In the first sign of a break in a long-running dispute in the United Kingdom, nurses will pause their planned strike actions to enter "intensive talks" with the government on pay and working conditions, both sides said on Tuesday.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and the government said that the first talks would start on Wednesday (Feb 22) after health minister Steve Barclay meets medical representatives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nhs-stages-biggest-ever-industrial-strike-calls-on-sunak-to-intervene-559070">Also read |&nbsp;NHS stages biggest-ever industrial strike, calls on Sunak to intervene</a>

The statement read, "both sides are committed to finding a fair and reasonable settlement that recognises the vital role that nurses and nursing play in the National Health Service and the wider economic pressures facing the United Kingdom."

The government mentioned that it had also invited teaching unions for formal talks on pay, conditions and reforms, on the "condition that upcoming strikes were cancelled."

Responding to the letter, education union secretary Kevin Courtney said there was nothing for them to call off the strikes and added that their decision might change after the national executive meeting on Saturday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK faces largest ever healthcare strikes

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-faces-largest-ever-healthcare-strikes-559328/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

RCN General Secretary Pat Cullen told Sky News, "we will put our plans on the table, they can put their plans on the table, but I'm confident that we will come out with a fair pay settlement for our nursing staff."

The European country has been experiencing several demonstrations involving hundreds of medical officials, pressuring Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the government to raise their pay.

The RCN held a series of two-day strikes in the UK in December, January and earlier this month.

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In the first sign of a break in a long-running dispute in the United Kingdom, nurses will pause their planned strike actions to enter "intensive talks" with the government on pay and working conditions, both sides said on Tuesday.

In the first sign of a break in a long-running dispute in the United Kingdom, nurses will pause their planned strike actions to enter "intensive talks" with the government on pay and working conditions, both sides said on Tuesday. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and the government said that the first talks would start on Wednesday (Feb 22) after health minister Steve Barclay meets medical representatives. Also read | NHS stages biggest-ever industrial strike, calls on Sunak to intervene The statement read, "both sides are committed to finding a fair and reasonable settlement that recognises the vital role that nurses and nursing play in the National Health Service and the wider economic pressures facing the United Kingdom." The government mentioned that it had also invited teaching unions for formal talks on pay, conditions and reforms, on the "condition that upcoming strikes were cancelled." Responding to the letter, education union secretary Kevin Courtney said there was nothing for them to call off the strikes and added that their decision might change after the national executive meeting on Saturday. Watch | UK faces largest ever healthcare strikes RCN General Secretary Pat Cullen told Sky News, "we will put our plans on the table, they can put their plans on the table, but I'm confident that we will come out with a fair pay settlement for our nursing staff." The European country has been experiencing several demonstrations involving hundreds of medical officials, pressuring Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the government to raise their pay. The RCN held a series of two-day strikes in the UK in December, January and earlier this month. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK: Nurses to pause strikes to enter 'intensive' pay talks with Sunak government

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday delivered his speech in Warsaw, Poland ahead of&nbsp;the first anniversary of Russia's invasion. He said that support for Ukraine "will not waver." His address comes a day after his first visit to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power," Biden said at the end of his statement. After his speech was over, the White House clarified his statement saying that his initial point was that Putin should not be allowed to exercise powers over his neighbouring regions, Boston Globe reported.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Join me as I deliver remarks ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/5oU0E5T3aS">https://t.co/5oU0E5T3aS</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1628072009241591808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Reactions to Biden's speech in Warsaw have been mixed, some have called his words empty while&nbsp;others have praised his forcefulness and called his speech powerful.

Ted Lieu on Twitter said, "President Biden’s speech in Warsaw was magnificent. I watched the end several times. @POTUS wanted to say, and did say, about Putin that: “this man cannot remain in power.” And he added “For God’s sake” for emphasis. This is the right thing to do: negotiate from strength."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
President Biden’s speech in Warsaw was magnificent. I watched the end several times. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> wanted to say, and did say, about Putin that: “this man cannot remain in power.” And he added “For God’s sake” for emphasis. This is the right thing to do: negotiate from strength. <a href="https://t.co/GwND4pegfF">https://t.co/GwND4pegfF</a>
— Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) <a href="https://twitter.com/tedlieu/status/1507788656781651968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Larry Sabato, a renowned author on Twitter said, "Watching #Biden Warsaw speech. Reminds me of JFK’s “Ich bin ein Berliner” (1963) and Reagan’s “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” (1987). Masterful. Now give #Zelenskyy more of everything. #StandWithUkraine."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Watching <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Biden?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Biden</a> Warsaw speech. Reminds me of JFK’s “Ich bin ein Berliner” (1963) and Reagan’s “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” (1987). Masterful. Now give <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zelenskyy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zelenskyy</a> more of everything. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a>
— Larry Sabato (@LarrySabato) <a href="https://twitter.com/LarrySabato/status/1507773634655526914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This speech is so deeply moving for anyone who loves freedom, Western democracy, and America’s role in guaranteeing liberty across the globe. The most important speech President Biden will give🇺🇸
— Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeNBC/status/1507775966730407940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On the other hand, some were not convinced by what the US president said.&nbsp;

On Twitter, Inna Sovsun, a member of Ukraine's Parliament said, "I did not hear a single word from @POTUS that would make me, as #Ukrainian feel reassured that the West will help us more than doing right now (which is not enough)."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I'll be blunt. 
 
I did not hear a single word from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> that would make me, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> feel reassured that the West will help us more than doing right now (which is not enough). 
 
I am happy he reassured Poland, but the bombs are exploding in Kyiv, and Kharkiv, not in Warsaw
— Inna Sovsun (@InnaSovsun) <a href="https://twitter.com/InnaSovsun/status/1507777376259825671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
What a joke. We shouldn’t be involved in this and he shouldn’t be there. But he has to make a speech to get his 10%
— Miles Payne (@MilesOfPayne) <a href="https://twitter.com/MilesOfPayne/status/1628074662516391937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Say what you want. You’ve done little or nothing to stop this war. 
 
Ukraine deserves better. 
 
No more war. End all invasion wars for good.
— Llana Grossman (@Llana) <a href="https://twitter.com/Llana/status/1628073219495460864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday delivered his speech in Warsaw, Poland ahead of the first anniversary of Russia's invasion. He said that support for Ukraine "will not waver.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday delivered his speech in Warsaw, Poland ahead of the first anniversary of Russia's invasion. He said that support for Ukraine "will not waver." His address comes a day after his first visit to Ukraine. "For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power," Biden said at the end of his statement. After his speech was over, the White House clarified his statement saying that his initial point was that Putin should not be allowed to exercise powers over his neighbouring regions, Boston Globe reported. Join me as I deliver remarks ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. https://t.co/5oU0E5T3aS — President Biden (@POTUS) February 21, 2023 × Reactions to Biden's speech in Warsaw have been mixed, some have called his words empty while others have praised his forcefulness and called his speech powerful. Ted Lieu on Twitter said, "President Biden’s speech in Warsaw was magnificent. I watched the end several times. @POTUS wanted to say, and did say, about Putin that: “this man cannot remain in power.” And he added “For God’s sake” for emphasis. This is the right thing to do: negotiate from strength." President Biden’s speech in Warsaw was magnificent. I watched the end several times. @POTUS wanted to say, and did say, about Putin that: “this man cannot remain in power.” And he added “For God’s sake” for emphasis. This is the right thing to do: negotiate from strength. https://t.co/GwND4pegfF — Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) March 26, 2022 × Larry Sabato, a renowned author on Twitter said, "Watching #Biden Warsaw speech. Reminds me of JFK’s “Ich bin ein Berliner” (1963) and Reagan’s “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” (1987). Masterful. Now give #Zelenskyy more of everything. #StandWithUkraine." Watching #Biden Warsaw speech. Reminds me of JFK’s “Ich bin ein Berliner” (1963) and Reagan’s “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” (1987). Masterful. Now give #Zelenskyy more of everything. #StandWithUkraine — Larry Sabato (@LarrySabato) March 26, 2022 × This speech is so deeply moving for anyone who loves freedom, Western democracy, and America’s role in guaranteeing liberty across the globe. The most important speech President Biden will give🇺🇸 — Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) March 26, 2022 × On the other hand, some were not convinced by what the US president said. On Twitter, Inna Sovsun, a member of Ukraine's Parliament said, "I did not hear a single word from @POTUS that would make me, as #Ukrainian feel reassured that the West will help us more than doing right now (which is not enough)." I'll be blunt. I did not hear a single word from @POTUS that would make me, as #Ukrainian feel reassured that the West will help us more than doing right now (which is not enough). I am happy he reassured Poland, but the bombs are exploding in Kyiv, and Kharkiv, not in Warsaw — Inna Sovsun (@InnaSovsun) March 26, 2022 × What a joke. We shouldn’t be involved in this and he shouldn’t be there. But he has to make a speech to get his 10% — Miles Payne (@MilesOfPayne) February 21, 2023 × Say what you want. You’ve done little or nothing to stop this war. Ukraine deserves better. No more war. End all invasion wars for good. — Llana Grossman (@Llana) February 21, 2023 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US President Joe Biden's Warsaw speech receives mixed reactions

A US jury has convicted Mexico's former security minister Genaro Garcia Luna of drug trafficking. The verdict comes after a four-week trial and three days of jury deliberation. Prosecutors claimed that the&nbsp;former Mexican head had accepted millions of dollars stuffed in briefcases by Mexico's biggest crime group, the Sinaloa drug cartel.

The US Department of Justice said that Luna could face life in prison or will serve the mandatory minimum jail term of 20 years, BBC reported.

The former minister was said to have widely shared information with the Sinaloa drug cartel about rivals and warned the group about law enforcement&nbsp;operations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-to-consider-jailed-drug-kingpin-el-chapos-request-to-return-from-us-554098">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico to consider jailed drug kingpin El Chapo's request to return from US</a>

The 54-year-old minister was detained in Texas in 2019, where he pleaded not guilty and&nbsp;repeatedly&nbsp;denied all allegations. He also denied to testify at the trial, but his wife Linda Cristina Pereyra took the stand and tried to downplay their finances and lifestyle.&nbsp;

His&nbsp;case of drug trafficking came to light during a trial against Guzman who was sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years&nbsp;in 2019.&nbsp;

Jesus Ramirez Cuevas, a spokesperson for the current Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador praised this decision and took aim at the former Mexican President Felipe Calderon. His tweet read, "the crimes against our people will never be forgotten."

<img alt="Jesus Ramirez Cuevas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec79f6a7-f544-421d-9088-9c7e08587d11" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-22%20053010.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-discusses-illegal-migration-and-drugs-with-mexican-president-lopez-obrador-550875">Also read |&nbsp;Biden discusses illegal migration and drugs with Mexican President Lopez Obrador</a>

Mexico-based expert, Ioan Grillo told BBC that this conviction can have big implications for both the US and Mexican government's fight against corruption and crime.&nbsp;

He added that this can encourage prosecutors to go after other cases. "They took a certain risk by not having physical evidence and convicting him on testimony from drug traffickers."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A US jury has convicted Mexico's former security minister Genaro Garcia Luna of drug trafficking. The verdict comes after a four-week trial and three days of jury deliberation.

A US jury has convicted Mexico's former security minister Genaro Garcia Luna of drug trafficking. The verdict comes after a four-week trial and three days of jury deliberation. Prosecutors claimed that the former Mexican head had accepted millions of dollars stuffed in briefcases by Mexico's biggest crime group, the Sinaloa drug cartel. The US Department of Justice said that Luna could face life in prison or will serve the mandatory minimum jail term of 20 years, BBC reported. The former minister was said to have widely shared information with the Sinaloa drug cartel about rivals and warned the group about law enforcement operations. Also read | Mexico to consider jailed drug kingpin El Chapo's request to return from US The 54-year-old minister was detained in Texas in 2019, where he pleaded not guilty and repeatedly denied all allegations. He also denied to testify at the trial, but his wife Linda Cristina Pereyra took the stand and tried to downplay their finances and lifestyle. His case of drug trafficking came to light during a trial against Guzman who was sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years in 2019. Jesus Ramirez Cuevas, a spokesperson for the current Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador praised this decision and took aim at the former Mexican President Felipe Calderon. His tweet read, "the crimes against our people will never be forgotten." Also read | Biden discusses illegal migration and drugs with Mexican President Lopez Obrador Mexico-based expert, Ioan Grillo told BBC that this conviction can have big implications for both the US and Mexican government's fight against corruption and crime. He added that this can encourage prosecutors to go after other cases. "They took a certain risk by not having physical evidence and convicting him on testimony from drug traffickers." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former Mexican minister, who once led nation's fight against drug cartels, convicted of drug trafficking

At least six people were killed after a Russian rocket attacked&nbsp;Ukraine's southern city, Kherson, officials said. Authorities also reported that around 12 people were wounded in the attack, Reuters reported.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
While <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> was speaking, his army fired <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kherson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kherson</a> with multiple rocket launchers. 
6 people died. 12 were wounded. 
The Russians hit kindergarten, residential areas, critical infrastructure facilities, a hospital, a market and a bus stop. <a href="https://t.co/pjmJ06D8Gd">pic.twitter.com/pjmJ06D8Gd</a>
— Inna Sovsun (@InnaSovsun) <a href="https://twitter.com/InnaSovsun/status/1628027048689106944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Kherson and its surrounding areas have been under constant bombardment from Russian forces. Local authorities in the southern city came under fire from multiple rocket launchers as Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his speech marking a&nbsp;year of war in&nbsp;Ukraine. He described the West as the aggressor and depicted his country as not waging war on the Ukrainian people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-support-for-ukraine-is-unwavering-says-us-president-joe-biden-during-his-speech-in-poland-564514">Also read |&nbsp;'Our support for Ukraine is unwavering,' says US President Joe Biden during his speech in Poland</a>

In a video address, Ukrainian President Zelensky said that this shelling could not have had any military purpose. He said, "our army, our&nbsp;military intelligence, our security service and other Ukrainian forces will find and destroy those who inflict these cruel strikes on Kherson, on our other towns and regions."

The blast reportedly damaged a line of shops behind the bus stop and took down power cables and shattered windows of buildings on the opposite street.&nbsp;

Viktoria, a woman who was waiting for the bus said that "at this time of day it was very crowded here so they are probably more casualties."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-poland-visit-live-updates-us-prez-kicks-off-two-day-visit-meets-polish-counterpart-andrzej-duda-564406">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden: US and allies to announce more sanctions against Russia</a>

"It's really scary. They shoot where we live."

On February 24, the ongoing war in Ukraine will complete one year. The war has been devastating and the drone attacks in Ukraine has killed thousands of civilians.&nbsp;

Moscow has denied allegations of targetting civilians in its special military operations.

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

At least six people were killed after a Russian rocket attacked Ukraine's southern city, Kherson, officials said. Authorities also reported that around 12 people were wounded in the attack, Reuters reported.

At least six people were killed after a Russian rocket attacked Ukraine's southern city, Kherson, officials said. Authorities also reported that around 12 people were wounded in the attack, Reuters reported. While #Putin was speaking, his army fired #Kherson with multiple rocket launchers. 6 people died. 12 were wounded. The Russians hit kindergarten, residential areas, critical infrastructure facilities, a hospital, a market and a bus stop. pic.twitter.com/pjmJ06D8Gd — Inna Sovsun (@InnaSovsun) February 21, 2023 × Kherson and its surrounding areas have been under constant bombardment from Russian forces. Local authorities in the southern city came under fire from multiple rocket launchers as Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his speech marking a year of war in Ukraine. He described the West as the aggressor and depicted his country as not waging war on the Ukrainian people. Also read | 'Our support for Ukraine is unwavering,' says US President Joe Biden during his speech in Poland In a video address, Ukrainian President Zelensky said that this shelling could not have had any military purpose. He said, "our army, our military intelligence, our security service and other Ukrainian forces will find and destroy those who inflict these cruel strikes on Kherson, on our other towns and regions." The blast reportedly damaged a line of shops behind the bus stop and took down power cables and shattered windows of buildings on the opposite street. Viktoria, a woman who was waiting for the bus said that "at this time of day it was very crowded here so they are probably more casualties." Also read | Joe Biden: US and allies to announce more sanctions against Russia "It's really scary. They shoot where we live." On February 24, the ongoing war in Ukraine will complete one year. The war has been devastating and the drone attacks in Ukraine has killed thousands of civilians. Moscow has denied allegations of targetting civilians in its special military operations. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'They shoot where we live': At least six killed, 12 injured after Russian rocket attacks Kherson

Amid the ongoing currency crisis in Nigeria, Nigeria's Supreme Court hears an appeal to stop demonetisation. The case has been adjourned till March 3.

Nigeria currency crisis: Nigeria's Supreme Court hears appeal to stop demonetisation

Watch this segment to know more about news such as a Soviet-era rocket launched in 1980 making re-entry. Have a look at what's trending on WION's social media handles.

Trending on WION: Soviet-era rocket launched in 1980 makes re-entry

Shamima Begum who joined the Islamic State at the age of 15 has lost her appeal to save her UK citizenship. The court cited a threat to national security.

Shamima Begum loses UK citizenship appeal as court cites threat to national security

Nurses in England have decided to 'pause strikes'. The moves come after the government decided to hold 'intensive talks'. The Union remains confident on pay deal with ministers.

Nurses in England to 'pause strikes' after the government decides to hold 'intensive talks'

As part of major overhaul of sex crime legislation, a panel of Japan's Justice Ministry proposed raising the age of consent from 13 to 16. Currently, the Asian country has the lowest age of consent among the developed countries as also among the G7 group.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;move aims to criminalise the grooming of minors and will also expand the definition of rape.

The move&nbsp;comes after a series of rape acquittals in 2019 that sparked an outcry.&nbsp;

The ministry will also increase the statute of limitation for reporting rape from 10 to 15 years, BBC reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-child-sex-abuse-lawsuits-could-trigger-bankruptcy-for-us-church-560940">Also read |&nbsp;Staggering legal costs of over 400 child sex abuse lawsuits threaten bankruptcy for US church</a>

The current law states that victims of rape need to prove that "violence and intimidation" were used during the rape and that it was impossible to resist, to secure a conviction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The panel has not changed this wording but has added other factors including intoxication, drugging, being caught off guard and psychological control into the definition.&nbsp;

The ministry's official Yusuke Asanuma said that the move isn't made to make it easier or more challenging for the rape victims but that it should make verdicts 'more consistent.'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-prevent-rape-and-abuse-philippines-raises-age-of-sexual-consent-to-16-459948">Also read |&nbsp;To prevent rape and abuse, Philippines raises age of sexual consent to 16</a>

&nbsp;

In countries like Germany and Italy, the age of consent is 14, in Greece and France it is 15 and in the UK and many states of the US, it is 16.&nbsp;

In 2019, a case in Japan saw a man go free after being accused of having intercourse&nbsp;with his teenage daughter, even though the court agreed that it was done against the wish of his daughter. He was later sent to prison after prosecutors appealed.&nbsp;

The government could pass this law as early as summer. Despite the&nbsp;potential to change the age of consent, the country will have an exception for intercourse between people who are at least 13 and who have an age gap of less than five years.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

As part of major overhaul of sex crime legislation, a panel of Japan's Justice Ministry proposed raising the age of consent from 13 to 16. Currently, the Asian country has the lowest age of consent among the developed countries as also among the G7 group.

As part of major overhaul of sex crime legislation, a panel of Japan's Justice Ministry proposed raising the age of consent from 13 to 16. Currently, the Asian country has the lowest age of consent among the developed countries as also among the G7 group. The move aims to criminalise the grooming of minors and will also expand the definition of rape. The move comes after a series of rape acquittals in 2019 that sparked an outcry. The ministry will also increase the statute of limitation for reporting rape from 10 to 15 years, BBC reported. Also read | Staggering legal costs of over 400 child sex abuse lawsuits threaten bankruptcy for US church The current law states that victims of rape need to prove that "violence and intimidation" were used during the rape and that it was impossible to resist, to secure a conviction. The panel has not changed this wording but has added other factors including intoxication, drugging, being caught off guard and psychological control into the definition. The ministry's official Yusuke Asanuma said that the move isn't made to make it easier or more challenging for the rape victims but that it should make verdicts 'more consistent.' Also read | To prevent rape and abuse, Philippines raises age of sexual consent to 16 In countries like Germany and Italy, the age of consent is 14, in Greece and France it is 15 and in the UK and many states of the US, it is 16. In 2019, a case in Japan saw a man go free after being accused of having intercourse with his teenage daughter, even though the court agreed that it was done against the wish of his daughter. He was later sent to prison after prosecutors appealed. The government could pass this law as early as summer. Despite the potential to change the age of consent, the country will have an exception for intercourse between people who are at least 13 and who have an age gap of less than five years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan to raise age of consent from 13 to 16 after furore over sex crime acquittals

On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering. Experts say that the new service will create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. The paid service will make available to its subscribers a verification badge, extra protection against impersonation, direct access to customer support and added visibility. Users too have ridiculed the service, trolling Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg with trolls and memes.

"Safety and security features must NOT be up for sale," says online safety expert Kavya Pearlman.

Watch |&nbsp;Meta introduces a monthly subscription model

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-introduces-a-monthly-subscription-model-563808/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

AFP reports that Pearlman was unimpressed with the idea of paying for protection. She claims that it would create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, she questioned why users who provide their data to the company and the "human who actually acts within T&amp;S while on the platform" has to pay "and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
So let me get this straight, I am the human who provide MY data to a company &amp; also the human who actually acts within T&amp;S while on the platform but I AM the who has to pay and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data or <a href="https://twitter.com/facebook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@facebook</a> using MY data 4 targeted ads 🤌🤌 <a href="https://t.co/Oj2T6JXEay">pic.twitter.com/Oj2T6JXEay</a>
— Kavya Pearlman (@KavyaPearlman) <a href="https://twitter.com/KavyaPearlman/status/1627506165847592963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A lobby group called the 'Real Facebook Oversight Board', which is highly critical of Meta, tweeted, "now Facebook wants you to fund the harmful model that fuels its whole business."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/facebook-parent-company-meta-to-launch-paid-subscription-service-563726">Meta to launch its blue verified subscription service for Insta and Facebook</a>

Sinan Aral, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who has conducted an analysis of the effects that account labelling has on online behaviours, says that subscription services like Twitter Blue or Meta Verified will create a divide between "in groups and out groups".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/a-hair-raising-journey-into-space-us-long-dead-presidents-to-be-sent-to-outer-space-564042">Hair now, gone to space tomorrow: Long-dead ex-US presidents' locks&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;beamed&nbsp;up</a>

The new Meta service will first be rolled out in Australia and New Zealand. While users trolled Zukerberg for copying Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Matt Navarra, a social media consultant suggests that the launch is a "bit unplanned and last minute." Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities says the move is "risky" and that "there could be clear backlash from consumers that will never pay a dime for Facebook or Instagram and this move could push them out the door."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering.

On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering. Experts say that the new service will create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. The paid service will make available to its subscribers a verification badge, extra protection against impersonation, direct access to customer support and added visibility. Users too have ridiculed the service, trolling Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg with trolls and memes. "Safety and security features must NOT be up for sale," says online safety expert Kavya Pearlman. Watch | Meta introduces a monthly subscription model AFP reports that Pearlman was unimpressed with the idea of paying for protection. She claims that it would create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. Taking to Twitter, she questioned why users who provide their data to the company and the "human who actually acts within T&S while on the platform" has to pay "and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data". So let me get this straight, I am the human who provide MY data to a company & also the human who actually acts within T&S while on the platform but I AM the who has to pay and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data or @facebook using MY data 4 targeted ads 🤌🤌 pic.twitter.com/Oj2T6JXEay — Kavya Pearlman (@KavyaPearlman) February 20, 2023 × A lobby group called the 'Real Facebook Oversight Board', which is highly critical of Meta, tweeted, "now Facebook wants you to fund the harmful model that fuels its whole business." Also read | Meta to launch its blue verified subscription service for Insta and Facebook Sinan Aral, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who has conducted an analysis of the effects that account labelling has on online behaviours, says that subscription services like Twitter Blue or Meta Verified will create a divide between "in groups and out groups". Also read | Hair now, gone to space tomorrow: Long-dead ex-US presidents' locks to be beamed up The new Meta service will first be rolled out in Australia and New Zealand. While users trolled Zukerberg for copying Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Matt Navarra, a social media consultant suggests that the launch is a "bit unplanned and last minute." Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities says the move is "risky" and that "there could be clear backlash from consumers that will never pay a dime for Facebook or Instagram and this move could push them out the door." (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.

Will Meta's new paid subscription divide users into 'haves and have-nots'? Experts think so

At least 17 people were killed after a bus carrying dozen of migrants from Colombia, Venezuela and Central America crashed in central Mexico, officials from Puebla said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interior Minister Julio Huerta told reporters that the accident occurred on Sunday afternoon on a highway after the bus with 45 passengers heading north, lost control, Reuters reported.

He said that 15 people lost their lives at the moment of the accident. Another 15 have been hospitalised, two of whom later died. Five others remain in critical condition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-39-dead-in-panama-migrant-bus-crash-562450">Also read |&nbsp;At least 39 dead in Panama migrant bus crash</a>

The bus driver and the assistant are among the dead, officials added.&nbsp;

Mexican media reported that the bus crashed as the driver lost control of the bus.

According to local prosecutors, the bus, part of the private bus line 'Tours Turistico Media' was travelling from the southern Mexican border city of Tapachula to Mexico City, turned over.&nbsp;

The Puebla state officials did not specify how many of the dead and injured were migrants.

A 56-year-old Colombian man was among the dead, the Colombian Ministry in its statement said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-killed-60-injured-after-bus-and-armoured-truck-crash-in-south-africa-561757">Also read |&nbsp;20 killed, 68 injured after armoured truck collides with bus in South Africa&nbsp;</a>

The survivors included two men and a woman&nbsp;who are currently hospitalised and an unharmed man who was turned over to migration authorities and also belongs to Colombia.&nbsp;

A representative for Guatemala's foreign ministry told Reuters that so far no Guatemalans have been reported as victims of the incident.&nbsp;

Migrants often take risky routes to cross Mexico to get their way to the US.

Similarly last week, dozens of migrants were killed in Panama after a bus travelling fell off a cliff.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

At least 17 people were killed after a bus carrying dozen of migrants from Colombia, Venezuela and Central America crashed in central Mexico, officials from Puebla said.

At least 17 people were killed after a bus carrying dozen of migrants from Colombia, Venezuela and Central America crashed in central Mexico, officials from Puebla said. Interior Minister Julio Huerta told reporters that the accident occurred on Sunday afternoon on a highway after the bus with 45 passengers heading north, lost control, Reuters reported. He said that 15 people lost their lives at the moment of the accident. Another 15 have been hospitalised, two of whom later died. Five others remain in critical condition. Also read | At least 39 dead in Panama migrant bus crash The bus driver and the assistant are among the dead, officials added. Mexican media reported that the bus crashed as the driver lost control of the bus. According to local prosecutors, the bus, part of the private bus line 'Tours Turistico Media' was travelling from the southern Mexican border city of Tapachula to Mexico City, turned over. The Puebla state officials did not specify how many of the dead and injured were migrants. A 56-year-old Colombian man was among the dead, the Colombian Ministry in its statement said. Also read | 20 killed, 68 injured after armoured truck collides with bus in South Africa The survivors included two men and a woman who are currently hospitalised and an unharmed man who was turned over to migration authorities and also belongs to Colombia. A representative for Guatemala's foreign ministry told Reuters that so far no Guatemalans have been reported as victims of the incident. Migrants often take risky routes to cross Mexico to get their way to the US. Similarly last week, dozens of migrants were killed in Panama after a bus travelling fell off a cliff. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least 17 killed after bus carrying migrants in Mexico crashes

At least 14 people were injured after an explosion tore through a metal plant in Ohio, scattering molten metal and debris that rained down on neighbouring buildings, officials said.

The blast at the I. Schumann &amp; Co. metals sent smoke billowing in the sky that could be seen from miles away, IBT reported.

The Oakwood Fire Department Captain Brian DiRicco during a briefing said that among the injured, 13 were taken to hospital, most of them with burn wounds, and one more was treated on site.

Watch | US cargo train derails, causes massive fires

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-cargo-train-derails-causes-massive-fires-563138/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The people were mostly walking&nbsp;wounded. They were coming up to us. I'm sure there's a lot of people that work here that were in shock."

He added, that at least one was in critical condition and one was pulled from the debris. &nbsp;All of those injured were on site, and the falling debris didn't cause damage to the neighbouring buildings.&nbsp;

DiRicco said that he had inspected the scene before and claimed it to be a 'safe place' except that it's a foundry, and when dealing with molten metal, there's always an inherent danger.

Matthew Wiggins, the owner of the neighbouring business Rose Coloured Gaming told WOIO that he heard the explosion "within a second or two, it sounded like large amounts of debris were hitting the roof."

He added, "things were falling off the walls, falling off shelves. We went out front and there was like smoldering rocks and molten metal in the yard. Tons and tons of smoke. Fire billowing out of the building across the street."

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

At least 14 people were injured after an explosion tore through a metal plant in Ohio, scattering molten metal and debris that rained down on neighbouring buildings, officials said.

At least 14 people were injured after an explosion tore through a metal plant in Ohio, scattering molten metal and debris that rained down on neighbouring buildings, officials said. The blast at the I. Schumann & Co. metals sent smoke billowing in the sky that could be seen from miles away, IBT reported. The Oakwood Fire Department Captain Brian DiRicco during a briefing said that among the injured, 13 were taken to hospital, most of them with burn wounds, and one more was treated on site. Watch | US cargo train derails, causes massive fires "The people were mostly walking wounded. They were coming up to us. I'm sure there's a lot of people that work here that were in shock." He added, that at least one was in critical condition and one was pulled from the debris. All of those injured were on site, and the falling debris didn't cause damage to the neighbouring buildings. DiRicco said that he had inspected the scene before and claimed it to be a 'safe place' except that it's a foundry, and when dealing with molten metal, there's always an inherent danger. Matthew Wiggins, the owner of the neighbouring business Rose Coloured Gaming told WOIO that he heard the explosion "within a second or two, it sounded like large amounts of debris were hitting the roof." He added, "things were falling off the walls, falling off shelves. We went out front and there was like smoldering rocks and molten metal in the yard. Tons and tons of smoke. Fire billowing out of the building across the street." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: At least 14 injured after huge explosion at Ohio metal factory

Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia. Previously, two other patients have been cured following the high-risk procedure. The patients in Berlin and London were also suffering from the two diseases.&nbsp;

Details of the latest success story, a.k.a., the Duesseldorf patient, have been revealed in the journal Nature Medicine.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India doing well in fight against AIDS

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-doing-well-in-fight-against-aids-539240/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the patient's name was not released, the study revealed that he is 53 years old and was diagnosed with HIV in 2008. Three years later, he was then diagnosed with a life-threatening form of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia.

As per the study, "this third case of HIV-1 cure" provides "valuable insights that will hopefully guide future cure strategies".

In 2013, the Duesseldorf patient underwent a bone marrow transplant using stem cells from a female donor that had a rare mutation in her CCR5 gene. As per AFP, this gene mutation has been found to stop HIV from entering cells.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hiv-and-aids-is-not-the-same-thing-do-you-know-the-difference-between-the-two-539188">HIV and AIDS is not the same thing. Do you know difference between the two?</a>

The patient celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the transplant on Valentine's day, where the donor was the "guest of honour".

In a statement, he said that he was proud of his " worldwide team of doctors who succeeded in curing me of HIV — and at the same time, of course, of leukaemia".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-aids-day-2022-celebrities-who-battled-hivaids-539095">World AIDS Day: Celebrities who battled HIV/AIDS - Billy Porter, Freddie Mercury</a>

The bone marrow transplant used in this case is a severe and dangerous operation. Hence, it is only suitable for some special cases or a small number of patients suffering from HIV and blood cancer. Another challenge in this treatment is locating a bone marrow donor with the&nbsp;rare gene mutation.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia.

Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia. Previously, two other patients have been cured following the high-risk procedure. The patients in Berlin and London were also suffering from the two diseases. Details of the latest success story, a.k.a., the Duesseldorf patient, have been revealed in the journal Nature Medicine. Watch | Gravitas: India doing well in fight against AIDS While the patient's name was not released, the study revealed that he is 53 years old and was diagnosed with HIV in 2008. Three years later, he was then diagnosed with a life-threatening form of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia. As per the study, "this third case of HIV-1 cure" provides "valuable insights that will hopefully guide future cure strategies". In 2013, the Duesseldorf patient underwent a bone marrow transplant using stem cells from a female donor that had a rare mutation in her CCR5 gene. As per AFP, this gene mutation has been found to stop HIV from entering cells. Also read | HIV and AIDS is not the same thing. Do you know difference between the two? The patient celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the transplant on Valentine's day, where the donor was the "guest of honour". In a statement, he said that he was proud of his " worldwide team of doctors who succeeded in curing me of HIV — and at the same time, of course, of leukaemia". Also read | World AIDS Day: Celebrities who battled HIV/AIDS - Billy Porter, Freddie Mercury The bone marrow transplant used in this case is a severe and dangerous operation. Hence, it is only suitable for some special cases or a small number of patients suffering from HIV and blood cancer. Another challenge in this treatment is locating a bone marrow donor with the rare gene mutation. (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.

Duesseldorf patient cured of HIV; third person in four decades to recover from the disease

At least 51 soldiers were killed in an ambush by jihadists in northern Burkina Faso, the army said on Monday, adding that around 160 of the assailants died during the counterattack. The army in its statement said that by the end of Monday (Feb 20), 43 new bodies were found, bringing the death toll to 51, AFP reported.

The attack&nbsp;took place on Friday (Feb 18) in Oudalan province near the restive frontiers with Mali and Burkina. The military patrol in the Sahel region, bordering Niger and Mali, was&nbsp;the victim of the&nbsp;"complex" attack between Deou and Oursi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-announces-the-end-of-french-military-operations-on-its-land-563739">Also read |&nbsp;Burkina Faso announces the end of French military operations on its land</a>

The military in its statement added, "operations are continuing with an intensification of air actions that have made it possible to neutralise around 100 terrorists and destroy their equipment," the military added.

"This figure is in addition to the 60 or so terrorists neutralised since the beginning of the response."

Attacks have mounted since the start of this year, and have killed over 100 in the last weeks, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-at-least-19-killed-in-two-separate-attacks-by-jihadist-groups-561652">Also read |&nbsp;Burkina Faso: At least 19 killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups</a>

The army claimed that "intense fighting" ensued between the military united that had been attacked and an armed terrorist group.

Last month, Burkina Faso's former colonial ruler France confirmed that it would withdraw hundreds of troops stationed in Burkina.

Being one of the world's poorest countries, it is battling a jihadist insurgency that spread from its neighbouring country, Mali.&nbsp;

The violence has led to over 10,000 deaths, as per estimation by NGOs and has displaced at least two million people.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

At least 51 soldiers were killed in an ambush by jihadists in northern Burkina Faso, the army said on Monday, adding that around 160 of the assailants died during the counterattack.

At least 51 soldiers were killed in an ambush by jihadists in northern Burkina Faso, the army said on Monday, adding that around 160 of the assailants died during the counterattack. The army in its statement said that by the end of Monday (Feb 20), 43 new bodies were found, bringing the death toll to 51, AFP reported. The attack took place on Friday (Feb 18) in Oudalan province near the restive frontiers with Mali and Burkina. The military patrol in the Sahel region, bordering Niger and Mali, was the victim of the "complex" attack between Deou and Oursi. Also read | Burkina Faso announces the end of French military operations on its land The military in its statement added, "operations are continuing with an intensification of air actions that have made it possible to neutralise around 100 terrorists and destroy their equipment," the military added. "This figure is in addition to the 60 or so terrorists neutralised since the beginning of the response." Attacks have mounted since the start of this year, and have killed over 100 in the last weeks, AFP reported. Also read | Burkina Faso: At least 19 killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups The army claimed that "intense fighting" ensued between the military united that had been attacked and an armed terrorist group. Last month, Burkina Faso's former colonial ruler France confirmed that it would withdraw hundreds of troops stationed in Burkina. Being one of the world's poorest countries, it is battling a jihadist insurgency that spread from its neighbouring country, Mali. The violence has led to over 10,000 deaths, as per estimation by NGOs and has displaced at least two million people. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Burkina Faso: At least 51 killed in attacks by jihadist groups

Livestream shopping took China by storm. Now Amazon, TikTok and YouTube are betting the QVC-style pitches will take off in the U.S. Watch the full video to know more.

Live-streaming shopping takes China by storm

In the latest, North Korea claimed that it fired the ICBM missile as a warning to the US and S. Korea. Russia has slammed Macron for his remarks. On the Turkey-Syria front, the death toll from the earthquake has reached 46,000. In Tunisia, members of Tunisia’s leading political force,&nbsp;Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail&nbsp;(UGTT) also known as the&nbsp;Tunisian General Labour Union have taken&nbsp;to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest of President Kais Saied’s policies.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-after-israeli-missile-strikes-syrian-building-563540">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c172a7ee-b795-478e-a4cc-2668e3af87de" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2880%29.png" />

Russia on Sunday slammed France President Emmanuel Macron over his remarks about wanting to see Russia defeated in the war against Ukraine and reminded him of the fate of&nbsp;Napoleon Bonaparte while accusing the French president of duplicitous diplomacy with the Kremlin.&nbsp;Macron had told the aper Le Journal du Dimanche that France wanted Russia to be defeated in Ukraine but had never wanted to "crush" it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-after-israeli-missile-strikes-syrian-building-563540">Syria: At least 15 killed as Israeli missile strikes building in Damascus</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c02cdf9c-3249-4572-aba9-5edba1762bf3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/f1ab196310eb086c5c864338bfe19d21226d6a13.jpg" />

An Israeli missile struck a building in Syria’s capital Damascus that was housing senior security officials, killing at least 15 people on Sunday.&nbsp;The targeted strike hit the densely-populated Kafr Sousa, home to senior officials, security agencies and intelligence headquarters.&nbsp;"At 00:22 am (2222 GMT), the&nbsp;Israeli enemy carried out an&nbsp;aerial aggression from the direction of the occupied Golan Heights targeting several areas in Damascus and its vicinity,&nbsp;including residential neighbourhoods,"&nbsp;Syria's defence ministry said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-it-fired-icbm-as-a-warning-us-seoul-conduct-joint-military-drill-in-retaliation-563630">North Korea says it fired ICBM as a warning; US, South Korea conduct joint military drill in retaliation</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c60c97a5-3dc6-4074-ab99-85642e0fe76a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2877%29_0.png" />

North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-warns-chinas-wang-yi-that-spy-balloon-incident-must-never-again-occur-563538">Blinken warns China’s Wang Yi that spy balloon incident ‘must never occur again’</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c139063a-b01f-429e-b045-378f208f05c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/OPE7YIE4FFKHXEB7VSKA4T76K4.jpg" />

Amid the ongoing balloon controversy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held rare talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Saturday during which he warned Beijing that the "irresponsible act" of flying a spy balloon into America's airspace must not be repeated.&nbsp;The two leaders' highly anticipated meeting took place on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference as tensions continue to grow between Beijing and Washington. US security officials have been in a state of alarm after they spotted a huge white balloon, which allegedly belonged to China, flying over various secretive nuclear weapons sites of the country after which it was shot down on February 4.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-death-toll-surpasses-46000-ankara-to-stop-rescue-efforts-on-sunday-563571">Turkey-Syria earthquake toll surpasses 46,000, Ankara to stop rescue efforts on Sunday night</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ef8530b-6f84-4522-a1e5-c45ec4cab871" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/d41586-023-00364-y_23996644.jpg" />

The death toll in the earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria has surpassed the 46,000 mark, even as rescue operations continue&nbsp;in full swing. It is estimated that the death toll is expected to soar further in the coming days.&nbsp;According to authorities, the death toll in Turkey stands at 40,642 while neighbouring Syria has reported more than 5,800 deaths, a figure that has not changed for days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Thousands protest against pres’ policies; govt expels European trade union chief for participating</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="24aa1d3b-2182-4c3f-92e0-bdcd94a20d58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/64750422_605.jpg" />

Thousands of members of Tunisia’s leading political force,&nbsp;Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail&nbsp;(UGTT) also known as the&nbsp;Tunisian General Labour Union&nbsp;took to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest of President Kais Saied’s policies, on Saturday (February 18). Subsequently, the country’s government expelled the head of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) for taking part in these demonstrations. This comes as the trade union has accused Saied’s government of stifling freedoms including union rights.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-news-channel-suspends-anchor-for-running-planted-stories-at-behest-of-israeli-disinformation-unit-563603">French news channel suspends anchor for running planted stories at behest of Israeli disinformation unit</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cdc76075-7f80-4192-89a2-9cc293c81468" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rachid_MBarki2_0.jpg" />

France's leading TV news channel has suspended one of its most senior journalists who is accused of planting multiple stories on his show at the behest of an Israeli disinformation unit.&nbsp;Rachid M’Barki, an anchor at BFMTV since its launch in 2005, was suspended last month even as an internal inquiry into multiple stories broadcast on his show, Le journal de la nuit, is underway.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-pushes-us-lawmakers-for-f-16-fighter-jets-france-to-send-light-tanks-to-kyiv-end-of-next-week-563674">Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9fe4a83-4a29-4424-8ece-31b63738952e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/64b661b2-8f67-4551-8ada-fd5c36be119d.jpg" />

A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West,&nbsp;after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-azerbaijan-president-tells-wion-strange-things-that-happened-after-embassy-was-attacked-in-iran-563504">Exclusive: Azerbaijan President shares with WION his doubts on embassy attack in Iran, wants fair probe</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f1150d7-0a6c-461a-89fc-a73c8c1d74b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/65546.jpg" />

An attack on Azerbaijan's embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on January 27, left one dead and two others injured. WION spoke with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and asked him on whom the onus lies for the tension&nbsp;between Azerbaijan and Iran.&nbsp;Speaking exclusively to WION, the Azerbaijan president said, the attack on the embassy "was an organised act of terror against Azerbaijan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/iran-freedom-struggle-stars-at-berlin-film-fest-563560">Iran freedom struggle stars at Berlin film fest</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08ea9518-8136-4a36-85d8-974b7a6661ba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/44a52274616119d8759fc2b9c5ac36e1.jpeg" />

The Berlin film festival, long a champion of Iran's embattled independent directors, is spotlighting its citizens' fight for basic rights with a series of screenings, events and a red-carpet protest.

French-Iranian actor Golshifteh Farahani, who is serving on the jury for the top prizes with president Kristen Stewart, said as the festival kicked off Thursday that cinema was a crucial fuel for the freedom movement.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the latest, North Korea claimed that it fired the ICBM missile as a warning to the US and S. Korea. Russia has slammed Macron for his remarks. On the Turkey-Syria front, the death toll from the earthquake has reached 46,000.

In the latest, North Korea claimed that it fired the ICBM missile as a warning to the US and S. Korea. Russia has slammed Macron for his remarks. On the Turkey-Syria front, the death toll from the earthquake has reached 46,000. In Tunisia, members of Tunisia’s leading political force, Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union have taken to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest of President Kais Saied’s policies. Click on the headlines to read more. Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate Russia on Sunday slammed France President Emmanuel Macron over his remarks about wanting to see Russia defeated in the war against Ukraine and reminded him of the fate of Napoleon Bonaparte while accusing the French president of duplicitous diplomacy with the Kremlin. Macron had told the aper Le Journal du Dimanche that France wanted Russia to be defeated in Ukraine but had never wanted to "crush" it. Syria: At least 15 killed as Israeli missile strikes building in Damascus An Israeli missile struck a building in Syria’s capital Damascus that was housing senior security officials, killing at least 15 people on Sunday. The targeted strike hit the densely-populated Kafr Sousa, home to senior officials, security agencies and intelligence headquarters. "At 00:22 am (2222 GMT), the Israeli enemy carried out an aerial aggression from the direction of the occupied Golan Heights targeting several areas in Damascus and its vicinity, including residential neighbourhoods," Syria's defence ministry said in a statement. North Korea says it fired ICBM as a warning; US, South Korea conduct joint military drill in retaliation North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA. Blinken warns China’s Wang Yi that spy balloon incident ‘must never occur again’ Amid the ongoing balloon controversy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held rare talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Saturday during which he warned Beijing that the "irresponsible act" of flying a spy balloon into America's airspace must not be repeated. The two leaders' highly anticipated meeting took place on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference as tensions continue to grow between Beijing and Washington. US security officials have been in a state of alarm after they spotted a huge white balloon, which allegedly belonged to China, flying over various secretive nuclear weapons sites of the country after which it was shot down on February 4. Turkey-Syria earthquake toll surpasses 46,000, Ankara to stop rescue efforts on Sunday night The death toll in the earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria has surpassed the 46,000 mark, even as rescue operations continue in full swing. It is estimated that the death toll is expected to soar further in the coming days. According to authorities, the death toll in Turkey stands at 40,642 while neighbouring Syria has reported more than 5,800 deaths, a figure that has not changed for days. Tunisia: Thousands protest against pres’ policies; govt expels European trade union chief for participating Thousands of members of Tunisia’s leading political force, Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union took to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest of President Kais Saied’s policies, on Saturday (February 18). Subsequently, the country’s government expelled the head of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) for taking part in these demonstrations. This comes as the trade union has accused Saied’s government of stifling freedoms including union rights. French news channel suspends anchor for running planted stories at behest of Israeli disinformation unit France's leading TV news channel has suspended one of its most senior journalists who is accused of planting multiple stories on his show at the behest of an Israeli disinformation unit. Rachid M’Barki, an anchor at BFMTV since its launch in 2005, was suspended last month even as an internal inquiry into multiple stories broadcast on his show, Le journal de la nuit, is underway. Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’ A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West, after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend. Exclusive: Azerbaijan President shares with WION his doubts on embassy attack in Iran, wants fair probe An attack on Azerbaijan's embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on January 27, left one dead and two others injured. WION spoke with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and asked him on whom the onus lies for the tension between Azerbaijan and Iran. Speaking exclusively to WION, the Azerbaijan president said, the attack on the embassy "was an organised act of terror against Azerbaijan." Iran freedom struggle stars at Berlin film fest The Berlin film festival, long a champion of Iran's embattled independent directors, is spotlighting its citizens' fight for basic rights with a series of screenings, events and a red-carpet protest. French-Iranian actor Golshifteh Farahani, who is serving on the jury for the top prizes with president Kristen Stewart, said as the festival kicked off Thursday that cinema was a crucial fuel for the freedom movement.

Top 10 world news: Russia slams Macron for his remark, N. Korea says it fired IBM as a 'warning', & more

In order to prevent anarchy, President Ranil Wickremesinghe vowed to maintain law and order while placing a priority on the nation's economic recovery. Before the end of the year, the President promised to revive the economy and construct a functioning democratic society. He also made mention of 2024 Pesidential elections.

Sri Lankan president emphasises on importance of economic recovery

The Indian Air Force has always been largely dependent on Foreign-origin fighter aircraft, however, in recent years the Indian aerospace industry has been able to rise up to the challenge and produce indigenous fighter jet 'Tejas'. While it is a fair start, much more needs to be done to keep up the progress and move ahead. Our Correspondent Sidharth.M.P spoke to Director General of India's Centre for Air Power studies to understand the top priorities for Indian defence aviation sector.

Will India get the F-35 or develop its own 5th Gen aircraft? The way forward for Indian fighter jets

As mass layoffs continue across sectors globally, Linkedin has emerged as a space for people to vent and share their experiences.

LinkedIn gains popularity amid mass layoffs

A pan-India study has revealed that dementia, a debilitating disorder that affects memory and cognitive function, is prevalent among an estimated 7.4% of seniors citizens in India.

9 million Indians suffer from Dementia

North Korea fired a ballistic missile yet again, after which South Korea said that Pyongyang fired an unspecific ballistic missile towards the Sea of its Eastern coast. Pyongyang earlier warned of a strong response to the upcoming U.S., South Korea military drills.

Korea fires another long range missile

The disaster caused by the earthquake in Turkey and and Syria caused an estimated loss of up to one percent of the country's GDP as per the European bank for reconstruction and development. Turkey was already battling runaway inflation and relying on rich allies for funding to keep its economy afloat when a massive earthquake killed tens of thousands, raised entire cities and left millions needing urgent help.

Turkey-Syria Quake Aftermath: Economic loss estimated at one per cent of Turkey's GDP

Rio de Janeiro's annual Carnival kicked off late on February 17 as costumed performers danced the night away during the first parades in the Sambadrome. Watch this video to know more.

Hundreds throng Rio De Janeiro, carnival festivities in Brazil begin

North Korea fires another long range missile

Five individuals were killed early on Sunday when an Israeli missile attack struck a building in downtown Damascus' Kafr Sousa neighbourhood adjacent to a sizable, well guarded security complex near Iranian sites, according to witnesses and officials.

Israeli airstrike inflicted heavy damage to residential buildings in Damascus

During the second day of the Munich Security Conference, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he would support allies if they decided to send fighter jets to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Germany said that by 2025 it would put an entire army division at NATO's disposal.

Munich Security Summit | Britain will support allies if they decide to send jets to Ukraine

According to data, the United States of America is among the worst countries for racial equality and the latest imprisonment of Payton Gendron in the buffalo racist shooting has prompted conversation on racism in America and why is it on a rise? In this episode of WION Conversation, we decode what is inside America's social fabric and can the racial attitude be changed?

U.S. is among the worst countries for racial equality

The French President Emmanuel Macron said he wants to see Russia defeated in Ukraine however, he cleared that there should not be an aim to attack Russia in their soil.

Munich Security Summit | Macron: Russia should be defeated in Ukraine, not crushed at home

Massive protests were held across the Republic of Tunisia against the President who is accused of stifling Union Rights and worsening economic situation.

Tunisian General Labour Union holds demonstrations across country

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is attempting to mediate an agreement with Israel and the Palestinian Authority that would stop the UN Security Council from voting on a resolution condemning Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Munich Security Summit | U.S. tries to broker Israel-Palestine deal to avoid UN showdown

Thousands of Nigerians are rallying ahead of the Presidential votes next week. More than 90 million people are registered to vote in Nigeria. President Muhammadu Buhari is stepping down after his two terms allowed by the Constitution.

Nigerian Presidential election set to take place on February 25

news

News, News on News, stories on News, articles on News, News stories at Wion, News news, News latest news