English novelist George Orwell's dystopian novel ''1984''&nbsp;has topped electronic bestsellers in Russia. The novel is set in an imagined future where totalitarian rulers deprive citizens of all agency to maintain support for senseless wars. State news agency Tass reported on Tuesday that ''1984'' is the most popular fiction download of this year on LitRes. a Russian online bookseller.&nbsp;

As the name suggests, the novel is set in the year 1984 in Oceania, which is governed by the all-controlling Party, according to Britannica. The Party has brainwashed the citizens into unthinking obedience to its leader Big Brother. The Party has come up with Newspeak, a propagandistic language that has been designed to limit free thought and promote its doctrines.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-quoting-national-anthem-to-referencing-orwells-1984-what-chinese-netizens-are-doing-to-dodge-censorship-476996">From quoting national anthem to referencing Orwell's 1984: What Chinese netizens are doing to dodge censorship</a>

Orwell's ''1984'' was published in 1949 as a warning against totalitarianism and it was banned in the Soviet Union until 1988, a report by news agency Reuters said. Orwell said that he used Joseph Stalin's (the former premier of the Soviet Union) dictatorship for the personality cult of Big Brother, whose ''Thought Police''&nbsp;force citizens to engage in doublethink (the acceptance of contrary opinions at the same time) to believe that "War is peace, freedom is slavery."

But some people see contemporary echoes in the rule of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who eradicated political opposition and critical media from the public, the Reuters report said.&nbsp;

Putin's war on Ukraine, which he calls a ''special military operation''&nbsp;will soon enter the eleventh month, prompted new laws that made it a crime to publish any information about the war which was at variants with statements given by the government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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English novelist George Orwell's dystopian novel ''1984'' has topped electronic bestsellers in Russia. The novel is set in an imagined future where totalitarian rulers deprive citizens of all agency to maintain support for senseless wars.

English novelist George Orwell's dystopian novel ''1984'' has topped electronic bestsellers in Russia. The novel is set in an imagined future where totalitarian rulers deprive citizens of all agency to maintain support for senseless wars. State news agency Tass reported on Tuesday that ''1984'' is the most popular fiction download of this year on LitRes. a Russian online bookseller. As the name suggests, the novel is set in the year 1984 in Oceania, which is governed by the all-controlling Party, according to Britannica. The Party has brainwashed the citizens into unthinking obedience to its leader Big Brother. The Party has come up with Newspeak, a propagandistic language that has been designed to limit free thought and promote its doctrines. ALSO READ| From quoting national anthem to referencing Orwell's 1984: What Chinese netizens are doing to dodge censorship Orwell's ''1984'' was published in 1949 as a warning against totalitarianism and it was banned in the Soviet Union until 1988, a report by news agency Reuters said. Orwell said that he used Joseph Stalin's (the former premier of the Soviet Union) dictatorship for the personality cult of Big Brother, whose ''Thought Police'' force citizens to engage in doublethink (the acceptance of contrary opinions at the same time) to believe that "War is peace, freedom is slavery." But some people see contemporary echoes in the rule of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who eradicated political opposition and critical media from the public, the Reuters report said. Putin's war on Ukraine, which he calls a ''special military operation'' will soon enter the eleventh month, prompted new laws that made it a crime to publish any information about the war which was at variants with statements given by the government. (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.

George Orwell's novel 1984, banned in the Soviet Union until 1988, tops Russian bestseller list

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter. Speaking via a video link, he also urged G7 to supply more weapons to Ukraine including "modern tanks" and "rocket artillery and more long-range missiles".

"Unfortunately, Russia still has the advantage in artillery and missiles. This is a fact. These capabilities of the occupying army are the ones to fuel the Kremlin's arrogance," Zelensky said.

"The terror against our power plants forced us to use more gas than expected. This is why we need additional support over this particular winter," he stressed.

Watch | War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer

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Russia attacked Ukraine in February this year. After gaining ground in initial months of the fighting, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks resulting in Ukrainian forces gaining back control of large swathes of land.

Russia has then scaled up bombarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure just when winter has begun to set in, causing many regions of the country to suffer blackouts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-jailing-beating-up-own-soldiers-who-refuse-to-fight-in-ukraine-report-542465">Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report</a>

On Monday, Zelensky invited the G7 industrialised nations "as well as other conscientious countries" to "show your leadership".

The Ukrainian leader also urged Russia "to take a concrete and meaningful step towards a diplomatic settlement".&nbsp;

Zelensky called on "the occupier" Moscow to leave Ukrainian territory by Christmas.

"The one who brought the war upon us has to take it away."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter. Speaking via a video link, he also urged G7 to supply more weapons to Ukraine including "modern tanks" and "rocket artillery and more long-range missiles". "Unfortunately, Russia still has the advantage in artillery and missiles. This is a fact. These capabilities of the occupying army are the ones to fuel the Kremlin's arrogance," Zelensky said. "The terror against our power plants forced us to use more gas than expected. This is why we need additional support over this particular winter," he stressed. Watch | War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer × Russia attacked Ukraine in February this year. After gaining ground in initial months of the fighting, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks resulting in Ukrainian forces gaining back control of large swathes of land. Russia has then scaled up bombarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure just when winter has begun to set in, causing many regions of the country to suffer blackouts. Also Read | Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report On Monday, Zelensky invited the G7 industrialised nations "as well as other conscientious countries" to "show your leadership". The Ukrainian leader also urged Russia "to take a concrete and meaningful step towards a diplomatic settlement". Zelensky called on "the occupier" Moscow to leave Ukrainian territory by Christmas. "The one who brought the war upon us has to take it away." (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 ×

Ukraine needs gas and more weapons, Zelensky tells G7 nations

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. &nbsp;

Russia is locking up its own soldiers who refuse to fight and even subjecting them to physical harm, said BBC in its news report. The report tells a story of two Russian soldiers, one of which "refused to lead his men to certain death"

Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in first few months of the war, the Russian troops have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Reports of Russian soldiers sabotaging their military vehicles in order to avoid fighting had been doing rounds even before the Russian retreat hinting at a possible low morale in the Russian ranks.

BBC in its report said that the soldiers and their families they spoke with described lack of preparedness and even a plan on the Russian side. Soldiers are reportedly just being ordered to march on with little information about their objectives.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-hits-hotel-housing-wagner-military-group-ukrainian-regional-official-says-542138">Ukraine hits hotel housing Wagner military group, Ukrainian regional official claims</a>

Stas (name changed), a serving army officer already when the Ukraine invasion began refused to fight in light of poor support to frontline troops.&nbsp;

Stas and other soldiers who took this stance were then locked up under armed guard.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-putin-to-not-hold-annual-year-end-press-conference-says-kremlin-542349">Russia: Putin to not hold annual year-end press conference, says Kremlin</a>

"They beat him and then they took him outside as if they were going to shoot him. They made him lie on the ground and told him to count to ten. He refused. So, they beat him over the head several times with a pistol. He told me his face was covered in blood," said Sergei (name changed) according to BBC.

Andrei (name changed) was another such soldier who reportedly refused to lead his men to a certain death. He and four other army officers were placed in basement of a building. Russian army reportedly told his mother that the particular building was shelled and all of them were now 'missing in action'.

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia is locking up its own soldiers who refuse to fight and even subjecting them to physical harm, said BBC in its news report. The report tells a story of two Russian soldiers, one of which "refused to lead his men to certain death" Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in first few months of the war, the Russian troops have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Reports of Russian soldiers sabotaging their military vehicles in order to avoid fighting had been doing rounds even before the Russian retreat hinting at a possible low morale in the Russian ranks. BBC in its report said that the soldiers and their families they spoke with described lack of preparedness and even a plan on the Russian side. Soldiers are reportedly just being ordered to march on with little information about their objectives. Also Read | Ukraine hits hotel housing Wagner military group, Ukrainian regional official claims Stas (name changed), a serving army officer already when the Ukraine invasion began refused to fight in light of poor support to frontline troops. Stas and other soldiers who took this stance were then locked up under armed guard. Also Read | Russia: Putin to not hold annual year-end press conference, says Kremlin "They beat him and then they took him outside as if they were going to shoot him. They made him lie on the ground and told him to count to ten. He refused. So, they beat him over the head several times with a pistol. He told me his face was covered in blood," said Sergei (name changed) according to BBC. Andrei (name changed) was another such soldier who reportedly refused to lead his men to a certain death. He and four other army officers were placed in basement of a building. Russian army reportedly told his mother that the particular building was shelled and all of them were now 'missing in action'. 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 ×

Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report

Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong said on Saturday (December 10) that the country was placing sanctions on Russia and Iran because of what it said were 'egregious' human rights violations.&nbsp;The minister issued a statement in which she said that Australia was imposing Magnitsky-style sanctions on 13 individuals and two entities, including Iran’s Morality Police, the Basij Resistance Force, and six Iranians involved in the crackdown on protests sparked by the custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September.

Seven Russians involved in what the foreign minister said was the attempted assassination of former opposition leader Alexei Navalny would also have human rights sanctions imposed on them, she said.

In addition to human rights sanctions, Wong said Australia was placing further targeted financial sanctions on three Iranians and one Iranian business for supplying drones to Russia for use against Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-raisi-says-will-continue-crackdown-on-protesters-541728">Iran: President Raisi says will continue crackdown on protesters</a>

"The supply of drones to Russia is evidence of the role Iran plays in destabilising global security. This listing highlights that those who provide material support to Russia will face consequences," Wong said in the statement jointly issued with Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watts.

The announcement comes after Australia's centre-left Labour government in October imposed targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 28 Russian-appointed separatists, ministers and senior officials after President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the annexation of four regions of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong said on Saturday (December 10) that the country was placing sanctions on Russia and Iran because of what it said were 'egregious' human rights violations.

Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong said on Saturday (December 10) that the country was placing sanctions on Russia and Iran because of what it said were 'egregious' human rights violations. The minister issued a statement in which she said that Australia was imposing Magnitsky-style sanctions on 13 individuals and two entities, including Iran’s Morality Police, the Basij Resistance Force, and six Iranians involved in the crackdown on protests sparked by the custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September. Seven Russians involved in what the foreign minister said was the attempted assassination of former opposition leader Alexei Navalny would also have human rights sanctions imposed on them, she said. In addition to human rights sanctions, Wong said Australia was placing further targeted financial sanctions on three Iranians and one Iranian business for supplying drones to Russia for use against Ukraine. Also Read | Iran: President Raisi says will continue crackdown on protesters "The supply of drones to Russia is evidence of the role Iran plays in destabilising global security. This listing highlights that those who provide material support to Russia will face consequences," Wong said in the statement jointly issued with Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watts. The announcement comes after Australia's centre-left Labour government in October imposed targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 28 Russian-appointed separatists, ministers and senior officials after President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the annexation of four regions of Ukraine. (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 ×

Australia places fresh sanctions on Russia and Iran for ‘egregious’ human rights violations

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's new video went viral on Twitter in which the allegedly intoxicated president is seen talking about the Russia-Ukraine war. A Twitter user named Dmitri posted the video with the caption "Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue". &nbsp;

Putin, while speaking to state awards recipients, is seen as saying, “All the nonsense, the informational stand-off, the informational throw-ins, all the fakes, they must stand aside. They should not prevent us from fulfilling our duty to our people. &nbsp;And you do not need to be particularly well-versed in this informational confrontation to understand what is actually going on."

“There is a lot of noise now about our strikes against the energy infrastructure of our neighbour country. Yes, we are doing that but who started it? Who struck the Crimean Bridge? Who blew up the power lines of the Kursk Nuclear Power Station? Who is not providing water to Donetsk? Not providing water to a city with a population of one million is an act of genocide. No one said a word about it anywhere at all. Complete silence. &nbsp;Just as we make a move, do something in response, noise and crackle start for the whole universe. This will not prevent us from completing military objectives," he adds, while swaying from side to side. &nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue because "they started first by attacking the Crimean bridge" <a href="https://t.co/fQeRuNo4Pu">pic.twitter.com/fQeRuNo4Pu</a>
— Dmitri (@wartranslated) <a href="https://twitter.com/wartranslated/status/1600847388242894848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The video which garnered more than 2.5 million views on the micro-blogging site, started speculations over whether the president was drunk while speaking.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-storing-rocket-launchers-at-nuclear-power-plant-541598">Ukraine accuses Russia of storing rocket launchers at nuclear power plant</a>

Swedish economist Anders Åslund, who worked as an adviser to the governments of Russia and Ukraine in the 1990s, said that this is a very unusual behaviour of Putin, who is known for controlled abstinence. &nbsp;

“This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting &amp; promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk &amp; weak," Åslund tweeted.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting &amp; promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk &amp; weak. <a href="https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR">https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR</a>
— Anders Åslund (@anders_aslund) <a href="https://twitter.com/anders_aslund/status/1600897228263989249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Moscow-based journalist Anna Nemtsova tweeted that this is Putin's first alleged intoxication during his tenure as the president.&nbsp;

"We've seen many staged photo&amp;video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs, Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin's own act," the journalist tweeted.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We’ve seen many staged photo&amp;video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs,Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin’s own act <a href="https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6">https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6</a>
— Anna Nemtsova (@annanemtsova) <a href="https://twitter.com/annanemtsova/status/1600880037661753345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-conduct-more-strikes-on-ukrainian-energy-infrastructure-says-vladimir-putin-541341">Russia to conduct more strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, says Vladimir Putin</a>

CBC journalist Evan Dyer, meanwhile, tweeted it is "very strange to see Putin drunk in public." "Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin....But no doubt, he's plastered here," Dyer tweeted.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Very strange to see Putin drunk in public. Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin. A big part of his appeal, especially to long-suffering Russian woman. But no doubt, he’s plastered here. <a href="https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK">https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK</a>
— Evan Dyer (@EvanDyerCBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/EvanDyerCBC/status/1600882876655931392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

New Lines Magazine Global Editor Amie Ferris-Rotman, reacting over the viral video, tweeted, "Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). 
 
Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/yysOktAEGh">https://t.co/yysOktAEGh</a>
— Amie Ferris-Rotman (@Amie_FR) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amie_FR/status/1600873117571686401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Over the years, Putin is known to follow a strict diet and refrain from vices like alcohol and drugs. Russia's state media outlet Tass, in 2019, reported that the president does not approve smoking of cigarettes "because he advocates a healthy lifestyle." He has also criticised the drinking culture of Russia in the past, stating about receiving German beer bottles from Germany's former Chancellor Angela Merkel.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian President Vladimir Putin's new video went viral on Twitter in which the allegedly intoxicated president is seen talking about the Russia-Ukraine war. A Twitter user named Dmitri posted the video with the caption "Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue". Putin, while speaking to state awards recipients, is seen as saying, “All the nonsense, the informational stand-off, the informational throw-ins, all the fakes, they must stand aside. They should not prevent us from fulfilling our duty to our people. And you do not need to be particularly well-versed in this informational confrontation to understand what is actually going on." “There is a lot of noise now about our strikes against the energy infrastructure of our neighbour country. Yes, we are doing that but who started it? Who struck the Crimean Bridge? Who blew up the power lines of the Kursk Nuclear Power Station? Who is not providing water to Donetsk? Not providing water to a city with a population of one million is an act of genocide. No one said a word about it anywhere at all. Complete silence. Just as we make a move, do something in response, noise and crackle start for the whole universe. This will not prevent us from completing military objectives," he adds, while swaying from side to side. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue because "they started first by attacking the Crimean bridge" pic.twitter.com/fQeRuNo4Pu — Dmitri (@wartranslated) December 8, 2022 The video which garnered more than 2.5 million views on the micro-blogging site, started speculations over whether the president was drunk while speaking. ALSO READ| Ukraine accuses Russia of storing rocket launchers at nuclear power plant Swedish economist Anders Åslund, who worked as an adviser to the governments of Russia and Ukraine in the 1990s, said that this is a very unusual behaviour of Putin, who is known for controlled abstinence. “This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting & promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk & weak," Åslund tweeted. This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting & promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk & weak. https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR — Anders Åslund (@anders_aslund) December 8, 2022 Meanwhile, Moscow-based journalist Anna Nemtsova tweeted that this is Putin's first alleged intoxication during his tenure as the president. "We've seen many staged photo&video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs, Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin's own act," the journalist tweeted. We’ve seen many staged photo&video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs,Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin’s own act https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6 — Anna Nemtsova (@annanemtsova) December 8, 2022 ALSO READ| Russia to conduct more strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, says Vladimir Putin CBC journalist Evan Dyer, meanwhile, tweeted it is "very strange to see Putin drunk in public." "Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin....But no doubt, he's plastered here," Dyer tweeted. Very strange to see Putin drunk in public. Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin. A big part of his appeal, especially to long-suffering Russian woman. But no doubt, he’s plastered here. https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK — Evan Dyer (@EvanDyerCBC) December 8, 2022 New Lines Magazine Global Editor Amie Ferris-Rotman, reacting over the viral video, tweeted, "Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine." Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine. https://t.co/yysOktAEGh — Amie Ferris-Rotman (@Amie_FR) December 8, 2022 Over the years, Putin is known to follow a strict diet and refrain from vices like alcohol and drugs. Russia's state media outlet Tass, in 2019, reported that the president does not approve smoking of cigarettes "because he advocates a healthy lifestyle." He has also criticised the drinking culture of Russia in the past, stating about receiving German beer bottles from Germany's former Chancellor Angela Merkel. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH: Visibly drunk Putin's video claiming 'You started it - not us' goes viral

Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it.

"Kyiv might lose power, water, and heat supply. The apocalypse might happen, like in Hollywood films, when it's not possible to live in homes considering the low temperature," Mayor Vitali Klitschko told Reuters in an interview.

"But we are fighting and doing everything we can to make sure that this does not happen," the former boxer went on to say, raising his booming voice to drive the point home.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in the early months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive.

Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus

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Russia has since then launched missile and air attacks on Ukraine's energy and other infrastructure.&nbsp;

The current situation in Ukraine's capital is grim. Kyiv lacks enough heated shelters to take in all 3.6 million residents in the event of complete&nbsp;outages.

"We have prepared nearly 500 autonomous heating hubs at present... but for a city of 3 million, 500 points is nothing," he said.

Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion before entering politics, painted a picture of a harsh future ahead for Ukraine's more than 1,500-year-old capital.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fighting-in-ukraine-might-be-a-long-process-says-russian-president-vladimir-putin-541025">Fighting in Ukraine ‘might be a long process’, says Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

He sketched out one possible scenario in which the city could be left without central heating until spring at a time when temperatures can fall as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit).

"If electricity supply continues to be absent while outside temperatures remain low, we will unfortunately be forced to drain water from buildings," he said.

"Otherwise the water can freeze and break the entire water supply network, and buildings will then be totally unfit for further use."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year-541006">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year'</a>

Klitschko urged residents to prepare emergency supplies of food and water, as well as to have clothes and documents ready for a quick departure if the heating supply is turned off.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it.

Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it. "Kyiv might lose power, water, and heat supply. The apocalypse might happen, like in Hollywood films, when it's not possible to live in homes considering the low temperature," Mayor Vitali Klitschko told Reuters in an interview. "But we are fighting and doing everything we can to make sure that this does not happen," the former boxer went on to say, raising his booming voice to drive the point home. Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in the early months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus × Russia has since then launched missile and air attacks on Ukraine's energy and other infrastructure. The current situation in Ukraine's capital is grim. Kyiv lacks enough heated shelters to take in all 3.6 million residents in the event of complete outages. "We have prepared nearly 500 autonomous heating hubs at present... but for a city of 3 million, 500 points is nothing," he said. Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion before entering politics, painted a picture of a harsh future ahead for Ukraine's more than 1,500-year-old capital. Also Read | Fighting in Ukraine ‘might be a long process’, says Russian President Vladimir Putin He sketched out one possible scenario in which the city could be left without central heating until spring at a time when temperatures can fall as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit). "If electricity supply continues to be absent while outside temperatures remain low, we will unfortunately be forced to drain water from buildings," he said. "Otherwise the water can freeze and break the entire water supply network, and buildings will then be totally unfit for further use." Also Read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year' Klitschko urged residents to prepare emergency supplies of food and water, as well as to have clothes and documents ready for a quick departure if the heating supply is turned off. (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 ×

Kyiv mayor predicts 'apocalypse' in winter, but appeals citizens to not panic

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components.

In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter."

She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slams-russian-loose-talk-on-nuclear-weapons-after-putin-remarks-541057">US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks</a>

Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down.

(With input from agencies)

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The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components. In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter." She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package. Also Read | US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down. (With input 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 ×

EU proposes more sanctions on Russia, ninth such package 

The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases. These attacks are widely being perceived as having been carried out by Ukraine. Kyiv hasn't yet claimed responsibility.

"We are not enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders; we are not encouraging Ukraine to strike beyond its borders," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

"Everything we are doing -- everything the world is doing to support Ukraine -- is in support of Ukraine's independence," he said.

Watch | Russia fires barrage of missile across Ukraine

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Price stopped short of attributing drone attacks to Ukraine. Russia said three people were killed and two aircraft were damaged in the drone attacks on Monday. Three bases deep in Russian territory were attacked.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-implement-emergency-power-shutdowns-after-latest-russian-missile-strikes-540542">Ukraine to implement emergency power shutdowns after latest Russian missile strikes</a>

Experts believe Ukraine penetrated Russian airspace with simple Soviet-era drones and not any of the billions of dollars in military assistance given by Western powers since Moscow's February 24 invasion.&nbsp;

"We are providing Ukraine with what it needs to use on its sovereign territory -- on Ukrainian soil -- to take on Russian aggressors," Price said.&nbsp;

Price also declined comment on a Wall Street Journal report that the United States has altered HIMARS sent to Ukraine -- a rocket system seen as a game-changer on the battlefield -- to prevent firing into Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases.

The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases. These attacks are widely being perceived as having been carried out by Ukraine. Kyiv hasn't yet claimed responsibility. "We are not enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders; we are not encouraging Ukraine to strike beyond its borders," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. "Everything we are doing -- everything the world is doing to support Ukraine -- is in support of Ukraine's independence," he said. Watch | Russia fires barrage of missile across Ukraine × Price stopped short of attributing drone attacks to Ukraine. Russia said three people were killed and two aircraft were damaged in the drone attacks on Monday. Three bases deep in Russian territory were attacked. Also Read | Ukraine to implement emergency power shutdowns after latest Russian missile strikes Experts believe Ukraine penetrated Russian airspace with simple Soviet-era drones and not any of the billions of dollars in military assistance given by Western powers since Moscow's February 24 invasion. "We are providing Ukraine with what it needs to use on its sovereign territory -- on Ukrainian soil -- to take on Russian aggressors," Price said. Price also declined comment on a Wall Street Journal report that the United States has altered HIMARS sent to Ukraine -- a rocket system seen as a game-changer on the battlefield -- to prevent firing into Russia. (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 ×

'Not encouraging' Ukraine strikes into Russia, says US

Ukraine energy operator Ukrenergo said on Monday (December 6) that emergency power cut regime will be introduced in "all regions of Ukraine". The country's energy infrastructure has been battered by Russian missile attacks. Ukrenergo's latest statement came after fresh wave of Russian attacks.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fresh missile attacks in Southeast Ukraine

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"Due to the consequences of shelling... to maintain the balance between the production and consumption of electricity, a regime of emergency shutdowns will be introduced in all regions of Ukraine," Ukrenergo said on Telegram.

"In priority, electricity will be supplied to critical infrastructure facilities." &nbsp;

"The situation is difficult, but under control," the operator said, after Kyiv's forces announced they destroyed more than 60 out of the 70 missiles launched by Moscow.

Still, it said that "some power plants will not be able to work at full capacity for a certain time."

"Combined with the frost increasing in the next 24 hours, this will lead to a deficit of electricity in the system," it said.&nbsp; 
Emergency repair works are ongoing, the company said.

The Russian army acknowledged "massive attack on Ukrainian military command systems and related defence, communications, energy and military facilities" on Monday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-new-barrage-of-missile-strikes-on-ukraine-targets-power-sources-540313">Russia launches new barrage of missile strikes on Ukraine, targets power sources</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks in vast swathes of region. Since October, Russia has begun targetting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This is sure to cause hardships for people as winter sets in.

Putin on Friday said Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure were "inevitable".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine energy operator Ukrenergo said on Monday (December 6) that emergency power cut regime will be introduced in "all regions of Ukraine". The country's energy infrastructure has been battered by Russian missile attacks.

Ukraine energy operator Ukrenergo said on Monday (December 6) that emergency power cut regime will be introduced in "all regions of Ukraine". The country's energy infrastructure has been battered by Russian missile attacks. Ukrenergo's latest statement came after fresh wave of Russian attacks. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fresh missile attacks in Southeast Ukraine × "Due to the consequences of shelling... to maintain the balance between the production and consumption of electricity, a regime of emergency shutdowns will be introduced in all regions of Ukraine," Ukrenergo said on Telegram. "In priority, electricity will be supplied to critical infrastructure facilities." "The situation is difficult, but under control," the operator said, after Kyiv's forces announced they destroyed more than 60 out of the 70 missiles launched by Moscow. Still, it said that "some power plants will not be able to work at full capacity for a certain time." "Combined with the frost increasing in the next 24 hours, this will lead to a deficit of electricity in the system," it said. Emergency repair works are ongoing, the company said. The Russian army acknowledged "massive attack on Ukrainian military command systems and related defence, communications, energy and military facilities" on Monday. Also Read | Russia launches new barrage of missile strikes on Ukraine, targets power sources Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks in vast swathes of region. Since October, Russia has begun targetting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This is sure to cause hardships for people as winter sets in. Putin on Friday said Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure were "inevitable". (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 ×

Emergency power cuts in 'all regions of Ukraine' after fresh Russian attacks

To solve Russia’s issue of homeless animals, the deputy for the Communist Party in Oryol, Viktor Makarov, suggested that homeless dogs can be used as suicide bombers to "blow up tanks" in Ukraine, reported the Orel Times on Friday. The suggestion was given in the Legislative Assembly’s recent session where previously Makarov had suggested that the dogs can be sent to China.

The comments of Makarov caught the attention of Meduza’s managing editor Kevin Rothrock, who on Saturday tweeted, "A Communist deputy in Russia's Oryol region wants to train stray dogs to run at Ukrainian tanks as suicide bombers.”&nbsp;

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A Communist deputy in Russia's Oryol region wants to train stray dogs to run at Ukrainian tanks as suicide bombers. Previously, he had a scheme to ship these pooches to China. The deputy's colleagues rejected both ideas. <a href="https://t.co/mnHvnGxtSF">https://t.co/mnHvnGxtSF</a>
— Kevin Rothrock (@KevinRothrock) <a href="https://twitter.com/KevinRothrock/status/1599061493760172035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, Newsweek reported that the suggestions given by Makarov failed to appeal to his colleagues as they didn’t get satisfactory answers to their logistical questions.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-says-will-not-accept-western-price-cap-on-its-crude-claims-russian-oil-will-continue-to-be-in-demand-540030">Moscow says will not accept western price cap on its crude, claims 'Russian oil will continue to be in demand'</a>

The regional parliament’s deputy speaker Oleg Koshelev asked what were the chances of people not getting bitten by sterilised dogs. Deputy Andrei Frolov, meanwhile, quizzed about the financial cost of keeping one animal per day. Due to the lack of answers, the regional parliament failed to adopt the proposed law. The United States Army Europe’s former commanding general Mark Hertling took to Twitter on Saturday and criticised the proposed plan of the Russian official.

"Don't know why they see the need to train dogs to do this...they currently are asking RU soldiers to do the same," Hertling said in his tweet.

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Don’t know why they see the need to train dogs to do this…they currently are asking RU soldiers to do the same. <a href="https://t.co/LSwcSZqHW4">https://t.co/LSwcSZqHW4</a>
— MarkHertling (@MarkHertling) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkHertling/status/1599064933869572096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Saturday, the Grand Strategy programme at Defence Priorities programme Rajan Menon&nbsp;said that "this may be further evidence that the Russians are pulling out all the stops to prevail" in Ukraine’s ongoing war.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-says-completely-stopping-talks-with-putin-would-be-a-grave-mistake-540088">German chancellor Scholz says completely stopping talks with Putin 'would be a grave mistake'</a>

The Institute of the Study of War’s (ISW) latest report said that attempts are being made by Russia to capitalise on the desire of the West to negotiate.

"Russian President Vladimir Putin held an hour-long telephone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on December 2 in which Putin falsely stated that Western financial and military aid to Ukraine creates a situation in which the Ukrainian government outright rejects talks between Moscow and Kyiv and called upon Scholz to reconsider Germany's approach regarding developments in Ukraine," stated the US-based think tank on Friday.

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To solve Russia’s issue of homeless animals, the deputy for the Communist Party in Oryol, Viktor Makarov, suggested that homeless dogs can be used as suicide bombers to "blow up tanks" in Ukraine, reported the Orel Times on Friday.

To solve Russia’s issue of homeless animals, the deputy for the Communist Party in Oryol, Viktor Makarov, suggested that homeless dogs can be used as suicide bombers to "blow up tanks" in Ukraine, reported the Orel Times on Friday. The suggestion was given in the Legislative Assembly’s recent session where previously Makarov had suggested that the dogs can be sent to China. The comments of Makarov caught the attention of Meduza’s managing editor Kevin Rothrock, who on Saturday tweeted, "A Communist deputy in Russia's Oryol region wants to train stray dogs to run at Ukrainian tanks as suicide bombers.” A Communist deputy in Russia's Oryol region wants to train stray dogs to run at Ukrainian tanks as suicide bombers. Previously, he had a scheme to ship these pooches to China. The deputy's colleagues rejected both ideas. https://t.co/mnHvnGxtSF — Kevin Rothrock (@KevinRothrock) December 3, 2022 × However, Newsweek reported that the suggestions given by Makarov failed to appeal to his colleagues as they didn’t get satisfactory answers to their logistical questions. ALSO READ| Moscow says will not accept western price cap on its crude, claims 'Russian oil will continue to be in demand' The regional parliament’s deputy speaker Oleg Koshelev asked what were the chances of people not getting bitten by sterilised dogs. Deputy Andrei Frolov, meanwhile, quizzed about the financial cost of keeping one animal per day. Due to the lack of answers, the regional parliament failed to adopt the proposed law. The United States Army Europe’s former commanding general Mark Hertling took to Twitter on Saturday and criticised the proposed plan of the Russian official. "Don't know why they see the need to train dogs to do this...they currently are asking RU soldiers to do the same," Hertling said in his tweet. Don’t know why they see the need to train dogs to do this…they currently are asking RU soldiers to do the same. https://t.co/LSwcSZqHW4 — MarkHertling (@MarkHertling) December 3, 2022 × On Saturday, the Grand Strategy programme at Defence Priorities programme Rajan Menon said that "this may be further evidence that the Russians are pulling out all the stops to prevail" in Ukraine’s ongoing war. ALSO READ| German chancellor Scholz says completely stopping talks with Putin 'would be a grave mistake' The Institute of the Study of War’s (ISW) latest report said that attempts are being made by Russia to capitalise on the desire of the West to negotiate. "Russian President Vladimir Putin held an hour-long telephone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on December 2 in which Putin falsely stated that Western financial and military aid to Ukraine creates a situation in which the Ukrainian government outright rejects talks between Moscow and Kyiv and called upon Scholz to reconsider Germany's approach regarding developments in Ukraine," stated the US-based think tank on Friday.

Russian official suggests using dogs as suicide bombers in Ukraine

The United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), on Saturday, said that they have arrested three people including a “wealthy Russian businessman” on suspicion of money laundering. This comes amid the country’s crackdown on potential criminal activity by oligarchs. Meanwhile, Moscow’s embassy in London has reportedly demanded information on the arrests.&nbsp;

According to the NCA, more than 50 officers from its Combatting Kleptocracy Cell (CKC) were involved in the operation and arrested three men, from their “multi-million-pound residence” in London, on Thursday. The 58-year-old, “wealthy Russian businessman” has been arrested on suspicion of money laundering, conspiracy to commit perjury, and defrauding the Home Office.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-not-accept-this-russia-rejects-dangerous-oil-price-cap-imposed-by-eu-g7-and-australia-539785">'Will not accept this': Russia rejects 'dangerous' oil price cap imposed by EU, G7 and Australia</a>

Meanwhile, a 35-year-old man was arrested for obstructing an officer as he was about to leave with a bag containing large sums of money as well as on suspicion of money laundering. The third suspect, a 39-year-old who is said to be the ex-boyfriend of the businessman's current partner, was detained at the residence on similar charges. However, the three individuals, whose details remain undisclosed by the NCA, are out on bail.

The NCA also recovered a number of digital devices as well as a significant amount of cash after they searched the property, said the crime agency. According to the NCA Director General, Graeme Biggar, the CKC, established earlier this year, is having “significant success” in its investigations of potential crimes by oligarchs including those who are supporting, enabling and linked to the Russian government.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/oligarchs-feel-the-pinch-of-sanctions-lose-over-126-billion-457654">Oligarchs feel the pinch of sanctions, lose over $126 billion</a>

“We will continue to use all the powers and tactics available to us to disrupt this threat,” said Biggar, in a statement. The NCA said they have conducted nearly 100 such “disruptions”, a term used to describe an action of removing or reducing a criminal threat, against Russian President Vladimir Putin-linked elites and their enablers.&nbsp;

The action taken by the NCA also included account freezing orders (AFOs) over accounts held by people closely linked to sanctioned Russians, said Britain’s crime agency. Notably, the UK has sanctioned over 1,000 people and more than 120 entities, in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-says-vladimir-putin-will-visit-east-ukraine-in-due-time-539756">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow says Vladimir Putin will visit east Ukraine 'in due time'</a>

Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in London asked Britain's Foreign Office to give them details about the reasons and circumstances under which the three unidentified people were held as well as the conditions they were held under, said a report by Reuters citing Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), on Saturday, said that they have arrested three people including a “wealthy Russian businessman” on suspicion of money laundering.

The United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), on Saturday, said that they have arrested three people including a “wealthy Russian businessman” on suspicion of money laundering. This comes amid the country’s crackdown on potential criminal activity by oligarchs. Meanwhile, Moscow’s embassy in London has reportedly demanded information on the arrests. According to the NCA, more than 50 officers from its Combatting Kleptocracy Cell (CKC) were involved in the operation and arrested three men, from their “multi-million-pound residence” in London, on Thursday. The 58-year-old, “wealthy Russian businessman” has been arrested on suspicion of money laundering, conspiracy to commit perjury, and defrauding the Home Office. ALSO READ | 'Will not accept this': Russia rejects 'dangerous' oil price cap imposed by EU, G7 and Australia Meanwhile, a 35-year-old man was arrested for obstructing an officer as he was about to leave with a bag containing large sums of money as well as on suspicion of money laundering. The third suspect, a 39-year-old who is said to be the ex-boyfriend of the businessman's current partner, was detained at the residence on similar charges. However, the three individuals, whose details remain undisclosed by the NCA, are out on bail. The NCA also recovered a number of digital devices as well as a significant amount of cash after they searched the property, said the crime agency. According to the NCA Director General, Graeme Biggar, the CKC, established earlier this year, is having “significant success” in its investigations of potential crimes by oligarchs including those who are supporting, enabling and linked to the Russian government. ALSO WATCH | Oligarchs feel the pinch of sanctions, lose over $126 billion “We will continue to use all the powers and tactics available to us to disrupt this threat,” said Biggar, in a statement. The NCA said they have conducted nearly 100 such “disruptions”, a term used to describe an action of removing or reducing a criminal threat, against Russian President Vladimir Putin-linked elites and their enablers. The action taken by the NCA also included account freezing orders (AFOs) over accounts held by people closely linked to sanctioned Russians, said Britain’s crime agency. Notably, the UK has sanctioned over 1,000 people and more than 120 entities, in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow says Vladimir Putin will visit east Ukraine 'in due time' Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in London asked Britain's Foreign Office to give them details about the reasons and circumstances under which the three unidentified people were held as well as the conditions they were held under, said a report by Reuters citing Russian news agencies. (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.

UK: Russian businessman among three arrested over suspected money laundering

Following European Union, the Group of Seven (G7) nations and Australia on Friday (December 2) also agreed to the USD 60 per barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil. Earlier in the day, the European Union member states had hammered out a political agreement over price cap overcoming Poland's hesitancy.&nbsp;The price cap will make it very difficult for Russia to sell its oil for a higher price since the most important shipping and insurance firms are based in G7 countries. 
 
The price cap by G&amp; coalition will allow non-EU countries to keep importing seaborne Russian crude oil, but it will prohibit shipping, insurance and re-insurance companies from handling cargoes of Russian crude around the globe, unless it is sold for less than the price cap. 
 
The EU had agreed to the price cap&nbsp;after holdout Poland also came in its support, paving the way for formal approval over the weekend.

The G7 and Australia said in a statement that the price cap would take effect on Dec. 5 or very soon thereafter.

Watch | War in Ukraine: $60 per barrel price cap agreed on Russian crude oil

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The nations said they anticipated that any revision of the price would include a form of grandfathering to allow compliant transactions concluded before the change.

"The Price Cap Coalition may also consider further action to ensure the effectiveness of the price cap," the statement read. No details were immediately available on what further actions could be taken.

The price cap aims to limit Russia's ability to raise income through its energy assets to fund its ongoing war efforts in Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-remains-ready-to-meet-russia-over-new-start-nuclear-treaty-talks-says-official-539606">US remains ready to meet Russia over 'New Start' nuclear treaty talks, says official</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-remains-ready-to-meet-russia-over-new-start-nuclear-treaty-talks-says-official-539606">&nbsp;</a>

Warsaw had resisted the proposed level as it examined an adjustment mechanism to keep the cap below the market price. It had pushed in EU negotiations for the cap to be as low as possible to squeeze revenues to Russia and limit Moscow's ability to finance its war in Ukraine.

Polish Ambassador to the EU, Andrzej Sados, on Friday told reporters Poland had backed the EU deal, which included a mechanism to keep the oil price cap at least 5 per cent&nbsp;below the market rate. U.S. officials said the deal was unprecedented and demonstrated the resolve of the coalition opposing Russia's war.

Details of the deal are due to be published in the EU legal journal on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Following European Union, the Group of Seven (G7) nations and Australia on Friday (December 2) also agreed to the USD 60 per barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil.

Following European Union, the Group of Seven (G7) nations and Australia on Friday (December 2) also agreed to the USD 60 per barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil. Earlier in the day, the European Union member states had hammered out a political agreement over price cap overcoming Poland's hesitancy. The price cap will make it very difficult for Russia to sell its oil for a higher price since the most important shipping and insurance firms are based in G7 countries. The price cap by G& coalition will allow non-EU countries to keep importing seaborne Russian crude oil, but it will prohibit shipping, insurance and re-insurance companies from handling cargoes of Russian crude around the globe, unless it is sold for less than the price cap. The EU had agreed to the price cap after holdout Poland also came in its support, paving the way for formal approval over the weekend. The G7 and Australia said in a statement that the price cap would take effect on Dec. 5 or very soon thereafter. Watch | War in Ukraine: $60 per barrel price cap agreed on Russian crude oil × The nations said they anticipated that any revision of the price would include a form of grandfathering to allow compliant transactions concluded before the change. "The Price Cap Coalition may also consider further action to ensure the effectiveness of the price cap," the statement read. No details were immediately available on what further actions could be taken. The price cap aims to limit Russia's ability to raise income through its energy assets to fund its ongoing war efforts in Ukraine. Also Read | US remains ready to meet Russia over 'New Start' nuclear treaty talks, says official Warsaw had resisted the proposed level as it examined an adjustment mechanism to keep the cap below the market price. It had pushed in EU negotiations for the cap to be as low as possible to squeeze revenues to Russia and limit Moscow's ability to finance its war in Ukraine. Polish Ambassador to the EU, Andrzej Sados, on Friday told reporters Poland had backed the EU deal, which included a mechanism to keep the oil price cap at least 5 per cent below the market rate. U.S. officials said the deal was unprecedented and demonstrated the resolve of the coalition opposing Russia's war. Details of the deal are due to be published in the EU legal journal on Sunday. (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 ×

G7 and Australia follow EU, agree to $60 a barrel price cap on Russian crude oil

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Ukraine government's 'surrender hotline' for Russian soldiers receives&nbsp;up to 100 inquiries a day, as reported by BBC.&nbsp;In September, the "I Want To Live" project got underway.&nbsp;Russian troops surrender to Ukrainian forces by dialling a hotline or submitting information through messaging apps.&nbsp;More than 3,500 interactions have been held with occupying personnel and their families, according to Kyiv officials.

Since Russian President Vladimir Putin mobilised tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and the city of Kherson was freed, there appears to have been an uptick in the queries for surrender.&nbsp;

The headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war in Ukraine isn't immune to frequent power outages in the nation, as the dim passageways suggest.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-set-up-tribunal-backed-by-un-to-investigate-possible-russian-war-crimes-in-ukraine-538797">&nbsp;EU to set up tribunal backed by UN to investigate possible Russian war crimes in Ukraine</a>

Svitlana, a Ukrainian call handler who often communicates with the Russian military, in a modest office said soldiers willing to surrender can communicate their desire to do so over the phone or through the majority of messaging services, including Telegram and WhatsApp.&nbsp;

The Kremlin is reportedly exchanging more prisoners of war in an effort to appease domestic critics, according to the Institute for the Study of War.&nbsp;

On each side, there are reportedly thousands of prisoners of war, but the exact numbers are unclear.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Ukraine government's 'surrender hotline' for Russian soldiers receives up to 100 inquiries a day, as reported by BBC. In September, the "I Want To Live" project got underway. Russian troops surrender to Ukrainian forces by dialling a hotline or submitting information through messaging apps. More than 3,500 interactions have been held with occupying personnel and their families, according to Kyiv officials. Since Russian President Vladimir Putin mobilised tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and the city of Kherson was freed, there appears to have been an uptick in the queries for surrender. The headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war in Ukraine isn't immune to frequent power outages in the nation, as the dim passageways suggest. Also Read: EU to set up tribunal backed by UN to investigate possible Russian war crimes in Ukraine Svitlana, a Ukrainian call handler who often communicates with the Russian military, in a modest office said soldiers willing to surrender can communicate their desire to do so over the phone or through the majority of messaging services, including Telegram and WhatsApp. The Kremlin is reportedly exchanging more prisoners of war in an effort to appease domestic critics, according to the Institute for the Study of War. On each side, there are reportedly thousands of prisoners of war, but the exact numbers are unclear. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's 'surrender hotline' for Russian soldiers getting 100 calls a day from troops, families

A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed.&nbsp;The delegation, consisting of State Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik, Secretary Petroleum Capt (retd) Muhammad Mahmood, joint secretary and Pakistan Embassy officials, had requested for a discount on crude oil during their meeting in Moscow on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eases-covid-restrictions-in-beijing-hints-at-possible-change-in-stance-report-539115">China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance</a> 
 
The reports stated that the talks failed to reach a conclusion but the Russian delegation said that it will consider the demands of Pakistan in future and relay its decision through diplomatic channels. 
 
Pakistan was further asked by the Russian delegation to first fulfil its commitment towards the Russian proposed Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP), which will be constructed from Karachi to Lahore.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurozone-unemployment-drops-to-all-time-low-post-pandemic-recovery-slowed-by-global-headwinds-539136">Eurozone unemployment drops to record low as global headwinds slacken economy</a> 
 
On November 29, the official delegation of Pakistan left for a three-day visit to Moscow to hold talks with Russian authorities and discuss the import of crude oil at a discount, shipment cost and mode of payment. 
 
The US had clearly stated that it has no objection if Pakistan imports Russian crude oil as currently, Washington has not issued any sanctions against Russian energy exports to other nations. 
 
Before holding talks with Russia, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had stated that the delegation would try to reach a potential import deal with the Russian oil authorities.

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A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed.

A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed. The delegation, consisting of State Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik, Secretary Petroleum Capt (retd) Muhammad Mahmood, joint secretary and Pakistan Embassy officials, had requested for a discount on crude oil during their meeting in Moscow on Wednesday. Also read | China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance The reports stated that the talks failed to reach a conclusion but the Russian delegation said that it will consider the demands of Pakistan in future and relay its decision through diplomatic channels. Pakistan was further asked by the Russian delegation to first fulfil its commitment towards the Russian proposed Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP), which will be constructed from Karachi to Lahore. Also read | Eurozone unemployment drops to record low as global headwinds slacken economy On November 29, the official delegation of Pakistan left for a three-day visit to Moscow to hold talks with Russian authorities and discuss the import of crude oil at a discount, shipment cost and mode of payment. The US had clearly stated that it has no objection if Pakistan imports Russian crude oil as currently, Washington has not issued any sanctions against Russian energy exports to other nations. Before holding talks with Russia, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had stated that the delegation would try to reach a potential import deal with the Russian oil authorities.

Pakistan’s hopes dashed, delegation fails to get crude oil on discount from Moscow

A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal.

A deal aimed at addressing global food shortages by helping Ukraine export its agricultural products from Black Sea ports was extended for four months on Thursday, though Russia said its demands were yet to be addressed.

"We are really very pleased on the extension of the Black Sea grains initiative....," Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) told a media briefing in Geneva. "But we have said very clearly that we are still not where we want to be, there is still work to be done and especially on fertilisers."

Moscow won guarantees for its own grain and fertiliser exports as part of the July agreement&nbsp;brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. But it has complained that its shipments, though not directly targeted, are constrained by sanctions.

Grynspan, who is in charge of the fertiliser negotiations, said that she hoped a shipment set to sail from the Netherlands on Nov. 21 to Malawi via Mozambique would serve as a model for future exports and that work was going on for another humanitarian cargo to be sent to West Africa.

In the same briefing, she voiced optimism that Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for resuming exports of Russian ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea. The export of ammonia, a key ingredient in fertiliser, was not part of Thursday's renewal.

Grynspan also said that the U.N. would be aiming for a longer renewal period of the Black Sea Grains deal, beyond the 120 days agreed on November 17.

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A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal.

A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal. A deal aimed at addressing global food shortages by helping Ukraine export its agricultural products from Black Sea ports was extended for four months on Thursday, though Russia said its demands were yet to be addressed. "We are really very pleased on the extension of the Black Sea grains initiative....," Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) told a media briefing in Geneva. "But we have said very clearly that we are still not where we want to be, there is still work to be done and especially on fertilisers." Moscow won guarantees for its own grain and fertiliser exports as part of the July agreement brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. But it has complained that its shipments, though not directly targeted, are constrained by sanctions. Grynspan, who is in charge of the fertiliser negotiations, said that she hoped a shipment set to sail from the Netherlands on Nov. 21 to Malawi via Mozambique would serve as a model for future exports and that work was going on for another humanitarian cargo to be sent to West Africa. In the same briefing, she voiced optimism that Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for resuming exports of Russian ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea. The export of ammonia, a key ingredient in fertiliser, was not part of Thursday's renewal. Grynspan also said that the U.N. would be aiming for a longer renewal period of the Black Sea Grains deal, beyond the 120 days agreed on November 17. 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 ×

UN plans further Russian fertiliser exports to Africa, upbeat on ammonia pipeline

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.&nbsp;

Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing."

Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-more-than-300-dead-in-protests-sparked-by-aminis-death-says-irgc-general-538527">Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general</a>

He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation."

The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US&nbsp;official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing. Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict. Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing." Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation. Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two. Also Read: Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation." The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters. (with inputs from agencies)

Washington's increasing involvement in Ukraine carries growing risks, warns Russia

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania. The potential inclusion of Kyiv in the world’s largest security alliance is one of the reasons that prompted Russia’s invasion of the country earlier this year, said experts.&nbsp;

Prior to the NATO meeting in Bucharest, the alliance’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “NATO’s door is open.” Furthermore, NATO asserted that Russia cannot stop the alliance’s expansion as more countries continue to join.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, North Macedonia and Montenegro became a part of NATO. Meanwhile, Finland and Sweden have also applied to become a part of the alliance in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine amid concerns that they might be targeted by Moscow as well.&nbsp;

Stoltenberg said, “Russia does not have a veto” on countries joining NATO. He added, “We stand by that, too, on membership for Ukraine.”&nbsp;However, Kyiv on September 30 applied for an “accelerated accession” to NATO, but given the long process, it might not become a member anytime soon.

“I think what he’s afraid of is democracy and freedom, and that’s the main challenge for him,” said Stoltenberg referring to the Russian president. He added that Putin cannot stop sovereign nations from making “sovereign decisions” that are not a threat to Russia.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had also cited Ukraine’s ambitious bid to join the security alliance as a threat to Moscow’s security.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken was drumming up support for Ukraine as Russia reportedly continues to target Kyiv's energy infrastructure leaving millions to witness the harsh winter. “Russia is using brutal missile and drone attacks to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. President Putin is trying to weaponise winter, to force Ukrainians to freeze or flee,” said Stoltenberg.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania.

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania. The potential inclusion of Kyiv in the world’s largest security alliance is one of the reasons that prompted Russia’s invasion of the country earlier this year, said experts. Prior to the NATO meeting in Bucharest, the alliance’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “NATO’s door is open.” Furthermore, NATO asserted that Russia cannot stop the alliance’s expansion as more countries continue to join. Earlier this year, North Macedonia and Montenegro became a part of NATO. Meanwhile, Finland and Sweden have also applied to become a part of the alliance in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine amid concerns that they might be targeted by Moscow as well. Stoltenberg said, “Russia does not have a veto” on countries joining NATO. He added, “We stand by that, too, on membership for Ukraine.” However, Kyiv on September 30 applied for an “accelerated accession” to NATO, but given the long process, it might not become a member anytime soon. “I think what he’s afraid of is democracy and freedom, and that’s the main challenge for him,” said Stoltenberg referring to the Russian president. He added that Putin cannot stop sovereign nations from making “sovereign decisions” that are not a threat to Russia. Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had also cited Ukraine’s ambitious bid to join the security alliance as a threat to Moscow’s security. Meanwhile, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken was drumming up support for Ukraine as Russia reportedly continues to target Kyiv's energy infrastructure leaving millions to witness the harsh winter. “Russia is using brutal missile and drone attacks to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. President Putin is trying to weaponise winter, to force Ukrainians to freeze or flee,” said Stoltenberg. (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.

‘Russia does not have a veto’: NATO about membership for Ukraine and others

The European Union would attempt to establish a specialised court, supported by the United Nations, to look into and prosecute any potential war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.&nbsp;

For this specialised court, von der Leyen added, "We are ready to start working with the international community to get the broadest international support possible for this specialised court."&nbsp;

Ukraine has pushed for the establishment of a special court to try the military and political figures in Russia who it believes were responsible for beginning the conflict.

Days after Moscow's invasion on February 24, the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) opened its own investigation into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes, although it lacks the authority to bring charges for aggression in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Von der Leyen stated, "While continuing to support the International Criminal Court, we are proposing to set up a specialised court, backed by the United Nations, to investigate and prosecute Russia's crime of aggression."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-import-of-russian-lng-jumps-42-amid-russia-ukraine-war-report-538720">Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report</a>

Russia has denied designating people as a target of its actions in Ukraine, which it refers to as a "special military operation."

In an effort to hold those responsible for alleged atrocities in Ukraine accountable, the G7 decided on Tuesday to establish a network to coordinate war crime investigations.&nbsp;

Despite the fact that the crime is recognised by international law, Ukraine is now without a specific court or tribunal to turn to.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union would attempt to establish a specialised court, supported by the United Nations, to look into and prosecute any potential war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The European Union would attempt to establish a specialised court, supported by the United Nations, to look into and prosecute any potential war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. For this specialised court, von der Leyen added, "We are ready to start working with the international community to get the broadest international support possible for this specialised court." Ukraine has pushed for the establishment of a special court to try the military and political figures in Russia who it believes were responsible for beginning the conflict. Days after Moscow's invasion on February 24, the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) opened its own investigation into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes, although it lacks the authority to bring charges for aggression in Ukraine. Von der Leyen stated, "While continuing to support the International Criminal Court, we are proposing to set up a specialised court, backed by the United Nations, to investigate and prosecute Russia's crime of aggression." Also Read: Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report Russia has denied designating people as a target of its actions in Ukraine, which it refers to as a "special military operation." In an effort to hold those responsible for alleged atrocities in Ukraine accountable, the G7 decided on Tuesday to establish a network to coordinate war crime investigations. Despite the fact that the crime is recognised by international law, Ukraine is now without a specific court or tribunal to turn to. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to set up tribunal backed by UN to investigate possible Russian war crimes in Ukraine

At least two Chinese bombers and six Russian fighter jets and bombers entered the Korean air defence zone on Wednesday prompting South Korea to scramble its fighter jets, said Seoul’s military. However, the planes did not violate the airspace, while China and Russia had previously said that they are conducting joint exercises.&nbsp;

“Our military dispatched air force fighter jets ahead of the Chinese and Russian aircraft's entry of the KADIZ (Korea Air Defence Identification Zone) to implement tactical measures in preparation for a potential contingency,” said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in a statement.&nbsp;

Around 5:50 am (local time), two Chinese H-6 bombers entered the KADIZ off the coast of the southern and northeast regions of South Korea, said the JCS. Subsequently, two bombers along with Russian TU-95 bombers and SU-35 fighter jets re-entered the air defence zone from the Sea of Japan and left after 18 minutes.

This move also prompted Japan’s Air Self Defence Force to scramble its fighter jets after the two Chinese bombers, accompanied by two Russian drones entered the Sea of Japan from the East China Sea, said Tokyo’s defence ministry, in a press release.

While this did not violate Seoul or Tokyo’s airspace, an air defence zone like the KADIZ requires foreign aircraft to specially identify themselves, however, there are no rules governing this space. Notably, Russia does not recognise Korea’s air defence zone, while Beijing believes that since it is not a territorial airspace every country should be able to move freely.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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At least two Chinese bombers and six Russian fighter jets and bombers entered the Korean air defence zone on Wednesday prompting South Korea to scramble its fighter jets, said Seoul’s military.

At least two Chinese bombers and six Russian fighter jets and bombers entered the Korean air defence zone on Wednesday prompting South Korea to scramble its fighter jets, said Seoul’s military. However, the planes did not violate the airspace, while China and Russia had previously said that they are conducting joint exercises. “Our military dispatched air force fighter jets ahead of the Chinese and Russian aircraft's entry of the KADIZ (Korea Air Defence Identification Zone) to implement tactical measures in preparation for a potential contingency,” said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in a statement. Around 5:50 am (local time), two Chinese H-6 bombers entered the KADIZ off the coast of the southern and northeast regions of South Korea, said the JCS. Subsequently, two bombers along with Russian TU-95 bombers and SU-35 fighter jets re-entered the air defence zone from the Sea of Japan and left after 18 minutes. This move also prompted Japan’s Air Self Defence Force to scramble its fighter jets after the two Chinese bombers, accompanied by two Russian drones entered the Sea of Japan from the East China Sea, said Tokyo’s defence ministry, in a press release. While this did not violate Seoul or Tokyo’s airspace, an air defence zone like the KADIZ requires foreign aircraft to specially identify themselves, however, there are no rules governing this space. Notably, Russia does not recognise Korea’s air defence zone, while Beijing believes that since it is not a territorial airspace every country should be able to move freely. (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.

South Korea scrambles jets after eight Chinese, Russian warplanes enter its air defence zone

In China, the districts of Haizhu, Baiyun, Fanyu, Tianhe, Conghua, Huadu and Liwan saw the end of temporary lockdowns. The district of Conghua also announced that it will allow the reopening of schools and people in most areas will be able to visit restaurants and other commercial locations. In other news, Eurozone&nbsp;inflation is expected to be somewhere around 10.4 per cent but the fall in inflation has given rise to hope among the economies that the prices can stabilise before the new year.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-relaxes-covid-19-rules-in-several-districts-in-guangzhou-538833">Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts in Guangzhou</a>
<img alt="1" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f3af8ef8-2f7a-4946-b1d1-c1bb09878890" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2020.51.08.png" />
The authorities in the Chinese city of Guangzhou have decided to abruptly put an end to COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of a scuffle between the police and protestors. The protestors have been holding demonstrations against the lockdowns imposed as part of the Zero-Covid initiative and even the top security body of China has called for a crackdown on the “hostile forces”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurozone-inflation-slows-to-10-per-cent-in-november-but-rate-rises-expected-538803">Eurozone inflation slows to 10 per cent in November but rate rises expected</a>
<img alt="2" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="272342fa-68cf-4bc6-9b06-70db4c5b8d65" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2020.53.36.png" />
The inflation in the Euro zone has dropped to 10 per cent for the first time since November and in the process, it has also exceeded the expectations of most experts. The 19 countries which recognise Euro as their currency grew by just 10 per cent after a 10.6 per cent rise in October.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removed-from-uk-nuclear-project-a-day-after-sunaks-golden-era-over-statement-538678">China removed from UK nuclear project, a day after Sunak's 'golden era over' statement</a>
<img alt="3" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9d15eb6-3abd-4fbe-9b9f-34db7bed077a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2020.55.15.png" />
A day after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country's 'golden era' with China was over, the latter has been removed from the construction of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/at-least-16-killed-and-24-injured-at-madrassa-in-afghanistans-aybak-538859">At least 16 killed and 24 injured in bomb blast in Afghanistan's Aybak</a>
<img alt="4" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3336badb-4578-4021-a063-21720a1c7ae9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2020.56.22.png" />
At least 16 people were killed while 24 were wounded after a blast at a madrassa in Afghanistan’s northern city of Aybak on Wednesday. According to AFP, a doctor at the local hospital confirmed the death toll and said that the wounded are currently going through treatment. The doctor also said that the casualties were mostly youngsters and they belonged to the Al Jihad madrassa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-set-up-tribunal-backed-by-un-to-investigate-possible-russian-war-crimes-in-ukraine-538797">EU to set up tribunal backed by UN to investigate possible Russian war crimes in Ukraine</a>
<img alt="5" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e53ba88b-dd25-429f-a05a-3bdfafe54620" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2020.57.38.png" />
The European Union would attempt to establish a specialised court, supported by the United Nations, to look into and prosecute any potential war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-court-rules-current-definition-of-marriage-constitutional-but-creates-an-unconstitutional-situation-538840">Tokyo court rules current definition of marriage constitutional but creates an 'unconstitutional situation'&nbsp;</a>
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A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-european-democracies-suffer-erosion-africa-shows-resilience-watchdog-report-538812">Half of European democracies suffer erosion, Africa shows resilience: Watchdog report</a>
<img alt="7" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="379873da-fa6c-4479-8ffb-6996ab5bccc5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2021.01.05.png" />
Half of the world’s democracies are in a state of decline amid worsening civil liberties and rule of law while already authoritarian governments are becoming more oppressive, Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) said on Wednesday. In Europe, almost half of all democracies have suffered erosion in the last five years, it said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-scrambles-jets-after-eight-chinese-russian-warplanes-entered-its-air-defence-zone-538785">South Korea scrambles jets after eight Chinese, Russian warplanes entered its air defence zone</a>
<img alt="8" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cabec0e1-372d-489b-975a-68aac3e69ec5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2021.02.04.png" />
At least two Chinese bombers and six Russian bombers and fighter jets entered the Korean air defence zone on Wednesday prompting South Korea to scramble its fighter jets, said Seoul’s military. However, the planes did not violate the airspace, while China and Russia had previously said that they are conducting joint exercises.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-wales-no-longer-a-majority-christian-leicester-and-birmingham-are-minority-majorities-ons-538850">England, Wales no longer majority Christian; Leicester, Birmingham now ‘minority majorities’: Census</a>
<img alt="9" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad252a62-ac3c-44a2-b16f-0f52bf7ee53f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2021.03.38.png" />
Census results published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), on Tuesday, show that less than half of people in the two British nations, England and Wales, identify themselves as Christian. The announcement has also reportedly renewed calls to end the Church of England’s role in parliament and schools.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-disparity-in-news-women-especially-those-of-colour-grossly-underrepresented-in-leadership-and-coverage-538864">Gender disparity in news: Women especially of colour grossly under-represented in leadership and coverage</a>
<img alt="10" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f0c860c-670f-4dc1-88fb-9d07b60340af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-30%20at%2021.05.26.png" />
Whether it's editorial leadership or roles in news coverage women continue to be severely under-represented in the media industry and taking the brunt of this are women of colour, shows a new report.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In China, the districts of Haizhu, Baiyun, Fanyu, Tianhe, Conghua, Huadu and Liwan saw the end of temporary lockdowns. The district of Conghua also announced that it will allow the reopening of schools and people in most areas will be able to visit restaurants and other commercial locations.

In China, the districts of Haizhu, Baiyun, Fanyu, Tianhe, Conghua, Huadu and Liwan saw the end of temporary lockdowns. The district of Conghua also announced that it will allow the reopening of schools and people in most areas will be able to visit restaurants and other commercial locations. In other news, Eurozone inflation is expected to be somewhere around 10.4 per cent but the fall in inflation has given rise to hope among the economies that the prices can stabilise before the new year. Click on the headlines to read more: Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts in Guangzhou The authorities in the Chinese city of Guangzhou have decided to abruptly put an end to COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of a scuffle between the police and protestors. The protestors have been holding demonstrations against the lockdowns imposed as part of the Zero-Covid initiative and even the top security body of China has called for a crackdown on the “hostile forces”. Eurozone inflation slows to 10 per cent in November but rate rises expected The inflation in the Euro zone has dropped to 10 per cent for the first time since November and in the process, it has also exceeded the expectations of most experts. The 19 countries which recognise Euro as their currency grew by just 10 per cent after a 10.6 per cent rise in October. China removed from UK nuclear project, a day after Sunak's 'golden era over' statement A day after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country's 'golden era' with China was over, the latter has been removed from the construction of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station. At least 16 killed and 24 injured in bomb blast in Afghanistan's Aybak At least 16 people were killed while 24 were wounded after a blast at a madrassa in Afghanistan’s northern city of Aybak on Wednesday. According to AFP, a doctor at the local hospital confirmed the death toll and said that the wounded are currently going through treatment. The doctor also said that the casualties were mostly youngsters and they belonged to the Al Jihad madrassa. EU to set up tribunal backed by UN to investigate possible Russian war crimes in Ukraine The European Union would attempt to establish a specialised court, supported by the United Nations, to look into and prosecute any potential war crimes perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Tokyo court rules current definition of marriage constitutional but creates an 'unconstitutional situation' A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal. Half of European democracies suffer erosion, Africa shows resilience: Watchdog report Half of the world’s democracies are in a state of decline amid worsening civil liberties and rule of law while already authoritarian governments are becoming more oppressive, Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) said on Wednesday. In Europe, almost half of all democracies have suffered erosion in the last five years, it said. South Korea scrambles jets after eight Chinese, Russian warplanes entered its air defence zone At least two Chinese bombers and six Russian bombers and fighter jets entered the Korean air defence zone on Wednesday prompting South Korea to scramble its fighter jets, said Seoul’s military. However, the planes did not violate the airspace, while China and Russia had previously said that they are conducting joint exercises. England, Wales no longer majority Christian; Leicester, Birmingham now ‘minority majorities’: Census Census results published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), on Tuesday, show that less than half of people in the two British nations, England and Wales, identify themselves as Christian. The announcement has also reportedly renewed calls to end the Church of England’s role in parliament and schools. Gender disparity in news: Women especially of colour grossly under-represented in leadership and coverage Whether it's editorial leadership or roles in news coverage women continue to be severely under-represented in the media industry and taking the brunt of this are women of colour, shows a new report.

Top 10 world news: China relaxes Covid rules, Eurozone inflation slows to 10%, and more

A Russian drone capable of dispersing protesters using ultrasound will begin to be manufactured in early 2023, as per reports in Russian media. The news outlet TASS quoted Vitali Dolgov, head of the &nbsp;laboratory of external piloting and UAV operation at the Kartsev Research Institute of Computing Systems.

"We plan to begin producing Shershen in batches after New Year’s Day. Since mid-December - January we will be ready to show the hexacopter in action," he said.

The institute, which made the drones, has reportedly carried out successful trials with 100 volunteers.&nbsp;

The Shershen drone can not only disperse protesting crowd but can also jam drones, keep an eye on environmental emergencies and operate in oil and gas industry. It has a range of up to 10 kilometres.

Russia is currently in a war with Ukraine. In initial months of the conflict, Russian military gained ground but had to retreat in recent months in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensives. The retreat and general opposition to war has seen discontent among Russian public.&nbsp;

Russia also faces allegations of using Iran-made drones against targets in Ukraine. Iran has recently accepted that it provided the drones to Russia but claimed that the drones were provided before Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Russian drone capable of dispersing protesters using ultrasound will begin to be manufactured in early 2023, as per reports in Russian media. The news outlet TASS quoted Vitali Dolgov, head of the laboratory of external piloting and UAV operation at the Kartsev Research Institute of Computing Systems.

A Russian drone capable of dispersing protesters using ultrasound will begin to be manufactured in early 2023, as per reports in Russian media. The news outlet TASS quoted Vitali Dolgov, head of the laboratory of external piloting and UAV operation at the Kartsev Research Institute of Computing Systems. "We plan to begin producing Shershen in batches after New Year’s Day. Since mid-December - January we will be ready to show the hexacopter in action," he said. The institute, which made the drones, has reportedly carried out successful trials with 100 volunteers. The Shershen drone can not only disperse protesting crowd but can also jam drones, keep an eye on environmental emergencies and operate in oil and gas industry. It has a range of up to 10 kilometres. Russia is currently in a war with Ukraine. In initial months of the conflict, Russian military gained ground but had to retreat in recent months in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensives. The retreat and general opposition to war has seen discontent among Russian public. Russia also faces allegations of using Iran-made drones against targets in Ukraine. Iran has recently accepted that it provided the drones to Russia but claimed that the drones were provided before Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (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 ×

Russia to mass-produce drones that can disperse protests using sound

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems.

The failure of Western policymakers to adopt an approach that would have served Europe’s longer-term security interests and sought to end Syria’s suffering in ways that may have held out the promise of a sustainable resolution of the conflict is compounded by the failure to exploit what was always a fragile alliance between Russia and NATO-member Turkey.

With that alliance under strain, both in Syria, where Russia has warned that it cannot guarantee the safety of Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace, and in Libya, where the two allies support opposing sides, multiple regional conflicts have begun to mesh.

Some analysts have suggested that Russia was seeking to enlist the support of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Syria so that it could dump Turkey with which it is on the brink of military blows. The two Gulf states oppose Turkish ambitions in the Middle East and beyond.

The analysts point to recent contacts between Emirati, Russian and Syrian officials and the establishment of relations between Syria and Libya’s UAE and Russian-backed rebel force led by renegade commander Khalifa Haftar.

The various manoeuvres constitute variations on a theme.

The international community, including Russia, did little in the early years of the war to stop militant groups and regional powers from contributing to the violence by exploiting Syria’s power vacuum to their immediate advantage. That changed selectively when the Islamic State gained a territorial foothold in Syria and Iraq.

Similarly, much of the international community falsely assumed that a Syrian victory in Idlib, Syria’s last rebel stronghold, would create a fait accompli that Turkey would accept and that would pave the way to an end to the war and reconstruction.

Like in much of the Middle East where a failure to put one’s ears to the ground and hear the widespread discontent simmering at the surface that produced a decade of revolution and brutal counterrevolution, neither Russia nor its detractors read the writing on Syria’s walls.

If militants and external powers turned what started in 2011 as peaceful protests demanding reform rather than the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the international community failed to recognise that nine years later criticism of the regime is widespread among an impoverished population traumatised by war.

Rather than creating an environment for reconciliation and reconstruction, Russian-supported Syrian military successes in retaking territory from rebels by force or in negotiated handovers have not been accompanied by a relieving of economic and social hardship, sparking intermittent anti-government protests and stepped up repression.

Much of the criticism focuses on the government’s failure to improve economic and living conditions, but like in the early days of the popular revolt, shies away from calls for regime change.

The improbability of a Russian-Syrian military victory putting Syria on a road towards peaceful resolution and recovery is highlighted by the fact that snap polling suggests that less than ten per cent of the millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons would be willing to return to or remain in a country that continues to be ruled by Al-Assad and his regime.

As a result, Russia and Al-Assad appear to have adopted the kind of scorched earth policy that Israel’s military rejected in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian intifada or uprising.

In contrast to the military that told then Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin that the resolution needed to be political because the cost of a military solution would be too high, Russia and Al-Assad have concluded that no cost is too high. It is an approach that emulates Russia’s brutal crushing of rebellions in Chechnya in the 1990s.

“Russia realised that it cannot cement its military victories into permanent political gains through diplomacy within the projected remaining lifetime of the regime. Instead, it decided to employ the ‘Grozny doctrine’ of complete annihilation of all those who stand in the way of its strategic goals and bring the conflict to an end before the regime collapses,” said Syrian activist Labib al-Nahhas De La Ossa, referring to the Chechen capital that was virtually destroyed by Russian forces.

It's an approach that in violation of international law takes no heed of the consequences for innocent millions in Idlib or the fact that many, rather than supporting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an erstwhile Al-Qaeda affiliate that controls part of the province, have repeatedly protested against it.

It's also an approach that potentially could spark a renewed refugee crisis in Europe with Turkey, already home to some four million refugees, no longer stopping fleeing Syrians and others from trying to cross its Greek and Bulgarian borders with the European Union.

Russia, in a cynical twist of irony, would likely be happy to see a repeat of the 2015 refugee crisis that fuelled support for far-right, anti-immigration and nativist forces in Europe who are empathetic to Moscow’s effort to weaken the trans-Atlantic alliance as well as the European Union with its adherence to Western values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Even with that being the case, Russian policy towards Idlib and the rest of Syria is likely to only produce problematic outcomes: ensuring total victory for Al-Assad risks a break-up with Turkey, a key regional player, and forecloses chances for a sustainable resolution of the Syrian conflict that would allow for the voluntary return of refugees and displaced persons.

Continued Russian and Iranian-backed support for Al-Assad’s brutal regime will at best temporarily stabilise Syria and potentially open the door to a forced return of some refugees and displaced persons while setting the stage for another round of conflict.

An equally unsustainable alternative scenario, envisioned by De La Ossa, would involve a Russian-Turkish agreement to cram three million refugees into a tiny slice of Idlib in what would amount to sub-human conditions.

Said De La Ossa: “The humanitarian catastrophe that is Idlib has shown that the lessons from the beginning of World War II still apply: Appeasing dictators who are willing to kill massive numbers of people to realise their delusions of grandeur never works. But if the US, Europe, and the international community at large fail to heed these lessons, it will not only be Syrians who pay the price. “ 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems.

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems. The failure of Western policymakers to adopt an approach that would have served Europe’s longer-term security interests and sought to end Syria’s suffering in ways that may have held out the promise of a sustainable resolution of the conflict is compounded by the failure to exploit what was always a fragile alliance between Russia and NATO-member Turkey. With that alliance under strain, both in Syria, where Russia has warned that it cannot guarantee the safety of Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace, and in Libya, where the two allies support opposing sides, multiple regional conflicts have begun to mesh. Some analysts have suggested that Russia was seeking to enlist the support of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Syria so that it could dump Turkey with which it is on the brink of military blows. The two Gulf states oppose Turkish ambitions in the Middle East and beyond. The analysts point to recent contacts between Emirati, Russian and Syrian officials and the establishment of relations between Syria and Libya’s UAE and Russian-backed rebel force led by renegade commander Khalifa Haftar. The various manoeuvres constitute variations on a theme. The international community, including Russia, did little in the early years of the war to stop militant groups and regional powers from contributing to the violence by exploiting Syria’s power vacuum to their immediate advantage. That changed selectively when the Islamic State gained a territorial foothold in Syria and Iraq. Similarly, much of the international community falsely assumed that a Syrian victory in Idlib, Syria’s last rebel stronghold, would create a fait accompli that Turkey would accept and that would pave the way to an end to the war and reconstruction. Like in much of the Middle East where a failure to put one’s ears to the ground and hear the widespread discontent simmering at the surface that produced a decade of revolution and brutal counterrevolution, neither Russia nor its detractors read the writing on Syria’s walls. If militants and external powers turned what started in 2011 as peaceful protests demanding reform rather than the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the international community failed to recognise that nine years later criticism of the regime is widespread among an impoverished population traumatised by war. Rather than creating an environment for reconciliation and reconstruction, Russian-supported Syrian military successes in retaking territory from rebels by force or in negotiated handovers have not been accompanied by a relieving of economic and social hardship, sparking intermittent anti-government protests and stepped up repression. Much of the criticism focuses on the government’s failure to improve economic and living conditions, but like in the early days of the popular revolt, shies away from calls for regime change. The improbability of a Russian-Syrian military victory putting Syria on a road towards peaceful resolution and recovery is highlighted by the fact that snap polling suggests that less than ten per cent of the millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons would be willing to return to or remain in a country that continues to be ruled by Al-Assad and his regime. As a result, Russia and Al-Assad appear to have adopted the kind of scorched earth policy that Israel’s military rejected in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian intifada or uprising. In contrast to the military that told then Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin that the resolution needed to be political because the cost of a military solution would be too high, Russia and Al-Assad have concluded that no cost is too high. It is an approach that emulates Russia’s brutal crushing of rebellions in Chechnya in the 1990s. “Russia realised that it cannot cement its military victories into permanent political gains through diplomacy within the projected remaining lifetime of the regime. Instead, it decided to employ the ‘Grozny doctrine’ of complete annihilation of all those who stand in the way of its strategic goals and bring the conflict to an end before the regime collapses,” said Syrian activist Labib al-Nahhas De La Ossa, referring to the Chechen capital that was virtually destroyed by Russian forces. It's an approach that in violation of international law takes no heed of the consequences for innocent millions in Idlib or the fact that many, rather than supporting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an erstwhile Al-Qaeda affiliate that controls part of the province, have repeatedly protested against it. It's also an approach that potentially could spark a renewed refugee crisis in Europe with Turkey, already home to some four million refugees, no longer stopping fleeing Syrians and others from trying to cross its Greek and Bulgarian borders with the European Union. Russia, in a cynical twist of irony, would likely be happy to see a repeat of the 2015 refugee crisis that fuelled support for far-right, anti-immigration and nativist forces in Europe who are empathetic to Moscow’s effort to weaken the trans-Atlantic alliance as well as the European Union with its adherence to Western values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Even with that being the case, Russian policy towards Idlib and the rest of Syria is likely to only produce problematic outcomes: ensuring total victory for Al-Assad risks a break-up with Turkey, a key regional player, and forecloses chances for a sustainable resolution of the Syrian conflict that would allow for the voluntary return of refugees and displaced persons. Continued Russian and Iranian-backed support for Al-Assad’s brutal regime will at best temporarily stabilise Syria and potentially open the door to a forced return of some refugees and displaced persons while setting the stage for another round of conflict. An equally unsustainable alternative scenario, envisioned by De La Ossa, would involve a Russian-Turkish agreement to cram three million refugees into a tiny slice of Idlib in what would amount to sub-human conditions. Said De La Ossa: “The humanitarian catastrophe that is Idlib has shown that the lessons from the beginning of World War II still apply: Appeasing dictators who are willing to kill massive numbers of people to realise their delusions of grandeur never works. But if the US, Europe, and the international community at large fail to heed these lessons, it will not only be Syrians who pay the price. “ (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

War threatens to spill beyond Syria’s borders

The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament said on Sunday (November 27) that the country will soon adopt a law that will prohibit foreigners from taking service from Russian women as surrogate mothers. Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said this on Russia's Mother's Day.

Paid surrogacy is legal in Russia, but the practice has been criticised by religious groups as commercializing the birth of children.

"Everything must be done to protect children by prohibiting foreigners from using the surrogacy service," Volodin said on the Telegram messaging app. "We will make this decision at the beginning of December."

Volodin said that about 45,000 born by surrogate mothers have been taken abroad in the past few years.

"Child trafficking is unacceptable," he added.

"This is a large illegal business, with a turnover estimated at more than 2 billion euros. Such babies often end up in hardest situations: they become victims of crimes, including sale for transplants, they end up in same-sex couples," Volodin added.

The bill barring foreigners has been passed by Russian lawmakers nearly unanimously in its first reading in May. If it is passed by the lower house in the final third reading, it will then be reviewed by the upper house of the parliament. 
 
Under the proposed law, only married citizens of the Russian Federation or single female Russian nationals, who can not give birth to a child for medical reasons, can use surrogate mother services. Foreign nationals won’t be entitled to the surrogacy service in Russia.

The Ukrainian government says Russia has forcibly deported more than 12,000 Ukrainian children since invading its neighbour in February, while 440 have died in the war and hundreds are missing.

Russia denies forced deportations, saying the movement of people into Russia from Ukraine has been to protect civilians from Ukrainian soldiers.

Putin met on Friday with a carefully selected group of mothers of Russian soldiers sent to fight in Ukraine telling them their sons had not died in vain.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament said on Sunday (November 27) that the country will soon adopt a law that will prohibit foreigners from taking service from Russian women as surrogate mothers.

The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament said on Sunday (November 27) that the country will soon adopt a law that will prohibit foreigners from taking service from Russian women as surrogate mothers. Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said this on Russia's Mother's Day. Paid surrogacy is legal in Russia, but the practice has been criticised by religious groups as commercializing the birth of children. "Everything must be done to protect children by prohibiting foreigners from using the surrogacy service," Volodin said on the Telegram messaging app. "We will make this decision at the beginning of December." Volodin said that about 45,000 born by surrogate mothers have been taken abroad in the past few years. "Child trafficking is unacceptable," he added. "This is a large illegal business, with a turnover estimated at more than 2 billion euros. Such babies often end up in hardest situations: they become victims of crimes, including sale for transplants, they end up in same-sex couples," Volodin added. The bill barring foreigners has been passed by Russian lawmakers nearly unanimously in its first reading in May. If it is passed by the lower house in the final third reading, it will then be reviewed by the upper house of the parliament. Under the proposed law, only married citizens of the Russian Federation or single female Russian nationals, who can not give birth to a child for medical reasons, can use surrogate mother services. Foreign nationals won’t be entitled to the surrogacy service in Russia. The Ukrainian government says Russia has forcibly deported more than 12,000 Ukrainian children since invading its neighbour in February, while 440 have died in the war and hundreds are missing. Russia denies forced deportations, saying the movement of people into Russia from Ukraine has been to protect civilians from Ukrainian soldiers. Putin met on Friday with a carefully selected group of mothers of Russian soldiers sent to fight in Ukraine telling them their sons had not died in vain. (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 ×

Russia set to prohibit foreigners from availing surrogacy services in the country

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (November 26) hosted a summit in Kyiv promoting Ukraine's "Grain from Ukraine" initiative. The initiative is aimed at providing foodgrains to countries most vulnerable to famine and drought.

Ukraine is a major exporter of foodgrains and Russian invasion had raised the spectre of global food crisis as foodgrains couldn't be exported from Ukrainian ports.

Watch | Russia Ukraine War enters 10th month; Putin meets mothers of Russian soldiers fighting in Kyiv

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Zelensky said that the 'Grain from Ukraine' initiative demonstrated that global food security was "not just empty words" for Kyiv.&nbsp;

Zelenskiy said Kyiv had raised around $150 million from more than 20 countries and the European Union to export grain to countries including Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia and Yemen.

"We plan to send at least 60 vessels from Ukrainian ports to countries that most face the threat of famine and drought," Zelenskiy told the gathering.

The summit was attended in-person by the prime ministers of Belgium, Poland and Lithuania and the president of Hungary. Germany and France's presidents and the head of the European Commission delivered speeches by video.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-war-ukraine-marks-soviet-era-famine-that-killed-millions-537754">Amid ongoing war, Ukraine marks Soviet-era famine that killed millions</a>

Announced by Kyiv earlier this month, the initiative is in addition to a UN-brokered deal that has allowed some Ukrainian grain shipments through the Black Sea, a vital route for the major wheat producer's exports that had been blocked.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (November 26) hosted a summit in Kyiv promoting Ukraine's "Grain from Ukraine" initiative. The initiative is aimed at providing foodgrains to countries most vulnerable to famine and drought.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (November 26) hosted a summit in Kyiv promoting Ukraine's "Grain from Ukraine" initiative. The initiative is aimed at providing foodgrains to countries most vulnerable to famine and drought. Ukraine is a major exporter of foodgrains and Russian invasion had raised the spectre of global food crisis as foodgrains couldn't be exported from Ukrainian ports. Watch | Russia Ukraine War enters 10th month; Putin meets mothers of Russian soldiers fighting in Kyiv × Zelensky said that the 'Grain from Ukraine' initiative demonstrated that global food security was "not just empty words" for Kyiv. Zelenskiy said Kyiv had raised around $150 million from more than 20 countries and the European Union to export grain to countries including Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia and Yemen. "We plan to send at least 60 vessels from Ukrainian ports to countries that most face the threat of famine and drought," Zelenskiy told the gathering. The summit was attended in-person by the prime ministers of Belgium, Poland and Lithuania and the president of Hungary. Germany and France's presidents and the head of the European Commission delivered speeches by video. Also Read | Amid ongoing war, Ukraine marks Soviet-era famine that killed millions Announced by Kyiv earlier this month, the initiative is in addition to a UN-brokered deal that has allowed some Ukrainian grain shipments through the Black Sea, a vital route for the major wheat producer's exports that had been blocked. (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 ×

Kyiv hosts summit to promote 'Grain from Ukraine' initiative for vulnerable nations

Ukraine held memorial day for a Soviet-era famine that had left millions of Ukrainians dead. The famine had struck Ukraine, then part of Soviet Union in the winter of 1932-33. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the same tactics today.

"Once they wanted to destroy us with hunger, now – with darkness and cold," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy wrote on his Telegram channel. "We cannot be broken."

Watch | Russia Ukraine War enters 10th month; Putin meets mothers of Russian soldiers fighting in Kyiv

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This is the first memorial day for the "Holodomor" famine held under the shadow of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Though Ukraine has been able to stage successful counteroffensives in recent weeks, constant shelling of Ukrainian cities has severely damaged country's energy grid as winter begins to set in.

In November 1932, Soviet leader Stalin dispatched police to seize all grain and livestock from newly collectivised Ukrainian farms, including the seed needed to plant the next crop.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-firing-cruise-missiles-with-nuclear-warheads-removed-claims-uk-537672">Stock depleted, Russia firing cruise missiles with nuclear warheads removed, claims UK</a>

Millions of Ukrainian peasants starved to death in the following months from what Yale University historian Timothy Snyder calls "clearly premeditated mass murder".

"The Russians will pay for all of the victims of the Holodomor and answer for today's crimes," Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, wrote on Telegram.

The Kremlin has denied that its attacks, which have only galvanized Ukrainian public anger, were aimed at civilians but said on Thursday Kyiv could "end the suffering" by meeting Russia's demands to resolve the war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine held memorial day for a Soviet-era famine that had left millions of Ukrainians dead. The famine had struck Ukraine, then part of Soviet Union in the winter of 1932-33.

Ukraine held memorial day for a Soviet-era famine that had left millions of Ukrainians dead. The famine had struck Ukraine, then part of Soviet Union in the winter of 1932-33. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the same tactics today. "Once they wanted to destroy us with hunger, now – with darkness and cold," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy wrote on his Telegram channel. "We cannot be broken." Watch | Russia Ukraine War enters 10th month; Putin meets mothers of Russian soldiers fighting in Kyiv × This is the first memorial day for the "Holodomor" famine held under the shadow of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Though Ukraine has been able to stage successful counteroffensives in recent weeks, constant shelling of Ukrainian cities has severely damaged country's energy grid as winter begins to set in. In November 1932, Soviet leader Stalin dispatched police to seize all grain and livestock from newly collectivised Ukrainian farms, including the seed needed to plant the next crop. Also Read | Stock depleted, Russia firing cruise missiles with nuclear warheads removed, claims UK Millions of Ukrainian peasants starved to death in the following months from what Yale University historian Timothy Snyder calls "clearly premeditated mass murder". "The Russians will pay for all of the victims of the Holodomor and answer for today's crimes," Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, wrote on Telegram. The Kremlin has denied that its attacks, which have only galvanized Ukrainian public anger, were aimed at civilians but said on Thursday Kyiv could "end the suffering" by meeting Russia's demands to resolve the war. (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 ×

Amid ongoing war, Ukraine marks Soviet-era famine that killed millions

The people of China vented&nbsp;their anger against the strict Covid curbs through widespread protests,&nbsp;which some social media posts said hampered the rescue efforts. China's extremely strict 'Zero-Covid policy' is increasingly resulting in public fatigue and anger. In other news,&nbsp;ISRO&nbsp;successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse PSLV&nbsp;from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-after-deadly-fire-that-killed-10-huge-covid-protests-erupt-in-xinjiang-537661">China: Huge protests erupt in Xinjiang, locals blame strict Covid curbs for 10 casualties in blaze</a>
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Huge protests erupted in China's restive Xinjiang region on Saturday after 10 people got killed in a&nbsp;fire at&nbsp;an apartment block two days ago followed by allegations that&nbsp;people living in the fire-hit compound had been largely prevented from leaving their homes.&nbsp;Ten people were killed and nine injured when the blaze ripped through a residential building in the regional capital Urumqi on Thursday night, according to state news agency Xinhua.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-successfully-launches-its-final-pslv-mission-of-the-year-with-nine-satellites-537608">ISRO successfully launches its PSLV mission with nine satellites; Oceansat-3 placed in orbit</a>
<img alt="2" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35fd531e-474f-455a-88b1-7a056dc3c410" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-26%20at%2020.22.00.png" />
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C54 (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located in the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;This was the 56th PSLV flight of ISRO and the last one for the year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-regulator-bans-huawei-zte-from-selling-their-equipment-heres-why-537562">US regulator bans Huawei, ZTE from selling their equipment in country. Here's why.</a>
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The US Federal Communications Commission on Friday announced that all telecommunication equipment produced by Chinese companies Huawei Technologies and the ZTE Corporation was banned from being sold on the United States soil.&nbsp;The regulator said the two companies posed an 'unacceptable' security risk and that the decision was aimed at protecting the American public.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-firing-cruise-missiles-with-nuclear-warheads-removed-claims-uk-537672">Stock depleted, Russia firing cruise missiles with nuclear warheads removed, claims UK</a>
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Russia is reported to be removing nuclear warheads from ageing nuclear cruise missiles and firing unarmed munitions at Ukraine, Britain's military intelligence said on Saturday. The development comes a day after President Vladimir Putin of Russia assured bereaved families of Russian soldiers that Moscow's goals will be achieved soon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-killed-in-landslide-on-italian-holiday-island-several-others-missing-537686">Ischia tragedy: No deaths in Italy landslide despite earlier reports, says interior minister</a>
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Italy's interior minister said there had been no confirmed deaths in a landslide on Saturday on the holiday island of Ischia, despite earlier reports of eight deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-first-private-space-company-plans-to-launch-satellite-at-half-the-cost-in-2023-537740">India: First private space company plans to launch satellite at half the cost in 2023</a>
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The creators of Skyroot Aerospace, the company responsible for India's first private space launch, told Reuters in an interview that they aim to be able to launch a satellite into orbit in 2023 for half the price of more experienced launch companies, as reported by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-opposition-leads-in-local-elections-in-blow-to-presidents-strategy-537712">Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen quits as ruling party chief after poor poll performance</a>
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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stepped down from the post of ruling party chief on Saturday (November 26) after her party's poor performance in Taiwan's local elections.&nbsp;The president had projected local elections as being about showing defiance to China. The approach failed to resonate with the voters. Latest reports said that main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), was taking the lead or claimed victory in 13 of the 21 city mayor and county chief seats up for grabs, including the capital Taipei.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khameini-lauds-basij-forces-for-restraining-rioters-keeping-islamic-revolution-alive-537692">Iran: Khameini lauds Basij forces for restraining 'rioters', keeping 'Islamic Revolution' alive</a>
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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran, on Saturday praised the&nbsp;Basij militia members and said they had given their lives during the wave of protests that had been prompted by the death in prison of a young Iranian Kurdish lady in September.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-war-ukraine-marks-soviet-era-famine-that-killed-millions-537754">Amid ongoing war, Ukraine marks Soviet-era famine that killed millions​​​​​​​</a>
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Ukraine held memorial day for a Soviet-era famine that had left millions of Ukrainians dead. The famine had struck Ukraine, then part of Soviet Union in the wingter of 1932-33. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the same tactics today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-accuses-china-of-violating-pact-on-appointment-of-bishops-537717">Vatican accuses China of violating pact on appointment of bishops​​​​​​​</a>
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The Vatican charged Chinese authorities on Saturday with breaking a bilateral agreement on bishop appointments by installing a bishop in a diocese that was not recognised by the Holy See.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The people of China vented their anger against the strict Covid curbs through widespread protests, which some social media posts said hampered the rescue efforts.

The people of China vented their anger against the strict Covid curbs through widespread protests, which some social media posts said hampered the rescue efforts. China's extremely strict 'Zero-Covid policy' is increasingly resulting in public fatigue and anger. In other news, ISRO successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse PSLV from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. Click on the headlines to read more: China: Huge protests erupt in Xinjiang, locals blame strict Covid curbs for 10 casualties in blaze Huge protests erupted in China's restive Xinjiang region on Saturday after 10 people got killed in a fire at an apartment block two days ago followed by allegations that people living in the fire-hit compound had been largely prevented from leaving their homes. Ten people were killed and nine injured when the blaze ripped through a residential building in the regional capital Urumqi on Thursday night, according to state news agency Xinhua. ISRO successfully launches its PSLV mission with nine satellites; Oceansat-3 placed in orbit Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C54 (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located in the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh. This was the 56th PSLV flight of ISRO and the last one for the year. US regulator bans Huawei, ZTE from selling their equipment in country. Here's why. The US Federal Communications Commission on Friday announced that all telecommunication equipment produced by Chinese companies Huawei Technologies and the ZTE Corporation was banned from being sold on the United States soil. The regulator said the two companies posed an 'unacceptable' security risk and that the decision was aimed at protecting the American public. Stock depleted, Russia firing cruise missiles with nuclear warheads removed, claims UK Russia is reported to be removing nuclear warheads from ageing nuclear cruise missiles and firing unarmed munitions at Ukraine, Britain's military intelligence said on Saturday. The development comes a day after President Vladimir Putin of Russia assured bereaved families of Russian soldiers that Moscow's goals will be achieved soon. Ischia tragedy: No deaths in Italy landslide despite earlier reports, says interior minister Italy's interior minister said there had been no confirmed deaths in a landslide on Saturday on the holiday island of Ischia, despite earlier reports of eight deaths. India: First private space company plans to launch satellite at half the cost in 2023 The creators of Skyroot Aerospace, the company responsible for India's first private space launch, told Reuters in an interview that they aim to be able to launch a satellite into orbit in 2023 for half the price of more experienced launch companies, as reported by Reuters. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen quits as ruling party chief after poor poll performance Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stepped down from the post of ruling party chief on Saturday (November 26) after her party's poor performance in Taiwan's local elections. The president had projected local elections as being about showing defiance to China. The approach failed to resonate with the voters. Latest reports said that main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), was taking the lead or claimed victory in 13 of the 21 city mayor and county chief seats up for grabs, including the capital Taipei. Iran: Khameini lauds Basij forces for restraining 'rioters', keeping 'Islamic Revolution' alive Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran, on Saturday praised the Basij militia members and said they had given their lives during the wave of protests that had been prompted by the death in prison of a young Iranian Kurdish lady in September. Amid ongoing war, Ukraine marks Soviet-era famine that killed millions Ukraine held memorial day for a Soviet-era famine that had left millions of Ukrainians dead. The famine had struck Ukraine, then part of Soviet Union in the wingter of 1932-33. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the same tactics today. Vatican accuses China of violating pact on appointment of bishops The Vatican charged Chinese authorities on Saturday with breaking a bilateral agreement on bishop appointments by installing a bishop in a diocese that was not recognised by the Holy See.

Top 10 world news: Protests against Covid curbs in China, 56th PSLV flight of ISRO, and more

During a phone call with the Iraqi Prime Minister on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Western proposals to impose oil price caps might have "grave consequences" for the energy markets.&nbsp;

The Kremlin released a readout of Vladimir Putin's conversation with Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. "Vladimir Putin stressed that such actions are contrary to the principles of market relations and are highly likely to lead to grave consequences for global energy markets," the Kremlin said.&nbsp;

The Kremlin said that both parties had expressed support for the two nations' cooperation with OPEC +, which aids in stabilising the world oil market.

After Putin committed soldiers to Ukraine on February 24, Western nations hit Russia with unprecedented sanctions.

In an effort to cut off a vital source of revenue for Moscow, the US Treasury Department announced on Tuesday that Washington and its partners were now seeking to finalise a price ceiling for Russian oil in "the next few days."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-approves-most-expensive-drug-ever-costs-35-million-per-dose-537186">US: FDA approves most expensive drug ever, costs $3.5 million-per-dose</a>

The price ceiling would serve as the foundation that would prohibit businesses from shipping or providing insurance for Russian oil shipments sold over the preset price and is scheduled to go into effect on December 5.&nbsp;

In recent days, efforts by the European Union and the United States to reach a consensus on where to impose a price restriction on their imports of Russian oil have increased.&nbsp;

Major oil producers Russia and Iraq are both parties to the OPEC+ agreement, which regulates oil output.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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During a phone call with the Iraqi Prime Minister on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Western proposals to impose oil price caps might have "grave consequences" for the energy markets.

During a phone call with the Iraqi Prime Minister on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Western proposals to impose oil price caps might have "grave consequences" for the energy markets. The Kremlin released a readout of Vladimir Putin's conversation with Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. "Vladimir Putin stressed that such actions are contrary to the principles of market relations and are highly likely to lead to grave consequences for global energy markets," the Kremlin said. The Kremlin said that both parties had expressed support for the two nations' cooperation with OPEC +, which aids in stabilising the world oil market. After Putin committed soldiers to Ukraine on February 24, Western nations hit Russia with unprecedented sanctions. In an effort to cut off a vital source of revenue for Moscow, the US Treasury Department announced on Tuesday that Washington and its partners were now seeking to finalise a price ceiling for Russian oil in "the next few days." Also Read: US: FDA approves most expensive drug ever, costs $3.5 million-per-dose The price ceiling would serve as the foundation that would prohibit businesses from shipping or providing insurance for Russian oil shipments sold over the preset price and is scheduled to go into effect on December 5. In recent days, efforts by the European Union and the United States to reach a consensus on where to impose a price restriction on their imports of Russian oil have increased. Major oil producers Russia and Iraq are both parties to the OPEC+ agreement, which regulates oil output. (with inputs from agencies)

Putin discusses West's bid for capping oil price with Iraqi PM, warns of 'grave consequences'

Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which&nbsp;go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said.&nbsp;

The sources said the talks were being mediated by the Gulf Arab state and did not include the United Nations despite the U.N.'s central role in negotiating the ongoing initiative to export agricultural products from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Ammonia is used to make fertilizer.&nbsp;

However, the talks aim to remove remaining obstacles in the initiative extended last week and ease global food shortages by unblocking Ukrainian and Russian exports, they added.&nbsp;

The sources asked not to be named in order to freely discuss sensitive matters.&nbsp;

The Russian and Ukrainian representatives travelled to the UAE capital Abu Dhabi on Nov. 17 where they discussed allowing Russia to resume ammonia exports in exchange for a prisoner swap that would release a large number of Ukrainian and Russian prisoners, the sources said.&nbsp;

Reuters could not immediately establish what progress was made at the talks.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, told Reuters that "releasing our prisoners of war is part of negotiations over opening Russian ammonia exports", adding "Of course we look for ways to do that at any opportunity". Bodnar said he was unaware if a meeting took place in the UAE.&nbsp;

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Putin said on Wednesday that Russian officials would work to unblock Russian fertilisers stuck in European ports and to resume ammonia exports.&nbsp;

The UAE's foreign ministry did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.&nbsp;

Lana Nusseibeh, UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said Abu Dhabi remains firmly committed to help keep channels of communication open, encourage dialogue and support diplomacy to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"In times of conflict, our collective responsibility is to leave no stone unturned towards identifying and pursuing paths that bring about a peaceful and swift resolution of crises," Nusseibeh said in a statement carried by state news agency WAM.&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine's defence and foreign ministries did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment.&nbsp;

Asked if the United Nations were involved in the talks, a spokesperson for the organisation declined to comment.&nbsp;

WESTERN PRESSURE&nbsp;

The export of Russian ammonia would be via an existing pipeline to the Black Sea.&nbsp;

The pipeline was designed to pump up to 2.5 million tonnes of ammonia gas per year from Russia's Volga region to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Pivdennyi, known as Yuzhny in Russian, near Odesa for onward shipment to international buyers. It was shut down after Russia sent its troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24.&nbsp;

The export of ammonia was not part of the renewal of the U.N.-backed grains corridor deal that restored commercial shipping from Ukraine.&nbsp;

Last week, Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of U.N. agency UNCTAD, who leads the negotiations on fertiliser, said she was optimistic Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for the export of Russian ammonia via the pipeline, without giving details.&nbsp;

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has publicly set several conditions before allowing Russia to resume its ammonia exports via the pipeline, including a prisoner swap and reopening of Mykolaiv port in the Black Sea.&nbsp;

Neither Russia nor Ukraine have released official figures on how many prisoners of war they have taken since Russia invaded in February. On Oct. 29, Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy said that since March, Russia had freed a total of 1,031 prisoners.&nbsp;

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Russia and Ukraine have disclosed few details about direct meetings between representatives from the two countries following the abandonment of ceasefire talks in the first few weeks following Moscow’s invasion on February 24.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi's efforts follow in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia, which scored&nbsp;a diplomatic win&nbsp;by securing freedom for foreign fighters captured in Ukraine in September.&nbsp;

The UAE, like Saudi Arabia, is a member of the OPEC+ oil alliance that includes Russia and has also maintained good ties with Moscow despite Western pressure to help isolate Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls its "special military operation".&nbsp;

UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan visited Moscow last month where he discussed with President Vladimir Putin the possibility of Abu Dhabi mediating for an ammonia deal, two of the sources said.&nbsp;

Ukraine is a major producer of grains and oilseeds. Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter and a major supplier of fertilisers to global markets.&nbsp;

Since July, Moscow has repeatedly said its shipments of grain and fertilisers, though not directly targeted by sanctions, are constrained because sanctions make it harder for exporters to process payments or to obtain vessels and insurance.&nbsp;

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Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said.

Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said. The sources said the talks were being mediated by the Gulf Arab state and did not include the United Nations despite the U.N.'s central role in negotiating the ongoing initiative to export agricultural products from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Ammonia is used to make fertilizer. However, the talks aim to remove remaining obstacles in the initiative extended last week and ease global food shortages by unblocking Ukrainian and Russian exports, they added. The sources asked not to be named in order to freely discuss sensitive matters. The Russian and Ukrainian representatives travelled to the UAE capital Abu Dhabi on Nov. 17 where they discussed allowing Russia to resume ammonia exports in exchange for a prisoner swap that would release a large number of Ukrainian and Russian prisoners, the sources said. Reuters could not immediately establish what progress was made at the talks. The Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, told Reuters that "releasing our prisoners of war is part of negotiations over opening Russian ammonia exports", adding "Of course we look for ways to do that at any opportunity". Bodnar said he was unaware if a meeting took place in the UAE. Also read | Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim named prime minister Putin said on Wednesday that Russian officials would work to unblock Russian fertilisers stuck in European ports and to resume ammonia exports. The UAE's foreign ministry did not respond to Reuters' request for comment. Lana Nusseibeh, UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said Abu Dhabi remains firmly committed to help keep channels of communication open, encourage dialogue and support diplomacy to end the war in Ukraine. "In times of conflict, our collective responsibility is to leave no stone unturned towards identifying and pursuing paths that bring about a peaceful and swift resolution of crises," Nusseibeh said in a statement carried by state news agency WAM. Russia and Ukraine's defence and foreign ministries did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Asked if the United Nations were involved in the talks, a spokesperson for the organisation declined to comment. WESTERN PRESSURE The export of Russian ammonia would be via an existing pipeline to the Black Sea. The pipeline was designed to pump up to 2.5 million tonnes of ammonia gas per year from Russia's Volga region to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Pivdennyi, known as Yuzhny in Russian, near Odesa for onward shipment to international buyers. It was shut down after Russia sent its troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24. The export of ammonia was not part of the renewal of the U.N.-backed grains corridor deal that restored commercial shipping from Ukraine. Last week, Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of U.N. agency UNCTAD, who leads the negotiations on fertiliser, said she was optimistic Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for the export of Russian ammonia via the pipeline, without giving details. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has publicly set several conditions before allowing Russia to resume its ammonia exports via the pipeline, including a prisoner swap and reopening of Mykolaiv port in the Black Sea. Neither Russia nor Ukraine have released official figures on how many prisoners of war they have taken since Russia invaded in February. On Oct. 29, Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy said that since March, Russia had freed a total of 1,031 prisoners. Also read | China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring Russia and Ukraine have disclosed few details about direct meetings between representatives from the two countries following the abandonment of ceasefire talks in the first few weeks following Moscow’s invasion on February 24. Abu Dhabi's efforts follow in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia, which scored a diplomatic win by securing freedom for foreign fighters captured in Ukraine in September. The UAE, like Saudi Arabia, is a member of the OPEC+ oil alliance that includes Russia and has also maintained good ties with Moscow despite Western pressure to help isolate Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls its "special military operation". UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan visited Moscow last month where he discussed with President Vladimir Putin the possibility of Abu Dhabi mediating for an ammonia deal, two of the sources said. Ukraine is a major producer of grains and oilseeds. Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter and a major supplier of fertilisers to global markets. Since July, Moscow has repeatedly said its shipments of grain and fertilisers, though not directly targeted by sanctions, are constrained because sanctions make it harder for exporters to process payments or to obtain vessels and insurance.

Russia, Ukraine met in UAE to discuss prisoner swap and ammonia: Report

The Kyiv city administration said on social media that the "enemy is launching missile strikes on critical infrastructure in Kyiv city". They further urged people to stay in shelters until the air alert ends. In other news, the members of the EU parliament&nbsp;condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable.

Click on the headlines to read more:

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Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (November 23) that the latest Russian strikes in Kyiv left at least three dead and six injured. Massive power outages and water cuts were reported across the city.&nbsp;

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The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely.

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The gunman who killed six people in&nbsp;a shooting spree at a Virginia Walmart&nbsp;was a store&nbsp; employee and later is said to have shot himself dead too, the Chesapeake police said on&nbsp;Wednesday.&nbsp;

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The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the Scotland cannot go forward with a second independence referendum without the approval of the British parliament. The ruling from the top judges in the UK said that the Scottish parliament does not have the power to organise the referendum independently.&nbsp;

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Jeff Bezos, in his bid to give away a major chunk of his wealth away, has now awarded 40 grants as part of his Bezos Day 1 Families Fund initiative. The Amazon founder made the announcement of Tuesday in an Instagram post. The donations are part of a $2 billion total commitment to combat homelessness.

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Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said Wednesday that Turkey's military had hit nearly 500 Kurdish targets across Iraq and Syria as part of an air strikes’ campaign.&nbsp;“So far, 471 targets have been struck and 254 terrorists were neutralised in the operation,” Akar was quoted as saying by the official Anadolu news agency.

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Dr Anthony Fauci in a press conference at the White House, on Tuesday, urged Americans to take the new Covid booster shot after a recent study by the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said that it offers better protection against symptomatic infection of COVID-19. It is also the first real-world data on the new omicron vaccines.&nbsp;

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Jerusalem was rocked by two explosions on Wednesday morning, leaving a 16-year-old boy dead and 22 injured.&nbsp;The blasts occurred at two bus stops at the entrance to Jerusalem during peak commute hours. The first one was reported from the main entrance of Jerusalem in Givat Shaul, around 7 am, while the second blast took off at the Ramot junction, another entrance to Jerusalem at 7.30 am, the Times of Israel newspaper reported.

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For the second time in two days, we saw&nbsp;a massive upset&nbsp;in the FIFA World Cup 2022 as&nbsp;on Wednesday the four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock defeat (1-2) at the hands of Japan in their first match in Group E. On Tuesday, it was Argentina that got floored by Saudi Arabia 2-1.

The Kyiv city administration said on social media that the "enemy is launching missile strikes on critical infrastructure in Kyiv city". They further urged people to stay in shelters until the air alert ends.

The Kyiv city administration said on social media that the "enemy is launching missile strikes on critical infrastructure in Kyiv city". They further urged people to stay in shelters until the air alert ends. In other news, the members of the EU parliament condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine war: Strikes kill three, injure six in Kyiv as Moscow targets 'critical infrastructure' Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (November 23) that the latest Russian strikes in Kyiv left at least three dead and six injured. Massive power outages and water cuts were reported across the city. European Union parliament declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism' The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely. Virginia: Shooter who killed six in Chesapeake Walmart, shot self, was a store employee, say cops The gunman who killed six people in a shooting spree at a Virginia Walmart was a store employee and later is said to have shot himself dead too, the Chesapeake police said on Wednesday. UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the Scotland cannot go forward with a second independence referendum without the approval of the British parliament. The ruling from the top judges in the UK said that the Scottish parliament does not have the power to organise the referendum independently. Bezos announces 40 grants worth $123 million aimed at tackling homelessness Jeff Bezos, in his bid to give away a major chunk of his wealth away, has now awarded 40 grants as part of his Bezos Day 1 Families Fund initiative. The Amazon founder made the announcement of Tuesday in an Instagram post. The donations are part of a $2 billion total commitment to combat homelessness. Nearly 500 Kurdish targets hit in Iraq and Syria, 254 terrorists killed, claims Turkey's defence minister Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said Wednesday that Turkey's military had hit nearly 500 Kurdish targets across Iraq and Syria as part of an air strikes’ campaign. “So far, 471 targets have been struck and 254 terrorists were neutralised in the operation,” Akar was quoted as saying by the official Anadolu news agency. Sunak faces rebellion as 50 MPs sign amendment to scrap mandatory local housing targets for councils UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a rebellion of about 50 MPs who want an end to housebuilding targets for councils through an amendment. The amendment is led by former cabinet minister Theresa Villiers and has the backing of 46 MPs. They want to scrap mandatory local housing targets and make them advisory only. Doctor Fauci asks Americans to take Covid booster shots, after CDC study shows promising results Dr Anthony Fauci in a press conference at the White House, on Tuesday, urged Americans to take the new Covid booster shot after a recent study by the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said that it offers better protection against symptomatic infection of COVID-19. It is also the first real-world data on the new omicron vaccines. 16-year-old boy killed, 22 injured in two explosions near bus stops in Jerusalem Jerusalem was rocked by two explosions on Wednesday morning, leaving a 16-year-old boy dead and 22 injured. The blasts occurred at two bus stops at the entrance to Jerusalem during peak commute hours. The first one was reported from the main entrance of Jerusalem in Givat Shaul, around 7 am, while the second blast took off at the Ramot junction, another entrance to Jerusalem at 7.30 am, the Times of Israel newspaper reported. FIFA World Cup 2022: Another upset in Qatar as Japan shock Germany 2-1 For the second time in two days, we saw a massive upset in the FIFA World Cup 2022 as on Wednesday the four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock defeat (1-2) at the hands of Japan in their first match in Group E. On Tuesday, it was Argentina that got floored by Saudi Arabia 2-1.

Top 10 world news: Moscow strikes Kyiv, EU declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism', and more

On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation.&nbsp;

While the country’s security agency, SAPO, gave few details about the case, media reports citing witnesses described elite police arriving in two Black Hawk helicopters to arrest the&nbsp; couple that had allegedly spied for Russia, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;According to the court documents, the two had been gathering intelligence since 2013.&nbsp;

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The police spokesperson also said that the two arrested were not connected to any other ongoing investigations and asserted, “Sweden must not be a platform for foreign powers to conduct unlawful intelligence activities, either against Sweden or against other countries.” They added that several houses were searched during the investigation and a third person had also been brought in for questioning by the police.&nbsp;

Sharing details of the operation, head of the Swedish police national operative department, Stefan Hector said that the raid&nbsp;took place in the business south of Stockholm and took under a minute. He added that they had to be swift with their approach so that the suspects did not have time to “flush anything in the toilet or destroy computers.”

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Furthermore, the Swedish Security Service in a statement, said that the main suspect had allegedly committed, “gross illegal intelligence activities against Sweden and against a foreign power.” However, they did not identify the second country which was allegedly spied on. The spy agency also said that the investigation has been going on for some time now.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, media reports suggest that the duo was a married couple in their 60s. They were reportedly Russians who entered Sweden in the late 90s, said the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. This comes days after two Iranian brothers were charged for allegedly spying for Russia in Sweden. One of the suspects had worked in the Swedish intelligence agency and the duo was charged with spying for Moscow’s military intelligence for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation.

On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation. While the country’s security agency, SAPO, gave few details about the case, media reports citing witnesses described elite police arriving in two Black Hawk helicopters to arrest the couple that had allegedly spied for Russia, reported the Associated Press. According to the court documents, the two had been gathering intelligence since 2013. ALSO READ: One killed, 22 injured after multiple explosions near bus stops in Jerusalem The police spokesperson also said that the two arrested were not connected to any other ongoing investigations and asserted, “Sweden must not be a platform for foreign powers to conduct unlawful intelligence activities, either against Sweden or against other countries.” They added that several houses were searched during the investigation and a third person had also been brought in for questioning by the police. Sharing details of the operation, head of the Swedish police national operative department, Stefan Hector said that the raid took place in the business south of Stockholm and took under a minute. He added that they had to be swift with their approach so that the suspects did not have time to “flush anything in the toilet or destroy computers.” ALSO WATCH | Nord Stream sabotage: European leaders see Russia as main suspect Furthermore, the Swedish Security Service in a statement, said that the main suspect had allegedly committed, “gross illegal intelligence activities against Sweden and against a foreign power.” However, they did not identify the second country which was allegedly spied on. The spy agency also said that the investigation has been going on for some time now. ALSO READ: Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid Meanwhile, media reports suggest that the duo was a married couple in their 60s. They were reportedly Russians who entered Sweden in the late 90s, said the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. This comes days after two Iranian brothers were charged for allegedly spying for Russia in Sweden. One of the suspects had worked in the Swedish intelligence agency and the duo was charged with spying for Moscow’s military intelligence for nearly a decade. (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.

Sweden arrests two suspect spies for ‘gross illegal intelligence activities’ in dramatic predawn raid

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo has announced a compensation for the&nbsp;victims and their families suffering the consequences of Indonesian earthquake. In other news,&nbsp;a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF told AFP,&nbsp;"A joint base north of Hasakeh used for planning and executing joint operations against the Islamic State group has been hit by a Turkish drone."

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-president-announces-compensation-for-quake-victims-as-search-for-survivors-continues-536364">Indonesia quake toll rises to 252, president announces compensation for families of victims</a>
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The death toll from an earthquake that hit&nbsp;Indonesia's Cianjur town in western Java has risen to 252, the local government said in an Instagram post on Tuesday. At least 31 people are still missing and 377 were injured, while the number of people displaced has reached 7,060.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/kurdish-base-used-by-us-led-coalition-in-northern-syria-hit-by-turkish-drone-536467">Kurdish base used by US-led coalition in northern Syria hit by Turkish drone</a>
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A base operated by Kurdish forces and the United States-led coalition, situated in northeastern Syria, was hit by Turkish drones on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The United Kingdom-based monitoring group called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the base was under attack but did not confirm if there were any casualties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/google-to-lay-off-at-least-10000-poor-performing-employees-report-536482">Google to lay off at least 10,000 ‘poor performing’ employees in 2023: Report</a>
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Alphabet, Google's parent company, will soon join the&nbsp;layoff season in the United States' Silicon Valley as it plans to&nbsp;lay off up to 10,000 or six per cent of the company's "poor performing" employees, said a report by The Information. The report also claims that the company will use performance as a parameter to fire employees by using a ranking system.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-not-aiming-to-change-ukraine-regime-says-kremlin-spokesperson-536421">Russia ‘not aiming to change Ukraine regime’, says Kremlin spokesperson</a>
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The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia is no longer interested in changing the government in Ukraine and the main goal behind the “special operation” is to help the Russian sympathisers in the various parts of the country and to combat the so-called “anti-Russian enclave”.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/36-dead-in-factory-fire-at-chinese-city-of-anyang-536253">Toll in China factory fire rises to 38; workers reportedly violated safety measures</a>
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A fire at a factory in Anyang City in central China's Henan Province has killed 36 people, state media said Tuesday, citing local authorities. Two people at the plant are still missing. News agency Xinhua reported that the fire broke out Monday afternoon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zoom-shares-down-90-from-pandemic-peak-in-october-2020-536536">Zoom shares down 90% from pandemic peak in October 2020</a>
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In a post-Covid world, Zoom Video Communications Inc. shares have lost approximately 90 per cent&nbsp;of their value since the pandemic&nbsp;peak in October 2020. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-government-launches-probe-into-unification-church-amid-public-backlash-over-alleged-ties-536532">Japan’s government launches probe into Unification Church amid public backlash over alleged ties</a>
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On Tuesday, Japan launched a probe into the Unification Church after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was fatally shot by a man who allegedly held a grudge against the group. The incident also revealed the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the organisation’s supposed close ties with the group which triggered a public backlash.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imran-khan-sold-gold-medal-from-india-he-received-as-cricketer-pak-defence-minister-536527">Imran Khan 'sold' gold medal from India he received as cricketer: Pak Defence Minister</a>
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In Pakistan's politics, former Prime Minister Imran Khan continues to be the centre of country's news cycle in which he is surrounded by nothing but controversies. The latest among many that has taken over Khan's currently fragile political fortunes is a controversial claim that he "sold" a gold medal he received from India during his time as Pakistani cricketer.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gazprom-threatens-to-cut-gas-to-europe-claims-ukraine-diverting-moldova-gas-supplies-536514">Gazprom threatens to cut gas to Europe, claims Ukraine diverting Moldova gas supplies</a>
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Gazprom said on Tuesday (November 22) that it may cut gas transit flows via Ukraine, which is the only remaining route for exports to western European markets, from next week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-six-from-pro-democracy-tabloid-plead-guilty-to-foreign-collusion-536486">Hong Kong: Six from pro-democracy tabloid plead guilty to foreign collusion</a>
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Six senior employees of the defunct pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily in Hong Kong pleaded guilty to conspiring with foreign forces on Tuesday.

&nbsp;

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo has announced a compensation for the victims and their families suffering the consequences of Indonesian earthquake. In other news, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF told AFP, "A joint base north of Hasakeh used for planning and executing joint operations against the Islamic State group has been hit by a Turkish drone.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo has announced a compensation for the victims and their families suffering the consequences of Indonesian earthquake. In other news, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF told AFP, "A joint base north of Hasakeh used for planning and executing joint operations against the Islamic State group has been hit by a Turkish drone." Click on the headlines to read more: Indonesia quake toll rises to 252, president announces compensation for families of victims The death toll from an earthquake that hit Indonesia's Cianjur town in western Java has risen to 252, the local government said in an Instagram post on Tuesday. At least 31 people are still missing and 377 were injured, while the number of people displaced has reached 7,060. Kurdish base used by US-led coalition in northern Syria hit by Turkish drone A base operated by Kurdish forces and the United States-led coalition, situated in northeastern Syria, was hit by Turkish drones on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The United Kingdom-based monitoring group called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the base was under attack but did not confirm if there were any casualties. Google to lay off at least 10,000 ‘poor performing’ employees in 2023: Report Alphabet, Google's parent company, will soon join the layoff season in the United States' Silicon Valley as it plans to lay off up to 10,000 or six per cent of the company's "poor performing" employees, said a report by The Information. The report also claims that the company will use performance as a parameter to fire employees by using a ranking system. Russia ‘not aiming to change Ukraine regime’, says Kremlin spokesperson The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia is no longer interested in changing the government in Ukraine and the main goal behind the “special operation” is to help the Russian sympathisers in the various parts of the country and to combat the so-called “anti-Russian enclave”. Toll in China factory fire rises to 38; workers reportedly violated safety measures A fire at a factory in Anyang City in central China's Henan Province has killed 36 people, state media said Tuesday, citing local authorities. Two people at the plant are still missing. News agency Xinhua reported that the fire broke out Monday afternoon. Zoom shares down 90% from pandemic peak in October 2020 In a post-Covid world, Zoom Video Communications Inc. shares have lost approximately 90 per cent of their value since the pandemic peak in October 2020. Japan’s government launches probe into Unification Church amid public backlash over alleged ties On Tuesday, Japan launched a probe into the Unification Church after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was fatally shot by a man who allegedly held a grudge against the group. The incident also revealed the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the organisation’s supposed close ties with the group which triggered a public backlash. Imran Khan 'sold' gold medal from India he received as cricketer: Pak Defence Minister In Pakistan's politics, former Prime Minister Imran Khan continues to be the centre of country's news cycle in which he is surrounded by nothing but controversies. The latest among many that has taken over Khan's currently fragile political fortunes is a controversial claim that he "sold" a gold medal he received from India during his time as Pakistani cricketer. Gazprom threatens to cut gas to Europe, claims Ukraine diverting Moldova gas supplies Gazprom said on Tuesday (November 22) that it may cut gas transit flows via Ukraine, which is the only remaining route for exports to western European markets, from next week. Hong Kong: Six from pro-democracy tabloid plead guilty to foreign collusion Six senior employees of the defunct pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily in Hong Kong pleaded guilty to conspiring with foreign forces on Tuesday.

Top 10 world news: Indonesia quake toll rises, Kurdish base hit by Turkish drone, and more

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