<p>The Russian military claimed on Tuesday (July 4) that it shot down five drones in an attempted "terrorist" attack near Moscow. The defence ministry said in a telegram post, "this morning, an attempt by the Kyiv regime to carry out a terrorist attack using five UAVs against targets in Moscow region and New Moscow was foiled". No casualties were reported during the drone interceptions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry further said that four of the drones were intercepted by air defences in the New Moscow region and the fifth one was "suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed on the territory of the Odintsovo district of the Moscow region".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Frights were disturbed amid the chaos, and landings and takeoffs at Moscow's Vnukovo were restricted for several hours early on Tuesday before normal operations resumed after 0500 GMT. A number of flights from Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt were diverted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Kyiv regime's attempt to attack an area where civilian infrastructure is located, including the airport, which incidentally also receives foreign flights, is yet another act of terrorism," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.</p>

<p>"The international community should realise that the United States, Britain, France - permanent members of the UN Security Council - are financing a terrorist regime," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-semiconductor-wars-china-restricts-exports-of-raw-materials-critical-to-chip-production-611607">The semiconductor wars: China restricts exports of raw materials critical to chip production</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russian troops at two major battlefronts</strong></h2>

<p>Serhii Cherevatyi, who is the spokesperson for the eastern grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said that Russia has reportedly deployed over 180,000 troops to the two major eastern battlefronts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with Ukrainian media on Monday, Cherevatyi said that troops have been deployed across the eastern frontline. The official noted that the Lyman-Kupyansk front is longer, which is why the enemy is "concentrating their forces there" and also added that there are "more than 120,000 enemy troops" in the Lyman-Kupyansk direction at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia banking on drones to pepper Western artillery pieces&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-chinese-aircraft-crossed-taiwans-straits-median-line-taipei-611663">Eight Chinese aircraft crossed Taiwan's Strait's median line: Taipei</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Fighting rages in south</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, Deputy Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that the Russian forces have registered gains near the eastern Ukrainian town of Svatove.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She noted that the Ukrainian forces are resisting a Russian onslaught in eastern areas of the front and face difficulties in the northeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Maliar, "everywhere things are hot" in the east, with Russian forces advancing near the beleaguered cities of Avdiivka and Maryinka in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She wrote, "Our troops are facing intense enemy resistance, remote mining and the redeployment of enemy reserves, but are tirelessly creating the conditions for the fastest possible advance."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Russian military claimed on Tuesday (July 4) that it shot down five drones in an attempted "terrorist" attack near Moscow. The defence ministry said in a telegram post, "this morning, an attempt by the Kyiv regime to carry out a terrorist attack using five UAVs against targets in Moscow region and New Moscow was foiled".

The Russian military claimed on Tuesday (July 4) that it shot down five drones in an attempted "terrorist" attack near Moscow. The defence ministry said in a telegram post, "this morning, an attempt by the Kyiv regime to carry out a terrorist attack using five UAVs against targets in Moscow region and New Moscow was foiled". No casualties were reported during the drone interceptions. The ministry further said that four of the drones were intercepted by air defences in the New Moscow region and the fifth one was "suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed on the territory of the Odintsovo district of the Moscow region". Frights were disturbed amid the chaos, and landings and takeoffs at Moscow's Vnukovo were restricted for several hours early on Tuesday before normal operations resumed after 0500 GMT. A number of flights from Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt were diverted. "The Kyiv regime's attempt to attack an area where civilian infrastructure is located, including the airport, which incidentally also receives foreign flights, is yet another act of terrorism," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. "The international community should realise that the United States, Britain, France - permanent members of the UN Security Council - are financing a terrorist regime," she said. Also read: The semiconductor wars: China restricts exports of raw materials critical to chip production Russian troops at two major battlefronts Serhii Cherevatyi, who is the spokesperson for the eastern grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said that Russia has reportedly deployed over 180,000 troops to the two major eastern battlefronts. In an interview with Ukrainian media on Monday, Cherevatyi said that troops have been deployed across the eastern frontline. The official noted that the Lyman-Kupyansk front is longer, which is why the enemy is "concentrating their forces there" and also added that there are "more than 120,000 enemy troops" in the Lyman-Kupyansk direction at the moment. Watch: Russia banking on drones to pepper Western artillery pieces × Also read: Eight Chinese aircraft crossed Taiwan's Strait's median line: Taipei Fighting rages in south On Sunday, Deputy Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that the Russian forces have registered gains near the eastern Ukrainian town of Svatove. She noted that the Ukrainian forces are resisting a Russian onslaught in eastern areas of the front and face difficulties in the northeast. According to Maliar, "everywhere things are hot" in the east, with Russian forces advancing near the beleaguered cities of Avdiivka and Maryinka in the Donetsk region. She wrote, "Our troops are facing intense enemy resistance, remote mining and the redeployment of enemy reserves, but are tirelessly creating the conditions for the fastest possible advance." (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.

Russia claims Ukraine attacked Moscow with at least five drones

Breathtaking images show supermoon lighting up night sky in the most amazing way

<p>France was burning because of the violent protests in the aftermath of the police killing of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager, in Nanterre during a traffic stop. But is social media to be blamed for fueling the riots in the nation?&nbsp;</p>

<p>A couple of days ago, French President Emmanuel Macron asked the parents to keep child rioters off the streets. Macron said that some young people appeared to be copying violent video games which had "intoxicated" them. Macron has said that dozens of those arrested were "young, or very young".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides warning parents, Macron also urged social media firms to remove the "most sensitive" content related to the rioting. He even claimed video games played a role in the riots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his speech on Friday, Macron did not specify what type of content he viewed as “sensitive,” but said he expected “a spirit of responsibility” from the social media platforms.</p>

<p>Overall, experts are again saying that social media companies such as TikTok, Snapchat and other platforms played a role to fuel widespread riots over the fatal police shooting incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by The Associated Press, a French official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, cited an example of the name and address of the police officer who shot at Nahel being published on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-are-using-nahel-as-excuse-fatally-shot-teens-grandmother-hits-out-at-violent-protesters-611123">'They are using Nahel as excuse': Fatally shot teen's grandmother hits out at violent protesters</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-it-brazil-indonesia-or-switzerland-tourism-advert-of-philippines-uses-stock-footage-from-other-countries-611201">Is it Brazil, Indonesia or Switzerland? Tourism advert of Philippines uses stock footage from other countries</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The official said that a prison officer also has seen his professional card going online, which suggested that it could put the person's life and family at risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron gave a speech on Friday, in which he said that he expected "a spirit of responsibility" from the social media platforms but did not specify what type of content he viewed as "sensitive".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said that the government also spoke to the social media platform, including Snapchat and Twitter, asking them to remove content inciting violence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the official, the French government is also working to identify people who launch calls for violence. However, the move is still at the "discussion" stage.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Cyber harassment law in France</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In France, there is a law against cyber harassment as social media threats of crimes, like rape and murder can be prosecuted. However, it's very rare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A bill was approved by the parliament of the country in 2020 that would force platforms and search engines to remove prohibited content within 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 12 months later, 11 of 13 people were charged by the court with harassing and threatening a teenager who harshly criticised Islam in an online post. But notably, the people charged were only those who could be tracked down.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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France was burning because of the violent protests in the aftermath of the police killing of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager, in Nanterre during a traffic stop. But is social media to be blamed for fueling the riots in the nation?

France was burning because of the violent protests in the aftermath of the police killing of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager, in Nanterre during a traffic stop. But is social media to be blamed for fueling the riots in the nation? A couple of days ago, French President Emmanuel Macron asked the parents to keep child rioters off the streets. Macron said that some young people appeared to be copying violent video games which had "intoxicated" them. Macron has said that dozens of those arrested were "young, or very young". Besides warning parents, Macron also urged social media firms to remove the "most sensitive" content related to the rioting. He even claimed video games played a role in the riots. During his speech on Friday, Macron did not specify what type of content he viewed as “sensitive,” but said he expected “a spirit of responsibility” from the social media platforms. Overall, experts are again saying that social media companies such as TikTok, Snapchat and other platforms played a role to fuel widespread riots over the fatal police shooting incident. As reported by The Associated Press, a French official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, cited an example of the name and address of the police officer who shot at Nahel being published on social media. Also read: 'They are using Nahel as excuse': Fatally shot teen's grandmother hits out at violent protesters Watch this report: × Also read: Is it Brazil, Indonesia or Switzerland? Tourism advert of Philippines uses stock footage from other countries The official said that a prison officer also has seen his professional card going online, which suggested that it could put the person's life and family at risk. Macron gave a speech on Friday, in which he said that he expected "a spirit of responsibility" from the social media platforms but did not specify what type of content he viewed as "sensitive". The official said that the government also spoke to the social media platform, including Snapchat and Twitter, asking them to remove content inciting violence. According to the official, the French government is also working to identify people who launch calls for violence. However, the move is still at the "discussion" stage. Cyber harassment law in France In France, there is a law against cyber harassment as social media threats of crimes, like rape and murder can be prosecuted. However, it's very rare. A bill was approved by the parliament of the country in 2020 that would force platforms and search engines to remove prohibited content within 24 hours. Around 12 months later, 11 of 13 people were charged by the court with harassing and threatening a teenager who harshly criticised Islam in an online post. But notably, the people charged were only those who could be tracked down. (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.

Is social media responsible for fueling the riots in France?

<p>Deputy Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said on Sunday (July 2) that the Russian forces have registered gains near the eastern Ukrainian town of Svatove as she noted that the Ukrainian forces are resisting a Russian onslaught in eastern areas of the front and face difficulties in the northeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a Telegram post, the defence official said, "Fierce fighting is taking place there. The enemy is attacking Bilohorivka and Serebrianka." She referred to the two smaller villages south of Svatove — a region where Russian forces have been active. She said, "Fierce fighting is taking place...The situation is quite complicated."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Maliar, "everywhere things are hot" in the east, with Russian forces advancing near the beleaguered cities of Avdiivka and Maryinka in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maliar further mentioned that the Ukrainian forces are making progress near the shattered city of Bakhmut and also on the southern front, where Ukrainian forces have recaptured several villages. She said there had been "gradual advances" in two areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-ukraine-killed-80000-wagner-fighters-and-entire-world-wants-to-kill-vladimir-putin-611084">Zelensky claims Ukraine killed 21,000 Wagner fighters; says 'entire world wants to kill' Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>She wrote, "Our troops are facing intense enemy resistance, remote mining and the redeployment of enemy reserves, but are tirelessly creating the conditions for the fastest possible advance."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While detailing the situation near the town of Svatove, a report by CNN mentioned that the recapture would be crucial for Russia. The eastern town is located in the Luhansk region and has long been regarded as a key target for Ukrainian forces. It is crucial as it is situated along key Russian supply routes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, some Russian accounts of the front line said that Moscow's forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks near villages around Bakhmut and in areas further south, particularly the hilltop town of Vuhlear, which is strategically important. They also reported success in containing Ukrainian troops in the northeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-claims-of-funding-wagner-group-likely-to-make-it-easier-to-try-him-for-war-crimes-experts-611014">Putin's claims of funding Wagner group likely makes it easier to try him for war crimes</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Is Russia weak after a Wagner Mutiny?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's counter-offensive</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has claimed that its counter-offensive is currently underway and also says that the nation was making advances on all fronts. The Ukrainian forces aimed at recapturing areas of the east and south, which were seized by Russia during the invasion last year in February. Kyiv has also said that the forces have reasserted control over clusters of villages in the southeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Russia still holds swathes of territory in the east, south and southeast and also has not acknowledged the Ukrainian gains. Instead, it says that Ukraine's military is suffering heavy casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to General Oleksander Tarnavskiy, who is responsible for the southern front, the Ukrainian forces were "systematically destroying the enemy" and reported the deaths of several hundred Russian forces over the last 24 hours.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Deputy Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said on Sunday (July 2) that the Russian forces have registered gains near the eastern Ukrainian town of Svatove as she noted that the Ukrainian forces are resisting a Russian onslaught in eastern areas of the front and face difficulties in the northeast.

Deputy Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said on Sunday (July 2) that the Russian forces have registered gains near the eastern Ukrainian town of Svatove as she noted that the Ukrainian forces are resisting a Russian onslaught in eastern areas of the front and face difficulties in the northeast. In a Telegram post, the defence official said, "Fierce fighting is taking place there. The enemy is attacking Bilohorivka and Serebrianka." She referred to the two smaller villages south of Svatove — a region where Russian forces have been active. She said, "Fierce fighting is taking place...The situation is quite complicated." According to Maliar, "everywhere things are hot" in the east, with Russian forces advancing near the beleaguered cities of Avdiivka and Maryinka in the Donetsk region. Maliar further mentioned that the Ukrainian forces are making progress near the shattered city of Bakhmut and also on the southern front, where Ukrainian forces have recaptured several villages. She said there had been "gradual advances" in two areas. Also read: Zelensky claims Ukraine killed 21,000 Wagner fighters; says 'entire world wants to kill' Vladimir Putin She wrote, "Our troops are facing intense enemy resistance, remote mining and the redeployment of enemy reserves, but are tirelessly creating the conditions for the fastest possible advance." While detailing the situation near the town of Svatove, a report by CNN mentioned that the recapture would be crucial for Russia. The eastern town is located in the Luhansk region and has long been regarded as a key target for Ukrainian forces. It is crucial as it is situated along key Russian supply routes. As reported by the news agency Reuters, some Russian accounts of the front line said that Moscow's forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks near villages around Bakhmut and in areas further south, particularly the hilltop town of Vuhlear, which is strategically important. They also reported success in containing Ukrainian troops in the northeast. Also read: Putin's claims of funding Wagner group likely makes it easier to try him for war crimes Watch: Is Russia weak after a Wagner Mutiny? × Ukraine's counter-offensive Ukraine has claimed that its counter-offensive is currently underway and also says that the nation was making advances on all fronts. The Ukrainian forces aimed at recapturing areas of the east and south, which were seized by Russia during the invasion last year in February. Kyiv has also said that the forces have reasserted control over clusters of villages in the southeast. Notably, Russia still holds swathes of territory in the east, south and southeast and also has not acknowledged the Ukrainian gains. Instead, it says that Ukraine's military is suffering heavy casualties. According to General Oleksander Tarnavskiy, who is responsible for the southern front, the Ukrainian forces were "systematically destroying the enemy" and reported the deaths of several hundred Russian forces over the last 24 hours. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (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 says Russia made some advances on eastern front, fighting rages in south

<p>United States presidential contender Nikki Haley issued a warning on Sunday (July 2) over China's ramped-up military aggression. Haley said that the&nbsp;country is ahead of the US in a number of key aspects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As she appeared on "Fox News Sunday," Haley slammed the Biden administration for giving priority to the woke agenda of the US military, while China prepared for war. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As mentioned in the report, the presidential contender argued that there's a need to focus on China's growth both economically and militarily — and a responsible administration would do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haley told host, Shannon Bream, "China has been preparing for war with us for decades. And the way we have to deal with China is [to] not look at it tomorrow, because if we keep waiting to deal with them tomorrow, they will deal with us today."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you look at the military situation, they now have the largest naval fleet in the world. They have 340 ships, we have 293. They're going to have 400 In two years, we won't even have 350 in two decades. They have started developing hypersonic missiles," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-aoc-slams-supreme-court-says-it-is-creeping-dangerously-towards-authoritarianism-611274">AOC slams supreme court, says it is ‘creeping dangerously towards authoritarianism’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"We're just now getting started. They are modernizing their military, our military's taking gender pronoun classes," she continued. "Look at what they're doing on cyber, artificial intelligence, space – they're ahead of us," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haley has been vocal about the issues when it comes to the US-China ties as she has called for a more direct way to address the Chinese threat. During her speech last week, she spoke on the issue and said that China is the "most dangerous foreign threat we have faced since the Second World War".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China is much more than a mere ‘competitor.’ Communist China is an enemy. We have to stop wasting time," she said, further adding that she would put an end to China buying up US farmland and, if necessary, she would also end normal economic ties with Beijing so that the flow of fentanyl across the US-Mexico border gets halted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Global warming heating up land &amp; sea as earth's temperature rises&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pwc-sacks-senior-execs-after-tax-scandal-in-australia-611294">PwC sacks senior execs after tax scandal in Australia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Yellen's visit to China</strong></h2>

<p>The US confirmed Sunday that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit Beijing this week. The visit has been scheduled amid escalating tensions between US and China as relations continue to deteriorate since earlier this year. However, both nations say they are focused on mending ties as Yellen would become the second member of Joe Biden's cabinet to visit Beijing in recent weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Treasury Department said in a statement that the trip is scheduled for July 6-9 and she is expected to raise with her counterparts the importance for both countries "to responsibly manage our relationship, communicate directly about areas of concern, and work together to address global challenges".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States presidential contender Nikki Haley issued a warning on Sunday (July 2) over China's ramped-up military aggression. Haley said that the country is ahead of the US in a number of key aspects.

United States presidential contender Nikki Haley issued a warning on Sunday (July 2) over China's ramped-up military aggression. Haley said that the country is ahead of the US in a number of key aspects. As she appeared on "Fox News Sunday," Haley slammed the Biden administration for giving priority to the woke agenda of the US military, while China prepared for war. As mentioned in the report, the presidential contender argued that there's a need to focus on China's growth both economically and militarily — and a responsible administration would do so. Haley told host, Shannon Bream, "China has been preparing for war with us for decades. And the way we have to deal with China is [to] not look at it tomorrow, because if we keep waiting to deal with them tomorrow, they will deal with us today." "If you look at the military situation, they now have the largest naval fleet in the world. They have 340 ships, we have 293. They're going to have 400 In two years, we won't even have 350 in two decades. They have started developing hypersonic missiles," she said. Also read: AOC slams supreme court, says it is ‘creeping dangerously towards authoritarianism’ "We're just now getting started. They are modernizing their military, our military's taking gender pronoun classes," she continued. "Look at what they're doing on cyber, artificial intelligence, space – they're ahead of us," she added. Haley has been vocal about the issues when it comes to the US-China ties as she has called for a more direct way to address the Chinese threat. During her speech last week, she spoke on the issue and said that China is the "most dangerous foreign threat we have faced since the Second World War". "China is much more than a mere ‘competitor.’ Communist China is an enemy. We have to stop wasting time," she said, further adding that she would put an end to China buying up US farmland and, if necessary, she would also end normal economic ties with Beijing so that the flow of fentanyl across the US-Mexico border gets halted. Watch: Global warming heating up land & sea as earth's temperature rises × Also read: PwC sacks senior execs after tax scandal in Australia Yellen's visit to China The US confirmed Sunday that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit Beijing this week. The visit has been scheduled amid escalating tensions between US and China as relations continue to deteriorate since earlier this year. However, both nations say they are focused on mending ties as Yellen would become the second member of Joe Biden's cabinet to visit Beijing in recent weeks. The Treasury Department said in a statement that the trip is scheduled for July 6-9 and she is expected to raise with her counterparts the importance for both countries "to responsibly manage our relationship, communicate directly about areas of concern, and work together to address global challenges". (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.

Nikki Haley slams Biden administration, says China preparing for war against US

<p>The United States confirmed on Sunday (July 2) that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit Beijing this week. The visit has been scheduled amid escalating tensions between US and China as relations continue to deteriorate. However, both nations say they are focused on mending ties as Yellen would become the second member of Joe Biden's cabinet to visit Beijing in recent weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Treasury Department said in a statement that the trip is scheduled for July 6-9 and the secretary is expected to raise with her counterparts the importance for both countries "to responsibly manage our relationship, communicate directly about areas of concern, and work together to address global challenges".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Beijing on an official trip and met with China's top leader President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Qin Gang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken's trip materialised months after his to China was cancelled in the aftermath of the Chinese "spy" balloon saga. He was the highest-ranking US official to visit the Chinese capital in nearly five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese leader even said that he saw positives and headway in the strained relationship between Washington and Beijing. But again a diplomatic spat began when US President Biden referred to Xi as a "dictator".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-this-a-world-record-two-pilots-travel-48-us-states-in-less-than-48-hours-611159">Is this a world record? Two pilots travel 48 US states in less than 48 hours</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>There was a rebuttal from the Chinese side as the foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that Biden's "extremely absurd" comments "seriously violated China's political dignity" and caused "political provocation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, the US would expect some advancement in the ties from Yellen's official visit. AFP reported quoting a senior treasury department official, who said on Sunday that Yellen will discuss how the US views its economic relationship with China. She will meet with senior Chinese officials and leading US firms, the spokesperson said without giving specifics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the officials, the US seeks to secure its national security interests and protect human rights, and the actions to this effect are "not intended to gain economic advantage over China".&nbsp;</p>

<p>the American official further noted that Washington also looks towards "healthy" ties with Beijing and does not seek to decouple the economies, while pursuing cooperation on urgent challenges like climate change and debt distress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Anti-Trump video by US presidential candidate Ron DeSantis called 'homophobic'</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hundreds-to-lose-jobs-at-george-soros-foundation-after-sons-takeover-611133">Hundreds to lose jobs at George Soros' foundation after son's takeover</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Should US expect a lot from this trip?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Treasury official added that the US does not expect a "significant breakthrough" from this initial trip, but it does aim to build longer-term channels of communication with China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Edward Alden, who is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) told AFP, speaking on the Treasury secretary's intentions to visit China that "I think the US government is clearly trying to put some floor under the deterioration of the economic relationship".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Yellen trip could "restart a steady pattern of engagement at lower levels," he said, adding that the US has shifted from being ambiguous about how far it was supporting decoupling to explicitly adopting a strategy of "derisking" instead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This means "focusing on a narrower range of items that have strategic importance, trying to build fences around those items, but otherwise trying to continue to nurture a reasonably robust US-China economic relationship," Alden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States confirmed on Sunday (July 2) that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit Beijing this week. The visit has been scheduled amid escalating tensions between US and China as relations continue to deteriorate.

The United States confirmed on Sunday (July 2) that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit Beijing this week. The visit has been scheduled amid escalating tensions between US and China as relations continue to deteriorate. However, both nations say they are focused on mending ties as Yellen would become the second member of Joe Biden's cabinet to visit Beijing in recent weeks. The Treasury Department said in a statement that the trip is scheduled for July 6-9 and the secretary is expected to raise with her counterparts the importance for both countries "to responsibly manage our relationship, communicate directly about areas of concern, and work together to address global challenges". Last month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Beijing on an official trip and met with China's top leader President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Blinken's trip materialised months after his to China was cancelled in the aftermath of the Chinese "spy" balloon saga. He was the highest-ranking US official to visit the Chinese capital in nearly five years. The Chinese leader even said that he saw positives and headway in the strained relationship between Washington and Beijing. But again a diplomatic spat began when US President Biden referred to Xi as a "dictator". Also read: Is this a world record? Two pilots travel 48 US states in less than 48 hours There was a rebuttal from the Chinese side as the foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that Biden's "extremely absurd" comments "seriously violated China's political dignity" and caused "political provocation". Now, the US would expect some advancement in the ties from Yellen's official visit. AFP reported quoting a senior treasury department official, who said on Sunday that Yellen will discuss how the US views its economic relationship with China. She will meet with senior Chinese officials and leading US firms, the spokesperson said without giving specifics. According to the officials, the US seeks to secure its national security interests and protect human rights, and the actions to this effect are "not intended to gain economic advantage over China". the American official further noted that Washington also looks towards "healthy" ties with Beijing and does not seek to decouple the economies, while pursuing cooperation on urgent challenges like climate change and debt distress. Watch: Anti-Trump video by US presidential candidate Ron DeSantis called 'homophobic' × Also read: Hundreds to lose jobs at George Soros' foundation after son's takeover Should US expect a lot from this trip? The Treasury official added that the US does not expect a "significant breakthrough" from this initial trip, but it does aim to build longer-term channels of communication with China. Edward Alden, who is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) told AFP, speaking on the Treasury secretary's intentions to visit China that "I think the US government is clearly trying to put some floor under the deterioration of the economic relationship". A Yellen trip could "restart a steady pattern of engagement at lower levels," he said, adding that the US has shifted from being ambiguous about how far it was supporting decoupling to explicitly adopting a strategy of "derisking" instead. This means "focusing on a narrower range of items that have strategic importance, trying to build fences around those items, but otherwise trying to continue to nurture a reasonably robust US-China economic relationship," Alden 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.

US treasury secretary Yellen to visit China to 'responsibly' manage ties, expand communications

<p>A massive crack, visible to the naked eye, forced a North Carolina amusement park to shut down one of its roller coasters. A man spotted a large crack, which led the support beam to move out of place when a car ran on it with people on the ride.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a Facebook post on Friday, Jeremy Wagner said that he discovered the crack in the Fury 325 giga roller coaster at the Carowinds amusement park and notified officials. The Fury 325 is one of the tallest and longest rides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was temporarily closed after the complaint and a spokesperson for Carowinds told Fox News Digital that the roller coaster was being inspected by the park's maintenance team. Carowinds is located outside of Charlotte.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The park said that the "tallest, fastest, longest giga coaster in North America" will remain closed until inspections and repairs take place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-this-a-world-record-two-pilots-travel-48-us-states-in-less-than-48-hours-611159">Is this a world record? Two pilots travel 48 US states in less than 48 hours</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to Kings Island in Ohio, a giga roller coaster has a drop between 300 and 399 feet. Carowinds has said that the Fury 325 takes riders to a peak height of 325 feet and reaches at a massive speed of 95mph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, the spokesperson said in a statement: "Carowinds closed Fury 325 after park personnel became aware of a crack at the top of a steel support pillar."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further added, "The park’s maintenance team is conducting a thorough inspection and the ride will remain closed until repairs have been completed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Safety is our top priority and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued guests during this process. As part of our comprehensive safety protocols, all rides, including Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure their proper functioning and structural integrity," the statement added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Carowinds’ Fury 325 support column is broken. It move 2-4 feet when the coaster went by. That is scary for real. I love Fury 325. Just glad they shut it down for repairs.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fury325?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fury325</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Carowinds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Carowinds</a> <a href="https://t.co/fkF1ruS4oD">pic.twitter.com/fkF1ruS4oD</a></p>
— Brent Holley (@SodaCity_Native) <a href="https://twitter.com/SodaCity_Native/status/1674981899637325824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Holy shit….. Fury 325 has some damage <a href="https://t.co/3ZaGiSi1ap">pic.twitter.com/3ZaGiSi1ap</a></p>
— ElToroRyan (@ElToroRyan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElToroRyan/status/1674950029860122624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Massive crack on Fury 325 at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Carowinds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Carowinds</a>. I emailed the park and they told me, "The park’s maintenance team is conducting a thorough inspection and the ride will remain closed until repairs have been completed." Credit Jeremy Wagner <a href="https://t.co/YrP0zhm3kJ">pic.twitter.com/YrP0zhm3kJ</a></p>
— Kaitlin Wright (@wxkaitlin) <a href="https://twitter.com/wxkaitlin/status/1674973694647492613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-rare-ukraine-finds-remnants-of-british-wwii-hurricane-planes-outside-kyiv-611109">‘Very rare’: Ukraine finds remnants of British WWII Hurricane fighter planes outside Kyiv</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Roller coaster tragedy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, at least one person was killed and nine others were injured, including a child, during a roller coaster accident at the Grona Lund amusement park in the Swedish capital city of Stockholm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened on June 25 at an amusement park's Jetline roller coaster. Local reports from the scene showed ambulances, fire trucks and a helicopter at the Grona Lund park. The police said the incident was being probed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A massive crack, visible to the naked eye, forced a North Carolina amusement park to shut down one of its roller coasters. A man spotted a large crack, which led the support beam to move out of place when a car ran on it with people on the ride.

A massive crack, visible to the naked eye, forced a North Carolina amusement park to shut down one of its roller coasters. A man spotted a large crack, which led the support beam to move out of place when a car ran on it with people on the ride. In a Facebook post on Friday, Jeremy Wagner said that he discovered the crack in the Fury 325 giga roller coaster at the Carowinds amusement park and notified officials. The Fury 325 is one of the tallest and longest rides. It was temporarily closed after the complaint and a spokesperson for Carowinds told Fox News Digital that the roller coaster was being inspected by the park's maintenance team. Carowinds is located outside of Charlotte. The park said that the "tallest, fastest, longest giga coaster in North America" will remain closed until inspections and repairs take place. Also read: Is this a world record? Two pilots travel 48 US states in less than 48 hours According to Kings Island in Ohio, a giga roller coaster has a drop between 300 and 399 feet. Carowinds has said that the Fury 325 takes riders to a peak height of 325 feet and reaches at a massive speed of 95mph. As quoted, the spokesperson said in a statement: "Carowinds closed Fury 325 after park personnel became aware of a crack at the top of a steel support pillar." It further added, "The park’s maintenance team is conducting a thorough inspection and the ride will remain closed until repairs have been completed." "Safety is our top priority and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued guests during this process. As part of our comprehensive safety protocols, all rides, including Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure their proper functioning and structural integrity," the statement added. Carowinds’ Fury 325 support column is broken. It move 2-4 feet when the coaster went by. That is scary for real. I love Fury 325. Just glad they shut it down for repairs.#Fury325#Carowinds pic.twitter.com/fkF1ruS4oD — Brent Holley (@SodaCity_Native) July 1, 2023 × Holy shit….. Fury 325 has some damage pic.twitter.com/3ZaGiSi1ap — ElToroRyan (@ElToroRyan) July 1, 2023 × Massive crack on Fury 325 at #Carowinds. I emailed the park and they told me, "The park’s maintenance team is conducting a thorough inspection and the ride will remain closed until repairs have been completed." Credit Jeremy Wagner pic.twitter.com/YrP0zhm3kJ — Kaitlin Wright (@wxkaitlin) July 1, 2023 × Also read: ‘Very rare’: Ukraine finds remnants of British WWII Hurricane fighter planes outside Kyiv Roller coaster tragedy Last month, at least one person was killed and nine others were injured, including a child, during a roller coaster accident at the Grona Lund amusement park in the Swedish capital city of Stockholm. The incident happened on June 25 at an amusement park's Jetline roller coaster. Local reports from the scene showed ambulances, fire trucks and a helicopter at the Grona Lund park. The police said the incident was being probed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Massive crack forces North Carolina amusement park to shut down its roller coaster

<p>Russia Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday (June 30) that the nation will emerge "stronger" in the aftermath of the failed mutiny, which the mercenary group Wagner launched last weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a briefing in Moscow, Lavrov told journalists: "Russia has always overcome all its problems... it comes out stronger and stronger. It will be the same this time, too. This process has already begun."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked if Russia can guarantee its stability after the Wagner mutiny, Lavrov said, "We are not obliged to explain to anyone or give any guarantees. We act transparently, our president and all the political powers of the country spoke about it."</p>

<p>"If someone in the West has any doubts - it's their problem. We ourselves have serious doubts in the adequacy of many Western leaders," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Answering a question from foreign media, Lavrov said: "Thank you for your concern about our national interests, but you shouldn't be worried".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The revolt posed the most serious threat to President Vladimir Putin's decades-long rule.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-join-sco-next-week-lavrov-610580">Iran to join SCO next week: Lavrov</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>While mentioning Ukraine, Lavrov said that Kyiv was playing a dangerous game regarding the nuclear power plant at Zaporizhzhia. He accused Kyiv of "pure lies" with statements suggesting that Moscow plans to blow up the plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN atomic energy agency has frequently appealed to both sides to avoid shelling in the vicinity of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, which is located in southern Ukraine but is controlled by Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov said, "The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant has had IAEA experts there for many months. These experts send regular reports to Vienna, the IAEA headquarters, they can do this every day. This is their decision."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These experts and IAEA General Director Grossi (Rafael Grossi), who visited Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant, know very well who is shelling Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant. Recently there has been much less such shelling, but it has been quite regular recently. They know very well that this is dangerous and can lead to no good," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine accuses Russia over deportation of orphans</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-enacts-new-foreign-policy-law-broadening-xi-jinpings-powers-to-counter-us-610559">China passes new foreign policy law broadening Xi Jinping's powers to counter US</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Wagner Group's role in Ukraine war&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Wagner Group, a Russian state-funded paramilitary organisation, which was active in the ongoing Ukraine war, led an armed revolt against the Russian government last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mutiny came after constant accusations by Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin against Russian ministers. The feud between him and the Russian army escalated for months and Prigozhin passed increasingly scathing statements against generals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it came to an end when Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko mediated a deal to halt a mutiny by Prigozhin's mercenary fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wagner group played a key role in the capture of several east Ukraine towns, including Bakhmut, after a mass recruitment drive in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday (June 30) that the nation will emerge "stronger" in the aftermath of the failed mutiny, which the mercenary group Wagner launched last weekend.

Russia Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday (June 30) that the nation will emerge "stronger" in the aftermath of the failed mutiny, which the mercenary group Wagner launched last weekend. During a briefing in Moscow, Lavrov told journalists: "Russia has always overcome all its problems... it comes out stronger and stronger. It will be the same this time, too. This process has already begun." On being asked if Russia can guarantee its stability after the Wagner mutiny, Lavrov said, "We are not obliged to explain to anyone or give any guarantees. We act transparently, our president and all the political powers of the country spoke about it." "If someone in the West has any doubts - it's their problem. We ourselves have serious doubts in the adequacy of many Western leaders," he added. Answering a question from foreign media, Lavrov said: "Thank you for your concern about our national interests, but you shouldn't be worried". The revolt posed the most serious threat to President Vladimir Putin's decades-long rule. Also read: Iran to join SCO next week: Lavrov While mentioning Ukraine, Lavrov said that Kyiv was playing a dangerous game regarding the nuclear power plant at Zaporizhzhia. He accused Kyiv of "pure lies" with statements suggesting that Moscow plans to blow up the plant. The UN atomic energy agency has frequently appealed to both sides to avoid shelling in the vicinity of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, which is located in southern Ukraine but is controlled by Russian forces. Lavrov said, "The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant has had IAEA experts there for many months. These experts send regular reports to Vienna, the IAEA headquarters, they can do this every day. This is their decision." "These experts and IAEA General Director Grossi (Rafael Grossi), who visited Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant, know very well who is shelling Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant. Recently there has been much less such shelling, but it has been quite regular recently. They know very well that this is dangerous and can lead to no good," he further added. Watch: Ukraine accuses Russia over deportation of orphans × Also read: China passes new foreign policy law broadening Xi Jinping's powers to counter US Wagner Group's role in Ukraine war The Wagner Group, a Russian state-funded paramilitary organisation, which was active in the ongoing Ukraine war, led an armed revolt against the Russian government last week. The mutiny came after constant accusations by Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin against Russian ministers. The feud between him and the Russian army escalated for months and Prigozhin passed increasingly scathing statements against generals. However, it came to an end when Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko mediated a deal to halt a mutiny by Prigozhin's mercenary fighters. The Wagner group played a key role in the capture of several east Ukraine towns, including Bakhmut, after a mass recruitment drive in Russia. (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.

Lavrov responds to failed mutiny, says Russia will be 'stronger'

<p>Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday (June 28) during a visit to Ukraine that the presence of Wagner troops in Belarus could be a potential "threat" to the countries of the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Duda told reporters in Kyiv, "It is difficult for us to exclude today that the presence of the Wagner Group in Belarus could pose a potential threat to Poland, which shares a border with Belarus, a threat to Lithuania... as well as potentially to Latvia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, a jet belonging to Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew out of Rostov and landed near Minsk, which was later confirmed by Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The Belarusian leader was quoted as saying by the state media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko mentioned that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want. However, their presence itself has become a matter of concern for the Polish President.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-intel-foils-wagners-attempt-to-capture-russias-military-leadership-report-609743">Wagner aimed to capture Russia's military leadership, sped up efforts after plans leaked: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Poland and Lithuania presidents in Kyiv&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The presidents of Poland and Lithuania made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Wednesday and met their Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Duda said in a joint news conference that Poland and Lithuania will do everything they can to ensure that Ukraine becomes a member of NATO as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, NATO members unanimously said that Ukraine must get all support during the war against Russia. They are affirmative about Ukraine's inclusion in NATO but have yet to resolve differences over how to address Kyiv's desire for membership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lithuania and Poland have been among the staunchest supporters of Ukraine in NATO and the EU, and have been calling for accepting it into both. Meanwhile, Lithuania is buying NASAMS air defence systems for Ukraine from a Norwegian company.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Deadly Russian missile strike hits pizza restaurant in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-to-wipe-out-wagner-chief-prigozhin-during-mutiny-claims-lukashenko-609677">Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Poland gets first batch of Abrams&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks. The defence minister said that it is a boost to the nation's military capabilities amid the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak told reporters, "The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Blaszczak said, hailing the US-made Abrams as "the best tanks in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the United States, with the first batch comprising 14 tanks which arrived at the port city of Szczecin. The shipment is part of a deal worth $1.4 billion for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday (June 28) during a visit to Ukraine that the presence of Wagner troops in Belarus could be a potential "threat" to the countries of the region.

Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday (June 28) during a visit to Ukraine that the presence of Wagner troops in Belarus could be a potential "threat" to the countries of the region. Duda told reporters in Kyiv, "It is difficult for us to exclude today that the presence of the Wagner Group in Belarus could pose a potential threat to Poland, which shares a border with Belarus, a threat to Lithuania... as well as potentially to Latvia." On Tuesday, a jet belonging to Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew out of Rostov and landed near Minsk, which was later confirmed by Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The Belarusian leader was quoted as saying by the state media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus. He said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he further added. Lukashenko mentioned that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want. However, their presence itself has become a matter of concern for the Polish President. Also read: Wagner aimed to capture Russia's military leadership, sped up efforts after plans leaked: Report Poland and Lithuania presidents in Kyiv The presidents of Poland and Lithuania made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Wednesday and met their Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. Duda said in a joint news conference that Poland and Lithuania will do everything they can to ensure that Ukraine becomes a member of NATO as soon as possible. Notably, NATO members unanimously said that Ukraine must get all support during the war against Russia. They are affirmative about Ukraine's inclusion in NATO but have yet to resolve differences over how to address Kyiv's desire for membership. Lithuania and Poland have been among the staunchest supporters of Ukraine in NATO and the EU, and have been calling for accepting it into both. Meanwhile, Lithuania is buying NASAMS air defence systems for Ukraine from a Norwegian company. Watch: Deadly Russian missile strike hits pizza restaurant in Ukraine × Also read: Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko Poland gets first batch of Abrams On Wednesday, Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks. The defence minister said that it is a boost to the nation's military capabilities amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak told reporters, "The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Blaszczak said, hailing the US-made Abrams as "the best tanks in the world." The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the United States, with the first batch comprising 14 tanks which arrived at the port city of Szczecin. The shipment is part of a deal worth $1.4 billion for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps. (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.

Poland says Wagner troops in Belarus 'threat' to countries of the region

<p>A jet belonging to Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew to Belarus from Russia on Tuesday (June 27). Several media reports mentioned that a flight-tracking website showed Wagner chief's plane flying out of Rostov and landing near Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was confirmed by Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko, who&nbsp;was quoted as saying&nbsp;by the state&nbsp;media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, the Belarusian leader said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he was&nbsp;quoted as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko also said that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want.</p>

<p>According to the Reuters news agency, &nbsp;Lukashenko said, "We offered them one of the abandoned military bases. Please - we have a fence, we have everything - put up your tents."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-knew-about-wagner-rebellion-but-kept-it-secret-from-most-allies-reports-609144">US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This comes just a few days after Prigozhin led an armed revolt against Putin's government on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko, who mediated a deal to halt a mutiny by Prigozhin's mercenary fighters, said on Tuesday that long-standing tensions between Moscow's army and the Wagner mercenary group had been mismanaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mutiny came after a series of claims and counterclaims made by the Wagner chief as the feud between him and the Russian army escalated for months. Prigozhin made increasingly scathing statements against generals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko said, "We missed the situation, and then we thought that it would resolve itself, but it did not resolve."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko also said that it had been "painful" to watch events unfold in Russia. He further mentioned that during the crisis situation, he had put Belarusian troops and police on full alert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two people who fought at the front clashed, there are no heroes in this case," he added, referring to the Wagner chief and his rival Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-begins-address-to-russians-thanks-citizens-for-patriotism-during-wagner-revolt-609015">Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry also said on Tuesday that it was preparing to take over military hardware belonging to the Wagner mercenary group.</p>

<p>The defence ministry said in a statement online, "Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin accuses the West&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian president on Monday&nbsp;accused Ukraine and its Western allies of wanting Russians to "kill each other". During a Monday night address, he also claimed that Prigozhin's uprising was "doomed to fail". He made a special mention to the civilians for showing "unity" in the face of a "treacherous" rebellion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin on Tuesday said that Putin's authority had not been weakened by the armed mutiny. Meanwhile, Putin said that the group of Wagner mercenaries failed to win the support of the Russian people or its army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Has Putin's credibility been damaged?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In a televised address to law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin, he said, "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin told troops from the defence ministry, National Guard, FSB security service and interior ministry, "You de facto stopped a civil war."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," he said, before holding a minute's&nbsp;silence in their memory, without saying how many died.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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A jet belonging to Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew to Belarus from Russia on Tuesday (June 27). Several media reports mentioned that a flight-tracking website showed Wagner chief's plane flying out of Rostov and landing near Minsk.

A jet belonging to Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew to Belarus from Russia on Tuesday (June 27). Several media reports mentioned that a flight-tracking website showed Wagner chief's plane flying out of Rostov and landing near Minsk. It was confirmed by Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko, who was quoted as saying by the state media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus. As quoted, the Belarusian leader said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he was quoted as saying. Lukashenko also said that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want. According to the Reuters news agency, Lukashenko said, "We offered them one of the abandoned military bases. Please - we have a fence, we have everything - put up your tents." Also read: US knew about Wagner's rebellion plans but kept it secret from most allies: Reports This comes just a few days after Prigozhin led an armed revolt against Putin's government on Saturday. Lukashenko, who mediated a deal to halt a mutiny by Prigozhin's mercenary fighters, said on Tuesday that long-standing tensions between Moscow's army and the Wagner mercenary group had been mismanaged. The mutiny came after a series of claims and counterclaims made by the Wagner chief as the feud between him and the Russian army escalated for months. Prigozhin made increasingly scathing statements against generals. Lukashenko said, "We missed the situation, and then we thought that it would resolve itself, but it did not resolve." Lukashenko also said that it had been "painful" to watch events unfold in Russia. He further mentioned that during the crisis situation, he had put Belarusian troops and police on full alert. "Two people who fought at the front clashed, there are no heroes in this case," he added, referring to the Wagner chief and his rival Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Also read: Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians The Russian defence ministry also said on Tuesday that it was preparing to take over military hardware belonging to the Wagner mercenary group. The defence ministry said in a statement online, "Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces." Putin accuses the West The Russian president on Monday accused Ukraine and its Western allies of wanting Russians to "kill each other". During a Monday night address, he also claimed that Prigozhin's uprising was "doomed to fail". He made a special mention to the civilians for showing "unity" in the face of a "treacherous" rebellion. The Kremlin on Tuesday said that Putin's authority had not been weakened by the armed mutiny. Meanwhile, Putin said that the group of Wagner mercenaries failed to win the support of the Russian people or its army. Watch: Has Putin's credibility been damaged? × In a televised address to law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin, he said, "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them." Putin told troops from the defence ministry, National Guard, FSB security service and interior ministry, "You de facto stopped a civil war." "In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," he said, before holding a minute's silence in their memory, without saying how many died. (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.

Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin is in Belarus

<p>Justice Department watchdog has said in a new report released Tuesday (June 27) that disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein's death by suicide was apparently a result of negligence and misconduct by the federal Bureau of Prisons and workers at the New York City jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Epstein took his own life while awaiting trial charges linked to sex trafficking of minors. He had previously been convicted in Florida of paying young girls for massages, and was also accused of sexually exploiting dozens of underage girls, some as young as 14, at his homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida between 2002 and 2005.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Epstein pleaded not guilty and on August 10, 2019, he was found dead, hanging in his cell at Manhattan's Metropolitan Correctional Center at the age of 66. The autopsy confirmed that it was a death by suicide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-widower-with-british-daughter-asked-to-leave-uk-after-home-office-blunder-heres-what-happened-609358">Dutch widower with British daughter asked to leave UK after Home Office blunder: Here's what happened</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As reported by news agency The Associated Press, in a statement released with the report, Michael Horowitz, who is the Justice Department's inspector general, said, "The BOP's failures are troubling not only because the BOP did not adequately safeguard an individual in its custody..."</p>

<p>"...but also because they led to questions about the circumstances surrounding Epstein's death and effectively deprived Epstein's numerous victims of the opportunity to seek justice through the criminal justice system," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The inspector general admitted that there was no evidence which would contradict the FBI's determination that there was no criminality associated with the death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he argued that the job performance and functional failures, facilitated further by staffing shortages and a "widespread disregard" for BOP policies and procedures,&nbsp;made Epstein's death possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-mistakenly-donated-15000-instead-of-150-what-happened-next-was-heart-warming-609354">Man mistakenly donated $15,000 instead of $150. What happened next was heart-warming</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;In an audio clip, Trump says he has 'highly confidential' document&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Misconduct and negligence by staff&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the report, Horowitz concluded that none of the videos captured by the cameras that were recording showed any indication of anyone else in the cell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Investigators probed for possible money changing hands involving guards but found no evidence of that&nbsp;either.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecutors said that the workers&nbsp;assigned to guard Epstein were sleeping and shopping online instead of checking on him every 30 minutes as required.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AP obtained documents related to Epstein’s death from the Federal Bureau of Prisons and then collated the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is mentioned in the report that Epstein spent 36 days at the now-shuttered Metropolitan Correctional Center. He was also put on suicide watch for 31 hours two weeks before his death after he had attempted to die by suicide that left his neck bruised and scraped.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also mentioned that the workers tasked with guarding Epstein the night he died were working overtime. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Justice Department watchdog has said in a new report released Tuesday (June 27) that disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein's death by suicide was apparently a result of negligence and misconduct by the federal Bureau of Prisons and workers at the New York City jail.

Justice Department watchdog has said in a new report released Tuesday (June 27) that disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein's death by suicide was apparently a result of negligence and misconduct by the federal Bureau of Prisons and workers at the New York City jail. Epstein took his own life while awaiting trial charges linked to sex trafficking of minors. He had previously been convicted in Florida of paying young girls for massages, and was also accused of sexually exploiting dozens of underage girls, some as young as 14, at his homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida between 2002 and 2005. Epstein pleaded not guilty and on August 10, 2019, he was found dead, hanging in his cell at Manhattan's Metropolitan Correctional Center at the age of 66. The autopsy confirmed that it was a death by suicide. Also read: Dutch widower with British daughter asked to leave UK after Home Office blunder: Here's what happened As reported by news agency The Associated Press, in a statement released with the report, Michael Horowitz, who is the Justice Department's inspector general, said, "The BOP's failures are troubling not only because the BOP did not adequately safeguard an individual in its custody..." "...but also because they led to questions about the circumstances surrounding Epstein's death and effectively deprived Epstein's numerous victims of the opportunity to seek justice through the criminal justice system," the statement added. The inspector general admitted that there was no evidence which would contradict the FBI's determination that there was no criminality associated with the death. But he argued that the job performance and functional failures, facilitated further by staffing shortages and a "widespread disregard" for BOP policies and procedures, made Epstein's death possible. Also read: Man mistakenly donated $15,000 instead of $150. What happened next was heart-warming Watch: In an audio clip, Trump says he has 'highly confidential' document × Misconduct and negligence by staff In the report, Horowitz concluded that none of the videos captured by the cameras that were recording showed any indication of anyone else in the cell. Investigators probed for possible money changing hands involving guards but found no evidence of that either. The prosecutors said that the workers assigned to guard Epstein were sleeping and shopping online instead of checking on him every 30 minutes as required. AP obtained documents related to Epstein’s death from the Federal Bureau of Prisons and then collated the report. It is mentioned in the report that Epstein spent 36 days at the now-shuttered Metropolitan Correctional Center. He was also put on suicide watch for 31 hours two weeks before his death after he had attempted to die by suicide that left his neck bruised and scraped. The report also mentioned that the workers tasked with guarding Epstein the night he died were working overtime. (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.

Jeffrey Epstein's suicide resulted from 'negligence and misconduct' by jail guards

<p>Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Garcetti's comments came just a few days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic State visit to the United States where Indian PM hailed momentous developments in another AI – America and India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that India is a place where dreams become reality every day and both countries have so much in common. "Indian dreams and American dreams are two sides of the same coin...A young boy selling tea grows to lead India on a global stage," he remarked during an address at an event in IIT-Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Referring to PM Modi's visit and the meetings between both leaders, he said that he saw an "incredible celebration of the bond between the world's two great democracies" and added that he also witnessed the power of transformative friendship. "As PM Modi said, the scope of our cooperation is endless and the chemistry of our relations is effortless," Garcetti said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-relations-with-russia-steady-despite-all-turbulence-jaishankar-609786">Jaishankar says depth of India-Russia relations goes beyond defense dependencie</a>s</strong></p>

<p>Garcetti said India and the US have the power to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He said, "We have a future of boundless opportunities. We can stand together against coercion; we can stand together for peace."&nbsp;</p>

<p>he said that India conducts more military exercises with the US than with any other country and it is time for both nations to reframe their vision, reset it, and then make it real.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He weighed in on a range of issues, including human rights. Garcetti said the US will continue to engage with India on it "as we have always done, and as we do in all countries around the world".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian-manufacturer uses toxic substances in cough syrup&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi: "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilisation" and also added that the US and India together can build a bulwark against the "might makes right" mentality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As Vice President (Kamala) Harris said last week, reflecting on the lessons her grandfather, who helped fight for India's independence taught her, we must not only have democracy, but work to defend democracy," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dhruv-advanced-light-helicopter-safety-flaws-addressed-says-report-609658">Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter safety flaws addressed, says report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Eric Garcetti's comments on defence&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>He said, "I hope soon we'll see the United States and India working together across the Pacific and into the Atlantic, from Central Asia to Southern Africa."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While mentioning the defence production, he said: "When the US and India work together to co-produce military equipment, we create a state-of-the-art system at a sustainable cost and with resilient supply chains for India, the US, and our partners."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Through the co-production work that is already happening in airframes and engineering, and the planned work in aero engines, artillery, and ground vehicles, to name just a few, we are poised to further deepen co-production and tackle new opportunities -- some that we can't even imagine today," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities".

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities". Garcetti's comments came just a few days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic State visit to the United States where Indian PM hailed momentous developments in another AI – America and India. He said that India is a place where dreams become reality every day and both countries have so much in common. "Indian dreams and American dreams are two sides of the same coin...A young boy selling tea grows to lead India on a global stage," he remarked during an address at an event in IIT-Delhi. Referring to PM Modi's visit and the meetings between both leaders, he said that he saw an "incredible celebration of the bond between the world's two great democracies" and added that he also witnessed the power of transformative friendship. "As PM Modi said, the scope of our cooperation is endless and the chemistry of our relations is effortless," Garcetti said. Also read: Jaishankar says depth of India-Russia relations goes beyond defense dependencies Garcetti said India and the US have the power to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He said, "We have a future of boundless opportunities. We can stand together against coercion; we can stand together for peace." he said that India conducts more military exercises with the US than with any other country and it is time for both nations to reframe their vision, reset it, and then make it real. He weighed in on a range of issues, including human rights. Garcetti said the US will continue to engage with India on it "as we have always done, and as we do in all countries around the world". Watch: Indian-manufacturer uses toxic substances in cough syrup × He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi: "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilisation" and also added that the US and India together can build a bulwark against the "might makes right" mentality. "As Vice President (Kamala) Harris said last week, reflecting on the lessons her grandfather, who helped fight for India's independence taught her, we must not only have democracy, but work to defend democracy," he said. Also read: Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter safety flaws addressed, says report Eric Garcetti's comments on defence He said, "I hope soon we'll see the United States and India working together across the Pacific and into the Atlantic, from Central Asia to Southern Africa." While mentioning the defence production, he said: "When the US and India work together to co-produce military equipment, we create a state-of-the-art system at a sustainable cost and with resilient supply chains for India, the US, and our partners." "Through the co-production work that is already happening in airframes and engineering, and the planned work in aero engines, artillery, and ground vehicles, to name just a few, we are poised to further deepen co-production and tackle new opportunities -- some that we can't even imagine today," he said. (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.

Eric Garcetti says India and US have future of boundless opportunities

<p>Some of the locals in New York City aren't happy after a recent proposal issued to cut down on coal and wood-burning pizza ovens by 75% in order to reduce emissions, New York Post reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New rules were drafted by the New York City's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) stating that field test data must show that the Emissions Control Device has reduced the existing cook stove's total particulate matter emissions by 75%.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main objective of the proposal was to reduce air pollution coming from coal and wood emissions. Pizzerias are now required to evaluate whether they can install emissions control devices for their kitchen stoves, but some say those devices would cost a lot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Fox News, DEP spokesman Ted Timbers said in a statement Sunday: "All New Yorkers deserve to breathe healthy air and wood and coal-fired stoves are among the largest contributors of harmful pollutants in neighbourhoods with poor air quality."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This common-sense (sic) rule, developed with restaurant and environmental justice groups, requires a professional review of whether installing emission controls is feasible," Timbers added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What's the issue?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Some critics have said that the old and historic outlets would be impacted, and the smoky flavour of the pizzas might vanish if restaurants replace the coal/wood-fired ovens with cleaner-burning ones. Meanwhile, the officials say it will affect less than 100 of the city's countless pizza joints.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scott LoBaido, an angry activist, was seen on the streets shouting war slogans while protesting the proposal. He even threw multiple pizzas at NYC Hall in response to the city's crackdown on coal and wood-fired ovens. He said Monday, "Well… this is the New York Pizza Party! Give us pizza or give us death!"&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">New York City Pizza Party finally started. <a href="https://t.co/QYuMRVv4Ps">pic.twitter.com/QYuMRVv4Ps</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></strong></p>

<p>The protest also caught the eye of New York Mayor Eric Adams who said at an unrelated presser, "Well, first of all, I love my vegan pizza with vegan cheese. And something about pizza, like, does anyone dislike pizza? Everyone likes pizza."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You almost see that pie in front of you, you start to get happy. I think pizzas have saved more marriages than any other food. Sharing a pie with your boo is like, that's the ultimate," Adams added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Right now we are at the public moment where the public can weigh in. Let the public weigh in, let the public give their thoughts and then we'll make the final determination. We don't want to hurt businesses in the city, and we don't want to hurt the environment," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While responding to the incident related to LoBaido, the mayor said "the woke-a-- idiots who run this city are doing everything in their power to destroy it."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-pizza-history-archaeologists-discover-painting-of-pizzas-ancestor-in-ruins-of-pompeii-609401">A pizza history | Archaeologists discover painting of pizza's 'ancestor' in ruins of Pompeii</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As quoted by Fox News, Brooklyn pizzeria owner Paul Giannone, known as Paulie Gee, said, "I think these regulations are typically come up with by people who don't own businesses."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Part of what makes our pizza cook the way it does is you have to cook with an open flame. When you cook it in a different kind of oven, you won't get the results that will produce a Neapolitan-style pizza. It'll be a dying breed. People just are not going to deal with this anymore."&nbsp;</p>

<p>New York has taken steps to tackle pollution as it also became the first state to ban natural gas connections in new buildings. New buildings beginning in 2026 with seven or fewer stories will have to use induction and electric devices. Meanwhile, the larger ones will make the transition in 2029.&nbsp;</p>

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Some of the locals in New York City aren't happy after a recent proposal issued to cut down on coal and wood-burning pizza ovens by 75% in order to reduce emissions, New York Post reported.

Some of the locals in New York City aren't happy after a recent proposal issued to cut down on coal and wood-burning pizza ovens by 75% in order to reduce emissions, New York Post reported. New rules were drafted by the New York City's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) stating that field test data must show that the Emissions Control Device has reduced the existing cook stove's total particulate matter emissions by 75%. The main objective of the proposal was to reduce air pollution coming from coal and wood emissions. Pizzerias are now required to evaluate whether they can install emissions control devices for their kitchen stoves, but some say those devices would cost a lot. As quoted by Fox News, DEP spokesman Ted Timbers said in a statement Sunday: "All New Yorkers deserve to breathe healthy air and wood and coal-fired stoves are among the largest contributors of harmful pollutants in neighbourhoods with poor air quality." "This common-sense (sic) rule, developed with restaurant and environmental justice groups, requires a professional review of whether installing emission controls is feasible," Timbers added. What's the issue? Some critics have said that the old and historic outlets would be impacted, and the smoky flavour of the pizzas might vanish if restaurants replace the coal/wood-fired ovens with cleaner-burning ones. Meanwhile, the officials say it will affect less than 100 of the city's countless pizza joints. Scott LoBaido, an angry activist, was seen on the streets shouting war slogans while protesting the proposal. He even threw multiple pizzas at NYC Hall in response to the city's crackdown on coal and wood-fired ovens. He said Monday, "Well… this is the New York Pizza Party! Give us pizza or give us death!" New York City Pizza Party finally started. pic.twitter.com/QYuMRVv4Ps — Being Libertarian (@beinlibertarian) June 27, 2023 × Also read: Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands The protest also caught the eye of New York Mayor Eric Adams who said at an unrelated presser, "Well, first of all, I love my vegan pizza with vegan cheese. And something about pizza, like, does anyone dislike pizza? Everyone likes pizza." "You almost see that pie in front of you, you start to get happy. I think pizzas have saved more marriages than any other food. Sharing a pie with your boo is like, that's the ultimate," Adams added. "Right now we are at the public moment where the public can weigh in. Let the public weigh in, let the public give their thoughts and then we'll make the final determination. We don't want to hurt businesses in the city, and we don't want to hurt the environment," he said. While responding to the incident related to LoBaido, the mayor said "the woke-a-- idiots who run this city are doing everything in their power to destroy it." Also read: A pizza history | Archaeologists discover painting of pizza's 'ancestor' in ruins of Pompeii Watch this report: × As quoted by Fox News, Brooklyn pizzeria owner Paul Giannone, known as Paulie Gee, said, "I think these regulations are typically come up with by people who don't own businesses." He said, "Part of what makes our pizza cook the way it does is you have to cook with an open flame. When you cook it in a different kind of oven, you won't get the results that will produce a Neapolitan-style pizza. It'll be a dying breed. People just are not going to deal with this anymore." New York has taken steps to tackle pollution as it also became the first state to ban natural gas connections in new buildings. New buildings beginning in 2026 with seven or fewer stories will have to use induction and electric devices. Meanwhile, the larger ones will make the transition in 2029. 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.

New York City plans regulations to reduce pollution from pizza ovens

<p>Daniel Korski, who is a Conservative London mayoral candidate, has been accused by TV producer Daisy Goodwin of groping her in Downing Street a decade ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While writing a column for The Times, the 61-year-old Goodwin alleged that the former No 10 adviser groped her at a meeting in Downing Street in 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She claimed that Korski put his hand on her breast during a meeting at Downing Street. The incident happened when he was a special adviser to David Cameron.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The TV producer said that she met Korski at Downing Street to discuss a possible TV project, but she found his behaviour during the meeting "odd" and also said that "it was not a particularly fruitful discussion".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the column, she wrote: "When we both stood up at the end of the meeting and went to the door, the spad [special adviser] stepped towards me and suddenly put his hand on my breast."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Astonished, I said loudly, 'Are you really touching my breast?' The spad sprang away from me and I left," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Although I suppose legally his action could be called sexual assault, I have to say that I did not feel frightened. I was older, taller and very possibly wiser than the spad, and having worked for the BBC in the eighties I knew how to deal with gropers," she further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-indian-origin-doctor-jailed-for-dark-website-on-child-sexual-abuse-608947">Indian-origin doctor jailed for dark website on child sexual abuse in UK&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Goodwin also wrote that when it happened, what she felt was "surprise and some humiliation". She added that she was a successful award-winning TV producer with 40 or so people working for her, and this was not behaviour that she would have tolerated in her office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Explaining the situation and how she felt, Goodwin wrote, "Could I have misinterpreted his action? I have thought about this a lot, but the answer is always no. He, like some other men in power, must be the sort of man who gets a kick out of surprising women in this way."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Well, Goodwin has spoken about the incident previously also when she first went public in 2017. However, she hadn't revealed any name. She said that she was naming him now because "if this is a pattern of behaviour, then the people of London deserve to know".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prominent-chinese-financial-journalist-banned-from-social-media-for-speaking-about-economic-woes-unemployment-609275">Prominent Chinese financial journalist banned from social media for THIS reason</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Former UK PM Theresa May under pressure over 'socially distanced party' during lockdown&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Korski denied allegations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Korski has made the shortlist to be the Conservative Party's candidate for next year's London mayoral race. As quoted by The Guardian, a spokesperson for the 46-year-old Korski said: "In the strongest possible terms, Dan categorically denies any allegation of inappropriate behaviour whatsoever."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Daniel Korski, who is a Conservative London mayoral candidate, has been accused by TV producer Daisy Goodwin of groping her in Downing Street a decade ago. While writing a column for The Times, the 61-year-old Goodwin alleged that the former No 10 adviser groped her at a meeting in Downing Street in 2013.

Daniel Korski, who is a Conservative London mayoral candidate, has been accused by TV producer Daisy Goodwin of groping her in Downing Street a decade ago. While writing a column for The Times, the 61-year-old Goodwin alleged that the former No 10 adviser groped her at a meeting in Downing Street in 2013. She claimed that Korski put his hand on her breast during a meeting at Downing Street. The incident happened when he was a special adviser to David Cameron. The TV producer said that she met Korski at Downing Street to discuss a possible TV project, but she found his behaviour during the meeting "odd" and also said that "it was not a particularly fruitful discussion". In the column, she wrote: "When we both stood up at the end of the meeting and went to the door, the spad [special adviser] stepped towards me and suddenly put his hand on my breast." "Astonished, I said loudly, 'Are you really touching my breast?' The spad sprang away from me and I left," she added. "Although I suppose legally his action could be called sexual assault, I have to say that I did not feel frightened. I was older, taller and very possibly wiser than the spad, and having worked for the BBC in the eighties I knew how to deal with gropers," she further said. Also read: Indian-origin doctor jailed for dark website on child sexual abuse in UK Goodwin also wrote that when it happened, what she felt was "surprise and some humiliation". She added that she was a successful award-winning TV producer with 40 or so people working for her, and this was not behaviour that she would have tolerated in her office. Explaining the situation and how she felt, Goodwin wrote, "Could I have misinterpreted his action? I have thought about this a lot, but the answer is always no. He, like some other men in power, must be the sort of man who gets a kick out of surprising women in this way." Well, Goodwin has spoken about the incident previously also when she first went public in 2017. However, she hadn't revealed any name. She said that she was naming him now because "if this is a pattern of behaviour, then the people of London deserve to know". Also read: Prominent Chinese financial journalist banned from social media for THIS reason Watch: Former UK PM Theresa May under pressure over 'socially distanced party' during lockdown × Korski denied allegations Korski has made the shortlist to be the Conservative Party's candidate for next year's London mayoral race. As quoted by The Guardian, a spokesperson for the 46-year-old Korski said: "In the strongest possible terms, Dan categorically denies any allegation of inappropriate behaviour whatsoever." (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.

TV producer and writer accuses Tory mayoral candidate of groping her a decade ago

<p>New research has highlighted damning figures as it revealed that an area equivalent to the size of Switzerland was cleared from Earth's rainforests in 2022. The report comes after a number of pledges globally to take definitive steps to end deforestation by 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by the World Resources Institute's (WRI) Global Forest Watch said that a massive chunk of the tropical forest disappeared as forest destruction rose by 10 per cent&nbsp;compared to the previous year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also stated that the rate of loss was equivalent to losing 11 soccer fields of forest per minute, as swaths of tropical forest were cleared for farming, mining and other commercial activities.</p>

<p>The report mentioned that tropical primary forest loss in 2022 totalled 4.1 million hectares. It further added that all this forest loss produced 2.7 gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to India's annual fossil fuel emissions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, Brazil and the Dominican Republic of Congo are the top countries for primary forest loss by area in 2022, and in nations like Ghana and Bolivia, it rapidly increased. On the other hand, countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have managed to keep rates of primary forest loss near record-low levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dolphins-pamper-their-little-ones-with-baby-talk-a-study-tells-how-609366">Dolphins pamper their little ones with ‘baby talk’, a study tells how</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Dire status of the Brazilian Amazon&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to the report, the rate of primary forest loss increased by 15 per cent&nbsp;from 2021 to 2022 in Brazil and the vast majority of primary forest loss happened in the Amazon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that non-fire-related losses reached the highest level since 2005. Such instances in the Brazilian Amazon are most often due to clear-cut deforestation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the last year of Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro's administration, a high rate of primary forest loss occurred, which was an important agenda for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Lula) during the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the election, he even laid out a plan to end illegal deforestation in the Amazon, which was a major campaign pledge that is a critical step in addressing the country's significant carbon emissions from the region.</p>

<p>Just a few days after the election result, Lula and his Environment Minister Marina Silva unveiled the Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Deforestation in the Amazon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some scientists have issued a warning that the Amazon is approaching a critical tipping point that could see the rainforest transform into a grassy savannah. In case it happened, this would cause a massive impact on the world's ability to tackle the climate crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-galactic-clash-unleashes-stellar-gamma-ray-burst-astronomers-witness-collision-609166">Ancient galactic clash unleashes stellar&nbsp;gamma-ray burst: Astronomers witness&nbsp;collision</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why did Sri Lanka halt monkey exports to China?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>All pledges in vain?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At various gatherings of world leaders, such as The Group of Seven (G7), COP26, and more, governments and companies promise to take necessary to put an end to deforestation. Governments have pledged to restore forests, halt deforestation and reverse land degradation numerous times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report stated that these ambitious pledges are not backed by the information needed to monitor and deliver on these promises, which limits accountability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Information is lacking, including basic maps on exactly where restoration is happening. And in the years since these pledges were made, their impact has not been adequately monitored, leaving a lingering question of how much progress is being made," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Rod Taylor, global director of WRI’s Forest Program, said: “We have seen governments and companies make time-bound commitments to end deforestation, restore degraded forest landscapes, and achieve sustainable forest management." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"But rapid deforestation and forest degradation have continued, driven primarily by growing global demand for food, fuel, and fibre. Climate change impacts, including severe fires and new vectors and outbreaks of forest pests and diseases, exacerbate the decline," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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New research has highlighted damning figures as it revealed that an area equivalent to the size of Switzerland was cleared from Earth's rainforests in 2022. The report comes after a number of pledges globally to take definitive steps to end deforestation by 2030.

New research has highlighted damning figures as it revealed that an area equivalent to the size of Switzerland was cleared from Earth's rainforests in 2022. The report comes after a number of pledges globally to take definitive steps to end deforestation by 2030. The report by the World Resources Institute's (WRI) Global Forest Watch said that a massive chunk of the tropical forest disappeared as forest destruction rose by 10 per cent compared to the previous year. The report also stated that the rate of loss was equivalent to losing 11 soccer fields of forest per minute, as swaths of tropical forest were cleared for farming, mining and other commercial activities. The report mentioned that tropical primary forest loss in 2022 totalled 4.1 million hectares. It further added that all this forest loss produced 2.7 gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to India's annual fossil fuel emissions. According to the report, Brazil and the Dominican Republic of Congo are the top countries for primary forest loss by area in 2022, and in nations like Ghana and Bolivia, it rapidly increased. On the other hand, countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have managed to keep rates of primary forest loss near record-low levels. Also read: Dolphins pamper their little ones with ‘baby talk’, a study tells how Dire status of the Brazilian Amazon According to the report, the rate of primary forest loss increased by 15 per cent from 2021 to 2022 in Brazil and the vast majority of primary forest loss happened in the Amazon. The report mentioned that non-fire-related losses reached the highest level since 2005. Such instances in the Brazilian Amazon are most often due to clear-cut deforestation. During the last year of Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro's administration, a high rate of primary forest loss occurred, which was an important agenda for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Lula) during the election. After winning the election, he even laid out a plan to end illegal deforestation in the Amazon, which was a major campaign pledge that is a critical step in addressing the country's significant carbon emissions from the region. Just a few days after the election result, Lula and his Environment Minister Marina Silva unveiled the Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Deforestation in the Amazon. Some scientists have issued a warning that the Amazon is approaching a critical tipping point that could see the rainforest transform into a grassy savannah. In case it happened, this would cause a massive impact on the world's ability to tackle the climate crisis. Also read: Ancient galactic clash unleashes stellar gamma-ray burst: Astronomers witness collision Watch: Why did Sri Lanka halt monkey exports to China? × All pledges in vain? At various gatherings of world leaders, such as The Group of Seven (G7), COP26, and more, governments and companies promise to take necessary to put an end to deforestation. Governments have pledged to restore forests, halt deforestation and reverse land degradation numerous times. The report stated that these ambitious pledges are not backed by the information needed to monitor and deliver on these promises, which limits accountability. "Information is lacking, including basic maps on exactly where restoration is happening. And in the years since these pledges were made, their impact has not been adequately monitored, leaving a lingering question of how much progress is being made," it further added. In a statement, Rod Taylor, global director of WRI’s Forest Program, said: “We have seen governments and companies make time-bound commitments to end deforestation, restore degraded forest landscapes, and achieve sustainable forest management." "But rapid deforestation and forest degradation have continued, driven primarily by growing global demand for food, fuel, and fibre. Climate change impacts, including severe fires and new vectors and outbreaks of forest pests and diseases, exacerbate the decline," he added. 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.

Tropical forest the size of Switzerland was lost in 2022 as deforestation remains a major issue to tackle

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in the United Arab Emirates. With this visit, he is seeking to bolden economic relations with the Emirates nation. Watch to know more.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif arrives in UAE on two-day visit

Amid ongoing political and economical turmoil in the country, the government of Pakistan's Punjab province passed the confidence vote in a chaotic midnight session. Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi managed to win the trust vote after the opposition staged a walkout. Watch to know more.

Pakistan: Punjab CM Parvez Elahi wins trust vote

The CDC has been accused of not warning American citizens about monkeys imported from Cambodia which carried deadly pathogens.

Gravitas: CDC accused of importing infected macaques

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that he will visit Washington on Wednesday, where he will held talks with US President Joe Biden. He is also scheduled to address a joint session of the US Senate and House of Representatives at Capitol Hill.

US President Joe Biden and Ukraine's Zelensky to meet at White House

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: 8 killed and over 17 injured in Russian attacks in Eastern Ukraine

Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukrainian military claims that it has recaptured parts of Donbas region

Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine nuclear plant's last working reactor switched off from the grid

Gravitas Global Headlines: At least 18 dead in bomb blast at one of the biggest Mosques in Afghan

Germany's national carrier Lufthansa on Friday morning cancelled over 800 flights globally and over 700 passengers were left stranded in New Delhi. The flights were cancelled due to a one-day global strike.

Lufthansa cancels over 800 flights globally; 130,000 passengers affected

Gravitas Global Headlines: UN nuclear watchdog team visits Zaporizhzhia plant amid shelling

<p>Leading Rwandan singer Bruce Melodie has been arrested in Burundi on fraud allegations, shortly after arriving in the country to hold concerts, the Burundian interior ministry said Thursday. Uniformed and plainclothes police stopped the musician's car as he made his way from the airport in Burundi's economic capital Bujumbura on Wednesday evening, then put him in handcuffs, witnesses told AFP.</p>

<p>"Bruce Melodie is in custody, under investigation for fraud", the interior ministry said on Twitter, without elaborating.</p>

<p>The arrest of the Rwandan star, who was due to hold two concerts in Burundi on Thursday and Friday, was in connection with the cancellation of performances in 2018 and 2021. The interior ministry had cancelled the concerts at the last minute, first due to a diplomatic crisis between Rwanda and Burundi and the second time because of the Covid-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>"One of (the concert) promoters, Toussaint Niyukuri, filed a complaint with the police and demanded that the Rwandan singer reimburse a deposit of $2,000 which he had paid to him at the time," a relative of the musician told AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/park-eun-bins-extraordinary-attorney-woo-sparks-autism-debate-512262" hreflang="en">Park Eun-bin's 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' sparks autism debate</a></p>

<p>The complainant also asked the singer, whose real name is Itahiwacu Bruce,&nbsp;to pay "a sum which rose from 30 million to 60 million Burundian francs ($14,650 to $29,300) and which, according to him, represent all the costs incurred before the cancellation of these concerts." He added that the singer was "ready to pay some of this money" on the condition that he is released.</p>


Leading Rwandan singer Bruce Melodie has been arrested in Burundi on fraud allegations, shortly after arriving in the country to hold concerts, the Burundian interior ministry said Thursday.

Leading Rwandan singer Bruce Melodie has been arrested in Burundi on fraud allegations, shortly after arriving in the country to hold concerts, the Burundian interior ministry said Thursday. Uniformed and plainclothes police stopped the musician's car as he made his way from the airport in Burundi's economic capital Bujumbura on Wednesday evening, then put him in handcuffs, witnesses told AFP. "Bruce Melodie is in custody, under investigation for fraud", the interior ministry said on Twitter, without elaborating. The arrest of the Rwandan star, who was due to hold two concerts in Burundi on Thursday and Friday, was in connection with the cancellation of performances in 2018 and 2021. The interior ministry had cancelled the concerts at the last minute, first due to a diplomatic crisis between Rwanda and Burundi and the second time because of the Covid-19 pandemic. "One of (the concert) promoters, Toussaint Niyukuri, filed a complaint with the police and demanded that the Rwandan singer reimburse a deposit of $2,000 which he had paid to him at the time," a relative of the musician told AFP on condition of anonymity. Also read: Park Eun-bin's 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' sparks autism debate The complainant also asked the singer, whose real name is Itahiwacu Bruce, to pay "a sum which rose from 30 million to 60 million Burundian francs ($14,650 to $29,300) and which, according to him, represent all the costs incurred before the cancellation of these concerts." He added that the singer was "ready to pay some of this money" on the condition that he is released.

Rwandan singer Melodie arrested in Burundi for fraud

Gravitas Global Headlines: Curfew in Baghdad after Al-Sadr supporters storm Republican Palace

Gravitas Global Headlines: U.S. Senator visits Taiwan | Zaporizhzhia plant reconnected to grid

Gravitas Global Headlines: Macron-Grossi meet to discuss situation at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Gravitas Global Headlines: Israeli PM speaks on Iran Nuclear deal

Gravitas Global Headlines: Taiwan President on Chinese aggression