The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights. The statement received unanimous support from 15 council members and underlined that Myanmar had hanged the men after ASEAN and others in the 10-nation bloc requested for the judgments to be overturned. Additionally, the council members “reiterated their full support for Myanmar’s democratic transition and their strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Myanmar,” AP reported.

A former NLP politician, a democratic nationalist, and two other men were accused of killing a woman they allegedly thought was a military informant. This week, ASEAN condemned the murders and said that it jeopardised its attempts to facilitate communication between the military leadership and detractors. All four were put on trial, found guilty, and given sentences by a military court, with no possibility of appeal. This was the first legal execution in Myanmar in nearly 50 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/executed-myanmar-prisoners-deserved-many-death-sentences-claims-junta-spokesman-500927">Executed Myanmar prisoners deserved 'many death sentences', claims junta spokesman</a>

ASEAN has been trying to bring peace to Myanmar. Its five-point plan to restore peace and stability in the country includes an immediate halt to violence, a conversation between all parties, and the appointment of an ASEAN special envoy to travel to Myanmar to speak with all the parties involved.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-terms-myanmar-junta-executions-highly-reprehensible-says-saddened-by-killings-500752">ASEAN terms Myanmar junta executions 'highly reprehensible', says 'saddened' by killings</a>

As per some UN experts, Myanmar&nbsp;has descended into a civil war, as despite reaching a consensus in April 2021, accepted by its military government, little has been done to put it into practise. The UN’s special envoy, Noeleen Heyzer, said that the world organisation considers the execution to be a “blatant violation” of a person’s right to life, liberty, and security, AP reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

<o:p></o:p>

The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights.

The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights. The statement received unanimous support from 15 council members and underlined that Myanmar had hanged the men after ASEAN and others in the 10-nation bloc requested for the judgments to be overturned. Additionally, the council members “reiterated their full support for Myanmar’s democratic transition and their strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Myanmar,” AP reported. A former NLP politician, a democratic nationalist, and two other men were accused of killing a woman they allegedly thought was a military informant. This week, ASEAN condemned the murders and said that it jeopardised its attempts to facilitate communication between the military leadership and detractors. All four were put on trial, found guilty, and given sentences by a military court, with no possibility of appeal. This was the first legal execution in Myanmar in nearly 50 years. Also read | Executed Myanmar prisoners deserved 'many death sentences', claims junta spokesman ASEAN has been trying to bring peace to Myanmar. Its five-point plan to restore peace and stability in the country includes an immediate halt to violence, a conversation between all parties, and the appointment of an ASEAN special envoy to travel to Myanmar to speak with all the parties involved. Also read | ASEAN terms Myanmar junta executions 'highly reprehensible', says 'saddened' by killings As per some UN experts, Myanmar has descended into a civil war, as despite reaching a consensus in April 2021, accepted by its military government, little has been done to put it into practise. The UN’s special envoy, Noeleen Heyzer, said that the world organisation considers the execution to be a “blatant violation” of a person’s right to life, liberty, and security, AP reported. (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC condemns Myanmar’s execution of four detainees, demands end to all forms of violence

Anti-UN intense protests in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo claimed the lives of three UN peacekeepers amongst which two were Indian Border Security Force (BSF) employees and at least 12 civilians, as a BSF&nbsp;and UN spokesperson said.&nbsp;The UN mission, MONUSCO, is accused of failing to shield civilian militia violence that has raged for years, which sparked the protests. At least five people were murdered and about 50 others were injured on the second day of the protests in Goma, the Associated Press reported. As per a senior officer, the two deceased BSP members were head constables and both belonged to Rajasthan.<o:p></o:p>

The two BSF members, Head Constable (GD) Sanwala Ram&nbsp;Vishnoi&nbsp;and&nbsp;Head Constable (GD) Shishupal&nbsp;Singh, of the UN Peacekeeping Contingent (MONUSCO) were stationed in Butembo, died on July 26 as a result of several injuries sustained during the tumultuous armed demonstrations, a BSF spokesperson said. As per officials, two platoons or approximately 70-74 BSF soldiers were stationed in the region and were inducted in May this year, PTI reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-5-killed-dozens-wounded-in-east-congo-anti-un-protest-500824">At least 5 killed, dozens wounded in east Congo anti-UN protest</a>

<o:p></o:p>

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his great sorrow over the deaths of the two brave Indian peacekeepers and asked those who are responsible must be held accountable and brought to justice. &nbsp;The minister sent his sympathies to the families of the deceased.

<o:p></o:p>

Jaishankar tweeted, “The perpetrators of these outrageous attacks must be held accountable and brought to justice.”

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शोक संतप्त परिवारों के प्रति अपनी गहरी संवेदना व्यक्त करता हूँ|
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1551973811037188096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During a daily press conference at the UN, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for UN secretary general state that the violence against the UN peacekeeping force is rising in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He claimed that the attackers took weapons from the Congolese police and opened fire on the UN soldiers.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-rwanda-police-killed-congolese-soldier-as-fighting-picks-up-again-489705">In pics: Rwanda police killed Congolese soldier as fighting picks up again</a></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Haq responding to a question asked by a PTI reporter, said, “This is something that should not have happened. It is unacceptable action. And we condemn the killing of our colleagues. We do express our deepest sympathies to the families and colleagues and of course, we send our sympathies as well to the Government of India for this. I believe we've been in touch with the Indian Mission on the fallen peacekeepers,” PTI reported.<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p>

<o:p>(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)&nbsp;</o:p>

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Anti-UN intense protests in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo claimed the lives of three UN peacekeepers amongst which two were Indian Border Security Force (BSF) employees and at least 12 civilians, as a BSF and UN spokesperson said.

Anti-UN intense protests in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo claimed the lives of three UN peacekeepers amongst which two were Indian Border Security Force (BSF) employees and at least 12 civilians, as a BSF and UN spokesperson said. The UN mission, MONUSCO, is accused of failing to shield civilian militia violence that has raged for years, which sparked the protests. At least five people were murdered and about 50 others were injured on the second day of the protests in Goma, the Associated Press reported. As per a senior officer, the two deceased BSP members were head constables and both belonged to Rajasthan. The two BSF members, Head Constable (GD) Sanwala Ram Vishnoi and Head Constable (GD) Shishupal Singh, of the UN Peacekeeping Contingent (MONUSCO) were stationed in Butembo, died on July 26 as a result of several injuries sustained during the tumultuous armed demonstrations, a BSF spokesperson said. As per officials, two platoons or approximately 70-74 BSF soldiers were stationed in the region and were inducted in May this year, PTI reported. Also read | At least 5 killed, dozens wounded in east Congo anti-UN protest External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his great sorrow over the deaths of the two brave Indian peacekeepers and asked those who are responsible must be held accountable and brought to justice. The minister sent his sympathies to the families of the deceased. Jaishankar tweeted, “The perpetrators of these outrageous attacks must be held accountable and brought to justice.” शोक संतप्त परिवारों के प्रति अपनी गहरी संवेदना व्यक्त करता हूँ| — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 26, 2022 × During a daily press conference at the UN, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for UN secretary general state that the violence against the UN peacekeeping force is rising in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He claimed that the attackers took weapons from the Congolese police and opened fire on the UN soldiers. Also read | In pics: Rwanda police killed Congolese soldier as fighting picks up again Haq responding to a question asked by a PTI reporter, said, “This is something that should not have happened. It is unacceptable action. And we condemn the killing of our colleagues. We do express our deepest sympathies to the families and colleagues and of course, we send our sympathies as well to the Government of India for this. I believe we've been in touch with the Indian Mission on the fallen peacekeepers,” PTI reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two Indian peacekeepers killed during anti-UN protest in Congo

In pics: Damaged Russian military equipment on display in Prague

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN.

As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-coalition-party-achieves-significant-victory-following-shinzo-abes-death-496222">Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling&nbsp;coalition party achieves significant victory</a>

Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility."

Watch |&nbsp;Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing

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Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting.

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN. As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign. Also read | Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility." Watch | Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese police say suspect's initial plan was to deploy explosions to assassinate Shinzo Abe

The UN&nbsp;Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year.

The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.'&nbsp;The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

Russia's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict.

However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods.

Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea.

In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes

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Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips.

Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers.

In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-renew-two-month-truce-un-484427">Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN</a>

His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.

An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister.&nbsp;

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The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation. The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year. The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.' The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict. However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods. Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea. In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said. Watch | Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips. Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers. In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli. Also read | Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries. An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN extends searches on high seas off Libya for illegal arms

After mass shootings killed and wounded people grocery shopping, going to church and simply living their lives last weekend, the nation marked a milestone of 1 million deaths from COVID-19. The number, once unthinkable, is now an irreversible reality in the United States like the persistent reality of gun violence that kills tens of thousands of people a year.

Americans have always tolerated high rates of death among certain segments of society. But the sheer numbers of deaths from preventable causes, and the apparent acceptance that no policy change is on the horizon, raises the question: Has mass death become accepted in America.

"I think the evidence is unmistakable and quite clear. We will tolerate an enormous amount of carnage, suffering and death in the U.S., because we have over the past two years. We have over our history,"&nbsp;says Gregg Gonsalves, an epidemiologist and professor at Yale who was a leading member of the AIDS advocacy group ACT UP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-effect-us-economy-set-to-outpace-china-first-time-since-1976-481005">Pandemic effect: US economy set to outpace China first time since 1976</a>

"If I thought the AIDS epidemic was bad, the American response to COVID-19 has sort of...It's a form of the American grotesque, right?"&nbsp;Gonsalves says. Really, a million people are dead&nbsp;And you're going to talk to me about your need to get back to normal, when for the most part most of us have been living pretty reasonable lives for the past six months.

Certain communities have always borne the brunt of higher death rates. There are profound racial and class inequalities in the United States, and our tolerance of death is partly based on who is at risk, says Elizabeth Wrigley-Field, a sociology professor who studies mortality at the University of Minnesota.

"Some people's deaths matter a lot more than others, "she laments. "I think that's what we're seeing in this really brutal way with this coincidence of timing."

In Buffalo, the alleged shooter was a racist bent on killing Black people, according to authorities. The family of 86-year-old Ruth Whitfield, one of the 10 people killed, channelled the grief and frustration of millions as they demanded action.

You expect us to keep doing this over and over and over again over again, forgive and forget,&nbsp;her son, former Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield, Jr, said. "While people we elect and trust in offices around this country do their best not to protect us, not to consider us equal."

That sense&nbsp;that politicians have done little even as the violence repeats itself is shared by many Americans. It's a feeling encapsulated by the thoughts and prayers&nbsp;offered to victims of gun violence by politicians unwilling to change policies, according to Martha Lincoln, an anthropology professor at San Francisco State University.

"I don't think that most Americans feel good about it. I think most Americans would like to see real action from their leaders in the culture about these pervasive issues,"&nbsp;says Lincoln, who sees a similar political vacuum around COVID-19.

With COVID-19, American society has even come to accept the deaths of children from a preventable cause. Pediatrician Dr Mark W Kline wrote in a guest column for The Advocate newspaper that more than 1,500 children have died from COVID-19, and recalled a time in pediatrics when children were not supposed to die.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Biggest Covid scam in the world?

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"There was no acceptable pediatric body count,"&nbsp;he wrote. "At least, not before the first pandemic of the social media age, COVID-19, changed everything."

Gun violence is such a part of life in America now that we organise our lives around its inevitability, says Sonali Rajan, a Columbia University professor who researches school violence. Children do lockdown drills at school. And in about half the states, Rajan says, teachers can carry firearms. She notes that an estimated 100,000 people are shot annually and some 40,000 will die.

She sees similar dynamics in the current response to COVID-19. Americans, she says, deserve to be able to commute to work without getting sick, or work somewhere without getting sick, or send their kids to school without them getting sick. 
It's important, she says, to ask what policies are being put forth by elected officials who have the power to attend to the health and the well-being of their constituents.

"It's remarkable how that responsibility has been sort of abdicated, is how I would describe it,"&nbsp;Rajan says.

The level of concern about deaths often depends on context, says Rajiv Sethi, an economics professor at Barnard College. He points to a rare but dramatic event such as an airplane crash, which does seem to matter to people.

Sethi notes there are more suicides from guns in America than there are homicides, an estimated 24,000 gun suicides compared with 19,000 homicides. But even though there are policy proposals that could help within the bounds of the Second Amendment, he says, the debate on guns is politically entrenched, causing 'paralysis.'

"It divides us when people think that there's nothing they can do," says Dr Megan Ranney of Brown University's School of Public Health.

Ranney points to false narratives spread by bad actors, such as denying that the deaths were preventable, or suggesting those who die deserved it. There is an emphasis in the United States on individual responsibility for one's health, Ranney says.

"It's not that we put less value on an individual life, but rather we're coming up against the limits of that approach,"&nbsp;she says. 
In truth, she says, any individual's death or disability affects the community.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-us-surpasses-1-million-covid-19-deaths-the-worlds-highest-known-total-480616">The US surpasses 1 million COVID-19 deaths, the world’s highest known total</a>

Similar debates happened in the last century about child labour laws, worker protections and reproductive rights, while in the 1980s during the AIDS crisis, there a lack of political will to address it in an environment where anti-gay discrimination was rampant.

Wrigley-Field notes activists were able to mobilise a movement that forced people to change the way they thought and forced politicians to change the way they operated.

"I don't think that those things are off the table now. It's just that it's not really clear if they're going to emerge,"&nbsp;Wrigley-Field says. "I don't think giving up is a permanent state of affairs. But I do think that's where we're at, right at this moment."

After mass shootings killed and wounded people grocery shopping, going to church and simply living their lives last weekend, the nation marked a milestone of 1 million deaths from COVID-19.

After mass shootings killed and wounded people grocery shopping, going to church and simply living their lives last weekend, the nation marked a milestone of 1 million deaths from COVID-19. The number, once unthinkable, is now an irreversible reality in the United States like the persistent reality of gun violence that kills tens of thousands of people a year. Americans have always tolerated high rates of death among certain segments of society. But the sheer numbers of deaths from preventable causes, and the apparent acceptance that no policy change is on the horizon, raises the question: Has mass death become accepted in America. "I think the evidence is unmistakable and quite clear. We will tolerate an enormous amount of carnage, suffering and death in the U.S., because we have over the past two years. We have over our history," says Gregg Gonsalves, an epidemiologist and professor at Yale who was a leading member of the AIDS advocacy group ACT UP. Also read | Pandemic effect: US economy set to outpace China first time since 1976 "If I thought the AIDS epidemic was bad, the American response to COVID-19 has sort of...It's a form of the American grotesque, right?" Gonsalves says. Really, a million people are dead And you're going to talk to me about your need to get back to normal, when for the most part most of us have been living pretty reasonable lives for the past six months. Certain communities have always borne the brunt of higher death rates. There are profound racial and class inequalities in the United States, and our tolerance of death is partly based on who is at risk, says Elizabeth Wrigley-Field, a sociology professor who studies mortality at the University of Minnesota. "Some people's deaths matter a lot more than others, "she laments. "I think that's what we're seeing in this really brutal way with this coincidence of timing." In Buffalo, the alleged shooter was a racist bent on killing Black people, according to authorities. The family of 86-year-old Ruth Whitfield, one of the 10 people killed, channelled the grief and frustration of millions as they demanded action. You expect us to keep doing this over and over and over again over again, forgive and forget, her son, former Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield, Jr, said. "While people we elect and trust in offices around this country do their best not to protect us, not to consider us equal." That sense that politicians have done little even as the violence repeats itself is shared by many Americans. It's a feeling encapsulated by the thoughts and prayers offered to victims of gun violence by politicians unwilling to change policies, according to Martha Lincoln, an anthropology professor at San Francisco State University. "I don't think that most Americans feel good about it. I think most Americans would like to see real action from their leaders in the culture about these pervasive issues," says Lincoln, who sees a similar political vacuum around COVID-19. With COVID-19, American society has even come to accept the deaths of children from a preventable cause. Pediatrician Dr Mark W Kline wrote in a guest column for The Advocate newspaper that more than 1,500 children have died from COVID-19, and recalled a time in pediatrics when children were not supposed to die. Watch | Gravitas: Biggest Covid scam in the world? "There was no acceptable pediatric body count," he wrote. "At least, not before the first pandemic of the social media age, COVID-19, changed everything." Gun violence is such a part of life in America now that we organise our lives around its inevitability, says Sonali Rajan, a Columbia University professor who researches school violence. Children do lockdown drills at school. And in about half the states, Rajan says, teachers can carry firearms. She notes that an estimated 100,000 people are shot annually and some 40,000 will die. She sees similar dynamics in the current response to COVID-19. Americans, she says, deserve to be able to commute to work without getting sick, or work somewhere without getting sick, or send their kids to school without them getting sick. It's important, she says, to ask what policies are being put forth by elected officials who have the power to attend to the health and the well-being of their constituents. "It's remarkable how that responsibility has been sort of abdicated, is how I would describe it," Rajan says. The level of concern about deaths often depends on context, says Rajiv Sethi, an economics professor at Barnard College. He points to a rare but dramatic event such as an airplane crash, which does seem to matter to people. Sethi notes there are more suicides from guns in America than there are homicides, an estimated 24,000 gun suicides compared with 19,000 homicides. But even though there are policy proposals that could help within the bounds of the Second Amendment, he says, the debate on guns is politically entrenched, causing 'paralysis.' "It divides us when people think that there's nothing they can do," says Dr Megan Ranney of Brown University's School of Public Health. Ranney points to false narratives spread by bad actors, such as denying that the deaths were preventable, or suggesting those who die deserved it. There is an emphasis in the United States on individual responsibility for one's health, Ranney says. "It's not that we put less value on an individual life, but rather we're coming up against the limits of that approach," she says. In truth, she says, any individual's death or disability affects the community. Also read | The US surpasses 1 million COVID-19 deaths, the world’s highest known total Similar debates happened in the last century about child labour laws, worker protections and reproductive rights, while in the 1980s during the AIDS crisis, there a lack of political will to address it in an environment where anti-gay discrimination was rampant. Wrigley-Field notes activists were able to mobilise a movement that forced people to change the way they thought and forced politicians to change the way they operated. "I don't think that those things are off the table now. It's just that it's not really clear if they're going to emerge," Wrigley-Field says. "I don't think giving up is a permanent state of affairs. But I do think that's where we're at, right at this moment."

First Covid and now shootings: Is mass death now tolerated in America?

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Listen in to what WION stands for by our Managing Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay.

WION Global Summit 2022: A grand opening to the 5th edition of WION's flagship summit

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit is about to be concluded. This year, the dialogue has revolved around sustainable peace around the world. During the last session, guests held a fruitful debate on Digital Warfare.

WION Global Summit 2022: 300% rise in cybercrimes during the pandemic

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Palki Sharma, the Managing editor of WION seeks our guests' insights on trade wars and how it affects globalisation.

WION Global Summit 2022: Are trade wars spelling the end of globalisation?

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. As the Russia-Ukraine war has taken centre stage, Palki Sharma, Managing editor of WION seeks our guests' insights on a range of conflicts that have been raging around the world. Listen in.

WION Global Summit 2022: Is Ukraine caught in a frozen conflict?

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has finally been concluded. This year, the dialogue revolved around sustainable peace around the world. The summit addressed the biggest challenge of our times in the quest for global peace.

5th edition of WION's flagship summit concludes after addressing the biggest challenge of our times

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. The pandemic has highlighted the threat of bioweapons that has not been there for many years.

WION Global Summit 2022: Covid-19 pandemic highlighted threat of biological weapons

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Watch the Keynote address by Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Senik.

WION Global Summit 2022: Keynote address by Ukraine Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Senik

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Watch the Keynote address by India's ambassador to UAE Sunjay Sudhir.

WION Global Summit 2022: Keynote address by India's ambassador to UAE Sunjay Sudhir

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Watch the Keynote address by Iran's Former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Iran's Former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on WION Global Summit 2022: 'War does not help anyone'

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Listen in to the opening address by WION's CEO & Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary.

WION Global Summit 2022: Watch the opening address by WION's CEO & Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary

The 5th edition of WION's flagship summit has started. This year, the dialogue is centered on sustainable peace around the world. Watch the Keynote address by President of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid.

WION Global Summit 2022: Watch Keynote address by the President of the UNGA Abdulla Shahid

WION Global summit is back. Countdown to the WION Global summit in Dubai is on. An extensive discussion on war and peace will be held on May 16.

A gathering in the quest for peace: Countdown to WION Global summit in Dubai

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, global condemnation and local dissent are having no effect on the Russian offensive. Now, Russian authorities called peace art in the form of murals not welcome.

Peace art no longer welcome: Russian authorities move against any signs of dissent

Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday.

The Ukrainian Premier League side have not played since Russia invaded the country in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation".

The first charity match is against Olympiakos in Athens on Saturday, followed by games against Lechia Gdansk (April 14), Fenerbahce (April 19) and Hajduk Split (May 1).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-opens-disciplinary-proceedings-against-atletico-madrid-for-discriminatory-behaviour-after-man-city-tie-469439">UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie</a>

"We want to talk about war and peace in Ukraine through these matches. About the terrible war that Russia unleashed against Ukraine, about the suffering and destruction that this war brought to our country," Shakhtar CEO Sergei Palkin said.

"About peace – the need to end this madness, return to normal life and rebuild the country. Our messages are simple: stop war in Ukraine and football for peace – that says it all."

Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday.

Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday. The Ukrainian Premier League side have not played since Russia invaded the country in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". The first charity match is against Olympiakos in Athens on Saturday, followed by games against Lechia Gdansk (April 14), Fenerbahce (April 19) and Hajduk Split (May 1). ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie "We want to talk about war and peace in Ukraine through these matches. About the terrible war that Russia unleashed against Ukraine, about the suffering and destruction that this war brought to our country," Shakhtar CEO Sergei Palkin said. "About peace – the need to end this madness, return to normal life and rebuild the country. Our messages are simple: stop war in Ukraine and football for peace – that says it all."

Shakhtar to start peace-themed tour with proceeds going to Ukraine aid

On Sunday, around 1,000 local choirs in towns and cities across the world have gathered to sing together for peace in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Spanish choirs lead global singalong for peace in Ukraine

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports.

"The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, Russia claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet wrote.&nbsp;

Furthermore, as the Ukraine-Russia war enters its second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bestows the honorary title of "Hero City" on four cities and the title of "Hero of Ukraine" on seven National Guard service members.

The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously.

The humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation.&nbsp;

According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements.Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics."&nbsp;

Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country.

The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces.

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports.

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports. "The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, Russia claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet wrote. Furthermore, as the Ukraine-Russia war enters its second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bestows the honorary title of "Hero City" on four cities and the title of "Hero of Ukraine" on seven National Guard service members. The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously. The humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation. According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements.Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country. The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces.

Russia to open humanitarian corridor for foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden is due to visit Poland, where several Ukrainians have taken refuge. He will witness the crisis in a better way, said a Reuters report. &nbsp;

On Friday, Biden is going to Poland to meet experts, who are involved in the refugee response. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-using-phosphorus-bombs-to-kill-civilians-465207">Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians</a>

In a brief video address early on Friday, Zelensky, who appeared exhausted, said that he made appeals to Western leaders "all for one reason - so that Russia understands that we need to achieve peace. Russia also needs to achieve peace." &nbsp;

"Every day we defend, we get closer to the peace we need so much ... and you can't stop for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny, it is about our future. About whether we live," Zelensky added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149" hreflang="en">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a>

Western leaders announced new military and humanitarian aid in Brussels on Thursday and also denounced the Russian invasion as barbaric. The United States and Britain have also expanded sanctions on Russia to new targets. &nbsp;

The invasion has driven over half of Ukraine's children from homes, as per the United Nations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries.

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries. US President Joe Biden is due to visit Poland, where several Ukrainians have taken refuge. He will witness the crisis in a better way, said a Reuters report. On Friday, Biden is going to Poland to meet experts, who are involved in the refugee response. Also Read: Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians In a brief video address early on Friday, Zelensky, who appeared exhausted, said that he made appeals to Western leaders "all for one reason - so that Russia understands that we need to achieve peace. Russia also needs to achieve peace." "Every day we defend, we get closer to the peace we need so much ... and you can't stop for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny, it is about our future. About whether we live," Zelensky added. Also Read: One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? Western leaders announced new military and humanitarian aid in Brussels on Thursday and also denounced the Russian invasion as barbaric. The United States and Britain have also expanded sanctions on Russia to new targets. The invasion has driven over half of Ukraine's children from homes, as per the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky

Dutch brewer&nbsp;Heineken, Danish beer-maker&nbsp;Carlsberg, and&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;over Moscow's war in Ukraine.

On Thursday, Japanese gaming giants PlayStation and Nintendo announced they would suspend shipments to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;too, joining the hundreds of multinationals who have taken action.&nbsp;

Heineken, the world's second-biggest beer company, said Wednesday it was stopping the production, advertising and sale of its namesake brand in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"in response to the continued escalation of the war".

Heineken&nbsp;had already suspended new investments and exports to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-heart-warming-gesture-polish-citizens-leave-essentials-at-border-for-ukrainian-refugees-460778">In a heart-warming gesture, Polish citizens leave essentials at border for Ukrainian refugees</a>

"We are shocked and saddened to watch the tragedy in Ukraine unfold,"&nbsp;Heineken&nbsp;chief executive Dolf van den Brink said in a statement.

"The Russian government's war against Ukraine is an unprovoked and completely unjustified attack," he added.

Heineken&nbsp;employs 1,800 people in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and says it is the third-biggest brewer in the country, where it makes the Zhigulevskoe and Oxota brands for the local market.

The brewer said it would take "immediate steps to ring-fence" its Russian business from the rest of its global operations "to stop the flow of monies, royalties and dividends out of&nbsp;Russia".

"Heineken&nbsp;will no longer accept any net financial benefit derived from our Russian operations," it said.

Heineken's other famous brands include Amstel, Tiger and Strongbow cider.

Danish brewer&nbsp;Carlsberg, the world's fourth biggest beer producer, said it too was halting production and sales in&nbsp;Russia.

It said Baltika Breweries, which it majority owns, would continue to operate as a separate business to sustain its 8,400 employees in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"who are not responsible for the actions of the government".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/life-imitates-art-broadcasters-clamours-to-air-ukrainian-comedian-turned-war-hero-presidents-tv-show-460771">Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamours to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show</a>

The Danish group said that during the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, any profits generated by its business in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would be donated to relief organisations.

Sony Group, which owns PlayStation, said in a Thursday statement that its video game unit "joins the global community in calling for peace in Ukraine" as it announced it had suspended operations in&nbsp;Russia.&nbsp;

The tech and entertainment conglomerate also said it was donating $2 million to the UN refugee agency and Save the Children "to support the victims of this tragedy".

A Nintendo spokesperson told AFP it would suspend shipments to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"for the time being" for logistical reasons.&nbsp;

World's biggest label

About 300 companies have announced their withdrawal from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;since it invaded neighbouring Ukraine, according to Yale University researchers.

McDonald's, Coca-Cola and Starbucks joined the crowd on Tuesday following public pressure to do so.

Also on Tuesday,&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Group, the world's biggest label, said it was suspending all operations and closing its offices in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;effective immediately.

"We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible,"&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/read-olena-zelenskas-letter-to-the-world-first-lady-of-ukraine-condemns-mass-murder-by-russia-460806">Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia</a>

"We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries... to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region," it said.

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari said it too was suspending deliveries to&nbsp;Russia.

Ferrari, which has no factories in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and is represented there by two independent dealerships, sells less than 100 cars every year in&nbsp;Russia, out of more than 11,000 delivered worldwide last year.&nbsp;

The Italian company on Tuesday announced a donation of one million euros ($1.1 million) "to support the Ukrainians in need".

Elsewhere, French rail giant Alstom announced Wednesday that it was suspending deliveries to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;as well as future business investments there.

But Alstom said it was keeping its stake in Russian locomotives and rail equipment provider Transmashholding.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did America block transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-america-block-transfer-of-fighter-jets-to-ukraine-460710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Dutch brewer Heineken, Danish beer-maker Carlsberg, and Universal Music Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine.

Dutch brewer Heineken, Danish beer-maker Carlsberg, and Universal Music Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine. On Thursday, Japanese gaming giants PlayStation and Nintendo announced they would suspend shipments to Russia too, joining the hundreds of multinationals who have taken action. Heineken, the world's second-biggest beer company, said Wednesday it was stopping the production, advertising and sale of its namesake brand in Russia "in response to the continued escalation of the war". Heineken had already suspended new investments and exports to Russia last week. Also read | In a heart-warming gesture, Polish citizens leave essentials at border for Ukrainian refugees "We are shocked and saddened to watch the tragedy in Ukraine unfold," Heineken chief executive Dolf van den Brink said in a statement. "The Russian government's war against Ukraine is an unprovoked and completely unjustified attack," he added. Heineken employs 1,800 people in Russia and says it is the third-biggest brewer in the country, where it makes the Zhigulevskoe and Oxota brands for the local market. The brewer said it would take "immediate steps to ring-fence" its Russian business from the rest of its global operations "to stop the flow of monies, royalties and dividends out of Russia". "Heineken will no longer accept any net financial benefit derived from our Russian operations," it said. Heineken's other famous brands include Amstel, Tiger and Strongbow cider. Danish brewer Carlsberg, the world's fourth biggest beer producer, said it too was halting production and sales in Russia. It said Baltika Breweries, which it majority owns, would continue to operate as a separate business to sustain its 8,400 employees in Russia "who are not responsible for the actions of the government". Also read | Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamours to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show The Danish group said that during the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, any profits generated by its business in Russia would be donated to relief organisations. Sony Group, which owns PlayStation, said in a Thursday statement that its video game unit "joins the global community in calling for peace in Ukraine" as it announced it had suspended operations in Russia. The tech and entertainment conglomerate also said it was donating $2 million to the UN refugee agency and Save the Children "to support the victims of this tragedy". A Nintendo spokesperson told AFP it would suspend shipments to Russia "for the time being" for logistical reasons. World's biggest label About 300 companies have announced their withdrawal from Russia since it invaded neighbouring Ukraine, according to Yale University researchers. McDonald's, Coca-Cola and Starbucks joined the crowd on Tuesday following public pressure to do so. Also on Tuesday, Universal Music Group, the world's biggest label, said it was suspending all operations and closing its offices in Russia effective immediately. "We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible," Universal said in a statement. Also read | Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia "We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries... to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region," it said. Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari said it too was suspending deliveries to Russia. Ferrari, which has no factories in Russia and is represented there by two independent dealerships, sells less than 100 cars every year in Russia, out of more than 11,000 delivered worldwide last year. The Italian company on Tuesday announced a donation of one million euros ($1.1 million) "to support the Ukrainians in need". Elsewhere, French rail giant Alstom announced Wednesday that it was suspending deliveries to Russia as well as future business investments there. But Alstom said it was keeping its stake in Russian locomotives and rail equipment provider Transmashholding. Watch | Gravitas: Did America block transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine?

PlayStation, Nintendo, Heineken, Carlsberg, Universal Music join Russia exodus

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says that both the leaders met to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Iran nuclear talks in Vienna, and establish a new strategic partnership.

Germany and Israel's high-stakes meet for more Russia-Ukraine peace talks

In an address to the nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Russia of hampering peace efforts and rejected making any territorial concessions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Zelenskiy spoke in the early hours of Tuesday after Russia's decision to formally recognise two Moscow-backed regions of eastern Ukraine as independent. Moscow has also sent troops to the regions. &nbsp;

This has pushed the whole region into a crisis that the West fears could result in a major war. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-two-russian-backed-areas-in-eastern-ukraine-455190" hreflang="en">US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine</a>

Zelenskiy accused Russia of violating sovereign territory of Ukraine after chairing a meeting of the security council. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are committed to the peaceful and diplomatic path, we will follow it and only it. But we are on our own land, we are not afraid of anything and anybody, we owe nothing to no one, and we will give nothing to no one," Zelenskiy said. &nbsp;

Although Ukraine wanted to solve the crisis through diplomacy, his country was also ready to dig in for the long haul, Zelenskiy said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-hopeful-that-diplomacy-will-solve-ukraine-crisis-says-former-ambassador-of-israel-to-india-455134">Exclusive-Hopeful that diplomacy will solve Ukraine crisis: Mark Sofer</a>

Zelenskiy also called for an emergency summit of the leaders of Ukraine, Germany, Russia and France and urged allies to take action against Moscow. &nbsp;

"We expect clear and effective steps of support from our partners. It is very important to see who is our real friend and partner, and who will continue to scare the Russian Federation with words," Zelenskiy said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an address to the nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Russia of hampering peace efforts and rejected making any territorial concessions. Zelenskiy spoke in the early hours of Tuesday after Russia's decision to formally recognise two Moscow-backed regions of eastern Ukraine as independent.

In an address to the nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Russia of hampering peace efforts and rejected making any territorial concessions. Zelenskiy spoke in the early hours of Tuesday after Russia's decision to formally recognise two Moscow-backed regions of eastern Ukraine as independent. Moscow has also sent troops to the regions. This has pushed the whole region into a crisis that the West fears could result in a major war. Also Read: US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine Zelenskiy accused Russia of violating sovereign territory of Ukraine after chairing a meeting of the security council. "We are committed to the peaceful and diplomatic path, we will follow it and only it. But we are on our own land, we are not afraid of anything and anybody, we owe nothing to no one, and we will give nothing to no one," Zelenskiy said. Although Ukraine wanted to solve the crisis through diplomacy, his country was also ready to dig in for the long haul, Zelenskiy said. Also Read | Exclusive-Hopeful that diplomacy will solve Ukraine crisis: Mark Sofer Zelenskiy also called for an emergency summit of the leaders of Ukraine, Germany, Russia and France and urged allies to take action against Moscow. "We expect clear and effective steps of support from our partners. It is very important to see who is our real friend and partner, and who will continue to scare the Russian Federation with words," Zelenskiy said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addresses nation, rejects making any territorial concessions

Pakistan has unveiled its first-ever national security policy. The document blames India for Islamabad’s strategic and economic failures. Palki Sharma tells you why this is a new policy with the old anti-India obsession.

Gravitas: Pakistan wants ‘100 years of peace’ with India

Peace with India and its immediate neighbours is set to be the central theme of Pakistan’s first-ever National Security Policy that is scheduled to be unveiled by Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday.

The 100-page policy document has also put out elaborate plans to open trade and business ties with India without final settlement of the Kashmir issue, Pakistan-based newspaper Express Tribune reported on Tuesday quoting an official.

“Only a part of the national security policy will be made public,” the official clarified, saying in the rest of the world such policies often remained classified.

The official stressed that normalising commercial relations is contingent upon achieving progress in talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

“We are not seeking hostility with India for the next 100 years. The new policy seeks peace with immediate neighbours,” the official, who is associated with the development, was quoted as saying.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-less-nukes-than-pakistan-china-new-analysis-of-capabilities-426600">&nbsp;India has less nukes than Pakistan, China: New analysis of capabilities</a>

“Economic security will be the central theme of the new national security policy…. But geo-economics does not necessarily mean we overlook our geo-strategic and geo-political interests,” the official said.

The official further said that the Kashmir issue with India has been identified as a ‘vital national policy’ issue for Pakistan.

The official, however, clarified that there were no prospects of rapprochement with India under the current Modi-led government in New Delhi.

The country’s new National Security Policy would act as an umbrella document, to be used as a guideline for Pakistan`s foreign, international and defence related policies, he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-buys-25-chinese-j-10c-fighters-in-response-to-indias-rafale-441092">Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale</a>

Pakistan and India have mostly been at loggerheads with each other throughout history.

During the first term of Narendra Modi in 2014, the relations took a positive turn when he announced his intentions to have cordial relations with Pakistan.

He had also visited Islamabad in 2015 unannounced to attend a marriage ceremony in Sharif’s family.

However, the relations between the two countries turned south following the horrific 2016 Uri attacks in which four terrorists launched grenade attacks on Indian Army soldiers in the Indian's Jammu and Kashmir on 18 September.

The attack killed 19 soldiers and injured 19–30 others. It was reported as “the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir in two decades”.

Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed was involved in the planning and execution of the attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Peace with India and its immediate neighbours is set to be the central theme of Pakistan’s first-ever National Security Policy that is scheduled to be unveiled by Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday.

Peace with India and its immediate neighbours is set to be the central theme of Pakistan’s first-ever National Security Policy that is scheduled to be unveiled by Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday. The 100-page policy document has also put out elaborate plans to open trade and business ties with India without final settlement of the Kashmir issue, Pakistan-based newspaper Express Tribune reported on Tuesday quoting an official. “Only a part of the national security policy will be made public,” the official clarified, saying in the rest of the world such policies often remained classified. The official stressed that normalising commercial relations is contingent upon achieving progress in talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. “We are not seeking hostility with India for the next 100 years. The new policy seeks peace with immediate neighbours,” the official, who is associated with the development, was quoted as saying. Also read | India has less nukes than Pakistan, China: New analysis of capabilities “Economic security will be the central theme of the new national security policy…. But geo-economics does not necessarily mean we overlook our geo-strategic and geo-political interests,” the official said. The official further said that the Kashmir issue with India has been identified as a ‘vital national policy’ issue for Pakistan. The official, however, clarified that there were no prospects of rapprochement with India under the current Modi-led government in New Delhi. The country’s new National Security Policy would act as an umbrella document, to be used as a guideline for Pakistan`s foreign, international and defence related policies, he said. Also read | Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale Pakistan and India have mostly been at loggerheads with each other throughout history. During the first term of Narendra Modi in 2014, the relations took a positive turn when he announced his intentions to have cordial relations with Pakistan. He had also visited Islamabad in 2015 unannounced to attend a marriage ceremony in Sharif’s family. However, the relations between the two countries turned south following the horrific 2016 Uri attacks in which four terrorists launched grenade attacks on Indian Army soldiers in the Indian's Jammu and Kashmir on 18 September. The attack killed 19 soldiers and injured 19–30 others. It was reported as “the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir in two decades”. Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed was involved in the planning and execution of the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s new national security policy seeks ‘peace with India for the next 100 years’

A peace deal between the rebels and the government opens the door for illicit activities and land grabbing in the Amazon forest.

Amazon forest: A casualty of peace? Land grabbers make inroads as rebels retreat

Enabling a possibility of a peace accord to help end years of bloodshed, Pakistan and local Taliban militants have agreed for a one-month ceasefire. There are also chances that it may be extended if both sides agree. "The government of Pakistan and banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan have agreed on a complete ceasefire," Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said in a statement.

TTP attacks have killed and wounded thousands of civilians and Pakistani service personnel over the years. However, the group was badly weakened by the Pakistan military's Zarb-e-Azb operation in 2014 which drove it from its stronghold in North Waziristan.

In the past, there have been various failed attempts to reach peace agreements.&nbsp;

The latest talks came after the Afghan Taliban took over Afghanistan in August. Since then, the two sides have been meeting across the border in Afghanistan. Sirajuddin Haqqani, the head of the Haqqani network and current interior minister of the Taliban government in Afghanistan is helped in the talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-want-prisoners-released-before-ceasefire-talks-427229">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan Taliban want prisoners released before ceasefire talks</a>

The TTP combines several jihadi and militant groups that have been fighting the government of Pakistan since 2007. It is included on the US State Department's list of foreign terrorist organisations.

Recently, the Pakistan Taliban demanded the release of a number of prisoners as a pre-condition to ceasefire talks with the Pakistani government.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told Turkey's TRT television last month that the government was in talks with parts of the TTP as part of a "reconciliation process".

TTP spokesman Muhammad Khurasani said in a text message the group had "never refused meaningful talks."

(With inputs from agencies)

Enabling a possibility of a peace accord to help end years of bloodshed, Pakistan and local Taliban militants have agreed for a one-month ceasefire. There are also chances that it may be extended if both sides agree.

Enabling a possibility of a peace accord to help end years of bloodshed, Pakistan and local Taliban militants have agreed for a one-month ceasefire. There are also chances that it may be extended if both sides agree. "The government of Pakistan and banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan have agreed on a complete ceasefire," Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said in a statement. TTP attacks have killed and wounded thousands of civilians and Pakistani service personnel over the years. However, the group was badly weakened by the Pakistan military's Zarb-e-Azb operation in 2014 which drove it from its stronghold in North Waziristan. In the past, there have been various failed attempts to reach peace agreements. The latest talks came after the Afghan Taliban took over Afghanistan in August. Since then, the two sides have been meeting across the border in Afghanistan. Sirajuddin Haqqani, the head of the Haqqani network and current interior minister of the Taliban government in Afghanistan is helped in the talks. Also read | Pakistan Taliban want prisoners released before ceasefire talks The TTP combines several jihadi and militant groups that have been fighting the government of Pakistan since 2007. It is included on the US State Department's list of foreign terrorist organisations. Recently, the Pakistan Taliban demanded the release of a number of prisoners as a pre-condition to ceasefire talks with the Pakistani government. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told Turkey's TRT television last month that the government was in talks with parts of the TTP as part of a "reconciliation process". TTP spokesman Muhammad Khurasani said in a text message the group had "never refused meaningful talks." (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan and local Taliban terror group on road to peace; agree to one-month ceasefire

Myanmar's military rulers have pledged to cooperate "as much as possible" with a peace plan agreed with ASEAN. This comes after ASEAN excluded Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing from attending the summit.

The Myanmar junta slammed the decision on Saturday evening, accusing ASEAN of breaching the bloc's policy of non-interference in the domestic affairs of its member states.

In an announcement in state media, the junta said it upholds the principle of peaceful coexistence with other countries and would cooperate with the ASEAN in following a five-point "consensus" agreed in April. &nbsp;

ASEAN chair Brunei has not responded to Myanmar's rejection. A spokesman for Thailand's foreign ministry declined to comment on Saturday, citing the sensitivity of the matter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-excludes-myanmar-junta-chief-from-attendance-at-summit-421295">Also read |&nbsp;ASEAN excludes Myanmar junta chief from attendance at summit</a>

Indonesia's foreign ministry spokesperson, Teuku Faizasyah, said ASEAN's consensus on who would represent Myanmar at the summit was the "common guide for all ASEAN members".

As of now, over 1,000 civilians have been killed in a post-coup crackdown in Myanmar, with thousands more detained, various tortured or beaten, according to the United Nations. The junta is accused of using excessive military force against civilian populations.

The junta said that many of those killed or detained were "terrorists" with the aim of destabilising the country. The junta chief last week said opposition forces were prolonging the unrest.

ASEAN's special envoy, Erywan Yusof of Brunei, had sought a meeting with ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi. However, the military government said that was impossible she was detained and charged with crimes.

The junta has warned Erywan not to engage with opposition forces.

Myanmar's military rulers have pledged to cooperate "as much as possible" with a peace plan agreed with ASEAN. This comes after ASEAN excluded Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing from attending the summit.

Myanmar's military rulers have pledged to cooperate "as much as possible" with a peace plan agreed with ASEAN. This comes after ASEAN excluded Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing from attending the summit. The Myanmar junta slammed the decision on Saturday evening, accusing ASEAN of breaching the bloc's policy of non-interference in the domestic affairs of its member states. In an announcement in state media, the junta said it upholds the principle of peaceful coexistence with other countries and would cooperate with the ASEAN in following a five-point "consensus" agreed in April. ASEAN chair Brunei has not responded to Myanmar's rejection. A spokesman for Thailand's foreign ministry declined to comment on Saturday, citing the sensitivity of the matter. Also read | ASEAN excludes Myanmar junta chief from attendance at summit Indonesia's foreign ministry spokesperson, Teuku Faizasyah, said ASEAN's consensus on who would represent Myanmar at the summit was the "common guide for all ASEAN members". As of now, over 1,000 civilians have been killed in a post-coup crackdown in Myanmar, with thousands more detained, various tortured or beaten, according to the United Nations. The junta is accused of using excessive military force against civilian populations. The junta said that many of those killed or detained were "terrorists" with the aim of destabilising the country. The junta chief last week said opposition forces were prolonging the unrest. ASEAN's special envoy, Erywan Yusof of Brunei, had sought a meeting with ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi. However, the military government said that was impossible she was detained and charged with crimes. The junta has warned Erywan not to engage with opposition forces.

Myanmar committed to ASEAN peace plan, says it is ready to cooperate

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