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Watch the top headlines of the hour: - US pauses bomb shipment to Israel - Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia - AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines - Stormy Daniels testifies against Trump - Gaza truce talks resume in Cairo

Gaza truce talks resume in Cairo | Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia

Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold talks with his Serbian counterpart in Belgrade on Wednesday, as Beijing seeks to deepen its political and economic ties with friendlier countries in Europe.

China has poured billions into Serbia and neighbouring Balkan countries, particularly into mining and manufacturing, and last year Beijing and Belgrade signed a free trade agreement.&nbsp;

Xi arrived in the Serbian capital Tuesday night after a state visit to France that saw sometimes robust exchanges with President Emmanuel Macron on topics including trade and China's continued close ties to Russia despite the Ukraine war.

But the other two countries chosen by Xi for his first trip to Europe since 2019 -- with Hungary as the final stop after Serbia -- are seen as among the most sympathetic to Moscow in Europe.&nbsp;

In Belgrade, the Chinese leader will meet President Aleksandar Vucic for talks on Wednesday, before heading to Budapest.

Serbian finance minister Sinisa Mali told state broadcaster RTS that discussions Wednesday would centre on "a great project".&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>

"We are aiming to attract a major investment from China in a very promising area," he said Tuesday, adding "I won't reveal our cards at this moment."

Streets in the Serbian capital were decked out with Chinese flags for the visit, along with posters and billboards that proclaimed a "warm welcome" to "Chinese friends".&nbsp;

<h2>NATO bombing</h2>

Xi's visit to Belgrade will also coincide with the 25th anniversary of the 1999 US bombing of the Chinese embassy there, which killed three people.&nbsp;

The embassy was hit during a months-long, US-led NATO campaign targeting Serbian security forces who were waging a brutal war against ethnic-Albanian insurgents in Kosovo.

The US later apologised, saying that outdated maps had led the pilot to strike the wrong target.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Xi wrote in Serbian daily Politika that NATO had "flagrantly bombed the Chinese embassy in Yugoslavia", warning that China would "never allow such tragic history to repeat itself".&nbsp;

He also hailed the "ironclad friendship" between China and Serbia, which he said was "forged with the blood of our compatriots".

Also watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping's first trip to Europe in five years; after France, Xi to visit Serbia &amp; Hungary

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Stefan Vladisavljev, programme director at the Foundation BFPE for a Responsible Society, said that the date of the visit meant it will have "significant symbolic importance".

"The focus is also expected to be on promoting existing cooperation between the two countries, and announcing projects that they can implement together in the future," he added.

<h2>Ukraine fears</h2>

Serbs questioned in central Belgrade said they welcomed Xi's visit.

"I think it's an excellent thing, this visit from the president of one of the most powerful countries in the world," 67-year-old Stojan Vidovic, a retiree, told AFP.

"It's fantastic for us," agreed 69-year-old Dijana Radic, a former translator. She said she hoped there would be "results from this visit, something good for both parties".

The first leg of Xi's visit in France saw meetings with Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging Xi not to allow the export of any technology that could be used by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine and to do all it could to end the war.&nbsp;

Xi for his part warned the West not to "smear" China over the conflict and also hit back at accusations that Chinese overcapacity was causing global trade imbalances.&nbsp;

Europe is concerned that while officially neutral over the Ukraine conflict, China is essentially backing Russia, which is using Chinese machine tools in arms production.&nbsp;

After meeting with Vucic, Xi will go to Hungary, where China has invested heavily in vast battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plants.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold talks with his Serbian counterpart in Belgrade on Wednesday, as Beijing seeks to deepen its political and economic ties with friendlier countries in Europe.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold talks with his Serbian counterpart in Belgrade on Wednesday, as Beijing seeks to deepen its political and economic ties with friendlier countries in Europe. China has poured billions into Serbia and neighbouring Balkan countries, particularly into mining and manufacturing, and last year Beijing and Belgrade signed a free trade agreement. Xi arrived in the Serbian capital Tuesday night after a state visit to France that saw sometimes robust exchanges with President Emmanuel Macron on topics including trade and China's continued close ties to Russia despite the Ukraine war. But the other two countries chosen by Xi for his first trip to Europe since 2019 -- with Hungary as the final stop after Serbia -- are seen as among the most sympathetic to Moscow in Europe. In Belgrade, the Chinese leader will meet President Aleksandar Vucic for talks on Wednesday, before heading to Budapest. Serbian finance minister Sinisa Mali told state broadcaster RTS that discussions Wednesday would centre on "a great project". Also read | Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit "We are aiming to attract a major investment from China in a very promising area," he said Tuesday, adding "I won't reveal our cards at this moment." Streets in the Serbian capital were decked out with Chinese flags for the visit, along with posters and billboards that proclaimed a "warm welcome" to "Chinese friends". NATO bombing Xi's visit to Belgrade will also coincide with the 25th anniversary of the 1999 US bombing of the Chinese embassy there, which killed three people. The embassy was hit during a months-long, US-led NATO campaign targeting Serbian security forces who were waging a brutal war against ethnic-Albanian insurgents in Kosovo. The US later apologised, saying that outdated maps had led the pilot to strike the wrong target. On Tuesday, Xi wrote in Serbian daily Politika that NATO had "flagrantly bombed the Chinese embassy in Yugoslavia", warning that China would "never allow such tragic history to repeat itself". He also hailed the "ironclad friendship" between China and Serbia, which he said was "forged with the blood of our compatriots". Also watch | Xi Jinping's first trip to Europe in five years; after France, Xi to visit Serbia & Hungary × Stefan Vladisavljev, programme director at the Foundation BFPE for a Responsible Society, said that the date of the visit meant it will have "significant symbolic importance". "The focus is also expected to be on promoting existing cooperation between the two countries, and announcing projects that they can implement together in the future," he added. Ukraine fears Serbs questioned in central Belgrade said they welcomed Xi's visit. "I think it's an excellent thing, this visit from the president of one of the most powerful countries in the world," 67-year-old Stojan Vidovic, a retiree, told AFP. "It's fantastic for us," agreed 69-year-old Dijana Radic, a former translator. She said she hoped there would be "results from this visit, something good for both parties". The first leg of Xi's visit in France saw meetings with Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging Xi not to allow the export of any technology that could be used by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine and to do all it could to end the war. Xi for his part warned the West not to "smear" China over the conflict and also hit back at accusations that Chinese overcapacity was causing global trade imbalances. Europe is concerned that while officially neutral over the Ukraine conflict, China is essentially backing Russia, which is using Chinese machine tools in arms production. After meeting with Vucic, Xi will go to Hungary, where China has invested heavily in vast battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plants.

China's Xi in Serbia 25 years after Belgrade embassy attack

A barrage of severe storms battered the Midwest on Tuesday (May 7), unleashing heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, and tornadoes across the region, just a day after a deadly tornado ripped through Oklahoma town killing at least one person and injuring five.

According to local media outlets multiple tornadoes touched down in southern Michigan throughout the day, causing damage to several buildings. Thankfully, there were no casualties reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/dashcam-video-shows-powerful-tornado-flattens-building-in-nebraska-718588" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/dashcam-video-shows-powerful-tornado-flattens-building-in-nebraska-718588&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJs5iUuP2FAxXufGwGHXD-AnMQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2irUIArk6dMAOb92HJq4Tx&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dashcam-video-shows-powerful-tornado-flattens-building-in-nebraska-718588" target="_blank">Dashcam video shows moment when powerful&nbsp;tornado&nbsp;flattened&nbsp;</a>

This severe storm came right after a series of tornadoes hit Oklahoma the previous day. The reports from local media described extensive damage to homes and trees uprooted in the northeastern part of the state.

 
According to the National Weather Service, tornadoes were spotted in parts of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, while parts of Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri were also under a tornado watch.

In southwestern Michigan, two tornadoes struck the city of Portage near Kalamazoo. The sheriff’s office there said multiple trees and power lines were down in the area. A FedEx building was destroyed and delivery vehicles were also hit, but a company spokesperson said there were no serious injuries despite the damage.

<h2>Tornadoes cause destruction across US</h2>

The National Weather Service said more than a dozen tornadoes from Monday (May 6) evening through early Tuesday (May 7) in the central part of the United States were reported. Oklahoma alone witnessed eight&nbsp;tornadoes, while Kansas, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and Tennessee all saw at least one tornado.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-nocturnal-tornadoes-tear-into-central-us-creating-havoc-and-killing-5-people-including-an-infant-716051" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-nocturnal-tornadoes-tear-into-central-us-creating-havoc-and-killing-5-people-including-an-infant-716051&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJs5iUuP2FAxXufGwGHXD-AnMQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0OsiunMBEuI3ZdNoDyx1fj&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-nocturnal-tornadoes-tear-into-central-us-creating-havoc-and-killing-5-people-including-an-infant-716051" target="_blank">US:&nbsp;Tornados&nbsp;hit Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, killing 5 including infant</a>

The storms come amid a wild swing in severe weather across the globe that includes some of the worst-ever flooding in Brazil and a brutal Asian heat wave.

A deadly tornado tore through Barnsdall, Oklahoma, a small town of about 1,000 residents&nbsp;located north of Tulsa,&nbsp;on Monday evening. The National Weather Service in the area immediately issued a dire warning, alerting residents of Barnsdall and nearby Bartlesville of a large and potentially life-threatening tornado approaching.

(With inputs from agencies)

A barrage of severe storms battered the Midwest on Tuesday (May 7), unleashing heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, and tornadoes across the region, just a day after a deadly tornado ripped through Oklahoma town killing at least one person and injuring five.

A barrage of severe storms battered the Midwest on Tuesday (May 7), unleashing heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, and tornadoes across the region, just a day after a deadly tornado ripped through Oklahoma town killing at least one person and injuring five. According to local media outlets multiple tornadoes touched down in southern Michigan throughout the day, causing damage to several buildings. Thankfully, there were no casualties reported. Also read: Dashcam video shows moment when powerful tornado flattened This severe storm came right after a series of tornadoes hit Oklahoma the previous day. The reports from local media described extensive damage to homes and trees uprooted in the northeastern part of the state. According to the National Weather Service, tornadoes were spotted in parts of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, while parts of Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri were also under a tornado watch. In southwestern Michigan, two tornadoes struck the city of Portage near Kalamazoo. The sheriff’s office there said multiple trees and power lines were down in the area. A FedEx building was destroyed and delivery vehicles were also hit, but a company spokesperson said there were no serious injuries despite the damage. Tornadoes cause destruction across US The National Weather Service said more than a dozen tornadoes from Monday (May 6) evening through early Tuesday (May 7) in the central part of the United States were reported. Oklahoma alone witnessed eight tornadoes, while Kansas, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and Tennessee all saw at least one tornado. Also read: US: Tornados hit Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, killing 5 including infant The storms come amid a wild swing in severe weather across the globe that includes some of the worst-ever flooding in Brazil and a brutal Asian heat wave. A deadly tornado tore through Barnsdall, Oklahoma, a small town of about 1,000 residents located north of Tulsa, on Monday evening. The National Weather Service in the area immediately issued a dire warning, alerting residents of Barnsdall and nearby Bartlesville of a large and potentially life-threatening tornado approaching. (With inputs from agencies)

Deadly tornadoes and severe storms strike American Midwest

The United States has halted the delivery of bombs to Israel due to concerns that it was planning to launch a full-scale attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Israel-Hamas war: US halts bomb shipment to Israel, move comes amid Israeli strikes on Rafah

Stormy Daniels testified at Donald Trump’s criminal trial on Tuesday, setting up a long-awaited showdown between the former US president and the porn star. Watch in for more details!

Trump's Hush Money trial: Stormy Daniels testifies, Key witness in Trump's trial takes the stand

India on Tuesday (May 7) began voting in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. A total of 93 constituencies across 11 states and Union Territories (UT) are witnessing elections.

India on Tuesday (May 7) began voting in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. A total of 93 constituencies across 11 states and Union Territories (UT) are witnessing elections. The war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip rages on with the Israeli army carrying out "targeted strikes" against Hamas militants in eastern Rafah after appealing to civilians to evacuate. In other news from around the world, the US and most European Union nations are boycotting the Kremlin ceremony to swear in Vladimir Putin for a new six-year term as president. Click on the headlines to read Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 3: India in middle of its poll summer as voting begins across 93 seats India is almost exactly in the middle of its seven-phase general election. With the completion of phase-3 voting by the end of Tuesday (May 7) in which 93 constituencies across 11 states and Union Territories are going to polls, a total of 283 of 543 Lok Sabha seats would have completed polling. Israel conducts 'targeted strikes' in Gaza as ceasefire deal remains uncertain The Israeli army carried out "targeted strikes" against Hamas militants in eastern Rafah after appealing to civilians to evacuate. Thousands of people moved to what Israel termed as the "humanitarian area" to the north of Rafah. US and majority of EU nations to skip Putin's inauguration ceremony The US and most European Union nations are boycotting the Kremlin ceremony to swear in Vladimir Putin for a new six-year term as president on Tuesday (May 7). However, some other EU states and France were expected to send an envoy despite a plea by Kyiv. From countdown to letdown: Sunita Williams' third trip to space delayed as Starliner launch is scrubbed Just two hours before blast off, the long-awaited test flight of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft was called off over a technical glitch with the Atlas V rocket. The launch has been postponed for at least 24 hours because of an issue with the Atlas V rocket that was being readied to launch the new astronaut capsule into orbit on Monday (May 6) night. Watch | India, Ghana agree to operationalise UPI link within 6 months ×

Morning brief: India votes in phase 3 of Lok Sabha polls; Gaza war updates, and more

A 49-year-old woman in Australia, who allegedly killed three of her former family members with a poisonous mushroom lunch, pleaded not guilty, according to media reports on Tuesday (May 7).

A 49-year-old woman in Australia, who allegedly killed three of her former family members with a poisonous mushroom lunch, pleaded not guilty, according to media reports on Tuesday (May 7). Erin Patterson's trial would now be fast-tracked after she pleaded not guilty to eight charges. A report by 9News on Tuesday said that Patterson is accused of killing her former in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson. The Pattersons and Wilkinson died in a hospital days after they had lunch at Erin's residence in Leongatha last year. The report said that Erin faced the Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court via video link from prison, wearing a blue jumper and glasses. A poisonous mushroom lunch On July 29, 2023, Erin hosted a lunch at her home. The guests were Don and Gail Patterson (both aged 70), Heather (aged 66) and her husband Ian (aged 68), a report by BBC said. Police said that Erin's estranged husband Simon was also invited but he could not make it at the last minute. Hours after eating the mushroom which police believe was the death cap mushroom, all four guests fell ill with what they initially thought was food poisoning. Within days, Don, Gail, and Heather died. Ian survived after spending almost three months in the hospital, the BBC report said. Death cap mushrooms are extremely poisonous, and eating them may lead to liver and kidney damage as well as death. Erin was named as a suspect by police since she appeared unharmed after the lunch. Following months of investigation, detectives allegedly uncovered another three murder attempts the 49-year-old made against Simon between 2021 and 2022. She was arrested in November last year and charged with eight offences - three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder. 'Not guilty, Your Honour' On Tuesday, Erin told the court she was not guilty as the charges against her were read. The woman elected not to have a committal, fast-tracking her court process to face trial at the Supreme Court of Victoria. Erin was remanded in custody with her case listed for a directions hearing at the Supreme Court on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian woman who allegedly killed in-laws with mushroom lunch pleads not guilty

On his first visit to the EU in five years, Chinese President Xi Jinping met his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, and the European Commission President, Ursula Von Der Leyen. Xi Jinping lauded China's ties with France as a model for the international community at opening of Paris talks. Watch in for more details!

China's Xi Jinping in France: Macron, EU Chief urge China to press Russia over Ukraine

Russia is preparing to commemorate the 79th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II on May9. The final rehearsal for this year's Victory Day military parade was held on Sunday in Red Square of central Moscow, Russia. Watch in!

Russia holds final rehearsal of the upcoming May 9 Victory Day Parade

Rescue efforts were underway after 22 people were injured and dozens remained trapped after a multi-storey building under construction collapsed in the&nbsp;South&nbsp;African city of George, authorities said on Monday.

Those rescued from the site had been sent to hospitals across the Western Cape province, the municipality of George, a coastal city east of Cape Town, said in a statement. There were no immediate reports of fatalities.

"The collapse occurred just after 2 pm (1200 GMT) today, 6 May with a construction crew of approximately 70 on site," it said.

CCTV footage obtained by Reuters showed a cloud of dust as the building crumbled.

"I saw one guy was working and then 'boom' and I saw the whole building collapsed... I'm also traumatised. It is very sad," Theresa Jeyi, a local councillor, told reporters at the scene.

State-owned broadcaster SABC earlier reported that more than 40 people were trapped under the rubble.

The provincial government said it was monitoring the situation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjd6ayB1PmFAxXjxDgGHbmwDgcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/endangered-hippos-trapped-in-dried-ponds-amid-african-drought-715583" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/endangered-hippos-trapped-in-dried-ponds-amid-african-drought-715583&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd6ayB1PmFAxXjxDgGHbmwDgcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Endangered hippos trapped in dried ponds amid African drought</a>

"At the moment, officials are focused on saving lives. This is our top priority at this stage," said Alan Winde, Western Cape premier.

Rescue workers on site were trying to recover where they heard calls from people, George Mayor Leon van Wyk told SABC, while rescue equipment were on its way.

Watch:&nbsp;Extreme heatwave recorded across Africa's Sahel region

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"This is going to be a really lengthy exercise and probably going to go right through the night," he said.

Rescue efforts were underway after 22 people were injured and dozens remained trapped after a multi-storey building under construction collapsed in the South African city of George, authorities said on Monday.

Rescue efforts were underway after 22 people were injured and dozens remained trapped after a multi-storey building under construction collapsed in the South African city of George, authorities said on Monday. Those rescued from the site had been sent to hospitals across the Western Cape province, the municipality of George, a coastal city east of Cape Town, said in a statement. There were no immediate reports of fatalities. "The collapse occurred just after 2 pm (1200 GMT) today, 6 May with a construction crew of approximately 70 on site," it said. CCTV footage obtained by Reuters showed a cloud of dust as the building crumbled. "I saw one guy was working and then 'boom' and I saw the whole building collapsed... I'm also traumatised. It is very sad," Theresa Jeyi, a local councillor, told reporters at the scene. State-owned broadcaster SABC earlier reported that more than 40 people were trapped under the rubble. The provincial government said it was monitoring the situation. Also read: Endangered hippos trapped in dried ponds amid African drought "At the moment, officials are focused on saving lives. This is our top priority at this stage," said Alan Winde, Western Cape premier. Rescue workers on site were trying to recover where they heard calls from people, George Mayor Leon van Wyk told SABC, while rescue equipment were on its way. Watch: Extreme heatwave recorded across Africa's Sahel region × "This is going to be a really lengthy exercise and probably going to go right through the night," he said.

Building collapse injures 22 in South Africa, dozens still trapped

Vladimir Putin is set to be sworn in for his fifth term as Russia's president on Tuesday (May 7) during an inauguration ceremony in Moscow.

Putin, who won 87 per cent of the vote in the March presidential election, will officially begin another six-year term in office at the Kremlin ceremony. Following the inauguration, the current Russian government will resign, making way for a new government approved by the nation's parliament through a constitutional amendment passed in 2020.

According to the Anadolu news agency, Putin will present his choice for prime minister to the Russian State Duma, the country's lower house of parliament, for confirmation.

While the parliament has the authority to accept or decline the nominee, if lawmakers reject the candidate three times, Putin can appoint the prime minister directly without requiring parliamentary approval.

Subsequently, Putin can call for new parliamentary elections and dissolve the current legislature.

Reports from local media suggest that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, who has overseen economic growth amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and subsequent Western economic sanctions, is likely to be reappointed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-of-nuclear-drills-response-to-unprecedented-comments-from-west-718498">Also read |&nbsp;Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin</a>

<h2>Putin to nominate cabinet members&nbsp;</h2>

In collaboration with the Federation Council, the upper chamber of the Russian parliament, Putin will appoint ministers overseeing foreign policy, defence, justice, emergencies, and the interior.

Current defence and foreign ministers Sergey Shoygu and Sergey Lavrov are reportedly set to retain their roles, with no expected changes in the finance and economic ministries.

Nevertheless, adjustments to relevant ministries and the possibility of establishing a Youth Ministry are under consideration in response to public critique of policies regarding sports, education, and culture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-invites-putin-linked-party-netanyahus-party-to-witness-the-election-campaign-716976">Also read |&nbsp;BJP invites Putin-linked party, Netanyahu's party to witness the election campaign</a>

According to Russian legislation, the approval process for the new government may extend until May 20. However, it is anticipated that the parliament will receive the list of prime minister and council of ministers candidates immediately following the inauguration ceremony.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin is set to be sworn in for his fifth term as Russia's president on Tuesday (May 7) during an inauguration ceremony in Moscow. Putin, who won 87 per cent of the vote in the March presidential election, will officially begin another six-year term in office at the Kremlin ceremony.

Vladimir Putin is set to be sworn in for his fifth term as Russia's president on Tuesday (May 7) during an inauguration ceremony in Moscow. Putin, who won 87 per cent of the vote in the March presidential election, will officially begin another six-year term in office at the Kremlin ceremony. Following the inauguration, the current Russian government will resign, making way for a new government approved by the nation's parliament through a constitutional amendment passed in 2020. According to the Anadolu news agency, Putin will present his choice for prime minister to the Russian State Duma, the country's lower house of parliament, for confirmation. While the parliament has the authority to accept or decline the nominee, if lawmakers reject the candidate three times, Putin can appoint the prime minister directly without requiring parliamentary approval. Subsequently, Putin can call for new parliamentary elections and dissolve the current legislature. Reports from local media suggest that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, who has overseen economic growth amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and subsequent Western economic sanctions, is likely to be reappointed. Also read | Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Putin to nominate cabinet members In collaboration with the Federation Council, the upper chamber of the Russian parliament, Putin will appoint ministers overseeing foreign policy, defence, justice, emergencies, and the interior. Current defence and foreign ministers Sergey Shoygu and Sergey Lavrov are reportedly set to retain their roles, with no expected changes in the finance and economic ministries. Nevertheless, adjustments to relevant ministries and the possibility of establishing a Youth Ministry are under consideration in response to public critique of policies regarding sports, education, and culture. Also read | BJP invites Putin-linked party, Netanyahu's party to witness the election campaign According to Russian legislation, the approval process for the new government may extend until May 20. However, it is anticipated that the parliament will receive the list of prime minister and council of ministers candidates immediately following the inauguration ceremony. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin to take oath for 5th term as Russian president on Tuesday

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's hush money trial has fined him $1,000 for violating his gag order and sternly warned the former president that additional violation could result in jail time. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump Gag Order: Judge warns of possible jail time, fines $1k for gag order violation

Researchers in Israel are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to do what humans couldn't do, identify hundreds of thousands of Jewish people whose names remain missing from official&nbsp;memorials almost 80 years after they were killed in the holocaust.

Ahead of the Yom HaShoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day — commemorated on Monday (May 6) this year — the staff at the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Centre in Jerusalem told Reuters that they were stepping up the searches for details of known and unknown victims. To do this, they have developed an AI-powered software.

<h2>Missing from pages of history</h2>

During the Second World War (1 Sept 1939–2 Sept 1945), more than six million Jews were murdered by the Nazis. Over the years, volunteers by scouring through statements and documents, checking film footage, cemeteries, and other records have managed to track down information on 4.9 million individuals. However, many remain missing from the pages of history.

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Talking to Reuters, Esther Fuxbrumer, head of software development at the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Centre, said there were huge gaps in their existing nine&nbsp;million records.&nbsp;

The Nazis "just took people, shot them, and covered them in a pit. And there was no one left to tell about them," remarked Fuxbrumer.

"It's very hard for a human being to do it - just to go over everything and not miss any details," she said.&nbsp;

Moreover, the volunteers have had to face the mammoth task of linking individuals to dates, family members and other details, watching for duplicates and comparing accounts.&nbsp;

To ease this strain, researchers have developed the AI system. Developed over the last two years, the system can sift through records in English, Hebrew, German, Russian and other languages. It is currently undergoing tests.

<h2>How capable is the AI?</h2>

The software has already proven its capabilities.&nbsp;

"That technology works very fast. It takes a few hours to go over hundreds of testimonies and it's very exact, the results," said Fuxbrumer.

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"We saw that from each testimony we could get between six or seven names with full details that we could put automatically into our database, and around 10 per cent of the names that we found we had already in our database, but 90 per cent are new names that we didn't know about."

As part of the trials, the researchers are running tests on 400 of the 30,000 testimonies they have. Already, they have added 1,500 new names to their records, and as per Esther Fuxbrumer, many more were expected in the coming weeks&nbsp;when the system is used on all 30,000 testimonies. The next phase will cover diaries.

"We believe that way we'll be able to bring a lot of stories about a lot of victims that were killed, little kids that no one else knew, to tell us the story about what happened to them," stated the researcher.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers in Israel are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to do what humans couldn't do, identify hundreds of thousands of Jewish people whose names remain missing from official memorials almost 80 years after they were killed in the holocaust.

Researchers in Israel are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to do what humans couldn't do, identify hundreds of thousands of Jewish people whose names remain missing from official memorials almost 80 years after they were killed in the holocaust. Ahead of the Yom HaShoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day — commemorated on Monday (May 6) this year — the staff at the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Centre in Jerusalem told Reuters that they were stepping up the searches for details of known and unknown victims. To do this, they have developed an AI-powered software. Missing from pages of history During the Second World War (1 Sept 1939–2 Sept 1945), more than six million Jews were murdered by the Nazis. Over the years, volunteers by scouring through statements and documents, checking film footage, cemeteries, and other records have managed to track down information on 4.9 million individuals. However, many remain missing from the pages of history. Also read | From countdown to letdown: Boeing's Starliner launch postponed-What went wrong? Talking to Reuters, Esther Fuxbrumer, head of software development at the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Centre, said there were huge gaps in their existing nine million records. The Nazis "just took people, shot them, and covered them in a pit. And there was no one left to tell about them," remarked Fuxbrumer. "It's very hard for a human being to do it - just to go over everything and not miss any details," she said. Moreover, the volunteers have had to face the mammoth task of linking individuals to dates, family members and other details, watching for duplicates and comparing accounts. To ease this strain, researchers have developed the AI system. Developed over the last two years, the system can sift through records in English, Hebrew, German, Russian and other languages. It is currently undergoing tests. How capable is the AI? The software has already proven its capabilities. "That technology works very fast. It takes a few hours to go over hundreds of testimonies and it's very exact, the results," said Fuxbrumer. Also read | Chinese scientists find 'fountain of youth' in blood of young that can extend life up to 130 years "We saw that from each testimony we could get between six or seven names with full details that we could put automatically into our database, and around 10 per cent of the names that we found we had already in our database, but 90 per cent are new names that we didn't know about." As part of the trials, the researchers are running tests on 400 of the 30,000 testimonies they have. Already, they have added 1,500 new names to their records, and as per Esther Fuxbrumer, many more were expected in the coming weeks when the system is used on all 30,000 testimonies. The next phase will cover diaries. "We believe that way we'll be able to bring a lot of stories about a lot of victims that were killed, little kids that no one else knew, to tell us the story about what happened to them," stated the researcher. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers use AI to identify hundreds of thousands of 'missing' holocaust victims

Russia has intensified strikes on Ukraine's energy facilities in recent months, knocking out a significant chunk of production, and triggering blackouts and energy rationing across the country. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian strikes cut power for half a million homes in Ukraine

In Britain, embattled Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing more pressure on Friday (May 3) as his party lost another parliamentary seat to the main opposition Labour, which is making gains in the just-concluded elections that had several local body positions up for grabs.

Labour has seized the parliamentary constituency of Blackpool South from the Tories, in the latest by-election defeat for the British ruling party.&nbsp;

Labour candidate Chris Webb registered a massive victory and bagged the parliamentary seat with 10,825 votes. The Conservative candidate David Jones came in second place with less than 50 per cent of Webb's votes at 3,218.

As per AFP, the loss of the constituency in the northwest of England appears to be just one defeat for Tories, who appear to be on course to lose the upcoming general elections too. &nbsp;

In another major setback,&nbsp;Labour’s David Skaith emerged victorious in the York and North Yorkshire mayoral election, securing victory in the prime minister’s own backyard.&nbsp;Skaith gathered almost a third of total votes. This is seen as a major jolt to PM Sunak as the seat is considered a Conservative stronghold.

<h2>A scandal and a vote</h2>

As per the report, the vote in Blackpool South was triggered by a lobbying scandal that saw the 2019-elected Conservative MP Scott Benton resign.

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On Thursday, over 2,000 seats were up for grabs in local elections that also saw some high-profile mayoral contests&nbsp;including UK capital London, besides the parliamentary seat of Blackpool South.

According to Reuters, the "thumping victory" in Blackpool South "set the tone" for what it says are set to be a closely watched two days of results ahead of a full national election later this year.&nbsp;

<h2>'Seismic win'</h2>

Polls show that this year's elections could be the end of 14 years of Conservative government, as Labour Leader Keir Starmer appears to be the popular choice.

Applauding the victory, Starmer in a statement said, "This seismic win in Blackpool South is the most important result today."

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"This is the one contest where voters had the chance to send a message to Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives directly, and that message is an overwhelming vote for change," Starmer said.

Most opinion polls show Sunak's Tories&nbsp;lagging 20 points behind Labour.

Sunak is expected to call for a National Election in the second half of this year.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In Britain, embattled Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing more pressure on Friday (May 3) as his party lost another parliamentary seat to the main opposition Labour, which is making gains in the just-concluded elections that had several local body positions up for grabs.

In Britain, embattled Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing more pressure on Friday (May 3) as his party lost another parliamentary seat to the main opposition Labour, which is making gains in the just-concluded elections that had several local body positions up for grabs. Labour has seized the parliamentary constituency of Blackpool South from the Tories, in the latest by-election defeat for the British ruling party. Labour candidate Chris Webb registered a massive victory and bagged the parliamentary seat with 10,825 votes. The Conservative candidate David Jones came in second place with less than 50 per cent of Webb's votes at 3,218. As per AFP, the loss of the constituency in the northwest of England appears to be just one defeat for Tories, who appear to be on course to lose the upcoming general elections too. In another major setback, Labour’s David Skaith emerged victorious in the York and North Yorkshire mayoral election, securing victory in the prime minister’s own backyard. Skaith gathered almost a third of total votes. This is seen as a major jolt to PM Sunak as the seat is considered a Conservative stronghold. A scandal and a vote As per the report, the vote in Blackpool South was triggered by a lobbying scandal that saw the 2019-elected Conservative MP Scott Benton resign. Also read | Kim Jong-Un picks 25 virgins annually for his 'pleasure squad,' claims report On Thursday, over 2,000 seats were up for grabs in local elections that also saw some high-profile mayoral contests including UK capital London, besides the parliamentary seat of Blackpool South. According to Reuters, the "thumping victory" in Blackpool South "set the tone" for what it says are set to be a closely watched two days of results ahead of a full national election later this year. 'Seismic win' Polls show that this year's elections could be the end of 14 years of Conservative government, as Labour Leader Keir Starmer appears to be the popular choice. Applauding the victory, Starmer in a statement said, "This seismic win in Blackpool South is the most important result today." Also read | 'Extortion' allegations, and more, here's what happened on Day 10 of Trump hush money trial "This is the one contest where voters had the chance to send a message to Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives directly, and that message is an overwhelming vote for change," Starmer said. Most opinion polls show Sunak's Tories lagging 20 points behind Labour. Sunak is expected to call for a National Election in the second half of this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Labour records 'thumping victory,' snatches Blackpool South parliamentary seat from Sunak's Conservatives

Finally weighing in on the 2024 US Presidential elections, Allan Lichtman, who has earned the title of "Nostradamus of US presidential elections," says that incumbent President Joe Biden has an edge over former President Donald Trump.

Finally weighing in on the 2024 US Presidential elections, Allan Lichtman, who has earned the title of "Nostradamus of US presidential elections," says that incumbent President Joe Biden has an edge over former President Donald Trump. Lichtman has acquired the nickname of Nostradamus, a 16th-century French astrologer, whose forecasts are still well-recognised today. Lichtman had accurately predicted the outcome of nine of the previous 10 elections. With the use of a method he created, dubbed "13 Keys to the White House," Lichtman, a history professor at the American University in Washington, has predicted the outcome of almost every US presidential election since 1984. "The 13 keys are simple to use: if 8 or more of the 13 keys are true for the incumbent party, its candidate will win the election—but if fewer than 8 are true, the challenger will win," the American University website description of the method reads. Also read: Trump blasts Biden, says 'every single thing he touches turns to sh**,' pledges world peace Lichtman told NDTV that he has not made a final prediction yet, but according to the '13 keys to the White House' model which has been correct since 1984 - 10 elections in a row, a lot would have to go wrong for Joe Biden to lose this election as he is just down by just two keys. Current polls suggest that President Joe Biden is trailing behind former President Donald Trump. He stressed that it is too early to predict the likely conclusion of the 2024 campaign between Biden and Trump. What are the '13 Keys to the White House'? Here are the 13 keys to the White House as written on the American University website: Party mandate: After the midterm elections, the incumbent party holds more seats in the US House of Representatives than after the previous midterm elections. Contest: There is no serious contest for the incumbent party nomination. Incumbency: The incumbent party candidate is the sitting president. Third party: There is no significant third party or independent campaign. Short term economy: The economy is not in recession during the election campaign. Long term economy: Real per capita economic growth during the term equals or exceeds mean growth during the previous two terms. Policy change: The incumbent administration effects major changes in national policy. Social unrest: There is no sustained social unrest during the term. Scandal: The incumbent administration is untainted by major scandal. Foreign/military failure: The incumbent administration suffers no major failure in foreign or military affairs. Foreign/military success: The incumbent administration achieves a major success in foreign or military affairs. Incumbent charisma: The incumbent party candidate is charismatic or a national hero. Challenger charisma: The challenging party candidate is not charismatic or a national hero. (With inputs from agencies)

US Presidential elections 2024: 'Nostradamus' Lichtman drops his prediction; here's what he thinks

India has strongly rejected a report in the Washington Post that has named an former Indian Intelligence Officer for plotting to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.

'Plot' to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, no fixed time frame announced for verdict

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP).&nbsp;

Swinney, who joined the party as a teenager in 1979, has succeeded Humza Yousaf, who last week announced that he would step down. He formally resigned from the role earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The 60-year-old Swinney won the backing of 64 lawmakers in the vote. the result was a foregone conclusion, with nearest rival Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross picking up 31.&nbsp;

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"My decision to stand for the leadership is not born out of long-held ambition, but rather a profound sense of duty to my party and to my country," Swinney told a cheering audience in Glasgow on Monday.&nbsp;

"I know there's some controversy that I'm the only candidate to stand for the leadership....For me, the fact that I am the only candidate demonstrates that the Scottish National Party is coming back together again now," he added.&nbsp;

Swinney led the SNP from 2000 to 2004 when it was in opposition in the devolved Scottish parliament at Holyrood. He was picked to be finance minister when the SNP became the largest party in the parliament in 2007.&nbsp;

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<h2>Yousaf's resignation&nbsp;</h2>

On April 29, Yousaf resigned as Scotland's first minister - a decision he took instead of facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found.&nbsp;

Yousaf, the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party, previously held health and justice ministerial briefs in the Scottish Government. He succeeded former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon as first minister in March 2023.&nbsp;

His resignation came after the collapse of the Bute House Agreement, which was Yousaf's power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. His government had earlier abandoned ambitious targets for the transition to net-zero carbon emissions, which had angered the Greens. The Greens slammed Yousaf and accused him of "selling out future generations" over climate.&nbsp;

Soon after, the opposition Scottish Conservatives lodged a vote of no-confidence in Yousaf. Scottish Labour has lodged another no-confidence vote in his government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP).

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP). Swinney, who joined the party as a teenager in 1979, has succeeded Humza Yousaf, who last week announced that he would step down. He formally resigned from the role earlier in the day. The 60-year-old Swinney won the backing of 64 lawmakers in the vote. the result was a foregone conclusion, with nearest rival Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross picking up 31. Also read: Trump hush money trial Day 13 LIVE updates: Stormy Daniels takes the witness stand "My decision to stand for the leadership is not born out of long-held ambition, but rather a profound sense of duty to my party and to my country," Swinney told a cheering audience in Glasgow on Monday. "I know there's some controversy that I'm the only candidate to stand for the leadership....For me, the fact that I am the only candidate demonstrates that the Scottish National Party is coming back together again now," he added. Swinney led the SNP from 2000 to 2004 when it was in opposition in the devolved Scottish parliament at Holyrood. He was picked to be finance minister when the SNP became the largest party in the parliament in 2007. Also read: Ukraine says it foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky Yousaf's resignation On April 29, Yousaf resigned as Scotland's first minister - a decision he took instead of facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found. Yousaf, the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party, previously held health and justice ministerial briefs in the Scottish Government. He succeeded former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon as first minister in March 2023. His resignation came after the collapse of the Bute House Agreement, which was Yousaf's power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. His government had earlier abandoned ambitious targets for the transition to net-zero carbon emissions, which had angered the Greens. The Greens slammed Yousaf and accused him of "selling out future generations" over climate. Soon after, the opposition Scottish Conservatives lodged a vote of no-confidence in Yousaf. Scottish Labour has lodged another no-confidence vote in his government. (With inputs from agencies)

Scottish parliament approves John Swinney as country’s new first minister

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Asian Markets gain - Israel delegation to discuss Hamas proposal - India votes in Phase 3 today - Boeing Starliner launch postponed - Hamas accepts Gaza truce proposal

Asian Markets gain | Israel delegation to discuss Hamas proposal

Bugging devices were detected&nbsp;and removed in a room where top Polish ministers, including the prime minister, were due to&nbsp;hold a meeting&nbsp;on Tuesday (May 7).&nbsp;Normally, the weekly cabinet minister&nbsp;is held&nbsp;at the&nbsp;PM's&nbsp;office in Warsaw&nbsp;but&nbsp;Tuesday's&nbsp;meeting was relocated to the southern city of Katowice as key ministers were already present in the&nbsp;city&nbsp;for a major conference. Just&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;the meeting,&nbsp;Poland's&nbsp;State Protection Service spotted the bugging devices during a regular security check. The development comes amid Poland emerging as a hub of spying activity as it becomes a channel for Western military aid to Ukraine.

Polish authorities are now determining who planted the devices there and whether any foreign hand was involved.&nbsp;

“The State Protection Service, in co-operation with the Internal Security Agency, detected and dismantled devices that could be used for eavesdropping,"&nbsp;wrote security services spokesman Jacek Dobrzynski on X.&nbsp;"The services are carrying out further activities in this matter."

Following&nbsp;the removal of&nbsp;the bugging devices, the cabinet meeting went ahead as planned.

Warsaw is concerned about increased espionage activities in the country. On Monday (May 6),&nbsp;it was reported&nbsp;that a Polish judge was seeking refuge in Belarus, a key Russian ally.

Tomasz Szmydt, a judge at the Voivodship Administrative Court in Warsaw, said in a conference at Minsk that his decision to leave Poland was because of&nbsp;Poland’s&nbsp;“harmful”&nbsp; policy towards Belarus and Russia that could result in armed conflict between the countries.

Now,&nbsp;investigators are worried the judge could&nbsp;be carrying&nbsp;confidential documents with him.

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Commenting on the affair, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski wrote on X:&nbsp;“A traitor. The only question is since when.”

Prime Minister Donald Tusk will now hold a meeting on Wednesday (May 8) to discuss the potential Russian and Belarusian influence in Polish politics in recent years.

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“We must be aware that services, in this case Belarusian ones, worked with a person who had direct access to the minister of justice… who had access to various classified documents to which no intelligence service should have had access,”&nbsp;the prime minister told a news conference.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bugging devices were detected and removed in a room where top Polish ministers, including the prime minister, were due to hold a meeting on Tuesday (May 7). Normally, the weekly cabinet minister is held at the PM's office in Warsaw but Tuesday's meeting was relocated to the southern city of Katowice as key ministers were already present in the city for a major conference.

Bugging devices were detected and removed in a room where top Polish ministers, including the prime minister, were due to hold a meeting on Tuesday (May 7). Normally, the weekly cabinet minister is held at the PM's office in Warsaw but Tuesday's meeting was relocated to the southern city of Katowice as key ministers were already present in the city for a major conference. Just ahead of the meeting, Poland's State Protection Service spotted the bugging devices during a regular security check. The development comes amid Poland emerging as a hub of spying activity as it becomes a channel for Western military aid to Ukraine. Polish authorities are now determining who planted the devices there and whether any foreign hand was involved. “The State Protection Service, in co-operation with the Internal Security Agency, detected and dismantled devices that could be used for eavesdropping," wrote security services spokesman Jacek Dobrzynski on X. "The services are carrying out further activities in this matter." Following the removal of the bugging devices, the cabinet meeting went ahead as planned. Warsaw is concerned about increased espionage activities in the country. On Monday (May 6), it was reported that a Polish judge was seeking refuge in Belarus, a key Russian ally. Tomasz Szmydt, a judge at the Voivodship Administrative Court in Warsaw, said in a conference at Minsk that his decision to leave Poland was because of Poland’s “harmful” policy towards Belarus and Russia that could result in armed conflict between the countries. Now, investigators are worried the judge could be carrying confidential documents with him. Also read: Poland joins Germany, Czech Republic in accusing Russia of cyberattacks, says ‘was targeted too’ Commenting on the affair, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski wrote on X: “A traitor. The only question is since when.” Prime Minister Donald Tusk will now hold a meeting on Wednesday (May 8) to discuss the potential Russian and Belarusian influence in Polish politics in recent years. Also read: Poland `ready` to have nuclear weapons on its territory: President Andrzej Duda “We must be aware that services, in this case Belarusian ones, worked with a person who had direct access to the minister of justice… who had access to various classified documents to which no intelligence service should have had access,” the prime minister told a news conference. (With inputs from agencies)

Bugging devices found in room where top Polish ministers were about to hold meeting

Danny Carmon, former Israeli ambassador to India, shares insights with WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen during their conversation.

Former Israeli ambassador to India Danny Carmon speaks to WION

The Canadian Police on Friday (May 3) have arrested people involved in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, according to a media report. 
 
Nijjar was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023.

He was designated a terrorist by the National Investigation Agency in the year 2020

The police are probing links between the alleged assailants and three additional killings in Canada, including the murder of an 11-year-old boy in Edmonton, the reports said.

The Canadian police, as per CBC News, will share details about the ones arrested later in the day.

The report further said that the alleged assailants are likely the associates of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently behind bars in India over plotting the killing of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala.

As per another news outlet CTV news, court documents showed the three arrested are Karanpreet Singh, Kamalpreet Singh and Karan Brar.&nbsp;

They face one count of first-degree murder and a count of conspiracy to commit murder.

<h2>India-Canada diplomatic rift</h2>

The development comes against the backdrop of strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada after Ottawa accused New Delhi of having a role in the killing of Nijjar in June 2023.&nbsp;

However, India has strongly rejected the allegations, calling them "baseless" and "absurd".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-india-designated-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-in-canada-surfaces-698330">Also read:&nbsp;Video of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing in Canada surfaces</a>

Earlier, the alleged video of the the killing surfaced on the internet.

CBC News said exclusive security video was obtained by The Fifth Estate, an investigative documentary series that airs on the network.

The attack, which has been termed as 'highly coordinated', was carried out by six men and involved two vehicles.

<h2>India summons Canada envoy over Khalistan slogans at event attended by Trudeau</h2>

This also comes after India summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner over the raising of pro-Khalistan slogans at an event in Toronto, Canada, which was attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other political leaders.

"The Government of India's deep concern and strong protest was conveyed at such disturbing actions being allowed to continue unchecked at the event. This illustrates once again the political space that has been given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence," said the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement.

Trudeau as well as opposition leader Pierre Poilievre attended the Khalsa Day celebrations in Toronto on Sunday (Apr 28) where loud chants of pro-Khalistan slogans were raised.

As the Canadian prime minister was set to address the public to mark Khalsa Day, the "Khalistan Zindabad" chants got louder, as seen in the video released by Canada-based CPAC TV.

NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow were also present at the event.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Canadian Police on Friday (May 3) have arrested people involved in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, according to a media report. Nijjar was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023.

The Canadian Police on Friday (May 3) have arrested people involved in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, according to a media report. Nijjar was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023. He was designated a terrorist by the National Investigation Agency in the year 2020 The police are probing links between the alleged assailants and three additional killings in Canada, including the murder of an 11-year-old boy in Edmonton, the reports said. The Canadian police, as per CBC News, will share details about the ones arrested later in the day. The report further said that the alleged assailants are likely the associates of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently behind bars in India over plotting the killing of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. As per another news outlet CTV news, court documents showed the three arrested are Karanpreet Singh, Kamalpreet Singh and Karan Brar. They face one count of first-degree murder and a count of conspiracy to commit murder. India-Canada diplomatic rift The development comes against the backdrop of strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada after Ottawa accused New Delhi of having a role in the killing of Nijjar in June 2023. However, India has strongly rejected the allegations, calling them "baseless" and "absurd". Also read: Video of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing in Canada surfaces Earlier, the alleged video of the the killing surfaced on the internet. CBC News said exclusive security video was obtained by The Fifth Estate, an investigative documentary series that airs on the network. The attack, which has been termed as 'highly coordinated', was carried out by six men and involved two vehicles. India summons Canada envoy over Khalistan slogans at event attended by Trudeau This also comes after India summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner over the raising of pro-Khalistan slogans at an event in Toronto, Canada, which was attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other political leaders. "The Government of India's deep concern and strong protest was conveyed at such disturbing actions being allowed to continue unchecked at the event. This illustrates once again the political space that has been given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence," said the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement. Trudeau as well as opposition leader Pierre Poilievre attended the Khalsa Day celebrations in Toronto on Sunday (Apr 28) where loud chants of pro-Khalistan slogans were raised. As the Canadian prime minister was set to address the public to mark Khalsa Day, the "Khalistan Zindabad" chants got louder, as seen in the video released by Canada-based CPAC TV. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow were also present at the event. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian police arrest suspects in killing of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Nijjar: Reports

Belarusian state media said on Tuesday (May 7) that the nation has started checks on the readiness of its army to deploy tactical nuclear weapons. The orders were apparently given by President Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

As quoted by the state news agency Belta, Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin said that Lukashenko had ordered a surprise inspection of forces in charge of such weapons.&nbsp;

"In accordance with an order from the President of Belarus, a sudden inspection of non-strategic nuclear weapons carriers is being carried out," the Belarusian defence ministry said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-detains-us-soldier-on-theft-charges-he-is-in-custody-until-july-719056">Russia detains US soldier on theft charges. He is in custody until July</a>&nbsp;

Khrenin said that "the entire range of activities from planning, preparation and use of strikes with tactical nuclear weapons will be checked" during the inspection. He added that the checks involved an Iskander missile division and a squadron of Su-25 aircraft.&nbsp;

Non-strategic nuclear weapons, also known as tactical nuclear weapons, are designed for use on the battlefield and can be delivered via missiles.&nbsp;

In April, Lukashenko said that "several dozen" Russian tactical nuclear weapons had been deployed in Belarus under an agreement announced last year by himself and Putin as a measure to deter the West.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-foiled-a-russian-plot-to-assassinate-president-zelensky-719010">Ukraine says it foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's artillery pinned down by Russian drones&nbsp;

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The development comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.&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;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded to reporters what led to the drills. He 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;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Belarusian state media said on Tuesday (May 7) that the nation has started checks on the readiness of its army to deploy tactical nuclear weapons. The orders were apparently given by President Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarusian state media said on Tuesday (May 7) that the nation has started checks on the readiness of its army to deploy tactical nuclear weapons. The orders were apparently given by President Alexander Lukashenko. As quoted by the state news agency Belta, Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin said that Lukashenko had ordered a surprise inspection of forces in charge of such weapons. "In accordance with an order from the President of Belarus, a sudden inspection of non-strategic nuclear weapons carriers is being carried out," the Belarusian defence ministry said. Also read: Russia detains US soldier on theft charges. He is in custody until July Khrenin said that "the entire range of activities from planning, preparation and use of strikes with tactical nuclear weapons will be checked" during the inspection. He added that the checks involved an Iskander missile division and a squadron of Su-25 aircraft. Non-strategic nuclear weapons, also known as tactical nuclear weapons, are designed for use on the battlefield and can be delivered via missiles. In April, Lukashenko said that "several dozen" Russian tactical nuclear weapons had been deployed in Belarus under an agreement announced last year by himself and Putin as a measure to deter the West. Also read: Ukraine says it foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky Watch: Ukraine's artillery pinned down by Russian drones × The development comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. 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". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded to reporters what led to the drills. He 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." (With inputs from agencies)

Belarus conducts tactical nuclear inspection on Alexander Lukashenko orders

The war in Gaza featured prominently in Monday's Pulitzer Prizes, which included a special citation for journalists covering the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The New York Times won a Pulitzer in international reporting for its "wide-ranging and revelatory coverage of Hamas's lethal attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7," as well as reporting on "the Israeli military's sweeping, deadly response."

Reuters meanwhile won the award for breaking news photography for its "raw and urgent" coverage of the October 7 attack and Israeli response, while a special citation recognized "journalists and media workers covering the war in Gaza."

"This war has also claimed the lives of poets and writers," the committee said. "As the Pulitzer Prizes honor categories of journalism, arts and letters, we mark the loss of invaluable records of the human experience."

The awards, given out at Columbia University, come as the New York college has faced backlash after it called in police to clear out pro-Palestinian protesters. The police largely blocked media from the scene and threatened student journalists covering the events with arrest.

Two of Columbia's student newspaper editors outlined in an article over the weekend the university's "suppression" of its reporting, including arrest threats from police and demands from the university to hand over videos and photos.

Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuid882msVlm3nW7" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/netanyahus-cabinet-unanimously-votes-to-shut-down-al-jazeera-offices-in-israel-718195" target="_blank">Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts</a>

Other awards honored US journalists' reporting on migrant child labor, racial disparities in the legal system and gun violence.

Author Jayne Anne Phillips won the fiction prize for her novel "Night Watch," about a mother and daughter during and after the US Civil War, while the nonfiction prize went to Nathan Thrall's "A Day in the Life of Abed Salama: Anatomy of a Jerusalem Tragedy."

The committee praised the "finely reported and intimate account of life under Israeli occupation of the West bank, told through the portrait of a Palestinian father whose five-year-old son dies in a fiery school bus crash when Israeli and Palestinian rescue teams are delayed by security regulations."

The war in Gaza featured prominently in Monday's Pulitzer Prizes, which included a special citation for journalists covering the Israel-Hamas conflict. The New York Times won a Pulitzer in international reporting for its "wide-ranging and revelatory coverage of Hamas's lethal attack in southern Israel on Oct.

The war in Gaza featured prominently in Monday's Pulitzer Prizes, which included a special citation for journalists covering the Israel-Hamas conflict. The New York Times won a Pulitzer in international reporting for its "wide-ranging and revelatory coverage of Hamas's lethal attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7," as well as reporting on "the Israeli military's sweeping, deadly response." Reuters meanwhile won the award for breaking news photography for its "raw and urgent" coverage of the October 7 attack and Israeli response, while a special citation recognized "journalists and media workers covering the war in Gaza." "This war has also claimed the lives of poets and writers," the committee said. "As the Pulitzer Prizes honor categories of journalism, arts and letters, we mark the loss of invaluable records of the human experience." The awards, given out at Columbia University, come as the New York college has faced backlash after it called in police to clear out pro-Palestinian protesters. The police largely blocked media from the scene and threatened student journalists covering the events with arrest. Two of Columbia's student newspaper editors outlined in an article over the weekend the university's "suppression" of its reporting, including arrest threats from police and demands from the university to hand over videos and photos. Also read: Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts Other awards honored US journalists' reporting on migrant child labor, racial disparities in the legal system and gun violence. Author Jayne Anne Phillips won the fiction prize for her novel "Night Watch," about a mother and daughter during and after the US Civil War, while the nonfiction prize went to Nathan Thrall's "A Day in the Life of Abed Salama: Anatomy of a Jerusalem Tragedy." The committee praised the "finely reported and intimate account of life under Israeli occupation of the West bank, told through the portrait of a Palestinian father whose five-year-old son dies in a fiery school bus crash when Israeli and Palestinian rescue teams are delayed by security regulations."

New York Times, Reuters win Pulitzer Prizes for coverage of Hamas's Oct 7 attack and Israeli response

A ceasefire deal in the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip hangs on a loose thread, with a fresh round of negotiations taking place in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo on Tuesday (May 7) after ceasefire talks in Doha failed to produce an agreement.

A ceasefire deal in the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip hangs on a loose thread, with a fresh round of negotiations taking place in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo on Tuesday (May 7) after ceasefire talks in Doha failed to produce an agreement. Cairo is hosting delegates from Qatar, the United States, and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas to try and reach a comprehensive truce in Gaza, reported Egypt's state-affiliated Al-Qahera News TV, citing a high-ranking source. Qatar had previously said that it would send a delegation to Cairo to resume negotiations and hope that "talks will culminate in reaching an agreement for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The statement comes hours after Hamas said it informed mediators Egypt and Qatar of its "approval of their proposal regarding a ceasefire" in the war, which has been going on for seven months. Also Read | Humanitarian aid flow impacted as Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing A team of mid-ranking Israeli officials arrives in Cairo to see whether Hamas can be persuaded to shift on its latest ceasefire offer. This comes after the Israeli government said that the proposal was far from Israel's "essential demands", but the government would send negotiators for talks "to exhaust the potential for arriving at an agreement." Meanwhile, Israel has seemingly intensified operations after United Nations agencies, on Tuesday reported that the two main crossings into the southern Gaza Strip are closed, which has virtually cut off any outside aid from entering the enclave. "The two main arteries for getting aid into Gaza are currently choked off," said a UN official referring to the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings, which Israel has closed for aid and people. He added, that the enclave has just a one-day buffer of fuel stocks. "If no fuel comes in for a prolonged period of time it would be a very effective way of putting the humanitarian operation in its grave," said UN agency humanitarian office spokesperson Jens Laerke. Here's a look at the latest updates on the Gaza war, and the upcoming truce talks: 1) A senior Hamas official told AFP that a delegation from the Palestinian group was due to leave for truce talks in Cairo and warned: "This will be the last chance for (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu and the families of the Zionist prisoners to return their children". 2) Netanyahu, in his speech on Tuesday evening, said the Rafah operation is meant to bring back the hostages and to eliminate Hamas and the latest ceasefire deal was "meant to sabotage the entry of our forces into Rafah." 3) The Israeli PM also said that Hamas' latest offer is "very far from Israel’s vital demands" and "cannot accept a proposal that endangers the safety of our citizens and the future of our country." He has instructed the Israeli negotiating team currently in Cairo to "stand firmly". 4) On Tuesday, the Israeli military said that it had captured the Gazan side of the Rafah crossing. Addressing a press conference, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson said, "We have operational control of the area and the crossing." 5) Israeli government calls on international organisations to evacuate Rafah. UN humanitarian office spokesperson, Laerke said "panic and despair" were gripping the people in Rafah. 6) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Israel to "immediately" re-open the Rafah and Karem Shalom crossings and urged the Jewish state to "stop any escalation". He also said that a "full-scale assault" on Rafah would be a "human catastrophe." 7) Palestinian and Egyptian officials said that Israeli tanks had entered Rafah. Also Read | Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial 8) The US in its first response to Israel's Rafah operation told Reuters, "We continue to believe that a hostage deal is in the best interest of the Israeli and the Palestinian people; it would bring an immediate ceasefire and allow increased humanitarian assistance into Gaza." 9) Israeli operation in Gaza’s Rafah city marks another war crime by Israel, said Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, on Tuesday. 10) The Palestinian Authority called on the United States to "intervene immediately" to prevent Israel from invading Rafah, reported the Palestinian news agency WAFA. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Gaza War: Hamas truce offer is ‘very far’ from Israeli demands, says Netanyahu

A large crowd of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators&nbsp;in the United States&nbsp;stormed the streets near the annual Met Gala fashion fundraiser on Monday (May 6).&nbsp;Protesters vandalised a World War I memorial in Central Park and torched the American flag at the One Hundred Seventh Infantry Memorial&nbsp;after police barred a group of more than 1,000 demonstrators from entering the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, which was hosting the Met Gala.

Vogue has been the host of the fashion event every year since 1948. This year, when celebrities walked on the&nbsp;carpet, demonstrators gathered outside, calling for an end to the months-long Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Around 6 pm ET, the pro-Palestinian group marched towards the event as the red carpet arrivals began. Videos of the protesters are making the rounds on social media. The New York City Police Department confronted the protesters.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEW</a> MASS ARRESTS outside <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MetGala2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MetGala2024</a> during Pro-palestine protest 'DAY OF RAGE' 
 
Video by Ed Quinn Desk@freedomnews.tv to license <a href="https://t.co/bKNQhE4BVQ">pic.twitter.com/bKNQhE4BVQ</a>
— Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScooterCasterNY/status/1787624981406294362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A video posted on X, previously Twitter, shows the protesters about a block from the event.

"Hamas sympathizers carrying banners which read "By any means necessary" are marching towards the Met in NYC which is hosting the Met Gala. This is after they broke through police barricades," a user wrote.

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Hamas sympathizers carrying banners which read "By any means necessary" are marching towards the Met in NYC which is hosting the Met Gala. This is after they broke through police barricades. <a href="https://t.co/E5mhs75TDk">pic.twitter.com/E5mhs75TDk</a>
— SirWinston (@SirWinston85) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirWinston85/status/1787619257691279600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/columbia-university-cancels-main-graduation-ceremony-due-to-gaza-protests-718566" hreflang="en">Columbia University’s main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests</a>

Wrote another, "While you’re enjoying the met gala looks, please remember that Rafah is under attack, please remember that Hamas accepted the ceasefire deal, please remember that Israel rejected it. &nbsp;THIS IS NOT A WAR, IT IS A GENOCIDE AND ISRAEL NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE."

The New York Post claimed that more than 1,000 demonstrators marched across Manhattan on Monday evening.

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While you’re enjoying the met gala looks, please remember that Rafah is under attack, please remember that Hamas accepted the ceasefire deal, please remember that Israel rejected it. 
 
THIS IS NOT A WAR, IT IS A GENOCIDE AND ISRAEL NEED TO BE HELD ACCOUMTABLE. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllEyesOnRafah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllEyesOnRafah</a>
— Han ✌︎︎ (@hanreads_) <a href="https://twitter.com/hanreads_/status/1787680484224286756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The activists marched from Hunter College, where the pro-Palestinian activist organisation Within Our Lifetime conducted a "Day of Rage" event beginning at 5 pm before marching to the Metropolitan Gala. Protesters were confronted with a large police presence, and many individuals were arrested by New York Police Department officers.

Within Our Lifetime wrote on X, "DISCLOSE! DIVEST! WE WILL NOT STOP WE WILL NOT REST! From the encampments to the streets NYC stands with Rafah!"

A large crowd of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators in the United States stormed the streets near the annual Met Gala fashion fundraiser on Monday (May 6). Protesters vandalised a World War I memorial in Central Park and torched the American flag at the One Hundred Seventh Infantry Memorial after police barred a group of more than 1,000 demonstrators from entering the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, which was hosting the Met Gala.

A large crowd of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators in the United States stormed the streets near the annual Met Gala fashion fundraiser on Monday (May 6). Protesters vandalised a World War I memorial in Central Park and torched the American flag at the One Hundred Seventh Infantry Memorial after police barred a group of more than 1,000 demonstrators from entering the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, which was hosting the Met Gala. Vogue has been the host of the fashion event every year since 1948. This year, when celebrities walked on the carpet, demonstrators gathered outside, calling for an end to the months-long Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Around 6 pm ET, the pro-Palestinian group marched towards the event as the red carpet arrivals began. Videos of the protesters are making the rounds on social media. The New York City Police Department confronted the protesters. #NEW MASS ARRESTS outside #MetGala2024 during Pro-palestine protest 'DAY OF RAGE' Video by Ed Quinn Desk@freedomnews.tv to license pic.twitter.com/bKNQhE4BVQ — Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) May 6, 2024 × A video posted on X, previously Twitter, shows the protesters about a block from the event. "Hamas sympathizers carrying banners which read "By any means necessary" are marching towards the Met in NYC which is hosting the Met Gala. This is after they broke through police barricades," a user wrote. Hamas sympathizers carrying banners which read "By any means necessary" are marching towards the Met in NYC which is hosting the Met Gala. This is after they broke through police barricades. pic.twitter.com/E5mhs75TDk — SirWinston (@SirWinston85) May 6, 2024 × Also read: Columbia University’s main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests Wrote another, "While you’re enjoying the met gala looks, please remember that Rafah is under attack, please remember that Hamas accepted the ceasefire deal, please remember that Israel rejected it. THIS IS NOT A WAR, IT IS A GENOCIDE AND ISRAEL NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE." The New York Post claimed that more than 1,000 demonstrators marched across Manhattan on Monday evening. While you’re enjoying the met gala looks, please remember that Rafah is under attack, please remember that Hamas accepted the ceasefire deal, please remember that Israel rejected it. THIS IS NOT A WAR, IT IS A GENOCIDE AND ISRAEL NEED TO BE HELD ACCOUMTABLE. #AllEyesOnRafah — Han ✌︎︎ (@hanreads_) May 7, 2024 × The activists marched from Hunter College, where the pro-Palestinian activist organisation Within Our Lifetime conducted a "Day of Rage" event beginning at 5 pm before marching to the Metropolitan Gala. Protesters were confronted with a large police presence, and many individuals were arrested by New York Police Department officers. Within Our Lifetime wrote on X, "DISCLOSE! DIVEST! WE WILL NOT STOP WE WILL NOT REST! From the encampments to the streets NYC stands with Rafah!"

Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial

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