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US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has come under the cosh yet again after last month's debate debacle. Reports have claimed that Biden's team provided a list of questions in advance to the&nbsp;radio host&nbsp;who interviewed the president as he attempted to undo the damage to his presidential nomination.&nbsp;

Andrea Lawful-Sanders, the host of The Source on WURD radio channel, told CNN that Biden officials provided her with a list of&nbsp;eight questions ahead of the interview.

“The questions were sent to me for approval; I approved of them," said&nbsp;Andrea.&nbsp;

“I got several questions, eight of them, and the four that were chosen were the ones that I approved,” she added.

A day after the news broke,&nbsp;Andrea reportedly resigned from her position at the Philadelphia-based radio station saying she violated the journalistic standards.&nbsp;

“The interview featured pre-determined questions provided by the White House, which violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners,” said Sara Lomax, president and CEO of WURD.

“As a result, Ms. Lawful-Sanders and WURD Radio have mutually agreed to part ways, effective immediately.”

Apart from Andrea,&nbsp;Earl Ingram, the host of The Earl Ingram Show in Milwaukee confirmed that he also received the questions that were posed to Biden during the interview.&nbsp;

After receiving flak for feeding the questions, the Biden campaign said it would no longer suggest questions to the interviewers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s not at all an uncommon practice for interviewees to share topics they would prefer. These questions were relevant to the news of the day – the president was asked about this debate performance as well as what he’d delivered for black Americans,” spokesperson Lauren Hitt said in a statement.

Also watch |&nbsp;Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden-Trump fiercely clash over Russia-Ukraine

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-vs-trump-us-presidential-debate-biden-trump-fiercely-clash-over-russia-ukraine-735948/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Biden's campaign damaged by the debate</h2>

The series of interviews was staged after Biden appeared weak and frail during the debate against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Questions have been raised on Biden's mental and physical capability to stay at the job for a long time. However, it all unravelled for Biden who rambled, mumbled, stuttered and appeared to zone out during several segments of the presidential debate.&nbsp;

Since the debate, worrying Democrats have cast aspersions over Biden's ability to go toe-to-toe with Trump.&nbsp;Angie Craig, a sitting House Democrat from Minnesota on Saturday (Jul 6) became the fifth leader from the party to urge Biden to step aside in favour of a younger candidate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-first-interview-after-disastrous-debate-fails-to-ease-democrats-panic-amid-calls-for-withdrawal-738519">Also read |&nbsp;Biden's first interview after disastrous debate fails to ease Democrats' panic amid calls for withdrawal</a>

The usually favourable liberal media outlets have also furnished numerous op-eds, suggesting Biden to call it quits and pass the baton to another candidate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Trump has resorted to sharing videos of Biden looking lost during his official engagements as a way to further increase his lead in the race. On Saturday, he took to his Truth Social handle and in a sarcastic way, urged Biden&nbsp;to 'ignore' the critics and march on in the presidential race.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has come under the cosh yet again after last month's debate debacle. Reports have claimed that Biden's team provided a list of questions in advance to the radio host who interviewed the president as he attempted to undo the damage to his presidential nomination.

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has come under the cosh yet again after last month's debate debacle. Reports have claimed that Biden's team provided a list of questions in advance to the radio host who interviewed the president as he attempted to undo the damage to his presidential nomination. Andrea Lawful-Sanders, the host of The Source on WURD radio channel, told CNN that Biden officials provided her with a list of eight questions ahead of the interview. “The questions were sent to me for approval; I approved of them," said Andrea. “I got several questions, eight of them, and the four that were chosen were the ones that I approved,” she added. A day after the news broke, Andrea reportedly resigned from her position at the Philadelphia-based radio station saying she violated the journalistic standards. “The interview featured pre-determined questions provided by the White House, which violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners,” said Sara Lomax, president and CEO of WURD. “As a result, Ms. Lawful-Sanders and WURD Radio have mutually agreed to part ways, effective immediately.” Apart from Andrea, Earl Ingram, the host of The Earl Ingram Show in Milwaukee confirmed that he also received the questions that were posed to Biden during the interview. After receiving flak for feeding the questions, the Biden campaign said it would no longer suggest questions to the interviewers. “It’s not at all an uncommon practice for interviewees to share topics they would prefer. These questions were relevant to the news of the day – the president was asked about this debate performance as well as what he’d delivered for black Americans,” spokesperson Lauren Hitt said in a statement. Also watch | Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden-Trump fiercely clash over Russia-Ukraine Biden's campaign damaged by the debate The series of interviews was staged after Biden appeared weak and frail during the debate against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Questions have been raised on Biden's mental and physical capability to stay at the job for a long time. However, it all unravelled for Biden who rambled, mumbled, stuttered and appeared to zone out during several segments of the presidential debate. Since the debate, worrying Democrats have cast aspersions over Biden's ability to go toe-to-toe with Trump. Angie Craig, a sitting House Democrat from Minnesota on Saturday (Jul 6) became the fifth leader from the party to urge Biden to step aside in favour of a younger candidate. Also read | Biden's first interview after disastrous debate fails to ease Democrats' panic amid calls for withdrawal The usually favourable liberal media outlets have also furnished numerous op-eds, suggesting Biden to call it quits and pass the baton to another candidate. Meanwhile, Trump has resorted to sharing videos of Biden looking lost during his official engagements as a way to further increase his lead in the race. On Saturday, he took to his Truth Social handle and in a sarcastic way, urged Biden to 'ignore' the critics and march on in the presidential race. (With inputs from agencies)

Radio host who was provided questions in advance by Biden's team, fired by Philadelphia station

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration".

Following Labour's resounding victory, Starmer began his third day as prime minister on Sunday by touring Scotland.

Blair stated that even with Labour's commanding majority in power, obstacles presented by the anti-immigration Reform UK Party still exist.

Reform, spearheaded by Brexit ardent supporter Nigel Farage, divided the right-wing vote to maximise the damage to the Conservatives in the election.

It gained five seats in Parliament and 14% of the vote, prompting Farage to warn that it will target Labour supporters next.

Blair suggested using artificial intelligence (AI) to regulate illegal immigration in a Sunday Times essay, stating that "traditional political parties are suffering disruption all over the Western world."

"Where the system allows new entrants to emerge, they are running riot everywhere. Look at France or Italy," Blair said.

"We need a plan to control immigration. If we don't have rules, we get prejudices," Blair&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-deplores-state-of-democracy-warns-against-populists-738772">Pope Francis deplores state of democracy, warns against 'populists'</a>

A major topic during the most recent election campaign was immigration limitation, and Blair, the only Labour leader to lead his party to three straight election victories beginning with his landslide victory in 1997, stated he thought digital ID technology was the greatest answer.

"We should move as the world is moving to digital ID. If not, new border controls will have to be highly effective," he wrote.

"A tough new approach to law and order" was one of the other proposals. Fearing that "criminal elements are modernizing faster than law enforcement," he expressed his concern.

Blair cautioned against initiatives that many saw as unduly politically correct, saying that the government should "avoid any vulnerability on 'wokeism'".

(With inputs from agencies)

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration".

Tony Blair, a former prime minister of the Labour party and Middle East envoy, has warned of the threat posed by the UK's right-wing parties and asked PM Keir Starmer to develop a "plan to control immigration". Following Labour's resounding victory, Starmer began his third day as prime minister on Sunday by touring Scotland. Blair stated that even with Labour's commanding majority in power, obstacles presented by the anti-immigration Reform UK Party still exist. Reform, spearheaded by Brexit ardent supporter Nigel Farage, divided the right-wing vote to maximise the damage to the Conservatives in the election. It gained five seats in Parliament and 14% of the vote, prompting Farage to warn that it will target Labour supporters next. Blair suggested using artificial intelligence (AI) to regulate illegal immigration in a Sunday Times essay, stating that "traditional political parties are suffering disruption all over the Western world." "Where the system allows new entrants to emerge, they are running riot everywhere. Look at France or Italy," Blair said. "We need a plan to control immigration. If we don't have rules, we get prejudices," Blair Also read: Pope Francis deplores state of democracy, warns against 'populists' A major topic during the most recent election campaign was immigration limitation, and Blair, the only Labour leader to lead his party to three straight election victories beginning with his landslide victory in 1997, stated he thought digital ID technology was the greatest answer. "We should move as the world is moving to digital ID. If not, new border controls will have to be highly effective," he wrote. "A tough new approach to law and order" was one of the other proposals. Fearing that "criminal elements are modernizing faster than law enforcement," he expressed his concern. Blair cautioned against initiatives that many saw as unduly politically correct, saying that the government should "avoid any vulnerability on 'wokeism'". (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Labour PM Tony Blair warns Starmer: Use AI to curb immigration amid right-wing surge

Two Iranian naval personnel were killed on Sunday (July 7) when a 2,500-tonne cruiser capsized in port.

The Sahand warship,&nbsp;referred to as a&nbsp;destroyer&nbsp;in Iranian media, undergoing repairs, was inundated with water, leading to dramatic photos of it completely overturned in the bay. The massive 315-foot yacht was docked on Sunday (July 7) off the shore of Bandar Abbas, a city in southern Iran.

In a matter of minutes, only its side was visible above the surface as it tumbled onto its side.

"As Sahand was being repaired at the wharf, it lost its balance due to water ingress," the Iranian news agency Tasnim News said.

"Fortunately...the vessel is being returned to balance quickly," it added.&nbsp;There has been no official confirmation of reports in state media that two Navy sailors perished in the accident.

Named after a volcano, the Sahand is a member of Iran's Southern Fleet. When the US launched an intense effort in 2021 to stop it from mooring anywhere in the Western Hemisphere, it caused controversy.

The ship was suspected to be carrying out a weapons transfer on its route to Venezuela. It eventually veered off track and toward the West Coast of Africa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-arrests-lawyer-who-criticised-crackdown-following-mahsa-aminis-death-738754">Iran arrests lawyer who criticised crackdown following Mahsa Amini’s death</a>

It was preparing for an anti-piracy operation in the Indian Ocean when it became flooded while parked in the harbour.

The Sahand was recently deployed in response to continued attacks by the Iranian-backed proxy organisation the Houthis in the Red Sea.

The Sahand commanded a small fleet of Iranian ships in the region when the terror organisation attacked Western and Israeli ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The Sahand is 12 years old, making it one of Iran's more recent naval vessels. According to initial accounts, the capsizing was caused by a "technical failure".

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Iranian naval personnel were killed on Sunday (July 7) when a 2,500-tonne cruiser capsized in port. The Sahand warship, referred to as a destroyer in Iranian media, undergoing repairs, was inundated with water, leading to dramatic photos of it completely overturned in the bay.

Two Iranian naval personnel were killed on Sunday (July 7) when a 2,500-tonne cruiser capsized in port. The Sahand warship, referred to as a destroyer in Iranian media, undergoing repairs, was inundated with water, leading to dramatic photos of it completely overturned in the bay. The massive 315-foot yacht was docked on Sunday (July 7) off the shore of Bandar Abbas, a city in southern Iran. In a matter of minutes, only its side was visible above the surface as it tumbled onto its side. "As Sahand was being repaired at the wharf, it lost its balance due to water ingress," the Iranian news agency Tasnim News said. "Fortunately...the vessel is being returned to balance quickly," it added. There has been no official confirmation of reports in state media that two Navy sailors perished in the accident. Named after a volcano, the Sahand is a member of Iran's Southern Fleet. When the US launched an intense effort in 2021 to stop it from mooring anywhere in the Western Hemisphere, it caused controversy. The ship was suspected to be carrying out a weapons transfer on its route to Venezuela. It eventually veered off track and toward the West Coast of Africa. Also read: Iran arrests lawyer who criticised crackdown following Mahsa Amini’s death It was preparing for an anti-piracy operation in the Indian Ocean when it became flooded while parked in the harbour. The Sahand was recently deployed in response to continued attacks by the Iranian-backed proxy organisation the Houthis in the Red Sea. The Sahand commanded a small fleet of Iranian ships in the region when the terror organisation attacked Western and Israeli ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Sahand is 12 years old, making it one of Iran's more recent naval vessels. According to initial accounts, the capsizing was caused by a "technical failure". (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Navy’s Sahand warship capsizes in dramatic port accident; two sailors confirmed dead

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Moscow for a two-nation tour in Russia and Austria. He will meet and talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, before heading to Austria for his bilateral engagements.

PM Modi's Russia visit | Bihar to Russia: Tracing Russian MLA's political journey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Vladimir Putin on Monday as he arrived for his first trip to Moscow since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The bonhomie between the two leaders was on full display as they shared a warm hug and firm handshake before heading for tea at Putin’s Novo-Ogaryovo residence.

PM Modi's Russia visit: 22nd India-Russia annual summit

Riots and violence erupted across France after the second round of parliamentary elections sprung major surprises. Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was stopped short of&nbsp;forming the government by the left-wing alliance&nbsp;and&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron's centrist coalition.&nbsp;

Video clips going viral on social media showed masked protesters storming the streets, igniting flares and causing disturbances as riot police attempted to neutralise them.&nbsp;

According to reports, thousands had gathered&nbsp;at the Place de la République in the capital city of Paris to celebrate the victory of the left-wing alliance when some demonstrators clashed with the police.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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🚨 HAPPENING NOW. 🚨 France 🇫🇷 
 
The Far-Left are violently rioting. 
 
When they lost the first round of elections last week, they resorted to public violence. 
 
Now that they are winning.. they are resorting to public violence. 
 
I’m pretty sure we know who the extremists are. <a href="https://t.co/YD5GNVdaab">pic.twitter.com/YD5GNVdaab</a>
— Kosher🎗🧡 (@KosherCockney) <a href="https://twitter.com/KosherCockney/status/1810069177685737725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Frenchelections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Frenchelections</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/france?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#france</a> Sunday 230pm. Fearing violence and démonstrations after the results tonight, some banks in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris</a> barricade themselves. <a href="https://t.co/GGSjBfaIMn">pic.twitter.com/GGSjBfaIMn</a>
— LAURENCE HAIM (@lauhaim) <a href="https://twitter.com/lauhaim/status/1809927723269189711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the northern city of Lille, clashes were reported between&nbsp;far-left activists and police where the latter used tear gas, according to media reports.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;25 people were arrested in Rennes, western France, after riot police deployed tear gas against a group of left-wing demonstrators chanting “Everyone hates the police”.

Anticipating there might be violence post the election results, the French government had pressed an additional 30,000 police force to ensure that&nbsp;neither the far-left nor the far-right succeeded in “creating disorder".&nbsp;

Notably, the final week of electioneering had also been marred by violence with several candidates, across party lines suffering physical attacks.&nbsp;

“This campaign is short, less than three weeks. However, we have counted 51 candidates, deputies, or campaigners who have been physically assaulted. I am not counting verbal aggressions here,” said Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin over the weekend.&nbsp;

Fearing protests, shopfronts and banks were also boarded up and barricades set up as viral images on social media showed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/left-wins-in-france-what-next-frances-far-right-sad-disappointed-over-election-result-738789">Watch |&nbsp;Left wins in France: What next? | France's far-right 'sad &amp; disappointed' over election result</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in the election?</h2>

According to reports,&nbsp;the leftwing New Popular Front won 182 seats, followed by Macron's Together alliance with 163 seats while Le Pen finished with 143 seats in the bag.

Although the left-wing alliance emerged as the biggest winner, the number of seats were still more than 100 short of an absolute majority which stands at 289 in the 577-seat National Assembly.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-french-elections-ended-in-a-hung-parliament-what-happens-next-738795">Also read |&nbsp;Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next?</a>

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who was appointed by the president only seven months ago, said he would hand in his resignation on Monday morning.&nbsp;

Attal's fate now lies in Macron's hands as a stable government is needed with only three weeks to go before the start of the Paris Olympics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies

Riots and violence erupted across France after the second round of parliamentary elections sprung major surprises. Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was stopped short of forming the government by the left-wing alliance and President Emmanuel Macron's centrist coalition.

Riots and violence erupted across France after the second round of parliamentary elections sprung major surprises. Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was stopped short of forming the government by the left-wing alliance and President Emmanuel Macron's centrist coalition. Video clips going viral on social media showed masked protesters storming the streets, igniting flares and causing disturbances as riot police attempted to neutralise them. According to reports, thousands had gathered at the Place de la République in the capital city of Paris to celebrate the victory of the left-wing alliance when some demonstrators clashed with the police. 🚨 HAPPENING NOW. 🚨 France 🇫🇷 The Far-Left are violently rioting. When they lost the first round of elections last week, they resorted to public violence. Now that they are winning.. they are resorting to public violence. I’m pretty sure we know who the extremists are. pic.twitter.com/YD5GNVdaab — Kosher🎗🧡 (@KosherCockney) July 7, 2024 × #Frenchelections. #france Sunday 230pm. Fearing violence and démonstrations after the results tonight, some banks in #Paris barricade themselves. pic.twitter.com/GGSjBfaIMn — LAURENCE HAIM (@lauhaim) July 7, 2024 × In the northern city of Lille, clashes were reported between far-left activists and police where the latter used tear gas, according to media reports. Meanwhile, 25 people were arrested in Rennes, western France, after riot police deployed tear gas against a group of left-wing demonstrators chanting “Everyone hates the police”. Anticipating there might be violence post the election results, the French government had pressed an additional 30,000 police force to ensure that neither the far-left nor the far-right succeeded in “creating disorder". Notably, the final week of electioneering had also been marred by violence with several candidates, across party lines suffering physical attacks. “This campaign is short, less than three weeks. However, we have counted 51 candidates, deputies, or campaigners who have been physically assaulted. I am not counting verbal aggressions here,” said Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin over the weekend. Fearing protests, shopfronts and banks were also boarded up and barricades set up as viral images on social media showed. Watch | Left wins in France: What next? | France's far-right 'sad & disappointed' over election result × What happened in the election? According to reports, the leftwing New Popular Front won 182 seats, followed by Macron's Together alliance with 163 seats while Le Pen finished with 143 seats in the bag. Although the left-wing alliance emerged as the biggest winner, the number of seats were still more than 100 short of an absolute majority which stands at 289 in the 577-seat National Assembly. Also read | Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next? Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who was appointed by the president only seven months ago, said he would hand in his resignation on Monday morning. Attal's fate now lies in Macron's hands as a stable government is needed with only three weeks to go before the start of the Paris Olympics. (With inputs from agencies

France elections: Violent clashes break out following left's surprise win

At least 12 people have died and 40 are missing after torrential rain caused a landslide in a gold mine in Indonesia's Sulawesi island at the weekend, officials said on Monday, with bad weather hampering the rescue effort.

The landslide on Sunday morning in Suwawa district, Gorontalo province, killed miners and residents living nearby, said Heriyanto, head of the Basarnas rescue agency.

Small-scale and illegal mining is a flash point for conflicts and accidents in Indonesia, where mineral resources are often situated in remote and protected forest areas that are difficult for the government to regulate.

"We have deployed 164 personnel, consisting of the national rescue team, police and military personnel, to search for the missing people," Heriyanto said.

Earlier on Monday, the agency said at least 12 people had died and 18 were missing, a toll which was updated later in the day to 10 deaths and 40 missing.

By Monday evening, rescuers had halted their search due to heavy rain, said Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency.

Rescuers had to walk about 20 kms (12.43 miles) to reach the landslide site and were being hampered by thick mud over the road and continuing rain in the area, Heriyanto said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjUoK-O8peHAxU8k68BHZurF9EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pig-hunt-painting-emerges-as-oldest-artwork-of-humans-in-indonesian-cave-737902" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/pig-hunt-painting-emerges-as-oldest-artwork-of-humans-in-indonesian-cave-737902&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjUoK-O8peHAxU8k68BHZurF9EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">THIS animal was painted in first artwork created by humans in Indonesian cave</a>

"We will try to use an excavator once it's possible," he said.

Photos of the affected village shared by the agency showed some houses were flattened by the landslide.

Indonesia's disaster agency said the landslide has damaged several houses and one bridge. It warned residents that further rain was expected in some areas in Gorontalo province on Monday and Tuesday and urged people to be alert.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjUoK-O8peHAxU8k68BHZurF9EQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/snake-alert-huge-python-swallows-woman-partner-finds-her-legs-in-reptiles-mouth-737450" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/snake-alert-huge-python-swallows-woman-partner-finds-her-legs-in-reptiles-mouth-737450&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjUoK-O8peHAxU8k68BHZurF9EQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Snake alert! Huge python swallows woman, partner finds her legs in reptile’s mouth</a>

In May, flash floods and mudslides caused by torrential rain killed more than 50 people in Indonesia's West Sumatra province.

In April, a landslide caused by high-intensity rains in South Sulawesi killed at least 18 people.

At least 12 people have died and 40 are missing after torrential rain caused a landslide in a gold mine in Indonesia's Sulawesi island at the weekend, officials said on Monday, with bad weather hampering the rescue effort.

At least 12 people have died and 40 are missing after torrential rain caused a landslide in a gold mine in Indonesia's Sulawesi island at the weekend, officials said on Monday, with bad weather hampering the rescue effort. The landslide on Sunday morning in Suwawa district, Gorontalo province, killed miners and residents living nearby, said Heriyanto, head of the Basarnas rescue agency. Small-scale and illegal mining is a flash point for conflicts and accidents in Indonesia, where mineral resources are often situated in remote and protected forest areas that are difficult for the government to regulate. "We have deployed 164 personnel, consisting of the national rescue team, police and military personnel, to search for the missing people," Heriyanto said. Earlier on Monday, the agency said at least 12 people had died and 18 were missing, a toll which was updated later in the day to 10 deaths and 40 missing. By Monday evening, rescuers had halted their search due to heavy rain, said Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency. Rescuers had to walk about 20 kms (12.43 miles) to reach the landslide site and were being hampered by thick mud over the road and continuing rain in the area, Heriyanto said. Also read: THIS animal was painted in first artwork created by humans in Indonesian cave "We will try to use an excavator once it's possible," he said. Photos of the affected village shared by the agency showed some houses were flattened by the landslide. Indonesia's disaster agency said the landslide has damaged several houses and one bridge. It warned residents that further rain was expected in some areas in Gorontalo province on Monday and Tuesday and urged people to be alert. Also read: Snake alert! Huge python swallows woman, partner finds her legs in reptile’s mouth In May, flash floods and mudslides caused by torrential rain killed more than 50 people in Indonesia's West Sumatra province. In April, a landslide caused by high-intensity rains in South Sulawesi killed at least 18 people.

Indonesia landslide: 12 dead, 40 missing in illegal gold mine after torrential rain

Headlines of the hour: - French election ends in deadlock - France: Protesters clash with riot polic - Netanayahu's 'non-negotiable' demand list - Calls grow for Biden to quit President race - Philippines, Japan ink security deal - US: Wildfire burns 11,000 acres in Utah - Moscow prepares to welcome PM Modi - Mumbai: 300 mm rainfall in six hours - Asian stocks hold steady

French elections end in deadlock | Philippines, Japan ink security deal

Headlines of the hour: - French election ends in deadlock - France: Protesters clash with riot polic - Netanayahu's 'non-negotiable' demand list - Calls grow for Biden to quit President race - US: Wildfire burns 11,000 acres in Utah - Moscow prepares to welcome PM Modi

US: Wildfire burns 11,000 acres in Utah | Moscow prepares to welcome PM Modi

France on Monday (Jul&nbsp;8) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election.&nbsp;

The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in the elections?</h2>

On Sunday (Jul 7), contrary to what the exit polls predicted, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally did not achieve the majority to form a government. But, neither did Emmanuel Macron's centrists nor any other party, coalition for that matter.

Emerging on top with 182 seats is the left-wing New Popular Front. As per reports, it was followed by Macron's Together alliance with 163 seats while Le Pen finished in third place with 143 seats in the bag, much less than 289 needed for an absolute majority in the 577-seat National Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-jordan-bardella-far-right-leader-poised-to-become-frances-youngest-prime-minister-replacing-macron-738649">Who is Jordan Bardella? Far-right leader poised to become France's youngest Prime Minister</a>

<h2>How did this happen?</h2>

Two words: Republican Front. The exit poll predictions spurred the centre and the left wing to take some decisive steps and form over 200 tactical voting pacts between them to prevent RN from winning.&nbsp;

They revived the anti-far right "Republican Front" which was first summoned when Marine Le Pen's father Jean-Marie faced Jacques Chirac in the run-off of the 2002 presidential elections.

<h2>What happens next?</h2>

None of the three blocs have an absolute majority and thus cannot form a majority government and would need support from others to pass legislation.

The question here is whether a left-leaning coalition is a possibility. France, as per Reuters, is not accustomed to the kind of post-election coalition-building common in northern European parliamentary democracies like Germany or the Netherlands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-elections-2024-high-turnout-in-second-round-as-far-right-eyes-power-738743">French elections 2024: Left alliance projected to win most seats, major setback to far right, say exit polls</a>

France's Fifth Republic system of government was designed in 1958 by war hero Charles de Gaulle. This system focuses on giving a large, stable parliamentary majority to presidents. This is not to say that Macron's centrists and the leftist coalition cannot unite. However, they must collaborate for at least one year, as 12 months is the minimum constitutional delay for a new election.

<h2>What if the left and the centre can't come to an agreement?</h2>

This is exactly what makes the situation so precarious. France is in its most severe political uncertainty in years. A state of no agreement is "uncharted territory".

As per the French constitution, Macron decides who to ask to form a government. However, it's not that easy. Whoever he chooses must be acceptable to the majority of lawmakers.

Risk analysis firm Eurasia Group said there was "no obvious governing majority" in the new parliament.

"It may take many weeks to resolve the muddle while the present government manages current business."

(With inputs from agencies)

France on Monday (Jul 8) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election. The nation is in a state of political uncertainty.

France on Monday (Jul 8) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election. The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament. What happened in the elections? On Sunday (Jul 7), contrary to what the exit polls predicted, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally did not achieve the majority to form a government. But, neither did Emmanuel Macron's centrists nor any other party, coalition for that matter. Emerging on top with 182 seats is the left-wing New Popular Front. As per reports, it was followed by Macron's Together alliance with 163 seats while Le Pen finished in third place with 143 seats in the bag, much less than 289 needed for an absolute majority in the 577-seat National Assembly. Also read | Who is Jordan Bardella? Far-right leader poised to become France's youngest Prime Minister How did this happen? Two words: Republican Front. The exit poll predictions spurred the centre and the left wing to take some decisive steps and form over 200 tactical voting pacts between them to prevent RN from winning. They revived the anti-far right "Republican Front" which was first summoned when Marine Le Pen's father Jean-Marie faced Jacques Chirac in the run-off of the 2002 presidential elections. What happens next? None of the three blocs have an absolute majority and thus cannot form a majority government and would need support from others to pass legislation. The question here is whether a left-leaning coalition is a possibility. France, as per Reuters, is not accustomed to the kind of post-election coalition-building common in northern European parliamentary democracies like Germany or the Netherlands. Also read | French elections 2024: Left alliance projected to win most seats, major setback to far right, say exit polls France's Fifth Republic system of government was designed in 1958 by war hero Charles de Gaulle. This system focuses on giving a large, stable parliamentary majority to presidents. This is not to say that Macron's centrists and the leftist coalition cannot unite. However, they must collaborate for at least one year, as 12 months is the minimum constitutional delay for a new election. What if the left and the centre can't come to an agreement? This is exactly what makes the situation so precarious. France is in its most severe political uncertainty in years. A state of no agreement is "uncharted territory". As per the French constitution, Macron decides who to ask to form a government. However, it's not that easy. Whoever he chooses must be acceptable to the majority of lawmakers. Risk analysis firm Eurasia Group said there was "no obvious governing majority" in the new parliament. "It may take many weeks to resolve the muddle while the present government manages current business." (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next?

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.0" after recent trips to Moscow and Kyiv.

The unannounced visit comes a day before NATO is due to hold a summit to mark its 75th anniversary, with setbacks in Ukraine set to dominate discussions, and follows Orban's surprise trips to Russia and Ukraine in the past week.

Orban, the friendliest EU leader towards Moscow, held talks with President Vladimir Putin on Friday about the war in Ukraine during a trip criticised by both Kyiv and the EU, which said it threatened to undermine the bloc's stance on the conflict.

Putin told Orban that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from regions that Moscow has annexed if it wants peace.

Hungary took over the European Union's rotating presidency at the start of July, and the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Orban's trip to Russia was purely a bilateral affair and he "has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow".

In a short statement earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry said the Hungarian leader would meet Xi "for in-depth communication on issues of mutual interest".

Close to both Xi and the Kremlin, Orban has refused to send weapons to Kyiv, unlike his fellow EU leaders.

China and Russia's strategic partnership has grown closer since the invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Beijing presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations.

It has however offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began.

Orban was greeted at the airport by Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, according to a photo the nationalist leader posted on social media platform X.

<h2>Major investment&nbsp;</h2>

Xi visited Hungary in May this year, for the final leg of a European tour that also led him to France and Serbia.

Following a meeting with Orban, Xi said Beijing placed "great importance" on its relations with the EU.

Despite its small size, the Central European country of 9.6 million people has attracted a flood of major Chinese projects in recent years, mostly related to battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.

The Hungarian government boasted about having around 15 billion euros ($16 billion) worth of ongoing projects originating from the Asian country.

Orban has been championing an "Eastern opening" foreign policy since his return to power in 2010, seeking closer economic ties to China, Russia and other Asian countries.

Last October, the Hungarian premier was the sole EU leader to attend the summit for Xi's flagship Belt and Road initiative in Beijing.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.0" after recent trips to Moscow and Kyiv. The unannounced visit comes a day before NATO is due to hold a summit to mark its 75th anniversary, with setbacks in Ukraine set to dominate discussions, and follows Orban's surprise trips to Russia and Ukraine in the past week. Orban, the friendliest EU leader towards Moscow, held talks with President Vladimir Putin on Friday about the war in Ukraine during a trip criticised by both Kyiv and the EU, which said it threatened to undermine the bloc's stance on the conflict. Putin told Orban that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from regions that Moscow has annexed if it wants peace. Hungary took over the European Union's rotating presidency at the start of July, and the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Orban's trip to Russia was purely a bilateral affair and he "has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow". In a short statement earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry said the Hungarian leader would meet Xi "for in-depth communication on issues of mutual interest". Close to both Xi and the Kremlin, Orban has refused to send weapons to Kyiv, unlike his fellow EU leaders. China and Russia's strategic partnership has grown closer since the invasion of Ukraine. Beijing presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations. It has however offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began. Orban was greeted at the airport by Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, according to a photo the nationalist leader posted on social media platform X. Major investment Xi visited Hungary in May this year, for the final leg of a European tour that also led him to France and Serbia. Following a meeting with Orban, Xi said Beijing placed "great importance" on its relations with the EU. Despite its small size, the Central European country of 9.6 million people has attracted a flood of major Chinese projects in recent years, mostly related to battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. The Hungarian government boasted about having around 15 billion euros ($16 billion) worth of ongoing projects originating from the Asian country. Orban has been championing an "Eastern opening" foreign policy since his return to power in 2010, seeking closer economic ties to China, Russia and other Asian countries. Last October, the Hungarian premier was the sole EU leader to attend the summit for Xi's flagship Belt and Road initiative in Beijing.

Hungary PM Orban meets President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 'Peace mission 3.0'

Four soldiers of the Indian Army have been killed, six have been injured after terrorists ambushed an Army convoy in the Kathua district of Jammu & Kashmir. The Army vehicles were on a routine patrol of the area.

Kathua: Terrorists attack Army convoy, four soldiers killed

European Union's climate monitor on&nbsp;Monday (Jul 8) revealed that last month was the hottest June on record across the globe. The global average temperature recorded last month broke the previous June record set in 2023.&nbsp;

Since June last year, the world has baked for 12 consecutive months, setting a streak of unprecedented global heat, as per the&nbsp;Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S). The data suggests that 2024 could pip 2023 as the hottest year since record-keeping began.&nbsp;

"This is more than a statistical oddity and it highlights a large and continuing shift in our climate," said the service director, Carlo Buontempo.

"Even if this specific streak of extremes ends at some point, we are bound to see new records being broken as the climate continues to warm."

C3S, a scientific organisation that belongs to the EU's space programme used data from satellites, ships, aircraft and weather stations to arrive at the conclusion.&nbsp;The data showed that June 2024 was the 12th month in succession with temperatures 1.5C greater than their average between 1850 and 1900.&nbsp;

The data by the EU climate monitor does not mean that the 1.5C warming limit agreed upon in Paris in 2015 had&nbsp;been reached as the goal is measured in&nbsp;decades, not individual years. However, Copernicus&nbsp;last month stated it was very likely (80 per cent chance) that Earth's annual average temperatures would at least temporarily exceed the 1.5C mark during the next five years.

The severe heatwave and its effects were on full display during the Haj pilgrimage last month when reports stated that more than 1,000 people had died due to heat-related illnesses.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-disrupting-life-in-our-oceans-731389">Watch |&nbsp;Climate Change disrupting life in our oceans</a>

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<h2>El Nino contributes to heat</h2>

Notably, the record-breaking heat across the planet coincided with El Nino - a natural phenomenon that contributed to hotter weather. As a result, the ocean temperatures have also breached new records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In June, sea surface temperatures hit 16 straight months of new highs, which the experts have described as "striking".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-to-implement-burp-tax-on-livestock-to-combat-climate-change-735567">Also read |&nbsp;Climate Change disrupting lifeDenmark to implement 'burp tax' on livestock to combat climate change</a>

According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, 1.5C of warming might kill 70-90 per cent of tropical coral reefs, while 2C warming will wipe them off of existence.&nbsp;

The oceans cover 70 per cent of the Earth's surface and absorb 90 per cent of the extra heat associated with rising climate-warming emissions.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Union's climate monitor on Monday (Jul 8) revealed that last month was the hottest June on record across the globe. The global average temperature recorded last month broke the previous June record set in 2023.

European Union's climate monitor on Monday (Jul 8) revealed that last month was the hottest June on record across the globe. The global average temperature recorded last month broke the previous June record set in 2023. Since June last year, the world has baked for 12 consecutive months, setting a streak of unprecedented global heat, as per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S). The data suggests that 2024 could pip 2023 as the hottest year since record-keeping began. "This is more than a statistical oddity and it highlights a large and continuing shift in our climate," said the service director, Carlo Buontempo. "Even if this specific streak of extremes ends at some point, we are bound to see new records being broken as the climate continues to warm." C3S, a scientific organisation that belongs to the EU's space programme used data from satellites, ships, aircraft and weather stations to arrive at the conclusion. The data showed that June 2024 was the 12th month in succession with temperatures 1.5C greater than their average between 1850 and 1900. The data by the EU climate monitor does not mean that the 1.5C warming limit agreed upon in Paris in 2015 had been reached as the goal is measured in decades, not individual years. However, Copernicus last month stated it was very likely (80 per cent chance) that Earth's annual average temperatures would at least temporarily exceed the 1.5C mark during the next five years. The severe heatwave and its effects were on full display during the Haj pilgrimage last month when reports stated that more than 1,000 people had died due to heat-related illnesses. Watch | Climate Change disrupting life in our oceans × El Nino contributes to heat Notably, the record-breaking heat across the planet coincided with El Nino - a natural phenomenon that contributed to hotter weather. As a result, the ocean temperatures have also breached new records. In June, sea surface temperatures hit 16 straight months of new highs, which the experts have described as "striking". Also read | Climate Change disrupting lifeDenmark to implement 'burp tax' on livestock to combat climate change According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, 1.5C of warming might kill 70-90 per cent of tropical coral reefs, while 2C warming will wipe them off of existence. The oceans cover 70 per cent of the Earth's surface and absorb 90 per cent of the extra heat associated with rising climate-warming emissions. (With inputs from agencies)

Hottest June in human history recorded as Earth continues to bake, data shows

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7).&nbsp;

The plea, which requires a federal judge's approval, would brand the planemaker a convicted felon. Boeing will also pay a criminal fine of $243.6 million, a Justice Department official said.

The charge relates to two 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia over a five-month period in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people and prompted the families of the victims to demand that Boeing face prosecution.

A guilty plea potentially threatens the company's ability to secure lucrative government contracts with the likes of the US&nbsp;Defense Department and NASA, although it could seek waivers. Boeing became exposed to criminal prosecution after the Justice Department in May found the company violated a 2021 settlement involving the fatal crashes.

Still, the plea spares Boeing a contentious trial that could have exposed many of the company’s decisions leading up to the fatal MAX plane crashes to even greater public scrutiny. It would also make it easier for the company, which will have a new CEO later this year, to try to move forward as it seeks approval for its planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems.&nbsp;

Boeing declined to comment.

Boeing has also agreed to invest at least $455 million over the next three years to strengthen its safety and compliance programs, the official said. DOJ will appoint a third-party monitor to oversee the firm's compliance. The monitor will have to publicly file with the court annual reports on the company's progress.

The Justice Department on June 30 offered a plea agreement to Boeing and gave the company until the end of the week to take the deal or face a trial on a charge of conspiring to defraud the Federal Aviation Administration in connection with a key software feature tied to the fatal crashes.

After being briefed last week on the DOJ's offer, a lawyer for some of the families criticized it as a "sweetheart deal". They have vowed to oppose the deal in court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boeing-737-max-parts-missing-from-indian-plane-678384">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane</a>

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The Justice Department's push to charge Boeing has deepened an ongoing crisis engulfing Boeing since a separate January in-flight blowout exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker.

A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before the 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that had shielded the company from prosecution over the previous fatal crashes expired. The agreement only covers Boeing's conduct before the fatal crashes and does not shield the planemaker from any other potential investigations or charges related to the January incident or other conduct.

Boeing is pleading guilty to making knowingly false representations to the Federal Aviation Administration about having expanded a key software feature used on the MAX to operate at low speeds. The new software saved Boeing money by requiring less intensive training for pilots.

The Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) is a software feature designed to automatically push the airplane’s nose down in certain conditions. It was tied to the two crashes that led to the FAA's grounding the plane for 20 months, an action that cost Boeing $20 billion, and the government lifted in November 2020.

As part of the deal, Boeing's board of directors will meet with relatives of those killed in the MAX crashes, the official said.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidmThFUz4mJxlO" />

The agreement does not shield any executives, the DOJ official said, though charges against individuals are seen as unlikely due to the statute of limitations.

The agreed penalty will be Boeing's second fine of $243.6 million related to the fatal crashes — bringing the full fine to the maximum allowed. The company paid the fine previously as part of 2021's $2.5 billion settlement. The $243.6 million fine represented the amount Boeing saved by not implementing full-flight simulator training.

Families of the victims of those crashes slammed the previous agreement and earlier this year pressed the Justice Department to seek as much as $25 billion from Boeing.

This year, the DOJ has held several meetings to hear from the victims' families as they investigated Boeing's breach of the 2021 deal.

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7).

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7). The plea, which requires a federal judge's approval, would brand the planemaker a convicted felon. Boeing will also pay a criminal fine of $243.6 million, a Justice Department official said. The charge relates to two 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia over a five-month period in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people and prompted the families of the victims to demand that Boeing face prosecution. A guilty plea potentially threatens the company's ability to secure lucrative government contracts with the likes of the US Defense Department and NASA, although it could seek waivers. Boeing became exposed to criminal prosecution after the Justice Department in May found the company violated a 2021 settlement involving the fatal crashes. Still, the plea spares Boeing a contentious trial that could have exposed many of the company’s decisions leading up to the fatal MAX plane crashes to even greater public scrutiny. It would also make it easier for the company, which will have a new CEO later this year, to try to move forward as it seeks approval for its planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems. Boeing declined to comment. Boeing has also agreed to invest at least $455 million over the next three years to strengthen its safety and compliance programs, the official said. DOJ will appoint a third-party monitor to oversee the firm's compliance. The monitor will have to publicly file with the court annual reports on the company's progress. The Justice Department on June 30 offered a plea agreement to Boeing and gave the company until the end of the week to take the deal or face a trial on a charge of conspiring to defraud the Federal Aviation Administration in connection with a key software feature tied to the fatal crashes. After being briefed last week on the DOJ's offer, a lawyer for some of the families criticized it as a "sweetheart deal". They have vowed to oppose the deal in court. Watch | Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane × The Justice Department's push to charge Boeing has deepened an ongoing crisis engulfing Boeing since a separate January in-flight blowout exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker. A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before the 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that had shielded the company from prosecution over the previous fatal crashes expired. The agreement only covers Boeing's conduct before the fatal crashes and does not shield the planemaker from any other potential investigations or charges related to the January incident or other conduct. Boeing is pleading guilty to making knowingly false representations to the Federal Aviation Administration about having expanded a key software feature used on the MAX to operate at low speeds. The new software saved Boeing money by requiring less intensive training for pilots. The Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) is a software feature designed to automatically push the airplane’s nose down in certain conditions. It was tied to the two crashes that led to the FAA's grounding the plane for 20 months, an action that cost Boeing $20 billion, and the government lifted in November 2020. As part of the deal, Boeing's board of directors will meet with relatives of those killed in the MAX crashes, the official said. The agreement does not shield any executives, the DOJ official said, though charges against individuals are seen as unlikely due to the statute of limitations. The agreed penalty will be Boeing's second fine of $243.6 million related to the fatal crashes — bringing the full fine to the maximum allowed. The company paid the fine previously as part of 2021's $2.5 billion settlement. The $243.6 million fine represented the amount Boeing saved by not implementing full-flight simulator training. Families of the victims of those crashes slammed the previous agreement and earlier this year pressed the Justice Department to seek as much as $25 billion from Boeing. This year, the DOJ has held several meetings to hear from the victims' families as they investigated Boeing's breach of the 2021 deal.

Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal

Russia launched multiple missile strikes across Ukrainian cities on Monday (July 8), killing 36 people and damaging a children's hospital in Kyiv, the news agency AFP reported citing authorities.

Russia launched multiple missile strikes across Ukrainian cities on Monday (July 8), killing 36 people and damaging a children's hospital in Kyiv, the news agency AFP reported citing authorities. Explosions rang out and black smoke could be seen rising from the centre of Kyiv. Several residential buildings in the country were also targeted in the strikes AFP reported that pictures distributed from the Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv showed people digging through mounds of rubble, black smoke billowing over a gutted building, and medical staff wearing blood-stained scrubs. Zelensky reacts to attacks In a post on social media, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Russian terrorists once again massively attacked Ukraine with missiles. Different cities: Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rig, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk." Also read | Vladimir Putin believes Donald Trump is sincere about ending Ukraine war "More than 40 missiles of various types. Residential buildings, infrastructure and a children's hospital were damaged," Zelensky added. He also said that there were an unknown number of people trapped under the rubble of the children's hospital and it was not known how many were killed. The timing of strikes The Russian strikes came as Zelensky was due in Warsaw, the Polish government said, before he flew to the NATO summit in Washington. Meanwhile, in Zelensky's hometown, Kryvyi Rig, which has been repeatedly targeted, the strikes killed at least 10 and wounded over 30. Meanwhile, in the eastern Donetsk region, the regional governor said three people were killed in Pokrovsk. Russia denies launching attacks Russia's defence ministry on Monday claimed that the extensive missile damage in Kyiv following strikes was in fact caused by a Ukrainian air defence missile. Photo and video footage from the scene "confirm that the damage was caused by a Ukrainian air defence missile," the ministry said, adding that Russian forces had struck their "intended" defence industry and military targets. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: 36 killed in Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, children’s hospital damaged in Kyiv

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day Russia visit from 8th to 9th July 2024 that will see Russian President Putin hosting a private dinner for the Indian leader. The PM will also visit Rosatom Pavilion at the exhibition venue in Moscow. Watch in for more details!

PM Modi's Russia Visit: Visit comes amid growing Russia-China ties

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer. Just last week, she had admitted to killing her son with a drug overdose decades ago to end his 'suffering' and 'quietly end his life'. She said her son Hamish was in 'a lot of pain' and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering'.

She also stressed that she was 'willing to face the consequences' of her actions. Following her confession, Thames Valley Police had opened a probe into the incident.

Cooper's daughter was quoted as saying by BBC that her mom died at home in peace. "It was exactly the way she wanted it. She lived life on her terms and she died on her terms," she said.

<h2>Assisted death illegal in UK</h2>

It must be noted that assisted death is illegal in UK. Back in 2015, members of parliament rejected such a proposal 330-118. However, support for an alternative policy has grown over the last few years. One opinion poll showed that 75 per cent of the public now supports legislation for assisted death.

Watch:&nbsp;UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has now promised to revive debate over the issue.

<h2>Admission of guilt</h2>

Cooper last week recalled how she 'helped' her son escape a lot of pain' that came from his stage 4 cancer and “beastly” treatment.

“On Hamish’s last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: ‘Would you like me to remove the pain?’ and he said: ‘Yes please, mama.’

“And through his Hickman catheter, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life,” she added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiV9Ky76peHAxUYh68BHe4BCacQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/politics-that-puts-people-first-rahul-gandhi-congratulates-uk-pm-starmer-extends-sympathies-to-rishi-sunak-738671" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/politics-that-puts-people-first-rahul-gandhi-congratulates-uk-pm-starmer-extends-sympathies-to-rishi-sunak-738671&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiV9Ky76peHAxUYh68BHe4BCacQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">`Politics that puts people first`: Rahul Gandhi congratulates UK PM Starmer, extends sympathies to Rishi Sunak</a>

Cooper's son was suffering from neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that mostly affects children.

“I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen …. It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that,” the mother said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer.

A 77-year-old UK woman who killed her 'terminally ill' son with a large dose of morphine in 1981 died last week battling cancer. Antonya Cooper from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was fighting breast, pancreatic and liver cancer. Just last week, she had admitted to killing her son with a drug overdose decades ago to end his 'suffering' and 'quietly end his life'. She said her son Hamish was in 'a lot of pain' and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering'. She also stressed that she was 'willing to face the consequences' of her actions. Following her confession, Thames Valley Police had opened a probe into the incident. Cooper's daughter was quoted as saying by BBC that her mom died at home in peace. "It was exactly the way she wanted it. She lived life on her terms and she died on her terms," she said. Assisted death illegal in UK It must be noted that assisted death is illegal in UK. Back in 2015, members of parliament rejected such a proposal 330-118. However, support for an alternative policy has grown over the last few years. One opinion poll showed that 75 per cent of the public now supports legislation for assisted death. Watch: UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet × Prime Minister Keir Starmer has now promised to revive debate over the issue. Admission of guilt Cooper last week recalled how she 'helped' her son escape a lot of pain' that came from his stage 4 cancer and “beastly” treatment. “On Hamish’s last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: ‘Would you like me to remove the pain?’ and he said: ‘Yes please, mama.’ “And through his Hickman catheter, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life,” she added. Also read: `Politics that puts people first`: Rahul Gandhi congratulates UK PM Starmer, extends sympathies to Rishi Sunak Cooper's son was suffering from neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that mostly affects children. “I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen …. It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that,” the mother said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK mom who killed her son to 'remove his pain' in 1981 dies of cancer

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Russia on Monday (July 8). Prime Minister Modi received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow. On Tuesday, he will hold the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

United States (US) President Joe Biden has declined to step aside from the presidential race. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden&nbsp;stressed that he had one job which was to defeat presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in November.

In other news from around the world, four soldiers of the Indian Army&nbsp;were killed and six others were injured after terrorists attacked a convoy of the Army in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-begins-russia-visit-receives-guard-of-honour-in-moscow-738988">Indian PM Modi begins Russia visit, receives Guard of Honour in Moscow</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442342-untitled-design-6.png?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his visit to Russia on Monday (July 8) and received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow. Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Russia where he will hold the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-i-decline-to-step-aside-biden-tells-hill-democrats-739030">US presidential election 2024: I decline to step aside, Biden tells Hill Democrats</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442356-untitled-design-8.png?imwidth=400" />

United States (US) President Joe Biden told Hill Democrats on Monday (July 8) that he declined to step aside from the upcoming presidential election. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden&nbsp;stood firm against calls for him to drop his candidacy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-convoy-attacked-by-terrorists-in-kashmirs-kathua-738984">Four soldiers killed, six injured as terrorists attack Indian Army convoy in J&amp;K’s Kathua</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442320-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Four soldiers were martyred and six others were injured after terrorists attacked a convoy of the Indian Army in&nbsp;in the Machedi area of Jammu and Kashmir's (J&amp;K) Kathua district on Monday (July 8).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-beryl-makes-landfall-in-texas-flood-warning-issued-for-entire-coastline-738966">Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas, tornado warning issued for several counties</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442309-zyubky1.jpeg?imwidth=400" />

Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas on Monday (Jul 8); bringing rainfall flooding, storm surge and damaging winds to the region. More than 1.5 million people were left without power in the state as the hurricane disrupted normal lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reexam-last-resort-cant-dispute-paper-leak-sc-hounds-exam-body-in-neet-paper-leak-row-738978">NEET paper leak row: ‘Re-exam last resort, can’t dispute paper leak,’ Indian SC hounds NTA</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442317-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

The Supreme Court of India on Monday (Jul 8) began hearing pleas regarding the irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduates (NEET-UG) 2024 held on May 5.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biker-roasted-to-death-in-californias-death-valley-as-mercury-soared-over-53c-739003">Biker roasted to death in California’s Death Valley as mercury soars over 53ºC</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442337-image-asset.jpeg?imwidth=400" />

A biker was reported dead Sunday (Jul 7) in California's Death Valley National Park as the temperatures there soared above 53 degrees Celsius. Another rider, who was part of the same group of six motorcyclists, was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital after suffering “severe heat illness."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-20-killed-in-russian-strikes-in-ukrainian-cities-childrens-hospital-damaged-in-kyiv-738960">Ukraine war: 20 killed in Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, children’s hospital damaged in Kyiv</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442305-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Russia launched multiple missile strikes across Ukrainian cities&nbsp;on Monday (July 8), killing 20 people and damaging a children's hospital in Kyiv, the news agency AFP reported citing authorities.&nbsp;Explosions rang out and black smoke could be seen rising from the centre of Kyiv.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japanese-wages-see-sharpest-rise-in-3-decades-but-real-wages-remain-negative-739010">Japanese wages see sharpest rise in 3 decades, but real wages remain negative</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442343-4bsoceuh2bna3n4qxr6g2cyhs4.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Japanese worker's average base pay jumped 2.5 per cent in May. This marks the strongest growth in 31 years. This positive trend comes amid annual wage negotiations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/throwback-from-2017-zaheer-iqbal-shares-sweet-photo-with-wife-sonakshi-sinha-from-dating-days-739021">Throwback from 2017! Zaheer Iqbal shares sweet photo with wife Sonakshi Sinha from dating days</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442351-happy-30th-birthday-2024-07-08t194555429.png?imwidth=400" />

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are throwing major couple&nbsp;goals! After keeping their love out of the public eye for almost 11&nbsp;years, the couple made their union official on June 23 after they tied the knot in the presence of their close friends and family.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-in-spain-its-hard-for-me-to-be-happy-says-captain-alvaro-morata-ahead-of-semis-vs-france-739023">Euro 2024: 'In Spain it's hard for me to be happy,' says captain Alvaro Morata ahead of semis vs France</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/48287-Alvaro%2520Morata.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Spain national football team captain Alvaro Morata has said that he might be playing his 'last tournament' for the country at the ongoing Euro 2024. Spain are due to face 2022 FIFA World Cup runners up France in the semifinal on Tuesday (Jul 9).&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Russia on Monday (July 8). Prime Minister Modi received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Russia on Monday (July 8). Prime Minister Modi received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow. On Tuesday, he will hold the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. United States (US) President Joe Biden has declined to step aside from the presidential race. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden stressed that he had one job which was to defeat presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in November. In other news from around the world, four soldiers of the Indian Army were killed and six others were injured after terrorists attacked a convoy of the Army in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua. Click on the headlines to read more: Indian PM Modi begins Russia visit, receives Guard of Honour in Moscow Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his visit to Russia on Monday (July 8) and received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow. Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Russia where he will hold the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. US presidential election 2024: I decline to step aside, Biden tells Hill Democrats United States (US) President Joe Biden told Hill Democrats on Monday (July 8) that he declined to step aside from the upcoming presidential election. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden stood firm against calls for him to drop his candidacy. Four soldiers killed, six injured as terrorists attack Indian Army convoy in J&K’s Kathua Four soldiers were martyred and six others were injured after terrorists attacked a convoy of the Indian Army in in the Machedi area of Jammu and Kashmir's (J&K) Kathua district on Monday (July 8). Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas, tornado warning issued for several counties Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas on Monday (Jul 8); bringing rainfall flooding, storm surge and damaging winds to the region. More than 1.5 million people were left without power in the state as the hurricane disrupted normal lives. NEET paper leak row: ‘Re-exam last resort, can’t dispute paper leak,’ Indian SC hounds NTA The Supreme Court of India on Monday (Jul 8) began hearing pleas regarding the irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduates (NEET-UG) 2024 held on May 5. Biker roasted to death in California’s Death Valley as mercury soars over 53ºC A biker was reported dead Sunday (Jul 7) in California's Death Valley National Park as the temperatures there soared above 53 degrees Celsius. Another rider, who was part of the same group of six motorcyclists, was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital after suffering “severe heat illness." Ukraine war: 20 killed in Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, children’s hospital damaged in Kyiv Russia launched multiple missile strikes across Ukrainian cities on Monday (July 8), killing 20 people and damaging a children's hospital in Kyiv, the news agency AFP reported citing authorities. Explosions rang out and black smoke could be seen rising from the centre of Kyiv. Japanese wages see sharpest rise in 3 decades, but real wages remain negative Japanese worker's average base pay jumped 2.5 per cent in May. This marks the strongest growth in 31 years. This positive trend comes amid annual wage negotiations. Throwback from 2017! Zaheer Iqbal shares sweet photo with wife Sonakshi Sinha from dating days Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are throwing major couple goals! After keeping their love out of the public eye for almost 11 years, the couple made their union official on June 23 after they tied the knot in the presence of their close friends and family. Euro 2024: 'In Spain it's hard for me to be happy,' says captain Alvaro Morata ahead of semis vs France Spain national football team captain Alvaro Morata has said that he might be playing his 'last tournament' for the country at the ongoing Euro 2024. Spain are due to face 2022 FIFA World Cup runners up France in the semifinal on Tuesday (Jul 9).

Top 10 world news: Modi in Russia; Biden declines to step aside from White House race, and more

United States (US) President Joe Biden told Hill Democrats on Monday (July 8) that he declined to step aside from the upcoming presidential election. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden stood firm against calls for him to drop his candidacy.

United States (US) President Joe Biden told Hill Democrats on Monday (July 8) that he declined to step aside from the upcoming presidential election. In a letter to Congressional Democrats, President Biden stood firm against calls for him to drop his candidacy. “...The question of how to move forward has been well-aired for over a week now. And it’s time for it to end,” he said. Biden, 81, stressed that he had one job which was to defeat presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in November. “We have 42 days to the Democratic Convention and 119 days to the general election,” he said. Also read | Go Biden, go: Who all are clamouring for US president to exit White House race? Will it happen? “Any weakening of resolve or lack of clarity about the task ahead only helps Trump and hurts us. It’s time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump,” the president added. A choice for Democratic lawmakers Biden's letter came as calls have been mounting for him to drop from the presidential race following his dismal public debate performance. Representatives Jerrold Nadler, Adam Smith, Mark Takano, and Joe Morelle, senior House Democrats who sit on the Judiciary, Armed Services, Veterans Affairs, and House Administration committees, were among those who called on the 81-year-old to step aside. Also watch | US presidential election: Age only one of the challenges confronting Biden × Democrats also suggested that Vice President Kamala Harris, seen as the likeliest candidate to replace Biden in the election were he to bow out, could perform well. Party lawmakers now have a choice - decide whether to work to revive Biden's campaign or edge out the party leader, a make-or-break time for his reelection and their political futures, a report by the news agency Associated Press said. 'Clock is ticking' Last week, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy told CNN that the coming week was crucial and urged Biden to hold a town hall or news conference to convince voters he is "the old Joe Biden." "The president needs to do more. I do think the clock is ticking," Senator Murphy said. (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential election 2024: I decline to step aside, Biden tells Hill Democrats

Turkey will extend an invitation to Syrian President Bashar Assad "any time" for possible talks to restore relations between the two neighbours, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday.

Erdogan to invite Assad for talks to restore Turkey-Syria ties

Sirens rang out in Northern Israel on Sunday warning the residents of incoming rocket barrage from Lebanon. Israeli military said the Lebanese Hezbollah group fired two large projectiles into Northern Israel. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Hezbollah claims drone attack on Mount Hermon

Unions representing workers at Paris' airports said Monday (Jul 8) they had called for a strike the week before the Paris Olympics over a dispute about bonuses for staff.

The CGT, CFDT, FO and UNSA unions called the strike on July 17 -- nine days before the start of the Paris Games -- to demand that all staff receive an Olympics bonus, denouncing "unilateral decisions from the chief executive to pay a bonus to only some personnel."

Unions at state-controlled Groupe ADP, which runs Paris' main airports Charles de Gaulle and Orly, had previously called for a strike on May 19, which did not cause major disruption.&nbsp;

The two airports will be the main gateway into France for foreign visitors to the Olympics, with up to 350,000 people a day expected to transit there during the Games, as well as most athletes and their equipment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjLi93d1JeHAxX3l68BHUvcCIsQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-cost-safety-concerns-hit-bookings-for-2024-olympic-games-in-paris-737916" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-cost-safety-concerns-hit-bookings-for-2024-olympic-games-in-paris-737916&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLi93d1JeHAxX3l68BHUvcCIsQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">High cost, safety concerns hit bookings for 2024 Olympic Games in Paris</a>

Thousands of athletes are expected to begin arriving from July 18, when the athletes' village opens, with a new temporary over-sized baggage terminal at Charles de Gaulle set to handle equipment such as kayaks, bikes or polevaulting poles.&nbsp;

Unions representing workers across the public sector in France have demanded extra pay or support for having to work over the July 26-August 11 Paris Games, which fall during the traditional summer holiday in France.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjLi93d1JeHAxX3l68BHUvcCIsQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-seine-water-quality-improves-reveals-latest-tests-737973" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-seine-water-quality-improves-reveals-latest-tests-737973&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLi93d1JeHAxX3l68BHUvcCIsQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Paris Olympics 2024: Seine water quality improves, reveals latest tests</a>

Police, air traffic controllers, rubbish collectors, central government employees, metro and train drivers as well as firefighters have all made demands, with their employers under pressure to yield to avoid disruption.

Workers at the national mint, which is producing the medals, have also been on strike, but management says that production has not been affected.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Unions representing workers at Paris' airports said Monday (Jul 8) they had called for a strike the week before the Paris Olympics over a dispute about bonuses for staff.

Unions representing workers at Paris' airports said Monday (Jul 8) they had called for a strike the week before the Paris Olympics over a dispute about bonuses for staff. The CGT, CFDT, FO and UNSA unions called the strike on July 17 -- nine days before the start of the Paris Games -- to demand that all staff receive an Olympics bonus, denouncing "unilateral decisions from the chief executive to pay a bonus to only some personnel." Unions at state-controlled Groupe ADP, which runs Paris' main airports Charles de Gaulle and Orly, had previously called for a strike on May 19, which did not cause major disruption. The two airports will be the main gateway into France for foreign visitors to the Olympics, with up to 350,000 people a day expected to transit there during the Games, as well as most athletes and their equipment. Also read: High cost, safety concerns hit bookings for 2024 Olympic Games in Paris Thousands of athletes are expected to begin arriving from July 18, when the athletes' village opens, with a new temporary over-sized baggage terminal at Charles de Gaulle set to handle equipment such as kayaks, bikes or polevaulting poles. Unions representing workers across the public sector in France have demanded extra pay or support for having to work over the July 26-August 11 Paris Games, which fall during the traditional summer holiday in France. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: Seine water quality improves, reveals latest tests Police, air traffic controllers, rubbish collectors, central government employees, metro and train drivers as well as firefighters have all made demands, with their employers under pressure to yield to avoid disruption. Workers at the national mint, which is producing the medals, have also been on strike, but management says that production has not been affected. (With inputs from agencies)

Airport worker unions in France announce strike week before Paris Olympics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day Russia visit from 8th to 9th July 2024 that will see Russian President Putin hosting a private dinner for the Indian leader. The PM will also visit Rosatom Pavilion at the exhibition venue in Moscow. WION's Principal Diplomatic correspondent speaks to India's envoy Vinay Kumar talks about PM's visit to Moscow. Watch in for more details!

India's envoy Vinay Kumar talks about PM Modi's visit to Moscow | WION Exclusive

Japan’s meteorological agency on Monday (July 8) issued a heatstroke alert for 26 of the country’s 47 prefectures after the temperature reached 40 degrees Celsius for the first time this year on Sunday.

Japan’s meteorological agency on Monday (July 8) issued a heatstroke alert for 26 of the country’s 47 prefectures after the temperature reached 40 degrees Celsius for the first time this year on Sunday. A report by The Guardian said that the meteorological agency urged people not to go outside unless absolutely necessary, to use their air conditioners during the day and at night, and to drink plenty of water. Also read | Scorching heatwave set to sear northeastern US, break records and spark health concerns Earlier this year, the agency warned that temperatures were expected to be higher than average again this summer, perhaps exceeding those last summer. The Guardian reported that at least four people died due to the intensifying heatwave. Nearly 200 people hospitalised in Tokyo Citing local media, the report further said that 198 people were hospitalised in Tokyo with suspected heatstroke on Sunday. On Monday, the temperature in some parts of the capital city reached at least 35 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, Shizuoka in central Japan reported a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. The temperatures in Shizuoka, recorded shortly after 1 pm, were the highest in the city since records began in 1940. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan issues heatstroke alerts for 26 prefectures amid intensifying heatwave

A biker was reported dead Sunday (Jul 7) in California's Death Valley National Park as the temperatures there soared above 53 degrees Celsius. Another rider, who was part of the same group of six motorcyclists, was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital after suffering “severe heat illness”. The other four members of the group also received treatment at the scene.

Park superintendent Mike Reynolds warned that high heat like this "can pose real threats to your health."

“Besides not being able to cool down while riding due to high ambient air temperatures, experiencing Death Valley by motorcycle when it is this hot is further challenged by the necessary heavy safety gear worn to reduce injuries during an accident,” Reynolds said.

<h2>Heat crisis in US</h2>

The US has been reeling under an intense heatwave for the last few weeks now, with about 36 million people or 10 per cent of the country's population, living under excessive heat, as per the National Weather Service (NWS).

Death Valley National Park too recorded a record temperature of 53.3 degrees Celsius late Saturday (Jul 6), surpassing the previous record for July 6.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi47raqwpeHAxVnj68BHQjBCSEQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pollution-climate-crisis-and-more-eco-anxiety-driving-up-impending-sense-of-doom-659754" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/pollution-climate-crisis-and-more-eco-anxiety-driving-up-impending-sense-of-doom-659754&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi47raqwpeHAxVnj68BHQjBCSEQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pollution, climate crisis, and more: `Eco-anxiety` driving up `impending sense of doom`</a>

Over the weekend, many areas in the west and Pacific north-west witnessed record-breaking temperatures.

In northern California, the mercury soared over 43.3 degrees Celsius, with Redding city recording temperature above 48 degrees Celsius.

<h2>Increased wildfire risk</h2>

Owing to the increased temperatures, stronger winds and dry air; the NWS has warned of a greater risk of wildfires. The authorities had to evacuate parts of Santa Barbara County in southern California late Saturday as the Lake Fire engulfed more than 13,000 acres over the last 24 hours.

Watch:&nbsp;US Heatwave: 75 million people in the US at risk

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According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the European Union's monitoring body for climate change, each of the last 12 months has consistently registered as the hottest on record in global year-on-year comparisons. This trend highlights how human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and the emission of greenhouse gases, contribute to climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

A biker was reported dead Sunday (Jul 7) in California's Death Valley National Park as the temperatures there soared above 53 degrees Celsius. Another rider, who was part of the same group of six motorcyclists, was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital after suffering “severe heat illness”.

A biker was reported dead Sunday (Jul 7) in California's Death Valley National Park as the temperatures there soared above 53 degrees Celsius. Another rider, who was part of the same group of six motorcyclists, was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital after suffering “severe heat illness”. The other four members of the group also received treatment at the scene. Park superintendent Mike Reynolds warned that high heat like this "can pose real threats to your health." “Besides not being able to cool down while riding due to high ambient air temperatures, experiencing Death Valley by motorcycle when it is this hot is further challenged by the necessary heavy safety gear worn to reduce injuries during an accident,” Reynolds said. Heat crisis in US The US has been reeling under an intense heatwave for the last few weeks now, with about 36 million people or 10 per cent of the country's population, living under excessive heat, as per the National Weather Service (NWS). Death Valley National Park too recorded a record temperature of 53.3 degrees Celsius late Saturday (Jul 6), surpassing the previous record for July 6. Also read: Pollution, climate crisis, and more: `Eco-anxiety` driving up `impending sense of doom` Over the weekend, many areas in the west and Pacific north-west witnessed record-breaking temperatures. In northern California, the mercury soared over 43.3 degrees Celsius, with Redding city recording temperature above 48 degrees Celsius. Increased wildfire risk Owing to the increased temperatures, stronger winds and dry air; the NWS has warned of a greater risk of wildfires. The authorities had to evacuate parts of Santa Barbara County in southern California late Saturday as the Lake Fire engulfed more than 13,000 acres over the last 24 hours. Watch: US Heatwave: 75 million people in the US at risk × According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the European Union's monitoring body for climate change, each of the last 12 months has consistently registered as the hottest on record in global year-on-year comparisons. This trend highlights how human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and the emission of greenhouse gases, contribute to climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

Biker roasted to death in California’s Death Valley as mercury soars over 53ºC

PM Modi's Russia visit to focus on India's exports, trade & defence

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