The top Russian official in Germany has warned about possible escalation amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine after Berlin approved supplying Leopard 2 tanks following mounting pressure from Kyiv and its Western allies. In a statement, on Wednesday (January 25) the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev, called this decision “extremely dangerous” and warned that this will not inevitably lead to the deaths of not only Russian soldiers but also the civilian population, reported the Moscow Times.&nbsp;

“This extremely dangerous decision takes the conflict to a new level of confrontation, and contradicts statements by German politicians about the unwillingness of the German Federation to get involved in it”, said Nechaev, reported AFP, citing the statement.&nbsp; 
 
This comes after Berlin had initially been reluctant to send tanks to Ukraine but after facing pressure from its Western allies and following a debate in the German parliament&nbsp;early Wednesday. Reports suggest that Berlin has agreed to provide a company of 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks from the Bundeswehr (Germany’s military) stocks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-all-set-to-send-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-report-suggests-555700">Germany approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine</a>

Additionally, they also granted the approval for other European countries to send their own stock of German-made Leopard tanks to Kyiv, which required Berlin’s permission. Addressing the parliament, on Wednesday, German&nbsp;Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, "We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO."

Furthermore, Nechayev also claimed that it will lead to the “death of not only Russian soldiers, but also the civilian population,” reported, the Moscow Times.&nbsp;The Russian official also said that Russia&nbsp;is convinced that Germany, like its closest allies “is not interested in a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-has-officially-requested-germany-to-send-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-555491">Poland officially requests Germany to send its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, will ask compensation from EU</a>

He added that by supplying additional and heavier weapons to Kyiv, Berlin has destroyed “the remnants of mutual trust and causes irreparable damage to the already deplorable state of Russian-German relations.” On the other hand, countries like the United Kingdom, Poland, and France have hailed Germany’s decision of&nbsp;supplying tanks to Ukraine that it has long sought.&nbsp;

Germany had earlier indicated that it won't send its Leopard tanks unless the US also agrees to send its own M1 Abrams tanks.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The top Russian official in Germany has warned about possible escalation amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine after Berlin approved supplying Leopard 2 tanks following mounting pressure from Kyiv and its Western allies.

The top Russian official in Germany has warned about possible escalation amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine after Berlin approved supplying Leopard 2 tanks following mounting pressure from Kyiv and its Western allies. In a statement, on Wednesday (January 25) the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev, called this decision “extremely dangerous” and warned that this will not inevitably lead to the deaths of not only Russian soldiers but also the civilian population, reported the Moscow Times. “This extremely dangerous decision takes the conflict to a new level of confrontation, and contradicts statements by German politicians about the unwillingness of the German Federation to get involved in it”, said Nechaev, reported AFP, citing the statement. This comes after Berlin had initially been reluctant to send tanks to Ukraine but after facing pressure from its Western allies and following a debate in the German parliament early Wednesday. Reports suggest that Berlin has agreed to provide a company of 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks from the Bundeswehr (Germany’s military) stocks. ALSO READ | Germany approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine Additionally, they also granted the approval for other European countries to send their own stock of German-made Leopard tanks to Kyiv, which required Berlin’s permission. Addressing the parliament, on Wednesday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, "We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO." Furthermore, Nechayev also claimed that it will lead to the “death of not only Russian soldiers, but also the civilian population,” reported, the Moscow Times. The Russian official also said that Russia is convinced that Germany, like its closest allies “is not interested in a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis.” ALSO READ | Poland officially requests Germany to send its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, will ask compensation from EU He added that by supplying additional and heavier weapons to Kyiv, Berlin has destroyed “the remnants of mutual trust and causes irreparable damage to the already deplorable state of Russian-German relations.” On the other hand, countries like the United Kingdom, Poland, and France have hailed Germany’s decision of supplying tanks to Ukraine that it has long sought. Germany had earlier indicated that it won't send its Leopard tanks unless the US also agrees to send its own M1 Abrams tanks. (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.

‘Extremely dangerous’: Russia warns of potential escalation as Germany agrees to send tanks to Ukraine

Germany has announced it is ready to send 14 of its own tanks and to allow others to do so, in an U-turn from its previous position. The decision comes after weeks of pressure on Berlin from Western allies.

Germany approves delivery of 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine

The Biden administration has approved sending 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. The US decision came on the heels of Germany agreeing to send 14 Leopard 2 tanks from its own stocks.

US approves sending of 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine

All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute. At least 300 flights and as many as 35,000 passengers scheduled to pass through the airport have been affected, as per media reports. It is also the first time since 2018 that strikes have led to so many flight cancellations.&nbsp;

“We hope that the pressure is enough,”&nbsp;said Enrico Ruemker, a representative of the trade union Verdi, that organised the strike. He added, “When you see how high the inflation rate is and consider that the colleagues from this area have not had a salary increase for many, many years, this offer is of course a slap in the face for the colleagues,”&nbsp;reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The walkout began at 3:30 am (local time) when several workers gathered in front of the main terminal building of the airport for a strike which was set to last throughout the day. Meanwhile, the airlines have rescheduled some flights for Thursday and others have been diverted to the country’s other airports in Dresden and Leipzig.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The trade union called on airport staff in ground services, aviation security and the airport company for a one-day stoppage over a wage dispute across three parallels over what they reportedly&nbsp;described&nbsp;as insufficient progress in the talks. As many as 1,500 workers are expected to participate in the strikes, the union had previously said, as per DW.&nbsp;

According to Ruemker, the airport company had proposed a two-year term under which salaries would increase by three per cent on June 1 and by an additional two per cent on May 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the trade union has demanded a 12-month collective bargaining contract under which airport employees and the ground handling services would receive a monthly hike of $540 in their salaries. On the other hand, employers have proposed a much longer contract.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute.

All passenger flights from Germany’s Berlin Brandenburg airport which are scheduled to take off and land, on Wednesday (January 25) have either been cancelled or rescheduled due to a labour strike over a wage dispute. At least 300 flights and as many as 35,000 passengers scheduled to pass through the airport have been affected, as per media reports. It is also the first time since 2018 that strikes have led to so many flight cancellations. “We hope that the pressure is enough,” said Enrico Ruemker, a representative of the trade union Verdi, that organised the strike. He added, “When you see how high the inflation rate is and consider that the colleagues from this area have not had a salary increase for many, many years, this offer is of course a slap in the face for the colleagues,” reported Reuters. The walkout began at 3:30 am (local time) when several workers gathered in front of the main terminal building of the airport for a strike which was set to last throughout the day. Meanwhile, the airlines have rescheduled some flights for Thursday and others have been diverted to the country’s other airports in Dresden and Leipzig. The trade union called on airport staff in ground services, aviation security and the airport company for a one-day stoppage over a wage dispute across three parallels over what they reportedly described as insufficient progress in the talks. As many as 1,500 workers are expected to participate in the strikes, the union had previously said, as per DW. According to Ruemker, the airport company had proposed a two-year term under which salaries would increase by three per cent on June 1 and by an additional two per cent on May 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the trade union has demanded a 12-month collective bargaining contract under which airport employees and the ground handling services would receive a monthly hike of $540 in their salaries. On the other hand, employers have proposed a much longer contract. (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.

Germany: Over 300 flights at Berlin’s Brandenburg airport impacted due to labour strike

Germany media reports say the Chancellor Olaf Scholz has now decided to send the battle tanks - Leopard tanks to Ukraine. While, the US may be supplying the Abram tanks. Berlin's move reportedly come as a green light for Poland to send its Leopard tanks to Ukraine as well.

Will Germany, US send tanks to Ukraine? No official confirmation from Berlin, Washington yet

Germany plans to send additional military support to Ukraine on top of the 14 Leopard 2 tanks announced earlier today, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said. Neha Khanna brings you more insights.

WION Fineprint: Germany to send 14 Leopard battle tanks to Ukraine

Germany, US to send Leopard, Abram tanks to Ukraine respectively, say reports

German media reports say Chancellor Olaf Scholz has now decided to send the Leopard tanks to Ukraine. This is while the US may be supplying the Abram tanks. Berlin's move reportedly come as a green light for Poland to send its Leopard tanks to Ukraine as well. Watch for more details.

Germany approves Leopard Tanks to Ukraine amid Russia War

Germany, U.S. to send leopard tanks to Ukraine: Report

Poland has expressed a desire to supply Ukraine with German-made Leopard 2 tanks. However, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has held back so far from sending them. Watch this video to find out what is the correct procedure to re-export German tanks?

Why is Poland submitting official request to Germany for the re-export of tanks to Ukraine?

A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. The lawsuit against Myanmar military generals and others was filed last week, said the advocacy group, Fortify Rights, in a statement, on Tuesday (January 24). The crimes in question were allegedly perpetrated by the country’s military after they overthrew the elected government, in 2021, following a coup&nbsp;amid a crackdown on people from the Rohingya community.&nbsp;

The 16 individual complaints from six women and ten men who are residing in different parts of the world belong to various ethnic groups in Myanmar including Rohingya, the dominant Burman, Chin, Karen, Karenni, and Arakanese communities. The complainants are also students, farmers, businesspeople, former village heads and homemakers who have either witnessed or survived crimes in Myanmar and have since fled the country.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-court-jails-suu-kyi-for-3-years-524811">Myanmar court jails Suu Kyi for 3 years</a>

“An ethnically diverse and united front of survivors from throughout Myanmar are bringing this case to seek justice and accountability,” said Matthew Smith, CEO and co-founder at Fortify Rights, in a statement.

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BREAKING: <a href="https://twitter.com/FortifyRights?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FortifyRights</a> and 16 complainants from Myanmar filed a criminal complaint in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction against senior Myanmar military generals and others for atrocity crimes. Read more here: <a href="https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT">https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT</a> <a href="https://t.co/yf4QD9U7Ta">pic.twitter.com/yf4QD9U7Ta</a>
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The 215-page criminal complaint and more than 1,000 pages of annexes were filed with the Federal Public Prosecutor General of Germany, last week, under the principle of universal jurisdiction, said the rights group which is also leading the legal case.&nbsp;

Notably, the legal principle enables a state to prosecute individuals responsible for mass atrocities regardless of where the crimes occurred or the nationality of their perpetrators and victims. Furthermore, the lawsuit is based on more than 1,000 interviews which were conducted by various rights groups since 2013 as well as leaked documents from the Myanmar army.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/military-ruled-myanmar-marks-75-years-of-independence-549477">Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence</a>

The complaint alleges that the “Myanmar military systematically killed, raped, tortured, imprisoned, disappeared, persecuted, and committed other acts that amount to genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in violation of the German Code of Crimes Against International Law,” said the Fortify Rights.&nbsp;

“We trust in Germany to open an investigation and seek justice for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the military and its leaders in Myanmar,” said Nickey Diamond, a member rights group who also experienced and witnessed crimes allegedly committed by the Myanmar military in 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/general-behind-myanmar-coup-is-aung-san-suu-kyis-longtime-rival-434563">General behind Myanmar Coup is Aung San Suu Kyi's longtime rival</a>

Notably, the Myanmar generals are already facing an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a genocide case before the International Court of Justice. The Fortify Rights-led lawsuit was also filed days before Myanmar would mark two years since Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. &nbsp;

“Despite international attention and several ongoing accountability initiatives, the Myanmar military still enjoys complete impunity, and that must end. These crimes cannot go unpunished,” said Smith. The complaint also requested German authorities to launch a “structural investigation” of the situation in Myanmar which Fortify Rights believes would uncover numerous other crimes.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
 
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A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.

A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. The lawsuit against Myanmar military generals and others was filed last week, said the advocacy group, Fortify Rights, in a statement, on Tuesday (January 24). The crimes in question were allegedly perpetrated by the country’s military after they overthrew the elected government, in 2021, following a coup amid a crackdown on people from the Rohingya community. The 16 individual complaints from six women and ten men who are residing in different parts of the world belong to various ethnic groups in Myanmar including Rohingya, the dominant Burman, Chin, Karen, Karenni, and Arakanese communities. The complainants are also students, farmers, businesspeople, former village heads and homemakers who have either witnessed or survived crimes in Myanmar and have since fled the country. ALSO WATCH | Myanmar court jails Suu Kyi for 3 years “An ethnically diverse and united front of survivors from throughout Myanmar are bringing this case to seek justice and accountability,” said Matthew Smith, CEO and co-founder at Fortify Rights, in a statement. BREAKING: @FortifyRights and 16 complainants from Myanmar filed a criminal complaint in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction against senior Myanmar military generals and others for atrocity crimes. Read more here: https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT pic.twitter.com/yf4QD9U7Ta — Fortify Rights (@FortifyRights) January 24, 2023 × The 215-page criminal complaint and more than 1,000 pages of annexes were filed with the Federal Public Prosecutor General of Germany, last week, under the principle of universal jurisdiction, said the rights group which is also leading the legal case. Notably, the legal principle enables a state to prosecute individuals responsible for mass atrocities regardless of where the crimes occurred or the nationality of their perpetrators and victims. Furthermore, the lawsuit is based on more than 1,000 interviews which were conducted by various rights groups since 2013 as well as leaked documents from the Myanmar army. ALSO WATCH | Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence The complaint alleges that the “Myanmar military systematically killed, raped, tortured, imprisoned, disappeared, persecuted, and committed other acts that amount to genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in violation of the German Code of Crimes Against International Law,” said the Fortify Rights. “We trust in Germany to open an investigation and seek justice for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the military and its leaders in Myanmar,” said Nickey Diamond, a member rights group who also experienced and witnessed crimes allegedly committed by the Myanmar military in 2021. ALSO READ | General behind Myanmar Coup is Aung San Suu Kyi's longtime rival Notably, the Myanmar generals are already facing an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a genocide case before the International Court of Justice. The Fortify Rights-led lawsuit was also filed days before Myanmar would mark two years since Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. “Despite international attention and several ongoing accountability initiatives, the Myanmar military still enjoys complete impunity, and that must end. These crimes cannot go unpunished,” said Smith. The complaint also requested German authorities to launch a “structural investigation” of the situation in Myanmar which Fortify Rights believes would uncover numerous other crimes. (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.

Rights group files criminal complaint in Germany against Myanmar military for alleged war crimes, genocide

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Germany won't block Poland from sending Leopard-2 tanks to Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is in Paris to meet French President Macron. The French President said that sending tanks to Ukraine must not escalate the crisis.

Macron-Scholz meet in Paris: Macron says sending tanks to Ukraine must not escalate the crisis

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with&nbsp;german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so.

Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV.

Watch |&nbsp;World at War: Will United States &amp; Germany send their M1 Abram &amp; Leopard tanks?

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Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-allies-offer-more-weapons-to-kyiv-but-no-decision-on-tanks-yet-554651">Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks</a>

In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles."

Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for.

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so. Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV. Watch | World at War: Will United States & Germany send their M1 Abram & Leopard tanks? Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression. Also read | 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision. Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive. Also read | Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles." Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians. (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.

Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine

Ukraine appears to be a step closer to getting the German-made Leopard 2 tanks. Germany says it will not stand in the way if Poland wants to send its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. This comes amid Ukraine preparing for unexpected new Russian offensive.

Ukraine War: Germany signals shift in veto on Leopard tanks for Ukraine

Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with French president Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders met in Paris on Sunday to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Elysee treaty.

Germany-France Ties: Macron and Scholz meet to mark 60th anniversary of the Elysee treaty

As per reports, Germany’s new defense minister Boris Pistorius plans to visit Ukraine soon, as Berlin faces pressure to allow the shipment of German-made tanks to Ukraine.

Report: New German defense minister planning to visit Ukraine soon

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty. To pay tribute to the historic treaty, top French and German officials met in Paris. In his speech, Macron said that Germany and France must "become pioneers to relaunch Europe" because they have cleared the path to reconciliation. ALSO READ | Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson makes unannounced visit to Ukraine, meets President Zelensky As quoted by news agencies, Macron stressed the need to "build a new energy model" and encourage "innovation and the technologies of tomorrow". He also talked about ensuring that the European Union remains "a geopolitical power in its own right, in defence, space and diplomacy". Meanwhile, Olaf said that the cooperation between France and Germany was key to Europe's future. He said, "The future, like the past, rests on cooperation between both our countries as the driving force of a united Europe." WATCH | UK donates helicopter to Ukraine, Germany says 'in close dialogue' with partners on issue of tanks × Scholz on the current Ukraine situation The German chancellor said that France and Germany will support Ukraine for "as long as necessary" in its fight against Russia. As the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, the West is rushing to send military and humanitarian assistance to its close ally, Ukraine. During his speech at Sorbonne University, Scholz said, "We will continue to provide Ukraine with all the support its needs for as long as necessary." He added, "Together, as Europeans, to defend our European peace project." 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.

France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency. He said that Russian bombs were wreaking havoc in Ukrainian cities, adding civilians were being attacked and women and children were being murdered, a report by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;

Germany is the manufacturer of Leopard tanks and has been reluctant to supply them to Ukraine or allow other countries having them to do so. Earlier, the Polish government had announced that it was ready to supply 14 tanks to Ukraine and said it was discussing the matter with around 15 countries.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Morawiecki said that he was waiting for a clear signal from Berlin whether countries who have Leopards could transfer them to Kyiv. He further pointed out that if Berlin refuses, "we will set up a 'small coalition' of countries ready to donate some of their modern equipment, their modern tanks," the report added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-allies-offer-more-weapons-to-kyiv-but-no-decision-on-tanks-yet-554651">Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks</a>

On Friday, a meeting of about 50 Ukrainian allies led by the United States was held at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany during which the supply of the Leopard&nbsp;tanks to Ukraine was one of the dominating issues. The countries agreed to provide billions of dollars worth of military hardware, including ample armoured vehicles and munitions needed to push back the Russian military. However, German defence minister Boris Pistorius, who was a part of the meeting, said, "We still cannot say when a decision will be taken, and what the decision will be when it comes to the Leopard tank." 
 
On Saturday, the foreign ministers of the three Baltic states urged Berlin to provide Leopard tanks to Ukraine now.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | World at War: Will United States &amp; Germany send their M1 Abram &amp; Leopard tanks?

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A report by news agency Reuters early Sunday quoting German sources said that German-made tanks would be allowed to be sent to Ukraine if the United States agrees to send its own tanks. However, US officials earlier said that the Joe Biden administration was not poised to send its own tanks including the M1 Abrams.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, German defence minister Pistorius announced that he will visit Ukraine soon, "probably even within the next four weeks." In an interview with Bild am Sonntag newspaper published on Sunday, Pistorious, when asked about the supply of tanks said, his government was in very close dialogue with its international partners, first and foremost with the US. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency. He said that Russian bombs were wreaking havoc in Ukrainian cities, adding civilians were being attacked and women and children were being murdered, a report by news agency AFP said. Germany is the manufacturer of Leopard tanks and has been reluctant to supply them to Ukraine or allow other countries having them to do so. Earlier, the Polish government had announced that it was ready to supply 14 tanks to Ukraine and said it was discussing the matter with around 15 countries. On Sunday, Prime Minister Morawiecki said that he was waiting for a clear signal from Berlin whether countries who have Leopards could transfer them to Kyiv. He further pointed out that if Berlin refuses, "we will set up a 'small coalition' of countries ready to donate some of their modern equipment, their modern tanks," the report added. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks On Friday, a meeting of about 50 Ukrainian allies led by the United States was held at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany during which the supply of the Leopard tanks to Ukraine was one of the dominating issues. The countries agreed to provide billions of dollars worth of military hardware, including ample armoured vehicles and munitions needed to push back the Russian military. However, German defence minister Boris Pistorius, who was a part of the meeting, said, "We still cannot say when a decision will be taken, and what the decision will be when it comes to the Leopard tank." On Saturday, the foreign ministers of the three Baltic states urged Berlin to provide Leopard tanks to Ukraine now. ALSO WATCH | World at War: Will United States & Germany send their M1 Abram & Leopard tanks? × A report by news agency Reuters early Sunday quoting German sources said that German-made tanks would be allowed to be sent to Ukraine if the United States agrees to send its own tanks. However, US officials earlier said that the Joe Biden administration was not poised to send its own tanks including the M1 Abrams. Meanwhile, German defence minister Pistorius announced that he will visit Ukraine soon, "probably even within the next four weeks." In an interview with Bild am Sonntag newspaper published on Sunday, Pistorious, when asked about the supply of tanks said, his government was in very close dialogue with its international partners, first and foremost with the US. (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.

'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine

Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said on Jan. 21 that Sea King helicopters donated by the U.K. have arrived in Ukraine. Reznikov didn't specify the number of helicopters obtained. “It is a strong reinforcement for the Ukrainian Navy.

UK donates helicopter to Ukraine, Germany says 'in close dialogue' with partners on issue of tanks

Western allies pledged billions of dollars in weapons for Ukraine on Thursday and some promised to send the tanks Kyiv has requested if Berlin agrees.

Germany says no decision on tanks despite Ukraine pleas

Data published by the Ifo Institute on Friday revealed that around 180,000 more people died in Germany during the three years of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as compared to what would have been expected.&nbsp;On its website, the research institution mentioned that the excess mortality rate per 100,000 people was 640 in the 80+ age group and 92 in the age group 60 to 79 years.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that 116,000 more people died&nbsp;in the 80+ age group alone, than would have been usual, while the figure in the 60 to 79 age group was 51,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There were 12,000 additional deaths in the large age group of 30 to 59 years, while among the 0 to 29-year-olds, there were only around 900.&nbsp;

The website mentioned that in the two younger age groups, the relative excess mortality was much lower, namely 12 and 1.&nbsp;

As quoted by the website, Joachim Ragnitz, who is the deputy head of the Dresden branch of the Ifo, said: "The elderly were particularly poorly protected."&nbsp;

"It is surprising that excess mortality accelerated again in 2022. The exact reasons for this are still unclear. The heat waves in the summer and the flu outbreaks at the end of the year may also have played a role," Ragnitz added.&nbsp;

In order to calculate the expected number of deaths, the Ifo Institute calculated the average for the years 2016 to 2019 before the Covid period and adjusted it for changes in the age structure and increasing life expectancy.

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Data published by the Ifo Institute on Friday revealed that around 180,000 more people died in Germany during the three years of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as compared to what would have been expected.

Data published by the Ifo Institute on Friday revealed that around 180,000 more people died in Germany during the three years of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as compared to what would have been expected. On its website, the research institution mentioned that the excess mortality rate per 100,000 people was 640 in the 80+ age group and 92 in the age group 60 to 79 years. The report mentioned that 116,000 more people died in the 80+ age group alone, than would have been usual, while the figure in the 60 to 79 age group was 51,000. There were 12,000 additional deaths in the large age group of 30 to 59 years, while among the 0 to 29-year-olds, there were only around 900. The website mentioned that in the two younger age groups, the relative excess mortality was much lower, namely 12 and 1. As quoted by the website, Joachim Ragnitz, who is the deputy head of the Dresden branch of the Ifo, said: "The elderly were particularly poorly protected." "It is surprising that excess mortality accelerated again in 2022. The exact reasons for this are still unclear. The heat waves in the summer and the flu outbreaks at the end of the year may also have played a role," Ragnitz added. In order to calculate the expected number of deaths, the Ifo Institute calculated the average for the years 2016 to 2019 before the Covid period and adjusted it for changes in the age structure and increasing life expectancy. 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.

Germany: Around 180,000 more people died than expected during Covid pandemic

This week in World at War with Mohammed Saleh: - Russia unveils it's deadly Poseidon torpedoes - Italy's most wanted mafia boss arrested after being on the run for 30 years - Protesters descend on Peru's capital Lima Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

World at War | Will United States & Germany send their M1 Abram & Leopard tanks?

As Russia's offensive in Ukraine continues, Kyiv's western allies dampened its hopes for a rapid shipment of battle tanks to boost its firepower. A meeting of some 50 Ukrainian allies led by the United States on Friday (January 20) came through billions of dollars worth of military hardware, including ample armoured vehicles and munitions needed to push back the Russian military.

As Russia's offensive in Ukraine continues, Kyiv's western allies dampened its hopes for a rapid shipment of battle tanks to boost its firepower. A meeting of some 50 Ukrainian allies led by the United States on Friday (January 20) came through billions of dollars worth of military hardware, including ample armoured vehicles and munitions needed to push back the Russian military. One of the main issues which dominated the meeting at Ramstein Air Base in Germany was whether the German government would agree to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, or permit other countries that have them to do so, news agency Reuters reported. After the meeting, the US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said that while time was of the essence for Ukraine to take the fight to Russia's forces in spring, "Ukraine was well-equipped even without the Leopards." "Ukraine is not dependent on a single platform," Austin added. The secretary of defence also defended Germany against criticism that it was doing enough to help Ukraine, emphasising that Berlin was a reliable ally. ALSO READ | US designates mercenary group Wagner as 'international criminal organisation' Regarding the supply of Leopard 2 tanks, German defence minister Boris Pistorious said on Friday that his government still could not say what the decision will be and when it would be taken. Poland and Finland indicated they would be willing to send these tanks to Ukraine, but needed approval from Germany to do so, a report by the news agency AFP on Saturday said. Meanwhile, Ukraine's defence minister Oleskii Reznikov said, "We had a frank discussion on Leopards 2. To be continued." On Friday evening, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said there was no alternative but for the West to give his country heavy tanks. "Yes, we will still have to fight for the supply of modern tanks, but every day we make it more obvious that there is no alternative, that a decision about tanks must be made," Zelensky said. However, he thanked the countries that already promised to deliver weapons. Ukraine carries out military exercise in Chornobyl Exclusion Zone On Friday, the Ukrainian military carried out drills in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone near the Belarus border involving tanks and western-provided tactical vehicles. Commander of Ukraine's joint forces Serhiy Nayev told Reuters that there was no immediate danger of invasion from Belarus, adding this time was being used to increase fighting capacity and strengthen defence. “As of now, there is no immediate danger of land action from the territory of Belarus, of the joint army that is stationed there, the danger level is low. But we are using this time to increase our fighting capacity, to strengthen our defence,” Nayev said. Red cross says it needs more access to POWs on both sides of conflict The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), whose President Mirjana Spoljaric visited Moscow, said on Friday that it urgently needs more access to prisoners of war (POW) on both sides (Russia and Ukraine) in the conflict. In a statement, the ICRC said that Spoljaric's priority was that prisoners of war were treated humanely and receive regular visits from the organisation. "It is time to see meaningful progress. Lives are at stake, and people on both sides of the international armed conflict are desperate for news of their loved ones," the statement added. (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.

Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks

Opening the meeting at the Ramstein military base in Germany, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin called on allies to "dig deeper" in their support for Ukraine, as pressure piled up on Berlin to provide tanks to Kyiv.

US calls for allies to 'dig deeper' on Ukraine as pressure builds for tanks

US calls for allies to 'dig deeper' on Ukraine

Germany is under pressure to approve an increase in international military support for Kyiv by allowing the export of Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine.

West mulls over giving German Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine

Germany briefly detained famous climate activist Greta Thunberg. Thunberg was taking part in a protest against the removal of a village for coal mine expansion.

WION Climate Tracker: Germany briefly detains Greta Thunberg

Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. This comes weeks after several missteps by the now former defence minister of Berlin and amid mounting pressure on the country from European allies to approve the re-export of Leopard tanks for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s administration made the announcement and averted a possible government crisis ahead of the upcoming meeting with Western defence officials at the Ramstein military base, on Friday.&nbsp;

According to the chancellor’s spokesperson, the 62-year-old German lawmaker from the country’s Lower Saxony state and Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) will be sworn in on Thursday. A day before the new defence minister is expected to host his US counterpart, Lloyd Austin in Berlin. Pistorius also completed his military service in the 1980s and has been serving as Germany’s interior minister in Lower Saxony since 2013.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-defence-minister-christine-lambrecht-resigns-after-a-series-of-gaffes-553280">German defence minister Christine Lambrecht resigns after a series of gaffes</a>

In a statement making the announcement about the new defence minister Scholz said, “Pistorius is an extremely experienced politician who has administrative experience, has been involved in security policy for years”. He added, “with his competence, assertiveness and big heart, is just the right person to lead the Bundeswehr (armed forces) through this epochal change.”

The outgoing defence minister, Lambrecht, had recently come under fire for posting a video on social media on New Year's Day that attempted to recapitulate her experiences of the war in Ukraine while also thanking servicemen and women but could not be heard against the noise of fireworks around her. She drew major criticism from the opposition who called her message tone-deaf. Additionally, many had been critical of her performance as the defence minister as well as Germany’s response amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-european-allies-plan-to-send-tanks-to-ukraine-what-we-know-so-far-552934">Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine?</a>

Notably, Berlin has been facing mounting pressure from its allies about the&nbsp;authorisation&nbsp;of the re-export of modern battle tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Kyiv&nbsp;would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany.&nbsp;However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. This comes weeks after several missteps by the now former defence minister of Berlin and amid mounting pressure on the country from European allies to approve the re-export of Leopard tanks for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. This comes weeks after several missteps by the now former defence minister of Berlin and amid mounting pressure on the country from European allies to approve the re-export of Leopard tanks for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s administration made the announcement and averted a possible government crisis ahead of the upcoming meeting with Western defence officials at the Ramstein military base, on Friday. According to the chancellor’s spokesperson, the 62-year-old German lawmaker from the country’s Lower Saxony state and Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) will be sworn in on Thursday. A day before the new defence minister is expected to host his US counterpart, Lloyd Austin in Berlin. Pistorius also completed his military service in the 1980s and has been serving as Germany’s interior minister in Lower Saxony since 2013. ALSO READ | German defence minister Christine Lambrecht resigns after a series of gaffes In a statement making the announcement about the new defence minister Scholz said, “Pistorius is an extremely experienced politician who has administrative experience, has been involved in security policy for years”. He added, “with his competence, assertiveness and big heart, is just the right person to lead the Bundeswehr (armed forces) through this epochal change.” The outgoing defence minister, Lambrecht, had recently come under fire for posting a video on social media on New Year's Day that attempted to recapitulate her experiences of the war in Ukraine while also thanking servicemen and women but could not be heard against the noise of fireworks around her. She drew major criticism from the opposition who called her message tone-deaf. Additionally, many had been critical of her performance as the defence minister as well as Germany’s response amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. ALSO READ | Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine? Notably, Berlin has been facing mounting pressure from its allies about the authorisation of the re-export of modern battle tanks to Ukraine. Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Kyiv would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany. However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US. (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.

Germany appoints Boris Pistorius as new defence minister, averts government crisis

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026. In other news,&nbsp;Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-proposes-major-changes-to-boost-capabilities-of-armed-forces-553552">Russia proposes 'major changes’ to boost capabilities of armed forces&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba8dd5cf-3cd1-472b-a50d-e40af9586751" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2825%29_4.png" />

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-appoints-boris-pistorius-as-new-defence-minister-averts-government-crisis-553579">Germany appoints Boris Pistorius as new defence minister, averts government crisis</a>

<img alt="2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4594d588-7ec1-4c38-9dc4-3fe5fc7052a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2826%29_3.png" />

Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. This comes weeks after several missteps by the now former defence minister of Berlin and amid mounting pressure on the country from European allies to approve the re-export of Leopard tanks for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-25-people-in-belarus-including-lawmakers-over-politically-motivated-trial-553574">US imposes visa restrictions on 25 people in Belarus including lawmakers over ‘politically motivated trial’</a>

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The United States imposed visa restrictions for 25 people including lawmakers for “undermining democracy” on Tuesday (January 17) over the trial in absentia of exiled democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-population-falls-to-a-60-year-low-demographers-predict-nation-will-get-old-before-it-gets-rich-553315">China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich'</a>

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For the first time in 60 years, China’s population has fallen. 2022 saw the nation’s population take a historic turn to mark the start of a long period of decline in its citizens’ numbers. As per Reuters, this marks the beginning of profound implications for the economy of the nation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-cop-admits-to-71-sexual-offences-in-one-of-the-worst-serial-rape-crimes-553503">UK cop admits to 71 sexual offences in one of the worst serial rape crimes</a>

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In what emerged as one of the worst serial rape crimes in Britain, a service police officer of London's Metropolitan Police admitted to committing 71 sexual offences including 24 rapes against 12 women over the course of nearly two decades. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-ninos-2023-return-to-give-off-the-charts-rise-in-global-temperatures-553567">El Nino's 2023 return to give 'off the charts' rise in global temperatures</a>

<img alt="6" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3177f8aa-5ae5-426e-8989-4bcc1397ca1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2830%29_3.png" />

The El Nino climate phenomenon later this year may make 2023 to record 'off the charts' temperatures causing unprecedented heatwaves, scientists have warned. The El Nino refers to the warming of sea surface temperatures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-at-least-one-killed-four-injured-after-explosion-on-oil-tanker-ship-553468">Thailand: At least one killed, four injured after explosion on oil tanker ship</a>

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At least one person was killed and four others were injured after an explosion on an oil tanker ship took place, on early Tuesday (January 17), in Thailand’s Samut Songkhram province, said officials. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-commander-seeks-asylum-in-norway-claiming-war-crimes-by-the-outfit-553452">Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit</a>

<img alt="8" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80ae501a-4d41-40db-b445-1092f21d892b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2832%29_0.png" />

A BBC report says that a former commander with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group has claimed asylum in Norway. Twenty-six-year-old Andrey Medvedev is currently in Oslo after being detained by border guards following his intrusion last Friday. He is facing charges of illegal entry to Norway, his lawyer Brynjulf Risnes told the BBC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-23000-schools-across-uk-to-be-affected-as-teacher-announce-a-strike-heres-all-you-need-to-know-553439">Explained: 23,000 schools across UK to be affected as teachers announce strike. Here's all you need to know</a>

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Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-supreme-court-seeks-centres-view-on-criminalising-marital-rape-553477">India’s Supreme Court seeks Centre’s view on criminalising marital rape 
 
<img alt="10" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f00d880b-3c4d-43d9-bfbb-a29e98960947" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2834%29_1.png" /></a>

The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond by February 15 to a batch of petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape, which is not recognised under the existing law.&nbsp;

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026.

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026. In other news, Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia proposes 'major changes’ to boost capabilities of armed forces In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026. Germany appoints Boris Pistorius as new defence minister, averts government crisis Germany named Boris Pistorius as the country’s new defence minister on Tuesday (January 17) following the resignation of Christine Lambrecht a day prior. This comes weeks after several missteps by the now former defence minister of Berlin and amid mounting pressure on the country from European allies to approve the re-export of Leopard tanks for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. US imposes visa restrictions on 25 people in Belarus including lawmakers over ‘politically motivated trial’ The United States imposed visa restrictions for 25 people including lawmakers for “undermining democracy” on Tuesday (January 17) over the trial in absentia of exiled democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich' For the first time in 60 years, China’s population has fallen. 2022 saw the nation’s population take a historic turn to mark the start of a long period of decline in its citizens’ numbers. As per Reuters, this marks the beginning of profound implications for the economy of the nation. UK cop admits to 71 sexual offences in one of the worst serial rape crimes In what emerged as one of the worst serial rape crimes in Britain, a service police officer of London's Metropolitan Police admitted to committing 71 sexual offences including 24 rapes against 12 women over the course of nearly two decades. El Nino's 2023 return to give 'off the charts' rise in global temperatures The El Nino climate phenomenon later this year may make 2023 to record 'off the charts' temperatures causing unprecedented heatwaves, scientists have warned. The El Nino refers to the warming of sea surface temperatures. Thailand: At least one killed, four injured after explosion on oil tanker ship At least one person was killed and four others were injured after an explosion on an oil tanker ship took place, on early Tuesday (January 17), in Thailand’s Samut Songkhram province, said officials. Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit A BBC report says that a former commander with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group has claimed asylum in Norway. Twenty-six-year-old Andrey Medvedev is currently in Oslo after being detained by border guards following his intrusion last Friday. He is facing charges of illegal entry to Norway, his lawyer Brynjulf Risnes told the BBC. Explained: 23,000 schools across UK to be affected as teachers announce strike. Here's all you need to know Strikes in the United Kingdom are set to intensify, as on Monday Britain’s largest teaching and nursing unions announced further walkouts over pay. AFP reports, the National Education Union (NEU) announced that its members have overwhelmingly voted to walk out starting next month. India’s Supreme Court seeks Centre’s view on criminalising marital rape The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond by February 15 to a batch of petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape, which is not recognised under the existing law.

Top 10 world news: Russia to boost capabilities of armed forces, Germany appoints new defence minister & more

Tesla has come under attack from the German union IG Metall and lawmakers over claims made by workers at its Brandenburg facility over inappropriate work hours and repression of free speech. A growing number of employees have been alleging longer workdays and limited free time, according to IG Metall, which has an office close to the factory and claims to be in regular contact with its workforce.

As per IG Metall, employees were being told to sign non-disclosure agreements along with their employment contracts, which made them more reluctant to publicly criticise their working conditions.

These worries were exacerbated by a new position advertised on Tesla's career website for a "Security Intelligence Investigator," who would work with the legal and human resources departments to gather "on-the-ground information both inside and outside Tesla walls in order to protect the company from threats."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/twitter-hands-out-free-ad-spaces-to-chase-brands-back-on-platform-552584">Twitter hands out free ad spaces to chase brands back on platform</a>

"Workers started at&nbsp;Tesla&nbsp;with great enthusiasm for the project.&nbsp;Over&nbsp;time we are observing that this enthusiasm is withering," Irene Schulz of IG Metall Berlin-Brandenburg-Sachsen said in a statement.

"Tesla&nbsp;is not doing enough to improve&nbsp;working&nbsp;conditions and is leaving too little time for leisure, family, and recovery."

Tesla&nbsp;was not immediately available for comment to Reuters.&nbsp;

Two insiders who spoke to Reuters allege that Tesla China has also requested non-disclosure agreements from certain&nbsp;employees. For Tesla employees in Austin, San Francisco, and Shanghai, Reuters discovered many people on LinkedIn with the title "Security Intelligence Investigator."

German business newspaper Handelsblatt said on Monday that local lawmakers from the center-left SPD to the center-right CDU had voiced concern about the claims and demanded that both Tesla and the local government conduct investigations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tesla has come under attack from the German union IG Metall and lawmakers over claims made by workers at its Brandenburg facility over inappropriate work hours and repression of free speech.

Tesla has come under attack from the German union IG Metall and lawmakers over claims made by workers at its Brandenburg facility over inappropriate work hours and repression of free speech. A growing number of employees have been alleging longer workdays and limited free time, according to IG Metall, which has an office close to the factory and claims to be in regular contact with its workforce. As per IG Metall, employees were being told to sign non-disclosure agreements along with their employment contracts, which made them more reluctant to publicly criticise their working conditions. These worries were exacerbated by a new position advertised on Tesla's career website for a "Security Intelligence Investigator," who would work with the legal and human resources departments to gather "on-the-ground information both inside and outside Tesla walls in order to protect the company from threats." Also read | Twitter hands out free ad spaces to chase brands back on platform "Workers started at Tesla with great enthusiasm for the project. Over time we are observing that this enthusiasm is withering," Irene Schulz of IG Metall Berlin-Brandenburg-Sachsen said in a statement. "Tesla is not doing enough to improve working conditions and is leaving too little time for leisure, family, and recovery." Tesla was not immediately available for comment to Reuters. Two insiders who spoke to Reuters allege that Tesla China has also requested non-disclosure agreements from certain employees. For Tesla employees in Austin, San Francisco, and Shanghai, Reuters discovered many people on LinkedIn with the title "Security Intelligence Investigator." German business newspaper Handelsblatt said on Monday that local lawmakers from the center-left SPD to the center-right CDU had voiced concern about the claims and demanded that both Tesla and the local government conduct investigations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tesla slammed in Germany by union workers over unreasonable working hours, lack of free speech

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