Germany, Sweden and Poland on Monday each threw out a Russian diplomat in retaliation for Moscow's expulsion last week of their diplomats for allegedly taking part in protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

The three EU countries announced the tit-for-tat moves in coordinated statements, drawing an angry response from Russia which accused them of meddling in its internal affairs.

The diplomatic spat comes at a time of heightened tensions between the European Union and Russia, exacerbated by the arrest and jailing of leading opposition figure Navalny.

Russia humiliated the European Union on Friday by announcing the expulsions during a rare meeting in Moscow between EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

European governments strongly condemned the shock expulsions, with Berlin warning that it would respond in kind.

Moscow's decision to expel the three diplomats "was in no way justified", the German foreign ministry said Monday, adding that the German staff member had been&nbsp;doing his job of "observing developments in Russia by lawful means".

Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said Stockholm had "informed the Russian ambassador that a person from the Russian embassy is asked to leave Sweden".&nbsp;

"This is a clear response to the unacceptable decision to expel a Swedish diplomat who was only performing his duties," she wrote on Twitter.

The Polish foreign ministry likewise condemned the "groundless expulsion" of a Polish diplomat from Saint Petersburg and said it had declared "persona non grata" a Russian consular official in Poznan, western Poland.

The Russian foreign ministry immediately hit back.

"Today's decisions by Poland, Germany and Sweden are unfounded, unfriendly and are a continuation of the very series of actions that the West is taking with regard to our country and which we qualify as interference in our internal affairs," spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on state channel Rossiya 1.

- 'Reviving relations' -

The Kremlin earlier on Monday defended the expulsion of the EU diplomats during Borrell's high-profile visit, and insisted it remained interested in reviving relations with Brussels.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the declaration of the three foreign diplomats as personae non gratae was a "consequence of the actions of some diplomatic missions in Moscow against the backdrop of illegal riots".&nbsp;

Peskov added that Moscow did not initiate "the collapse" of the relationship with the EU.&nbsp;

"Russia has been and remains interested in reviving relations between Moscow and Brussels," he told reporters.

Navalny, a fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin, was arrested upon arrival in Moscow on January 17 after spending several months in Germany recovering from a poisoning attack the West believes was ordered by the Kremlin.

He was jailed for nearly three years last week for violating parole conditions while in Germany.

Tens of thousands of Russians have taken to the streets in recent weeks to protest against Putin's 20-year rule and demand Navalny's release, triggering a fierce police crackdown on demonstrators.

Western leaders too have called for Navalny to be freed immediately.

Russia has bristled at the international backing for Navalny, accusing Europe and the United States of interfering in its domestic affairs.

The EU's Borrell is expected to meet with foreign ministers from the 27 member states on February 22 to discuss fresh sanctions against Moscow that would require a unanimous vote among the EU members.

Germany, Sweden and Poland on Monday each threw out a Russian diplomat in retaliation for Moscow's expulsion last week of their diplomats for allegedly taking part in protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Germany, Sweden and Poland on Monday each threw out a Russian diplomat in retaliation for Moscow's expulsion last week of their diplomats for allegedly taking part in protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. The three EU countries announced the tit-for-tat moves in coordinated statements, drawing an angry response from Russia which accused them of meddling in its internal affairs. The diplomatic spat comes at a time of heightened tensions between the European Union and Russia, exacerbated by the arrest and jailing of leading opposition figure Navalny. Russia humiliated the European Union on Friday by announcing the expulsions during a rare meeting in Moscow between EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. European governments strongly condemned the shock expulsions, with Berlin warning that it would respond in kind. Moscow's decision to expel the three diplomats "was in no way justified", the German foreign ministry said Monday, adding that the German staff member had been doing his job of "observing developments in Russia by lawful means". Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said Stockholm had "informed the Russian ambassador that a person from the Russian embassy is asked to leave Sweden". "This is a clear response to the unacceptable decision to expel a Swedish diplomat who was only performing his duties," she wrote on Twitter. The Polish foreign ministry likewise condemned the "groundless expulsion" of a Polish diplomat from Saint Petersburg and said it had declared "persona non grata" a Russian consular official in Poznan, western Poland. The Russian foreign ministry immediately hit back. "Today's decisions by Poland, Germany and Sweden are unfounded, unfriendly and are a continuation of the very series of actions that the West is taking with regard to our country and which we qualify as interference in our internal affairs," spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on state channel Rossiya 1. - 'Reviving relations' - The Kremlin earlier on Monday defended the expulsion of the EU diplomats during Borrell's high-profile visit, and insisted it remained interested in reviving relations with Brussels. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the declaration of the three foreign diplomats as personae non gratae was a "consequence of the actions of some diplomatic missions in Moscow against the backdrop of illegal riots". Peskov added that Moscow did not initiate "the collapse" of the relationship with the EU. "Russia has been and remains interested in reviving relations between Moscow and Brussels," he told reporters. Navalny, a fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin, was arrested upon arrival in Moscow on January 17 after spending several months in Germany recovering from a poisoning attack the West believes was ordered by the Kremlin. He was jailed for nearly three years last week for violating parole conditions while in Germany. Tens of thousands of Russians have taken to the streets in recent weeks to protest against Putin's 20-year rule and demand Navalny's release, triggering a fierce police crackdown on demonstrators. Western leaders too have called for Navalny to be freed immediately. Russia has bristled at the international backing for Navalny, accusing Europe and the United States of interfering in its domestic affairs. The EU's Borrell is expected to meet with foreign ministers from the 27 member states on February 22 to discuss fresh sanctions against Moscow that would require a unanimous vote among the EU members.

Germany, Poland, Sweden expel Russian diplomats in tit-for-tat move

The Swedish government has declined to comment on the remarks made by the climate activist, Greta Thunberg, who is a Swedish national. In response to WION's&nbsp;question on tweets by Greta Thunberg on India's farmers' protest, the Swedish foreign ministry said it has "no comments on this matter."

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-comments-by-rihanna-greta-and-others-on-farmers-protests-361028">&nbsp;India slams comments by Rihanna, Greta and others on farmers protests</a>

Being a private citizen, her comments and tweets have no bearing on foreign policy but as an influencer, she has had an impact especially when it comes to the US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> presidency. Greta has been a climate activist drawing focus on the issue.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-amount-of-hate-threats-will-greta-thunberg-after-delhi-police-books-creators-of-her-toolkit-361400">&nbsp;'No amount of hate, threats will..': Greta Thunberg after Delhi Police books creators of her 'toolkit'</a>

As for the India-Sweden ties, both countries share a good relationship. India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, visited Sweden in 2018 and became the first Indian PM to visit the country in the last 30 years. During that visit, the first India-Nordic summit was hosted in Stockholm.

Sweden supports India’s membership of the expanded United Nations Security Council (UNSC), membership for the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), and has backed New Delhi's bid for the nuclear suppliers' group (NSG).

The Swedish government has declined to comment on the remarks made by the climate activist, Greta Thunberg, who is a Swedish national. In response to WION's question on tweets by Greta Thunberg on India's farmers' protest, the Swedish foreign ministry said it has "no comments on this matter.

The Swedish government has declined to comment on the remarks made by the climate activist, Greta Thunberg, who is a Swedish national. In response to WION's question on tweets by Greta Thunberg on India's farmers' protest, the Swedish foreign ministry said it has "no comments on this matter." Also read| India slams comments by Rihanna, Greta and others on farmers protests Being a private citizen, her comments and tweets have no bearing on foreign policy but as an influencer, she has had an impact especially when it comes to the US President Donald Trump's presidency. Greta has been a climate activist drawing focus on the issue. Also read| 'No amount of hate, threats will..': Greta Thunberg after Delhi Police books creators of her 'toolkit' As for the India-Sweden ties, both countries share a good relationship. India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, visited Sweden in 2018 and became the first Indian PM to visit the country in the last 30 years. During that visit, the first India-Nordic summit was hosted in Stockholm. Sweden supports India’s membership of the expanded United Nations Security Council (UNSC), membership for the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), and has backed New Delhi's bid for the nuclear suppliers' group (NSG).

No comments, says Sweden on Greta Thunberg's remark on India farmer protests

Black Lives Matter, a movement that received an impetus in May, 2020, has been proposed for the Nobel Peace Prize. Founded in the United States in 2013, the movement became a rallying cry after a Black person George Floyd died at the hands of the US police.

Black Lives Matter movement honoured for peaceful civil disobedience

the black lives matter global movement has won's Sweden's top human rights honor 'Olfo Plame Award' for the year 2020 this award is bestowed in black lives global network foundation. the award committee has said that around 20 million people have taken part in the global movement against systemic racism it is noted that last year's protest was displaced as civil disobedience against police brutality.

The 'Black lives Matters' movement has won's Sweden's top human rights honor

Sweden will ban breeding of mink in 2021 to prevent the risk of mutations of the coronavirus spreading to humans.

The decision comes in the backdrop of neighbour Denmark slaughtering its entire herd of around 17 million mink in November after hundreds of farms suffered outbreaks of coronavirus and authorities found mutated strains of the virus among people.

Denmark has also banned mink breeding until 2022.

Sweden recorded coronavirus cases at several mink farms, although authorities said in December the animals had not been found to carry the mutated strain as evident in Denmark.

"In Sweden, the mutated virus has, luckily, not got into our mink farms," Financial Markets Minister Per Bolund told reporters at a news conference.&nbsp;

"But our mink industry remains a further risk factor that we need to consider when it comes to the fight against corona."

Sweden will ban breeding of mink in 2021 to prevent the risk of mutations of the coronavirus spreading to humans. The decision comes in the backdrop of neighbour Denmark slaughtering its entire herd of around 17 million mink in November after hundreds of farms suffered outbreaks of coronavirus and authorities found mutated strains of the virus among people.

Sweden will ban breeding of mink in 2021 to prevent the risk of mutations of the coronavirus spreading to humans. The decision comes in the backdrop of neighbour Denmark slaughtering its entire herd of around 17 million mink in November after hundreds of farms suffered outbreaks of coronavirus and authorities found mutated strains of the virus among people. Denmark has also banned mink breeding until 2022. Sweden recorded coronavirus cases at several mink farms, although authorities said in December the animals had not been found to carry the mutated strain as evident in Denmark. "In Sweden, the mutated virus has, luckily, not got into our mink farms," Financial Markets Minister Per Bolund told reporters at a news conference. "But our mink industry remains a further risk factor that we need to consider when it comes to the fight against corona."

Sweden to ban mink breeding

Swedish teen environmental activist Greta Thunberg appeared on a postage stamp issued in her native Sweden on Thursday and is part of a series focused on the environment.

Global climate activist Greta Thunberg to feature on postal stamps

Sweden, which has long shunned lockdowns and face mask orders as tools in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, has given its government power to act more forcefully to stem the spread of the disease.

Parliament on Friday passed an emergency law that will allow the government to limit the number of people in shops, businesses and public places, like theaters and public swimming pools, or even order their closure in case of violations. The government will also be able to fine individuals for breaking coronavirus rules.

The new powers go into effect Sunday, freeing the government to do more than make recommendations, as it has thus far. But with the country struggling to battle a second wave of the coronavirus, and with emergency wards filling up to critical capacity, the government said it needed more tools.

As of Saturday, Sweden’s total death toll stood at 9,433. The country now has 93 deaths per 100,000 people, less than Britain, which has 120, but far more than its neighbor Norway, with 9.

“We see a great risk that we will be in a difficult situation for some time ahead,” Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told the SVT network. “Of course, that means the pandemic law will be used. And we will be using it in the near future.”

In a separate decision implemented Thursday, face masks, long deemed ineffective by Swedish health officials, are now being recommended for use during rush hour on public transportation. They are not mandatory.

In April, when much of the rest of the world went into lockdowns, Swedes were able to keep going to bars and restaurants, with the government and health officials saying they didn’t believe in lockdowns. The country’s Public Health Authority issued some coronavirus prevention recommendations, but the government legally wasn’t able to order the sort of blanket stay-at-home measures used in other European countries.

Swedish lawmakers supported the stance, saying they would never force people to adhere to the recommendations. But now that the pandemic is showing no signs of abating, many have changed their positions and have backed the government measures.

Some experts are calling for even stricter measures.

“This law is great but not enough,” said Dr. Fredrik Elgh, a professor of clinical virology at Umea University. “We need a four-week lockdown badly to stop this increase. If we do this now, in two weeks time we will see a decrease.” He added: “I don’t understand why my country is one of few countries that cannot do this seriously.”

Sweden, which has long shunned lockdowns and face mask orders as tools in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, has given its government power to act more forcefully to stem the spread of the disease.

Sweden, which has long shunned lockdowns and face mask orders as tools in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, has given its government power to act more forcefully to stem the spread of the disease. Parliament on Friday passed an emergency law that will allow the government to limit the number of people in shops, businesses and public places, like theaters and public swimming pools, or even order their closure in case of violations. The government will also be able to fine individuals for breaking coronavirus rules. The new powers go into effect Sunday, freeing the government to do more than make recommendations, as it has thus far. But with the country struggling to battle a second wave of the coronavirus, and with emergency wards filling up to critical capacity, the government said it needed more tools. As of Saturday, Sweden’s total death toll stood at 9,433. The country now has 93 deaths per 100,000 people, less than Britain, which has 120, but far more than its neighbor Norway, with 9. “We see a great risk that we will be in a difficult situation for some time ahead,” Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told the SVT network. “Of course, that means the pandemic law will be used. And we will be using it in the near future.” In a separate decision implemented Thursday, face masks, long deemed ineffective by Swedish health officials, are now being recommended for use during rush hour on public transportation. They are not mandatory. In April, when much of the rest of the world went into lockdowns, Swedes were able to keep going to bars and restaurants, with the government and health officials saying they didn’t believe in lockdowns. The country’s Public Health Authority issued some coronavirus prevention recommendations, but the government legally wasn’t able to order the sort of blanket stay-at-home measures used in other European countries. Swedish lawmakers supported the stance, saying they would never force people to adhere to the recommendations. But now that the pandemic is showing no signs of abating, many have changed their positions and have backed the government measures. Some experts are calling for even stricter measures. “This law is great but not enough,” said Dr. Fredrik Elgh, a professor of clinical virology at Umea University. “We need a four-week lockdown badly to stop this increase. If we do this now, in two weeks time we will see a decrease.” He added: “I don’t understand why my country is one of few countries that cannot do this seriously.”

With new law, Sweden gains power to impose coronavirus restrictions

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

Sweden imposes stricter COVID-19 regulations amid fear of new variant

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

Sweden's King criticised his country's handling of COVID-19 pandemic and lashed out at the pandemic policy saying 'we have failed'. There is a high death toll among the elderly citizens in Sweden.

Carl XVI Gustaf, whose son and daughter-in-law tested positive last month, used an annual royal Christmas TV special to highlight the growing impact of the virus, in a rare intervention from a monarch whose duties are largely ceremonial.

"I believe we have failed," the king said in an excerpt from the programme broadcast by SVT on Wednesday. The full show airs on Dec. 21.

"We have had a large number of deaths and that is terrible. That is something that brings us all suffering."

An official commission blamed high death tolls in nursing homes on systemic shortcomings in elderly care coupled with inadequate measures from the government and agencies &nbsp;

Sweden has registered more than 7,800 deaths, a much higher per capita rate than its Nordic neighbours but lower than in Britain, Italy, Spain or France, which have all opted for lockdowns.

The 74-year-old king has no formal political power and rarely comments on current and political issues, though he has addressed the nation to offer encouragement during the outbreak.

In the spring, the government's response to the pandemic was widely supported by Swedes who carried on much as normal while most of Europe entered lockdown.

But the rising death toll - particularly among elderly residents of care homes - has drawn increasing criticism.

(With Reuters inputs)

Sweden's King criticised his country's handling of COVID-19 pandemic and lashed out at the pandemic policy saying 'we have failed'. There is a high death toll among the elderly citizens in Sweden.

Sweden's King criticised his country's handling of COVID-19 pandemic and lashed out at the pandemic policy saying 'we have failed'. There is a high death toll among the elderly citizens in Sweden. Carl XVI Gustaf, whose son and daughter-in-law tested positive last month, used an annual royal Christmas TV special to highlight the growing impact of the virus, in a rare intervention from a monarch whose duties are largely ceremonial. "I believe we have failed," the king said in an excerpt from the programme broadcast by SVT on Wednesday. The full show airs on Dec. 21. "We have had a large number of deaths and that is terrible. That is something that brings us all suffering." An official commission blamed high death tolls in nursing homes on systemic shortcomings in elderly care coupled with inadequate measures from the government and agencies Sweden has registered more than 7,800 deaths, a much higher per capita rate than its Nordic neighbours but lower than in Britain, Italy, Spain or France, which have all opted for lockdowns. The 74-year-old king has no formal political power and rarely comments on current and political issues, though he has addressed the nation to offer encouragement during the outbreak. In the spring, the government's response to the pandemic was widely supported by Swedes who carried on much as normal while most of Europe entered lockdown. But the rising death toll - particularly among elderly residents of care homes - has drawn increasing criticism. (With Reuters inputs)

'We have failed' over COVID-19, says Sweden's King as deaths mount

Sweden's prosecutor on Wednesday said that they had charged a player over match-fixing in country's top football league.

The Prosecution Authority has not named the player. However, they revealed that he committed the crime while he played for IF Elfsborg, a club in Sweden's top league Allsvenskan.

The case is based on a game that was played in May 2019 when the player was handed a yellow card.

"Shortly after the game, the player was given a loan for a large sum of money from people who had placed a bet on him receiving a warning in that game," prosecutor Staffan Edlund said in a statement.

The player is no more a part of the club and was charged with taking a bribe and two other people were charged with paying a bribe, and both were charged with breaking Sweden's gambling law.

The Prosecution Authority also said it was charging a player in one of the country's lower leagues over taking bribes for six games that the player's team had lost.

Sweden's prosecutor on Wednesday said that they had charged a player over match-fixing in country's top football league. The Prosecution Authority has not named the player.

Sweden's prosecutor on Wednesday said that they had charged a player over match-fixing in country's top football league. The Prosecution Authority has not named the player. However, they revealed that he committed the crime while he played for IF Elfsborg, a club in Sweden's top league Allsvenskan. The case is based on a game that was played in May 2019 when the player was handed a yellow card. "Shortly after the game, the player was given a loan for a large sum of money from people who had placed a bet on him receiving a warning in that game," prosecutor Staffan Edlund said in a statement. The player is no more a part of the club and was charged with taking a bribe and two other people were charged with paying a bribe, and both were charged with breaking Sweden's gambling law. The Prosecution Authority also said it was charging a player in one of the country's lower leagues over taking bribes for six games that the player's team had lost.

Swedish prosecutors charge player with match fixing

The world is desperately waiting for the Corona vaccine, but citizens in Sweden are extremely sceptical. The reason is the bitter experience of the last mass vaccination drive. WION brings you a report.

Survey: 56% Swedes unsure about Corona vaccine

The prosecution in Sweden has decided to drop the preliminary investigation into the burning of the Quran, arguing that burning of the holy book is "not illegal".&nbsp;

The case is related to a protest on the streets of Malmo where far-right demonstrators burned a copy of the Quran in late August.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-sweden-must-lead-by-example-on-how-to-uphold-the-interest-of-all-groups-324365">Norway &amp; Sweden must lead by example on how to uphold the interest of all groups</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Over 300 people participated in the protest where they threw stones at the police and also burnt tyres.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riot-breaks-out-in-southern-sweden-after-anti-islam-actions-323819">Riot breaks out in southern Sweden after 'anti-Islam' actions</a>

"It is not possible to prove that a crime has been committed, burning a Quran in itself is not illegal", said chamber prosecutor Sofia Syrén to national broadcaster SVT, as quoted by Sputnik News.&nbsp;

She added that they went through evidence from the scene of the protest, including witness accounts and videos.&nbsp;

Several people from Swedish media and most politicians condemned the incident, but the prosecution did not find any legal ground against the accused.&nbsp;

"We have looked at what is happening around, how the person expresses themselves, and so on", said Syrén.&nbsp;

"From the material, it appears that there were people who expressed themselves in a way that may be judged as incitement against ethnic groups, but these cannot be identified."

The prosecution in Sweden has decided to drop the preliminary investigation into the burning of the Quran, arguing that burning of the holy book is "not illegal".

The prosecution in Sweden has decided to drop the preliminary investigation into the burning of the Quran, arguing that burning of the holy book is "not illegal". The case is related to a protest on the streets of Malmo where far-right demonstrators burned a copy of the Quran in late August. Also read | Norway & Sweden must lead by example on how to uphold the interest of all groups Over 300 people participated in the protest where they threw stones at the police and also burnt tyres. Also read | Riot breaks out in southern Sweden after 'anti-Islam' actions "It is not possible to prove that a crime has been committed, burning a Quran in itself is not illegal", said chamber prosecutor Sofia Syrén to national broadcaster SVT, as quoted by Sputnik News. She added that they went through evidence from the scene of the protest, including witness accounts and videos. Several people from Swedish media and most politicians condemned the incident, but the prosecution did not find any legal ground against the accused. "We have looked at what is happening around, how the person expresses themselves, and so on", said Syrén. "From the material, it appears that there were people who expressed themselves in a way that may be judged as incitement against ethnic groups, but these cannot be identified."

Swedish prosecution says Quran burning not 'illegal', decides not to press charges

China on Wednesday told Sweden to reverse a ban on Chinese tech firms from its 5G network, warning of "negative impacts" if it did not.

The Swedish telecoms regulator issued a ban on Tuesday that would require carriers to remove existing Huawei and ZTE equipment by 2025, citing national security concerns.

Chinese telecoms companies have faced bans and heightened scrutiny in recent months over fears Beijing could use their overseas deals to spy on foreign citizens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-offers-1-billion-deal-to-brazil-to-sway-it-away-from-chinas-huawei-5g-network-336778">Also read:&nbsp;US offers $1 billion deal to Brazil to sway it away from China's Huawei 5G network</a>

That has provoked a furious response from Beijing, which denies the allegations and says trumped-up security concerns are being used against its successful tech firms to hem them in for commercial reasons.

China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly dissatisfied" with Sweden's decision, accusing the Swedish government of "blatantly suppressing Chinese telecom companies and politicising normal economic cooperation."

Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Sweden to "correct its wrong decision" to avoid a "negative impact on China-Sweden economic and trade cooperation, and on the operations of Swedish companies in China."

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said that the decision had not targeted China.

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"The objective of the legislation is to ensure security here in Sweden... but we have never directed it at any country," he told the Swedish news agency TT.

"It's the authorities who assess what is possible and not possible. And we obviously trust their assessment."

Sweden's decision comes amid pressure from the United States on allies to cut Huawei from their internet infrastructure.

Britain banned mobile providers from using Huawei equipment in new 5G networks in July, while France has placed heavy restrictions on the use of equipment from Huawei.

The ban has raised fears that China could retaliate against Swedish telecoms equipment maker Ericsson, which has 5G contracts with all three major Chinese telecoms operators.

China on Wednesday told Sweden to reverse a ban on Chinese tech firms from its 5G network, warning of "negative impacts" if it did not. The Swedish telecoms regulator issued a ban on Tuesday that would require carriers to remove existing Huawei and ZTE equipment by 2025, citing national security concerns.

China on Wednesday told Sweden to reverse a ban on Chinese tech firms from its 5G network, warning of "negative impacts" if it did not. The Swedish telecoms regulator issued a ban on Tuesday that would require carriers to remove existing Huawei and ZTE equipment by 2025, citing national security concerns. Chinese telecoms companies have faced bans and heightened scrutiny in recent months over fears Beijing could use their overseas deals to spy on foreign citizens. Also read: US offers $1 billion deal to Brazil to sway it away from China's Huawei 5G network That has provoked a furious response from Beijing, which denies the allegations and says trumped-up security concerns are being used against its successful tech firms to hem them in for commercial reasons. China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly dissatisfied" with Sweden's decision, accusing the Swedish government of "blatantly suppressing Chinese telecom companies and politicising normal economic cooperation." Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Sweden to "correct its wrong decision" to avoid a "negative impact on China-Sweden economic and trade cooperation, and on the operations of Swedish companies in China." Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said that the decision had not targeted China. × "The objective of the legislation is to ensure security here in Sweden... but we have never directed it at any country," he told the Swedish news agency TT. "It's the authorities who assess what is possible and not possible. And we obviously trust their assessment." Sweden's decision comes amid pressure from the United States on allies to cut Huawei from their internet infrastructure. Britain banned mobile providers from using Huawei equipment in new 5G networks in July, while France has placed heavy restrictions on the use of equipment from Huawei. The ban has raised fears that China could retaliate against Swedish telecoms equipment maker Ericsson, which has 5G contracts with all three major Chinese telecoms operators.

China warns Swedish firms of tit-for-tat action after Huawei ban

Norway’s tipplers and sweet tooths may no longer feel a need to leave the country to stock up on their favourite vices.

The Nordic country's ruling party has proposed cutting its famously high "sin" taxes on alcohol, cigarettes and sweets and other consumer goods after the coronavirus lockdown showed how much business is lost every year to Norwegians flocking to neighbouring Sweden to snap up such items at cheaper prices.

Restrictions on travel between the Nordic neighbours imposed to contain transmissions of the coronavirus triggered a jump in retail sales, especially in regions bordering Sweden.

Norwegian authorities are keen to keep that trade humming to mitigate the economic downturn inflicted by the pandemic, even after any return to the open borders that have prevailed for almost 70 years of economic integration in the Nordic region.

Norway sealed its borders to all non-residents in mid-March before easing movement from June but imposing a 10-day quarantine on those returning from abroad, a rule that continues to deter traditional shopping runs to Sweden.

"The closure of borders because of the coronavirus created a full-scale experiment in what happens when all trade is moved back to Norway," said Vetle Wang Soleim, a Conservative MP on a party committee that presented the tax cut proposal.

Trade from Norwegians buying goods in Sweden plummeted by 99% in the April-June period compared with the year-ago period, Statistics Norway data showed.

Nationwide, retail sales rose 10% in April-July, and 20% or more in some regions bordering Sweden already in March.

The tax cut initiative has been presented as a way to recapture trade lost to Sweden since the pandemic has shown high "sin levies" were not necessarily deterring Norwegians from indulging in booze, cigarettes and chocolates.

"For us now, the most important priority is to move jobs back to Norway. We just prefer them to buy these goods on the Norwegian side of the border," Wang Soleim told Reuters.

Food in Norway is broadly 35% more expensive than in Sweden, and alcohol prices 67% higher, according to Statistics Norway.

In a scenario where cross-border trade stopped indefinitely, Norway would boost revenues from food, drink and other consumer good sales by at least $1.3 billion, according to an analysis by consultancy Menon Economics.

It would also mean 8,200 new jobs and $410 million more in tax revenue on top of the special levies on alcohol, sugar and tobacco, it said.

Cigarettes, soda fly off the racks

In Sarpsborg, an industrial town in Norway's southeast 30 km (19 miles) from the Swedish frontier, staff at the Kiwi supermarket have been scrambling to cope with surging footfall, with sales rocketing by 85% in April-August.

"We are selling much more of everything now - especially minced meat, an extreme amount of soda, cigarettes and snuff tobacco," said store manager Carina Andresen.

"We have always known there were many people who went to shop in Sweden, but not that it was so many, and for so much."

In Halden, a town 12 km from the border, sales at the local wine and liquor store tripled during the summer months compared with last year, with vodka priced at 400 crowns ($42) a litre snapped up by more tourists and holiday cabin owners.

"We also sell much more boxed wine. People don't just buy one or two boxes, but four or five at a time," said store manager Anneli Christiansen, who had to hire four more staff at the start of lockdown in March to handle soaring demand.

"So empty" on Swedish side

Towns on the Swedish side of the border, by contrast are starved of trade these days.

Many shopping malls sprang up in recent decades to cater almost exclusively to Norwegians, but now sit nearly empty.

In the municipality of Aarjaeng, trade with Norway supports about a third of jobs, said municipal board chairman Daniel Schuetzer. "It has been so empty in the area. There is a certain resignation - people wonder how they are going to make ends meet when a large part of your market disappears overnight."

Others worry about future ties between two countries that have placed free movement of people and goods at the core of their relationship, well before much of the rest of Europe did.

Georg Andren, governor of Sweden's Vaermland region, said that companies may be less willing to invest there, and, in the longer term, "what is at stake is the social fabric".

The Norwegian Conservatives' proposed tax cut has elicited broad political support, although their coalition ally the Christian Democrats oppose lowering levies on alcohol.

The rightist opposition Progress Party, which generally backs government budgets, has swung behind the proposal in keeping with its view that Norwegians' heavy tax burden should be eased across the board.

Norway’s tipplers and sweet tooths may no longer feel a need to leave the country to stock up on their favourite vices. The Nordic country's ruling party has proposed cutting its famously high "sin" taxes on alcohol, cigarettes and sweets and other consumer goods after the coronavirus lockdown showed how much business is lost every year to Norwegians flocking to neighbouring Sweden to snap up such items at cheaper prices.

Norway’s tipplers and sweet tooths may no longer feel a need to leave the country to stock up on their favourite vices. The Nordic country's ruling party has proposed cutting its famously high "sin" taxes on alcohol, cigarettes and sweets and other consumer goods after the coronavirus lockdown showed how much business is lost every year to Norwegians flocking to neighbouring Sweden to snap up such items at cheaper prices. Restrictions on travel between the Nordic neighbours imposed to contain transmissions of the coronavirus triggered a jump in retail sales, especially in regions bordering Sweden. Norwegian authorities are keen to keep that trade humming to mitigate the economic downturn inflicted by the pandemic, even after any return to the open borders that have prevailed for almost 70 years of economic integration in the Nordic region. Norway sealed its borders to all non-residents in mid-March before easing movement from June but imposing a 10-day quarantine on those returning from abroad, a rule that continues to deter traditional shopping runs to Sweden. "The closure of borders because of the coronavirus created a full-scale experiment in what happens when all trade is moved back to Norway," said Vetle Wang Soleim, a Conservative MP on a party committee that presented the tax cut proposal. Trade from Norwegians buying goods in Sweden plummeted by 99% in the April-June period compared with the year-ago period, Statistics Norway data showed. Nationwide, retail sales rose 10% in April-July, and 20% or more in some regions bordering Sweden already in March. The tax cut initiative has been presented as a way to recapture trade lost to Sweden since the pandemic has shown high "sin levies" were not necessarily deterring Norwegians from indulging in booze, cigarettes and chocolates. "For us now, the most important priority is to move jobs back to Norway. We just prefer them to buy these goods on the Norwegian side of the border," Wang Soleim told Reuters. Food in Norway is broadly 35% more expensive than in Sweden, and alcohol prices 67% higher, according to Statistics Norway. In a scenario where cross-border trade stopped indefinitely, Norway would boost revenues from food, drink and other consumer good sales by at least $1.3 billion, according to an analysis by consultancy Menon Economics. It would also mean 8,200 new jobs and $410 million more in tax revenue on top of the special levies on alcohol, sugar and tobacco, it said. Cigarettes, soda fly off the racks In Sarpsborg, an industrial town in Norway's southeast 30 km (19 miles) from the Swedish frontier, staff at the Kiwi supermarket have been scrambling to cope with surging footfall, with sales rocketing by 85% in April-August. "We are selling much more of everything now - especially minced meat, an extreme amount of soda, cigarettes and snuff tobacco," said store manager Carina Andresen. "We have always known there were many people who went to shop in Sweden, but not that it was so many, and for so much." In Halden, a town 12 km from the border, sales at the local wine and liquor store tripled during the summer months compared with last year, with vodka priced at 400 crowns ($42) a litre snapped up by more tourists and holiday cabin owners. "We also sell much more boxed wine. People don't just buy one or two boxes, but four or five at a time," said store manager Anneli Christiansen, who had to hire four more staff at the start of lockdown in March to handle soaring demand. "So empty" on Swedish side Towns on the Swedish side of the border, by contrast are starved of trade these days. Many shopping malls sprang up in recent decades to cater almost exclusively to Norwegians, but now sit nearly empty. In the municipality of Aarjaeng, trade with Norway supports about a third of jobs, said municipal board chairman Daniel Schuetzer. "It has been so empty in the area. There is a certain resignation - people wonder how they are going to make ends meet when a large part of your market disappears overnight." Others worry about future ties between two countries that have placed free movement of people and goods at the core of their relationship, well before much of the rest of Europe did. Georg Andren, governor of Sweden's Vaermland region, said that companies may be less willing to invest there, and, in the longer term, "what is at stake is the social fabric". The Norwegian Conservatives' proposed tax cut has elicited broad political support, although their coalition ally the Christian Democrats oppose lowering levies on alcohol. The rightist opposition Progress Party, which generally backs government budgets, has swung behind the proposal in keeping with its view that Norwegians' heavy tax burden should be eased across the board.

Norway to stop 'sin tax' on alcohol, sodas due to travel restrictions amid pandemic

Sweden's state-owned space agency has forbidden China from using its satellite stations.

Gravitas: China stands isolated in global space race

Sweden's centre-left government will boost funding for elderly care by around $500 million in its 2021 budget after the number of deaths in old people's homes during the coronavirus pandemic sparked widespread concern.

The government has said it will boost spending by more than 100 billion Swedish crowns ($11.45 billion) in the budget to be published on Sept. 21 as it seeks to restart the economy and plug holes in the welfare system exposed by the pandemic.

"Our goal must be to build the world's best system of elderly care, and this spring and the coronavirus have showed that we need to speed up this work," Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told reporters on Monday.

Sweden's death toll from the coronavirus pandemic has been much larger than its Nordic neighbours, though less than countries like Britain and Spain. Most of those deaths have been among the elderly, including many residents in care homes.

Around 5,800 Swedes have died compared with around 340 people in Finland, which has about half the population of its bigger neighbour, and Lofven's minority government has faced widespread criticism for failing to protect vulnerable citizens.

Lofven said budget, negotiated with two small centre-right parties which nominally sit in opposition, would prioritise welfare, fighting climate change and building up the criminal justice system, amid worries about violent crime.

"The budget has a clear direction -- it will make it possible for everyone in our country to contribute and work Sweden out of this crisis," Lofven said.

In addition to the 9.7 billion crowns for elderly care, local authorities will get an extra 10 billion crowns ($1.14 billion) in grants from the central government, with an additional 5 billion crowns coming in 2022.

Sweden's centre-left government will boost funding for elderly care by around $500 million in its 2021 budget after the number of deaths in old people's homes during the coronavirus pandemic sparked widespread concern.

Sweden's centre-left government will boost funding for elderly care by around $500 million in its 2021 budget after the number of deaths in old people's homes during the coronavirus pandemic sparked widespread concern. The government has said it will boost spending by more than 100 billion Swedish crowns ($11.45 billion) in the budget to be published on Sept. 21 as it seeks to restart the economy and plug holes in the welfare system exposed by the pandemic. "Our goal must be to build the world's best system of elderly care, and this spring and the coronavirus have showed that we need to speed up this work," Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told reporters on Monday. Sweden's death toll from the coronavirus pandemic has been much larger than its Nordic neighbours, though less than countries like Britain and Spain. Most of those deaths have been among the elderly, including many residents in care homes. Around 5,800 Swedes have died compared with around 340 people in Finland, which has about half the population of its bigger neighbour, and Lofven's minority government has faced widespread criticism for failing to protect vulnerable citizens. Lofven said budget, negotiated with two small centre-right parties which nominally sit in opposition, would prioritise welfare, fighting climate change and building up the criminal justice system, amid worries about violent crime. "The budget has a clear direction -- it will make it possible for everyone in our country to contribute and work Sweden out of this crisis," Lofven said. In addition to the 9.7 billion crowns for elderly care, local authorities will get an extra 10 billion crowns ($1.14 billion) in grants from the central government, with an additional 5 billion crowns coming in 2022.

Swedish government promises cash for elderly care after COVID-19 deaths

Norway &amp; Sweden — almost always make it to the top 10 — of the global happiness index. But some recent events — paint a completely different picture of these lands.

Two cities in these two nations witnessed violent protests. Malmo — the third-largest city in Sweden and Oslo — the capital of Norway.

Both saw violent demonstrations over the weekend.

Clashes broke out at an anti-Islam rally, organised by the group Stop Islamisation of Norway (SIAN), in capital Oslo on Saturday. 
 
The rally took place near the parliament building and was ended earlier than scheduled owing to the protests.

And at least 10 people were arrested in southern Sweden and several police officers were injured in the violence which broke out after an anti-Muslim Danish politician was blocked from attending a Quran-burning rally, police said Saturday.

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Protesters threw stones at police and burned tyres on the streets of Malmo late Friday, with violence escalating as the evening wore on, according to police and local media.

The demonstration of about 300 people was connected to an incident earlier in the day in which protesters burned a copy of the Islamic holy book, police spokesman Rickard Lundqvist told Swedish tabloid Expression.

The ones who are protesting, they do not want to adapt to norms that are alien to them.They don't want neighbourhoods that have increasingly become 'Islamicized'.

They link the surge of immigrants to an increase in violent crimes. They are angry with their respective governments. Some have banded together to patrol the streets and protect their neighbourhoods.

Some others have formed vigilante groups and resort to violence to get noticed. This cultural conflict has played out time and again in several different parts of the world.

&nbsp;Sweden and Norway — are just the latest victims. They've long sat in judgment of others on how violent protests are dealt with.

Now they must lead by example on how to uphold the interest of all groups. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Norway & Sweden — almost always make it to the top 10 — of the global happiness index. But some recent events — paint a completely different picture of these lands.

Norway & Sweden — almost always make it to the top 10 — of the global happiness index. But some recent events — paint a completely different picture of these lands. Two cities in these two nations witnessed violent protests. Malmo — the third-largest city in Sweden and Oslo — the capital of Norway. Both saw violent demonstrations over the weekend. Clashes broke out at an anti-Islam rally, organised by the group Stop Islamisation of Norway (SIAN), in capital Oslo on Saturday. The rally took place near the parliament building and was ended earlier than scheduled owing to the protests. And at least 10 people were arrested in southern Sweden and several police officers were injured in the violence which broke out after an anti-Muslim Danish politician was blocked from attending a Quran-burning rally, police said Saturday. × Protesters threw stones at police and burned tyres on the streets of Malmo late Friday, with violence escalating as the evening wore on, according to police and local media. The demonstration of about 300 people was connected to an incident earlier in the day in which protesters burned a copy of the Islamic holy book, police spokesman Rickard Lundqvist told Swedish tabloid Expression. The ones who are protesting, they do not want to adapt to norms that are alien to them.They don't want neighbourhoods that have increasingly become 'Islamicized'. They link the surge of immigrants to an increase in violent crimes. They are angry with their respective governments. Some have banded together to patrol the streets and protect their neighbourhoods. Some others have formed vigilante groups and resort to violence to get noticed. This cultural conflict has played out time and again in several different parts of the world. Sweden and Norway — are just the latest victims. They've long sat in judgment of others on how violent protests are dealt with. Now they must lead by example on how to uphold the interest of all groups. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway & Sweden must lead by example on how to uphold the interest of all groups

Some 300 people gathered along the main thoroughfare in Malmo to protest after members of a far-right political party staged a burning Quran. As the crowds increased, fires broke out in the street and several cars were set on fire.

Sweden Riots: Hundreds protest against anti-Islamic activities

Protesters threw stones at police and burned tyres in southern Swedish town of Malmo late on Friday, hours after an anti-Muslim Danish politician was blocked from attending a Koran-burning rally nearby.

At least 300 people had gathered to protest against anti-Islam activities.

The demonstration was connected to an incident earlier in the day in which protesters burned a copy of the Islamic holy book, police spokesman Rickard Lundqvist told Swedish tabloid Expressen.

Rasmus Paludan, who leads the far-right Danish anti-immigration party Hard Line, was due to travel to Malmo to speak at that event, which was being held on the same day as weekly prayers for the Muslim sabbath.

But authorities pre-empted Paludan's arrival by announcing he had been banned from entering Sweden for two years. He was later arrested near Malmo.

The demonstrations had escalated in the same place where the Quran had been burned.

Daily Aftonbladet said several anti-Islam activities had taken place in Malmo on Friday, including three men kicking a copy of the Quran between them in a public square.

Paludan last year attracted media attention for burning a Koran wrapped in bacon -- a meat that is anathema for Muslims.

Protesters threw stones at police and burned tyres in southern Swedish town of Malmo late on Friday, hours after an anti-Muslim Danish politician was blocked from attending a Koran-burning rally nearby.

Protesters threw stones at police and burned tyres in southern Swedish town of Malmo late on Friday, hours after an anti-Muslim Danish politician was blocked from attending a Koran-burning rally nearby. At least 300 people had gathered to protest against anti-Islam activities. The demonstration was connected to an incident earlier in the day in which protesters burned a copy of the Islamic holy book, police spokesman Rickard Lundqvist told Swedish tabloid Expressen. Rasmus Paludan, who leads the far-right Danish anti-immigration party Hard Line, was due to travel to Malmo to speak at that event, which was being held on the same day as weekly prayers for the Muslim sabbath. But authorities pre-empted Paludan's arrival by announcing he had been banned from entering Sweden for two years. He was later arrested near Malmo. The demonstrations had escalated in the same place where the Quran had been burned. Daily Aftonbladet said several anti-Islam activities had taken place in Malmo on Friday, including three men kicking a copy of the Quran between them in a public square. Paludan last year attracted media attention for burning a Koran wrapped in bacon -- a meat that is anathema for Muslims.

Riot breaks out in southern Sweden after 'anti-Islam' actions

Sweden has recorded its highest death toll in the last 150 years. Data shows that between January and June this year more than 51,000 people have lost their lives.

Sweden's herd immunity plan goes wrong? 690% jump in deaths from 2019 to 2020

Sweden, in the first half of 2020, broke a grim record of highest deaths in 150 years, according to the official statistics record. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As many as 51,405 deaths were registered in Sweden in between January and June this year, highest since 1869 when the country was hit by famine.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supply-nationalism-exacerbated-the-pandemic-many-countries-still-do-not-have-enough-who-chief-tedros-321964">Supply nationalism exacerbated the pandemic, many countries still do not have enough: WHO chief Tedros</a>

The country was severely criticised to not enforce a lockdown when coronavirus pandemic ravaged Europe, which led to a sharp rise in coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-cases-of-covid-19-reach-2114-million-death-toll-tops-780000-321636">Global cases of COVID-19 reach 21.14 million, death toll tops 780,000</a>

Sweden's coronavirus death toll stands at 5,802.&nbsp;

A lot of COVID-19 deaths in Sweden took place in care homes, and Sweden's chief epidemiologist Anders Tegnell acknowledged in June that the country's health authority "didn't know that there would be such a big potential for the disease to spread in elderly care homes, with so many deaths," reported CNN.&nbsp;

"There are things that we could have done better but in general I think that Sweden has chosen the right way," he had said to Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter:

With an increase of 6,860, the country also saw the lowest population increase since 2005 that was less than half of what was recorded the last year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sweden, in the first half of 2020, broke a grim record of highest deaths in 150 years, according to the official statistics record. As many as 51,405 deaths were registered in Sweden in between January and June this year, highest since 1869 when the country was hit by famine.

Sweden, in the first half of 2020, broke a grim record of highest deaths in 150 years, according to the official statistics record. As many as 51,405 deaths were registered in Sweden in between January and June this year, highest since 1869 when the country was hit by famine. Also read | Supply nationalism exacerbated the pandemic, many countries still do not have enough: WHO chief Tedros The country was severely criticised to not enforce a lockdown when coronavirus pandemic ravaged Europe, which led to a sharp rise in coronavirus cases. Also read | Global cases of COVID-19 reach 21.14 million, death toll tops 780,000 Sweden's coronavirus death toll stands at 5,802. A lot of COVID-19 deaths in Sweden took place in care homes, and Sweden's chief epidemiologist Anders Tegnell acknowledged in June that the country's health authority "didn't know that there would be such a big potential for the disease to spread in elderly care homes, with so many deaths," reported CNN. "There are things that we could have done better but in general I think that Sweden has chosen the right way," he had said to Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter: With an increase of 6,860, the country also saw the lowest population increase since 2005 that was less than half of what was recorded the last year.

Sweden records highest deaths in 150 years in first-half of 2020

At a time when even US President Donald Trump has started wearing masks and encouraging others too to use them, face covers are definitely not preferable in Nordic countries.&nbsp;

Be it Stockholm, Copenhagen, Reykjavik Oslo, and Helsinki, face masks are hardly seen in buses or supermarkets and only a small minority of people, who are by and large tourists are donning it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-says-people-infected-with-covid-19-should-do-contact-tracing-themselves-314817">Sweden says people infected with COVID-19 should do contact tracing themselves</a>

A recent survey by YouGov revealed only five to 10 per cent of people in the Nordic nations said they wore a mask in outdoors, a figure that has remained stable since the beginning of the crisis in March, reported news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-suspends-virus-tracing-app-following-privacy-concerns-306215">Norway suspends virus-tracing app following privacy concerns</a>

During the same period, there was a 70-80 per cent rise in most of the other 20 countries that were polled, including India and the US.&nbsp;

Camille Fornaroli, a 21-year-old French student who was shocked to see the rare use of masks in Stockholm, says "if the government doesn't say clearly 'we advise you to wear a mask'".&nbsp;

Sweden has received a lot of criticism globally over its softer approach to control the spread of the deadly virus, however, on the issues of masks, the Nordic nations stand strongly united.&nbsp;

Birgitta Wedel, a 63-year-old pensioner, wants to use a mask if authorities make it official, at least while boarding public transport, but she added she won't be doing that until there is an official measure.&nbsp;

"If they don't... I will not wear it because nobody else does," she said.

KK Cheng, an epidemiologist at the University of Birmingham's Institute of Applied Health Research, adds that there are not many coronavirus cases in these countries, except Sweden, so not making masks mandatory can work if distancing and contract tracing is done properly.

"So I don't blame them for not doing it, as long as they have reasonable social distancing and contact tracing is done properly," Cheng said.&nbsp;

However, on Thursday, Iceland, broke away from its neighbours on this front and announced that masks would become mandatory on domestic flights, public transports, hairdressing salons and ferries.&nbsp;

At a time when even US President Donald Trump has started wearing masks and encouraging others too to use them, face covers are definitely not preferable in Nordic countries.

At a time when even US President Donald Trump has started wearing masks and encouraging others too to use them, face covers are definitely not preferable in Nordic countries. Be it Stockholm, Copenhagen, Reykjavik Oslo, and Helsinki, face masks are hardly seen in buses or supermarkets and only a small minority of people, who are by and large tourists are donning it. Also read | Sweden says people infected with COVID-19 should do contact tracing themselves A recent survey by YouGov revealed only five to 10 per cent of people in the Nordic nations said they wore a mask in outdoors, a figure that has remained stable since the beginning of the crisis in March, reported news agency AFP. Also read | Norway suspends virus-tracing app following privacy concerns During the same period, there was a 70-80 per cent rise in most of the other 20 countries that were polled, including India and the US. Camille Fornaroli, a 21-year-old French student who was shocked to see the rare use of masks in Stockholm, says "if the government doesn't say clearly 'we advise you to wear a mask'". Sweden has received a lot of criticism globally over its softer approach to control the spread of the deadly virus, however, on the issues of masks, the Nordic nations stand strongly united. Birgitta Wedel, a 63-year-old pensioner, wants to use a mask if authorities make it official, at least while boarding public transport, but she added she won't be doing that until there is an official measure. "If they don't... I will not wear it because nobody else does," she said. KK Cheng, an epidemiologist at the University of Birmingham's Institute of Applied Health Research, adds that there are not many coronavirus cases in these countries, except Sweden, so not making masks mandatory can work if distancing and contract tracing is done properly. "So I don't blame them for not doing it, as long as they have reasonable social distancing and contact tracing is done properly," Cheng said. However, on Thursday, Iceland, broke away from its neighbours on this front and announced that masks would become mandatory on domestic flights, public transports, hairdressing salons and ferries.

No masks for Nordic nations day or night to keep coronavirus away

Iran has detained two Swedes over the suspicion of drug trafficking, the country's judiciary said on Tuesday. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili refused to identify the arrested or give any details on when and where they were detained.&nbsp;

"Two Swedish nationals were arrested by the judiciary for trafficking drugs," which were still in their possession, he said.

"We informed their government and embassy about their arrest through the foreign ministry," he said, quoted by the judiciary's Mizan Online website.

According to the spokesman, the detained have been informed that they "can enjoy consular services, meeting privileges and the like".

According to Tasnim news agency's report, two Swedish members of an "international drug gang" had been arrested as part of a "complex operation" at the beginning of July.&nbsp;

"A big part of the large shipment discovered was dangerous industrial narcotics," it said, adding that the network had been dismantled.

(Inputs from AFP)

Iran has detained two Swedes over the suspicion of drug trafficking, the country's judiciary said on Tuesday. Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili refused to identify the arrested or give any details on when and where they were detained.

Iran has detained two Swedes over the suspicion of drug trafficking, the country's judiciary said on Tuesday. Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili refused to identify the arrested or give any details on when and where they were detained. "Two Swedish nationals were arrested by the judiciary for trafficking drugs," which were still in their possession, he said. "We informed their government and embassy about their arrest through the foreign ministry," he said, quoted by the judiciary's Mizan Online website. According to the spokesman, the detained have been informed that they "can enjoy consular services, meeting privileges and the like". According to Tasnim news agency's report, two Swedish members of an "international drug gang" had been arrested as part of a "complex operation" at the beginning of July. "A big part of the large shipment discovered was dangerous industrial narcotics," it said, adding that the network had been dismantled. (Inputs from AFP)

Iran arrests two Swedes on suspicion of drug trafficking

The Nobel Prize Banquet has been cancelled for the first time since 1956 due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-welcomes-tourists-100-days-after-lifting-coronavirus-induced-lockdown-315171" hreflang="en">Wuhan welcomes tourists 100 days after lifting coronavirus-induced lockdown</a>

The event hosts around 1,300 guests including the Swedish royal family and traditionally marks the conclusion of the Nobel Week. The banquet hosts winners of the coveted prize are invited to the Swedish capital Stockholm for talks and the award ceremony.

This year's Nobel Prize winners will be announced, however, the event that is usually held on December 10 will not take place.

Last time the event was called off in 1956 in a protest against Soviet Union's invasion in Hungary.&nbsp;

The ceremony has also cancelled during World War One and Two.&nbsp;

These coveted prizes have been given to people with achievements in fields such as science, literature and peace since 1901 under the will of Swedish dynamite inventor and businessman Alfred Nobel.&nbsp;

Nobel Foundation Chairman Lars Heikensten is an interview with Dagens Nyheter, the Swedish newspaper said: “There are two problems. You cannot gather that many people next to each other. And it is uncertain whether people can travel to Sweden to the extent they want.”

In a first, all announcements will be streamed live on nobelprize.org this year.

The Nobel Prize Banquet has been cancelled for the first time since 1956 due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Wuhan welcomes tourists 100 days after lifting coronavirus-induced lockdown The event hosts around 1,300 guests including the Swedish royal family and traditionally marks the conclusion of the Nobel Week.

The Nobel Prize Banquet has been cancelled for the first time since 1956 due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Wuhan welcomes tourists 100 days after lifting coronavirus-induced lockdown The event hosts around 1,300 guests including the Swedish royal family and traditionally marks the conclusion of the Nobel Week. The banquet hosts winners of the coveted prize are invited to the Swedish capital Stockholm for talks and the award ceremony. This year's Nobel Prize winners will be announced, however, the event that is usually held on December 10 will not take place. Last time the event was called off in 1956 in a protest against Soviet Union's invasion in Hungary. The ceremony has also cancelled during World War One and Two. These coveted prizes have been given to people with achievements in fields such as science, literature and peace since 1901 under the will of Swedish dynamite inventor and businessman Alfred Nobel. Nobel Foundation Chairman Lars Heikensten is an interview with Dagens Nyheter, the Swedish newspaper said: “There are two problems. You cannot gather that many people next to each other. And it is uncertain whether people can travel to Sweden to the extent they want.” In a first, all announcements will be streamed live on nobelprize.org this year.

Nobel Prize banquet cancelled for first time since 1956 due to COVID-19

Environment friendly: Sweden's ReTuna Mall is world's first second-hand mall

The COVID-19 death toll in Sweden has exceeded 5,000, according to statistics from the Swedish Public Health Agency on Wednesday.

Sweden's COVID-19 death toll exceeds 5,000

Stig Engstrom, a graphic designer, was the man who shot dead Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme in 1986, prosecutor Krister Petersson said on Wednesday, closing the case that has haunted Sweden for decades.&nbsp;

"The person is Stig Engstrom," Petersson told a news conference. "Because the person is dead, I cannot bring charges against him and have decided to close the investigation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/sweden-urges-its-demonstrating-citizens-to-take-it-on-internet-rather-than-coming-out-on-streets-303269" hreflang="en">Sweden urges its demonstrating citizens to take it on internet rather than coming out on streets</a>

Palme was shot dead in central Stockholm in 1986 after a visit to the cinema with his wife and son. The murder sparked a massive manhunt and a plethora of conspiracy theories involving shadowy forces ranging from the CIA and Kurdish separatists to the South African security services.

While a petty criminal was convicted of Palme's killing, the judgement was later overturned and the police's failure to identify the culprit has left a scar on the psyche of a country that still prides itself on how safe it is to walk its streets.

Palme was prime minister between 1969 and 1976 and between 1982 and 1986. Some hail him as the architect of modern Sweden, while conservatives hated his anti-colonial views and criticism of the United States.

Stig Engstrom, a graphic designer, was the man who shot dead Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme in 1986, prosecutor Krister Petersson said on Wednesday, closing the case that has haunted Sweden for decades.

Stig Engstrom, a graphic designer, was the man who shot dead Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme in 1986, prosecutor Krister Petersson said on Wednesday, closing the case that has haunted Sweden for decades. "The person is Stig Engstrom," Petersson told a news conference. "Because the person is dead, I cannot bring charges against him and have decided to close the investigation." Also read: Sweden urges its demonstrating citizens to take it on internet rather than coming out on streets Palme was shot dead in central Stockholm in 1986 after a visit to the cinema with his wife and son. The murder sparked a massive manhunt and a plethora of conspiracy theories involving shadowy forces ranging from the CIA and Kurdish separatists to the South African security services. While a petty criminal was convicted of Palme's killing, the judgement was later overturned and the police's failure to identify the culprit has left a scar on the psyche of a country that still prides itself on how safe it is to walk its streets. Palme was prime minister between 1969 and 1976 and between 1982 and 1986. Some hail him as the architect of modern Sweden, while conservatives hated his anti-colonial views and criticism of the United States.

Swedish prosecutor names killer of PM Palme, closes 34-year case

Throughout the pandemic, Sweden has adopted a more lenient approach than many of its European neighbours:

The 'Swedish Model' to contain COVID-19 is a failure?

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, demonstrators with signs like "Black Lives Matter" gathered at a Stockholm square for several hours to protest against racism and American police force for the murder of George Floyd.&nbsp;

COVID-hit Sweden has banned public gatherings of more than 50 people. Despite overcoming the peak in April, health resources in the country are still strained.&nbsp;

Sweden's Home Affairs Minister Mikael Damberg said that demonstration is a democratic right of the citizens but due to the pandemic, guidelines set by health agency must be respected. In a letter written to Reuters, he said: "I would urge anyone who wants to protest against racism to use digital media instead. Otherwise, many people risk getting sick and dying."

Sweden has seen over 4,500 casualties due to the coronavirus pandemic which is way more than any neighbouring Nordic countries.&nbsp;

The protests intensified in the United States, which are held over the killing of a black man by a cop who held him on the ground with his knee on the handcuffed man.&nbsp;

There were clashes between police and protesters, arson, looting, and firing of tear gas.

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions.

The Swedish government on Thursday urged its citizens protesting on the streets to take it out on the internet rather than stepping out and violating coronavirus restrictions. On Wednesday, demonstrators with signs like "Black Lives Matter" gathered at a Stockholm square for several hours to protest against racism and American police force for the murder of George Floyd. COVID-hit Sweden has banned public gatherings of more than 50 people. Despite overcoming the peak in April, health resources in the country are still strained. Sweden's Home Affairs Minister Mikael Damberg said that demonstration is a democratic right of the citizens but due to the pandemic, guidelines set by health agency must be respected. In a letter written to Reuters, he said: "I would urge anyone who wants to protest against racism to use digital media instead. Otherwise, many people risk getting sick and dying." Sweden has seen over 4,500 casualties due to the coronavirus pandemic which is way more than any neighbouring Nordic countries. The protests intensified in the United States, which are held over the killing of a black man by a cop who held him on the ground with his knee on the handcuffed man. There were clashes between police and protesters, arson, looting, and firing of tear gas.

Sweden urges its demonstrating citizens to take it on internet rather than coming out on streets

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's&nbsp;weekend figures are typically delayed&nbsp;.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sweden's response to coronavirus has been criticised by some as it is purely based on social distancing and personal hygiene.&nbsp;

Last week, Sweden reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe per capita over seven days, as per the data.&nbsp;

The pandemic has killed 4,395 people in Sweden.

The number of coronavirus cases worldwide topped six million Sunday, with Brazil registering another record surge in daily infections.

Latin American countries are bracing for difficult weeks ahead as the disease spreads rapidly across the region, even as much of the world exit lockdowns that have wrecked economies and stripped millions of their jobs, according to AFP.

In Brazil -- the epicentre of South America's outbreak with nearly 500,000 confirmed cases, lagging only behind the United States -- disagreement among leaders over lockdown measures has hampered efforts to slow the virus as the number of fatalities in the country nears 30,000.

President Jair Bolsonaro, who fears the economic fallout from stay-at-home measures will be worse than the virus, has berated governors and mayors for imposing what he calls "the tyranny of total quarantine".&nbsp;

As the global death toll from the pandemic surpassed 368,000, US President Donald Trump's decision to permanently cut funding to the World Health Organization has been broadly criticised.

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's weekend figures are typically delayed .

Sweden has not reported any coronavirus related deaths in the past 24 hours. This has happened for the first time since March 13, as per health authorities' statement on Sunday, but the country's weekend figures are typically delayed . Sweden's response to coronavirus has been criticised by some as it is purely based on social distancing and personal hygiene. Last week, Sweden reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe per capita over seven days, as per the data. The pandemic has killed 4,395 people in Sweden. The number of coronavirus cases worldwide topped six million Sunday, with Brazil registering another record surge in daily infections. Latin American countries are bracing for difficult weeks ahead as the disease spreads rapidly across the region, even as much of the world exit lockdowns that have wrecked economies and stripped millions of their jobs, according to AFP. In Brazil -- the epicentre of South America's outbreak with nearly 500,000 confirmed cases, lagging only behind the United States -- disagreement among leaders over lockdown measures has hampered efforts to slow the virus as the number of fatalities in the country nears 30,000. President Jair Bolsonaro, who fears the economic fallout from stay-at-home measures will be worse than the virus, has berated governors and mayors for imposing what he calls "the tyranny of total quarantine". As the global death toll from the pandemic surpassed 368,000, US President Donald Trump's decision to permanently cut funding to the World Health Organization has been broadly criticised.

Coronavirus: Sweden reports no deaths, but weekend figures typically delayed

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