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<p>A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-rocked-by-another-stabbing-incident-as-man-assaults-priest-worshippers-on-camera-711496">earlier this week</a>. The police said that the bishop who was stabbed at least six times is in stable condition in the hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the hearing</strong></h2>

<p>The teenager was charged in the Parramatta children’s court on Friday (Apr 19) morning after he attended a hospital bedside hearing while recovering from the surgery. The alleged perpetrator’s finger was severed during the attack on Monday (Apr 15) night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police on Thursday (Apr 18) night announced that the teenager had been charged and he had been refused bail. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Stabbed Sydney bishop forgives attacker, says 'recovering quickly'</strong></p>

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<p>After the attack, a mob of thousands descended on the church and clashed with police demanding that the boy face justice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack, which left several people injured, took place in Sydney’s south-west during a live-streamed service at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bishop is said to have sustained lacerations to his head while 39-year-old Father Isaac Royel received cuts and a shoulder injury after he attempted to intervene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police had searched the teenager’s electronic devices at his home and interviewed him at the hospital before charging him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-mall-stabbing-man-wrongly-identified-as-attacker-sues-australian-channel-712370">Sydney mall stabbing: Man wrongly identified as attacker sues Australian channel</a></strong></p>

<p>Defence lawyer Greg Scragg told the court that they are engaging a forensic psychologist to visit the alleged attacker in hospital and “assess him for treatment and in relation to his fitness,” adding that the teenager has a “long history of behaviour consistent with suffering from a mental illness and or mental condition and or mental disorder,” reported state broadcaster ABC News.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>One arrested for&nbsp;'rioting'</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, thousands of Muslims across Sydney went for regular prayers amid fears of retaliatory attacks. The footage of the incident shows the boy being restrained by the congregation and shouting at Emmanuel for insulting Islam.</p>

<p>The attack on Monday night sparked protests and hours later, one of the largest mosques in Australia, Lakemba mosque, also received fire bomb threats.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the police said that Dani Mansour, 19, was charged with rioting, affray and destroying or damaging property. He was the first person to be charged after the unrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-police-say-investigating-church-stabbing-incident-as-a-terrorist-act-711683">Australian police treating church stabbing incident as a 'terrorist attack'</a></strong></p>

<p>Emmanuel, on Thursday, pleaded for peace and said that he had forgiven his attacker in an almost four-minute audio message recorded in the hospital. He also reassured his followers that his condition was improving.</p>

<p>The teenager was arrested at the scene after the attack but had to be kept in the church for his own safety after a large and angry crowd of the bishop’s followers demanded that the boy be handed over to them.</p>

<p>The police and the crowd reportedly clashed for more than three hours. The riots left over 50 police officers injured and around 20 police cars were damaged.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church earlier this week.

A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church earlier this week. The police said that the bishop who was stabbed at least six times is in stable condition in the hospital. About the hearing The teenager was charged in the Parramatta children’s court on Friday (Apr 19) morning after he attended a hospital bedside hearing while recovering from the surgery. The alleged perpetrator’s finger was severed during the attack on Monday (Apr 15) night. The police on Thursday (Apr 18) night announced that the teenager had been charged and he had been refused bail. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. WATCH | Stabbed Sydney bishop forgives attacker, says 'recovering quickly' After the attack, a mob of thousands descended on the church and clashed with police demanding that the boy face justice. The attack, which left several people injured, took place in Sydney’s south-west during a live-streamed service at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley. The bishop is said to have sustained lacerations to his head while 39-year-old Father Isaac Royel received cuts and a shoulder injury after he attempted to intervene. The police had searched the teenager’s electronic devices at his home and interviewed him at the hospital before charging him. Also Read | Sydney mall stabbing: Man wrongly identified as attacker sues Australian channel Defence lawyer Greg Scragg told the court that they are engaging a forensic psychologist to visit the alleged attacker in hospital and “assess him for treatment and in relation to his fitness,” adding that the teenager has a “long history of behaviour consistent with suffering from a mental illness and or mental condition and or mental disorder,” reported state broadcaster ABC News. One arrested for 'rioting' On Friday, thousands of Muslims across Sydney went for regular prayers amid fears of retaliatory attacks. The footage of the incident shows the boy being restrained by the congregation and shouting at Emmanuel for insulting Islam. The attack on Monday night sparked protests and hours later, one of the largest mosques in Australia, Lakemba mosque, also received fire bomb threats. On Thursday, the police said that Dani Mansour, 19, was charged with rioting, affray and destroying or damaging property. He was the first person to be charged after the unrest. Also Read | Australian police treating church stabbing incident as a 'terrorist attack' Emmanuel, on Thursday, pleaded for peace and said that he had forgiven his attacker in an almost four-minute audio message recorded in the hospital. He also reassured his followers that his condition was improving. The teenager was arrested at the scene after the attack but had to be kept in the church for his own safety after a large and angry crowd of the bishop’s followers demanded that the boy be handed over to them. The police and the crowd reportedly clashed for more than three hours. The riots left over 50 police officers injured and around 20 police cars were damaged. (With inputs from agencies)

Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’

<p>An Indian woman in the US shared on LinkedIn how she was suddenly laid off by Tesla, where she worked as a Business Process Analyst. She mentioned being one of the 10 per cent&nbsp;of employees let go this week and described the experience as "disheartening and distressing." She asked for help finding her next job.</p>

<p>"I could never have imagined that I would be typing this message. It's truly unfortunate that I am among the 10% of Tesla employees who were laid off today. The sudden logging out from all business platforms yesterday heightened my unease, and this was confirmed this morning," Karnik wrote in her LinkedIn post.</p>

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<p>Karnik disclosed that she began her tenure at Tesla as an intern and steadily advanced to become a Business Process Analyst.</p>

<p>"It's disheartening and distressing to find myself in this situation," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Adding to the challenge is my status on an F1-OPT visa, which gives me just a 60-day window to secure new employment," Karnik continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She asked her LinkedIn connections for help and urged them to assist in finding job leads.</p>

<p>"I'm reaching out to my network for support as I explore opportunities in Process, Operations, and Business Analytics roles. Any leads or job openings you can share would be greatly appreciated," she concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karnik posted the update just two days ago. Since then, it has received nearly 3,000 reactions and numerous comments.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tesla-can-make-36-billion-in-revenue-from-ev-sales-in-india-by-2030-heres-how-710153">Also read |&nbsp;Tesla can make $3.6 billion in revenue from EV sales in India by 2030. Here's how</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tesla downsizes</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, reports indicate that Elon Musk's electric vehicle company announced on Monday its intention to reduce its global workforce by more than 10 per cent. In an internal email obtained by electrick.com,&nbsp;Musk cited rapid expansion resulting in role duplication and emphasised the need for cost reduction to facilitate the company's "next phase of growth".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Tesla stock hits 15-month low as Deutsche Bank cites risk</strong></p>

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<p>"As we prepare the company for our next phase of growth, it is extremely important to look at every aspect of the company for cost reductions and increasing productivity. As part of this effort, we've done a thorough review of the organisation and made the difficult decision to reduce our headcount by more than 10% globally. There is nothing I hate more, but it must be done," he wrote.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


An Indian woman in the US shared on LinkedIn how she was suddenly laid off by Tesla, where she worked as a Business Process Analyst. She mentioned being one of the 10 per cent of employees let go this week and described the experience as "disheartening and distressing.

An Indian woman in the US shared on LinkedIn how she was suddenly laid off by Tesla, where she worked as a Business Process Analyst. She mentioned being one of the 10 per cent of employees let go this week and described the experience as "disheartening and distressing." She asked for help finding her next job. "I could never have imagined that I would be typing this message. It's truly unfortunate that I am among the 10% of Tesla employees who were laid off today. The sudden logging out from all business platforms yesterday heightened my unease, and this was confirmed this morning," Karnik wrote in her LinkedIn post. × Karnik disclosed that she began her tenure at Tesla as an intern and steadily advanced to become a Business Process Analyst. "It's disheartening and distressing to find myself in this situation," she said. "Adding to the challenge is my status on an F1-OPT visa, which gives me just a 60-day window to secure new employment," Karnik continued. She asked her LinkedIn connections for help and urged them to assist in finding job leads. "I'm reaching out to my network for support as I explore opportunities in Process, Operations, and Business Analytics roles. Any leads or job openings you can share would be greatly appreciated," she concluded. Karnik posted the update just two days ago. Since then, it has received nearly 3,000 reactions and numerous comments. Also read | Tesla can make $3.6 billion in revenue from EV sales in India by 2030. Here's how Tesla downsizes Meanwhile, reports indicate that Elon Musk's electric vehicle company announced on Monday its intention to reduce its global workforce by more than 10 per cent. In an internal email obtained by electrick.com, Musk cited rapid expansion resulting in role duplication and emphasised the need for cost reduction to facilitate the company's "next phase of growth". Also watch | Tesla stock hits 15-month low as Deutsche Bank cites risk "As we prepare the company for our next phase of growth, it is extremely important to look at every aspect of the company for cost reductions and increasing productivity. As part of this effort, we've done a thorough review of the organisation and made the difficult decision to reduce our headcount by more than 10% globally. There is nothing I hate more, but it must be done," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Tesla layoffs: Indian woman in US among 10% affected, calls the process 'distressing'

CIA director William Burns acknowledges that without military assistance from the United States Ukraine could experience significant setbacks in its war with Russia while speaking in Dallas at the George W Bush Presidential Center.

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a session during the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting on Capri Island, Italy. During the summit he said that Washington is committed to Israel’s security. Watch in to know more!

US State Secretary Antony Blinken speaks at G7 foreign ministers summit in Capri

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Pakistan: Suicide attack in Karachi | WION Headlines

<p>A Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed in Russia's southern Stavropol region on Friday morning, the Interfax news agency cited Russia's defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian authorities later confirmed that a crew member was killed in the crash and added that it was searching for a fourth pilot. "To my deep regret, the third crew member has been killed. The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," Stavropol region governor Vladimir Vladimirov said.</p>

<p>Two other crew members have been hospitalised.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia plane crash | Moscow: Ukraine shot down Russian plane</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry said that the bomber's four pilots had ejected, and two of them have been rescued alive while the search for the fourth one continued.</p>

<p>It said the crash appeared to have been caused by a technical malfunction.</p>

<p>Between 2020 and 2024 so far, a total of 17 military or civilian airplanes have crashed in Russia. While most of them were attributed to the bad weather, authorities have struggled to come up with reliable explanations for a few.</p>

<h2><strong>Which all aircraft have crashed in Russia in recent years?</strong></h2>

<p>Following aircraft have crashed in Russia between 2020 and 2024. They are:&nbsp;</p>

<p>Volga-Dnepr Airlines Flight 4066 (2020), Kemerovo parachute Let L-410UVP-E crash (2021), Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Air Flight 251 (2021), Siberian Light Aviation Flight 42 (2021), Siberian Light Aviation Flight 51 (2021), Menzelinsk parachute Let L-410UVP-E crash (2021), Grodno Aviakompania Flight 1252 (2021), Russian Aerospace Forces Antonov An-26 crash (2022), Russian Air Force Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2022), Yeysk military aircraft crash (2022), Irkutsk military aircraft crash (2022), Belgorod accidental bombing (2023), Bryansk Oblast military aircraft crashes (2023), Wagner Group plane crash (2023), Ural Airlines Flight 1383 (2023), Korochansky Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2024), Ivanovo Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2024).<br />
<br />
<em><strong>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</strong><br />
<br />
(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed in Russia's southern Stavropol region on Friday morning, the Interfax news agency cited Russia's defence ministry as saying. Russian authorities later confirmed that a crew member was killed in the crash and added that it was searching for a fourth pilot.

A Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed in Russia's southern Stavropol region on Friday morning, the Interfax news agency cited Russia's defence ministry as saying. Russian authorities later confirmed that a crew member was killed in the crash and added that it was searching for a fourth pilot. "To my deep regret, the third crew member has been killed. The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," Stavropol region governor Vladimir Vladimirov said. Two other crew members have been hospitalised. Also watch | Russia plane crash | Moscow: Ukraine shot down Russian plane × The ministry said that the bomber's four pilots had ejected, and two of them have been rescued alive while the search for the fourth one continued. It said the crash appeared to have been caused by a technical malfunction. Between 2020 and 2024 so far, a total of 17 military or civilian airplanes have crashed in Russia. While most of them were attributed to the bad weather, authorities have struggled to come up with reliable explanations for a few. Which all aircraft have crashed in Russia in recent years? Following aircraft have crashed in Russia between 2020 and 2024. They are: Volga-Dnepr Airlines Flight 4066 (2020), Kemerovo parachute Let L-410UVP-E crash (2021), Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Air Flight 251 (2021), Siberian Light Aviation Flight 42 (2021), Siberian Light Aviation Flight 51 (2021), Menzelinsk parachute Let L-410UVP-E crash (2021), Grodno Aviakompania Flight 1252 (2021), Russian Aerospace Forces Antonov An-26 crash (2022), Russian Air Force Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2022), Yeysk military aircraft crash (2022), Irkutsk military aircraft crash (2022), Belgorod accidental bombing (2023), Bryansk Oblast military aircraft crashes (2023), Wagner Group plane crash (2023), Ural Airlines Flight 1383 (2023), Korochansky Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2024), Ivanovo Ilyushin Il-76 crash (2024). 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)

One killed after strategic bomber crashes in Russia’s Stavropol region

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<p>Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying.</p>

<p>“The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said.</p>

<p>Earlier, Jerusalem Post reported its sources have confirmed that Israeli strikes hit military assets “almost right next door to the Islamic Republic’s nuclear site in Isfahan”.</p>

<p>“The message was unmistakable, ‘we chose not to hit your nuclear sites this time, but we could have done worse right here’,” the source reportedly told the Post.</p>

<h2><strong>No damage caused to Iranian nuclear sites</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, UN nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Iranian nuclear sites are safe and were not damaged in the attacks.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US, UK impose sanctions on Iran in response to its strike on Israel</strong></p>

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<p>“IAEA can confirm that there is no damage to #Iran’s nuclear sites,” the international body wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran playing down the attack</strong></h2>

<p>However, Iran has tried to play down the scale of attacks, saying there was no missile attack. Iranian media reported that the explosion heard near Isfahan was the activation of an air defence system.</p>

<p>Iranian media IRNA later reported that the defences fired across several provinces. It also said that several drones had been shot down on Iranian territory.</p>

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<p>However, it didn’t elaborate on what triggered the batteries to fire.</p>

<p>This is in contrast to what the US has confirmed: There has been an Israeli strike perhaps involving drones.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel’s national security minister under fire</strong></h2>

<p>Israel’s far-right national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir came under fire Friday as he was accused of harming Israel’s strategy against Iran by suggesting his nation was behind Friday’s attack on Iran.</p>

<p>He had written one-word post on X that reportedly means “feeble” in Hebrew slang.</p>

<p>Officially, both the Israeli military and the government have maintained silence on the attack.</p>

<p>“Never before a minister has done such a heavy damage to the country’s security, its image, and its international status,” opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X. “In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying. “The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed.

Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying. “The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said. Earlier, Jerusalem Post reported its sources have confirmed that Israeli strikes hit military assets “almost right next door to the Islamic Republic’s nuclear site in Isfahan”. “The message was unmistakable, ‘we chose not to hit your nuclear sites this time, but we could have done worse right here’,” the source reportedly told the Post. No damage caused to Iranian nuclear sites Meanwhile, UN nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Iranian nuclear sites are safe and were not damaged in the attacks. Watch: US, UK impose sanctions on Iran in response to its strike on Israel × “IAEA can confirm that there is no damage to #Iran’s nuclear sites,” the international body wrote on X. Iran playing down the attack However, Iran has tried to play down the scale of attacks, saying there was no missile attack. Iranian media reported that the explosion heard near Isfahan was the activation of an air defence system. Iranian media IRNA later reported that the defences fired across several provinces. It also said that several drones had been shot down on Iranian territory. Also read: Indians onboard MSC Aries free to go, Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi speaks to WION However, it didn’t elaborate on what triggered the batteries to fire. This is in contrast to what the US has confirmed: There has been an Israeli strike perhaps involving drones. Israel’s national security minister under fire Israel’s far-right national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir came under fire Friday as he was accused of harming Israel’s strategy against Iran by suggesting his nation was behind Friday’s attack on Iran. He had written one-word post on X that reportedly means “feeble” in Hebrew slang. Officially, both the Israeli military and the government have maintained silence on the attack. “Never before a minister has done such a heavy damage to the country’s security, its image, and its international status,” opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X. “In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington.” (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidc0SV02dGydFt" />Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a candidate for the presidential elections in the United States (US),&nbsp;has suffered a major&nbsp;jolt. Fifteen members of the Kennedy family endorsed&nbsp;Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee and current President Joe Biden&nbsp;at a Philadelphia campaign event.&nbsp;Kennedy, 70, son of the slain US senator and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, made his name as an environmental&nbsp;lawyer,&nbsp;before becoming known as an anti-vaccine advocate with an eclectic mix of political views.</p>

<p>Many in Kennedy&nbsp;Jr's&nbsp;family&nbsp;have broken with him over his views. A recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos showed that the 70-year-old, running as an independent candidate in the elections, was backed by 15 per cent of the registered&nbsp;voters, versus 39 per cent&nbsp;for Biden and 38 per cent&nbsp;for presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.</p>

<h2><strong>'A&nbsp;vote for Biden is a vote for democracy'</strong></h2>

<p>Kennedy&nbsp;Jr's&nbsp;sister Kerry was part of&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;Philadelphia campaign event on Thursday. Addressing the event, Kerry said,&nbsp;"A vote for Joe Biden is a vote for our democracy and&nbsp;our&nbsp;decency."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-under-fire-for-posting-video-showing-image-of-joe-biden-tied-up-in-the-back-of-truck-706191">Donald Trump under fire for posting video showing image of Joe Biden tied up in the back of truck</a></strong></p>

<p>Kerry said&nbsp;that Biden&nbsp;was the first sitting president in American history who travelled to an active war zone,&nbsp;"not under US&nbsp;control, not once, but twice, to show support for our allies. He&nbsp;was always running&nbsp;into the flames, so we&nbsp;don't&nbsp;have to."</p>

<p>"That is why we are so happy today to pledge our unwavering support to President Joe Biden and President Kamala Harris. God bless all of you. God bless America&nbsp;and&nbsp;please welcome President Joe Biden,"&nbsp;she added and called Trump the most anti-democratic president ever.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the news agency Reuters,&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;campaign aides said that Kennedy family members&nbsp;were expected&nbsp;to&nbsp;join local volunteers in door-knocking and phone-banking on&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;behalf.</p>

<h2><strong>'Pleased my family is politically active'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, in a post on X, Kennedy Jr said&nbsp;that&nbsp;he heard some of his family members&nbsp;were endorsing&nbsp;Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Residents of Joe Biden's hometown are unhappy</strong></p>

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<p>"I&nbsp;hear some of my family will be endorsing President Biden today. I am pleased they are politically active —&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;a family tradition. We are divided in our opinions but united in our love for each other. I hold this as a possibility for America&nbsp;too," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I hear some of my family will be endorsing President Biden today. I am pleased they are politically active — it’s a family tradition. We are divided in our opinions but united in our love for each other.<br />
<br />
I hold this as a possibility for America too. Can we disagree without…</p>
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobertKennedyJr/status/1780977861064794359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Can we disagree without hating our opponents? Can we restore civility and respect to public discourse? I think we can,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a candidate for the presidential elections in the United States (US), has suffered a major jolt. Fifteen members of the Kennedy family endorsed Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee and current President Joe Biden at a Philadelphia campaign event.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a candidate for the presidential elections in the United States (US), has suffered a major jolt. Fifteen members of the Kennedy family endorsed Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee and current President Joe Biden at a Philadelphia campaign event. Kennedy, 70, son of the slain US senator and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, made his name as an environmental lawyer, before becoming known as an anti-vaccine advocate with an eclectic mix of political views. Many in Kennedy Jr's family have broken with him over his views. A recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos showed that the 70-year-old, running as an independent candidate in the elections, was backed by 15 per cent of the registered voters, versus 39 per cent for Biden and 38 per cent for presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. 'A vote for Biden is a vote for democracy' Kennedy Jr's sister Kerry was part of Biden's Philadelphia campaign event on Thursday. Addressing the event, Kerry said, "A vote for Joe Biden is a vote for our democracy and our decency." Also read | Donald Trump under fire for posting video showing image of Joe Biden tied up in the back of truck Kerry said that Biden was the first sitting president in American history who travelled to an active war zone, "not under US control, not once, but twice, to show support for our allies. He was always running into the flames, so we don't have to." "That is why we are so happy today to pledge our unwavering support to President Joe Biden and President Kamala Harris. God bless all of you. God bless America and please welcome President Joe Biden," she added and called Trump the most anti-democratic president ever. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, Biden's campaign aides said that Kennedy family members were expected to join local volunteers in door-knocking and phone-banking on Biden's behalf. 'Pleased my family is politically active' Meanwhile, in a post on X, Kennedy Jr said that he heard some of his family members were endorsing Biden. Also watch | Residents of Joe Biden's hometown are unhappy × "I hear some of my family will be endorsing President Biden today. I am pleased they are politically active — it’s a family tradition. We are divided in our opinions but united in our love for each other. I hold this as a possibility for America too," he said. I hear some of my family will be endorsing President Biden today. I am pleased they are politically active — it’s a family tradition. We are divided in our opinions but united in our love for each other. I hold this as a possibility for America too. Can we disagree without… — Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) April 18, 2024 × "Can we disagree without hating our opponents? Can we restore civility and respect to public discourse? I think we can," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Major jolt to Robert F. Kennedy Jr as 15 members of his family endorse Biden for US presidential polls

Multiple members of the Kennedy family came together to endorse Democrat Joe Biden in the the upcoming presidential election. The campaign event also served as a snub of their family member, Robert F Kennedy Jr, who has challenged Biden with an independent presidential campaign.

US: Kennedy family endorses Joe Biden for President over their relative RFK

<p>Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has accused Russia of orchestrating a migrant crisis on its border while pleading with the European Union for assistance.</p>

<p>He levelled the allegation while speaking alongside the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday (Apr 19) during a visit to the Russia-Finland border.</p>

<p>“We visited with madame president the border and we described what kind of situation is – and now we have to find common solutions to stop this phenomenon when Russia used illegal immigrants against us. We are preparing our own legislation but we also need EU-level measures,” he said.</p>

<p>“I’m very thankful that the Commission, the European Union, the other member states, have supported us – and Ursula, you especially supported us, at the beginning of this phenomenon,” he added.</p>

<p>Finland had extended the closure of its borders with Russia on April 4 till “further notice” as the government blames Moscow for “a high risk of organized migration.”</p>

<p>Finland has now shut down eight of its nine checkpoints with Russia. The only one that remains open is dedicated to rail travel only.</p>

<p>Ursula said the issue was not related to just Finland’s security but that of the whole European Union.</p>

<p>“This is not just about the security of Finland, but it is about the security of the European Union. We are in this together,” she said after visiting the border in Lappeenranta.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi1jMuCoc6FAxWGcfUHHcrvBAYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ambassador-lahdevirta-highlights-finlands-desi-cooperation-with-india-695554" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ambassador-lahdevirta-highlights-finlands-desi-cooperation-with-india-695554&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1jMuCoc6FAxWGcfUHHcrvBAYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Finnish ambassador highlights DESI cooperation with India</a></strong></p>

<p>"We should be more Finnish when it comes to security,” she added.</p>

<p>Orpo alleged that Russia was taking advantage of warmer weather to help people illegally enter Finland via land border.</p>

<p>Most of these immigrants come from Africa and the Middle East, with almost all of them seeking asylum in the EU.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi1jMuCoc6FAxWGcfUHHcrvBAYQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-an-important-partner-in-ensuring-rules-based-world-order-finland-fm-693046" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-an-important-partner-in-ensuring-rules-based-world-order-finland-fm-693046&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1jMuCoc6FAxWGcfUHHcrvBAYQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Exclusive I India an `important partner` in ensuring rules-based world order: Finland FM</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In April 2023, Finland made a significant decision to join NATO, putting an end to its long-standing neutrality that had been in place since its defeat by the Soviet Union in World War II. Earlier in March this year, Sweden also became a member of the trans-Atlantic alliance. This move was seen as a major setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, as it led to a historic shift in Europe's post-Cold War security landscape.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has accused Russia of orchestrating a migrant crisis on its border while pleading with the European Union for assistance. He levelled the allegation while speaking alongside the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday (Apr 19) during a visit to the Russia-Finland border.

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has accused Russia of orchestrating a migrant crisis on its border while pleading with the European Union for assistance. He levelled the allegation while speaking alongside the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday (Apr 19) during a visit to the Russia-Finland border. “We visited with madame president the border and we described what kind of situation is – and now we have to find common solutions to stop this phenomenon when Russia used illegal immigrants against us. We are preparing our own legislation but we also need EU-level measures,” he said. “I’m very thankful that the Commission, the European Union, the other member states, have supported us – and Ursula, you especially supported us, at the beginning of this phenomenon,” he added. Finland had extended the closure of its borders with Russia on April 4 till “further notice” as the government blames Moscow for “a high risk of organized migration.” Finland has now shut down eight of its nine checkpoints with Russia. The only one that remains open is dedicated to rail travel only. Ursula said the issue was not related to just Finland’s security but that of the whole European Union. “This is not just about the security of Finland, but it is about the security of the European Union. We are in this together,” she said after visiting the border in Lappeenranta. Also read: Finnish ambassador highlights DESI cooperation with India "We should be more Finnish when it comes to security,” she added. Orpo alleged that Russia was taking advantage of warmer weather to help people illegally enter Finland via land border. Most of these immigrants come from Africa and the Middle East, with almost all of them seeking asylum in the EU. Also read: Exclusive I India an `important partner` in ensuring rules-based world order: Finland FM In April 2023, Finland made a significant decision to join NATO, putting an end to its long-standing neutrality that had been in place since its defeat by the Soviet Union in World War II. Earlier in March this year, Sweden also became a member of the trans-Atlantic alliance. This move was seen as a major setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, as it led to a historic shift in Europe's post-Cold War security landscape. (With inputs from agencies)

Finland accuses Russia of orchestrating migrant crisis on border, requests help from EU

<p>Russia said that it had intercepted 20 drones and two ballistic missiles on Thursday (April 18), in regions adjacent to Ukraine, notably in Rostov, where its command headquarters for the Ukraine offensive is situated.</p>

<p>"During late night hours, several terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime were foiled," the defence ministry said.</p>

<p><br />
As per the Russian defence ministry, they had neutralised a total of 20 drones, 16 of which were downed. Two Tochka-U missiles and five balloons tried to deflect&nbsp;the attention of air defence systems, it said.</p>

<p>The 16 drones and two missiles were shot down in the Belgorod region which has faced near-daily Ukrainian strikes.</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday, a Russian missile attack on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv killed 17 civilians, while 60 others, including three children were injured.</p>

<p>The strike also damaged four buildings, a hospital, an education facility and dozens of private cars, he added in a statement on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kills-five-in-ukraines-chernihiv-712199">Death toll rises to 17 after Russian attack on Ukraine's Chernihiv</a></p>

<p>Regional leader Vyacheslav Chaus said civilians were killed and injured when three missiles hit close to the city centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chaus told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne that Russia carried out the attack with three Iskander cruise missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack on Chernihiv came hours after reports surfaced about a Ukrainian attack on a Russian military base in occupied Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media, "Unfortunately, the death toll may still rise. This would not have happened if Ukraine had received a sufficient number of air defense systems and if the world's determination to counter Russian terror had been sufficient."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjvrqj47ciFAxUpTWcHHePmC0kQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nyCH6-dkU6fSmbDAXa2k0&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine urges for more US aid</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia, which denies targeting civilians, invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and has launched thousands of missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities and villages in attacks that have killed hundreds of civilians.</p>

<p>In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities, targeting the country's power sector and other critical infrastructure.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Russia said that it had intercepted 20 drones and two ballistic missiles on Thursday (April 18), in regions adjacent to Ukraine, notably in Rostov, where its command headquarters for the Ukraine offensive is situated.

Russia said that it had intercepted 20 drones and two ballistic missiles on Thursday (April 18), in regions adjacent to Ukraine, notably in Rostov, where its command headquarters for the Ukraine offensive is situated. "During late night hours, several terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime were foiled," the defence ministry said. As per the Russian defence ministry, they had neutralised a total of 20 drones, 16 of which were downed. Two Tochka-U missiles and five balloons tried to deflect the attention of air defence systems, it said. The 16 drones and two missiles were shot down in the Belgorod region which has faced near-daily Ukrainian strikes. Earlier on Wednesday, a Russian missile attack on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv killed 17 civilians, while 60 others, including three children were injured. The strike also damaged four buildings, a hospital, an education facility and dozens of private cars, he added in a statement on Telegram. Also read: Death toll rises to 17 after Russian attack on Ukraine's Chernihiv Regional leader Vyacheslav Chaus said civilians were killed and injured when three missiles hit close to the city centre. Chaus told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne that Russia carried out the attack with three Iskander cruise missiles. The attack on Chernihiv came hours after reports surfaced about a Ukrainian attack on a Russian military base in occupied Crimea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media, "Unfortunately, the death toll may still rise. This would not have happened if Ukraine had received a sufficient number of air defense systems and if the world's determination to counter Russian terror had been sufficient." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine urges for more US aid Russia, which denies targeting civilians, invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and has launched thousands of missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities and villages in attacks that have killed hundreds of civilians. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities, targeting the country's power sector and other critical infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims to have neutralised 20 drones and 2 missiles from Ukraine

The Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr denies the existence of what's been called the gentleman's agreement between his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte and the Chinese government over South China. Now in a statement released on Thursday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila denied that the deal was a secret.

South China sea dispute: 'Philippines not aware of deal with China', says Marcos Jr

<p>For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used&nbsp;for launching cruise missiles into its territory.</p>

<p>"For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles."</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol.<br />
<br />
Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: <a href="https://t.co/QJ5yg1vtSU">pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU</a></p>
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1781178675045552537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-arrests-man-on-charges-of-spying-for-russia-and-plotting-zelenskys-assassination-712839">Also read |&nbsp;Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination</a></p>

<p>"A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia</strong></h2>

<p>In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added.</p>

<p>Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pentagon-admits-russias-battlefield-gains-712674/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed."<br />
<br />
<em><strong>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</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory. "For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP. The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles." Watch the video here: This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol. Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU — OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 19, 2024 × Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base. Also read | Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination "A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying. Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added. Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea. Also watch | Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed." 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)

VIDEO: Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin

With thousands of demonstrators coming to the streets demanding Israeli PM Netanyahu's resignation and prosecutors pushing ahead with a corruption trial against him, many question how long the longest-serving Israeli PM can remain in power. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas War: Protest against Netanyahu in Tel Aviv calling for the release of hostage

Israel-Iran tensions simmer as explosions heard over Iran's Isfahan, Tabriz

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<p>China's aviation regulator - the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) - said on Friday (Apr 19) that it had opened&nbsp;new air routes to the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Fuzhou with flight paths&nbsp;situated very&nbsp;close to the Taiwan-controlled&nbsp;islands&nbsp;of Kinmen and Matsu. Citing a statement from the CAAC, the news agency Reuters reported that these routes were now operational.</p>

<p>The statement added that from May 16, the aviation regulator said&nbsp;that&nbsp;it&nbsp;would "further optimise" airspace around Fuzhou&nbsp;airport,&nbsp;but did not elaborate on how it would do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-hits-back-at-chinese-embassys-criticism-of-wion-interview-711166">Taiwan hits back at Chinese embassy’s criticism of WION interview</a></strong></p>

<p>The statement&nbsp;further said that the changes to the flight paths would help meet the development needs of flights along the Chinese coast, ensuring flight safety, enhancing the ability to respond to thunderstorms, and improving normal flight operations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Taiwan condemns move</strong></h2>

<p>Taiwan condemned Beijing's announcement by saying the decision to open new air routes&nbsp;that run close to two Taiwanese-controlled islands was a flight safety risk taken without consultation.</p>

<p>"They want us to cave in, make compromises and change our behaviour," a senior official from Taipei told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous opposition by Taiwan</strong></h2>

<p>In January, Taiwan expressed anger after China unilaterally&nbsp;changed a flight path called M503 close to the sensitive median line in the Taiwan Strait. The median line has for years served&nbsp;as an unofficial&nbsp;demarcation&nbsp;between Chinese-claimed Taiwan and China and&nbsp;was not crossed&nbsp;by combat aircraft from either side.</p>

<p>However, Beijing has said it does not recognise the line's existence&nbsp;and&nbsp;Chinese warplanes regularly fly over it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2018, Taiwan complained&nbsp;about the M503 route, saying China&nbsp;opened the northbound part of it without first informing Taipei in contravention of a 2015 deal to first discuss such flight paths.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China's Xi Jinping hosts former Taiwan president Ma Ying-Jeou in Beijing</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;China had said in January that it was opening routes&nbsp;from west to east on the two flight paths&nbsp;from Xiamen and Fuzhou, but had not until now announced when they would go into operation.</p>

<p>The islands of Kinmen and Matsu both have&nbsp;regular flights to Taiwan, and Chinese aircraft are not permitted&nbsp;by Taiwan to fly in the airspace Taipei controls around these islands.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China's aviation regulator - the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) - said on Friday (Apr 19) that it had opened new air routes to the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Fuzhou with flight paths situated very close to the Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu.

China's aviation regulator - the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) - said on Friday (Apr 19) that it had opened new air routes to the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Fuzhou with flight paths situated very close to the Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu. Citing a statement from the CAAC, the news agency Reuters reported that these routes were now operational. The statement added that from May 16, the aviation regulator said that it would "further optimise" airspace around Fuzhou airport, but did not elaborate on how it would do so. Also read | Taiwan hits back at Chinese embassy’s criticism of WION interview The statement further said that the changes to the flight paths would help meet the development needs of flights along the Chinese coast, ensuring flight safety, enhancing the ability to respond to thunderstorms, and improving normal flight operations. Taiwan condemns move Taiwan condemned Beijing's announcement by saying the decision to open new air routes that run close to two Taiwanese-controlled islands was a flight safety risk taken without consultation. "They want us to cave in, make compromises and change our behaviour," a senior official from Taipei told Reuters. Previous opposition by Taiwan In January, Taiwan expressed anger after China unilaterally changed a flight path called M503 close to the sensitive median line in the Taiwan Strait. The median line has for years served as an unofficial demarcation between Chinese-claimed Taiwan and China and was not crossed by combat aircraft from either side. However, Beijing has said it does not recognise the line's existence and Chinese warplanes regularly fly over it. In 2018, Taiwan complained about the M503 route, saying China opened the northbound part of it without first informing Taipei in contravention of a 2015 deal to first discuss such flight paths. Also watch | China's Xi Jinping hosts former Taiwan president Ma Ying-Jeou in Beijing × Meanwhile, China had said in January that it was opening routes from west to east on the two flight paths from Xiamen and Fuzhou, but had not until now announced when they would go into operation. The islands of Kinmen and Matsu both have regular flights to Taiwan, and Chinese aircraft are not permitted by Taiwan to fly in the airspace Taipei controls around these islands. (With inputs from agencies)

China opens new air routes ‘very close’ to Taiwan-controlled islands; Taipei reacts

UN vote fails on Palestinian membership, 12 Security Council members vote 'yes'

Google has laid off 28 employees after their involvement in a protest against the company's latest contract with the Israeli government. Watch to know more.

Google employees sacked over 'office disruptions', calls staff protests 'unnacceptable behaviour'

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