The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed.

According to multiple news sources, the proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries.

Give us a say or a veto power: EU member states

Reportedly, at least 12 of the 27 member states have raised questions regarding the proposal. France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that the EU had brought this proposition last Wednesday and asked the EU countries to use 15 per cent less gas, compared to their average over the last five years, from August to March.&nbsp;

The gas conundrum

As reported extensively by WION, ever since Russia closed the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance, the entire EU had gone into a fit. Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom even threatened to close the supply for good.

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-asks-countries-to-cut-gas-use-to-tackle-russian-blackmail-499302">EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail'</a>

However, after 10 days, the supply resumed but it still hasn't reached the pre-maintenance levels and is much below what Europe used to receive prior to the war broke out.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nord-stream-1-supply-to-eu-to-be-cut-further-says-russias-gazprom-500800">Nord Stream 1 supply to EU to be cut further, says Russia's Gazprom</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nord-stream-1-supply-to-eu-to-be-cut-further-says-russias-gazprom-500800/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

European countries have tried to present a united front against Russia, however, whenever the situation has turned a little pear-shaped, they have backtracked. The war has been going on for months and yet the European continent has only been able to reduce their combined gas dependency on Russia by a tiny five per cent.&nbsp;Last year Russia provided a whopping 40 per cent of Europe's total consumption of natural gas.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed.

The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed. According to multiple news sources, the proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries. Give us a say or a veto power: EU member states Reportedly, at least 12 of the 27 member states have raised questions regarding the proposal. France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power. It is pertinent to note that the EU had brought this proposition last Wednesday and asked the EU countries to use 15 per cent less gas, compared to their average over the last five years, from August to March. The gas conundrum As reported extensively by WION, ever since Russia closed the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance, the entire EU had gone into a fit. Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom even threatened to close the supply for good. Read More: EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail' However, after 10 days, the supply resumed but it still hasn't reached the pre-maintenance levels and is much below what Europe used to receive prior to the war broke out. WATCH: Nord Stream 1 supply to EU to be cut further, says Russia's Gazprom European countries have tried to present a united front against Russia, however, whenever the situation has turned a little pear-shaped, they have backtracked. The war has been going on for months and yet the European continent has only been able to reduce their combined gas dependency on Russia by a tiny five per cent. Last year Russia provided a whopping 40 per cent of Europe's total consumption of natural gas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

No unity in European Union? Member nations oppose EU's gas curb proposal

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine.

The BBC will now produce the world's biggest live music event, taking in performers from across Europe and Central Asia as well as Israel and Australia, in a UK city yet to be determined.

Ukraine won this year's contest, held in Italy, ahead of Britain's entry in second place. For the past month, it had insisted it could host next year's despite the Russian invasion.

But after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) ruled that out on security grounds, the government in Kyiv acquiesced to a UK-hosted event with a strongly Ukrainian flavour.

Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said that after "several rounds" of discussion, the EBU had given assurances of an "extremely high integration of Ukrainian context and presenters".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that in phone talks last week with President Volodymyr Zelensky, they "agreed that wherever Eurovision 2023 is held, it must celebrate the country and people of Ukraine".&nbsp;

"As we are now hosts, the UK will honour that pledge directly -– and put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends," Johnson tweeted.

Johnson's spokesman added it had been the soon-to-depart prime minister's "strong wish" for Ukraine to host the 2023 edition, and found it "deeply regrettable" that was no longer possible.

In May, Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won in Turin, on a wave of support for their country following Russia's invasion.&nbsp;

Its lead singer Oleh Psiuk, whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat helped make him one of the breakout stars of the night, thanked Britain for stepping in.

"We hope Eurovision 2023 will have a Ukrainian flavour and celebrate our beautiful, unique culture," he said in a statement to Britain's PA news agency.&nbsp;

"We, in turn, will make all efforts to help Ukraine win next year as well, so that Eurovision 2024 can take place in a peaceful country."

<h2>- Cities wait in wings -</h2>

&nbsp;

By convention, the winning country hosts the kitsch celebration of music the following year. Britain last hosted it in 1998.

But last month, the EBU said Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of more than 10,000 people involved in the production and a further 30,000 fans expected to attend.

The broadcasting union stuck to its line despite protests from Zelensky's government, and rejected one proposal to shift the contest to a border location within Ukraine, away from the frontlines.

The EBU said Ukraine was still guaranteed a place in the 2023 grand final along with the organisation's "top five" countries: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

The other finalists will be selected via national votes by viewers and judges, typically ranging from mainstream pop to the rather odd.

BBC director-general Tim Davie said it was "of great regret" that Ukraine could not host next year.

"The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity," he said.

But the cash-strapped BBC also has to contend with footing a multi-million-euro bill for staging the show, unless the UK government stumps up extra support.

The broadcaster said it aimed to select a UK host venue by the autumn, in collaboration with the EBU.

Whichever city wins will need to have an international airport, a sizeable conference venue and thousands of hotel rooms.

London, Manchester and Sheffield all said they were ready to step in.&nbsp;Glasgow had previously expressed interest.

This year's contest vaulted Britain's second-placed entrant Sam Ryder to stardom.&nbsp;

Last month, before another global TV audience, Ryder performed his quirky song "Space Man" in front of Buckingham Palace as part of Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II.

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine.

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine. The BBC will now produce the world's biggest live music event, taking in performers from across Europe and Central Asia as well as Israel and Australia, in a UK city yet to be determined. Ukraine won this year's contest, held in Italy, ahead of Britain's entry in second place. For the past month, it had insisted it could host next year's despite the Russian invasion. But after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) ruled that out on security grounds, the government in Kyiv acquiesced to a UK-hosted event with a strongly Ukrainian flavour. Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said that after "several rounds" of discussion, the EBU had given assurances of an "extremely high integration of Ukrainian context and presenters". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that in phone talks last week with President Volodymyr Zelensky, they "agreed that wherever Eurovision 2023 is held, it must celebrate the country and people of Ukraine". "As we are now hosts, the UK will honour that pledge directly -– and put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends," Johnson tweeted. Johnson's spokesman added it had been the soon-to-depart prime minister's "strong wish" for Ukraine to host the 2023 edition, and found it "deeply regrettable" that was no longer possible. In May, Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won in Turin, on a wave of support for their country following Russia's invasion. Its lead singer Oleh Psiuk, whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat helped make him one of the breakout stars of the night, thanked Britain for stepping in. "We hope Eurovision 2023 will have a Ukrainian flavour and celebrate our beautiful, unique culture," he said in a statement to Britain's PA news agency. "We, in turn, will make all efforts to help Ukraine win next year as well, so that Eurovision 2024 can take place in a peaceful country." - Cities wait in wings - By convention, the winning country hosts the kitsch celebration of music the following year. Britain last hosted it in 1998. But last month, the EBU said Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of more than 10,000 people involved in the production and a further 30,000 fans expected to attend. The broadcasting union stuck to its line despite protests from Zelensky's government, and rejected one proposal to shift the contest to a border location within Ukraine, away from the frontlines. The EBU said Ukraine was still guaranteed a place in the 2023 grand final along with the organisation's "top five" countries: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. The other finalists will be selected via national votes by viewers and judges, typically ranging from mainstream pop to the rather odd. BBC director-general Tim Davie said it was "of great regret" that Ukraine could not host next year. "The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity," he said. But the cash-strapped BBC also has to contend with footing a multi-million-euro bill for staging the show, unless the UK government stumps up extra support. The broadcaster said it aimed to select a UK host venue by the autumn, in collaboration with the EBU. Whichever city wins will need to have an international airport, a sizeable conference venue and thousands of hotel rooms. London, Manchester and Sheffield all said they were ready to step in. Glasgow had previously expressed interest. This year's contest vaulted Britain's second-placed entrant Sam Ryder to stardom. Last month, before another global TV audience, Ryder performed his quirky song "Space Man" in front of Buckingham Palace as part of Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II.

UK to host 2023 Eurovision as Ukraine bows out

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict. However, the attack of the port of Odessa heightened tensions between the two countries once again. Ukraine has criticised the attacks, but they believe that they will be able to resume the grain exports according to the agreed deal this week.

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Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was vocal in his criticism of the attack as he termed it “barbarism” on their end. But the Russian defence ministry denied any involvements.

Following the attack, there were doubts on whether Ukraine will be able to fulfil their commitments, but a senior official said that the first shipments are expected to leave this week.

"We believe that over the next 24 hours we will be ready to work to resume exports from our ports. We are talking about the port of Chornomorsk, it will be the first, then there will be Odessa, then the port of Pivdeny," deputy infrastructure minister Yuriy Vaskov told a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-ukraine-conflict-in-mind-taiwan-stages-chinese-invasion-war-games-500500">With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games</a>

Reports from Ukraine claimed that the Russian missiles targeted a granary near the Odessa port, but Kremlin made it clear that the attack was conducted keeping military targets in mind.

"They are in no way related to infrastructure that is used for the export of grain. This should not affect - and will not affect - the beginning of shipments," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict.

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict. However, the attack of the port of Odessa heightened tensions between the two countries once again. Ukraine has criticised the attacks, but they believe that they will be able to resume the grain exports according to the agreed deal this week. Also read | Australia registers record number of COVID-19 cases as Omicron surges Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was vocal in his criticism of the attack as he termed it “barbarism” on their end. But the Russian defence ministry denied any involvements. Following the attack, there were doubts on whether Ukraine will be able to fulfil their commitments, but a senior official said that the first shipments are expected to leave this week. "We believe that over the next 24 hours we will be ready to work to resume exports from our ports. We are talking about the port of Chornomorsk, it will be the first, then there will be Odessa, then the port of Pivdeny," deputy infrastructure minister Yuriy Vaskov told a news conference. Also read | With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games Reports from Ukraine claimed that the Russian missiles targeted a granary near the Odessa port, but Kremlin made it clear that the attack was conducted keeping military targets in mind. "They are in no way related to infrastructure that is used for the export of grain. This should not affect - and will not affect - the beginning of shipments," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Ukraine looks to ship food grains this week despite attack on Odessa port

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has heightened Taiwanese worries that China may invade it.

Taiwan, a democracy, is claimed by China as its own territory. China has not ruled out use of force to capture the island. China's military might far surpasses that of Taiwan.

The five-day 'Han Kuang' (Han Glory) war games have incorporated lessons from the European war this year, said Taiwan's defence ministry. There are simulations of 'all possible actions' China can take to invade Taiwan.

On Monday, reservists armed with machine guns ran into sandbagged trenches dug under a bridge before getting into firing position, in a drill aimed at blocking enemies from gaining access to the capital Taipei.&nbsp;

"The underground bunkers help cover the troops and ward off the enemy's strike forces," said Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research. He was quoted by AFP.

"They are part of Ukraine's urban warfare."

He said that stinger missiles were also deployed in some high-rise buildings in the area. Stinger missiles are effective against helicopters and low-flying planes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks.

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has heightened Taiwanese worries that China may invade it. Taiwan, a democracy, is claimed by China as its own territory. China has not ruled out use of force to capture the island. China's military might far surpasses that of Taiwan. The five-day 'Han Kuang' (Han Glory) war games have incorporated lessons from the European war this year, said Taiwan's defence ministry. There are simulations of 'all possible actions' China can take to invade Taiwan. On Monday, reservists armed with machine guns ran into sandbagged trenches dug under a bridge before getting into firing position, in a drill aimed at blocking enemies from gaining access to the capital Taipei. "The underground bunkers help cover the troops and ward off the enemy's strike forces," said Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research. He was quoted by AFP. "They are part of Ukraine's urban warfare." He said that stinger missiles were also deployed in some high-rise buildings in the area. Stinger missiles are effective against helicopters and low-flying planes. (With inputs from agencies)

With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games

In a recent update on Russia-Ukraine crisis, Ukraine has accused Russia of stealing grain. Meanwhile, Kyiv said, Grain exports preparation is underway despite the attack.

Ukraine accuses Russia of stealing grain; US delegation vows to ensure continuing support

A Hungarian camp offers refugee to Jewish families from Ukraine. Dairy and meat products are cooked separately in Kosher kitchen. Camp was set by Ukraine and Hungary's Jewish federations.

Hungarian camp offers refugee to Jewish families from Ukraine

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region.

Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught.

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He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September.

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region. Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught. Also Read: Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year. (with inputs from agencies)

By September, Ukraine's Kherson region will be 'liberated' from Russia: Sergiy Khlan

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Ukraine said, Russia attacked its port just a day after grain deal.

Russian missiles hit Ukrainian port city; Russia denies attack on Odessa

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Kyiv said, Grain exports preparation is underway despite the attack.

Kyiv: Grain exports preparation underway despite the attack

On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”,&nbsp;and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine.

The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) claimed on Sunday that Washington had “set up many biological labs in tens of countries and regions, including Ukraine, in disregard of the international treaties,” citing actions that had been “detected” by Russia. In March, Moscow accused the United States of supporting biological weapons development research in Ukraine, which Russia invaded nearly five months earlier.

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The allegations that Ukraine had biological weapons production facilities were refuted by Washington and Kyiv, with the United States claiming that Moscow may employ similar strategies if the allegations were true. Additionally stated that the UN “was not aware of any biological weapons programme in Ukraine,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Disarmament Affairs, in March.

(with inputs from agencies)

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On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”, and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine.

On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”, and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) claimed on Sunday that Washington had “set up many biological labs in tens of countries and regions, including Ukraine, in disregard of the international treaties,” citing actions that had been “detected” by Russia. In March, Moscow accused the United States of supporting biological weapons development research in Ukraine, which Russia invaded nearly five months earlier. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn The allegations that Ukraine had biological weapons production facilities were refuted by Washington and Kyiv, with the United States claiming that Moscow may employ similar strategies if the allegations were true. Additionally stated that the UN “was not aware of any biological weapons programme in Ukraine,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Disarmament Affairs, in March. (with inputs from agencies)

North Korea claims that United States engaged in biological warfare in Ukraine

Top US officials have met Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv. Meanwhile, Russia has intensified shelling in Kharkiv. The US delegation also visited Irpin and Bucha.

US officials meet Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv; Russia intensifies shelling in Kharkiv

Boris Johnson has trained with Ukrainian troops. He adorned a camouflage jacket during the training. The outgoing PM also threw a grenade during the exercise.

Boris Johnson trains with Ukrainian troops, adorns camouflage jacket

'Russian missiles hit Odessa port just a day after grain deal,' says Ukraine

An Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti joined a Russian cosmonaut in a rare spacewalking show of unity recently amid tensions over Ukraine. Watch this report!

WION Fineprint | Italian, Russian share spacewalk amid tensions in Ukraine

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Russia has denied attacking Odessa.

'Putin spitting in the face of the UN & Turkiye,' says Ukraine

It has been several months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Now, the US will provide more aid to Ukraine.

EU tweaks sanctions on Russia; The US to provide more aid to Ukraine

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were also present at the ceremony.

Ukraine, Russia sign grain deal: Deal to ease global food crisis?

On ground, Europe & Russia may be enemies, but 400 KMs above Earth onboard International Space Station, the rivalry is non-existent. On Thursday, an Italian & a Russian shared a spacewalk. Palki Sharma reports on this rare show of unity.

Gravitas: Russian & Italian share spacewalk amid tensions in Ukraine

Ukraine & Russia seal grain deal, American leaders welcome the deal

Ukraine & Russia agree to release blockaded grain exports

Ukraine-Russia agree on a grain deal: Turkiye & UN back deal in person

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports, potentially averting the threat of a catastrophic global food crisis.

Russia and Ukraine agree to release blockaded grain exports

Russia, Ukraine sign grain export deal in Turkiye

UK government has now implemented an additional 35% tariff on seafood imports from Russia in response to the war in Ukraine. This has resulted in price surge of fish and chips in the country.

UK introduces 35% tariff on Russian Whitefish, fish costs three times more than before

In a major development and relief in the ongoing Ukraine war, a deal has now been reached with Russia that will allow Ukraine to resume its exports of grain through the black sea, this major breakthrough was announced by Turkish President's office on Thursday.

Russia, Ukraine and Turkiye to sign grain export deal | Major breakthrough amid looming food crisis

The agreement to reopen Ukraine's Black Sea ports will free up millions of tonnes of grain that have been trapped in Ukrainian ports since Russia invaded on February 24. This will alleviate concerns about a possible worldwide food catastrophe that Russia's invasion has sparked. In another, the Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-and-russia-sign-food-crisis-deal-to-restart-grain-exports-499802">Ukraine and Russia sign food crisis deal to restart grain exports</a>
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Russia and Ukraine today signed separate agreements in Istanbul with Turkey and the United Nations that would permit Russia to export grain and fertilisers and Ukraine to resume grain shipments to international markets, respectively. This ended a standoff that threatened global food security while the two nations are at war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Oleksandr Kubrakov, the infrastructure minister for Ukraine, Hulusi Akar, the defence minister for Turkey, and Antonio Guterres, the secretary general of the United Nations, all signed the paper.

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As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60.

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On June 24th, 2022, American women not only lost their right to a safe abortion, many say they lost the autonomy they had on their own bodies. Since then, unfortunately, many disheartening news stories have come to light, like that of a 10 years old rape victim having to travel 385 kilometres (200+ miles) for an abortion. However, many organisations have also stepped forward to help out women in whatever way they can.&nbsp;

One of the biggest fallouts of the overturning of Roe v. Wade was women using the internet to access information about abortion. And let’s be honest, internet is a maze of content, much of which may be false or doctored.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-new-study-shows-symptoms-are-making-recognition-of-case-more-difficult-499735">Monkeypox: New study shows symptoms are making recognition of case more difficult</a>
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A new study released by the New England Journal of Medicine has shown that monkeypox patients across the globe are suffering from symptoms not normally linked to the virus.

Not only does this lead&nbsp;to missed and mistaken diagnoses, the cases do not conform to the definition of monkeypox released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-governments-decision-to-fund-shinzo-abes-funeral-sparks-protests-499717">Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests</a>
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Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27.

In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moral-outrage-in-qatar-following-fatal-shooting-of-29-dogs-and-puppies-499695">Moral outrage in Qatar following&nbsp;fatal shooting&nbsp;of 29 dogs and puppies</a>
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As the Gulf nation prepares to host the World Cup later this year, indignation has been generated by the death of 29 dogs by men carrying weapons in Qatar. The killings, which are the worst of a string of savage dog abuse cases, are being investigated by police, according to the authorities. However, animal welfare groups who claim that regulations protecting domestic animals like dogs are not being enforced criticise them. The most recent deaths occurred on July 10 at an industrial complex close to the capital Doha, but the massacre wasn't publicised until days later, according to campaigners speaking to AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lockheed-martin-and-goodyear-to-jointly-develop-lunar-rover-for-nasas-artemis-mission-499715">Lockheed Martin and Goodyear to jointly develop lunar rover for NASA's Artemis mission</a>
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American aerospace and defence company Lockheed Martin alongside tyre-maker Goodyear is reportedly working on a joint project to develop a new lunar rover that will be used by space astronauts for NASA's Artemis lunar landing program.

NASA is reportedly planning to have a variety of lunar vehicles on its roster. From hauling commercial payloads to carrying human astronauts to isolated regions of the moon on extended trips, NASA is looking for a wide pool of options.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/why-facebooks-move-fast-and-break-things-era-still-haunts-it-499784">Why Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era still haunts it?</a>
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A new report by Recode and The Verge has revealed that Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era is still haunting the social media network.

The report sheds light on how chief executive officer Mark Zuckerberg wanted to make Facebook akin to Windows.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-‘elvis’-actor-shonka-dukureh-dies-at-44-499632">‘Elvis’ actress Shonka Dukureh dies at 44</a>
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Actress Shonka Dukureh, who made&nbsp;her big screen debut as R&amp;B singer and songwriter Big Mama Thornton in Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Elvis’, has died at the age of 44 as per The Guardian. The publication said she was found dead at her home in Nashville, Tennessee. The actor has two children, one of whom found her unresponsive and went to the neighbour who called 911.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laver-cup-serbian-star-novak-djokovic-joins-rafael-nadal-roger-federer-andy-murray-for-team-europe-499703">Laver Cup: Serbian star Novak Djokovic joins Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Andy Murray for Team Europe</a>
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Tennis fans are used to seeing Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray fight tooth and nail to beat each other at the Grand Slams but the "Big Four" are set to play together in the same team for the first time at the Laver Cup in London.

Wimbledon champion Djokovic on Friday was named as the fourth member of the six-man Team Europe, the 35-year-old Serb joining his long-time rivals at the fifth edition of the ATP-sanctioned event from Sept. 23-25.

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The agreement to reopen Ukraine's Black Sea ports will free up millions of tonnes of grain that have been trapped in Ukrainian ports since Russia invaded on February 24.

The agreement to reopen Ukraine's Black Sea ports will free up millions of tonnes of grain that have been trapped in Ukrainian ports since Russia invaded on February 24. This will alleviate concerns about a possible worldwide food catastrophe that Russia's invasion has sparked. In another, the Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukraine and Russia sign food crisis deal to restart grain exports Russia and Ukraine today signed separate agreements in Istanbul with Turkey and the United Nations that would permit Russia to export grain and fertilisers and Ukraine to resume grain shipments to international markets, respectively. This ended a standoff that threatened global food security while the two nations are at war in Ukraine. Oleksandr Kubrakov, the infrastructure minister for Ukraine, Hulusi Akar, the defence minister for Turkey, and Antonio Guterres, the secretary general of the United Nations, all signed the paper. New Zealand: 26 people die of Covid in 24 hours, all above 60 As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60. Roe v. Wade: Google location history of women remains vulnerable; YouTube to censor false videos on abortion On June 24th, 2022, American women not only lost their right to a safe abortion, many say they lost the autonomy they had on their own bodies. Since then, unfortunately, many disheartening news stories have come to light, like that of a 10 years old rape victim having to travel 385 kilometres (200+ miles) for an abortion. However, many organisations have also stepped forward to help out women in whatever way they can. One of the biggest fallouts of the overturning of Roe v. Wade was women using the internet to access information about abortion. And let’s be honest, internet is a maze of content, much of which may be false or doctored. Monkeypox: New study shows symptoms are making recognition of case more difficult A new study released by the New England Journal of Medicine has shown that monkeypox patients across the globe are suffering from symptoms not normally linked to the virus. Not only does this lead to missed and mistaken diagnoses, the cases do not conform to the definition of monkeypox released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27. In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally. Moral outrage in Qatar following fatal shooting of 29 dogs and puppies As the Gulf nation prepares to host the World Cup later this year, indignation has been generated by the death of 29 dogs by men carrying weapons in Qatar. The killings, which are the worst of a string of savage dog abuse cases, are being investigated by police, according to the authorities. However, animal welfare groups who claim that regulations protecting domestic animals like dogs are not being enforced criticise them. The most recent deaths occurred on July 10 at an industrial complex close to the capital Doha, but the massacre wasn't publicised until days later, according to campaigners speaking to AFP. Lockheed Martin and Goodyear to jointly develop lunar rover for NASA's Artemis mission American aerospace and defence company Lockheed Martin alongside tyre-maker Goodyear is reportedly working on a joint project to develop a new lunar rover that will be used by space astronauts for NASA's Artemis lunar landing program. NASA is reportedly planning to have a variety of lunar vehicles on its roster. From hauling commercial payloads to carrying human astronauts to isolated regions of the moon on extended trips, NASA is looking for a wide pool of options. Why Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era still haunts it? A new report by Recode and The Verge has revealed that Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era is still haunting the social media network. The report sheds light on how chief executive officer Mark Zuckerberg wanted to make Facebook akin to Windows. ‘Elvis’ actress Shonka Dukureh dies at 44 Actress Shonka Dukureh, who made her big screen debut as R&B singer and songwriter Big Mama Thornton in Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Elvis’, has died at the age of 44 as per The Guardian. The publication said she was found dead at her home in Nashville, Tennessee. The actor has two children, one of whom found her unresponsive and went to the neighbour who called 911. Laver Cup: Serbian star Novak Djokovic joins Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Andy Murray for Team Europe Tennis fans are used to seeing Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray fight tooth and nail to beat each other at the Grand Slams but the "Big Four" are set to play together in the same team for the first time at the Laver Cup in London. Wimbledon champion Djokovic on Friday was named as the fourth member of the six-man Team Europe, the 35-year-old Serb joining his long-time rivals at the fifth edition of the ATP-sanctioned event from Sept. 23-25.

Top 10 world news: Ukraine-Russia grain export deal, Covid deaths in New Zealand, and more

Russia wants to extend and expand its war in Ukraine. The US claims that Moscow wants to annex parts of Southern Ukraine. Palki Sharma tells you about Russia's plans.

Gravitas: Russia plans to extend and expand Ukraine war

According to western intel reports, Russia is looking to secure military assistance from Iran and China. Is the mighty Russian war machine running out of firepower? What does it mean for countries purchasing arms from Russia? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Russia running out of weapons in Ukraine?

The Black Sea blockade has stranded more than 25 million tonnes of food grain at Ukrainian storage sites. The supply strangle is pushing millions of people in southern and western Africa into food insecurity. Palki Sharma tells you why Ukraine & Russia must immediately resume grain exports.

Gravitas: Ukraine war could trigger global hunger crisis

Leader of Russia-backed breakaway region in eastern Ukraine said that serach engine Google had been blocked in the region citing what he termed 'disinformation'. Denis Pushilin, head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), posted a message on his Telegram channel and accused that Google was promoting "violence against all Russians". He also claimed that Google's "handlers from the U.S. government" were to blame for this.&nbsp;

"If Google stops pursuing its criminal policy and returns to the mainstream of law, morality and common sense, there will be no obstacles to its work," he said.

Pushilin did not present any evidence to support any claims that he made. There was no immediate reaction from Google.

Russia started its 'special military operation' and sent troops into Ukraine on February 24. Russia and its proxies in eastern Ukrainian regions have been accusing Western companies, mainly digital platforms, of spreading anti-Russian propaganda. Russia has already banned Facebook and Instagram. A Russian court had observed that Meta, the parent company of Facebook was guilty of 'extremist activity'.&nbsp;

After Moscow curbed access to Facebook, the self-declared DPR and separate Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) followed suit in blocking both platforms, thus aligning themselves with Russian policy on US-based digital platforms.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Leader of Russia-backed breakaway region in eastern Ukraine said that serach engine Google had been blocked in the region citing what he termed 'disinformation'.

Leader of Russia-backed breakaway region in eastern Ukraine said that serach engine Google had been blocked in the region citing what he termed 'disinformation'. Denis Pushilin, head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), posted a message on his Telegram channel and accused that Google was promoting "violence against all Russians". He also claimed that Google's "handlers from the U.S. government" were to blame for this. "If Google stops pursuing its criminal policy and returns to the mainstream of law, morality and common sense, there will be no obstacles to its work," he said. Pushilin did not present any evidence to support any claims that he made. There was no immediate reaction from Google. Russia started its 'special military operation' and sent troops into Ukraine on February 24. Russia and its proxies in eastern Ukrainian regions have been accusing Western companies, mainly digital platforms, of spreading anti-Russian propaganda. Russia has already banned Facebook and Instagram. A Russian court had observed that Meta, the parent company of Facebook was guilty of 'extremist activity'. After Moscow curbed access to Facebook, the self-declared DPR and separate Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) followed suit in blocking both platforms, thus aligning themselves with Russian policy on US-based digital platforms. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian proxies in east Ukraine block Google

According to a media report, Russia is planning to officially annex occupied Russian territories in Ukraine through a referendum in September. The US responded and said that it will not let Russian annexation of Ukrainian territory remain 'unchallenged'.

Kremlin to hold referendums in captured Ukrainian territories; White House responds

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