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India's image in Canada has taken a hit as positive views related to the country dropped&nbsp;by 11 points since March 2023,&nbsp;according to new data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute.&nbsp;

The Angus Reid Institute was founded in October 2014 by pollster and sociologist Dr Angus Reid and provides public opinion polling among other services. Some reports suggest that the non-profit is biased in its reporting.&nbsp;

In the latest report on India-Canada, the institute suggested that only 33 per cent of Canadians have a favourable opinion of India while a majority of 54 per cent view it unfavourably.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-delegation-including-nancy-pelosi-michael-mccaul-arrives-in-dharamshala-for-talks-with-dalai-lama-732890">US House delegation, including Nancy Pelosi, Michael McCaul arrives in Dharamshala for talks with Dalai Lama</a>

This decline follows a report from the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) which highlighted concerns about interference in Canadian elections by both China and India.&nbsp;

In its 2019 review, the Committee noted that the "most significant perpetrators of foreign interference in Canada were the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation" and that other states, "including India, Pakistan and Iran engaged in foreign interference activities."&nbsp;

Notably, India has strongly refuted the claims terming them "baseless". Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said, "We have seen media reports about the Canadian commission inquiring into. We strongly reject all such baseless allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-offer-citizenship-pathway-for-undocumented-spouses-of-us-citizens-732903">Biden to offer citizenship pathway for undocumented spouses of US citizens</a>

"It is not the government of India's policy to interfere in the democratic processes of other countries. In fact, quite on the reverse, it is Canada which has been interfering in our internal affairs," he added.&nbsp;

The relationship between Canada and India has particularly soured recently. 
 
Prime Minister Justin&nbsp;Trudeau’s accusation that the Indian government was involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh activist who India considered a terrorist, has intensified tensions.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-will-a-guilty-verdict-cost-donald-trump-an-election-732925">US Elections: Will a guilty verdict cost Donald Trump an election?</a>

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"Last year in March, more than two-in-five (44 per cent) said they had favourable views of India. Now only one-third say the same," as per the report.&nbsp;

There is a downturn in views towards China as well. Canadians remain favourable towards other countries like United Kingdom and France, ahead of key trade partners Mexico and the United States.

"China, Russia, and Iran all generate negative favourability among four-in-five or more," the report said.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

India's image in Canada has taken a hit as positive views related to the country dropped by 11 points since March 2023, according to new data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute.

India's image in Canada has taken a hit as positive views related to the country dropped by 11 points since March 2023, according to new data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute. The Angus Reid Institute was founded in October 2014 by pollster and sociologist Dr Angus Reid and provides public opinion polling among other services. Some reports suggest that the non-profit is biased in its reporting. In the latest report on India-Canada, the institute suggested that only 33 per cent of Canadians have a favourable opinion of India while a majority of 54 per cent view it unfavourably. Also Read | US House delegation, including Nancy Pelosi, Michael McCaul arrives in Dharamshala for talks with Dalai Lama This decline follows a report from the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) which highlighted concerns about interference in Canadian elections by both China and India. In its 2019 review, the Committee noted that the "most significant perpetrators of foreign interference in Canada were the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation" and that other states, "including India, Pakistan and Iran engaged in foreign interference activities." Notably, India has strongly refuted the claims terming them "baseless". Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said, "We have seen media reports about the Canadian commission inquiring into. We strongly reject all such baseless allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections." Also Read | Biden to offer citizenship pathway for undocumented spouses of US citizens "It is not the government of India's policy to interfere in the democratic processes of other countries. In fact, quite on the reverse, it is Canada which has been interfering in our internal affairs," he added. The relationship between Canada and India has particularly soured recently. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusation that the Indian government was involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh activist who India considered a terrorist, has intensified tensions. Watch | US Elections: Will a guilty verdict cost Donald Trump an election? × "Last year in March, more than two-in-five (44 per cent) said they had favourable views of India. Now only one-third say the same," as per the report. There is a downturn in views towards China as well. Canadians remain favourable towards other countries like United Kingdom and France, ahead of key trade partners Mexico and the United States. "China, Russia, and Iran all generate negative favourability among four-in-five or more," the report said. (With input from agencies)

Canadian sentiment towards India drops sharply amid diplomatic strains: Report

United States President Joe Biden&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jun 18)&nbsp;announced a programme which would pave the way for hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses and&nbsp;stepchildren of American citizens to receive citizenship.&nbsp;

<h2>About the programme</h2>

The sweeping initiative could provide relief to as many as 500,000 spouses who have lived in the US for at least 10 years as of June 17. It would also allow around 50,000&nbsp;stepchildren under age 21 with a US citizen parent to gain citizenship,

The move will&nbsp;provide relief to hundreds of thousands of “mixed-status” families in the country.&nbsp;

“These eligible non-citizens who have lived here for 10 years or more have deep family and community ties in the United States,” a senior official from the Biden&nbsp;administration&nbsp;told reporters, as quoted by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“Many of these families include US citizen children, yet they live in fear and face deep uncertainty about their future,” the official added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-limit-asylum-seekers-with-new-order-halt-requests-at-2500-crossings-and-resume-when-below-1500-728667">Biden to limit asylum seekers with new order, halt requests at 2,500 crossings and resume when below 1,500</a>

The programme also&nbsp;allows spouses and children to apply for permanent residence without leaving the US, getting rid of a potentially lengthy process and family separation. It would also allow them to eventually apply for an American&nbsp;citizenship.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden criticises Trump</h2>

Speaking&nbsp;at a White House event marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme, or DACA, Biden, unveiling the new plan,&nbsp;criticised his predecessor Donald Trump&nbsp;for separating migrant families at the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;

He also slammed the former president for his&nbsp;incendiary language about immigrants, including the time when he said they were&nbsp;"poisoning the blood of our country."

"It's hard to believe it's being said, but he's actually saying these things out loud. And it's outrageous," said the US president.&nbsp;

He added, "I'm not interested in playing politics with the border or immigration. I'm interested in fixing it."

DACA, launched in 2012 by former President Barack Obama and then-Vice President Biden, protects nearly 530,000 undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children from being deported.&nbsp;

<h2>Immigration policies and elections</h2>

With less than five months left for the presidential election, Biden and his rival, Trump have spoken about how they would handle immigration if they take over the White House. Immigration is arguably one of the most divisive issues in the US.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-no-choice-donald-trump-promises-largest-deportation-in-american-history-732318">&nbsp;'We have no choice': Donald Trump promises largest deportation in American history</a>

Initially, Biden, a Democrat, said that he would reverse many restrictive immigration policies of the Trump era, but amid a record rise in the migrant arrests on the US-Mexico border, the incumbent president has toughened his approach in recent months.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Biden signed an order barring most migrants crossing the border from requesting asylum, a policy similar to his Republican predecessor.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Trump has vowed a harsher immigration crackdown if he secures a second term in the White House, including the largest mass deportation campaign in US history.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Jun 18) announced a programme which would pave the way for hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses and stepchildren of American citizens to receive citizenship.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Jun 18) announced a programme which would pave the way for hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses and stepchildren of American citizens to receive citizenship. About the programme The sweeping initiative could provide relief to as many as 500,000 spouses who have lived in the US for at least 10 years as of June 17. It would also allow around 50,000 stepchildren under age 21 with a US citizen parent to gain citizenship, The move will provide relief to hundreds of thousands of “mixed-status” families in the country. “These eligible non-citizens who have lived here for 10 years or more have deep family and community ties in the United States,” a senior official from the Biden administration told reporters, as quoted by the Guardian. “Many of these families include US citizen children, yet they live in fear and face deep uncertainty about their future,” the official added. Also Read | Biden to limit asylum seekers with new order, halt requests at 2,500 crossings and resume when below 1,500 The programme also allows spouses and children to apply for permanent residence without leaving the US, getting rid of a potentially lengthy process and family separation. It would also allow them to eventually apply for an American citizenship. Biden criticises Trump Speaking at a White House event marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme, or DACA, Biden, unveiling the new plan, criticised his predecessor Donald Trump for separating migrant families at the US-Mexico border. He also slammed the former president for his incendiary language about immigrants, including the time when he said they were "poisoning the blood of our country." "It's hard to believe it's being said, but he's actually saying these things out loud. And it's outrageous," said the US president. He added, "I'm not interested in playing politics with the border or immigration. I'm interested in fixing it." DACA, launched in 2012 by former President Barack Obama and then-Vice President Biden, protects nearly 530,000 undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children from being deported. Immigration policies and elections With less than five months left for the presidential election, Biden and his rival, Trump have spoken about how they would handle immigration if they take over the White House. Immigration is arguably one of the most divisive issues in the US. Also Read | 'We have no choice': Donald Trump promises largest deportation in American history Initially, Biden, a Democrat, said that he would reverse many restrictive immigration policies of the Trump era, but amid a record rise in the migrant arrests on the US-Mexico border, the incumbent president has toughened his approach in recent months. Earlier this month, Biden signed an order barring most migrants crossing the border from requesting asylum, a policy similar to his Republican predecessor. Meanwhile, Trump has vowed a harsher immigration crackdown if he secures a second term in the White House, including the largest mass deportation campaign in US history. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden offers citizenship pathway for thousands of undocumented spouses of US citizens

To meet with the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, a bipartisan delegation from the US House of Representatives which includes Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul arrived in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday (June 18).

On Wednesday (June 19), the seven members of the US House delegation will meet with Indian government officials and members of the American business sector in India in addition to meeting the Tibetan spiritual leader.

Chairman McCaul, Pelosi, Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Ranking Member Jim McGovern of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Member Ami Bera of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, and Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Nicole Malliotakis are the members of the delegation that reached Dharamshala.

The visit comes nearly a week after the United States House of Representatives approved a procedural vote on the Resolve Tibet Act. The US House of Representatives enacted the Resolve Tibet Act in February 2023, and the Senate approved it in May of this year.

To address long-standing tensions between Tibet and Beijing, the Bill calls for China to engage in unconditional negotiations with the Dalai Lama, or his representative, or democratically elected leaders of the Tibetan population.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navy-officer-severely-injured-after-chinese-ship-rammed-philippine-vessel-in-south-china-sea-manila-732874">Navy officer severely injured after Chinese ship rammed Philippine vessel in South China Sea: Manila</a>

“I want to say greetings to the great people in Dharamshala. We are very excited to see His Holiness tomorrow to talk about many things including the bill (Resolve Tibet Act) we just passed out of Congress that says the United States of America stands with the people of Tibet,” McCaul told local media at the airport.

The Bill urges China to negotiate without preconditions with the Dalai Lama, his representative, or democratically-elected leaders of the Tibetan community to resolve long-pending issues between Tibet and Beijing.

<h2>China's response</h2>

China reacted to US lawmakers visiting Dharamshala with expected fury. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said, "It’s known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion.&nbsp;

"We are gravely concerned over the relevant reports and urge the US side to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honour the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world," he added.

Following a failed rebellion against Chinese control, the Dalai Lama left Tibet in 1959 and has since resided in India.

(With inputs from agencies)

To meet with the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, a bipartisan delegation from the US House of Representatives which includes Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul arrived in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday (June 18).

To meet with the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, a bipartisan delegation from the US House of Representatives which includes Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul arrived in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday (June 18). On Wednesday (June 19), the seven members of the US House delegation will meet with Indian government officials and members of the American business sector in India in addition to meeting the Tibetan spiritual leader. Chairman McCaul, Pelosi, Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Ranking Member Jim McGovern of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Member Ami Bera of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, and Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Nicole Malliotakis are the members of the delegation that reached Dharamshala. The visit comes nearly a week after the United States House of Representatives approved a procedural vote on the Resolve Tibet Act. The US House of Representatives enacted the Resolve Tibet Act in February 2023, and the Senate approved it in May of this year. To address long-standing tensions between Tibet and Beijing, the Bill calls for China to engage in unconditional negotiations with the Dalai Lama, or his representative, or democratically elected leaders of the Tibetan population. Also read: Navy officer severely injured after Chinese ship rammed Philippine vessel in South China Sea: Manila “I want to say greetings to the great people in Dharamshala. We are very excited to see His Holiness tomorrow to talk about many things including the bill (Resolve Tibet Act) we just passed out of Congress that says the United States of America stands with the people of Tibet,” McCaul told local media at the airport. The Bill urges China to negotiate without preconditions with the Dalai Lama, his representative, or democratically-elected leaders of the Tibetan community to resolve long-pending issues between Tibet and Beijing. China's response China reacted to US lawmakers visiting Dharamshala with expected fury. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said, "It’s known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion. "We are gravely concerned over the relevant reports and urge the US side to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honour the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world," he added. Following a failed rebellion against Chinese control, the Dalai Lama left Tibet in 1959 and has since resided in India. (With inputs from agencies)

US House delegation, including Nancy Pelosi, Michael McCaul in Dharamshala for talks with Dalai Lama

India and the US have seen a steady growth in the space sector ties in with recent decades and now India and the US are contemplating human lunar exploration.

US explores Indian interest in lunar gateway

The Hindujas, Britain's richest family, has been accused of spending more on a dog than a servant in a court statement made by prosecutors in a case of alleged abuse and human trafficking&nbsp;at their Lake Geneva villa. According to prosecutors, the family made a servant work for up to 18 hours a day, seven days a week, for a mere seven Swiss francs ($8).

<h2>Allegations by prosecutor</h2>

Prosecutor Yves Bertossa said in Geneva’s criminal court on Monday (Jun 17) that the family "spent more for one dog than one of their servants.”

He also referred to a budget document titled 'Pets', and claimed that the family spent 8,584 Swiss francs ($9669) in a year on their family dog.

He added that the staff contract didn't mention specific working hour details and the employees had to be available at any time on request.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjS3N2EyeSGAxXRS2wGHUorCv4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rishi-sunak-and-akshata-murty-climb-sunday-times-rich-list-with-infosys-shares-722622" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rishi-sunak-and-akshata-murty-climb-sunday-times-rich-list-with-infosys-shares-722622&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjS3N2EyeSGAxXRS2wGHUorCv4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty climb `Sunday Times Rich List` with Infosys shares</a>

According to the allegations, the passports of the staff were confiscated and they were not allowed to leave the house without the employer's permission.

The lawsuit has been filed against four members of the Hinduja family: 78-year-old Prakash Hinduja, his wife Kamal, their son Ajay and his wife Namrata.

On Monday, Ajay testified before the court and said he had no information about the employee and that the recruitment was handled by Hinduja group's India arm. Prakash and Kamal didn't appear in court citing poor health.

<h2>Response by the Hinduja family lawyer</h2>

Hinduja family's attorneys have vehemently denied these claims, claiming the servants have been always treated with 'dignity and respect.' They accused the prosecutor of misleading the court by needless exaggeration.

“When they sit down to watch a movie with the kids, can that be considered work? I think not,” said Yael Hayat, a lawyer for family scion Ajay Hinduja.

She added how a staffer admitted that her pay in Geneva was better than what she was earning in India. The Geneva prosecutor’s office was conflating justice with social justice, the lawyer said.

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Furthermore, lawyers for the&nbsp;Hinduja family also pushed back on these claims and said that the family members themselves are not&nbsp;involved in the hiring or day-to-day handling of staff.&nbsp;

In a statement to Forbes,&nbsp;Romain Jordan,&nbsp;an attorney for the Hinduja family, called the&nbsp;criminal indictment "excessive" and accused the prosecutors of being biased&nbsp;against the billionaire family.

"No other family would have been treated in this way. Our clients remain determined to defend themselves and have confidence in the judicial system," said Jordan.&nbsp;

The Hinduja Group, a mega-corporation owned by the Hinduja family, runs businesses in nearly 12 different areas like finance, IT, and infrastructure.

They also possess valuable property in London, such as the Raffles Hotel located at the Old War Office in Whitehall, where the most expensive suite costs £25,000 per night.

After SP Hinduja passed away last year, his brother Gopi has taken charge of the family's businesses.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hindujas, Britain's richest family, has been accused of spending more on a dog than a servant in a court statement made by prosecutors in a case of alleged abuse and human trafficking at their Lake Geneva villa.

The Hindujas, Britain's richest family, has been accused of spending more on a dog than a servant in a court statement made by prosecutors in a case of alleged abuse and human trafficking at their Lake Geneva villa. According to prosecutors, the family made a servant work for up to 18 hours a day, seven days a week, for a mere seven Swiss francs ($8). Allegations by prosecutor Prosecutor Yves Bertossa said in Geneva’s criminal court on Monday (Jun 17) that the family "spent more for one dog than one of their servants.” He also referred to a budget document titled 'Pets', and claimed that the family spent 8,584 Swiss francs ($9669) in a year on their family dog. He added that the staff contract didn't mention specific working hour details and the employees had to be available at any time on request. Also read: Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty climb `Sunday Times Rich List` with Infosys shares According to the allegations, the passports of the staff were confiscated and they were not allowed to leave the house without the employer's permission. The lawsuit has been filed against four members of the Hinduja family: 78-year-old Prakash Hinduja, his wife Kamal, their son Ajay and his wife Namrata. On Monday, Ajay testified before the court and said he had no information about the employee and that the recruitment was handled by Hinduja group's India arm. Prakash and Kamal didn't appear in court citing poor health. Response by the Hinduja family lawyer Hinduja family's attorneys have vehemently denied these claims, claiming the servants have been always treated with 'dignity and respect.' They accused the prosecutor of misleading the court by needless exaggeration. “When they sit down to watch a movie with the kids, can that be considered work? I think not,” said Yael Hayat, a lawyer for family scion Ajay Hinduja. She added how a staffer admitted that her pay in Geneva was better than what she was earning in India. The Geneva prosecutor’s office was conflating justice with social justice, the lawyer said. Also read: Indian-born British billionaire SP Hinduja passes away at 87 in London Furthermore, lawyers for the Hinduja family also pushed back on these claims and said that the family members themselves are not involved in the hiring or day-to-day handling of staff. In a statement to Forbes, Romain Jordan, an attorney for the Hinduja family, called the criminal indictment "excessive" and accused the prosecutors of being biased against the billionaire family. "No other family would have been treated in this way. Our clients remain determined to defend themselves and have confidence in the judicial system," said Jordan. The Hinduja Group, a mega-corporation owned by the Hinduja family, runs businesses in nearly 12 different areas like finance, IT, and infrastructure. They also possess valuable property in London, such as the Raffles Hotel located at the Old War Office in Whitehall, where the most expensive suite costs £25,000 per night. After SP Hinduja passed away last year, his brother Gopi has taken charge of the family's businesses. (With inputs from agencies)

The Hindujas, UK's richest family, accused of spending more on dog than servant in exploitation case

The Boeing's Starliner capsule, which was launched into space with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams on board, will return to Earth after a week-long delay. US space agency NASA's commercial crew programme manager Steve Stich said the new date of arrival has been set as June 26 against the backdrop of a critical analysis regarding the safety of the spacecraft. Notably, when Starliner managed to dock at the International Space Station, it encountered several problems, including five failures of its 28 manoeuvring thrusters and at least four helium leaks.

<h2>Why Starliner's return has been delayed?</h2>

According to news agency CNN, the delay is attributed to two major factors—a scheduled spacewalk and thruster troubleshooting.

Stich said the delay would “give our team a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis and make sure we’re really ready to come home.”

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“We look at that as an opportunity and in this case, a privilege to stay on station and do more work,” Boeing’s commercial crew programme lead Mark Nappi said, as per the Sentinel. “We’ve always said this is a test flight. We’re going to learn some things. So here we are,” he added.

Nappi added it was crucial to find out why the spacecraft's thrusters went off during docking. The NASA official said investigating helium leaks was also necessary.

<h2>Spacecraft's first human spaceflight</h2>

It is the first time that Starliner has been launched into space with humans on board. If the spaceflight is successfully completed, it will get the necessary certification which will allow it to launch NASA missions to the ISS. Currently, NASA has to solely rely on Elon Musk's SpaceX for such missions.

Watch:&nbsp;NASA's Chandra telescope reveals stunning details of Milky Way's superstar cluster

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The return flight, now scheduled for&nbsp;next week, will take around six hours to return to Earth.

According to an agreement, Boeing is set to launch six missions with the Starliner-1, beginning in February next year. However, Boeing is currently four years behind SpaceX, which has been transporting astronauts from the US since May 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Boeing's Starliner capsule, which was launched into space with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams on board, will return to Earth after a week-long delay.

The Boeing's Starliner capsule, which was launched into space with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams on board, will return to Earth after a week-long delay. US space agency NASA's commercial crew programme manager Steve Stich said the new date of arrival has been set as June 26 against the backdrop of a critical analysis regarding the safety of the spacecraft. Notably, when Starliner managed to dock at the International Space Station, it encountered several problems, including five failures of its 28 manoeuvring thrusters and at least four helium leaks. Why Starliner's return has been delayed? According to news agency CNN, the delay is attributed to two major factors—a scheduled spacewalk and thruster troubleshooting. Stich said the delay would “give our team a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis and make sure we’re really ready to come home.” Also read: ‘Atoco Point’: NASA’s rover spots strikingly mysterious rock never seen before on Mars “We look at that as an opportunity and in this case, a privilege to stay on station and do more work,” Boeing’s commercial crew programme lead Mark Nappi said, as per the Sentinel. “We’ve always said this is a test flight. We’re going to learn some things. So here we are,” he added. Nappi added it was crucial to find out why the spacecraft's thrusters went off during docking. The NASA official said investigating helium leaks was also necessary. Spacecraft's first human spaceflight It is the first time that Starliner has been launched into space with humans on board. If the spaceflight is successfully completed, it will get the necessary certification which will allow it to launch NASA missions to the ISS. Currently, NASA has to solely rely on Elon Musk's SpaceX for such missions. Watch: NASA's Chandra telescope reveals stunning details of Milky Way's superstar cluster × The return flight, now scheduled for next week, will take around six hours to return to Earth. According to an agreement, Boeing is set to launch six missions with the Starliner-1, beginning in February next year. However, Boeing is currently four years behind SpaceX, which has been transporting astronauts from the US since May 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing Starliner's return to Earth delayed as NASA carries out critical safety investigation

The Canadian Parliament observed silence on Tuesday in remembrance and honour of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a wanted criminal in India. This came despite India lodged a strong response to it. Watch in for more details!

Canada parliament observes 'moment of silence' in memory of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar

The pastor of a megachurch in the US state of Texas said on Tuesday (Jun 18) that he had resigned after admitting to sexually abusing a child in the 1980s. This was after a woman had recently come forward publicly with her account and said that Robert Morris, a senior pastor, had sexually abused her on multiple occasions when she was 12 years old.&nbsp;

<h2>About Morris’ resignation</h2>

The Dallas-based Gateway church, in a statement, said that they had accepted Morris’ resignation and would conduct an independent review to make sure they “have a complete understanding of the events” from 1982 to 1987.

Morris, the church’s senior pastor and founder, was also one of former US President Donald Trump’s ex-spiritual advisers. The now-former pastor used to preach to more than 100,000 active attendees.&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

<h2>What are the allegations against him?</h2>

In an interview, on Saturday (Jun 15), Cindy Clemishire,&nbsp;Morris' accuser&nbsp;told The Dallas Morning News that she had met him in 1981 when he was a travelling preacher and began preaching at her family’s church in the US state of Oklahoma.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-yorks-top-court-refuses-to-hear-trumps-appeal-of-gag-order-in-hush-money-case-732959">New York’s top court refuses to hear Trump’s appeal of gag order in hush money case</a>

Clemishire, now 54, alleged that Morris was staying at her house with his wife and son, in 1982.&nbsp;During this time, he asked her to come to his room, told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately.&nbsp;

She said that the abuse continued for around four and a half years. Clemishire told USA Today that she was 12 and Morris was 21 when he started molesting her and that she was no longer afraid.

Morris’ accuser told the Christian Post, a religious publication, that while she had forgiven the pastor for the sexual abuse, she believed that he should not have returned to ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>What did Morris say?</h2>

Morris, 62, on Saturday (Jun 15) told Christian Post that he was “involved in inappropriate sexual behaviour” with a girl he inaccurately referred to as “a young lady”.&nbsp;

“It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong,” the now-former pastor said, adding that the “behaviour happened on several occasions over the next few years.”

He also said that he had confessed his behaviour to the church back in 1987.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-mexico-wildfires-1-dead-1400-structures-damaged-emergency-declared-in-lincoln-county-733059">New Mexico wildfires: 1 dead, 1,400 structures damaged; emergency declared in Lincoln county</a>

However, the Gateway Church, in a statement said it “did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse.”&nbsp;

It added that they knew about his “extramarital relationship” which was discussed “many times” throughout his ministry but not that it was “abuse of a 12-year-old child.”

Notably, Morris was appointed to Trump’s evangelical advisory board for his 2016 presidential campaign and even participated in a roundtable discussion with the former president in 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The pastor of a megachurch in the US state of Texas said on Tuesday (Jun 18) that he had resigned after admitting to sexually abusing a child in the 1980s. This was after a woman had recently come forward publicly with her account and said that Robert Morris, a senior pastor, had sexually abused her on multiple occasions when she was 12 years old.

The pastor of a megachurch in the US state of Texas said on Tuesday (Jun 18) that he had resigned after admitting to sexually abusing a child in the 1980s. This was after a woman had recently come forward publicly with her account and said that Robert Morris, a senior pastor, had sexually abused her on multiple occasions when she was 12 years old. About Morris’ resignation The Dallas-based Gateway church, in a statement, said that they had accepted Morris’ resignation and would conduct an independent review to make sure they “have a complete understanding of the events” from 1982 to 1987. Morris, the church’s senior pastor and founder, was also one of former US President Donald Trump’s ex-spiritual advisers. The now-former pastor used to preach to more than 100,000 active attendees. Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised. What are the allegations against him? In an interview, on Saturday (Jun 15), Cindy Clemishire, Morris' accuser told The Dallas Morning News that she had met him in 1981 when he was a travelling preacher and began preaching at her family’s church in the US state of Oklahoma. Also Read | New York’s top court refuses to hear Trump’s appeal of gag order in hush money case Clemishire, now 54, alleged that Morris was staying at her house with his wife and son, in 1982. During this time, he asked her to come to his room, told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately. She said that the abuse continued for around four and a half years. Clemishire told USA Today that she was 12 and Morris was 21 when he started molesting her and that she was no longer afraid. Morris’ accuser told the Christian Post, a religious publication, that while she had forgiven the pastor for the sexual abuse, she believed that he should not have returned to ministry. What did Morris say? Morris, 62, on Saturday (Jun 15) told Christian Post that he was “involved in inappropriate sexual behaviour” with a girl he inaccurately referred to as “a young lady”. “It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong,” the now-former pastor said, adding that the “behaviour happened on several occasions over the next few years.” He also said that he had confessed his behaviour to the church back in 1987. Also Read | New Mexico wildfires: 1 dead, 1,400 structures damaged; emergency declared in Lincoln county However, the Gateway Church, in a statement said it “did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse.” It added that they knew about his “extramarital relationship” which was discussed “many times” throughout his ministry but not that it was “abuse of a 12-year-old child.” Notably, Morris was appointed to Trump’s evangelical advisory board for his 2016 presidential campaign and even participated in a roundtable discussion with the former president in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Pastor of Texas megachurch and ex-Trump adviser resigns after admitting he sexually abused 12-year-old girl

Hajj deaths 2024 News: Tragedies have marked this year's Hajj pilgrimage, as at least 550 pilgrims have died, primarily because of heat-related illnesses.

Speaking to news agency AFP, diplomats coordinating their countries' responses revealed that at least 323 of those who died were Egyptians.

<h2>Hajj Deaths in 2024</h2>

Citing a figure from the hospital morgue in the Al-Muaisem neighbourhood of Mecca, one of the diplomats said that "all of them (the Egyptians) died because of heat" except for one pilgrim who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush.

According to an official tally released on Tuesday (June 18), at least 60 Jordanians have also died.

Diplomats reported that the total number of dead bodies at the morgue in Al-Muaisem, one of the biggest in Mecca, was 550. As per AFP estimates, the deaths of pilgrims from various countries total 577.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-300-egyptian-pilgrims-die-in-hajj-most-from-heat-diplomats-732982">More than 300 Egyptian pilgrims die in hajj, most from heat: Diplomats</a>

Other countries to report deaths during the hajj this year include Indonesia, Iran, and Senegal. However, most countries have yet to specify how many deaths were heat-related.

Last year — 2023 — 240 pilgrims were reported dead by various countries.

<h2>Heatwave, climate change and Hajj 2024</h2>

This year, according to Saudi authorities, around 1.8 million pilgrims took part in the hajj — 1.6 million of them from abroad.

They faced extreme temperatures, which on Monday (June 17) reached 51.8 degrees Celsius (125.24 degrees Fahrenheit) at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, as reported by the Saudi National Meteorology Centre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-apologises-to-crash-victims-families-admits-flawed-culture-in-senate-hearing-732992">Boeing CEO apologises to crash victims' families, admits flawed culture in Senate hearing</a>

According to a Saudi study published last year, driven by climate change, temperatures in the area where rituals are performed were rising 0.4 degrees Celsius (0.72 degrees Fahrenheit) each decade.

Saudi officials, as per AFP, had advised pilgrims to use umbrellas, drink plenty of water and avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. However, with many hajj rituals, including the prayers on Mount Arafat which took place on Saturday (June 15)&nbsp;involving&nbsp;being outdoors for hours in the daytime, avoiding the heat wasn't possible. Volunteers also handed pilgrims&nbsp;cold drinks and fast-melting chocolate ice cream to help them keep cool.

Hajj deaths 2024 News: Tragedies have marked this year's Hajj pilgrimage, as at least 550 pilgrims have died, primarily because of heat-related illnesses. Speaking to news agency AFP, diplomats coordinating their countries' responses revealed that at least 323 of those who died were Egyptians.

Hajj deaths 2024 News: Tragedies have marked this year's Hajj pilgrimage, as at least 550 pilgrims have died, primarily because of heat-related illnesses. Speaking to news agency AFP, diplomats coordinating their countries' responses revealed that at least 323 of those who died were Egyptians. Hajj Deaths in 2024 Citing a figure from the hospital morgue in the Al-Muaisem neighbourhood of Mecca, one of the diplomats said that "all of them (the Egyptians) died because of heat" except for one pilgrim who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush. According to an official tally released on Tuesday (June 18), at least 60 Jordanians have also died. Diplomats reported that the total number of dead bodies at the morgue in Al-Muaisem, one of the biggest in Mecca, was 550. As per AFP estimates, the deaths of pilgrims from various countries total 577. Also read | More than 300 Egyptian pilgrims die in hajj, most from heat: Diplomats Other countries to report deaths during the hajj this year include Indonesia, Iran, and Senegal. However, most countries have yet to specify how many deaths were heat-related. Last year — 2023 — 240 pilgrims were reported dead by various countries. Heatwave, climate change and Hajj 2024 This year, according to Saudi authorities, around 1.8 million pilgrims took part in the hajj — 1.6 million of them from abroad. They faced extreme temperatures, which on Monday (June 17) reached 51.8 degrees Celsius (125.24 degrees Fahrenheit) at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, as reported by the Saudi National Meteorology Centre. Also read | Boeing CEO apologises to crash victims' families, admits flawed culture in Senate hearing According to a Saudi study published last year, driven by climate change, temperatures in the area where rituals are performed were rising 0.4 degrees Celsius (0.72 degrees Fahrenheit) each decade. Saudi officials, as per AFP, had advised pilgrims to use umbrellas, drink plenty of water and avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. However, with many hajj rituals, including the prayers on Mount Arafat which took place on Saturday (June 15) involving being outdoors for hours in the daytime, avoiding the heat wasn't possible. Volunteers also handed pilgrims cold drinks and fast-melting chocolate ice cream to help them keep cool.

Hajj deaths 2024: Heatwave claims over 550 lives as temperatures hit 51.8 degrees Celsius in Mecca

Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. At the Senate hearing, Calhoun apologised to the families of the victims of the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and admitted that his company's culture was flawed but insisted on ongoing improvements in safety.

"Our culture is far from perfect, but we are taking action and making progress," said the Boeing CEO.

He also admitted to retaliation against whistleblowers and said, "I know it happens," but failed to answer&nbsp;if Boeing fired any of its employees who retaliated against whistleblowers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-whistleblower-claims-boeing-asked-damaged-or-defective-stored-parts-to-be-hidden-from-regulators-732929">New whistleblower claims Boeing asked damaged or defective stored parts to be hidden from regulators</a>

<h2>'Boeing's Broken Safety Culture' hearing</h2>

This was Calhoun's first testimony since a January incident where a 737 MAX made an emergency landing due to a fuselage panel blowing out.

The hearing, an examination of "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture," followed an April session where a Boeing engineer spoke about being punished for raising safety concerns about the 787 Dreamliner and 777 models.&nbsp;

At the hearing, the senate committee revealed additional worker complaints, including a whistleblower's warning that Boeing's use of damaged or inadequate parts could "lead to a catastrophic event".&nbsp;

Senator Richard Blumenthal, who led the committee, stressed the need for a major overhaul in Boeing's safety culture and said that the company stands "at a moment of reckoning and an opportunity to change a broken safety culture."

There "is near overwhelming evidence… that prosecution should be pursued," he said, vowing to keep up oversight of the company.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/club-q-shooter-anderson-lee-aldrich-gets-55-more-life-sentences-for-2022-lgbtq-massacre-732988">Club Q shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich gets 55 additional life sentences for 2022 LGBTQ massacre</a>

During the hearing, it was revealed that a new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, has alleged that Boeing hid improperly stored parts from federal inspectors to avoid extra costs.&nbsp;

<h2>Aggressive questioning</h2>

Calhoun faced aggressive questioning, particularly from Senator Josh Hawley, who criticised his $33 million pay and suggested he should resign.&nbsp;

"You're the problem," Hawley told Calhoun, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

"And I just hope to God that you don't destroy this company before it can be saved," he added.

Calhoun revealed that he was planning to step down at the end of 2024.

The hearing included emotional statements from crash victims' families, calling for criminal charges against Boeing executives, including Calhoun.

Boeing CEO Calhoun is a "mass killer," said Adnaan Stumo, who lost his sister Nadia Milleron in the Ethiopian Airlines crash.

"There needs to be criminal charges for the people at the top."

Erin Applebaum, representing the 34 affected families, urged the Department of Justice to take Calhoun's words about accountability seriously and pursue charges against Boeing's top executives.

"The US Department of Justice should take Mr. Calhoun's words to heart and move forward with criminal charges against Boeing executives — starting with the CEO himself," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. At the Senate hearing, Calhoun apologised to the families of the victims of the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and admitted that his company's culture was flawed but insisted on ongoing improvements in safety.

Boeing's CEO, David Calhoun, on Tuesday (June 18) faced tough questions from a US congressional panel. At the Senate hearing, Calhoun apologised to the families of the victims of the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and admitted that his company's culture was flawed but insisted on ongoing improvements in safety. "Our culture is far from perfect, but we are taking action and making progress," said the Boeing CEO. He also admitted to retaliation against whistleblowers and said, "I know it happens," but failed to answer if Boeing fired any of its employees who retaliated against whistleblowers. Also read | New whistleblower claims Boeing asked damaged or defective stored parts to be hidden from regulators 'Boeing's Broken Safety Culture' hearing This was Calhoun's first testimony since a January incident where a 737 MAX made an emergency landing due to a fuselage panel blowing out. The hearing, an examination of "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture," followed an April session where a Boeing engineer spoke about being punished for raising safety concerns about the 787 Dreamliner and 777 models. At the hearing, the senate committee revealed additional worker complaints, including a whistleblower's warning that Boeing's use of damaged or inadequate parts could "lead to a catastrophic event". Senator Richard Blumenthal, who led the committee, stressed the need for a major overhaul in Boeing's safety culture and said that the company stands "at a moment of reckoning and an opportunity to change a broken safety culture." There "is near overwhelming evidence… that prosecution should be pursued," he said, vowing to keep up oversight of the company. Also read | Club Q shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich gets 55 additional life sentences for 2022 LGBTQ massacre During the hearing, it was revealed that a new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, has alleged that Boeing hid improperly stored parts from federal inspectors to avoid extra costs. Aggressive questioning Calhoun faced aggressive questioning, particularly from Senator Josh Hawley, who criticised his $33 million pay and suggested he should resign. "You're the problem," Hawley told Calhoun, as reported by AFP. "And I just hope to God that you don't destroy this company before it can be saved," he added. Calhoun revealed that he was planning to step down at the end of 2024. The hearing included emotional statements from crash victims' families, calling for criminal charges against Boeing executives, including Calhoun. Boeing CEO Calhoun is a "mass killer," said Adnaan Stumo, who lost his sister Nadia Milleron in the Ethiopian Airlines crash. "There needs to be criminal charges for the people at the top." Erin Applebaum, representing the 34 affected families, urged the Department of Justice to take Calhoun's words about accountability seriously and pursue charges against Boeing's top executives. "The US Department of Justice should take Mr. Calhoun's words to heart and move forward with criminal charges against Boeing executives — starting with the CEO himself," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing CEO apologises to crash victims' families, admits flawed culture in Senate hearing

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court.

The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness.

"Non-compliance with the law has become a symbol of tourism in Krakow," Ryszard Rydiger, the lawyer behind the initiative, told AFP.

He likened the situation to something seen "nowhere else in Europe" and said tourists were behaving like "Tarzan from the Jungle" without consequence.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that Krakow -- visited by a whopping 9.4 million tourists in 2023, according to city estimates -- has grappled with challenges posed by its more unruly visitors.&nbsp;

Last year, there were 6,800 police interventions in the city centre, many of them for drinking alcohol and destroying public property. Two-thirds resulted in fines, according to municipal police spokesman Marek Aniol. &nbsp;

- 'Heart of darkness' -

While the lawsuit alleges that public disturbance issues are endemic to the entire Old Town, residents name Szewska Street as the problem's epicentre.&nbsp;

"Every day of the week, until six in the morning, Szewska becomes a place of noisy gatherings," reads the suit.

"The crowd, without any restrictions or effective response from city authorities, sings... shouts, fights, vomits... The noise emitted by the drunken rabble exceeds the standards permitted by law."

The initiative was a good move, according to one resident, club promoter Jan, who called Szewska the "heart of darkness".&nbsp;

"The city should intervene in some way," the 23-year-old told AFP.

Noise and mess aside, Jan said that competition among clubs for higher numbers of late-night visitors also resulted in street fights.&nbsp;

He recounted the story of a friend who worked as a promoter on Szewska but had to quit due to the "heavy trauma" of violence from rivals.

Even beyond the dead centre, late-night debauchery can pose problems for locals.

"You can't walk peacefully in the evening, or at night," said Weronika, a 25-year-old doctor.

"The peace is very disturbed."&nbsp;

- 'City of Polish kings' -

Krakow has taken steps to address the issue.

Mayor Aleksander Miszalski announced this week the appointment of a night official, as well as plans for a committee that would research the situation and offer solutions.

Last July, the city became Poland's first to ban alcohol sales from midnight until 5:30 am, a move supported by more than half of residents.&nbsp;

Police said that in the first six months, interventions were down by half and fewer intoxicated people landed in sobering-up centres.

For the past three years, Krakow has also employed "City Helpers" during the high season -- night-time volunteers tasked with providing information to tourists and calling police if need be. &nbsp;

The municipality has also released numerous advertising campaigns geared towards bringing out-of-towners into line and reducing public disturbances.&nbsp;

"Of course we need tourists," said Jan. "It's just that there needs to be appropriate legislation so that we have the tourists, but without the noise, mess and crap."&nbsp;

What began as a public safety operation in 2021 later evolved into a targeted campaign against Britons, who are known for indulging in stag nights in Krakow.

While initial posters around the city urged both residents and visitors to respect others' space, be on "good behaviour" and "keep belongings safe", the latest campaign was much more blunt.&nbsp;

"You are in the city of Polish kings," the posters read. "This deserves respect."

Rydiger said these "actions go in the right direction" but are "completely initial" in terms of addressing the problem.&nbsp;

"For years, the tourism policy has been 'come, come, come', but it has not been about setting clear boundaries on what can and cannot be done," he said.

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court.

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court. The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness. "Non-compliance with the law has become a symbol of tourism in Krakow," Ryszard Rydiger, the lawyer behind the initiative, told AFP. He likened the situation to something seen "nowhere else in Europe" and said tourists were behaving like "Tarzan from the Jungle" without consequence. This is not the first time that Krakow -- visited by a whopping 9.4 million tourists in 2023, according to city estimates -- has grappled with challenges posed by its more unruly visitors. Last year, there were 6,800 police interventions in the city centre, many of them for drinking alcohol and destroying public property. Two-thirds resulted in fines, according to municipal police spokesman Marek Aniol. - 'Heart of darkness' - While the lawsuit alleges that public disturbance issues are endemic to the entire Old Town, residents name Szewska Street as the problem's epicentre. "Every day of the week, until six in the morning, Szewska becomes a place of noisy gatherings," reads the suit. "The crowd, without any restrictions or effective response from city authorities, sings... shouts, fights, vomits... The noise emitted by the drunken rabble exceeds the standards permitted by law." The initiative was a good move, according to one resident, club promoter Jan, who called Szewska the "heart of darkness". "The city should intervene in some way," the 23-year-old told AFP. Noise and mess aside, Jan said that competition among clubs for higher numbers of late-night visitors also resulted in street fights. He recounted the story of a friend who worked as a promoter on Szewska but had to quit due to the "heavy trauma" of violence from rivals. Even beyond the dead centre, late-night debauchery can pose problems for locals. "You can't walk peacefully in the evening, or at night," said Weronika, a 25-year-old doctor. "The peace is very disturbed." - 'City of Polish kings' - Krakow has taken steps to address the issue. Mayor Aleksander Miszalski announced this week the appointment of a night official, as well as plans for a committee that would research the situation and offer solutions. Last July, the city became Poland's first to ban alcohol sales from midnight until 5:30 am, a move supported by more than half of residents. Police said that in the first six months, interventions were down by half and fewer intoxicated people landed in sobering-up centres. For the past three years, Krakow has also employed "City Helpers" during the high season -- night-time volunteers tasked with providing information to tourists and calling police if need be. The municipality has also released numerous advertising campaigns geared towards bringing out-of-towners into line and reducing public disturbances. "Of course we need tourists," said Jan. "It's just that there needs to be appropriate legislation so that we have the tourists, but without the noise, mess and crap." What began as a public safety operation in 2021 later evolved into a targeted campaign against Britons, who are known for indulging in stag nights in Krakow. While initial posters around the city urged both residents and visitors to respect others' space, be on "good behaviour" and "keep belongings safe", the latest campaign was much more blunt. "You are in the city of Polish kings," the posters read. "This deserves respect." Rydiger said these "actions go in the right direction" but are "completely initial" in terms of addressing the problem. "For years, the tourism policy has been 'come, come, come', but it has not been about setting clear boundaries on what can and cannot be done," he said.

Shouts, fights, vomit: Polish city grapples with drunk tourists

A devastating fire broke out at a massive military ammunition depot in N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, causing fatalities and injuries, President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno announced on Wednesday (June 19).&nbsp;

The blaze erupted late Tuesday, leading to extensive damage and loss of life.

In a post on Facebook, President Deby said it "caused human and material damage." However, he did not specify the number of casualties.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/club-q-shooter-anderson-lee-aldrich-gets-55-more-life-sentences-for-2022-lgbtq-massacre-732988">Club Q shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich gets 55 additional life sentences for 2022 LGBTQ massacre</a>

"Peace to the souls of the victims, sincere condolences to the grieving families and a speedy recovery to the wounded," he added while promising a thorough investigation into the incident.

The fire broke out just a few kilometres from Chad's main international airport, which authorities said was unaffected.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

According to&nbsp;AFP, the massive fire started late on Tuesday (June 17) at the depot in the Goudji area near the airport. It caused a series of explosions that were heard miles away.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing projectiles launched into the sky and detonating, illuminating the area with flashes of red and black.&nbsp;As per the report, explosions continued for more than an hour and a half after the initial blasts.

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🚨🇹🇩 Explosions at Ammunition Depot in Chad's Capital 
 
A major fire has triggered intense explosions at an ammunition depot near N'Djamena airport in Chad. 
 
The blasts have scattered ammunition across a wide area, causing significant concern among local residents. 
 
Footage shows… <a href="https://t.co/VaLJKSrIqd">pic.twitter.com/VaLJKSrIqd</a>
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1803229296812531750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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While an official figure on the number of casualties is awaited, Reuters citing witnesses reports that&nbsp;at least one person was killed and several wounded. A resident&nbsp;of a neighbourhood near the depot has reported witnessing at least two injured people being rushed to hospital on motorbikes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-300-egyptian-pilgrims-die-in-hajj-most-from-heat-diplomats-732982">More than 300 Egyptian pilgrims die in hajj, most from heat: Diplomats</a>

In a statement on Facebook, Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, also the government spokesperson, urged the population to remain calm and described the explosions as "huge."&nbsp;

A senior army official speaking to AFP confirmed that the "biggest ammunition depot in N'Djamena has caught fire".

The depot is located in a densely populated neighbourhood near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed. An official from the French forces, speaking anonymously, stated that the fire "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres".

(With inputs from agencies)

A devastating fire broke out at a massive military ammunition depot in N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, causing fatalities and injuries, President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno announced on Wednesday (June 19).

A devastating fire broke out at a massive military ammunition depot in N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, causing fatalities and injuries, President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno announced on Wednesday (June 19). The blaze erupted late Tuesday, leading to extensive damage and loss of life. In a post on Facebook, President Deby said it "caused human and material damage." However, he did not specify the number of casualties. Also read | Club Q shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich gets 55 additional life sentences for 2022 LGBTQ massacre "Peace to the souls of the victims, sincere condolences to the grieving families and a speedy recovery to the wounded," he added while promising a thorough investigation into the incident. The fire broke out just a few kilometres from Chad's main international airport, which authorities said was unaffected. What happened? According to AFP, the massive fire started late on Tuesday (June 17) at the depot in the Goudji area near the airport. It caused a series of explosions that were heard miles away. Eyewitnesses reported seeing projectiles launched into the sky and detonating, illuminating the area with flashes of red and black. As per the report, explosions continued for more than an hour and a half after the initial blasts. 🚨🇹🇩 Explosions at Ammunition Depot in Chad's Capital A major fire has triggered intense explosions at an ammunition depot near N'Djamena airport in Chad. The blasts have scattered ammunition across a wide area, causing significant concern among local residents. Footage shows… pic.twitter.com/VaLJKSrIqd — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) June 19, 2024 × While an official figure on the number of casualties is awaited, Reuters citing witnesses reports that at least one person was killed and several wounded. A resident of a neighbourhood near the depot has reported witnessing at least two injured people being rushed to hospital on motorbikes. Also read | More than 300 Egyptian pilgrims die in hajj, most from heat: Diplomats In a statement on Facebook, Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, also the government spokesperson, urged the population to remain calm and described the explosions as "huge." A senior army official speaking to AFP confirmed that the "biggest ammunition depot in N'Djamena has caught fire". The depot is located in a densely populated neighbourhood near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed. An official from the French forces, speaking anonymously, stated that the fire "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres". (With inputs from agencies)

Deadly blaze at Chad's largest ammunition depot results in fatalities, president promises investigation

Anderson Lee Aldrich, the mass shooter who in 2022 killed five people at an LGBTQ club in Colorado, has pleaded guilty to hate crimes, receiving an additional 55 life sentences on top of his existing five life terms.&nbsp;

Aldrich, responsible for the horrifying massacre at Club Q in Colorado Springs, had already been serving five life sentences for the attack, which also injured 22 people.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (June 18), a US district judge added 55 more life sentences and an extra 190 years to his sentence, after hearing how the shooter specifically targeted the LGBTQ community in their "safe place".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-win-for-lgbtq-rights-thailand-becomes-first-southeast-asian-country-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage-732809">Historic win for LGBTQ rights: Thailand becomes first Southeast Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage</a>

<h2>"Stronger than you"</h2>

Condemning Aldrich's actions, Judge Charlotte Sweeney said, "You went to this community's safe place and mass-murdered people, but I hope what you learned today is this community is much stronger than you."

Noting that the added sentence was appropriate during Pride Month, Judge Sweeney as per AFP added, "This community is stronger than your armour, stronger than your weapons, and it's sure as heck stronger than your hatred."

<h2>What happened in 2022?</h2>

Aldrich, who had stockpiled a $9,000 arsenal over two years, targeted Club Q on November 19, 2022, using an AR-15-style assault rifle.&nbsp;

The massacre ended when two club patrons bravely subdued Aldrich until the police arrived.&nbsp;

Prosecutors revealed that Aldrich had expressed hateful and violent ideologies online, including anti-LGBTQ sentiments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-offer-citizenship-pathway-for-undocumented-spouses-of-us-citizens-732903">Biden to offer citizenship pathway for undocumented spouses of US citizens</a>

"The defendant used an online platform... to disseminate a manifesto purportedly authored by someone who committed a mass shooting earlier that year," revealed the court documents.

"This link revealed predominantly racist and anti-Semitic beliefs but also the following statement, 'Transgenderism, however, is a mental illness and should be addressed as such'."

<h2>Death penalty</h2>

In a plea deal, federal prosecutors agreed to remove the death penalty option in exchange for Aldrich's 74 guilty pleas — In the US, federal hate crimes can be punished with the death penalty.

(With inputs from agencies)

Anderson Lee Aldrich, the mass shooter who in 2022 killed five people at an LGBTQ club in Colorado, has pleaded guilty to hate crimes, receiving an additional 55 life sentences on top of his existing five life terms.

Anderson Lee Aldrich, the mass shooter who in 2022 killed five people at an LGBTQ club in Colorado, has pleaded guilty to hate crimes, receiving an additional 55 life sentences on top of his existing five life terms. Aldrich, responsible for the horrifying massacre at Club Q in Colorado Springs, had already been serving five life sentences for the attack, which also injured 22 people. On Tuesday (June 18), a US district judge added 55 more life sentences and an extra 190 years to his sentence, after hearing how the shooter specifically targeted the LGBTQ community in their "safe place". Also read | Historic win for LGBTQ rights: Thailand becomes first Southeast Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage "Stronger than you" Condemning Aldrich's actions, Judge Charlotte Sweeney said, "You went to this community's safe place and mass-murdered people, but I hope what you learned today is this community is much stronger than you." Noting that the added sentence was appropriate during Pride Month, Judge Sweeney as per AFP added, "This community is stronger than your armour, stronger than your weapons, and it's sure as heck stronger than your hatred." What happened in 2022? Aldrich, who had stockpiled a $9,000 arsenal over two years, targeted Club Q on November 19, 2022, using an AR-15-style assault rifle. The massacre ended when two club patrons bravely subdued Aldrich until the police arrived. Prosecutors revealed that Aldrich had expressed hateful and violent ideologies online, including anti-LGBTQ sentiments. Also read | Biden to offer citizenship pathway for undocumented spouses of US citizens "The defendant used an online platform... to disseminate a manifesto purportedly authored by someone who committed a mass shooting earlier that year," revealed the court documents. "This link revealed predominantly racist and anti-Semitic beliefs but also the following statement, 'Transgenderism, however, is a mental illness and should be addressed as such'." Death penalty In a plea deal, federal prosecutors agreed to remove the death penalty option in exchange for Aldrich's 74 guilty pleas — In the US, federal hate crimes can be punished with the death penalty. (With inputs from agencies)

Club Q shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich gets 55 additional life sentences for 2022 LGBTQ massacre

President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea early on June 18, Russian news agencies reported, after he said the two countries want to cooperate closely to overcome U.S.-led sanctions in the face of intensifying confrontations with Washington.

Putin in Pyongyang: What it means for the West?

Amid tense relations between the two nations, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that he saw an "opportunity" to interact with the new Indian government.

Amid tense relations between the two nations, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that he saw an "opportunity" to interact with the new Indian government. His comment comes days after he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Italy for the G7 Summit. He added that there are "really important economic ties" between Canada and India. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi shared a photo of the two leaders shaking hands on social media along with the brief caption, "met Canadian PM Justin Trudeau at the G7 Summit." This meeting, which happened on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Apulia, southern Italy, is the first one since Trudeau's September allegation of "potential" Indian agent involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Met Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau at the G7 Summit. pic.twitter.com/e67ajADDWi — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × Trudeau, back in Ottawa, told CBC News that one of the great things about the Summit is that "you get an opportunity to engage directly with a huge range of different leaders with whom there are various issues, and certainly with India, there are massive people-to-people ties, they're really important economic ties." "There's alignment on a number of big issues that we need to work on as democracies as a global community. But now that he (Modi) is through his election, I think there is an opportunity for us to engage, including on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law that we will be engaging," Trudeau added. Also read: Canadian sentiment towards India drops sharply amid diplomatic strains: Report In response to a question about whether he had seen an improvement in India's cooperation with the Canadian investigation into the death of Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, Trudeau stated, "There is work ongoing very much." The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) vehemently denied Trudeau's accusations from the previous year, calling them "absurd and motivated". India has claimed that Canada's allowance of pro-Khalistan elements operating from Canadian land with impunity is the primary point of contention between the two nations. India has expressed its "deep concerns" to Canada on many occasions, and New Delhi anticipates that Ottawa would act decisively against such elements. Nijjar's murder is being investigated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. So far, the RCMP has detained four Indian nationals in connection with this case. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau sees 'opportunity' in interacting with PM Modi-led government amid tense relations

Ukrainian officials are pressing the U.S. and other countries to ramp up their F-16 pilot training, saying the current pipeline isn’t producing enough aviators to fly the jets that will be soon donated to Kyiv. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv says US, allies delaying pilot training

The intense heat also continues to persist into the week as a relentless heat Dome envelopes the United States. Keep watching WION to know more!

US Heatwave: High temperatures expected to persist all week

The Philippine military, on Wednesday (Jun 19) said that the Chinese coast guard rammed and boarded Filipino navy boats and seized guns from their personnel during the latest confrontation between Manila and Beijing in the disputed South China Sea. This comes a day after Manila said one of its navy officers sustained a “severe injury” due to the alteration.&nbsp;

<h2>About the latest confrontation</h2>

In what might be a major escalation in the confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in the South China Sea, Manila has accused Beijing’s personnel of “illegally” boarding their vessels and seizing guns.&nbsp;

“The Chinese Coast Guard personnel illegally embarked on our RHIBS (rigid-hulled inflatable boats),” said Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres in the first official Filipino account of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-coast-guard-claims-philippine-supply-ship-bumped-beijings-ship-in-disputed-south-china-sea-732362">confrontation on Monday (Jun 17)</a>.&nbsp;

He also said that the Chinese personnel took some guns which had been stored in the boats crewed by Filipino sailors, who were under orders not to display their weapons during the confrontation.&nbsp;

The Chinese coast guard later “deliberately punctured” the Filipino boats, said Torres.&nbsp;

Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner alleged the Chinese personnel who boarded the ship were armed.&nbsp;

“This is the first time that we saw the Chinese coast guard carry bolos, spears, and knives. Our troops had none of those,” said Brawner.&nbsp;

The guns seized were for Filipino troops on board the BRP Sierra Madre warship on the Second Thomas Shoal, said the military chief.&nbsp;

“We fought back with our bare hands,” said Brawner, adding that Filipino sailors were “outnumbered” against the Chinese coast guard who had deployed eight boats.&nbsp;

He also said that the latest confrontation began when Filipino boats were “illegally rammed” at “high speed” by a Chinese coast guard boat.

Brawner also flew to Palawan to meet the navy sailor who he said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navy-officer-severely-injured-after-chinese-ship-rammed-philippine-vessel-in-south-china-sea-manila-732874">lost a thumb</a> when the Chinese vessel landed on top of the bow.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Illegal and aggressive actions’</h2>

On Wednesday, the Philippine foreign ministry denounced China’s “illegal and aggressive actions” during the routine resupply mission on Monday.&nbsp;

In line with Manila’s “commitment to pursue peace” their department is making efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue with Beijing on the South China Sea, said the ministry.&nbsp;

It added, “This cannot be achieved if China’s words do not match their actions on the waters.”&nbsp;

<h2>China defends actions</h2>

Beijing, on Wednesday, defended what it called “professional and restrained” measures by the China Coast Guard.&nbsp;

“Law enforcement measures taken by the China Coast Guard at the site were professional and restrained,” said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian, adding that “no direct measures were taken against personnel of the Philippines.”

On Monday, China claimed a Philippine supply ship dangerously approached a Chinese vessel and slightly collided with Beijing’s ship after it illegally intruded into waters near Second Thomas Shoal.&nbsp;

The United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have condemned China’s actions.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Philippine military, on Wednesday (Jun 19) said that the Chinese coast guard rammed and boarded Filipino navy boats and seized guns from their personnel during the latest confrontation between Manila and Beijing in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippine military, on Wednesday (Jun 19) said that the Chinese coast guard rammed and boarded Filipino navy boats and seized guns from their personnel during the latest confrontation between Manila and Beijing in the disputed South China Sea. This comes a day after Manila said one of its navy officers sustained a “severe injury” due to the alteration. About the latest confrontation In what might be a major escalation in the confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in the South China Sea, Manila has accused Beijing’s personnel of “illegally” boarding their vessels and seizing guns. “The Chinese Coast Guard personnel illegally embarked on our RHIBS (rigid-hulled inflatable boats),” said Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres in the first official Filipino account of the confrontation on Monday (Jun 17). He also said that the Chinese personnel took some guns which had been stored in the boats crewed by Filipino sailors, who were under orders not to display their weapons during the confrontation. The Chinese coast guard later “deliberately punctured” the Filipino boats, said Torres. Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner alleged the Chinese personnel who boarded the ship were armed. “This is the first time that we saw the Chinese coast guard carry bolos, spears, and knives. Our troops had none of those,” said Brawner. The guns seized were for Filipino troops on board the BRP Sierra Madre warship on the Second Thomas Shoal, said the military chief. “We fought back with our bare hands,” said Brawner, adding that Filipino sailors were “outnumbered” against the Chinese coast guard who had deployed eight boats. He also said that the latest confrontation began when Filipino boats were “illegally rammed” at “high speed” by a Chinese coast guard boat. Brawner also flew to Palawan to meet the navy sailor who he said lost a thumb when the Chinese vessel landed on top of the bow. ‘Illegal and aggressive actions’ On Wednesday, the Philippine foreign ministry denounced China’s “illegal and aggressive actions” during the routine resupply mission on Monday. In line with Manila’s “commitment to pursue peace” their department is making efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue with Beijing on the South China Sea, said the ministry. It added, “This cannot be achieved if China’s words do not match their actions on the waters.” China defends actions Beijing, on Wednesday, defended what it called “professional and restrained” measures by the China Coast Guard. “Law enforcement measures taken by the China Coast Guard at the site were professional and restrained,” said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian, adding that “no direct measures were taken against personnel of the Philippines.” On Monday, China claimed a Philippine supply ship dangerously approached a Chinese vessel and slightly collided with Beijing’s ship after it illegally intruded into waters near Second Thomas Shoal. The United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have condemned China’s actions. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea ‘ramming’ incident: Philippines says Chinese coast guard boarded its navy boats, seized guns

Civilian deaths due to armed conflicts around the world soared 72 percent last year, the UN rights chief said Tuesday, voicing alarm at the proportion of women and children killed. Watch in for more details!

Global conflict claimed 72% more civilian lives in 2023: UN

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday (June 19) resigned from the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos, said the presidential palace.

In a statement, presidential spokesperson Cheloy Garafil&nbsp;said Duterte has "tendered her resignation as member of the cabinet" and will no longer serve as secretary of education. However, she&nbsp;would continue as vice president.

She has also quit as the vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).&nbsp;Her resignation, as per reports, is effective July 19.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO)&nbsp;Secretary Cheloy Garafil, Duterte has declined to provide a reason for why she quit her post. The presidential office hasn't announced Duterte's replacement as the DepEd Secretary.&nbsp;

However, at a separate press conference, Duterte stated that her "resignation is not because of weakness but because of true concern for teachers and the youth."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-royal-expert-says-latest-public-outing-must-have-been-difficult-for-princess-kate-amid-treatment-733093">Royal expert says latest public outing must have been difficult for Princess Kate amid treatment</a>

<h2>Who is Sara Duterte? </h2>

Sara Duterte is the daughter of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who was blocked by the constitution from seeking a second term in 2022.

This sudden move, as per Reuters, indicates a major fallout with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and the end of their alliance.

The Marcos and Duterte families formed a strategic alliance in 2022. Sara Duterte ran as Marcos' vice-presidential candidate, tapping into the Duterte family's strong support base and sealing a political comeback for the Marcos dynasty.&nbsp;

In the Philippines, however, the president and vice-president are elected separately, allowing room for political friction. Though the alliance's eventual collapse was expected, the speed of the fallout surprised analysts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pulls-off-a-pakistan-act-holds-moment-of-silent-for-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-in-parliament-733095">Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament</a>

Earlier this year, former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sara's father, accused Marcos of using drugs, further straining relations. Additionally, Duterte's son, the mayor of Davao City, had called for Marcos's resignation.

Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, commented on Duterte's resignation, saying, "It is the break we have all been waiting for."

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday (June 19) resigned from the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos, said the presidential palace. In a statement, presidential spokesperson Cheloy Garafil said Duterte has "tendered her resignation as member of the cabinet" and will no longer serve as secretary of education.

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday (June 19) resigned from the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos, said the presidential palace. In a statement, presidential spokesperson Cheloy Garafil said Duterte has "tendered her resignation as member of the cabinet" and will no longer serve as secretary of education. However, she would continue as vice president. She has also quit as the vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Her resignation, as per reports, is effective July 19. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil, Duterte has declined to provide a reason for why she quit her post. The presidential office hasn't announced Duterte's replacement as the DepEd Secretary. However, at a separate press conference, Duterte stated that her "resignation is not because of weakness but because of true concern for teachers and the youth." Also read | Royal expert says latest public outing must have been difficult for Princess Kate amid treatment Who is Sara Duterte? Sara Duterte is the daughter of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who was blocked by the constitution from seeking a second term in 2022. This sudden move, as per Reuters, indicates a major fallout with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and the end of their alliance. The Marcos and Duterte families formed a strategic alliance in 2022. Sara Duterte ran as Marcos' vice-presidential candidate, tapping into the Duterte family's strong support base and sealing a political comeback for the Marcos dynasty. In the Philippines, however, the president and vice-president are elected separately, allowing room for political friction. Though the alliance's eventual collapse was expected, the speed of the fallout surprised analysts. Also read | Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament Earlier this year, former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sara's father, accused Marcos of using drugs, further straining relations. Additionally, Duterte's son, the mayor of Davao City, had called for Marcos's resignation. Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, commented on Duterte's resignation, saying, "It is the break we have all been waiting for." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Sara Duterte? Philippine Vice President resigns from President Marcos' cabinet

The White House has cancelled a major meeting between US and Israeli security officials in Washington, DC, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blasted the Biden administration for halting arms supply to Israel. Watch in for more details!

White House cancels high-level Israel-US meeting on Iran

White House cancels high-level US-Israel meeting plan

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the Ukrainian military and global defence companies have undergone extreme change when it comes to their workforce dynamics.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the Ukrainian military and global defence companies have undergone extreme change when it comes to their workforce dynamics. The Ukraine-Russia war was the first domino to fall, starting a cascade, such as escalating geopolitical tensions and bringing forth an economic crisis. The war has been ongoing for over two years and Ukraine saw a depletion of its military strength. To combat that, Ukraine has introduced a law that allows the recruitment of convicts into its military. Global defence organisations are also hiring at unprecedented rates to meet the ever-rising demand. Ukraine's Military Recruitment of Convicts As Ukraine continues to fight to defend itself against Russian attacks, the country faces a military personnel deficit. Last month, the Ukrainian government enacted a conscription law that allows physically fit and motivated prisoners convicted under certain charges to serve in the Armed Forces. This allows for the voluntary mobilisation of inmates. Convicts who enlist are promised integration into regular battalions rather than distinct penal units, however, this strategy is being debated by military leaders. According to the Ministry of Justice, Ukraine now has 26,000 prisoners in jail. The government reports that since the law went into force, 5,000 male convicts have applied to join the military. The courts have already freed roughly 2,000 individuals from prison and into the military after passing their medical exams. The first group of prisoner recruits is currently undergoing basic training. "Ukraine's decision to recruit convicts into their military amidst personnel shortages is a controversial approach. While it may provide short-term solutions, it raises concerns about military discipline and cohesion, training and integration challenges, potential human rights violations and long-term effectiveness and reliability," defence expert and war veteran, Col (Dr) Divakaran Padma Kumar Pillay told WION. Also read: At Ukraine peace summit, US Vice Prez Harris announces over $1.5 billion in aid for Kyiv "Globally, similar approaches have been attempted. For example, Russia recruited convicts and mercenaries, raising concerns about human rights and accountability, " said Pillay, who is a recipient of Shaurya Chakra, one of India's biggest military honours. "The US military has previously hired soldiers with criminal backgrounds, but only after thorough screening and rehabilitation programmes. India's Rehabilitation Policy allows former insurgents to be rehabilitated into paramilitary forces, with a focus on reintegration and repentance," added the PhD Research Fellow. "While recruiting convicts may address short-term personnel shortages, it is crucial to consider the long-term implications and potential consequences on military effectiveness, discipline, and human rights. A balanced approach, incorporating alternative solutions and rehabilitation programmes, may yield more sustainable results," Pillay continued. Global defence companies' hiring boom The hiring boom is not limited to Ukraine. In parallel, defence companies around the world are undergoing the most intense recruitment drive since the end of the Cold War in 1991, according to Financial Times. According to an FT survey of 20 major and medium-sized US and European defence and aerospace companies, they want to bring on tens of thousands of extra workers this year to handle the spike in orders brought on by the crisis in Ukraine and increased geopolitical instability across the world. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: US announces over $1.5bn more US energy, humanitarian aid for Kyiv Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics, for example, have roughly 6,000 unfilled positions between them. In all, 10 surveyed organisations plan to increase their workforce by over 37,000 positions, representing a nearly 10% increase. This boom in hiring drive includes positions such as engineers, software developers, cyber-security analysts, welders, and mechanics. There's a demand for both freshers and seasoned experts in these positions. Companies like Rheinmetall and Nammo who are focusing on increasing their manufacture of ammunition are at the forefront of these hiring drives. Nammo has raised its personnel by 15% in the last two years and plans to double its workforce by 2030. Data at a glance Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics jointly have over 6,000 job openings. Ten businesses polled plan to add about 37,000 jobs, or nearly 10% of their entire workforce. Nammo's headcount rose by 15%, from 2,700 in 2021 to 3,100 in 2023. Over the last three years, Thales has hired 9,000 workers, accounting for 11% of its current 81,000-strong workforce. MBDA expects to add around 2,600 workers this year, accounting for 17% of its present workforce of 15,000. Leonardo plans to hire 6,000 additional people by 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Data Lab | Ripple effects of Ukraine conflict: Ukrainian military & global defence sector's hiring surge

President Vladimir Putin reached&nbsp;North Korea on Wednesday&nbsp;(Jun 19), after&nbsp;stopping over&nbsp;at&nbsp;Russia's far eastern region of Sakha&nbsp;for a few hours, making the first trip to the country by a Russian leader in 24 years.&nbsp;

Ahead of his rare visit to Pyongyang, Putin hailed North Korea for “firmly supporting” Moscow’s war in Ukraine and also promised to build trade and security systems which are not controlled by the West.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin thanks North Korea for support</h2>

In a letter published by North Korean state media, the Russian president pledged his unwavering support for North Korea.&nbsp;

Putin&nbsp;landed on Wednesday&nbsp;morning for his two-day visit to the isolated nation in 24 years amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine as well as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-north-korean-soldiers-injured-after-they-cross-the-dmz-732724">confrontation between North and South Korean troops</a> on their shared border.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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The Russian president also highlighted that the two nations have developed good relations and partnerships over the past seven decades based on equality, mutual respect and trust.

He also thanked North Korea for supporting what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine despite “U.S. pressure, blackmail and military threats”.&nbsp;

“We highly appreciate that the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,” Putin wrote in the article, referring to North Korea by its official name.&nbsp;

He added that Russia and the North are “now actively developing the many-sided partnership”.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin vows trade, security&nbsp;</h2>

Ahead of Putin’s visit, Russian foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said Moscow and Pyongyang may sign a partnership agreement which would include security issues.

In his letter, Putin said Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems “that are not controlled by the West”.&nbsp;

The two countries, the Russian president wrote, will also jointly oppose sanctions which he described as “unilateral and illegal restrictive measures” against their nations.&nbsp;

Russia has been grappling with thousands of sanctions imposed against it by the West after it invaded Ukraine in late February 2022.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, North Korea, for years now, has been under heavy United Nations Security Council (UNSC) economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-first-visit-to-n-korea-in-24-yrs-what-it-signifies-and-why-is-west-worried-732620">Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years: What does it signify and why is West worried?</a>

While Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea’s founding after World War II, with Putin being isolated from the international stage due to the Ukraine war, the two nations have become even closer.&nbsp;

The United States and its allies in the West have repeatedly accused North Korea of sending Russia some much-needed weapons, including ballistic missiles to support Moscow amid the war. However, both nations have denied arms transfers.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Welcome president Putin!’</h2>

Pyongyang was decked up for&nbsp;the Russian president's visit with huge banners and smiling photographs of him&nbsp;reading “we ardently welcome President Putin!” hanging from lamp-posts across the North Korean capital alongside Russian flags, reported AFP.&nbsp;

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🇰🇵 🇷🇺 Streets of North Korea are covered with Russian flags and pictures of President Putin ahead of his visit to the country. <a href="https://t.co/2dlYZ2r8O0">pic.twitter.com/2dlYZ2r8O0</a>
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRICSinfo/status/1803082067141415233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The delegation for the visit includes Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the ministers for natural resources, health, and transport, the heads of the Russian space agency and its railways.&nbsp;

Putin’s point man for energy and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak will also accompany the Russian president, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The visit also comes at a critical time, with tensions on the Korean Peninsula at their highest point in years with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s weapons tests and the US and South Korea holding military drills in response.&nbsp;

Not to mention the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/balloon-war-south-korea-flies-balloons-with-anti-kim-jong-un-material-music-flash-drives-into-north-korea-729209">balloon war </a>between North and South Korea, which led Seoul to once again&nbsp;broadcast anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers in retaliation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

President Vladimir Putin reached North Korea on Wednesday (Jun 19), after stopping over at Russia's far eastern region of Sakha for a few hours, making the first trip to the country by a Russian leader in 24 years.

President Vladimir Putin reached North Korea on Wednesday (Jun 19), after stopping over at Russia's far eastern region of Sakha for a few hours, making the first trip to the country by a Russian leader in 24 years. Ahead of his rare visit to Pyongyang, Putin hailed North Korea for “firmly supporting” Moscow’s war in Ukraine and also promised to build trade and security systems which are not controlled by the West. Putin thanks North Korea for support In a letter published by North Korean state media, the Russian president pledged his unwavering support for North Korea. Putin landed on Wednesday morning for his two-day visit to the isolated nation in 24 years amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine as well as the confrontation between North and South Korean troops on their shared border. Watch this report: The Russian president also highlighted that the two nations have developed good relations and partnerships over the past seven decades based on equality, mutual respect and trust. He also thanked North Korea for supporting what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine despite “U.S. pressure, blackmail and military threats”. “We highly appreciate that the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,” Putin wrote in the article, referring to North Korea by its official name. He added that Russia and the North are “now actively developing the many-sided partnership”. Putin vows trade, security Ahead of Putin’s visit, Russian foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said Moscow and Pyongyang may sign a partnership agreement which would include security issues. In his letter, Putin said Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems “that are not controlled by the West”. The two countries, the Russian president wrote, will also jointly oppose sanctions which he described as “unilateral and illegal restrictive measures” against their nations. Russia has been grappling with thousands of sanctions imposed against it by the West after it invaded Ukraine in late February 2022. Meanwhile, North Korea, for years now, has been under heavy United Nations Security Council (UNSC) economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs. Also Read | Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years: What does it signify and why is West worried? While Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea’s founding after World War II, with Putin being isolated from the international stage due to the Ukraine war, the two nations have become even closer. The United States and its allies in the West have repeatedly accused North Korea of sending Russia some much-needed weapons, including ballistic missiles to support Moscow amid the war. However, both nations have denied arms transfers. ‘Welcome president Putin!’ Pyongyang was decked up for the Russian president's visit with huge banners and smiling photographs of him reading “we ardently welcome President Putin!” hanging from lamp-posts across the North Korean capital alongside Russian flags, reported AFP. 🇰🇵 🇷🇺 Streets of North Korea are covered with Russian flags and pictures of President Putin ahead of his visit to the country. pic.twitter.com/2dlYZ2r8O0 — BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) June 18, 2024 × The delegation for the visit includes Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the ministers for natural resources, health, and transport, the heads of the Russian space agency and its railways. Putin’s point man for energy and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak will also accompany the Russian president, reported Reuters. The visit also comes at a critical time, with tensions on the Korean Peninsula at their highest point in years with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s weapons tests and the US and South Korea holding military drills in response. Not to mention the recent balloon war between North and South Korea, which led Seoul to once again broadcast anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers in retaliation. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Pyongyang, commences his first visit to North Korea in 24 years

A Russian court sentenced a US soldier to almost four years in prison on Wednesday (Jun 19) on charges of theft and threatening to kill his Russian girlfriend, reported state media. Staff Sgt. Gordon Black was arrested in May from the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok when he was visiting the woman. As per charges, Black stole 10,000 rubles (roughly $112) from her when he visited Vladivostok in April this year, reported state news agency TASS. The US soldier also faced charges of assaulting his girlfriend.

Black has vehemently denied the assault charges but has partially accepted theft charges. He said he had taken money from the woman's purse but had transferred her $125. He reportedly spent the money on his accommodation while he stayed in the Russian city. He further claimed that the woman was supposed to get 10,000 rubles from the landlord after the end of the lease of the apartment for which he was paying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj2gpaWveeGAxUasFYBHftXAewQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-invites-north-koreas-kim-to-visit-moscow-thanks-him-for-permanent-support-of-russia-733052" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-invites-north-koreas-kim-to-visit-moscow-thanks-him-for-permanent-support-of-russia-733052&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2gpaWveeGAxUasFYBHftXAewQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Putin invites North Korea`s Kim to visit Moscow, thanks him for ‘unwavering support’ of Russia</a>

His girlfriend also appeared in court on Monday and refused to reconcile saying the full damage was not compensated yet.

According to Black's lawyer, he will appeal the court's decision to a higher court.

<h2>Americans in Russian prisons</h2>

Several US citizens are held in Russian prisons, but the US State Department has singled out two prisoners for being wrongfully detained: Former Marine Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiWnqefveeGAxXYs1YBHW47DDk4ChDF9AEoAHoECAkQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-brands-come-back-to-russia-via-parallel-imports-732190" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-brands-come-back-to-russia-via-parallel-imports-732190&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWnqefveeGAxXYs1YBHW47DDk4ChDF9AEoAHoECAkQAQ">Global brands come back to Russia via parallel imports</a>

The 32-year-old journalist was detained in March last year by Russia's security agency the FSB on charges of trying to obtain state secrets. His trial will begin on June 26 in the city of Yekaterinburg, and he faces 20 years in prison if he's convicted.

Both the US government and the Wall Street Journal have denied charges against him. The US earlier said Russia was using him as a geopolitical hostage.

Notably, the US has urged its citizens to avoid travelling to Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian court sentenced a US soldier to almost four years in prison on Wednesday (Jun 19) on charges of theft and threatening to kill his Russian girlfriend, reported state media.

A Russian court sentenced a US soldier to almost four years in prison on Wednesday (Jun 19) on charges of theft and threatening to kill his Russian girlfriend, reported state media. Staff Sgt. Gordon Black was arrested in May from the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok when he was visiting the woman. As per charges, Black stole 10,000 rubles (roughly $112) from her when he visited Vladivostok in April this year, reported state news agency TASS. The US soldier also faced charges of assaulting his girlfriend. Black has vehemently denied the assault charges but has partially accepted theft charges. He said he had taken money from the woman's purse but had transferred her $125. He reportedly spent the money on his accommodation while he stayed in the Russian city. He further claimed that the woman was supposed to get 10,000 rubles from the landlord after the end of the lease of the apartment for which he was paying. Also read: Putin invites North Korea`s Kim to visit Moscow, thanks him for ‘unwavering support’ of Russia His girlfriend also appeared in court on Monday and refused to reconcile saying the full damage was not compensated yet. According to Black's lawyer, he will appeal the court's decision to a higher court. Americans in Russian prisons Several US citizens are held in Russian prisons, but the US State Department has singled out two prisoners for being wrongfully detained: Former Marine Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Also read: Global brands come back to Russia via parallel imports The 32-year-old journalist was detained in March last year by Russia's security agency the FSB on charges of trying to obtain state secrets. His trial will begin on June 26 in the city of Yekaterinburg, and he faces 20 years in prison if he's convicted. Both the US government and the Wall Street Journal have denied charges against him. The US earlier said Russia was using him as a geopolitical hostage. Notably, the US has urged its citizens to avoid travelling to Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court sends US soldier to jail for 'stealing' $112 from girlfriend

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has arrived at Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra airport to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. Pelosi is part of a six-member high-level US delegation that has come to India to meet the Dalai Lama. Watch in for more details!

US delegation-Dalai Lama meet: US hardens stance on Tibet?

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