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NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war.

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was paying a visit to Washington to lay the groundwork for NATO's 75th anniversary summit next month.

The July gathering aims to send a decisive long-term message of support for Ukraine as President Joe Biden faces a tough reelection fight against Donald Trump, a skeptic of Western support for Kyiv.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with Biden, Stoltenberg accused China of worsening the conflict through what US officials say is a major export push to rebuild Russia's defense industry.

President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said at the Wilson Center.

"But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said.

"Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point -- and unless China changes course -- allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences."

In addition to the 32 members of the NATO alliance, the summit will also bring in four key partners from the Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

China argues that it is not sending lethal assistance to either side -- unlike the United States and other Western nations.

Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, further showed how Moscow was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-italy-strengthen-ties-with-indo-mediterranean-initiative-732626">India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative</a>

Beijing steered clear of a weekend summit in Switzerland promoted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that reaffirmed Kyiv's demands for Russia to leave Ukrainian territory for any peace.

Russia has insisted that it is interested in talks, but has demanded Ukrainian forces withdraw from territory seized by Moscow.

Trump -- who in the past has voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin -- has boasted that he can quickly end the war, likely by pressing Ukraine to accept demands.

In an unstated effort to "Trump-proof" future efforts, Stoltenberg wants the Washington summit both to put NATO in the lead of coordination on Ukraine and to set up a way for long-term military funding.

"The more credible our long-term support, the quicker Moscow will realize it cannot wait us out," he said.

"It may seem like a paradox, but the path to peace is more weapons for Ukraine."

The US Congress in April approved some $60 billion in new military funding for Ukraine but only after months of political fighting and opposition by some of Trump's Republican allies.

"Regardless of who's going to be the next president of the United States," Stoltenberg told reporters of the delay, "I believe that we should minimize the risk."

Stoltenberg said he would also tell Biden of the rising number of NATO members that are meeting a goal set in 2014 of spending two percent of GDP on defense.

Trump has long raged over what he sees as unfairness in the alliance founded in the Cold War.

On the campaign trail, he has suggested that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to any NATO member that does not "pay (its) bills."

Asked about Trump's criticism, Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout the mogul's 2017-2021 presidency, said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little."

"The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said.

"We're not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014."

NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war.

NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was paying a visit to Washington to lay the groundwork for NATO's 75th anniversary summit next month. The July gathering aims to send a decisive long-term message of support for Ukraine as President Joe Biden faces a tough reelection fight against Donald Trump, a skeptic of Western support for Kyiv. Speaking ahead of a meeting with Biden, Stoltenberg accused China of worsening the conflict through what US officials say is a major export push to rebuild Russia's defense industry. President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said at the Wilson Center. "But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said. "Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point -- and unless China changes course -- allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences." In addition to the 32 members of the NATO alliance, the summit will also bring in four key partners from the Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. China argues that it is not sending lethal assistance to either side -- unlike the United States and other Western nations. Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, further showed how Moscow was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders. Also read: India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative Beijing steered clear of a weekend summit in Switzerland promoted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that reaffirmed Kyiv's demands for Russia to leave Ukrainian territory for any peace. Russia has insisted that it is interested in talks, but has demanded Ukrainian forces withdraw from territory seized by Moscow. Trump -- who in the past has voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin -- has boasted that he can quickly end the war, likely by pressing Ukraine to accept demands. In an unstated effort to "Trump-proof" future efforts, Stoltenberg wants the Washington summit both to put NATO in the lead of coordination on Ukraine and to set up a way for long-term military funding. "The more credible our long-term support, the quicker Moscow will realize it cannot wait us out," he said. "It may seem like a paradox, but the path to peace is more weapons for Ukraine." The US Congress in April approved some $60 billion in new military funding for Ukraine but only after months of political fighting and opposition by some of Trump's Republican allies. "Regardless of who's going to be the next president of the United States," Stoltenberg told reporters of the delay, "I believe that we should minimize the risk." Stoltenberg said he would also tell Biden of the rising number of NATO members that are meeting a goal set in 2014 of spending two percent of GDP on defense. Trump has long raged over what he sees as unfairness in the alliance founded in the Cold War. On the campaign trail, he has suggested that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to any NATO member that does not "pay (its) bills." Asked about Trump's criticism, Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout the mogul's 2017-2021 presidency, said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." "The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said. "We're not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014."

West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday dissolved the country's war cabinet.&nbsp;Local media reported Monday (Jun 17) that Netanyahu announced the decision Sunday evening in a meeting of the political security cabinet. Meanwhile, in India, Railway Minister&nbsp;Ashwini Vaishnaw came under intense criticism by opposition after a train&nbsp;crash in eastern state of West Bengal killed at least 9 people and injured 41. In a major political development from India, Congress today announced that its leader Rahul Gandhi will vacate Wayanad seat from Kerala and retain Uttar Pradesh's&nbsp;Rae Bareli.&nbsp;Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi will contest the election&nbsp;from Wayanad now.

Click on the headlines to read more.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet set up to manage the country's war with Hamas since the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group.

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Indian opposition launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government and his Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday (Jun 17) after a train&nbsp;accident in the eastern state of West Bengal.

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Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge announced in a press conference Monday (Jun 17) that Rahul Gandhi will vacate the Wayanad seat from Kerala and retain Uttar Pradesh's&nbsp;Rae Bareli.

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Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused&nbsp;of being involved in a murder-for-hire plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has been extradited to the United States

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/17/438172-wion-images-2024-06-17t081914650.png?imwidth=400" />

The Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Monday evening (June 17)&nbsp;that China used “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with&nbsp;a routine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea.

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Greek authorities have been accused of pushing asylum seekers and migrants to their deaths in the Mediterranean Sea over the last three years, according to an investigation by UK broadcaster BBC.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/14/418337-pic-33.png?imwidth=400" />

A high-level meeting to assess the security situation in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur was presided over by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (June 17) in the nation's capital.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/17/438328-gqrn7caxkaaq4pj.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Pakistan head coach Gary Kirsten has slammed the culture within the men's senior team after it crashed out of the ongoing T20 World Cup.

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All India Football Federation (AIFF) has fired men's national team's coach Igor Stimac after five years in position.&nbsp;

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/17/438319-untitled-design-2024-06-17t192909572.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Shah Rukh Khan greeted his fans from Mannat and wished them Eid Mubarak. Enthusiastic fans were seen screaming and shouting SRK's name and waving at him. Videos of the same are currently doing rounds on social media. Take a look! 
&nbsp;

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday dissolved the country's war cabinet. Local media reported Monday (Jun 17) that Netanyahu announced the decision Sunday evening in a meeting of the political security cabinet.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday dissolved the country's war cabinet. Local media reported Monday (Jun 17) that Netanyahu announced the decision Sunday evening in a meeting of the political security cabinet. Meanwhile, in India, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw came under intense criticism by opposition after a train crash in eastern state of West Bengal killed at least 9 people and injured 41. In a major political development from India, Congress today announced that its leader Rahul Gandhi will vacate Wayanad seat from Kerala and retain Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi will contest the election from Wayanad now. Click on the headlines to read more. Gaza war: Israeli PM dissolves six-member war cabinet after Benny Gantz's exit Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet set up to manage the country's war with Hamas since the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group. Kanchanjunga accident: Opposition slams Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for being 'busy with reels' Indian opposition launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government and his Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday (Jun 17) after a train accident in the eastern state of West Bengal. Rahul Gandhi to retain Rae Bareli, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to contest from Wayanad Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge announced in a press conference Monday (Jun 17) that Rahul Gandhi will vacate the Wayanad seat from Kerala and retain Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli. Pannun murder plot: Indian accused of attempting to kill Khalistani terrorist extradited to US Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused of being involved in a murder-for-hire plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has been extradited to the United States China used 'dangerous maneuvers' to harass Philippine supply ship in South China Sea The Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Monday evening (June 17) that China used “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with a routine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea. Greek coastguard threw migrants into sea after tying their hands: Report Greek authorities have been accused of pushing asylum seekers and migrants to their deaths in the Mediterranean Sea over the last three years, according to an investigation by UK broadcaster BBC. After J&K review meet, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs high-level meeting on Manipur security crisis A high-level meeting to assess the security situation in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur was presided over by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (June 17) in the nation's capital. 'There's no unity': Coach Gary Kirsten rips into Pakistan team after T20 WC exit Pakistan head coach Gary Kirsten has slammed the culture within the men's senior team after it crashed out of the ongoing T20 World Cup. Indian football fires head coach Igor Stimac after 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier exit All India Football Federation (AIFF) has fired men's national team's coach Igor Stimac after five years in position. Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and more celebs wish fans on Eid-ul-Adha 2024 Shah Rukh Khan greeted his fans from Mannat and wished them Eid Mubarak. Enthusiastic fans were seen screaming and shouting SRK's name and waving at him. Videos of the same are currently doing rounds on social media. Take a look!

Top 10 world news: Israeli PM dissolves war cabinet; Kanchanjunga train accident updates, and more

More than 20 NATO members will meet the military Alliance Target of spending at least 2% of their respective GDPs on defence this year now this is as per NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

NATO summit next week: NATO to discuss defence expenditure aims

In a remarkable advancement in military technology, China has reportedly developed an AI commander who is undergoing extensive training in Chinese laboratories, fighting virtual wars and operating without any intervention by humans. Dubbed as “virtual commander”, this AI officer is designed to act like humans as it gains virtual battleground experience. It is made to replicate human behaviour and even their flaws as it remains strictly confined to labs as of now.

<h2>Why China requires AI commanders?</h2>

It's highly unlikely that China will deploy these AI commanders to real war-like events in the near future; instead, their roles would be confined to war simulations only. They are required as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) faces a lack of experienced, senior commanders during war practices.

This is where AI commanders come in handy.

It is meant to operate when human commanders are unavailable in large-scale war simulations and exercises.

<h2>How AI commanders operate?</h2>

AI generally uses analysis to operate. But in this case, the AI will use its empirical knowledge. The AI commander has limited memory, much like humans, so that old, irrelevant data gets erased as new, relevant input or experience is gained.

The research project was first revealed in May in the Chinese-language journal Common Control &amp; Simulation and is led by senior engineer Jia Chenxing.

“The virtual commander’s personality can be fine-tuned if deemed necessary,” said Jia's team.

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Under immense pressure, humans “struggle to formulate a fully rational decision-making framework under stringent timelines,” the engineers noted.

The AI itself identifies new threats, crafts plans and makes optimal decisions based on the overall situation when battles falter or results fall short. It also tends to learn and adapt from both victories and defeats.

All these happen without any human intervention, “boasting advantages including ease of implementation, high efficiency and support for repeated experimentation,” Jia’s team said.

<h2>Community party still supreme</h2>

The new AI is designed to uphold the long-held principle of the PLA- “The Party commands the gun.”

Even though AI technology gets more advanced with time, its remote control will also lie in the hands of humans affiliated with the Communist Party of China.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a remarkable advancement in military technology, China has reportedly developed an AI commander who is undergoing extensive training in Chinese laboratories, fighting virtual wars and operating without any intervention by humans.

In a remarkable advancement in military technology, China has reportedly developed an AI commander who is undergoing extensive training in Chinese laboratories, fighting virtual wars and operating without any intervention by humans. Dubbed as “virtual commander”, this AI officer is designed to act like humans as it gains virtual battleground experience. It is made to replicate human behaviour and even their flaws as it remains strictly confined to labs as of now. Why China requires AI commanders? It's highly unlikely that China will deploy these AI commanders to real war-like events in the near future; instead, their roles would be confined to war simulations only. They are required as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) faces a lack of experienced, senior commanders during war practices. This is where AI commanders come in handy. It is meant to operate when human commanders are unavailable in large-scale war simulations and exercises. How AI commanders operate? AI generally uses analysis to operate. But in this case, the AI will use its empirical knowledge. The AI commander has limited memory, much like humans, so that old, irrelevant data gets erased as new, relevant input or experience is gained. The research project was first revealed in May in the Chinese-language journal Common Control & Simulation and is led by senior engineer Jia Chenxing. “The virtual commander’s personality can be fine-tuned if deemed necessary,” said Jia's team. Also read: Scientists discover ancient sea sponge fossil, providing missing link in evolution Under immense pressure, humans “struggle to formulate a fully rational decision-making framework under stringent timelines,” the engineers noted. The AI itself identifies new threats, crafts plans and makes optimal decisions based on the overall situation when battles falter or results fall short. It also tends to learn and adapt from both victories and defeats. All these happen without any human intervention, “boasting advantages including ease of implementation, high efficiency and support for repeated experimentation,” Jia’s team said. Community party still supreme The new AI is designed to uphold the long-held principle of the PLA- “The Party commands the gun.” Even though AI technology gets more advanced with time, its remote control will also lie in the hands of humans affiliated with the Communist Party of China. (With inputs from agencies)

China creates AI commander that can operate in war-like events without human intervention

A day after a video that showed 81-year-old United States President Joe Biden seemingly freeze on stage, his former boss Barack Obama jumping in to save the day, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos that purport to show Biden in a state of mental and physical decline.&nbsp;

<h2>Deceptive videos</h2>

In a statement on Monday, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre referred to these videos as "cheapfake" and emphasised that they were deceptively edited to mislead viewers.

"It tells you everything that we need to know about how desperate Republicans are here," said Jean-Pierre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-deer-in-headlights-moment-freezes-onstage-during-fundraising-event-obama-saves-the-day-watch-732430">Viral video: Biden allegedly freezes on stage, Obama steps in. What happened?&nbsp;</a>

Recent clips shared by multiple media outlets&nbsp;and Republican social media accounts include one from the G7 summit in Italy, where Biden appears disoriented. Jean-Pierre clarified that the footage was edited to omit Biden's interaction with parachutists, which involved giving them a thumbs up. This claim was also debunked by NBC, who provided alternative footage showing Biden engaging with the skydivers.

"This was widely fact-checked… including by conservative media," said the press secretary, adding, "if you run that tape a little bit longer than you'd see … what was happening."

Another clip showed Biden standing still while other world leaders danced during a White House concert. Jean-Pierre defended Biden, stating that standing and listening to music should not be interpreted as a health issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/star-studded-fundraiser-for-bidens-re-election-campaign-sets-record-with-30-million-raised-732338">Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised</a>

Additionally, a recent video from a California fundraiser shows&nbsp;Biden seemingly&nbsp;lost on stage until directed by former president Barack Obama. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates explained on X that Biden was merely appreciating the audience's applause.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
By pretending the President taking in an applauding crowd for a few seconds is somehow wrong, all they’re really admitting is - once again - is they can’t take on the leadership that’s fueling the strongest economic growth in the world &amp; bringing violent crime to a 50 year low.
— Andrew Bates (@AndrewJBates46) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndrewJBates46/status/1802434506705789305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Age shaming?</h2>

Republican Donald Trump, who is just three&nbsp;years younger than Joe Biden at 78, has been using the President's age to attack him and raise questions about his mental agility.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;party has been using the octogenarian's advanced age to raise questions on Biden's mental state, fitness for another term in the White House, and his fitness to lead the Western power.

Whoever wins the upcoming November 2024 elections stands to become the oldest president inaugurated — 78 years or 81 years. Biden currently holds the record as the oldest man to serve the US office.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after a video that showed 81-year-old United States President Joe Biden seemingly freeze on stage, his former boss Barack Obama jumping in to save the day, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos that purport to show Biden in a state of mental and physical decline.

A day after a video that showed 81-year-old United States President Joe Biden seemingly freeze on stage, his former boss Barack Obama jumping in to save the day, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos that purport to show Biden in a state of mental and physical decline. Deceptive videos In a statement on Monday, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre referred to these videos as "cheapfake" and emphasised that they were deceptively edited to mislead viewers. "It tells you everything that we need to know about how desperate Republicans are here," said Jean-Pierre. Also read | Viral video: Biden allegedly freezes on stage, Obama steps in. What happened? Recent clips shared by multiple media outlets and Republican social media accounts include one from the G7 summit in Italy, where Biden appears disoriented. Jean-Pierre clarified that the footage was edited to omit Biden's interaction with parachutists, which involved giving them a thumbs up. This claim was also debunked by NBC, who provided alternative footage showing Biden engaging with the skydivers. "This was widely fact-checked… including by conservative media," said the press secretary, adding, "if you run that tape a little bit longer than you'd see … what was happening." Another clip showed Biden standing still while other world leaders danced during a White House concert. Jean-Pierre defended Biden, stating that standing and listening to music should not be interpreted as a health issue. Also read | Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised Additionally, a recent video from a California fundraiser shows Biden seemingly lost on stage until directed by former president Barack Obama. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates explained on X that Biden was merely appreciating the audience's applause. By pretending the President taking in an applauding crowd for a few seconds is somehow wrong, all they’re really admitting is - once again - is they can’t take on the leadership that’s fueling the strongest economic growth in the world & bringing violent crime to a 50 year low. — Andrew Bates (@AndrewJBates46) June 16, 2024 × Age shaming? Republican Donald Trump, who is just three years younger than Joe Biden at 78, has been using the President's age to attack him and raise questions about his mental agility. The party has been using the octogenarian's advanced age to raise questions on Biden's mental state, fitness for another term in the White House, and his fitness to lead the Western power. Whoever wins the upcoming November 2024 elections stands to become the oldest president inaugurated — 78 years or 81 years. Biden currently holds the record as the oldest man to serve the US office. (With inputs from agencies)

White House slams Republicans over deceptive 'cheapfake' videos of Biden's alleged mental decline

China's National Meteorological Centre on Sunday issued an alert for high temperatures as multiple regions across the country experience sweltering heat, while many southern provinces issued severe flood warnings due to heavy rains.

Flooding hits China's south, temperatures sizzle elsewhere

The United States is on the verge of approving its largest-ever arms sale to Israel amid the Gaza conflict.

Meanwhile, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg highlighted Russian President Putin's reliance on authoritarian leaders for weapons, citing North Korea's support.

In other news, the Czech&nbsp;police released a video showing Indian national Nikhil Gupta who has been extradited to the US over a murder-for-hire case targeting Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Finally, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos depicting President Biden in a state of mental and physical decline.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-nears-notifying-one-of-the-biggest-ever-arms-sales-to-israel-732635">Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel</a>

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The United States is reportedly at the brink of approving an arms sale to Israel, which if ultimately approved, would be the largest-ever arms sales to Israel since the beginning of war in Gaza after October 7 last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-dependent-on-authoritarian-leaders-for-weapons-nato-chief-732639">Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief</a>

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NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pannun-murder-for-hire-case-first-visuals-of-extradited-indian-national-nikhil-gupta-released-by-czech-police-732678">Pannun murder-for-hire case: First visuals of extradited Indian national Nikhil Gupta released by Czech police</a>

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The Czech Republic Police on Monday (June 17) released the&nbsp;visuals of Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national who has been extradited to the United States on suspicion of a murder-for-hire plot targeting Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-slams-republicans-over-deceptive-cheapfake-videos-of-bidens-mental-decline-732657">White House slams Republicans over deceptive 'cheapfake' videos of Biden's alleged mental decline</a>

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A day after a video that showed 81-year-old United States President Joe Biden seemingly freeze on stage, his former boss Barack Obama jumping in to save the day, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos that purport to show Biden in a state of mental and physical decline.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China terms G7 joint statement full of lies

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The United States is on the verge of approving its largest-ever arms sale to Israel amid the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg highlighted Russian President Putin's reliance on authoritarian leaders for weapons, citing North Korea's support.

The United States is on the verge of approving its largest-ever arms sale to Israel amid the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg highlighted Russian President Putin's reliance on authoritarian leaders for weapons, citing North Korea's support. In other news, the Czech police released a video showing Indian national Nikhil Gupta who has been extradited to the US over a murder-for-hire case targeting Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Finally, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos depicting President Biden in a state of mental and physical decline. Click on the headlines to read more Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel The United States is reportedly at the brink of approving an arms sale to Israel, which if ultimately approved, would be the largest-ever arms sales to Israel since the beginning of war in Gaza after October 7 last year. Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply. Pannun murder-for-hire case: First visuals of extradited Indian national Nikhil Gupta released by Czech police The Czech Republic Police on Monday (June 17) released the visuals of Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national who has been extradited to the United States on suspicion of a murder-for-hire plot targeting Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US. White House slams Republicans over deceptive 'cheapfake' videos of Biden's alleged mental decline A day after a video that showed 81-year-old United States President Joe Biden seemingly freeze on stage, his former boss Barack Obama jumping in to save the day, the White House has slammed Republicans for spreading "cheapfake" videos that purport to show Biden in a state of mental and physical decline. Watch | China terms G7 joint statement full of lies

Morning news brief: US' largest-ever arms sale to Israel; NATO chief on Putin, and more

Manila&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jun 18) said that one of its navy officers sustained a “severe injury” after China’s Coast Guard rammed a Philippine vessel near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

This comes a day after the Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Beijing used “dangerous maneuvres, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with a routine resupply mission near Second Thomas Shoal.&nbsp;

<h2>One navy personnel injured</h2>

On Monday (Jun 17), 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 in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in response, called China’s claims “misleading”.&nbsp;

In an update on Tuesday, the military released a statement saying that one of their navy personnel was injured due to the altercation.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-coast-guard-claims-philippine-supply-ship-bumped-beijings-ship-in-disputed-south-china-sea-732362">China used 'dangerous maneuvers' to harass Philippine supply ship in South China Sea</a>

“A Philippine Navy personnel sustained severe injury after the CCG’s (China Coast Guard’s) intentional high-speed ramming during the rotation and resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) on June 17,” said the military in a statement.&nbsp;

It also said that the injured navy personnel was “safely evacuated and received prompt medical treatment”.&nbsp;

The military did not give any details about the sailor’s injuries, but news agency AFP citing local media reports said that the sailor had lost one finger and that Chinese personnel boarded the Philippine vessel and seized several guns and inflatable boats.&nbsp;

A report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, citing military sources, also said that one sailor had his thumb severed and other navy personnel on board sustained minor injuries due to the incident. &nbsp;

<h2>China’s claims about the incident&nbsp;</h2>

China’s Coast Guard reported a collision between a Philippine ship and a Chinese vessel near the disputed Spratly Islands.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-detain-foreigners-for-trespassing-in-disputed-south-china-sea-731991">China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea</a>

Beijing, in a statement, claimed that Manila’s ship “illegally broke into the sea near Ren’ai Reef in China’s Nansha Islands.”

It added that the Philippine ship “ignored many solemn warnings from the Chinese side” and the coast guard took measures against it “in accordance with the law.”&nbsp;

Beijing has claimed almost the entirety of the South China Sea as a part of its territory despite an international ruling that its stance has no legal basis.

In recent months, China and the Philippines have traded accusations over dangerous manoeuvres and collisions at the Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison of Philippine troops on the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded navy vessel to assert Manila’s claims to the waters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Manila on Tuesday (Jun 18) said that one of its navy officers sustained a “severe injury” after China’s Coast Guard rammed a Philippine vessel near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.

Manila on Tuesday (Jun 18) said that one of its navy officers sustained a “severe injury” after China’s Coast Guard rammed a Philippine vessel near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. This comes a day after the Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Beijing used “dangerous maneuvres, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with a routine resupply mission near Second Thomas Shoal. One navy personnel injured On Monday (Jun 17), 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 in the South China Sea. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in response, called China’s claims “misleading”. In an update on Tuesday, the military released a statement saying that one of their navy personnel was injured due to the altercation. Also Read | China used 'dangerous maneuvers' to harass Philippine supply ship in South China Sea “A Philippine Navy personnel sustained severe injury after the CCG’s (China Coast Guard’s) intentional high-speed ramming during the rotation and resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) on June 17,” said the military in a statement. It also said that the injured navy personnel was “safely evacuated and received prompt medical treatment”. The military did not give any details about the sailor’s injuries, but news agency AFP citing local media reports said that the sailor had lost one finger and that Chinese personnel boarded the Philippine vessel and seized several guns and inflatable boats. A report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, citing military sources, also said that one sailor had his thumb severed and other navy personnel on board sustained minor injuries due to the incident. China’s claims about the incident China’s Coast Guard reported a collision between a Philippine ship and a Chinese vessel near the disputed Spratly Islands. Also Read | China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea Beijing, in a statement, claimed that Manila’s ship “illegally broke into the sea near Ren’ai Reef in China’s Nansha Islands.” It added that the Philippine ship “ignored many solemn warnings from the Chinese side” and the coast guard took measures against it “in accordance with the law.” Beijing has claimed almost the entirety of the South China Sea as a part of its territory despite an international ruling that its stance has no legal basis. In recent months, China and the Philippines have traded accusations over dangerous manoeuvres and collisions at the Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison of Philippine troops on the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded navy vessel to assert Manila’s claims to the waters. (With inputs from agencies)

Navy officer severely injured after Chinese ship rammed Philippine vessel in South China Sea: Manila

The White House has stated that as the world's two oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a unique bond of friendship.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit aims to further strengthen this partnership, fostering a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

Sullivan is visiting New Delhi from June 17 to 18, in the first trip to India by a senior Biden administration official after the Modi government came to power for the third term.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-national-nikhil-gupta-pleads-not-guilty-in-us-court-in-pannun-murder-plot-case-732630">Pannun murder plot: India's Nikhil Gupta pleads not guilty in US court</a>

Sullivan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on Monday (June 17).

 
John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor, said at his daily news conference on Monday, “As the world's two oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a unique bond of friendship.”

He added,&nbsp;“Sullivan's trip will further deepen the already strong US-India partnership, contributing to a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

“Sullivan will co-chair the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), a landmark partnership to expand strategic cooperation across key technology sectors including space, semiconductors, advanced telecommunications, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, biotechnology and clean energy,” Kirby said.

However, Kirby did not respond to questions regarding Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused of involvement in a murder-for-hire plot against Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil and has been extradited to the US from the Czech Republic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiDhZfRoeOGAxVxSGwGHeAlDuIQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suspect-in-plot-to-kill-khalistani-terrorist-pannun-extradited-to-us-732557" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/suspect-in-plot-to-kill-khalistani-terrorist-pannun-extradited-to-us-732557&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDhZfRoeOGAxVxSGwGHeAlDuIQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Suspect in plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Pannun extradited to US</a>

"I don't have more to add to the conversations that Jake's having. But the main focus of his visit, as I said, was to look for ways to deepen the US-India bilateral relationship, particularly when it comes to emerging technology," he said.

Notably, Gupta was produced before a federal court in New York on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty.

India has publicly said a high-level inquiry is looking into the evidence shared by the US in the alleged plot to kill Pannun.

(With inputs from agencies)

The White House has stated that as the world's two oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a unique bond of friendship. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit aims to further strengthen this partnership, fostering a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The White House has stated that as the world's two oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a unique bond of friendship. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit aims to further strengthen this partnership, fostering a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Sullivan is visiting New Delhi from June 17 to 18, in the first trip to India by a senior Biden administration official after the Modi government came to power for the third term. Also read: Pannun murder plot: India's Nikhil Gupta pleads not guilty in US court Sullivan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on Monday (June 17). John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor, said at his daily news conference on Monday, “As the world's two oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a unique bond of friendship.” He added, “Sullivan's trip will further deepen the already strong US-India partnership, contributing to a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific.” “Sullivan will co-chair the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), a landmark partnership to expand strategic cooperation across key technology sectors including space, semiconductors, advanced telecommunications, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, biotechnology and clean energy,” Kirby said. However, Kirby did not respond to questions regarding Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused of involvement in a murder-for-hire plot against Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil and has been extradited to the US from the Czech Republic. Also read: Suspect in plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Pannun extradited to US "I don't have more to add to the conversations that Jake's having. But the main focus of his visit, as I said, was to look for ways to deepen the US-India bilateral relationship, particularly when it comes to emerging technology," he said. Notably, Gupta was produced before a federal court in New York on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty. India has publicly said a high-level inquiry is looking into the evidence shared by the US in the alleged plot to kill Pannun. (With inputs from agencies)

US, India share unique bond of friendship, says White House

A United States (US) Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint as President Joe Biden was visiting Los Angeles over the weekend, the news agency Associated Press reported citing officials.

A United States (US) Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint as President Joe Biden was visiting Los Angeles over the weekend, the news agency Associated Press reported citing officials. On Saturday (June 15) night, the Secret Service agent was returning from work when he was accosted in a residential community in Tustin. The report said that someone called the Tustin Police Department shortly after 9.30 pm local time to report the robbery. According to the police, the agent had his bag stolen at gunpoint. The agent was not injured but fired his gun during the confrontation, the police added. The agent's identity has not been revealed. Suspect not yet found On Monday, the police said that they had not found a suspect. Officers did find some of the agent’s stolen belongings in the area. Police reported a silver Infiniti FX35 was seen leaving the scene. Also read | Biden allegedly freezes on stage, Obama steps in. What happened? The police also said that there was no public threat and sought help in identifying the suspect. Biden was in LA for fundraiser event In Los Angeles, President Biden and former president Barack Obama held a star-studded fundraising event that brought in more than $30 million for Biden’s reelection campaign. The Biden campaign hoped the star-studded event would display strength and momentum despite Biden's low approval ratings and concerns about the age of the president, who is 81. Democrats have long counted on the liberal Los Angeles area as a rich source of financial backing. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secret Service agent robbed at gunpoint during Biden’s Los Angeles visit

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 18) conducted air strikes overnight on homes at a refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, killing at least 17 Palestinians, news agency Reuters reported citing residents and medics.&nbsp;

As quoted by local reports, a journalist reporting from Deir al-Balah in central Gaza said that&nbsp;17 people were killed in "two separate attacks on homes in Nuseirat accommodating displaced families who had recently evacuated from Rafah".&nbsp;

He further added that "the first strike killed 10 people, including women and children. Five of them were from the same family".&nbsp;

"An hour later, the second attack targeted another family's home. The victims include not only the parents and their children but also the grandparents," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-more-people-are-avoiding-news-turning-to-social-media-for-information-finds-study-732738">Explained: More people are avoiding news, turning to social media for information, finds study</a>

The news agency reported that&nbsp;seven bodies wrapped in white shrouds could be seen laid out on the grounds of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. The scenes were ahead of their funeral.&nbsp;

Women tried to comfort a young boy as he wept over the bodies of the deceased and men prayed over them.&nbsp;

Hanan al-Rai, who&nbsp;lost several family members in the airstrikes, said she ran out after the bombings only to find her daughter, grandchildren and others all killed.

"Why do our children die while their children live and play and are happy - and our children can't find a drop of water to drink or a bite to eat and on top of that they kill them," she said in an interview with the news agency.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-nears-notifying-one-of-the-biggest-ever-arms-sales-to-israel-732635">Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Israel-Hamas death toll&nbsp;</h2>

The number of casualties may increase as reportedly, some people are still trapped under the rubble.

Meanwhile, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Tuesday that at least 37,372 people have been killed in the territory so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

The toll includes at least 25 deaths in the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that a total of 85,452 people had been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. It's not clear whether or not the latest 17 deaths in Nuseirat were added to the latest toll.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel had specific intelligence on Kibbutz attack&nbsp;

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<h2>US envoy calls for 'urgent' diplomacy&nbsp;</h2>

US envoy Amos Hochstein on Tuesday called for the "urgent" de-escalation of cross-border exchanges of fire between Lebanon's Hezbollah and Israeli forces.&nbsp;

Hezbollah is an Iran-backed armed group and an ally of the Palestinian militant movement Hamas. The cross-border exchanges have been raging since the start of the Gaza war, but the group stepped up attacks on northern Israel last week after an Israeli strike killed one of its senior commanders.&nbsp;

"The conflict... between Israel and Hezbollah has gone on for long enough," the presidential envoy said on a visit to Beirut.

"It's in everyone's interest to resolve it quickly and diplomatically -- that is both achievable and it is urgent."

Hochstein met with Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah ally, a day after holding talks in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"Speaker Berri and I had a very a good discussion," Hochstein said.

"We discussed the current security and political situation in Lebanon as well as the deal on the table right now with respect to Gaza, which also provides an opportunity to end the conflict across the Blue Line", the demarcation line between Israel and Lebanon.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 18) conducted air strikes overnight on homes at a refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, killing at least 17 Palestinians, news agency Reuters reported citing residents and medics.

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 18) conducted air strikes overnight on homes at a refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, killing at least 17 Palestinians, news agency Reuters reported citing residents and medics. As quoted by local reports, a journalist reporting from Deir al-Balah in central Gaza said that 17 people were killed in "two separate attacks on homes in Nuseirat accommodating displaced families who had recently evacuated from Rafah". He further added that "the first strike killed 10 people, including women and children. Five of them were from the same family". "An hour later, the second attack targeted another family's home. The victims include not only the parents and their children but also the grandparents," he added. Also read: Explained: More people are avoiding news, turning to social media for information, finds study The news agency reported that seven bodies wrapped in white shrouds could be seen laid out on the grounds of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. The scenes were ahead of their funeral. Women tried to comfort a young boy as he wept over the bodies of the deceased and men prayed over them. Hanan al-Rai, who lost several family members in the airstrikes, said she ran out after the bombings only to find her daughter, grandchildren and others all killed. "Why do our children die while their children live and play and are happy - and our children can't find a drop of water to drink or a bite to eat and on top of that they kill them," she said in an interview with the news agency. Also read: Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel Israel-Hamas death toll The number of casualties may increase as reportedly, some people are still trapped under the rubble. Meanwhile, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Tuesday that at least 37,372 people have been killed in the territory so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. The toll includes at least 25 deaths in the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that a total of 85,452 people had been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. It's not clear whether or not the latest 17 deaths in Nuseirat were added to the latest toll. Watch: Israel had specific intelligence on Kibbutz attack × US envoy calls for 'urgent' diplomacy US envoy Amos Hochstein on Tuesday called for the "urgent" de-escalation of cross-border exchanges of fire between Lebanon's Hezbollah and Israeli forces. Hezbollah is an Iran-backed armed group and an ally of the Palestinian militant movement Hamas. The cross-border exchanges have been raging since the start of the Gaza war, but the group stepped up attacks on northern Israel last week after an Israeli strike killed one of its senior commanders. "The conflict... between Israel and Hezbollah has gone on for long enough," the presidential envoy said on a visit to Beirut. "It's in everyone's interest to resolve it quickly and diplomatically -- that is both achievable and it is urgent." Hochstein met with Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah ally, a day after holding talks in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Speaker Berri and I had a very a good discussion," Hochstein said. "We discussed the current security and political situation in Lebanon as well as the deal on the table right now with respect to Gaza, which also provides an opportunity to end the conflict across the Blue Line", the demarcation line between Israel and Lebanon. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp

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 in Dharamshala to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.

Additionally, Stoltenberg&nbsp;called on Beijing to face consequences if it continues to support Moscow amid the war in Ukraine. The NATO Secretary-General accused China of worsening the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through an alleged export push to rebuild Russia's defence industry.

President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said.

"But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said.

"Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point — and unless China changes course — allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences," Stoltenberg added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-should-impose-a-cost-on-china-for-russia-support-nato-chief-732633">West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief</a>

China says that it is not sending lethal assistance to either Russia or Ukraine which the United States and other Western nations are purportedly doing.

China did not participate in a summit in Switzerland over the weekend billed by Ukraine's Zelensky as a "peace summit".&nbsp;

Furthermore, Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.

Also watch |&nbsp;China says G7 statement 'full of arrogance, prejudice and lies'

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Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout Trump's 2017-2021 presidency, also said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." Donald Trump has repeatedly slammed European NATO counterparts for inequitable funding of the military alliance.&nbsp;

"The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;

"We are not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (June 17) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia is "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply. Additionally, Stoltenberg called on Beijing to face consequences if it continues to support Moscow amid the war in Ukraine. The NATO Secretary-General accused China of worsening the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through an alleged export push to rebuild Russia's defence industry. President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said. "But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said. "Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point — and unless China changes course — allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences," Stoltenberg added. Also read | West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief China says that it is not sending lethal assistance to either Russia or Ukraine which the United States and other Western nations are purportedly doing. China did not participate in a summit in Switzerland over the weekend billed by Ukraine's Zelensky as a "peace summit". Furthermore, Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, points out that Russia was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders for weapons supply. Also watch | China says G7 statement 'full of arrogance, prejudice and lies' × Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout Trump's 2017-2021 presidency, also said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." Donald Trump has repeatedly slammed European NATO counterparts for inequitable funding of the military alliance. "The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said. "We are not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin dependent on 'authoritarian' leaders for weapons: NATO chief

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, says UN

US National Security adviser met with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval to strengthen the technology and defence partnership between the two countries. The two-day bilateral that ended on Monday marked the second meeting of the initiative on critical and emerging technologies.

US-India iCET bilateral: Jake Sullivan meets Indian counterpart Ajit Doval

Israel-Hamas war: The United States is reportedly at the brink of approving an arms sale to Israel, which if ultimately approved, would be the largest-ever arms sales to Israel since the beginning of war in Gaza after October 7 last year.

According to a report in the Washington Post, two key Democrats in the US Congress have agreed to support a major arms sale to Israel that includes 50 F-15 fighter jets worth more than $18 billion. The US daily reported while citing three unnamed officials.

The newspaper reported that Representative Gregory Meeks and Senator Ben Cardin have signed off on the deal under heavy pressure from the Biden administration. For months, the two lawmakers had held up the sale amid unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza that has left more than 37,000 dead in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-use-of-us-supplied-weapons-may-have-violated-international-law-says-washington-720237">Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington</a>

"Any issues or concerns Chair Cardin had were addressed through our ongoing consultations with the (Biden)Administration, and that’s why he felt it appropriate to allow this case to move forward," Eric Harris, communications director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was quoted as saying by the Washington Post.&nbsp;

Meeks told the newspaper that he had been in close contact with the White House and had urged them to pressure Israel over humanitarian efforts and civilian casualties. He added that the F-15s would not be delivered until "years from now".&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: Biden threatens Israel of weapons &amp; artillery shells supply cut

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WION can verify that while F-15s won't be immediately delivered to Israel due to elaborate apparatus that accompanies a fighter aircraft sale, a sign-off on air-to-air missiles and Joint Direct Attack Munition kits could still play a role in ongoing war as they retrofit unguided bombs with precision guidance.&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Meeks and Cardin are two of four lawmakers who can effectively veto a foreign military sale. In the case of the F-15 and munitions package, the two top Republicans on the committees — Sen. James E. Risch of Idaho and Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas — had signed off on the sale months ago.

<h2>What next?</h2>

The State Department can now notify the US Congress of the approved sale.

Once approved, the transaction would be one of the largest arms sales to Israel since the war began. According to the Washington Post report, the weaponry&nbsp;is largely financed by the more than $3.3 billion in US taxpayer funds Washington provides Israel annually.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: The United States is reportedly at the brink of approving an arms sale to Israel, which if ultimately approved, would be the largest-ever arms sales to Israel since the beginning of war in Gaza after October 7 last year.

Israel-Hamas war: The United States is reportedly at the brink of approving an arms sale to Israel, which if ultimately approved, would be the largest-ever arms sales to Israel since the beginning of war in Gaza after October 7 last year. According to a report in the Washington Post, two key Democrats in the US Congress have agreed to support a major arms sale to Israel that includes 50 F-15 fighter jets worth more than $18 billion. The US daily reported while citing three unnamed officials. The newspaper reported that Representative Gregory Meeks and Senator Ben Cardin have signed off on the deal under heavy pressure from the Biden administration. For months, the two lawmakers had held up the sale amid unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza that has left more than 37,000 dead in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Also read | Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington "Any issues or concerns Chair Cardin had were addressed through our ongoing consultations with the (Biden)Administration, and that’s why he felt it appropriate to allow this case to move forward," Eric Harris, communications director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was quoted as saying by the Washington Post. Meeks told the newspaper that he had been in close contact with the White House and had urged them to pressure Israel over humanitarian efforts and civilian casualties. He added that the F-15s would not be delivered until "years from now". Also watch | Israel war: Biden threatens Israel of weapons & artillery shells supply cut × WION can verify that while F-15s won't be immediately delivered to Israel due to elaborate apparatus that accompanies a fighter aircraft sale, a sign-off on air-to-air missiles and Joint Direct Attack Munition kits could still play a role in ongoing war as they retrofit unguided bombs with precision guidance. What does it mean? Meeks and Cardin are two of four lawmakers who can effectively veto a foreign military sale. In the case of the F-15 and munitions package, the two top Republicans on the committees — Sen. James E. Risch of Idaho and Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas — had signed off on the sale months ago. What next? The State Department can now notify the US Congress of the approved sale. Once approved, the transaction would be one of the largest arms sales to Israel since the war began. According to the Washington Post report, the weaponry is largely financed by the more than $3.3 billion in US taxpayer funds Washington provides Israel annually. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel

Strong winds pushed flames through dry brush in mountains along Interstate 5 north of Los Angeles on Sunday, and officials warned residents in the wildfire’s path to be prepared to leave if it explodes in size again.

Los Angeles County’s first major wildfire of the year swiftly grew to nearly 23 square miles (60 square kilometers), one day after it forced the evacuation of at least 1,200 campers, off-roaders and hikers from the Hungry Valley recreation area.

The blaze, dubbed the Post Fire, was just 2% contained Sunday evening. No injuries were reported. The cause was under investigation.

Firefighters working in sweltering conditions and steep terrain raced to douse spot fires that erupted as unpredictable winds blew embers ahead of the flames, said Kenichi Haskett, a section chief for the LA County Fire Department. The gusts also hampered efforts by aircraft crews to drop water and fire retardant, he said.

“When it’s windy, it just sprays the water everywhere we don’t need it. So that’s a challenge,” Haskett said.

Meanwhile in Northern California, a small wildfire sparked Sunday prompted evacuation orders and warnings for a sparsely populated area near Lake Sonoma. The so-called Point Fire sent up a huge plume of dark smoke as it churned through brush and timber about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of San Francisco. It was 15% contained.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-a-dozen-people-missing-as-extreme-weather-hits-china-732805">Over a dozen people missing as extreme weather hits China</a>

<a id="more-section-display-name" name="more-section-display-name"></a>

The Southern California fire erupted Saturday afternoon near I-5 in Gorman, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of Los Angeles. Two structures burned within the evacuated recreation area.

Flames were moving toward Pyramid Lake, a popular destination for boaters that was closed as a precaution on Father’s Day. No houses were threatened Sunday, but officials warned residents of Castaic, home to about 19,000 people, that they should prepare to leave if the fire pushes further south.

“If you’re in a warning area, be prepared with a ‘go bag,’ with overnight clothes and your cellphone, your medicines, your glasses. Have your car fueled up,” said Haskett. “Be ready to evacuate.”

Low humidity and gusts around 50 mph (80 kph) were expected throughout the day, and winds could pick up speed after sundown, warned the National Weather Service office for Los Angeles.

About 75 miles (120 kilometers) to the east, the nearly 2-square-mile (5-square-kilometer) Hesperia Fire forced road closures and prompted evacuation warnings after it broke out Saturday near mountain communities in San Bernardino County. The blaze was 19% contained Sunday evening.

Strong winds pushed flames through dry brush in mountains along Interstate 5 north of Los Angeles on Sunday, and officials warned residents in the wildfire’s path to be prepared to leave if it explodes in size again.

Strong winds pushed flames through dry brush in mountains along Interstate 5 north of Los Angeles on Sunday, and officials warned residents in the wildfire’s path to be prepared to leave if it explodes in size again. Los Angeles County’s first major wildfire of the year swiftly grew to nearly 23 square miles (60 square kilometers), one day after it forced the evacuation of at least 1,200 campers, off-roaders and hikers from the Hungry Valley recreation area. The blaze, dubbed the Post Fire, was just 2% contained Sunday evening. No injuries were reported. The cause was under investigation. Firefighters working in sweltering conditions and steep terrain raced to douse spot fires that erupted as unpredictable winds blew embers ahead of the flames, said Kenichi Haskett, a section chief for the LA County Fire Department. The gusts also hampered efforts by aircraft crews to drop water and fire retardant, he said. “When it’s windy, it just sprays the water everywhere we don’t need it. So that’s a challenge,” Haskett said. Meanwhile in Northern California, a small wildfire sparked Sunday prompted evacuation orders and warnings for a sparsely populated area near Lake Sonoma. The so-called Point Fire sent up a huge plume of dark smoke as it churned through brush and timber about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of San Francisco. It was 15% contained. Also read: Over a dozen people missing as extreme weather hits China The Southern California fire erupted Saturday afternoon near I-5 in Gorman, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of Los Angeles. Two structures burned within the evacuated recreation area. Flames were moving toward Pyramid Lake, a popular destination for boaters that was closed as a precaution on Father’s Day. No houses were threatened Sunday, but officials warned residents of Castaic, home to about 19,000 people, that they should prepare to leave if the fire pushes further south. “If you’re in a warning area, be prepared with a ‘go bag,’ with overnight clothes and your cellphone, your medicines, your glasses. Have your car fueled up,” said Haskett. “Be ready to evacuate.” Low humidity and gusts around 50 mph (80 kph) were expected throughout the day, and winds could pick up speed after sundown, warned the National Weather Service office for Los Angeles. About 75 miles (120 kilometers) to the east, the nearly 2-square-mile (5-square-kilometer) Hesperia Fire forced road closures and prompted evacuation warnings after it broke out Saturday near mountain communities in San Bernardino County. The blaze was 19% contained Sunday evening.

Los Angeles fires: Thousands evacuated, strong winds push flames through dry brush in mountains

Was a warning about the Hamas attack ignored? Who is accountable for betraying Israel? Molly Gambhir gets you the complete story.

Israel-Hamas war: How warning about Hamas attack was ignored

AI technology is helping to create false stories about World War II atrocities including Holocaust denial, risking an "explosive spread of anti-Semitism", the UN warned Tuesday.

The UN's education and culture body&nbsp;UNESCO&nbsp;called for governments and tech companies to introduce ethical safeguards around AI technology, and for schools to spread the word about the risks of AI-generated content.

UNESCO's report highlighted instances where hackers had rigged chatbots to spread Nazi ideology, and others where bots dreamt up their own stories around the Holocaust.

"If we allow the horrific facts of the Holocaust to be diluted, distorted or falsified through the irresponsible use of AI, we risk the explosive spread of anti-Semitism," said Audrey&nbsp;Azoulay,&nbsp;UNESCO's director-general.

She said it could also lead to the "gradual diminution of our understanding about the causes and consequences of these atrocities".

AI tools that generate content -- such as ChatGPT and DALLE-2 -- exploded onto the scene in 2022.

Companies and institutions have rushed to adopt them for anything from translating texts to providing customer service.

But policymakers, campaigners and law enforcement warned from the start that these tools could be used to extort money, ruin reputations, influence elections and distort history.

Several tools have already publicly failed at history.

Google's Gemini model caused global controversy in February when it generated images of ethnically diverse Nazi soldiers.

UNESCO&nbsp;also pointed out that ChatGPT had wholly invented the concept of "Holocaust by drowning", while Google's Bard chatbot had fabricated witnesses to support untruths about Nazi massacres.&nbsp;

<h2>'Red line'&nbsp;</h2>

UNESCO's policy paper, published jointly with the World Jewish Congress to mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, called for "urgent action" from governments, tech companies and educators.

Karel&nbsp;Fracapane, a&nbsp;UNESCO&nbsp;expert on Holocaust education, told AFP that distortions of Holocaust history showed how AI could upend our relationship with truth and "lead to a deep erosion of democratic culture".

Fracapane said the current rising popularity of far-right politicians in Western Europe was part of the same process as the spread of hate speech online.

Although education around the Holocaust had improved markedly in recent years, he said the "red line" of spreading Holocaust denial and Nazi ideas had been smashed both online and in the real world.

"What's in this report is a manifestation of what is happening in society -- it leads to very real political consequences," he said.

Among the examples highlighted in the&nbsp;UNESCO&nbsp;report was an AI-generated Joseph Goebbels claiming he had tried to save Jewish lives, and a deepfake of "Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson reading from Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf".

However,&nbsp;UNESCO's report also flagged positive uses for AI.

Algorithms could categorise and sort testimonies, helping to find new patterns and fresh insights.

And AI-powered education tools could bring immersive experiences to young people, the&nbsp;UNESCO&nbsp;report said.

But Fracapane said that, with the state of the technology right now, he was leaning harder towards the "AI as menace" side of the debate rather than "AI as opportunity".

AI technology is helping to create false stories about World War II atrocities including Holocaust denial, risking an "explosive spread of anti-Semitism", the UN warned Tuesday.

AI technology is helping to create false stories about World War II atrocities including Holocaust denial, risking an "explosive spread of anti-Semitism", the UN warned Tuesday. The UN's education and culture body UNESCO called for governments and tech companies to introduce ethical safeguards around AI technology, and for schools to spread the word about the risks of AI-generated content. UNESCO's report highlighted instances where hackers had rigged chatbots to spread Nazi ideology, and others where bots dreamt up their own stories around the Holocaust. "If we allow the horrific facts of the Holocaust to be diluted, distorted or falsified through the irresponsible use of AI, we risk the explosive spread of anti-Semitism," said Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO's director-general. She said it could also lead to the "gradual diminution of our understanding about the causes and consequences of these atrocities". AI tools that generate content -- such as ChatGPT and DALLE-2 -- exploded onto the scene in 2022. Companies and institutions have rushed to adopt them for anything from translating texts to providing customer service. But policymakers, campaigners and law enforcement warned from the start that these tools could be used to extort money, ruin reputations, influence elections and distort history. Several tools have already publicly failed at history. Google's Gemini model caused global controversy in February when it generated images of ethnically diverse Nazi soldiers. UNESCO also pointed out that ChatGPT had wholly invented the concept of "Holocaust by drowning", while Google's Bard chatbot had fabricated witnesses to support untruths about Nazi massacres. 'Red line' UNESCO's policy paper, published jointly with the World Jewish Congress to mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, called for "urgent action" from governments, tech companies and educators. Karel Fracapane, a UNESCO expert on Holocaust education, told AFP that distortions of Holocaust history showed how AI could upend our relationship with truth and "lead to a deep erosion of democratic culture". Fracapane said the current rising popularity of far-right politicians in Western Europe was part of the same process as the spread of hate speech online. Although education around the Holocaust had improved markedly in recent years, he said the "red line" of spreading Holocaust denial and Nazi ideas had been smashed both online and in the real world. "What's in this report is a manifestation of what is happening in society -- it leads to very real political consequences," he said. Among the examples highlighted in the UNESCO report was an AI-generated Joseph Goebbels claiming he had tried to save Jewish lives, and a deepfake of "Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson reading from Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf". However, UNESCO's report also flagged positive uses for AI. Algorithms could categorise and sort testimonies, helping to find new patterns and fresh insights. And AI-powered education tools could bring immersive experiences to young people, the UNESCO report said. But Fracapane said that, with the state of the technology right now, he was leaning harder towards the "AI as menace" side of the debate rather than "AI as opportunity".

UN raises alarm over AI-fuelled Holocaust denial and distortion

The expansion of US civil rights protections to LGBTQ+ students across six states was blocked by a federal judge on Monday (June 17) in a major setback to the gender minorities in the United States. The ruling, however, is temporary in nature but it effectively blocks the Biden administration's new Title IX rule by declaring them as "arbitrary in the truest sense of the word".

The US District Judge Danny C. Reeves granted a preliminary injunction blocking the expansion of civil rights for LGBTQ+ students in the states of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The ruling comes days after a different federal judge temporarily blocked the new rule from taking effect in Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi and Montana.

In Kentucky, the ruling was applauded by the state's GOP attorney general, Russell Coleman, who argued that the regulation would undermine equal opportunities for women.&nbsp;

"The judge’s order makes clear that the US Department of Education’s attempt to redefine ‘sex’ to include ‘gender identity’ is unlawful and beyond the agency’s regulatory authority,” Coleman said in an official statement.

<h2>Title IX Civil rights for LGBTQ+ students: What is the row?</h2>

The row has stemmed from two cases that are among at least seven backed by more than 20 Republican-led states that contest the Title IX ruling. Title IX, the Biden administration's&nbsp;flagship civil rights expansion initiative, set to take effect in August just a few months before the US presidential elections in November, expands the definition of sexual harassment at schools and colleges and adds safeguards for survivors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-blocks-biden-protections-for-lgbt-students-in-four-states-731889">US judge blocks Biden administration's protections for LGBT students in four states</a>

In another lawsuit contesting Title IX civil rights, the US Education Department last week asked a federal judge in Missouri to deny a request for a preliminary injunction against the new rule. The lawsuit was filed last month by the Republican attorneys general of Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Also watch |&nbsp;US | Kentucky anti-LGBTQ law: Legislature passes anti-Trans law

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The department said that enjoining the rule "would substantially harm the federal government’s interest in preventing discrimination in federally funded educational programs and activities."

The expansion of US civil rights protections to LGBTQ+ students across six states was blocked by a federal judge on Monday (June 17) in a major setback to the gender minorities in the United States.

The expansion of US civil rights protections to LGBTQ+ students across six states was blocked by a federal judge on Monday (June 17) in a major setback to the gender minorities in the United States. The ruling, however, is temporary in nature but it effectively blocks the Biden administration's new Title IX rule by declaring them as "arbitrary in the truest sense of the word". The US District Judge Danny C. Reeves granted a preliminary injunction blocking the expansion of civil rights for LGBTQ+ students in the states of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The ruling comes days after a different federal judge temporarily blocked the new rule from taking effect in Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi and Montana. In Kentucky, the ruling was applauded by the state's GOP attorney general, Russell Coleman, who argued that the regulation would undermine equal opportunities for women. "The judge’s order makes clear that the US Department of Education’s attempt to redefine ‘sex’ to include ‘gender identity’ is unlawful and beyond the agency’s regulatory authority,” Coleman said in an official statement. Title IX Civil rights for LGBTQ+ students: What is the row? The row has stemmed from two cases that are among at least seven backed by more than 20 Republican-led states that contest the Title IX ruling. Title IX, the Biden administration's flagship civil rights expansion initiative, set to take effect in August just a few months before the US presidential elections in November, expands the definition of sexual harassment at schools and colleges and adds safeguards for survivors. Also read | US judge blocks Biden administration's protections for LGBT students in four states In another lawsuit contesting Title IX civil rights, the US Education Department last week asked a federal judge in Missouri to deny a request for a preliminary injunction against the new rule. The lawsuit was filed last month by the Republican attorneys general of Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. Also watch | US | Kentucky anti-LGBTQ law: Legislature passes anti-Trans law × The department said that enjoining the rule "would substantially harm the federal government’s interest in preventing discrimination in federally funded educational programs and activities."

In Pride month, six more states in the US block rule protecting LGBTQ+ students

Kenya's government on Tuesday walked back plans to impose multiple tax hikes, the presidency said, amending a controversial bill that sparked protests where more than a dozen demonstrators were arrested.

The East African economic powerhouse has struggled with a cost-of-living crisis, which critics warned would only worsen under the levies laid out in a bill due to be debated this week and passed before June 30.

Hundreds of mostly young protesters assembled near parliament on Tuesday, with police firing tear gas and making arrests, according to AFP journalists.

Hours later, the presidency announced that it would scrap many of the bill's most contentious provisions, including taxes on bread purchases and car ownership.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-royal-defamation-case-ex-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-granted-bail-732755">Thailand royal defamation case: Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra indicted, granted bail</a>

"The Finance Bill has been amended to remove the proposed 16 per cent VAT on bread, transportation of sugar, financial services, foreign exchange transactions as well as the 2.5 per cent Motor Vehicle Tax," the presidency said in a statement.

"Additionally, there will be no increase in mobile money transfer fees, and Excise Duty on vegetable oil has also been removed," it added.

The cash-strapped government had earlier defended the hikes -- which were projected to raise some 346.7 billion shillings ($2.7 billion), equivalent to 1.9 per cent of GDP -- as a necessary measure to cut reliance on external borrowing.

Lawmakers were due to debate the bill on Tuesday afternoon, but postponed the discussion to Wednesday, just before the presidency announced the changes following recommendations made by a parliamentary committee.

"Because the people's representatives have listened to the people... they have adjusted the proposals," President William Ruto told lawmakers.

<h2>- 'Fighting for my future' -</h2>

The bill sparked fury among many Kenyans, who staged protests on Tuesday dubbed "Occupy Parliament".

Black-clad protesters were forced into a cat-and-mouse situation with police, with officers lobbing tear gas and -- in one instance -- chasing people into a church before making arrests.

"I am fighting for my future," one protester, 23-year-old Wangari, told AFP.

"With such taxes, with such exploitation, I don't see how we can build a life," she said.

"This is making it very hard for us, especially us, that are not a part of the one percent."

Her thoughts were echoed by others like 29-year-old Rara Eisa who was protesting for the first time.

"I am tired. The prices of everything have gone up, life is no longer affordable," she said, adding that the taxes "are not lenient in any way".

Many demonstrators waved signs emblazoned "do not force the taxes on us", referring to Ruto as Zakayo, the Swahili name for the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus.

<h2>- Discontent -</h2>

Ruto came to power in 2022 on a promise to revive the economy and put money in the pockets of the downtrodden, but his policies have sparked widespread discontent.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hails-north-koreas-support-for-ukraine-war-vows-trade-security-ahead-of-visit-to-pyongyang-732803">Putin thanks North Korea for 'firmly supporting' Ukraine war as he visits Pyongyang</a>

He has raised income tax and health insurance contributions, and doubled VAT on petroleum products to 16 per cent.

Last year's tax hikes led to opposition protests, sometimes degenerating into deadly street clashes between police and demonstrators.

While Kenya is among the most dynamic economies in East Africa, roughly a third of the 51.5 million population lives in poverty.

Overall inflation has remained stubbornly high at an annual rate of 5.1 per cent in May, while food and fuel inflation stood at 6.2 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively, according to central bank data.

The World Bank said this month that while Kenya's real GDP growth had accelerated last year to 5.6 per cent from 4.9 per cent in 2022, it was expected to slow to five per cent this year.

Kenya's government on Tuesday walked back plans to impose multiple tax hikes, the presidency said, amending a controversial bill that sparked protests where more than a dozen demonstrators were arrested.

Kenya's government on Tuesday walked back plans to impose multiple tax hikes, the presidency said, amending a controversial bill that sparked protests where more than a dozen demonstrators were arrested. The East African economic powerhouse has struggled with a cost-of-living crisis, which critics warned would only worsen under the levies laid out in a bill due to be debated this week and passed before June 30. Hundreds of mostly young protesters assembled near parliament on Tuesday, with police firing tear gas and making arrests, according to AFP journalists. Hours later, the presidency announced that it would scrap many of the bill's most contentious provisions, including taxes on bread purchases and car ownership. Also Read | Thailand royal defamation case: Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra indicted, granted bail "The Finance Bill has been amended to remove the proposed 16 per cent VAT on bread, transportation of sugar, financial services, foreign exchange transactions as well as the 2.5 per cent Motor Vehicle Tax," the presidency said in a statement. "Additionally, there will be no increase in mobile money transfer fees, and Excise Duty on vegetable oil has also been removed," it added. The cash-strapped government had earlier defended the hikes -- which were projected to raise some 346.7 billion shillings ($2.7 billion), equivalent to 1.9 per cent of GDP -- as a necessary measure to cut reliance on external borrowing. Lawmakers were due to debate the bill on Tuesday afternoon, but postponed the discussion to Wednesday, just before the presidency announced the changes following recommendations made by a parliamentary committee. "Because the people's representatives have listened to the people... they have adjusted the proposals," President William Ruto told lawmakers. - 'Fighting for my future' - The bill sparked fury among many Kenyans, who staged protests on Tuesday dubbed "Occupy Parliament". Black-clad protesters were forced into a cat-and-mouse situation with police, with officers lobbing tear gas and -- in one instance -- chasing people into a church before making arrests. "I am fighting for my future," one protester, 23-year-old Wangari, told AFP. "With such taxes, with such exploitation, I don't see how we can build a life," she said. "This is making it very hard for us, especially us, that are not a part of the one percent." Her thoughts were echoed by others like 29-year-old Rara Eisa who was protesting for the first time. "I am tired. The prices of everything have gone up, life is no longer affordable," she said, adding that the taxes "are not lenient in any way". Many demonstrators waved signs emblazoned "do not force the taxes on us", referring to Ruto as Zakayo, the Swahili name for the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus. - Discontent - Ruto came to power in 2022 on a promise to revive the economy and put money in the pockets of the downtrodden, but his policies have sparked widespread discontent. Also Read | Putin thanks North Korea for 'firmly supporting' Ukraine war as he visits Pyongyang He has raised income tax and health insurance contributions, and doubled VAT on petroleum products to 16 per cent. Last year's tax hikes led to opposition protests, sometimes degenerating into deadly street clashes between police and demonstrators. While Kenya is among the most dynamic economies in East Africa, roughly a third of the 51.5 million population lives in poverty. Overall inflation has remained stubbornly high at an annual rate of 5.1 per cent in May, while food and fuel inflation stood at 6.2 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively, according to central bank data. The World Bank said this month that while Kenya's real GDP growth had accelerated last year to 5.6 per cent from 4.9 per cent in 2022, it was expected to slow to five per cent this year.

Kenya scraps most new tax hikes as hundreds protest

North Korean soldiers working in the Demilitarized Zone separating the two Koreas briefly crossed into the South again Tuesday before returning to their side after the South fired warning shots, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said.

Breaking: North Korean troops enter South Korea, retreats after Seoul fires warning shots

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national accused of hatching a plan to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US, was presented in a federal court in Manhattan on Monday (Jun 17), and pleaded not guilty.

Pannun case: Indian suspect Nikhil Gupta in plot to kill pleads not guilty in US court

As India-Italy ties grow, a new initiative has been announced, the Indo-Mediterranean Initiative (IMI), to further the momentum. Announced at the two-day India Forum 2024 in Rome, the IMI aims to study, support, and promote the burgeoning India-Italy partnership.

The initiative will also place a special emphasis on the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor (IMEC), an economic project unveiled at the G20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023.

Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, former Italian Foreign Minister and President of the India-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group, will lead the initiative. Speaking at the forum, Senator Terzi emphasised the significance of IMEC, stating, "Everyone was unanimously convinced that IMEC, the Economic Corridor launched by the Indian Presidency of the last G20 which saw Italy among the very first signatories, will be much more than an infrastructure project.”

The forum, organised by Vas Shenoy, Chief Representative for Italy of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), featured a diverse lineup of speakers. Amb. Francesco Taló, former diplomatic advisor to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during her visit to India in 2023, highlighted Italy's strategic role.

“I was very happy and proud to be present and be a part of the strategic initiative, which has seen Italy be a protagonist in the international scene not only with India but also the UAE and other countries,” he said.

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 N Korea in 24 yrs: What it signifies and why is&nbsp;west&nbsp;worried?</a>

Additional speakers included James Jay Carafano from the Heritage Foundation and Kaush Arha from Stanford University, who provided insights on the US and geopolitical contexts. The event also saw participation from Italy's leading think tanks and universities, with strategic support from Formiche, Italy’s premier geopolitical platform. Italian Ambassador to India, Vincenzo de Luca, and Sanjeev Sanyal, member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, sent video messages endorsing the initiative.

The forum also hosted the ICC Italy-India Business Forum, inaugurated by Maria Tripodi, Under Secretary of State for External Affairs and International Cooperation, Italy. Among the key guests were India’s new envoy to Italy, Amb. Vani Rao, Senator Terzi di Sant’Agata, and Italy’s ambassador-designate to India, Antonio Bartoli.

Ameya Prabhu, ICC President, underscored the importance of trust in international trade and business. “The Italy-India relationship is important for global peace, security, and progress and to conduct trade and business trust is an essential commodity,” he stated.

The event concluded with representatives from the India-Italy parliamentary friendship group, including Sen. Marco Scurria, Sen. Matteo Gelmetti, and Naike Gruppioni, along with members of Italian institutions and a delegation of 30 companies from the ICC.

India-Italy ties have seen a high level engagement, including visit by PM Modi last week to the country to attend the G7 summit, and last year, the visit of Italian PM Meloni to India twice, first for a bilateral visit and then to attend the G20 summit.&nbsp;

As India-Italy ties grow, a new initiative has been announced, the Indo-Mediterranean Initiative (IMI), to further the momentum. Announced at the two-day India Forum 2024 in Rome, the IMI aims to study, support, and promote the burgeoning India-Italy partnership.

As India-Italy ties grow, a new initiative has been announced, the Indo-Mediterranean Initiative (IMI), to further the momentum. Announced at the two-day India Forum 2024 in Rome, the IMI aims to study, support, and promote the burgeoning India-Italy partnership. The initiative will also place a special emphasis on the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor (IMEC), an economic project unveiled at the G20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023. Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, former Italian Foreign Minister and President of the India-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group, will lead the initiative. Speaking at the forum, Senator Terzi emphasised the significance of IMEC, stating, "Everyone was unanimously convinced that IMEC, the Economic Corridor launched by the Indian Presidency of the last G20 which saw Italy among the very first signatories, will be much more than an infrastructure project.” The forum, organised by Vas Shenoy, Chief Representative for Italy of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), featured a diverse lineup of speakers. Amb. Francesco Taló, former diplomatic advisor to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during her visit to India in 2023, highlighted Italy's strategic role. “I was very happy and proud to be present and be a part of the strategic initiative, which has seen Italy be a protagonist in the international scene not only with India but also the UAE and other countries,” he said. Also read: Putin's first visit to N Korea in 24 yrs: What it signifies and why is west worried? Additional speakers included James Jay Carafano from the Heritage Foundation and Kaush Arha from Stanford University, who provided insights on the US and geopolitical contexts. The event also saw participation from Italy's leading think tanks and universities, with strategic support from Formiche, Italy’s premier geopolitical platform. Italian Ambassador to India, Vincenzo de Luca, and Sanjeev Sanyal, member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, sent video messages endorsing the initiative. The forum also hosted the ICC Italy-India Business Forum, inaugurated by Maria Tripodi, Under Secretary of State for External Affairs and International Cooperation, Italy. Among the key guests were India’s new envoy to Italy, Amb. Vani Rao, Senator Terzi di Sant’Agata, and Italy’s ambassador-designate to India, Antonio Bartoli. Ameya Prabhu, ICC President, underscored the importance of trust in international trade and business. “The Italy-India relationship is important for global peace, security, and progress and to conduct trade and business trust is an essential commodity,” he stated. The event concluded with representatives from the India-Italy parliamentary friendship group, including Sen. Marco Scurria, Sen. Matteo Gelmetti, and Naike Gruppioni, along with members of Italian institutions and a delegation of 30 companies from the ICC. India-Italy ties have seen a high level engagement, including visit by PM Modi last week to the country to attend the G7 summit, and last year, the visit of Italian PM Meloni to India twice, first for a bilateral visit and then to attend the G20 summit.

India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative

A wildfire burning northwest of US' Los Angeles has forced the evacuation of over 1,000 people from a popular outdoor recreation area and burned over 12,000 acres. Watch in for more details!

California wildfire burns 12,000 acres, forces evacuations

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!

Ukraine frustrated with US over F-16 pilot training

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