As per a World Health Organization (WHO) update, more than 50,000 cases of monkeypox have been recorded in the global outbreak that the world is battling.&nbsp;

WHO figures on Wednesday show that transmission is slowing in the virus hotspots of Europe and the United States, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Speaking to the press, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the decrease in new cases demonstrated that the outbreak could be stopped.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Twitter failed to tackle LGBTQ monkeypox hate speech, says study

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"In the Americas, which accounts for more than half of reported cases, several countries continue to see increasing numbers of infections, although it is encouraging to see a sustained downward trend in Canada."

"Some European countries, including Germany and the Netherlands, are also seeing a clear slowing of the outbreak, demonstrating the effectiveness of public health interventions and community engagement to track infections and prevent transmission."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-monkeypox-death-reported-in-us-in-severely-immunocompromised-patient-511621" hreflang="en">First monkeypox death reported in US in 'severely immunocompromised' patient</a>

He added that the signs confirm what the WHO has said said since the beginning of the breakout of the disease "that with the right measures, this is an outbreak that can be stopped."

As per Tedros, three things are required to eliminate monkeypox: evidence that it can be done, "which we are now beginning to see," public health measures in communities where they are most needed and political will.

"We don't have to live with monkeypox," he remarked.

The outbreak, which was declared a global health emergency in July has killed sixteen, while 50,496 cases were reported worldwide.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a World Health Organization (WHO) update, more than 50,000 cases of monkeypox have been recorded in the global outbreak that the world is battling. WHO figures on Wednesday show that transmission is slowing in the virus hotspots of Europe and the United States, reported AFP.

As per a World Health Organization (WHO) update, more than 50,000 cases of monkeypox have been recorded in the global outbreak that the world is battling. WHO figures on Wednesday show that transmission is slowing in the virus hotspots of Europe and the United States, reported AFP. Speaking to the press, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the decrease in new cases demonstrated that the outbreak could be stopped. Watch | WION Fineprint | Twitter failed to tackle LGBTQ monkeypox hate speech, says study "In the Americas, which accounts for more than half of reported cases, several countries continue to see increasing numbers of infections, although it is encouraging to see a sustained downward trend in Canada." "Some European countries, including Germany and the Netherlands, are also seeing a clear slowing of the outbreak, demonstrating the effectiveness of public health interventions and community engagement to track infections and prevent transmission." Also read | First monkeypox death reported in US in 'severely immunocompromised' patient He added that the signs confirm what the WHO has said said since the beginning of the breakout of the disease "that with the right measures, this is an outbreak that can be stopped." As per Tedros, three things are required to eliminate monkeypox: evidence that it can be done, "which we are now beginning to see," public health measures in communities where they are most needed and political will. "We don't have to live with monkeypox," he remarked. The outbreak, which was declared a global health emergency in July has killed sixteen, while 50,496 cases were reported worldwide. (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.

'We don't have to live with monkeypox': WHO says the outbreak can be stopped

Japan's factories extended expansion and output to a second month in July as motor vehicle production improved, marking a positive start to the third quarter for manufacturers in broader economic activity.

Japan's factories expand output for a second month in July

A couple of days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences to the victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan, the country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded via Twitter.

A couple of days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences to the victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan, the country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded via Twitter. The Pakistani PM thanked his Indian counterpart and stated that Pakistan will overcome the adverse effects of the calamity. "I thank India PM Narendra Modi @narendramodi for condolences over the human & material losses caused by floods. With their characteristic resilience the people of Pakistan shall, InshaAllah, overcome the adverse effects of this natural calamity & rebuild their lives and communities." tweeted Shehbaz. I thank 🇮🇳 PM Narendra Modi @narendramodi for condolences over the human & material losses caused by floods. With their characteristic resilience the people of 🇵🇰 shall, InshaAllah, overcome the adverse effects of this natural calamity & rebuild their lives and communities. — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) August 31, 2022 × PM Modi on Monday (August 29) in a Twitter post stated that he was "saddened" by the situation in Pakistan. He also said that he hopes normalcy will be restored soon in the neighbouring country. "Saddened to see the devastation caused by the floods in Pakistan. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the injured and all those affected by this natural calamity and hope for an early restoration of normalcy." tweeted PM Modi. Saddened to see the devastation caused by the floods in Pakistan. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the injured and all those affected by this natural calamity and hope for an early restoration of normalcy. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2022 × Read more: Indian PM Modi expresses grief at Pakistan flood situation, reports suggest country might extend assistance As reported extensively by WION, Pakistan is reeling under a major catastrophe as relentless monsoon rains have flooded a third of the country. Around 5.9 million people have been left without shelter in one of the worst calamities in the recent past. WATCH | Flash floods put 1/3 of Pakistan under water, deluge affects 33 million people × From an infrastructural point, Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) NDMA said that more than 3,100 kilometres of road have been damaged in the floods while more than 600,000 houses have been destroyed. According to official estimates, the destruction by the floods has already cost the Pakistani exchequer more than $10 billion. For a country that has been under extreme financial duress for quite some time, the long-term effect of the last two months could be devastating. Owing to the perilous state of affairs in the country, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) finally agreed to release the $1.1 billion tranche of payment, on Monday, out of the total $6 billion bailout package. Read more:IMF greenlights revival of Pakistan loan programme According to several estimates, India's neighbouring country needs at least $41 billion in the next 12 months to fund debt repayments and boost foreign exchange reserves that have fallen to a lowly sum of $7.8 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan PM responds to PM Modi after latter's tweet on Pakistan flood situation

Stellantis will halt its Sevel van making plant in central Italy for three days due to a shortage in supplies of parts, a spokesman for the carmaker said on Tuesday.

Stellantis to halt production in Italy amid supply shortages

Mikhail Gorbachev, the man who changed the coasts of history, the former soviet leader who brought an end to the cold war passed away the age of 91. His death was announced on Tuesday by Russian news agencies who said that he died at a central hospital in Moscow after a serious and long illness.

Putin expresses deepest condolences on death of last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev

Mikhail Gorbachev, who was known for his extraordinary reforms that led to the end of the Cold War, died Tuesday after a long illness. He was 91.

Gorbachev, who was awarded the Nobel Peace prize, had unleashed path-breaking reforms though he was in power for less than seven years, but was unable to save the fall of the Soviet Union. 
 
The last Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, worked to bring about the reunification of Germany by negotiating armaments reduction agreements with the United States and forming alliances with Western nations.&nbsp;

In 1990, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to the global politics.

In contrast to previous Kremlin leaders who had dispatched tanks to put down uprisings in Hungary in 1956 and Czechoslovakia in 1968, he refrained from employing force when pro-democracy rallies swept across the Soviet bloc countries of communist Eastern Europe in 1989.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-fireworks-in-kabul-to-celebrate-first-anniversary-of-us-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-511618">Watch: Fireworks in Kabul to celebrate first anniversary of US withdrawal from Afghanistan</a>

But the protests fueled demands for independence in the 15 Soviet republics, which culminated in the country's chaotic dissolution during the following two years.&nbsp;

Gorbachev made unsuccessful attempts to stop that catastrophe.&nbsp;

He had intended to revitalise the system by allowing some political and economic freedoms when he was appointed general secretary of the Soviet Communist Party in 1985, at the age of just 54, but his changes spiralled out of control.

His "glasnost" (free speech) policy encouraged nationalists to push for independence in the Baltic republics of Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and elsewhere while also allowing hitherto unimaginable criticism of the party and the state.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Mikhail Gorbachev who ended Cold War without bloodshed, passes away at 91

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Many Russians never forgave Gorbachev for the unrest his reforms caused because they believed the following decline in their standard of living was too great a cost to pay for democracy.&nbsp;

"He gave us all freedom, but we don't know what to do with it,"&nbsp;liberal economist Ruslan Grinberg said on June 30 after visiting Gorbachev in the hospital.

(with inputs from agencies)

Mikhail Gorbachev, who was known for his extraordinary reforms that led to the end of the Cold War, died Tuesday after a long illness. He was 91. Gorbachev, who was awarded the Nobel Peace prize, had unleashed path-breaking reforms though he was in power for less than seven years, but was unable to save the fall of the Soviet Union.

Mikhail Gorbachev, who was known for his extraordinary reforms that led to the end of the Cold War, died Tuesday after a long illness. He was 91. Gorbachev, who was awarded the Nobel Peace prize, had unleashed path-breaking reforms though he was in power for less than seven years, but was unable to save the fall of the Soviet Union. The last Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, worked to bring about the reunification of Germany by negotiating armaments reduction agreements with the United States and forming alliances with Western nations. In 1990, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to the global politics. In contrast to previous Kremlin leaders who had dispatched tanks to put down uprisings in Hungary in 1956 and Czechoslovakia in 1968, he refrained from employing force when pro-democracy rallies swept across the Soviet bloc countries of communist Eastern Europe in 1989. Also Read: Watch: Fireworks in Kabul to celebrate first anniversary of US withdrawal from Afghanistan But the protests fueled demands for independence in the 15 Soviet republics, which culminated in the country's chaotic dissolution during the following two years. Gorbachev made unsuccessful attempts to stop that catastrophe. He had intended to revitalise the system by allowing some political and economic freedoms when he was appointed general secretary of the Soviet Communist Party in 1985, at the age of just 54, but his changes spiralled out of control. His "glasnost" (free speech) policy encouraged nationalists to push for independence in the Baltic republics of Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and elsewhere while also allowing hitherto unimaginable criticism of the party and the state. WATCH | Mikhail Gorbachev who ended Cold War without bloodshed, passes away at 91 Many Russians never forgave Gorbachev for the unrest his reforms caused because they believed the following decline in their standard of living was too great a cost to pay for democracy. "He gave us all freedom, but we don't know what to do with it," liberal economist Ruslan Grinberg said on June 30 after visiting Gorbachev in the hospital. (with inputs from agencies)

Mikhail Gorbachev, former Soviet president who ended cold war, dies aged 91

Paying heed to the incessant calls raging since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine crisis,&nbsp;European Union on Wednesday agreed to suspend a 2007 visa travel deal with Kremlin. Under the suspension, the number of Russian tourists entering the 27-nation bloc for holidays, shopping and other reasons&nbsp;will be curbed.

"We agreed on full suspension of the European Union-Russia visa facilitation agreement. This will significantly reduce the number of new visas issued by the EU member states. It's going to be more difficult, it's going to take longer," said&nbsp;Josep Borrell,&nbsp;EU’s high representative for foreign policy.

Reportedly, while the informal agreement has been struck, a formal law will have to be passed; meaning the date when the suspension comes into force is still unknown.&nbsp;

EU announcing partial restrictions is a toned-down version of the demands of a complete travel ban on the Russians.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-gas-supply-though-nord-stream-1-pipeline-eu-chief-calls-out-russia-for-manipulation-511731">WATCH |&nbsp;No gas supply though Nord Stream 1 pipeline, EU chief calls out Russia for 'manipulation'</a>

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Borrell further&nbsp;described the border crossing by Russians as a security risk for neighbouring states while asserting that these were not usual times.&nbsp;

“We have seen many Russians travelling for leisure and shopping as if no war was raging in Ukraine.&nbsp;Member states considered that we are not business as usual. It cannot be business as usual.”

The European Union, along with other western countries have been on Russia's tail since February in the form of sanctions and other restrictions. However, so far, it is the EU that is paying much of the price for its stand.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-energy-giant-gazprom-halts-nord-stream-gas-supplies-for-maintenance-511723">Russian energy giant Gazprom halts Nord Stream 1 gas supplies for maintenance</a>

Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom has stopped the supply of natural gas to Europe through its Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance. The pipeline is closed from today till September 2. However, many countries in the bloc fear that Russia may not resume the supplies, even after the said date.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Paying heed to the incessant calls raging since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, European Union on Wednesday agreed to suspend a 2007 visa travel deal with Kremlin.

Paying heed to the incessant calls raging since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, European Union on Wednesday agreed to suspend a 2007 visa travel deal with Kremlin. Under the suspension, the number of Russian tourists entering the 27-nation bloc for holidays, shopping and other reasons will be curbed. "We agreed on full suspension of the European Union-Russia visa facilitation agreement. This will significantly reduce the number of new visas issued by the EU member states. It's going to be more difficult, it's going to take longer," said Josep Borrell, EU’s high representative for foreign policy. Reportedly, while the informal agreement has been struck, a formal law will have to be passed; meaning the date when the suspension comes into force is still unknown. EU announcing partial restrictions is a toned-down version of the demands of a complete travel ban on the Russians. WATCH | No gas supply though Nord Stream 1 pipeline, EU chief calls out Russia for 'manipulation' × Borrell further described the border crossing by Russians as a security risk for neighbouring states while asserting that these were not usual times. “We have seen many Russians travelling for leisure and shopping as if no war was raging in Ukraine. Member states considered that we are not business as usual. It cannot be business as usual.” The European Union, along with other western countries have been on Russia's tail since February in the form of sanctions and other restrictions. However, so far, it is the EU that is paying much of the price for its stand. Read more: Russian energy giant Gazprom halts Nord Stream 1 gas supplies for maintenance Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom has stopped the supply of natural gas to Europe through its Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance. The pipeline is closed from today till September 2. However, many countries in the bloc fear that Russia may not resume the supplies, even after the said date. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban

Intense fighting continues to rage in Ukraine's southern part as Ukrainian forces step up their counter-offensive operations in a bid to retake the Russian-held Kherson region.

Fighting intensifies in Kherson region, Ukraine seeks to retake Russian-held region

Ahead of the November midterm elections, US President Joe Biden visited his home state of Pennsylvania where he rolled out his safer America plan. To tackle gun crimes in the United States of America, Biden called out republicans for opposing his proposal to restore a ban on assault weapons.

Joe Biden's 'Safe America' plan in Pennsylvania, talks crime, guns in key election state

European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees".

After receiving "reasonable" responses to his proposed text from Iran and the United States, Borell said, "I am hoping that in the coming days we are not going to lose this momentum and we can close the deal."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Iran using advanced centrifuges IR-6 for enriching Uranium: IAEA

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On the other hand, as per AFP, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday: "We are thinking about how to reach a strong text on the issue of the guarantee, and to obtain stronger guarantees" adding that his colleagues are examining the American side's text.

"We want to reinforce in the text the idea that the International Atomic Energy Agency concentrates on its technical task and moves away from its political role," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-steps-up-underground-uranium-enrichment-iaea-report-says-511383" hreflang="en">Iran steps up underground uranium enrichment, IAEA report says</a>

The US has insisted that Tehran comply with the IAEA to assuage fears about operations at three unannounced sites.

"When it comes to guarantees, resolving outstanding issues related to the IAEA is also of serious concern to us," Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday.

AFP reports that earlier on Monday, Tehran President Ebrahim Raisi said that renewing the nuclear agreement would be useless unless the UN nuclear inspector stopped looking into three unreported sites in the Islamic republic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revival-of-nuclear-deal-pointless-unless-un-watchdog-ends-probe-of-undeclared-sites-raisi-511252" hreflang="en">Revival of nuclear deal pointless unless UN watchdog ends probe of undeclared sites: Raisi</a>

IAEA &nbsp;board of governors also adopted a resolution denouncing Iran in June for failing to effectively respond to the finding of traces of enriched uranium at three locations that Tehran had not acknowledged as having hosted nuclear operations.

However, in an interview with CNN last week, Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, dismissed the idea of the organisation wrapping up its investigation into the unreported locations without receiving any responses.

(With inputs from agencies)

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European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees".

European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees". After receiving "reasonable" responses to his proposed text from Iran and the United States, Borell said, "I am hoping that in the coming days we are not going to lose this momentum and we can close the deal." Watch | Iran using advanced centrifuges IR-6 for enriching Uranium: IAEA On the other hand, as per AFP, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday: "We are thinking about how to reach a strong text on the issue of the guarantee, and to obtain stronger guarantees" adding that his colleagues are examining the American side's text. "We want to reinforce in the text the idea that the International Atomic Energy Agency concentrates on its technical task and moves away from its political role," he said. Also read | Iran steps up underground uranium enrichment, IAEA report says The US has insisted that Tehran comply with the IAEA to assuage fears about operations at three unannounced sites. "When it comes to guarantees, resolving outstanding issues related to the IAEA is also of serious concern to us," Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday. AFP reports that earlier on Monday, Tehran President Ebrahim Raisi said that renewing the nuclear agreement would be useless unless the UN nuclear inspector stopped looking into three unreported sites in the Islamic republic. Also read | Revival of nuclear deal pointless unless UN watchdog ends probe of undeclared sites: Raisi IAEA board of governors also adopted a resolution denouncing Iran in June for failing to effectively respond to the finding of traces of enriched uranium at three locations that Tehran had not acknowledged as having hosted nuclear operations. However, in an interview with CNN last week, Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, dismissed the idea of the organisation wrapping up its investigation into the unreported locations without receiving any responses. (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.

EU talks of nuclear deal in 'days', Iran wants 'stronger guarantees'

The country continues to battle flash floods caused due to incessant rainfall this monsoon season. The flash floods have caused massive destruction reportedly leaving one third of Pakistan under water as of now.

Flash floods put 1/3 of Pakistan under water, deluge affects 33 million people

As fierce combat raged throughout southern Ukraine on Tuesday, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with top UN nuclear inspectors in Kyiv ahead of their visit to evaluate the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, according to his office. In other news, Tuesday night saw stunning fireworks in Afghanistan, commemorating the first anniversary of the US withdrawal from the country, which the Taliban remarked as' Freedom Day.’ In other news, NASA will attempt to launch its powerful new Moon rocket again on Saturday after postponing the mission due to weather conditions, according to officials. Finally, with ongoing tensions with China, Arizona governor Doug Ducey arrived in Taipei on a trade mission.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-meets-iaea-chief-in-kyiv-ahead-of-agencys-visit-to-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-511601">Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv ahead of agency's visit to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/31/291744-screen-shot-2022-08-30-at-235619.png" />

Rafael Grossi, the chairman of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and a 14-person team arrived in Kyiv late on Monday in preparation for a visit to the Zaporizhzhia plant, the largest nuclear facility in Europe that has been under Russian military control since early March.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-fireworks-in-kabul-to-celebrate-first-anniversary-of-us-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-511618">Watch: Fireworks in Kabul to celebrate first anniversary of US withdrawal from Afghanistan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/31/291771-fbbrcwkxoaigfe9.jpeg" />

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid had earlier on Tuesday stated that "fireworks with various and beautiful colours are going to be held to mark Freedom Day."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-to-relaunch-artemis-1-moon-rocket-on-saturday-report-511624">NASA to relaunch Artemis 1 moon rocket on Saturday: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/29/291247-artemis-1.png" />

The date for the new launch attempt, a crucial milestone in the US ambition to send men back to the Moon, was revealed by Mike Sarafin, mission manager of Artemis 1 at NASA, at a Tuesday media briefing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-with-china-arizona-governor-doug-ducey-arrives-in-taipei-511632">Amid tensions with China, Arizona governor Doug Ducey arrives in Taipei</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/31/291786-m11.JPG" />

Governor Doug Ducey is set to meet Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen and other top Taiwanese officials and will also deliver a keynote address to a gathering of American and Taiwanese business leaders. The Arizona governor is also set to visit South Korea during his five-day tour.

Watch |&nbsp;IAEA team to inspect Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant; Ukraine seeks control over nuke plant

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As fierce combat raged throughout southern Ukraine on Tuesday, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with top UN nuclear inspectors in Kyiv ahead of their visit to evaluate the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, according to his office.

As fierce combat raged throughout southern Ukraine on Tuesday, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with top UN nuclear inspectors in Kyiv ahead of their visit to evaluate the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, according to his office. In other news, Tuesday night saw stunning fireworks in Afghanistan, commemorating the first anniversary of the US withdrawal from the country, which the Taliban remarked as' Freedom Day.’ In other news, NASA will attempt to launch its powerful new Moon rocket again on Saturday after postponing the mission due to weather conditions, according to officials. Finally, with ongoing tensions with China, Arizona governor Doug Ducey arrived in Taipei on a trade mission. Click on the headlines to read more: Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv ahead of agency's visit to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant Rafael Grossi, the chairman of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and a 14-person team arrived in Kyiv late on Monday in preparation for a visit to the Zaporizhzhia plant, the largest nuclear facility in Europe that has been under Russian military control since early March. Watch: Fireworks in Kabul to celebrate first anniversary of US withdrawal from Afghanistan Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid had earlier on Tuesday stated that "fireworks with various and beautiful colours are going to be held to mark Freedom Day." NASA to relaunch Artemis 1 moon rocket on Saturday: Report The date for the new launch attempt, a crucial milestone in the US ambition to send men back to the Moon, was revealed by Mike Sarafin, mission manager of Artemis 1 at NASA, at a Tuesday media briefing. Amid tensions with China, Arizona governor Doug Ducey arrives in Taipei Governor Doug Ducey is set to meet Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen and other top Taiwanese officials and will also deliver a keynote address to a gathering of American and Taiwanese business leaders. The Arizona governor is also set to visit South Korea during his five-day tour. Watch | IAEA team to inspect Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant; Ukraine seeks control over nuke plant

Morning news brief: Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv, Taliban celebrate 'Freedom Day', & more

In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army,&nbsp;Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a&nbsp;conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision.&nbsp;The Nepalese envoy stated&nbsp;his country would like more "understanding from the highest level".&nbsp;He further added that the government "would like to know more about Agnipath and Agniveer".&nbsp;

India earlier this year had announced the Agnipath scheme to recruit new soldiers in&nbsp;the Army. Under the scheme, the tenure of a soldier will be four years and only one-fourth will be retained after this period. Additionally, the Nepalese envoy also spoke on border issues and the cultural connect between the two countries.

WION: What was the aim of Teej celebrations?

Shankar Prasad Sharma​​​​​​: We would definitely like to strengthen the people-to-people relationship between the two countries. That is more sustainable which will help in strengthening other areas of partnership between the two countries. If we have a strong people-to-people bond, then nobody can separate them and then that will have a sustainable strong partnership between the two countries.

WION: Both India&nbsp;and Nepal have civilisation ties, roti beti ka rishta (family ties)..

SP Sharma: That is also going on, if we see today's crowd, many of these people, let's say the royal family of Nepal, they get married here in India. Some of these people get married in Nepal. At that level, the southern part of Nepal...it's much more, in terms of marriage and networking family relationships. That has continued. When you are in the same religion and the same culture, it's easier to have such relationships.

WION: How is the recruitment of Gorkhas under the Agnipath scheme going?

SP Sharma: No, they [Nepalese government] would like to know more about the Agnipath scheme. When we had a tripartite agreement long ago between India, Nepal and UK, we didn't have the provisions. Nepal would like to know more about it. They would like to have more clarity on this one because we have so many political parties in Nepal and they would like to consult with each other and know more.

WION: So, no recruitment happening under Agnipath&nbsp;scheme up until now?

SP Sharma: Yes, they had one schedule but that has been postponed.

WION: Did the Indian government take you in confidence?

SP Sharma: Yes and no. But Nepal would like to have more understanding from the highest level.

WION: How hopeful you are that the issue will be resolved?

SP Sharma: I am sure it will be. There are two issues, one is the understanding and implications to Nepal. Secondly, it is linked to political parties in Nepal and they have to have a consensus. I am sure something will come out.

WION: Indian Army chief is visiting Nepal, will it be discussed?

SP&nbsp;Sharma: I am sure they will.

WION: Any update on Border talks?

SP Sharma: No I think when both PMs visited each other's countries, there was a press release or press conference by the foreign secretary but many of these issues must be solved amicably and we hope they will start a dialogue soon and we will have some kind of solution.

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&nbsp;

In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army, Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision.

In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army, Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision. The Nepalese envoy stated his country would like more "understanding from the highest level". He further added that the government "would like to know more about Agnipath and Agniveer". India earlier this year had announced the Agnipath scheme to recruit new soldiers in the Army. Under the scheme, the tenure of a soldier will be four years and only one-fourth will be retained after this period. Additionally, the Nepalese envoy also spoke on border issues and the cultural connect between the two countries. WION: What was the aim of Teej celebrations? Shankar Prasad Sharma: We would definitely like to strengthen the people-to-people relationship between the two countries. That is more sustainable which will help in strengthening other areas of partnership between the two countries. If we have a strong people-to-people bond, then nobody can separate them and then that will have a sustainable strong partnership between the two countries. WION: Both India and Nepal have civilisation ties, roti beti ka rishta (family ties).. SP Sharma: That is also going on, if we see today's crowd, many of these people, let's say the royal family of Nepal, they get married here in India. Some of these people get married in Nepal. At that level, the southern part of Nepal...it's much more, in terms of marriage and networking family relationships. That has continued. When you are in the same religion and the same culture, it's easier to have such relationships. WION: How is the recruitment of Gorkhas under the Agnipath scheme going? SP Sharma: No, they [Nepalese government] would like to know more about the Agnipath scheme. When we had a tripartite agreement long ago between India, Nepal and UK, we didn't have the provisions. Nepal would like to know more about it. They would like to have more clarity on this one because we have so many political parties in Nepal and they would like to consult with each other and know more. WION: So, no recruitment happening under Agnipath scheme up until now? SP Sharma: Yes, they had one schedule but that has been postponed. WION: Did the Indian government take you in confidence? SP Sharma: Yes and no. But Nepal would like to have more understanding from the highest level. WION: How hopeful you are that the issue will be resolved? SP Sharma: I am sure it will be. There are two issues, one is the understanding and implications to Nepal. Secondly, it is linked to political parties in Nepal and they have to have a consensus. I am sure something will come out. WION: Indian Army chief is visiting Nepal, will it be discussed? SP Sharma: I am sure they will. WION: Any update on Border talks? SP Sharma: No I think when both PMs visited each other's countries, there was a press release or press conference by the foreign secretary but many of these issues must be solved amicably and we hope they will start a dialogue soon and we will have some kind of solution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXCLUSIVE: 'Would like understanding from highest level', Nepal envoy on Gorkha recruitment under Agnipath

A day before Gazprom shut the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, the Russian-state-owned company announced it had made a staggering profit of $41.75 billion, in the first six months of 2022.

A day before Gazprom shut the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, the Russian-state-owned company announced it had made a staggering profit of $41.75 billion, in the first six months of 2022. Reportedly, the energy major has also proposed a dividend of $0.85 per share for its shareholders, taking the overall dividend payout to $20.26 billion. The decision on the payout, however, will have to be approved in the September 30 extraordinary general meeting. Talking about the company's growth despite the dangling sword of western sanctions, Gazprom's deputy chief executive, Famil Sadygov stated: "Despite sanctions pressure and an unfavourable external environment, the Gazprom Group reported record IFRS revenues and net profit in the first half of 2022, while reducing net debt and leverage to a minimum." It is pertinent to note that after the announcement on Tuesday, Gazprom's shares soared more than 27 per cent in early trade in Moscow on Wednesday. Read more: Russian energy giant Gazprom halts Nord Stream 1 gas supplies for maintenance While Gazprom mints billions, the rest of Europe is anxiously waiting for the next three days to pass. As reported extensively by WION, Gazprom, which maintains the Nord Stream 1 pipeline has closed it for three days, beginning today, citing maintenance work. The pipeline which runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea is the lifeline of the European countries. Despite being against Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, the European countries remain toothless against Moscow which has used its position of energy dominance to circumvent the sanctions. The West has imposed sanctions on several hundred Russian companies since February, however, none of the countries have dared touch Gazprom. The reason is quite obvious. Russian natural gas accounts for more than 40 per cent of the EU's demands. If Gazprom is sanctioned, the entire economy of Europe could go into a tailspin. Read more: Russian energy giant Gazprom posts record-high net profit of $29 billion in 2021 (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gazprom makes $41.75 billion in profits in first six months, announces dividend for shareholders

Mikhail Gorbachev, the man who ended the Cold War without bloodshed but failed to prevent the collapse of the Soviet Union, died on Tuesday at the age of 91.

Last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev who ended Cold War without bloodshed, passes away at 91

We've all had our parents tell us that these devices will be the death of us. Now, new research has provided proof that electronic devices like smartphones, computers, and tablets and the excessive blue light they emit can significantly speed up our ageing process.

PTI quotes Jadwiga Giebultowicz, the senior author of the study and a professor at Oregon State University, as saying&nbsp;"Excessive exposure to blue light from everyday devices, such as TVs, laptops, and phones, may have detrimental effects on a wide range of cells in our body, from skin and fat cells, to sensory neurons."

The research, which was published in the journal Frontiers in Aging, suggests that limiting excessive blue light exposure could be an effective anti-ageing tactic.

Watch |&nbsp;Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling'

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Giebultowicz claimed that this study is "the first to show that the levels of specific metabolites -- chemicals that are essential for cells to function correctly -- are altered in fruit flies exposed to blue light."

Explaining the methodology he said that researchers compared the amounts of metabolites in flies exposed to blue light for two weeks to those kept in full darkness to understand why high-energy blue light is responsible for accelerating ageing in fruit flies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/crust-almost-as-old-as-the-planet-and-thousands-of-kilometres-long-found-floating-under-australia-511774" hreflang="en">Crust almost as old as the planet and thousands of kilometres long found floating under Australia</a>

They found that the quantities of metabolites they examined in the cells of fly heads were significantly different after exposure to blue light.&nbsp;The researchers' observations support their earlier results that blue light speeds up ageing by suggesting that the cells are not functioning at their best, which may lead to premature cell death.

According to Giebultowicz, blue light may have adverse effects on humans because the signalling chemicals in flies' and humans' cells are the same.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/paleontologists-discover-remains-of-europes-largest-dinosaur-in-a-garden-in-portugal-511423" hreflang="en">Paleontologists discover remains of Europe’s largest dinosaur in a garden in Portugal</a>

Since LEDs have become the main illumination not just in display screens, but also in ambient lighting " humans in advanced societies are exposed to blue light through LED lighting during most of their waking hours," he explained.

In the past, studies have connected excessive screen time to illnesses like obesity and psychiatric issues. Scientists will carry out more research to examine the direct impact of blue light on human cells.

(With inputs from agencies)

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We've all had our parents tell us that these devices will be the death of us. Now, new research has provided proof that electronic devices like smartphones, computers, and tablets and the excessive blue light they emit can significantly speed up our ageing process.

We've all had our parents tell us that these devices will be the death of us. Now, new research has provided proof that electronic devices like smartphones, computers, and tablets and the excessive blue light they emit can significantly speed up our ageing process. PTI quotes Jadwiga Giebultowicz, the senior author of the study and a professor at Oregon State University, as saying "Excessive exposure to blue light from everyday devices, such as TVs, laptops, and phones, may have detrimental effects on a wide range of cells in our body, from skin and fat cells, to sensory neurons." The research, which was published in the journal Frontiers in Aging, suggests that limiting excessive blue light exposure could be an effective anti-ageing tactic. Watch | Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling' Giebultowicz claimed that this study is "the first to show that the levels of specific metabolites -- chemicals that are essential for cells to function correctly -- are altered in fruit flies exposed to blue light." Explaining the methodology he said that researchers compared the amounts of metabolites in flies exposed to blue light for two weeks to those kept in full darkness to understand why high-energy blue light is responsible for accelerating ageing in fruit flies. Also read | Crust almost as old as the planet and thousands of kilometres long found floating under Australia They found that the quantities of metabolites they examined in the cells of fly heads were significantly different after exposure to blue light. The researchers' observations support their earlier results that blue light speeds up ageing by suggesting that the cells are not functioning at their best, which may lead to premature cell death. According to Giebultowicz, blue light may have adverse effects on humans because the signalling chemicals in flies' and humans' cells are the same. Also read | Paleontologists discover remains of Europe’s largest dinosaur in a garden in Portugal Since LEDs have become the main illumination not just in display screens, but also in ambient lighting " humans in advanced societies are exposed to blue light through LED lighting during most of their waking hours," he explained. In the past, studies have connected excessive screen time to illnesses like obesity and psychiatric issues. Scientists will carry out more research to examine the direct impact of blue light on human cells. (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.

Study proves right what our parents have been saying for years 'phones will be the death of us'

The UN is seeking $160 million for Pakistan after the country was devastated by floods. Government officials estimate that total losses could top $10 billion. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why the floods could be a knock-out blow for Pakistan's economy.

Gravitas: Pakistan floods affect 33 million people

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

Gravitas Global Headlines: Japan, Israel ink new deal | Germany Inflation

A study claims that 2 cups of tea a day will help you live longer, it will also reduce your risk of dying from a heart disease or stroke. Does this mean you should drink more tea? Also, what kind of tea should you drink? Listen in to Palki Sharma Upadhyay.

Gravitas: Study: 2 cups of tea a day may help you live longer

A new report says, Greenland's melting 'zombie ice' could raise global sea level by 10.6 inches. This could make floods more frequent & erode coastlines the world over. What's worse, scientists say there's no way to stop the ice from melting. Why? Palki Sharma Upadhyay explains.

Gravitas: Greenland's 'zombie ice' to raise sea level by 10 inches

Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy.

According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27. Her funeral was held on Tuesday (30th&nbsp;August).

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to Twitter to announce the demise of party president's mother. He wrote: "Smt. Sonia Gandhi's mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday".

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Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday.
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1564938856549720066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Reportedly, Sonia Gandhi is already abroad for a medical checkup along with her children Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and was also visiting her ailing mother.

The trio departed on August 23 from India. According to IANS, Rahul Gandhi will be back soon to take part in a Congress rally on September 4 in the national capital.

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi belongs to Lusiana, a historically Cimbrian-speaking village about 35 km from Vicenza in Veneto, Italy. She came to India in 1968 following her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, son of India's former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

India's&nbsp;incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to offer his condolences. Many INC leaders and party workers also offered prayers for the departed soul.

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Condolences to Sonia Gandhi Ji on the passing away of her mother, Mrs. Paola Maino. May her soul rest in peace. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the entire family.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1564968124277002242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Respected Congress President Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away. 
May Departed soul rest in peace 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankagandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/RY7pgs0oO6">pic.twitter.com/RY7pgs0oO6</a>
— Akhilesh (@AkhileshLY) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkhileshLY/status/1564957461953781760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It is learnt that @priyankagandhiji's and <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> Ji's Grand mother and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SoniaGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SoniaGandhi</a> ji 's mother has passed away. 
My heartfelt condolences to them . Prayers for her soul Rest in Peace. <a href="https://t.co/bQRCPWXRmD">pic.twitter.com/bQRCPWXRmD</a>
— Sunil Ahire (@SunilAh64145529) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunilAh64145529/status/1564952242649800704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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RIP Mrs.Paola Maino. 
 
Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and family. <a href="https://t.co/e1Tz9DIQPn">pic.twitter.com/e1Tz9DIQPn</a>
— Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCKerala/status/1564962088929628160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy. According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27.

Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy. According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27. Her funeral was held on Tuesday (30th August). Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to Twitter to announce the demise of party president's mother. He wrote: "Smt. Sonia Gandhi's mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday". Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday. — Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) August 31, 2022 × Reportedly, Sonia Gandhi is already abroad for a medical checkup along with her children Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and was also visiting her ailing mother. The trio departed on August 23 from India. According to IANS, Rahul Gandhi will be back soon to take part in a Congress rally on September 4 in the national capital. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi belongs to Lusiana, a historically Cimbrian-speaking village about 35 km from Vicenza in Veneto, Italy. She came to India in 1968 following her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, son of India's former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. India's incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to offer his condolences. Many INC leaders and party workers also offered prayers for the departed soul. Condolences to Sonia Gandhi Ji on the passing away of her mother, Mrs. Paola Maino. May her soul rest in peace. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the entire family. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2022 × Respected Congress President Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away. May Departed soul rest in peace 🙏@RahulGandhi@priyankagandhi@INCIndia pic.twitter.com/RY7pgs0oO6 — Akhilesh (@AkhileshLY) August 31, 2022 × It is learnt that @priyankagandhiji's and @RahulGandhi Ji's Grand mother and #SoniaGandhi ji 's mother has passed away. My heartfelt condolences to them . Prayers for her soul Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/bQRCPWXRmD — Sunil Ahire (@SunilAh64145529) August 31, 2022 × RIP Mrs.Paola Maino. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and family. pic.twitter.com/e1Tz9DIQPn — Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) August 31, 2022 × (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.

INC chief Sonia Gandhi's mother Paolo Maino passes away; PM Narendra Modi offers condolences

According to a recent study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research published in Nature Communications, using engineered wood for constructing houses and buildings in urban areas could help save 106 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2100.

According to a recent study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research published in Nature Communications, using engineered wood for constructing houses and buildings in urban areas could help save 106 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2100. Moreover, the study states that using wood instead of concrete and steel to build mid-rise houses could save about 10 per cent of the carbon budget needed to limit global heating to 2ºC. Wood having the lowest carbon footprint of any building material was given one of the major reasons for picking it over conventional building materials in the study. The researchers argued that the carbon dioxide absorbed by the tree during its growth will only be emitted when it is finally destroyed. Read more: Poo transplants to help patients struggling with superbugs Talking about population increase in the cities, Abhijeet Mishra, the lead author of the study, stated that mid-rise buildings with wooden constructions could range from four to 12 storeys and help avoid emissions associated with conventional building materials. “More than half the world’s population currently lives in cities and by 2100 the number will increase significantly. This means more homes will be built with steel and concrete, most of which have a serious carbon footprint. But we have an alternative. We can house the new urban population in mid-rise buildings – that is four to 12 storeys – made out of wood,” said Abhijeet. To ensure that engineered wood is available in sufficient quantities the study stated that it would require a total overhaul in conventional construction practices and a shift in how we currently acquire timber. Read more: Tattoo as health monitoring device? South Korean scientists develop unique technology Reportedly, to build houses using timber, it would require 149 million hectares of new timber plantations. Moreover, the harvests will need to be increased from unprotected natural forests. “Wood is sourced from timber plantations as well as natural forests. Most of the additional timber plantations needed – we are talking about roughly 140 million hectares – are established on harvested forest areas and thus not at the cost of agricultural land,” added a co-author of the study. The study may look promising but environmentalists are not too pleased with the idea of increasing the chopping of trees. Meanwhile, some suggested that the flammable quality of wood will make it a hazard while using it for urban house construction. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Use timber to build houses, cut 100 billion tonnes of carbon emissions: Study

UK's health regulator National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) on Wednesday gave the green light to medical practitioners to use a treatment process which involves poo transplant to treat patients struggling with superbugs.

It may sound a tad dirty at the outset to the readers but the doctors will be using faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) to treat patients who have been unsuccessfully treated for two or&nbsp;more Clostridium difficile (C diff) infections.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/tattoo-as-health-monitoring-device-south-korean-scientists-develop-unique-technology-502791">&nbsp;Tattoo as health monitoring device? South Korean scientists develop unique technology</a>

In the treatment, which is being dubbed revolutionary, the gut bacteria of a sick and unhealthy patient will be restored from the gut bacteria and other microorganisms of a healthy donor's poo.&nbsp;

According to doctors,&nbsp;C diff is a type of bacteria that can cause diarrhoea and often affects those above the age of 65, having weakened immune systems.&nbsp;

The situation can be treated easily using antibiotics. However, in some cases, the bacteria becomes highly resistant to the antibiotic, thereby earning the sobriquet of a superbug.

It is pertinent to note that superbugs are strains of bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites that are resistant to most antibiotic medicines.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/teeth-that-were-gathering-dust-for-40-years-lead-to-the-discovery-of-europes-last-panda-502628" hreflang="en">Teeth that were 'gathering dust for 40 years', lead to the discovery of Europe's last Panda</a>

According to Nice, the gut bacteria from the poo of a healthy donor can be delivered to the patient using three different methods.

Firstly, using a tube which is inserted directly into the stomach through the nose. Secondly, it can be deposited directly into the colon through a tube. Thirdly, a simple pill that can be swallowed.&nbsp;

"Use of this treatment will also help reduce the reliance on antibiotics and in turn reduce the chances of antimicrobial resistance, which supports Nice’s guidance on good antimicrobial stewardship.”&nbsp;Mark Chapman, interim director of medical technology at Nice was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;

The decision to go ahead with the FMT process was only taken after reviewing evidence from five trials involving over 274 adults. According to the data, the treatment can cure up to 94 per cent of infections.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

UK's health regulator National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) on Wednesday gave the green light to medical practitioners to use a treatment process which involves poo transplant to treat patients struggling with superbugs.

UK's health regulator National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) on Wednesday gave the green light to medical practitioners to use a treatment process which involves poo transplant to treat patients struggling with superbugs. It may sound a tad dirty at the outset to the readers but the doctors will be using faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) to treat patients who have been unsuccessfully treated for two or more Clostridium difficile (C diff) infections. Read more: Tattoo as health monitoring device? South Korean scientists develop unique technology In the treatment, which is being dubbed revolutionary, the gut bacteria of a sick and unhealthy patient will be restored from the gut bacteria and other microorganisms of a healthy donor's poo. According to doctors, C diff is a type of bacteria that can cause diarrhoea and often affects those above the age of 65, having weakened immune systems. The situation can be treated easily using antibiotics. However, in some cases, the bacteria becomes highly resistant to the antibiotic, thereby earning the sobriquet of a superbug. It is pertinent to note that superbugs are strains of bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites that are resistant to most antibiotic medicines. Read more: Teeth that were 'gathering dust for 40 years', lead to the discovery of Europe's last Panda According to Nice, the gut bacteria from the poo of a healthy donor can be delivered to the patient using three different methods. Firstly, using a tube which is inserted directly into the stomach through the nose. Secondly, it can be deposited directly into the colon through a tube. Thirdly, a simple pill that can be swallowed. "Use of this treatment will also help reduce the reliance on antibiotics and in turn reduce the chances of antimicrobial resistance, which supports Nice’s guidance on good antimicrobial stewardship.” Mark Chapman, interim director of medical technology at Nice was quoted as saying by The Guardian. The decision to go ahead with the FMT process was only taken after reviewing evidence from five trials involving over 274 adults. According to the data, the treatment can cure up to 94 per cent of infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Poo transplants to help patients struggling with superbugs

A four million-year-old chunk of the Earth's crust, the size of Ireland, has been found floating under Western Australia.

According to the research&nbsp;which was published online on June 17 in the journal Terra Nova, the old crust spans an area of at least 38,610 square miles (100,000 square kilometres) and is buried&nbsp;"Tens of kilometres" underground.

The Earth is 4.54 billion years old and the piece of Earth's crust is 4 billion old which makes it among the oldest on Earth. The rocks of the Canadian Shield, which are located on the eastern shore of Hudson Bay and date back 4.3 billion years, are the oldest, according to Space.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-becomes-bffs-with-notorious-double-murderer-in-jail-511763">Ghislaine Maxwell becomes 'bffs' with notorious double-murderer in jail</a>

Due to plate tectonics, which continuously stirs up and pushes Earth's crust back into the mantle, the majority of the planet's rocky surface was formed within the last couple of billion years.

Researchers have discovered the crust near Australia's Jack Hills, a site that is also home to small minerals called zircons that date back 4.4 billion years. This makes them the oldest materials on Earth to have been found.

Maximilian Droellner, a doctoral student at Curtin University in Australia and study co-author, said in a statement that the oldest crust like the recently discovered chunk in Western Australia tends to date back around 4 billion years. He said that this suggests that something noteworthy occurred in that period of Earth's history.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Satellite images show extent of damage; Pak PM calls deluge 'worst in history'

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"When comparing our findings to existing data, it appears many regions around the world experienced a similar timing of early crust formation and preservation," he said.&nbsp;

"This suggests a significant change in the evolution of the Earth some four billion years ago, as meteorite bombardment waned, crust stabilized and life on Earth began to establish."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/paleontologists-discover-remains-of-europes-largest-dinosaur-in-a-garden-in-portugal-511423" hreflang="en">Paleontologists discover remains of Europe’s largest dinosaur in a garden in Portugal</a>

Based on geochemical hints in the sediments found in the region, Droellmer and his colleagues believe that there is an older crust buried there. They also ran to test out their theory.&nbsp;

Researchers can learn more about the continents' early creation by comprehending how the crust formed 4 billion years ago, the researchers wrote. The planet's surface was constantly shifting during this time, and very few remnants of the early Earth have survived. This period laid the foundation for the planet as it is now.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A four million-year-old chunk of the Earth's crust, the size of Ireland, has been found floating under Western Australia. According to the research which was published online on June 17 in the journal Terra Nova, the old crust spans an area of at least 38,610 square miles (100,000 square kilometres) and is buried "Tens of kilometres" underground.

A four million-year-old chunk of the Earth's crust, the size of Ireland, has been found floating under Western Australia. According to the research which was published online on June 17 in the journal Terra Nova, the old crust spans an area of at least 38,610 square miles (100,000 square kilometres) and is buried "Tens of kilometres" underground. The Earth is 4.54 billion years old and the piece of Earth's crust is 4 billion old which makes it among the oldest on Earth. The rocks of the Canadian Shield, which are located on the eastern shore of Hudson Bay and date back 4.3 billion years, are the oldest, according to Space. Also read | Ghislaine Maxwell becomes 'bffs' with notorious double-murderer in jail Due to plate tectonics, which continuously stirs up and pushes Earth's crust back into the mantle, the majority of the planet's rocky surface was formed within the last couple of billion years. Researchers have discovered the crust near Australia's Jack Hills, a site that is also home to small minerals called zircons that date back 4.4 billion years. This makes them the oldest materials on Earth to have been found. Maximilian Droellner, a doctoral student at Curtin University in Australia and study co-author, said in a statement that the oldest crust like the recently discovered chunk in Western Australia tends to date back around 4 billion years. He said that this suggests that something noteworthy occurred in that period of Earth's history. Watch | WION Climate Tracker | Satellite images show extent of damage; Pak PM calls deluge 'worst in history' "When comparing our findings to existing data, it appears many regions around the world experienced a similar timing of early crust formation and preservation," he said. "This suggests a significant change in the evolution of the Earth some four billion years ago, as meteorite bombardment waned, crust stabilized and life on Earth began to establish." Also read | Paleontologists discover remains of Europe’s largest dinosaur in a garden in Portugal Based on geochemical hints in the sediments found in the region, Droellmer and his colleagues believe that there is an older crust buried there. They also ran to test out their theory. Researchers can learn more about the continents' early creation by comprehending how the crust formed 4 billion years ago, the researchers wrote. The planet's surface was constantly shifting during this time, and very few remnants of the early Earth have survived. This period laid the foundation for the planet as it is now. (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.

Crust almost as old as the planet and thousands of kilometres long found floating under Australia

After a dismal Q2, Snap Inc., the parent company of photo-sharing platform Snapchat is reportedly planning to slash its workforce by 20 per cent. The company houses more than 6,400 employees which means that over 1,300 could be given the boot in the coming days.

After a dismal Q2, Snap Inc., the parent company of photo-sharing platform Snapchat is reportedly planning to slash its workforce by 20 per cent. The company houses more than 6,400 employees which means that over 1,300 could be given the boot in the coming days. According to sources, the layoffs will start on Wednesday with developers that build mini-apps and games inside the Snapchat app, expected to bear the major brunt. The hardware department responsible for the AR Spectacles, and Pixy camera drone will also have a major wipeout. Furthermore, employees of Zenly, a social mapping app that was bought by Snap in 2017, and the advertising department could see major chopping. The mass layoff comes in the backdrop of Jeremi Gorman, Snap's chief business officer resigning and departing for video streaming giant Netflix. Moreover, as reported by WION, the layoffs were around the corner, especially after the company reported weak financial numbers in Q2. In July, after Snap announced its Q2 results, the company's shares fell as much as 25 per cent. Cumulatively, since the beginning of the year, Snap's shares have tumbled 80 per cent. Moreover, Snap's revenue in Q2 stood at $1.11 billion which missed the projected mark of $1.14 billion. The revenue increased 13 per cent from last year but fell short of the expected growth rate of 16 per cent. Read more: Snapchat's share tumble 25 per cent after dismal Q2 earning reports However, what broke the investor's confidence was Snap informing in its investor letter that the company was not looking to provide any guidance for the third quarter because 'forward-looking visibility remains incredibly challenging'. Reportedly, the disruption in the supply chain, labour shortage and record inflation has forced advertisers to pull the plug on their advertising budgets. This has directly affected Snap Inc's revenue according to the company officials. Read More: In US lawsuit, 16-year-old girl takes on Snapchat for failing to safeguard users The new Apple 2021 iOS privacy update, along with the meteoric rise of short-video platforms like TikTok has further caused the downturn in Snap's growth plans. Ever since the company turned public in 2017, it has managed to turn profitable only once. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After a dismal Q2, Snapchat parent company to sack nearly 1,300 employees

After cancelling a test flight earlier this week, NASA will attempt to launch its potent new Moon rocket again on Saturday, an official said.&nbsp;

Blastoff was scheduled to launch on Monday morning but was postponed due to the failure of a test meant to bring one of the rocket's four RS-25 engines up to the required temperature range for the launch.&nbsp;

The date for the new launch attempt, a crucial milestone in the US ambition to send men back to the Moon, was revealed by Mike Sarafin, mission manager of Artemis 1 at NASA, at a Tuesday media briefing.&nbsp;

The purpose of Artemis 1, which is named after Apollo's twin sister, is to test the Orion crew capsule and the 322-foot (98-meter) Space Launch System rocket.

The trip is unmanned; instead of astronauts, sensor-equipped mannequins will report the amounts of acceleration, vibration, and radiation.&nbsp;

The launch, which comes 50 years after the last Moon landing by Apollo 17 astronauts, attracted tens of thousands of spectators, including US Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-and-turkey-pushing-back-afghan-refugees-violating-international-law-says-amnesty-511623">Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty</a>

There was a slight risk of lightning during the overnight procedures to feed the orange-and-white rocket with extremely cold liquid hydrogen and oxygen.

The primary stage's hydrogen filling was halted when a suspected leak was discovered. Following tests, the flow continued.&nbsp;

Later, NASA engineers found the issue with the engine temperature and decided to cancel the launch.&nbsp;

To determine whether the Orion spacecraft is soon safe for habitation, it will orbit the Moon. Artemis plans to place a woman and a person of colour on the Moon for the first time at some point in the future.

(with inputs from agencies)

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After cancelling a test flight earlier this week, NASA will attempt to launch its potent new Moon rocket again on Saturday, an official said. Blastoff was scheduled to launch on Monday morning but was postponed due to the failure of a test meant to bring one of the rocket's four RS-25 engines up to the required temperature range for the launch.

After cancelling a test flight earlier this week, NASA will attempt to launch its potent new Moon rocket again on Saturday, an official said. Blastoff was scheduled to launch on Monday morning but was postponed due to the failure of a test meant to bring one of the rocket's four RS-25 engines up to the required temperature range for the launch. The date for the new launch attempt, a crucial milestone in the US ambition to send men back to the Moon, was revealed by Mike Sarafin, mission manager of Artemis 1 at NASA, at a Tuesday media briefing. The purpose of Artemis 1, which is named after Apollo's twin sister, is to test the Orion crew capsule and the 322-foot (98-meter) Space Launch System rocket. The trip is unmanned; instead of astronauts, sensor-equipped mannequins will report the amounts of acceleration, vibration, and radiation. The launch, which comes 50 years after the last Moon landing by Apollo 17 astronauts, attracted tens of thousands of spectators, including US Vice President Kamala Harris. Also Read: Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty There was a slight risk of lightning during the overnight procedures to feed the orange-and-white rocket with extremely cold liquid hydrogen and oxygen. The primary stage's hydrogen filling was halted when a suspected leak was discovered. Following tests, the flow continued. Later, NASA engineers found the issue with the engine temperature and decided to cancel the launch. To determine whether the Orion spacecraft is soon safe for habitation, it will orbit the Moon. Artemis plans to place a woman and a person of colour on the Moon for the first time at some point in the future. (with inputs from agencies)

NASA to relaunch Artemis 1 moon rocket on Saturday: Report

Convicted sex trafficker, alleged madame to the notorious financier Jeffery Epstein and now best friends with a murderer, former British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell is out to scandalise people.

Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year term for sex trafficking and recruiting young girls for Epstein to molest, has suddenly become fast friends with Narcy Novack, one of the most notorious female murderers in the United States.

65-year-old Novack is in jail for the double murder of her husband and 87-year-old mother-in-law.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Lesser-known facts about Princess Diana on her 25th death anniversary

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Mirror reported that as per a source "Once inside, Ghislaine gravitated towards Narcy."

“Because of her length of time inside and the brutality of her crime, she is treated like a female don," and the friendship offers Maxwell some modicum of protection.

The source also said that "together, they (Novack and Maxwell) spend hours talking, laughing and joking."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-bride-shamima-begum-was-smuggled-into-syria-by-canadian-spy-claims-book-511713" hreflang="en">'IS bride' Shamima Begum was smuggled into Syria by Canadian spy, claims book</a>

As per a Jezebel report, apart from the "severely unflattering jumpsuit and crimes of the corrupt and formerly wealthy" given their ages and the wealth they come from "they were always destined to get on well."

If you're not familiar with the name Novack, let us fill you in. Narcy is the wife of Ben Novack Jr., the owner of Miami’s famed Fountainbleau hotel. After learning that her husband was having an affair with a porn star, in a fit of rage and scared that her husband will give the money to his mistress, Narcy devised a plan to murder both her husband and his elderly mother.

Ben was found murdered in a New York hotel room, his eyes gouged out, body bound, bludgeoned and suffocated to death. While the mother-in-law was found dead in her garage.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Convicted sex trafficker, alleged madame to the notorious financier Jeffery Epstein and now best friends with a murderer, former British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell is out to scandalise people.

Convicted sex trafficker, alleged madame to the notorious financier Jeffery Epstein and now best friends with a murderer, former British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell is out to scandalise people. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year term for sex trafficking and recruiting young girls for Epstein to molest, has suddenly become fast friends with Narcy Novack, one of the most notorious female murderers in the United States. 65-year-old Novack is in jail for the double murder of her husband and 87-year-old mother-in-law. Watch | Lesser-known facts about Princess Diana on her 25th death anniversary Mirror reported that as per a source "Once inside, Ghislaine gravitated towards Narcy." “Because of her length of time inside and the brutality of her crime, she is treated like a female don," and the friendship offers Maxwell some modicum of protection. The source also said that "together, they (Novack and Maxwell) spend hours talking, laughing and joking." Also read | 'IS bride' Shamima Begum was smuggled into Syria by Canadian spy, claims book As per a Jezebel report, apart from the "severely unflattering jumpsuit and crimes of the corrupt and formerly wealthy" given their ages and the wealth they come from "they were always destined to get on well." If you're not familiar with the name Novack, let us fill you in. Narcy is the wife of Ben Novack Jr., the owner of Miami’s famed Fountainbleau hotel. After learning that her husband was having an affair with a porn star, in a fit of rage and scared that her husband will give the money to his mistress, Narcy devised a plan to murder both her husband and his elderly mother. Ben was found murdered in a New York hotel room, his eyes gouged out, body bound, bludgeoned and suffocated to death. While the mother-in-law was found dead in her garage. (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.

Ghislaine Maxwell becomes 'bffs' with notorious double-murderer in jail

This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs.

Data compiled by the Border Security Force (BSF) revealed that 107 drone sightings were reported in the first seven months of this year, a slight increase from 2021. 93 out of the drones’ intrusions were detected in Punjab. Additionally, Jammu reported 14 drone intrusions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-with-security-forces-in-shopian-511514">Also read |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Shopian</a>

A BSF officer said, "There are still five months left in this year and activity to smuggle arms and explosives through various routes usually increase towards winters. Also, these are just those drones which our jawans could hear, notice, or locals informed us about. It is very difficult to intercept, stall and deactivate all the drones at such a vast border," said a Hindustan Times report.

A senior official stated that terrorist groups like LeT and its allies in Jammu and Kashmir sent payloads through Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Gurdaspur in Punjab continuously by using&nbsp;Chinese drones to deliver weapons and IEDs in the past two years. Furthermore, Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit the Resistance Front (TRF) attacked Jammu Air Force Station with two drones, using unnamed aerial vehicles (UAV) that dropped two IEDs weighing between 3kg and 5 kg each.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiri-artisans-in-a-remote-village-busy-making-silk-carpets-for-indias-new-parliament-511444">Also read |&nbsp;Kashmiri artisans in a remote village busy making silk carpets for India’s new parliament</a>

With the assistance of local police, BSF has attempted to shoot down several drones and has also implemented a number of technologies, such as "Anti-Drone Guns", to obstruct the drones’ radio and GPS signals and compel them to land.

According to experts, Pakistan-based groups use drones to avoid capture of men and reduce costs.

Experts believe that drones are replacing human mules and helping in terrorist infiltration; they are easy to use from a covered location or building on the other side of the border.

(With inputs from agencies)

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This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs.

This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs. Data compiled by the Border Security Force (BSF) revealed that 107 drone sightings were reported in the first seven months of this year, a slight increase from 2021. 93 out of the drones’ intrusions were detected in Punjab. Additionally, Jammu reported 14 drone intrusions. Also read | J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Shopian A BSF officer said, "There are still five months left in this year and activity to smuggle arms and explosives through various routes usually increase towards winters. Also, these are just those drones which our jawans could hear, notice, or locals informed us about. It is very difficult to intercept, stall and deactivate all the drones at such a vast border," said a Hindustan Times report. A senior official stated that terrorist groups like LeT and its allies in Jammu and Kashmir sent payloads through Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Gurdaspur in Punjab continuously by using Chinese drones to deliver weapons and IEDs in the past two years. Furthermore, Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit the Resistance Front (TRF) attacked Jammu Air Force Station with two drones, using unnamed aerial vehicles (UAV) that dropped two IEDs weighing between 3kg and 5 kg each. Also read | Kashmiri artisans in a remote village busy making silk carpets for India’s new parliament With the assistance of local police, BSF has attempted to shoot down several drones and has also implemented a number of technologies, such as "Anti-Drone Guns", to obstruct the drones’ radio and GPS signals and compel them to land. According to experts, Pakistan-based groups use drones to avoid capture of men and reduce costs. Experts believe that drones are replacing human mules and helping in terrorist infiltration; they are easy to use from a covered location or building on the other side of the border. (With inputs from agencies)

Drone intrusions across border from Pakistan increased compared to 2021

A day after shooting Chinese drones flying over its airspace, Taiwan has now vowed to counter Beijing's growing aggression. The Taiwanese security forces said that the island would exercise its right to self-defense for aircraft and ships that enter their sea and air territory.

Taipei responds to China's increasing drone harassment; Taiwan to exercise its right to self-defense

Europe is grappling with Russia's gas supply cuts adding further to its woes. Russian energy giant Gazprom has cut off its gas supplies to Germany while the North Stream one pipeline citing maintenance work.

No gas supply though Nord Stream 1 pipeline, EU chief calls out Russia for 'manipulation'

Mikhail Gorbachev, a Soviet reformer, continued to innovate even after leaving the Kremlin, becoming the first head of state in modern Russian history to hold public office.&nbsp;

Tsars and Soviet leaders had traditionally passed away in the office or, in the case of General Secretary Nikita Khrushchev, had been forcibly removed from power and spent the remainder of their lives in obscurity.&nbsp;

Here is how Gorbachev charted his own trajectory after leaving office over a period of over three decades:

Prominent appearances

Against the advice of people close to him, Gorbachev participated in Western brand advertisements to collect money for his newly established charity.&nbsp;

The most well-known of these appearances was a Pizza Hut commercial in which the former USSR leader entered an American chain's restaurant after crossing Red Square.&nbsp;

While discussing the impact of Gorbachev's reforms, the diners present eventually stand to thank the former leader for introducing Pizza Hut to Russia.&nbsp;

An advertisement for the upscale clothing company Louis Vuitton from 2007 featured Gorbachev peering out of a car at the Berlin Wall while holding a monogrammed bag with the tagline, "A journey brings us face to face with ourselves."

Comeback attempt&nbsp;

In the 1996 presidential election, Gorbachev ran on a centrist platform but garnered fewer than 1% of the vote.&nbsp;

Despite having low polling numbers in the months prior to the election, his longtime foe Boris Yeltsin easily won thanks to the support of media oligarchs.&nbsp;

The humiliation of the former general secretary may have ultimately helped him since it demonstrated to Yeltsin—who had been trying to control Gorbachev—that he was no longer a political threat.&nbsp;

At the turn of 2000, Gorbachev assisted in establishing a short-lived social democratic party, although he never again sought for politics.

Green causes

With lucrative international lecture tours, a collection of memoirs, and a foundation in his honour, the former president followed in the footsteps of many Western heads of state.&nbsp;

Gorbachev also established the global environmental NGO Green Cross in 1992. He kept meeting with foreign leaders long after he left office to advance environmental interests.&nbsp;

In 2011, he turned 80, and to honour the occasion, Sharon Stone and Kevin Spacey staged a marathon charity event at London's Albert Hall. Former US president Bill Clinton and Bono were&nbsp;among others who paid tribute to him.

Free press

The person who started the movement of "glasnost," or openness, invested early in the opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta in the 1990s.&nbsp;

During President Vladimir Putin's administration, the publication served as a forum for dissident voices, and several members of its employees, notably the investigative journalist Anna Politkovskaya, have been killed for their work.

Till the end of his life, Gorbachev gave interviews and offered commentary on world events.&nbsp;

The publishing of Novaya Gazeta, whose chief editor Dmitry Muratov received the Nobel Peace Prize the previous year, was halted in late March until Moscow's military operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

In July, the Russian communications watchdog demanded that the licences for Novaya Gazeta's website and print edition be revoked.

Final days

The loss of Gorbachev's wife Raisa, who passed away from leukaemia in 1999 at the age of 67, was the greatest sadness of his life after leaving office.&nbsp;

The Soviet leader lived out his final days in a humble country home west of Moscow, where he and Raisa had previously resided after relocating there years before.&nbsp;

According to newspaper profiles and documentaries, he maintained home with a cleaner and a small security team while frequently travelling to Moscow for functions and foundation visits.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Mikhail Gorbachev, a Soviet reformer, continued to innovate even after leaving the Kremlin, becoming the first head of state in modern Russian history to hold public office.

Mikhail Gorbachev, a Soviet reformer, continued to innovate even after leaving the Kremlin, becoming the first head of state in modern Russian history to hold public office. Tsars and Soviet leaders had traditionally passed away in the office or, in the case of General Secretary Nikita Khrushchev, had been forcibly removed from power and spent the remainder of their lives in obscurity. Here is how Gorbachev charted his own trajectory after leaving office over a period of over three decades: Prominent appearances Against the advice of people close to him, Gorbachev participated in Western brand advertisements to collect money for his newly established charity. The most well-known of these appearances was a Pizza Hut commercial in which the former USSR leader entered an American chain's restaurant after crossing Red Square. While discussing the impact of Gorbachev's reforms, the diners present eventually stand to thank the former leader for introducing Pizza Hut to Russia. An advertisement for the upscale clothing company Louis Vuitton from 2007 featured Gorbachev peering out of a car at the Berlin Wall while holding a monogrammed bag with the tagline, "A journey brings us face to face with ourselves." Comeback attempt In the 1996 presidential election, Gorbachev ran on a centrist platform but garnered fewer than 1% of the vote. Despite having low polling numbers in the months prior to the election, his longtime foe Boris Yeltsin easily won thanks to the support of media oligarchs. The humiliation of the former general secretary may have ultimately helped him since it demonstrated to Yeltsin—who had been trying to control Gorbachev—that he was no longer a political threat. At the turn of 2000, Gorbachev assisted in establishing a short-lived social democratic party, although he never again sought for politics. Green causes With lucrative international lecture tours, a collection of memoirs, and a foundation in his honour, the former president followed in the footsteps of many Western heads of state. Gorbachev also established the global environmental NGO Green Cross in 1992. He kept meeting with foreign leaders long after he left office to advance environmental interests. In 2011, he turned 80, and to honour the occasion, Sharon Stone and Kevin Spacey staged a marathon charity event at London's Albert Hall. Former US president Bill Clinton and Bono were among others who paid tribute to him. Free press The person who started the movement of "glasnost," or openness, invested early in the opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta in the 1990s. During President Vladimir Putin's administration, the publication served as a forum for dissident voices, and several members of its employees, notably the investigative journalist Anna Politkovskaya, have been killed for their work. Till the end of his life, Gorbachev gave interviews and offered commentary on world events. The publishing of Novaya Gazeta, whose chief editor Dmitry Muratov received the Nobel Peace Prize the previous year, was halted in late March until Moscow's military operation in Ukraine. In July, the Russian communications watchdog demanded that the licences for Novaya Gazeta's website and print edition be revoked. Final days The loss of Gorbachev's wife Raisa, who passed away from leukaemia in 1999 at the age of 67, was the greatest sadness of his life after leaving office. The Soviet leader lived out his final days in a humble country home west of Moscow, where he and Raisa had previously resided after relocating there years before. According to newspaper profiles and documentaries, he maintained home with a cleaner and a small security team while frequently travelling to Moscow for functions and foundation visits. (with inputs from agencies)

Life of Mikhail Gorbachev: From luxury brand campaigner to initiating 'glasnost'

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