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China on Wednesday (May 15) allowed visa-free entry for foreign tour groups that come to the country via cruise ships. Citing the National Immigration Administration, a report by Bloomberg said that overseas tour groups on cruise boats will be able to enter and stay in China without a visa for up to 15 days.

China on Wednesday (May 15) allowed visa-free entry for foreign tour groups that come to the country via cruise ships. Citing the National Immigration Administration, a report by Bloomberg said that overseas tour groups on cruise boats will be able to enter and stay in China without a visa for up to 15 days. This measure has been introduced by Beijing in a further bid to attract international visitors and boost its sluggish inbound travel market. Addressing a press conference, Mao Xu, a senior official with the immigration administration, said that tour groups can enter China from 13 ports including Shanghai, Qingdao, Dalian and Haikou. Also read | Japan rolls out e-visas for Indian tourists. All you need to know "Qualifying tour groups need to be received and handled by domestic travel agencies and will be allowed to travel to coastal provinces as well as Beijing, while they are in China," Mao added. The advantages Mao told reporters that the visa-free entry policy for foreign tour groups on cruise ships would provide policy support for developing China's cruise industry. "It will also help attract more foreign tourists to China and provide more convenient channels for people-to-people exchanges between China and other countries," the official added. Also during Wednesday's press conference, Transport Ministry official Zhu Zhenyu said that China has 21 international cruise ships that ply the country’s ports en route to other destinations like Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. Also watch | SOUTH CHINA SEA: Will China’s floating nuclear reactors intensify tensions in region? | WION Decodes × Last year, 107,000 passenger trips were made via cruise ships in the country, Zhu said. A push to attract more international travellers China since last year has taken several measures to attract more international visitors, including visa-free entry for travellers from some European and Asian countries, including Singapore, reported Bloomberg. (With inputs from agencies)

China allows visa-free entry for foreign tour groups via cruise ships

Rishi Sunak faces the threat of an accidental leadership contest after a wave of disgruntled Tories submitted letters of no confidence. Watch to know more.

UK: Rishi Sunak faces leadership challenge as Tory MPs submit letters of no confidence

On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was openly questioned regarding post-war plans for the Gaza Strip by his own Defense Chief, who vowed to resist Israel's long-term military rule over the wrecked Palestinian enclave. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli defence chief challenges Benjamin Netanyahu over post-war Gaza plans

Russian President Vladimir Putin was greeted by Xi Jinping in a grand welcome ceremony at the square outside the Great Hall of the People. Xi then led Putin on a walk around the square, after which the duo had meeting in the Great Hall. Watch in for more details!

Putin's China visit: Putin arrives in China, holds strategic talks with President Xi

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in the China on his first foreign visit after being re-elected and sworn in as Russia’s president. The Russian president has brought a large delegation consisting of five deputy prime ministers, heads of economic, diplomatic and security agencies - along with a number of CEO's. There will also be a closed door meeting with Xi - in the ‘1+4 format’ - what to expect? What's on the cards? WION's Shivan Chanana discusses with Dr. Gilbert Doctorow Historian, Author and Political Commentator from Brussels.

Putin Meets Xi in China | Tactical nuclear deployment being discussed in closed door meet?

US charges two brothers who studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with fraud-related offenses for allegedly attacking the Ethereum blockchain and stealing $25 million in cryptocurrency in only about 12 seconds. Watch in for more details!

US charges two brothers for stealing $25 million worth of cryptocurrency

The Sun's volatile activity peaked late Tuesday when the colossal sunspot AR3664 unleashed a massive solar flare, the most powerful eruption of the current solar cycle. Watch in for more details!

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A US soldier Gordon Black, being held in Russia’s Vladivostok city, has pleaded guilty to theft charges and is cooperating with investigators, Russia's RIA state news agencies reported on Thursday (May 16).

"The US soldier is cooperating with the investigation, he admitted guilt," RIA quoted a representative of the local interior ministry as saying.

Gordon Black, a US staff sergeant, was arrested on May 2 by police in the Russian city of Vladivostok on suspicion of theft from a woman he was in a relationship with.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pentagon-says-us-soldier-arrested-in-russia-for-theft-flouted-army-rules-719153">Pentagon says US soldier arrested in Russia for theft flouted army rules</a>

The court ordered he remains detained until July 2.

Notably, the United States has warned its citizens against all travel to Russia, citing an array of reasons, including, possible harassment and the singling out of US citizens for detention by Russian government security officials and the arbitrary enforcement of the law.

It is worth mentioning here, since the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;war began in February 2022, the US has seen a small number of its&nbsp;citizens taken into custody by Russia. One such case is Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who faces spying accusations following his detention in 2023.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-arrives-in-china-in-first-overseas-trip-since-russia-re-elects-him-in-march-721897">Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin</a>

The arrest of the US soldier comes less than a year after another American soldier Travis King sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas.

North Korea later announced that it would expel Travis King, who was returned to the US. King was eventually charged with desertion.

Russia is currently holding a number of Americans in its jails, including corporate security executive Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.

The US government has designated both as wrongfully detained and has been trying to negotiate their release.

Among others in custody are Travis Leake, a musician with years of residency in Russia, apprehended last year on allegations linked to narcotics; Marc Fogel, an educator based in Moscow, who received a 14-year prison term also due to drug-related accusations; and dual citizens Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Khavana.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US soldier Gordon Black, being held in Russia’s Vladivostok city, has pleaded guilty to theft charges and is cooperating with investigators, Russia's RIA state news agencies reported on Thursday (May 16).

A US soldier Gordon Black, being held in Russia’s Vladivostok city, has pleaded guilty to theft charges and is cooperating with investigators, Russia's RIA state news agencies reported on Thursday (May 16). "The US soldier is cooperating with the investigation, he admitted guilt," RIA quoted a representative of the local interior ministry as saying. Gordon Black, a US staff sergeant, was arrested on May 2 by police in the Russian city of Vladivostok on suspicion of theft from a woman he was in a relationship with. Also read: Pentagon says US soldier arrested in Russia for theft flouted army rules The court ordered he remains detained until July 2. Notably, the United States has warned its citizens against all travel to Russia, citing an array of reasons, including, possible harassment and the singling out of US citizens for detention by Russian government security officials and the arbitrary enforcement of the law. It is worth mentioning here, since the Ukraine war began in February 2022, the US has seen a small number of its citizens taken into custody by Russia. One such case is Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who faces spying accusations following his detention in 2023. Also read: Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin The arrest of the US soldier comes less than a year after another American soldier Travis King sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas. North Korea later announced that it would expel Travis King, who was returned to the US. King was eventually charged with desertion. Russia is currently holding a number of Americans in its jails, including corporate security executive Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. The US government has designated both as wrongfully detained and has been trying to negotiate their release. Among others in custody are Travis Leake, a musician with years of residency in Russia, apprehended last year on allegations linked to narcotics; Marc Fogel, an educator based in Moscow, who received a 14-year prison term also due to drug-related accusations; and dual citizens Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Khavana. (With inputs from agencies)

US soldier detained in Russia pleads guilty, state media reports 

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Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is no longer in a life-threatening condition. The 59-year-old leader was shot five times by a gunman, initially leaving the Prime Minister in critical condition and undergoing surgery hours later. Watch in for more details!

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday&nbsp;(May 16)&nbsp;said the ties between both the countries&nbsp;are 'conducive to peace'. Putin echoed similar thoughts and said that the&nbsp;ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world," reported AFP.

This is Putins&nbsp;first overseas visit since his re-election in March and&nbsp;solidifying&nbsp;his grip on power in the country. He&nbsp;secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;commenced his fifth term in office.

Putin is on a two-day state visit to China, as confirmed by Russian state media. Arriving in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Putin received a warm welcome from Chinese officials and a guard of&nbsp;honour.

Ahead of his visit, Putin while responding to China's Xinhua news agency over how he assesses cooperation between China and Russia within BRICS, the SCO and other multilateral mechanisms, slammed US.

In his remarks, Putin said, "The countries that affiliate themselves with the so‑called ”golden billion“ do not seem to think so. US‑led Western elites refuse to respect civilizational and cultural diversity and reject centuries-old traditional values."

"Seeking to retain their global dominance, they have usurped the right to tell other nations whom they may, or must not, make friends and cooperate with, and to deny them the right to choose their own development models. They disregard other countries' sovereign interests. They seek to ensure their well‑being at the expense of other states, just like in the old days, and resort to neo-colonial methods to that end."

Putin added,&nbsp;"needless to say, neither Russia nor its partners are happy with this state of affairs. We have actively contributed to launching multilateral associations and mechanisms that are independent of the West and are successfully operating. In their work they build on the principles of equality, justice, transparency, respect and consideration of each other's interests."

<h2>Russia picks China as first overseas country for visit post-elections</h2>

Picking China as the first overseas country for his visit post-elections holds symbolic importance as it underscores&nbsp;the deepening ties between Russia and China amid escalating tensions with Western powers and the dragged-on war with Ukraine, where Moscow has made some significant advances in recent days.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-hunt-killers-in-prison-van-ambush-721896">French police hunt killers in prison van ambush</a>

Putin's arrival coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to suspend all forthcoming international visits as his forces confront Russian incursions in northeastern Kharkiv, a city that witnessed evacuation of thousands of people amid Moscow's ground assault.&nbsp;

Against this backdrop, discussions between Xi and Putin are expected to address the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-allies-denounce-georgia-foreign-influence-law-721894">Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law</a>

Both the leaders are also expected to hold dialogue on bolstering their nation's&nbsp;economic collaborations, as well as energy and security ties.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-unleashes-new-attacks-on-ukraines-kherson-721875">Russia-Ukraine war: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson</a>

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Putin's visit is the fourth face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Ukraine invasion broke out on February 24, 2022. This is also the second visit by the Russian president in this duration.&nbsp;

Earlier, when Xi Jinping clinched an unprecedented third term as Chinese&nbsp;president during a parliamentary session in March last year, where he consolidated his authority, he reciprocated by travelling to Moscow.

Meanwhile, the agenda of Putin's visit to China&nbsp;includes the signing of numerous bilateral agreements, with both leaders anticipated to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations at a "gala event."

According to the Kremlin, the discussions between Putin and Xi will encompass a comprehensive review of their strategic partnership, charting new avenues for collaboration while exchanging views on pressing global and regional concerns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday (May 16) said the ties between both the countries are 'conducive to peace'.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday (May 16) said the ties between both the countries are 'conducive to peace'. Putin echoed similar thoughts and said that the ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world," reported AFP. This is Putins first overseas visit since his re-election in March and solidifying his grip on power in the country. He secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia and commenced his fifth term in office. Putin is on a two-day state visit to China, as confirmed by Russian state media. Arriving in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Putin received a warm welcome from Chinese officials and a guard of honour. Ahead of his visit, Putin while responding to China's Xinhua news agency over how he assesses cooperation between China and Russia within BRICS, the SCO and other multilateral mechanisms, slammed US. In his remarks, Putin said, "The countries that affiliate themselves with the so‑called ”golden billion“ do not seem to think so. US‑led Western elites refuse to respect civilizational and cultural diversity and reject centuries-old traditional values." "Seeking to retain their global dominance, they have usurped the right to tell other nations whom they may, or must not, make friends and cooperate with, and to deny them the right to choose their own development models. They disregard other countries' sovereign interests. They seek to ensure their well‑being at the expense of other states, just like in the old days, and resort to neo-colonial methods to that end." Putin added, "needless to say, neither Russia nor its partners are happy with this state of affairs. We have actively contributed to launching multilateral associations and mechanisms that are independent of the West and are successfully operating. In their work they build on the principles of equality, justice, transparency, respect and consideration of each other's interests." Russia picks China as first overseas country for visit post-elections Picking China as the first overseas country for his visit post-elections holds symbolic importance as it underscores the deepening ties between Russia and China amid escalating tensions with Western powers and the dragged-on war with Ukraine, where Moscow has made some significant advances in recent days. Also Read | French police hunt killers in prison van ambush Putin's arrival coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to suspend all forthcoming international visits as his forces confront Russian incursions in northeastern Kharkiv, a city that witnessed evacuation of thousands of people amid Moscow's ground assault. Against this backdrop, discussions between Xi and Putin are expected to address the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Also Read | Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law Both the leaders are also expected to hold dialogue on bolstering their nation's economic collaborations, as well as energy and security ties. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson × Putin's visit is the fourth face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Ukraine invasion broke out on February 24, 2022. This is also the second visit by the Russian president in this duration. Earlier, when Xi Jinping clinched an unprecedented third term as Chinese president during a parliamentary session in March last year, where he consolidated his authority, he reciprocated by travelling to Moscow. Meanwhile, the agenda of Putin's visit to China includes the signing of numerous bilateral agreements, with both leaders anticipated to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations at a "gala event." According to the Kremlin, the discussions between Putin and Xi will encompass a comprehensive review of their strategic partnership, charting new avenues for collaboration while exchanging views on pressing global and regional concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued.

The killings and dramatic getaway by the perpetrators have shocked&nbsp;France, with authorities under pressure to catch those responsible, who all remain at large.

More than 450 police officers and gendarmes had been mobilised from Tuesday for the search in the northern department of Eure where the attack took place, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said.

Global police body Interpol also issued a red notice, at the request of&nbsp;France, which asks law enforcement worldwide to locate and apprehend Mohamed Amra, the convict who escaped in the attack and is reportedly known as "The Fly".

"We have put a lot of resources into finding not only the person who escaped" but also "the gang that released him under such despicable circumstances", Darmanin told the RTL broadcaster.&nbsp;

"We are making a lot of progress," he added. Apparently raising the possibility the fugitives could have fled abroad, he also spoke of "international cooperation".

But over a day after the attack, there was still no sign of them being found.

Coordinated attack&nbsp;

Two prison officers were killed in the attack and three others wounded, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said late on Tuesday.

One of the injured men was fighting for his life in hospital and two more were receiving critical care, she said.

The incident took place late on Tuesday morning at a road toll in Incarville in Eure.

The prosecutor said the prison van was rammed head-on by a stolen Peugeot vehicle as it went through the toll crossing.

But the van and another vehicle in the prison convoy were also followed by an Audi.

Gunmen emerged from the two cars and shot at both prison vehicles.

French television channels broadcast footage of the attack taken by surveillance cameras at the toll, showing the Peugeot colliding head on with the prison van.

In the video, several gunmen dressed in black emerge from both attack vehicles. A firefight ensues and one man appears to be guided away from the van by the gunmen.&nbsp;

A vehicle believed to have been used by the attackers was later found as a burned-out wreck at a different location.&nbsp;

The prison officers who died, Fabrice Moello, 52, and Arnaud Garcia, 34, were the first to be killed in the line of duty since 1992.

'On verge of explosion'&nbsp;

Prison officer unions announced a day of minimum service on Wednesday and asked for urgent measures to improve the safety of staff.

On Wednesday, officers across the country held a minute of silence outside their prisons to remember the fallen colleagues.

"We are in mourning," Vanessa Lefaivre, of the FO union at the Fleury-Merogis prison outside Paris, told AFP.&nbsp;

"We would never have imagined that prison staff would be killed like this."

Officers blocked entrances to the prison in an action unions warned could be renewed, with some burning tyres and brandishing slogans like&nbsp;"Prison is on the verge of explosion".

Prosecutor Beccuau said Amra, 30, had last week been convicted of aggravated robbery and charged in a case of abduction leading to death.

A source close to the case said Amra was suspected of involvement in drug trafficking and of ordering gangland killings.

Another source said he is suspected of being at the head of a criminal network.

His lawyer Hugues Vigier said Amra had already made an escape attempt at the weekend by sawing the bars of his cell and said he was shocked by the "inexcusable" and "insane" violence.

Law and order is a major issue in French politics ahead of next month's European elections and the prison van ambush sparked fierce reactions from politicians, especially the far right.

The incident came on the same day as the French Senate published a damning report warning that government measures had been unable to prevent the flourishing of the narcotics industry in&nbsp;France.

"Narco-banditry kills many people, much more than terrorism," said Darmanin, also pointing to the responsibility of drug users.

"One cannot at the same time cry for the widows and orphans of the Eure toll booth attack and then smoke a joint... this is called schizophrenia."

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued.

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued. The killings and dramatic getaway by the perpetrators have shocked France, with authorities under pressure to catch those responsible, who all remain at large. More than 450 police officers and gendarmes had been mobilised from Tuesday for the search in the northern department of Eure where the attack took place, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said. Global police body Interpol also issued a red notice, at the request of France, which asks law enforcement worldwide to locate and apprehend Mohamed Amra, the convict who escaped in the attack and is reportedly known as "The Fly". "We have put a lot of resources into finding not only the person who escaped" but also "the gang that released him under such despicable circumstances", Darmanin told the RTL broadcaster. "We are making a lot of progress," he added. Apparently raising the possibility the fugitives could have fled abroad, he also spoke of "international cooperation". But over a day after the attack, there was still no sign of them being found. Coordinated attack Two prison officers were killed in the attack and three others wounded, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said late on Tuesday. One of the injured men was fighting for his life in hospital and two more were receiving critical care, she said. The incident took place late on Tuesday morning at a road toll in Incarville in Eure. The prosecutor said the prison van was rammed head-on by a stolen Peugeot vehicle as it went through the toll crossing. But the van and another vehicle in the prison convoy were also followed by an Audi. Gunmen emerged from the two cars and shot at both prison vehicles. French television channels broadcast footage of the attack taken by surveillance cameras at the toll, showing the Peugeot colliding head on with the prison van. In the video, several gunmen dressed in black emerge from both attack vehicles. A firefight ensues and one man appears to be guided away from the van by the gunmen. A vehicle believed to have been used by the attackers was later found as a burned-out wreck at a different location. The prison officers who died, Fabrice Moello, 52, and Arnaud Garcia, 34, were the first to be killed in the line of duty since 1992. 'On verge of explosion' Prison officer unions announced a day of minimum service on Wednesday and asked for urgent measures to improve the safety of staff. On Wednesday, officers across the country held a minute of silence outside their prisons to remember the fallen colleagues. "We are in mourning," Vanessa Lefaivre, of the FO union at the Fleury-Merogis prison outside Paris, told AFP. "We would never have imagined that prison staff would be killed like this." Officers blocked entrances to the prison in an action unions warned could be renewed, with some burning tyres and brandishing slogans like "Prison is on the verge of explosion". Prosecutor Beccuau said Amra, 30, had last week been convicted of aggravated robbery and charged in a case of abduction leading to death. A source close to the case said Amra was suspected of involvement in drug trafficking and of ordering gangland killings. Another source said he is suspected of being at the head of a criminal network. His lawyer Hugues Vigier said Amra had already made an escape attempt at the weekend by sawing the bars of his cell and said he was shocked by the "inexcusable" and "insane" violence. Law and order is a major issue in French politics ahead of next month's European elections and the prison van ambush sparked fierce reactions from politicians, especially the far right. The incident came on the same day as the French Senate published a damning report warning that government measures had been unable to prevent the flourishing of the narcotics industry in France. "Narco-banditry kills many people, much more than terrorism," said Darmanin, also pointing to the responsibility of drug users. "One cannot at the same time cry for the widows and orphans of the Eure toll booth attack and then smoke a joint... this is called schizophrenia."

French police hunt killers in prison van ambush

Georgia faced a blizzard of international condemnation Wednesday as the EU,&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;and UN slammed the adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law targeting overseas-funded NGOs.

Ruling Georgian Dream party lawmakers voted through the legislation Tuesday in defiance of protesters worried the Caucasus country is shifting away from its pro-Western course towards Russia.&nbsp;

The move has sparked a wave of weeks-long mass protests unprecedented in the recent history of the ex-Soviet republic, where according to opinion polls most of the population wants to join the European Union and&nbsp;NATO, and is staunchly anti-Kremlin.

Fresh protests are planned on Wednesday evening.

"The adoption of this law negatively impacts Georgia's progress on the EU path," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a joint statement with the European Commission.

"We urge the Georgian authorities to withdraw the law."

The EU statement reiterated condemnation for "intimidation, threats and physical assaults on civil society representatives, political leaders and journalists" during demonstrations against the law.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for the&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;military alliance said the law was a "step in the wrong direction... away from European and Euro-Atlantic integration".

"We urge Georgia to change course and respect the right to peaceful protest," said&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;spokeswoman Farah Dakhlallah.

UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement he "deeply regrets" Georgia's adoption of the law.

"Authorities and lawmakers have chosen to disregard the many warnings by human rights defenders and civil society organisations," Turk said. &nbsp;

"The impacts on the rights to freedom of expression and association in Georgia unfortunately now risk being significant."

'Kremlin-style law'

The flurry of criticism came after the United States Tuesday warned the "Kremlin-style" law would hit Washington's ties with Georgia if it was not withdrawn.

The foreign ministers of Estonia, Iceland, Latvia and Lithuania travelled on Wednesday to Georgia to express their concerns over the law's adoption.

During their press conference alongside Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said that "cosmetic changes" would not make the law compatible with European standards.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has signalled his party's readiness to consider Zurabishvili's proposed amendments to the law, should she lay them out in her veto document.&nbsp;

But Zurabishvili -- at loggerheads with the ruling party -- ruled out the prospect of entering "false, artificial, misleading negotiations" with Georgian Dream.&nbsp;

"No one should think that Georgia's president can be used for saving the face of this government," she told the news conference.

The bill requires NGOs and media outlets that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies "pursuing the interests of a foreign power".

Critics say it mirrors repressive Russian legislation used to silence dissent, in a symbol of the ex-Soviet republic's drift closer to Russia's orbit in recent years.

Protests have sprung up against it, and scuffles have even broken out inside parliament between opposition lawmakers and members of Georgian Dream.

Georgian Dream has sought to depict the protesters as violent mobs. It insists it is committed to joining the EU, and portrays the bill as aimed at increasing the transparency of NGO funding.

Georgia faced a blizzard of international condemnation Wednesday as the EU, NATO and UN slammed the adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law targeting overseas-funded NGOs.

Georgia faced a blizzard of international condemnation Wednesday as the EU, NATO and UN slammed the adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law targeting overseas-funded NGOs. Ruling Georgian Dream party lawmakers voted through the legislation Tuesday in defiance of protesters worried the Caucasus country is shifting away from its pro-Western course towards Russia. The move has sparked a wave of weeks-long mass protests unprecedented in the recent history of the ex-Soviet republic, where according to opinion polls most of the population wants to join the European Union and NATO, and is staunchly anti-Kremlin. Fresh protests are planned on Wednesday evening. "The adoption of this law negatively impacts Georgia's progress on the EU path," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a joint statement with the European Commission. "We urge the Georgian authorities to withdraw the law." The EU statement reiterated condemnation for "intimidation, threats and physical assaults on civil society representatives, political leaders and journalists" during demonstrations against the law. A spokeswoman for the NATO military alliance said the law was a "step in the wrong direction... away from European and Euro-Atlantic integration". "We urge Georgia to change course and respect the right to peaceful protest," said NATO spokeswoman Farah Dakhlallah. UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement he "deeply regrets" Georgia's adoption of the law. "Authorities and lawmakers have chosen to disregard the many warnings by human rights defenders and civil society organisations," Turk said. "The impacts on the rights to freedom of expression and association in Georgia unfortunately now risk being significant." 'Kremlin-style law' The flurry of criticism came after the United States Tuesday warned the "Kremlin-style" law would hit Washington's ties with Georgia if it was not withdrawn. The foreign ministers of Estonia, Iceland, Latvia and Lithuania travelled on Wednesday to Georgia to express their concerns over the law's adoption. During their press conference alongside Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said that "cosmetic changes" would not make the law compatible with European standards. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has signalled his party's readiness to consider Zurabishvili's proposed amendments to the law, should she lay them out in her veto document. But Zurabishvili -- at loggerheads with the ruling party -- ruled out the prospect of entering "false, artificial, misleading negotiations" with Georgian Dream. "No one should think that Georgia's president can be used for saving the face of this government," she told the news conference. The bill requires NGOs and media outlets that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies "pursuing the interests of a foreign power". Critics say it mirrors repressive Russian legislation used to silence dissent, in a symbol of the ex-Soviet republic's drift closer to Russia's orbit in recent years. Protests have sprung up against it, and scuffles have even broken out inside parliament between opposition lawmakers and members of Georgian Dream. Georgian Dream has sought to depict the protesters as violent mobs. It insists it is committed to joining the EU, and portrays the bill as aimed at increasing the transparency of NGO funding.

Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law

Dutch nationalist Geert Wilders on Wednesday said a deal had been reached to form what was set to be the most right-wing government in the Netherlands in decades, almost six months after a major election victory. Watch in for more details!

Netherlands set for right-wing government after Wilders strikes deal

Russian aerial strike on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro killed at least two people on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday hailed his country's troops for advancing on "all fronts" on the battlefield in Ukraine. 

LIVE: US to give Ukraine another $2bn in aid, Putin hails advances on 'all fronts'

An American mann accused of sexually assaulting a Pennsylvania college student in 2013 and later sending her a Facebook message that said "So I raped you" has been arrested in France after a three-year search.

The accused was arrested in April and will remain in custody until the completion of extradition proceedings, French authorities said.&nbsp;

A prosecutor in Metz, over 300 km east of Paris, confirmed on Tuesday (May 14) said that the accused Ian Thomas Cleary, 31, hailing from Saratoga, California, remains in French custody.&nbsp;

<h2>End of three-year-long international search</h2>

Cleary was the subject of&nbsp;an international search since authorities in the US state of Pennsylvania issued a 2021 warrant, weeks after the US media reported on the purported reluctance of local prosecutors to pursue sex crimes committed in the university campuses.&nbsp;

Cleary was detained on the street in Metz on April 24 as part of a police check.&nbsp;

Cleary claimed he "arrived in France two or three years ago" from Albania and had only recently come to Metz, but did not have housing there.

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According to Cleary's online posts, he had previously spent time in France.

He has familial ties to California and Maryland. His father is a tech executive in Silicon Valley, while his mother has lived in Baltimore.

<h2>What is Ian Thomas Cleary accused of?</h2>

According to an arrest warrant issued in the United States, Cleary is accused of sneaking into the dorm of an 18-year-old Gettysburg College student at a party and sexually assaulting her while she texted friends for help.&nbsp;

At the time of the sex crime, he was a 20-year-old Gettysburg student. After the alleged crime, he did not return to campus.

Also watch |&nbsp;11-year-old fought for abortion after being raped by stepfather

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The accuser reportedly had a rape exam done the same day she was assaulted in 2013. She spent years urging officials to file charges. She went to authorities again in 2021 after discovering the Facebook messages that seemed to come from Cleary’s account.

"So I raped you," the sender had written in a string of messages.

"I’ll never do it to anyone ever again."

"I need to hear your voice."

"I'll pray for you."

Police verified that the Facebook account used to send the messages belonged to Ian Cleary, and a consequent search for him ensued, leading to his eventual detention.

(With inputs from agencies)

An American mann accused of sexually assaulting a Pennsylvania college student in 2013 and later sending her a Facebook message that said "So I raped you" has been arrested in France after a three-year search.

An American mann accused of sexually assaulting a Pennsylvania college student in 2013 and later sending her a Facebook message that said "So I raped you" has been arrested in France after a three-year search. The accused was arrested in April and will remain in custody until the completion of extradition proceedings, French authorities said. A prosecutor in Metz, over 300 km east of Paris, confirmed on Tuesday (May 14) said that the accused Ian Thomas Cleary, 31, hailing from Saratoga, California, remains in French custody. End of three-year-long international search Cleary was the subject of an international search since authorities in the US state of Pennsylvania issued a 2021 warrant, weeks after the US media reported on the purported reluctance of local prosecutors to pursue sex crimes committed in the university campuses. Cleary was detained on the street in Metz on April 24 as part of a police check. Cleary claimed he "arrived in France two or three years ago" from Albania and had only recently come to Metz, but did not have housing there. Also read | Kerala man jailed for 106 years for raping, impregnating mentally challenged teen According to Cleary's online posts, he had previously spent time in France. He has familial ties to California and Maryland. His father is a tech executive in Silicon Valley, while his mother has lived in Baltimore. What is Ian Thomas Cleary accused of? According to an arrest warrant issued in the United States, Cleary is accused of sneaking into the dorm of an 18-year-old Gettysburg College student at a party and sexually assaulting her while she texted friends for help. At the time of the sex crime, he was a 20-year-old Gettysburg student. After the alleged crime, he did not return to campus. Also watch | 11-year-old fought for abortion after being raped by stepfather × The accuser reportedly had a rape exam done the same day she was assaulted in 2013. She spent years urging officials to file charges. She went to authorities again in 2021 after discovering the Facebook messages that seemed to come from Cleary’s account. "So I raped you," the sender had written in a string of messages. "I’ll never do it to anyone ever again." "I need to hear your voice." "I'll pray for you." Police verified that the Facebook account used to send the messages belonged to Ian Cleary, and a consequent search for him ensued, leading to his eventual detention. (With inputs from agencies)

American man who sent 'so I raped you' message after assaulting woman arrested in France

US and Taiwan in recent years have been expanding their military cooperation. This comes amid incursions by Chinese forces into Taiwan's air defence identification zone and drills conducted near the island nation. Reports have now emerged that both countries undertook military exercises last month in the Pacific. These unofficial drills were dubbed as unplanned sea encounters so that both sides could claim the exercise to be a result of a coincidental encounter.

US & Taiwan conducted drills in China's backyard: Reports

Nobel Prize-winning&nbsp;Canadian writer Alice Munro, whose exquisitely crafted tales of the loves, ambitions and travails of small-town women in her native land made her a globally acclaimed master of the short story, has died at the age of 92, her publisher said on Tuesday.

Munro had died at her home in Port Hope, Ontario, said Kristin Cochrane, chief executive officer of McClelland &amp; Stewart.

"Alice's writing inspired countless writers...and her work leaves an indelible mark on our literary landscape," she said in a statement.

The Globe and Mail newspaper, citing family members, said Munro had died on Monday after suffering from dementia for at least a decade.

Munro published more than a dozen collections of short stories and was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2013.

Her stories explored sex, yearning, discontent, ageing, moral conflict and other themes in rural settings with which she was intimately familiar - villages and farms in the Canadian province of Ontario. She was adept at fully developing complex characters within the limited pages of a short story.

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"Alice Munro was a Canadian literary icon. For six decades, her short stories captivated hearts around Canada and the world," Canadian Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge said on the X social media network.

Munro, who wrote about ordinary people with clarity and realism, was often likened to Anton Chekhov, the 19th century Russian known for his brilliant short stories - a comparison the Swedish Academy cited in honouring her with the Nobel Prize.

Calling her a "master of the contemporary short story," the Academy also said: "Her texts often feature depictions of everyday but decisive events, epiphanies of a kind, that illuminate the surrounding story and let existential questions appear in a flash of lightning."

In an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation after winning the Nobel, Munro said, "I think my stories have gotten around quite remarkably for short stories, and I would really hope that this would make people see the short story as an important art, not just something that you played around with until you'd got a novel written."

Her works included: "Dance of the Happy Shades" (1968), "Lives of Girls and Women" (1971), "Who Do You Think You Are?" (1978), "The Moons of Jupiter" (1982), "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage" (2001), "Runaway" (2004), "The View from Castle Rock" (2006), "Too Much Happiness" (2009) and "Dear Life" (2012).

The characters in her stories were often girls and women who lead seemingly unexceptional lives but struggle with tribulations ranging from sexual abuse and stifling marriages to repressed love and the ravages of ageing.

"Last month I reread all of Alice Munro's books. I felt the need to be close to her. Every time I read her is a new experience. Every time changes me. She will live forever," leading Canadian author Heather O'Neill said in a post on X.

Munro's story of a woman who starts losing her memory and agrees to enter a nursing home titled "The Bear Came Over the Mountain," from "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage," was adapted into the Oscar-nominated 2006 film "Away From Her," directed by fellow Canadian Sarah Polley.

<h2>'SHAME AND EMBARRASSMENT'</h2>

Canadian novelist Margaret Atwood, writing in the Guardian after Munro won the Nobel, summarized her work by saying: "Shame and embarrassment are driving forces for Munro's characters, just as perfectionism in the writing has been a driving force for her: getting it down, getting it right, but also the impossibility of that. Munro chronicles failure much more often than she chronicles success, because the task of the writer has failure built in."

American novelist Jonathan Franzen wrote in 2005, "Reading Munro puts me in that state of quiet reflection in which I think about my own life: about the decisions I've made, the things I've done and haven't done, the kind of person I am, the prospect of death."

The short story, a style more popular in the 19th and early 20th century, has long taken a back seat to the novel in popular tastes - and in attracting awards. But Munro was able to infuse her short stories with a richness of plot and depth of detail usually more characteristic of full-length novels.

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"For years and years, I thought that stories were just practice, 'til I got time to write a novel. Then I found that they were all I could do and so I faced that. I suppose that my trying to get so much into stories has been a compensation," Munro told the New Yorker magazine in 2012.

She was the second Canadian-born writer to win the Nobel literature prize but the first with a distinctly Canadian identity. Saul Bellow, who won in 1976, was born in Quebec but raised in Chicago and was widely seen as an American writer.

Munro also won the Man Booker International Prize in 2009 and the Giller Prize - Canada's most high-profile literary award - twice.

Alice Laidlaw was born to a hard-pressed family of farmers on July 10, 1931, in Wingham, a small town in the region of southwestern Ontario that serves as the setting for many of her stories, and started writing in her teens.

Munro originally began writing short stories while a stay-at-home mother. She intended to someday write a novel, but said that with three children she was never able to find the time necessary. Munro began building a reputation when her stories started getting published in the New Yorker in the 1970s.

She married James Munro in 1951 and moved to Victoria, British Columbia, where the two ran a bookstore. They had four daughters - one died just hours after being born - before divorcing in 1972. Afterward, Munro moved back to Ontario. Her second husband, geographer Gerald Fremlin, died in April 2013.

Munro in 2009 revealed she had undergone heart bypass surgery and had been treated for cancer.

Nobel Prize-winning Canadian writer Alice Munro, whose exquisitely crafted tales of the loves, ambitions and travails of small-town women in her native land made her a globally acclaimed master of the short story, has died at the age of 92, her publisher said on Tuesday.

Nobel Prize-winning Canadian writer Alice Munro, whose exquisitely crafted tales of the loves, ambitions and travails of small-town women in her native land made her a globally acclaimed master of the short story, has died at the age of 92, her publisher said on Tuesday. Munro had died at her home in Port Hope, Ontario, said Kristin Cochrane, chief executive officer of McClelland & Stewart. "Alice's writing inspired countless writers...and her work leaves an indelible mark on our literary landscape," she said in a statement. The Globe and Mail newspaper, citing family members, said Munro had died on Monday after suffering from dementia for at least a decade. Munro published more than a dozen collections of short stories and was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2013. Her stories explored sex, yearning, discontent, ageing, moral conflict and other themes in rural settings with which she was intimately familiar - villages and farms in the Canadian province of Ontario. She was adept at fully developing complex characters within the limited pages of a short story. Also Read | China fumes as Biden administration ramps up tariffs on Chinese imports "Alice Munro was a Canadian literary icon. For six decades, her short stories captivated hearts around Canada and the world," Canadian Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge said on the X social media network. Munro, who wrote about ordinary people with clarity and realism, was often likened to Anton Chekhov, the 19th century Russian known for his brilliant short stories - a comparison the Swedish Academy cited in honouring her with the Nobel Prize. Calling her a "master of the contemporary short story," the Academy also said: "Her texts often feature depictions of everyday but decisive events, epiphanies of a kind, that illuminate the surrounding story and let existential questions appear in a flash of lightning." In an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation after winning the Nobel, Munro said, "I think my stories have gotten around quite remarkably for short stories, and I would really hope that this would make people see the short story as an important art, not just something that you played around with until you'd got a novel written." Her works included: "Dance of the Happy Shades" (1968), "Lives of Girls and Women" (1971), "Who Do You Think You Are?" (1978), "The Moons of Jupiter" (1982), "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage" (2001), "Runaway" (2004), "The View from Castle Rock" (2006), "Too Much Happiness" (2009) and "Dear Life" (2012). The characters in her stories were often girls and women who lead seemingly unexceptional lives but struggle with tribulations ranging from sexual abuse and stifling marriages to repressed love and the ravages of ageing. "Last month I reread all of Alice Munro's books. I felt the need to be close to her. Every time I read her is a new experience. Every time changes me. She will live forever," leading Canadian author Heather O'Neill said in a post on X. Munro's story of a woman who starts losing her memory and agrees to enter a nursing home titled "The Bear Came Over the Mountain," from "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage," was adapted into the Oscar-nominated 2006 film "Away From Her," directed by fellow Canadian Sarah Polley. 'SHAME AND EMBARRASSMENT' Canadian novelist Margaret Atwood, writing in the Guardian after Munro won the Nobel, summarized her work by saying: "Shame and embarrassment are driving forces for Munro's characters, just as perfectionism in the writing has been a driving force for her: getting it down, getting it right, but also the impossibility of that. Munro chronicles failure much more often than she chronicles success, because the task of the writer has failure built in." American novelist Jonathan Franzen wrote in 2005, "Reading Munro puts me in that state of quiet reflection in which I think about my own life: about the decisions I've made, the things I've done and haven't done, the kind of person I am, the prospect of death." The short story, a style more popular in the 19th and early 20th century, has long taken a back seat to the novel in popular tastes - and in attracting awards. But Munro was able to infuse her short stories with a richness of plot and depth of detail usually more characteristic of full-length novels. Also Read | Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests "For years and years, I thought that stories were just practice, 'til I got time to write a novel. Then I found that they were all I could do and so I faced that. I suppose that my trying to get so much into stories has been a compensation," Munro told the New Yorker magazine in 2012. She was the second Canadian-born writer to win the Nobel literature prize but the first with a distinctly Canadian identity. Saul Bellow, who won in 1976, was born in Quebec but raised in Chicago and was widely seen as an American writer. Munro also won the Man Booker International Prize in 2009 and the Giller Prize - Canada's most high-profile literary award - twice. Alice Laidlaw was born to a hard-pressed family of farmers on July 10, 1931, in Wingham, a small town in the region of southwestern Ontario that serves as the setting for many of her stories, and started writing in her teens. Munro originally began writing short stories while a stay-at-home mother. She intended to someday write a novel, but said that with three children she was never able to find the time necessary. Munro began building a reputation when her stories started getting published in the New Yorker in the 1970s. She married James Munro in 1951 and moved to Victoria, British Columbia, where the two ran a bookstore. They had four daughters - one died just hours after being born - before divorcing in 1972. Afterward, Munro moved back to Ontario. Her second husband, geographer Gerald Fremlin, died in April 2013. Munro in 2009 revealed she had undergone heart bypass surgery and had been treated for cancer.

Alice Munro, Canadian Nobel Prize-winning author, dead at 92

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Boeing deliveries slump in 2024 - Schumacher watches fetch $4 mn - Blinken's 'keep rockin in the free world' - Rajasthan: 14 mine workers trapped - Rafah crossing: Israel & Egypt lock horns - Caught on Cam: France Prison van attack

Boeing deliveries slump in 2024 | Drone films Japan's biggest warship

Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is on a 4-day visit to China for strategic dialogue as the country grapples with major economic challenges. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan Deputy PM visits China amid economic crisis, security concerns in CPEC projects

A former Obama campaign worker Peggy Moore and her wife Hope Wood were killed in a devastating car accident in Southern California on Friday (May 10).

The incident occurred on Highway 76 near Fallbrook, where the Jeep pickup truck they were travelling in collided with a Chrysler sedan. The crash claimed the lives of both.

The driver of the Jeep and the Chrysler were also killed in the crash, while a third passenger in the Jeep survived. The collision involved a silver Toyota Camry in a minor sideswipe, reports said citing the California Highway Patrol.

Peggy Moore, recognised as a significant figure in political circles, was also the campaign manager for former Oakland Mayor Libby Schaff and had a notable role in Diana Becton's successful campaign for district attorney of Contra Costa County.

She also served as the political director for Hillary Clinton's presidential primary campaign in California.

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Peggy and Hope, who resided in the Bay Area, had a profound impact on the community through their consultancy and coaching firm, Hope Action Change, focusing on diversity and equity.

Reflecting on Peggy's legacy, Rep. Barbara Lee expressed how the couple's efforts had shaped a more inclusive world. “Together they organised, changed hearts and minds, and helped to create a world where who you love doesn’t limit your freedoms,” she wrote.&nbsp;

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“Both Peggy and Hope made an impact on our community, on our city, on our state, and on our nation that will be felt for generations to come,"&nbsp;Lee added.&nbsp;

Peggy's approach to politics, characterised by forging personal connections, left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Libby Schaff fondly recalled Peggy's penchant for meaningful interactions.&nbsp;

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“You could not walk anywhere with Peggy without it taking two hours," she said adding, “She knew every person. For her, politics was deeply personal. It was about connecting through our differences. To lift up our shared hopes and just love.”

<h2>'Incredible political talent'</h2>

The news of Peggy's passing deeply saddened Rusty Hicks, the chair of the California Democratic Party, who praised her as an "incredible political talent" devoted to "justice every single day."&nbsp;

"Our thoughts are with her family &amp; the many friends who loved her. Rest In Power, Peggy," Hicks said.&nbsp;

Amid the profound loss, Schaff said that&nbsp;those close to Peggy and Hope found solace in the thought that they departed together, instantly and without suffering.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A former Obama campaign worker Peggy Moore and her wife Hope Wood were killed in a devastating car accident in Southern California on Friday (May 10). The incident occurred on Highway 76 near Fallbrook, where the Jeep pickup truck they were travelling in collided with a Chrysler sedan.

A former Obama campaign worker Peggy Moore and her wife Hope Wood were killed in a devastating car accident in Southern California on Friday (May 10). The incident occurred on Highway 76 near Fallbrook, where the Jeep pickup truck they were travelling in collided with a Chrysler sedan. The crash claimed the lives of both. The driver of the Jeep and the Chrysler were also killed in the crash, while a third passenger in the Jeep survived. The collision involved a silver Toyota Camry in a minor sideswipe, reports said citing the California Highway Patrol. Peggy Moore, recognised as a significant figure in political circles, was also the campaign manager for former Oakland Mayor Libby Schaff and had a notable role in Diana Becton's successful campaign for district attorney of Contra Costa County. She also served as the political director for Hillary Clinton's presidential primary campaign in California. Also Read | Boeing faces potential prosecution over breach of 2021 737 MAX agreement Peggy and Hope, who resided in the Bay Area, had a profound impact on the community through their consultancy and coaching firm, Hope Action Change, focusing on diversity and equity. Reflecting on Peggy's legacy, Rep. Barbara Lee expressed how the couple's efforts had shaped a more inclusive world. “Together they organised, changed hearts and minds, and helped to create a world where who you love doesn’t limit your freedoms,” she wrote. Also Read | US elections: Joe Biden, Donald Trump register head-to-head wins in May 14 presidential primaries “Both Peggy and Hope made an impact on our community, on our city, on our state, and on our nation that will be felt for generations to come," Lee added. Peggy's approach to politics, characterised by forging personal connections, left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Libby Schaff fondly recalled Peggy's penchant for meaningful interactions. Watch | Boeing crisis: US Planemaker delivers just 24 commercial jets in April × “You could not walk anywhere with Peggy without it taking two hours," she said adding, “She knew every person. For her, politics was deeply personal. It was about connecting through our differences. To lift up our shared hopes and just love.” 'Incredible political talent' The news of Peggy's passing deeply saddened Rusty Hicks, the chair of the California Democratic Party, who praised her as an "incredible political talent" devoted to "justice every single day." "Our thoughts are with her family & the many friends who loved her. Rest In Power, Peggy," Hicks said. Amid the profound loss, Schaff said that those close to Peggy and Hope found solace in the thought that they departed together, instantly and without suffering. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Obama campaign worker Peggy Moore and her wife killed in Southern California car accident

Japan’s defence Chief calls for the bolstering of its anti-drone capability after a drone footage posted on Chinese social media showed a Japanese aircraft carrier docked at a restricted navy port west of Tokyo. A video filmed by a drone showed JS Izumo, one of two Japanese helicopter carriers docked at Yokosuka naval base.

Japan's key naval base under surveillance; Drone records Japanese warships secretly

The EU on Tuesday (May 14) gave the final green light to a landmark overhaul of its migration and asylum policies that will see hardened borders and responsibility shared among member states.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eu-countries-in-favour-of-cutting-trucks-co2-emissions-720998">Also read |&nbsp;EU countries in favour of cutting trucks' CO2 emissions</a>

A majority of European Union countries backed the reform's 10 pieces of legislation, ensuring its passage despite opposition from Hungary and Poland. The new rules come into effect from 2026.

The EU on Tuesday (May 14) gave the final green light to a landmark overhaul of its migration and asylum policies that will see hardened borders and responsibility shared among member states.

The EU on Tuesday (May 14) gave the final green light to a landmark overhaul of its migration and asylum policies that will see hardened borders and responsibility shared among member states. Also read | EU countries in favour of cutting trucks' CO2 emissions A majority of European Union countries backed the reform's 10 pieces of legislation, ensuring its passage despite opposition from Hungary and Poland. The new rules come into effect from 2026.

EU signs off on sweeping asylum overhaul ahead of polls

A cute little miniature poodle with furs in&nbsp;magnificent metallic black colour won the 2024 Westminster Dog Show. Sage the poodle competed with more than 2,500 dogs in one of the biggest canine contests in the US, the 148th Westminster Dog Show, held in New York on Wednesday (May 14).

“I am so happy,” said Sage’s handler Kaz Hosaka after his furry friend’s victory in the competition.

Tuesday’s victory of Sage was the 11th triumph for its poodles brethren of various sizes. Only wise fox terriers have won more titles than poodles.&nbsp;

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Tuesday’s show was also the second-best win for handler Kaz Hosaka.

In 2022, he led another miniature poodle, Spice, to win the Westminster’s trophy.&nbsp;

"No words," he said in the ring to describe his reaction to Sage's win.
<img alt="Sage with his handler Hosaka" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d56ae6c6-cc33-43c8-afae-b4ee92bdc27b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/GNl0DFCWkAAuhGx.jpg" />
<h2>How Sage, the miniature poodle, won the 2024 Westminster Dog Show</h2>

Sage bested six other fellow finalists to take the top spot.

It put to second Mercedes the German shepherd, guided by handler Kent Boyles, who has also won the big prize before.

Other finalists that Sage beat out in the contest were:&nbsp;

-Comet, a shih tzu from the toy group

-Louis, an Afghan hound from the hound group

-Frankie, a coloured bull terrier from the terrier group

-Monday, a giant schnauzer from the working group

-Micah, a cocker spaniel from the sporting group

 
It's not easy winning the dog show. 
 
All the dogs who take part in the competition first compete against others of their breed. Then the winner of each breed goes up against others in its “group”. The seven group winners then meet in the final round for the ultimate showdown.

The competition is seen as an event where all participants are champions in the sport’s point system, and winning is more dependent on nuances and standout turns in the ring.

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The best performance by a dog in the show gets a trophy and a place in dog-world history, but no cash prize.

The Westminster show, dating back to 1877, is centred on the traditional purebred judging that leads to the best in-show prize.

However, over the last decade, the club has added agility and obedience events open to mixed-breed dogs.

This year, the agility competition counted its first non-purebred winner, a border collie-papillon mix named Nimble.

(With inputs from agencies)

A cute little miniature poodle with furs in magnificent metallic black colour won the 2024 Westminster Dog Show. Sage the poodle competed with more than 2,500 dogs in one of the biggest canine contests in the US, the 148th Westminster Dog Show, held in New York on Wednesday (May 14).

A cute little miniature poodle with furs in magnificent metallic black colour won the 2024 Westminster Dog Show. Sage the poodle competed with more than 2,500 dogs in one of the biggest canine contests in the US, the 148th Westminster Dog Show, held in New York on Wednesday (May 14). “I am so happy,” said Sage’s handler Kaz Hosaka after his furry friend’s victory in the competition. Tuesday’s victory of Sage was the 11th triumph for its poodles brethren of various sizes. Only wise fox terriers have won more titles than poodles. Also Read | American man who sent 'so I raped you' message arrested in France Tuesday’s show was also the second-best win for handler Kaz Hosaka. In 2022, he led another miniature poodle, Spice, to win the Westminster’s trophy. "No words," he said in the ring to describe his reaction to Sage's win. How Sage, the miniature poodle, won the 2024 Westminster Dog Show Sage bested six other fellow finalists to take the top spot. It put to second Mercedes the German shepherd, guided by handler Kent Boyles, who has also won the big prize before. Other finalists that Sage beat out in the contest were: -Comet, a shih tzu from the toy group -Louis, an Afghan hound from the hound group -Frankie, a coloured bull terrier from the terrier group -Monday, a giant schnauzer from the working group -Micah, a cocker spaniel from the sporting group It's not easy winning the dog show. All the dogs who take part in the competition first compete against others of their breed. Then the winner of each breed goes up against others in its “group”. The seven group winners then meet in the final round for the ultimate showdown. The competition is seen as an event where all participants are champions in the sport’s point system, and winning is more dependent on nuances and standout turns in the ring. Also Read | 66-year-old Indian-origin grandmother stabbed to death in broad daylight in London The best performance by a dog in the show gets a trophy and a place in dog-world history, but no cash prize. The Westminster show, dating back to 1877, is centred on the traditional purebred judging that leads to the best in-show prize. However, over the last decade, the club has added agility and obedience events open to mixed-breed dogs. This year, the agility competition counted its first non-purebred winner, a border collie-papillon mix named Nimble. (With inputs from agencies)

Sage the miniature poodle wins the 2024 Westminster Dog Show: Meet the top dog

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world.

However, Blinken landed in hot water after visuals from his performance sparked an angry backlash from Ukrainians, who chastised Washington’s top diplomat for an ill-judged jam session while Ukrainian troops are fighting in trenches, struggling to hold back a Russian advance amid a shortage of weapons.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-new-symbol-appears-on-russias-military-equipment-heres-what-it-is-721687">Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is</a>&nbsp;

“One word is enough to describe US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s evening in Kyiv yesterday: inappropriate,” said Svitlana Matviyenko, head of the Agency for Legislative Initiatives NGO.

Blinken, who is in Kyiv this week has pledged unwavering US support to Ukraine as Russia has intensified attacks in Ukraine.

He played a rendition of Neil Young’s 1989 rock anthem with Ukrainian musicians at a famed Kyiv bar, Barman Dictat.

“I know this is a really, really difficult time. Your soldiers, your citizens, particularly in the northeast in Kharkiv are suffering tremendously,” he said on stage, holding a red electric guitar.

“But they need to know, you need to know, the United States is with you... They’re fighting not just for a free Ukraine but for the free world,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-cancels-friday-visit-to-spain-ukraine-withdraws-troops-in-kharkiv-721641">Zelensky cancels Friday visit to Spain amid fresh Russian offensive in Kharkiv</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Battle of Kharkiv, Russia steps up attack

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Blinken is the first senior US official to travel to Ukraine after US Congress last month passed a $61 billion military aid package following a delay of several months during which Russia gained advantage in the battlefield.

Ukrainian lawmaker Bogdan Yaremenko, a former diplomat and MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s party, said the performance was ill-timed, coming after US aid delays cost Ukraine lives and territory.

“The message is not hard to understand, but it’s not getting through,” he said in a Facebook post.

Kyiv has been on the back foot on the battlefield for months as Russian troops have slowly advanced, taking advantage of Ukraine’s shortages of troop manpower and artillery shells.

“With all due respect, it’s a mistake. The message is wrong,” said Valeriy Chaly, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took to the stage of a Kyiv bar for a guitar performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World”, in a bid to send a message of defiance and hope, and highlight that the US and much of the world was fighting not just for Ukraine but for the free world. However, Blinken landed in hot water after visuals from his performance sparked an angry backlash from Ukrainians, who chastised Washington’s top diplomat for an ill-judged jam session while Ukrainian troops are fighting in trenches, struggling to hold back a Russian advance amid a shortage of weapons. Also read: Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is “One word is enough to describe US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s evening in Kyiv yesterday: inappropriate,” said Svitlana Matviyenko, head of the Agency for Legislative Initiatives NGO. Blinken, who is in Kyiv this week has pledged unwavering US support to Ukraine as Russia has intensified attacks in Ukraine. He played a rendition of Neil Young’s 1989 rock anthem with Ukrainian musicians at a famed Kyiv bar, Barman Dictat. “I know this is a really, really difficult time. Your soldiers, your citizens, particularly in the northeast in Kharkiv are suffering tremendously,” he said on stage, holding a red electric guitar. “But they need to know, you need to know, the United States is with you... They’re fighting not just for a free Ukraine but for the free world,” he added. Also read: Zelensky cancels Friday visit to Spain amid fresh Russian offensive in Kharkiv Watch: Battle of Kharkiv, Russia steps up attack × Blinken is the first senior US official to travel to Ukraine after US Congress last month passed a $61 billion military aid package following a delay of several months during which Russia gained advantage in the battlefield. Ukrainian lawmaker Bogdan Yaremenko, a former diplomat and MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s party, said the performance was ill-timed, coming after US aid delays cost Ukraine lives and territory. “The message is not hard to understand, but it’s not getting through,” he said in a Facebook post. Kyiv has been on the back foot on the battlefield for months as Russian troops have slowly advanced, taking advantage of Ukraine’s shortages of troop manpower and artillery shells. “With all due respect, it’s a mistake. The message is wrong,” said Valeriy Chaly, Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed

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