As tensions continue to simmer between Beijing and Washington the US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and the Chinese top diplomat Yang Jiechi held a candid meeting on Monday to discuss an area of issues concerning both the nations the talks mainly focused on Beijing's veto move.

US, Chinese national security figures hold talks; key focus on North Korea, China's Veto at UN

Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;is at risk of tipping into a&nbsp;full-blown&nbsp;humanitarian&nbsp;crisis as the country's economy suffers its biggest shock in decades, the UN&nbsp;humanitarian&nbsp;office (OCHA) said on Friday.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's 22 million people are suffering the country's most serious financial turmoil in seven decades, with severe shortages of fuel, medicines and other essentials amid record inflation and a devaluation of its currency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-there-is-a-man-made-economic-crisis-in-sri-lanka-says-pm-ranil-wickremesinghe-487590">Exclusive | There is a man-made economic crisis in Sri Lanka, says PM Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>

"Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;is facing its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948. We are concerned that this could develop into a&nbsp;full-blown&nbsp;humanitarian&nbsp;emergency", OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke told a regular UN news conference in Geneva.

"Sri&nbsp;Lanka's worst economic crisis since independence in 1948 was already taking a heavy toll", he said, pointing out that agriculture and livelihoods had been severely affected.

Many people are now "going without adequate food", Laerke said, also warning that "families' access to health services, protection and children's education is at stake."

In response to a request from the government, the&nbsp;United Nations on Thursday said it had launched a plan to provide 47.2 million dollars of assistance between June and September to 1.7 million people worst hit by the crisis.

Watch |&nbsp;Global Leadership Series: Sri Lanka's economic crisis: A humanitarian emergency?

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Christian Skoog, a representative in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;for&nbsp;UNICEF, the&nbsp;United Nations&nbsp;children's&nbsp;agency, said 70 per cent of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan households had already reduced food consumption and as many as one in two children required some form of&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;assistance.

As per an AFP report, the government has already defaulted on its 51 billion dollars in foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods.&nbsp;

UNICEF's representative in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;Christian Skoog also warned that the situation was dire, with 17 per cent of children under five in the country already malnourished and stunted before the crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-eu-to-provide-humanitarian-funding-bangladesh-provides-medical-supplies-477132">Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies</a>

He said the UN children's agency, especially sought to help 56,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

"Potentially they could all be at risk of dying", he told reporters via video link.

Laerke highlighted that "the&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan economy is on the brink of collapse".

"We call for international solidarity with the people of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka", he added.

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&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is at risk of tipping into a full-blown humanitarian crisis as the country's economy suffers its biggest shock in decades, the UN humanitarian office (OCHA) said on Friday.

Sri Lanka is at risk of tipping into a full-blown humanitarian crisis as the country's economy suffers its biggest shock in decades, the UN humanitarian office (OCHA) said on Friday. Sri Lanka's 22 million people are suffering the country's most serious financial turmoil in seven decades, with severe shortages of fuel, medicines and other essentials amid record inflation and a devaluation of its currency. Also read | Exclusive | There is a man-made economic crisis in Sri Lanka, says PM Ranil Wickremesinghe "Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948. We are concerned that this could develop into a full-blown humanitarian emergency", OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke told a regular UN news conference in Geneva. "Sri Lanka's worst economic crisis since independence in 1948 was already taking a heavy toll", he said, pointing out that agriculture and livelihoods had been severely affected. Many people are now "going without adequate food", Laerke said, also warning that "families' access to health services, protection and children's education is at stake." In response to a request from the government, the United Nations on Thursday said it had launched a plan to provide 47.2 million dollars of assistance between June and September to 1.7 million people worst hit by the crisis. Watch | Global Leadership Series: Sri Lanka's economic crisis: A humanitarian emergency? Christian Skoog, a representative in Sri Lanka for UNICEF, the United Nations children's agency, said 70 per cent of Sri Lankan households had already reduced food consumption and as many as one in two children required some form of emergency assistance. As per an AFP report, the government has already defaulted on its 51 billion dollars in foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods. UNICEF's representative in Sri Lanka Christian Skoog also warned that the situation was dire, with 17 per cent of children under five in the country already malnourished and stunted before the crisis. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies He said the UN children's agency, especially sought to help 56,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. "Potentially they could all be at risk of dying", he told reporters via video link. Laerke highlighted that "the Sri Lankan economy is on the brink of collapse". "We call for international solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka", he added. Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Sri Lanka risks full-blown humanitarian emergency, UN agency says

United Nations Secretary General Amotino Guterres on Friday appointed senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill as his Envoy on Technology. The UN described him as a "thought leader on digital technology" in an announcement of his appointment on its website.

Gill was India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva from 2016-to 2018. He is CEO of the International Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative (I-DAIR) project, based at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva.

"A thought leader on digital technology, he brings to the position a deep knowledge of digital technologies coupled with a solid understanding of how to leverage the digital transformation responsibly and inclusively for progress on the Sustainable Development Goals," said a statement issued by the UN here on Friday.

From 2018 to 2019, Gill was the Executive Director and Co-Lead of the United Nations Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation

In addition to delivering the report of the High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation, Gill helped secure high-impact international consensus recommendations on regulating Artificial Intelligence (Al) in lethal autonomous weapon systems in 2017 and 2018, the draft Al ethics recommendation of UNESCO in 2020, and a new international platform on digital health and Al.

Gill is 1992 batch officer of the Indian diplomatic service. He has served in variousc capacities in disarmament and strategic technologies and international security affairs. He had postings in Tehran and Colombo He was also a visiting scholar at Stanford University.

Amandeep Singh Gill has a Ph.D in Nuclear learning in Multilateral Forum's from King's College, London, a Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Electrical Communications from Panjab University, Chandigarh and an Advanced Diploma in French History and Language from Geneva University.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations Secretary General Amotino Guterres on Friday appointed senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill as his Envoy on Technology. The UN described him as a "thought leader on digital technology" in an announcement of his appointment on its website.

United Nations Secretary General Amotino Guterres on Friday appointed senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill as his Envoy on Technology. The UN described him as a "thought leader on digital technology" in an announcement of his appointment on its website. Gill was India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva from 2016-to 2018. He is CEO of the International Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative (I-DAIR) project, based at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva. "A thought leader on digital technology, he brings to the position a deep knowledge of digital technologies coupled with a solid understanding of how to leverage the digital transformation responsibly and inclusively for progress on the Sustainable Development Goals," said a statement issued by the UN here on Friday. From 2018 to 2019, Gill was the Executive Director and Co-Lead of the United Nations Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation In addition to delivering the report of the High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation, Gill helped secure high-impact international consensus recommendations on regulating Artificial Intelligence (Al) in lethal autonomous weapon systems in 2017 and 2018, the draft Al ethics recommendation of UNESCO in 2020, and a new international platform on digital health and Al. Gill is 1992 batch officer of the Indian diplomatic service. He has served in variousc capacities in disarmament and strategic technologies and international security affairs. He had postings in Tehran and Colombo He was also a visiting scholar at Stanford University. Amandeep Singh Gill has a Ph.D in Nuclear learning in Multilateral Forum's from King's College, London, a Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Electrical Communications from Panjab University, Chandigarh and an Advanced Diploma in French History and Language from Geneva University. (With inputs from agencies)

UN chief appoints Amandeep Singh Gill as Envoy on Technology

The United Nations warned Friday that cash-strapped Sri Lanka's unprecedented economic crisis could develop into a dire humanitarian crisis, with millions already in need of aid.

"We are concerned that this could develop into a full-blown humanitarian emergency, and we are taking action to address that concern," Jens Laerke, spokesman for the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-un-appeals-for-usd-47-million-for-life-saving-aid-to-17-million-people-486759">Sri Lanka: UN appeals for USD 47 million for life-saving aid to 1.7 million people</a>

The UN and its partners are appealing for $47 million to address the immediate needs of the 1.7 million of the most vulnerable people and those most affected by the crisis, he said.

Months of daily blackouts, long queues for petrol and record inflation have made daily life a misery in the South Asian island nation of 22 million people.

The government has already defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka faces worst economic crisis: No elections in Sri Lanka for now

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Sri Lanka's worst economic crisis since independence in 1948 was already taking a heavy toll, he said, pointing out that agriculture and livelihoods had been severely affected.

Many people are now "going without adequate food", Laerke said, also warning that "families' access to health services, protection and children's education is at stake."

Unicef's representative in Sri Lanka Christian Skoog also warned that the situation was dire, with 17 percent of children under five in the country already malnourished and stunted before the crisis.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-hit-by-power-cuts-after-key-union-goes-on-strike-486525">&nbsp;Sri Lanka hit by power cuts after key union goes on strike</a>

He said the UN children's agency especially sought to help 56,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

"Potentially they could all be at risk of dying," he told reporters via video link.

Laerke highlighted that "the Sri Lankan economy is on the brink of collapse."

"We call for international solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka."

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The United Nations warned Friday that cash-strapped Sri Lanka's unprecedented economic crisis could develop into a dire humanitarian crisis, with millions already in need of aid.

The United Nations warned Friday that cash-strapped Sri Lanka's unprecedented economic crisis could develop into a dire humanitarian crisis, with millions already in need of aid. "We are concerned that this could develop into a full-blown humanitarian emergency, and we are taking action to address that concern," Jens Laerke, spokesman for the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, told reporters. Also read | Sri Lanka: UN appeals for USD 47 million for life-saving aid to 1.7 million people The UN and its partners are appealing for $47 million to address the immediate needs of the 1.7 million of the most vulnerable people and those most affected by the crisis, he said. Months of daily blackouts, long queues for petrol and record inflation have made daily life a misery in the South Asian island nation of 22 million people. The government has already defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods. Watch | Sri Lanka faces worst economic crisis: No elections in Sri Lanka for now Sri Lanka's worst economic crisis since independence in 1948 was already taking a heavy toll, he said, pointing out that agriculture and livelihoods had been severely affected. Many people are now "going without adequate food", Laerke said, also warning that "families' access to health services, protection and children's education is at stake." Unicef's representative in Sri Lanka Christian Skoog also warned that the situation was dire, with 17 percent of children under five in the country already malnourished and stunted before the crisis. Also read | Sri Lanka hit by power cuts after key union goes on strike He said the UN children's agency especially sought to help 56,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. "Potentially they could all be at risk of dying," he told reporters via video link. Laerke highlighted that "the Sri Lankan economy is on the brink of collapse." "We call for international solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN warns Sri Lanka could face 'full-blown humanitarian emergency'

The UN team in Sri Lanka and non-governmental organisations have launched a joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, which calls for USD 47.2 million to provide life-saving assistance to 1.7 million people most affected by the economic crisis.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the HNP strategy was unveiled. This immediately responds to the Sri Lankan government's appeal for UN-backed multi-sector international assistance to address the most pressing needs emerging from the recent crisis, with an emphasis on health care and necessary medications, food and agriculture.&nbsp;

According to the UN mission in the nation, almost 5.7 million women, children, and men in Sri Lanka require immediate life-saving assistance, according to development and humanitarian partners.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-hit-by-power-cuts-after-key-union-goes-on-strike-486525">Sri Lanka hit by power cuts after key union goes on strike</a>

The 1.7 million people targeted under the HNP are among those whose livelihoods, food security, and access to health services are most at risk and need immediate support.

"Sri Lanka's once-strong healthcare system is now in jeopardy, livelihoods are suffering, and the most vulnerable are facing the greatest impact. Now is the time for the international community to show solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. The UN and humanitarian partners are calling on donors, the private sector, and individuals to urgently support this plan to provide life-saving assistance to the women, men, and children most affected by the crisis and thus prevent a deterioration of humanitarian needs in the country," she added.

Sri Lanka, formerly a middle-income country, is in the midst of its greatest economic crisis since independence. Food inflation was 57.4 per cent&nbsp;in May, and there are still severe shortages of vital foods, as well as fuel for cooking, transportation, and industry, as well as daily power outages.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka faces worst economic crisis: No elections in Sri Lanka for now

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Due to a scarcity of essential inputs to manufacturing, an 80 per cent&nbsp;depreciation of the currency (since March 2022), a lack of foreign reserves, and the country's failure to pay its international debt obligations, the economy is expected to collapse sharply.

Food security, agriculture, livelihoods, and access to health services have all been impacted by the economic crisis. Food output was 40 to 50 percent lower last harvest season than the previous year, and the current agricultural season is in jeopardy due to seed, fertiliser, fuel, and finance constraints.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/brothers-at-odds-but-ruling-family-still-holds-key-to-sri-lankas-future-486255">Brothers at odds, but ruling family still holds key to Sri Lanka's future</a>

Currently, about 5 million individuals (or 22 per cent&nbsp;of the population) are in need of food aid. According to recent research, 86 per cent&nbsp;of households utilise at least one coping method, such as lowering food consumption or skipping meals. Almost 200 important drugs are currently out of supply, with another 163 urgent shortages expected in the next two to three months.

Furthermore, over 2,700 critical surgical and over 250 routine laboratory items are out of stock. Many hospitals have been forced to postpone routine and non-urgent surgeries and treatments due to power outages and a lack of fuel to run generators. 
&nbsp;

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The UN team in Sri Lanka and non-governmental organisations have launched a joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, which calls for USD 47.2 million to provide life-saving assistance to 1.

The UN team in Sri Lanka and non-governmental organisations have launched a joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, which calls for USD 47.2 million to provide life-saving assistance to 1.7 million people most affected by the economic crisis. On Thursday, the HNP strategy was unveiled. This immediately responds to the Sri Lankan government's appeal for UN-backed multi-sector international assistance to address the most pressing needs emerging from the recent crisis, with an emphasis on health care and necessary medications, food and agriculture. According to the UN mission in the nation, almost 5.7 million women, children, and men in Sri Lanka require immediate life-saving assistance, according to development and humanitarian partners. Also read | Sri Lanka hit by power cuts after key union goes on strike The 1.7 million people targeted under the HNP are among those whose livelihoods, food security, and access to health services are most at risk and need immediate support. "Sri Lanka's once-strong healthcare system is now in jeopardy, livelihoods are suffering, and the most vulnerable are facing the greatest impact. Now is the time for the international community to show solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. The UN and humanitarian partners are calling on donors, the private sector, and individuals to urgently support this plan to provide life-saving assistance to the women, men, and children most affected by the crisis and thus prevent a deterioration of humanitarian needs in the country," she added. Sri Lanka, formerly a middle-income country, is in the midst of its greatest economic crisis since independence. Food inflation was 57.4 per cent in May, and there are still severe shortages of vital foods, as well as fuel for cooking, transportation, and industry, as well as daily power outages. Watch | Sri Lanka faces worst economic crisis: No elections in Sri Lanka for now Due to a scarcity of essential inputs to manufacturing, an 80 per cent depreciation of the currency (since March 2022), a lack of foreign reserves, and the country's failure to pay its international debt obligations, the economy is expected to collapse sharply. Food security, agriculture, livelihoods, and access to health services have all been impacted by the economic crisis. Food output was 40 to 50 percent lower last harvest season than the previous year, and the current agricultural season is in jeopardy due to seed, fertiliser, fuel, and finance constraints. Also read | Brothers at odds, but ruling family still holds key to Sri Lanka's future Currently, about 5 million individuals (or 22 per cent of the population) are in need of food aid. According to recent research, 86 per cent of households utilise at least one coping method, such as lowering food consumption or skipping meals. Almost 200 important drugs are currently out of supply, with another 163 urgent shortages expected in the next two to three months. Furthermore, over 2,700 critical surgical and over 250 routine laboratory items are out of stock. Many hospitals have been forced to postpone routine and non-urgent surgeries and treatments due to power outages and a lack of fuel to run generators. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka: UN appeals for USD 47 million for life-saving aid to 1.7 million people

Iran denounced as "political" and "unconstructive" Thursday a resolution adopted by the UN nuclear watchdog censuring it for failing to cooperate.

"Iran condemns the adoption of the resolution presented by the United States, Britain, France and Germany at the Board of Governors meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency as a political, unconstructive and incorrect action," a foreign ministry statement said.

Iran already announced it had disconnected some IAEA cameras monitoring its nuclear sites in anticipation of the watchdog's adoption of the Western-drafted censure motion Wednesday.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deepening-bilateral-ties-iran-foreign-minister-on-a-three-day-visit-to-india-486320">Deepening bilateral ties: Iran foreign minister on a three-day visit to India</a>

The motion -- the first to criticise Iran since June 2020 -- was approved by 30 members of the IAEA board of governors, with only Russia and China voting against it.

The resolution came after the Vienna-based IAEA raised concerns about traces of enriched uranium previously found at three sites Tehran had not declared as having hosted nuclear activities.

"The adoption of the resolution, which is based on the hasty and unbalanced report of the director general of the IAEA and on false and fabricated information from the Zionist regime (Israel), will only weaken the process of cooperation and interaction between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the agency," the foreign ministry statement said.

"Iran has taken reciprocal practical steps due to the non-constructive approach of the agency and the adoption of the resolution, including the installation of advanced centrifuges and the deactivation of cameras."

In a statement on Wednesday, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation stressed that it was continuing to abide by the safeguard agreement with the IAEA.

"More than 80 percent of the agency's existing cameras are operating according to the safeguard agreement and will continue to operate just as before," it said.

Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh condemned the resolution in a tweet, insisting Iran has "the world's most transparent peaceful nuclear programme".

"The initiators are responsible for the consequences. Iran's response is firm &amp; proportionate," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-carries-out-mass-execution-of-12-ethnic-baluch-minorities-in-a-day-report-486145">Iran carries out mass execution of 12 ethnic Baluch minorities in a day: Report</a>

After the adoption of the resolution, the US, Britain, France and Germany urged Iran "to fulfil its legal obligations, and cooperate with the IAEA".

Iran struck a deal with major powers in 2015 setting limits to its nuclear activities in return for relief from international sanctions -- but the agreement has been in disarray since then US president Donald Trump abandoned the agreement three years later and reimposed sanctions.

In response, Iran began rolling back on its commitments under the deal from 2019.

Talks began in April last year on reviving the agreement through the lifting of US sanctions and Iran returning to full compliance but they have stalled in recent months.

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Iran denounced as "political" and "unconstructive" Thursday a resolution adopted by the UN nuclear watchdog censuring it for failing to cooperate. "Iran condemns the adoption of the resolution presented by the United States, Britain, France and Germany at the Board of Governors meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency as a political, unconstructive and incorrect action," a foreign ministry statement said.

Iran denounced as "political" and "unconstructive" Thursday a resolution adopted by the UN nuclear watchdog censuring it for failing to cooperate. "Iran condemns the adoption of the resolution presented by the United States, Britain, France and Germany at the Board of Governors meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency as a political, unconstructive and incorrect action," a foreign ministry statement said. Iran already announced it had disconnected some IAEA cameras monitoring its nuclear sites in anticipation of the watchdog's adoption of the Western-drafted censure motion Wednesday. Also read | Deepening bilateral ties: Iran foreign minister on a three-day visit to India The motion -- the first to criticise Iran since June 2020 -- was approved by 30 members of the IAEA board of governors, with only Russia and China voting against it. The resolution came after the Vienna-based IAEA raised concerns about traces of enriched uranium previously found at three sites Tehran had not declared as having hosted nuclear activities. "The adoption of the resolution, which is based on the hasty and unbalanced report of the director general of the IAEA and on false and fabricated information from the Zionist regime (Israel), will only weaken the process of cooperation and interaction between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the agency," the foreign ministry statement said. "Iran has taken reciprocal practical steps due to the non-constructive approach of the agency and the adoption of the resolution, including the installation of advanced centrifuges and the deactivation of cameras." In a statement on Wednesday, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation stressed that it was continuing to abide by the safeguard agreement with the IAEA. "More than 80 percent of the agency's existing cameras are operating according to the safeguard agreement and will continue to operate just as before," it said. Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh condemned the resolution in a tweet, insisting Iran has "the world's most transparent peaceful nuclear programme". "The initiators are responsible for the consequences. Iran's response is firm & proportionate," he said. Also read | Iran carries out mass execution of 12 ethnic Baluch minorities in a day: Report After the adoption of the resolution, the US, Britain, France and Germany urged Iran "to fulfil its legal obligations, and cooperate with the IAEA". Iran struck a deal with major powers in 2015 setting limits to its nuclear activities in return for relief from international sanctions -- but the agreement has been in disarray since then US president Donald Trump abandoned the agreement three years later and reimposed sanctions. In response, Iran began rolling back on its commitments under the deal from 2019. Talks began in April last year on reviving the agreement through the lifting of US sanctions and Iran returning to full compliance but they have stalled in recent months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran condemns 'political, unconstructive' IAEA resolution

The United Nations recognized the June 8 as the World Oceans Day in 2008. Every year the day has been marked to promote knowledge about the delicate systems that govern the world's oceanic system and how they are at increasing risk from climate change.

World Oceans Day: Creating awareness for saving oceans

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities. The UN nuclear watchdog has cameras installed in all of the country’s nuclear facilities to keep track on their activities. But the move came after Iran was criticized for not fully answering the UN watchdog’s questions on uranium traces that were found at undeclared sites in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-looks-to-buy-iron-dome-rocket-interception-system-from-israel-to-fight-off-russia-486123" hreflang="en">Ukraine looks to buy Iron Dome rocket interception system from Israel to fight off Russia</a>

“So far, the IAEA has not only been ungrateful for Iran’s extensive cooperation but has also considered it as a duty. From today, relevant authorities have ordered that surveillance cameras of the Online Enrichment Monitor (OLEM) be shut down,” state TV said according to Associated Press.

“Iran cannot be cooperative while the IAEA displays unreasonable behaviour. We hope the agency will come to its senses and respond with cooperation with Iran,” Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization spokesperson Behrouz Kamalvandi told state TV according to the AP report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-offer-15000-to-citizens-for-national-security-breach-tip-offs-486264">China to offer $15,000 to citizens for national security breach tip-offs</a>

The United States, Britain, Germany, and France submitted a draft resolution to the IAEA expressing their concern at Iran’s non-cooperation after the traces of uranium were detected. The resolution, which was accessed by Reuters, is set to be debated in the quarterly meeting of the IAEA members.

While Iran has not directly started any process to create a nuclear weapon, the country has increased its reserves of uranium in the recent past and that has caused a lot of concern to the western countries.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities.

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities. The UN nuclear watchdog has cameras installed in all of the country’s nuclear facilities to keep track on their activities. But the move came after Iran was criticized for not fully answering the UN watchdog’s questions on uranium traces that were found at undeclared sites in the country. Also read | Ukraine looks to buy Iron Dome rocket interception system from Israel to fight off Russia “So far, the IAEA has not only been ungrateful for Iran’s extensive cooperation but has also considered it as a duty. From today, relevant authorities have ordered that surveillance cameras of the Online Enrichment Monitor (OLEM) be shut down,” state TV said according to Associated Press. “Iran cannot be cooperative while the IAEA displays unreasonable behaviour. We hope the agency will come to its senses and respond with cooperation with Iran,” Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization spokesperson Behrouz Kamalvandi told state TV according to the AP report. Also read | China to offer $15,000 to citizens for national security breach tip-offs The United States, Britain, Germany, and France submitted a draft resolution to the IAEA expressing their concern at Iran’s non-cooperation after the traces of uranium were detected. The resolution, which was accessed by Reuters, is set to be debated in the quarterly meeting of the IAEA members. While Iran has not directly started any process to create a nuclear weapon, the country has increased its reserves of uranium in the recent past and that has caused a lot of concern to the western countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran turns off two surveillance cameras belonging to UN nuclear watchdog: Report

Somalia is facing one of its worst droughts in 40 years. This comes after monsoons fail to arrive for the fourth consecutive season. More than 6 million Somalis are in urgent need of aid.

Drought in Somalia worsens: 7.1 million Somalis face acute levels of food insecurity

Negotiators from almost 200 countries will meet in Bonn Monday for climate talks tasked with reigniting momentum on tackling global warming, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine overshadows the threat from rising emissions.

The conference will set the stage for a fresh round of major United Nations talks later this year in Egypt.

It will also be a chance to test the resolve of nations facing a catalogue of crises, including escalating climate impacts, geopolitical tensions, bloodshed in Ukraine and the threat of a devastating global food crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-effect-snow-white-alps-turning-green-says-study-after-analysing-satellite-data-484609">Climate change effect: ‘Snow-white' Alps turning green, says study after analysing satellite data</a>

"Climate change is not an agenda we can afford to push back on our global schedule," said outgoing UN climate change chief Patricia Espinosa ahead of the meeting.&nbsp;

She said it is imperative that nations arrive at the UN COP27 meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh in November prepared to show they are taking "bold, concrete steps -- backed by specific plans -- to deliver the urgent and transformational climate ambition we simply must see before it's too late".

Governments have already accepted that climate change is a grave threat to humanity and the planet, and have advocated immediate action to cut fossil fuel emissions and prepare for the accelerating impacts of warming.

The summary to this year's landmark climate report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded that any further delay in action "will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all".

But as things are going, the world is unlikely to be able to meet the Paris climate deal's commitment to limit warming "well below" 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

"There is this disconnect between the scientific evidence of global crisis in the making, of potentially rushing towards unmanageable climate impact, versus the lack of action," Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, told AFP.

"This is a deep worry."

The world has warmed nearly 1.2C so far -- enough to usher in a crescendo of deadly heatwaves, floods and storm surges made worse by rising seas.

Watch |&nbsp;Stockholm climate conference: Ukraine overshadows climate meet

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&nbsp;Funding focus

While the June 6 to 16 conference in Bonn is a largely technical meeting aimed at preparing for Egypt, there are a number of key issues up for debate.

A particular focus will be funding from rich polluters to help vulnerable developing nations least responsible for global heating to cope with its increasingly ferocious consequences.

A promise of $100 billion a year from 2020 to help them adapt to a warming world has still not been met.

Meanwhile, there are growing calls for "loss and damage" funding for countries already struck by devastating climate impacts, with a specific dialogue on the subject slated for this week.&nbsp;

The Alliance of Small Island States has warned that the Bonn conference must not be "just another talk shop", calling for a "clear view" on when and how this financing will be put in place.

'Fragile' world&nbsp;

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres last week warned that Russia's invasion of Ukraine risked slowing action to combat the climate crisis.

"But I think this war has demonstrated one thing: how fragile the world is in its dependence to fossil fuels," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/atmospheric-carbon-dioxide-in-may-15-times-pre-industrial-levels-484969">Atmospheric carbon dioxide in May 1.5 times pre-industrial levels</a>

The invasion has prompted countries, particularly in Europe, to scramble to shore up energy supplies. It has also caused wheat and fertiliser prices to soar.

Fears of a food crisis have intensified in recent weeks, with India moving to ban wheat exports after the hottest March and April on record -- blamed largely on climate change -- hit harvests.

One opportunity for exhibiting political will comes on Wednesday when the European Parliament votes several hotly debated planks of the bloc's sprawling "Fit for 55" climate plan.

EU member states have set themselves the target of reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 55 per cent by 2030 compared to 1990, and achieving carbon neutrality for the continent by 2050.

In May, an analysis from non-profit groups found that countries in the G20 group of major economies have yet to strengthen greenhouse gas reduction goals, despite agreeing to revisit their plans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/climate-activists-crash-queen-elizabeths-jubilee-celebrations-protest-against-crowns-climate-inaction-484806">Climate activists crash Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee celebrations, protest against Crown's climate inaction</a>

Last year in Glasgow, countries made new pledges to slash methane emissions, stop deforestation and other measures that -- in addition to existing national carbon cutting pledges could theoretically cap warming under 2C, said Rockstrom.&nbsp;

But that means the focus at this year's meetings needs to be on "accountability", he added.&nbsp;

"We are now in the delivery phase".

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Negotiators from almost 200 countries will meet in Bonn Monday for climate talks tasked with reigniting momentum on tackling global warming, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine overshadows the threat from rising emissions.

Negotiators from almost 200 countries will meet in Bonn Monday for climate talks tasked with reigniting momentum on tackling global warming, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine overshadows the threat from rising emissions. The conference will set the stage for a fresh round of major United Nations talks later this year in Egypt. It will also be a chance to test the resolve of nations facing a catalogue of crises, including escalating climate impacts, geopolitical tensions, bloodshed in Ukraine and the threat of a devastating global food crisis. Also read | Climate change effect: ‘Snow-white' Alps turning green, says study after analysing satellite data "Climate change is not an agenda we can afford to push back on our global schedule," said outgoing UN climate change chief Patricia Espinosa ahead of the meeting. She said it is imperative that nations arrive at the UN COP27 meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh in November prepared to show they are taking "bold, concrete steps -- backed by specific plans -- to deliver the urgent and transformational climate ambition we simply must see before it's too late". Governments have already accepted that climate change is a grave threat to humanity and the planet, and have advocated immediate action to cut fossil fuel emissions and prepare for the accelerating impacts of warming. The summary to this year's landmark climate report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded that any further delay in action "will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all". But as things are going, the world is unlikely to be able to meet the Paris climate deal's commitment to limit warming "well below" 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. "There is this disconnect between the scientific evidence of global crisis in the making, of potentially rushing towards unmanageable climate impact, versus the lack of action," Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, told AFP. "This is a deep worry." The world has warmed nearly 1.2C so far -- enough to usher in a crescendo of deadly heatwaves, floods and storm surges made worse by rising seas. Watch | Stockholm climate conference: Ukraine overshadows climate meet Funding focus While the June 6 to 16 conference in Bonn is a largely technical meeting aimed at preparing for Egypt, there are a number of key issues up for debate. A particular focus will be funding from rich polluters to help vulnerable developing nations least responsible for global heating to cope with its increasingly ferocious consequences. A promise of $100 billion a year from 2020 to help them adapt to a warming world has still not been met. Meanwhile, there are growing calls for "loss and damage" funding for countries already struck by devastating climate impacts, with a specific dialogue on the subject slated for this week. The Alliance of Small Island States has warned that the Bonn conference must not be "just another talk shop", calling for a "clear view" on when and how this financing will be put in place. 'Fragile' world UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres last week warned that Russia's invasion of Ukraine risked slowing action to combat the climate crisis. "But I think this war has demonstrated one thing: how fragile the world is in its dependence to fossil fuels," he added. Also read | Atmospheric carbon dioxide in May 1.5 times pre-industrial levels The invasion has prompted countries, particularly in Europe, to scramble to shore up energy supplies. It has also caused wheat and fertiliser prices to soar. Fears of a food crisis have intensified in recent weeks, with India moving to ban wheat exports after the hottest March and April on record -- blamed largely on climate change -- hit harvests. One opportunity for exhibiting political will comes on Wednesday when the European Parliament votes several hotly debated planks of the bloc's sprawling "Fit for 55" climate plan. EU member states have set themselves the target of reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 55 per cent by 2030 compared to 1990, and achieving carbon neutrality for the continent by 2050. In May, an analysis from non-profit groups found that countries in the G20 group of major economies have yet to strengthen greenhouse gas reduction goals, despite agreeing to revisit their plans. Also read | Climate activists crash Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee celebrations, protest against Crown's climate inaction Last year in Glasgow, countries made new pledges to slash methane emissions, stop deforestation and other measures that -- in addition to existing national carbon cutting pledges could theoretically cap warming under 2C, said Rockstrom. But that means the focus at this year's meetings needs to be on "accountability", he added. "We are now in the delivery phase". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate talks test global resolve on warming

As monkey pox cases continue to rise globally it has now raised concerns that this infection flare-up might lead to bigger outbreak across the world.

Monkeypox cases on the rise as over 700 cases reported globally

The UN&nbsp;Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year.

The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.'&nbsp;The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

Russia's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict.

However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods.

Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea.

In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes

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Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips.

Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers.

In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-renew-two-month-truce-un-484427">Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN</a>

His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.

An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister.&nbsp;

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The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation. The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year. The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.' The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict. However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods. Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea. In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said. Watch | Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips. Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers. In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli. Also read | Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries. An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN extends searches on high seas off Libya for illegal arms

North Korea has taken over as head of a UN body aimed at striking disarmament deals amid scorn from critics. It gained the presidency of the Conference on Disarmament because it rotates alphabetically among its 65 members.

North Korea now heads UN-backed arms control forum

The ongoing rare monkeypox outbreak outside of Africa is worrying scientists globally. Experts are suspecting 'animal spill back'.

Monkeypox outbreak worries scientists: Experts suspect 'animal spill back'

Turkey has officially changed its name to Turkiye. Meanwhile, the United Nations has agreed to recognise the change while giving an approval on Thursday and said change will be immediate.

Turkey changes name to Turkiye; UN recognises the new name

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year.&nbsp;The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says in a report that an already critical situation is being exacerbated by ongoing fighting between the military government and its opponents, the increasing prices of essential commodities, and the coming of monsoon season, while funding for its relief efforts is severely inadequate. Its report covers the situation up to May 26.

The military has hindered or denied independent access to areas not under its control, hampering aid efforts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-monks-gathered-at-juntas-organised-event-to-celebrate-buddhas-birthday-478918">Monks gather at Myanmar junta’s event to celebrate Buddha’s birthday</a>

Myanmar's army in February last year seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering widespread peaceful protests. When those were put down with lethal force by the army and police, nonviolent opposition turned into armed resistance, and the country slipped into what some UN experts characterise as a civil war.

OCHA says that fighting has recently escalated.

The impact on civilians is worsening daily with frequent indiscriminate attacks and incidents involving explosive hazards, including landmines and explosive remnants of war," the report says.

It says that more than 694,300 people have become displaced from their homes since the army takeover, with thousands being uprooted a second or third time, and an estimated 346,000 people were displaced by fighting before last year's takeover&nbsp;mostly in frontier regions populated by ethnic minority groups who have been struggling for greater autonomy for decades.

The report also says about 40,200 people have fled to neighbouring countries since the takeover and more than 12,700 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries and schools are estimated to have been destroyed.

As of the end of the first quarter of this year, humanitarian assistance reached 2.6 million people in Myanmar, or 41 per cent of the 6.2 million people targeted, OCHA says. The country's total population is over 55 million.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

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But it warns this year's Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded so far, falling short by USD 740 million.

An official of the military government's Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement said on Wednesday at a news conference in Myanmar's capital Naypyitaw that the government distributed humanitarian aid to more than 130,000 displaced people from May 2021 through May 27 this year.

The official, whose testimony was broadcast but who was not identified by name, said 1,255 houses and five religious buildings were burned or destroyed in fighting between the army and local resistance militias and consequently received government aid for rebuilding.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said last month that the number of people worldwide forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has crossed the milestone of 100 million for the first time on record.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-aung-san-suu-kyi-gets-five-year-jail-term-for-corruption-474182">Myanmar junta sentences Aung San Suu Kyi for five years in prison</a>

That's more than one per cent of the global population and comprises refugees and asylum-seekers as well as people displaced inside their own countries by conflict.

Violence and conflicts in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo had driven the total to almost 90 million by the end of last year. The war in Ukraine pushed the number past the 100 million mark.

The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, an independent Geneva-based non-governmental organisation, said 53.2 million people were displaced within their countries as a result of conflict and violence as of December 31.&nbsp;

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year.

The United Nations' humanitarian relief agency says the number of people displaced within strife-torn Myanmar has for the first time exceeded one million, with well over half the total losing their homes after a military takeover last year. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says in a report that an already critical situation is being exacerbated by ongoing fighting between the military government and its opponents, the increasing prices of essential commodities, and the coming of monsoon season, while funding for its relief efforts is severely inadequate. Its report covers the situation up to May 26. The military has hindered or denied independent access to areas not under its control, hampering aid efforts. Also read | Monks gather at Myanmar junta’s event to celebrate Buddha’s birthday Myanmar's army in February last year seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering widespread peaceful protests. When those were put down with lethal force by the army and police, nonviolent opposition turned into armed resistance, and the country slipped into what some UN experts characterise as a civil war. OCHA says that fighting has recently escalated. The impact on civilians is worsening daily with frequent indiscriminate attacks and incidents involving explosive hazards, including landmines and explosive remnants of war," the report says. It says that more than 694,300 people have become displaced from their homes since the army takeover, with thousands being uprooted a second or third time, and an estimated 346,000 people were displaced by fighting before last year's takeover mostly in frontier regions populated by ethnic minority groups who have been struggling for greater autonomy for decades. The report also says about 40,200 people have fled to neighbouring countries since the takeover and more than 12,700 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries and schools are estimated to have been destroyed. As of the end of the first quarter of this year, humanitarian assistance reached 2.6 million people in Myanmar, or 41 per cent of the 6.2 million people targeted, OCHA says. The country's total population is over 55 million. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide? But it warns this year's Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded so far, falling short by USD 740 million. An official of the military government's Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement said on Wednesday at a news conference in Myanmar's capital Naypyitaw that the government distributed humanitarian aid to more than 130,000 displaced people from May 2021 through May 27 this year. The official, whose testimony was broadcast but who was not identified by name, said 1,255 houses and five religious buildings were burned or destroyed in fighting between the army and local resistance militias and consequently received government aid for rebuilding. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said last month that the number of people worldwide forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has crossed the milestone of 100 million for the first time on record. Also read | Myanmar junta sentences Aung San Suu Kyi for five years in prison That's more than one per cent of the global population and comprises refugees and asylum-seekers as well as people displaced inside their own countries by conflict. Violence and conflicts in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo had driven the total to almost 90 million by the end of last year. The war in Ukraine pushed the number past the 100 million mark. The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, an independent Geneva-based non-governmental organisation, said 53.2 million people were displaced within their countries as a result of conflict and violence as of December 31.

Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency

Yemen's&nbsp;warring&nbsp;parties&nbsp;have agreed to&nbsp;renew&nbsp;a&nbsp;two-month&nbsp;truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire.&nbsp;"I would like to announce that the&nbsp;parties&nbsp;to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to&nbsp;renew&nbsp;the current truce in Yemen&nbsp;for two additional months," the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;special envoy on&nbsp;Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement.&nbsp;"The extension of the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;comes into effect when the current&nbsp;truce&nbsp;period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;time (1600 GMT)."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-president-steps-aside-amid-efforts-to-end-war-469131">Yemen's president steps aside amid efforts to end war</a>

Yemen&nbsp;has been gripped by conflict since the Iran-backed Huthi rebels took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year.

Grundberg added the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;was extended under the same terms as the previous one.

Aid groups in&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;have touted the benefits of the&nbsp;truce, which went into effect in April.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end?

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Beyond opening Sanaa airport to some commercial flights –- a lifeline to Yemenis needing medical care abroad –- the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;has allowed oil tankers to dock in the rebel-held port of Hodeida, potentially easing fuel shortages in Sanaa and elsewhere.&nbsp;

But a provision for the rebels to ease their siege of&nbsp;Yemen's third-largest city Taez has yet to be implemented, to the anger of the government which is demanding roads to the city be opened.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the rebels have called on the government to pay the salaries of public sector employees working in areas under their control.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-agree-two-month-truce-in-major-breakthrough-467528">Yemen's warring parties agree two-month truce in major breakthrough</a>

"In order for the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;to fully deliver on its potential, additional steps will need to be taken, particularly on the matters of road openings and commercial flight operations," Grundberg said.

"I will continue engaging with the&nbsp;parties&nbsp;to implement and consolidate all elements of the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;in full, and move towards a sustainable political settlement to the conflict that meets the legitimate aspirations and demands of Yemeni women and men."

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Yemen's warring parties have agreed to renew a two-month truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire. "I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," the UN special envoy on Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement.

Yemen's warring parties have agreed to renew a two-month truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire. "I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," the UN special envoy on Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement. "The extension of the truce comes into effect when the current truce period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00 Yemen time (1600 GMT)." Also read | Yemen's president steps aside amid efforts to end war Yemen has been gripped by conflict since the Iran-backed Huthi rebels took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year. Grundberg added the truce was extended under the same terms as the previous one. Aid groups in Yemen have touted the benefits of the truce, which went into effect in April. Watch | The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end? Beyond opening Sanaa airport to some commercial flights –- a lifeline to Yemenis needing medical care abroad –- the truce has allowed oil tankers to dock in the rebel-held port of Hodeida, potentially easing fuel shortages in Sanaa and elsewhere. But a provision for the rebels to ease their siege of Yemen's third-largest city Taez has yet to be implemented, to the anger of the government which is demanding roads to the city be opened. Meanwhile, the rebels have called on the government to pay the salaries of public sector employees working in areas under their control. Also read | Yemen's warring parties agree two-month truce in major breakthrough "In order for the truce to fully deliver on its potential, additional steps will need to be taken, particularly on the matters of road openings and commercial flight operations," Grundberg said. "I will continue engaging with the parties to implement and consolidate all elements of the truce in full, and move towards a sustainable political settlement to the conflict that meets the legitimate aspirations and demands of Yemeni women and men." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN

The UN has reason to believe that Iran has enough enriched uranium for a nuclear bomb. The revival of the Iran nuclear deal remains stalled. Tehran is negotiating from a position of strength. But within Iran, the regime is facing massive protests. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: UN: Iran can make a nuclear weapon

The&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;industry is a far greater threat than many realise as it is one of the world's biggest polluters, from leaving mountains of waste to driving global warming, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;charged Tuesday.

The World Health Organization accused the industry of causing widespread deforestation, diverting badly needed land and water in poor countries away from food production, spewing out plastic and chemical waste as well as emitting millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide.&nbsp;

In its report released on World No&nbsp;Tobacco&nbsp;Day, the UN agency called for the&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;industry to be held to account and foot the bill for the cleanup.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-no-tobacco-day-2022-a-threat-to-environment-483731">World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment'</a>

The report, "Tobacco: poisoning our planet", looks at the impacts of the whole cycle, from the growth of plants to the manufacturing of&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;products, to consumption and waste.

While&nbsp;tobacco's health impacts have been well documented for decades -- with smoking still causing more than eight million deaths worldwide every year, the report focuses on its broader&nbsp;environmental&nbsp;consequences.

The findings are "quite&nbsp;devastating," Ruediger Krech,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;director of health promotion, told AFP, slamming the industry as "one of the biggest polluters that we know of."

The industry is responsible for the loss of some 600 million trees each year, while&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;growing and production uses 200,000 hectares of land and 22 billion tonnes of water annually, the report found.

It also emits around 84 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, it said.

4.5 trillion cigarette butts

In addition, "tobacco&nbsp;products are the most littered item on the planet, containing over 7,000 toxic chemicals, which leech into our environment when discarded," Krech said.

He pointed out that each one of the estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette butts that end up in our oceans, rivers, sidewalks and beaches every year can pollute 100 litres of water.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;56% of people in Switzerland vote to ban Tobacco advertisements

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And up to a quarter of all&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;farmers contract so-called green&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;sickness, or poisoning from the nicotine they absorb through the skin.

Farmers&nbsp;who&nbsp;handle&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;leaves all day consume the equivalent of 50 cigarettes worth of nicotine a day, Krech said.

This is especially worrying for the many children involved in&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;farming.

"Just imagine a 12-year-old being exposed to 50 cigarettes a day," he said.

Most&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;is grown in poorer countries, where water and farmland are often in short supply, and where such crops are often grown at the expense of vital food production, the report said.

Tobacco&nbsp;farming also accounts for about five percent of global deforestation, and drives depletion of precious water resources.

Plastic pollution&nbsp;

At the same time the processing and transportation of&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;account for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions&nbsp;with the equivalent of one-fifth of the global airline industry's carbon footprint.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-long-a-safe-haven-for-tobacco-ads-weighs-a-ban-452502">Switzerland, long a safe haven for tobacco ads, weighs a ban</a>

In addition, products like cigarettes, smokeless&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;and e-cigarettes also contribute significantly to the global build-up of plastic pollution,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;warned.

Cigarette filters contain microplastics -- the tiny fragments that have been detected in every ocean and even at the bottom of the world's deepest trench&nbsp;and make up the second-highest form of plastic pollution worldwide, the report said.

And yet, despite&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;industry marketing,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;stressed that there is no evidence filters provide any proven health benefits over smoking non-filtered cigarettes.

The UN agency urged policy makers worldwide to treat cigarette filters as single-use plastics, and to consider banning them.

It also decried that taxpayers around the world had been covering the towering costs of cleaning up the&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;industry's mess.

Each year, China for instance dishes out around $2.6 billion and India around $766 million, while Brazil and Germany pay some $200 million each to clean up littered&nbsp;tobacco&nbsp;products, the report found.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ancient-north-americans-used-tobacco-over-12000-years-ago-says-study-420073">Ancient North Americans used tobacco over 12,000 years ago, says study</a>

WHO&nbsp;insisted that more countries should follow the so-called Polluter Pays Principle, as in France and Spain.

It is important, Krech said, that "the industry pay actually for the mess that they are creating."

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The tobacco industry is a far greater threat than many realise as it is one of the world's biggest polluters, from leaving mountains of waste to driving global warming, the WHO charged Tuesday.

The tobacco industry is a far greater threat than many realise as it is one of the world's biggest polluters, from leaving mountains of waste to driving global warming, the WHO charged Tuesday. The World Health Organization accused the industry of causing widespread deforestation, diverting badly needed land and water in poor countries away from food production, spewing out plastic and chemical waste as well as emitting millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide. In its report released on World No Tobacco Day, the UN agency called for the tobacco industry to be held to account and foot the bill for the cleanup. Also read | World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment' The report, "Tobacco: poisoning our planet", looks at the impacts of the whole cycle, from the growth of plants to the manufacturing of tobacco products, to consumption and waste. While tobacco's health impacts have been well documented for decades -- with smoking still causing more than eight million deaths worldwide every year, the report focuses on its broader environmental consequences. The findings are "quite devastating," Ruediger Krech, WHO director of health promotion, told AFP, slamming the industry as "one of the biggest polluters that we know of." The industry is responsible for the loss of some 600 million trees each year, while tobacco growing and production uses 200,000 hectares of land and 22 billion tonnes of water annually, the report found. It also emits around 84 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, it said. 4.5 trillion cigarette butts In addition, "tobacco products are the most littered item on the planet, containing over 7,000 toxic chemicals, which leech into our environment when discarded," Krech said. He pointed out that each one of the estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette butts that end up in our oceans, rivers, sidewalks and beaches every year can pollute 100 litres of water. Watch | 56% of people in Switzerland vote to ban Tobacco advertisements And up to a quarter of all tobacco farmers contract so-called green tobacco sickness, or poisoning from the nicotine they absorb through the skin. Farmers who handle tobacco leaves all day consume the equivalent of 50 cigarettes worth of nicotine a day, Krech said. This is especially worrying for the many children involved in tobacco farming. "Just imagine a 12-year-old being exposed to 50 cigarettes a day," he said. Most tobacco is grown in poorer countries, where water and farmland are often in short supply, and where such crops are often grown at the expense of vital food production, the report said. Tobacco farming also accounts for about five percent of global deforestation, and drives depletion of precious water resources. Plastic pollution At the same time the processing and transportation of tobacco account for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions with the equivalent of one-fifth of the global airline industry's carbon footprint. Also read | Switzerland, long a safe haven for tobacco ads, weighs a ban In addition, products like cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes also contribute significantly to the global build-up of plastic pollution, WHO warned. Cigarette filters contain microplastics -- the tiny fragments that have been detected in every ocean and even at the bottom of the world's deepest trench and make up the second-highest form of plastic pollution worldwide, the report said. And yet, despite tobacco industry marketing, WHO stressed that there is no evidence filters provide any proven health benefits over smoking non-filtered cigarettes. The UN agency urged policy makers worldwide to treat cigarette filters as single-use plastics, and to consider banning them. It also decried that taxpayers around the world had been covering the towering costs of cleaning up the tobacco industry's mess. Each year, China for instance dishes out around $2.6 billion and India around $766 million, while Brazil and Germany pay some $200 million each to clean up littered tobacco products, the report found. Also read | Ancient North Americans used tobacco over 12,000 years ago, says study WHO insisted that more countries should follow the so-called Polluter Pays Principle, as in France and Spain. It is important, Krech said, that "the industry pay actually for the mess that they are creating." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Big tobacco's environmental impact is 'devastating': WHO

The United Nations has denounced racist and homophobic media coverage of the rare Monkeypox outbreak in the west.

The racist nature of monkeypox coverage: Global media uses stigmatising language

Russia and China vetoed a US-drafted United Nations Security Council resolution to strengthen sanctions on North Korea in a vote the US ambassador to the UN called dangerous.

China and Russia veto new UN sanctions on North Korea

The United Nations says that 4 million people have been impacted in Bangladesh by the worst floods in nearly two decades. Heavy tains swell two main border rivers in Bangladesh

Climate change makes floods ferocious in Bangladesh

Talks with Iran over the origin of uranium particles found at undeclared sites are at a very difficult juncture, says the director of UN's nuclear watchdog IAEA. WION tells you more in this report.

IAEA: Iran talks at a very difficult juncture over past nuclear activities

The World Health Organization's (WHO) members re-elected Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as Director General by a strong majority for another five years, the president of the World Health Assembly said on Tuesday.

The vote by secret ballot, announced by Ahmed Robleh Abdilleh from Djibouti at a major annual meeting, was seen as a formality since Tedros was the only candidate running.

Ministers and delegates took turns to shake hands and hug Tedros, a former health minister from Ethiopia, who has steered the UN agency through a turbulent period dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The president had to use a gavel several times to interrupt the applause.&nbsp;

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach tweeted on Tuesday: "Just re-elected as ⁦Director General of #WHO: @DrTedros⁩. 155/160 votes, spectacular result. Congratulations, fully deserved. Germany recently overtook the United States as the UN health agency's top donor.

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Today at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHA75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHA75</a> Member States re-elected <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a> to serve a second five-year term as Director-General of the WHO. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus's new mandate officially commences on 16 August 2022. 
 
👉 <a href="https://t.co/kNUVAeDFff">https://t.co/kNUVAeDFff</a> <a href="https://t.co/MK5jjA4YyQ">pic.twitter.com/MK5jjA4YyQ</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1529112549307961344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The World Health Organization's (WHO) members re-elected Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as Director General by a strong majority for another five years, the president of the World Health Assembly said on Tuesday.

The World Health Organization's (WHO) members re-elected Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as Director General by a strong majority for another five years, the president of the World Health Assembly said on Tuesday. The vote by secret ballot, announced by Ahmed Robleh Abdilleh from Djibouti at a major annual meeting, was seen as a formality since Tedros was the only candidate running. Ministers and delegates took turns to shake hands and hug Tedros, a former health minister from Ethiopia, who has steered the UN agency through a turbulent period dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The president had to use a gavel several times to interrupt the applause. German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach tweeted on Tuesday: "Just re-elected as ⁦Director General of #WHO: @DrTedros⁩. 155/160 votes, spectacular result. Congratulations, fully deserved. Germany recently overtook the United States as the UN health agency's top donor. Today at #WHA75 Member States re-elected @DrTedros to serve a second five-year term as Director-General of the WHO. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus's new mandate officially commences on 16 August 2022. 👉 https://t.co/kNUVAeDFff pic.twitter.com/MK5jjA4YyQ — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 24, 2022 ×

Tedros re-elected as head of World Health Organization

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;rights&nbsp;chief&nbsp;will&nbsp;begin&nbsp;her long-anticipated&nbsp;visit&nbsp;to&nbsp;China&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday, her office said,&nbsp;including&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;region where authorities stand accused of widespread violations.

After years of requesting "meaningful and unfettered" access to&nbsp;China's far-western&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;region, Michelle Bachelet will finally be heading there next week.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;High Commissioner for&nbsp;Human Rights&nbsp;"on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;begins a six-day official mission to&nbsp;China, at the invitation of the government," her office said in a statement Friday.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-agency-chief-resigns-after-probe-into-its-investments-477511">&nbsp;UN agency chief resigns after probe into its investments</a>

It is the first trip to&nbsp;China&nbsp;by a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;rights&nbsp;chief&nbsp;since 2005 and Bachelet will meet "a number of high-level officials at the national and local levels".

"The high commissioner will also meet with civil society organisations, business representatives, academics, and deliver a lecture to students at Guangzhou University," the statement added.

An advance team was sent to&nbsp;China&nbsp;several weeks ago to prepare the&nbsp;visit, and has completed a lengthy quarantine in the country, currently in the grip of fresh Covid outbreaks.

Bachelet, who will not need to quarantine, is not travelling to Beijing due to Covid restrictions, her office said this week.

Watch |&nbsp;Global food security crisis: UN holds special meet, warns that food crisis could last decades

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But she will go to Kashgar and Urumqi in&nbsp;Xinjiang, it said.&nbsp;

She wraps up the mission on May 28 with a press conference at an as-yet undisclosed location and issue a statement.

There have long been calls for Bachelet to&nbsp;visit&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;and to publish her office's findings on the situation there.

The US government and lawmakers in a number of other Western countries have labelled&nbsp;China's treatment of the Uyghur minority in&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;"genocide" -- a charge Beijing vehemently denies.

Rights&nbsp;groups say at least one million mostly Muslim minorities have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in the region, and face widespread abuses,&nbsp;including&nbsp;forced sterilisation and forced labour.

China&nbsp;says&nbsp;it is running vocational training centres in the region designed to counter extremism.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-rockets-strike-kyiv-during-un-chief-antonio-guterres-visit-474784">Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit</a>

In March, the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;rights&nbsp;office announced an agreement had finally been reached on arranging a&nbsp;visit, although it still remains unclear when Bachelet's team will release its long-delayed report on the situation.

Rights&nbsp;groups, diplomats and others have voiced concern &nbsp;Beijing will manipulate her&nbsp;visit&nbsp;and have stepped up &nbsp;demands for the report's publication.

But a spokeswoman for Bachelet said Tuesday it would not be released before her trip, and that there was no clear timing for making it public.

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The UN rights chief will begin her long-anticipated visit to China on Monday, her office said, including to the Xinjiang region where authorities stand accused of widespread violations.

The UN rights chief will begin her long-anticipated visit to China on Monday, her office said, including to the Xinjiang region where authorities stand accused of widespread violations. After years of requesting "meaningful and unfettered" access to China's far-western Xinjiang region, Michelle Bachelet will finally be heading there next week. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights "on Monday begins a six-day official mission to China, at the invitation of the government," her office said in a statement Friday. Also read | UN agency chief resigns after probe into its investments It is the first trip to China by a UN rights chief since 2005 and Bachelet will meet "a number of high-level officials at the national and local levels". "The high commissioner will also meet with civil society organisations, business representatives, academics, and deliver a lecture to students at Guangzhou University," the statement added. An advance team was sent to China several weeks ago to prepare the visit, and has completed a lengthy quarantine in the country, currently in the grip of fresh Covid outbreaks. Bachelet, who will not need to quarantine, is not travelling to Beijing due to Covid restrictions, her office said this week. Watch | Global food security crisis: UN holds special meet, warns that food crisis could last decades But she will go to Kashgar and Urumqi in Xinjiang, it said. She wraps up the mission on May 28 with a press conference at an as-yet undisclosed location and issue a statement. There have long been calls for Bachelet to visit Xinjiang and to publish her office's findings on the situation there. The US government and lawmakers in a number of other Western countries have labelled China's treatment of the Uyghur minority in Xinjiang "genocide" -- a charge Beijing vehemently denies. Rights groups say at least one million mostly Muslim minorities have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in the region, and face widespread abuses, including forced sterilisation and forced labour. China says it is running vocational training centres in the region designed to counter extremism. Also read | Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit In March, the UN rights office announced an agreement had finally been reached on arranging a visit, although it still remains unclear when Bachelet's team will release its long-delayed report on the situation. Rights groups, diplomats and others have voiced concern Beijing will manipulate her visit and have stepped up demands for the report's publication. But a spokeswoman for Bachelet said Tuesday it would not be released before her trip, and that there was no clear timing for making it public. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN rights chief to visit China from Monday, including Xinjiang

In 2021, about 60 million people were internally displaced around the world

The United Nations held a special meeting on the ongoing global food security crisis and warns that the food crisis could last decades.

Global food security crisis: UN holds special meet, warns that food crisis could last decades

The United Nations has now issued another grim warning on climate change. They have warned that the global energy system is driving humanity towards a catastrophe. The UN Secretary General has called upon the countries now to fasten their transition from fossil fuels in a bid to combat climate change

UN: Global Energy system driving humanity towards catastrophe

WION Global summit is back. Countdown to the WION Global summit in Dubai is on. An extensive discussion on war and peace will be held on May 16.

WION Global Summit: Keynote address by Abdulla Shahid, President at UN General assembly

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict.

The United Nations Human Rights Council decided to launch the enquiry into the possible misconducts of the Russian military after the motion was passed with 33 votes in favour.

According to the motion tabled in the Council, the enquiry will include extrajudicial executions, civilian casualties, the use of torture and abuses against children during the crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-un-deeply-troubled-by-escalating-violence-477844" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka crisis — PM Ranil Wickremesinghe pledges to uplift the economy</a>

The only two nations to vote against the motion were China and Eritrea. 12 countries, including India and Pakistan, decided to abstain from the vote while Russia did not attend the meeting.

According to an AFP report, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova addressed the council from Kyiv and said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's army were "pure evil".

Russia was committing "the most gruesome human rights violations on the European continent in decades", she said in the address.

"These have been 10 weeks of sheer horror to the people of my country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-sanctions-russian-ruble-is-the-worlds-top-performing-currency-in-2022-478370">Despite sanctions, Russian ruble is world's top performing currency in 2022</a>

"Torture and enforced disappearances, sexual and gender-based violence; the list of Russia's crimes is endless.

"Only the world standing strong in solidarity with the Ukrainian people can defeat this pure evil."

Although Russia is currently suspended from the Human Rights Council, they were called to the meeting in order to present their defence. However, they declined to attend, and Russian ambassador Gennady Gatilov called it a "political rout to demonise Russia".

WATCH |&nbsp;Finland may soon announce bid to join NATO

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The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict. The United Nations Human Rights Council decided to launch the enquiry into the possible misconducts of the Russian military after the motion was passed with 33 votes in favour. According to the motion tabled in the Council, the enquiry will include extrajudicial executions, civilian casualties, the use of torture and abuses against children during the crisis. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis — PM Ranil Wickremesinghe pledges to uplift the economy The only two nations to vote against the motion were China and Eritrea. 12 countries, including India and Pakistan, decided to abstain from the vote while Russia did not attend the meeting. According to an AFP report, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova addressed the council from Kyiv and said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's army were "pure evil". Russia was committing "the most gruesome human rights violations on the European continent in decades", she said in the address. "These have been 10 weeks of sheer horror to the people of my country. Also read | Despite sanctions, Russian ruble is world's top performing currency in 2022 "Torture and enforced disappearances, sexual and gender-based violence; the list of Russia's crimes is endless. "Only the world standing strong in solidarity with the Ukrainian people can defeat this pure evil." Although Russia is currently suspended from the Human Rights Council, they were called to the meeting in order to present their defence. However, they declined to attend, and Russian ambassador Gennady Gatilov called it a "political rout to demonise Russia". WATCH | Finland may soon announce bid to join NATO

United Nations launches probe into Russia's alleged human rights violations in Ukraine

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has accepted the resignation of the head of a United Nations agency that was under investigation for questionable investments.

Grete Faremo, a former Norwegian minister of justice and public security, had been undersecretary-general and executive director of the UN Office for Project Services since August 2014.

The office, headquartered in Copenhagen, says its mission is to provide infrastructure, procurement and project management services for a more sustainable world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/darker-side-of-mother-teresa-a-documentary-claims-she-covered-up-the-worst-excesses-of-church-477491">'Darker side' of Mother Teresa: A documentary claims she covered up the worst excesses of church</a>

Faremo's resignation was accepted on Sunday, the day the New York Times reported that the agency made a baffling series of financial decisions&nbsp;that purportedly led to $25 million in losses.

The Times report followed an April 16 article in Devex, the media platform for the global development community by Brussels-based writer Ilya Gridneff, titled: What went wrong with UNOPS' ambitious impact-investing initiative.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US Federal Reserve hikes interest rates

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That article said the investigation focused on a series of loans from the agency to a Singapore-based company that received tens of millions of dollars to develop plans to build more than 1 million affordable homes in six countries. Today, the entire project is stalled, UNOPS is owed tens of millions of dollars, and no houses have been built, it said.

Devex quoted an unidentified spokesperson for the agency as saying that steps are being taken to recover all outstanding amounts regardless of the source of activities.

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The UN's internal watchdog had been investigating the transactions.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Faremo's resignation was effective on Sunday. He said Jens Wandel of Denmark, a former special adviser to the secretary-general on reforms, will serve as acting head of the agency while a new executive director is recruited.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-25-million-tonnes-of-grain-stuck-in-ukraine-un-food-agency-476870">Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency</a>

The secretary-general is grateful for Faremo's commitment and dedicated service to the organisation, Dujarric said in a statement.

He would not comment beyond the statement when asked whether Guterres asked for Faremo's resignation.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has accepted the resignation of the head of a United Nations agency that was under investigation for questionable investments.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has accepted the resignation of the head of a United Nations agency that was under investigation for questionable investments. Grete Faremo, a former Norwegian minister of justice and public security, had been undersecretary-general and executive director of the UN Office for Project Services since August 2014. The office, headquartered in Copenhagen, says its mission is to provide infrastructure, procurement and project management services for a more sustainable world. Also read | 'Darker side' of Mother Teresa: A documentary claims she covered up the worst excesses of church Faremo's resignation was accepted on Sunday, the day the New York Times reported that the agency made a baffling series of financial decisions that purportedly led to $25 million in losses. The Times report followed an April 16 article in Devex, the media platform for the global development community by Brussels-based writer Ilya Gridneff, titled: What went wrong with UNOPS' ambitious impact-investing initiative. Watch | Gravitas: US Federal Reserve hikes interest rates That article said the investigation focused on a series of loans from the agency to a Singapore-based company that received tens of millions of dollars to develop plans to build more than 1 million affordable homes in six countries. Today, the entire project is stalled, UNOPS is owed tens of millions of dollars, and no houses have been built, it said. Devex quoted an unidentified spokesperson for the agency as saying that steps are being taken to recover all outstanding amounts regardless of the source of activities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The UN's internal watchdog had been investigating the transactions. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Faremo's resignation was effective on Sunday. He said Jens Wandel of Denmark, a former special adviser to the secretary-general on reforms, will serve as acting head of the agency while a new executive director is recruited. Also read | Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency The secretary-general is grateful for Faremo's commitment and dedicated service to the organisation, Dujarric said in a statement. He would not comment beyond the statement when asked whether Guterres asked for Faremo's resignation.

UN agency chief resigns after probe into its investments

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