Dozens were injured when Georgian police fired water cannon against hundreds of protesters who gathered outside the Central Election Commission (CEC) on Sunday to support an opposition call for a rerun of Oct. 31 parliamentary elections.

The protesters say the polls were rigged.

Police reportedly also used tear gas. They have, however, denied it.

The demonstrators had marched to the CEC building from the capital`s main Rustaveli avenue, where thousands of people held a peaceful rally.

Opposition leaders called on supporters to leave the scene after many protesters became soaked or injured, but said the next protest would be held on Monday.

The opposition is demanding the resignation of the CEC chief, Tamar Zhvania, and the calling of fresh elections.

According to official results, the ruling Georgian Dream party won 48.23% of the vote, with the largest opposition party, the United National Movement (UNM), taking 27.18%.

After the result gave the ruling party the right to form a government, eight opposition parties, including the UNM, said they would boycott parliament.

The opposition accuses the ruling party and its supporters of vote buying, making threats against voters and observers and of violations during the counting process. Georgian Dream leaders have denied the accusations.

Protesters moved to the CEC building after the 8 p.m. deadline to dismiss the electoral commission head and to start talks on a fresh vote passed without a response from the government.

(with inputs)

Dozens were injured when Georgian police fired water cannon against hundreds of protesters who gathered outside the Central Election Commission (CEC) on Sunday to support an opposition call for a rerun of Oct.

Dozens were injured when Georgian police fired water cannon against hundreds of protesters who gathered outside the Central Election Commission (CEC) on Sunday to support an opposition call for a rerun of Oct. 31 parliamentary elections. The protesters say the polls were rigged. Police reportedly also used tear gas. They have, however, denied it. The demonstrators had marched to the CEC building from the capital`s main Rustaveli avenue, where thousands of people held a peaceful rally. Opposition leaders called on supporters to leave the scene after many protesters became soaked or injured, but said the next protest would be held on Monday. The opposition is demanding the resignation of the CEC chief, Tamar Zhvania, and the calling of fresh elections. According to official results, the ruling Georgian Dream party won 48.23% of the vote, with the largest opposition party, the United National Movement (UNM), taking 27.18%. After the result gave the ruling party the right to form a government, eight opposition parties, including the UNM, said they would boycott parliament. The opposition accuses the ruling party and its supporters of vote buying, making threats against voters and observers and of violations during the counting process. Georgian Dream leaders have denied the accusations. Protesters moved to the CEC building after the 8 p.m. deadline to dismiss the electoral commission head and to start talks on a fresh vote passed without a response from the government. (with inputs)

Police in ex-Soviet Georgia fire water cannon on election protesters

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his&nbsp;support for banning a&nbsp;comparison between&nbsp;the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) with Hitler's Germany.

The announcement comes after the publication of two foreign books in Russia that were comparing the leadership of both the USSR and Nazi Germany.

Elena Yampolskaya, the&nbsp;head of the Russian Parliament's committee on culture and a member of the governing United Russia party had put forward the suggestion on Tuesday saying ''the Soviets were worse than the Nazis."

Without naming the two books she added ''Unfortunately, we translate and publish such impudent, unsubstantiated books in our country. The first book had 45,000 copies published, and the second 80,000. Both are popular with young people.''

In response, Putin said, ''I agree with your suggestions. We need to be careful, but of course, do it.''

We will be exposing any attempts to distort history and to let the spirit of alliance and of combat brotherhood be consigned to oblivion,” he added.

Earlier this year, the official Twitter account of the White House in Washington DC had stirred a debate in the wake of guaranteeing that the US and England won World War 2, totally precluding the commitment of the Soviet Union.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his support for banning a comparison between the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) with Hitler's Germany.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his support for banning a comparison between the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) with Hitler's Germany. The announcement comes after the publication of two foreign books in Russia that were comparing the leadership of both the USSR and Nazi Germany. Elena Yampolskaya, the head of the Russian Parliament's committee on culture and a member of the governing United Russia party had put forward the suggestion on Tuesday saying ''the Soviets were worse than the Nazis." Without naming the two books she added ''Unfortunately, we translate and publish such impudent, unsubstantiated books in our country. The first book had 45,000 copies published, and the second 80,000. Both are popular with young people.'' In response, Putin said, ''I agree with your suggestions. We need to be careful, but of course, do it.'' We will be exposing any attempts to distort history and to let the spirit of alliance and of combat brotherhood be consigned to oblivion,” he added. Earlier this year, the official Twitter account of the White House in Washington DC had stirred a debate in the wake of guaranteeing that the US and England won World War 2, totally precluding the commitment of the Soviet Union.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announces support for ban on comparing USSR with Hitler's Germany

The president of Kyrgyzstan, along with the man slated to become the prime minister have reportedly held talks with a senior official from Russia.

The country is currently facing unrest over recent elections. The Central Asian country’s President Sooronbai Jeenbekov's office did not divulge any more details on the talks with Dmitry Kozak, who is the deputy head of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration.

Kozak however did claim that he visited Kyrgyzstan on Monday. According to reports, Sadyr Zhaparov, who is slated to become the next prime minister, as named by the parliament was also in&nbsp;attendance during the meeting. He has not been confirmed as the PM yet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/protesters-clash-in-kyrgyzstan-as-president-jeenbekov-says-ready-to-resign-334087" hreflang="en">Protesters clash in Kyrgyzstan as President Jeenbekov says 'ready to resign'</a>

Russia has remained a close ally of Kyrgyzstan, which hosts a Russian military airbase. The country also has close economic ties with Moscow.

Russia controlled most of former Soviet Union for decades before its disintegration.

After October 4 elections, which pronounced two establishment parties victorious, protests broke out across the country.

Russia has referred to the situation as a mess and chaotic.

One of the two establishment parties have close contact with Jeenbekov. To counter protests, Jeenbekov had announced a state of emergency, and also deployed troops in the capital - Bishkek.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/kyrgyzstan-prime-minister-resigns-during-post-vote-chaos-333077" hreflang="en">Kyrgyzstan prime minister resigns during post-vote chaos</a>

However, the government remains toppled. The president has claimed that he was ready to resign after naming the new prime minister.

Last week, the country’s parliament voted to name Zhaparov as the PM after he was freed from prison during the unrest.&nbsp;

However, his appointment needs confirmation from Jeenbekov.

The president of Kyrgyzstan, along with the man slated to become the prime minister have reportedly held talks with a senior official from Russia. The country is currently facing unrest over recent elections.

The president of Kyrgyzstan, along with the man slated to become the prime minister have reportedly held talks with a senior official from Russia. The country is currently facing unrest over recent elections. The Central Asian country’s President Sooronbai Jeenbekov's office did not divulge any more details on the talks with Dmitry Kozak, who is the deputy head of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration. Kozak however did claim that he visited Kyrgyzstan on Monday. According to reports, Sadyr Zhaparov, who is slated to become the next prime minister, as named by the parliament was also in attendance during the meeting. He has not been confirmed as the PM yet. Also read: Protesters clash in Kyrgyzstan as President Jeenbekov says 'ready to resign' Russia has remained a close ally of Kyrgyzstan, which hosts a Russian military airbase. The country also has close economic ties with Moscow. Russia controlled most of former Soviet Union for decades before its disintegration. After October 4 elections, which pronounced two establishment parties victorious, protests broke out across the country. Russia has referred to the situation as a mess and chaotic. One of the two establishment parties have close contact with Jeenbekov. To counter protests, Jeenbekov had announced a state of emergency, and also deployed troops in the capital - Bishkek. Also read: Kyrgyzstan prime minister resigns during post-vote chaos However, the government remains toppled. The president has claimed that he was ready to resign after naming the new prime minister. Last week, the country’s parliament voted to name Zhaparov as the PM after he was freed from prison during the unrest. However, his appointment needs confirmation from Jeenbekov.

Kyrgyzstan president and potential PM meet Russian official amid unrest

If you surf the website of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), you will spot that it describes the political and military purpose of NATO as&nbsp;"NATO promotes democratic values. NATO's purpose is to guarantee freedom and security of its members."

However, Turkey, a member of NATO, does not fit this criteria.

Under Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey has descended into authoritarianism. He used a failed military coup in 2016 to tighten his grip on power.There was a massive purge within the military, the courts and the education system. Journalists were jailed, assets of political opponents&nbsp;were seized by the state and dissent&nbsp; was crushed.

Erdogan has pushed Turkey into a new presidential system where he controls all levers of power. With the country firmly in his grasp Erdogan forged new alliances with Russia and China — two more authoritarian states.

As a result, Turkey is now the biggest liability for NATO and it doesn't&nbsp;represent the values of the organisation. It has befriended the adversaries of NATO. All of this has made Turkey an unreliable partner.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-under-erdogan-caught-between-democracy-and-dictatorship-333285">Also read|&nbsp;Turkey under Erdogan: Caught between democracy and dictatorship</a>

However, NATO has still not taken an action on Turkey's changed stance.

The alliance

NATO, which was created in&nbsp;1949, has 30 members. In the aftermath of the second world war, the purpose was to secure peace in Europe, especially against the Soviet Union. Then the Soviet Union fell and the relevance of NATO came into question.

Today,&nbsp;the NATO says its allies are committed to democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.

Turkey joined the organisation in 1952 because there was a synergy of interests. Turkey didn't want to fall under the Soviet influence and its military made key contributions in the fight.

However, that is no longer the case. Today, Erdogan is on a collision course with the NATO. It is fighting the allies of NATO itself and that has been visible in Turkey's key activities in the past one year.

In January, Turkey violated a United Nations arms embrago in Libya. Turkish warships escorted a vessel suspected of smuggling weapons into Libya. By June, Turkey was locked in a direct face-off against Greece and France.

NATO's allies have sworn to protect each other. When one is in trouble, all members come to its rescue. However,&nbsp;Turkey was ready to wage a war against Greece to control oil and gas supplies.

Now, Turkey is fueling another conflict&nbsp;in Nagorno-Karabakh.&nbsp;Turkey is arming Azerbaijan against Armenia.

NATO called for a ceasefire, but Turkey refuses to pay heed to such calls.

"It is extremely important that we convey a very clear message to all parties that they should cease fighting immediately, that we should support all efforts to find a peaceful, negotiated solution because there is no military solution to the situation in and around nagorno-karabakh. And this has been a very clear message from me ever since the fighting started because it is dangerous for all those people involved but it is of course also something which is of great concern for all region and all nato allies," said&nbsp;NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg.

Turkey wants to dictate the terms and wants NATO to first ask Armenia to withdraw.

"Both countries are partners of nato. Therefore, it is normal that nato calls for a balanced ceasefire and a peaceful solution but everyone, namely nato, should call for the resolution of this problem under international laws, u.N. Resolutions and azerbaijan's territorial integrity, armenia immediately withdrawing from this region," said Turkish Foreign Minister&nbsp;Mevlut Cavusoglu.

The conflict began 11 days ago and&nbsp;it is getting closer to a full scale war. Turkey is sending Syrian fighters to fight for Azerbaijan, and its&nbsp;relationship with many NATO allies is now straining.

Should turkey remain in the military alliance?

NATO has many reasons to expel Turkey. In 2019, Turkey bought the Russian S-400 missile defence system despite&nbsp;vehement objections of the United States and NATO members.

The alliance was concerned about this weapons deal because it is unlikely that Russian weaponry will integrate into NATO's&nbsp;air defences.

The fissures between Turkey and NATO are getting wider. It is an alliance that operates on consensus and all members must be on the same page.

If Turkey remains at odds with, it can stall any policy change,&nbsp;veto any military move and undermine the policy of collective defence.

In fact, it's already doing it as Turkey has blocked NATO&nbsp;partnerships with Israel, Armenia, Egypt and the UAE. For the longest time, it blocked a plan for the defence of Poland and the baltic nations&nbsp;— countries that share a border with Russia.

Reports say, Erdogan relented&nbsp;only after considerable pressure from Washington and&nbsp;this is not just about NATO. Having Turkey on such a major military alliance poses a threat for all.

Erdogan is triggering conflicts and threatening peace, and an alliance that vows to uphold democractic values and peace, must hold its members accountable o dump them.

If you surf the website of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), you will spot that it describes the political and military purpose of NATO as "NATO promotes democratic values.

If you surf the website of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), you will spot that it describes the political and military purpose of NATO as "NATO promotes democratic values. NATO's purpose is to guarantee freedom and security of its members." However, Turkey, a member of NATO, does not fit this criteria. Under Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey has descended into authoritarianism. He used a failed military coup in 2016 to tighten his grip on power.There was a massive purge within the military, the courts and the education system. Journalists were jailed, assets of political opponents were seized by the state and dissent was crushed. Erdogan has pushed Turkey into a new presidential system where he controls all levers of power. With the country firmly in his grasp Erdogan forged new alliances with Russia and China — two more authoritarian states. As a result, Turkey is now the biggest liability for NATO and it doesn't represent the values of the organisation. It has befriended the adversaries of NATO. All of this has made Turkey an unreliable partner. Also read| Turkey under Erdogan: Caught between democracy and dictatorship However, NATO has still not taken an action on Turkey's changed stance. The alliance NATO, which was created in 1949, has 30 members. In the aftermath of the second world war, the purpose was to secure peace in Europe, especially against the Soviet Union. Then the Soviet Union fell and the relevance of NATO came into question. Today, the NATO says its allies are committed to democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law. Turkey joined the organisation in 1952 because there was a synergy of interests. Turkey didn't want to fall under the Soviet influence and its military made key contributions in the fight. However, that is no longer the case. Today, Erdogan is on a collision course with the NATO. It is fighting the allies of NATO itself and that has been visible in Turkey's key activities in the past one year. In January, Turkey violated a United Nations arms embrago in Libya. Turkish warships escorted a vessel suspected of smuggling weapons into Libya. By June, Turkey was locked in a direct face-off against Greece and France. NATO's allies have sworn to protect each other. When one is in trouble, all members come to its rescue. However, Turkey was ready to wage a war against Greece to control oil and gas supplies. Now, Turkey is fueling another conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. Turkey is arming Azerbaijan against Armenia. NATO called for a ceasefire, but Turkey refuses to pay heed to such calls. "It is extremely important that we convey a very clear message to all parties that they should cease fighting immediately, that we should support all efforts to find a peaceful, negotiated solution because there is no military solution to the situation in and around nagorno-karabakh. And this has been a very clear message from me ever since the fighting started because it is dangerous for all those people involved but it is of course also something which is of great concern for all region and all nato allies," said NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg. Turkey wants to dictate the terms and wants NATO to first ask Armenia to withdraw. "Both countries are partners of nato. Therefore, it is normal that nato calls for a balanced ceasefire and a peaceful solution but everyone, namely nato, should call for the resolution of this problem under international laws, u.N. Resolutions and azerbaijan's territorial integrity, armenia immediately withdrawing from this region," said Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. The conflict began 11 days ago and it is getting closer to a full scale war. Turkey is sending Syrian fighters to fight for Azerbaijan, and its relationship with many NATO allies is now straining. Should turkey remain in the military alliance? NATO has many reasons to expel Turkey. In 2019, Turkey bought the Russian S-400 missile defence system despite vehement objections of the United States and NATO members. The alliance was concerned about this weapons deal because it is unlikely that Russian weaponry will integrate into NATO's air defences. The fissures between Turkey and NATO are getting wider. It is an alliance that operates on consensus and all members must be on the same page. If Turkey remains at odds with, it can stall any policy change, veto any military move and undermine the policy of collective defence. In fact, it's already doing it as Turkey has blocked NATO partnerships with Israel, Armenia, Egypt and the UAE. For the longest time, it blocked a plan for the defence of Poland and the baltic nations — countries that share a border with Russia. Reports say, Erdogan relented only after considerable pressure from Washington and this is not just about NATO. Having Turkey on such a major military alliance poses a threat for all. Erdogan is triggering conflicts and threatening peace, and an alliance that vows to uphold democractic values and peace, must hold its members accountable o dump them.

Fall of democracy: Turkey's Erdogan openly challenging NATO's values

An Armenian woman and child were killed Sunday when heavy fighting erupted between Azerbaijan and Armenian separatists, with the two foes accusing each other of starting fighting that led to casualties on both sides.

Ethnic Armenian separatists seized the Nagorny Karabakh region from Baku in a 1990s war that claimed 30,000 lives.

Talks to resolve the Karabakh dispute -- one of the worst conflicts to emerge from the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union -- have been largely stalled since a 1994 ceasefire agreement.

Armenia said Sunday Azerbaijan attacked civilian settlements in Nagorny Karabakh including its main city Stepanakert.

Azerbaijan's defence ministry said it launched a "counter offensive to suppress Armenia's combat activity and ensure the safety of the population," using tanks, artillery missiles, combat aviation and drones.

"There are reports of dead and wounded among civilians and military servicemen," the spokesman for the Azerbaijani presidency, Hikmet Hajiyev, said in a statement.

Karabakh's ombudsman Artak Beglaryan said "there are civilian casualties" among the region's population.

Separately, a spokesman for the Armenian defence ministry said an Armenian woman and child were killed in Karabakh.&nbsp;

The worst clashes since 2016 have raised the spectre of a fresh large-scale war between arch-foes Azerbaijan and Armenia that have been locked for decades in a territorial dispute over Nagorny Karabakh.

A major confrontation between the ex-Soviet Caucasus neighbours would draw in big regional players Russia and Turkey.

On Sunday morning, Azerbaijan started "active bombing" along Karabakh's frontline and of civilian targets, including in the main city Stepanakert, Karabakh's presidency said.

The rebel defence ministry claimed its troops shot down two Azerbaijani helicopters and three drones.

- 'We will win' - 
The claims were denied by the defence ministry in Baku which said its forces were responding to an Armenian offensive.

Hajiyev said Armenian forces in Karabakh "blatantly violated the ceasefire regime and, using large-caliber weapons, mortar launchers and artillery have launched an intensive attack on the positions of the armed forces of Azerbaijan along the frontline."

"Let us stand firmly behind our state, our army... and we will win. Long live the glorious Armenian army!" Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Facebook.

Azerbaijan's transport ministry said it has "put restrictions on internet traffic" in the country "in order to prevent Armenian provocations."

On Friday, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Armenia of undermining Karabakh peace talks.

In July, heavy clashes along the two countries shared border -- hundreds of kilometres from Karabakh -- claimed the lives of at least 17 troops from both sides.

Raising the stakes, Azerbaijan at the time threatened to strike Armenia's atomic power station if Yerevan attacked strategic facilities.

During the most recent serious clashes in April 2016, some 110 people were killed.&nbsp;

France, Russia and the United States have mediated peace efforts as the "Minsk Group" but the last big push for a peace deal collapsed in 2010.

An Armenian woman and child were killed Sunday when heavy fighting erupted between Azerbaijan and Armenian separatists, with the two foes accusing each other of starting fighting that led to casualties on both sides.

An Armenian woman and child were killed Sunday when heavy fighting erupted between Azerbaijan and Armenian separatists, with the two foes accusing each other of starting fighting that led to casualties on both sides. Ethnic Armenian separatists seized the Nagorny Karabakh region from Baku in a 1990s war that claimed 30,000 lives. Talks to resolve the Karabakh dispute -- one of the worst conflicts to emerge from the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union -- have been largely stalled since a 1994 ceasefire agreement. Armenia said Sunday Azerbaijan attacked civilian settlements in Nagorny Karabakh including its main city Stepanakert. Azerbaijan's defence ministry said it launched a "counter offensive to suppress Armenia's combat activity and ensure the safety of the population," using tanks, artillery missiles, combat aviation and drones. "There are reports of dead and wounded among civilians and military servicemen," the spokesman for the Azerbaijani presidency, Hikmet Hajiyev, said in a statement. Karabakh's ombudsman Artak Beglaryan said "there are civilian casualties" among the region's population. Separately, a spokesman for the Armenian defence ministry said an Armenian woman and child were killed in Karabakh. The worst clashes since 2016 have raised the spectre of a fresh large-scale war between arch-foes Azerbaijan and Armenia that have been locked for decades in a territorial dispute over Nagorny Karabakh. A major confrontation between the ex-Soviet Caucasus neighbours would draw in big regional players Russia and Turkey. On Sunday morning, Azerbaijan started "active bombing" along Karabakh's frontline and of civilian targets, including in the main city Stepanakert, Karabakh's presidency said. The rebel defence ministry claimed its troops shot down two Azerbaijani helicopters and three drones. - 'We will win' - The claims were denied by the defence ministry in Baku which said its forces were responding to an Armenian offensive. Hajiyev said Armenian forces in Karabakh "blatantly violated the ceasefire regime and, using large-caliber weapons, mortar launchers and artillery have launched an intensive attack on the positions of the armed forces of Azerbaijan along the frontline." "Let us stand firmly behind our state, our army... and we will win. Long live the glorious Armenian army!" Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Facebook. Azerbaijan's transport ministry said it has "put restrictions on internet traffic" in the country "in order to prevent Armenian provocations." On Friday, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Armenia of undermining Karabakh peace talks. In July, heavy clashes along the two countries shared border -- hundreds of kilometres from Karabakh -- claimed the lives of at least 17 troops from both sides. Raising the stakes, Azerbaijan at the time threatened to strike Armenia's atomic power station if Yerevan attacked strategic facilities. During the most recent serious clashes in April 2016, some 110 people were killed. France, Russia and the United States have mediated peace efforts as the "Minsk Group" but the last big push for a peace deal collapsed in 2010.

Child, woman among casualties in Nagorny Karabakh heavy fighting

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday.

The president, in office for 26 years, has shown no inclination to step down despite protesters keeping up pressure on him to resign.

For the second weekend in a row he appeared in a black cap and carrying an automatic rifle while walking around his residence, according to a photo published by Russia 's RIA news agency.

Lukashenko, who turned 66 on Sunday, is struggling to contain weeks of protests and strikes since winning an August 9 election his opponents say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters, whom he previously called "rats", are backed from abroad.

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a birthday phone call to invite Lukashenko to visit Moscow, a sign of the Kremlin 's willingness to back Lukashenko as he grapples with the unrest and the threat of new Western sanctions.

Tens of thousands of protesters streamed into central Minsk, carrying balloons, flowers and flags, in the afternoon. Belarus had a white-red-white flag for a brief period in the early 1990s and it has become a symbol of its anti-government protests.

Passing cars honked their horns in solidarity. Some women lay down in protest in front of a cordon of helmeted security forces.

Protesters then converged on Lukashenko 's residence, which was guarded by a wall of security forces carrying shields. A column of armoured military vehicles was seen driving towards the city centre.

Police made sporadic detentions throughout the day, bundling people into prisoner vans. At least 140 people were detained, the interior ministry said, according to RIA. Some protesters resisted arrest by what appeared to be plain-clothes officers, an eyewitness said.

Earlier on Sunday, video footage shared by local media showed women dressed in traditional dress laying several pumpkins in front of the main government building, a folk custom intended to signal the rejection of a suitor.

In a holiday atmosphere, the protesters occasionally sang songs. At one point, a man draped in a flag got down on one knee and made a marriage proposal to a woman who accepted with a hug and a kiss as bystanders cheered.

An aide to the president, Nikolai Latyshenok, ruled out holding talks with the opposition and said that, in his personal opinion, only around 20-30% of Belarusian society was against the president, Russian news agencies reported.

"It has been said many times, let 's decide everything peacefully," TASS cited him as saying. 
One of the country 's largest mobile operators, A1, said it had reduced the capacity of mobile internet bandwidth at the government 's request.

Belarus, meanwhile, is Russia 's closest ex-Soviet ally and its territory is an integral part of Moscow 's European defence strategy. Nevertheless, Lukashenko is seen in Moscow as a prickly partner.

In the biggest sign yet of Russia 's willingness to intervene to prop up Lukashenko, Putin said on Thursday the Kremlin had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko 's request, although it would be deployed only if necessary.

"It was agreed to hold a meeting in Moscow in the coming weeks," the Kremlin said in a statement after the leaders ' call on Sunday.

The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus. Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation.

A onetime manager of a Soviet collective farm, Lukashenko has faced a wave of unrest including from sections of society normally seen as loyal, such as journalists from the tightly-controlled state media who quit and a sitting ambassador, who also resigned.

Hundreds of athletes, including Olympic medallists, published a demand for new elections in a sports website.

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday.

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday. The president, in office for 26 years, has shown no inclination to step down despite protesters keeping up pressure on him to resign. For the second weekend in a row he appeared in a black cap and carrying an automatic rifle while walking around his residence, according to a photo published by Russia 's RIA news agency. Lukashenko, who turned 66 on Sunday, is struggling to contain weeks of protests and strikes since winning an August 9 election his opponents say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters, whom he previously called "rats", are backed from abroad. Russian President Vladimir Putin used a birthday phone call to invite Lukashenko to visit Moscow, a sign of the Kremlin 's willingness to back Lukashenko as he grapples with the unrest and the threat of new Western sanctions. Tens of thousands of protesters streamed into central Minsk, carrying balloons, flowers and flags, in the afternoon. Belarus had a white-red-white flag for a brief period in the early 1990s and it has become a symbol of its anti-government protests. Passing cars honked their horns in solidarity. Some women lay down in protest in front of a cordon of helmeted security forces. Protesters then converged on Lukashenko 's residence, which was guarded by a wall of security forces carrying shields. A column of armoured military vehicles was seen driving towards the city centre. Police made sporadic detentions throughout the day, bundling people into prisoner vans. At least 140 people were detained, the interior ministry said, according to RIA. Some protesters resisted arrest by what appeared to be plain-clothes officers, an eyewitness said. Earlier on Sunday, video footage shared by local media showed women dressed in traditional dress laying several pumpkins in front of the main government building, a folk custom intended to signal the rejection of a suitor. In a holiday atmosphere, the protesters occasionally sang songs. At one point, a man draped in a flag got down on one knee and made a marriage proposal to a woman who accepted with a hug and a kiss as bystanders cheered. An aide to the president, Nikolai Latyshenok, ruled out holding talks with the opposition and said that, in his personal opinion, only around 20-30% of Belarusian society was against the president, Russian news agencies reported. "It has been said many times, let 's decide everything peacefully," TASS cited him as saying. One of the country 's largest mobile operators, A1, said it had reduced the capacity of mobile internet bandwidth at the government 's request. Belarus, meanwhile, is Russia 's closest ex-Soviet ally and its territory is an integral part of Moscow 's European defence strategy. Nevertheless, Lukashenko is seen in Moscow as a prickly partner. In the biggest sign yet of Russia 's willingness to intervene to prop up Lukashenko, Putin said on Thursday the Kremlin had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko 's request, although it would be deployed only if necessary. "It was agreed to hold a meeting in Moscow in the coming weeks," the Kremlin said in a statement after the leaders ' call on Sunday. The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus. Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation. A onetime manager of a Soviet collective farm, Lukashenko has faced a wave of unrest including from sections of society normally seen as loyal, such as journalists from the tightly-controlled state media who quit and a sitting ambassador, who also resigned. Hundreds of athletes, including Olympic medallists, published a demand for new elections in a sports website.

Lukashenko gets birthday call from Putin, as tanks are seen in Minsk amid protests

North and South Korea have been a study in stark contrast ever since they got divided after World War II.

With the declaration of the Soviet-Japanese War , North Korea was&nbsp;occupied by&nbsp;the Soviet Union and South Korea by the United States,&nbsp;with the boundary between their zones being the 38th parallel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-alive-and-well-top-security-adviser-to-south-koreas-president-says-294919" hreflang="en">Kim Jong Un 'alive and well,' top adviser to South Korea's president says</a>

Two seperate governments were formed in the two nations in 1948.

While North Korea became a dictatorship under Kim Il-sung, South Korea became a democracy under&nbsp;Syngman Rhee. 
&nbsp; 
When the north saw economic hardship and famine, its leader promoted what he called the ''Juche'' thought.

The word ''Juche'' means ''self-reliance''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-dictator-kim-jong-un-is-all-about-pomp-glory-and-excess-295166" hreflang="en">North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is all about pomp, glory and excess</a> 
&nbsp; 
However, it failed because it was forced upon the entire nation. 
&nbsp; 
For decades, the country relied on the Soviet Union and China to send it&nbsp;emergency food. The nation's population remained poor, as the dictator amassed more power. 
&nbsp; 
South Korea, on the other hand, transformed from one of the poorest societies in the world, into&nbsp;a developed high-income country.

Many hailed the country's economic growth as a ''miracle''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-shrouds-over-north-korean-dictator-kim-jong-uns-no-show-295158" hreflang="en">Mystery shrouds over North korean dictator Kim Jong-un's no show</a> 
&nbsp; 
The country's rigorous education system and democratic practices ushered a high-tech boom. It is partly why, today, it is home to some of the world's leading brands.

South Korean capital Seoul is making it big in the fields of cinema, cuisine, beauty and entertainment and boasts of a Gross Domestic Product (GDP)&nbsp;of $1690 billion. 
&nbsp; 
Whereas, North Korea's per capita income (PCI) and GDP are among the lowest in the world. That is why the country shies away from releasing any economic data.

The contrast between both the nations is currently at its peak. 
&nbsp; 
While South Korea has succeeded in flattening the curve of the deadly coronavirus and is exporting testing kits across the globe.

Ironically, North Korea, on the other hand, which dreamt of ''self-reliance''&nbsp; had to call doctors from abroad to treat its ailing dictator in hiding. 
&nbsp; 
The story of the two countries show how the people of the same land, took different paths and now stand worlds apart.

North and South Korea have been a study in stark contrast ever since they got divided after World War II. With the declaration of the Soviet-Japanese War , North Korea was occupied by the Soviet Union and South Korea by the United States, with the boundary between their zones being the 38th parallel.

North and South Korea have been a study in stark contrast ever since they got divided after World War II. With the declaration of the Soviet-Japanese War , North Korea was occupied by the Soviet Union and South Korea by the United States, with the boundary between their zones being the 38th parallel. Also read: Kim Jong Un 'alive and well,' top adviser to South Korea's president says Two seperate governments were formed in the two nations in 1948. While North Korea became a dictatorship under Kim Il-sung, South Korea became a democracy under Syngman Rhee. When the north saw economic hardship and famine, its leader promoted what he called the ''Juche'' thought. The word ''Juche'' means ''self-reliance''. Also read: North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is all about pomp, glory and excess However, it failed because it was forced upon the entire nation. For decades, the country relied on the Soviet Union and China to send it emergency food. The nation's population remained poor, as the dictator amassed more power. South Korea, on the other hand, transformed from one of the poorest societies in the world, into a developed high-income country. Many hailed the country's economic growth as a ''miracle''. Also read: Mystery shrouds over North korean dictator Kim Jong-un's no show The country's rigorous education system and democratic practices ushered a high-tech boom. It is partly why, today, it is home to some of the world's leading brands. South Korean capital Seoul is making it big in the fields of cinema, cuisine, beauty and entertainment and boasts of a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $1690 billion. Whereas, North Korea's per capita income (PCI) and GDP are among the lowest in the world. That is why the country shies away from releasing any economic data. The contrast between both the nations is currently at its peak. While South Korea has succeeded in flattening the curve of the deadly coronavirus and is exporting testing kits across the globe. Ironically, North Korea, on the other hand, which dreamt of ''self-reliance'' had to call doctors from abroad to treat its ailing dictator in hiding. The story of the two countries show how the people of the same land, took different paths and now stand worlds apart.

Story behind North and South Korea's contrasting disposition

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-congratulates-putin-on-constitutional-vote-310246">PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote</a>

Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and &nbsp;Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years.

Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR.

He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides.

Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party.&nbsp;

He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up.

Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself.

Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative.&nbsp;

Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests.&nbsp;

An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed.

In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. &nbsp;

Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin.&nbsp;

December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over.

Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. &nbsp;He did not tell her he was going to be president.

Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia.&nbsp;

A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey.

His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism.&nbsp;

He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants.&nbsp;

Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him. Also read: PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years. Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR. He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides. Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party. He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up. Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself. Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative. Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests. An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed. In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin. December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over. Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. He did not tell her he was going to be president. Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia. A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey. His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism. He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants. Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader

China is known for its racist activities against Uighurs. But what is not out in the open is why China behaves the way it does. Where is the state's bigotry stemming from? Why are the Uighurs being detained in camps?

It is systemic persecution of a race.

But why?

Not because of the fear of terror alone. It does not add up even if someone&nbsp;factors in their religion.&nbsp;

Why is China persecuting this ethnic minority?

The story is hidden in the word ethnicity. The sense of identity, the sense of belongingness that China fears. In China, there can be only one identity Chinese.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-fear-drives-chinas-ethnic-oppression-305248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

One ideology, Communism, one leader, Xi Jinping. Anything that differs becomes a target.

China's biggest fear is that it will end up disintegrated like the Soviet Union. One of the many reasons the USSR fell apart-- was because of its diversity. It was not so really a union of similar states. USSR had at least 113 ethnic communities each with a population of 1000 and more.

There were ethnic Russians, eastern Slavs, the Ukrainians, Belorussians, the Turiks. There were 8.1 million Kazakhs. 6.8 million Azerbaijanis. These numbers are from the Soviet Union's 1989.

Today, the Kazakhs have their own country as do the Azerbaijanis. Now place this stencil on China.

If the people of china start revolting against the leadership on ethnic grounds, what would Xi do?

The ruling elites are Han Chinese as they constitute 92 per cent of the country's population.

What about the remaining eight per cent? What is the guarantee they will not demand a separate country?

&nbsp;The Uighurs fall under this eight per cent. They are Muslims. They speak a Turkic language.

&nbsp;The script is Arabic, not mandarin. This difference bursts the bubble of China's imaginary stability. It challenges the Dragon's obsession with the homogenous citizenry.

Xinjiang reminds China of the former Kazakh soviet socialist republic. Kazakhstan under USSR. The Uighurs take China a step closer to Soviet fate. And this is why 1 million of them are no longer free.

This is why China is so so racist and oppressive. The oppression of the Uighurs being just one of the many examples of China's racism.

China is known for its racist activities against Uighurs. But what is not out in the open is why China behaves the way it does. Where is the state's bigotry stemming from?

China is known for its racist activities against Uighurs. But what is not out in the open is why China behaves the way it does. Where is the state's bigotry stemming from? Why are the Uighurs being detained in camps? It is systemic persecution of a race. But why? Not because of the fear of terror alone. It does not add up even if someone factors in their religion. Why is China persecuting this ethnic minority? The story is hidden in the word ethnicity. The sense of identity, the sense of belongingness that China fears. In China, there can be only one identity Chinese. One ideology, Communism, one leader, Xi Jinping. Anything that differs becomes a target. China's biggest fear is that it will end up disintegrated like the Soviet Union. One of the many reasons the USSR fell apart-- was because of its diversity. It was not so really a union of similar states. USSR had at least 113 ethnic communities each with a population of 1000 and more. There were ethnic Russians, eastern Slavs, the Ukrainians, Belorussians, the Turiks. There were 8.1 million Kazakhs. 6.8 million Azerbaijanis. These numbers are from the Soviet Union's 1989. Today, the Kazakhs have their own country as do the Azerbaijanis. Now place this stencil on China. If the people of china start revolting against the leadership on ethnic grounds, what would Xi do? The ruling elites are Han Chinese as they constitute 92 per cent of the country's population. What about the remaining eight per cent? What is the guarantee they will not demand a separate country? The Uighurs fall under this eight per cent. They are Muslims. They speak a Turkic language. The script is Arabic, not mandarin. This difference bursts the bubble of China's imaginary stability. It challenges the Dragon's obsession with the homogenous citizenry. Xinjiang reminds China of the former Kazakh soviet socialist republic. Kazakhstan under USSR. The Uighurs take China a step closer to Soviet fate. And this is why 1 million of them are no longer free. This is why China is so so racist and oppressive. The oppression of the Uighurs being just one of the many examples of China's racism.

China prevents being a 'second' USSR by curbing Uighurs

On 5 June 1989, the world woke up to the images of the massacre in Tiananmen. What action did the world's democracies take? What was India's stance under the Rajiv Gandhi government? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Tiananmen Massacre | How the world responded 31 years back

The Tiananmen Square massacre is something China wants the world to forget. It was an event that killed any hopes of democracy in China. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the ghost of Tiananmen still haunts Beijing.

Gravitas: 31 years since Tiananmen Massacre | What has changed in China?

On June 4, 1989, China sent tanks and military to Tiananmen Square. A pro-democracy movement was massacred under the cover of night. 31 years on, China has not released a death toll. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report on the night that changed China forever.

Gravitas: Remembering the Tiananmen Square Massacre

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Communist governments were folding one after another. When the Soviet Union collapsed, China was hit the hardest. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the global shift towards democracy was nightmarish for Beijing.

Gravitas: Tiananmen Massacre | Geopolitical changes that rattled China

Two things scare China, the ghost of Tiananmen Square, and more importantly- meeting the same fate as the Soviet Union. Because despite years of rapid changes, the chorus for democracy is echoing in China once again. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story.

Gravitas: Tiananmen Massacre | What China fears the most

April 22 in history: Hitler accepts defeat, first Earth Day celebrated and more

April 13 in history: First transport satellite launched, Jallianwala Bagh massacre and more

A look back at 20 years of Putin's rule in Russia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-replaces-powerful-top-prosecutor-275496">Vladimir Putin</a> has announced the promotion&nbsp;of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to boost <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-submits-constitutional-amendment-package-to-parliament-275548">Russia</a>'s declining population.

He announced enhanced child benefits and payouts to families for every new baby to help the country "escape from the demographic trap."

"Russia's fate and its historic prospects depend on how many of us there are," the Russian President said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-replaces-powerful-top-prosecutor-275496">Vladimir Putin replaces powerful top prosecutor</a>

The country's&nbsp;population fell to 142.9 million in 2010 after the breakup of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mailbox-200-soviet-town-used-for-dumping-radioactive-waste-could-poison-millions-260158">Soviet Union</a> in 1991, when it was 148.3 million.

It is now back up to 146 million but is projected to fall again.

In a private clinic, the price of a cycle of in-vitro fertilisation starts at around 100,000 rubles, not including the costs of donor sperm and eggs.&nbsp;

This is more than three times the median monthly wage.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/vladimir-putin-a-brief-profile-of-the-russian-president-728">Vladimir Putin: A brief profile of the Russian president</a>

But since 2013, the IVF procedure, which is the most effective fertility treatment with a success rate of around 30 percent, has largely been state-funded under a compulsory health insurance scheme.

Russia's current population of 146 million is predicted to fall by 4 to 12 million by 2035. Those in their 20s now were born during a massive slump in the birthrate amid economic uncertainties, so there are fewer people to become new parents.

In the first 10 months of last year, the population fell by almost 260,000 people, the steepest drop over the past 11 years.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-half-of-young-russians-want-to-emigrate-report-208003">Almost half of young Russians want to emigrate: Report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/vladimir-putin-a-brief-profile-of-the-russian-president-728">Putin</a> has rolled out a number of policies aimed at encouraging people to have babies since coming to power in 2000.

This month, he called for the birthrate to go up to 1.7 children per woman by 2024, from the current figure of 1.5.

Fertility treatment is part of this strategy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-why-population-crisis-is-looming-over-global-economies-274909">Why population crisis is looming over global economies</a>

Nationwide, the number of state-financed IVF procedures per year rose from 46,000 to 78,000 between 2016 and 2018, according to the health ministry.

The goal is to reach 90,000 per year in 2024, which would make Russia a leader in the field, according to the figures of the Russian Association for Human Reproduction.

Russia has very liberal laws on reproductive rights. There are no age limits on assisted reproduction and it is open to single women and unmarried couples.

Annual numbers of abortions fell from 1.5 million to 567,000 between 2010 and 2018, according to the health ministry.&nbsp;

Despite the massive drop, abortion numbers still loom large in comparison to the annual birth rate of some 1.6 million babies.

Vladimir Putin has announced the promotion of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to boost Russia's declining population. He announced enhanced child benefits and payouts to families for every new baby to help the country "escape from the demographic trap.

Vladimir Putin has announced the promotion of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to boost Russia's declining population. He announced enhanced child benefits and payouts to families for every new baby to help the country "escape from the demographic trap." "Russia's fate and its historic prospects depend on how many of us there are," the Russian President said. Also read: Vladimir Putin replaces powerful top prosecutor The country's population fell to 142.9 million in 2010 after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991, when it was 148.3 million. It is now back up to 146 million but is projected to fall again. In a private clinic, the price of a cycle of in-vitro fertilisation starts at around 100,000 rubles, not including the costs of donor sperm and eggs. This is more than three times the median monthly wage. Also see: Vladimir Putin: A brief profile of the Russian president But since 2013, the IVF procedure, which is the most effective fertility treatment with a success rate of around 30 percent, has largely been state-funded under a compulsory health insurance scheme. Russia's current population of 146 million is predicted to fall by 4 to 12 million by 2035. Those in their 20s now were born during a massive slump in the birthrate amid economic uncertainties, so there are fewer people to become new parents. In the first 10 months of last year, the population fell by almost 260,000 people, the steepest drop over the past 11 years. Also read: Almost half of young Russians want to emigrate: Report Putin has rolled out a number of policies aimed at encouraging people to have babies since coming to power in 2000. This month, he called for the birthrate to go up to 1.7 children per woman by 2024, from the current figure of 1.5. Fertility treatment is part of this strategy. Also read: Why population crisis is looming over global economies Nationwide, the number of state-financed IVF procedures per year rose from 46,000 to 78,000 between 2016 and 2018, according to the health ministry. The goal is to reach 90,000 per year in 2024, which would make Russia a leader in the field, according to the figures of the Russian Association for Human Reproduction. Russia has very liberal laws on reproductive rights. There are no age limits on assisted reproduction and it is open to single women and unmarried couples. Annual numbers of abortions fell from 1.5 million to 567,000 between 2010 and 2018, according to the health ministry. Despite the massive drop, abortion numbers still loom large in comparison to the annual birth rate of some 1.6 million babies.

Russia promotes In Vitro Fertilization to boom population slump

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg.

Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government.

After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly.

Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="063c6bc3-82b1-4ffb-b139-d80ad5da5d7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_48.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024.

Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. 
 
The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term.

&nbsp;"As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said.

"But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c82de3-9c5a-4b01-ab1e-eeeee6ea051d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_55.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others.&nbsp;

Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends?

Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-mishustin-tax-service-head-and-hockey-player-picked-by-putin-as-russian-pm-274590">Mikhail Mishustin -&nbsp;Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy. Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg. Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government. After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly. Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024. Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term. "As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said. "But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others. Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends? Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes. Also read: Mikhail Mishustin - Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM (With inputs from Reuters)

Putin rejects idea of Soviet-style lifelong leaders for Russia while addressing war veterans

January 18 in history: WW-1 peace conference, recognition of Vietnam, and a lot more!

On Monday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-us-sanctions-on-european-gas-project-269464">Russian government</a> referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike.

The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service.

Yevgeny Manyurov, 39, a former security guard had opened fire on the FSB headquarters in Moscow.

On Thursday evening, Manyurov opened fire and his victims include an FSB employee. He also wounded five other people outside the headquarters of the Soviet-era KGB. He was later shot dead.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin holds annual news conference

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-holds-annual-news-conference-269191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another employee of the FSB succumbed to his injuries in a hospital later.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-outline-terms-for-five-year-gas-transit-deal-to-end-row-269490">Kremlin</a> spokesperson Dmitry Peskov referred to the incident as a ''tragedy''.

"We live in such times, and not just us but all governments in the world, when unfortunately nobody is immune from any manifestations of madness with tragic consequences," said Peskov.

The word ''Kremlin'' literally translates into ''fortress inside a city'', and is used to widely refer to the government of the Russian federation.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday, the Russian government referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike. The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service.

On Monday, the Russian government referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike. The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service. Yevgeny Manyurov, 39, a former security guard had opened fire on the FSB headquarters in Moscow. On Thursday evening, Manyurov opened fire and his victims include an FSB employee. He also wounded five other people outside the headquarters of the Soviet-era KGB. He was later shot dead. Watch: Russian President Putin holds annual news conference Another employee of the FSB succumbed to his injuries in a hospital later. A Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov referred to the incident as a ''tragedy''. "We live in such times, and not just us but all governments in the world, when unfortunately nobody is immune from any manifestations of madness with tragic consequences," said Peskov. The word ''Kremlin'' literally translates into ''fortress inside a city'', and is used to widely refer to the government of the Russian federation. (With inputs from agencies)

'Manifestation of madness': Kremlin about the Moscow shooting incident last week

'Mailbox 200': Ex-Soviet town used for dumping radioactive waste could poison millions

White House economic adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-talks-likely-to-heat-up-in-october-meeting-kudlow-248069">Larry Kudlow </a>said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve.

Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Kudlow said that although the United States and China have been negotiating on trade and intellectual property issues for 18 months, that was a short period of time in terms of what was at stake and negotiations could go on much longer.

"A deal of this size and scope and central global importance, I don't think 18 months is a very long time," Kudlow said.

"The stakes are so high, we have to get it right, and if that takes a decade, so be it," Kudlow added, drawing parallels to US&nbsp;Cold War competition against the Soviet Union.

But in confirming talks between the high-level US&nbsp;and Chinese officials in early October, Kudlow declined to predict outcomes or a specific timeline for reaching any agreements.

The plans for the first in-person US and&nbsp;China trade meetings since late July were set during a phone call on Thursday between Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Trade deputies are due to meet in mid-September.

'Back to May'

The 14-month <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-war-to-knock-05-points-off-global-growth-french-finance-minister-247859">US and China trade war</a> has escalated sharply since May when talks broke down after Beijing backtracked on earlier commitments to make changes in the law to improve intellectual property protections, curb the forced transfer of US technology to Chinese firms and improve the US access to Chinese markets.

Since then, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-bullish-on-china-tariffs-but-aide-warns-of-long-haul-248138">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> has sharply increased existing tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and imposed or scheduled new tariffs on virtually all remaining imports from China to increase his negotiating leverage.

Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that he could not speculate on whether the September or October talks could delay a planned tariff increase on October&nbsp;1 to 30 per cent&nbsp;from 25 per cent&nbsp;on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods.

"We would like to go back to where we were last May, but I don't know if that's possible, and I don't want to predict any outcomes. This is a difficult matter," told reporters at the White House.

He also said that it was important that Chinese reforms be reflected in changes to its laws and that any deal must have enforcement provisions to ensure that China lives up to its commitments.

'Everything on table'

He said on Fox Business Network that the September and October talks would cover all of the core issues in the dispute.

"Everything will be on the table. You can rest assured, for example, the absolute key structural issues the IP theft, the forced transfer of technology, the cyberspace, the clouds, financial services, all of that will be on the table&nbsp;agriculture purchases, industrial purchases, energy purchases, getting tariff and non-tariff barriers down," Kudlow said.

While there were no precondition talks, Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that the Trump administration wants "to see results in the near term."

"When we don't see results, we take additional actions," Kudlow said. "On the other hand, if we do see results from these upcoming meetings, then progress will be made."

Trump said on Twitter that China was hurting economically from the US&nbsp;tariffs but that the new round of talks was positive.

"'China is eating the Tariffs,'" Trump tweeted. "Billions pouring into the USA. Targeted Patriot Farmers getting massive Dollars from the incoming Tariffs!

Good Jobs Numbers, No Inflation(Fed). China having the worst year in decades. Talks happening, good for all!"

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Kudlow said that although the United States and China have been negotiating on trade and intellectual property issues for 18 months, that was a short period of time in terms of what was at stake and negotiations could go on much longer. "A deal of this size and scope and central global importance, I don't think 18 months is a very long time," Kudlow said. "The stakes are so high, we have to get it right, and if that takes a decade, so be it," Kudlow added, drawing parallels to US Cold War competition against the Soviet Union. But in confirming talks between the high-level US and Chinese officials in early October, Kudlow declined to predict outcomes or a specific timeline for reaching any agreements. The plans for the first in-person US and China trade meetings since late July were set during a phone call on Thursday between Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Trade deputies are due to meet in mid-September. 'Back to May' The 14-month US and China trade war has escalated sharply since May when talks broke down after Beijing backtracked on earlier commitments to make changes in the law to improve intellectual property protections, curb the forced transfer of US technology to Chinese firms and improve the US access to Chinese markets. Since then, US President Donald Trump has sharply increased existing tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and imposed or scheduled new tariffs on virtually all remaining imports from China to increase his negotiating leverage. Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that he could not speculate on whether the September or October talks could delay a planned tariff increase on October 1 to 30 per cent from 25 per cent on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods. "We would like to go back to where we were last May, but I don't know if that's possible, and I don't want to predict any outcomes. This is a difficult matter," told reporters at the White House. He also said that it was important that Chinese reforms be reflected in changes to its laws and that any deal must have enforcement provisions to ensure that China lives up to its commitments. 'Everything on table' He said on Fox Business Network that the September and October talks would cover all of the core issues in the dispute. "Everything will be on the table. You can rest assured, for example, the absolute key structural issues the IP theft, the forced transfer of technology, the cyberspace, the clouds, financial services, all of that will be on the table agriculture purchases, industrial purchases, energy purchases, getting tariff and non-tariff barriers down," Kudlow said. While there were no precondition talks, Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that the Trump administration wants "to see results in the near term." "When we don't see results, we take additional actions," Kudlow said. "On the other hand, if we do see results from these upcoming meetings, then progress will be made." Trump said on Twitter that China was hurting economically from the US tariffs but that the new round of talks was positive. "'China is eating the Tariffs,'" Trump tweeted. "Billions pouring into the USA. Targeted Patriot Farmers getting massive Dollars from the incoming Tariffs! Good Jobs Numbers, No Inflation(Fed). China having the worst year in decades. Talks happening, good for all!"

US, China trade conflict could take years to resolve: White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow

Chandrayaan-2: Everything you need to know about India's lunar mission

As the West and Soviet Union scrambled to claim the Third Reich's best minds following the war, the US was able to exfiltrate Wernher von Braun, the rocket engineer who designed the Nazi's dreaded V-2 missile, and about a hundred of his top scientists and engineers. They eventually moved to the tiny farming town of Huntsville, where the army transformed a weapons arsenal into a centre for missile development, where they greatly contributed to the Apollo program that put a man on the Moon. Their children still live there and carry their heritage as the US celebrates the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11

Alabama German village that made Apollo 11 possible remembers 50 years on

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul.

She seems to be having fun but is being trained for a life-or-death mission,&nbsp;finding explosives in a country where hidden mines, bombs, and weapons routinely kill.

Naya is one of about 200 dogs at the Afghan capital's Mine Detection Centre (MDC), a non-governmental group raising the animals from rambunctious pups into a disciplined force, and teaching handlers how to work with the canines.

A common sight around the Afghan capital, explosives-sniffing dogs are deployed at checkpoints and government facilities, where they are an important tool in combatting the flow of homemade bombs being smuggled into Kabul.

"The dogs are very useful they are very fast, they do their jobs with great speed," Taj Mohammad, a long-time trainer at the centre, told AFP on a recent visit.

Handlers demonstrated how they train dogs to hone in on particular scents explosives mainly, but also narcotics by using a special carousel of identical metal canisters that conceal different smells.

Each time a dog correctly identifies a target smell, the handler gives it a rubber chewy ball to chomp on as a reward.

"The relationship with the handler must be perfect. If it does not work, there will be casualties," Mohammad said.

It takes about two years to train an explosives dog, and the process is intense for both the handler and the canine. The animals at the MDC are all German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois.

"It's as if you are building a house or bringing up a child," Mohammad said.

Handlers get about $500 a month for their dangerous work, not a bad wage in Afghanistan as well as life insurance and retirement benefits.

Explosives are "a hidden enemy, so all the time I have a little fear in my heart," dog handler Zabihullah Amin said.

No more mine detection&nbsp;

After the MDC was established in 1989, the dogs mainly came from the Netherlands, but now most are local after breeding started here in 1994. More than 1,100 dogs have completed the training.

The canines' initial mission was to hunt for landmines, a vital task in a country left strewn with the devastating weapons during the war with the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

But the dogs' use tapered off in recent years following a series of incidents where they missed explosives, sometimes causing casualties as people returned to areas thought to be cleared.

According to Abdul Qudos Ziaee, head of operations at Afghanistan's Directorate of Mine Action Coordination, dogs can be a useful mine-detection tool if properly managed.

But in several areas contaminated with anti-vehicle mines, some agencies failed to use the canines correctly or handlers were improperly trained, leading to sloppy practice and areas of terrain left dangerous.

"Whether it was the fault of the dog handler or the dog was not properly trained ... the mine will be missed and the negative consequence will be borne by civilians," Qudos Ziaee told AFP.

Dogs can still be used to sweep large areas deemed "low threat", he said, noting that procedures are currently being revised and new standards will be introduced in about a year.

At the MDC, handlers insist dogs are a better tool for finding mines than mechanical detectors, as they can sniff the explosives in non-metallic devices.&nbsp;

According to Ziaee, at least 1,432 people were killed or wounded in Afghanistan by mines and so-called explosive remnants of war in 2018.

Mohammad Wirwais, who works at the Mine Detection Center, was blinded by a mine while clearing terrain in 2008.

"I am fortunate and lucky, I have friends ... who lost their lives to mine explosions," he said.

"I am good, thank God, I can solve my problems on my own, and I can work here too."

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul.

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul. She seems to be having fun but is being trained for a life-or-death mission, finding explosives in a country where hidden mines, bombs, and weapons routinely kill. Naya is one of about 200 dogs at the Afghan capital's Mine Detection Centre (MDC), a non-governmental group raising the animals from rambunctious pups into a disciplined force, and teaching handlers how to work with the canines. A common sight around the Afghan capital, explosives-sniffing dogs are deployed at checkpoints and government facilities, where they are an important tool in combatting the flow of homemade bombs being smuggled into Kabul. "The dogs are very useful they are very fast, they do their jobs with great speed," Taj Mohammad, a long-time trainer at the centre, told AFP on a recent visit. Handlers demonstrated how they train dogs to hone in on particular scents explosives mainly, but also narcotics by using a special carousel of identical metal canisters that conceal different smells. Each time a dog correctly identifies a target smell, the handler gives it a rubber chewy ball to chomp on as a reward. "The relationship with the handler must be perfect. If it does not work, there will be casualties," Mohammad said. It takes about two years to train an explosives dog, and the process is intense for both the handler and the canine. The animals at the MDC are all German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois. "It's as if you are building a house or bringing up a child," Mohammad said. Handlers get about $500 a month for their dangerous work, not a bad wage in Afghanistan as well as life insurance and retirement benefits. Explosives are "a hidden enemy, so all the time I have a little fear in my heart," dog handler Zabihullah Amin said. No more mine detection After the MDC was established in 1989, the dogs mainly came from the Netherlands, but now most are local after breeding started here in 1994. More than 1,100 dogs have completed the training. The canines' initial mission was to hunt for landmines, a vital task in a country left strewn with the devastating weapons during the war with the Soviet Union in the 1980s. But the dogs' use tapered off in recent years following a series of incidents where they missed explosives, sometimes causing casualties as people returned to areas thought to be cleared. According to Abdul Qudos Ziaee, head of operations at Afghanistan's Directorate of Mine Action Coordination, dogs can be a useful mine-detection tool if properly managed. But in several areas contaminated with anti-vehicle mines, some agencies failed to use the canines correctly or handlers were improperly trained, leading to sloppy practice and areas of terrain left dangerous. "Whether it was the fault of the dog handler or the dog was not properly trained ... the mine will be missed and the negative consequence will be borne by civilians," Qudos Ziaee told AFP. Dogs can still be used to sweep large areas deemed "low threat", he said, noting that procedures are currently being revised and new standards will be introduced in about a year. At the MDC, handlers insist dogs are a better tool for finding mines than mechanical detectors, as they can sniff the explosives in non-metallic devices. According to Ziaee, at least 1,432 people were killed or wounded in Afghanistan by mines and so-called explosive remnants of war in 2018. Mohammad Wirwais, who works at the Mine Detection Center, was blinded by a mine while clearing terrain in 2008. "I am fortunate and lucky, I have friends ... who lost their lives to mine explosions," he said. "I am good, thank God, I can solve my problems on my own, and I can work here too."

Man's best friend: The dogs who sniff out explosives in Kabul

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-to-meet-pope-in-shadow-of-ukraine-crisis-232987">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> disclosed on Thursday for the first time that a secret military submarine hit by a fatal fire three days ago was nuclear-powered, prompting the defence minister to assure him its reactor had been safely contained.

Russian officials have faced accusations of trying to cover up the full details of the accident that killed 14 sailors as they were carrying out what the defence ministry called a survey of the sea floor near the Arctic.

Moscow's slow release of information about the incident has drawn comparisons with the opaque way the Soviet Union handled the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power station disaster, and another deadly submarine accident, the 2000 sinking of the nuclear-powered Kursk, which claimed 118 lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-joins-gulf-states-in-coaching-sudans-military-227032">Russia</a>, which says the details of the submarine involved in the latest accident are classified, said the fire took place on Monday, though it was only officially disclosed late on Tuesday.

Until Thursday there was also no official word on whether the vessel had a nuclear reactor, despite strong interest from neighbouring Norway.

Putin revealed that the submarine had been nuclear-powered by asking Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a Kremlin meeting about the reactor's condition after the fire.

"The nuclear reactor on the vessel is completely isolated," Shoigu told Putin, according to a Kremlin transcript. "All the necessary measures were taken by the crew to protect the reactor, which is in complete working order."

The fire erupted in the submarine's battery compartment, Shoigu added, and later spread.

Although the Kremlin publicised the meeting on Thursday morning, it was not immediately clear when the men had met.

"There has not been any formal communication from Russia to us about this," Per Strand, a director at the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, told Reuters when asked if it had been informed that the submarine was nuclear-powered.

"We understand they brought the situation under control quickly, under difficult conditions, and there was, as such, no nuclear incident that they were obligated to tell us about.

"Still, we would have been happy to have been informed of such incidents," he added.

Top-secret submarine

Russian servicemen attended a memorial service on Thursday in the port city of Kronstadt near St Petersburg in honour of the 14 dead submariners.

Held in the hulking Russian Orthodox Naval Cathedral of St Nicholas, sailors cradled lit candles and looked on as priests read out prayers and a choir chanted in the background.

Shoigu, a close Putin ally, told the president that the submarine, which authorities said had been operating in the Barents Sea area, would be fully repaired.

"Right now, we are assessing how long it will take, how much work there is, and how we can carry it out," he said.

Shoigu's ministry has released photographs of the deceased sailors, hailing them as "real patriots of the Motherland".

Separately, a photograph of a tribute to them circulated on social media which appeared to have been hung on the wall of a Russian military facility. Reuters could not immediately confirm its authenticity, but it said the men had served on board a deep-sea submersible known by the designation AS-31.

Russian media have previously reported, without official confirmation, that the vessel was designated as either AS-31 or AS-12 and is designed to carry out special operations at depths where regular submarines cannot operate.

The submarine is made up of a series of inter-connected spheres that allow it to resist water pressure at great depths. Western military experts have suggested it is capable of probing and possibly even severing undersea communications cables.

Putin ordered Shoigu to prepare posthumous state awards for the dead submariners. An official investigation into the accident, likely to be shrouded in secrecy, is already underway.

Russian President Vladimir Putin disclosed on Thursday for the first time that a secret military submarine hit by a fatal fire three days ago was nuclear-powered, prompting the defence minister to assure him its reactor had been safely contained.

Russian President Vladimir Putin disclosed on Thursday for the first time that a secret military submarine hit by a fatal fire three days ago was nuclear-powered, prompting the defence minister to assure him its reactor had been safely contained. Russian officials have faced accusations of trying to cover up the full details of the accident that killed 14 sailors as they were carrying out what the defence ministry called a survey of the sea floor near the Arctic. Moscow's slow release of information about the incident has drawn comparisons with the opaque way the Soviet Union handled the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power station disaster, and another deadly submarine accident, the 2000 sinking of the nuclear-powered Kursk, which claimed 118 lives. Russia, which says the details of the submarine involved in the latest accident are classified, said the fire took place on Monday, though it was only officially disclosed late on Tuesday. Until Thursday there was also no official word on whether the vessel had a nuclear reactor, despite strong interest from neighbouring Norway. Putin revealed that the submarine had been nuclear-powered by asking Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a Kremlin meeting about the reactor's condition after the fire. "The nuclear reactor on the vessel is completely isolated," Shoigu told Putin, according to a Kremlin transcript. "All the necessary measures were taken by the crew to protect the reactor, which is in complete working order." The fire erupted in the submarine's battery compartment, Shoigu added, and later spread. Although the Kremlin publicised the meeting on Thursday morning, it was not immediately clear when the men had met. "There has not been any formal communication from Russia to us about this," Per Strand, a director at the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, told Reuters when asked if it had been informed that the submarine was nuclear-powered. "We understand they brought the situation under control quickly, under difficult conditions, and there was, as such, no nuclear incident that they were obligated to tell us about. "Still, we would have been happy to have been informed of such incidents," he added. Top-secret submarine Russian servicemen attended a memorial service on Thursday in the port city of Kronstadt near St Petersburg in honour of the 14 dead submariners. Held in the hulking Russian Orthodox Naval Cathedral of St Nicholas, sailors cradled lit candles and looked on as priests read out prayers and a choir chanted in the background. Shoigu, a close Putin ally, told the president that the submarine, which authorities said had been operating in the Barents Sea area, would be fully repaired. "Right now, we are assessing how long it will take, how much work there is, and how we can carry it out," he said. Shoigu's ministry has released photographs of the deceased sailors, hailing them as "real patriots of the Motherland". Separately, a photograph of a tribute to them circulated on social media which appeared to have been hung on the wall of a Russian military facility. Reuters could not immediately confirm its authenticity, but it said the men had served on board a deep-sea submersible known by the designation AS-31. Russian media have previously reported, without official confirmation, that the vessel was designated as either AS-31 or AS-12 and is designed to carry out special operations at depths where regular submarines cannot operate. The submarine is made up of a series of inter-connected spheres that allow it to resist water pressure at great depths. Western military experts have suggested it is capable of probing and possibly even severing undersea communications cables. Putin ordered Shoigu to prepare posthumous state awards for the dead submariners. An official investigation into the accident, likely to be shrouded in secrecy, is already underway.

Vladimir Putin, after three days, says fire-hit Russian submarine was nuclear-powered

Cossacks in Russia showcased their skills in horse riding, swordplay and wrestling on Saturday (May 4) at a traditional festival in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don.

Swordplay on horseback - Russian cossacks show off traditional skills

Decades after the Soviet Union's disastrous venture into Afghanistan, Russia is emerging as a major player in the region with ties to the Taliban and Afghan politicians as US troops withdraw from the country.

This week Moscow brought together the Taliban and powerful Afghan politicians for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talks-hosted-by-russia-will-not-help-in-the-peace-process-afghanistan-194573">two days of unprecedented talks</a> Tuesday and Wednesday, the insurgents' most significant engagement with Afghan leaders in recent memory.

In incredible scenes broadcast around the world, former president Hamid Karzai and other leaders shared prayers and meals with the Taliban while discussing the future of the conflict-riven country at a hotel that belongs to the Kremlin.

"This is a turning point," Andrei Serenko, an expert at the Centre for Contemporary Afghan Studies, told AFP.

"From reacting to other players' initiatives, Russia has switched to generating its own initiatives in the region."

Washington's decision to draw down troops from Afghanistan in a bid to extricate itself from the nearly 18-year war can become both a boon and bane for Russia, analysts say.

On the one hand, Moscow will burnish its credentials as a major player and mediator in the region; on the other hand, the US withdrawal will increase risks of instability and violence in Central Asia, seen as Moscow's sphere of influence.

"Russia is returning to Afghanistan using it as a platform for confrontation with the United States," independent expert Arkady Dubnov told AFP.&nbsp;

Dubnov added that Russia was vitally interested in seeing stability and security in the impoverished country's northern provinces.&nbsp;

While he said Moscow would not send troops to the country given the Soviet Union's painful experience in Afghanistan, Russia could provide other forms of assistance.&nbsp;

"If there's a request from the leadership, money and arms supplies cannot be ruled out," Dubnov added.&nbsp;

'A more involved role'&nbsp;

The Soviet Union's 1979-1989 invasion of Afghanistan has deeply scarred the nation.&nbsp;

The 10-year conflict, which saw Moscow intervene in support of the Afghan communist government, claimed the lives of more than 14,000 Soviet troops and has come to be seen in Russia as a huge foreign policy blunder. &nbsp;

"A more involved role for Moscow has surprised many, mostly due to Russia's bloody history in Afghanistan," said The Soufan Center, a non-profit security analysis group.

Despite the presence of US troops and support for the government of Ashraf Ghani, Washington may find itself marginalised in the country as regional powers like Russia come to the centre stage, the group said.&nbsp;

While Moscow has sought to distance itself from the conference, calling it an initiative of the Afghan diasporas, few doubt the Kremlin's deep involvement.

Representatives of the Kabul government were not present at the conference. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Instead, the Taliban, who ruled Afghanistan under a ruthless interpretation of Sharia law between 1996 and 2001, sat down for talks with Ghani's rivals including Mohammad Haneef Atmar as the country prepares to hold presidential elections in July.

"Moscow does not believe in Ghani's future," said Serenko of the Centre for Contemporary Afghan Studies, suggesting Russia was backing Atmar in the run-up to the polls.

'Romance with Taliban'&nbsp;

Serenko also said Moscow used this week's conference to legitimise its long-held ties with the Taliban which Russia still designates as a terrorist group.&nbsp;

"For the past ten years Russia has been romantically involved with the Taliban. Now this romance has been made public," Serenko said.

"Today the Taliban, who only respect force, and Russians speak the same language."

The Moscow meeting came a week after the insurgents held separate peace talks with American negotiators in Doha, where Ghani was again not invited to the table.&nbsp;

Ghani's allies in Washington insist Afghans should lead the peace process, and ostensibly the months-long push by the US to engage the Taliban has been aimed at convincing them to negotiate with Kabul.&nbsp;

The Russian government also held a meeting on Afghanistan in November.

Some frown upon Russia's involvement.&nbsp;

"By getting the Afghan opposition to talk to the Taliban, Moscow risks fracturing an already fragile yet fledgeling peace process-and provoking a fresh crisis within an Afghan government already riven by deep divisions," Michael Kugelman, an analyst at the Wilson Center in Washington, told AFP.

But organisers of the Moscow conference said Russia's perceived neutrality during Washington's war in Afghanistan made the country well-suited for the mediation.

"During the past 18 years, Russia has proved that it supported neither side in the conflict," said Ghulam Mohammad Jalal, one of the conference's organisers.

"That is why it has earned in Afghan society the status of a neutral country with a neutral position."

Decades after the Soviet Union's disastrous venture into Afghanistan, Russia is emerging as a major player in the region with ties to the Taliban and Afghan politicians as US troops withdraw from the country.

Decades after the Soviet Union's disastrous venture into Afghanistan, Russia is emerging as a major player in the region with ties to the Taliban and Afghan politicians as US troops withdraw from the country. This week Moscow brought together the Taliban and powerful Afghan politicians for two days of unprecedented talks Tuesday and Wednesday, the insurgents' most significant engagement with Afghan leaders in recent memory. In incredible scenes broadcast around the world, former president Hamid Karzai and other leaders shared prayers and meals with the Taliban while discussing the future of the conflict-riven country at a hotel that belongs to the Kremlin. "This is a turning point," Andrei Serenko, an expert at the Centre for Contemporary Afghan Studies, told AFP. "From reacting to other players' initiatives, Russia has switched to generating its own initiatives in the region." Washington's decision to draw down troops from Afghanistan in a bid to extricate itself from the nearly 18-year war can become both a boon and bane for Russia, analysts say. On the one hand, Moscow will burnish its credentials as a major player and mediator in the region; on the other hand, the US withdrawal will increase risks of instability and violence in Central Asia, seen as Moscow's sphere of influence. "Russia is returning to Afghanistan using it as a platform for confrontation with the United States," independent expert Arkady Dubnov told AFP. Dubnov added that Russia was vitally interested in seeing stability and security in the impoverished country's northern provinces. While he said Moscow would not send troops to the country given the Soviet Union's painful experience in Afghanistan, Russia could provide other forms of assistance. "If there's a request from the leadership, money and arms supplies cannot be ruled out," Dubnov added. 'A more involved role' The Soviet Union's 1979-1989 invasion of Afghanistan has deeply scarred the nation. The 10-year conflict, which saw Moscow intervene in support of the Afghan communist government, claimed the lives of more than 14,000 Soviet troops and has come to be seen in Russia as a huge foreign policy blunder. "A more involved role for Moscow has surprised many, mostly due to Russia's bloody history in Afghanistan," said The Soufan Center, a non-profit security analysis group. Despite the presence of US troops and support for the government of Ashraf Ghani, Washington may find itself marginalised in the country as regional powers like Russia come to the centre stage, the group said. While Moscow has sought to distance itself from the conference, calling it an initiative of the Afghan diasporas, few doubt the Kremlin's deep involvement. Representatives of the Kabul government were not present at the conference. Instead, the Taliban, who ruled Afghanistan under a ruthless interpretation of Sharia law between 1996 and 2001, sat down for talks with Ghani's rivals including Mohammad Haneef Atmar as the country prepares to hold presidential elections in July. "Moscow does not believe in Ghani's future," said Serenko of the Centre for Contemporary Afghan Studies, suggesting Russia was backing Atmar in the run-up to the polls. 'Romance with Taliban' Serenko also said Moscow used this week's conference to legitimise its long-held ties with the Taliban which Russia still designates as a terrorist group. "For the past ten years Russia has been romantically involved with the Taliban. Now this romance has been made public," Serenko said. "Today the Taliban, who only respect force, and Russians speak the same language." The Moscow meeting came a week after the insurgents held separate peace talks with American negotiators in Doha, where Ghani was again not invited to the table. Ghani's allies in Washington insist Afghans should lead the peace process, and ostensibly the months-long push by the US to engage the Taliban has been aimed at convincing them to negotiate with Kabul. The Russian government also held a meeting on Afghanistan in November. Some frown upon Russia's involvement. "By getting the Afghan opposition to talk to the Taliban, Moscow risks fracturing an already fragile yet fledgeling peace process-and provoking a fresh crisis within an Afghan government already riven by deep divisions," Michael Kugelman, an analyst at the Wilson Center in Washington, told AFP. But organisers of the Moscow conference said Russia's perceived neutrality during Washington's war in Afghanistan made the country well-suited for the mediation. "During the past 18 years, Russia has proved that it supported neither side in the conflict," said Ghulam Mohammad Jalal, one of the conference's organisers. "That is why it has earned in Afghan society the status of a neutral country with a neutral position."

As US eyes exit from Afghanistan, Russia begins to step into that vacuum

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666">US and Russian</a> diplomats were meeting on Tuesday to discuss the fate of a major nuclear missile control treaty that Washington has threatened to ditch over alleged violations by Moscow.&nbsp;

The discussions come amid widespread concern over the fate of the bilateral treaty after US President Donald Trump said in October his country would pull out of the deal unless <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-no-evidence-to-prove-breach-of-nuclear-treaty-russia-181665">Russia</a> stopped violating it.&nbsp;

"Russia and the United States will hold consultations on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty #INFtreaty in Geneva on January 15," Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Andrea Thompson, US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, also tweeted that she was leading the American delegation to the talks.&nbsp;

"Looking forward to sitting down with Russian delegation this morning to discuss how #Russia plans to come back into full and verifiable compliance with the #INFTreaty," she said.&nbsp;

The talks are being held inside the Russian mission, a source there who was not authorised to speak to the media told AFP.

Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington would withdraw from the Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms within 60 days if Russia does not dismantle missiles that the US claims to breach the deal.

"Recently we have noted that the American side has even hardened its tone, we see that as not a very favourable signal," Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Russia's Interfax news agency ahead of the Geneva talks.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin responded to the US hardline by threatening to develop more nuclear missiles banned under the treaty. &nbsp;

The landmark treaty was signed by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987 and led to nearly 2,700 short- and medium-range missiles being eliminated.

It put an end to a mini-arms race in the 1980s triggered by the Soviet Union's deployment of SS-20 nuclear missiles targeting Western European capitals.

US and Russian diplomats were meeting on Tuesday to discuss the fate of a major nuclear missile control treaty that Washington has threatened to ditch over alleged violations by Moscow.

US and Russian diplomats were meeting on Tuesday to discuss the fate of a major nuclear missile control treaty that Washington has threatened to ditch over alleged violations by Moscow. The discussions come amid widespread concern over the fate of the bilateral treaty after US President Donald Trump said in October his country would pull out of the deal unless Russia stopped violating it. "Russia and the United States will hold consultations on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty #INFtreaty in Geneva on January 15," Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said in a tweet. Andrea Thompson, US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, also tweeted that she was leading the American delegation to the talks. "Looking forward to sitting down with Russian delegation this morning to discuss how #Russia plans to come back into full and verifiable compliance with the #INFTreaty," she said. The talks are being held inside the Russian mission, a source there who was not authorised to speak to the media told AFP. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington would withdraw from the Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms within 60 days if Russia does not dismantle missiles that the US claims to breach the deal. "Recently we have noted that the American side has even hardened its tone, we see that as not a very favourable signal," Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Russia's Interfax news agency ahead of the Geneva talks. Russian President Vladimir Putin responded to the US hardline by threatening to develop more nuclear missiles banned under the treaty. The landmark treaty was signed by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987 and led to nearly 2,700 short- and medium-range missiles being eliminated. It put an end to a mini-arms race in the 1980s triggered by the Soviet Union's deployment of SS-20 nuclear missiles targeting Western European capitals.

US, Russia meet on disputed nuclear treaty in Geneva

By:&nbsp;Andries Bezuidenhout*

What is the ultimate song to celebrate Workers' Day? Many will suggest "The Internationale" which had its roots as a poem written in the aftermath of the Paris Commune in 1871 by Eugène Pottier, a transport worker. Set to music a few years later, it became the anthem for the wider progressive movement.

It served as the Soviet Union’s anthem after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, making it more closely associated with the communist movement.

But I would argue that trumpeter Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa. The song speaks aboutthe local history and the migrant labour system on the mines.

"Stimela" reminds everyone that South Africa's wealth and infrastructure was built on the back of labour from all over Africa. They were the force that modernised the country. But the song is also internationalist in focus.

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Later recordings of the song typically begin with bass rhythms and percussion mimicking the sound of a train on its tracks. Then the instruments retreat to the background and Masekela announces:

There is a train that comes from Namibia and Malawi

there is a train that comes from Zambia and Zimbabwe,

There is a train that comes from Angola and Mozambique,

From Lesotho, from Botswana, from Swaziland,

From all the hinterland of Southern and Central Africa.

This train carries young and old, African men

Who are conscripted to come and work on contract

In the golden mineral mines of Johannesburg

And its surrounding metropolis, sixteen hours or more a day

For almost no pay.

Early morning commute

Until recently I was responsible for teaching an introductory course in sociology to first-year university students. The auditorium in which I delivered the lectures had a beautiful sound system.

I’d plug in my computer and play music before lectures started. The music served two purposes. I liked to imagine that it allowed students to find some calm after their early morning commute from the city’s periphery on dilapidated trains.

It was also a way to introduce debates about key topics covered in the first year course.

I always started the first lecture of the year with Masekela’s "Stimela" because it was the perfect opening to a conversation about the forces that modernised South Africa.

South Africa's was not a slow, organic growth of industrialisation that characterised the European transition from feudalism to industrial capitalism, the great transformation that gave rise to my discipline of sociology, with Karl Marx as one of its key contributors.

The emergence of modern South Africa was brutal in a different way. It came about as a result of the discovery of diamonds and gold, and the need for cheap labour to extract metals from the seams that ran through the Witwatersrand's rock formations.

This was a story of labour shortages and the intervention of colonial administrations and armies across southern and Central Africa. They dispossessed pastoralists of their land and imposed hut and poll taxes on traditional leaders so that Johannesburg could be supplied with the much needed "Black Gold", as journalist-activist Ruth First described the system.

The song describes what’s on the minds of mining recruits on a steam train as it makes its way to Johannesburg: "They think about their lands, their herds that were taken away from them."

For Masekela, writing "Stimela" must have been, in part, a reflection on his own life. Born in the coal mining area called Witbank, he was raised by his grandmother who made her livelihood from a shebeen (an illegal bar) for mineworkers.

The legacy lives on

Up until the 1970s, when Masekela composed "Stimela" while he was in exile, South African mineworkers typically spent only a few years on the mines, saving up money or buying cattle to return to their lands.

But the 1970s was the time of great change in South Africa’s mining industry.

In 1974, 72 Malawian mineworkers were killed in an airplane crash. A year later, Mozambique became independent. Both Mozambique and Malawi were major suppliers of migrant workers to South African mines and these events put the steady flow of labour at risk.

In the case of Mozambique, the apartheid state was able to strike a deal with the new Mozambican government for the continued supply of labour. But Malawi withdrew permission for the recruitment of workers from their country.

The result was a shift to recruiting more South African workers and the emergence of career mine workers with much longer contracts. This change in the mining labour market eventually led to the founding of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982.

The successful organisation of workers who were at the heart of South Africa’s economy was one of the most important pillars of resistance against apartheid.

Sadly, the mining industry's contested legacy and its migrant labour system remain challenges in the post-apartheid period. This is evident in a number of ways. The massacre of mineworkers at Marikana in 2012 was a stark reminder of the acute vulnerability and exploitation of workers.

On top of this is the inability of the mining companies and the state to provide many mine workers – now often employed through subcontractors – with decent housing and services. And finally, the issue of land dispossession still haunts the country and remains unresolved.

Steam trains no longer crisscross southern Africa. Yet "Stimela" remains as much a song about the present and future aspirations, as it does of the past.

*Andries Bezuidenhout, Professor of Development Studies, University of Fort Hare

(This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-best-anthem-for-workers-day-stimela-a-tale-about-apartheids-migrant-labour-system-95794">original article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL

Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa

By: Andries Bezuidenhout* What is the ultimate song to celebrate Workers' Day? Many will suggest "The Internationale" which had its roots as a poem written in the aftermath of the Paris Commune in 1871 by Eugène Pottier, a transport worker. Set to music a few years later, it became the anthem for the wider progressive movement. It served as the Soviet Union’s anthem after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, making it more closely associated with the communist movement. But I would argue that trumpeter Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa. The song speaks aboutthe local history and the migrant labour system on the mines. "Stimela" reminds everyone that South Africa's wealth and infrastructure was built on the back of labour from all over Africa. They were the force that modernised the country. But the song is also internationalist in focus. × Later recordings of the song typically begin with bass rhythms and percussion mimicking the sound of a train on its tracks. Then the instruments retreat to the background and Masekela announces: There is a train that comes from Namibia and Malawi there is a train that comes from Zambia and Zimbabwe, There is a train that comes from Angola and Mozambique, From Lesotho, from Botswana, from Swaziland, From all the hinterland of Southern and Central Africa. This train carries young and old, African men Who are conscripted to come and work on contract In the golden mineral mines of Johannesburg And its surrounding metropolis, sixteen hours or more a day For almost no pay. Early morning commute Until recently I was responsible for teaching an introductory course in sociology to first-year university students. The auditorium in which I delivered the lectures had a beautiful sound system. I’d plug in my computer and play music before lectures started. The music served two purposes. I liked to imagine that it allowed students to find some calm after their early morning commute from the city’s periphery on dilapidated trains. It was also a way to introduce debates about key topics covered in the first year course. I always started the first lecture of the year with Masekela’s "Stimela" because it was the perfect opening to a conversation about the forces that modernised South Africa. South Africa's was not a slow, organic growth of industrialisation that characterised the European transition from feudalism to industrial capitalism, the great transformation that gave rise to my discipline of sociology, with Karl Marx as one of its key contributors. The emergence of modern South Africa was brutal in a different way. It came about as a result of the discovery of diamonds and gold, and the need for cheap labour to extract metals from the seams that ran through the Witwatersrand's rock formations. This was a story of labour shortages and the intervention of colonial administrations and armies across southern and Central Africa. They dispossessed pastoralists of their land and imposed hut and poll taxes on traditional leaders so that Johannesburg could be supplied with the much needed "Black Gold", as journalist-activist Ruth First described the system. The song describes what’s on the minds of mining recruits on a steam train as it makes its way to Johannesburg: "They think about their lands, their herds that were taken away from them." For Masekela, writing "Stimela" must have been, in part, a reflection on his own life. Born in the coal mining area called Witbank, he was raised by his grandmother who made her livelihood from a shebeen (an illegal bar) for mineworkers. The legacy lives on Up until the 1970s, when Masekela composed "Stimela" while he was in exile, South African mineworkers typically spent only a few years on the mines, saving up money or buying cattle to return to their lands. But the 1970s was the time of great change in South Africa’s mining industry. In 1974, 72 Malawian mineworkers were killed in an airplane crash. A year later, Mozambique became independent. Both Mozambique and Malawi were major suppliers of migrant workers to South African mines and these events put the steady flow of labour at risk. In the case of Mozambique, the apartheid state was able to strike a deal with the new Mozambican government for the continued supply of labour. But Malawi withdrew permission for the recruitment of workers from their country. The result was a shift to recruiting more South African workers and the emergence of career mine workers with much longer contracts. This change in the mining labour market eventually led to the founding of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982. The successful organisation of workers who were at the heart of South Africa’s economy was one of the most important pillars of resistance against apartheid. Sadly, the mining industry's contested legacy and its migrant labour system remain challenges in the post-apartheid period. This is evident in a number of ways. The massacre of mineworkers at Marikana in 2012 was a stark reminder of the acute vulnerability and exploitation of workers. On top of this is the inability of the mining companies and the state to provide many mine workers – now often employed through subcontractors – with decent housing and services. And finally, the issue of land dispossession still haunts the country and remains unresolved. Steam trains no longer crisscross southern Africa. Yet "Stimela" remains as much a song about the present and future aspirations, as it does of the past. *Andries Bezuidenhout, Professor of Development Studies, University of Fort Hare (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL

Opinion: The best anthem for Labour Day

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