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WION Speed News: Watch National and International news | 10 February 2020 | World News | English News

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

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

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

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

WION Speed News: Watch National and International news | February 09, 2020

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - February 04, 2020

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - February 03, 2020

Berlin zoo's newly born twin panda cubs made their public debut on Wednesday, attracting flocks of visitors, who also expressed their concerns and best wishes to China's Wuhan City as it fights the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak.

Berlin zoo's panda cubs make public debut five months after birth

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

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

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

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

China's deadly virus is spreading across the world. Germany, Sri Lanka and Cambodia have confirmed their first cases. WION's Palki has the latest updates.

Gravitas: Wuhan virus spreads to more countries

Distraction while driving can lead to loss of life. Smartphones, smoking, eating and listening to music are vital factors in 30 per cent of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ranks-first-in-the-number-of-road-accident-deaths-who-263453">road crashes</a>, whereas fatigue factors in up to 20 per cent cases, says the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-commission-could-slap-3-billion-euro-fine-on-italy-for-excessive-debt-deputy-pm-salvini-222359">European Commission</a>.

To avoid these accidents, a new safety technology will become compulsory in new European vehicles from the year 2022.

This will include a warning for the driver in the event of "drowsiness and distraction''.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ranks-first-in-the-number-of-road-accident-deaths-who-263453">India ranks first in the number of road accident deaths: WHO</a>

Several companies are positioning themselves as the leading providers of this technology.

Among these is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/auto-supplier-bosch-rejects-diesel-allegations-as-wild-and-unfounded-5431">Bosch</a>, the German engineering and technology company announced in December that it has already developed an interior monitoring system that is capable of detecting drowsy and distracted drivers. 
&nbsp; 
Camera and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indias-progress-on-artificial-intelligence-route-185592">artificial intelligence</a> (AI) will be used in this technology which will be inbuilt in cars from 2022.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indias-progress-on-artificial-intelligence-route-185592">India’s progress on Artificial Intelligence route</a>

<img alt="Driver monitoring system" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a4ff114-8b94-4305-8b02-6cf7bece45b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-29T181434.109.jpg" /> 
(Image courtesy: Bosch)

It will be able to detect when the driver's eyelids are drooping or when they distracted.&nbsp;The frequency of the opening and the closing of the eyelids is monitored.

For this purpose, an algorithm using recordings of actual driving situations will be used.

The drivers will be alerted by the system and suggested to take a break if they are tired or will be asked to reduce the speed to avoid accidents.

The form of the alert will depend upon the wishes of the automakers who will alter it according to their consumers'&nbsp;taste and preference.

Distraction while driving can lead to loss of life. Smartphones, smoking, eating and listening to music are vital factors in 30 per cent of the road crashes, whereas fatigue factors in up to 20 per cent cases, says the European Commission.

Distraction while driving can lead to loss of life. Smartphones, smoking, eating and listening to music are vital factors in 30 per cent of the road crashes, whereas fatigue factors in up to 20 per cent cases, says the European Commission. To avoid these accidents, a new safety technology will become compulsory in new European vehicles from the year 2022. This will include a warning for the driver in the event of "drowsiness and distraction''. Also read: India ranks first in the number of road accident deaths: WHO Several companies are positioning themselves as the leading providers of this technology. Among these is Bosch, the German engineering and technology company announced in December that it has already developed an interior monitoring system that is capable of detecting drowsy and distracted drivers. Camera and artificial intelligence (AI) will be used in this technology which will be inbuilt in cars from 2022. Also read: India’s progress on Artificial Intelligence route (Image courtesy: Bosch) It will be able to detect when the driver's eyelids are drooping or when they distracted. The frequency of the opening and the closing of the eyelids is monitored. For this purpose, an algorithm using recordings of actual driving situations will be used. The drivers will be alerted by the system and suggested to take a break if they are tired or will be asked to reduce the speed to avoid accidents. The form of the alert will depend upon the wishes of the automakers who will alter it according to their consumers' taste and preference.

Soon, cars to have inbuilt system to keep drowsy drivers alert and awake

In popular culture, Hitler is synonymous with rigidity, people often refer to their boss or a strict teacher as Hitler.

The Nazi dictator was someone India's leaders engaged with - blame it on India's physical disconnect from the Holocaust or the missing emotional string.

For India, the stories of the Holocaust were like tales from a land far away. The early 1940s were India's final years under the British rule.

India was a country looking to break free, what appealed to the Indian masses back then was the image of Hitler - a supposed no-nonsense man.

Someone who was apparently fighting to make Germany a strong country. Furthermore, both India and Hitler had a common enemy - Britain.

WATCH:&nbsp;

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It was an instant connect. Hitler acknowledged India's might, but in his own unique way. For him, India was one of the most resourceful lands on earth and Britain's rule over India was a textbook example of governance. That's how he wanted to govern Russia.

Hitler often asked his men to draw lessons from India.&nbsp;

Here's an excerpt from October 17, 1941 - earlier that year, Hitler had said that Britain knows very well that its empire depends on the existence of India.

For Hitler, India was Britain's Achilles Heels.

In 1942, Hitler met the Indian freedom fighter and leader of the Indian National Army - Subhas Chandra Bose. Bose wanted Hitler's help in staging a revolution in India.

His plan of action included distracting the colonial power with an uprising at home - this would weaken British forces in its war against Germany.

According to Bose's calculation, Germany because of its military superiority would defeat Britain and the domino effect would liberate India too. Hitler, however, refused to help bose.

Historians point out that one of the reasons was because bose had asked the Nazi leader to cut out a couple of passages from Mein Kamph.

In his biography, Hitler has written how it would be better for India to remain under British domination. Bose's plan did not fall into place.

The Germans, however, did help Bose in escaping to Japan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Mahatma Gandhi once wrote to Hitler. This was back in 1939 - post Germany's occupation of Czechoslovakia. Gandhi wrote he was appealing for the sake of humanity, for whatever it may be worth.

History has it that Hitler was a fan of Indian hockey legend - Dhyanchand. Germany's loss to India in the 1936 Olympics made Hitler reach out to Dhyanchand.

He even offered Dhyanchand a position in the German army, which the latter refused. During the years of the Auschwitz, Hitler's relation with India was mostly defined by the country's point of contact with the Nazi leader - Subhas Chandra Bose.

In popular culture, Hitler is synonymous with rigidity, people often refer to their boss or a strict teacher as Hitler. The Nazi dictator was someone India's leaders engaged with - blame it on India's physical disconnect from the Holocaust or the missing emotional string.

In popular culture, Hitler is synonymous with rigidity, people often refer to their boss or a strict teacher as Hitler. The Nazi dictator was someone India's leaders engaged with - blame it on India's physical disconnect from the Holocaust or the missing emotional string. For India, the stories of the Holocaust were like tales from a land far away. The early 1940s were India's final years under the British rule. India was a country looking to break free, what appealed to the Indian masses back then was the image of Hitler - a supposed no-nonsense man. Someone who was apparently fighting to make Germany a strong country. Furthermore, both India and Hitler had a common enemy - Britain. WATCH: × It was an instant connect. Hitler acknowledged India's might, but in his own unique way. For him, India was one of the most resourceful lands on earth and Britain's rule over India was a textbook example of governance. That's how he wanted to govern Russia. Hitler often asked his men to draw lessons from India. Here's an excerpt from October 17, 1941 - earlier that year, Hitler had said that Britain knows very well that its empire depends on the existence of India. For Hitler, India was Britain's Achilles Heels. In 1942, Hitler met the Indian freedom fighter and leader of the Indian National Army - Subhas Chandra Bose. Bose wanted Hitler's help in staging a revolution in India. His plan of action included distracting the colonial power with an uprising at home - this would weaken British forces in its war against Germany. According to Bose's calculation, Germany because of its military superiority would defeat Britain and the domino effect would liberate India too. Hitler, however, refused to help bose. Historians point out that one of the reasons was because bose had asked the Nazi leader to cut out a couple of passages from Mein Kamph. In his biography, Hitler has written how it would be better for India to remain under British domination. Bose's plan did not fall into place. The Germans, however, did help Bose in escaping to Japan. Meanwhile, Mahatma Gandhi once wrote to Hitler. This was back in 1939 - post Germany's occupation of Czechoslovakia. Gandhi wrote he was appealing for the sake of humanity, for whatever it may be worth. History has it that Hitler was a fan of Indian hockey legend - Dhyanchand. Germany's loss to India in the 1936 Olympics made Hitler reach out to Dhyanchand. He even offered Dhyanchand a position in the German army, which the latter refused. During the years of the Auschwitz, Hitler's relation with India was mostly defined by the country's point of contact with the Nazi leader - Subhas Chandra Bose.

Explained: Hitler's relationship with India

Today marks the 75th anniversary of the horrific 'Holocaust' that took place at the time of the second world war. The Holocaust was the attempt by the Nazis and their collaborators to murder all the Jews in Europe. From the time they assumed power in Germany in 1933, the Nazis used propaganda, persecution, and legislation to deny human and civil rights to German Jews. They used centuries of antisemitism as their foundation. Watch report:

A Horrific account of the 'Holocaust' that executed Jews

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 25, 2020

Six people have been killed and several injured in a shooting in the south-western German town of Rot am See, police have said.

The incident occurred at 12.45 pm local time close to a building in the town of Rot am See in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg.

Police in the nearby town of Aalen said the incident appeared to be linked to a "Personal relationship", adding there was no indication that there were additional perpetrators.

The suspect has been identified as a 26-year-old man.

According to AFP, the suspect "called the police station in (nearby town) Aalen at 12:48 pm (1148 GMT) to inform them he had shot several people," police chief Reiner Moeller told reporters in a press conference hours after the killings.&nbsp;

The young man stayed on the line, and when the first officers arrived minutes later at the hotel where the shooting took place, they immediately arrested him outside.

"They were then able to identify six dead people both inside and behind the building," Moeller said, including three men aged 36, 65 and 69 and three women aged 36, 56 and 62.

Six people have been killed and several injured in a shooting in the south-western German town of Rot am See, police have said. The incident occurred at 12.45 pm local time close to a building in the town of Rot am See in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg.

Six people have been killed and several injured in a shooting in the south-western German town of Rot am See, police have said. The incident occurred at 12.45 pm local time close to a building in the town of Rot am See in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg. Police in the nearby town of Aalen said the incident appeared to be linked to a "Personal relationship", adding there was no indication that there were additional perpetrators. The suspect has been identified as a 26-year-old man. According to AFP, the suspect "called the police station in (nearby town) Aalen at 12:48 pm (1148 GMT) to inform them he had shot several people," police chief Reiner Moeller told reporters in a press conference hours after the killings. The young man stayed on the line, and when the first officers arrived minutes later at the hotel where the shooting took place, they immediately arrested him outside. "They were then able to identify six dead people both inside and behind the building," Moeller said, including three men aged 36, 65 and 69 and three women aged 36, 56 and 62.

Six people killed in shooting in south-west Germany

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday.

The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See.

A police spokesman in nearby Aalen told AFP that "several" people were wounded.

A man with a personal connection to the victims had been arrested, the spokesman said.

The Bild newspaper reported that the people killed were all family members of the shooter, adding that the perpetrator was a man born in 1983.

The shooting took place at around 12:45 local time (11:45 GMT) near the train station at Rot am See, a town of 5,200 residents near Heidelberg.&nbsp;

Mass shootings are a comparatively rare occurrence in Germany, although in October a far-right attacker shot two people dead in eastern city Halle after trying to get into a packed synagogue with home-made weapons.

In July 2016, a teenager used a pistol bought illegally online to kill nine people in a shooting spree at a Munich shopping centre, before turning the weapon on himself.

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday. The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See.

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday. The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See. A police spokesman in nearby Aalen told AFP that "several" people were wounded. A man with a personal connection to the victims had been arrested, the spokesman said. The Bild newspaper reported that the people killed were all family members of the shooter, adding that the perpetrator was a man born in 1983. The shooting took place at around 12:45 local time (11:45 GMT) near the train station at Rot am See, a town of 5,200 residents near Heidelberg. Mass shootings are a comparatively rare occurrence in Germany, although in October a far-right attacker shot two people dead in eastern city Halle after trying to get into a packed synagogue with home-made weapons. In July 2016, a teenager used a pistol bought illegally online to kill nine people in a shooting spree at a Munich shopping centre, before turning the weapon on himself.

At least 6 killed, several injured after man opens fire in southwestern Germany

The genocide of Jews under Hitler taught the world several lessons. They are still relevant today. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why global leaders need to pay heed to the lessons from the Holocaust.

WION Edit: The lessons from the Holocaust

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

Gravitas: The story of the Holocaust

German prosecutors have raided 10 business premises as part of a probe into suspected diesel emissions cheating involving Mitsubishi cars, the latest fallout from the so-called "diesel-gate" scandal.

Frankfurt prosecutors said they had opened a fraud investigation against senior employees at "an international car group", two international car suppliers and a car dealership.

The probe focuses on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/honda-cuts-profit-sales-outlook-to-four-year-low-unveils-915-million-buyback-260779">Mitsubishi diesel vehicles</a> with 1.6- and 2.2-litre engines that were given Germany's highest Euro 5 and Euro 6 ratings depending on their adherence to emissions standards.

"There is a suspicion that the engines are equipped with a so-called shutdown device" that makes them appear less polluting in lab tests than they are on the road, the prosecutors' statement said.

A spokesperson for Mitsubishi Motors in Japan on Wednesday confirmed the raid on its German distributors as well as on its European research and development facilities - also based in the country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bombardier-sells-commercial-aviation-division-to-mitsubishi-230739">Bombardier sells commercial aviation division to Mitsubishi</a>

"Mitsubishi Motors will, of course, collaborate and contribute to this investigation," the spokesperson stated, declining to offer further information.

Separately, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brexit-accelerating-japanese-firms-exodus-from-uk-report-198306">Japanese auto parts maker</a> Denso also admitted that German investigators visited their facilities.

<img alt="Mitsubishi Motors" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50cb1934-211f-453d-b798-a6be7e3e84da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2840%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ Mitsubishi Motors (Courtesy: Getty Images) ]

"Investigators from German authorities visited our facilities in Germany, and we are cooperating as a witness," a spokesman stated but declined to elaborate further.

On the Tokyo stock exchange, Mitsubishi shares were swamped by selling at the opening bell, delaying an initial price. When the stock was eventually traded, it was down 4.62 per cent at 433 yen.

The Mitsubishi probe is the latest twist in the diesel-gate scandal that erupted in 2015 when the Volkswagen group admitted to installing software in 11 million vehicles worldwide to dupe pollution tests.

The "defeat devices" allowed the affected cars to spew out up to 40 times more harmful nitrogen oxide than legally allowed.

The scandal has since ensnared a string of car companies, although Mitsubishi Motors had so far avoided being dragged into the controversy.

But the Tokyo-based firm did in 2016 admit to falsifying fuel-economy tests for 25 years to make the cars seem more efficient than they were.

A spokesman for German car supplier Continental confirmed that three of its locations had been searched as part of the probe. The firm was acting as "a witness" and cooperating fully with the investigation, he added.

German car parts manufacturer Bosch stated it was not involved in the raids.

Dogged by Scandal

Mitsubishi Motors is the junior partner in an uneasy three-way alliance with Renault and Nissan, making up one of the world's biggest automakers.

The partnership has been under strain since the dramatic arrest of its chairman Carlos Ghosn for alleged financial misconduct.

Ghosn made international headlines last month after he jumped bail and fled to Lebanon - apparently by hiding in a large case for audio equipment on a private jet.

He denies the charges, claiming they were cooked up by disgruntled Nissan executives hoping to block his plans to more closely integrate the automaker with Renault.

Ghosn has since claimed the car alliance was on the rocks, forcing Nissan last week to deny reports it was working on secret plans to possibly dissolve the alliance.

The diesel-gate saga meanwhile has cost the Volkswagen group -&nbsp;which includes Audi, Porsche, Skoda and Seat - more than 30 billion euros ($33 billion) in fines, compensation and buybacks.

Bosch, accused of supplying key components of Volkswagen's defeat devices, has also paid hundreds of millions of euros in fines at home and the United States but denies any wrongdoing.

Luxury automaker Daimler also denies cheating but nevertheless agreed to pay an 870-million-euro fine to German authorities last year for having sold vehicles that did not meet legal emission limits. 
&nbsp;

German prosecutors have raided 10 business premises as part of a probe into suspected diesel emissions cheating involving Mitsubishi cars, the latest fallout from the so-called "diesel-gate" scandal.

German prosecutors have raided 10 business premises as part of a probe into suspected diesel emissions cheating involving Mitsubishi cars, the latest fallout from the so-called "diesel-gate" scandal. Frankfurt prosecutors said they had opened a fraud investigation against senior employees at "an international car group", two international car suppliers and a car dealership. The probe focuses on Mitsubishi diesel vehicles with 1.6- and 2.2-litre engines that were given Germany's highest Euro 5 and Euro 6 ratings depending on their adherence to emissions standards. "There is a suspicion that the engines are equipped with a so-called shutdown device" that makes them appear less polluting in lab tests than they are on the road, the prosecutors' statement said. A spokesperson for Mitsubishi Motors in Japan on Wednesday confirmed the raid on its German distributors as well as on its European research and development facilities - also based in the country. Also Read: Bombardier sells commercial aviation division to Mitsubishi "Mitsubishi Motors will, of course, collaborate and contribute to this investigation," the spokesperson stated, declining to offer further information. Separately, Japanese auto parts maker Denso also admitted that German investigators visited their facilities. [ Mitsubishi Motors (Courtesy: Getty Images) ] "Investigators from German authorities visited our facilities in Germany, and we are cooperating as a witness," a spokesman stated but declined to elaborate further. On the Tokyo stock exchange, Mitsubishi shares were swamped by selling at the opening bell, delaying an initial price. When the stock was eventually traded, it was down 4.62 per cent at 433 yen. The Mitsubishi probe is the latest twist in the diesel-gate scandal that erupted in 2015 when the Volkswagen group admitted to installing software in 11 million vehicles worldwide to dupe pollution tests. The "defeat devices" allowed the affected cars to spew out up to 40 times more harmful nitrogen oxide than legally allowed. The scandal has since ensnared a string of car companies, although Mitsubishi Motors had so far avoided being dragged into the controversy. But the Tokyo-based firm did in 2016 admit to falsifying fuel-economy tests for 25 years to make the cars seem more efficient than they were. A spokesman for German car supplier Continental confirmed that three of its locations had been searched as part of the probe. The firm was acting as "a witness" and cooperating fully with the investigation, he added. German car parts manufacturer Bosch stated it was not involved in the raids. Dogged by Scandal Mitsubishi Motors is the junior partner in an uneasy three-way alliance with Renault and Nissan, making up one of the world's biggest automakers. The partnership has been under strain since the dramatic arrest of its chairman Carlos Ghosn for alleged financial misconduct. Ghosn made international headlines last month after he jumped bail and fled to Lebanon - apparently by hiding in a large case for audio equipment on a private jet. He denies the charges, claiming they were cooked up by disgruntled Nissan executives hoping to block his plans to more closely integrate the automaker with Renault. Ghosn has since claimed the car alliance was on the rocks, forcing Nissan last week to deny reports it was working on secret plans to possibly dissolve the alliance. The diesel-gate saga meanwhile has cost the Volkswagen group - which includes Audi, Porsche, Skoda and Seat - more than 30 billion euros ($33 billion) in fines, compensation and buybacks. Bosch, accused of supplying key components of Volkswagen's defeat devices, has also paid hundreds of millions of euros in fines at home and the United States but denies any wrongdoing. Luxury automaker Daimler also denies cheating but nevertheless agreed to pay an 870-million-euro fine to German authorities last year for having sold vehicles that did not meet legal emission limits.

Mitsubishi suspected of diesel-fraud; German prosecutors raid business premises

World leaders have agreed to UN arms embargo on Libya and to stop providing military support to the country's warring factions. However, the Berlin Summit failed to achieve its main goal of brokering a seize fire. Libya's warring factions and their allies met in Berlin in the first major international summit on the Libyan conflict in recent years. German chancellor Angela Merkel called for a political solution but she did not rule out military intervention in the North African countries civil war.

Libya peace summit in Berlin: World leaders agree on UN arms embargo

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Tripoli</a> and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government.

As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-haftar-ready-to-abide-by-ongoing-ceasefire-in-libya-germany-274749">Khalifa Haftar</a>, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week.

Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders.

Haftar, a former general from the regime of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Muammar Gaddafi</a> toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin.

He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed.

Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues.

Watch:&nbsp;US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit

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The one-day summit, which will also bring together US&nbsp;Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj.

Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks.

Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support.

That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN&nbsp;official said on Saturday.

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In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Berlin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Berlin</a> to engage world leaders and <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a> for serving as host and leading this important initiative. <a href="https://t.co/W8tjlO9R45">pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45</a>
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1218663923823628288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US&nbsp;state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo.

Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added.

Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war.

"That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output. Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government. As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander Khalifa Haftar, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week. Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders. Haftar, a former general from the regime of Muammar Gaddafi toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin. He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed. Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues. Watch: US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit × The one-day summit, which will also bring together US Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj. Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks. Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support. That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN official said on Saturday. In #Berlin to engage world leaders and @UN officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to #Germany for serving as host and leading this important initiative. pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45 — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 18, 2020 × "I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo. Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added. Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war. "That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps to discuss ways to end crisis with an international summit in Berlin later today

In the nine months-long civil war by a military commander, General Haftar may come to an end that is if Gen Haftar and Al-Sarraj agree in the upcoming meeting that is being hosted by Germany on Sunday. Watch report:

Fineprint: Gen. Haftar and Al Sarraj to talk it out in Germany

After tensions between the US and Iran reached a tipping point leaving West Asia on the boil. The war of words between the several sides have intensified now and there has been a call for de-escalation from several countries. The tensions revolve around the 2015 nuclear agreement. The Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif has hit out at France, Germany and Britain for triggering the dispute mechanism of that nuclear agreement. Watch report:

Fineprint: Iran foreign minister hits out at E3 nations over breach of 2015 nuclear deal

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Over 400,000 people in Germany will lose their jobs by 2030 due to the country's <a href="http://wionews.com/business-economy/electric-cars-on-indian-roads-by-2030-india-to-get-lithium-for-batteries-from-bolivia-206942">shift to electric vehicles</a>, local media reported on Monday.

According to the report, around 88,000 jobs will be at risk in engines and transmissions' production alone, Germany' daily reported citing a National Platform for the Future of Mobility (NPM), an advisory council for the government.

According to the report, 410,000 people will lose their jobs in total by the end of this decade.

The report also said that the NPM group is working to form a strategy to ensure minimum people lose their jobs. The group has called for strategic personnel planning and urged for an employment agency, training providers and companies to work together to stem losses.

Watch | Highlights from WION E-Mobility Summit

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Electric cars' engines are made of fewer parts and require less maintenance than a combustion engine. While at least 1,200 parts are installed in a combustion engine, only about 200 are needed for an electric car, the report said while explaining reasons behind the job layoffs.

Vehicle production will be further automated and will not be sufficient to support the current level of jobs, the local newspaper said, citing NPM's Chairman Henning Kagermann.

In 2018, employment in the car industry in Germany reached 834,000, its highest since 1991.

Amid the climate change debates, the European Union is pushing towards reducing the carbon dioxide emissions resulting in countries adapting plans to launch electric vehicles.

In 2019, the German carmaker Volkswagen had also said it would cut as many as 4,000 jobs in Germany as part of their digital transition.

"We are making the company fit for the digital age in a sustainable way," VW brand Chief Operating Officer Ralf Brandstaetter had said in a statement.&nbsp;

Over 400,000 people in Germany will lose their jobs by 2030 due to the country's shift to electric vehicles, local media reported on Monday. According to the report, around 88,000 jobs will be at risk in engines and transmissions' production alone, Germany' daily reported citing a National Platform for the Future of Mobility (NPM), an advisory council for the government.

Over 400,000 people in Germany will lose their jobs by 2030 due to the country's shift to electric vehicles, local media reported on Monday. According to the report, around 88,000 jobs will be at risk in engines and transmissions' production alone, Germany' daily reported citing a National Platform for the Future of Mobility (NPM), an advisory council for the government. According to the report, 410,000 people will lose their jobs in total by the end of this decade. The report also said that the NPM group is working to form a strategy to ensure minimum people lose their jobs. The group has called for strategic personnel planning and urged for an employment agency, training providers and companies to work together to stem losses. Watch | Highlights from WION E-Mobility Summit × Electric cars' engines are made of fewer parts and require less maintenance than a combustion engine. While at least 1,200 parts are installed in a combustion engine, only about 200 are needed for an electric car, the report said while explaining reasons behind the job layoffs. Vehicle production will be further automated and will not be sufficient to support the current level of jobs, the local newspaper said, citing NPM's Chairman Henning Kagermann. In 2018, employment in the car industry in Germany reached 834,000, its highest since 1991. Amid the climate change debates, the European Union is pushing towards reducing the carbon dioxide emissions resulting in countries adapting plans to launch electric vehicles. In 2019, the German carmaker Volkswagen had also said it would cut as many as 4,000 jobs in Germany as part of their digital transition. "We are making the company fit for the digital age in a sustainable way," VW brand Chief Operating Officer Ralf Brandstaetter had said in a statement.

In Germany, over 400,000 jobs at risk in switch to electric cars: Report

A confrontation between Washington and Tehran over the US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-was-probably-planning-to-attack-four-us-embassies-donald-trump-273535">killing</a> of a&nbsp;top&nbsp;general and turmoil in&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;are set to dominate talks in Moscow on Saturday between the leaders of Russia and Germany.

Russia's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-fully-respect-iraqs-sovereignty-says-irans-un-ambassador-after-ballistic-missile-strike-273064">Vladimir Putin</a> will hold talks with German Chancellor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angela-merkel-visits-auschwitz-for-first-time-266657">Angela Merkel</a> in Moscow on Saturday afternoon, her first visit since May 2018 when the two leaders met at Sochi on the Black Sea.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crimea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crimea</a>: The President watched the joint exercises of the Northern and Black Sea fleets <a href="https://t.co/ZusR628AYx">https://t.co/ZusR628AYx</a> <a href="https://t.co/DJn09l0VWe">pic.twitter.com/DJn09l0VWe</a>
— President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia_E/status/1215291712173694976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Putin visited Syria and Turkey this week and is keen to stress his role as a regional powerbroker.

German Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-was-plotting-imminent-action-threatening-hundreds-of-american-lives-pompeo-271975">Heiko Maas</a>, who will attend the talks, said a "key reason" for the&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;was the escalating crisis in&nbsp;Libya, where Germany is acting as a mediator in a conflict he has warned could become a "second Syria".

"We are involving Europe and those players who are influential there, for that we need Russia," Maas told Germany's NTV television. "For us, it's not too far to fly to Moscow to discuss that with Putin."

Merkel is to invite Putin to a Berlin conference on&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;later this month, diplomatic sources told reporters.

Putin and Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/sports-has-emerged-as-battlefield-for-freedom-of-expression-270322">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> called for a ceasefire in&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;on Wednesday, although they are seen as supporting opposing sides in the conflict.

While Turkey has sent troops to support the UN-backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-haftar-forces-seize-large-parts-of-sirte-city-272759">Tripoli</a> government, Moscow is accused of backing mercenaries supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar in his fight against the government.

Haftar said he would fight on despite the call for a ceasefire.

The Kremlin said last week that Saturday's talks would cover the "escalation of tensions" in the Middle East after the US killed&nbsp;top&nbsp;Iranian commander General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-was-probably-planning-to-attack-four-us-embassies-donald-trump-273535">Qasem Soleimani</a> in a drone strike close to Baghdad.

Putin warned the killing could "seriously aggravate the situation in the region".

Watch:&nbsp;Iran gives black box to Ukraine

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Iran, an ally of Moscow, responded with missile attacks on Iraq bases housing American troops.

While Germany condemned the tit-for-tat violence and urged Tehran to end a "spiral" of conflict, Putin said using force would "not contribute to finding solutions to the complex problems in the Middle East".

Tehran has announced a further rollback on its commitment to a 2015 nuclear accord following the United States' unilateral withdrawal in 2018. Russia and Germany are among world powers still backing the deal.

The talks also come after a Ukrainian airliner crashed in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;on Wednesday killing all 176 onboard. Canada and the US have suggested&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;downed it with a missile, which Tehran denies.

The Kremlin said the talks would also cover the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The war with Moscow-backed separatists broke out after Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and has killed more than 13,000 people.

Putin in December held talks with Ukrainian counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-given-important-data-on-iran-plane-crash-ukraine-foreign-minister-273408">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> in Paris in the "Normandy format" hosted by German and French leaders.

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Thanked <a href="https://twitter.com/HeikoMaas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HeikoMaas</a> for German support and sympathy after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ps752?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ps752</a> tragedy. During the phone call we agreed to cooperate for independent and transparent investigation. We discussed also "Minsk settlement". Waiting for news ater the meeting between Merkel and Putin on 11 January.
— Vadym Prystaiko (@VPrystaiko) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPrystaiko/status/1215373166224330752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ukrainian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-gets-access-to-crashed-planes-black-boxes-foreign-minister-273477">Vadym Prystaiko</a> tweeted on Friday that he had spoken to Maas about the Ukraine conflict and was "waiting for news" to emerge from the talks.

Political analysts in Kiev said they expected the topic to be overshadowed by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;tensions, while Merkel could ask Putin to push Tehran for a transparent investigation of the plane crash.

A confrontation between Washington and Tehran over the US killing of a top general and turmoil in Libya are set to dominate talks in Moscow on Saturday between the leaders of Russia and Germany.

A confrontation between Washington and Tehran over the US killing of a top general and turmoil in Libya are set to dominate talks in Moscow on Saturday between the leaders of Russia and Germany. Russia's Vladimir Putin will hold talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Moscow on Saturday afternoon, her first visit since May 2018 when the two leaders met at Sochi on the Black Sea. #Crimea: The President watched the joint exercises of the Northern and Black Sea fleets https://t.co/ZusR628AYx pic.twitter.com/DJn09l0VWe — President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) January 9, 2020 × Putin visited Syria and Turkey this week and is keen to stress his role as a regional powerbroker. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who will attend the talks, said a "key reason" for the meeting was the escalating crisis in Libya, where Germany is acting as a mediator in a conflict he has warned could become a "second Syria". "We are involving Europe and those players who are influential there, for that we need Russia," Maas told Germany's NTV television. "For us, it's not too far to fly to Moscow to discuss that with Putin." Merkel is to invite Putin to a Berlin conference on Libya later this month, diplomatic sources told reporters. Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for a ceasefire in Libya on Wednesday, although they are seen as supporting opposing sides in the conflict. While Turkey has sent troops to support the UN-backed Tripoli government, Moscow is accused of backing mercenaries supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar in his fight against the government. Haftar said he would fight on despite the call for a ceasefire. The Kremlin said last week that Saturday's talks would cover the "escalation of tensions" in the Middle East after the US killed top Iranian commander General Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike close to Baghdad. Putin warned the killing could "seriously aggravate the situation in the region". Watch: Iran gives black box to Ukraine × Iran, an ally of Moscow, responded with missile attacks on Iraq bases housing American troops. While Germany condemned the tit-for-tat violence and urged Tehran to end a "spiral" of conflict, Putin said using force would "not contribute to finding solutions to the complex problems in the Middle East". Tehran has announced a further rollback on its commitment to a 2015 nuclear accord following the United States' unilateral withdrawal in 2018. Russia and Germany are among world powers still backing the deal. The talks also come after a Ukrainian airliner crashed in Iran on Wednesday killing all 176 onboard. Canada and the US have suggested Iran downed it with a missile, which Tehran denies. The Kremlin said the talks would also cover the conflict in Ukraine. The war with Moscow-backed separatists broke out after Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and has killed more than 13,000 people. Putin in December held talks with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris in the "Normandy format" hosted by German and French leaders. Thanked @HeikoMaas for German support and sympathy after #ps752 tragedy. During the phone call we agreed to cooperate for independent and transparent investigation. We discussed also "Minsk settlement". Waiting for news ater the meeting between Merkel and Putin on 11 January. — Vadym Prystaiko (@VPrystaiko) January 9, 2020 × Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko tweeted on Friday that he had spoken to Maas about the Ukraine conflict and was "waiting for news" to emerge from the talks. Political analysts in Kiev said they expected the topic to be overshadowed by Iran tensions, while Merkel could ask Putin to push Tehran for a transparent investigation of the plane crash.

Libya and Iran top agenda in Merkel-Putin meeting

Germany said Friday it still wanted "to save" the 2015 nuclear accord with Iran, rejecting US President Donald Trump's plea for Europeans to quit the hard-won pact.

"Our goal is still to save the agreement because we remain convinced that it's the right instrument to prevent Iran from possible nuclear armament," foreign ministry spokesman Rainer Breul said in Berlin.

His comments echoed those by Britain and France, who have also stressed their continued commitment to the deal.

Trump on Wednesday pulled back from the brink of war with Iran, but said "the time had come" for fellow signatories to "break away from the remnants" of the nuclear accord.

"We want to use all the possibilities offered by the (deal) to move towards a diplomatic solution," Breul told reporters.

He urged Tehran "to return its commitments" under the 2015 agreement struck with the US, Britain, Germany, France, Russia and China.

The deal has been unravelling ever since Trump withdrew the United States from the pact in 2018.

After the US reimposed sanctions on Iran, Tehran started breaching some aspects of the accord and on Sunday announced it no longer felt compelled to stick to any limits for making the enriched uranium needed for nuclear power.

The European signatories must decide in the coming days whether to take action against Tehran for reneging on its commitments which could lead to renewed UN sanctions.

France on Thursday said it remained "committed to the framework of the Vienna Iran nuclear accord".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the deal remained "the best arrangement currently available".

Germany said Friday it still wanted "to save" the 2015 nuclear accord with Iran, rejecting US President Donald Trump's plea for Europeans to quit the hard-won pact.

Germany said Friday it still wanted "to save" the 2015 nuclear accord with Iran, rejecting US President Donald Trump's plea for Europeans to quit the hard-won pact. "Our goal is still to save the agreement because we remain convinced that it's the right instrument to prevent Iran from possible nuclear armament," foreign ministry spokesman Rainer Breul said in Berlin. His comments echoed those by Britain and France, who have also stressed their continued commitment to the deal. Trump on Wednesday pulled back from the brink of war with Iran, but said "the time had come" for fellow signatories to "break away from the remnants" of the nuclear accord. "We want to use all the possibilities offered by the (deal) to move towards a diplomatic solution," Breul told reporters. He urged Tehran "to return its commitments" under the 2015 agreement struck with the US, Britain, Germany, France, Russia and China. The deal has been unravelling ever since Trump withdrew the United States from the pact in 2018. After the US reimposed sanctions on Iran, Tehran started breaching some aspects of the accord and on Sunday announced it no longer felt compelled to stick to any limits for making the enriched uranium needed for nuclear power. The European signatories must decide in the coming days whether to take action against Tehran for reneging on its commitments which could lead to renewed UN sanctions. France on Thursday said it remained "committed to the framework of the Vienna Iran nuclear accord". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the deal remained "the best arrangement currently available".

Germany rejects Trump call to ditch Iran nuclear pact

The foreign ministers of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-most-prolific-rapist-convicted-of-150-offences-272720">Britain</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-government-seeks-to-end-unrest-by-resuming-pension-talks-272609">France</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-germans-killed-as-car-hits-pedestrians-in-northern-italy-272318">Germany and Italy</a> along with the EU diplomatic chief will hold talks in Brussels Tuesday on the Iran and Libya crises, officials told sources.

The British foreign ministry said the talks would cover the fallout from the US killing of a top Iranian general as well as Tehran's latest step back from the 2015 nuclear deal.

The situation in Libya, where strongman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-30-people-killed-in-libya-military-academy-attack-in-tripoli-272302">Khalifa Haftar</a>'s forces have seized the coastal city of Sirte, is also the agenda.

The emergency meeting comes as the EU scrambles for ways to contain the growing tensions in two major flashpoints on its periphery, as Iran threatens revenge for the death of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/assassination-of-qasim-soleimani-what-we-know-so-far-272653">Qasem Soleimani</a> in a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday.

British foreign minister Dominic Raab will hold a one-on-one meeting with his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, who has warned Iran against retaliating over Soleimani's death, before joining the German and Italian ministers for talks on Libya.

"The foreign secretary is travelling to Brussels today for talks with his European counterparts on the situation in the Middle East following the death of Soleimani and on the escalating conflict in Libya," the British foreign ministry said.

<a>Watch</a>: East Libya to cut ties with Turkey

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"The E3 will then meet to discuss the tensions between the US and Iran with all three pushing for de-escalation," it added, referring to Britain, France and Germany as the three European signatories of the Iran nuclear deal.&nbsp;

"The talks will also cover the nuclear deal following Iran’s latest announcement on Sunday that it is withdrawing from further commitments in the deal."

Timings for the meetings have not yet been announced.

&nbsp;

Targeted killing

European powers on Monday criticised Iran's latest announcement that it was cutting its commitments under the nuclear deal, which has been steadily unravelling since US President Donald Trump withdrew and reimposed sanctions in May 2018.

But the possible repercussions from Friday's targeted killing of Soleimani - the key player in Iran's network of alliances and proxy groups around the Middle East - will be a more pressing concern.

The US operation took Washington's allies by surprise, and NATO held an urgent meeting of its ruling council on Monday to hear from American officials and discuss the future of the alliance's training mission in Iraq.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg spoke to Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi on Tuesday to say the alliance remains committed to the fight against the Islamic State group (IS) and would resume training activities - suspended after Soleimani's death - as soon as security improves.

In Libya, Haftar's capture of Sirte raised tensions as Turkey said it was deploying troops to the country to protect the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

Watch: Turkish parliament passes Libya deployment bill

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The oil-rich North African country has been plunged into chaos since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Monday that more intense fighting could soon break out around Tripoli and called for a political solution to the crisis.

The new European Commission has vowed to take on a more "geopolitical" role but the EU often finds itself hamstrung on foreign policy by internal differences and it took three days for President Ursula von der Leyen to issue a statement on Soleimani's killing.&nbsp;

The foreign ministers of Britain, France, Germany and Italy along with the EU diplomatic chief will hold talks in Brussels Tuesday on the Iran and Libya crises, officials told sources.

The foreign ministers of Britain, France, Germany and Italy along with the EU diplomatic chief will hold talks in Brussels Tuesday on the Iran and Libya crises, officials told sources. The British foreign ministry said the talks would cover the fallout from the US killing of a top Iranian general as well as Tehran's latest step back from the 2015 nuclear deal. The situation in Libya, where strongman Khalifa Haftar's forces have seized the coastal city of Sirte, is also the agenda. The emergency meeting comes as the EU scrambles for ways to contain the growing tensions in two major flashpoints on its periphery, as Iran threatens revenge for the death of Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday. British foreign minister Dominic Raab will hold a one-on-one meeting with his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, who has warned Iran against retaliating over Soleimani's death, before joining the German and Italian ministers for talks on Libya. "The foreign secretary is travelling to Brussels today for talks with his European counterparts on the situation in the Middle East following the death of Soleimani and on the escalating conflict in Libya," the British foreign ministry said. Watch: East Libya to cut ties with Turkey × "The E3 will then meet to discuss the tensions between the US and Iran with all three pushing for de-escalation," it added, referring to Britain, France and Germany as the three European signatories of the Iran nuclear deal. "The talks will also cover the nuclear deal following Iran’s latest announcement on Sunday that it is withdrawing from further commitments in the deal." Timings for the meetings have not yet been announced. Targeted killing European powers on Monday criticised Iran's latest announcement that it was cutting its commitments under the nuclear deal, which has been steadily unravelling since US President Donald Trump withdrew and reimposed sanctions in May 2018. But the possible repercussions from Friday's targeted killing of Soleimani - the key player in Iran's network of alliances and proxy groups around the Middle East - will be a more pressing concern. The US operation took Washington's allies by surprise, and NATO held an urgent meeting of its ruling council on Monday to hear from American officials and discuss the future of the alliance's training mission in Iraq. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg spoke to Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi on Tuesday to say the alliance remains committed to the fight against the Islamic State group (IS) and would resume training activities - suspended after Soleimani's death - as soon as security improves. In Libya, Haftar's capture of Sirte raised tensions as Turkey said it was deploying troops to the country to protect the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). Watch: Turkish parliament passes Libya deployment bill × The oil-rich North African country has been plunged into chaos since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Monday that more intense fighting could soon break out around Tripoli and called for a political solution to the crisis. The new European Commission has vowed to take on a more "geopolitical" role but the EU often finds itself hamstrung on foreign policy by internal differences and it took three days for President Ursula von der Leyen to issue a statement on Soleimani's killing.

UK, French, German, Italian FMs meeting on Iran, Libya

Over 30 Animals Charred To Death In A Zoo In Germany. #WION #Gravitas #Germany

Gravitas: Germany zoo tragedy: Over 30 animals killed in inferno

Hundreds of thousands of people celebrated New Year's Eve in Berlin where some 6,000 fireworks lit up the sky above the iconic Brandenburg Gate at Germany's largest such bash, according to the organisers.

Hundreds of thousands celebrate New Year's Eve in Berlin

UK based the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) consultancy's 2020 World Economic League report on Monday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indian-economy-not-immune-to-blemishes-of-politicisation-257491">India</a> looks set to surpass Germany to become the fourth-largest economy in 2026 and Japan to become third-largest in 2034.

According to the report India has decisively overtaken both France and the UK to become the world’s fifth-largest economy in 2019. It is expected to overtake Germany to become fourth-largest in 2026 and Japan to become the third-largest in 2034. India is also set to reach a GDP of $5 trillion by 2026 – 2 years later than the current government target.

Watch: India's Real Estate Outlook- growth, Sustainability &amp; Economy

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In a report issued on December 26, 2019, the CEBR consultancy's 2020 World Economic League Table painted an upbeat view of the global economy, boosted by energy and technology prices.

India's ascent is part of a trend that will see Asian economies increasingly dominate the top 10 largest economies over the next 15 years.

“Despite the rapid ascent of countries such as India and Indonesia, it is striking how little an impact this will have on the US and China’s dominant roles in the global economy, " the report said.

In its previous years' reports the CEBR has also stated that that China is likely to overtake the United States as the world's no.1 economy in 2032.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK based the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) consultancy's 2020 World Economic League report on Monday said that India looks set to surpass Germany to become the fourth-largest economy in 2026 and Japan to become third-largest in 2034.

UK based the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) consultancy's 2020 World Economic League report on Monday said that India looks set to surpass Germany to become the fourth-largest economy in 2026 and Japan to become third-largest in 2034. According to the report India has decisively overtaken both France and the UK to become the world’s fifth-largest economy in 2019. It is expected to overtake Germany to become fourth-largest in 2026 and Japan to become the third-largest in 2034. India is also set to reach a GDP of $5 trillion by 2026 – 2 years later than the current government target. Watch: India's Real Estate Outlook- growth, Sustainability & Economy × In a report issued on December 26, 2019, the CEBR consultancy's 2020 World Economic League Table painted an upbeat view of the global economy, boosted by energy and technology prices. India's ascent is part of a trend that will see Asian economies increasingly dominate the top 10 largest economies over the next 15 years. “Despite the rapid ascent of countries such as India and Indonesia, it is striking how little an impact this will have on the US and China’s dominant roles in the global economy, " the report said. In its previous years' reports the CEBR has also stated that that China is likely to overtake the United States as the world's no.1 economy in 2032. (With inputs from agencies)

India to surpass Germany and Japan to become world's third largest economy by 2034

Around 180 flights in Germany were cancelled on Monday due to cabin crew strikes at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-cabin-crew-union-stages-all-day-strike-at-smaller-airlines-257094">Lufthansa's</a> budget airline Germanwings, in a bid to put pressure on management in wage talks.

The UFO&nbsp;labour union on Friday announced strikes from Monday to Wednesday this week at Germanwings, which operates on behalf of Lufthansa's Eurowings brand, saying little progress has been achieved in talks with Lufthansa management.

Around 15 per cent&nbsp;of flights at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/austrian-airlines-to-slash-jobs-over-brutal-competition-260598">Eurowings</a> needed to be cancelled, a Lufthansa spokeswoman said on Monday.

"First 35 flights were cancelled, then 54, now 170, meaning that Germanwings will only manage 7 per cent&nbsp;of its original flight operations today," a spokesman for UFO said, speaking at the Cologne-Bonn airport.

"That should be a sign for Lufthansa group. Your employees are really angry. You finally have to change something," he added.

The majority of the cancelled flights were domestic, according to the Eurowings website. Stranded passengers were offered train tickets to their destinations or given a seat on flights operated by other Lufthansa airlines.

Some passengers said that while they understood cabin crew's grievances, the timing, in the middle of the holiday season, was problematic.

"I am from France and it is worse there. I am in favour of workers expressing themselves, but I am not sure if the time is right," said Celine Guiakam, a passenger at Cologne-Bonn airport.

"There is no good time for strikes. Every strike and every delay is one too many and in so far we regret that it has to happen at all," a spokesman for Eurowings said.

The deadlocked collective bargaining dispute for the 22,000 cabin employees concerns pay and working conditions among other issues

UFO held a strike for two days in November, resulting in the cancellation of one in five flights, affecting around 180,000 passengers and costing the airline 10-20 million euros ($22.39 million).

Around 180 flights in Germany were cancelled on Monday due to cabin crew strikes at Lufthansa's budget airline Germanwings, in a bid to put pressure on management in wage talks.

Around 180 flights in Germany were cancelled on Monday due to cabin crew strikes at Lufthansa's budget airline Germanwings, in a bid to put pressure on management in wage talks. The UFO labour union on Friday announced strikes from Monday to Wednesday this week at Germanwings, which operates on behalf of Lufthansa's Eurowings brand, saying little progress has been achieved in talks with Lufthansa management. Around 15 per cent of flights at Eurowings needed to be cancelled, a Lufthansa spokeswoman said on Monday. "First 35 flights were cancelled, then 54, now 170, meaning that Germanwings will only manage 7 per cent of its original flight operations today," a spokesman for UFO said, speaking at the Cologne-Bonn airport. "That should be a sign for Lufthansa group. Your employees are really angry. You finally have to change something," he added. The majority of the cancelled flights were domestic, according to the Eurowings website. Stranded passengers were offered train tickets to their destinations or given a seat on flights operated by other Lufthansa airlines. Some passengers said that while they understood cabin crew's grievances, the timing, in the middle of the holiday season, was problematic. "I am from France and it is worse there. I am in favour of workers expressing themselves, but I am not sure if the time is right," said Celine Guiakam, a passenger at Cologne-Bonn airport. "There is no good time for strikes. Every strike and every delay is one too many and in so far we regret that it has to happen at all," a spokesman for Eurowings said. The deadlocked collective bargaining dispute for the 22,000 cabin employees concerns pay and working conditions among other issues UFO held a strike for two days in November, resulting in the cancellation of one in five flights, affecting around 180,000 passengers and costing the airline 10-20 million euros ($22.39 million).

More than 150 flights cancelled in Germany as Lufthansa's Germanwings hit by strikes

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