Today is an important day for Ukraine as the country marks 31 years of independence from the soviet union. However, celebrations will be muted, curfew has been imposed and security heightened as Ukraine marks six months since Russia began its invasion.

Ukraine's 31st Independence day overshadowed by Russian invasion

Life has been hell for most Ukrainians in the last six months. For those who have not been displaced by the war, bomb explosions have become a daily part of their life.

Russia-Ukraine war: 'In six months, peace has been broken'

Several cities in southern China raised their cyclone warning signals on Wednesday, bracing for Tropical Storm Ma-on, which is expected to make landfall along the coast of Guangdong province on Thursday.

At 12:40 PM (0440 GMT), the Hong Kong Observatory issued a strong wind advisory, with speeds up to 62 kph expected. The storm, about 440 km southeast of Hong Kong, will lash the city with heavy rains later Wednesday and into Thursday morning.

Hong Kong issued its third-highest typhoon warning on Wednesday evening as the storm trundled closer to the city, with authorities warning people to stay indoors.

Very hot weather has hung over the city for the past couple of days and temperatures reached as high as 34 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, with Ma-on, which translates to saddle, expected to be closest to the city on Thursday morning.

Hong Kong's financial markets will not open on Thursday if the typhoon signal remains at 8 or higher at 9 AM (0100 GMT). 
 
The Maritime Bureau of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge issued a typhoon-level II emergency response, closing it to shipping.

The ninth cyclone of the season, Ma-on is expected to generate waves of five to eight metres across the northern part of the South China Sea, according to local media. Storm surges are expected to affect several cities in Guangdong province, including Shenzhen, Chaozhou, Huizhou and Yangjiang.

The Shenzhen Meteorological Station upgraded the city's blue typhoon warning signal to yellow, and Zhongshan issued a yellow signal, suspending schools and child care classes throughout the city.

Shenzhen airport said it will suspend operations from 3:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, according to a statement from its official Weibo account, and the city's railway department suspended some train services between Wednesday and Friday, the local Southern Metropolis Daily reported.

China has a four-tier, colour-coded weather-warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

Ma-on is expected to gradually weaken after landfall, forecasters predicted. The winds and rain could bring much-needed relief to southern areas assaulted by days of scorching heat, which has pressured China's national electricity grid, damaged crops and caused wildfires.&nbsp;

Though it will not directly impact Taiwan, the outer edges of Ma-on also brought heavy rain to southern and eastern parts of the island, with flights to the outlying Green Island and Orchid Island cancelled on Wednesday.

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Several cities in southern China raised their cyclone warning signals on Wednesday, bracing for Tropical Storm Ma-on, which is expected to make landfall along the coast of Guangdong province on Thursday.

Several cities in southern China raised their cyclone warning signals on Wednesday, bracing for Tropical Storm Ma-on, which is expected to make landfall along the coast of Guangdong province on Thursday. At 12:40 PM (0440 GMT), the Hong Kong Observatory issued a strong wind advisory, with speeds up to 62 kph expected. The storm, about 440 km southeast of Hong Kong, will lash the city with heavy rains later Wednesday and into Thursday morning. Hong Kong issued its third-highest typhoon warning on Wednesday evening as the storm trundled closer to the city, with authorities warning people to stay indoors. Very hot weather has hung over the city for the past couple of days and temperatures reached as high as 34 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, with Ma-on, which translates to saddle, expected to be closest to the city on Thursday morning. Hong Kong's financial markets will not open on Thursday if the typhoon signal remains at 8 or higher at 9 AM (0100 GMT). The Maritime Bureau of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge issued a typhoon-level II emergency response, closing it to shipping. The ninth cyclone of the season, Ma-on is expected to generate waves of five to eight metres across the northern part of the South China Sea, according to local media. Storm surges are expected to affect several cities in Guangdong province, including Shenzhen, Chaozhou, Huizhou and Yangjiang. The Shenzhen Meteorological Station upgraded the city's blue typhoon warning signal to yellow, and Zhongshan issued a yellow signal, suspending schools and child care classes throughout the city. Shenzhen airport said it will suspend operations from 3:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, according to a statement from its official Weibo account, and the city's railway department suspended some train services between Wednesday and Friday, the local Southern Metropolis Daily reported. China has a four-tier, colour-coded weather-warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. Ma-on is expected to gradually weaken after landfall, forecasters predicted. The winds and rain could bring much-needed relief to southern areas assaulted by days of scorching heat, which has pressured China's national electricity grid, damaged crops and caused wildfires. Though it will not directly impact Taiwan, the outer edges of Ma-on also brought heavy rain to southern and eastern parts of the island, with flights to the outlying Green Island and Orchid Island cancelled on Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Typhoon Ma-on hurtles toward Hong Kong & Chinese southeastern provinces

Since 2018, only 2 Northern white Rhinos are left in the world. A report read At least 2,707 rhinos were poached in Africa between 2018 and 2021, including critically endangered black rhino and near threatened white rhino.

South African Rhino poaching drops during Covid-19 pandemic

Canada and Germany have signed a new green hydrogen pact which will kick-start a transatlantic hydrogen supply chain, with the first deliveries expected in just three years.

Canada, Germany sign 'hydrogen alliance', first deliveries expected in 2025

After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful&nbsp;Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment,&nbsp;"This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules."

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As reported by WION, the far-right leader on Monday posted&nbsp;a video which showed a Ukrainian refugee being sexually assaulted on the streets of Italy.&nbsp;

The video&nbsp;was reportedly shot by someone in a flat with a view of the street. The attacker was later taken into custody.

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/election-strategy-or-clickbait-voyeurism-italian-pm-hopeful-posts-rape-video-on-twitter-509391">:&nbsp;Election strategy or 'clickbait voyeurism'? Italian PM hopeful posts rape video on Twitter</a>

Along with the tweet, Meloni reportedly wrote, "One cannot remain silent in the face of this atrocious episode of sexual violence against a Ukrainian woman carried out in daytime in Piacenza by an asylum seeker."&nbsp;

“A hug to this woman. I will do everything I can to restore security to our cities," she added.

Enrico Letta, the head of the Democratic Party called Meloni's use of the video "indecent" and said that "respect of the victim comes first."

Meloni, however, claimed on Facebook that her competitors had used the rape to attack her while ignoring the victim to avoid dealing with what she called the immigration issue.

"I am honestly ashamed of political leaders who, while using rape to attack me, do not spend a word of solidarity for the victim, obviously for fear of having to face the issue of the security emergency aggravated by immigration illegal by the masses."

Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-giorgia-meloni-italys-far-right-leader-tipped-to-become-first-female-prime-minister-500815">Who is Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s far-right leader tipped to become first female Prime Minister?</a>

Meanwhile, the Italian police, along with state watchdog tasked with the protection of personal data is investigating the dissemination of the gruesome video.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment, "This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules.

After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment, "This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules." As reported by WION, the far-right leader on Monday posted a video which showed a Ukrainian refugee being sexually assaulted on the streets of Italy. The video was reportedly shot by someone in a flat with a view of the street. The attacker was later taken into custody. Read more: Election strategy or 'clickbait voyeurism'? Italian PM hopeful posts rape video on Twitter Along with the tweet, Meloni reportedly wrote, "One cannot remain silent in the face of this atrocious episode of sexual violence against a Ukrainian woman carried out in daytime in Piacenza by an asylum seeker." “A hug to this woman. I will do everything I can to restore security to our cities," she added. Enrico Letta, the head of the Democratic Party called Meloni's use of the video "indecent" and said that "respect of the victim comes first." Meloni, however, claimed on Facebook that her competitors had used the rape to attack her while ignoring the victim to avoid dealing with what she called the immigration issue. "I am honestly ashamed of political leaders who, while using rape to attack me, do not spend a word of solidarity for the victim, obviously for fear of having to face the issue of the security emergency aggravated by immigration illegal by the masses." Read more: Who is Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s far-right leader tipped to become first female Prime Minister? Meanwhile, the Italian police, along with state watchdog tasked with the protection of personal data is investigating the dissemination of the gruesome video. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rape video posted by Italian PM hopeful Giorgia Meloni deleted by Twitter

Amidst a raging fight with Russia, Ukraine has vowed to take back Crimea, a territory annexed by Moscow in 2014. Ukrainian President Zelensky on Tuesday said taking Crimea back would help re-establish world law and order.

Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: Report claims Europe facing worst drought in 500 years

The talks of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) aka the ‘Pakistani Taliban’ with the Pakistani government have come to a halt. The collapse in talks is expected to come as a blow to the Pakistan government which is trying to keep the homegrown monster in check.

The talks of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) aka the ‘Pakistani Taliban’ with the Pakistani government have come to a halt. The collapse in talks is expected to come as a blow to the Pakistan government which is trying to keep the homegrown monster in check. Reportedly, during the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It is pertinent to note that both the areas were merged four years back by bringing a constitutional amendment. Since then, the terrorist outfit has been demanding that the government return to the status quo. As reported by WION, TTP has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban but is essentially anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well. Read more: Pakistan government and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan agree on indefinite ceasefire Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well. Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan. According to Pakistan’s interior ministry, 434 terrorist attacks have taken place in the previous six months. The attacks come against the backdrop of the Pakistan government being engaged in peace talks with TTP. A UN report released in May, earlier this year also claimed that the TTP was the terrorist group that benefitted most from the Afghan Taliban’s ascent to power. According to the report, TTP had a strength of about 3,000 to 4,000 fighters in the neighbouring country. Read more: Pakistan records surge in extremism with 434 terrorist attacks in the past six months (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pak government's talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan come to a halt

UK's energy crisis is all set to worsen the country's cost of living crisis. With winter coming close and an energy price increase due in October, inflation levels in the country might break all records.

United Kingdom's cost of living crisis worsens with an energy price increase

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Reports that Russia intends to try Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in Russian-occupied Mariupol have raised concerns with the UN Human Rights Office. According to a UN spokeswoman, there is evidence that metal cages are being constructed in the music hall of the Ukrainian city, "presumably to restrain prisoners of war during hearings."&nbsp;

According to the UN, it is a war crime to prosecute POWs for taking part in hostilities. Russia has previously refuted allegations that it mistreats prisoners of war.&nbsp;

Recent social media posts, including those made by Ukrainian officials, appear to show metal cages being constructed on the philharmonic hall's stage.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> has informed international partners about the intentions of the Russian Federation to commit a flagrant war crime — the sham trial of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> prisoners of war, defenders of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mariupol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mariupol</a>.<a href="https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU">https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU</a> <a href="https://t.co/S0soUMCMNi">pic.twitter.com/S0soUMCMNi</a>
— UKR Mission to NATO (@UKRinNATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKRinNATO/status/1562187628706922498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In Mariupol, on August 24, Russian occupiers plan to judge Ukrainian prisoners in cages on the stage of a destroyed theater. We need to shout about it!!! I don't want it to be allowed. Ukrainian heroes defended us to the last!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzovstalDefenders?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzovstalDefenders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Azov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Azov</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MariupolTribunal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MariupolTribunal</a> <a href="https://t.co/T1WUT3MLml">pic.twitter.com/T1WUT3MLml</a>
— даша чи дарина (@darinapoda) <a href="https://twitter.com/darinapoda/status/1562044320789807107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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🇺🇦🇷🇺 Vladimir Zelensky said that negotiations between Kiev and Moscow would be impossible if a trial of Ukrainian prisoners of war takes place in Mariupol. 
 
And who said that we need negotiations? And the cages for the Ukronazis are already ready😁 <a href="https://t.co/X4nNp7ju6C">pic.twitter.com/X4nNp7ju6C</a>
— yugo antifascist ☭ 🚩komintern affiliated media. (@AntifaYugo) <a href="https://twitter.com/AntifaYugo/status/1561971245993844736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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‼️pushilin the leader of the so-called DNR,said that Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s demands wouldn’t affect plans to hold a tribunal for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> prisoners of war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mariupol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mariupol</a> 
 
‼️According to him,the materials for the tribunal are already fully ready<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russiaisaterroriststate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russiaisaterroriststate</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AZOV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AZOV</a> <a href="https://t.co/ozkrQe2bzD">pic.twitter.com/ozkrQe2bzD</a>
— Анастасія (@B__ANASTASIYA) <a href="https://twitter.com/B__ANASTASIYA/status/1561662559832391680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As per BBC reports, images were shot within the last four to five days and match the venue's interior.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

According to allegations made by Ukraine's intelligence service, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-six-months-into-the-russia-ukraine-war-what-are-the-consequences-so-far-509615?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Russia</a> intends to perform mock trials for Ukrainian POWs who were seized while defending the city before it was taken by Russian forces in May.&nbsp;

At a news conference, Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that such plans were "not acceptable" and "humiliating," adding that it seemed that the prisoners of war would be restrained during proceedings in these cages.&nbsp;

She continued by saying that the UN is worried that POWs who are accused of crimes won't get a fair trial.&nbsp;

Ms Shamdasani also voiced worry over Russia's refusal to allow Ukrainian POWs access to impartial observers like the UN and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which she claimed could put them at risk of being tortured to get a confession.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;How Russia-Ukraine war rattled markets?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-russia-ukraine-war-rattled-markets-509665/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Reports that Russia intends to try Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in Russian-occupied Mariupol have raised concerns with the UN Human Rights Office. According to a UN spokeswoman, there is evidence that metal cages are being constructed in the music hall of the Ukrainian city, "presumably to restrain prisoners of war during hearings." According to the UN, it is a war crime to prosecute POWs for taking part in hostilities. Russia has previously refuted allegations that it mistreats prisoners of war. Recent social media posts, including those made by Ukrainian officials, appear to show metal cages being constructed on the philharmonic hall's stage. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. #Ukraine has informed international partners about the intentions of the Russian Federation to commit a flagrant war crime — the sham trial of #Ukrainian prisoners of war, defenders of #Mariupol.https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU pic.twitter.com/S0soUMCMNi — UKR Mission to NATO (@UKRinNATO) August 23, 2022 × In Mariupol, on August 24, Russian occupiers plan to judge Ukrainian prisoners in cages on the stage of a destroyed theater. We need to shout about it!!! I don't want it to be allowed. Ukrainian heroes defended us to the last!#AzovstalDefenders #Azov#MariupolTribunal pic.twitter.com/T1WUT3MLml — даша чи дарина (@darinapoda) August 23, 2022 × 🇺🇦🇷🇺 Vladimir Zelensky said that negotiations between Kiev and Moscow would be impossible if a trial of Ukrainian prisoners of war takes place in Mariupol. And who said that we need negotiations? And the cages for the Ukronazis are already ready😁 pic.twitter.com/X4nNp7ju6C — yugo antifascist ☭ 🚩komintern affiliated media. (@AntifaYugo) August 23, 2022 × ‼️pushilin the leader of the so-called DNR,said that Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s demands wouldn’t affect plans to hold a tribunal for #Ukrainian prisoners of war in #Mariupol ‼️According to him,the materials for the tribunal are already fully ready#russiaisaterroriststate#AZOV pic.twitter.com/ozkrQe2bzD — Анастасія (@B__ANASTASIYA) August 22, 2022 × As per BBC reports, images were shot within the last four to five days and match the venue's interior. According to allegations made by Ukraine's intelligence service, Russia intends to perform mock trials for Ukrainian POWs who were seized while defending the city before it was taken by Russian forces in May. At a news conference, Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that such plans were "not acceptable" and "humiliating," adding that it seemed that the prisoners of war would be restrained during proceedings in these cages. She continued by saying that the UN is worried that POWs who are accused of crimes won't get a fair trial. Ms Shamdasani also voiced worry over Russia's refusal to allow Ukrainian POWs access to impartial observers like the UN and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which she claimed could put them at risk of being tortured to get a confession. WATCH | How Russia-Ukraine war rattled markets?

Ukraine war: UN condemns cages put up in Mariupol concert hall for prisoners of war

Trending on WION: Ukrainian refugee in Poland afraid to go back home

Amidst a raging war with Russia, Ukraine has vowed to take back Crimea, a territory annexed by Moscow in 2014. Ukrainian President Zelensky on Tuesday said taking Crimea back would help re-establish world law and order.

Crimea summit aims at restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity

Amid a worsening economy aided by an inept political ruling class, Sri Lanka has announced a ban on the import of over 300 'non-essential' items to reduce losses and cut the financial burden of the country.

Amid a worsening economy aided by an inept political ruling class, Sri Lanka has announced a ban on the import of over 300 'non-essential' items to reduce losses and cut the financial burden of the country. Reportedly, acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe signed the rather desperate measure under the Import and Export Control Act of the country. “Under imports and exports control regulations dated August 22 an import ban on a wide range of consumer items from food to machinery has come into immediate effect,” read the notification Read more: Australia commits another $25 million in emergency aid to Sri Lanka, takes total to $75 million Items such as chocolate, condensed milk, coconuts, perfumes, deodorants, shampoos, trunks, suitcases, and make-up products amongst myriad other things have been banned. Meanwhile, the import of electrical goods, ships and aircraft has been put on halt as well. WATCH | Food crisis looms in Sri Lanka; rice crop stunted × Not only the imports, but the government has also banned exports of building stone, cutlery cases, toilets, marble, tubes, pipes, hoses and fitting. To ease the import and export ban, the authorities have allowed a leeway. Reportedly, items shipped on or before August 23 and arriving on or before September 14 through seaports or airports will be allowed for customs clearance. While imports are being banned, the price of basic commodities in the country is touching new heights. Reportedly, on Sunday, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), a state-owned fuel distributor increased the price of kerosene to 253 Sri Lankan rupees (SLR), or 0.7 US dollars. Read more: Sri Lanka's CPC hikes kerosene prices to 253 SLR to recover losses As reported extensively by WION, the island nation, housing 22 million people is going through its worst economic crisis since it gained independence in 1948. After the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials deserted office, the entire country plunged into a state of crisis. Months of food, fuel, and medication shortages led to the island nation missing payments on its $51 billion foreign debt in April Since then, the country has been requesting assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Reportedly, negotiations are ongoing with the IMF to secure an Extended Fund Facility (EFF). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sri Lanka bans import of chocolate, shampoo & 300 other items to cut losses

Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988. However, since 2008, there have been no reports of dugong in China.

Scientists have called this instance a "wake up call" for us to prioritise conservative efforts. The study was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal.

Prof Samuel Turvey, a lead author in the study, said, "Our new study shows strong evidence of the regional loss of another charismatic aquatic mammal species in China – sadly, once again driven by unsustainable human activity," The Guardian reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-navy-strapped-cameras-on-dolphins-and-got-interesting-results-509195">US Navy strapped cameras on dolphins and got interesting results</a>

The aquatic mammals are dependent on seagrass, a special maritime ecosystem, which was quickly destroyed by human activities like coastal development and water pollution. Turvey further stated that seagrass beds are also susceptible to eutrophication, where algal blooms develop as a result of human-caused increases in nutrients in the water like sewage. This process reduces the capacity of light to pass through water and hinders photosynthesis.

Despite the fact that China focuses majorly on seagrass restoration and recovery, the restoration process can take a while, and it might be too late for the dugong populations that lived there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-smallest-and-endangered-sea-turtles-discovered-on-louisiana-islands-after-75-years-509129">World’s smallest sea turtles discovered on Chandeleur Islands after 75 years</a>

The researchers looked back at the distribution and activity records of dugongs in China. The research didn’t reveal any recent evidence of dugong survival outside of the mainland Chinese waters. The researchers stated that they would welcome any proof that mammals still exist in the country.

Turvey said that this study is a "sobering reminder that extinctions can occur before effective conservation actions are developed," The Guardian reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988.

Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988. However, since 2008, there have been no reports of dugong in China. Scientists have called this instance a "wake up call" for us to prioritise conservative efforts. The study was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal. Prof Samuel Turvey, a lead author in the study, said, "Our new study shows strong evidence of the regional loss of another charismatic aquatic mammal species in China – sadly, once again driven by unsustainable human activity," The Guardian reported. Also read | US Navy strapped cameras on dolphins and got interesting results The aquatic mammals are dependent on seagrass, a special maritime ecosystem, which was quickly destroyed by human activities like coastal development and water pollution. Turvey further stated that seagrass beds are also susceptible to eutrophication, where algal blooms develop as a result of human-caused increases in nutrients in the water like sewage. This process reduces the capacity of light to pass through water and hinders photosynthesis. Despite the fact that China focuses majorly on seagrass restoration and recovery, the restoration process can take a while, and it might be too late for the dugong populations that lived there. Also read | World’s smallest sea turtles discovered on Chandeleur Islands after 75 years The researchers looked back at the distribution and activity records of dugongs in China. The research didn’t reveal any recent evidence of dugong survival outside of the mainland Chinese waters. The researchers stated that they would welcome any proof that mammals still exist in the country. Turvey said that this study is a "sobering reminder that extinctions can occur before effective conservation actions are developed," The Guardian reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Dugong’s functional extinction in China due to habitat destruction, ‘a wakeup call’ to prioritise efforts

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-forced-to-walk-along-eurotunnel-after-train-breaks-down-watch-509652" hreflang="en">Passengers forced to walk along Eurotunnel after train breaks down - WATCH</a>

The staff at Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa – the place where the portrait was kept – felt that there was something wrong as it did not match the other portraits taken by Karsh. The hotel also houses the portraits of Martin Luther King Jr, Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway and Queen Elizabeth II.&nbsp;

Jerry Fielder, who oversees Karsh’s estate, was contacted and he discovered that the original portrait was missing. “I’ve seen that signature for 43 years. So, it took me just one second to know that someone had tried to copy it,” Fielder told Guardian. “It was a fake.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scandal-yet-again-finlands-pm-sanna-marin-apologises-for-controversial-pic-509603" hreflang="en">Scandal yet again: Finland's PM Sanna Marin apologises for controversial pic</a>

The portrait was one out of the 15 gifted to the hotel by Karsh himself almost 24 years ago. Fielder explained that Karsh had a long relationship with the hotel as he had his first exhibition in the same venue. He even lived there for 20 years and as a result, decided to gift them his artwork.&nbsp;

“For the kinds of people that he photographed, they could spot a sycophant or a phoney a mile away. And when you were with Yousuf, you knew right away he was the real thing. And I think it allows people to feel that they can be themselves,” he&nbsp;said. “He just had a way with people and putting them at ease,” he said.&nbsp;

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941.

A famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill has been stolen in Canada and the police believe that it was swapped with a fake picture. The portrait known as “Roaring Lion” was captured by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh just after Churchill’s address at the Canadian parliament in 1941. Also read | Passengers forced to walk along Eurotunnel after train breaks down - WATCH The staff at Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa – the place where the portrait was kept – felt that there was something wrong as it did not match the other portraits taken by Karsh. The hotel also houses the portraits of Martin Luther King Jr, Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway and Queen Elizabeth II. Jerry Fielder, who oversees Karsh’s estate, was contacted and he discovered that the original portrait was missing. “I’ve seen that signature for 43 years. So, it took me just one second to know that someone had tried to copy it,” Fielder told Guardian. “It was a fake.” Also read | Scandal yet again: Finland's PM Sanna Marin apologises for controversial pic The portrait was one out of the 15 gifted to the hotel by Karsh himself almost 24 years ago. Fielder explained that Karsh had a long relationship with the hotel as he had his first exhibition in the same venue. He even lived there for 20 years and as a result, decided to gift them his artwork. “For the kinds of people that he photographed, they could spot a sycophant or a phoney a mile away. And when you were with Yousuf, you knew right away he was the real thing. And I think it allows people to feel that they can be themselves,” he said. “He just had a way with people and putting them at ease,” he said.

Renowned Winston Churchill portrait stolen from hotel in Canada

On Monday, Najib Razak, former Malaysian prime minister who was charged for his involvement&nbsp;in the embezzlement of billions of dollars from the nation's sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, lost an appeal against his prison term. He started serving his 12-year sentence in Kajang Prison, south of Kuala Lumpur, on Tuesday after Malaysia's highest court affirmed it.

The&nbsp;embezzlement case dates back to 2018, when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/malaysian-ex-pm-najib-to-serve-12-year-prison-sentence-after-failing-to-overturn-1mdb-conviction-509671">Najib Razak</a>, the then PM of Malaysia&nbsp;lost a general election to his former mentor,&nbsp;Mahathir Mohamad.&nbsp;

After the defeat, Najib's properties were raided, and he and his wife were each accused of a range of offenses. Since then, he has been convicted of seven counts of corruption related to the enormous state investment fund 1MDB.&nbsp;

<img alt="Najib razak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911b6cd5-cd9f-4b25-862f-b78f88d69b9f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/_101620035_hi046655473.jpg" />

Najib Razak and his wife had&nbsp;both denied accusations linking them to 1MDB corruption in 2018. Photo credits: Reuters

Najib had&nbsp;consistently refuted the accusations and was&nbsp;given the all-clear while in office. But his administration was&nbsp;most certainly regarded as one that saw a rise in central power and scandal.

Dynastic rule

Najib Razak is the eldest son of Abdul Razak, Malaysia's second prime minister and the nephew of Hussein Onn, its third prime minister.

Najib returned to Malaysia in 1974 to work for Petronas after receiving his industrial economics degree from the University of Nottingham in the UK.

Prior to succeeding Abdullah Badawi as deputy prime minister in 2004, Najib served in the government in a variety of capacities, including that of minister of energy, telecommunications, education, finance, and defence. Najib assumed leadership when Mr. Abdullah resigned in 2009.

A 'liberal' beginning

As documented by the&nbsp;BBC, Najib initially expressed interest in adopting a more liberal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pti-leader-shahbaz-gill-to-appeal-to-pak-apex-court-over-custodial-torture-509627">political</a> stance, but he never actually did so.

In 2011, he abolished the contentious Internal Security Act and changed strict restrictions regarding public gatherings, but he then reinstated incarceration without charge.

He also broke his promise to remove a contentious sedition statute the next year and strengthened it instead.

The legislation, according to critics, were Najib's attempt to intimidate his political rivals and appease the ethnic Malay-Muslim majority that made up the majority of his political party's supporters.

Anwar Ibrahim, the head of the opposition and a former deputy prime minister, was found guilty of sodomy a second occasion in 2015. Mr. Anwar said the charges were politically motivated.

The opposition figure has subsequently received a pardon from the new prime minister and is regarded as Mr. Mahathir's likely successor.

In 2016, advocates seeking election change were imprisoned under a security law meant to combat terrorism.

Najib's administration established a rule against the dissemination of "fake news" prior to the 2018 election.

A string of controversies

The accusations of corruption and poor management of the state investment fund, 1Malaysia Development Berhad, have been the major stain on Najib's political career.

Najib, members of his family, and a number of supporters are charged with embezzling substantial sums of money that were reportedly used to purchase everything from fine art to high-end properties around the world.

<img alt="Najib razak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1754fc2-651c-4f3e-90de-c7cc91bdb291" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/_102871359_02635392-eb83-4502-8f19-399c26bd5a48.jpg" />

Raids on properties linked to Najib uncovered luxury goods worth millions of dollars. Photo credits: EPA

He replaced his deputy in July 2015 after the latter had criticised his handling of the situation, and the attorney general who was looking into it was fired for medical reasons.

Najib was exonerated of all charges in January 2016, but the criticism persisted.

Numerous protesters in Kuala Lumpur before the 2018 election demanded his resignation.

Authorities renewed their probe after he lost, and they accused the former prime minister of money laundering, violation of trust, and abuse of office.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Malaysian ex-PM Najib to serve 12-year prison sentence after failing to overturn 1MDB conviction

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/malaysian-ex-pm-najib-to-serve-12-year-prison-sentence-after-failing-to-overturn-1mdb-conviction-509671/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

On Monday, Najib Razak, former Malaysian prime minister who was charged for his involvement in the embezzlement of billions of dollars from the nation's sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, lost an appeal against his prison term.

On Monday, Najib Razak, former Malaysian prime minister who was charged for his involvement in the embezzlement of billions of dollars from the nation's sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, lost an appeal against his prison term. He started serving his 12-year sentence in Kajang Prison, south of Kuala Lumpur, on Tuesday after Malaysia's highest court affirmed it. The embezzlement case dates back to 2018, when Najib Razak, the then PM of Malaysia lost a general election to his former mentor, Mahathir Mohamad. After the defeat, Najib's properties were raided, and he and his wife were each accused of a range of offenses. Since then, he has been convicted of seven counts of corruption related to the enormous state investment fund 1MDB. Najib Razak and his wife had both denied accusations linking them to 1MDB corruption in 2018. Photo credits: Reuters Najib had consistently refuted the accusations and was given the all-clear while in office. But his administration was most certainly regarded as one that saw a rise in central power and scandal. Dynastic rule Najib Razak is the eldest son of Abdul Razak, Malaysia's second prime minister and the nephew of Hussein Onn, its third prime minister. Najib returned to Malaysia in 1974 to work for Petronas after receiving his industrial economics degree from the University of Nottingham in the UK. Prior to succeeding Abdullah Badawi as deputy prime minister in 2004, Najib served in the government in a variety of capacities, including that of minister of energy, telecommunications, education, finance, and defence. Najib assumed leadership when Mr. Abdullah resigned in 2009. A 'liberal' beginning As documented by the BBC, Najib initially expressed interest in adopting a more liberal political stance, but he never actually did so. In 2011, he abolished the contentious Internal Security Act and changed strict restrictions regarding public gatherings, but he then reinstated incarceration without charge. He also broke his promise to remove a contentious sedition statute the next year and strengthened it instead. The legislation, according to critics, were Najib's attempt to intimidate his political rivals and appease the ethnic Malay-Muslim majority that made up the majority of his political party's supporters. Anwar Ibrahim, the head of the opposition and a former deputy prime minister, was found guilty of sodomy a second occasion in 2015. Mr. Anwar said the charges were politically motivated. The opposition figure has subsequently received a pardon from the new prime minister and is regarded as Mr. Mahathir's likely successor. In 2016, advocates seeking election change were imprisoned under a security law meant to combat terrorism. Najib's administration established a rule against the dissemination of "fake news" prior to the 2018 election. A string of controversies The accusations of corruption and poor management of the state investment fund, 1Malaysia Development Berhad, have been the major stain on Najib's political career. Najib, members of his family, and a number of supporters are charged with embezzling substantial sums of money that were reportedly used to purchase everything from fine art to high-end properties around the world. Raids on properties linked to Najib uncovered luxury goods worth millions of dollars. Photo credits: EPA He replaced his deputy in July 2015 after the latter had criticised his handling of the situation, and the attorney general who was looking into it was fired for medical reasons. Najib was exonerated of all charges in January 2016, but the criticism persisted. Numerous protesters in Kuala Lumpur before the 2018 election demanded his resignation. Authorities renewed their probe after he lost, and they accused the former prime minister of money laundering, violation of trust, and abuse of office. Also WATCH | Malaysian ex-PM Najib to serve 12-year prison sentence after failing to overturn 1MDB conviction

Najib Razak: Malaysia's former PM and his collapse over corruption charges

Trains stopped in the Eurotunnel between France and England on Tuesday. Hundreds of passengers were stuck under the Channel Tunnel for around five hours after the train's alarms went off and had to be investigated.

Hundreds stuck after Eurotunnel train failure, passengers rescued after hours

A whistleblower complaint has alleged that Twitter misled users and authorities about its security against hackers and spam accounts. The whistleblower is Twitter's former security chief Peiter Zatko, take a look in our next report.

Twitter misled regulators on hackers, spam, whistleblower says

Ukraine on alert for 'brutal strikes', celebrations muted on country's 31st Independence day

British airways has announced it will cut over 10,000 flights to and from Heathrow airport from its winter schedule, this comes as European airports continue to struggle with staff shortages amid a post-pandemic rush.

British Airways axes 10,000 more Heathrow flights

Ford plans to cut 3,000 jobs across the US, Canada and India, the automaker said in a letter to employees, describing the reductions as part of a "reshaping" to get more competitive in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

Ford to layoff 3,000 employees in US, Canada, India to get competitive in electric vehicle market

Shares of Japan’s Hino Motors, Toyota Motor Corp’s truck and bus unit, slumped more than 6% on Tuesday, after a data-falsification scandal widened to small trucks.

Hino Motors emissions data scandal widens

As the demand for video conferencing platform cools off from pandemic highs, Zoom media communication has cut its annual profit and revenue forecasts. There is also stiff competition from Microsoft teams and cisco Webex that is leading to problems.

Zoom revenue growth hits record low

Global e-commerce business that witnessed a boom during Covid-19 period may now see revenue shrinking for the first time year-on-year. This year's reports state that in addition to supply issue being largest single weakening factor, inflation also plays a part.

E-Commerce revenue may shrink for first time

Swiss researchers said on Monday that a study has revealed that Swiss glaciers have shed half their volume since 1931 and the ice melt is accelerating.

Study: Swiss glaciers shrunk by half since 1931

India has called out Pakistan and China at the United Nations meet on Monday. In a veiled dig, India's permanent representative to UN called for countries to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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Russia has accused Ukrainian forces of carrying out a car bombing that killed Darya Dugina, the daughter of an influential Russian ultra-nationalist who has backed Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

Russia accuses Ukraine of Darya Dugina's murder

There's a political turmoil over search of Trump's Mar-A-Lago home intensifies. The former American President has now asked the judge to halt the justice department's investigation of the file being seized from his home until a special master is appointed.

Mar-A-Lago search | United States: Trump sues justice department

American President Joe Biden's Covid advisor Anthony Fauci has announced that he'll be stepping down this December. Fauci happens to be the top infectious disease expert in the United States and became the face of the country's fight against Covid-19.

Joe Biden's Covid advisor Anthony Fauci to step down in December

Trouble mounts for former Pakistani PM Imran Khan. The Islamabad High Court has decided to initiate contempt proceedings for his controversial remarks against a female sessions court judge at a rally.

Pak High Court to initiate contempt proceedings against PTI chief Imran Khan

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