Germany's Federal Statistical Office said on Tuesday (September 27) that the country's population has shot up to its highest level due to influx of refugees from Ukraine. Germany is Europe's most populous country.

Germany has one of the world's lowest fertility rates and by some measures it has most aged population. But its wealth, demand for labour and relatively open immigration policy made it an attractive target for migrants even before the EU opened its doors to Ukrainians fleeing their country after Russia's invasion in February.

The Federal Statistical Office released a report on Tuesday and said that population had grown by 1%, or 843,000 people, in the first half of 2022. In comparison, during the whole of year 2021, Germany's population grew only by 0.1 per cent.

Since German reunification, considerable growth in population has only been observed thrice. And each time it had links to wave of refugees.

In 1992, refugees from the war in former Yugoslavia helped swell the population by 700,000. In 2015, Germany let in almost a million refugees from war in the Middle East.

Germany's female population grew by 1.2%, significantly more than its male population, which increased by 0.8%, reflecting the fact that mainly women and children fled the war in Ukraine. Men of fighting age are forbidden from leaving the country.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Germany's Federal Statistical Office said on Tuesday (September 27) that the country's population has shot up to its highest level due to influx of refugees from Ukraine.

Germany's Federal Statistical Office said on Tuesday (September 27) that the country's population has shot up to its highest level due to influx of refugees from Ukraine. Germany is Europe's most populous country. Germany has one of the world's lowest fertility rates and by some measures it has most aged population. But its wealth, demand for labour and relatively open immigration policy made it an attractive target for migrants even before the EU opened its doors to Ukrainians fleeing their country after Russia's invasion in February. The Federal Statistical Office released a report on Tuesday and said that population had grown by 1%, or 843,000 people, in the first half of 2022. In comparison, during the whole of year 2021, Germany's population grew only by 0.1 per cent. Since German reunification, considerable growth in population has only been observed thrice. And each time it had links to wave of refugees. In 1992, refugees from the war in former Yugoslavia helped swell the population by 700,000. In 2015, Germany let in almost a million refugees from war in the Middle East. Germany's female population grew by 1.2%, significantly more than its male population, which increased by 0.8%, reflecting the fact that mainly women and children fled the war in Ukraine. Men of fighting age are forbidden from leaving the country. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Germany's population swells to all-time high due to influx of refugees from Ukraine

According to a report released by Amnesty International on Wednesday, Iran and Turkey are violating international law by barring Afghan refugees from entering their countries or by returning them against their will to live in danger under the Taliban dictatorship.&nbsp;

Following the US's catastrophic military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, which allowed the hardline Taliban Islamists to restore power, hundreds of thousands of people fled the nation.&nbsp;

The bulk, however, had to evacuate by land, primarily toward Iran and then Turkey, while individuals who helped US forces, in particular, were airlifted out.&nbsp;

They are particularly vulnerable to border police who use violence or threats to keep them out or push them back because many of them are destitute and lack passports or other acceptable travel credentials, according to Amnesty International.

According to the report, "Iranian and Turkish security forces have unlawfully used firearms against Afghans trying to cross the border irregularly as a deterrent and a pushback method, sometimes resulting in deaths or injuries."&nbsp;

Amnesty claimed that their conclusions were derived from interviews with a large number of Afghans, including 74 who were forcibly returned, occasionally with children or other family members.&nbsp;

According to the NGO, there have been several instances of "unlawful killings, pushbacks by shooting and other unlawful returns, arbitrary detention, and torture and other ill-treatment of Afghans at the hands of both Iranian and Turkish officials."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unesco-supports-ukraines-bid-to-put-threatened-port-of-odesa-on-world-heritage-list-511607">UNESCO supports Ukraine's bid to put threatened port of Odesa on World Heritage list</a>

It specifically listed the 11 Afghans who were killed by Iranian security forces and the three Afghans who were killed by Turkish forces throughout the previous year.

The right to seek asylum and the prohibition against refoulment—the forcible return of refugees to nations where they would face persecution or other human rights violations—are guaranteed by international law.&nbsp;

According to Amnesty International, no Afghan should be sent back because of the possibility of grave human rights violations there, which is also the opinion of the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees).&nbsp;

Additionally, it urged the international community to aid nations hosting Afghan refugees and to scale up efforts by Europe, the US, and Canada to make it easier for Afghans at risk of Taliban assassination to leave their country.

(with inputs from agencies)

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According to a report released by Amnesty International on Wednesday, Iran and Turkey are violating international law by barring Afghan refugees from entering their countries or by returning them against their will to live in danger under the Taliban dictatorship.

According to a report released by Amnesty International on Wednesday, Iran and Turkey are violating international law by barring Afghan refugees from entering their countries or by returning them against their will to live in danger under the Taliban dictatorship. Following the US's catastrophic military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, which allowed the hardline Taliban Islamists to restore power, hundreds of thousands of people fled the nation. The bulk, however, had to evacuate by land, primarily toward Iran and then Turkey, while individuals who helped US forces, in particular, were airlifted out. They are particularly vulnerable to border police who use violence or threats to keep them out or push them back because many of them are destitute and lack passports or other acceptable travel credentials, according to Amnesty International. According to the report, "Iranian and Turkish security forces have unlawfully used firearms against Afghans trying to cross the border irregularly as a deterrent and a pushback method, sometimes resulting in deaths or injuries." Amnesty claimed that their conclusions were derived from interviews with a large number of Afghans, including 74 who were forcibly returned, occasionally with children or other family members. According to the NGO, there have been several instances of "unlawful killings, pushbacks by shooting and other unlawful returns, arbitrary detention, and torture and other ill-treatment of Afghans at the hands of both Iranian and Turkish officials." Also Read: UNESCO supports Ukraine's bid to put threatened port of Odesa on World Heritage list It specifically listed the 11 Afghans who were killed by Iranian security forces and the three Afghans who were killed by Turkish forces throughout the previous year. The right to seek asylum and the prohibition against refoulment—the forcible return of refugees to nations where they would face persecution or other human rights violations—are guaranteed by international law. According to Amnesty International, no Afghan should be sent back because of the possibility of grave human rights violations there, which is also the opinion of the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees). Additionally, it urged the international community to aid nations hosting Afghan refugees and to scale up efforts by Europe, the US, and Canada to make it easier for Afghans at risk of Taliban assassination to leave their country. (with inputs from agencies)

Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.&nbsp;

Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea.&nbsp;

After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today.

A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq.&nbsp;

At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers.&nbsp;

890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy.&nbsp;

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country.

In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace.&nbsp;

The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela.

(with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO. Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea. After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today. A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers. 890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country. In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace. The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela. (with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel receives UNESCO Peace Prize for accepting refugees

Children at a United Kingdom Home Office hotel fell ill after unknowingly consuming worms in food. A four-year-old boy had to be rushed to the hospital by paramedics, according to a Guardian report, when he began vomiting shortly after consuming the worm-infested food. The boy's father said that after eating the same food, other family members also got sick and developed a fever for three days.&nbsp;The family, which as per the report wanted to remain anonymous, has since been rehoused by the Home Office. The incident occurred last month, they were staying at a hotel in the Midlands. The family filed a formal grievance with Serco, a Home Office contractor.

Watch |&nbsp;Report on Prince Charles' charity foundation: UK Prince had ties with the Bin Laden family?

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“I can confirm there was an insect of some kind in the food and the hotel were made aware of it at the time," a Serco official stated in response, adding "Apologies were given at the time and the housing officers will quality-check the food before service."

Environmental health officials found parasitic roundworms in the food. An environmental health official for the council, who was made aware of the problem, stated that cooking typically killed these worms. “However, I appreciate that it is an unpleasant experience to come across one in your meal,” he continued.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/should-archie-battersbees-life-support-treatment-stop-uk-court-says-yes-but-his-parents-disagree-502268" hreflang="en">Should Archie Battersbee's life-support treatment stop? UK court says yes, but his parents disagree</a>

This incident is only one of several issues with the Home Office's hotel accommodations for refugees.

According to a recent report by the Refugee Council, the Home Office's use of hotels for asylum seekers tripled last year, and a large number of residents of these government housings have complained about the bad living conditions.

The Guardian also reported that it has received complaints from asylum seekers about their families being housed in different hotels separately. In one instance, an asylum seeker was split up from her husband and their two kids, who were five and twelve.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-advisors-warn-to-act-soon-on-water-or-risk-emergency-lines-on-the-streets-502314" hreflang="en">UK must act now or face long queues for bottled water, warn experts</a>

Another family of asylum seekers, who are housed in a hotel on the south coast of England by the Home Office's contractors Clearsprings, alleged that hotel workers had entered their rooms without their consent and had videotaped some of their belongings.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Children at a United Kingdom Home Office hotel fell ill after unknowingly consuming worms in food. A four-year-old boy had to be rushed to the hospital by paramedics, according to a Guardian report, when he began vomiting shortly after consuming the worm-infested food.

Children at a United Kingdom Home Office hotel fell ill after unknowingly consuming worms in food. A four-year-old boy had to be rushed to the hospital by paramedics, according to a Guardian report, when he began vomiting shortly after consuming the worm-infested food. The boy's father said that after eating the same food, other family members also got sick and developed a fever for three days. The family, which as per the report wanted to remain anonymous, has since been rehoused by the Home Office. The incident occurred last month, they were staying at a hotel in the Midlands. The family filed a formal grievance with Serco, a Home Office contractor. Watch | Report on Prince Charles' charity foundation: UK Prince had ties with the Bin Laden family? “I can confirm there was an insect of some kind in the food and the hotel were made aware of it at the time," a Serco official stated in response, adding "Apologies were given at the time and the housing officers will quality-check the food before service." Environmental health officials found parasitic roundworms in the food. An environmental health official for the council, who was made aware of the problem, stated that cooking typically killed these worms. “However, I appreciate that it is an unpleasant experience to come across one in your meal,” he continued. Also read | Should Archie Battersbee's life-support treatment stop? UK court says yes, but his parents disagree This incident is only one of several issues with the Home Office's hotel accommodations for refugees. According to a recent report by the Refugee Council, the Home Office's use of hotels for asylum seekers tripled last year, and a large number of residents of these government housings have complained about the bad living conditions. The Guardian also reported that it has received complaints from asylum seekers about their families being housed in different hotels separately. In one instance, an asylum seeker was split up from her husband and their two kids, who were five and twelve. Also read | UK must act now or face long queues for bottled water, warn experts Another family of asylum seekers, who are housed in a hotel on the south coast of England by the Home Office's contractors Clearsprings, alleged that hotel workers had entered their rooms without their consent and had videotaped some of their belongings. (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.

Four-year-old kid rushed to hospital after worm-infested food served at UK government's hostel for refugees

The homesick Afghan shepherd prepares his baaing flock for a good shear, in the Turkish mountains so high the silver clouds almost touch the top of his head. The pebbly valley around him was once full of Kurds, who staged a violently suppressed rebellion in Tunceli in the early years of the modern Turkish state.

But the Kurds in the eastern Mercan Valley have been gradually replaced by Afghans, who fled here by foot and truck across Iran from the poverty and bloodshed back home. Now, with two decades of conflict behind them, some are thinking of going back, no matter the resurgent Taliban's hardline rule, as reported by AFP.

Hafiz Hasimi Meymene, a 20-year-old with a fiancee impatiently waiting for him in Afghanistan said, "Nobody would leave their country unless they had to."

"We come here, make money through shepherding, and send it to our families," he adds.

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A handful of nylon tents are tied down to the hard ground around him, the Afghan families' new homes. A few men crouch in a shed, milking their sheep and goats. Their friend ushers the flock into a pen with a whack of a slender stick.

As reported by AFP, Meymene said, "Next year, I will return to Afghanistan. The war is over."

"When the (Afghan) state was fighting the Taliban, the economy was hit hard. But now we are planning to return," he adds.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-protest-photos-that-will-leave-you-speechless-493911">&nbsp;In Pics: Protest photos that will leave you speechless</a>

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan estimates that 300,000 Afghans now live in Turkey, which also hosts 3.7 million people from war-ravaged Syria.

Tunceli native Mustafa Acun says the locals have grown used to Afghans taking care of their herds. The 67-year-old works alongside them, making cheese and yoghurt from sheep's milk.

"I mean, our children either cannot or do not want to do this job," he says looking up from his stool, tending to some steaming pots over an open flame. It is surprisingly dangerous work.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The homesick Afghan shepherd prepares his baaing flock for a good shear, in the Turkish mountains so high the silver clouds almost touch the top of his head. The pebbly valley around him was once full of Kurds, who staged a violently suppressed rebellion in Tunceli in the early years of the modern Turkish state.

The homesick Afghan shepherd prepares his baaing flock for a good shear, in the Turkish mountains so high the silver clouds almost touch the top of his head. The pebbly valley around him was once full of Kurds, who staged a violently suppressed rebellion in Tunceli in the early years of the modern Turkish state. But the Kurds in the eastern Mercan Valley have been gradually replaced by Afghans, who fled here by foot and truck across Iran from the poverty and bloodshed back home. Now, with two decades of conflict behind them, some are thinking of going back, no matter the resurgent Taliban's hardline rule, as reported by AFP. Hafiz Hasimi Meymene, a 20-year-old with a fiancee impatiently waiting for him in Afghanistan said, "Nobody would leave their country unless they had to." "We come here, make money through shepherding, and send it to our families," he adds. VIDEO: Driven from their country by war, Afghan shepherds are eking out a living high in the mountains of Turkey, sending money home to the families they dream of returning to.https://t.co/J9eHZK2Hd6 pic.twitter.com/rY1V8VNAhv — AFP News Agency (@AFP) July 2, 2022 × A handful of nylon tents are tied down to the hard ground around him, the Afghan families' new homes. A few men crouch in a shed, milking their sheep and goats. Their friend ushers the flock into a pen with a whack of a slender stick. As reported by AFP, Meymene said, "Next year, I will return to Afghanistan. The war is over." "When the (Afghan) state was fighting the Taliban, the economy was hit hard. But now we are planning to return," he adds. Also Read: In Pics: Protest photos that will leave you speechless President Recep Tayyip Erdogan estimates that 300,000 Afghans now live in Turkey, which also hosts 3.7 million people from war-ravaged Syria. Tunceli native Mustafa Acun says the locals have grown used to Afghans taking care of their herds. The 67-year-old works alongside them, making cheese and yoghurt from sheep's milk. "I mean, our children either cannot or do not want to do this job," he says looking up from his stool, tending to some steaming pots over an open flame. It is surprisingly dangerous work. (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.

Watch| Afghan refugee shepherds desperate to return home, even to resurgent Taliban's hardline rule

UNHCR: 100 million people have been forced to flee their homes What are the most urgent refugee crises around the world? We tell you why UK's bid to export some refugees to Rwanda is 'all wrong'. Watch 'Uprooted: Life as a Refugee' on WION Wideangle

Uprooted: Life as a refugee | WION Wideangle

A British man who was in a 10-year relationship with his partner and also fathered two kids, ran off with a Ukrainian woman who had moved into their house a few days ago to escape war.

According to The Sun, 29-year-old security guard Tony Garnett fell for her the minute after he met 22-year-old Sofiia Karkadym.

“As soon as I saw him, I fancied him,” Sofiia, who fled the city of Lviv in western Ukraine, told The Sun.

“It’s been very quick, but this is our love story. I know people will think badly of me but it happens. I could see how unhappy Tony was.”

Garnett, 29 and his partner Lorna, 28, welcomed Sofiia at the start of May, but just 10 days later their seemingly-happy marriage was torn apart when he ran away with the refugee.

The family had taken in Sofiia in their effort to help Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion. Tony first got into touch with Sonia touch on a Facebook page where he offered to house a refugee.
<img alt="Ukrainian refugee" data-caption="Tony Garnett left his girlfriend for Ukrainian refugee Sofiia Karkadym 10 days after she arrived to live in their home." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="546678a0-77f2-49ad-86d9-832a4adbb1b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sonia_0.jpg" />
Sofiia, who works as an IT manager, landed in Manchester on May 4 after waiting for weeks in Berlin for her UK visa to be approved.

Tony Sofiia quickly developed a connection, and while his six-year-old and three-year-old daughters also took a liking to her,&nbsp;

“We were getting on brilliantly but at that time it was no more than that — although I can see why Lorna started to feel jealous and resentful of her,” Tony was quoted as saying.

As the days went by, Tony and Sofia began to get closer, while partner grew “very jealous” of him.

But things took an unexpected turn quickly, as Sofiia and Lorna had tiff, following which the Ukrainian refugee decided to leave.

Tony said that “something inside me clicked” and he told Lorna “If she's going, I'm going”.

The pair then packed their bags and moved in with Tony's mum and dad. Now, they are looking at properties to move into.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A British man who was in a 10-year relationship with his partner and also fathered two kids, ran off with a Ukrainian woman who had moved into their house a few days ago to escape war.

A British man who was in a 10-year relationship with his partner and also fathered two kids, ran off with a Ukrainian woman who had moved into their house a few days ago to escape war. According to The Sun, 29-year-old security guard Tony Garnett fell for her the minute after he met 22-year-old Sofiia Karkadym. “As soon as I saw him, I fancied him,” Sofiia, who fled the city of Lviv in western Ukraine, told The Sun. “It’s been very quick, but this is our love story. I know people will think badly of me but it happens. I could see how unhappy Tony was.” Garnett, 29 and his partner Lorna, 28, welcomed Sofiia at the start of May, but just 10 days later their seemingly-happy marriage was torn apart when he ran away with the refugee. The family had taken in Sofiia in their effort to help Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion. Tony first got into touch with Sonia touch on a Facebook page where he offered to house a refugee. Sofiia, who works as an IT manager, landed in Manchester on May 4 after waiting for weeks in Berlin for her UK visa to be approved. Tony Sofiia quickly developed a connection, and while his six-year-old and three-year-old daughters also took a liking to her, “We were getting on brilliantly but at that time it was no more than that — although I can see why Lorna started to feel jealous and resentful of her,” Tony was quoted as saying. As the days went by, Tony and Sofia began to get closer, while partner grew “very jealous” of him. But things took an unexpected turn quickly, as Sofiia and Lorna had tiff, following which the Ukrainian refugee decided to leave. Tony said that “something inside me clicked” and he told Lorna “If she's going, I'm going”. The pair then packed their bags and moved in with Tony's mum and dad. Now, they are looking at properties to move into. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here

UK man dumps wife, runs off with Ukrainian refugee who moved in few days ago

Days after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a plan to send tens of thousands of asylum seekers to Rwanda, the plan has been condemned by the Archbishop of Canterbury here's the report with all the details.

Archbishop of Canterbury condemns UK’s Rwanda refugee plan

Love transcends boundaries. This adage holds true for this couple who left their home countries—Russia and Ukraine—to tie the knot in Tijuana, the border city connecting Mexico with California and to seek asylum in the United States.

Semen Bobrovski—a Russian citizen—met Daria “Dasha” Sakhniuk three years ago after crossing the border to Ukraine.

It was a love at first sight for them. They wanted to get married in Kyiv in April, but the prospect of war scuttled their plans.

Before the Russian invasion began, the couple decided to leave Ukraine. Like other refugees, they also thought of resettling in the United States.

The couple travelled thousands of kilometres, lasting six days, to reach the US-Mexico border where a refugee camp at the San Ysidro checkpoint is set up.

However, America’s harsh immigration policies for Russians, in the wake of the war, caused problems for Bobrovski.

According to Reuters, the US authorities only allowed Daria to enter as a refugee, as the Russian community has not been allowed to enter the country since the war began.

"The problem that the couple faced when arriving at the San Ysidro checkpoint is that it only allows access to the United States through refugee status to Ukrainian or Russian citizens who can legally prove their relationship. For the Russian community, right now, there is no legal way to enter the United States, derived from this war conflict," the Tijuana city council said in a press release, according to NBC Sandiego

Due to the restriction, the couple went to the municipal directorate of migrant services in Tijuana on Wednesday to get their marriage registered.

“I'm very happy that I met some very nice people who could help us come together in this matrimony here in Mexico, in Tijuana," Sakhniuk was quoted as saying.

Her husband also appreciated the Mexican authorities for their help.

"We are very happy because all these people helped us make this happen, we are full of joy and gratitude to the Mexican people for what they have done for us. This was very exciting," said Bobrovski. &nbsp;

According to local media reports, the couple will cross into San Diego and subsequently settle in New York to begin their new life as a husband and wife.

(With inputs from agencies)

Love transcends boundaries. This adage holds true for this couple who left their home countries—Russia and Ukraine—to tie the knot in Tijuana, the border city connecting Mexico with California and to seek asylum in the United States.

Love transcends boundaries. This adage holds true for this couple who left their home countries—Russia and Ukraine—to tie the knot in Tijuana, the border city connecting Mexico with California and to seek asylum in the United States. Semen Bobrovski—a Russian citizen—met Daria “Dasha” Sakhniuk three years ago after crossing the border to Ukraine. It was a love at first sight for them. They wanted to get married in Kyiv in April, but the prospect of war scuttled their plans. Before the Russian invasion began, the couple decided to leave Ukraine. Like other refugees, they also thought of resettling in the United States. The couple travelled thousands of kilometres, lasting six days, to reach the US-Mexico border where a refugee camp at the San Ysidro checkpoint is set up. However, America’s harsh immigration policies for Russians, in the wake of the war, caused problems for Bobrovski. According to Reuters, the US authorities only allowed Daria to enter as a refugee, as the Russian community has not been allowed to enter the country since the war began. "The problem that the couple faced when arriving at the San Ysidro checkpoint is that it only allows access to the United States through refugee status to Ukrainian or Russian citizens who can legally prove their relationship. For the Russian community, right now, there is no legal way to enter the United States, derived from this war conflict," the Tijuana city council said in a press release, according to NBC Sandiego Due to the restriction, the couple went to the municipal directorate of migrant services in Tijuana on Wednesday to get their marriage registered. “I'm very happy that I met some very nice people who could help us come together in this matrimony here in Mexico, in Tijuana," Sakhniuk was quoted as saying. Her husband also appreciated the Mexican authorities for their help. "We are very happy because all these people helped us make this happen, we are full of joy and gratitude to the Mexican people for what they have done for us. This was very exciting," said Bobrovski. According to local media reports, the couple will cross into San Diego and subsequently settle in New York to begin their new life as a husband and wife. (With inputs from agencies)

Fleeing war, Russian and Ukrainian travel thousands of kilometres to get married at Mexico border

According to reports, nearly 4.14 million Ukrainians have fled their country since Russia’s full-scale invasion began on February 24. Thousands are continuing to flood into neighboring countries each day, reads the UN numbers.

UN: Over 4.1 million Ukrainians have fled country and 6.83 million displaced since Russia invaded

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

The award-winning photograph — of a man who had lost a leg in a bomb attack in Syria, hoisting into the air his son, born without limbs, another casualty of the country’s civil war — went viral last year in Italy.

On Friday, Munzir El Nezzel, the man in the picture, and his son Mustafa arrived in Italy after a remarkable effort by the organizers of the Siena International Photo Awards, to bring them and their family from Turkey, where they had fled after Syria.

“We are coming, thank you,” 6-year-old Mustafa, smiling broadly, said in a video message recorded before he and his family — El Nezzel, the boy’s mother and two sisters ages 1 and 4 — boarded a plane in Ankara, Turkey, on Thursday to fly to Italy. “We love Italia,” he added.

The picture of Mustafa and his father, both with loving smiles, which was taken in January 2021 by Turkish photographer Mehmet Aslan and called “Hardship of Life,” was declared photo of the year at the Siena awards last year.

The emotional and shocking picture made headlines in Italy and spread internationally on social media, spurring the festival’s organizers to take action and start a fundraising drive to get treatment for father and son.

The festival’s organizers contacted diplomats, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and the Catholic diocese in Siena to host the Syrian family, so that Mustafa and his father could get treatment and prosthetics.

“The picture was beyond all imagination,” said Luca Venturi, an engineer who founded the Siena photography festival, which bestowed the award, about six years ago. “We thought we could also go beyond our fear of not being able to do anything for this family.”

Like all countries, Italy can issue visas for humanitarian reasons, but refugees need to be sponsored by a local organization that handles paperwork and provides financial support.

Motivated by the success of the crowdfunding effort, the nonprofit that organizes the photography festival decided to sponsor the Syrian family.

“It was a big dream for everybody,” Venturi said.

As Venturi worked his connections in Italy, trying to get permission to bring the family from Turkey, he kept regular contact with El Nezzel via WhatsApp, using Google Translate to communicate in Arabic with the 33-year-old father of three.

Venturi also sent aerial shots of Siena’s walled medieval city center to explain to the family, who had lived without a television for a decade, where they were going to move.

El Nezzel responded with exclamation points.

When the family was told this month that their visas had come through, “they were in disbelief,” Venturi said, adding that in a video, Mustafa did somersaults and laughed, shouting “I love you” to him.

Mustafa was born with a congenital disorder that resulted from medications that his mother had to take while pregnant with him, after she was sickened by nerve gas released during the war in Syria. He will need long-term treatment to be able to walk or live more independently. His parents currently carry him around, and one of his two sisters also helps him around the house.

Prosthetics experts in Italy will meet with Mustafa and his father in coming weeks to design new artificial limbs. El Nezzel’s treatment is likely to be easier because he is an adult. Working with a 6-year-old will be more challenging, according to the doctors and engineers of Italy’s leading rehabilitation and prosthetics center.

Gregorio Teti, director of the facility, the Centro Protesi Inail, in Vigorso di Budrio in northern Italy, said that the father could recover most of his mobility in a few weeks.

For Mustafa, the process could be longer, starting with simple prosthetics on his upper limbs that are usually easier to accept and get accustomed to. Later, engineers will design artificial limbs around Mustafa’s hips.

“It’s a technical but also a psychological learning curve,” Teti said. “His world will change, and even accepting that takes time.”

As Mustafa grows, his prosthetics will have to be adjusted to his changing body.

“As a child, he has time on his side,” Teti said. “Research will probably allow him to drive a car and get to work autonomously when he is older.”

But he will also be facing the challenges of migrating to a foreign country, learning a different language and creating a new life.

“Leaving your home country is always an enormous jump, but we hope to help them find a new home here,” said Anna Ferretti, who is in charge of the city’s branch of Caritas, a Catholic aid association that is offering the El Nezzels an apartment on the outskirts of Siena and will cover their daily financial needs for a year.

Since 2016, the Community of Sant’Egidio, a Catholic charity, together with various Protestant churches in Italy, has brought more than 4,300 refugees from around the world to Italy from camps in Lebanon, Ethiopia, Greece and Libya.

Ferretti added that a couple of Syrian families settled in Siena years ago, and they will help the five members of the El Nezzel family get accustomed to their new lives.

“This is a small city and the solidarity network is strong,” she said. “Together, we are going to make it.”

The award-winning photograph — of a man who had lost a leg in a bomb attack in Syria, hoisting into the air his son, born without limbs, another casualty of the country’s civil war — went viral last year in Italy.

The award-winning photograph — of a man who had lost a leg in a bomb attack in Syria, hoisting into the air his son, born without limbs, another casualty of the country’s civil war — went viral last year in Italy. On Friday, Munzir El Nezzel, the man in the picture, and his son Mustafa arrived in Italy after a remarkable effort by the organizers of the Siena International Photo Awards, to bring them and their family from Turkey, where they had fled after Syria. “We are coming, thank you,” 6-year-old Mustafa, smiling broadly, said in a video message recorded before he and his family — El Nezzel, the boy’s mother and two sisters ages 1 and 4 — boarded a plane in Ankara, Turkey, on Thursday to fly to Italy. “We love Italia,” he added. The picture of Mustafa and his father, both with loving smiles, which was taken in January 2021 by Turkish photographer Mehmet Aslan and called “Hardship of Life,” was declared photo of the year at the Siena awards last year. The emotional and shocking picture made headlines in Italy and spread internationally on social media, spurring the festival’s organizers to take action and start a fundraising drive to get treatment for father and son. The festival’s organizers contacted diplomats, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and the Catholic diocese in Siena to host the Syrian family, so that Mustafa and his father could get treatment and prosthetics. “The picture was beyond all imagination,” said Luca Venturi, an engineer who founded the Siena photography festival, which bestowed the award, about six years ago. “We thought we could also go beyond our fear of not being able to do anything for this family.” Like all countries, Italy can issue visas for humanitarian reasons, but refugees need to be sponsored by a local organization that handles paperwork and provides financial support. Motivated by the success of the crowdfunding effort, the nonprofit that organizes the photography festival decided to sponsor the Syrian family. “It was a big dream for everybody,” Venturi said. As Venturi worked his connections in Italy, trying to get permission to bring the family from Turkey, he kept regular contact with El Nezzel via WhatsApp, using Google Translate to communicate in Arabic with the 33-year-old father of three. Venturi also sent aerial shots of Siena’s walled medieval city center to explain to the family, who had lived without a television for a decade, where they were going to move. El Nezzel responded with exclamation points. When the family was told this month that their visas had come through, “they were in disbelief,” Venturi said, adding that in a video, Mustafa did somersaults and laughed, shouting “I love you” to him. Mustafa was born with a congenital disorder that resulted from medications that his mother had to take while pregnant with him, after she was sickened by nerve gas released during the war in Syria. He will need long-term treatment to be able to walk or live more independently. His parents currently carry him around, and one of his two sisters also helps him around the house. Prosthetics experts in Italy will meet with Mustafa and his father in coming weeks to design new artificial limbs. El Nezzel’s treatment is likely to be easier because he is an adult. Working with a 6-year-old will be more challenging, according to the doctors and engineers of Italy’s leading rehabilitation and prosthetics center. Gregorio Teti, director of the facility, the Centro Protesi Inail, in Vigorso di Budrio in northern Italy, said that the father could recover most of his mobility in a few weeks. For Mustafa, the process could be longer, starting with simple prosthetics on his upper limbs that are usually easier to accept and get accustomed to. Later, engineers will design artificial limbs around Mustafa’s hips. “It’s a technical but also a psychological learning curve,” Teti said. “His world will change, and even accepting that takes time.” As Mustafa grows, his prosthetics will have to be adjusted to his changing body. “As a child, he has time on his side,” Teti said. “Research will probably allow him to drive a car and get to work autonomously when he is older.” But he will also be facing the challenges of migrating to a foreign country, learning a different language and creating a new life. “Leaving your home country is always an enormous jump, but we hope to help them find a new home here,” said Anna Ferretti, who is in charge of the city’s branch of Caritas, a Catholic aid association that is offering the El Nezzels an apartment on the outskirts of Siena and will cover their daily financial needs for a year. Since 2016, the Community of Sant’Egidio, a Catholic charity, together with various Protestant churches in Italy, has brought more than 4,300 refugees from around the world to Italy from camps in Lebanon, Ethiopia, Greece and Libya. Ferretti added that a couple of Syrian families settled in Siena years ago, and they will help the five members of the El Nezzel family get accustomed to their new lives. “This is a small city and the solidarity network is strong,” she said. “Together, we are going to make it.”

A viral photo helps bring Syrian refugee family to Italy

After days of failed attempts at least 35,000 civilians were successfully evacuated from war-torn cities on Wednesday.

People struggle to flee from conflict zones, at least 35,000 evacuated

At a time when Russia's military operation is causing a fast-growing refugee crisis in Europe, a handful of Ukrainian citizens have found a safe refuge on an Indian cruise ship. WION tells you more in this report.

20 Ukrainians find safe refuge in an Indian cruise ship

1 million refugees flee #Ukraine in just 7 days. UN: Biggest refugee crisis in 100 years. Watch heart-wrenching stories from the war-torn country. Ukraine: Inside the Exodus on WION Wideangle

Ukraine: Inside The Exodus | Wion Wideangle

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has displaced some one million people with millions more at risk. The European Union nations have been swift in their response to the Ukrainians crossing over this reaction of the European countries is now pushing millions of West-Asian refugees who are still waiting for protection and asylum for over a decade.

Europe's contradictory approach to Ukrainian and Syrian refugees?

As the crisis in Ukraine intensifies, UN Refugee Agency said nearly 4 million people from Ukraine could flee abroad. This comes as Russian troops entered Ukraine.

Ukraine: 4 million people could flee abroad, says UN amid Russia invasions

During a United Nations meeting on Ukraine&nbsp;speakers warned on Wednesday that a Russian invasion of the country would likely create a new "refugee crisis" around the world.

As many as five million people could be displaced by war, the US warned, while Ukraine's foreign minister said such a conflict would mark "the end of the world order as we know it."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-wake-of-putins-military-operation-threat-oil-prices-soar-past-100-for-the-first-time-since-2014-455849" hreflang="en">In the wake of Putin's 'military operation' threat, oil prices soar past $100 for the first time since 2014</a>

The dire warnings were made during a UN General Assembly session on "temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories," which is held at UN headquarters in New York each year since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.

In his remarks, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "our world is facing a moment of peril" over the crisis.

"If the conflict in Ukraine expands, the world could see a scale and severity of need unseen for many years," he said.

"It is time for restraint, reason and de-escalation," Guterres added, stressing there was no room for actions or statements that would "take this dangerous situation over the abyss."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-tensions-over-ukraine-rise-us-russian-space-cooperation-continues-455825">Even as tensions over Ukraine rise, US-Russian space cooperation continues</a>

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the UN, said an invasion could result in the displacement of another five million people, in addition to the three million already displaced by Russian military action in eastern Ukraine.

"If Russia continues down this path, it could -- according to our estimates -- create a new refugee crisis, one of the largest facing the world today," she said.

Considering that Ukraine is one of the largest providers of wheat to developing nations, Thomas-Greenfield said Russian military operations "could cause a spike in food prices and lead to even more desperate hunger in places like Libya, Yemen, and Lebanon."

"The tidal waves of suffering this war will cause are unthinkable," she said.

Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, pleaded with the United Nations to hold Moscow accountable for attacking "the core principles of international law."

Watch |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-announces-military-operations-in-ukraine-as-tensions-mount-to-their-climax-455839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"If Russia does not get a severe, swift and decisive response now, this will mean a total bankruptcy of the international security system and international institutions, which are tasked with maintaining the global security order.

"This is a grim scenario, which will throw us back to the darkest times of the 20th century," he said.

The minister called Russian claims that it is acting to prevent Kyiv from launching military operations in the Donbas area "absurd" and urged Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

During a United Nations meeting on Ukraine speakers warned on Wednesday that a Russian invasion of the country would likely create a new "refugee crisis" around the world.

During a United Nations meeting on Ukraine speakers warned on Wednesday that a Russian invasion of the country would likely create a new "refugee crisis" around the world. As many as five million people could be displaced by war, the US warned, while Ukraine's foreign minister said such a conflict would mark "the end of the world order as we know it." Also read | In the wake of Putin's 'military operation' threat, oil prices soar past $100 for the first time since 2014 The dire warnings were made during a UN General Assembly session on "temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories," which is held at UN headquarters in New York each year since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. In his remarks, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "our world is facing a moment of peril" over the crisis. "If the conflict in Ukraine expands, the world could see a scale and severity of need unseen for many years," he said. "It is time for restraint, reason and de-escalation," Guterres added, stressing there was no room for actions or statements that would "take this dangerous situation over the abyss." Also read | Even as tensions over Ukraine rise, US-Russian space cooperation continues Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the UN, said an invasion could result in the displacement of another five million people, in addition to the three million already displaced by Russian military action in eastern Ukraine. "If Russia continues down this path, it could -- according to our estimates -- create a new refugee crisis, one of the largest facing the world today," she said. Considering that Ukraine is one of the largest providers of wheat to developing nations, Thomas-Greenfield said Russian military operations "could cause a spike in food prices and lead to even more desperate hunger in places like Libya, Yemen, and Lebanon." "The tidal waves of suffering this war will cause are unthinkable," she said. Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, pleaded with the United Nations to hold Moscow accountable for attacking "the core principles of international law." Watch | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax "If Russia does not get a severe, swift and decisive response now, this will mean a total bankruptcy of the international security system and international institutions, which are tasked with maintaining the global security order. "This is a grim scenario, which will throw us back to the darkest times of the 20th century," he said. The minister called Russian claims that it is acting to prevent Kyiv from launching military operations in the Donbas area "absurd" and urged Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

'Tidal waves of suffering': At least 5 million would be displaced by a Russian invasion of Ukraine, warns US

Two children have died in Syria's refugee camps including a seven-day-old baby. Freezing cold weather over the past two weeks has swept across Idlib home to some two million displaced Syrians in freezing cold temperatures.

Two children dies in Syria's refugee camp

Thousands of people have been left homeless after fire gutted parts of a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh here's a report

Fire swept through a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh

The Taliban's foreign minister visited Iran on Saturday to discuss Afghan refugees and a growing economic crisis, in the first such trip to the neighbouring country since the hardline Islamists seized power.

Iran, like other nations, has so far not recognised the new government formed by the Taliban after it took power amid a hasty withdrawal by US-led foreign forces in August.

"The visit aims at discussions on political, economic, transit and refugee issues between Afghanistan and Iran," the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said on Twitter.

Already host to millions of Afghans and fearing a new influx, Tehran has sought to sketch a rapprochement with the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-food-and-clothes-talibans-deputy-pm-calls-for-aid-amid-economic-crisis-443146">Also read |&nbsp;No food and clothes: Taliban's Deputy PM calls for aid amid economic crisis</a>

The Taliban delegation led by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has already held a preliminary meeting with Iranian officials, he said.

Shiite Iran, which shares a 900-kilometre border with Afghanistan, had not recognised the Sunni movement's rule during their 1996 to 2001 stint in power. It is still to recognise the Islamists' current government, insisting that the Taliban form an inclusive administration.

"Today, we are basically not at the point of recognising" the Taliban, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh told a news conference earlier this week.

The Taliban has formed an all-male cabinet made up entirely of members of the group, and almost exclusively of ethnic Pashtuns.

It has further restricted women's rights to work and study, triggering widespread international condemnation.

The Taliban's foreign minister visited Iran on Saturday to discuss Afghan refugees and a growing economic crisis, in the first such trip to the neighbouring country since the hardline Islamists seized power.

The Taliban's foreign minister visited Iran on Saturday to discuss Afghan refugees and a growing economic crisis, in the first such trip to the neighbouring country since the hardline Islamists seized power. Iran, like other nations, has so far not recognised the new government formed by the Taliban after it took power amid a hasty withdrawal by US-led foreign forces in August. "The visit aims at discussions on political, economic, transit and refugee issues between Afghanistan and Iran," the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said on Twitter. Already host to millions of Afghans and fearing a new influx, Tehran has sought to sketch a rapprochement with the Taliban. Also read | No food and clothes: Taliban's Deputy PM calls for aid amid economic crisis The Taliban delegation led by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has already held a preliminary meeting with Iranian officials, he said. Shiite Iran, which shares a 900-kilometre border with Afghanistan, had not recognised the Sunni movement's rule during their 1996 to 2001 stint in power. It is still to recognise the Islamists' current government, insisting that the Taliban form an inclusive administration. "Today, we are basically not at the point of recognising" the Taliban, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh told a news conference earlier this week. The Taliban has formed an all-male cabinet made up entirely of members of the group, and almost exclusively of ethnic Pashtuns. It has further restricted women's rights to work and study, triggering widespread international condemnation.

Taliban foreign minister visits Iran to discuss refugee and economic situation

The immigrants in California San Jose are well versed with the horrors of having to start afresh in a foreign land which is why at a clinic meant for screening refugees, the immigrant staffers are now offering guidance and support to the thousands of apprehensive Afghan refugees.

United States: Immigrants at California clinic help Afghan refugees

A shooting took place in Lebanon at a Palestine refugee camp where a funeral procession of a Hamas member was taking place. Three people were reported dead, along with several injured.

3 people killed at the funeral procession of a Hamas member in Lebanon's Palestine refugee camp

A shooting incident at a Palestine refugee camp in Lebanon during a funeral procession of a Hamas member resulted in the death of 3 people while several others were injured.

Shooting at a funeral procession of a Hamas member results in 3 dead & several injured in Lebanon

Despite the claims by Yemen's security forces to gain ground, Humanitarian situation worsens in Yemen. According to stats, A Yemeni child under age 5 dies every 9 minutes in 2021.

The humanitarian situation worsens in Yemen

A storm of crisis looms ahead for displaced families living in Yemen camps as they are all set to face intense desert winter.

Displaced families living in Yemen camps face intense desert winter

'Hope': Little Amal, a 3.5 metre-tall Syrian refugee puppet, reaches UK

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul. He spoke&nbsp;exclusively&nbsp;to WION, along with&nbsp;Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, about the deliberations.

Qureshi told WION that a delegation of Taliban members would be visiting Islamabad to iron out differences on a range of issues, including refugee crisis and border issues.

Qureshi, who was accompanied by the outgoing chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hammed,&nbsp;was in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the situation at the Chaman border crossing, one of the main trade transit points between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The crossing has been closed for more than two weeks, causing severe problems for truckers and exporters.&nbsp;

Calling the talks “successful”, Qureshi told WION, “We held discussion on all our issues, including refugee crisis and how to solve the border issue in the coming days. We will continue discussing these issues. In the next few days, a Taliban delegation will also visit Islamabad.”

Muttaqi, on the other hand, urged the international community to recognise the Taliban government, so that they can receive aid and resolve the present economic crisis plaguing the landlocked nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-will-not-let-the-taliban-access-the-money-us-on-releasing-afghan-frozen-assets-422514">We will not let the Taliban access the money: US on releasing Afghan frozen assets</a>

“We discussed bilateral trade, visa issues, education, scholarships, regional stability in the meeting. Due to our economic condition, we want international powers to recognise us, as we need their help in running the economic affairs. Economically, Afghanistan is facing a lot of challenges, we want and request the world to help us,” Muttaqi told WION.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshis-first-trip-to-kabul-since-taliban-takeover-422794/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The visit of Qureshi&nbsp;took place amid the long-standing border tussle. The neighbouring countries have also been unable to solve issues over air links and control of freight crossing the border.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15, the nation’s economy underwent a massive shock.

The United Nations has warned last month that the poverty rate in Afghanistan was soaring, and public services were close to collapse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-urge-us-eu-to-end-existing-sanctions-to-avoid-refugee-crisis-420503">Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis</a>

The IMF in its regional economic outlook update on Tuesday said that Afghanistan’s economy is set to contract up to 30 per cent this year and it is likely to further fuel a refugee crisis that will impact neighbours, Turkey and Europe.

The US froze $10bn of the country's central bank assets. Banks were closed for many days after the Taliban seized control, and while many have opened now, accessing cash is still difficult.

Many businesses shut down because their owners fled the country fearing for their lives. Many of those who had jobs haven't received salaries for months.

With no cash in the market, there has been a sharp rise in prices of day to day necessities including food. An already difficult situation created by war and drought has become much worse.

Women who had jobs and supported their families can no longer work and are now entirely dependent on handouts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul.

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul. He spoke exclusively to WION, along with Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, about the deliberations. Qureshi told WION that a delegation of Taliban members would be visiting Islamabad to iron out differences on a range of issues, including refugee crisis and border issues. Qureshi, who was accompanied by the outgoing chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hammed, was in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the situation at the Chaman border crossing, one of the main trade transit points between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The crossing has been closed for more than two weeks, causing severe problems for truckers and exporters. Calling the talks “successful”, Qureshi told WION, “We held discussion on all our issues, including refugee crisis and how to solve the border issue in the coming days. We will continue discussing these issues. In the next few days, a Taliban delegation will also visit Islamabad.” Muttaqi, on the other hand, urged the international community to recognise the Taliban government, so that they can receive aid and resolve the present economic crisis plaguing the landlocked nation. Also read | We will not let the Taliban access the money: US on releasing Afghan frozen assets “We discussed bilateral trade, visa issues, education, scholarships, regional stability in the meeting. Due to our economic condition, we want international powers to recognise us, as we need their help in running the economic affairs. Economically, Afghanistan is facing a lot of challenges, we want and request the world to help us,” Muttaqi told WION. Watch The visit of Qureshi took place amid the long-standing border tussle. The neighbouring countries have also been unable to solve issues over air links and control of freight crossing the border. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15, the nation’s economy underwent a massive shock. The United Nations has warned last month that the poverty rate in Afghanistan was soaring, and public services were close to collapse. Also read | Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis The IMF in its regional economic outlook update on Tuesday said that Afghanistan’s economy is set to contract up to 30 per cent this year and it is likely to further fuel a refugee crisis that will impact neighbours, Turkey and Europe. The US froze $10bn of the country's central bank assets. Banks were closed for many days after the Taliban seized control, and while many have opened now, accessing cash is still difficult. Many businesses shut down because their owners fled the country fearing for their lives. Many of those who had jobs haven't received salaries for months. With no cash in the market, there has been a sharp rise in prices of day to day necessities including food. An already difficult situation created by war and drought has become much worse. Women who had jobs and supported their families can no longer work and are now entirely dependent on handouts. (With inputs from agencies)

Exclusive: Pak FM Qureshi, Taliban's Muttaqi share details with WION on Kabul talks

Gunmen killed at least seven people and left others wounded in an assault Friday on an Islamic seminary in a Rohingya refugee camp on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, police said.

The attackers shot some victims and stabbed others with knives, a regional police chief said.

The killings come as tensions mount in the camps that house more than 900,000 refugees from Myanmar, after a Rohingya community leader was shot dead outside his office three weeks ago.

Four people were killed instantly in Friday's attack and three others died at a hospital in the Balukhali camp. Police did not say how many people were wounded.

"We arrested one attacker immediately after the incident," Shihab Kaisar Khan, regional chief for an armed police battalion, told reporters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-plans-to-move-81000-rohingya-to-island-after-un-deal-officials-419346">Bangladesh plans to move 81,000 Rohingya to island after UN deal: Officials</a>

The man was found with a gun, six rounds of ammunition and a knife, he added.

Many Rohingya activists have gone into hiding since the killing of rights advocate Mohib Ullah by unknown assailants.

Some activists have blamed the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) for the killing. ARSA is the militant group behind attacks on Myanmar security forces in 2017 that set off a military clampdown and a mass exodus into Bangladesh of 740,000 Rohingya.

The armed outfit has denied the allegations.&nbsp;

Activists say there is a mounting "climate of fear" in the camps. Police said security had been tightened as they investigate the causes of the latest shooting.

Gunmen killed at least seven people and left others wounded in an assault Friday on an Islamic seminary in a Rohingya refugee camp on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, police said.

Gunmen killed at least seven people and left others wounded in an assault Friday on an Islamic seminary in a Rohingya refugee camp on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, police said. The attackers shot some victims and stabbed others with knives, a regional police chief said. The killings come as tensions mount in the camps that house more than 900,000 refugees from Myanmar, after a Rohingya community leader was shot dead outside his office three weeks ago. Four people were killed instantly in Friday's attack and three others died at a hospital in the Balukhali camp. Police did not say how many people were wounded. "We arrested one attacker immediately after the incident," Shihab Kaisar Khan, regional chief for an armed police battalion, told reporters. Also Read | Bangladesh plans to move 81,000 Rohingya to island after UN deal: Officials The man was found with a gun, six rounds of ammunition and a knife, he added. Many Rohingya activists have gone into hiding since the killing of rights advocate Mohib Ullah by unknown assailants. Some activists have blamed the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) for the killing. ARSA is the militant group behind attacks on Myanmar security forces in 2017 that set off a military clampdown and a mass exodus into Bangladesh of 740,000 Rohingya. The armed outfit has denied the allegations. Activists say there is a mounting "climate of fear" in the camps. Police said security had been tightened as they investigate the causes of the latest shooting.

Seven killed in Bangladesh Rohingya refugee camp attack

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations.<o:p></o:p>

The terrorist organisation has warned that of the western governments continue trying to bring down the Taliban government, it can pose threats for the security sector of the world. <o:p></o:p>

"Weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country," Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-interpreter-who-helped-rescue-biden-in-2008-escapes-taliban-regime-420043">Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime</a></o:p>

This statement from Taliban comes at a time when the new government in Afghanistan is struggling to stabilise the country. <o:p></o:p>

Afghanistan has been facing repeated attacks from Taliban’s rival terrorist organisation, ISIS, bringing a rise in daily death count and violence in the country. In addition to this, as western countries have stopped all financial aids for Taliban-run country, the group is struggling to bring financial stability. Taliban has also not been able to pay electricity bills to neighbouring states which means there is a possibility the country can go dark in the next few weeks.<o:p></o:p>

"We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance," a statement from Muttaqi’s spokesperson said.<o:p></o:p>

This statement from Taliban has, indeed, increased fears of the European nations about a possible influx of migrants. Several European countries are worried that if the Afghanistan economy collapses or comes to the verge of complete collapse, locals will head out towards Europe as migrants.<o:p></o:p>

However, the US and European Union (EU) have said that they are ready to step in and help end the humanitarian crisis, provided they get to bypass the Taliban government. The leaders have urged Taliban to assure that the financial aids will go to re-establishing human rights and women’s rights.<o:p></o:p>

"We have been clear about our conditions for any engagement with the Afghan authorities, including on the respect of human rights," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations.

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations. The terrorist organisation has warned that of the western governments continue trying to bring down the Taliban government, it can pose threats for the security sector of the world. "Weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country," Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha. Also read | Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime This statement from Taliban comes at a time when the new government in Afghanistan is struggling to stabilise the country. Afghanistan has been facing repeated attacks from Taliban’s rival terrorist organisation, ISIS, bringing a rise in daily death count and violence in the country. In addition to this, as western countries have stopped all financial aids for Taliban-run country, the group is struggling to bring financial stability. Taliban has also not been able to pay electricity bills to neighbouring states which means there is a possibility the country can go dark in the next few weeks. "We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance," a statement from Muttaqi’s spokesperson said. This statement from Taliban has, indeed, increased fears of the European nations about a possible influx of migrants. Several European countries are worried that if the Afghanistan economy collapses or comes to the verge of complete collapse, locals will head out towards Europe as migrants. However, the US and European Union (EU) have said that they are ready to step in and help end the humanitarian crisis, provided they get to bypass the Taliban government. The leaders have urged Taliban to assure that the financial aids will go to re-establishing human rights and women’s rights. "We have been clear about our conditions for any engagement with the Afghan authorities, including on the respect of human rights," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis

Afghanistan's new Taliban government has warned US and European envoys that continued attempts to pressure them through sanctions will undermine security and could trigger a wave of economic refugees.

Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha that "weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country", according to a statement published late Tuesday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-embassy-in-india-reels-under-financial-crunch-420222">Afghan embassy in India reels under financial crunch</a>

The Taliban overthrew Afghanistan's former US-backed government in August after a two-decade-long conflict, and have declared an Islamic emirate governed under the movement's hardline interpretation of religious law.

But efforts to stabilise the country, still facing attacks from rival extremist group the Islamic State-Khorasan, have been undermined by international sanctions: banks are running out of cash and civil servants are going unpaid.

According to the statement from his spokesman, Muttaqi told the Doha meeting: "We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-pledges-12-billion-in-aid-for-afghanistan-to-avert-humanitarian-collapse-420169">EU pledges $1.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan to avert humanitarian collapse</a>

European countries in particular are concerned that if the Afghan economy collapses, large numbers of migrants will set off for the continent, piling pressure on neighbouring states such as Pakistan and Iran and eventually on EU borders.

Washington and the EU have said they are ready to back humanitarian initiatives in Afghanistan, but are wary of providing direct support to the Taliban without guarantees it will respect human rights, in particular women's rights.

Afghanistan's new Taliban government has warned US and European envoys that continued attempts to pressure them through sanctions will undermine security and could trigger a wave of economic refugees.

Afghanistan's new Taliban government has warned US and European envoys that continued attempts to pressure them through sanctions will undermine security and could trigger a wave of economic refugees. Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha that "weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country", according to a statement published late Tuesday. Also Read | Afghan embassy in India reels under financial crunch The Taliban overthrew Afghanistan's former US-backed government in August after a two-decade-long conflict, and have declared an Islamic emirate governed under the movement's hardline interpretation of religious law. But efforts to stabilise the country, still facing attacks from rival extremist group the Islamic State-Khorasan, have been undermined by international sanctions: banks are running out of cash and civil servants are going unpaid. According to the statement from his spokesman, Muttaqi told the Doha meeting: "We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance." Also Read | EU pledges $1.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan to avert humanitarian collapse European countries in particular are concerned that if the Afghan economy collapses, large numbers of migrants will set off for the continent, piling pressure on neighbouring states such as Pakistan and Iran and eventually on EU borders. Washington and the EU have said they are ready to back humanitarian initiatives in Afghanistan, but are wary of providing direct support to the Taliban without guarantees it will respect human rights, in particular women's rights.

Taliban warn US, EU of refugees if Afghan sanctions continue

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