China has sent military into Shanghai to battle the Wuhan Virus mayhem. Beijing is also orchestrating a change of guard in Hong Kong. Carrie Lam is reportedly being replaced by a rather infamous man. Palki Sharma Upadhyay introduces you to him.

Gravitas: China sends military to Shanghai

A military operation was held in Mali's Sahel amid the ongoing unrest. Army said at least 203 militants were killed in the operation.

Military operation held in Mali's Sahel, Army says at least 203 militants killed

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests.

The Southeast Asian country has been in chaos since a putsch in February 2021, with more than 1,700 people killed in crackdowns on dissent, according to a local monitoring group.

Anti-coup "People's Defence Force" fighters clash regularly with junta troops, while fighting has also flared in border areas with more established ethnic rebel groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoy-says-urged-restraint-from-myanmar-military-discussed-aung-san-suu-kyi-access-465104">ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access</a>

Presiding over the annual parade that showcased tanks, truck-mounted missiles, artillery and troops on horseback, Min Aung Hlaing told some 8,000 assembled security personnel that the army would not let up.

The military will "no longer negotiate... and annihilate until the end" groups fighting to overturn its rule, he said ahead of the Armed Forces Day procession in army-built capital Naypyidaw.

Jets flew overhead trailing the yellow, red and green of the national flag, while state media showed women lining the streets leading to the parade ground to give flowers and place garlands on the marching soldiers.

Meanwhile, anti-coup protesters called on social media for a national "power strike" demonstration on Sunday evening.

Bloodiest Day&nbsp;

Armed Forces Day commemorates the start of local resistance to the Japanese occupation during World War II, and usually features a military parade attended by foreign officers and diplomats.

Last year, as new junta chief Min Aung Hlaing inspected the parade, troops brutalised those protesting the coup that had ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-in-bangladesh-cheer-us-decision-on-myanmar-genocide-465074">Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'</a>

The violence was the bloodiest day so far in the military's crackdown on democracy rallies and left 163 protesters dead, according to a local monitoring group, and sparked widespread international condemnation.

The junta has become increasingly isolated, with Cambodian strongman Hun Sen the only foreign leader to visit since the putsch.

The vice defence minister of Russia -- a major arms supplier and ally -- had been due to attend this year's parade but was unable to because of his "country's affairs", junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun said.

In February a UN expert on Myanmar said Russia -- along with other major ally China -- was continuing to supply the military with weapons, including fighter jets and armoured vehicles.

The United States and Britain on Friday announced new sanctions against Myanmar's army.

The new measures came days after Washington said it has concluded that the country's military committed genocide against the mostly Muslim Rohingya minority.&nbsp;

Since the putsch more than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown on dissent, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests.

Myanmar's junta will "annihilate" coup opponents, army chief Min Aung Hlaing said Sunday as the military staged a show of force on the anniversary of its bloodiest crackdown so far on democracy protests. The Southeast Asian country has been in chaos since a putsch in February 2021, with more than 1,700 people killed in crackdowns on dissent, according to a local monitoring group. Anti-coup "People's Defence Force" fighters clash regularly with junta troops, while fighting has also flared in border areas with more established ethnic rebel groups. Also read | ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access Presiding over the annual parade that showcased tanks, truck-mounted missiles, artillery and troops on horseback, Min Aung Hlaing told some 8,000 assembled security personnel that the army would not let up. The military will "no longer negotiate... and annihilate until the end" groups fighting to overturn its rule, he said ahead of the Armed Forces Day procession in army-built capital Naypyidaw. Jets flew overhead trailing the yellow, red and green of the national flag, while state media showed women lining the streets leading to the parade ground to give flowers and place garlands on the marching soldiers. Meanwhile, anti-coup protesters called on social media for a national "power strike" demonstration on Sunday evening. Bloodiest Day Armed Forces Day commemorates the start of local resistance to the Japanese occupation during World War II, and usually features a military parade attended by foreign officers and diplomats. Last year, as new junta chief Min Aung Hlaing inspected the parade, troops brutalised those protesting the coup that had ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government. Also read | Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide' The violence was the bloodiest day so far in the military's crackdown on democracy rallies and left 163 protesters dead, according to a local monitoring group, and sparked widespread international condemnation. The junta has become increasingly isolated, with Cambodian strongman Hun Sen the only foreign leader to visit since the putsch. The vice defence minister of Russia -- a major arms supplier and ally -- had been due to attend this year's parade but was unable to because of his "country's affairs", junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun said. In February a UN expert on Myanmar said Russia -- along with other major ally China -- was continuing to supply the military with weapons, including fighter jets and armoured vehicles. The United States and Britain on Friday announced new sanctions against Myanmar's army. The new measures came days after Washington said it has concluded that the country's military committed genocide against the mostly Muslim Rohingya minority. Since the putsch more than 1,700 people have been killed in a military crackdown on dissent, according to a local monitoring group. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary

During NATO drills, a US military plane crashed in Norway. Four American Marines have lost their lives in the tragic crash.

US Military plane crashes in Norway during NATO drills, 4 American Marines killed

India's PM Narendra Modi chaired a key security meeting on India's military preparedness. During the meeting, officials briefed PM on Indians that have been evacuated from Ukraine.

India's PM Narendra Modi chairs key security meeting on India's military preparedness

A massive column of Russian military has reached the doorstep of Kyiv and as per the latest reports Russian army has asked the residents living near Kyiv's intelligence infrastructure to evacuate and has announced that it intends to strike.

Massive column of Russian military reaches doorstep of Kyiv

A&nbsp;US&nbsp;warship&nbsp;sailed through the sensitive&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;on Saturday, part of what the&nbsp;US&nbsp;military calls routine activity but which&nbsp;China&nbsp;described as "provocative".

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;Navy's 7th Fleet said the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer&nbsp;USS&nbsp;Ralph Johnson was conducting a "routine" transit through international waters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-taiwan-to-join-democratic-countries-in-sanctions-on-russia-456545">Russia-Ukraine war: Taiwan to join 'democratic countries' in sanctions on Russia</a>

"The ship's transit through the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," 7th Fleet spokesperson Nicholas Lingo said in a statement. "The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows."

The Eastern Theatre Command of&nbsp;China's People's Liberation Army monitored the passage, which a spokesperson in a statement called a "provocative act."

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the ship sailed in a northerly direction through the&nbsp;Strait, that its forces had monitored its passage and observed nothing out of the ordinary.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-chinese-fighter-jets-enter-taiwans-air-defence-zone-456169">Two Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan’s air defence zone</a>

Taiwan&nbsp;is currently in a heightened state of alert due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, nervous that&nbsp;China&nbsp;may try to take advantage of the situation to make a move on the island though the government has reported no unusual Chinese manoeuvres.

Last year,&nbsp;US&nbsp;naval ships transited the&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;roughly monthly. Saturday's&nbsp;sailing&nbsp;was the first since November.

China&nbsp;claims democratically ruled&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory and has mounted repeated air force missions into&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) over the past two years, provoking anger in&nbsp;Taipei.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that on Saturday eight Chinese aircraft, six fighters and two anti-submarine aircraft,&nbsp;flew into its ADIZ, to the northeast of the&nbsp;Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands at the top end of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis

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Beijing calls&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;the most sensitive and important issue in its relations with Washington.

Like most countries, the United States has no formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;but is its most important international backer and arms supplier.

A US warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait on Saturday, part of what the US military calls routine activity but which China described as "provocative".

A US warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait on Saturday, part of what the US military calls routine activity but which China described as "provocative". The US Navy's 7th Fleet said the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson was conducting a "routine" transit through international waters. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Taiwan to join 'democratic countries' in sanctions on Russia "The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," 7th Fleet spokesperson Nicholas Lingo said in a statement. "The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows." The Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army monitored the passage, which a spokesperson in a statement called a "provocative act." Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the ship sailed in a northerly direction through the Strait, that its forces had monitored its passage and observed nothing out of the ordinary. Also read | Two Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan’s air defence zone Taiwan is currently in a heightened state of alert due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, nervous that China may try to take advantage of the situation to make a move on the island though the government has reported no unusual Chinese manoeuvres. Last year, US naval ships transited the Strait roughly monthly. Saturday's sailing was the first since November. China claims democratically ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has mounted repeated air force missions into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) over the past two years, provoking anger in Taipei. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that on Saturday eight Chinese aircraft, six fighters and two anti-submarine aircraft, flew into its ADIZ, to the northeast of the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands at the top end of the South China Sea. Watch | Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis Beijing calls Taiwan the most sensitive and important issue in its relations with Washington. Like most countries, the United States has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan but is its most important international backer and arms supplier.

China says US warship sailing in Taiwan Strait 'provocative'

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has led diplomatic efforts to end the chaos unleashed by last year's putsch in Myanmar, which triggered mass protests and a deadly crackdown on dissent.

Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn, its new special envoy to the country, told a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers he planned to visit in March and meet with top junta officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-says-wont-attend-asean-summit-after-regrettable-snub-453331">Myanmar junta says won't attend ASEAN summit after 'regrettable' snub</a>

He added a request to be allowed to meet with members of a&nbsp;"National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from Aung San Suu Kyi's ousted party that is working to overthrow the junta.

"If Naypyidaw is not speaking with the NUG... let the special envoy be the bridge," he said, referring to Myanmar's capital.

The junta has declared the NUG "terrorists" and jailed several high-ranking members of Suu Kyi's party.

Most NUG members are in exile or in hiding and Prak Sokhonn gave no details on where or when any future meeting might take place, or whether he had discussed his plans with the junta.&nbsp;

The junta did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-defector-recounts-heavy-losses-inflicted-by-chin-rebels-452562">Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels</a>

Myanmar's top diplomat was barred from Thursday's meeting in Phnom Penh over a lack of progress in defusing violence, although Prak Sokhonn said junta representatives had been allowed to listen in on discussions.

More than 1,500 people have been killed and over 12,000 arrested in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup.

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has led diplomatic efforts to end the chaos unleashed by last year's putsch in Myanmar, which triggered mass protests and a deadly crackdown on dissent. Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn, its new special envoy to the country, told a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers he planned to visit in March and meet with top junta officials. Also read | Myanmar junta says won't attend ASEAN summit after 'regrettable' snub He added a request to be allowed to meet with members of a "National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from Aung San Suu Kyi's ousted party that is working to overthrow the junta. "If Naypyidaw is not speaking with the NUG... let the special envoy be the bridge," he said, referring to Myanmar's capital. The junta has declared the NUG "terrorists" and jailed several high-ranking members of Suu Kyi's party. Most NUG members are in exile or in hiding and Prak Sokhonn gave no details on where or when any future meeting might take place, or whether he had discussed his plans with the junta. The junta did not respond to a request for comment. Also read | Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels Myanmar's top diplomat was barred from Thursday's meeting in Phnom Penh over a lack of progress in defusing violence, although Prak Sokhonn said junta representatives had been allowed to listen in on discussions. More than 1,500 people have been killed and over 12,000 arrested in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents

Russia&nbsp;announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies.

"Units of the southern military district that ended tactical exercises at training grounds on the Crimean peninsula are returning by rail to their permanent bases," the defence ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-hit-by-cyberattack-after-some-russian-troops-pullback-453614">Ukraine hit by cyberattack after some Russian troops pull back</a>

The United States on Wednesday dismissed reports that Russia was withdrawing troops from Ukraine's border, instead accusing Moscow of sending more soldiers as fears of an invasion grow.

State-run television showed columns of military hardware crossing a recently-constructed bridge connecting the peninsula to the Russian mainland.

Thursday's announcement is the latest reported drawdown of a Russian military force estimated by the West to be more than 100,000 troops, which Washington had said could be preparing to invade.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia conflict: Wednesday the day of attack?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-conflict-wednesday-the-day-of-attack-453590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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NATO, the United States and European leaders have denied, however, that there is any meaningful pullback of Russian troops and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow's military personnel were actually rotating.

Russia took control of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and threw its weight behind pro-Moscow separatists in fighting that broke out that year and has claimed more than 14,000 lives.
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&nbsp;

Russia announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies.

Russia announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies. "Units of the southern military district that ended tactical exercises at training grounds on the Crimean peninsula are returning by rail to their permanent bases," the defence ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Also read | Ukraine hit by cyberattack after some Russian troops pull back The United States on Wednesday dismissed reports that Russia was withdrawing troops from Ukraine's border, instead accusing Moscow of sending more soldiers as fears of an invasion grow. State-run television showed columns of military hardware crossing a recently-constructed bridge connecting the peninsula to the Russian mainland. Thursday's announcement is the latest reported drawdown of a Russian military force estimated by the West to be more than 100,000 troops, which Washington had said could be preparing to invade. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia conflict: Wednesday the day of attack? NATO, the United States and European leaders have denied, however, that there is any meaningful pullback of Russian troops and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow's military personnel were actually rotating. Russia took control of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and threw its weight behind pro-Moscow separatists in fighting that broke out that year and has claimed more than 14,000 lives.

Russia announces new military withdrawal from Crimea

Kuwaiti&nbsp;women&nbsp;are angry after the military, having allowed female soldiers in&nbsp;combat&nbsp;roles, decided they need the permission of a male guardian and banned them from carrying weapons.

Activists have decried the policy as "one step forward, two steps back" after the defence ministry also decided that&nbsp;women&nbsp;in the armed forces, unlike civilians, must wear head coverings.

The moves have sparked an online backlash in&nbsp;Kuwait, usually regarded as one of the most open societies in the Gulf.

"I don't know why there are these restrictions to join the&nbsp;army," Ghadeer al-Khashti, a sports teacher and member of&nbsp;Kuwait&nbsp;Football Association's&nbsp;women&nbsp;committee, told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-kuwaiti-women-can-now-serve-military-in-combat-roles-420270">In a first, Kuwaiti women can now serve military in combat roles</a>

"We have all kinds of&nbsp;women&nbsp;working in all fields, including the police force."

She said her mother had helped the resistance when Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 1990 invaded&nbsp;Kuwait&nbsp;and occupied it for seven months before being pushed out by a US-led international coalition.

"My mum during the Iraqi invasion used to hide weapons under her abaya and transport them to members of&nbsp;Kuwait's resistance, and my father encouraged it," said Khashti.

"I don't understand on what basis they see&nbsp;women&nbsp;as weak."

The ministry decided in October to allow&nbsp;women&nbsp;in&nbsp;combat&nbsp;roles&nbsp;but then imposed the restrictions after the defence minister was questioned by conservative lawmaker Hamdan al-Azmi.

Azmi, emboldened by an Islamic religious edict, or fatwa, had argued that having&nbsp;women&nbsp;in&nbsp;combat&nbsp;roles&nbsp;"does not fit with a woman's nature".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/arab-states-stress-womens-rights-to-taliban-in-aid-talks-453328">&nbsp;Arab states stress women's rights to Taliban in aid talks</a>

&nbsp;'Women&nbsp;martyrs'&nbsp;

Lulwa Saleh al-Mulla, head of the Kuwaiti&nbsp;Women's Cultural and Social Society, said the ministry's restrictions are discriminatory and unconstitutional and vowed legal action by the organisation.

"We have&nbsp;women&nbsp;martyrs who defended their country of their own volition," she told AFP. "No one ordered them to do that but the love for their country.

"We are a Muslim country, that is true, but we demand the laws not be subject to fatwas. Personal freedom is guaranteed in the constitution, on which the country's laws are based."

Kuwaiti&nbsp;women&nbsp;earned the right to vote in 2005 and have been active both in cabinet and parliament, though they are poorly represented in both.

Unlike most Gulf countries,&nbsp;Kuwait&nbsp;is known to have an active political scene, with MPs regularly challenging the authorities.

Earlier this month, dozens of Kuwaiti&nbsp;women&nbsp;staged a protest against the suspension of a&nbsp;women's yoga retreat deemed "indecent" by conservatives.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kuwait: No women in women's committee

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One of them was Azmi who, in Twitter posts, denounced the retreat as "dangerous" and "alien to our conservative society".

Women&nbsp;protesters carried placards denouncing the "exploitation of&nbsp;women's issues" in politics, as well as the "regime of fatwas" and "guardianship of&nbsp;women".

The debate about the&nbsp;army's new rules for&nbsp;women&nbsp;has taken an irrational turn, said Ibtihal al-Khatib, an English-language professor&nbsp;at&nbsp;Kuwait&nbsp;University.

"The&nbsp;army&nbsp;needs to integrate both&nbsp;women&nbsp;and men&nbsp;without&nbsp;discrimination," the feminist academic told AFP.

"Danger does not differentiate between men and&nbsp;women, and neither does death during&nbsp;battle."

Kuwaiti women are angry after the military, having allowed female soldiers in combat roles, decided they need the permission of a male guardian and banned them from carrying weapons.

Kuwaiti women are angry after the military, having allowed female soldiers in combat roles, decided they need the permission of a male guardian and banned them from carrying weapons. Activists have decried the policy as "one step forward, two steps back" after the defence ministry also decided that women in the armed forces, unlike civilians, must wear head coverings. The moves have sparked an online backlash in Kuwait, usually regarded as one of the most open societies in the Gulf. "I don't know why there are these restrictions to join the army," Ghadeer al-Khashti, a sports teacher and member of Kuwait Football Association's women committee, told AFP. Also read | In a first, Kuwaiti women can now serve military in combat roles "We have all kinds of women working in all fields, including the police force." She said her mother had helped the resistance when Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 1990 invaded Kuwait and occupied it for seven months before being pushed out by a US-led international coalition. "My mum during the Iraqi invasion used to hide weapons under her abaya and transport them to members of Kuwait's resistance, and my father encouraged it," said Khashti. "I don't understand on what basis they see women as weak." The ministry decided in October to allow women in combat roles but then imposed the restrictions after the defence minister was questioned by conservative lawmaker Hamdan al-Azmi. Azmi, emboldened by an Islamic religious edict, or fatwa, had argued that having women in combat roles "does not fit with a woman's nature". Also read | Arab states stress women's rights to Taliban in aid talks 'Women martyrs' Lulwa Saleh al-Mulla, head of the Kuwaiti Women's Cultural and Social Society, said the ministry's restrictions are discriminatory and unconstitutional and vowed legal action by the organisation. "We have women martyrs who defended their country of their own volition," she told AFP. "No one ordered them to do that but the love for their country. "We are a Muslim country, that is true, but we demand the laws not be subject to fatwas. Personal freedom is guaranteed in the constitution, on which the country's laws are based." Kuwaiti women earned the right to vote in 2005 and have been active both in cabinet and parliament, though they are poorly represented in both. Unlike most Gulf countries, Kuwait is known to have an active political scene, with MPs regularly challenging the authorities. Earlier this month, dozens of Kuwaiti women staged a protest against the suspension of a women's yoga retreat deemed "indecent" by conservatives. Watch | Gravitas: Kuwait: No women in women's committee One of them was Azmi who, in Twitter posts, denounced the retreat as "dangerous" and "alien to our conservative society". Women protesters carried placards denouncing the "exploitation of women's issues" in politics, as well as the "regime of fatwas" and "guardianship of women". The debate about the army's new rules for women has taken an irrational turn, said Ibtihal al-Khatib, an English-language professor at Kuwait University. "The army needs to integrate both women and men without discrimination," the feminist academic told AFP. "Danger does not differentiate between men and women, and neither does death during battle."

'One step forward, two steps back': Kuwait army allows women in combat roles, but without guns

How do Russia & Ukraine compare militarily? Which side are the odds stacked against? Who will have the edge in case of a war? Palki Sharma gets you a head-to-head military comparison.

Gravitas: Ukraine Vs Russia: Comparing the Military capabilities

For several months now since November, the leaders of the west, Russia, and indeed the United States have been engaged in an escalating war of words. The political shadow boxing has been over a possible Russian incursion into Ukraine, in the aftermath of Russia having amassed almost over a hundred thousand troops along the borders with eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine Conflict: First US reinforcement troops for EU arrive in Germany

Thousands of truckers gathered in Canadian capital Ottawa to protest against Justin Trudaeu's vaccine mandate.

Canada: Military on standby in Ottawa as trucker protest continues

Five days after the military takeover in Burkina Faso, West Africa's main regional block, the ECOWAS has suspended Burkina Faso from its governing bodies.

ECOWAS suspends Burkina Faso from its governing bodies amid military takeover

France and its European partners are pushing to adapt the Mali mission as ties with the military fray further. This comes after the military expelled the contingent of Danish troops.

France & its European partners are pushing to adapt the Mali mission as ties with the military fray

Ukraine&nbsp;on Monday launched joint military exercises with the United States and other NATO countries as tensions with Russia remain high over the Kremlin-backed insurgency in the country's east.

The annual Rapid Trident military exercises, taking place in western Ukrainian until October 1, involve some 6,000 soldiers from 15 countries,&nbsp;Ukraine's defence ministry said in a statement.

The head of the exercises, Brigadier General Vladyslav Klochkov, said the drills were "an important step towards&nbsp;Ukraine's European integration".

"The Ukrainian military, which has been holding back Russian aggression for eight years, will share its unique combat experience with its international colleagues," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-starts-deporting-haitian-migrants-from-texas-414316">Also read |&nbsp;US starts deporting Haitian migrants from Texas</a>

The drills start a week after Russia and Belarus held military exercises involving 200,000 personnel, one of their biggest drills in recent years.

More than 13,000 people have been killed since the rebel insurgency broke out in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions in April 2014 following Russia's annexation of Crimea from&nbsp;Ukraine.

At least 54 Ukrainian troops have been killed since the start of the year, compared with a total of 50 the previous year. The separatists say they have lost more than 30 fighters since the start of the year.

Ukraine&nbsp;and its Western allies accuse Russia of sending troops and arms to support the separatists, which Moscow denies.

In April, Russia amassed around 100,000 troops on&nbsp;Ukraine's borders, raising fears of a major escalation in the protracted conflict. Moscow later announced a pullback.

Ukraine on Monday launched joint military exercises with the United States and other NATO countries as tensions with Russia remain high over the Kremlin-backed insurgency in the country's east.

Ukraine on Monday launched joint military exercises with the United States and other NATO countries as tensions with Russia remain high over the Kremlin-backed insurgency in the country's east. The annual Rapid Trident military exercises, taking place in western Ukrainian until October 1, involve some 6,000 soldiers from 15 countries, Ukraine's defence ministry said in a statement. The head of the exercises, Brigadier General Vladyslav Klochkov, said the drills were "an important step towards Ukraine's European integration". "The Ukrainian military, which has been holding back Russian aggression for eight years, will share its unique combat experience with its international colleagues," he added. Also read | US starts deporting Haitian migrants from Texas The drills start a week after Russia and Belarus held military exercises involving 200,000 personnel, one of their biggest drills in recent years. More than 13,000 people have been killed since the rebel insurgency broke out in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions in April 2014 following Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. At least 54 Ukrainian troops have been killed since the start of the year, compared with a total of 50 the previous year. The separatists say they have lost more than 30 fighters since the start of the year. Ukraine and its Western allies accuse Russia of sending troops and arms to support the separatists, which Moscow denies. In April, Russia amassed around 100,000 troops on Ukraine's borders, raising fears of a major escalation in the protracted conflict. Moscow later announced a pullback.

Ukraine launches military drills with NATO

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament.

They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." 
 
Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced&nbsp;that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked.

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The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coup-or-mutiny-burkina-faso-on-the-boil-heres-what-is-happening-447146#why-is-burkina-fasos-army-mutinying-447134">Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening</a>

The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place.

The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-unrest-blood-stained-bullet-riddled-vehicles-of-president-seen-near-his-residence-447194">Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence</a> 
 
The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. 
Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time.

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked. × The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency. Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place. The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation. Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Burkina Faso soldiers announce military takeover on state TV

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability.&nbsp;

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzan said that the first of the 32 S-70i Black Hawks will begin to arrive next year. It will come from a Polish firm owned by US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. "The lack of transport planes and helicopters have never been more acute during the pandemic and in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette," he said.&nbsp;

Typhoon Odette is the local name of Typhoon Rai. "This was exacerbated by our ageing Hueys that have become uneconomical to maintain," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fight-between-military-and-rebels-intensifies-as-hundreds-of-monks-flee-myanmar-report-445219">Also read |&nbsp;Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report</a>

Typhoon Rai was a super typhoon that killed over 400 people and caused large scale devastation.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands fled their homes and beachfront resorts as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the archipelago, knocking out communications and electricity in many areas, ripping off roofs and toppling concrete power poles.

Earlier last year, the government completed an order of 16 S-70i Black Hawks. This was done to replace the air force's fleet of Bell UH-1H helicopters after fatal accidents. The entire Black Hawk fleet was grounded in June following a crash during a night-time training flight.

An investigation found it "inadvertently entered a thunderstorm" and the pilot suffered "spatial disorientation or vertigo".

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability.

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzan said that the first of the 32 S-70i Black Hawks will begin to arrive next year. It will come from a Polish firm owned by US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. "The lack of transport planes and helicopters have never been more acute during the pandemic and in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette," he said. Typhoon Odette is the local name of Typhoon Rai. "This was exacerbated by our ageing Hueys that have become uneconomical to maintain," he added. Also read | Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report Typhoon Rai was a super typhoon that killed over 400 people and caused large scale devastation. Hundreds of thousands fled their homes and beachfront resorts as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the archipelago, knocking out communications and electricity in many areas, ripping off roofs and toppling concrete power poles. Earlier last year, the government completed an order of 16 S-70i Black Hawks. This was done to replace the air force's fleet of Bell UH-1H helicopters after fatal accidents. The entire Black Hawk fleet was grounded in June following a crash during a night-time training flight. An investigation found it "inadvertently entered a thunderstorm" and the pilot suffered "spatial disorientation or vertigo". (With inputs from agencies)

To upgrade its military, Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters

According to reports, 163 members of the US military have committed suicide in the third quarter of 2021 which represents a greater total than the number of service members who have died from the COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

Reports: US soldiers dying more of suicide than COVID-19

The Sudanese capital of Khartoum witnessed a fresh wave of violence after security forces killed three protesters during the latest anti-coup demonstrations. According to reports Sudanese forces shot dead three protesters as thousands of people took to the streets of Khartoum and other cities to denounce the military rule.

UNSC meeting on Sudan on 12th January amid unrest over military rule

It has been 11 months since the military in Myanmar ceased control of the country. The Myanmar military is now resorting to a strategy of massacres and scorched earth tactics like burning of villages as weapons of war.

Myanmar military resorting to a strategy of massacres & scorched earth tactics as it burns villages

The Israeli military has launched missile strikes against targets in the Gaza strip. A video coming in from the region shows three huge explosions as Israeli fighter jets were heard flying over the area.

The Israeli military has launched missile strikes against targets in the Gaza strip

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. &nbsp;

After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Three huge explosions could be seen and sounds of fighter jets could be heard in a video filmed in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-closes-ports-to-russian-ships-says-russian-media-441661" hreflang="en">Ukraine closes ports to Russian ships, says Russian media</a>

No immediate confirmation has been given on the casualties. &nbsp;

According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory. &nbsp;

The airstrikes come in retaliation after two rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday. They had landed in the Mediterranean Sea off central Israel. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-thousands-mark-2020-killing-of-iran-general-qassem-soleimani-441653" hreflang="en">Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani</a>

As the militant groups in Gaza often test-fire missiles towards the sea, it may be unclear whether the rockets looked to hit Israel or not. &nbsp;

Till now, there were no reports of any casualty or damage from the Saturday's rocket fire. &nbsp;

In Gaza, Palestinian militants shot and injured an Israeli civilian near security fence on Wednesday. Later, Israel gave a reply in tank fire targeting several Hamas sites. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday.

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. Three huge explosions could be seen and sounds of fighter jets could be heard in a video filmed in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. Also Read: Ukraine closes ports to Russian ships, says Russian media No immediate confirmation has been given on the casualties. According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory. The airstrikes come in retaliation after two rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday. They had landed in the Mediterranean Sea off central Israel. Also Read: Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani As the militant groups in Gaza often test-fire missiles towards the sea, it may be unclear whether the rockets looked to hit Israel or not. Till now, there were no reports of any casualty or damage from the Saturday's rocket fire. In Gaza, Palestinian militants shot and injured an Israeli civilian near security fence on Wednesday. Later, Israel gave a reply in tank fire targeting several Hamas sites. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with exchange of rocket fire

Hundreds of people marched on the streets of Sudan's capital Khartoum. They're demanding a transition into civilian rule, and this has come despite the high-security deployment.

Sudan: Protesters march to Presidential palace to demand a transition into the civilian rule

More than 30 people, including children, have been killed and their bodies burned in Myanmar’s conflict-torn Kayah state, according to a local resident, media reports and a local human rights group.

More than 30 people, including women & children killed in Myanmar's Kayah state

Russia has announced that more than 10,000 of its troops that had stationed along the border with Ukraine have finished their month-long drills near Ukraine and are now returning to their permanent base.

More than 10,000 Russian troops finish month-long drills near Ukraine

Russia: Month-long military drills concluded near Ukraine

Taiwan holds anti-invasion drills amid invasion fears from China which claims sovereignty over the island nation. China may also deploy troops near the Taiwan border.

Taiwan holds military drills amid China invasion fears

Since the Junta takeover in Myanmar, several pro-democracy protestors have been killed. Civilians in deep forest areas are now learning how to fire weapons in a makeshift camp.

Myanmar: Civilians learning how to fire weapons in a makeshift camp in deep forest against Military

The citizens of the United States seem to have been continuously losing confidence in the military, a new survey published recently said. &nbsp;

There is a need to conduct more research to understand the reasons for the development. &nbsp;

Since its launch in 2018, the Reagan Institute’s national defence survey, for a third year in a row, found the confidence in the military to be declining regularly. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-eyes-military-base-on-africas-atlantic-coast-us-looks-to-dump-idea-say-reports-434751">As China eyes military base on Atlantic Ocean, US looks to dump idea: Reports</a>

Around 2,500 respondents belonging to different gender, age, political and other demographics were included in the survey. &nbsp;

In it, there were questions about confidence in Supreme Court, law enforcement, media, Congress, presidency and other institutions as well. &nbsp;

From 2019, the confidence began to fell in the military. It fell from 70% to 63% in 2019 and then down to 56% earlier this year. In nine months, it dropped to 45%. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-more-troops-to-eastern-europe-if-putin-invades-ukraine-434750">US to send more troops to Eastern Europe, if Putin invades Ukraine</a>

Rachel Hoff, the Reagan Institute’s policy director, said, “... we’ve tested over the last three years a number of public institutions and institutional trust is declining overall in American society.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

“That’s perhaps not surprising, but the way that the military is falling so much more quickly than the other institutions, we think is notable, particularly in the light of the real understanding that the American people have about the national security threats we face,” added Hoff. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The citizens of the United States seem to have been continuously losing confidence in the military, a new survey published recently said. There is a need to conduct more research to understand the reasons for the development.

The citizens of the United States seem to have been continuously losing confidence in the military, a new survey published recently said. There is a need to conduct more research to understand the reasons for the development. Since its launch in 2018, the Reagan Institute’s national defence survey, for a third year in a row, found the confidence in the military to be declining regularly. Also Read | As China eyes military base on Atlantic Ocean, US looks to dump idea: Reports Around 2,500 respondents belonging to different gender, age, political and other demographics were included in the survey. In it, there were questions about confidence in Supreme Court, law enforcement, media, Congress, presidency and other institutions as well. From 2019, the confidence began to fell in the military. It fell from 70% to 63% in 2019 and then down to 56% earlier this year. In nine months, it dropped to 45%. Also Read: US to send more troops to Eastern Europe, if Putin invades Ukraine Rachel Hoff, the Reagan Institute’s policy director, said, “... we’ve tested over the last three years a number of public institutions and institutional trust is declining overall in American society.” “That’s perhaps not surprising, but the way that the military is falling so much more quickly than the other institutions, we think is notable, particularly in the light of the real understanding that the American people have about the national security threats we face,” added Hoff. (With inputs from agencies)

US citizens continuously losing confidence in military, says new survey

In Pics | With punk, torches and hymn, German military bids farewell to Angela Merkel at 'Grand Tattoo'

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