of radioactivity have fallen in other animals, but still persist in the boars, which has been termed the "wild boar paradox".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the new research, the Chornobyl disaster doesn't appear to be the only reason, as the nuclear weapons tests from the mid-20th century are also responsible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-100-year-old-oak-tree-falls-on-florida-governors-mansion-630923">A 100-year-old oak tree falls on Florida governor's mansion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Scientists have said that both sources have led to contamination of the boars through their diet and the hunting of tusked wild boars (Sus scrofa) for their meat has reduced because they may appear healthy, but some of them have dangerously high levels of radioactive caesium. Reduced hunting has also led to overpopulation issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.est.3c03565">American Chemical Society</a> on Wednesday (August 30). It found nuclear weapons testing across the globe released enough fallout into the atmosphere to expose&nbsp;the wild pigs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study further added that "more than ever, with threats of nuclear strikes or accidental releases in the course of the Russo-Ukrainian war, it is now imperative to be able to identify the source of any release... and evaluate their environmental consequences."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-researchers-develop-vegan-leather-that-can-repair-itself-630940">Researchers develop vegan leather that can repair itself</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a study published in 2022, it was reported that in German wild boars, the data sets reveal a distinct geographical and seasonal dependence with higher activity concentrations in winter than in summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Radioecologist Felix Stäger from Leibniz University Hannover in Germany and colleagues write in their paper: "Our work reveals deeper insights into the notorious radio-caesium contamination in Bavarian wild boars beyond the total radionuclide quantification only."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;At least 73 dead in a fire in Johannesburg&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A similar situation has engrossed East Asia after the Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) unilaterally launched the discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, angering the neighbours over fears of contamination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some environmentalists and China have protested the discharge of nuke-polluted water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, which&nbsp;was destroyed in March 2011 after a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake generated powerful tsunami waves that caused the meltdowns of three of its nuclear reactors, one of the worst nuclear disasters in history.&nbsp;</p>

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Wild boars in the forests of southern Germany are known to have high levels of radioactive caesium. The levels are high enough that they have been deemed unsafe to eat.

Wild boars in the forests of southern Germany are known to have high levels of radioactive caesium. The levels are high enough that they have been deemed unsafe to eat. Some reports have even claimed that they sometimes bite and charge at humans with their tusks. They also appear to be highly protective of their young ones. The alert over them being radioactive has become a bigger concern, which has been attributed to the Chornobyl disaster in 1986. The levels of radioactivity have fallen in other animals, but still persist in the boars, which has been termed the "wild boar paradox". According to the new research, the Chornobyl disaster doesn't appear to be the only reason, as the nuclear weapons tests from the mid-20th century are also responsible. Also read: A 100-year-old oak tree falls on Florida governor's mansion Scientists have said that both sources have led to contamination of the boars through their diet and the hunting of tusked wild boars (Sus scrofa) for their meat has reduced because they may appear healthy, but some of them have dangerously high levels of radioactive caesium. Reduced hunting has also led to overpopulation issues. The study was published in the journal American Chemical Society on Wednesday (August 30). It found nuclear weapons testing across the globe released enough fallout into the atmosphere to expose the wild pigs. The study further added that "more than ever, with threats of nuclear strikes or accidental releases in the course of the Russo-Ukrainian war, it is now imperative to be able to identify the source of any release... and evaluate their environmental consequences." Also read: Researchers develop vegan leather that can repair itself In a study published in 2022, it was reported that in German wild boars, the data sets reveal a distinct geographical and seasonal dependence with higher activity concentrations in winter than in summer. Radioecologist Felix Stäger from Leibniz University Hannover in Germany and colleagues write in their paper: "Our work reveals deeper insights into the notorious radio-caesium contamination in Bavarian wild boars beyond the total radionuclide quantification only." Also read: At least 73 dead in a fire in Johannesburg × Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water A similar situation has engrossed East Asia after the Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) unilaterally launched the discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, angering the neighbours over fears of contamination. Some environmentalists and China have protested the discharge of nuke-polluted water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, which was destroyed in March 2011 after a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake generated powerful tsunami waves that caused the meltdowns of three of its nuclear reactors, one of the worst nuclear disasters in history. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wild pigs in Germany are radioactive. A new study explains why

<p>Even as the West shoves its green climate agenda down the throat of the developing world, it itself keeps on exhibiting sheer hypocrisy as it seeks to widen its dependence on fossil fuels. In the latest instance, Germany is witnessing the dismantling of a large wind farm; only to expand a nearby open-pit lignite coal mine.</p>

<p>German energy giant RWE is undertaking the dismantling work in the western region of North Rhine Westphalia, where one wind turbine has already been dismantled. The company plans to weed out seven more to pave the way for an additional 15m to 20m tonnes of so-called 'brown' coal to be excavated.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;German green policy looking to miss net zero target by 2045</strong></p>

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<p>Brown coal, by the way, is considered one of the most polluting energy sources in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Expansion of coal field blamed on Ukraine crisis</strong></h2>

<p>RWE and the German government justify the move by saying that it was necessary to steer clear of a massive energy crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine jeopardised Germany’s energy security and the expansion of the so-called Garzweiler coal fields was required to meet the country’s energy demands.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-skilled-labour-shortage-grows-amid-anti-immigrant-push-626111"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Germany`s skilled labour shortage grows amid anti-immigrant push</strong></a></p>

<p>Germany’s minister for economy and climate action Robert Habeck defended the expansion as the "right decision." According to RWE, the expansion is necessary "due to the energy crisis."</p>

<h2><strong>Expansion of coal field part of a wider deal</strong></h2>

<p>The expansion of the coalfield is being done under a deal brokered last year between RWE and the German government. In return, RWE had promised to completely phase out coal in 2030, eight years before the previous deadline. "It's a good day for climate protection," Habeck said at the time.</p>

<h2><strong>Move invites sharp criticism</strong></h2>

<p>The move to demolish wind farms to make way for more coal excavation has triggered massive criticism by activists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The current climate emergency requires urgent and concerted efforts to accelerate the deployment of every single wind turbine, solar panel and heat pump that we can muster," said Fabian Hübner, a senior campaigner at Beyond Fossil Fuels, a German-based coalition of climate activists.</p>

<p>"Anything that diverts from this critical endeavour, especially the dismantling of renewable energy sources to extract more fossil fuels, must be unequivocally prohibited," he added.</p>

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Even as the West shoves its green climate agenda down the throat of the developing world, it itself keeps on exhibiting sheer hypocrisy as it seeks to widen its dependence on fossil fuels.

Even as the West shoves its green climate agenda down the throat of the developing world, it itself keeps on exhibiting sheer hypocrisy as it seeks to widen its dependence on fossil fuels. In the latest instance, Germany is witnessing the dismantling of a large wind farm; only to expand a nearby open-pit lignite coal mine. German energy giant RWE is undertaking the dismantling work in the western region of North Rhine Westphalia, where one wind turbine has already been dismantled. The company plans to weed out seven more to pave the way for an additional 15m to 20m tonnes of so-called 'brown' coal to be excavated. Watch: German green policy looking to miss net zero target by 2045 × Brown coal, by the way, is considered one of the most polluting energy sources in the world. Expansion of coal field blamed on Ukraine crisis RWE and the German government justify the move by saying that it was necessary to steer clear of a massive energy crisis. It said how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine jeopardised Germany’s energy security and the expansion of the so-called Garzweiler coal fields was required to meet the country’s energy demands. Also read: Germany`s skilled labour shortage grows amid anti-immigrant push Germany’s minister for economy and climate action Robert Habeck defended the expansion as the "right decision." According to RWE, the expansion is necessary "due to the energy crisis." Expansion of coal field part of a wider deal The expansion of the coalfield is being done under a deal brokered last year between RWE and the German government. In return, RWE had promised to completely phase out coal in 2030, eight years before the previous deadline. "It's a good day for climate protection," Habeck said at the time. Move invites sharp criticism The move to demolish wind farms to make way for more coal excavation has triggered massive criticism by activists. "The current climate emergency requires urgent and concerted efforts to accelerate the deployment of every single wind turbine, solar panel and heat pump that we can muster," said Fabian Hübner, a senior campaigner at Beyond Fossil Fuels, a German-based coalition of climate activists. "Anything that diverts from this critical endeavour, especially the dismantling of renewable energy sources to extract more fossil fuels, must be unequivocally prohibited," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

So much for green agenda: Germany demolishes wind farm to expand coal field

Germany’s ruling coalition agreed on an expanded package of tax-relief measures for companies worth about €7 billion ($7.6 billion) a year, part of a 10-point plan designed to lift Europe’s biggest economy out of stagnation.

Germany agrees on expanded tax relief measures worth €7 billion

A storm with large hailstones damaged four-fifths of the buildings in a small town in the southern German state of Bavaria. The storm swept across the southern part of Bavaria earlier on Saturday.

Severe hailstorm & storm bash German state of Bavaria

Over 1,700 fans dressed up as the fictional magician Harry Potter gather in front of the townhall in Hamburg, Germany, to break the world record of the highest number of Harry Potters in one place. The event also celebrates the 25th anniversary of the publication of the first Harry Potter book in Germany.

Over 1,700 fans dressed as harry potter set new world record in Germany

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