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In the Boeing door blowout case, whistleblower and Spirit AeroSystems' former employee Santiago Paredes claimed that the fuselages produced by the largest supplier of top aircraft makers regularly had serious defects.

In the Boeing door blowout case, whistleblower and Spirit AeroSystems' former employee Santiago Paredes claimed that the fuselages produced by the largest supplier of top aircraft makers regularly had serious defects. Paredes, who was a former quality inspector, speaking to the BBC said that he found nearly 200 defects in parts which were being prepared to be shipped to Boeing. He said that he was given the nickname "showstopper" for slowing down production when he raised his concerns. Paredes claimed that some of the defects he found while working at Spirit were minor, however, others were more serious. He added that he faced pressure because he raised issues and was asked to be less rigorous. "They always made a fuss about why I was finding it, why I was looking at it. I was finding a lot of missing fasteners, a lot of bent parts, sometimes even missing parts," the whistleblower said. Also Read: Boeing 767 cargo plane nosedives onto runway in Istanbul after front landing gear fails "They just wanted the product shipped out. They weren't focused on the consequences of shipping bad fuselages. They were just focused on meeting the quotas, meeting the schedule, meeting the budget… If the numbers looked good, the state of the fuselages didn't really matter," Paredes alleged. Meanwhile, speaking to CBS News about finding defects, Paredes said, "If quality mattered, I would still be at Spirit. It was very rare for us to look at a job and not find any defects." "Why'd that happen? Because Spirit let go of a defect that they overlooked because of the pressure that they put on the inspectors. If the culture was good, those issues would be addressed, but the culture is not good," he added. Spirit strongly disagrees with the whistleblower's allegations Spirit, reacting to the whistleblower's allegations, said that it "strongly disagree[d]" with them. "We are vigorously defending against his claims," said a Spirit spokesperson. Spirit spokesman Joe Buccino added, "We encourage all Spirit employees with concerns to come forward, safe in knowing they will be protected. We remain committed to addressing concerns and continuously improving workplace safety standards." Watch: Gravitas | Watch: Boeing 767 cargo plane lands without front landing gear Spirit AeroSystems and Boeing came under scrutiny after a door fuselage blew out from the brand new 737 Max mid-air just after take-off in January and created a gaping hole in the aircraft. As per the investigators, the door was originally fitted by Spirit, however, Boeing technicians had removed it to rectify faulty riveting. After the incident, US regulator Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched an audit of production practices at the two firms. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing's largest supplier regularly provided fuselages with 'serious defects': Whistleblower

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Ukrainian intelligence said Tuesday (May 7) it has foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky and other top officials.

Two colonels of Ukraine's State Security Administration (UDO) have been detained over suspicion that they were working for the Russian intelligence agency&nbsp;Federal Security Service (FSB).

Zelensky in an interview last year said&nbsp;that he had survived at least five assassination attempts since the start of Russia's full-scale war.

The Ukrainian security service (SBU) said other Ukrainian top officials, such as&nbsp;military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov and SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk were also on the Russian hit list.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiFsMP71PuFAxV9r1YBHbOBAEc4FBDF9AEoAHoECBkQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-six-killed-35-injured-in-ukrainian-drone-attack-in-russias-belgorod-region-718422" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-six-killed-35-injured-in-ukrainian-drone-attack-in-russias-belgorod-region-718422&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiFsMP71PuFAxV9r1YBHbOBAEc4FBDF9AEoAHoECBkQAQ">Ukraine war: Six killed, 35 injured in Ukrainian drone attack in Russia`s Belgorod region</a>

The FSB network aimed to find perpetrators among the military close to Zelensky's security, "who could take the head of state hostage and then kill him," according to the SBU.

According to Malyuk, the Russian plot has been foiled but they should not lower their guards.

"But we must not forget - the enemy is strong and experienced, he cannot be underestimated," he said.

As per the SBU, the alleged assassination plot&nbsp;was supervised by Maxim Mishustin, Dmitry Perlin, and Alexey Kornev, who are employees of the FSB's fifth service.

<h2>Previous assassination plots against Zelensky</h2>

In August 2023, a woman was arrested from the Ukrainian region of Mykolaiv, who was allegedly in contact with the Russians. She was allegedly working on plans to inform Russia about Zeleneksy's visit to Mykolaiv so that Moscow could take out the Ukrainian president in an airstrike.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia strikes Ukraine Army HQ in Odesa | China a threat to our crews: Philippines

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In April this year, a Polish man was arrested for allegedly aiding another Russian plot to kill Zelensky.&nbsp;

He was charged with “readiness to act for foreign intelligence against the Republic of Poland,” an offence which carries up to eight years in prison. 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian intelligence said Tuesday (May 7) it has foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelensky and other top officials. Two colonels of Ukraine's State Security Administration (UDO) have been detained over suspicion that they were working for the Russian intelligence agency Federal Security Service (FSB).

Ukrainian intelligence said Tuesday (May 7) it has foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelensky and other top officials. Two colonels of Ukraine's State Security Administration (UDO) have been detained over suspicion that they were working for the Russian intelligence agency Federal Security Service (FSB). Zelensky in an interview last year said that he had survived at least five assassination attempts since the start of Russia's full-scale war. The Ukrainian security service (SBU) said other Ukrainian top officials, such as military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov and SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk were also on the Russian hit list. Also read: Ukraine war: Six killed, 35 injured in Ukrainian drone attack in Russia`s Belgorod region The FSB network aimed to find perpetrators among the military close to Zelensky's security, "who could take the head of state hostage and then kill him," according to the SBU. According to Malyuk, the Russian plot has been foiled but they should not lower their guards. "But we must not forget - the enemy is strong and experienced, he cannot be underestimated," he said. As per the SBU, the alleged assassination plot was supervised by Maxim Mishustin, Dmitry Perlin, and Alexey Kornev, who are employees of the FSB's fifth service. Previous assassination plots against Zelensky In August 2023, a woman was arrested from the Ukrainian region of Mykolaiv, who was allegedly in contact with the Russians. She was allegedly working on plans to inform Russia about Zeleneksy's visit to Mykolaiv so that Moscow could take out the Ukrainian president in an airstrike. Watch: Russia strikes Ukraine Army HQ in Odesa | China a threat to our crews: Philippines × In April this year, a Polish man was arrested for allegedly aiding another Russian plot to kill Zelensky. He was charged with “readiness to act for foreign intelligence against the Republic of Poland,” an offence which carries up to eight years in prison. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says foiled Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky, two colonels detained

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Former US president Donald Trump returned to court on Tuesday (May 7) for the 13th day of his historic criminal trial in the hush money case. The court heard from key witness adult film actor Stormy Daniels as she detailed the 2006 alleged sexual encounter with Trump, which she was paid to stay silent about ahead of 2016 presidential elections.&nbsp;

The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from $130,000 in hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election.&nbsp;

<h2>Everything Stormy Daniels said</h2>

Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, spoke about her alleged sexual encounter with Trump for several hours in court and seemingly did not hold back on the racy details.&nbsp;

Judge Juan Merchan, who often appeared annoyed, scolded the prosecution about the “degree of detail” that Daniels was asked about the encounter and called it “unnecessary”.&nbsp;

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Daniels began her testimony by talking about her childhood and upbringing in the US state of Louisiana, how she got into exotic dancing, and her decades-long career in the adult entertainment industry.&nbsp;

She and Trump met at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, Nevada where he made sexual advances after inviting her to his hotel suite, said the witness, while he was married to his wife Melania.&nbsp;

Daniels also told the jurors that her life descended into “chaos” after the hush money arrangement was made public in 2018 and spoke about her family being “ostracised” and how she was harassed at her home.&nbsp;

The witness testified that she had kept the encounter a secret for years and even her husband did not know about it.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Blacked out’</h2>

Daniels testified she grew up as the daughter of a low-income single mother.

She recalled that Trump greeted her “wearing silk or satin pyjamas” and changed into a suit after Daniels made fun of him. He also dared her to spank him with a magazine and she obliged, Daniels testified.&nbsp;

She said that before their sexual encounter, Trump had blocked the door and told her “this is the only way you’re getting out of the trailer park.”

She said that she “blacked out” without consuming any drugs or alcohol after Trump&nbsp;blocked the door and woke up on the bed with her clothes off.

“I was trying to think about anything other than what was happening there,” Daniels testified. However, the 45-year-old said that she did not tell Trump to stop and left the hotel room quickly afterwards.

Jurors reportedly struggled to keep a straight face as she described&nbsp;spanking the former president. “That’s bullshit,” the former president sitting at the defendant’s table appeared to say, as per Reuters.

Daniels testified that they spoke for about two hours in his hotel suite during which Trump proposed the idea of putting her on his TV show The Apprentice.

Daniels said she stopped talking to him after the possibility of her making an appearance on the show died.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-stormy-daniels-likely-to-appear-in-court-today-719014">Trump hush money trial: Judge rejects mistrial request from defence lawyer over Stormy Daniels testimony</a>

Daniels testified that she was determined to keep the encounter a secret after being threatened by a stranger in a Las Vegas parking lot, but changed her mind after Trump announced that he would run for president in 2016.&nbsp;

However, she later learned from her manager at the time that Trump’s lawyer, Michael Cohen was interested in purchasing her silence and she negotiated the $130,000 offer.&nbsp;

<h2>Judge rejects mistrial request</h2>

Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche asked for a mistrial after Daniels’ testimony arguing that her account included details, like Trump did not wear a condom, which “inflamed” the jury and were irrelevant to the case, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

However, judge Merchan denied the request, saying he was surprised there weren’t more objections from the defence. He agreed with Blanche that Daniels said more at times than she should’ve, but blamed the defence for not objecting more vigorously during her testimony.&nbsp;

Trump’s lawyer Susan Necheles grilled Daniels on apparent inconsistencies in her testimony and asked her, “Am I correct that you hate President Trump?” The witness responded by saying&nbsp;“Yes.” Daniels also said that she hopes Trump goes to jail if found guilty.

The former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment brought against him and has also denied having sex with the adult film actor.&nbsp;

Daniels will take the witness stand again on Thursday (May 9).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former US president Donald Trump returned to court on Tuesday (May 7) for the 13th day of his historic criminal trial in the hush money case. The court heard from key witness adult film actor Stormy Daniels as she detailed the 2006 alleged sexual encounter with Trump, which she was paid to stay silent about ahead of 2016 presidential elections.

Former US president Donald Trump returned to court on Tuesday (May 7) for the 13th day of his historic criminal trial in the hush money case. The court heard from key witness adult film actor Stormy Daniels as she detailed the 2006 alleged sexual encounter with Trump, which she was paid to stay silent about ahead of 2016 presidential elections. The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from $130,000 in hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election. Everything Stormy Daniels said Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, spoke about her alleged sexual encounter with Trump for several hours in court and seemingly did not hold back on the racy details. Judge Juan Merchan, who often appeared annoyed, scolded the prosecution about the “degree of detail” that Daniels was asked about the encounter and called it “unnecessary”. Daniels began her testimony by talking about her childhood and upbringing in the US state of Louisiana, how she got into exotic dancing, and her decades-long career in the adult entertainment industry. She and Trump met at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, Nevada where he made sexual advances after inviting her to his hotel suite, said the witness, while he was married to his wife Melania. Daniels also told the jurors that her life descended into “chaos” after the hush money arrangement was made public in 2018 and spoke about her family being “ostracised” and how she was harassed at her home. The witness testified that she had kept the encounter a secret for years and even her husband did not know about it. ‘Blacked out’ Daniels testified she grew up as the daughter of a low-income single mother. She recalled that Trump greeted her “wearing silk or satin pyjamas” and changed into a suit after Daniels made fun of him. He also dared her to spank him with a magazine and she obliged, Daniels testified. She said that before their sexual encounter, Trump had blocked the door and told her “this is the only way you’re getting out of the trailer park.” She said that she “blacked out” without consuming any drugs or alcohol after Trump blocked the door and woke up on the bed with her clothes off. “I was trying to think about anything other than what was happening there,” Daniels testified. However, the 45-year-old said that she did not tell Trump to stop and left the hotel room quickly afterwards. Jurors reportedly struggled to keep a straight face as she described spanking the former president. “That’s bullshit,” the former president sitting at the defendant’s table appeared to say, as per Reuters. Daniels testified that they spoke for about two hours in his hotel suite during which Trump proposed the idea of putting her on his TV show The Apprentice. Daniels said she stopped talking to him after the possibility of her making an appearance on the show died. Also Read | Trump hush money trial: Judge rejects mistrial request from defence lawyer over Stormy Daniels testimony Daniels testified that she was determined to keep the encounter a secret after being threatened by a stranger in a Las Vegas parking lot, but changed her mind after Trump announced that he would run for president in 2016. However, she later learned from her manager at the time that Trump’s lawyer, Michael Cohen was interested in purchasing her silence and she negotiated the $130,000 offer. Judge rejects mistrial request Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche asked for a mistrial after Daniels’ testimony arguing that her account included details, like Trump did not wear a condom, which “inflamed” the jury and were irrelevant to the case, reported Reuters. However, judge Merchan denied the request, saying he was surprised there weren’t more objections from the defence. He agreed with Blanche that Daniels said more at times than she should’ve, but blamed the defence for not objecting more vigorously during her testimony. Trump’s lawyer Susan Necheles grilled Daniels on apparent inconsistencies in her testimony and asked her, “Am I correct that you hate President Trump?” The witness responded by saying “Yes.” Daniels also said that she hopes Trump goes to jail if found guilty. The former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment brought against him and has also denied having sex with the adult film actor. Daniels will take the witness stand again on Thursday (May 9). (With inputs from agencies)

Hush money trial: Stormy Daniels reveals racy details about sexual encounter with Trump

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies.

On the outskirts of Eldorado do Sul, 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the state capital of Porto Alegre, many people who left their homes were sleeping on the roadside and told Reuters they were going hungry. Entire families were leaving on foot, carrying belongings in backpacks and shopping carts.

"We've been without food for three days and we've only just got this blanket. I'm with people I don't even know, I don't know where my family is," said a young man who gave his name as Ricardo Junior.

The flooding has hampered rescue efforts, with dozens of people still waiting to be evacuated by boat or helicopter from stricken homes. Small boats crisscrossed the flooded town searching for survivors.

The state's Civil Defense agency said the death toll has risen to 90 with another four deaths being investigated, while 131 people are still unaccounted for and 155,000 are homeless.

Heavy rains that began last week have caused rivers to flood, inundating whole towns and destroying roads and bridges.

In Porto Alegre, a city of 1.3 million inhabitants on the Guaiba river, downtown streets were under water.

Porto Alegre residents faced empty supermarket shelves and closed gas stations, with shops rationing sales of mineral water. The city distributed water in trucks to hospitals and shelters.

The floods have also impacted water and electricity services, with more than 1.4 million affected overall, according to Brazil's Civil Defense.

Almost half a million people were without power in Porto Alegre and outlying towns as electricity companies cut off supplies for security reasons in flooded neighborhoods. National grid operator ONS said five hydroelectric dams and transmission lines were shut down due to the heavy rains.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on a government television program that the extent of the damage will not be known until the waters subside. He promised federal aid for the state in what is considered its worst ever climate disaster.

JP Morgan economists projected that the impact of the floods on Brazil's economy would be a modest dent in GDP growth and a marginal increase in inflation, mainly due to higher prices for rice that is largely produced in Rio Grande do Sul.

Besides destroying critical infrastructure, the heavy rains and flooding have left grains fields under water and killed livestock, interrupting the soy harvest and halting work at multiple meat plants.

The Rio Grande port is operating normally, the state's port authority said. A major port for grain exports, it has not been affected by a rise in the level of the Laguna dos Patos lagoon which the swollen Guaiba river runs into.

However, main access roads were impassable, disrupting grain deliveries to the port as trucks had to make a wide detour, exporters said.

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies.

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies. On the outskirts of Eldorado do Sul, 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the state capital of Porto Alegre, many people who left their homes were sleeping on the roadside and told Reuters they were going hungry. Entire families were leaving on foot, carrying belongings in backpacks and shopping carts. "We've been without food for three days and we've only just got this blanket. I'm with people I don't even know, I don't know where my family is," said a young man who gave his name as Ricardo Junior. The flooding has hampered rescue efforts, with dozens of people still waiting to be evacuated by boat or helicopter from stricken homes. Small boats crisscrossed the flooded town searching for survivors. The state's Civil Defense agency said the death toll has risen to 90 with another four deaths being investigated, while 131 people are still unaccounted for and 155,000 are homeless. Heavy rains that began last week have caused rivers to flood, inundating whole towns and destroying roads and bridges. In Porto Alegre, a city of 1.3 million inhabitants on the Guaiba river, downtown streets were under water. Porto Alegre residents faced empty supermarket shelves and closed gas stations, with shops rationing sales of mineral water. The city distributed water in trucks to hospitals and shelters. The floods have also impacted water and electricity services, with more than 1.4 million affected overall, according to Brazil's Civil Defense. Almost half a million people were without power in Porto Alegre and outlying towns as electricity companies cut off supplies for security reasons in flooded neighborhoods. National grid operator ONS said five hydroelectric dams and transmission lines were shut down due to the heavy rains. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on a government television program that the extent of the damage will not be known until the waters subside. He promised federal aid for the state in what is considered its worst ever climate disaster. JP Morgan economists projected that the impact of the floods on Brazil's economy would be a modest dent in GDP growth and a marginal increase in inflation, mainly due to higher prices for rice that is largely produced in Rio Grande do Sul. Besides destroying critical infrastructure, the heavy rains and flooding have left grains fields under water and killed livestock, interrupting the soy harvest and halting work at multiple meat plants. The Rio Grande port is operating normally, the state's port authority said. A major port for grain exports, it has not been affected by a rise in the level of the Laguna dos Patos lagoon which the swollen Guaiba river runs into. However, main access roads were impassable, disrupting grain deliveries to the port as trucks had to make a wide detour, exporters said.

Brazil floods death toll rises to 90, dozens still stranded

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The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe.&nbsp;

Countries like&nbsp;Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom have also&nbsp; witnessed pro-Palestinian&nbsp;protests&nbsp;on universities&nbsp;campuses.&nbsp;Protesters have called on officials to cut academic ties with Israel over its ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

<h2>Protests at German universities&nbsp;</h2>

Berlin Police, on Tuesday, broke a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had set up an encampment, earlier in the day, in the courtyard of Berlin’s Free University and formed a human chain around it.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-storm-streets-near-the-met-gala-nabbed-by-nypd-youre-enjoying-met-gala-718746">Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial</a>

The law enforcement officials were seen carrying protesters amid scuffles and even used pepper spray against some of them.&nbsp;Officials at Free University said protesters attempted to enter rooms and lecture halls to occupy them and rejected any kind of dialogue which prompted them to call the police.

German news agency, dpa, reported about 50 pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on campus of the Leipzig University and occupied a lecture hall, on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<h2>University of&nbsp;Amsterdam</h2>

A massive protest erupted in the Dutch capital on Tuesday as a crowd of several hundred people marched and blocked downtown streets chanting “Free, Free Palestine!”

This was after the Dutch riot police used a bulldozer to knock down barricades at an encampment on Tuesday morning at Amsterdam University and detained around 140 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Students and staff describe the use of pepper spray, police batons, police dogs and bulldozers to forcefully remove them. People were injured because of this excessive violence,” said a group called Dutch Scholars for Palestine, in a statement.&nbsp;

The University of Amsterdam said that they called the police after what began as a peaceful student protest turned violent, with beatings, the throwing of fireworks and the burning of an Israeli flag.

All but four protesters, who were charged with public violence and insulting an officer were still in detention, while others were released.&nbsp;

The police noted that the action was taken after requests from the university and the mayor were ignored. One officer had suffered hearing damage, but it is unclear how many other people may have been injured, said the police.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the police in the French capital twice intervened to&nbsp;disperse about 20 students who had barricaded themselves in the university's main hall. According to prosecutors, two people were arrested.&nbsp;

<h2>University of Lausanne</h2>

In&nbsp;Switzerland, protests which began at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), spread to&nbsp;three universities across the country, reported AFP. Hundreds of students occupied a&nbsp;hall Thursday evening and demanded&nbsp;an end to partnerships with Israeli universities.

However, the university said&nbsp;it "considers that there is no reason to cease these relations".&nbsp;

<h2>University of Chicago&nbsp;</h2>

The police, on early Tuesday, cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment set up at the University of Chicago as hundreds of protesters had gathered in an area known as the Quad for over a week.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-pillories-canada-for-glorifying-violence-after-khalistani-imageries-displayed-at-nagar-kirtan-parade-719080">India pillories Canada for 'glorifying violence' after Khalistani imageries displayed at nagar kirtan parade</a>

“The protesters were given an opportunity to disassemble their structures and depart the encampment, and there have been no arrests,” school President Paul Alivisatos, adding that “appropriate, disciplinary action will proceed.”

Ahead of the police action on Tuesday morning, the number of protesters on campus had increased to more than 200.&nbsp;

<h2>MIT&nbsp;</h2>

The protesters at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were given a Monday afternoon deadline to voluntarily leave or face suspension.&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press citing an MIT spokesperson at the institute said many had left, but as of Monday night dozens of protesters remained at the encampment in a calmer atmosphere.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe.

The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe. Countries like Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom have also witnessed pro-Palestinian protests on universities campuses. Protesters have called on officials to cut academic ties with Israel over its ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Protests at German universities Berlin Police, on Tuesday, broke a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had set up an encampment, earlier in the day, in the courtyard of Berlin’s Free University and formed a human chain around it. Also Read | Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial The law enforcement officials were seen carrying protesters amid scuffles and even used pepper spray against some of them. Officials at Free University said protesters attempted to enter rooms and lecture halls to occupy them and rejected any kind of dialogue which prompted them to call the police. German news agency, dpa, reported about 50 pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on campus of the Leipzig University and occupied a lecture hall, on Tuesday afternoon. University of Amsterdam A massive protest erupted in the Dutch capital on Tuesday as a crowd of several hundred people marched and blocked downtown streets chanting “Free, Free Palestine!” This was after the Dutch riot police used a bulldozer to knock down barricades at an encampment on Tuesday morning at Amsterdam University and detained around 140 people. “Students and staff describe the use of pepper spray, police batons, police dogs and bulldozers to forcefully remove them. People were injured because of this excessive violence,” said a group called Dutch Scholars for Palestine, in a statement. The University of Amsterdam said that they called the police after what began as a peaceful student protest turned violent, with beatings, the throwing of fireworks and the burning of an Israeli flag. All but four protesters, who were charged with public violence and insulting an officer were still in detention, while others were released. The police noted that the action was taken after requests from the university and the mayor were ignored. One officer had suffered hearing damage, but it is unclear how many other people may have been injured, said the police. On Tuesday, the police in the French capital twice intervened to disperse about 20 students who had barricaded themselves in the university's main hall. According to prosecutors, two people were arrested. University of Lausanne In Switzerland, protests which began at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), spread to three universities across the country, reported AFP. Hundreds of students occupied a hall Thursday evening and demanded an end to partnerships with Israeli universities. However, the university said it "considers that there is no reason to cease these relations". University of Chicago The police, on early Tuesday, cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment set up at the University of Chicago as hundreds of protesters had gathered in an area known as the Quad for over a week. Also Read | India pillories Canada for 'glorifying violence' after Khalistani imageries displayed at nagar kirtan parade “The protesters were given an opportunity to disassemble their structures and depart the encampment, and there have been no arrests,” school President Paul Alivisatos, adding that “appropriate, disciplinary action will proceed.” Ahead of the police action on Tuesday morning, the number of protesters on campus had increased to more than 200. MIT The protesters at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were given a Monday afternoon deadline to voluntarily leave or face suspension. A report by the Associated Press citing an MIT spokesperson at the institute said many had left, but as of Monday night dozens of protesters remained at the encampment in a calmer atmosphere. (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestinian student protests spark clashes, arrests as campus demonstrations spread across Europe

The judge overseeing the historic criminal trial&nbsp;of former United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (May 7) rejected&nbsp;a mistrial request by Trump's lawyer who argued that adult film actor&nbsp;Stormy Daniels' testimony&nbsp;about the 2006 encounter was irrelevant and would&nbsp;inflame the jury.

Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche asked for a mistrial hours after&nbsp;riveting testimony by Daniels, who told the jury about the alleged sexual encounter with Trump and a $130,000 hush money payment.&nbsp;

The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Trump Hush Money Trial: Key witness Stormy Daniels takes the stand

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The prosecutors have alleged that Trump falsified business records to cover up a $130,000 hush money payment his former lawyer Michael Cohen made to Daniels in the run-up to the election.&nbsp;

Trump, 77, earlier in the day, said he was “recently told” who the witness would be on Tuesday and complained he should have been given more notice, reported the AP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former president returned to the Manhattan courthouse a day after Judge Juan Merchan said some of Trump’s posts violated a gag order which restricts him from speaking about the witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case.

Judge Merchan said that the adult film actor would be allowed to testify about the basic details of the encounter and prosecutor Susan Hoffinger assured him that the description of the alleged sexual act would be "really basic" and not going to "involve descriptions of genitalia or anything of that nature".

The adult film actor, in line with standard court proceedings, was asked if she saw Trump in the courtroom and to identify him. Subsequently, she pointed at the former US president sitting at the defence table during her testimony.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-day-11-hope-hicks-testimony-and-other-key-takeaways-717861">Trump Hush Money Trial Day 11: Hope Hicks' testimony and other key takeaways</a>

During her testimony, the 45-year-old also said that Trump dared her to spank him, and she obliged.

"That's bullshit," Trump appeared to say in court, according to Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>Day 13 of the hush money trial&nbsp;</h2>

1. Blanche&nbsp;asked for a mistrial after Daniel's testimony about the alleged sexual encounter&nbsp;saying that she violated the rules&nbsp;established for her taking the witness stand. However, the judge rejected his&nbsp;request and said while he agreed with&nbsp;Blanche, he blamed the defence for&nbsp;not raising an objection&nbsp;when she was testifying.&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;Before they had sex, Daniels said, Trump&nbsp;blocked the door, but said she didn't feel physically or verbally threatened. She said there was&nbsp;what she perceived to be an imbalance of power. He even told her&nbsp;"this is the only way you're getting out of the trailer park".&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;Daniels testified that she briefly asked about Trump’s wife, Melania, in the hotel room and called her beautiful. To which Trump responded that they did not sleep in the same room, she said.

4.&nbsp;The adult film actor&nbsp;testified that the former US president was wearing satin pyjamas when he welcomed her to his hotel suite.

5.&nbsp;Daniels said&nbsp;that she started appearing in adult films at age 23 and soon was writing and directing them.&nbsp;

Also Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-hush-money-trial-judge-warns-trump-of-potential-jail-time-for-violating-gag-order-719059">Judge warns Trump of potential jail time for violating gag order</a>

6.&nbsp;Speaking about how she met Trump, Daniels said she met him during a brief introduction at a meet and greet with adult actors and golfers. "He said, 'Oh, you direct too - you must be the smart one,'" she testified.

7.&nbsp;Daniels began her testimony by talking about her upbringing in the US state of Louisiana and how she did ballet growing up and then started exotic dancing in high school.

8.&nbsp;Trump and Daniels ignored each other as she took the stand and is sworn in. The adult film star, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, took the stand wearing all black, with black-framed glasses.

9.&nbsp; The prosecution argued the testimony was needed to complete the story and establish Daniels’ credibility. “The people call Stormy Daniels,” said prosecutor Hoffinger.&nbsp;

10.&nbsp;Sally Franklin, an executive at Penguin Random House and the first witness of the day, took the stand earlier. Prosecutor Becky Mangold had her read excerpts from the 2004 volume “Trump: How to Get Rich” and his 2005 book “Trump: Think Like a Billionaire”.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The judge overseeing the historic criminal trial of former United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (May 7) rejected a mistrial request by Trump's lawyer who argued that adult film actor Stormy Daniels' testimony about the 2006 encounter was irrelevant and would inflame the jury.

The judge overseeing the historic criminal trial of former United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (May 7) rejected a mistrial request by Trump's lawyer who argued that adult film actor Stormy Daniels' testimony about the 2006 encounter was irrelevant and would inflame the jury. Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche asked for a mistrial hours after riveting testimony by Daniels, who told the jury about the alleged sexual encounter with Trump and a $130,000 hush money payment. The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election. WATCH | Trump Hush Money Trial: Key witness Stormy Daniels takes the stand The prosecutors have alleged that Trump falsified business records to cover up a $130,000 hush money payment his former lawyer Michael Cohen made to Daniels in the run-up to the election. Trump, 77, earlier in the day, said he was “recently told” who the witness would be on Tuesday and complained he should have been given more notice, reported the AP. The former president returned to the Manhattan courthouse a day after Judge Juan Merchan said some of Trump’s posts violated a gag order which restricts him from speaking about the witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case. Judge Merchan said that the adult film actor would be allowed to testify about the basic details of the encounter and prosecutor Susan Hoffinger assured him that the description of the alleged sexual act would be "really basic" and not going to "involve descriptions of genitalia or anything of that nature". The adult film actor, in line with standard court proceedings, was asked if she saw Trump in the courtroom and to identify him. Subsequently, she pointed at the former US president sitting at the defence table during her testimony. Also Read | Trump Hush Money Trial Day 11: Hope Hicks' testimony and other key takeaways During her testimony, the 45-year-old also said that Trump dared her to spank him, and she obliged. "That's bullshit," Trump appeared to say in court, according to Reuters. Day 13 of the hush money trial 1. Blanche asked for a mistrial after Daniel's testimony about the alleged sexual encounter saying that she violated the rules established for her taking the witness stand. However, the judge rejected his request and said while he agreed with Blanche, he blamed the defence for not raising an objection when she was testifying. 2. Before they had sex, Daniels said, Trump blocked the door, but said she didn't feel physically or verbally threatened. She said there was what she perceived to be an imbalance of power. He even told her "this is the only way you're getting out of the trailer park". 3. Daniels testified that she briefly asked about Trump’s wife, Melania, in the hotel room and called her beautiful. To which Trump responded that they did not sleep in the same room, she said. 4. The adult film actor testified that the former US president was wearing satin pyjamas when he welcomed her to his hotel suite. 5. Daniels said that she started appearing in adult films at age 23 and soon was writing and directing them. Also Watch | Judge warns Trump of potential jail time for violating gag order 6. Speaking about how she met Trump, Daniels said she met him during a brief introduction at a meet and greet with adult actors and golfers. "He said, 'Oh, you direct too - you must be the smart one,'" she testified. 7. Daniels began her testimony by talking about her upbringing in the US state of Louisiana and how she did ballet growing up and then started exotic dancing in high school. 8. Trump and Daniels ignored each other as she took the stand and is sworn in. The adult film star, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, took the stand wearing all black, with black-framed glasses. 9. The prosecution argued the testimony was needed to complete the story and establish Daniels’ credibility. “The people call Stormy Daniels,” said prosecutor Hoffinger. 10. Sally Franklin, an executive at Penguin Random House and the first witness of the day, took the stand earlier. Prosecutor Becky Mangold had her read excerpts from the 2004 volume “Trump: How to Get Rich” and his 2005 book “Trump: Think Like a Billionaire”. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hush money trial: Judge rejects mistrial request from defence lawyer over Stormy Daniels testimony

In a voting session held in Sydney's Cumberland Council, it was decided that a same-sex parenting book would be banned from its libraries. Cumberland Council includes the western Sydney suburbs of Merrylands, Granville and Auburn.

In a voting session held in Sydney's Cumberland Council, it was decided that a same-sex parenting book would be banned from its libraries. Cumberland Council includes the western Sydney suburbs of Merrylands, Granville and Auburn. The amendment was tabled by former mayor and current councillor Steve Christou in which it was proposed "that council take immediate action to rid same-sex parents books/materials in council's library service". Interestingly, Christou had not read the book on which the debate was being carried out. In the council's meeting, Christou brandished the book which he claimed received “really disturbing” constituent complaints and said that parents were “distraught” to see the book. The book in contention was Same-Sex Parents by Holly Duhig which was kept on the shelf in the children’s section of the library. According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, the motion was passed as six councillors voted in favour of the amendment and five voted against it. A picture of the book was held up by Christou as he claimed that the book sparked multiple complaints from his constituents. On the book's cover, a gay male couple and their young son were featured. Also Read: Australia anticipates a smaller revenue upgrade citing global economic weakness “We’re going to make it clear tonight that … these kind of books, same-sex parents books, don’t find their way to our kids,” said Christou, during the debate. “Our kids shouldn’t be sexualised. This community is a very religious community, a very family-orientated community," he added, “They don’t want such controversial issues going against their beliefs indoctrinated in their libraries. This is not Marrickville or Newtown, this is the Cumberland city council," Christou said. Christou further stated that toddlers shouldn’t be “exposed” to same-sex content and added that the proposed amendment was “for the protection and safety of our children”. “Hands off our kids,” he said. Auburn MP Lynda Voltz raised concern over the resolution and appealed to NSW Arts Minister John Graham to look into the issue. “I am greatly concerned at the decision of Cumberland council and believe that it may possibly risk breaching the guidelines for funding of libraries and may also be in breach of the Anti-Discrimination Act,” Voltz said. “The overwhelming majority of the people in Auburn will tell you that everyone is welcome and we pride ourselves on being a peaceful and friendly community," the MP stated. Minister holds council responsible for censorship The council was accused by Graham of engaging in censorship. “When civilisations turn to burning books or banning books it is a very bad sign. That is equally true for local councils,” the minister said. Watch: Sydney Church Stabbing: Priest stabbed multiple times during sermon “It is up to readers to choose which book to take off the shelf. It should not be up to local councillors to make that choice for them or engage in censorship," he added. He stated that the decision could impact the ability of the library to receive funding from the government. Mayor Lisa Lake opposed the motion and stated she was “appalled and saddened” by the result. Lake claimed that the book had been kept in the library since 2019 and its presence was “nothing new”. (With inputs from agencies)

Same-sex parenting book banned in Sydney libraries to ensure ‘safety of children’

Ukraine’s security services said on Tuesday that they had foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelensky and other top military and political figures. Two Ukrainian colonels accused of participating in the plot have been arrested on suspicion of treason. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine says it foiled Russian plot to kill Zelensky

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (May 7) cautioned of a "ferocious surge" in antisemitism during his Holocaust memorial speech amid a sharp rise in the number of Gaza protests in US universities.

"Never again simply translated for me means: Never forget. Never forgetting means we must keep telling the story, we must keep teaching the truth," Biden said as he addressed a bipartisan memorial held at the US Capitol's Emancipation Hall. "The truth is we're at risk of people not knowing the truth."

Biden, who has backed its staunch ally in the war against Hamas, said that Oct 7 was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

"This hatred (of Jews) continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world and requires our continued vigilance and outspokenness," Biden said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-take-control-of-gaza-side-of-rafah-crossing-aid-flow-impacted-719023">Humanitarian aid flow stopped as Israel takes control of Gaza side of Rafah</a>

<h2>'Hamas unleashed terror'</h2>

He then highlighted that the people must not forget that it was Hamas who first launched an attack against Israel on Oct 7 and "unleashed this terror".

"Now here we are, not 75 years later, but just seven and a half months later, and people are already forgetting ... that Hamas unleashed this terror," he said. "I have not forgotten, nor have you. And we will not forget."

He then laid stress on an alarming rise in antisemitism in the United States, including campuses that are roiled by demonstrations against the ongoing war in Gaza.

"We've seen a ferocious surge of anti-Semitism in America and around the world," Biden said.

The Jewish students enrolled in US universities have reported an increase in antisemitism since the Palestinian militant group Hamas' Oct 7 attack on Israel.

"There's no place on any campus in America -- any place in America -- for anti-Semitism or hate speech or threats of violence of any kind," Biden said.

Earlier, Israel's president also condemned the protests stating that US campuses were "contaminated" by hatred.

Biden's speech also comes against Israel's seizure of a key border crossing in Rafah in southern Gaza despite several warnings from the United States and amid the ongoing talks to broker a deal for the release of hostages held captive by Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (May 7) cautioned of a "ferocious surge" in antisemitism during his Holocaust memorial speech amid a sharp rise in the number of Gaza protests in US universities.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (May 7) cautioned of a "ferocious surge" in antisemitism during his Holocaust memorial speech amid a sharp rise in the number of Gaza protests in US universities. "Never again simply translated for me means: Never forget. Never forgetting means we must keep telling the story, we must keep teaching the truth," Biden said as he addressed a bipartisan memorial held at the US Capitol's Emancipation Hall. "The truth is we're at risk of people not knowing the truth." Biden, who has backed its staunch ally in the war against Hamas, said that Oct 7 was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. "This hatred (of Jews) continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world and requires our continued vigilance and outspokenness," Biden said. Also read: Humanitarian aid flow stopped as Israel takes control of Gaza side of Rafah 'Hamas unleashed terror' He then highlighted that the people must not forget that it was Hamas who first launched an attack against Israel on Oct 7 and "unleashed this terror". "Now here we are, not 75 years later, but just seven and a half months later, and people are already forgetting ... that Hamas unleashed this terror," he said. "I have not forgotten, nor have you. And we will not forget." He then laid stress on an alarming rise in antisemitism in the United States, including campuses that are roiled by demonstrations against the ongoing war in Gaza. "We've seen a ferocious surge of anti-Semitism in America and around the world," Biden said. The Jewish students enrolled in US universities have reported an increase in antisemitism since the Palestinian militant group Hamas' Oct 7 attack on Israel. "There's no place on any campus in America -- any place in America -- for anti-Semitism or hate speech or threats of violence of any kind," Biden said. Earlier, Israel's president also condemned the protests stating that US campuses were "contaminated" by hatred. Biden's speech also comes against Israel's seizure of a key border crossing in Rafah in southern Gaza despite several warnings from the United States and amid the ongoing talks to broker a deal for the release of hostages held captive by Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Biden condemns ‘ferocious surge’ in antisemitism amid US campus Gaza protests

Baltimore officials announced on Tuesday (May 7) that recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March are complete after the body of the final missing construction worker was found.

Officials informed the crew of Dali will remain on board the grounded container ship while crews conduct a controlled demolition to break down the largest remaining span of the fallen bridge.

On March 26, the container ship Dali lost power and slammed into a support column of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge. The impact caused a steel span to fall directly onto the ship's bow. Since the accident, the Dali has remained stuck because of the debris, forcing the closure of Baltimore's port to most maritime traffic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hush-money-trial-stormy-daniels-details-alleged-sexual-encounter-with-trump-in-court-719135">Hush money trial: Stormy Daniels details alleged sexual encounter with Trump</a>

Six construction workers were killed in the collapse. On Tuesday, the body of Jose Mynor Lopez was recovered, officials said in a statement. All the victims were Latino immigrants who had been working an overnight shift filling potholes on the bridge.&nbsp;

Officials said salvage divers had located his body and alerted the state authorities.

“With heavy hearts, today marks a significant milestone in our recovery efforts and providing closure to the loved ones of the six workers who lost their lives in this tragic event,” Col Roland Butler Jr, the Maryland state police superintendent, said in a statement.

Officials hope to use controlled demolition in the coming days to free the Dali, the container ship lodged under the bridge wreckage. Refloating the Dali will allow it to be guided back to port, finally reopening Baltimore's busy harbour.&nbsp;

This is welcome news for the thousands of longshoremen, truck drivers, and small business owners who have been impacted by the closure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-five-as-authorities-recover-another-body-717277" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-five-as-authorities-recover-another-body-717277&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZz8OWg_2FAxVe3TgGHdOMD4kQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw24oJa-4L9rgrO3MhMv5CeA&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-five-as-authorities-recover-another-body-717277" target="_blank">Baltimore&nbsp;Key Bridge collapse: Death toll rises to five</a>

The Dali’s crew will shelter in place aboard the ship while the explosives are detonated, said Ronald Hodges, a Coast Guard petty officer.

Engineers have been working for weeks to determine the best way to remove this last major piece of the fallen bridge.

Hodges said the crew’s safety was a top concern as officials considered whether they should remain on the ship during the demolition. He said engineers are using precision cuts to control how the trusses break down.

Stranded since the March disaster, the Dali's crew – 20 from India and one from Sri Lanka – have remained on board to assist investigators and maintain the ship.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-why-20-indians-will-stay-onboard-dali-ship-till-investigation-is-over-707321" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-why-20-indians-will-stay-onboard-dali-ship-till-investigation-is-over-707321&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZz8OWg_2FAxVe3TgGHdOMD4kQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2E2dYCJMQKYgPlh0slVY53&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-why-20-indians-will-stay-onboard-dali-ship-till-investigation-is-over-707321" target="_blank">Baltimore&nbsp;Key Bridge collapse: Why 20 Indians will stay on board</a>

Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board and the FBI are conducting separate investigations into the bridge collapse.

(With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore officials announced on Tuesday (May 7) that recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March are complete after the body of the final missing construction worker was found.

Baltimore officials announced on Tuesday (May 7) that recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March are complete after the body of the final missing construction worker was found. Officials informed the crew of Dali will remain on board the grounded container ship while crews conduct a controlled demolition to break down the largest remaining span of the fallen bridge. On March 26, the container ship Dali lost power and slammed into a support column of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge. The impact caused a steel span to fall directly onto the ship's bow. Since the accident, the Dali has remained stuck because of the debris, forcing the closure of Baltimore's port to most maritime traffic. Also read: Hush money trial: Stormy Daniels details alleged sexual encounter with Trump Six construction workers were killed in the collapse. On Tuesday, the body of Jose Mynor Lopez was recovered, officials said in a statement. All the victims were Latino immigrants who had been working an overnight shift filling potholes on the bridge. Officials said salvage divers had located his body and alerted the state authorities. “With heavy hearts, today marks a significant milestone in our recovery efforts and providing closure to the loved ones of the six workers who lost their lives in this tragic event,” Col Roland Butler Jr, the Maryland state police superintendent, said in a statement. Officials hope to use controlled demolition in the coming days to free the Dali, the container ship lodged under the bridge wreckage. Refloating the Dali will allow it to be guided back to port, finally reopening Baltimore's busy harbour. This is welcome news for the thousands of longshoremen, truck drivers, and small business owners who have been impacted by the closure. Also read: Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: Death toll rises to five The Dali’s crew will shelter in place aboard the ship while the explosives are detonated, said Ronald Hodges, a Coast Guard petty officer. Engineers have been working for weeks to determine the best way to remove this last major piece of the fallen bridge. Hodges said the crew’s safety was a top concern as officials considered whether they should remain on the ship during the demolition. He said engineers are using precision cuts to control how the trusses break down. Stranded since the March disaster, the Dali's crew – 20 from India and one from Sri Lanka – have remained on board to assist investigators and maintain the ship. Also read: Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: Why 20 Indians will stay on board Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board and the FBI are conducting separate investigations into the bridge collapse. (With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore bridge collapse: Body of sixth and last missing worker recovered

UK-based pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, that was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect.

The pharmaceutical giant, however, claimed that the vaccine is being removed from the market for "commercial reasons".

The Telegraph reported the company as saying that the vaccine is no longer being manufactured or supplied.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-court-case-rare-side-effects-admission-of-guilt-and-more-all-you-need-to-know-716604">AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Court case, rare side effects, admission of guilt, and more. All you need to know</a>

While calling the decision "purely coincidental", the pharmaceutical giant claimed that the withdrawal of the vaccine is not linked to its courtroom admission that it can cause Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome.&nbsp;

The company withdrew its "marketing authorisation" and the vaccine is no longer authorised for use in the European Union. The withdrawal application was submitted on March 5 and&nbsp;took effect on Tuesday (May 7).&nbsp;

Similar applications will be submitted in the UK and other countries that had previously approved the vaccine, known as Vaxzevria.&nbsp;

Vaxzevria, too, is under global scrutiny due to a rare side effect that causes blood clots and low blood platelet count.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;No side effects from our vaccine: Bharat biotech amid AstraZeneca row

Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (or TTS) has been linked with at least 81 deaths in the UK, along with numerous serious injuries. AstraZeneca is facing lawsuits from over 50 such alleged victims and relatives of the deceased in the UK.&nbsp;

"We are incredibly proud of the role Vaxzevria played in ending the global pandemic. According to independent estimates, over 6.5 million lives were saved in the first year of use alone and over three billion doses were supplied globally. Our efforts have been recognised by governments around the world are widely regarded as being a critical component of ending the global pandemic," AstraZeneca said, as quoted by The Telegraph.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK-based pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, that was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect.

UK-based pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, that was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect. The pharmaceutical giant, however, claimed that the vaccine is being removed from the market for "commercial reasons". The Telegraph reported the company as saying that the vaccine is no longer being manufactured or supplied. Also read | AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Court case, rare side effects, admission of guilt, and more. All you need to know While calling the decision "purely coincidental", the pharmaceutical giant claimed that the withdrawal of the vaccine is not linked to its courtroom admission that it can cause Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome. The company withdrew its "marketing authorisation" and the vaccine is no longer authorised for use in the European Union. The withdrawal application was submitted on March 5 and took effect on Tuesday (May 7). Similar applications will be submitted in the UK and other countries that had previously approved the vaccine, known as Vaxzevria. Vaxzevria, too, is under global scrutiny due to a rare side effect that causes blood clots and low blood platelet count. Also watch | No side effects from our vaccine: Bharat biotech amid AstraZeneca row Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (or TTS) has been linked with at least 81 deaths in the UK, along with numerous serious injuries. AstraZeneca is facing lawsuits from over 50 such alleged victims and relatives of the deceased in the UK. "We are incredibly proud of the role Vaxzevria played in ending the global pandemic. According to independent estimates, over 6.5 million lives were saved in the first year of use alone and over three billion doses were supplied globally. Our efforts have been recognised by governments around the world are widely regarded as being a critical component of ending the global pandemic," AstraZeneca said, as quoted by The Telegraph. (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca withdraws its Covid vaccine citing commercial reasons

The Philippines' recent induction of BrahMos missiles has been hailed as a significant development by Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio. In an exclusive interview with diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Philippines Ambassador Ignacio described the acquisition as a "milestone" for the country's defense modernization, providing "credible deterrence". The BrahMos missile, renowned for its speed and precision, was jointly developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia. The $375 million deal, signed in 2022, marked a crucial step forward for the Philippines undertaking its defense modernization. The ambassador further acknowledged the deepening ties between India and the Philippines, noting an "intensification that they have not seen before and that is very welcome." He expressed hope for increased Indian tourist arrivals in his country and advocated for establishing a direct flight connection. Regarding the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea/South China sea, Ambassador Ignacio reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to its legal rights and entitlements in the region, stating, "Philippines stands on firm legal ground as to what its entitlements are as to what its rights within the West Philippine Sea." China has used water cannons against Philippine vessel in the region, raising tensions. Watch this full interview.

BrahMos provides credible deterrence, recognition of India's Defense Industry: Philippine Ambassador

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to strike Rafah and the Gaza Strip. The UN secretary-general warned that an Israeli attack on Rafah would be 'a strategic mistake, a political calamity, and a humanitarian nightmare'.

Here's a look at the latest updates:

<h2>IDF says&nbsp;30 Hamas militants killed in eastern Rafah operation</h2>

About 30 Hamas militants were killed in eastern Rafah as a result of an operation carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli military said as reported by i24news.&nbsp;

<h2>WHO says&nbsp;South Gaza's health services have only 3 days of fuel left</h2>

The World Health Organization reported on Wednesday that there is only enough fuel to run health services in Gaza's south for three more days. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought safety in Gaza's south. According to the WHO, a delivery of fuel to the area had been denied on Wednesday.

"WHO has pre-positioned in some supplies in warehouses and hospitals, but without more aid flowing into Gaza, we cannot sustain our life saving support to hospitals," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He added that WHO will coninue to provide health services in the area.

<h2>Top foreign officials&nbsp;denounce&nbsp;Israel's military operation in eastern Rafah.</h2>

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, “One million people cannot vanish into thin air. They need protection. They urgently need more humanitarian aid. To this end, the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border crossings must be reopened immediately.”

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said on Wednesday that "Australia has been clear about our objections to a major Israeli ground offensive into Rafah, and we have reiterated this to Israel again today."

"The impact&nbsp;on Palestinian civilians from an expanded military operation would be devastating," she added.

Qatar also condemned "in the strongest terms the Israeli occupation forces' bombardment of the Rafah governorate, invasion of the land crossing and threat to displace citizens from shelter and housing centres."

In a post on X, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it "strongly condemns" both the Israeli military's "control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing" and the "attack" on Rafah.

On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov called the situation in Rafah as a "humanitarian disaster," as reported by TASS.

<h2>Roughly 50,000 people fled Rafah in the last 48 hours, says UNRWA official</h2>

According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order.&nbsp;

“We tracked roughly 50,000 people departing Rafah in the last 48 hours. We've seen them go to Khan Younis, some have gone to the expanded humanitarian area of Al-Mawasi, others have gone to Deir al-Balah,” the senior deputy director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza, Scott Anderson, told CNN.

Residents of eastern Rafah started to leave on Monday after the Israeli military gave the order to "evacuate immediately" as it launched a military operation in the region.&nbsp;

“We think as the UN that people should choose where they want to go and we will provide aid to them wherever they decide to seek shelter with their families,” he added.

<h2>Police clear&nbsp;encampment from&nbsp;George Washington University,&nbsp;over 30 students arrested</h2>

Shortly after hundreds of demonstrators left the area and marched to the university's president Ellen Granberg's house, US police started clearing up a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University in Washington, DC.

According to local media reports, about 30 individuals were arrested when police pepper sprayed several demonstrators as they tried to enter the encampment.&nbsp;

The university's independent student-run newspaper, GW Hatchet, reported "at about 3.30am (10:30 GMT), officers gave demonstrators their third and final warning to move, saying all who remained... in front of the plaza would be arrested."

<h2>African Union&nbsp;criticises&nbsp;Israel's military incursion into Rafah</h2>

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The African Union&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;Israel's military incursion into Rafah in southern Gaza on Wednesday, urging the international community to put an end to "this deadly escalation" of the war.

AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat "firmly condemns the extension of this war to the Rafah crossing," a statement read. The statement came after Israeli tanks seized a vital passage for humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.

He "expresses his extreme concern at the war undertaken by Israel in Gaza which results, at every moment, in massive deaths and systematic destruction of the conditions of human life," the statement read. "He calls on the entire international community to effectively coordinate collective action to stop this deadly escalation," it added.

<h2>Israel reopens vital Kerem Shalom border crossing for Gaza humanitarian aid</h2>

Israel announced on Wednesday (May 8) that it has reopened the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian supplies to Gaza, four days after closing it in response to a missile strike that killed four military personnel.

According to the Israeli military, Egyptian lorries carrying food, water, and medication have arrived at the border. The UN raised concern on Tuesday over Israel's "choking off" of Gaza's two main aid arteries.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he was "disturbed and distressed" by Israel's move. 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital.

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital. Meanwhile, Israel continues to strike Rafah and the Gaza Strip. The UN secretary-general warned that an Israeli attack on Rafah would be 'a strategic mistake, a political calamity, and a humanitarian nightmare'. Here's a look at the latest updates: IDF says 30 Hamas militants killed in eastern Rafah operation About 30 Hamas militants were killed in eastern Rafah as a result of an operation carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli military said as reported by i24news. WHO says South Gaza's health services have only 3 days of fuel left The World Health Organization reported on Wednesday that there is only enough fuel to run health services in Gaza's south for three more days. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought safety in Gaza's south. According to the WHO, a delivery of fuel to the area had been denied on Wednesday. "WHO has pre-positioned in some supplies in warehouses and hospitals, but without more aid flowing into Gaza, we cannot sustain our life saving support to hospitals," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He added that WHO will coninue to provide health services in the area. Top foreign officials denounce Israel's military operation in eastern Rafah. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, “One million people cannot vanish into thin air. They need protection. They urgently need more humanitarian aid. To this end, the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border crossings must be reopened immediately.” Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said on Wednesday that "Australia has been clear about our objections to a major Israeli ground offensive into Rafah, and we have reiterated this to Israel again today." "The impact on Palestinian civilians from an expanded military operation would be devastating," she added. Qatar also condemned "in the strongest terms the Israeli occupation forces' bombardment of the Rafah governorate, invasion of the land crossing and threat to displace citizens from shelter and housing centres." In a post on X, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it "strongly condemns" both the Israeli military's "control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing" and the "attack" on Rafah. On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov called the situation in Rafah as a "humanitarian disaster," as reported by TASS. Roughly 50,000 people fled Rafah in the last 48 hours, says UNRWA official According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order. “We tracked roughly 50,000 people departing Rafah in the last 48 hours. We've seen them go to Khan Younis, some have gone to the expanded humanitarian area of Al-Mawasi, others have gone to Deir al-Balah,” the senior deputy director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza, Scott Anderson, told CNN. Residents of eastern Rafah started to leave on Monday after the Israeli military gave the order to "evacuate immediately" as it launched a military operation in the region. “We think as the UN that people should choose where they want to go and we will provide aid to them wherever they decide to seek shelter with their families,” he added. Police clear encampment from George Washington University, over 30 students arrested Shortly after hundreds of demonstrators left the area and marched to the university's president Ellen Granberg's house, US police started clearing up a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University in Washington, DC. According to local media reports, about 30 individuals were arrested when police pepper sprayed several demonstrators as they tried to enter the encampment. The university's independent student-run newspaper, GW Hatchet, reported "at about 3.30am (10:30 GMT), officers gave demonstrators their third and final warning to move, saying all who remained... in front of the plaza would be arrested." African Union criticises Israel's military incursion into Rafah The African Union criticised Israel's military incursion into Rafah in southern Gaza on Wednesday, urging the international community to put an end to "this deadly escalation" of the war. AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat "firmly condemns the extension of this war to the Rafah crossing," a statement read. The statement came after Israeli tanks seized a vital passage for humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. He "expresses his extreme concern at the war undertaken by Israel in Gaza which results, at every moment, in massive deaths and systematic destruction of the conditions of human life," the statement read. "He calls on the entire international community to effectively coordinate collective action to stop this deadly escalation," it added. Israel reopens vital Kerem Shalom border crossing for Gaza humanitarian aid Israel announced on Wednesday (May 8) that it has reopened the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian supplies to Gaza, four days after closing it in response to a missile strike that killed four military personnel. According to the Israeli military, Egyptian lorries carrying food, water, and medication have arrived at the border. The UN raised concern on Tuesday over Israel's "choking off" of Gaza's two main aid arteries. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he was "disturbed and distressed" by Israel's move. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war updates: 30 Hamas militants killed in Israel’s Rafah operation, says IDF

After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8).&nbsp;

There is no official announcement yet at the time of filing this report, but the Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed to PTI news agency that Xu, a former ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, has been appointed as China's new envoy in India.

<h2>Who is Xu Feihong?</h2>

The 60-year-old Xu Feihong was serving as assistant minister for financial and administrative affairs in the foreign ministry.

In 37 years as a Chinese diplomat, Xu’s only job in South Asia was as ambassador to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. He also served as envoy to Romania from 2015 to 2018.

Apart from these, most of Xu’s postings have been in the Western world, from Finland to Australia, with a specialisation in Europe.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-halts-bomb-shipment-to-israel-to-signal-concerns-over-rafah-invasion-719158">US halts bomb shipment to Israel amid signs of full-scale Rafah invasion</a>

He will succeed veteran Chinese diplomat Sun Weidong who completed his term in India in October 2022.

Sun Weidong left his post in October 2022, after a tumultuous three years that saw relations between the two neighbours plunge following border clashes in eastern Ladakh.

In April-May 2020, India and China, were locked in a military standoff in the western part of the border.

Tensions flared as Chinese forces advanced past their usual positions on the Line of Actual Control. This resulted in clashes between Chinese troops and Indian Army patrols.

The most serious incident was reported on 15 June, 2020 in the Galwan Valley, where a brutal hand-to-hand fight resulted in casualties on both sides.

India confirmed the loss of 20 soldiers, while China acknowledged at least four fatalities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEj4zNpP2FAxURR2wGHadaDK0QFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bAyTpvVC5WmAxXkVu0NzN&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539" target="_blank">India rubbishes&nbsp;China's&nbsp;'absurd' claims on Arunachal Pradesh</a>

Since then, at least 20 rounds of military-level talks and 13 rounds of foreign office talks have been held between the two countries.

India is pressing the People's Liberation Army to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal.

(With inputs from agencies)

After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8).

After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8). There is no official announcement yet at the time of filing this report, but the Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed to PTI news agency that Xu, a former ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, has been appointed as China's new envoy in India. Who is Xu Feihong? The 60-year-old Xu Feihong was serving as assistant minister for financial and administrative affairs in the foreign ministry. In 37 years as a Chinese diplomat, Xu’s only job in South Asia was as ambassador to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. He also served as envoy to Romania from 2015 to 2018. Apart from these, most of Xu’s postings have been in the Western world, from Finland to Australia, with a specialisation in Europe. Also read: US halts bomb shipment to Israel amid signs of full-scale Rafah invasion He will succeed veteran Chinese diplomat Sun Weidong who completed his term in India in October 2022. Sun Weidong left his post in October 2022, after a tumultuous three years that saw relations between the two neighbours plunge following border clashes in eastern Ladakh. In April-May 2020, India and China, were locked in a military standoff in the western part of the border. Tensions flared as Chinese forces advanced past their usual positions on the Line of Actual Control. This resulted in clashes between Chinese troops and Indian Army patrols. The most serious incident was reported on 15 June, 2020 in the Galwan Valley, where a brutal hand-to-hand fight resulted in casualties on both sides. India confirmed the loss of 20 soldiers, while China acknowledged at least four fatalities. Also read: India rubbishes China's 'absurd' claims on Arunachal Pradesh Since then, at least 20 rounds of military-level talks and 13 rounds of foreign office talks have been held between the two countries. India is pressing the People's Liberation Army to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Xu Feihong, China’s new envoy to India?

Ukraine poses a great risk of its front lines collapsing on the battleground. Ukrainian troops are trying to buy time, they are hunkering down in the trenches and trying to dodge Russia's high value artillery weapons. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine at risk of its frontline collapsing, setback for Ukraine in Donetsk region

Russia has been flaunting tanks and armoured vehicles seized from Ukraine. These are American and German advanced weaponry. Among them are US Abrams tanks & German leopard tanks. These are among the latest weaponry from West's arsenal. But now US is worried that Russia could use these military hardware to learn about them and can also reverse engineer them.

Russia showcases captured western weapons in Moscow, captured trophies spooks US

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia - AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines - Brazil floods leave 150,000 homeless - Students protests spread to Europe

Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia | AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines

Pope Francis greeted the Vatican's Swiss Guard Corps on May 6, at the new guards' swearing-in ceremony. Watch to know more.

New members of Swiss Guard sworn in to protect the Pope Francis

According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order. In other news,&nbsp;AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, which was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-updates-au-criticises-israel-incursion-into-rafah-israel-reopens-key-kerem-shalom-border-crossing-719349">Gaza war updates: 50,000 people fled Rafah; only 3 days of fuel left for health services in South Gaza</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-updates-au-criticises-israel-incursion-into-rafah-israel-reopens-key-kerem-shalom-border-crossing-719349"><img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abb0aa9f-c5fd-4e51-8488-8857643ace91" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-05-08T215223.085.png" /></a>

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-withdraws-its-covid-vaccine-citing-commercial-reasons-719140">AstraZeneca withdraws its Covid vaccine citing commercial reasons</a>

<img alt="2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88aedf48-7037-4808-99ff-2db04d5304c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-05-08T215234.023.png" />

UK-based pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, that was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sam-pitroda-resigns-as-chairman-of-indian-overseas-congress-amid-controversy-over-racist-remark-719434">Sam Pitroda resigns as Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress amid controversy over racist remark</a>

<img alt="3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22e05877-22e6-4b9a-b75b-b1ea1d84ea7b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-05-08T215246.141.png" />

Sam Pitroda resigned as Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress "of his own accord" on Wednesday, following a number of controversial statements. Mallikarjun Kharge, the party's president, accepted his resignation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-six-killed-eight-injured-after-blast-in-faizabad-city-719337">Afghanistan: Three police personnel killed, five injured in blast targeting convoy 
 
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Three police personnel were killed and five others were injured after a blast rocked Faizabad city, the provincial capital of north Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province, said the spokesperson for Taliban’s interior minister, Abdul Mateen Qani, on Wednesday (May 8).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 
 
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On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-expel-russian-defence-attache-who-it-claims-is-undeclared-military-intelligence-officer-719421">UK to expel Russian defence attache who it claims is ‘undeclared military intelligence officer’</a>

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The United Kingdom, on Wednesday (May 8) said that it will expel Russia’s defence attache for being “an undeclared military intelligence officer”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/berlin-senator-struck-on-head-amid-concerns-over-rise-in-attacks-against-german-politicians-719401">Berlin senator struck on head amid concerns over rise in violence against German politicians</a>

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A senior member of the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s party and a Berlin senator, Franziska Giffey was injured after a man hit her with a bag containing a hard object in a local library, said the police, on Wednesday (May 8).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-pak-pm-imran-khans-wife-moved-to-jail-on-her-request-heres-why-719372">Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan’s wife moved to jail on her request. Here’s why</a>

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The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday (May 8) ordered the transfer of former prime minister Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, from the Banigala residence to Adiala Jail, her lawyer said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-mocks-weak-pak-military-for-blaming-kabul-for-deadly-attack-on-chinese-nationals-719431">Taliban mock 'weak Pak military' for blaming Kabul for deadly attack on Chinese nationals 
 
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Taliban regime on Wednesday (May 8) strongly refuted claims made by Pakistan that Afghanistan was involved in a March suicide attack on Chinese nationals working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Taliban said the claims were “irresponsible and far from the reality.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-kevin-pietersen-demands-australian-govt-apologise-to-novak-djokovic-amid-astrazeneca-row-719411">After AstraZeneca row, Kevin Pietersen say Australian govt should apologise to Novak Djokovic 
 
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Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has suggested that the Australian government issue an apology to Novak Djokovic after the tennis great was not allowed to enter the Down Under country to participate in the Australian Open at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic in 2022.&nbsp;

According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order.

According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order. In other news, AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, which was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect. Click on the headlines to read more: Gaza war updates: 50,000 people fled Rafah; only 3 days of fuel left for health services in South Gaza After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital. AstraZeneca withdraws its Covid vaccine citing commercial reasons UK-based pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, that was sold in India as Covishield, has been withdrawn worldwide just days after it acknowledged in court documents that its vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect. Sam Pitroda resigns as Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress amid controversy over racist remark Sam Pitroda resigned as Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress "of his own accord" on Wednesday, following a number of controversial statements. Mallikarjun Kharge, the party's president, accepted his resignation. Afghanistan: Three police personnel killed, five injured in blast targeting convoy Three police personnel were killed and five others were injured after a blast rocked Faizabad city, the provincial capital of north Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province, said the spokesperson for Taliban’s interior minister, Abdul Mateen Qani, on Wednesday (May 8). Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years. UK to expel Russian defence attache who it claims is ‘undeclared military intelligence officer’ The United Kingdom, on Wednesday (May 8) said that it will expel Russia’s defence attache for being “an undeclared military intelligence officer”. Berlin senator struck on head amid concerns over rise in violence against German politicians A senior member of the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s party and a Berlin senator, Franziska Giffey was injured after a man hit her with a bag containing a hard object in a local library, said the police, on Wednesday (May 8). Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan’s wife moved to jail on her request. Here’s why The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday (May 8) ordered the transfer of former prime minister Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, from the Banigala residence to Adiala Jail, her lawyer said. Taliban mock 'weak Pak military' for blaming Kabul for deadly attack on Chinese nationals Taliban regime on Wednesday (May 8) strongly refuted claims made by Pakistan that Afghanistan was involved in a March suicide attack on Chinese nationals working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Taliban said the claims were “irresponsible and far from the reality.” After AstraZeneca row, Kevin Pietersen say Australian govt should apologise to Novak Djokovic Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has suggested that the Australian government issue an apology to Novak Djokovic after the tennis great was not allowed to enter the Down Under country to participate in the Australian Open at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic in 2022.

Top 10 world news: 50,000 people have fled Rafah; Sam Pitroda quits Congress after racist remark; and more

Kim Jong Un, the head of North Korea's ruling dynasty, was seen kneeling at the funeral bier of the country's former propaganda chief.

According to the official Korean Central News Agency, Kim Ki Nam passed away on Tuesday due to old age and "multiple organ dysfunction" after receiving medical care in a hospital since 2022.&nbsp;

Kim Ki Nam, 94, is often credited with masterminding the personality cult surrounding the ruling Kim dynasty.

Kim Jong Un visited the funeral hall early Wednesday morning and paid a quiet homage. He looked around the bier with "bitter grief over the loss of a veteran revolutionary who had remained boundlessly loyal" to the government, according to the KCNA.

According to KCNA, a wreath was "laid before the bier of the deceased" in Kim Jong Un's name.

Most notably, Kim Ki Nam oversaw North Korea's main propaganda department. According to the North, in the 1970s, he ran Pyongyang's official mouthpiece, the Rodong Sinmun newspaper.

Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuid8Oe83Vk8wqtx" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-demolishes-his-winter-palace-in-north-korea-in-an-unprecedented-move-heres-why-719166" target="_blank">Kim Jong Un&nbsp;demolishes&nbsp;his winter palace in North Korea in an unprecedented move. Here's why</a>

Pyongyang's official media on Wednesday referred to him as "a veteran of our Party and the revolution, a prestigious theoretician and a prominent political activist." He is credited with creating the cult of the Kim family dynasty.

Leader Kim was shown wearing a dark suit and paying his respects to senior military and party officials in front of what seemed like a flower-decorated coffin, in a picture shared by the Rodong Sinmun.

In another photo, people dressed in military uniforms were seen playing musical instruments, including saxophones, while Kim was shown bowing in front of the bier.

For over three generations, North Korea has been ruled by the Kim dynasty, which was founded by Kim Il Sung, Pyongyang's founding leader, with an extensive personality cult.

The family is known as the "Paektu bloodline" in the North, after the highest mountain in the nation and the alleged birthplace of the late leader Kim Jong Il. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un, the head of North Korea's ruling dynasty, was seen kneeling at the funeral bier of the country's former propaganda chief. According to the official Korean Central News Agency, Kim Ki Nam passed away on Tuesday due to old age and "multiple organ dysfunction" after receiving medical care in a hospital since 2022.

Kim Jong Un, the head of North Korea's ruling dynasty, was seen kneeling at the funeral bier of the country's former propaganda chief. According to the official Korean Central News Agency, Kim Ki Nam passed away on Tuesday due to old age and "multiple organ dysfunction" after receiving medical care in a hospital since 2022. Kim Ki Nam, 94, is often credited with masterminding the personality cult surrounding the ruling Kim dynasty. Kim Jong Un visited the funeral hall early Wednesday morning and paid a quiet homage. He looked around the bier with "bitter grief over the loss of a veteran revolutionary who had remained boundlessly loyal" to the government, according to the KCNA. According to KCNA, a wreath was "laid before the bier of the deceased" in Kim Jong Un's name. Most notably, Kim Ki Nam oversaw North Korea's main propaganda department. According to the North, in the 1970s, he ran Pyongyang's official mouthpiece, the Rodong Sinmun newspaper. Also read: Kim Jong Un demolishes his winter palace in North Korea in an unprecedented move. Here's why Pyongyang's official media on Wednesday referred to him as "a veteran of our Party and the revolution, a prestigious theoretician and a prominent political activist." He is credited with creating the cult of the Kim family dynasty. Leader Kim was shown wearing a dark suit and paying his respects to senior military and party officials in front of what seemed like a flower-decorated coffin, in a picture shared by the Rodong Sinmun. In another photo, people dressed in military uniforms were seen playing musical instruments, including saxophones, while Kim was shown bowing in front of the bier. For over three generations, North Korea has been ruled by the Kim dynasty, which was founded by Kim Il Sung, Pyongyang's founding leader, with an extensive personality cult. The family is known as the "Paektu bloodline" in the North, after the highest mountain in the nation and the alleged birthplace of the late leader Kim Jong Il. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un bows in front of former propaganda chief’s funeral bier with ‘bitter grief’

The Kremlin reacted after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (May 6) ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. This comes after a Ukrainian drone attack killed six people and wounded over 30 in Russia's Belgorod border region which turned out to be one of the deadliest attacks inside Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion over two years ago.&nbsp;

Russia's defence ministry said the exercises would be held in the "near future" and involve the air force, navy and troops stationed near Ukraine.&nbsp;

The Kremlin stated that the nuclear weapons drills were a response to "unprecedented" comments by the West, including by French President Emmanuel Macron, on sending troops to Ukraine. It said that the escalation requires "special measures".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-six-killed-35-injured-in-ukrainian-drone-attack-in-russias-belgorod-region-718422">Ukraine war: Six killed, 35 injured in Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Belgorod region</a>&nbsp;

On being asked by reporters what led to the drills, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "It's obvious we are talking about statements from Mr. Macron and statements from British representatives. This is a completely new round of escalating tensions. It is unprecedented and requires special measures."&nbsp;

Earlier this year in February, Putin talked about Moscow's nuclear capabilities by announcing the deployment and tests of new hypersonic weapons when he delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address.&nbsp;

The Russian president had also issued a warning to the West saying that Russia had weapons that could strike within their territory and that their threats created a "real" risk of nuclear war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-in-france-calls-for-free-tibet-take-over-paris-during-chinese-leaders-state-visit-718403">Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit</a>&nbsp;

The war in Ukraine, which started on February 24, 2022, has led to the worst crisis in Moscow's relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.&nbsp;

During the course of the war, Putin issued several warnings to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members against sending military assistance and ground troops to Ukraine as he said it would cause a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine war, trade and&nbsp;investment top agenda of Xi's visit&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<h2>Use of non-strategic nuclear weapons</h2>

The Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement that "during the exercise, a set of measures will be taken to practise the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons".&nbsp;

Non-strategic nuclear weapons, also known as tactical nuclear weapons, are meant for use on the battlefield and can be delivered via missiles.&nbsp;

The ministry mentioned that troops from the Southern Military District, which borders Ukraine and includes the occupied Ukrainian territories will take part in the drills.

Russia has often warned that Putin was "not bluffing" when he said he was ready to use nuclear weapons as Russia has also pulled out of arms control treaties with the US.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin reacted after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (May 6) ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.

The Kremlin reacted after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (May 6) ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. This comes after a Ukrainian drone attack killed six people and wounded over 30 in Russia's Belgorod border region which turned out to be one of the deadliest attacks inside Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion over two years ago. Russia's defence ministry said the exercises would be held in the "near future" and involve the air force, navy and troops stationed near Ukraine. The Kremlin stated that the nuclear weapons drills were a response to "unprecedented" comments by the West, including by French President Emmanuel Macron, on sending troops to Ukraine. It said that the escalation requires "special measures". Also read: Ukraine war: Six killed, 35 injured in Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Belgorod region On being asked by reporters what led to the drills, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "It's obvious we are talking about statements from Mr. Macron and statements from British representatives. This is a completely new round of escalating tensions. It is unprecedented and requires special measures." Earlier this year in February, Putin talked about Moscow's nuclear capabilities by announcing the deployment and tests of new hypersonic weapons when he delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address. The Russian president had also issued a warning to the West saying that Russia had weapons that could strike within their territory and that their threats created a "real" risk of nuclear war. Also read: Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit The war in Ukraine, which started on February 24, 2022, has led to the worst crisis in Moscow's relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. During the course of the war, Putin issued several warnings to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members against sending military assistance and ground troops to Ukraine as he said it would cause a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. Watch: Ukraine war, trade and investment top agenda of Xi's visit × Use of non-strategic nuclear weapons The Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement that "during the exercise, a set of measures will be taken to practise the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons". Non-strategic nuclear weapons, also known as tactical nuclear weapons, are meant for use on the battlefield and can be delivered via missiles. The ministry mentioned that troops from the Southern Military District, which borders Ukraine and includes the occupied Ukrainian territories will take part in the drills. Russia has often warned that Putin was "not bluffing" when he said he was ready to use nuclear weapons as Russia has also pulled out of arms control treaties with the US. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Putin’s nuclear drill orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin

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