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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidUlp1rWRbML5n" />In recent years, the Indian Navy has been playing a crucial role in furthering the wide-ranging India-Saudi ties. The Kochi-headquartered Southern Naval Command(SNC), which is the hub of the Indian Navy's diverse and sophisticated training facilities, has been spearheading these efforts. Since 2023, batches of Saudi Naval cadets have been undergoing training along with their Indian counterparts at the Indian Navy's 1st Training Squadron in Kochi,&nbsp;a city that prides itself for having built India's first indigenous aircraft carrier - INS Vikrant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first batch of 55 Royal Saudi Navy Officer trainees arrived in Kochi,&nbsp;Kerala, from the King Fahad Academy of the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) in the year 2023. The Saudi Government had deputed them for training aboard India's 1st Training Squadron, Southern Naval Command. Following the success of the 2023 edition, 76 Saudi trainees came to Kochi in 2024, thereby giving a fillip to the Indo-Saudi ties and bonhomie.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Did you know that the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> has been Training Naval officer cadets from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a>, in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kochi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kochi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>??<br />
<br />
Last yr, 55 Saudi Naval officer trainees completed training in 🇮🇳<br />
This yr, 76 cadets have completed their training<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/military?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#military</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/diplomacy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#diplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefencePROkochi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefencePROkochi</a> <a href="https://t.co/hiVMM4yp6G">pic.twitter.com/hiVMM4yp6G</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1825879519414063317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian Navy's 1st Training Squadron (1st TS) comprises numerous training ships that offer hands-on training for newly-minted Indian Navy officers, before they go on to serve aboard frontline warships. The 1st TS fleet comprises Indian-made ships INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, ICGS Varuna and two Sail Training Ships, Sudarshini and Tarangini. The Indian Navy's Southern Naval Command also boasts of Asia's Largest Naval Academy, the sprawling Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, where Indian Naval and Coast Guard officers are imparted ab-initio training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The primary aim of the First Training Squadron is to impart sea training to Naval and Coast Guard officer cadets (within a span of months). All the trainees are trained in Seamanship, Navigation, Ship Handling, Boat Work, Technical aspects etc. whilst being exposed to the rigours of life at sea, so as to earn their metaphorical ‘sea legs’. The Saudi trainees not only trained along with their Indian counterparts, but also undertook three sea sorties along with the Indian Navy trainees aboard the 1st Training Squadron ships. During these sea sorties, the Saudi cadets performed various exercises including Visit, Board, Search &amp; Seize Operations (VBSS), transfer of personnel from one ship to another, replenishment at sea, etc.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During their training period in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kochi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kochi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saudi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saudi</a> Naval officer trainees worked together with their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> counterparts..<br />
🇮🇳🇸🇦<br />
They went on 3 sea sorties. From weapons firing to tandem replenishment to Visit, Board, Search, Seize ops, they did it all... <a href="https://t.co/jH11RgKqnE">pic.twitter.com/jH11RgKqnE</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1825880159003476231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Regarding the course conducted onboard 1TS, a senior Naval officer from SNC mentioned, “The course not only imparts crucial technical skills, but also emphasises the importance of discipline, teamwork, and leadership, which is vital for achieving success in naval operations.”&nbsp;This year the course has been made more practically oriented to prepare trainees to handle various challenges at sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The most important aspect of cross-training is the capacity to learn together and about each other. An Indian Navy officer trainee onboard 1TS commented, “We have formed really close bonds. We study and prepare for exams, and conduct maneuvers at sea together. It is a great learning experience for all of us.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Evolution of India-Saudi defence ties</strong></h2>

<p>India-Saudi Arabia relations have grown from strength to strength in recent decades. Such growing closeness with Saudi Arabia is part of India’s broader focus on nurturing ties with West Asia. India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy focused not just on ‘Look West’, but also, on ‘Act West’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to UAE in August 2015 was the first-ever by an Indian PM in 34 years. Later in 2019, India signed a pact with Saudi Arabia for the establishment of a Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), expanding the ambit of bilateral relations to cover political, security, social, economic, investment, and cultural cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among these domains, military ties stand out, as India and Saudi Arabia conducted their first-ever bilateral Naval exercise, 'Al Mohed Al Hind', in Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, in August 2021. Later, as a measure of reciprocity, in February 2022, Saudi Arabia became one among more than three dozen countries to participate in the Indian Navy’s ‘Milan’ Exercise on the shores of India’s eastern city of Visakhapatnam. Jan-Feb 2024 also witnessed the first edition of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise, 'Sada Tanseeq', held in the deserts of Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjOz5b52oOIAxWaQPUHHbq3IjYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-navy-rocks-london-streets-naval-band-of-ins-tabar-performed-at-central-london-749332" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-navy-rocks-london-streets-naval-band-of-ins-tabar-performed-at-central-london-749332&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjOz5b52oOIAxWaQPUHHbq3IjYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Watch | Indian Navy rocks UK streets! Naval band of INS Tabar performs in London</a></strong></p>

<p>These military exercises prove crucial in imbibing the best practices from each other, increasing interoperability, and fostering trust - all three being emblematic of growing relations between the two countries. Among these, trust manifests most significantly when two countries decide to train together in the military domain. Because training together exposes one force to the strengths and weaknesses of the other. As a natural consequence, the rigorous and stressful nature of military training also fosters strong bonhomie and camaraderie, which lasts a lifetime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) operates primarily in the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf and the Arabian sea, with a focus on protecting the kingdom's maritime interests, including its extensive coastline and critical infrastructure. Further, the RSNF has been modernizing its fleet, incorporating advanced ships and technology to enhance its operational capabilities.</p>

<p>The growing roles and responsibilities of the Royal Saudi Navy have necessitated the need for well-trained military personnel and greater exposure to global practices and training.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjOz5b52oOIAxWaQPUHHbq3IjYQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-navy-warships-us-orders-submarine-deployment-in-middle-east-amid-israel-iran-war-threat-749302" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/after-navy-warships-us-orders-submarine-deployment-in-middle-east-amid-israel-iran-war-threat-749302&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjOz5b52oOIAxWaQPUHHbq3IjYQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">After navy warships, US orders submarine deployment in Middle East amid Israel-Iran war threat</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian Navy's capabilities and prowess are on display for all to see, especially, in the complex and long-drawn operations that are undertaken far from home shores. The anti-piracy operation undertaken onboard the MV Ruen, leading to the arrest of 35 pirates and the release of 17 hostages, witnessed the impressive levels of coordination between Indian Naval surface assets, air assets, and the personnel and military leaders involved. Such operations stand testimony to the rigorous training and professional standards that are being imparted at Indian defence training institutions and facilities. Therefore, it is only natural that more friendly foreign nations collaborate with Indian armed forces on joint training and joint exercises.</p>


In recent years, the Indian Navy has been playing a crucial role in furthering the wide-ranging India-Saudi ties. The Kochi-headquartered Southern Naval Command(SNC), which is the hub of the Indian Navy's diverse and sophisticated training facilities, has been spearheading these efforts.

In recent years, the Indian Navy has been playing a crucial role in furthering the wide-ranging India-Saudi ties. The Kochi-headquartered Southern Naval Command(SNC), which is the hub of the Indian Navy's diverse and sophisticated training facilities, has been spearheading these efforts. Since 2023, batches of Saudi Naval cadets have been undergoing training along with their Indian counterparts at the Indian Navy's 1st Training Squadron in Kochi, a city that prides itself for having built India's first indigenous aircraft carrier - INS Vikrant. The first batch of 55 Royal Saudi Navy Officer trainees arrived in Kochi, Kerala, from the King Fahad Academy of the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) in the year 2023. The Saudi Government had deputed them for training aboard India's 1st Training Squadron, Southern Naval Command. Following the success of the 2023 edition, 76 Saudi trainees came to Kochi in 2024, thereby giving a fillip to the Indo-Saudi ties and bonhomie. Did you know that the #IndianNavy has been Training Naval officer cadets from #SaudiArabia, in #Kochi #Kerala?? Last yr, 55 Saudi Naval officer trainees completed training in 🇮🇳 This yr, 76 cadets have completed their training#India #military #diplomacy @DefencePROkochi pic.twitter.com/hiVMM4yp6G — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) August 20, 2024 × The Indian Navy's 1st Training Squadron (1st TS) comprises numerous training ships that offer hands-on training for newly-minted Indian Navy officers, before they go on to serve aboard frontline warships. The 1st TS fleet comprises Indian-made ships INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, ICGS Varuna and two Sail Training Ships, Sudarshini and Tarangini. The Indian Navy's Southern Naval Command also boasts of Asia's Largest Naval Academy, the sprawling Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, where Indian Naval and Coast Guard officers are imparted ab-initio training. The primary aim of the First Training Squadron is to impart sea training to Naval and Coast Guard officer cadets (within a span of months). All the trainees are trained in Seamanship, Navigation, Ship Handling, Boat Work, Technical aspects etc. whilst being exposed to the rigours of life at sea, so as to earn their metaphorical ‘sea legs’. The Saudi trainees not only trained along with their Indian counterparts, but also undertook three sea sorties along with the Indian Navy trainees aboard the 1st Training Squadron ships. During these sea sorties, the Saudi cadets performed various exercises including Visit, Board, Search & Seize Operations (VBSS), transfer of personnel from one ship to another, replenishment at sea, etc. During their training period in #Kochi #Kerala #India, #Saudi Naval officer trainees worked together with their #IndianNavy counterparts.. 🇮🇳🇸🇦 They went on 3 sea sorties. From weapons firing to tandem replenishment to Visit, Board, Search, Seize ops, they did it all... pic.twitter.com/jH11RgKqnE — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) August 20, 2024 × Regarding the course conducted onboard 1TS, a senior Naval officer from SNC mentioned, “The course not only imparts crucial technical skills, but also emphasises the importance of discipline, teamwork, and leadership, which is vital for achieving success in naval operations.” This year the course has been made more practically oriented to prepare trainees to handle various challenges at sea. The most important aspect of cross-training is the capacity to learn together and about each other. An Indian Navy officer trainee onboard 1TS commented, “We have formed really close bonds. We study and prepare for exams, and conduct maneuvers at sea together. It is a great learning experience for all of us.” Evolution of India-Saudi defence ties India-Saudi Arabia relations have grown from strength to strength in recent decades. Such growing closeness with Saudi Arabia is part of India’s broader focus on nurturing ties with West Asia. India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy focused not just on ‘Look West’, but also, on ‘Act West’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to UAE in August 2015 was the first-ever by an Indian PM in 34 years. Later in 2019, India signed a pact with Saudi Arabia for the establishment of a Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), expanding the ambit of bilateral relations to cover political, security, social, economic, investment, and cultural cooperation. Among these domains, military ties stand out, as India and Saudi Arabia conducted their first-ever bilateral Naval exercise, 'Al Mohed Al Hind', in Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, in August 2021. Later, as a measure of reciprocity, in February 2022, Saudi Arabia became one among more than three dozen countries to participate in the Indian Navy’s ‘Milan’ Exercise on the shores of India’s eastern city of Visakhapatnam. Jan-Feb 2024 also witnessed the first edition of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise, 'Sada Tanseeq', held in the deserts of Rajasthan. Also read: Watch | Indian Navy rocks UK streets! Naval band of INS Tabar performs in London These military exercises prove crucial in imbibing the best practices from each other, increasing interoperability, and fostering trust - all three being emblematic of growing relations between the two countries. Among these, trust manifests most significantly when two countries decide to train together in the military domain. Because training together exposes one force to the strengths and weaknesses of the other. As a natural consequence, the rigorous and stressful nature of military training also fosters strong bonhomie and camaraderie, which lasts a lifetime. The Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) operates primarily in the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf and the Arabian sea, with a focus on protecting the kingdom's maritime interests, including its extensive coastline and critical infrastructure. Further, the RSNF has been modernizing its fleet, incorporating advanced ships and technology to enhance its operational capabilities. The growing roles and responsibilities of the Royal Saudi Navy have necessitated the need for well-trained military personnel and greater exposure to global practices and training. Also read: After navy warships, US orders submarine deployment in Middle East amid Israel-Iran war threat The Indian Navy's capabilities and prowess are on display for all to see, especially, in the complex and long-drawn operations that are undertaken far from home shores. The anti-piracy operation undertaken onboard the MV Ruen, leading to the arrest of 35 pirates and the release of 17 hostages, witnessed the impressive levels of coordination between Indian Naval surface assets, air assets, and the personnel and military leaders involved. Such operations stand testimony to the rigorous training and professional standards that are being imparted at Indian defence training institutions and facilities. Therefore, it is only natural that more friendly foreign nations collaborate with Indian armed forces on joint training and joint exercises.

How the Indian Navy anchors growing military ties with Saudi Arabia

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<p>Hindu groups in Canada have expressed their anguish at what they call “blatant Hinduphobia” in the country as lawmakers&nbsp;conveniently look the other way. The outrage came after Toronto’s India Day Parade, held to mark India’s Independence Day, was disrupted by a pro-Khalistan protest on Sunday (Aug 18). Pro-Khalistan elements reportedly shouted slogans targeting the Hindu population of Canada, like: “Canadian Hindus go back to India.”</p>

<p>Apparently, Canadian police miserably failed to keep Khalistani disrupters at bay even though they had made their belligerent plans public in the days leading to the Sunday parade. The anti-India elements reportedly circulated posters in the area calling for a face-off between “Khalistan Sikhs” and “Canadian Hindus”.</p>

<p>Now, the Coalition of Hindus of North America or CoHNA’s Canadian unit has condemned this blatant display of hatred towards India and Hindus.</p>

<p>“Whether it’s a memorial service for Canada’s deadliest terror attack or Hindu festivals like Diwali and Holi, Khalistani protesters are there to harass and disrupt these gatherings with Hinduphobic chants. Over and over we see the pretext of ‘political speech against India’ used to target ordinary Canadians of the Hindu faith. If such rhetoric was directed against any other group, politicians would swiftly condemn it,”&nbsp;the group said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj8lK-i1IOIAxWyb_UHHTYlEYQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-khalistan-supporters-disrupt-indian-independence-day-celebrations-751274" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-khalistan-supporters-disrupt-indian-independence-day-celebrations-751274&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8lK-i1IOIAxWyb_UHHTYlEYQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Canada: Khalistan supporters disrupt Indian Independence Day celebrations</a></strong></p>

<p>The Toronto parade was held by Panorama India to mark Independence Day, which falls on August 15.</p>

<p>Canadian Hindu Volunteers, another Hindu group, also condemned the anti-India actions by Khalistani elements. “Such rhetoric, if directed at any other community, would undoubtedly prompt swift and decisive action from elected officials and law enforcement,” it asserted.</p>

<p>It termed the disruption by Khalistanis as “despicable”, urging Canadian authorities to rein in the “extremist groups.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj8lK-i1IOIAxWyb_UHHTYlEYQQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-national-accused-of-killing-nijjar-assaulted-in-detention-facility-750694" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-national-accused-of-killing-nijjar-assaulted-in-detention-facility-750694&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8lK-i1IOIAxWyb_UHHTYlEYQQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Indian national accused of killing Nijjar assaulted in detention facility in Canada</a></strong></p>

<p>“We implore Canadian authorities and elected representatives to recognise the severity of this issue, take immediate action to curb these hateful acts by extremist groups, and ensure that Hindu Canadians can live safely and with dignity. The persistence of this bigotry is a stain on Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism and must be addressed without delay,” it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hindu groups in Canada have expressed their anguish at what they call “blatant Hinduphobia” in the country as lawmakers conveniently look the other way. The outrage came after Toronto’s India Day Parade, held to mark India’s Independence Day, was disrupted by a pro-Khalistan protest on Sunday (Aug 18).

Hindu groups in Canada have expressed their anguish at what they call “blatant Hinduphobia” in the country as lawmakers conveniently look the other way. The outrage came after Toronto’s India Day Parade, held to mark India’s Independence Day, was disrupted by a pro-Khalistan protest on Sunday (Aug 18). Pro-Khalistan elements reportedly shouted slogans targeting the Hindu population of Canada, like: “Canadian Hindus go back to India.” Apparently, Canadian police miserably failed to keep Khalistani disrupters at bay even though they had made their belligerent plans public in the days leading to the Sunday parade. The anti-India elements reportedly circulated posters in the area calling for a face-off between “Khalistan Sikhs” and “Canadian Hindus”. Now, the Coalition of Hindus of North America or CoHNA’s Canadian unit has condemned this blatant display of hatred towards India and Hindus. “Whether it’s a memorial service for Canada’s deadliest terror attack or Hindu festivals like Diwali and Holi, Khalistani protesters are there to harass and disrupt these gatherings with Hinduphobic chants. Over and over we see the pretext of ‘political speech against India’ used to target ordinary Canadians of the Hindu faith. If such rhetoric was directed against any other group, politicians would swiftly condemn it,” the group said in a statement. Also read: Canada: Khalistan supporters disrupt Indian Independence Day celebrations The Toronto parade was held by Panorama India to mark Independence Day, which falls on August 15. Canadian Hindu Volunteers, another Hindu group, also condemned the anti-India actions by Khalistani elements. “Such rhetoric, if directed at any other community, would undoubtedly prompt swift and decisive action from elected officials and law enforcement,” it asserted. It termed the disruption by Khalistanis as “despicable”, urging Canadian authorities to rein in the “extremist groups.” Also read: Indian national accused of killing Nijjar assaulted in detention facility in Canada “We implore Canadian authorities and elected representatives to recognise the severity of this issue, take immediate action to curb these hateful acts by extremist groups, and ensure that Hindu Canadians can live safely and with dignity. The persistence of this bigotry is a stain on Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism and must be addressed without delay,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Blatant Hinduphobia,’ Hindu groups in Canada blast Khalistanis for disrupting India Day Parade

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<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon his Western allies for more help amid expanding territorial gains by Kyiv in Russia's Kursk region.</p>

<p>"Our guys are doing great on all fronts. However, there is a need for faster delivery of supplies from our partners," Zelensky said in an evening address on Sunday (Aug 18).</p>

<p>"Decisions are needed, as are timely logistics for the announced aid packages. I especially address this to the United States, the United Kingdom, and France," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/putins-actions-in-ukraine-do-not-make-indians-anti-russia-heres-why-613578">Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why</a></strong></p>

<p>While Ukraine has made territorial gains in the Kursk region in recent days, it is still struggling to fend off Russia's assault in the east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia is rapidly advancing near Pokrovsk, Toretsk and Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region. Russian forces almost seized Krasnohorivka and have taken over Niu-York&nbsp;town in the Donetsk region.</p>

<p>"The enemy is spreading across the region. The rate of advancement is very high. And, unfortunately, now his offensive potential here is limited not by the strength of our resistance, but rather by his reserves," a Ukrainian army brigade said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Storm Shadow: A game-changer for Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p>Local Ukrainian authorities also announced involuntary evacuations in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"More than 53,000 people, including almost 4,000 children, still live here, but lately, the front has come too close to Pokrovsk so we have to react accordingly," Vadym Filashkin, Donetsk governor, said in a statement Monday (Aug 19).</p>

<h2><strong>UK responds to Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>In response to Zelensky's request for more weapons, a spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Politico that the UK would support Ukraine for as long as the conflict lasted. They said there was "no change" about the ban against using British Storm Shadow missiles in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon his Western allies for more help amid expanding territorial gains by Kyiv in Russia's Kursk region. "Our guys are doing great on all fronts.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon his Western allies for more help amid expanding territorial gains by Kyiv in Russia's Kursk region. "Our guys are doing great on all fronts. However, there is a need for faster delivery of supplies from our partners," Zelensky said in an evening address on Sunday (Aug 18). "Decisions are needed, as are timely logistics for the announced aid packages. I especially address this to the United States, the United Kingdom, and France," he added. Also read | Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why While Ukraine has made territorial gains in the Kursk region in recent days, it is still struggling to fend off Russia's assault in the east. Russia is rapidly advancing near Pokrovsk, Toretsk and Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region. Russian forces almost seized Krasnohorivka and have taken over Niu-York town in the Donetsk region. "The enemy is spreading across the region. The rate of advancement is very high. And, unfortunately, now his offensive potential here is limited not by the strength of our resistance, but rather by his reserves," a Ukrainian army brigade said. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Storm Shadow: A game-changer for Ukraine? × Local Ukrainian authorities also announced involuntary evacuations in the area. "More than 53,000 people, including almost 4,000 children, still live here, but lately, the front has come too close to Pokrovsk so we have to react accordingly," Vadym Filashkin, Donetsk governor, said in a statement Monday (Aug 19). UK responds to Zelensky In response to Zelensky's request for more weapons, a spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Politico that the UK would support Ukraine for as long as the conflict lasted. They said there was "no change" about the ban against using British Storm Shadow missiles in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

What does Zelensky want? UK's Storm Shadow or some other western weapons

<p>Russian forces said Tuesday they had captured the key hub of New York in eastern Ukraine, as Moscow -- under pressure by a Kyiv counterattack on its territory -- presses on with its offensive.</p>

<p>The defence ministry said its troops had captured "one of the largest settlements of the Toretsk agglomeration and the strategically important logistics hub (of) Novgorodskoye", referring to the town in Ukraine's Donetsk region by its former name.</p>

<p>The capture of the town, which had a population of around 10,000 before Moscow launched its offensive, is the latest in a string of Russian advances in the region.</p>

<p>On Monday, Russia said it had captured the town of Zalizne, close to New York.</p>

<p>Donetsk was one of four Ukrainian regions that Moscow claimed to have annexed in 2022, despite not having full control over any of them.</p>

<p>The region has seen the most intense combat of the two-and-a-half-year conflict.</p>

<p>Kyiv has struggled to hold the front line there, facing manpower and ammunition shortages after months of attritional fighting.</p>

<p>Ukraine launched a border incursion into Russia's western Kursk region two weeks ago, a move it hoped could relieve pressure in other parts of the battlefield.</p>

<p>But the Russian advance in Donetsk has continued.</p>

<p>New York first found itself on the front line in 2014, when Moscow-backed separatists in the east tried to breakaway from Kyiv, triggering an armed conflict.</p>

<p>The origin of the town's name is a mystery, with theories including possible American connections among its founders.</p>

<p>It was renamed "Novgorodskoye" -- New City -- by Soviet authorities in 1951 for ideological reasons, before Ukrainian lawmakers voted to switch it back to New York in 2021.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Russian forces said Tuesday they had captured the key hub of New York in eastern Ukraine, as Moscow -- under pressure by a Kyiv counterattack on its territory -- presses on with its offensive.

Russian forces said Tuesday they had captured the key hub of New York in eastern Ukraine, as Moscow -- under pressure by a Kyiv counterattack on its territory -- presses on with its offensive. The defence ministry said its troops had captured "one of the largest settlements of the Toretsk agglomeration and the strategically important logistics hub (of) Novgorodskoye", referring to the town in Ukraine's Donetsk region by its former name. The capture of the town, which had a population of around 10,000 before Moscow launched its offensive, is the latest in a string of Russian advances in the region. On Monday, Russia said it had captured the town of Zalizne, close to New York. Donetsk was one of four Ukrainian regions that Moscow claimed to have annexed in 2022, despite not having full control over any of them. The region has seen the most intense combat of the two-and-a-half-year conflict. Kyiv has struggled to hold the front line there, facing manpower and ammunition shortages after months of attritional fighting. Ukraine launched a border incursion into Russia's western Kursk region two weeks ago, a move it hoped could relieve pressure in other parts of the battlefield. But the Russian advance in Donetsk has continued. New York first found itself on the front line in 2014, when Moscow-backed separatists in the east tried to breakaway from Kyiv, triggering an armed conflict. The origin of the town's name is a mystery, with theories including possible American connections among its founders. It was renamed "Novgorodskoye" -- New City -- by Soviet authorities in 1951 for ideological reasons, before Ukrainian lawmakers voted to switch it back to New York in 2021. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia claims its forces captured key hub of New York in east Ukraine

<p>Spanish fashion giant Zara recently found itself in hot water&nbsp;after a children's t-shirt sparked outrage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The controversy erupted when a social media user shared a video of a white crew-neck t-shirt featuring black and red text.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left side read "The Perfect Snack," while the right side proclaimed "The Strawberry: A small burst of sweet joy."</p>

<p>The back of the t-shirt showed two halves of the strawberry, one showing the inside of the fruit with the other showing the outside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The t-shirt's back read, "Take a bite. A burst of sweet delight, making it the perfect summer snack," paired with the slogan "the strawberry: a small burst of joy."</p>

<p>Mother of two children, Laura Wilson, who lives in London, said the t-shirt was in the girl's section of the brand's store in Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/over-200-flights-disrupted-at-japanese-airport-after-scissors-go-missing-751519">Over 200 flights disrupted at Japanese airport after scissors go missing</a></p>

<p>It may be noted here&nbsp;that the term "snack" is used for a sexually attractive person.</p>

<p>The mother of two said, "I am not one to be overly sensitive about clothing, and this was in the girl's section. Just wait till you see what's on the back. If you have bought this for your child, you need serious words with yourself, in my opinion."</p>

<p>"I'm so shocked. 'Take a bite,' is it just me? Or is this just not OK? I would never have my girls in this T-shirt," she added.</p>

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<p>Wilson told Daily Mail that it made her feel very uncomfortable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was browsing the store when I spotted this t-shirt. The phrase ‘the perfect snack’ immediately caught my eye and alarmed me. I checked the other side and thought it was harmless enough. But when I turned the shirt around, I saw the words ‘take a bite.’ I was shocked and appalled. I couldn’t imagine dressing my child in something so suggestive. I turned to my partner, disbelief in my voice, and asked if he saw what I saw. He agreed it was awful," she said.</p>

<p>Many people agreed with her on TikTok and called the garment "vile."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wilson told the outlet, "It's very suggestive. This t-shirt was for six to seven-year-old girls and I don't think this is okay. Where it says, 'the perfect snack', this is very suggestive."</p>

<p>Zara faced significant backlash over the t-shirt and ultimately responded by issuing an apology and removing the item from their stores and online platform.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/passengers-hilarious-rant-over-indigo-charging-cute-fee-goes-viral-here-is-what-it-means-751509">Passenger's hilarious rant over IndiGo charging 'Cute fee' goes viral. Here is what it means</a></p>

<p>"There was no intention for the use of the word 'snack' on this T-shirt to imply anything other than the traditional meaning of the word, as evidenced by the image of a strawberry on the garment. However, we now understand that some individuals have interpreted the term differently," the brand told the New York Post.</p>

<p>"Therefore, we have removed the T-shirt from stores and our website. And we apologise for any misunderstanding or offence caused," they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Spanish fashion giant Zara recently found itself in hot water after a children's t-shirt sparked outrage. The controversy erupted when a social media user shared a video of a white crew-neck t-shirt featuring black and red text.

Spanish fashion giant Zara recently found itself in hot water after a children's t-shirt sparked outrage. The controversy erupted when a social media user shared a video of a white crew-neck t-shirt featuring black and red text. The left side read "The Perfect Snack," while the right side proclaimed "The Strawberry: A small burst of sweet joy." The back of the t-shirt showed two halves of the strawberry, one showing the inside of the fruit with the other showing the outside. The t-shirt's back read, "Take a bite. A burst of sweet delight, making it the perfect summer snack," paired with the slogan "the strawberry: a small burst of joy." Mother of two children, Laura Wilson, who lives in London, said the t-shirt was in the girl's section of the brand's store in Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent. Also read: Over 200 flights disrupted at Japanese airport after scissors go missing It may be noted here that the term "snack" is used for a sexually attractive person. The mother of two said, "I am not one to be overly sensitive about clothing, and this was in the girl's section. Just wait till you see what's on the back. If you have bought this for your child, you need serious words with yourself, in my opinion." "I'm so shocked. 'Take a bite,' is it just me? Or is this just not OK? I would never have my girls in this T-shirt," she added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by LJ 🪬 (@chaos.to.sanity) × Wilson told Daily Mail that it made her feel very uncomfortable. "I was browsing the store when I spotted this t-shirt. The phrase ‘the perfect snack’ immediately caught my eye and alarmed me. I checked the other side and thought it was harmless enough. But when I turned the shirt around, I saw the words ‘take a bite.’ I was shocked and appalled. I couldn’t imagine dressing my child in something so suggestive. I turned to my partner, disbelief in my voice, and asked if he saw what I saw. He agreed it was awful," she said. Many people agreed with her on TikTok and called the garment "vile." Wilson told the outlet, "It's very suggestive. This t-shirt was for six to seven-year-old girls and I don't think this is okay. Where it says, 'the perfect snack', this is very suggestive." Zara faced significant backlash over the t-shirt and ultimately responded by issuing an apology and removing the item from their stores and online platform. Also read: Passenger's hilarious rant over IndiGo charging 'Cute fee' goes viral. Here is what it means "There was no intention for the use of the word 'snack' on this T-shirt to imply anything other than the traditional meaning of the word, as evidenced by the image of a strawberry on the garment. However, we now understand that some individuals have interpreted the term differently," the brand told the New York Post. "Therefore, we have removed the T-shirt from stores and our website. And we apologise for any misunderstanding or offence caused," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Zara removes 'sexually suggestive' t-shirts after receiving backlash

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidkZ4i6jpqE9K0" /></p>

<p>Police in Kenya on Tuesday (Aug 20) launched a major manhunt after a serial killer escaped from a prison cell in the capital city of Nairobi.&nbsp;Collins Jumaisi, 33, was arrested in July and he confessed to murdering and dismembering 42 women. Along with Jumaisi, 12 other detainees escaped from the prison.</p>

<p>The mutilated bodies were found in a garbage dump in Nairobi. Speaking to the news agency AFP, police spokesperson Resila Onyango said that an investigation was launched and a major operation was underway to nab the 13 suspects.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/kenyas-ride-hailing-drivers-struggle-as-price-war-with-apps-escalates-751501">Kenya’s ride-hailing drivers struggle as price war with apps escalates</a></strong></p>

<p>In a separate statement, the police said that they discovered the prison break&nbsp;when officers made a routine visit to the police station cells on Tuesday morning to serve breakfast to the prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>An appearance in court before prison break</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>AFP reported that last week, Jumaisi appeared in a court in Nairobi, when the magistrate&nbsp;ordered him to be held for a further 30 days to enable police to complete their investigations.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old man was detained in the early hours of July 15 near a bar in Nairobi&nbsp;where he had been watching the Euro 2024 football final.</p>

<h2><strong>The murders</strong></h2>

<p>The Directorate of Criminal Investigations head Mohamed Amin said that following his arrest, Jumaisi confessed to murdering 42 women over two years from 2022, adding, that his wife was the first victim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP reported that the Kenyan police force has come under scrutiny as the bodies dumped were found just 100 metres away from a police station.</p>

<p>The police force has been often accused by rights groups of carrying out unlawful killings or running hit squads, but few have faced justice.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Police in Kenya on Tuesday (Aug 20) launched a major manhunt after a serial killer escaped from a prison cell in the capital city of Nairobi. Collins Jumaisi, 33, was arrested in July and he confessed to murdering and dismembering 42 women.

Police in Kenya on Tuesday (Aug 20) launched a major manhunt after a serial killer escaped from a prison cell in the capital city of Nairobi. Collins Jumaisi, 33, was arrested in July and he confessed to murdering and dismembering 42 women. Along with Jumaisi, 12 other detainees escaped from the prison. The mutilated bodies were found in a garbage dump in Nairobi. Speaking to the news agency AFP, police spokesperson Resila Onyango said that an investigation was launched and a major operation was underway to nab the 13 suspects. Also read | Kenya’s ride-hailing drivers struggle as price war with apps escalates In a separate statement, the police said that they discovered the prison break when officers made a routine visit to the police station cells on Tuesday morning to serve breakfast to the prisoners. An appearance in court before prison break AFP reported that last week, Jumaisi appeared in a court in Nairobi, when the magistrate ordered him to be held for a further 30 days to enable police to complete their investigations. The 33-year-old man was detained in the early hours of July 15 near a bar in Nairobi where he had been watching the Euro 2024 football final. The murders The Directorate of Criminal Investigations head Mohamed Amin said that following his arrest, Jumaisi confessed to murdering 42 women over two years from 2022, adding, that his wife was the first victim. AFP reported that the Kenyan police force has come under scrutiny as the bodies dumped were found just 100 metres away from a police station. The police force has been often accused by rights groups of carrying out unlawful killings or running hit squads, but few have faced justice. (With inputs from agencies)

Kenyan 'psychopath' serial killer escapes from prison, manhunt launched

The SIT will probe into the alleged financial irregularities at the hospital during the period from January 2021 till date. Watch in for more details!

Kolkata rape & murder case: State S.I.T. to probe hospital's financial record

<p>Charlotte, a British woman, recounted the terrifying ordeal she faced when a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily during a violent overnight storm. She was on board with her partner and their one-year-old daughter when the vessel was struck by the storm&nbsp;early on Monday.</p>

<p>Charlotte described to the Italian newspaper <em>La Repubblica</em> how she frantically held her baby above the water to keep her from drowning as they were tossed overboard. "For two seconds I lost my daughter in the sea, then quickly hugged her amid the fury of the waves," she said.</p>

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<p>In the darkness, she struggled to keep her eyes open and screamed for help, only to hear the desperate cries of others around her. A lifeboat was inflated, allowing 11 people, including Charlotte and her family, to board. They were later taken to a hospital for evaluations and were reported to be unharmed.</p>

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<p>The 56-meter (183-foot) yacht, carrying 10 crew members and 12 passengers, went down half a mile from Palermo’s shore. Rescue teams are actively searching for six individuals, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, who went missing after the yacht sank on Monday. One person has been confirmed dead.</p>

<p>Among those missing are Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a lawyer from Clifford Chance who had represented Lynch in a lengthy US&nbsp;trial.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/time-flies-mark-zuckerberg-reveals-email-id-he-used-to-create-his-first-facebook-account-751565">'Time flies': Mark Zuckerberg reveals email ID he used to create his first Facebook account</a></p>

<p>Karsten Borner, the captain of a nearby vessel, shared that his crew had rescued some survivors from a life raft, including three with serious injuries. He told Italian news outlet Rai that the superyacht tipped over and sank in a matter of minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local fisherman Giuseppe told news agency Reuters that he observed “mats and T-shirts floating in the sea,” while another witness, Fabio Cefalù, captain of a trawler, said he avoided the storm by staying in the harbour after seeing flashes of lightning. Another fisherman reported seeing the yacht "sink with my own eyes."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Charlotte, a British woman, recounted the terrifying ordeal she faced when a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily during a violent overnight storm. She was on board with her partner and their one-year-old daughter when the vessel was struck by the storm early on Monday.

Charlotte, a British woman, recounted the terrifying ordeal she faced when a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily during a violent overnight storm. She was on board with her partner and their one-year-old daughter when the vessel was struck by the storm early on Monday. Charlotte described to the Italian newspaper La Repubblica how she frantically held her baby above the water to keep her from drowning as they were tossed overboard. "For two seconds I lost my daughter in the sea, then quickly hugged her amid the fury of the waves," she said. Also read | Vietnam flood crisis leaves thousands of children out of school In the darkness, she struggled to keep her eyes open and screamed for help, only to hear the desperate cries of others around her. A lifeboat was inflated, allowing 11 people, including Charlotte and her family, to board. They were later taken to a hospital for evaluations and were reported to be unharmed. Also read | Hezbollah claims responsibility for firing 'intense rocket barrages' at Israeli positions The 56-meter (183-foot) yacht, carrying 10 crew members and 12 passengers, went down half a mile from Palermo’s shore. Rescue teams are actively searching for six individuals, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, who went missing after the yacht sank on Monday. One person has been confirmed dead. Among those missing are Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a lawyer from Clifford Chance who had represented Lynch in a lengthy US trial. Also read | 'Time flies': Mark Zuckerberg reveals email ID he used to create his first Facebook account Karsten Borner, the captain of a nearby vessel, shared that his crew had rescued some survivors from a life raft, including three with serious injuries. He told Italian news outlet Rai that the superyacht tipped over and sank in a matter of minutes. Local fisherman Giuseppe told news agency Reuters that he observed “mats and T-shirts floating in the sea,” while another witness, Fabio Cefalù, captain of a trawler, said he avoided the storm by staying in the harbour after seeing flashes of lightning. Another fisherman reported seeing the yacht "sink with my own eyes." (With inputs from agencies)

"For 2 seconds I lost my daughter": British mother recounts Sicily yacht tragedy

<p>China warned the United States on Tuesday that it has "no right to intervene" in its maritime disputes with the Philippines after another clash near a disputed reef in the South China Sea.</p>

<p>China and the Philippines have had repeated confrontations in the waters over the past year, including around a warship, grounded in 1999 by Manila on the contested Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison.</p>

<p>Both countries said on Monday that their coast guard ships had collided near the disputed Sabina Shoal, located 140 kilometres (86 miles) west of the Philippine island of Palawan and about 1,200 kilometres from Hainan island, the closest Chinese landmass.</p>

<p>China claims almost the entire South China Sea despite an international tribunal ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.</p>

<p>The United States condemned the "dangerous actions" against "lawful Philippine maritime operations" on Monday after the latest clash.</p>

<p>"These actions are the latest examples of (China) using dangerous and escalatory measures to enforce its expansive and unlawful South China Sea maritime claims," State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said.</p>

<p>Asked about Patel's remarks on Tuesday, his Chinese counterpart Mao Ning defended Beijing's "legal measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests".</p>

<p>"The US is not a party in the South China Sea and has no right to intervene in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines," Mao told a regular briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The US should stop provoking confrontation in the South China Sea, not disrupt regional stability and not escalate tensions," Mao said.</p>

<p>Analysts have said Beijing's aim is to push eastwards from the Second Thomas Shoal towards the neighbouring Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands, encroaching on Manila's exclusive economic zone and normalising Chinese control of the area.</p>

<p>The confrontations have echoes of 2012 when Beijing took control of Scarborough Shoal, another strategic feature in the South China Sea closest to the Philippines.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


China warned the United States on Tuesday that it has "no right to intervene" in its maritime disputes with the Philippines after another clash near a disputed reef in the South China Sea.

China warned the United States on Tuesday that it has "no right to intervene" in its maritime disputes with the Philippines after another clash near a disputed reef in the South China Sea. China and the Philippines have had repeated confrontations in the waters over the past year, including around a warship, grounded in 1999 by Manila on the contested Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison. Both countries said on Monday that their coast guard ships had collided near the disputed Sabina Shoal, located 140 kilometres (86 miles) west of the Philippine island of Palawan and about 1,200 kilometres from Hainan island, the closest Chinese landmass. China claims almost the entire South China Sea despite an international tribunal ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. The United States condemned the "dangerous actions" against "lawful Philippine maritime operations" on Monday after the latest clash. "These actions are the latest examples of (China) using dangerous and escalatory measures to enforce its expansive and unlawful South China Sea maritime claims," State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said. Asked about Patel's remarks on Tuesday, his Chinese counterpart Mao Ning defended Beijing's "legal measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests". "The US is not a party in the South China Sea and has no right to intervene in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines," Mao told a regular briefing. "The US should stop provoking confrontation in the South China Sea, not disrupt regional stability and not escalate tensions," Mao said. Analysts have said Beijing's aim is to push eastwards from the Second Thomas Shoal towards the neighbouring Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands, encroaching on Manila's exclusive economic zone and normalising Chinese control of the area. The confrontations have echoes of 2012 when Beijing took control of Scarborough Shoal, another strategic feature in the South China Sea closest to the Philippines. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China warns US 'no right to intervene' in South China Sea disputes

US Secretary of State has said that Israel has accepted the latest bridging proposal on a Gaza ceasefire deal urging Hamas to do the same. However Hamas has criticized the claim accusing Washington of favoring Israel. Watch in for more details.

West Asia Peace Talks: Israel accepts US proposal, says Blinken

In the battle for presidency of Ghana the ruling NPP is seeking third consecutive term with Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia as its candidate and the opposition party NDC is planning a comeback after 8 years with former President John Mahama. Watch in for more details!

Ghana Presidential Elections: Ruling NPP releases election manifesto, voting to be held on Dec 6

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