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A United Airlines opens new tab flight headed for Japan landed safely on Thursday at Los Angeles International Airport after losing a tire mid-air following takeoff from San Francisco, the carrier said in a statement. United said it is arranging for a new aircraft to continue the trip for the 249 people who were on board the Boeing B777-200 jet.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that he had approved the candidacy of former army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi as ambassador to Britain.

Zaluzhnyi, widely seen as a national hero for overseeing Ukraine's war effort throughout Russia's full-scale invasion, was replaced last month by ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi.

"Today, I approved the candidacy of our country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi," Zelensky said in his nightly video address. "General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi spoke to me specifically about pursuing that direction -- a diplomatic direction."

Zelensky said Ukraine's Foreign Ministry had sent the request for approval and that "our alliance with Britain is set to strengthen further".

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told national television that the president "had long sought" a suitable candidate "and one of the key requirements was an understanding of the military context.

"Britain is one of the leaders in military help for Ukraine. It is a country which has a vision of military strategy. The new ambassador therefore had to have a deep military background," Kuleba said.

Ukraine has not had an ambassador in Britain since Zelensky dismissed former envoy Vadym Prystaiko in July 2023 after he publicly criticised the president.

Zaluzhnyi's dismissal as army chief was the focal point of a shakeup of senior positions in Ukraine's armed forces. It followed weeks of tension and speculation about possible disagreements between the president and his top commander.

Zaluzhnyi had written in a published article last November that the now-two-year-old war against Russia had entered a stage of attrition, and he called for technological advances.

Zelensky&nbsp;did not respond directly to the comments, but denied any suggestion that the war had entered a stalemate.

Zelensky&nbsp;on Thursday met British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in Kyiv and said he had expressed gratitude for Britain's "tangible leadership" in providing support for Ukraine and working together to counter Russian actions.

A British government statement said Shapps announced a 325 million pound ($417 million) package of military aid for Ukraine, including delivery of more than 10,000 drones. A British aid package in January also provided for drones and was valued at 200 million pounds.

In his remarks, Zelensky said priority areas of cooperation were boosting air defences, long-range weapons, and artillery and joint production of weapons, and bringing Russia to account.

"We have already reached a historically unprecedented level of cooperation with Britain," Zelensky&nbsp;said, referring to Britain as the first of several countries to sign an accord extending security guarantees to Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that he had approved the candidacy of former army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi as ambassador to Britain. Zaluzhnyi, widely seen as a national hero for overseeing Ukraine's war effort throughout Russia's full-scale invasion, was replaced last month by ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that he had approved the candidacy of former army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi as ambassador to Britain. Zaluzhnyi, widely seen as a national hero for overseeing Ukraine's war effort throughout Russia's full-scale invasion, was replaced last month by ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi. "Today, I approved the candidacy of our country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi," Zelensky said in his nightly video address. "General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi spoke to me specifically about pursuing that direction -- a diplomatic direction." Zelensky said Ukraine's Foreign Ministry had sent the request for approval and that "our alliance with Britain is set to strengthen further". Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told national television that the president "had long sought" a suitable candidate "and one of the key requirements was an understanding of the military context. "Britain is one of the leaders in military help for Ukraine. It is a country which has a vision of military strategy. The new ambassador therefore had to have a deep military background," Kuleba said. Ukraine has not had an ambassador in Britain since Zelensky dismissed former envoy Vadym Prystaiko in July 2023 after he publicly criticised the president. Zaluzhnyi's dismissal as army chief was the focal point of a shakeup of senior positions in Ukraine's armed forces. It followed weeks of tension and speculation about possible disagreements between the president and his top commander. Zaluzhnyi had written in a published article last November that the now-two-year-old war against Russia had entered a stage of attrition, and he called for technological advances. Zelensky did not respond directly to the comments, but denied any suggestion that the war had entered a stalemate. Zelensky on Thursday met British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in Kyiv and said he had expressed gratitude for Britain's "tangible leadership" in providing support for Ukraine and working together to counter Russian actions. A British government statement said Shapps announced a 325 million pound ($417 million) package of military aid for Ukraine, including delivery of more than 10,000 drones. A British aid package in January also provided for drones and was valued at 200 million pounds. In his remarks, Zelensky said priority areas of cooperation were boosting air defences, long-range weapons, and artillery and joint production of weapons, and bringing Russia to account. "We have already reached a historically unprecedented level of cooperation with Britain," Zelensky said, referring to Britain as the first of several countries to sign an accord extending security guarantees to Ukraine.

Ukraine's Zelensky approves ex-army chief Zaluzhnyi's candidacy as envoy to UK

Sweden officially joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization on Thursday. Sweden is now a NATO member State making it the newest member of the military Alliance. Watch to know more!

Sweden officially joins NATO alliance

Time spent on leisure activities enjoys that positively impacts our productivity creativity and well-being. But just as inequality pervades every sphere of life it exists in our relaxation time too. So what do we do about this Gap in the gap of gender inequality in leisure? How do we fix it? Can a conversation around it be the starting point?

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At a recent parliament meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered his troops on Thursday to get ready for battles in the East and South China Seas, as Beijing continues to establish its political and economic supremacy over other countries.

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The Greek Orthodox church has erupted in outrage over the government's decision to legalise same-sex marriage, calling&nbsp;it "demonic." This move has sparked intensified protests from clerics, who demand punitive actions against the lawmakers who supported this groundbreaking legislation.

Clerics are urging for the ostracism of what they deem as "immoral lawmakers" from the church. Authorities in Corfu have even taken steps to ban two local MPs from participating in any religious ceremonies. These measures come as a response to what the bishopric of the island perceives as a grave spiritual and moral transgression.

<h2>Exclusion from religious rites</h2>

The bishopric of Corfu has explicitly stated that the two deputies who supported the same-sex marriage bill cannot be considered active members of the church.

Unless they repent for their actions, they face exclusion from crucial church practices, including communion and other religious events.

Greece made history by becoming the first Orthodox Christian nation to pass legislation allowing same-sex marriage.

This landmark move, supported by 175 MPs from diverse political backgrounds, signifies a significant shift in societal norms.

Despite facing criticism from religious authorities, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis backed the law, which also expanded parental rights for gay couples.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-landmark-decision-greece-legalises-same-sex-marriage-690771">Also read |&nbsp;Greece legalises gay marriage, becoming first Orthodox Christian country to allow same-sex unions</a>

<h2>Opposition from the orthodox church</h2>

The Orthodox Church, led by Archbishop Ieronymos, strongly opposed the legislation, denouncing it as "pure evil."

Suggestions were made for a popular referendum on the issue, reflecting the church's discontent with the government's decision. Concerns were raised about potential societal ramifications, with leading church figures fearing the erosion of traditional family values.

<h2>Church-government standoff</h2>

Tensions between the church and government escalated, with the Holy Synod, the church's governing body, announcing symbolic gestures of dissent.

The decision to move Orthodox Sunday service away from the capital's cathedral and the refusal to attend a meal with the president signal a growing rift. Archbishop Ieronymos expressed distress over the president's participation in a celebratory dinner after the legislation's passing.

Also watch |&nbsp;Greece becomes first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-becomes-first-orthodox-christian-country-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage-690860/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A vocal minority within the church, represented by Bishop Ambrosios, has called for the excommunication of Prime Minister Mitsotakis and MPs who supported the law. They perceive this legislative move as an affront to the sanctity of Orthodox teachings, advocating for a staunch defence of religious principles.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Greek Orthodox church has erupted in outrage over the government's decision to legalise same-sex marriage, calling it "demonic." This move has sparked intensified protests from clerics, who demand punitive actions against the lawmakers who supported this groundbreaking legislation.

The Greek Orthodox church has erupted in outrage over the government's decision to legalise same-sex marriage, calling it "demonic." This move has sparked intensified protests from clerics, who demand punitive actions against the lawmakers who supported this groundbreaking legislation. Clerics are urging for the ostracism of what they deem as "immoral lawmakers" from the church. Authorities in Corfu have even taken steps to ban two local MPs from participating in any religious ceremonies. These measures come as a response to what the bishopric of the island perceives as a grave spiritual and moral transgression. Exclusion from religious rites The bishopric of Corfu has explicitly stated that the two deputies who supported the same-sex marriage bill cannot be considered active members of the church. Unless they repent for their actions, they face exclusion from crucial church practices, including communion and other religious events. Greece made history by becoming the first Orthodox Christian nation to pass legislation allowing same-sex marriage. This landmark move, supported by 175 MPs from diverse political backgrounds, signifies a significant shift in societal norms. Despite facing criticism from religious authorities, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis backed the law, which also expanded parental rights for gay couples. Also read | Greece legalises gay marriage, becoming first Orthodox Christian country to allow same-sex unions Opposition from the orthodox church The Orthodox Church, led by Archbishop Ieronymos, strongly opposed the legislation, denouncing it as "pure evil." Suggestions were made for a popular referendum on the issue, reflecting the church's discontent with the government's decision. Concerns were raised about potential societal ramifications, with leading church figures fearing the erosion of traditional family values. Church-government standoff Tensions between the church and government escalated, with the Holy Synod, the church's governing body, announcing symbolic gestures of dissent. The decision to move Orthodox Sunday service away from the capital's cathedral and the refusal to attend a meal with the president signal a growing rift. Archbishop Ieronymos expressed distress over the president's participation in a celebratory dinner after the legislation's passing. Also watch | Greece becomes first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage A vocal minority within the church, represented by Bishop Ambrosios, has called for the excommunication of Prime Minister Mitsotakis and MPs who supported the law. They perceive this legislative move as an affront to the sanctity of Orthodox teachings, advocating for a staunch defence of religious principles. (With inputs from agencies)

Greek Orthodox church seeks excommunication of MPs who backed same-sex marriage bill

On Friday (March 8) Ireland will&nbsp;vote on constitutional amendments regarding family definitions and the role of women in the home, following campaigns that focused on ambiguous wording, mansplaining, and concerns over polygamy.

The proposed changes, named the family amendment and the care amendment, aim to modify Article 41 of the 1937 constitution of the EU member state.

The family amendment urges citizens to broaden the family definition beyond marriage, encompassing durable relationships like cohabiting couples and their children.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-gender-equality-to-the-participation-of-trans-athletes-a-list-of-epic-firsts-at-tokyo-olympics-404254" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-gender-equality-to-the-participation-of-trans-athletes-a-list-of-epic-firsts-at-tokyo-olympics-404254&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWtYX4jeKEAxV6S2cHHcqPD4s4ChAWegQIAxAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1kOO-RQiTSWiF3QCKDmDwY" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-gender-equality-to-the-participation-of-trans-athletes-a-list-of-epic-firsts-at-tokyo-olympics-404254" target="_blank">From&nbsp;gender-equality&nbsp;to the participation of trans-athletes</a>

The care amendment suggests replacing outdated language concerning women in the home with a clause acknowledging care provided by family members to each other.

Orla O'Connor, the head of the National Women's Council of Ireland, sees the referendum, coinciding with International Women's Day, as a step toward greater equality in Ireland, emphasising the importance of equality for families and women, as well as recognising the value of care within the context of family.

Catherine Cox from Family Carers Ireland deems the 1937 references archaic and outdated, supporting a double Yes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/woman-must-accept-mans-world-taliban-edu-minister-promotes-gender-inequality-641463" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/woman-must-accept-mans-world-taliban-edu-minister-promotes-gender-inequality-641463&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjPiJKJjuKEAxUBVmwGHZmQDy0QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw22QzDPPdwIvMNCQAXaE5V_" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/woman-must-accept-mans-world-taliban-edu-minister-promotes-gender-inequality-641463" target="_blank">'Women must accept it's a man's world': Taliban education minister</a>

Political scientist Yvonne Galligan sees the family amendment as a logical progression after previous referenda that ended constitutional restrictions on same-sex marriage (2015) and abortion (2018), diminishing the influence of the once-powerful Catholic Church.

<h2>In the balance</h2>

Despite initial support for a Yes-Yes vote from major political parties, polls have shown increasing concerns about the vagueness of the proposed changes.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Leo Varadkar acknowledges the uncertainty, particularly regarding the definition of a durable relationship. Critics, like David Quinn of the Iona Institute, argue that confusion may lead to No votes, and removing terms like women and mothers from the constitution could also influence the outcome.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-equality-meet-japan-appoints-man-as-host-at-g7-meeting-on-womens-empowerment-609383">Gender equality meet? Japan sends a man as representative at G7 meeting on women’s empowerment</a>

Critics from both sides express reservations about the care amendment. Disability rights activist Maryam Madani believes it falls short by not adequately addressing care beyond family contexts.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, conservative and far-right voices raise concerns about potential implications for polygamous relationships and increased immigration through migrant family reunions, claims denied by the government.

<h2>Not well-thought out</h2>

Yvonne Galligan suggests that the care amendment is more complex and may be more likely to receive a "No" vote. Some citizens express doubts about the well-thought-out nature of the questions, with opinions on whether responsibility for care should lie with families or the state.

The uncertainty leaves some voters, like Maria Garvey and Aidan Connolly, contemplating their choices, with Garvey questioning the emphasis on family responsibility for care and Connolly leaning towards a "Yes-Yes" vote without strong conviction.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday (March 8) Ireland will vote on constitutional amendments regarding family definitions and the role of women in the home, following campaigns that focused on ambiguous wording, mansplaining, and concerns over polygamy.

On Friday (March 8) Ireland will vote on constitutional amendments regarding family definitions and the role of women in the home, following campaigns that focused on ambiguous wording, mansplaining, and concerns over polygamy. The proposed changes, named the family amendment and the care amendment, aim to modify Article 41 of the 1937 constitution of the EU member state. The family amendment urges citizens to broaden the family definition beyond marriage, encompassing durable relationships like cohabiting couples and their children. In pics: From gender-equality to the participation of trans-athletes The care amendment suggests replacing outdated language concerning women in the home with a clause acknowledging care provided by family members to each other. Orla O'Connor, the head of the National Women's Council of Ireland, sees the referendum, coinciding with International Women's Day, as a step toward greater equality in Ireland, emphasising the importance of equality for families and women, as well as recognising the value of care within the context of family. Catherine Cox from Family Carers Ireland deems the 1937 references archaic and outdated, supporting a double Yes. Also read: 'Women must accept it's a man's world': Taliban education minister Political scientist Yvonne Galligan sees the family amendment as a logical progression after previous referenda that ended constitutional restrictions on same-sex marriage (2015) and abortion (2018), diminishing the influence of the once-powerful Catholic Church. In the balance Despite initial support for a Yes-Yes vote from major political parties, polls have shown increasing concerns about the vagueness of the proposed changes. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar acknowledges the uncertainty, particularly regarding the definition of a durable relationship. Critics, like David Quinn of the Iona Institute, argue that confusion may lead to No votes, and removing terms like women and mothers from the constitution could also influence the outcome. Also read: Gender equality meet? Japan sends a man as representative at G7 meeting on women’s empowerment Critics from both sides express reservations about the care amendment. Disability rights activist Maryam Madani believes it falls short by not adequately addressing care beyond family contexts. Meanwhile, conservative and far-right voices raise concerns about potential implications for polygamous relationships and increased immigration through migrant family reunions, claims denied by the government. Not well-thought out Yvonne Galligan suggests that the care amendment is more complex and may be more likely to receive a "No" vote. Some citizens express doubts about the well-thought-out nature of the questions, with opinions on whether responsibility for care should lie with families or the state. The uncertainty leaves some voters, like Maria Garvey and Aidan Connolly, contemplating their choices, with Garvey questioning the emphasis on family responsibility for care and Connolly leaning towards a "Yes-Yes" vote without strong conviction. (With inputs from agencies)

Ireland holds referendum on family and gender equality

United Airlines flight diverts to LAX after losing a tyre during take off

In response to overtourism challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Kyoto's famous geisha district, Gion, is putting in place visitor restrictions, particularly in private alleys, to address resident concerns and preserve cultural integrity.

Kyoto residents, especially those residing in the picturesque Gion district, have long expressed frustration with the surge in tourist numbers, as reported by The Japan Times.

In December, a council representing Gion's residents appealed to the city administration, saying&nbsp;their neighbourhood is not a mere tourist attraction but a living community deserving respect.

<h2>Strengthened response to ongoing issues</h2>

The Gion district council, acknowledging the persistent challenges posed by overtourism, has now decided to escalate its response. The council has announced plans to implement stricter measures, including banning tourists from entering private alleys, effective April.

Isokazu Ota, an executive member of the Gion district council, told The Japan Times&nbsp;that tourists would be discouraged from accessing narrow private streets, where intrusive behaviour and privacy violations have become prevalent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-government-contemplates-declaring-an-end-to-the-deflation-battle-sources-say-696304">Also read |&nbsp;Japan government contemplates declaring an end to the deflation battle, sources say</a>

However, Gion's main thoroughfare, Hanamikoji Street, will remain accessible to tourists, ensuring a balance between accessibility and privacy.

Ota highlighted the intrusive conduct exhibited by some tourists, likening their actions to that of paparazzi. Instances of disrespectful behaviour, such as attempting to take photographs or getting too close to geisha on narrow streets, have prompted the need for stricter regulations.

Previous attempts to address unwanted tourist behaviour included installing warning signs prohibiting photography on private roads, with potential fines imposed for violations. Despite these measures, the challenges persist, necessitating more robust enforcement strategies.

<h2>Understanding Geisha culture</h2>

It's crucial to dispel misconceptions surrounding geisha, clarifying that they are not sex workers but highly skilled entertainers proficient in traditional Japanese arts, including dance, music, and storytelling.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Japan's geisha district to ban tourists, Miami Beach breaks up with spring breakers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japans-geisha-district-to-ban-tourists-miami-beach-breaks-up-with-spring-breakers-697390/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The initiative in Gion reflects broader efforts across Japan to combat overtourism and safeguard cultural heritage sites. Mount Fuji, another iconic destination, is implementing measures such as visitor fees and capacity limits to manage tourism influxes effectively.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to overtourism challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Kyoto's famous geisha district, Gion, is putting in place visitor restrictions, particularly in private alleys, to address resident concerns and preserve cultural integrity.

In response to overtourism challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Kyoto's famous geisha district, Gion, is putting in place visitor restrictions, particularly in private alleys, to address resident concerns and preserve cultural integrity. Kyoto residents, especially those residing in the picturesque Gion district, have long expressed frustration with the surge in tourist numbers, as reported by The Japan Times. In December, a council representing Gion's residents appealed to the city administration, saying their neighbourhood is not a mere tourist attraction but a living community deserving respect. Strengthened response to ongoing issues The Gion district council, acknowledging the persistent challenges posed by overtourism, has now decided to escalate its response. The council has announced plans to implement stricter measures, including banning tourists from entering private alleys, effective April. Isokazu Ota, an executive member of the Gion district council, told The Japan Times that tourists would be discouraged from accessing narrow private streets, where intrusive behaviour and privacy violations have become prevalent. Also read | Japan government contemplates declaring an end to the deflation battle, sources say However, Gion's main thoroughfare, Hanamikoji Street, will remain accessible to tourists, ensuring a balance between accessibility and privacy. Ota highlighted the intrusive conduct exhibited by some tourists, likening their actions to that of paparazzi. Instances of disrespectful behaviour, such as attempting to take photographs or getting too close to geisha on narrow streets, have prompted the need for stricter regulations. Previous attempts to address unwanted tourist behaviour included installing warning signs prohibiting photography on private roads, with potential fines imposed for violations. Despite these measures, the challenges persist, necessitating more robust enforcement strategies. Understanding Geisha culture It's crucial to dispel misconceptions surrounding geisha, clarifying that they are not sex workers but highly skilled entertainers proficient in traditional Japanese arts, including dance, music, and storytelling. Also watch | Gravitas: Japan's geisha district to ban tourists, Miami Beach breaks up with spring breakers The initiative in Gion reflects broader efforts across Japan to combat overtourism and safeguard cultural heritage sites. Mount Fuji, another iconic destination, is implementing measures such as visitor fees and capacity limits to manage tourism influxes effectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Geisha district Gion in Kyoto enforces visitor restrictions to combat overtourism

The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, this was the IAEA board's fourth resolution condemning Russia's actions against Ukrainian nuclear facilities.

In a post on X, Ukraine's mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency said that the resolution had been adopted by the majority of votes. The mission called on the UN agency to continue addressing Russia's attempts to undermine nuclear and radiation safety at the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-issues-arrest-warrants-for-top-russian-commanders-for-suspected-war-crimes-in-ukraine-696970">ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine</a>

The text adopted on Thursday said that the board called "for the urgent withdrawal of all unauthorised military and other unauthorised personnel from Ukraine's ZNPP and for the plant to be immediately returned to the full control of the competent Ukrainian authorities."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAEA</a> Board of Governors had adopted the resolution introduced by 🇺🇦. 
The majority of votes clearly demonstrates the international community's strong support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>. <a href="https://t.co/SaUWhgGpwD">pic.twitter.com/SaUWhgGpwD</a>
— Ukrainian Mission to OSCE &amp; UN in Vienna (@UKRinOSCE) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKRinOSCE/status/1765847408804519987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The board reiterated its concern that Russia did not heed the agency's previous calls to withdraw its military and other personnel from the plant. In the past, the IAEA has repeatedly expressed alarm about the facility amid fears of a potential nuclear catastrophe.

The plant has been caught in the crossfire multiple times since Russia launched its offensive in Ukraine in February 2022. The plant’s six reactors have been shut down for months, but it still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features.

Last month, IAEA chief &nbsp;Rafael Grossi said that security at the plant remained fragile amid worrying recent staff cuts enacted by Russian authorities occupying the facility.

“This huge facility used to have around 12,000 staff. Now, this has been reduced to between 2,000 and 3,000, which is quite a steep reduction in the number of people working there,” Grossi told the news agency Associated Press on February 6.

“To man, to operate these very sophisticated big installations you need a certain number of people performing different specific functions,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow.

The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, this was the IAEA board's fourth resolution condemning Russia's actions against Ukrainian nuclear facilities. In a post on X, Ukraine's mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency said that the resolution had been adopted by the majority of votes. The mission called on the UN agency to continue addressing Russia's attempts to undermine nuclear and radiation safety at the Zaporizhzhia plant. Also read | ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine The text adopted on Thursday said that the board called "for the urgent withdrawal of all unauthorised military and other unauthorised personnel from Ukraine's ZNPP and for the plant to be immediately returned to the full control of the competent Ukrainian authorities." #IAEA Board of Governors had adopted the resolution introduced by 🇺🇦. The majority of votes clearly demonstrates the international community's strong support for #Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/SaUWhgGpwD — Ukrainian Mission to OSCE & UN in Vienna (@UKRinOSCE) March 7, 2024 × The board reiterated its concern that Russia did not heed the agency's previous calls to withdraw its military and other personnel from the plant. In the past, the IAEA has repeatedly expressed alarm about the facility amid fears of a potential nuclear catastrophe. The plant has been caught in the crossfire multiple times since Russia launched its offensive in Ukraine in February 2022. The plant’s six reactors have been shut down for months, but it still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features. Last month, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said that security at the plant remained fragile amid worrying recent staff cuts enacted by Russian authorities occupying the facility. “This huge facility used to have around 12,000 staff. Now, this has been reduced to between 2,000 and 3,000, which is quite a steep reduction in the number of people working there,” Grossi told the news agency Associated Press on February 6. “To man, to operate these very sophisticated big installations you need a certain number of people performing different specific functions,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: UN nuclear watchdog calls on Russia to leave Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US President Joe Biden delivered his annual State of the Union address to US Congress. Biden started his State of the Union Address with a focus on defending democracy economic recovery and Reproductive Rights but before any of this was brought up he attacked Russian President Putin for the Ukraine war. Biden warned Putin that he will not back down. Watch to know more!

Biden's Address: US President touches key issues, lashes out at arch rival Trump

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