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South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea.

South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea. The sanctions came as South Korea and the United States (US) accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the accusation. The sanctions In a statement, South Korea's foreign ministry said that sanctions were imposed on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels over weapons trade and other activities between Pyongyang and Moscow. Also read | North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia The ministry said that the two Russian vessels were carrying a large quantity of containers between Russia and North Korea transporting military supplies in a clear violation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Japan, meanwhile, imposed sanctions on 11 organisations and one person including what it said were Russian groups involved in military cooperation to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the news agency Reuters reported. Addressing a press conference, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa said on Friday that Russia's procurement of arms from North Korea violated the relevant UN resolutions that completely prohibit the transfer of arms and related materials to and from North Korea. Russia-North Korea ties deepen further Days before the sanctions were imposed, North Korean state media reported on Tuesday (May 21) that a Russian delegation arrived in Pyongyang, signalling a further deepening of ties since North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia last year. Also watch | WION Dispatch: North Korea dismisses rumour of arms export to Russia × The Russian delegation, led by Grigory Rapota- the chairperson of the Russia-North Korea friendship parliamentary group, arrived in Pyongyang on Monday. In a post on Telegram, the Russian Embassy in North Korea said that the delegation would be staying in Pyongyang until Friday and the two sides would discuss parliamentary exchanges and further engagements. (With inputs from agencies)

Alleged Russia-North Korea arms trade: South Korea, Japan impose sanctions

About three dozen Cambridge University academics have rebelled against a rule that requires them to abandon their posts when they turn 69.&nbsp;

A group of 35 academics have attacked the policy by arguing that attempts to remove "dead wood" from faculties creates a "brain drain" and harms women academics whose careers often develop later.

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Lat year, Oxford University lost an employment tribunal case over opting a similar policy. A judge ruled that the university was not "legally justified" in forcing four academics to retire at 68.&nbsp;

<h2>Cambridge retirement age: What is the row?</h2>

Last week, Cambridge proposed increasing the cut-off age from 67 to 69 and abolishing it for administrative and support staff, according to a report by The Times newspaper.&nbsp;

However, it will remain in place for all academics, pro-vice-chancellors and the vice-chancellor.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Cambridge changes definition of 'Man' &amp; 'Woman'

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The group wrote that "forcing arbitrary retirement" stops innovation, and added that academics can "innovate at any age" and that to suggest otherwise is "ageist".

"Top talent won’t join Cambridge knowing they’ll be forced out at 67 or 69. We lose our best professors to other universities by 62 or 64, creating a brain drain and taking their big grants elsewhere," the group wrote.&nbsp;

"The Employer Justified Retirement Age (EJRA) does not lead to Cambridge promoting its own junior academics. Forced retirement disproportionately also harms women whose careers often develop later,' it added.

Professor Raghu Rau, a member of the group, told The Times newspaper: "Instead of developing a performance management system, it just forces out everyone. Simply put, to get rid of some dead wood, the university burns down the forest."

<h2>Cambridge Academics retirement age row: What next?</h2>

The new proposals to push the EJRA up to 69 will be debated this month and then be voted on by members of Regent House, Cambridge University's&nbsp;democratic body, next month in July.

(With inputs from agencies)

About three dozen Cambridge University academics have rebelled against a rule that requires them to abandon their posts when they turn 69. A group of 35 academics have attacked the policy by arguing that attempts to remove "dead wood" from faculties creates a "brain drain" and harms women academics whose careers often develop later.

About three dozen Cambridge University academics have rebelled against a rule that requires them to abandon their posts when they turn 69. A group of 35 academics have attacked the policy by arguing that attempts to remove "dead wood" from faculties creates a "brain drain" and harms women academics whose careers often develop later. Also read | Cambridge University halts funding from fossil giants amid fears of influence on research Lat year, Oxford University lost an employment tribunal case over opting a similar policy. A judge ruled that the university was not "legally justified" in forcing four academics to retire at 68. Cambridge retirement age: What is the row? Last week, Cambridge proposed increasing the cut-off age from 67 to 69 and abolishing it for administrative and support staff, according to a report by The Times newspaper. However, it will remain in place for all academics, pro-vice-chancellors and the vice-chancellor. Also watch | WION Fineprint | Cambridge changes definition of 'Man' & 'Woman' × The group wrote that "forcing arbitrary retirement" stops innovation, and added that academics can "innovate at any age" and that to suggest otherwise is "ageist". "Top talent won’t join Cambridge knowing they’ll be forced out at 67 or 69. We lose our best professors to other universities by 62 or 64, creating a brain drain and taking their big grants elsewhere," the group wrote. "The Employer Justified Retirement Age (EJRA) does not lead to Cambridge promoting its own junior academics. Forced retirement disproportionately also harms women whose careers often develop later,' it added. Professor Raghu Rau, a member of the group, told The Times newspaper: "Instead of developing a performance management system, it just forces out everyone. Simply put, to get rid of some dead wood, the university burns down the forest." Cambridge Academics retirement age row: What next? The new proposals to push the EJRA up to 69 will be debated this month and then be voted on by members of Regent House, Cambridge University's democratic body, next month in July. (With inputs from agencies)

Staying beyond 69? 'Dead wood' Cambridge academics rebel against retirement rule

Czech Republic President Petr Pavel was admitted to a hospital after he suffered injuries while riding a racing a motorcycle, said his office. Taking to social media platform X, Pavel's office said, "The president was injured while riding his motorcycle.

Czech Republic President Petr Pavel was admitted to a hospital after he suffered injuries while riding a racing a motorcycle, said his office. Taking to social media platform X, Pavel's office said, "The president was injured while riding his motorcycle. The injuries are not serious but will require a short observation in the hospital." The office added that more information will be provided by them when available. According to the police, the accident took place on a closed course and it was not a road accident. Also Read: India declares one-day state mourning on Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s demise in helicopter crash The 62-year-old president, who will be in office since March 2023, is required to remain hospitalised for an unspecified period of time. "His injuries are not serious, but they will require a short monitoring stay in Prague's Military University Hospital," stated Pavel's office. Speaking to Czech TV, Pavel's spokesman Vit Kolar said that the president will spend "several days" in the hospital which will have a negligible impact on his programme. "It's Friday, Saturday and Sunday so we believe it will not have a remarkable impact," said Kolar. Speaking further on the incident he said that "we will see" if the president is fit for a trip abroad next week. Czech police 'not' investigating president's bike crash Czech police said that they are not investigating the accident since it occurred on a closed racing circuit and not on the road. The president's love for motorbikes is known and he was believed to be currently racing a BMW R1200 GS. This is not the first time he has landed in trouble for his hobby. Last year, the president was forced to publicly apologise after he was seen riding a bike without a helmet. Watch: Raisi's convoy helicopter accident: Rescuers trying to reach the helicopter involved in accident Pavel, who is a former high-ranking Nato general, was elected as the president of the Czech Republic in March 2023. A few weeks after taking the position, the president rode a motorbike to the state of Bavaria in Germany. "The sun, the wind at your back and the strengthening of neighbourly relations with your Bavarian friends. Why not combine the pleasant with the useful," Pavel wrote, in a post on X. This is not the first time, the Czech leader has suffered injury in extra-curricular activities. In April, the president suffered an injury when he was firing a weapon at a shooting range. (With inputs from agencies)

Czech President Petr Pavel suffers injuries after his racing motorcycle crashes

Alleging the failure to implement “biologically meaningful closures” to fishing around six penguin colonies in South Africa, NGOs in the likes of BirdLife South Africa and Southern African Foundation have now dragged South Africa's minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment, Barbara Creecy, to court.

It is vital to note that these six penguin colonies account for 76% of the global African penguin population. Last year in July the international review panel appointed by the minister conveyed in their report that targeted fishing closures around penguin colonies “would be likely to benefit penguin conservation”.

Reportedly, the minister evaded some of the key recommendations made by her own appointed panel. Besides penguins, another endangered bird species Cape Cormorant also stands to benefit from this ban as it also feeds predominantly on small pelagic fish.&nbsp;

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Additionally, &nbsp;small-scale handline fishers have welcomed the proposals, as many of the species they target feed on sardines and anchovies. Over the period of 120 years, African penguins have undergone a significant decline of over 99%. If the same rate of decline is further continued, these Penguins will be extinct by 2035.

Keeping aside the problem of penguin extinction, this decline is also bound to dent the South African tourism industry. Notably, it contributes 311m rand (£13m) a year to the local economy, as per a 2018 study on the colony at Boulders Beach in Cape Town.&nbsp;

However, &nbsp;the fisher union has opined against the court's verdict. Citing the South African pelagic fishing industry, the Guardian reported, " &nbsp;“Contrary to environmental NGOs’ statements in the media that the main driver is the purse-seine fishing industry, the impact of fishing [on penguin numbers] is small. The “environmental NGOs” had delayed a “process that is tasked with establishing what are the main drivers causing the decline in penguin numbers”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Alleging the failure to implement “biologically meaningful closures” to fishing around six penguin colonies in South Africa, NGOs in the likes of BirdLife South Africa and Southern African Foundation have now dragged South Africa's minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment, Barbara Creecy, to court.

Alleging the failure to implement “biologically meaningful closures” to fishing around six penguin colonies in South Africa, NGOs in the likes of BirdLife South Africa and Southern African Foundation have now dragged South Africa's minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment, Barbara Creecy, to court. It is vital to note that these six penguin colonies account for 76% of the global African penguin population. Last year in July the international review panel appointed by the minister conveyed in their report that targeted fishing closures around penguin colonies “would be likely to benefit penguin conservation”. Reportedly, the minister evaded some of the key recommendations made by her own appointed panel. Besides penguins, another endangered bird species Cape Cormorant also stands to benefit from this ban as it also feeds predominantly on small pelagic fish. Also read: Indian scientists from JNU develop new vaccine to fight Malaria Additionally, small-scale handline fishers have welcomed the proposals, as many of the species they target feed on sardines and anchovies. Over the period of 120 years, African penguins have undergone a significant decline of over 99%. If the same rate of decline is further continued, these Penguins will be extinct by 2035. Keeping aside the problem of penguin extinction, this decline is also bound to dent the South African tourism industry. Notably, it contributes 311m rand (£13m) a year to the local economy, as per a 2018 study on the colony at Boulders Beach in Cape Town. However, the fisher union has opined against the court's verdict. Citing the South African pelagic fishing industry, the Guardian reported, " “Contrary to environmental NGOs’ statements in the media that the main driver is the purse-seine fishing industry, the impact of fishing [on penguin numbers] is small. The “environmental NGOs” had delayed a “process that is tasked with establishing what are the main drivers causing the decline in penguin numbers”. (With inputs from agencies)

Penguin conservation failure: NGOs drag South Africa’s Environment Minister to court

Pablo de Rojas Sánchez-Franco, a self-styled bishop who was excommunicated in 2019, will now have jurisdiction over 16 Spanish nuns who have announced their decision to leave the Catholic Church.

Based in the northern Spanish dioceses of Burgos and Vitoria, the 16 Poor Clare nuns belonged to the Franciscan Order of Saint Clare.

The schism comes amid conservative outrage over Pope Francis' leadership. Letters to "all Cardinals and Bishops of the Catholic Church," written in February by 90 Catholic clergymen and scholars, urged them to oppose a document that the pope endorsed that permitted priests to bless same-sex couples.&nbsp;

The 16 sisters, led by Sister Isabel of the Trinity, released a five-page open statement on their convent website announcing their split from Catholic authority.

Sister Isabel wrote that Catholics had to put up with "the silence of our pastors," who "left their sheep alone and helpless to face the wolves."

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"We have been receiving contradiction, confusion and doublespeak, ambiguity, lack of clear doctrine, which is all the more necessary in stormy times, to hold the rudder more firmly," she continued, referring to the pope.

Despite Sánchez-Franco's excommunication by the Vatican, the sister said that the group would instead recognise him as a "legitimate bishop of the Holy Catholic Church" and place itself under his leadership.

The 16 sisters were under the supervision of Archbishop Mario Iceta of Burgos, who stated in a broadcast on Spanish radio station COPE that he "thought it was fake news" when he first learned they were going, according to the Catholic News Agency.

According to the Catholic News Agency, the archbishop said, "I don't know if they realize the profound consequences that this step has and that is why my option or my opinion is that this should not be done precipitously, let this media tidal wave pass, let's see if it's possible to establish a relationship with them and dialogue and look at these issues and give them time to reconsider this situation that seems so surprising and strange to me."

(With inputs from agencies)

Pablo de Rojas Sánchez-Franco, a self-styled bishop who was excommunicated in 2019, will now have jurisdiction over 16 Spanish nuns who have announced their decision to leave the Catholic Church.

Pablo de Rojas Sánchez-Franco, a self-styled bishop who was excommunicated in 2019, will now have jurisdiction over 16 Spanish nuns who have announced their decision to leave the Catholic Church. Based in the northern Spanish dioceses of Burgos and Vitoria, the 16 Poor Clare nuns belonged to the Franciscan Order of Saint Clare. The schism comes amid conservative outrage over Pope Francis' leadership. Letters to "all Cardinals and Bishops of the Catholic Church," written in February by 90 Catholic clergymen and scholars, urged them to oppose a document that the pope endorsed that permitted priests to bless same-sex couples. The 16 sisters, led by Sister Isabel of the Trinity, released a five-page open statement on their convent website announcing their split from Catholic authority. Sister Isabel wrote that Catholics had to put up with "the silence of our pastors," who "left their sheep alone and helpless to face the wolves." Also read: Pope asks Italians to have babies: 'No shortage of little dogs, cats. There is a lack of children' "We have been receiving contradiction, confusion and doublespeak, ambiguity, lack of clear doctrine, which is all the more necessary in stormy times, to hold the rudder more firmly," she continued, referring to the pope. Despite Sánchez-Franco's excommunication by the Vatican, the sister said that the group would instead recognise him as a "legitimate bishop of the Holy Catholic Church" and place itself under his leadership. The 16 sisters were under the supervision of Archbishop Mario Iceta of Burgos, who stated in a broadcast on Spanish radio station COPE that he "thought it was fake news" when he first learned they were going, according to the Catholic News Agency. According to the Catholic News Agency, the archbishop said, "I don't know if they realize the profound consequences that this step has and that is why my option or my opinion is that this should not be done precipitously, let this media tidal wave pass, let's see if it's possible to establish a relationship with them and dialogue and look at these issues and give them time to reconsider this situation that seems so surprising and strange to me." (With inputs from agencies)

16 nuns denounce Pope Francis, break from Catholic Church under excommunicated Bishop

Lucy&nbsp;Letby, the UK nurse jailed for life after being found guilty of murdering seven babies in her care, on Friday lost a bid to appeal against her convictions.

Court of Appeal judge Victoria Sharp announced in a short hearing in London that&nbsp;Letby's application, argued on four points, had been refused, marking the end of the appeal process for the 34-year-old.

"Having heard her application, we have decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refuse all associated applications," said Sharp.

"A full judgment will be handed down in due course."

Details of the appeal cannot be shared due to court-imposed reporting restrictions.

Letby&nbsp;was convicted in August of seven murders and six attempted murders of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital, in northwest England, between 2015 and 2016.

The jury was unable to reach verdicts on six counts of attempted murder, and she will face retrial on one of those counts.

Lucy Letby, the UK nurse jailed for life after being found guilty of murdering seven babies in her care, on Friday lost a bid to appeal against her convictions. Court of Appeal judge Victoria Sharp announced in a short hearing in London that Letby's application, argued on four points, had been refused, marking the end of the appeal process for the 34-year-old.

Lucy Letby, the UK nurse jailed for life after being found guilty of murdering seven babies in her care, on Friday lost a bid to appeal against her convictions. Court of Appeal judge Victoria Sharp announced in a short hearing in London that Letby's application, argued on four points, had been refused, marking the end of the appeal process for the 34-year-old. "Having heard her application, we have decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refuse all associated applications," said Sharp. "A full judgment will be handed down in due course." Details of the appeal cannot be shared due to court-imposed reporting restrictions. Letby was convicted in August of seven murders and six attempted murders of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital, in northwest England, between 2015 and 2016. The jury was unable to reach verdicts on six counts of attempted murder, and she will face retrial on one of those counts.

UK's baby-killer nurse Lucy Letby loses bid to appeal against convictions

In the face of Russia's war on Ukraine - Poland and Greece have called the European Union to create an air defence sheild to better protect the block.

Poland & Greece propose creation of European Air Defence shield

The wreckage of &nbsp;the USS Harder, one of the most famed US Navy submarines of World War II, has been found in the South China Sea, some 80 years after it was sunk by enemy forces.&nbsp;

The Harder was sunk in a battle on 29 August 1944, along with its crew of 79 men, while on its sixth patrol of the war as the US sought to retake the Philippines from occupying Japanese forces.&nbsp;

It was found 3,000 feet (about 900 metres) below water off the northern Philippine island of Luzon, sitting upright and relatively intact, the US Navy’s History and Heritage Command (NHCC) said Thursday (May 23) in a press release. &nbsp;

“Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom,” NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, a retired US Navy admiral, said in the release.&nbsp;

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<h2>‘Hit 'em harder’: history of the celebrated submarine&nbsp;</h2>

The Harder, which sailed under the motto of "Hit 'em harder', sank the most Japanese warships during World War II. &nbsp;

In one of its final war patrols, it sank three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaged two others over four days, according to the NHHC.&nbsp;

In the wake of the attack, the Japanese were forced to change their battle plans and delay their carrier force, giving rise to their defeat.&nbsp;

The Philippines was one of the main Pacific battlegrounds of WW II, as the US fought to retake its former colony from the Japanese Imperial Army.&nbsp;

Waters neighbouring the Philippines archipelago serve as the resting place of many storied WW II battleships.

In 2015, US billionaire Paul Allen located the wreck of the Musashi, one of the two largest Japanese warships ever built, in the Philippines' Sibuyan Sea.&nbsp;

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The Harder was found by the Lost 52 project, an effort led by Tim Taylor, CEO of Tiburon Subsea, which aims to find the 52 US submarines lost during the great war.

The group has previously located at least six WWII subs, the NHHC said.

The NHHC stated the wreck is “the final resting place of Sailors that gave their life in defence of the nation and should be respected by all parties as a war grave.”

<h2>Awards and recognition</h2>

The submarine and its crew were later awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its service during the war. The honour recognises extraordinary heroism in action. &nbsp;

Its captain, Commander Sam Dealey, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the US's highest military decoration, for his actions in Harder’s fifth patrol from March to July 1944.&nbsp;

The wreckage of the USS Harder, one of the most famed US Navy submarines of World War II, has been found in the South China Sea, some 80 years after it was sunk by enemy forces.

The wreckage of the USS Harder, one of the most famed US Navy submarines of World War II, has been found in the South China Sea, some 80 years after it was sunk by enemy forces. The Harder was sunk in a battle on 29 August 1944, along with its crew of 79 men, while on its sixth patrol of the war as the US sought to retake the Philippines from occupying Japanese forces. It was found 3,000 feet (about 900 metres) below water off the northern Philippine island of Luzon, sitting upright and relatively intact, the US Navy’s History and Heritage Command (NHCC) said Thursday (May 23) in a press release. “Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom,” NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, a retired US Navy admiral, said in the release. Also read: Scientists find stars that quietly 'die' without supernova explosions ‘Hit 'em harder’: history of the celebrated submarine The Harder, which sailed under the motto of "Hit 'em harder', sank the most Japanese warships during World War II. In one of its final war patrols, it sank three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaged two others over four days, according to the NHHC. In the wake of the attack, the Japanese were forced to change their battle plans and delay their carrier force, giving rise to their defeat. The Philippines was one of the main Pacific battlegrounds of WW II, as the US fought to retake its former colony from the Japanese Imperial Army. Waters neighbouring the Philippines archipelago serve as the resting place of many storied WW II battleships. In 2015, US billionaire Paul Allen located the wreck of the Musashi, one of the two largest Japanese warships ever built, in the Philippines' Sibuyan Sea. Also read: Over 7,000 IIT graduates unplaced as job market copes with AI impact The Harder was found by the Lost 52 project, an effort led by Tim Taylor, CEO of Tiburon Subsea, which aims to find the 52 US submarines lost during the great war. The group has previously located at least six WWII subs, the NHHC said. The NHHC stated the wreck is “the final resting place of Sailors that gave their life in defence of the nation and should be respected by all parties as a war grave.” Awards and recognition The submarine and its crew were later awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its service during the war. The honour recognises extraordinary heroism in action. Its captain, Commander Sam Dealey, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the US's highest military decoration, for his actions in Harder’s fifth patrol from March to July 1944.

USS Harder: Wreck of lost US World War II submarine found off the Philippines

Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine.

He further said that this time, the only difference was that the drills involved Belarus. Russia had in 2023 announced that it was deploying tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus.

Putin's remarks came at a press conference in Minsk after his talks with Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko.

<h2>Putin questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader</h2>

Putin further questioned if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had the legitimacy to negotiate on Kyiv's behalf.

Russia stated that it was ready to hold talks concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, however, it highlighted that Zelensky's five-year term in office ended on May 20.

Zelensky had previously ruled out the possibility of holding new presidential elections while the country was fighting a war.

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“Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended,” Putin said.

“We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities,” he added reiterating that his country was ready to negotiate with Ukraine.

Zelensky, however, has rebuffed the preconditions placed by Russia for the talks which also demands allowing Moscow to retain the territory that the Kremlin forces have captured since the February 2022 invasion.

<h2>'Stopped' Russia in Kharkiv region, says Ukraine</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukraine's military on Friday said that its forces had stopped Russia from advancing into the northeastern Kharkiv region, but Moscow was intensifying its offensive on other parts of the front.

"The Ukrainian Defence Forces have stopped Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector... The situation is under control, counter-offensive actions are underway," the army said.

Despite initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units", Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said on social media.

In an attempt to seize the town, Russia "is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail", Syrsky added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, defending this week's latest military drills, said that his country regularly conducts such exercises and that it was not an escalation in the war with Ukraine. He further said that this time, the only difference was that the drills involved Belarus. Russia had in 2023 announced that it was deploying tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus. Putin's remarks came at a press conference in Minsk after his talks with Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko. Putin questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader Putin further questioned if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had the legitimacy to negotiate on Kyiv's behalf. Russia stated that it was ready to hold talks concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, however, it highlighted that Zelensky's five-year term in office ended on May 20. Zelensky had previously ruled out the possibility of holding new presidential elections while the country was fighting a war. Also read: Russia says Ukraine gave refuge to fleeing Islamic State terrorists after Moscow concert attack “Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended,” Putin said. “We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities,” he added reiterating that his country was ready to negotiate with Ukraine. Zelensky, however, has rebuffed the preconditions placed by Russia for the talks which also demands allowing Moscow to retain the territory that the Kremlin forces have captured since the February 2022 invasion. 'Stopped' Russia in Kharkiv region, says Ukraine Meanwhile, Ukraine's military on Friday said that its forces had stopped Russia from advancing into the northeastern Kharkiv region, but Moscow was intensifying its offensive on other parts of the front. "The Ukrainian Defence Forces have stopped Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector... The situation is under control, counter-offensive actions are underway," the army said. Despite initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units", Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said on social media. In an attempt to seize the town, Russia "is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail", Syrsky added. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader

Following UK Prime Minister's surprise election announcements Scotland has also kickstarted preparations for the July polls. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak meets Scotland's Conservative leader Douglass Ross before early elections

International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza. In other news, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in Karnataka's Bengaluru city in the month of March.

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International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah.&nbsp;The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza.&nbsp;

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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in Karnataka's Bengaluru city in the month of March.&nbsp;This is the fifth person to be arrested by the agency in the matter.

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Taiwan on Friday (May 24) detected 62 Chinese aircraft around the island as Beijing warned of war over Taiwan and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved — a statement that can seen as China's declaration of war.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-people-estimated-to-be-killed-in-landslide-in-papua-new-guinea-724797">Over 100 people estimated to be killed in landslide in Papua New Guinea</a>

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More than 100 people have&nbsp;been estimated&nbsp;to be killed in a landslide in&nbsp;Papua New Guinea on Friday (May 24).&nbsp;A report by&nbsp;the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) said that the landslide&nbsp;hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province at around 3 am local time.

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Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Friday (May 24) said that attempts were made to frame the family driver in order to protect the 17-year-old accused in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-porsche-crash-mother-of-teen-urges-police-protection-for-son-after-fake-rap-video-goes-viral-724887">horrific car crash</a>&nbsp;that killed two motorbike-borne people in the west Indian city.&nbsp;

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Babar Azam will lead the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies after they revealed their 15-man squad on Friday (May 24). The selection committee meeting was attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, &nbsp;Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz.&nbsp;

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Speaker of the US House Mike Johnson said on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress "soon." Speaking at the annual Independence Day celebration held by the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Johnson stated, "This will be a timely and a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need."

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When Kenya's President William Ruto touched down in Washington DC, a shiny red carpet welcomed him on the tarmac alongside cordons of the American troops standing in attention.&nbsp;A special emissary greeted his plane: the first lady Jill Biden.&nbsp;Moving forward, the US President Joe Biden named Kenya as a "major non-NATO ally", the first in sub-Saharan Africa, and hosted a lavish state dinner on the White House South Lawn.&nbsp;

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Kani Kusruti, the star of Payal Kapadia's&nbsp;All We Imagine as Light, made a subtle but firm statement during the red carpet premiere of her film at Cannes 2024 on Thursday (May 23).&nbsp;Kusruti, who plays Prabha in the film, caught the internet's attention when she walked the red carpet carrying a watermelon-shaped handbag, which is an international symbol of solidarity with Palestinians.

International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza.

International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza. In other news, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in Karnataka's Bengaluru city in the month of March. Click on the headlines to read more. World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza. NIA arrests ex-Lashkar-e-Taiba case convict in Rameshwaram cafe blast The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in Karnataka's Bengaluru city in the month of March. This is the fifth person to be arrested by the agency in the matter. Taiwan detects 62 Chinese aircraft around island on day 2 of military drills Taiwan on Friday (May 24) detected 62 Chinese aircraft around the island as Beijing warned of war over Taiwan and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved — a statement that can seen as China's declaration of war. Over 100 people estimated to be killed in landslide in Papua New Guinea More than 100 people have been estimated to be killed in a landslide in Papua New Guinea on Friday (May 24). A report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) said that the landslide hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province at around 3 am local time. Pune Porsche case: Attempts were made to save teen by framing family driver Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Friday (May 24) said that attempts were made to frame the family driver in order to protect the 17-year-old accused in a horrific car crash that killed two motorbike-borne people in the west Indian city. Babar Azam-led Pakistan reveal T20 World Cup squad as Amir, Wasim return Babar Azam will lead the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies after they revealed their 15-man squad on Friday (May 24). The selection committee meeting was attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz. Netanyahu to address US Congress soon: Democrats RSVP 'no' to 'terrible idea' Speaker of the US House Mike Johnson said on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress "soon." Speaking at the annual Independence Day celebration held by the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Johnson stated, "This will be a timely and a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need." Kenya is now 'major non-NATO ally' of the US. Here's what it means When Kenya's President William Ruto touched down in Washington DC, a shiny red carpet welcomed him on the tarmac alongside cordons of the American troops standing in attention. A special emissary greeted his plane: the first lady Jill Biden. Moving forward, the US President Joe Biden named Kenya as a "major non-NATO ally", the first in sub-Saharan Africa, and hosted a lavish state dinner on the White House South Lawn. Karnataka sex abuse case: Jaishankar says MEA got request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21 India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (May 24), reacting to the Karnataka obscene video case, revealed that the MEA received a request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21. Cannes 2024: Kani Kusruti lends support to Palestine, Hridhu Haroon takes veshti to film fest Kani Kusruti, the star of Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine as Light, made a subtle but firm statement during the red carpet premiere of her film at Cannes 2024 on Thursday (May 23). Kusruti, who plays Prabha in the film, caught the internet's attention when she walked the red carpet carrying a watermelon-shaped handbag, which is an international symbol of solidarity with Palestinians.

Top 10 news: World court orders Israel to halt Rafah offensive; NIA arrests Bengaluru blast suspect, & more

The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23).

Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe&nbsp;from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee.

It claimed that Shamarin had received at least $360,000 (or 36 million roubles) in return.

The military official has been placed in pre-trial detention for two months and if found guilty, will face a jail term of up to 15 years.

Shamarin's arrest is the fourth detention to take place in a month. Earlier, Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was on April 23 placed in pre-trial detention for allegedly accepting bribe.

Following the incident, Lieutenant-General Yuri Kuznetsov, head of personnel at the defence ministry, and Major-General Ivan Popov, former commander of Russia's 58th army have also been arrested over alleged corruption charges.

The Kremlin played down Shamarin's arrest and denied that it was carrying out a purge of the military's top brass.&nbsp;

"The fight against corruption is consistent work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "It is not a campaign, it is constantly ongoing work."

Several Russian military bloggers welcomed his arrest stating that it was communications breakdowns that led to Russia's military failures in Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-russia-taking-advantage-of-its-lack-of-air-defence-by-launching-brutal-strikes-724634">Russia launching 'brutal' strikes amid Ukraine's lack of air defence</a>

"Bribery in the military and security services is state treason," military blogger Anastasia Kashevarova said in a post on Telegram.

<h2>'Abuse of power'</h2>

Later on Thursday, another military official Vladimir Verteletsky was arrested by the committee over ensuring state orders.&nbsp;

It said Verteletsky had "been charged with the abuse of his official powers" and had also been placed in detention.&nbsp;

Verteletsky was accused by the investigators of taking a bribe in connection with a government contract in &nbsp;2022, which was also the year when Moscow began its offensive against Ukraine.

The incident reportedly cost the state "over 70 million rubles".

(With inputs from agencies)

The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23). Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee.

The deputy chief of the Russian army's General Staff was arrested after being accused of taking bribe, investigators said on Thursday (May 23). Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin was accused of taking bribe from a factory that manufactured communications equipment, in exchange for awarding the firm with bigger state contracts, said Russia's Investigative Committee. It claimed that Shamarin had received at least $360,000 (or 36 million roubles) in return. The military official has been placed in pre-trial detention for two months and if found guilty, will face a jail term of up to 15 years. Shamarin's arrest is the fourth detention to take place in a month. Earlier, Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was on April 23 placed in pre-trial detention for allegedly accepting bribe. Following the incident, Lieutenant-General Yuri Kuznetsov, head of personnel at the defence ministry, and Major-General Ivan Popov, former commander of Russia's 58th army have also been arrested over alleged corruption charges. The Kremlin played down Shamarin's arrest and denied that it was carrying out a purge of the military's top brass. "The fight against corruption is consistent work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "It is not a campaign, it is constantly ongoing work." Several Russian military bloggers welcomed his arrest stating that it was communications breakdowns that led to Russia's military failures in Ukraine. Also read: Russia launching 'brutal' strikes amid Ukraine's lack of air defence "Bribery in the military and security services is state treason," military blogger Anastasia Kashevarova said in a post on Telegram. 'Abuse of power' Later on Thursday, another military official Vladimir Verteletsky was arrested by the committee over ensuring state orders. It said Verteletsky had "been charged with the abuse of his official powers" and had also been placed in detention. Verteletsky was accused by the investigators of taking a bribe in connection with a government contract in 2022, which was also the year when Moscow began its offensive against Ukraine. The incident reportedly cost the state "over 70 million rubles". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia arrests top defence official over corruption charges

Taiwan on Friday (May 24) detected 62 Chinese aircraft around it as Beijing warned of war and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved with the island — a statement that can seen as China's declaration of war.&nbsp;

Taiwan's defence ministry said that Chinese warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan on the second day of exercises, with Beijing saying that the drills were a test of its ability to seize the island.&nbsp;

China started the military exercises on Thursday morning, with Beijing surrounding the self-ruled Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft.&nbsp;China vowed that the blood of "independence forces" would flow.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-court-orders-israel-to-immediately-halt-offensive-in-rafah-725010">World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah</a>&nbsp;

Taiwan considers itself a distinct nation from China, but Beijing claims Taipei as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. China says that the island nation will defy the one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, if needed, it would use force to unite the two territories.&nbsp;

The drills came three days after Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te was sworn in. Lai has vowed to strengthen Taiwan’s security through the imports of advanced fighters and other technology and strengthen its domestic defence industry.&nbsp;

When Lai took oath, Beijing said that changes in Taiwan's politics do not alter the "fact" that it is part of China. "No matter how the internal political situation in Taiwan changes, it will not change the historical and legal fact that both sides of the strait belong to one China," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-53-year-old-man-goes-on-stabbing-rampage-in-xiaogan-killing-8-724855">China: 53-year-old man goes on stabbing rampage in Xiaogan, killing 8</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China holds military drills around Taiwan, releases 3D VR animation of attack&nbsp;

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Taipei's defence ministry said on Friday that since 7:14 am (2314 Thursday), it had detected 62 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers and transport patrol planes around Taiwan.&nbsp;This is the highest number of aircraft seen this year in a 24-hour window.&nbsp;

According to the ministry, among the 62 aircraft, "47 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southern ADIZ (air defence identification zone) to collaborate with 27 naval vessels and coast guard ships in military exercises".&nbsp;

The first day of the drills was dubbed "Joint Sword-2024A". Taipei detected a total of 49 Chinese aircraft around Taiwan on day 1.&nbsp;

<h2>'Taiwan independence' provokes us: China&nbsp;</h2>

A Chinese military spokesman had said the war games were meant to test the "capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories".&nbsp;

But on Friday, Beijing's defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said that Lai "has seriously challenged the one-China principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger".&nbsp;

"Every time 'Taiwan independence' provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taiwan on Friday (May 24) detected 62 Chinese aircraft around it as Beijing warned of war and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved with the island — a statement that can seen as China's declaration of war.

Taiwan on Friday (May 24) detected 62 Chinese aircraft around it as Beijing warned of war and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved with the island — a statement that can seen as China's declaration of war. Taiwan's defence ministry said that Chinese warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan on the second day of exercises, with Beijing saying that the drills were a test of its ability to seize the island. China started the military exercises on Thursday morning, with Beijing surrounding the self-ruled Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft. China vowed that the blood of "independence forces" would flow. Also read: World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah Taiwan considers itself a distinct nation from China, but Beijing claims Taipei as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. China says that the island nation will defy the one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, if needed, it would use force to unite the two territories. The drills came three days after Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te was sworn in. Lai has vowed to strengthen Taiwan’s security through the imports of advanced fighters and other technology and strengthen its domestic defence industry. When Lai took oath, Beijing said that changes in Taiwan's politics do not alter the "fact" that it is part of China. "No matter how the internal political situation in Taiwan changes, it will not change the historical and legal fact that both sides of the strait belong to one China," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. Also read: China: 53-year-old man goes on stabbing rampage in Xiaogan, killing 8 Watch: China holds military drills around Taiwan, releases 3D VR animation of attack × Taipei's defence ministry said on Friday that since 7:14 am (2314 Thursday), it had detected 62 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers and transport patrol planes around Taiwan. This is the highest number of aircraft seen this year in a 24-hour window. According to the ministry, among the 62 aircraft, "47 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southern ADIZ (air defence identification zone) to collaborate with 27 naval vessels and coast guard ships in military exercises". The first day of the drills was dubbed "Joint Sword-2024A". Taipei detected a total of 49 Chinese aircraft around Taiwan on day 1. 'Taiwan independence' provokes us: China A Chinese military spokesman had said the war games were meant to test the "capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories". But on Friday, Beijing's defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said that Lai "has seriously challenged the one-China principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger". "Every time 'Taiwan independence' provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan detects 62 Chinese aircraft around island on day two of Beijing's military drills

Watch top headlines of the hour: - ICJ to rule Israel: Halt Rafah assault - Iran: No foul play in Raisi chopper crash - Kyiv: Russia stopped in Kharkiv - China warns of war - Oil prices edge up slightly

ICJ to rule Israel: Halt Rafah assault | Iran: No foul play in Raisi chopper crash

More than 100 people have been estimated to be killed in a landslide in Papua New Guinea on Friday (May 24). A report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) said that the landslide hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province at around 3 am local time.

More than 100 people have been estimated to be killed in a landslide in Papua New Guinea on Friday (May 24). A report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) said that the landslide hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province at around 3 am local time. Residents said current estimates of the death toll sit above 100, but authorities have not confirmed this figure. It is also not yet known if emergency services visited the remote Kaokalam Village. 'Entire village went down' Speaking to ABC, Elizabeth Laruma, the president of the Porgera Women in Business Association, said the landslide occurred when people in Kaokalam were still asleep, and the entire village went down. "From what I can presume, it's about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground," Laruma said. A challenge to locate bodies The report also said that residents were finding it very difficult to locate the bodies. A person from Kaokalam who estimates at least four of his relatives were killed, told the network, "There are some huge stones and plants, trees. The buildings have collapsed." The person added that these things were making it hard to locate the bodies. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 100 people estimated to be killed in landslide in Papua New Guinea: Report

A violent scuffle broke out between police officials and pro-Palestinian protesters after new encampments were erected inside the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) on Thursday (May 23).

A violent scuffle broke out between police officials and pro-Palestinian protesters after new encampments were erected inside the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) on Thursday (May 23). The police officials were seen wearing riot gear when they walked inside the UCLA campus before clashes broke out with the protesters. In a joint statement, UCLA’s administrative vice chancellor Michael Beck and associate vice chancellor Rick Braziel said that school officials had “withdrawn consent to remain on campus for the demonstrators on Kerckhoff patio, asking them to disperse immediately.” UCLA officials said that the activities of the protesters, “including erecting barricades, establishing fortifications, and blocking access to parts of the campus and buildings,” had been disrupting campus operations. Also Read: NYU forces pro-Palestinian protesters to watch 'The Simpsons' as punishment As per the UCLA officials, those protesters who did not disperse will be facing a seven-day suspension, arrest and disciplinary action. School’s chancellor Gene Block earlier testified about an infamous protest, which took place on the campus earlier this month. As per KTLA, the chancellor said, “Tragically, it took several hours for law enforcement to quell the violence. With the benefit of hindsight, we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk." Meanwhile, the union members said that their free speech rights were violated when UC system leaders appealed to police to use force to clear pro-Palestinian encampments from the campuses. Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, a graduate student and union member, Vincent Doehr said, “It’s a very fraught, violent environment that the administration has created here. The disruption to campus today is coming from administration shutting down this entire area due to an encampment that’s simply in the courtyard of one building.” Students walk out of Harvard graduation ceremony, chant ‘Free, free Palestine’ Students, wearing graduation robes, walked out of the Harvard graduation ceremony on Thursday (May 23) chanting “Free, free Palestine”. The incident happened a day after it was announced that 13 Harvard students, who participated in the encampments, wont be given their diplomas alongside their classmates. Watch: Pro-Palestine university protests spread from US to UK Students also chanted “Let them walk, let them walk” during the commencement, as they referred to those 13 students who were denied their diplomas. As reported by the Associated Press, student speaker Shruthi Kumar said, “This semester our freedom of speech and our expressions of solidarity became punishable". She added that she recognised “the 13 undergraduates in the class of 2024 who will not graduate today". “I am deeply disappointed by the intolerance for freedom of speech and the right to civil disobedience on campus," she added. The students in the encampment had appealed for a ceasefire in Gaza and asked Harvard to divest from companies which have been supporting the war. (With inputs from agencies)

Police and pro-Palestinian protesters clash at UCLA after new encampments erected

The international airport in the&nbsp;New&nbsp;Caledonian capital Noumea will remain closed to commercial flights until at least 9 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), Charles Roger, director of the body that operates the facility, told AFP.

That would extend the shutdown to nearly two weeks in total, after flights were halted on May 15 in the face of deadly rioting that broke out in the French Pacific territory.

The news on Friday came as French President Emmanuel Macron warned the archipelago must not become "the Wild West" during an television interview with local media.

France has dispatched about 3,000 security personnel to the territory in a bid to restore order after more than a week of rioting that has left at least six people dead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-caledonia-macron-says-troops-will-stay-for-as-long-as-needed-724431">New Caledonia unrest: Macron says troops will stay for as long as needed</a>

Macron justified the measure as necessary for a "return to calm", because "it's not the Wild West".

"The Republic must regain authority on all points. In France, not everyone defends themselves," he added, reference to local groups who have organised the defence of their neighbourhoods amid the unrest.&nbsp;

"There is a republican order, it is the security forces who ensure it," he added.

Since Tuesday,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand and Australia have been carrying out special evacuation flights to bring home hundreds of tourists stranded by the unrest, which was sparked by opposition to controversial electoral reforms.

The Australian evacuation flights were set to continue on Friday, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on social media platform X Thursday evening.

Military aircraft from both countries were expected to pass through Noumea on Friday, according to flight tracker site Flightradar24.

Since May 13, hundreds have been injured amid looting, arson and clashes triggered by the French voting reform plan.

New&nbsp;Caledonia&nbsp;has been ruled from Paris since the 1800s, but many&nbsp;Indigenous Kanaks still resent France's power over their islands and want fuller autonomy or independence.&nbsp;

France had planned to give voting rights to thousands of non-indigenous long-term residents, something Kanaks say would dilute the influence of their votes.&nbsp;

Separatists have thrown up barricades that have cut off whole neighbourhoods, as well as the main route to the international airport.

Macron on Thursday conceded more talks were needed on the voting changes, and pledged they would "not be forced through in the current context".&nbsp;

"We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord" among all parties, he added, saying he would review the situation again within a month.&nbsp;

Caledonians would be asked to vote on their future if leaders can reach an over-arching agreement, Macron said. The French parliament's lower house had approved the voting reform, but final ratification was still needed.

The international airport in the New Caledonian capital Noumea will remain closed to commercial flights until at least 9 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), Charles Roger, director of the body that operates the facility, told AFP.

The international airport in the New Caledonian capital Noumea will remain closed to commercial flights until at least 9 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), Charles Roger, director of the body that operates the facility, told AFP. That would extend the shutdown to nearly two weeks in total, after flights were halted on May 15 in the face of deadly rioting that broke out in the French Pacific territory. The news on Friday came as French President Emmanuel Macron warned the archipelago must not become "the Wild West" during an television interview with local media. France has dispatched about 3,000 security personnel to the territory in a bid to restore order after more than a week of rioting that has left at least six people dead. Also read | New Caledonia unrest: Macron says troops will stay for as long as needed Macron justified the measure as necessary for a "return to calm", because "it's not the Wild West". "The Republic must regain authority on all points. In France, not everyone defends themselves," he added, reference to local groups who have organised the defence of their neighbourhoods amid the unrest. "There is a republican order, it is the security forces who ensure it," he added. Since Tuesday, New Zealand and Australia have been carrying out special evacuation flights to bring home hundreds of tourists stranded by the unrest, which was sparked by opposition to controversial electoral reforms. The Australian evacuation flights were set to continue on Friday, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on social media platform X Thursday evening. Military aircraft from both countries were expected to pass through Noumea on Friday, according to flight tracker site Flightradar24. Since May 13, hundreds have been injured amid looting, arson and clashes triggered by the French voting reform plan. New Caledonia has been ruled from Paris since the 1800s, but many Indigenous Kanaks still resent France's power over their islands and want fuller autonomy or independence. France had planned to give voting rights to thousands of non-indigenous long-term residents, something Kanaks say would dilute the influence of their votes. Separatists have thrown up barricades that have cut off whole neighbourhoods, as well as the main route to the international airport. Macron on Thursday conceded more talks were needed on the voting changes, and pledged they would "not be forced through in the current context". "We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord" among all parties, he added, saying he would review the situation again within a month. Caledonians would be asked to vote on their future if leaders can reach an over-arching agreement, Macron said. The French parliament's lower house had approved the voting reform, but final ratification was still needed.

New Caledonia airport to stay closed to commercial flights until May 28

Israel, which recently said it was ready for new truce talks in the ongoing Gaza conflict with terrorist organisation Hamas, launched fresh deadly strikes in the Palestinian territory on Thursday (May 23).

Israel, which recently said it was ready for new truce talks in the ongoing Gaza conflict with terrorist organisation Hamas, launched fresh deadly strikes in the Palestinian territory on Thursday (May 23). Two pre-dawn air strikes had killed 26 people, including 15 children, in Gaza City. Fierce fighting was also seen in Jabalia and Rafah between the Israeli military and Hamas militants. While Iran released the first report on the helicopter crash that killed President Ebrahim Raisi. The report said that the helicopter throughout its journey flew on its predetermined course and did not deviate from the flight route. The report also said that there were no suspicious issues in the conversations between the flight crew and the watchtower. In other news from around the world, South Korea and Japan on Friday announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel launches fresh strikes on Gaza while saying it's ready for new truce talks Israel on Thursday (May 23) launched fresh deadly strikes on the Gaza Strip while saying it was ready for new truce talks in war against terrorist organisation Hamas. Citing the Gaza Strip's civil defence agency, the news agency AFP reported two pre-dawn air strikes had killed 26 people, including 15 children, in Gaza City. Iran releases first report on President Raisi's death, reveals pilot 'contacted...' The first investigative report on the fatal helicopter crash which led to the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the officials who had accompanied him was released by the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces. Alleged Russia-North Korea arms trade: South Korea, Japan impose sanctions South Korea and Japan on Friday (May 24) announced a series of sanctions on people, organisations, and vessels related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea. The sanctions came as South Korea and the United States (US) accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. Modi says he would have taken Kartarpur Sahib from Pakistan if he was PM in 1971 In his first election rally in northern India's Punjab state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the past spectre of 1971 war with Pakistan and added that had he been the prime minister, he would have taken Kartarpur Sahib in return for the release of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers who surrendered to Indian forces then. Watch | Intense heatwave sweeps across northern India ×

Morning brief: Israel launches fresh strikes on Gaza; Iran releases first report on Raisi's death, and more

A massive fire broke out at a small apartment building in central Hanoi early on Friday (May 24) in which at least 14 people were killed and three others were injured, said the state media.

A massive fire broke out at a small apartment building in central Hanoi early on Friday (May 24) in which at least 14 people were killed and three others were injured, said the state media. "The fire broke out at around 12:30 am (1730 GMT Thursday). The fire was big, with several explosions," said Vietnam News Agency. In the images released by the regional media houses, charred belongings were seen being carried from the courtyard of the building, and the first floor's interior had blackened. It was reported that 14 people had been killed and three others were injured by 6:20 am (local time), local officials were cited as saying by VNA. It remained unclear how many people were present in the apartment when the fire broke out. After an hour, the flames were extinguished. The building is located on a two-metre-wide alley and has 12 rooms for rent. Also Read: Fire at Danish pharma giant Novo Nordisk 'under control' According to the media reports, the first floor was used for selling and fixing electric bicycles. Neighbours run out of the alley, says heard 'explosion like firecrackers' Speaking to AFP, one of the neighbours said that she heard an "explosion-like firecrackers" and screams from people. "I thought there was a fight, or something hitting the window. I ran down and saw the fire. Many of the neighbours had run out of the alley, crossing through other neighbours' houses. We were so, so scared," she added. The woman said that the landlord of the building rescued his daughter-in-law and a grandchild from the blazing fire. "The fire grew strongly, destroying many motorbikes, electric bicycles, and bicycles in the yard area," said Hanoi police, in a statement. "By 1:26 am, the fire was completely extinguished. Rescue forces discovered 14 people dead," it added. Speaking to state news site VNExpress, a rescue worker at the site Pham Quoc Viet said that everyone was evacuated from the building. "It was so terribly hot in there," he added. Watch: India: Deadly forest fires sweep Uttarakhand, 5 dead "Firefighters tried their best to look for survivors. They rescued an old lady and then brought another four people out. We checked carefully, there were no other ones inside," he further said. An investigation is being carried out by the authorities to understand the fire's cause. Last year in September, 56 people were killed in a fire at an apartment block in Hanoi in what was said to be the deadliest fire in Vietnam in two decades. In the incident, at least three children had died. Many other deadly fires have been experienced by the country in recent years, especially at entertainment venues. A year ago, a karaoke bar - close to the commercial hub of Ho Chi Minh City - had caught fire in which 32 people were killed and 17 others were injured. Later, the owner was arrested on charges of breaching fire prevention regulations. After the incident, the prime minister gave orders to inspect all high-risk venues. Instructions and fire safety equipment have been installed in different streets and buildings across the city. (With inputs from agencies)

14 killed, three injured after massive fire breaks out at an apartment in Hanoi

A UK-born teenager is set to become the first millennial to be made a saint after he has had a second miracle attributed to him by Pope Francis. Watch to know more.

UK-born teenager to become a saint after miracle recognised by the Pope

U.S. President Joe Biden hosts Kenyan President William Ruto for state visit to mark 60th anniversary of U.S.-Kenya diplomatic relations. White House says leaders will discuss ways to bolster cooperation in areas including trade and investment, technological innovation, and security.

60 years of Kenya-US diplomatic ties, Biden designates Kenya as an 'important non-NATO ally'

The head of a Bangkok hospital has said that passengers and crew onboard a Singapore Airlines flight that hit severe turbulence suffered skull, brain and spinal injuries. The flight was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew from London to Singapore.&nbsp;

A hospital official said on Thursday (May 23) that 20 people who were aboard remain in intensive care in the Thai capital, where flight SQ321 made an emergency landing on Tuesday (May 21) after turbulence at 11,300 metres (37,000 feet).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airlines-horror-what-is-clear-air-turbulence-and-how-climate-change-is-making-it-worse-724212">Singapore Airlines horror: What is clear air turbulence and how is climate change making it worse?</a>&nbsp;

"The number of patients in ICU remains the same," Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, Director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital told reporters, referring to the medical facility's intensive care unit.&nbsp;

He further added that the "meaning of those in ICU are those that need close attention". He mentioned that currently there were no life-threatening cases.&nbsp;

Kittiratanapaibool said that his staff were treating six people for skull and brain injuries, 22 for spinal injuries, and 13 for bone, muscle and other injuries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airlines-flight-entered-a-dangerous-zone-dreaded-by-most-pilots-report-says-724349">Singapore Airlines flight entered a dangerous zone dreaded by most pilots, report says</a>&nbsp;

"We have never treated people with these kinds of injuries caused by turbulence," he told reporters, further adding that the injuries at the hospital range from two to 83 in age.&nbsp;

In a horrific incident, the Boeing 777-300ER hit "sudden extreme turbulence" over Myanmar. Some of the passengers and crew were slammed into the ceiling. A 73-year-old British man died and 104 people were injured on the flight.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Singapore Airlines Turbulence: Should flight safety rules be changed?

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In a report by the news agency AFP, one passenger said people were thrown around the cabin so violently they put dents in the ceiling.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, Singapore Airlines chief executive Goh Choon Phong apologised for the "traumatic experience" and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The head of a Bangkok hospital has said that passengers and crew onboard a Singapore Airlines flight that hit severe turbulence suffered skull, brain and spinal injuries.

The head of a Bangkok hospital has said that passengers and crew onboard a Singapore Airlines flight that hit severe turbulence suffered skull, brain and spinal injuries. The flight was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew from London to Singapore. A hospital official said on Thursday (May 23) that 20 people who were aboard remain in intensive care in the Thai capital, where flight SQ321 made an emergency landing on Tuesday (May 21) after turbulence at 11,300 metres (37,000 feet). Also read: Singapore Airlines horror: What is clear air turbulence and how is climate change making it worse? "The number of patients in ICU remains the same," Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, Director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital told reporters, referring to the medical facility's intensive care unit. He further added that the "meaning of those in ICU are those that need close attention". He mentioned that currently there were no life-threatening cases. Kittiratanapaibool said that his staff were treating six people for skull and brain injuries, 22 for spinal injuries, and 13 for bone, muscle and other injuries. Also read: Singapore Airlines flight entered a dangerous zone dreaded by most pilots, report says "We have never treated people with these kinds of injuries caused by turbulence," he told reporters, further adding that the injuries at the hospital range from two to 83 in age. In a horrific incident, the Boeing 777-300ER hit "sudden extreme turbulence" over Myanmar. Some of the passengers and crew were slammed into the ceiling. A 73-year-old British man died and 104 people were injured on the flight. Watch: Gravitas: Singapore Airlines Turbulence: Should flight safety rules be changed? × In a report by the news agency AFP, one passenger said people were thrown around the cabin so violently they put dents in the ceiling. In the aftermath, Singapore Airlines chief executive Goh Choon Phong apologised for the "traumatic experience" and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore flight turbulence: Passengers suffered skull, brain and spinal injuries

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address a joint meeting of the US Congress - this comes as heightened tensions with US President Joe Biden over the Israeli leaders' handling of the war.

Israel's Netanyahu to address US Congress? | Speaker Mike Johnson extends invite

It's Rishi Sunak's biggest bet as UK goes to polls on July 4th. As the Rwanda Asylum plan has been one of the most concerning issue for UK amid this the Prime Minister has said that no Rwanda flights will take off before the General Elections in UK. Watch in for more details!

UK: PM Rishi Sunak says 'no Rwanda flights before General Election in UK'

Taiwan scrambled jets and put missile, naval and land units on alert over Chinese military exercises. China's military said the two-day exercises around Taiwan were punishment for separatist forces seeking independence. A senior US General says Chinese military drills in the straits of Taiwan in 2023 practised manoeuvres key to an invasion of the island, although an actual attack was not imminent or inevitable.

PLA, Chinese Navy, Airforce & ground forces partake in drills; Taiwan asks to stop 'intimidation'

Speaker of the US House Mike Johnson said on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress "soon." Speaking at the annual Independence Day celebration held by the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Johnson stated, "This will be a timely and a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need.

Speaker of the US House Mike Johnson said on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress "soon." Speaking at the annual Independence Day celebration held by the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Johnson stated, "This will be a timely and a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need." Johnson did not specify when Netanyahu's address will take place, but he told reporters on the sidelines of the event that US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had informed him that he would approve the invitation. It is unclear if Netanyahu will accept the invitation even if it is formally extended. Cast from the past: Netanyahu’s last joint session address in 2015 In 2015, Netanyahu gave his last joint session address, which was arranged by Republican Congressional leaders during Obama administration. Nearly 60 Democrats did not attend his address. Given that progressives are growing more and more opposed to Israel's battle in Gaza against Hamas, a far greater number of Democrats may abstain from a Netanyahu address this time. To go or not to go? Senator Bernie Sanders on CNN said, “It’s a terrible idea. No, I won’t go. You have a prime minister who has created the worst humanitarian disaster in modern history.” "Israel certainly has the right to protection from a terrorist attack by Hamas, but Netanyahu has launched a war against the entire Palestinian people, against women and children. 5% of the population of the Gaza Strip were killed or injured, 60% of them were women and children. 200,000 residential buildings were completely destroyed. How can one invite someone who has acted so badly towards the Palestinians? I think this is a very bad idea," he added. Also read: Bodies of three more Oct 7 hostages recovered overnight from Gaza The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Jim Himes told Axios that the address "would be an enormously controversial, divisive thing." You should "expect something similar" to the boycott of 2015, Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal told Axios. "There certainly will be something... there's a conversation about what it should be and what it looks like." "A lot" of Democrats, according to Representative Ro Khanna, may miss the speech, maybe more than in 2015 "given what's going on" in Gaza. How have US-Israel relations changed since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict? The conflict caused by Hamas' attack on October 7 has also strained Netanyahu's relationship with US President Joe Biden, who warned Israel for the first time earlier this month to withhold arms if it launched a large attack in Rafah's civilian regions. While Netanyahu looks to have secured an invitation from Congress, he has yet to get one from the White House, and traveling to Washington without one would just underscore the differences. If he accepts the invitation, Netanyahu would be the first foreign leader in history to speak before Congress's joint sessions four times. Winston Churchill, former prime minister of Britain, and he are now tied at three. Netanyahu's woes Tens of thousands of demonstrators, some of whose relatives are among the 128 hostages who are still being held in Gaza, have demanded new polls, placing Netanyahu under political duress in Israel. Since the start of the conflict, his popularity has sharply declined. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu to address US Congress soon: Democrats RSVP 'no' to 'terrible idea'

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