Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the second India-Nordic Summit today along with Prime Ministers of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Norway. The summit is being hosted by Denmark.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to participate in second India-Nordic Summit in Denmark today

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Copenhagen on Wednesday. Two leaders spoke on a variety of subjects. Following his meeting with Prime Minister Modi, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre spoke exclusively with Sidhant Sibbal, WION's Principle Diplomatic Correspondent.

Exclusive: Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre speaks to WION after meeting with PM Modi

&nbsp;Greenpeace activists sought to block a tanker on Monday from delivering Russian oil to Norway, chaining themselves to the vessel in a protest against the war in Ukraine, the advocacy group said.

The Ust Luga product tanker is currently anchored outside Exxon Mobil's Slagen oil terminal some 70 km (43 miles) south of the capital Oslo, according to vessel tracker Marine Traffic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-india-not-violating-any-sanctions-by-importing-russian-oil-470364">US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil</a>

Activists arriving in a small boat chained themselves to the tanker's anchor chain as they sought to prevent the offloading of a cargo estimated at 95,000 tonnes of oil, Greenpeace said in a statement.

"Oil is not only at the root of the climate crisis, but also of wars and conflicts. I am shocked that Norway operates as a free port for Russian oil, which we know finances Putin's warfare," Greenpeace Norway head Frode Pleym said.

Watch |&nbsp;Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/economic-fall-out-of-russia-ukraine-war-indonesia-bans-palm-oil-exports-473409/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The group called on the Norwegian government to ban imports of Russian fossil fuels and said Exxon Mobil's Norwegian Esso unit should cancel any contracts for such imports from Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/total-embargo-on-russian-oil-and-gas-can-stop-war-within-a-month-putins-ex-economic-advisor-469987">Total embargo on Russian oil and gas can stop war within a month: Putin’s ex-economic advisor</a>

Esso Norway had agreed to buy the oil before the war broke out, and does not have plans for further purchases from Russia, a company spokesperson told Norwegian daily Dagbladet.

Esso did not immediately respond to a request for comment when contacted by Reuters.

Greenpeace activists sought to block a tanker on Monday from delivering Russian oil to Norway, chaining themselves to the vessel in a protest against the war in Ukraine, the advocacy group said.

Greenpeace activists sought to block a tanker on Monday from delivering Russian oil to Norway, chaining themselves to the vessel in a protest against the war in Ukraine, the advocacy group said. The Ust Luga product tanker is currently anchored outside Exxon Mobil's Slagen oil terminal some 70 km (43 miles) south of the capital Oslo, according to vessel tracker Marine Traffic. Also read | US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil Activists arriving in a small boat chained themselves to the tanker's anchor chain as they sought to prevent the offloading of a cargo estimated at 95,000 tonnes of oil, Greenpeace said in a statement. "Oil is not only at the root of the climate crisis, but also of wars and conflicts. I am shocked that Norway operates as a free port for Russian oil, which we know finances Putin's warfare," Greenpeace Norway head Frode Pleym said. Watch | Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports The group called on the Norwegian government to ban imports of Russian fossil fuels and said Exxon Mobil's Norwegian Esso unit should cancel any contracts for such imports from Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Total embargo on Russian oil and gas can stop war within a month: Putin’s ex-economic advisor Esso Norway had agreed to buy the oil before the war broke out, and does not have plans for further purchases from Russia, a company spokesperson told Norwegian daily Dagbladet. Esso did not immediately respond to a request for comment when contacted by Reuters.

Greenpeace blocks tanker from delivering Russian oil to Norway

Norway's Casper Ruud ended Francisco Cerundolo's unexpected run to the Miami Open semi-finals with a 6-4 6-1 win on Friday.

Eighth-ranked Ruud converted a late breakpoint in the opening set after nerves appeared to come into play for world number 103 Cerundolo, who was featured in his first Masters 1000 tournament main draw.

Ruud, who like the Argentine is 23, fended off four break points early in the second set and after holding serve to love for a 4-1 lead was able to cruise to the finish.

Ruud thumped his sixth ace on match point to reach his first final at a Masters 1000 event, where he will face either defending champion Hubert Hurkacz of Poland or 14th-seeded Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz, who play later on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-anirban-lahiri-fires-solid-68-for-strong-start-at-texas-open-467508">India''s Anirban Lahiri fires solid 68 for strong start at Texas Open</a>

"It was quite a tough match even though the scoreline said two straight sets," said Ruud, who was known as a clay court specialist before excelling on hard courts this year.

"It was a physical match. The conditions here were very, very humid today. I was lucky I was able to pull through and didn't need to play a third set."

Despite the loss, the tournament was a breakthrough for Cerundolo, who is projected to rise to world number 51 when new rankings are released next week.

Norway's Casper Ruud ended Francisco Cerundolo's unexpected run to the Miami Open semi-finals with a 6-4 6-1 win on Friday. Eighth-ranked Ruud converted a late breakpoint in the opening set after nerves appeared to come into play for world number 103 Cerundolo, who was featured in his first Masters 1000 tournament main draw.

Norway's Casper Ruud ended Francisco Cerundolo's unexpected run to the Miami Open semi-finals with a 6-4 6-1 win on Friday. Eighth-ranked Ruud converted a late breakpoint in the opening set after nerves appeared to come into play for world number 103 Cerundolo, who was featured in his first Masters 1000 tournament main draw. Ruud, who like the Argentine is 23, fended off four break points early in the second set and after holding serve to love for a 4-1 lead was able to cruise to the finish. Ruud thumped his sixth ace on match point to reach his first final at a Masters 1000 event, where he will face either defending champion Hubert Hurkacz of Poland or 14th-seeded Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz, who play later on Friday. ALSO READ: India''s Anirban Lahiri fires solid 68 for strong start at Texas Open "It was quite a tough match even though the scoreline said two straight sets," said Ruud, who was known as a clay court specialist before excelling on hard courts this year. "It was a physical match. The conditions here were very, very humid today. I was lucky I was able to pull through and didn't need to play a third set." Despite the loss, the tournament was a breakthrough for Cerundolo, who is projected to rise to world number 51 when new rankings are released next week.

Miami Open: Norway's Casper Ruud ends Francisco Cerundolo's dream run to reach first Masters finals

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

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

Four people were declared dead when a US military aircraft crashed during the NATO training exercises in northern Norway. According to the Reuters report, Ivar Bo Nilsson, of Nordland police, said: “It is regrettably confirmed that all four on board the plane have perished.”

Earlier, the local police and the country's Joint Rescue Coordination Centre&nbsp;(JRCC) announced that the aircraft was spotted with ‘major damage’.<o:p></o:p>

According to the official statement from the Norwegian Armed Forces, the MV-22B Osprey aircraft, assigned to the II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) US military unit, was "on a training mission in Nordland County, northern Norway on Friday" with a crew of four on board.<o:p></o:p>

The CNN reported that the damaged aircraft was spotted from one of the rescue helicopters and it appeared to have crashed in the municipality of Beiarn. Nordland Police chief of staff, Bent Arne Eilertsen, told public broadcaster NRK on Saturday that the aircraft has suffered a bit of damage.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-issue-needs-to-be-handled-properly-xi-tells-biden-during-video-call-463654">Taiwan issue needs to be handled properly, Xi tells Biden during video call</a>

"What we have been told is that it is an American plane with Americans on board," Eilertsen said.<o:p></o:p>

The US Marine Corps confirmed that the aircraft was taking part in NATO exercises.<o:p></o:p>

"The aircraft was participating in Exercise Cold Response 2022," the Corps said. According to NATO's website, Cold Response 2022 is a long-planned exercise bringing together NATO allies and their partners which aims to test their ability to work together in cold weather conditions.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-first-covid-19-deaths-in-more-than-a-year-463705">China reports first COVID-19 deaths in more than a year</a>

"Although the nature of military service is inherently dangerous, the safety of our Marines, Sailors, Allies and partners is our top priority," the statement said.<o:p></o:p>

The aircraft was reported missing at 6:26 p.m. local time on Friday while heading toward the town of Bodø, located north of the Arctic Circle, the Norwegian Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) said.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)

Four people were declared dead when a US military aircraft crashed during the NATO training exercises in northern Norway. According to the Reuters report, Ivar Bo Nilsson, of Nordland police, said: “It is regrettably confirmed that all four on board the plane have perished.

Four people were declared dead when a US military aircraft crashed during the NATO training exercises in northern Norway. According to the Reuters report, Ivar Bo Nilsson, of Nordland police, said: “It is regrettably confirmed that all four on board the plane have perished.” Earlier, the local police and the country's Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) announced that the aircraft was spotted with ‘major damage’. According to the official statement from the Norwegian Armed Forces, the MV-22B Osprey aircraft, assigned to the II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) US military unit, was "on a training mission in Nordland County, northern Norway on Friday" with a crew of four on board. The CNN reported that the damaged aircraft was spotted from one of the rescue helicopters and it appeared to have crashed in the municipality of Beiarn. Nordland Police chief of staff, Bent Arne Eilertsen, told public broadcaster NRK on Saturday that the aircraft has suffered a bit of damage. Also read | Taiwan issue needs to be handled properly, Xi tells Biden during video call "What we have been told is that it is an American plane with Americans on board," Eilertsen said. The US Marine Corps confirmed that the aircraft was taking part in NATO exercises. "The aircraft was participating in Exercise Cold Response 2022," the Corps said. According to NATO's website, Cold Response 2022 is a long-planned exercise bringing together NATO allies and their partners which aims to test their ability to work together in cold weather conditions. Also read | China reports first COVID-19 deaths in more than a year "Although the nature of military service is inherently dangerous, the safety of our Marines, Sailors, Allies and partners is our top priority," the statement said. The aircraft was reported missing at 6:26 p.m. local time on Friday while heading toward the town of Bodø, located north of the Arctic Circle, the Norwegian Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) said. (With inputs from agencies)

Four dead as US military aircraft crashes in northern Norway during NATO exercises

Here are the world's happiest countries in 2022

Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere believes that the country will receive around 30,000 Ukrainian refugees this year in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion. Addressing the parliament, Stoere said that the number of refugees can reach 100,000 with many of them fleeing Ukraine every day.<o:p></o:p>

He also said that if the number of refugees exceed their estimates, they will have to make special preparations to house them in warehouses, sports stadiums and even in tents.<o:p></o:p>

"That's not the most probable outcome but we must have plans and be prepared because it could happen," Stoere said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a>

<o:p></o:p>

According to official data published by the United Nations, around 3.2 million people have fled Ukraine in last three weeks and most of them have gone to Poland and other neighbouring nations.<o:p></o:p>

When it comes to Norway, around 2000 refuges have arrived from Ukraine and the government announced that they will soon receive 5250 people soon – 2500 of them will be coming through Moldova and 550 of them are currently in need of urgent medical care.<o:p></o:p>

Norway shares a border with Russia and they have decided to boost their defence and security budget by around 3.5 billion Norwegian crowns ($398 million) due to the Ukraine war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-ukraine-conflict-intensifies-russian-president-vladimir-putin-issues-warning-to-traitors-463306">Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors'</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Stoere said that the ongoing crisis in Ukraine has been a warning sign for Norway and many other nations in the region and he emphasised on the need of protecting their borders. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, the boost in defence budget will be one of the first steps taken by the nation as they are also considering other steps and partnerships in order to bolster their strength.

<o:p>Watch |&nbsp;</o:p>Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Fire after shelling kills at least one in Kyiv

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-fire-after-shelling-kills-at-least-one-in-kyiv-463420/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere believes that the country will receive around 30,000 Ukrainian refugees this year in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion. Addressing the parliament, Stoere said that the number of refugees can reach 100,000 with many of them fleeing Ukraine every day.

Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere believes that the country will receive around 30,000 Ukrainian refugees this year in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion. Addressing the parliament, Stoere said that the number of refugees can reach 100,000 with many of them fleeing Ukraine every day. He also said that if the number of refugees exceed their estimates, they will have to make special preparations to house them in warehouses, sports stadiums and even in tents. "That's not the most probable outcome but we must have plans and be prepared because it could happen," Stoere said. Also read | As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin According to official data published by the United Nations, around 3.2 million people have fled Ukraine in last three weeks and most of them have gone to Poland and other neighbouring nations. When it comes to Norway, around 2000 refuges have arrived from Ukraine and the government announced that they will soon receive 5250 people soon – 2500 of them will be coming through Moldova and 550 of them are currently in need of urgent medical care. Norway shares a border with Russia and they have decided to boost their defence and security budget by around 3.5 billion Norwegian crowns ($398 million) due to the Ukraine war. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors' Stoere said that the ongoing crisis in Ukraine has been a warning sign for Norway and many other nations in the region and he emphasised on the need of protecting their borders. According to Reuters, the boost in defence budget will be one of the first steps taken by the nation as they are also considering other steps and partnerships in order to bolster their strength. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Fire after shelling kills at least one in Kyiv

Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM Jonas Gahr Stoere

Joergen Graabak completed a wonderful personal week as he anchored Norway to gold in the Nordic combined large hill/4x5km relay on Thursday, adding the team title to the individual gold and silver medals already in his bag.

Graabak was involved in last-gasp sprints in those races but was able to pace himself carefully and cruise the latter stages this time and win by almost a minute after individual large hill silver medallist Jens Oftebro had broken clear on the third leg.

Defending champions Germany took silver after individual normal hill champion Vinzenz Geiger produced a fantastic final leg to make up 27 seconds on Japan, who took bronze.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-swiss-skier-michelle-gisin-retains-gold-as-mikaela-shiffrin-fails-again-in-alpine-skiing-454025">Beijing Olympics: Swiss skier Michelle Gisin retains gold as Mikaela Shiffrin fails again in Alpine skiing</a>

There was always likely to be little in it on the cross country after the "big four" - each with two wins previously in the event since it joined the Games in 1988 - emerged from the ski jump with all of 12 seconds between them.

Austria came out tops, eight seconds ahead of Norway, with Germany (11) and Japan (12) a ski length or two behind.

''Franz-Josef Rehrl had a great competition as he posted the biggest jump of the night for 127.5 points then went first in the cross country and kept Austria at the front.

World champion Johannes Lamparter, still only 20, kept Austria there but their hopes of building a lead by front-loading did not come to fruition, while Japan`s "weak link" Hideaki Nagai did superbly to stay in touch.

Norway left out Jarl Magnus Riiber, who was struggling for fitness after his two week COVID isolation, but they were hardly short of quality with Espen Bjoernstad drafted in as an experienced replacement alongside Graabak, Oftebro and Espen Andersen.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-olympics-swedens-sandra-naeslund-wins-womens-ski-cross-final-takes-home-gold-453970">Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold</a>

Germany’s multi-world and Olympic champion Eric Frenzel was also emerging from a lengthy COVID isolation and though he felt strong enough to race, it proved an ill-advised decision as he lost touch to hand the defending champions over 37 seconds adrift of the lead for the final leg.

Oftebro really dug in in the latter stages of the third leg to give Graabak a 10 second lead over Japan and Austria, with Germany another 27 seconds back.

Geiger worked incredibly hard to get back on terms and the three teams then settled into a tactical battle between themselves, allowing Graabak the easiest of rides to gold.

Joergen Graabak completed a wonderful personal week as he anchored Norway to gold in the Nordic combined large hill/4x5km relay on Thursday, adding the team title to the individual gold and silver medals already in his bag.

Joergen Graabak completed a wonderful personal week as he anchored Norway to gold in the Nordic combined large hill/4x5km relay on Thursday, adding the team title to the individual gold and silver medals already in his bag. Graabak was involved in last-gasp sprints in those races but was able to pace himself carefully and cruise the latter stages this time and win by almost a minute after individual large hill silver medallist Jens Oftebro had broken clear on the third leg. Defending champions Germany took silver after individual normal hill champion Vinzenz Geiger produced a fantastic final leg to make up 27 seconds on Japan, who took bronze. ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics: Swiss skier Michelle Gisin retains gold as Mikaela Shiffrin fails again in Alpine skiing There was always likely to be little in it on the cross country after the "big four" - each with two wins previously in the event since it joined the Games in 1988 - emerged from the ski jump with all of 12 seconds between them. Austria came out tops, eight seconds ahead of Norway, with Germany (11) and Japan (12) a ski length or two behind. ''Franz-Josef Rehrl had a great competition as he posted the biggest jump of the night for 127.5 points then went first in the cross country and kept Austria at the front. World champion Johannes Lamparter, still only 20, kept Austria there but their hopes of building a lead by front-loading did not come to fruition, while Japan`s "weak link" Hideaki Nagai did superbly to stay in touch. Norway left out Jarl Magnus Riiber, who was struggling for fitness after his two week COVID isolation, but they were hardly short of quality with Espen Bjoernstad drafted in as an experienced replacement alongside Graabak, Oftebro and Espen Andersen. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold Germany’s multi-world and Olympic champion Eric Frenzel was also emerging from a lengthy COVID isolation and though he felt strong enough to race, it proved an ill-advised decision as he lost touch to hand the defending champions over 37 seconds adrift of the lead for the final leg. Oftebro really dug in in the latter stages of the third leg to give Graabak a 10 second lead over Japan and Austria, with Germany another 27 seconds back. Geiger worked incredibly hard to get back on terms and the three teams then settled into a tactical battle between themselves, allowing Graabak the easiest of rides to gold.

Beijing Winter Olympics: Joergen Graabak anchors Norway to gold in Nordic combined relay

When Sturla Holm Lagreid handed over to Tarjei Boe in Tuesday's Olympic biathlon relay he was sure Norway's hopes of gold were gone, but a collapse by Eduard Latypov and a stunning final leg by Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen delivered a stunning victory.

While Latypov, representing the Russian Olympic Committee, missed four of his five shots on his final visit to the range, Christiansen's five-shot salvo was perfect and he powered home to take the gold medal before being mobbed by his teammates.

"I was so pumped up when he left the shooting, I was screaming with all I had because it was such an incredible moment for me, to watch him go out there in the lead and secure the gold," an elated Lagreid told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-2024-to-ensure-kamila-valieva-case-to-not-happen-again-453457">Paris Olympics organisers to ensure Kamila Valieva case to not happen again</a>

There was little to suggest a Norwegian win when Lagreid handed over to the elder Boe brother in seventh place, more than 40 seconds behind the ROC team, but Tarjei and his brother Johannes battled back to get close enough for Christiansen to exploit Latypov's wayward shooting.

"We weren't really in the gold fight in the beginning, but when the Russian started with these mistakes, there was a chance for the gold," Lagreid said.

"It was still unbelievable to watch Vetle hit every target in the last standing shoot and just go for it."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-2022-kamila-valieva-argued-positive-drug-test-was-mix-up-with-grandfathers-heart-medication-453431">Beijing Olympics 2022: Kamila Valieva argued positive drug test was mix-up with grandfather's heart medication</a>

The Norwegians are enjoying a stellar Games at the National Biathlon Centre, picking up five gold, one silver and four bronze medals, and Lagreid said the team would be celebrating.

"We have to suit up tonight and maybe we will have something else for dinner, other than pasta and water," he said, his face lit up by a golden grin.

When Sturla Holm Lagreid handed over to Tarjei Boe in Tuesday's Olympic biathlon relay he was sure Norway's hopes of gold were gone, but a collapse by Eduard Latypov and a stunning final leg by Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen delivered a stunning victory.

When Sturla Holm Lagreid handed over to Tarjei Boe in Tuesday's Olympic biathlon relay he was sure Norway's hopes of gold were gone, but a collapse by Eduard Latypov and a stunning final leg by Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen delivered a stunning victory. While Latypov, representing the Russian Olympic Committee, missed four of his five shots on his final visit to the range, Christiansen's five-shot salvo was perfect and he powered home to take the gold medal before being mobbed by his teammates. "I was so pumped up when he left the shooting, I was screaming with all I had because it was such an incredible moment for me, to watch him go out there in the lead and secure the gold," an elated Lagreid told Reuters. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics organisers to ensure Kamila Valieva case to not happen again There was little to suggest a Norwegian win when Lagreid handed over to the elder Boe brother in seventh place, more than 40 seconds behind the ROC team, but Tarjei and his brother Johannes battled back to get close enough for Christiansen to exploit Latypov's wayward shooting. "We weren't really in the gold fight in the beginning, but when the Russian started with these mistakes, there was a chance for the gold," Lagreid said. "It was still unbelievable to watch Vetle hit every target in the last standing shoot and just go for it." ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics 2022: Kamila Valieva argued positive drug test was mix-up with grandfather's heart medication The Norwegians are enjoying a stellar Games at the National Biathlon Centre, picking up five gold, one silver and four bronze medals, and Lagreid said the team would be celebrating. "We have to suit up tonight and maybe we will have something else for dinner, other than pasta and water," he said, his face lit up by a golden grin.

Beijing Olympics: Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen's stunning final leg ensures gold for Norway in biathlon relay

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, while speaking at a press conference said, "The metre is disappearing. We are taking away the recommendation on social distancing. Now we can now socialise like we did before, in nightlife, at cultural events and other social occasions. And on the way to and from work on buses, trains and ferries."

He, however, stressed that "the pandemic is not over", and advised unvaccinated people to continue practising social distancing and wear masks at places where social distancing is not possible.

This comes in despite in surge in Omicron cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-allows-alcohol-serving-and-sports-activities-as-it-eases-covid-rules-444869">Also read |&nbsp;Norway allows alcohol serving and sports activities as it eases Covid rules</a>

Isolate for four days after a person tests positive for Covid was downgraded to a recommendation. Also, children with respiratory symptoms are no longer required to get tested for Covid.

Earlier in January, the government reversed a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants.&nbsp;Apart from this, youth sports activities were allowed to resume.&nbsp;

The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases.&nbsp;

Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates.&nbsp;

Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days.

Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces.

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, while speaking at a press conference said, "The metre is disappearing. We are taking away the recommendation on social distancing. Now we can now socialise like we did before, in nightlife, at cultural events and other social occasions. And on the way to and from work on buses, trains and ferries." He, however, stressed that "the pandemic is not over", and advised unvaccinated people to continue practising social distancing and wear masks at places where social distancing is not possible. This comes in despite in surge in Omicron cases. Also read | Norway allows alcohol serving and sports activities as it eases Covid rules Isolate for four days after a person tests positive for Covid was downgraded to a recommendation. Also, children with respiratory symptoms are no longer required to get tested for Covid. Earlier in January, the government reversed a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants. Apart from this, youth sports activities were allowed to resume. The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases. Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates. Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days. Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway scraps all social distancing measures amid a surge in Omicron cases

The Taliban and Western diplomats are holding a meeting in Oslo. A member of the Taliban has claimed the meeting is a "step to legitimise" the Taliban's government. Will the West recognise and legitimise the Taliban? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Taliban begins talks with Western Officials in Oslo

The Taliban and western diplomats have began their first official talks in Norway’s capital Oslo since they took over control of Afghanistan. The three-day talks will focus on how to alleviate humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

Taliban holds first official talks with the west in Oslo to discuss Afghanistan

The Taliban delegation is presently in Norway for a three-day visit. The delegation is all set to hold talks with the west and also members of the Afghan civil society.

Taliban to meet with western officials in Norway amid calls for humanitarian aid

A Norwegian man killed nearly about 77 people and also injured dozens in 2011. During a parole hearing, he has pinned the blame on online radicalization, and the court has decided to keep him behind bars as it did not believe that the man could change.

Court denies parole to Norwegian mass murderer after he pins the blame on online radicalization

David Toska, who is Norway's most infamous bank robber, was invited as a guest during the Tata Steel Chess tournament, which is being played in Wijk Aan Zee, the Netherlands from January 14 to 30.&nbsp;

Toska was the alleged "mastermind" behind the "NOKAS robbery" in Stavanger in 2004. It was deemed as one of the most profiled criminal cases in modern Norwegian history.&nbsp;

Toska served 13 years of a 20-year sentence for the robbery that resulted in the killing of a police officer that is said to be a very rare occurrence in Norway.

He was fully released in 2018 and now has a daughter and a full-time job as a programmer, as mentioned by media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/planet-killer-asteroid-passes-near-earth-track-it-live-here-445708" hreflang="en">Planet-killer asteroid passes near Earth. Track it live here</a>

He has been invited to join as a guest during the broadcast.

As per chess24.Com website, Toska is a big chess fan and was known to be a talented player in his teenage. He had finished fourth in the Norwegian Under-14 championship, before taking to crime.

The report added that he got back into chess by following Carlsen's success while in prison, and shortly after his release he was seen at the venue of the 2019 Fischer Random World Championship in Hovik outside Oslo. He has an online rating of around 2000 now, the website said.

(With inputs from agencies)

David Toska, who is Norway's most infamous bank robber, was invited as a guest during the Tata Steel Chess tournament, which is being played in Wijk Aan Zee, the Netherlands from January 14 to 30.

David Toska, who is Norway's most infamous bank robber, was invited as a guest during the Tata Steel Chess tournament, which is being played in Wijk Aan Zee, the Netherlands from January 14 to 30. Toska was the alleged "mastermind" behind the "NOKAS robbery" in Stavanger in 2004. It was deemed as one of the most profiled criminal cases in modern Norwegian history. Toska served 13 years of a 20-year sentence for the robbery that resulted in the killing of a police officer that is said to be a very rare occurrence in Norway. He was fully released in 2018 and now has a daughter and a full-time job as a programmer, as mentioned by media reports. ALSO READ | Planet-killer asteroid passes near Earth. Track it live here He has been invited to join as a guest during the broadcast. As per chess24.Com website, Toska is a big chess fan and was known to be a talented player in his teenage. He had finished fourth in the Norwegian Under-14 championship, before taking to crime. The report added that he got back into chess by following Carlsen's success while in prison, and shortly after his release he was seen at the venue of the 2019 Fischer Random World Championship in Hovik outside Oslo. He has an online rating of around 2000 now, the website said. (With inputs from agencies)

This 'mastermind' bank robber of Norway joins TV broadcast as guest

Several European countries like Finland, Norway and Sweden are culling wolves in order to control their population. While hunters in Sweden have already shot 27 wolves, which is most of their annual target, Finland is to authorise the killing of 20 wolves as a part of its first “population management cull."

In Sweden, the 395 population estimates for the year 2020-21 have now come down to 300, says wildlife groups. Magnus Orrebrant, chair of an NGO said, "Sweden has promised the EU we should not go below 300 – that’s the bare minimum. We have informed the EU that 300 is way too low. We have habitat that could house more than 1,000 wolves.”

Norway, on the other hand, will kill about 60 per cent of its wolves this winter. In Norway, 5 per cent of the country is considered a wolf protection zone. Even after this, 25 wolves will be killed inside the protection zone this winter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-space-anaemia-research-tells-how-it-could-challenge-astronauts-during-space-missions-444941">Also read |&nbsp;What is space anaemia? Research tells how it could challenge astronauts during space missions</a>

Many conservation groups have appealed to the European Union to take action against this mass slaughter. Conservationists have accused these nations of creating a hostile environment for wolves in western Europe.&nbsp;

In a report by The Guardian, Siri Martinsen, chief executive of an animal rights group said, "Its a horrific situation. Norway’s wolf management is out of control and they are just shooting wolves because some people don’t like them. It is outrageous to hold a species at a critically endangered level.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Several European countries like Finland, Norway and Sweden are culling wolves in order to control their population. While hunters in Sweden have already shot 27 wolves, which is most of their annual target, Finland is to authorise the killing of 20 wolves as a part of its first “population management cull.

Several European countries like Finland, Norway and Sweden are culling wolves in order to control their population. While hunters in Sweden have already shot 27 wolves, which is most of their annual target, Finland is to authorise the killing of 20 wolves as a part of its first “population management cull." In Sweden, the 395 population estimates for the year 2020-21 have now come down to 300, says wildlife groups. Magnus Orrebrant, chair of an NGO said, "Sweden has promised the EU we should not go below 300 – that’s the bare minimum. We have informed the EU that 300 is way too low. We have habitat that could house more than 1,000 wolves.” Norway, on the other hand, will kill about 60 per cent of its wolves this winter. In Norway, 5 per cent of the country is considered a wolf protection zone. Even after this, 25 wolves will be killed inside the protection zone this winter. Also read | What is space anaemia? Research tells how it could challenge astronauts during space missions Many conservation groups have appealed to the European Union to take action against this mass slaughter. Conservationists have accused these nations of creating a hostile environment for wolves in western Europe. In a report by The Guardian, Siri Martinsen, chief executive of an animal rights group said, "Its a horrific situation. Norway’s wolf management is out of control and they are just shooting wolves because some people don’t like them. It is outrageous to hold a species at a critically endangered level.” (With inputs from agencies)

Several European nations are culling wolf population, here is why

In a bid to relax Covid restrictions, the Norwegian government will be partially reversing a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants, the prime minister. Jonas Gahr Stoere, while speaking at a news conference said, "We can ease some restrictions, but not all."

As per the new guidelines, bars and restaurants will be allowed to serve alcoholic drinks until 11pm local time.&nbsp;

Apart from this, youth sports activities will be allowed to resume, although adult sports will still be restricted. Quarantines, in most cases, will be replaced by a mandatory test regime.

The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases.&nbsp;

Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-we-ready-to-treat-covid-like-the-flu-some-nations-are-increasingly-thinking-so-444834">Also read |&nbsp;Are we ready to treat Covid like the flu? Some nations are increasingly thinking so</a>

Switzerland’s interior minister Alain Berset has said that the transition from pandemic to a stage like the flu may be considered. While speaking at a media conference, he said, “We may be on the eve of a watershed, the transition from a pandemic phase to an endemic phase."

Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days.

Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days.&nbsp;

Restrictions in the Netherlands will also be eased starting from Saturday. Non-essential stores, hairdressers and gyms will now be allowed to reopen. However, only a limited number of customers will be permitted.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to relax Covid restrictions, the Norwegian government will be partially reversing a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants, the prime minister. Jonas Gahr Stoere, while speaking at a news conference said, "We can ease some restrictions, but not all.

In a bid to relax Covid restrictions, the Norwegian government will be partially reversing a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants, the prime minister. Jonas Gahr Stoere, while speaking at a news conference said, "We can ease some restrictions, but not all." As per the new guidelines, bars and restaurants will be allowed to serve alcoholic drinks until 11pm local time. Apart from this, youth sports activities will be allowed to resume, although adult sports will still be restricted. Quarantines, in most cases, will be replaced by a mandatory test regime. The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases. Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates. Also read | Are we ready to treat Covid like the flu? Some nations are increasingly thinking so Switzerland’s interior minister Alain Berset has said that the transition from pandemic to a stage like the flu may be considered. While speaking at a media conference, he said, “We may be on the eve of a watershed, the transition from a pandemic phase to an endemic phase." Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days. Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days. Restrictions in the Netherlands will also be eased starting from Saturday. Non-essential stores, hairdressers and gyms will now be allowed to reopen. However, only a limited number of customers will be permitted. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway allows alcohol serving and sports activities as it eases Covid rules

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies.

The dam was blown after a small team drilled five holes deep into the dam and then packed 20 kg of dynamite into each one.&nbsp;

The destruction of the dam was a part of the Open Rivers Programme, which is a €42.5 million project. This project aims at providing grants to support the removal of small dams and restore the river flow all across Europe.&nbsp;

Tore Solbakken of Norwegian angling club Gudbrandsdal Sportsfiskeforening deemed the destruction of the dam as "a big step."

He has campaigned for 5 years to have the dam removed. “I’m very happy. It’s all about restoring healthy rivers and fish populations," he said in a report by The Guardian.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-one-of-the-priciest-real-estate-sales-new-york-apartment-sells-for-190-million-444848">Also read |&nbsp;In one of the priciest real estate sales, New York apartment sells for $190 million</a>

The dam was built nearly 100 years ago and has not been used in the last 50 years. As per campaigners, removing the dam will help fish in the area.&nbsp;

Elaborating on the same, Solbakken said, "Fish barriers, hydropower dams, roadbuilding and the way we secure rivers against flooding are all big problems for big brown trout and other fish. It is important to take care of all the small rivers. If we do that, we can have a positive future for our area.”

As per estimates, there are at least 1.2 million instream barriers in Europe. These have become a prominent factor for the dip in the number of migratory freshwater fish across the continent.&nbsp;

Herman Wanningen, founder of the World Fish Migration Foundation and Dam Removal Europe said, "Some fish species, such as Atlantic salmon, eels and sturgeon, travel thousands of kilometres to complete their lifecycle. Dams also impede important sediment and nutrient transport, and drastically change the natural flow of rivers. Breeding places are lost.”

(With inputs from agencies)

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies.

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies. The dam was blown after a small team drilled five holes deep into the dam and then packed 20 kg of dynamite into each one. The destruction of the dam was a part of the Open Rivers Programme, which is a €42.5 million project. This project aims at providing grants to support the removal of small dams and restore the river flow all across Europe. Tore Solbakken of Norwegian angling club Gudbrandsdal Sportsfiskeforening deemed the destruction of the dam as "a big step." He has campaigned for 5 years to have the dam removed. “I’m very happy. It’s all about restoring healthy rivers and fish populations," he said in a report by The Guardian. Also read | In one of the priciest real estate sales, New York apartment sells for $190 million The dam was built nearly 100 years ago and has not been used in the last 50 years. As per campaigners, removing the dam will help fish in the area. Elaborating on the same, Solbakken said, "Fish barriers, hydropower dams, roadbuilding and the way we secure rivers against flooding are all big problems for big brown trout and other fish. It is important to take care of all the small rivers. If we do that, we can have a positive future for our area.” As per estimates, there are at least 1.2 million instream barriers in Europe. These have become a prominent factor for the dip in the number of migratory freshwater fish across the continent. Herman Wanningen, founder of the World Fish Migration Foundation and Dam Removal Europe said, "Some fish species, such as Atlantic salmon, eels and sturgeon, travel thousands of kilometres to complete their lifecycle. Dams also impede important sediment and nutrient transport, and drastically change the natural flow of rivers. Breeding places are lost.” (With inputs from agencies)

Norway blows 100 years-old dam which was hampering river health and fish stocks

Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic. &nbsp;

The returned underwear will be used by the next conscripts as per the plan. &nbsp;

Norway, which is a NATO member, recruits around 8,000 young men and women for military service every year. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-effect-arctic-region-witnesses-massive-7278-lightning-strikes-in-2021-443105" hreflang="en">Climate crisis effect? Arctic region witnesses massive 7,278 lightning strikes in 2021</a>

The country, which shares a border with Russia, till recently used to allow discharged recruits to leave barracks with the undergarments they were issued. &nbsp;

The dwindling supplies during the pandemic seems to have forced the Norwegian military to ask the conscripts to hand over their underwear, which include bras and socks. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-members-express-solidarity-ahead-of-russia-talks-we-are-also-consulting-with-other-key-partners-443099" hreflang="en">NATO members express solidarity ahead of Russia talks: 'We are also consulting with other key partners'</a>

Although it was voluntary originally, it has been made mandatory now, public broadcaster NRK reported on Friday. &nbsp;

“Now that we have chosen to reuse this part of the kit, it helps us. … We don’t have enough in stock,” the defence logistics spokesman Hans Meisingset told NRK. &nbsp;

“The textiles are washed, cleaned and checked. What we distribute is in good condition,” Meisingset said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic.

Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic. The returned underwear will be used by the next conscripts as per the plan. Norway, which is a NATO member, recruits around 8,000 young men and women for military service every year. Also Read: Climate crisis effect? Arctic region witnesses massive 7,278 lightning strikes in 2021 The country, which shares a border with Russia, till recently used to allow discharged recruits to leave barracks with the undergarments they were issued. The dwindling supplies during the pandemic seems to have forced the Norwegian military to ask the conscripts to hand over their underwear, which include bras and socks. Also Read | NATO members express solidarity ahead of Russia talks: 'We are also consulting with other key partners' Although it was voluntary originally, it has been made mandatory now, public broadcaster NRK reported on Friday. “Now that we have chosen to reuse this part of the kit, it helps us. … We don’t have enough in stock,” the defence logistics spokesman Hans Meisingset told NRK. “The textiles are washed, cleaned and checked. What we distribute is in good condition,” Meisingset said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Return underwear’, Norway army tells outgoing recruits as COVID-19 pandemic hits supplies

Electric vehicles have started dominating Norway's car market as it aims to become 1st nation in the world to end cars that run on petroleum fuels.

Electric cars hit record sales as Norway on the way to become 1st nation to end fuel cars

Electric cars made up nearly two thirds of Norway's new sales in 2021, with Tesla the top selling automobile brand overall.

Electric cars hit 65% of Norway sales as Tesla grabs overall pole

In a bid to curb the Methane release from cow dung a Norwegian company is now testing Plasma technology at a dairy farm. The company has found a way to stop livestock slurry from releasing methane by zapping it with artificial lightning.

Norway: Zapping cow dung with artificial lightning to reduce Methane

Pack your bags! 10 best travel destinations for 2022 revealed, Cook Islands tops list

It’s that time of the year when countries select their official entries for Oscars and Norway has picked Joachim Trier’s Cannes hit ‘The Worst Person In The World’ as its submission to the Oscars’ International Feature Film category.&nbsp;

Kjersti Mo, who is the Director of the Norwegian Film Institute, called the movie a “tribute to film art in the form of a drama comedy that conveys deep seriousness with playful lightness and elegance.”&nbsp;

‘The Worst Person In The World’ debuted at the Cannes Film Festival in July, winning the Best Actress prize for lead Renate Reinsve. The story centers on Reinsve’s Julie, a spirited 30-year-old who has everything going for her. But she’s also experiencing growing disenchantment with a long-time serious boyfriend. Julie aimlessly wanders around the city on a beautiful summer evening and quietly crashes a wedding party in full progress. Encountering Eivind they start flirting but good times come to a passing eventually. It’s a simple melancholic tale. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oscars-italy-selects-paolo-sorrentino%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98the-hand-of-god%E2%80%99-as-international-feature-submission-424203" hreflang="en">Oscars: Italy selects Paolo Sorrentino’s ‘The Hand Of God’ as International Feature submission</a>

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will announce its shortlisted candidates on December 21, 2021.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/adele-is-no-1-once-again-with-easy-on-me-424196" hreflang="en">Adele is No 1 once again, with 'Easy on Me'</a>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-travis-barker-gets-kourtney-kardashians-lips-tattooed-on-his-body-424181" hreflang="en">Travis Barker gets Kourtney Kardashian's lips tattooed on his body</a></h2>

It’s that time of the year when countries select their official entries for Oscars and Norway has picked Joachim Trier’s Cannes hit ‘The Worst Person In The World’ as its submission to the Oscars’ International Feature Film category.

It’s that time of the year when countries select their official entries for Oscars and Norway has picked Joachim Trier’s Cannes hit ‘The Worst Person In The World’ as its submission to the Oscars’ International Feature Film category. Kjersti Mo, who is the Director of the Norwegian Film Institute, called the movie a “tribute to film art in the form of a drama comedy that conveys deep seriousness with playful lightness and elegance.” ‘The Worst Person In The World’ debuted at the Cannes Film Festival in July, winning the Best Actress prize for lead Renate Reinsve. The story centers on Reinsve’s Julie, a spirited 30-year-old who has everything going for her. But she’s also experiencing growing disenchantment with a long-time serious boyfriend. Julie aimlessly wanders around the city on a beautiful summer evening and quietly crashes a wedding party in full progress. Encountering Eivind they start flirting but good times come to a passing eventually. It’s a simple melancholic tale. Also read: Oscars: Italy selects Paolo Sorrentino’s ‘The Hand Of God’ as International Feature submission The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will announce its shortlisted candidates on December 21, 2021. Also read: Adele is No 1 once again, with 'Easy on Me' Travis Barker gets Kourtney Kardashian's lips tattooed on his body

Norway selects 'The Worst Person in The World' as official selection for Oscars

Pope Francis on Sunday&nbsp;condemned recent attacks in Norway, Afghanistan and Britain, in an apparent reference to the stabbing death of parliamentarian David Amess.

"Last week, various attacks were carried out, for example, in Norway, Afghanistan, England, which caused many dead and wounded," he said at his weekly blessing in St. Peter's Square.

"I express my closeness to the families of the victims and I pray, please, abandon the path of violence, which is always a loss, a defeat for everyone. Let us remember that violence begets violence," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-says-will-beef-up-mps-security-after-mp-killed-421531">Also read |&nbsp;UK says will beef up MPs' security after MP killed</a>

At least 41 people were killed and 70 wounded in a suicide attack at a mosque in Kandahar, Afghanistan on Friday. Hardline Sunni group Islamic State claimed responsibility.

Last Wednesday&nbsp; in Kongsberg, a man killed five people with a bow-and-arrow and other weapons during a half-hour rampage, assaulting his victims in the streets and forcing his way into houses and a supermarket.

David Amess, 69, of the Conservative Party, was knifed repeatedly in an attack in Leigh-on-Sea, east of London, during a meeting with constituents in a church. A 25-year-old British man was detained under terrorism powers on suspicion of murder.

Pope Francis on Sunday condemned recent attacks in Norway, Afghanistan and Britain, in an apparent reference to the stabbing death of parliamentarian David Amess.

Pope Francis on Sunday condemned recent attacks in Norway, Afghanistan and Britain, in an apparent reference to the stabbing death of parliamentarian David Amess. "Last week, various attacks were carried out, for example, in Norway, Afghanistan, England, which caused many dead and wounded," he said at his weekly blessing in St. Peter's Square. "I express my closeness to the families of the victims and I pray, please, abandon the path of violence, which is always a loss, a defeat for everyone. Let us remember that violence begets violence," he said. Also read | UK says will beef up MPs' security after MP killed At least 41 people were killed and 70 wounded in a suicide attack at a mosque in Kandahar, Afghanistan on Friday. Hardline Sunni group Islamic State claimed responsibility. Last Wednesday in Kongsberg, a man killed five people with a bow-and-arrow and other weapons during a half-hour rampage, assaulting his victims in the streets and forcing his way into houses and a supermarket. David Amess, 69, of the Conservative Party, was knifed repeatedly in an attack in Leigh-on-Sea, east of London, during a meeting with constituents in a church. A 25-year-old British man was detained under terrorism powers on suspicion of murder.

Pope condemns attacks in Norway, Afghanistan and Britain

A town in Norway fell prey to a stone-age-style attack. A terrorist killed 5 people with bow and arrows in Kongsberg. How did Norway react to it? By asking police to start carrying arms with them. Weren't they armed already? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Norway: 5 killed in bow and arrow attack

The suspect caught in Norway’s bow-and-arrow attack may have been motivated by mental illness, authorities have reported.<o:p></o:p>

Espen Andersen Brathen, a 37-year-old Danish citizen, was arrested by local police and the man has admitted to killing five people in the attack.<o:p></o:p>

"The strongest hypothesis after the first days of the investigation is that illness is in the background," police inspector Per Thomas Omholt told reporters on Friday, two days after the attack.<o:p></o:p>

He was taken into custody by local police and was taken into a medical facility as his psychiatric evaluation was pending.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-bow-and-arrow-attack-an-act-of-terror-norwegian-intelligence-420706">Norway bow-and-arrow attack an 'act of terror': Norwegian intelligence</a></o:p>

Whether or not he can be held liable for his actions can only be determined after a complete psychiatric evaluation, which could take months.<o:p></o:p>

"This indicates that things are not exactly as they should be," his lawyer Fredrik Neumann said. "A complete judicial assessment will clarify that."<o:p></o:p>

The police inspector has also said that experts are investigating a range of motives behind this such as "anger, revenge, impulse, jihad, illness and provocation”. He also added that Brathen has confessed to killings but has, however, not admitted to guilt.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, authorities had hinted upon this being an act of terror. However, experts are now saying that it might also be an act of a mentally unstable person.<o:p></o:p>

"There is no doubt that (it) appears as if it could be an act of terror, but it's important that the investigation continues and that we establish the motive of the suspect," the head of Norway's intelligence service PST, Hans Sverre Sjovold, told a news conference on Thursday. "This is a person who has been in and out of the health system for some time."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, neighbours of the suspect have described him to be a ‘big person with a crew cut who was always alone. "No smile, nothing in the face. He was just staring," the neighbour told AFP.<o:p></o:p>

The suspect caught in Norway’s bow-and-arrow attack may have been motivated by mental illness, authorities have reported. Espen Andersen Brathen, a 37-year-old Danish citizen, was arrested by local police and the man has admitted to killing five people in the attack.

The suspect caught in Norway’s bow-and-arrow attack may have been motivated by mental illness, authorities have reported. Espen Andersen Brathen, a 37-year-old Danish citizen, was arrested by local police and the man has admitted to killing five people in the attack. "The strongest hypothesis after the first days of the investigation is that illness is in the background," police inspector Per Thomas Omholt told reporters on Friday, two days after the attack. He was taken into custody by local police and was taken into a medical facility as his psychiatric evaluation was pending. Also read | Norway bow-and-arrow attack an 'act of terror': Norwegian intelligence Whether or not he can be held liable for his actions can only be determined after a complete psychiatric evaluation, which could take months. "This indicates that things are not exactly as they should be," his lawyer Fredrik Neumann said. "A complete judicial assessment will clarify that." The police inspector has also said that experts are investigating a range of motives behind this such as "anger, revenge, impulse, jihad, illness and provocation”. He also added that Brathen has confessed to killings but has, however, not admitted to guilt. Earlier, authorities had hinted upon this being an act of terror. However, experts are now saying that it might also be an act of a mentally unstable person. "There is no doubt that (it) appears as if it could be an act of terror, but it's important that the investigation continues and that we establish the motive of the suspect," the head of Norway's intelligence service PST, Hans Sverre Sjovold, told a news conference on Thursday. "This is a person who has been in and out of the health system for some time." Meanwhile, neighbours of the suspect have described him to be a ‘big person with a crew cut who was always alone. "No smile, nothing in the face. He was just staring," the neighbour told AFP.

Norway bow-and-arrow attacker may have acted due to mental illness

Norwegian intelligence service PST said on Thursday that the bow-and-arrow attack that took place in Kongsberg area seemed to be an "act of terror". The attack claimed five lives.

"The events in Kongsberg currently appear to be an act of terror, but the investigation... will determine in closer detail what the acts were motivated by," PST said in a statement.

The Kongsberg area has a population of 28,000 and is 68 km from Norway's capital Oslo.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-norway-5-killed-in-bow-and-arrow-attack-420799/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Norway rarely witnesses such acts of violence. This is the worst death toll in any attack in Norway since 2011. The country rarely experiences such violence.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-police-says-several-people-killed-in-bow-and-arrow-attack-420564">Norway: Police says several people killed in bow and arrow attack</a>

"I understand that many people are afraid, but it's important to emphasise that the police are now in control," said Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg earlier.

An extremist called Anders Behring Brevik had killed 77 people 10 years ago in Norway's worst massacre since World War II.

He had set off a bomb in Oslo next to the office of the country's prime minister and went on a shooting spree at Utoya's summer camp.

(With inputs from agencies)

Norwegian intelligence service PST said on Thursday that the bow-and-arrow attack that took place in Kongsberg area seemed to be an "act of terror". The attack claimed five lives.

Norwegian intelligence service PST said on Thursday that the bow-and-arrow attack that took place in Kongsberg area seemed to be an "act of terror". The attack claimed five lives. "The events in Kongsberg currently appear to be an act of terror, but the investigation... will determine in closer detail what the acts were motivated by," PST said in a statement. The Kongsberg area has a population of 28,000 and is 68 km from Norway's capital Oslo. × Norway rarely witnesses such acts of violence. This is the worst death toll in any attack in Norway since 2011. The country rarely experiences such violence. Also Read | Norway: Police says several people killed in bow and arrow attack "I understand that many people are afraid, but it's important to emphasise that the police are now in control," said Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg earlier. An extremist called Anders Behring Brevik had killed 77 people 10 years ago in Norway's worst massacre since World War II. He had set off a bomb in Oslo next to the office of the country's prime minister and went on a shooting spree at Utoya's summer camp. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway bow-and-arrow attack an 'act of terror': Norwegian intelligence

A man armed with a bow and arrows killed five people near the Norwegian capital of Oslo before he was arrested. According to police, the suspect walked around the city shooting at people with arrows.

Man kills five near Norwegian capital Oslo before getting arrested

norway

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