At some of the most significant multilateral and bilateral talks, world leaders have urged Russia and Ukraine to engage in diplomatic talks to end the war. Russia Day and Ukraine Independence Day have passed, but the war that began in late February is still going on. In contested Ukrainian territory, Russia has staged referendums, but the bomb shellings from both sides have continued.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-urges-beijing-to-release-its-citizens-as-foreign-minister-wong-heads-to-china-544733">Australia urges Beijing to release its citizens as Foreign Minister Wong heads to China</a>

And now, Christmas is just around the corner. The holiday spirit is on the verge of taking flight, like a butterfly. However, people in Siberia's Chita are unable to disassociate Christmas from the war in Ukraine, as is self-explanatory. The locals are participating in the festivities in ways that are most comfortable for them.

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Temperatures in Russia's Siberia have dropped significantly and the winter chill has gripped the air. As the ice soldiers carry automatic rifles, it is not hard for anyone to know that it is an allusion to Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. The ice-sculptures stand guard near the centerpiece of Chita's New Year festivities. Next to the ice soldiers, there are towering decorated fir trees and an array of enormous ice-slides under construction.

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Even if for many people the winter holiday season is all about happiness, comfort, and pleasure, it is really more difficult for many others who are fighting in the Ukraine war. These ice sculptures were built in the Russian Siberian city of Chita, where patriotism is on full display. A Russian tricolour is being held by a stylized ice soldier outside the neighbourhood concert facility.

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Chita, which is around 3,000 kilometres east of Moscow, have thought that militarised ice sculptures would be a suitable ornament for this holiday season as the Russia-Ukraine war prolongs. The authorities in Chita see it as a means of promoting a nationalistic new year. However, on the festivities, there are differing opinions. One local Tatyana told BBC that since "we're waging a war," it was appropriate to have these ice warriors in the area.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-sports-world-champions-argentina-return-home-to-a-rapturous-welcome-544756">WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome</a>

Ludmila said that it is an unusual way of celebrating the New Year as normally one has Santa Claus, bunny rabbits or squirrels. The letter "Z"—the symbol of the Kremlin's "special military operation" in Ukraine—shares centre stage on Lenin Square with the adorned fir tree. If you watch the news on Chita TV, you'll see stories about local students who wrote holiday greetings to Russian soldiers in Ukraine rather than to Santa Claus. Another local Margarita said she gets worried that Russia will suffer from what is happening now. She said, "At the end of the day I would like there to be peace. I would like there to be no wars. We can do without those. But what will be will be."

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At some of the most significant multilateral and bilateral talks, world leaders have urged Russia and Ukraine to engage in diplomatic talks to end the war. Russia Day and Ukraine Independence Day have passed, but the war that began in late February is still going on.

At some of the most significant multilateral and bilateral talks, world leaders have urged Russia and Ukraine to engage in diplomatic talks to end the war. Russia Day and Ukraine Independence Day have passed, but the war that began in late February is still going on. In contested Ukrainian territory, Russia has staged referendums, but the bomb shellings from both sides have continued. ALSO READ | Australia urges Beijing to release its citizens as Foreign Minister Wong heads to China And now, Christmas is just around the corner. The holiday spirit is on the verge of taking flight, like a butterfly. However, people in Siberia's Chita are unable to disassociate Christmas from the war in Ukraine, as is self-explanatory. The locals are participating in the festivities in ways that are most comfortable for them. Temperatures in Russia's Siberia have dropped significantly and the winter chill has gripped the air. As the ice soldiers carry automatic rifles, it is not hard for anyone to know that it is an allusion to Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. The ice-sculptures stand guard near the centerpiece of Chita's New Year festivities. Next to the ice soldiers, there are towering decorated fir trees and an array of enormous ice-slides under construction. ALSO READ | In a turnaround, FTX's Bankman-Fried will reportedly agree to US extradition to face fraud charges Even if for many people the winter holiday season is all about happiness, comfort, and pleasure, it is really more difficult for many others who are fighting in the Ukraine war. These ice sculptures were built in the Russian Siberian city of Chita, where patriotism is on full display. A Russian tricolour is being held by a stylized ice soldier outside the neighbourhood concert facility. Chita, which is around 3,000 kilometres east of Moscow, have thought that militarised ice sculptures would be a suitable ornament for this holiday season as the Russia-Ukraine war prolongs. The authorities in Chita see it as a means of promoting a nationalistic new year. However, on the festivities, there are differing opinions. One local Tatyana told BBC that since "we're waging a war," it was appropriate to have these ice warriors in the area. WATCH | WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome Ludmila said that it is an unusual way of celebrating the New Year as normally one has Santa Claus, bunny rabbits or squirrels. The letter "Z"—the symbol of the Kremlin's "special military operation" in Ukraine—shares centre stage on Lenin Square with the adorned fir tree. If you watch the news on Chita TV, you'll see stories about local students who wrote holiday greetings to Russian soldiers in Ukraine rather than to Santa Claus. Another local Margarita said she gets worried that Russia will suffer from what is happening now. She said, "At the end of the day I would like there to be peace. I would like there to be no wars. We can do without those. But what will be will be." 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: From Ice soldiers to Z symbol, a different kind of Christmas in Siberia's Chita, IN PICS

The garage official said that rebel groups killed at least three soldiers and eight civilians in an attack in the Northern part of Burkina Faso. The soldiers were patrolling when they were caught in an ambush.

Burkina Faso: At least three soldiers and eight civilians killed in ambush, death toll set to rise

It was not long ago that Ibrahim Troy, a relatively low ranking officer in Burkina Faso's military was running an artillery regiment in a small Northern Town. Now cheering crowds greet the self-declared leader after he and a group of soldiers overthrew President Paul Henry.

Burkina Faso's new self-declared leader, second coup in this year

Soldiers in the West African country of Burkina Faso have toppled the military government. Army Captain has ousted the military leader Paul-Henri Damiba dissolving the government.

Soldiers announce overthrow of military government, army captain ousts leader

Seven Pakistan Army soldiers and five terrorists have been killed during an intelligence-based operation in the Asman Manza area of South Waziristan,&nbsp;the military's media wing said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Watch | Pakistan has a “multiplicity of interests” in Afghanistan: Antony Blinken

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Pakistani security forces cordoned off the area, and began a search operation "to eliminate any other terrorists" found in the area,&nbsp;it&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

In recent months, there has been an uptick in attacks on security&nbsp;forces.&nbsp;In a suicide attack near a check post on Quetta's&nbsp;Mastung&nbsp;Road,&nbsp;at least four Frontier Corps officials were killed&nbsp;and 18 others were&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;earlier this&nbsp;month.&nbsp;

Last week, two Pakistan Army soldiers were killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in North Waziristan.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-girls-football-players-fled-taliban-rule-for-pakistan-413338" hreflang="en">Afghanistan's girls' football players fled Taliban rule for Pakistan</a>

Security forces were conducting a clearance operation in the district's&nbsp;Dosalli&nbsp;area when the IED exploded, the ISPR had said.&nbsp;

In August, three Levies personnel were killed&nbsp;and as many&nbsp;were&nbsp;injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in&nbsp;Balochistan's&nbsp;Ziarat district.&nbsp;

Seven Pakistan Army soldiers and five terrorists have been killed during an intelligence-based operation in the Asman Manza area of South Waziristan, the military's media wing said on Wednesday.

Seven Pakistan Army soldiers and five terrorists have been killed during an intelligence-based operation in the Asman Manza area of South Waziristan, the military's media wing said on Wednesday. Watch | Pakistan has a “multiplicity of interests” in Afghanistan: Antony Blinken × Pakistani security forces cordoned off the area, and began a search operation "to eliminate any other terrorists" found in the area, it added. In recent months, there has been an uptick in attacks on security forces. In a suicide attack near a check post on Quetta's Mastung Road, at least four Frontier Corps officials were killed and 18 others were hurt earlier this month. Last week, two Pakistan Army soldiers were killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in North Waziristan. Also Read: Afghanistan's girls' football players fled Taliban rule for Pakistan Security forces were conducting a clearance operation in the district's Dosalli area when the IED exploded, the ISPR had said. In August, three Levies personnel were killed and as many were injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in Balochistan's Ziarat district.

7 Pakistan Army soldiers, 5 terrorists killed in South Waziristan

The war in Ukraine is nearing its fifth month and the situation in eastern Ukraine continues to worsen. With an increase in shelling and war casualties, ambulance teams in the Donbas region have come to the rescue of those front-line soldiers.

Russia-Ukraine crisis | 500 front-line soldiers injured daily: Ambulance teams

A second war crimes verdict is out in Ukraine, two Russian soldiers have been sentenced to more than 11 years in jail for shelling a town in the east.

Kyiv accused Russia of atrocities against civilians, soldiers sentenced for shelling town

The number of NATO troops stationed on the alliance's eastern frontier has nearly doubled since last year, reaching 40,000. There were 4,650 troops under direct NATO command in February 2021, a year before Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, according to NATO records. In Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland, these soldiers were assigned to four multinational battlegroups.

Then Russia began deploying troops and capabilities along its shared border with Ukraine, accelerating these moves at the end of last year and beginning of this year, claiming it was a defensive move in response to Ukraine's NATO ambitions and the trans-Atlantic alliance's eastward expansion since the 1990s.

NATO and its 30 members bolstered their eastern locations with more soldiers and capabilities in response to Russia's troop buildup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-backs-finland-and-swedens-historic-nato-application-480234" hreflang="en">Biden backs Finland and Sweden's 'historic' NATO application</a>

There were 40,000 allied forces under direct NATO command a month after Russia's invasion of Ukraine began, with existing battlegroups dramatically strengthened — Poland's increased from 1,010 men to 10,500 — and four new battlegroups established in Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Over 250 Ukrainians from Azovstal are in Russian captivity

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Furthermore, under bilateral agreements, numerous European countries have requested additional US troops, raising the total number of American soldiers in Europe to around 100,000, the highest level since 2005.

As a result of Russia's aggression, European NATO members have pledged to dramatically increase their defence spending in order to meet the alliance's aim of 2% of GDP. Members of NATO have also begun a "reset" of their policy, promising to enhance deployments and capabilities on the ground, at sea, and in the air. At a conference in June, more specifics on this approach will be revealed.

Furthermore, two European nations, Sweden and Finland, have made formal requests to join the defence alliance, thus doubling the length of the union's shared border with Russia.

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The number of NATO troops stationed on the alliance's eastern frontier has nearly doubled since last year, reaching 40,000. There were 4,650 troops under direct NATO command in February 2021, a year before Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, according to NATO records.

The number of NATO troops stationed on the alliance's eastern frontier has nearly doubled since last year, reaching 40,000. There were 4,650 troops under direct NATO command in February 2021, a year before Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, according to NATO records. In Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland, these soldiers were assigned to four multinational battlegroups. Then Russia began deploying troops and capabilities along its shared border with Ukraine, accelerating these moves at the end of last year and beginning of this year, claiming it was a defensive move in response to Ukraine's NATO ambitions and the trans-Atlantic alliance's eastward expansion since the 1990s. NATO and its 30 members bolstered their eastern locations with more soldiers and capabilities in response to Russia's troop buildup. Also Read: Biden backs Finland and Sweden's 'historic' NATO application There were 40,000 allied forces under direct NATO command a month after Russia's invasion of Ukraine began, with existing battlegroups dramatically strengthened — Poland's increased from 1,010 men to 10,500 — and four new battlegroups established in Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. Watch: Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Over 250 Ukrainians from Azovstal are in Russian captivity × Furthermore, under bilateral agreements, numerous European countries have requested additional US troops, raising the total number of American soldiers in Europe to around 100,000, the highest level since 2005. As a result of Russia's aggression, European NATO members have pledged to dramatically increase their defence spending in order to meet the alliance's aim of 2% of GDP. Members of NATO have also begun a "reset" of their policy, promising to enhance deployments and capabilities on the ground, at sea, and in the air. At a conference in June, more specifics on this approach will be revealed. Furthermore, two European nations, Sweden and Finland, have made formal requests to join the defence alliance, thus doubling the length of the union's shared border with Russia. 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.

Ukraine war: NATO now has 40,000 soldiers on Europe's border with Russia

Israel marked its annual memorial day in memory of the citizens who have been killed by terror and those who have died serving their country since the establishment of the state of Israel, our correspondent Jodie Cohen sent us this ground report, take a look.

Israel marks annual memorial day, remembers its fallen soldiers

At least, seven soldiers have been killed in an ambush near the Afghan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to Pakistan military, one of its convoy was targeted near the Afghan border triggering an intense gunfight between the two sides.

Seven soldiers killed in killed in an ambush in northwest Pakistan

The situation in Ukraine is worsening with each passing day. Thousands of people have been killed so far and many have been uprooted from their city. Several devastating images have emerged from the war-torn nation. However, a recent video that is doing rounds on social media shows a couple getting married on the frontline.&nbsp;

Lesya and Valeriy have been together for twenty years and have an 18-year-old daughter. However, they did not get the time to get married. Both of them are volunteers from one of the 112th Battalions of the Kyiv special troop brigade.

In the video, both of them can be seen donned in military uniforms and surrounded by soldiers who are heard singing the local songs.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765">Also read |&nbsp;Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a>

One of the soldiers can also be seen playing tunes on a traditional Ukrainian musical instrument.

Also, Lesya can be seen holding a bouquet and both have champagne glasses in their hands. She is also wearing a white veil, instead of a camouflaged helmet.&nbsp;

In a heartwarming gesture, both can be seen holding each other's hands.&nbsp;

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Volunteers from one of the 112th Battalions of the Kyiv Special Troop Brigade got married. 
Lesya and Valeriy have been together for twenty years and have an 18-year-old daughter, but they still haven't had time to get married. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/R9ms9WhpUT">pic.twitter.com/R9ms9WhpUT</a>
— Ukraine Update 🇺🇦 (@Ukrain_War) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ukrain_War/status/1500490518010404864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Since uploaded, the video has garnered tons of attention on social media. "Ukraine finds love. Russia finds war," wrote a Twitter user.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as Russia is advancing in Ukraine, the US and its allies have also started to plan about how to help establish and support a government-in-exile. &nbsp;

This government could direct guerrilla operations against Russian occupiers, as per several US and European officials. &nbsp;This comes as the Ukraine is still longing for complete support from the US and its allies.

The US has provided weapons to Ukraine's military. This equipment continues to flow into the country. It would be crucial for the success of an insurgent movement later, the officials said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The situation in Ukraine is worsening with each passing day. Thousands of people have been killed so far and many have been uprooted from their city. Several devastating images have emerged from the war-torn nation.

The situation in Ukraine is worsening with each passing day. Thousands of people have been killed so far and many have been uprooted from their city. Several devastating images have emerged from the war-torn nation. However, a recent video that is doing rounds on social media shows a couple getting married on the frontline. Lesya and Valeriy have been together for twenty years and have an 18-year-old daughter. However, they did not get the time to get married. Both of them are volunteers from one of the 112th Battalions of the Kyiv special troop brigade. In the video, both of them can be seen donned in military uniforms and surrounded by soldiers who are heard singing the local songs. Also read | Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter One of the soldiers can also be seen playing tunes on a traditional Ukrainian musical instrument. Also, Lesya can be seen holding a bouquet and both have champagne glasses in their hands. She is also wearing a white veil, instead of a camouflaged helmet. In a heartwarming gesture, both can be seen holding each other's hands. Volunteers from one of the 112th Battalions of the Kyiv Special Troop Brigade got married. Lesya and Valeriy have been together for twenty years and have an 18-year-old daughter, but they still haven't had time to get married. #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/R9ms9WhpUT — Ukraine Update 🇺🇦 (@Ukrain_War) March 6, 2022 × Since uploaded, the video has garnered tons of attention on social media. "Ukraine finds love. Russia finds war," wrote a Twitter user. Meanwhile, as Russia is advancing in Ukraine, the US and its allies have also started to plan about how to help establish and support a government-in-exile. This government could direct guerrilla operations against Russian occupiers, as per several US and European officials. This comes as the Ukraine is still longing for complete support from the US and its allies. The US has provided weapons to Ukraine's military. This equipment continues to flow into the country. It would be crucial for the success of an insurgent movement later, the officials said.

Watch: Video shows Ukrainian soldiers getting married on battlefield

Designed specifically for Sikh soldiers in the army, global defence & homeland security company MKU has come out with 'The Veer Helmet' which can be worn comfortably over their under-turban cloth, giving Sikh soldiers an added layer of safety. #army #sikh #soldier

'Veer Helmet': Special helmets for Sikh soldiers in Indian Army

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament.

They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." 
 
Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced&nbsp;that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked.

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The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coup-or-mutiny-burkina-faso-on-the-boil-heres-what-is-happening-447146#why-is-burkina-fasos-army-mutinying-447134">Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening</a>

The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place.

The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-unrest-blood-stained-bullet-riddled-vehicles-of-president-seen-near-his-residence-447194">Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence</a> 
 
The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. 
Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time.

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked. × The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency. Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place. The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation. Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Burkina Faso soldiers announce military takeover on state TV

Soldiers in Burkina Faso have deposed the government, closed the borders and taken control of the country. President Roch Marc Christian Kabore has reportedly been arrested.

Burkina Faso army seize power from President Roch Kabore

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party.

The government called for calm, denying speculation on social media that the army had seized power or detained Kabore.

A spokesperson for the mutineers said they were demanding "appropriate" resources and training for the army in its fight against militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and the resignation of the army and intelligence chiefs.

Frustration in the West African gold producing country has grown in recent months over deteriorating security. The deaths of 49 military police in a militant attack in November prompted violent street protests calling for Kabore to step down.

Protesters in the streets of the capital Ouagadougou on Sunday urged the soldiers to go further, chanting "Free the country!"

The mutiny underlines the threat posed by growing Islamist insurgencies across West Africa’s Sahel region, a semi-arid strip of land beneath the Sahara Desert.

The militants have seized control of swathes of territory across&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso and its neighbours, Mali and Niger. In some cases, they force residents to abide by their harsh interpretation of Islamic law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-navy-chief-steps-down-after-his-new-delhi-comments-on-putin-ukraine-446810">Also read |&nbsp;German Navy chief steps down after his New Delhi comments on Putin, Ukraine</a>

Heavy gunfire was first heard on Sunday at Ouagadougou's Sangoule Lamizana camp, which houses a prison whose inmates include soldiers involved in a failed 2015 coup attempt, as early as 5:00 am (0500 GMT), Reuters reporters said.

Hundreds of people later came out in support of the mutineers. At the Lamizana camp, where a crowd of about 100 sang the national anthem and chanted, the soldiers responded by firing into the air. It was not clear if this was meant to show support for the demonstrators or to disperse them.

In downtown Ouagadougou, near the Place de la Nation, police fired teargas to disperse around 300 protesters.

Soldiers also fired into the air at an air base close to Ouagadougou International Airport, according to Reuters reporters. The US embassy also reported gunfire at three other military bases in Ouagadougou and at bases in the northern towns of Kaya and Ouahigouya.

Elsewhere in Ouagadougou, protesters burned and looted the headquarters of Kabore's People's Movement for Progress (MPP), a Reuters reporter said.

The spokesperson for the mutineers, who addressed reporters in front of Lamizana camp, called for better welfare for wounded soldiers and their families.

COUP FEARS

Burkina&nbsp;Faso's government confirmed gunfire at some military camps but denied reports on social media that the army had seized power.

Speaking on national television, Defence Minister General Bathelemy Simpore said the reasons for the gunfire were still unclear.

"The head of state has not been detained; no institution of the country has been threatened," Simpore said. "For now, we don’t know their motives or what they are demanding. We are trying to get in contact with them," he said.

Kabore was not seen in public. His Twitter account issued a single tweet on Sunday to encourage&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso's national soccer team in its Africa Cup of Nations match against Gabon later in the day. It made no mention of events at home.

NetBlocks, an internet blockage observatory, said web access had been disrupted as of around 10 am&nbsp;A spokesperson for the airport said flights had not been cancelled.

Governments in West and Central Africa are on high alert for coups after successful putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September.

The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-calls-uks-claim-as-evidence-that-nato-escalating-tensions-around-ukraine-446893">Also read |&nbsp;Russia calls UK's claim as 'evidence' that NATO escalating tensions around Ukraine</a>

Burkinabe authorities arrested a dozen soldiers earlier this month on suspicion of conspiring against the government.

The arrests followed a shake-up within the army's leadership in December, which some analysts saw as an effort by President Kabore to shore up his support within the military.

Rising violence in&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso driven by Islamist attacks killed over 2,000 people last year.

Anti-government demonstrations were planned for Saturday, but the government banned them and the police intervened to disperse the hundreds of people who tried to assemble in Ouagadougou.

The government has suspended mobile internet service on several occasions, and the tense situation in November led the UN special envoy to West Africa to warn against any military takeover.

Among the inmates at the Lamizana camp prison is General Gilbert Diendere, who was sentenced in 2019 to 20 years in prison for his role in a failed 2015 coup.

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in Burkina Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party.

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in Burkina Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party. The government called for calm, denying speculation on social media that the army had seized power or detained Kabore. A spokesperson for the mutineers said they were demanding "appropriate" resources and training for the army in its fight against militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and the resignation of the army and intelligence chiefs. Frustration in the West African gold producing country has grown in recent months over deteriorating security. The deaths of 49 military police in a militant attack in November prompted violent street protests calling for Kabore to step down. Protesters in the streets of the capital Ouagadougou on Sunday urged the soldiers to go further, chanting "Free the country!" The mutiny underlines the threat posed by growing Islamist insurgencies across West Africa’s Sahel region, a semi-arid strip of land beneath the Sahara Desert. The militants have seized control of swathes of territory across Burkina Faso and its neighbours, Mali and Niger. In some cases, they force residents to abide by their harsh interpretation of Islamic law. Also read | German Navy chief steps down after his New Delhi comments on Putin, Ukraine Heavy gunfire was first heard on Sunday at Ouagadougou's Sangoule Lamizana camp, which houses a prison whose inmates include soldiers involved in a failed 2015 coup attempt, as early as 5:00 am (0500 GMT), Reuters reporters said. Hundreds of people later came out in support of the mutineers. At the Lamizana camp, where a crowd of about 100 sang the national anthem and chanted, the soldiers responded by firing into the air. It was not clear if this was meant to show support for the demonstrators or to disperse them. In downtown Ouagadougou, near the Place de la Nation, police fired teargas to disperse around 300 protesters. Soldiers also fired into the air at an air base close to Ouagadougou International Airport, according to Reuters reporters. The US embassy also reported gunfire at three other military bases in Ouagadougou and at bases in the northern towns of Kaya and Ouahigouya. Elsewhere in Ouagadougou, protesters burned and looted the headquarters of Kabore's People's Movement for Progress (MPP), a Reuters reporter said. The spokesperson for the mutineers, who addressed reporters in front of Lamizana camp, called for better welfare for wounded soldiers and their families. COUP FEARS Burkina Faso's government confirmed gunfire at some military camps but denied reports on social media that the army had seized power. Speaking on national television, Defence Minister General Bathelemy Simpore said the reasons for the gunfire were still unclear. "The head of state has not been detained; no institution of the country has been threatened," Simpore said. "For now, we don’t know their motives or what they are demanding. We are trying to get in contact with them," he said. Kabore was not seen in public. His Twitter account issued a single tweet on Sunday to encourage Burkina Faso's national soccer team in its Africa Cup of Nations match against Gabon later in the day. It made no mention of events at home. NetBlocks, an internet blockage observatory, said web access had been disrupted as of around 10 am A spokesperson for the airport said flights had not been cancelled. Governments in West and Central Africa are on high alert for coups after successful putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September. The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield. Also read | Russia calls UK's claim as 'evidence' that NATO escalating tensions around Ukraine Burkinabe authorities arrested a dozen soldiers earlier this month on suspicion of conspiring against the government. The arrests followed a shake-up within the army's leadership in December, which some analysts saw as an effort by President Kabore to shore up his support within the military. Rising violence in Burkina Faso driven by Islamist attacks killed over 2,000 people last year. Anti-government demonstrations were planned for Saturday, but the government banned them and the police intervened to disperse the hundreds of people who tried to assemble in Ouagadougou. The government has suspended mobile internet service on several occasions, and the tense situation in November led the UN special envoy to West Africa to warn against any military takeover. Among the inmates at the Lamizana camp prison is General Gilbert Diendere, who was sentenced in 2019 to 20 years in prison for his role in a failed 2015 coup.

Soldiers mutiny in Burkina Faso, government dismisses talk of coup

As the unresolved India-China border border standoff continues to brew tensions, latest media reports claim that China is sending machine gun carrying robots at the border to further fuel the conflict.

China sending killer robots with machine guns near LAC in Tibet to fuel conflict with India

The festival of lights Diwali is India's biggest festival and is celebrated with great enthusiasm around the country. Indian PM Narendra Modi has continued his tradition of celebrating Diwali with the soldiers.

PM Narendra Modi celebrates Diwali with Indian forces, pays tribute to the martyred soldiers

Ever since the Taliban took control of Kabul, foot soldiers have been enjoying the sightseeing in the city. However, a report by

The Wall Street Journal suggests that Afghanistan's new defence minister has told the fighters to stop having so much fun.&nbsp; 
Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob said that the soldiers need to stop taking selfies as it compromises the security of Taliban leaders.

There have been images of Taliban fighters visiting the animals at Kabul's zoo, riding bumper cars at amusement parks, taking part in impromptu wrestling.&nbsp;

<a href="https://news.yahoo.com/taliban-foot-soldiers-stop-having-121229535.html">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban urge international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan</a>

The Wall Street Journal quoted Yaqoob as saying, "Stick to the tasks you have been assigned." He added, "You are damaging our status, which has been created with the blood of our martyrs."

In a recent speech, Yaqoob said that when these photos end up on social media, they can give away the locations and activities of the group's leadership. He also disciplined soldiers for driving too fast and for adopting western fashions. He said that Taliban fighters should no longer sport shoulder-length hair, stylish clothing, and white high-top sneakers.

"This is the behavior of the warlords and gangsters of the puppet regime," he said.&nbsp;

"If we continue to act like this, God forbid, we will lose our Islamic system."

Ever since the Taliban took control of Kabul, foot soldiers have been enjoying the sightseeing in the city. However, a report by The Wall Street Journal suggests that Afghanistan's new defence minister has told the fighters to stop having so much fun.

Ever since the Taliban took control of Kabul, foot soldiers have been enjoying the sightseeing in the city. However, a report by The Wall Street Journal suggests that Afghanistan's new defence minister has told the fighters to stop having so much fun. Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob said that the soldiers need to stop taking selfies as it compromises the security of Taliban leaders. There have been images of Taliban fighters visiting the animals at Kabul's zoo, riding bumper cars at amusement parks, taking part in impromptu wrestling. Also read | Taliban urge international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan The Wall Street Journal quoted Yaqoob as saying, "Stick to the tasks you have been assigned." He added, "You are damaging our status, which has been created with the blood of our martyrs." In a recent speech, Yaqoob said that when these photos end up on social media, they can give away the locations and activities of the group's leadership. He also disciplined soldiers for driving too fast and for adopting western fashions. He said that Taliban fighters should no longer sport shoulder-length hair, stylish clothing, and white high-top sneakers. "This is the behavior of the warlords and gangsters of the puppet regime," he said. "If we continue to act like this, God forbid, we will lose our Islamic system."

Afghanistan's new defence minister asks Taliban soldiers to stop taking selfies

Four&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;have been&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in two separate incidents in northern&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;said Monday.

Three&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;said.

Another soldier was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;and one wounded in a shootout with Kurdish fighters near a&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;military base, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-recognise-a-future-afghan-govt-only-if-it-upholds-basic-rights-blinken-405979">Also read |&nbsp;US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken&nbsp;</a>

Turkish&nbsp;forces routinely conduct operations against PKK bases in rugged mountains in northern&nbsp;Iraq.

The group is listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies.

Turkish&nbsp;troops have maintained a network of bases in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;since the mid-1990s under security agreements struck with Saddam Hussein's regime.

The PKK has waged a rebellion in the mainly Kurdish southeast of Turkey since 1984 that has claimed more than 40,000 lives.

The PKK's pan-Kurdish agenda for a homeland straddling parts of Syria, Turkey,&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;and Iran&nbsp;has often put it at odds with&nbsp;Iraq's autonomous Kurdish government, which has sought to maintain good relations with Ankara.

Four Turkish soldiers have been killed in two separate incidents in northern Iraq where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence ministry said Monday. Three soldiers died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where Turkish forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the ministry said.

Four Turkish soldiers have been killed in two separate incidents in northern Iraq where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence ministry said Monday. Three soldiers died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where Turkish forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the ministry said. Another soldier was killed and one wounded in a shootout with Kurdish fighters near a Turkish military base, it said. Also read | US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken Turkish forces routinely conduct operations against PKK bases in rugged mountains in northern Iraq. The group is listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies. Turkish troops have maintained a network of bases in Iraq since the mid-1990s under security agreements struck with Saddam Hussein's regime. The PKK has waged a rebellion in the mainly Kurdish southeast of Turkey since 1984 that has claimed more than 40,000 lives. The PKK's pan-Kurdish agenda for a homeland straddling parts of Syria, Turkey, Iraq and Iran has often put it at odds with Iraq's autonomous Kurdish government, which has sought to maintain good relations with Ankara.

Four Turkish soldiers killed in Iraq: Ministry

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. 
 
Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&amp;K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-diaspora-power-from-remittances-to-diplomacy-overseas-indians-script-indias-success-story-405316" hreflang="en">India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story</a> 
 
Meanwhile, according to the MHA, 398 police personnel are being awarded for their gallant action in Jammu and Kashmir region, 155 personnel for their gallant action in Left Wing Extremism affected areas and 27 personnel in the North-East Region. 
 
The Gallantry medals'&nbsp;awardee, includes 256 from J&amp;K Police, 151 from CRPF, 23 from Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 67 from Odisha Police, 25 from Maharashtra Police, 20 from Chhattisgarh and the remaining from the other states, Union Territories and other Central Armed Police Forces. 
 
Also, 88 medals have been awarded under the President`s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPM) whereas 662 personnel have been awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PM).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-august-14-to-be-observed-as-partition-horrors-remembrance-day-405310" hreflang="en">PM Modi:&nbsp;August 14 to be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day</a>

J&amp;K Police Sub-Inspector Amar Deep has been awarded the highest gallantry award- PPMG, while the Head Constable late Kale Sunil Dattatraya of CRPF has been given PPMG posthumously. 
 
The President's Police Medal is a decoration awarded to the Police personnel in India. Established on March 1, 1951, the medal was originally called the President's Police and Fire Service Medal. 
 
The medal is awarded for either gallantry or distinguished service, with the gallantry version of the medal being accorded higher precedence. The medal is awarded annually on Republic Day and Independence Day.

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously.

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously. Also read | India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story Meanwhile, according to the MHA, 398 police personnel are being awarded for their gallant action in Jammu and Kashmir region, 155 personnel for their gallant action in Left Wing Extremism affected areas and 27 personnel in the North-East Region. The Gallantry medals' awardee, includes 256 from J&K Police, 151 from CRPF, 23 from Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 67 from Odisha Police, 25 from Maharashtra Police, 20 from Chhattisgarh and the remaining from the other states, Union Territories and other Central Armed Police Forces. Also, 88 medals have been awarded under the President`s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPM) whereas 662 personnel have been awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PM). Also read | PM Modi: August 14 to be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day J&K Police Sub-Inspector Amar Deep has been awarded the highest gallantry award- PPMG, while the Head Constable late Kale Sunil Dattatraya of CRPF has been given PPMG posthumously. The President's Police Medal is a decoration awarded to the Police personnel in India. Established on March 1, 1951, the medal was originally called the President's Police and Fire Service Medal. The medal is awarded for either gallantry or distinguished service, with the gallantry version of the medal being accorded higher precedence. The medal is awarded annually on Republic Day and Independence Day.

India Independence day: 1,380 police personnel awarded medals, announces MHA

Three&nbsp;Armenian&nbsp;troops died in border clashes with Azerbaijani forces on Wednesday,&nbsp;Yerevan&nbsp;said, in the deadliest military incident between the arch-foes since their war last year over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

"As a result of armed action launched following an attack by Azerbaijani forces, there are&nbsp;three&nbsp;dead and two wounded from the&nbsp;Armenian&nbsp;side as of 08:30 (0430 GMT)," the defence ministry in&nbsp;Yerevan&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

It said an intense shootout took place near the village of Sotk at the north-eastern sector of the border shared by the Caucasus neighbours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Armenia's foreign ministry said that "the Azerbaijani side is deliberately escalating the situation as its forces remain illegally on Armenia's sovereign territory."

Azerbaijan's defence ministry accused Armenia of a military provocation, saying "two Azerbaijani servicemen were wounded" after&nbsp;Armenian&nbsp;forces opened fire towards Azerbaijani positions in the district of Kelbajar, in the early hours of Wednesday.

"Armenia bears full responsibility for the escalation of tensions along the two countries’ shared border," it said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-escalate-between-armenia-azerbaijan-after-shooting-incident-388041">Also read |&nbsp;Tensions escalate between Armenia, Azerbaijan after shooting incident</a>

Tensions between Baku and&nbsp;Yerevan&nbsp;have been running high since May, when Armenia accused&nbsp;Azerbaijan's military of crossing its southern frontier to "lay siege" to a lake shared by the two countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The six-week war between Armenia and Azerbaijan last autumn claimed about 6,500 lives and ended in November with a Russian-brokered ceasefire under which Armenia ceded territories it had controlled for decades.&nbsp;

Both countries have reported occasional shootouts in recent months along their shared border, sparking fears of a flare up in the territorial dispute.&nbsp;

Ethnic&nbsp;Armenian&nbsp;separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from&nbsp;Azerbaijan&nbsp;as the Soviet Union collapsed, and the ensuing conflict has claimed around 30,000 lives

Three Armenian troops died in border clashes with Azerbaijani forces on Wednesday, Yerevan said, in the deadliest military incident between the arch-foes since their war last year over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Three Armenian troops died in border clashes with Azerbaijani forces on Wednesday, Yerevan said, in the deadliest military incident between the arch-foes since their war last year over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. "As a result of armed action launched following an attack by Azerbaijani forces, there are three dead and two wounded from the Armenian side as of 08:30 (0430 GMT)," the defence ministry in Yerevan said. It said an intense shootout took place near the village of Sotk at the north-eastern sector of the border shared by the Caucasus neighbours. Armenia's foreign ministry said that "the Azerbaijani side is deliberately escalating the situation as its forces remain illegally on Armenia's sovereign territory." Azerbaijan's defence ministry accused Armenia of a military provocation, saying "two Azerbaijani servicemen were wounded" after Armenian forces opened fire towards Azerbaijani positions in the district of Kelbajar, in the early hours of Wednesday. "Armenia bears full responsibility for the escalation of tensions along the two countries’ shared border," it said. Also read | Tensions escalate between Armenia, Azerbaijan after shooting incident Tensions between Baku and Yerevan have been running high since May, when Armenia accused Azerbaijan's military of crossing its southern frontier to "lay siege" to a lake shared by the two countries. The six-week war between Armenia and Azerbaijan last autumn claimed about 6,500 lives and ended in November with a Russian-brokered ceasefire under which Armenia ceded territories it had controlled for decades. Both countries have reported occasional shootouts in recent months along their shared border, sparking fears of a flare up in the territorial dispute. Ethnic Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan as the Soviet Union collapsed, and the ensuing conflict has claimed around 30,000 lives

Three Armenian soldiers killed in clash with Azerbaijan

Two unidentified terrorists were killed and three soldiers injured in an encounter in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Shokbaba forest in the Sumblar area of Bandipora in north Kashmir following inputs about the presence of terrorists there, they said.

The officials said as the forces were conducting searches in the area, the terrorists fired upon them. The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter in which two terrorists were killed, they added.

Three soldiers were also injured in the gunfight, the officials said, adding they were taken to a medical facility for treatment.

The identity and group affiliation of the terrorists is being ascertained, the officials said.

The operation is in progress, he said.&nbsp;

Two unidentified terrorists were killed and three soldiers injured in an encounter in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Shokbaba forest in the Sumblar area of Bandipora in north Kashmir following inputs about the presence of terrorists there, they said.

Two unidentified terrorists were killed and three soldiers injured in an encounter in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Shokbaba forest in the Sumblar area of Bandipora in north Kashmir following inputs about the presence of terrorists there, they said. The officials said as the forces were conducting searches in the area, the terrorists fired upon them. The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter in which two terrorists were killed, they added. Three soldiers were also injured in the gunfight, the officials said, adding they were taken to a medical facility for treatment. The identity and group affiliation of the terrorists is being ascertained, the officials said. The operation is in progress, he said.

Two Terrorists Killed, 3 Soldiers Injured In Encounter In J&K's Bandipora

Militants killed three Pakistani soldiers close to the border with Afghanistan in the North Waziristan tribal region, where Pakistani Taliban fighters have been targeting the Pakistan military, security sources told Reuters. 
 
The militants fired on a checkpost in Spinwam district, in the latest of a spate of attacks on security forces, government officials and suspected collaborators in North Waziristan. The Pakistani military said it was looking into the report. 
 
The rash of violence in Pakistan's tribal lands has coincided with the Afghan Taliban's offensive against the government in Kabul, as the United States hastens its departure from Afghanistan. 
 
Afghanistan's government has regularly accused Pakistan's military of providing covert support for the Afghan Taliban, which the Pakistani government denies. 
 
The Pakistan government has said any peace deal with the Afghan Taliban should ensure groups, like the Pakistan Taliban, do not use Afghanistan as a safe haven for attacks on Pakistan once Western forces withdraw. 
 
On June 30, two soldiers were killed in the Dwatoi district of North Waziristan, after militants opened fire from across the Afghanistan border, Pakistan's military said. 
 
On June 20, a Pakistan soldier was killed in another attack in Spinwam district. In May, militants ambushed and killed four Pakistani soldiers fencing the disputed border with Afghanistan in the southwest province of Balochistan. 
 
In April, a car bomb at a luxury hotel in Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, killed four people in an attack later claimed by the Pakistani Taliban that was meant to target the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan. 
 
And in March, a blast killed three Pakistani soldiers near the Chaman border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Militants killed three Pakistani soldiers close to the border with Afghanistan in the North Waziristan tribal region, where Pakistani Taliban fighters have been targeting the Pakistan military, security sources told Reuters.

Militants killed three Pakistani soldiers close to the border with Afghanistan in the North Waziristan tribal region, where Pakistani Taliban fighters have been targeting the Pakistan military, security sources told Reuters. The militants fired on a checkpost in Spinwam district, in the latest of a spate of attacks on security forces, government officials and suspected collaborators in North Waziristan. The Pakistani military said it was looking into the report. The rash of violence in Pakistan's tribal lands has coincided with the Afghan Taliban's offensive against the government in Kabul, as the United States hastens its departure from Afghanistan. Afghanistan's government has regularly accused Pakistan's military of providing covert support for the Afghan Taliban, which the Pakistani government denies. The Pakistan government has said any peace deal with the Afghan Taliban should ensure groups, like the Pakistan Taliban, do not use Afghanistan as a safe haven for attacks on Pakistan once Western forces withdraw. On June 30, two soldiers were killed in the Dwatoi district of North Waziristan, after militants opened fire from across the Afghanistan border, Pakistan's military said. On June 20, a Pakistan soldier was killed in another attack in Spinwam district. In May, militants ambushed and killed four Pakistani soldiers fencing the disputed border with Afghanistan in the southwest province of Balochistan. In April, a car bomb at a luxury hotel in Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, killed four people in an attack later claimed by the Pakistani Taliban that was meant to target the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan. And in March, a blast killed three Pakistani soldiers near the Chaman border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Militants kill three Pakistani soldiers near Afghan border

Some 30 German soldiers are being recalled from service in Lithuania, with ringleaders facing immediate dismissal, after they were accused of making racist and anti-Semitic remarks and of sexual violence, a German military spokesperson said.

The soldiers were in Lithuania as part of NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence mission providing protection to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia by deterring Russia.

Der Spiegel earlier reported that some German soldiers had got so drunk in a hotel that military police had to be called. Further investigations found that soldiers had sung a birthday song for Nazi leader Adolf Hitler at an earlier gathering.

Beyond violating their oaths, the soldiers were accused of "giving offence with racist and anti-Semitic overtones and showing extremist behaviour," the spokesperson said. They would be back in Germany on Thursday.

"Such behaviour is not only inexcusable but brings shame on us all," she added.

Much of Germany's post-war foreign policy has been focused on showing atonement for the crimes of Hitler's Third Reich, which murdered many millions in the Holocaust of Europe's Jews, one of the worst crimes in human history.

Numerous instances where some members of the police and the military were found showing Nazi sympathies have garnered enormous attention from authorities and the media.

Germany's deployment in the eastern Baltic has added sensitivity since its soldiers last served there in World War Two, where they and members of the German SS committed some of the war's bloodiest crimes in what were then the western marches of the Soviet Union.

The investigation had also found that 569 rounds of ammunition were missing from inventories, though this could have been due to soldiers miscounting at the end of a firing exercise.

The German military's General Inspector had apologised to his Lithuanian counterpart, the spokesperson said.

Some 30 German soldiers are being recalled from service in Lithuania, with ringleaders facing immediate dismissal, after they were accused of making racist and anti-Semitic remarks and of sexual violence, a German military spokesperson said.

Some 30 German soldiers are being recalled from service in Lithuania, with ringleaders facing immediate dismissal, after they were accused of making racist and anti-Semitic remarks and of sexual violence, a German military spokesperson said. The soldiers were in Lithuania as part of NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence mission providing protection to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia by deterring Russia. Der Spiegel earlier reported that some German soldiers had got so drunk in a hotel that military police had to be called. Further investigations found that soldiers had sung a birthday song for Nazi leader Adolf Hitler at an earlier gathering. Beyond violating their oaths, the soldiers were accused of "giving offence with racist and anti-Semitic overtones and showing extremist behaviour," the spokesperson said. They would be back in Germany on Thursday. "Such behaviour is not only inexcusable but brings shame on us all," she added. Much of Germany's post-war foreign policy has been focused on showing atonement for the crimes of Hitler's Third Reich, which murdered many millions in the Holocaust of Europe's Jews, one of the worst crimes in human history. Numerous instances where some members of the police and the military were found showing Nazi sympathies have garnered enormous attention from authorities and the media. Germany's deployment in the eastern Baltic has added sensitivity since its soldiers last served there in World War Two, where they and members of the German SS committed some of the war's bloodiest crimes in what were then the western marches of the Soviet Union. The investigation had also found that 569 rounds of ammunition were missing from inventories, though this could have been due to soldiers miscounting at the end of a firing exercise. The German military's General Inspector had apologised to his Lithuanian counterpart, the spokesperson said.

German soldiers dismissed over Hitler birthday song

At least two soldiers and a police officer were killed Saturday when their vehicle hit an explosive device in northeast Ivory Coast near the border with Burkina Faso, a security source told AFP.

At least two soldiers and a police officer were killed Saturday when their vehicle hit an explosive device in northeast Ivory Coast near the border with Burkina Faso, a security source told AFP. "The explosion also left three wounded," the source said. It comes a week after another attack by suspected jihadists killed an Ivorian soldier in Tougbo town a few kilometres from the border. It also comes just two days after Ivory Coast and France inaugurated a counter-terrorism academy near Abidjan intended to ramp up the Sahel region's ability to counter a widespread jihadist threat. Security experts have warned that the area's bloody jihadist insurgency could spread southwards to countries on the Gulf of Guinea. It was the fourth attack in the West African region in just over two months. Also Read | Thousands protest far-right ideas in France The latest spate of assaults dating back to March, when dozens of suspected Islamists killed three members of the Ivorian security forces in a twin raid on army positions near the border with Burkina. "Three terrorists" were killed and four were arrested, the army said. These attacks have been blamed on jihadists who are active in Burkina Faso, as well as neighbouring Mali and Niger. The Sahel insurgency sprang up in northern Mali in 2012 before advancing into Niger and Burkina Faso in 2015. Ivory Coast was first hit in a jihadist attack in March 2016, when 19 people died in a raid on Grand-Bassam, a seaside resort near Abidjan. In June 2020, 14 soldiers were killed in an attack on Kafolo. "Northern Ivory Coast along the border with Burkina Faso is coming under the heel of jihadist groups. This region constitutes an important security aspect for the Ivorian state," Ivorian anti-terrorism expert Lassina Diarra told AFP recently. On Thursday Ivorian Prime Minister Patrick Achi and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian attended the formal inauguration of the International Academy for the Fight Against Terrorism just outside Abidjan. Ivorian Defence Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara said the academy would be "a focal point of regional competence in the anti-terror fight to benefit the stability of our states and the security of our populations." Former colonial power France already plays a strategic role in the region with a 5,100-strong military presence at the head of Operation Barkhane. But French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday announced a troop drawdown and a new international task force, promising "a profound transformation of our military presence in the Sahel".

Police officer, two soldiers killed in Ivory Coast IED blast

Canada is now putting women at the helm of some of its most senior military posts after a barrage of misconduct allegations against many male officers. A 2015 report on systemic issues within the armed forced shed light on problems like sexual harassment.&nbsp;

In February, Admiral Art McDonald stepped down from the post of country’s top soldier, the chief of defence staff. Later, it was revealed that sexual misconduct allegations forced him to step down.

General Jonathan Vance, McDonald’s predecessor is currently being investigated for inappropriate behaviour with two subordinates who are women. Since the allegations, Vance acknowledged one relationships but had denied misconduct.

On Friday, the country’s defence ministry announced that Major-General Dany Fortin, the head of Covid vaccine rollout in the country was stepping down. This came in amid a probe, the allegations of which are unclear still. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has addressed the crisis, saying - "This is ... not an ideal situation to be in, particularly in this moment of crisis”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/covid-19-canadas-largest-province-halts-astrazeneca-first-doses-over-blood-clot-384495" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses&nbsp;over blood clot</a>

The country’s vaccine rollout will now be handled by Brigadier-General Krista Brodie, who has officially replaced Fortin. Officials said that Brodie was already heavily involved in the vaccine rollout.

General Mike Rouleau, the vice-chief of the defence staff was replaced by Lieutenant-General Frances Allen. Allen is the first woman to hold the post. Just on Friday, three female generals were promoted within the armed forces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canadas-ontario-province-to-send-3000-ventilators-to-india-amid-covid-crisis-382606" hreflang="en">Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis</a>

Recent data from the country’s defence ministry shows that women constituted just 10 per cent of the top posts within the military ranks. In April 2021, Canada appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as in-charge of the team set to address misconduct within the armed forces.

Canada is now putting women at the helm of some of its most senior military posts after a barrage of misconduct allegations against many male officers. A 2015 report on systemic issues within the armed forced shed light on problems like sexual harassment.

Canada is now putting women at the helm of some of its most senior military posts after a barrage of misconduct allegations against many male officers. A 2015 report on systemic issues within the armed forced shed light on problems like sexual harassment. In February, Admiral Art McDonald stepped down from the post of country’s top soldier, the chief of defence staff. Later, it was revealed that sexual misconduct allegations forced him to step down. General Jonathan Vance, McDonald’s predecessor is currently being investigated for inappropriate behaviour with two subordinates who are women. Since the allegations, Vance acknowledged one relationships but had denied misconduct. On Friday, the country’s defence ministry announced that Major-General Dany Fortin, the head of Covid vaccine rollout in the country was stepping down. This came in amid a probe, the allegations of which are unclear still. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has addressed the crisis, saying - "This is ... not an ideal situation to be in, particularly in this moment of crisis”. Also read: COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses over blood clot The country’s vaccine rollout will now be handled by Brigadier-General Krista Brodie, who has officially replaced Fortin. Officials said that Brodie was already heavily involved in the vaccine rollout. General Mike Rouleau, the vice-chief of the defence staff was replaced by Lieutenant-General Frances Allen. Allen is the first woman to hold the post. Just on Friday, three female generals were promoted within the armed forces. Also read: Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis Recent data from the country’s defence ministry shows that women constituted just 10 per cent of the top posts within the military ranks. In April 2021, Canada appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as in-charge of the team set to address misconduct within the armed forces.

Why Canada is appointing women to its highest-ranking military posts

Is French President Emmanuel Macron facing a rebellion from his military? Another open letter has been published. It warns that France is on the brink of collapse and accuses the Macron government of trying to silence warnings of civil war. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is the French military rebelling against Macron?

A group of serving French soldiers has published an open letter in a conservative magazine warning President Emmanuel Macron that the 'survival' of France is at stake because he has made 'concessions' to Islamism.

Macron warned over France's 'survival' by soldiers through an open letter

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.&nbsp;

"It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday.&nbsp;

However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said.&nbsp;

"You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said.&nbsp;

"It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said.&nbsp;

The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said. "It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday. However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said. "You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said. Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan. "We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said. "It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said. The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Before withdrawal, US soldiers’ number may rise in Afghanistan: Pentagon  

In a terrorist attack on a security post, four soldiers and as many insurgents were killed in a shootout that ensued the attack in a former Taliban stronghold in a tribal district in northwest Pakistan on Friday.&nbsp;

The attack took place in Makeen area in the South Waziristan district, bordering Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Troops responded promptly to the attack, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Army's media wing.&nbsp;

"At least four soldiers were killed in the attack," it said, adding four attackers were also killed.&nbsp;

Shah Farman, the governor of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, condemned the attack.&nbsp;

No group has claimed responsibility, although Pakistani Taliban have been blamed for such previous violence in the region, where militants have a presence.&nbsp;

South Waziristan had served as a base for al-Qaeda and Taliban militants until recent years when Pakistan claimed that it has destroyed all hideouts of terrorists in the northwestern tribal belt.&nbsp;

According to Pakistan Army, militants hiding across the border occasionally enter into the country and target the security forces in the region.&nbsp;

In a terrorist attack on a security post, four soldiers and as many insurgents were killed in a shootout that ensued the attack in a former Taliban stronghold in a tribal district in northwest Pakistan on Friday.

In a terrorist attack on a security post, four soldiers and as many insurgents were killed in a shootout that ensued the attack in a former Taliban stronghold in a tribal district in northwest Pakistan on Friday. The attack took place in Makeen area in the South Waziristan district, bordering Afghanistan. Troops responded promptly to the attack, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Army's media wing. "At least four soldiers were killed in the attack," it said, adding four attackers were also killed. Shah Farman, the governor of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, condemned the attack. No group has claimed responsibility, although Pakistani Taliban have been blamed for such previous violence in the region, where militants have a presence. South Waziristan had served as a base for al-Qaeda and Taliban militants until recent years when Pakistan claimed that it has destroyed all hideouts of terrorists in the northwestern tribal belt. According to Pakistan Army, militants hiding across the border occasionally enter into the country and target the security forces in the region.

Militants attack security post, kill 4 soldiers in Pakistan

Four women wearing protective gear lift the body of a coronavirus victim at the Pashupati crematorium in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, and hand it over to crematory workers — a scene unimaginable in the conservative country in recent years.

Women touching a dead body is still a cultural taboo in Nepal. But rights for women have improved since the majority-Hindu country emerged from a decade-long conflict in 2006 and abolished its centuries-old feudal monarchy two years later.

The women carrying corpses in Kathmandu, all soldiers, are being deployed for the first time as the nation of 30 million people tries to manage the bodies of COVID-19 victims amid the growing pandemic.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-says-it-firmly-supports-nepal-to-safeguard-its-sovereignty-territorial-integrity-346464" hreflang="en">China says it firmly supports Nepal to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity</a>

“I feel privileged and happy for being given a chance to do the work that was done only by the males so far,” said one of the women, a 25-year-old corporal named Rachana, who asked to be identified by just one name. “Society is changing ... I have not been to my family since I started my new duty, but my friends are happy. They thank me and say, ‘You have performed a difficult task carefully and maintained your personal safety. Thank you’. I feel happy.”

On their first day on the job last month, the four moved six bodies from a hospital to a crematorium.

Nepal Army spokesman Shantosh B. Poudyal said the 95,000-strong force was putting women soldiers in new roles, part of a programme to empower them.

“Women were deployed in combat duty, hospitals, ordnance, engineers and disasters before. This is the first time they are managing the bodies from hospitals and transporting them to the crematorium,” Poudyal told Reuters. “You can say it is breaking the borders … breaking the glass ceiling.”

Nepal’s army is responsible for managing the bodies of coronavirus victims across the nation.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/day-long-visit-of-chinese-defence-minister-to-nepal-begins-346226" hreflang="en">Day long visit of Chinese defence minister to Nepal begins</a>

The pandemic has killed 1,508 people in the country and infected 233,452 since the virus was first detected in January, according to official data.

On Monday, 29 people were reported dead from COVID-19, the highest number of daily fatalities since November 4, health ministry data showed.

Keeping count of infections and deaths is a challenge, as testing is limited, and experts say the real numbers could be far higher than the official data. A panel is looking into discrepancies, authorities say.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-rejects-prachandas-accusations-through-38-page-document-346170" hreflang="en">Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document</a>

Health workers say the pandemic will only worsen as winter sets in and limited health infrastructure, including critical care beds, is stretched.

Outside the Pashupati cremation house, wailing relatives threw marigolds and vermillion powder over an iron fence onto a white shroud covering the body of a 58-year-old man.

Three other bodies, with tags bearing their names and ages pinned to the bags, laid on the ground next to a white hearse as crematory workers worked past the midnight.

“It is my duty to remove the dead bodies and I am proud of what I am doing,” said Krishna Kumari, another soldier in the group.

The 37-year-old sergeant added: “The work is physically demanding ... and we have proved that women are capable of doing difficult tasks during the pandemic.”

Four women wearing protective gear lift the body of a coronavirus victim at the Pashupati crematorium in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, and hand it over to crematory workers — a scene unimaginable in the conservative country in recent years.

Four women wearing protective gear lift the body of a coronavirus victim at the Pashupati crematorium in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, and hand it over to crematory workers — a scene unimaginable in the conservative country in recent years. Women touching a dead body is still a cultural taboo in Nepal. But rights for women have improved since the majority-Hindu country emerged from a decade-long conflict in 2006 and abolished its centuries-old feudal monarchy two years later. The women carrying corpses in Kathmandu, all soldiers, are being deployed for the first time as the nation of 30 million people tries to manage the bodies of COVID-19 victims amid the growing pandemic. Also read| China says it firmly supports Nepal to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity “I feel privileged and happy for being given a chance to do the work that was done only by the males so far,” said one of the women, a 25-year-old corporal named Rachana, who asked to be identified by just one name. “Society is changing ... I have not been to my family since I started my new duty, but my friends are happy. They thank me and say, ‘You have performed a difficult task carefully and maintained your personal safety. Thank you’. I feel happy.” On their first day on the job last month, the four moved six bodies from a hospital to a crematorium. Nepal Army spokesman Shantosh B. Poudyal said the 95,000-strong force was putting women soldiers in new roles, part of a programme to empower them. “Women were deployed in combat duty, hospitals, ordnance, engineers and disasters before. This is the first time they are managing the bodies from hospitals and transporting them to the crematorium,” Poudyal told Reuters. “You can say it is breaking the borders … breaking the glass ceiling.” Nepal’s army is responsible for managing the bodies of coronavirus victims across the nation. Also read| Day long visit of Chinese defence minister to Nepal begins The pandemic has killed 1,508 people in the country and infected 233,452 since the virus was first detected in January, according to official data. On Monday, 29 people were reported dead from COVID-19, the highest number of daily fatalities since November 4, health ministry data showed. Keeping count of infections and deaths is a challenge, as testing is limited, and experts say the real numbers could be far higher than the official data. A panel is looking into discrepancies, authorities say. Also read| Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document Health workers say the pandemic will only worsen as winter sets in and limited health infrastructure, including critical care beds, is stretched. Outside the Pashupati cremation house, wailing relatives threw marigolds and vermillion powder over an iron fence onto a white shroud covering the body of a 58-year-old man. Three other bodies, with tags bearing their names and ages pinned to the bags, laid on the ground next to a white hearse as crematory workers worked past the midnight. “It is my duty to remove the dead bodies and I am proud of what I am doing,” said Krishna Kumari, another soldier in the group. The 37-year-old sergeant added: “The work is physically demanding ... and we have proved that women are capable of doing difficult tasks during the pandemic.”

Nepal's female soldiers break taboos to tackle COVID crisis

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