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Jaishankar rejects trade link to ending Ukraine war 

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Alpine glacier was covered with sheep wool sheets to prevent melting. It worked

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BRICS 2026: $1 trillion sovereign capital set to converge in Delhi for first iBRICS Summit

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New Friday OTT releases (September 4, 2026): GDN, Dhamaal 4, Jagamae Sangeetham- Watch 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

South Carolina voters are preparing to cast their ballots in the Republican presidential primary on Saturday, which will pit former governor Nikki Haley against former president Donald Trump.

Trump Vs Haley in South Carolina: Despite trailing in polls, Nikki Haley says she won't quit

The US state of Alabama is getting ready to perform its second execution with nitrogen gas and this comes just a month after the state carried out the first one overriding widespread criticism of the method by many including lawmakers. On the 25th of January Alabama State executed Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen hypoxia for the very first time ever in history. Watch to know more!

US: Alabama seeks to perform second execution using Nitrogen Hypoxia

<p>Amid the ongoing protests by farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait announced plans for a 'Black Friday'. This decision comes after the unfortunate death of a protesting farmer at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district in India's Punjab state. In the US, President Joe Biden met privately with the wife and daughter of the late Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Navalny recently died in a Russian prison sparking an international outcry.</p>

<p>Moreover, making strides in space exploration, the private US spacecraft Odysseus achieved a historic feat by successfully landing on the surface of the Moon near the South Pole. Notably, this marks the first successful US lunar mission in over 50 years since the landing of the "Challenger" Lunar Module in 1972.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-mega-protest-farm-groups-to-observe-black-friday-today-692942">Farmers' mega protest: Farm groups to observe 'Black Friday' today</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/23/413851-succession-2024-02-23t083548336.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Amid the ongoing protests by the farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait announced that the farmers will observe a 'Black Friday' on Friday (Feb 23), after one of the protesting farmers died at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district, Punjab.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-meets-with-navalnys-wife-and-daughter-vows-sanctions-against-russia-692919">US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/23/413835-biden-and-navalnys-wife.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny,&nbsp;who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/odysseus-us-spacecraft-makes-historic-landing-on-moon-marks-1st-american-touchdown-in-over-50-yrs-692914">Odysseus: US private spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/23/413833-odysseus.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Private US spacecraft Odysseus crafted history by landing on the surface of the Moon near the South Pole, days after blasting off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida last Thursday (February 15). This is an astounding success as it is the first time in over 50 years that a US lunar mission has been successful. About over 50 years ago, the US Lunar Module named "Challenger" landed in the Taurus-Littrow region of the Moon on December 11, 1972.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-at-least-four-killed-in-deadly-blaze-at-residential-block-in-valencia-692917">At least four killed in fire at residential block in Spain's Valencia</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/23/413834-valencia-spain.png?imwidth=640" /></p>

<p>At least four people were killed and several others were injured in a deadly blaze at a residential block in Spain's Valencia, media reports said quoting the country's emergency services. Reports indicated that the firefighters are still trying to contain the tragedy as at least 14 people were left injured. The injured ones included&nbsp;six firefighters and a young child.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-pm-netanyahu-sends-israeli-team-to-paris-for-hostage-talks-692927">Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu sends Israeli team to Paris for hostage talks</a></strong></p>

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Amid the ongoing protests by farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait announced plans for a 'Black Friday'. This decision comes after the unfortunate death of a protesting farmer at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district in India's Punjab state.

Amid the ongoing protests by farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait announced plans for a 'Black Friday'. This decision comes after the unfortunate death of a protesting farmer at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district in India's Punjab state. In the US, President Joe Biden met privately with the wife and daughter of the late Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Navalny recently died in a Russian prison sparking an international outcry. Moreover, making strides in space exploration, the private US spacecraft Odysseus achieved a historic feat by successfully landing on the surface of the Moon near the South Pole. Notably, this marks the first successful US lunar mission in over 50 years since the landing of the "Challenger" Lunar Module in 1972. Farmers' mega protest: Farm groups to observe 'Black Friday' today Amid the ongoing protests by the farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait announced that the farmers will observe a 'Black Friday' on Friday (Feb 23), after one of the protesting farmers died at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district, Punjab. US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss. Odysseus: US private spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon Private US spacecraft Odysseus crafted history by landing on the surface of the Moon near the South Pole, days after blasting off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida last Thursday (February 15). This is an astounding success as it is the first time in over 50 years that a US lunar mission has been successful. About over 50 years ago, the US Lunar Module named "Challenger" landed in the Taurus-Littrow region of the Moon on December 11, 1972. At least four killed in fire at residential block in Spain's Valencia At least four people were killed and several others were injured in a deadly blaze at a residential block in Spain's Valencia, media reports said quoting the country's emergency services. Reports indicated that the firefighters are still trying to contain the tragedy as at least 14 people were left injured. The injured ones included six firefighters and a young child. Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu sends Israeli team to Paris for hostage talks ×

Morning news brief: Indian farmer groups to observe 'Black Friday', Biden meets Navalny's family, & more

Indian-American student Akul Dhawan, who was found dead last month after he was reported to be missing for several hours, had frozen to death after a nightclub refused to give him entry, as per the latest reports.

Indian-origin student Akul Dhawan froze to death in Illinois after nightclub denied entry

<p>Raising children can be expensive, irrespective of which country you are residing or are a citizen of. However, as per a recent report from the YuWa Population Research Institute, China is one of the most expensive places to raise children. The report released on Wednesday says that the high costs have a disproportionate impact on women.</p>

<h2><strong>China and Children</strong></h2>

<p>China is facing a significant challenge with its declining birth rate. This problem has been exacerbated by the high cost of raising children in China.</p>

<p>As per the report by YuWa Population Research Institute, in China, on average, raising a child from birth to age 17 costs about $74,800. Furthermore, supporting an offspring through a bachelor's degree raises that cost to over $94,500.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-aging-fast-births-fall-by-10-to-an-all-time-low-raising-economic-concerns-645830">China ageing fast: Births fall by 10% to an all-time low, raising economic concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>This expense is roughly 6.3 times higher than China's GDP per capita, claims the report. This high cost is only second to South Korea, which not only has the world's lowest fertility rate but also the highest child-rearing costs that come up to 7.79 times the GDP per capita.</p>

<p>In comparison, this cost in Australia is just 2.08 times the GDP per capita. In France it is 2.24 time, and in the United States it is 4.11 times.</p>

<h2><strong>The burden on women</strong></h2>

<p>Women taking a maternity leave continue to face "unfair treatment" at work. Furthermore, many companies avoid recruiting women of childbearing age. Citing research from multiple papers, it further reports that women who have children may see up to 12 per cent to 17 per cent drop in their wages.</p>

<p>While earlier women were willing to make the sacrifice, with many choosing to stay at home to take care of the children, now, to many of them,&nbsp;the sacrifice doesn't seem worth the payoff, states the report.</p>

<p>Not just at work, their family life also contributed to the reluctance. Research has shown that in China, women continue to bear the primary responsibility for household tasks like cooking, cleaning, shopping, and child-rearing, etc.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-streamlines-marriage-registration-process-for-migrant-workers-amid-looming-population-crisis-594576">China eases marriage registration process for migrant workers to tackle population crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the report, "Chinese people’s willingness to have children is almost the lowest in the world."</p>

<p>This, it says, is "Due to reasons such as the high cost of childbearing and the difficulty for women to balance family and work."</p>

<p>"It is no exaggeration to describe the current population situation as a collapse in the birth population."</p>

<h2><strong>China's population decline</strong></h2>

<p>For the past two years, China's population has been shrinking. In April 2023, this even led to India gaining the title of the world's most populous country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2023, the nation recorded its lowest birth rate since the founding of Communist China in 1949, reports CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China's demographic disaster: Is this the end of China's dream?</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-demographic-disaster-is-this-the-end-of-chinas-dream-553606/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Despite efforts by the government to encourage more births, such as relaxing its stringent one-child birth policy and offering financial incentives, many women are still reluctant to have children.</p>

<p>"Because the current social environment in China is not conducive to women’s childbirth, the time cost and opportunity cost for women to have children are too high," it states.</p>

<p>The report warns that the falling birthrate could potentially impact economic growth, people's overall happiness and China’s global standing. It further urged the government to reduce the cost of childbirth "as soon as possible."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Raising children can be expensive, irrespective of which country you are residing or are a citizen of. However, as per a recent report from the YuWa Population Research Institute, China is one of the most expensive places to raise children.

Raising children can be expensive, irrespective of which country you are residing or are a citizen of. However, as per a recent report from the YuWa Population Research Institute, China is one of the most expensive places to raise children. The report released on Wednesday says that the high costs have a disproportionate impact on women. China and Children China is facing a significant challenge with its declining birth rate. This problem has been exacerbated by the high cost of raising children in China. As per the report by YuWa Population Research Institute, in China, on average, raising a child from birth to age 17 costs about $74,800. Furthermore, supporting an offspring through a bachelor's degree raises that cost to over $94,500. Also read | China ageing fast: Births fall by 10% to an all-time low, raising economic concerns This expense is roughly 6.3 times higher than China's GDP per capita, claims the report. This high cost is only second to South Korea, which not only has the world's lowest fertility rate but also the highest child-rearing costs that come up to 7.79 times the GDP per capita. In comparison, this cost in Australia is just 2.08 times the GDP per capita. In France it is 2.24 time, and in the United States it is 4.11 times. The burden on women Women taking a maternity leave continue to face "unfair treatment" at work. Furthermore, many companies avoid recruiting women of childbearing age. Citing research from multiple papers, it further reports that women who have children may see up to 12 per cent to 17 per cent drop in their wages. While earlier women were willing to make the sacrifice, with many choosing to stay at home to take care of the children, now, to many of them, the sacrifice doesn't seem worth the payoff, states the report. Not just at work, their family life also contributed to the reluctance. Research has shown that in China, women continue to bear the primary responsibility for household tasks like cooking, cleaning, shopping, and child-rearing, etc. Also read | China eases marriage registration process for migrant workers to tackle population crisis According to the report, "Chinese people’s willingness to have children is almost the lowest in the world." This, it says, is "Due to reasons such as the high cost of childbearing and the difficulty for women to balance family and work." "It is no exaggeration to describe the current population situation as a collapse in the birth population." China's population decline For the past two years, China's population has been shrinking. In April 2023, this even led to India gaining the title of the world's most populous country. In 2023, the nation recorded its lowest birth rate since the founding of Communist China in 1949, reports CNN. Watch | Gravitas: China's demographic disaster: Is this the end of China's dream? Despite efforts by the government to encourage more births, such as relaxing its stringent one-child birth policy and offering financial incentives, many women are still reluctant to have children. "Because the current social environment in China is not conducive to women’s childbirth, the time cost and opportunity cost for women to have children are too high," it states. The report warns that the falling birthrate could potentially impact economic growth, people's overall happiness and China’s global standing. It further urged the government to reduce the cost of childbirth "as soon as possible." (With inputs from agencies)

The price of parenthood: China among the most expensive places to raise children, finds report

<p>New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird,&nbsp;welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool.</p>

<p>The opening marks a significant step in the country's efforts to preserve its once-threatened national bird, as reported by AFP news agency.</p>

<p>The surge in kiwi populations, once endangered, prompted the creation of a specialised hospital in Kerikeri, Northland. The initiative reflects New Zealand's commitment to safeguarding its iconic species, with the hospital being the first of its kind in the country.</p>

<p>Constructed by the local conservation group Kiwi Coast, the hospital is strategically located in the heart of Northland, home to nearly 10,000 brown kiwis. This region has played a vital role in the species' resurgence, with its population now exceeding 26,000 across the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Kiwis in New Zealand go from vulnerable to thriving</strong></h2>

<p>Previously classified as "nationally vulnerable," the brown kiwi's status has now been upgraded to "not threatened." This transformation is attributed to rigorous conservation measures, including predator control initiatives and community engagement in safeguarding kiwi habitats.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-decode-years-of-research-to-find-the-optimal-temperature-for-life-heres-all-you-need-to-know-692028">Also read |&nbsp;Researchers decode years of studies to find the optimal temperature for life. Find it out here</a></p>

<p>With kiwi numbers on the rise, the demand for specialised care for injured or sick birds has escalated. The hospital aims to cater to such cases, ensuring that stressed kiwis receive timely and appropriate medical attention.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bird flu detected in Antarctica&nbsp;</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bird-flu-detected-in-antarctica-scientists-create-identical-twin-universe-trending-on-wion-651203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Even before its official opening, the hospital sprung into action to rescue "Splash," a young kiwi that had fallen into a swimming pool filter. The successful treatment and release of "Splash" underscore the hospital's critical role in preserving kiwi populations.</p>

<p>Operated by volunteers, the hospital boasts state-of-the-art veterinary facilities and isolation pens to prevent disease transmission. Kiwi patients undergo comprehensive treatment before being reintroduced into their natural habitats.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird, welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool.

New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird, welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool. The opening marks a significant step in the country's efforts to preserve its once-threatened national bird, as reported by AFP news agency. The surge in kiwi populations, once endangered, prompted the creation of a specialised hospital in Kerikeri, Northland. The initiative reflects New Zealand's commitment to safeguarding its iconic species, with the hospital being the first of its kind in the country. Constructed by the local conservation group Kiwi Coast, the hospital is strategically located in the heart of Northland, home to nearly 10,000 brown kiwis. This region has played a vital role in the species' resurgence, with its population now exceeding 26,000 across the country. Kiwis in New Zealand go from vulnerable to thriving Previously classified as "nationally vulnerable," the brown kiwi's status has now been upgraded to "not threatened." This transformation is attributed to rigorous conservation measures, including predator control initiatives and community engagement in safeguarding kiwi habitats. Also read | Researchers decode years of studies to find the optimal temperature for life. Find it out here With kiwi numbers on the rise, the demand for specialised care for injured or sick birds has escalated. The hospital aims to cater to such cases, ensuring that stressed kiwis receive timely and appropriate medical attention. Also watch | Bird flu detected in Antarctica Even before its official opening, the hospital sprung into action to rescue "Splash," a young kiwi that had fallen into a swimming pool filter. The successful treatment and release of "Splash" underscore the hospital's critical role in preserving kiwi populations. Operated by volunteers, the hospital boasts state-of-the-art veterinary facilities and isolation pens to prevent disease transmission. Kiwi patients undergo comprehensive treatment before being reintroduced into their natural habitats. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand gets its first 'kiwi hospital' to care for injured birds

<p>At least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22), according to media reports citing the police. The suspect, a 17-year-old knife-wielding fellow student, has been arrested, said the local officials.</p>

<h2><strong>What we know so far</strong></h2>

<p>The incident took place at the Wilhelm Dörpfeld school in Wuppertal’s Elberfeld district. German media reports citing a female teacher said that the students were attacked with a knife and a pair of scissors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are on site with a large number of officers. There are injured school children,” Wuppertal police said in a post on X. Five students were injured, according to the police, including the alleged attacker who was arrested at the scene.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-one-dead-8-injured-in-terror-attack-in-west-bank-reports-692615">At least one dead, 8 injured in terror attack in West Bank: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>As per media reports the local police launched a major operation around 10:00 am (local time) on Thursday. The incident prompted law enforcement officials to rush to the scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A police helicopter was seen circling over the school, as per German state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), while officers carrying submachine guns were among the large group of emergency responders at the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The school was evacuated and the nearby areas were cordoned off. Police spokesman Stefan Weiand told German newspaper Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung (WAZ) that the students were “understandably shaken”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The school, as per DW, specialises in ancient languages and has some 700 pupils.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the victims</strong></h2>

<p>Aside from the age of the suspect, who was among the injured, the identities of the victims were not immediately known.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-two-killed-several-injured-in-knife-attack-inside-kiel-bound-train-555964">Germany: Two killed, several injured in knife attack inside Kiel-bound train, suspect held</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by WAZ citing Interior Minister Herbert Reul of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) said at least two students and the alleged perpetrator were seriously injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the media report, the 17-year-old suspect was in 11th grade and allegedly attacked his classmates during recess with a knife and also injured himself during and after the assault. The motive for the attack was not immediately known.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


At least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22), according to media reports citing the police.

At least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22), according to media reports citing the police. The suspect, a 17-year-old knife-wielding fellow student, has been arrested, said the local officials. What we know so far The incident took place at the Wilhelm Dörpfeld school in Wuppertal’s Elberfeld district. German media reports citing a female teacher said that the students were attacked with a knife and a pair of scissors. “We are on site with a large number of officers. There are injured school children,” Wuppertal police said in a post on X. Five students were injured, according to the police, including the alleged attacker who was arrested at the scene. Also Read | At least one dead, 8 injured in terror attack in West Bank: Reports As per media reports the local police launched a major operation around 10:00 am (local time) on Thursday. The incident prompted law enforcement officials to rush to the scene. A police helicopter was seen circling over the school, as per German state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), while officers carrying submachine guns were among the large group of emergency responders at the site. The school was evacuated and the nearby areas were cordoned off. Police spokesman Stefan Weiand told German newspaper Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung (WAZ) that the students were “understandably shaken”. The school, as per DW, specialises in ancient languages and has some 700 pupils. About the victims Aside from the age of the suspect, who was among the injured, the identities of the victims were not immediately known. Also Read | Germany: Two killed, several injured in knife attack inside Kiel-bound train, suspect held A report by WAZ citing Interior Minister Herbert Reul of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) said at least two students and the alleged perpetrator were seriously injured. According to the media report, the 17-year-old suspect was in 11th grade and allegedly attacked his classmates during recess with a knife and also injured himself during and after the assault. The motive for the attack was not immediately known. (With inputs from agencies)

At least five students injured after knife attack at German school, suspect detained

<p>Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>'Fruitless attempts'</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions."</p>

<p>"The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>"In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state."</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>"The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement.</p>

<h2><strong>EU's sanctions on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc. 'Fruitless attempts' In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions." "The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said. Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' "In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state." As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list. Watch | Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war? × "The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement. EU's sanctions on Ukraine On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

The High Court in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur ordered the deletion of a paragraph from a March 2023 order that urged the state to consider including the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list.

India: Manipur HC deletes part of earlier order for inclusion of Meiteis in ST list

<p>Former US president Donald Trump's attempt to delay the $354 million fine, along with nearly $100 million in interest, ordered against him in a civil fraud case in New York has been denied by Judge Arthur Engoron of the New York State Supreme Court, media reports said.</p>

<p>Engoron stated in an email to Trump's legal team and lawyers from the New York Attorney General's Office that he would sign a judgement proposed by the state to finalise his ruling, citing the failure of Trump's lawyers to provide any justification for a delay.&nbsp;"You have failed to explain, much less justify, any basis for a stay," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Engoron on February 16 ruled that Trump and other defendants were liable to pay $453.5 million in fines and interest for their involvement in a scheme spanning a decade aimed at inflating asset values to secure more favourable loans.&nbsp;"Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," the judge had written in his ruling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Engoron additionally prohibited Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years. Moreover, Trump is barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-meets-with-navalnys-wife-and-daughter-vows-sanctions-against-russia-692919">US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia</a></p>

<p>Trump has expressed intentions to appeal the ruling, criticising both Engoron and New York Attorney General Letitia James. He accuses both of pursuing the case for political reasons.</p>

<h2><strong>Denied pleas for delay</strong></h2>

<p>Trump's legal team requested a 30-day postponement of enforcement, citing the need for an orderly post-judgment process due to its magnitude. However, Engoron rejected this request.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/odysseus-us-spacecraft-makes-historic-landing-on-moon-marks-1st-american-touchdown-in-over-50-yrs-692914">Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs</a></p>

<p>In case Trump decides to appeal against the judgment, the former US president would need to post a bond covering the $354 million penalty.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-after-capturing-avdiivka-russia-sets-eyes-on-southern-ukraine-692905">Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine</a></strong></p>

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<p>Failure to pay could result in asset seizure, as indicated by Attorney General James, who is committed to ensuring the judgement is "paid to New Yorkers".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former US president Donald Trump's attempt to delay the $354 million fine, along with nearly $100 million in interest, ordered against him in a civil fraud case in New York has been denied by Judge Arthur Engoron of the New York State Supreme Court, media reports said.

Former US president Donald Trump's attempt to delay the $354 million fine, along with nearly $100 million in interest, ordered against him in a civil fraud case in New York has been denied by Judge Arthur Engoron of the New York State Supreme Court, media reports said. Engoron stated in an email to Trump's legal team and lawyers from the New York Attorney General's Office that he would sign a judgement proposed by the state to finalise his ruling, citing the failure of Trump's lawyers to provide any justification for a delay. "You have failed to explain, much less justify, any basis for a stay," he wrote. Engoron on February 16 ruled that Trump and other defendants were liable to pay $453.5 million in fines and interest for their involvement in a scheme spanning a decade aimed at inflating asset values to secure more favourable loans. "Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," the judge had written in his ruling. Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Engoron additionally prohibited Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years. Moreover, Trump is barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period. Also Read | US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia Trump has expressed intentions to appeal the ruling, criticising both Engoron and New York Attorney General Letitia James. He accuses both of pursuing the case for political reasons. Denied pleas for delay Trump's legal team requested a 30-day postponement of enforcement, citing the need for an orderly post-judgment process due to its magnitude. However, Engoron rejected this request. Also Read | Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs In case Trump decides to appeal against the judgment, the former US president would need to post a bond covering the $354 million penalty. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine × Failure to pay could result in asset seizure, as indicated by Attorney General James, who is committed to ensuring the judgement is "paid to New Yorkers". (With inputs from agencies)

'You have failed to explain': Judge refuses Trump's bid to delay $354 million fine in fraud case

The sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his revered disciples have now arrived in Thailand from India for public viewing. This marks the first time that the relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples will be showcased together.

Lord Buddha and his disciples' relics reach Thailand

Armenia PM Pashinyan told television network that the CSTO pact, dominated by Russia, had failed Armenia. "The Collective Security Treaty has not fulfilled its objectives as far as Armenia is concerned, particularly in 2021 and 2022. And we could not let that happen without taking notice," Pashinyan said through an interpreter.

Armenia freezes participation in Russia-led security bloc

The statement by a Houthi representative on social media site X came shortly after the group's leader said it was ramping up attacks on ships in the Red Sea and other waters - including with new "submarine weapons" - to mirror Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Houthis to step up Red Sea strikes, use 'submarine weapons: Leader

Paul Maynard is under investigation by MPs' expenses watchdog over claims he charged taxpayers for political campaign services.

UK: More trouble mounts for PM Rishi Sunak, Tory MP accused of misusing taxpayers' money: Reports

Three years on from its bloody coup, Myanmar’s military junta is facing the biggest challenge to its fragile hold on power as it struggles to fight a nationwide armed resistance on multiple fronts across the Southeast Asian nation.

Fear of Mass Exodus in Myanmar, rebels gain ground in key locations

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha on Thursday demanded Haryana Chief Minister and the Haryana Home Minister be booked for the "murder" of a protesting farmer on the Punjab-Haryana border and announced a tractor march next week.

Farmers' Protest | Farmer death: SKM demands FIR against Haryana Chief Minister

<p>US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny,&nbsp;who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House, in a statement, wrote, "President Biden met with Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya today in San Francisco to express his heartfelt condolences for their terrible loss following the death of Aleksey Navalny in a Russian prison. The President expressed his admiration for Aleksey Navalny’s extraordinary courage and his legacy of fighting against corruption and for a free and democratic Russia in which the rule of law applies equally to everyone."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-at-least-four-killed-in-deadly-blaze-at-residential-block-in-valencia-692917">WATCH | At least four killed in deadly blaze at residential block in Spain's Valencia</a></p>

<p>"The President emphasised that Aleksey’s legacy will carry on through people across Russia and around the world mourning his loss and fighting for freedom, democracy, and human rights," the statement added.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/odysseus-us-spacecraft-makes-historic-landing-on-moon-marks-1st-american-touchdown-in-over-50-yrs-692914">Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs</a></p>

<p>In the private meeting, Biden also reaffirmed that his administration will impose fresh sanctions against Russia on Saturday (February 24). Calling out Russia’s "repression and aggression", the White House said that the ongoing war by Russia in Ukraine is "brutal and illegal."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sanctions against 500 targets</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The United States, in commemoration of the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will impose sanctions on over 500&nbsp;targets, according to Deputy US Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-after-capturing-avdiivka-russia-sets-eyes-on-southern-ukraine-692905">Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine</a></strong></p>

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<p>These sanctions, executed in collaboration with other nations, will specifically target Russia's military-industrial complex and entities in third countries that facilitate Russia's procurement of desired goods. The objective is to hold Russia accountable for its role in the Ukraine conflict and for Navalny's death.</p>

<p>“Tomorrow we’ll release hundreds of sanctions just here in the United States, but it’s important to step back and remember that it’s not just America taking these actions,” Adeyemo said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed.

US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss. The White House, in a statement, wrote, "President Biden met with Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya today in San Francisco to express his heartfelt condolences for their terrible loss following the death of Aleksey Navalny in a Russian prison. The President expressed his admiration for Aleksey Navalny’s extraordinary courage and his legacy of fighting against corruption and for a free and democratic Russia in which the rule of law applies equally to everyone." WATCH | At least four killed in deadly blaze at residential block in Spain's Valencia "The President emphasised that Aleksey’s legacy will carry on through people across Russia and around the world mourning his loss and fighting for freedom, democracy, and human rights," the statement added. Also Read | Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs In the private meeting, Biden also reaffirmed that his administration will impose fresh sanctions against Russia on Saturday (February 24). Calling out Russia’s "repression and aggression", the White House said that the ongoing war by Russia in Ukraine is "brutal and illegal." Sanctions against 500 targets The United States, in commemoration of the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will impose sanctions on over 500 targets, according to Deputy US Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine × These sanctions, executed in collaboration with other nations, will specifically target Russia's military-industrial complex and entities in third countries that facilitate Russia's procurement of desired goods. The objective is to hold Russia accountable for its role in the Ukraine conflict and for Navalny's death. “Tomorrow we’ll release hundreds of sanctions just here in the United States, but it’s important to step back and remember that it’s not just America taking these actions,” Adeyemo said. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia

<p>London-born woman Shamima Begum who went to Syria as a schoolgirl to join the Islamic State terror group, on Friday (Feb 23) lost her latest appeal over the revocation of her British citizenship.&nbsp;Shamima Begum's citizenship was taken away by the&nbsp;British government&nbsp;on grounds of national security&nbsp;in 2019, weeks after she was found in a detention camp in north-eastern Syria.</p>

<p>Begum, now 24, argued that the decision was unlawful, partly because British officials failed to properly consider whether she was a victim of trafficking, an argument that was rejected by a lower court in February 2023.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Shamima Begum loses UK citizenship appeal as court cites threat to national security</strong></p>

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<p>The Court of Appeal in London rejected her appeal on Friday following an appeal in October. It&nbsp;ruled that Shamima Begum was lawfully deprived of her British citizenship.</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8719557478648da6f991a.0.6.0.0:$post_1">The Court of Appeal justice said that it could be argued that&nbsp;Begum is "the author of her own misfortune".</p>

<p>"But it is not for this court to agree, or disagree with either point of view," said the court.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shamima-begums-lawyer-claims-she-was-victim-of-trafficking-while-joining-isis-651197">Shamima Begum's lawyer claims she was victim of trafficking while joining ISIS</a></strong></p>

<p>"Our only task is to assess whether the deprivation decision was unlawful. We have concluded it was not, and the appeal is dismissed," it further observed.</p>

<p>Baroness Sue Carr, the Lady Chief Justice, and the two other judges ruled that Begum "may well have been influenced and manipulated by others but still have made a calculated decision to travel to Syria and align with Islamic State."</p>

<h2><strong>What next for Shamima Begum?</strong></h2>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8719557478648da6f991a.0.6.0.0:$post_1">The current ruling means that Shamima will remain in Syria with no chance of return to the UK. But the ruling does not mean this is the end of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8756057c60b5283ad34e0.0.6.0.0:$post_5">Begum’s side can now file a plea in the UK Supreme Court and that could take another year.</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8756057c60b5283ad34e0.0.6.0.0:$post_5">Begum joined ISIS in 2015, when&nbsp;aged 15, she left her home in London to travel to Syria to join the terror group.</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8756057c60b5283ad34e0.0.6.0.0:$post_5">The now 24-year-old's lawyers brought a bid to overturn a 2023 decision at the Court of Appeal. The UK&nbsp;Home Office is opposing the challenge.</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8756057c60b5283ad34e0.0.6.0.0:$post_5">Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration has&nbsp;argued that the "key feature" of Begum's case was national security.</p>

<p data-reactid=".vo3ykax2o6.0.2.0.0.1.0.1.0.$lx-tabs0.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-65d8756057c60b5283ad34e0.0.6.0.0:$post_5"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


London-born woman Shamima Begum who went to Syria as a schoolgirl to join the Islamic State terror group, on Friday (Feb 23) lost her latest appeal over the revocation of her British citizenship.

London-born woman Shamima Begum who went to Syria as a schoolgirl to join the Islamic State terror group, on Friday (Feb 23) lost her latest appeal over the revocation of her British citizenship. Shamima Begum's citizenship was taken away by the British government on grounds of national security in 2019, weeks after she was found in a detention camp in north-eastern Syria. Begum, now 24, argued that the decision was unlawful, partly because British officials failed to properly consider whether she was a victim of trafficking, an argument that was rejected by a lower court in February 2023. Also watch | Shamima Begum loses UK citizenship appeal as court cites threat to national security × The Court of Appeal in London rejected her appeal on Friday following an appeal in October. It ruled that Shamima Begum was lawfully deprived of her British citizenship. The Court of Appeal justice said that it could be argued that Begum is "the author of her own misfortune". "But it is not for this court to agree, or disagree with either point of view," said the court. Also read | Shamima Begum's lawyer claims she was victim of trafficking while joining ISIS "Our only task is to assess whether the deprivation decision was unlawful. We have concluded it was not, and the appeal is dismissed," it further observed. Baroness Sue Carr, the Lady Chief Justice, and the two other judges ruled that Begum "may well have been influenced and manipulated by others but still have made a calculated decision to travel to Syria and align with Islamic State." What next for Shamima Begum? The current ruling means that Shamima will remain in Syria with no chance of return to the UK. But the ruling does not mean this is the end of it. Begum’s side can now file a plea in the UK Supreme Court and that could take another year. Begum joined ISIS in 2015, when aged 15, she left her home in London to travel to Syria to join the terror group. The now 24-year-old's lawyers brought a bid to overturn a 2023 decision at the Court of Appeal. The UK Home Office is opposing the challenge. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration has argued that the "key feature" of Begum's case was national security. (With inputs from agencies)

Shamima Begum, former 'ISIS bride', loses appeal against UK citizenship revocation

Houthi rebels say ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea are their latest maritime targets. Yemen's Houthi rebels say they have targeted what they claim to be an Israeli cargo ship, the MSC Silver, in the Gulf of Aden near the entrance to the Red Sea with a number of missiles.

Red Sea Crisis: Houthis warn of escalating attacks on ships

Sri Lanka's Deputy Foreign Minister Tharaka Balasuiriya speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi,Sri Lanka's Deputy Foreign Minister spoke about India Sri Lanka relationship, tourism, China and more.

India reiterate support for Sri Lanka amid economic woes | Relations at "All time high" | Exclusive

<p>Emergency units at all hospitals in South Korea except for one, on Thursday (Feb 22) were on red alert as more than 8,000 trainee doctors continued their protest against the government’s proposed reforms to boost the country’s healthcare sector. The doctors have argued that Seoul needs to address existing issues before increasing the number of physicians.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Red alert’ in South Korea’s hospitals</strong></h2>

<p>As of Thursday, more than 8,400 doctors have joined the walkout – about 64 per cent of the entire resident and intern doctors in the country, reported Reuters citing the health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 300 doctors also took to the streets in the capital city of Seoul near the presidential office to call on the government to scrap its plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why are South Korean trainee doctors on strike?</strong></p>

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<p>The protests continued a day after South Korea’s government officially ordered thousands of striking doctors to get back to work immediately or face legal action. The walkouts left general hospitals, which heavily rely on trainees for emergency operations and surgeries, paralysed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around two-thirds of the country’s young doctors have joined the protests since they began earlier this week, raising fears of further disruptions to the medical system if the dispute over the reforms drags on.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the proposed reforms</strong></h2>

<p>The government citing the low number of doctors and the country’s rapidly ageing society proposed several reforms in one of the largest shake-ups to South Korea’s medical training system.</p>

<p>The proposed reforms, announced earlier this month, would raise the number of students admitted to medical schools by 2,000 in the academic year 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government has sought to fill an expected shortfall of 15,000 doctors projected by 2035, said the health ministry, given that the ageing population would raise the demand for medical services in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the medical community is also ageing, more doctors are expected to retire in the upcoming years, said the health ministry.</p>

<p>South Korea, with 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people, is ranked among the lowest in developed countries for its doctor-to-patient ratio, according to data from the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).</p>

<p>The government’s plan has also sought to increase investment and lift pay for doctors in regional and rural areas to maintain healthcare in those regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-trainee-doctors-stop-work-to-protest-medical-reforms-692126">South Korean trainee doctors stop work to protest medical reforms</a></strong></p>

<p>The government has raised the fees for doctors in paediatrics, obstetrics and emergency medicine since last year, said South Korea’s Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Seoul also plans to inject over $7.48 billion to further boost these fees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Specialist doctors in South Korea, as per OECD, are some of the highest paid among developed countries, as opposed to the general practitioners who are comparatively paid less.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea faces a shortage of specialists in certain key areas, such as paediatrics and cardiology, which has been attributed to misplaced financial incentives, national health insurance, and the risk of medical lawsuits.</p>

<p>Seoul has acknowledged that doctors in essential services are often subject to malpractice suits and prosecution and plans to introduce new legislation to expand legal protection for doctors.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What have the doctors said?</strong></h2>

<p>The doctors have said that universities aren’t ready to offer quality education to that many students, as the government has sought to bring the total to 5,000 students, as per its plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2,000 additional admissions “is a nonsensical figure,” said the Korea Interns and Residents Association, the body leading the strike, and called the plan a political ploy ahead of a general election in April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Korea Medical Association, which represents 140,000 doctors, said it supports the trainee doctors’ walkouts, but is yet to decide if they will join them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Tuesday night, about 8,820 out of the country’s 13,000 trainee doctors have submitted resignations to their hospitals, but none of them have been accepted. Around 7,813 of the doctors have walked off, Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo told reporters&nbsp;on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea’s medical community argues that there are already sufficient numbers of doctors saying that the real issue is the pay and working conditions.</p>

<p>The medical interns and resident doctors say they are underpaid and overworked and their protests show the flaws in the system. Trainee doctors typically work 80 to 100 hours, five days a week, supporting senior doctors during surgeries and dealing with inpatients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They say more senior staff needs to be hired to address this issue and not increase the number of trainees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Young doctors are also concerned that increasing the number of medical students would lead to more competition in the already cut-throat sector,&nbsp;a view which is not particularly popular.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Opposing the expansion of medical school admissions to ensure greater profitability by reducing competition when they establish their own practices in the future is unlikely to garner public support,” Kim Jae-heon, head of an NGO advocating free medical care told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Government issues back-to-work order</strong></h2>

<p>The government, on Wednesday (Feb 21) issued the back-to-work and accused trainee doctors of putting their rights before the lives of patients. “A collective action taking the lives and safety of the people hostage cannot be justified for whatever reason,” said Safety Minister Lee Sang-min.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-orders-striking-doctors-back-to-work-as-emergency-units-turn-away-patients-692497">South Korea orders striking doctors back to work as emergency units turn away patients</a></strong></p>

<p>Seoul’s medical law allows the government to issue such back-to-work orders if there are grave concerns about public health. If not abided by, striking doctors can face up to three years in prison, $22,480 in fines, and punishment that could lead to them losing their medical licence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everyone is angry and frustrated, so we are all leaving hospitals,” said Park Dan, head of the Korea Interns and Residents Association, adding that he was willing to be arrested if their demands were not heard.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on hospitals and patients</strong></h2>

<p>The biggest hospitals across South Korea were forced to cancel operations and turn away patients who sought emergency care.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Five major hospitals in the country have cut surgeries by up to 50 per cent to deal with the stoppage of operations, reported news agency Yonhap citing industry sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cancer patients and pregnant women needing C-sections have seen procedures cancelled or delayed, as per local media reports.</p>

<p>Social media and online communities were flooded with posts about people receiving phone calls about delays and cancellations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m really angry at both the government and the hospital,” wrote a patient with breast cancer whose operation was postponed indefinitely, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “I hate both the government that created this situation and the doctors who pretend not to know that no cause is more important than their patients.”</p>

<p>A poll by Gallup Korea showed that most South Koreans (76 per cent) are in favour of the reforms&nbsp;amid concerns about an acute shortage of doctors for paediatrics, emergency units and clinics outside the greater Seoul area.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Emergency units at all hospitals in South Korea except for one, on Thursday (Feb 22) were on red alert as more than 8,000 trainee doctors continued their protest against the government’s proposed reforms to boost the country’s healthcare sector.

Emergency units at all hospitals in South Korea except for one, on Thursday (Feb 22) were on red alert as more than 8,000 trainee doctors continued their protest against the government’s proposed reforms to boost the country’s healthcare sector. The doctors have argued that Seoul needs to address existing issues before increasing the number of physicians. ‘Red alert’ in South Korea’s hospitals As of Thursday, more than 8,400 doctors have joined the walkout – about 64 per cent of the entire resident and intern doctors in the country, reported Reuters citing the health ministry. Around 300 doctors also took to the streets in the capital city of Seoul near the presidential office to call on the government to scrap its plan. WATCH | Why are South Korean trainee doctors on strike? The protests continued a day after South Korea’s government officially ordered thousands of striking doctors to get back to work immediately or face legal action. The walkouts left general hospitals, which heavily rely on trainees for emergency operations and surgeries, paralysed. Around two-thirds of the country’s young doctors have joined the protests since they began earlier this week, raising fears of further disruptions to the medical system if the dispute over the reforms drags on. About the proposed reforms The government citing the low number of doctors and the country’s rapidly ageing society proposed several reforms in one of the largest shake-ups to South Korea’s medical training system. The proposed reforms, announced earlier this month, would raise the number of students admitted to medical schools by 2,000 in the academic year 2025. The government has sought to fill an expected shortfall of 15,000 doctors projected by 2035, said the health ministry, given that the ageing population would raise the demand for medical services in the future. Since the medical community is also ageing, more doctors are expected to retire in the upcoming years, said the health ministry. South Korea, with 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people, is ranked among the lowest in developed countries for its doctor-to-patient ratio, according to data from the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The government’s plan has also sought to increase investment and lift pay for doctors in regional and rural areas to maintain healthcare in those regions. Also Read | South Korean trainee doctors stop work to protest medical reforms The government has raised the fees for doctors in paediatrics, obstetrics and emergency medicine since last year, said South Korea’s Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Seoul also plans to inject over $7.48 billion to further boost these fees. Specialist doctors in South Korea, as per OECD, are some of the highest paid among developed countries, as opposed to the general practitioners who are comparatively paid less. South Korea faces a shortage of specialists in certain key areas, such as paediatrics and cardiology, which has been attributed to misplaced financial incentives, national health insurance, and the risk of medical lawsuits. Seoul has acknowledged that doctors in essential services are often subject to malpractice suits and prosecution and plans to introduce new legislation to expand legal protection for doctors. What have the doctors said? The doctors have said that universities aren’t ready to offer quality education to that many students, as the government has sought to bring the total to 5,000 students, as per its plan. The 2,000 additional admissions “is a nonsensical figure,” said the Korea Interns and Residents Association, the body leading the strike, and called the plan a political ploy ahead of a general election in April. The Korea Medical Association, which represents 140,000 doctors, said it supports the trainee doctors’ walkouts, but is yet to decide if they will join them. As of Tuesday night, about 8,820 out of the country’s 13,000 trainee doctors have submitted resignations to their hospitals, but none of them have been accepted. Around 7,813 of the doctors have walked off, Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo told reporters on Wednesday. South Korea’s medical community argues that there are already sufficient numbers of doctors saying that the real issue is the pay and working conditions. The medical interns and resident doctors say they are underpaid and overworked and their protests show the flaws in the system. Trainee doctors typically work 80 to 100 hours, five days a week, supporting senior doctors during surgeries and dealing with inpatients. They say more senior staff needs to be hired to address this issue and not increase the number of trainees. Young doctors are also concerned that increasing the number of medical students would lead to more competition in the already cut-throat sector, a view which is not particularly popular. “Opposing the expansion of medical school admissions to ensure greater profitability by reducing competition when they establish their own practices in the future is unlikely to garner public support,” Kim Jae-heon, head of an NGO advocating free medical care told AFP. Government issues back-to-work order The government, on Wednesday (Feb 21) issued the back-to-work and accused trainee doctors of putting their rights before the lives of patients. “A collective action taking the lives and safety of the people hostage cannot be justified for whatever reason,” said Safety Minister Lee Sang-min. Also Read | South Korea orders striking doctors back to work as emergency units turn away patients Seoul’s medical law allows the government to issue such back-to-work orders if there are grave concerns about public health. If not abided by, striking doctors can face up to three years in prison, $22,480 in fines, and punishment that could lead to them losing their medical licence. “Everyone is angry and frustrated, so we are all leaving hospitals,” said Park Dan, head of the Korea Interns and Residents Association, adding that he was willing to be arrested if their demands were not heard. Impact on hospitals and patients The biggest hospitals across South Korea were forced to cancel operations and turn away patients who sought emergency care. Five major hospitals in the country have cut surgeries by up to 50 per cent to deal with the stoppage of operations, reported news agency Yonhap citing industry sources. Cancer patients and pregnant women needing C-sections have seen procedures cancelled or delayed, as per local media reports. Social media and online communities were flooded with posts about people receiving phone calls about delays and cancellations. “I’m really angry at both the government and the hospital,” wrote a patient with breast cancer whose operation was postponed indefinitely, as per AFP. She added, “I hate both the government that created this situation and the doctors who pretend not to know that no cause is more important than their patients.” A poll by Gallup Korea showed that most South Koreans (76 per cent) are in favour of the reforms amid concerns about an acute shortage of doctors for paediatrics, emergency units and clinics outside the greater Seoul area. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Proposed reforms that have led South Korea’s doctors to walk out

More than 1,600 trainee doctors in South Korea’s major hospitals staged a walkout on Tuesday to protest against a government plan to admit more students to medical schools, stoking fears of delays to surgical operations and patient treatment.

Seoul's Healthcare on Edge: Protests break out over proposed health reforms

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<p>South Korea on Friday (Feb 23) elevated its public health alert to the highest level as authorities declared a health services crisis, attributing it to the resignation of thousands of doctors in protest against proposed medical reforms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong> | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-south-koreas-hospitals-on-red-alert-as-thousands-of-doctors-stage-walkout-over-proposed-reforms-692913">Explained: Proposed reforms that have led South Korea’s doctors to walk out</a></p>

<p>The doctors are protesting against the government’s proposed reforms to boost the country’s healthcare sector. The doctors have argued that Seoul needs to address existing issues before increasing the number of physicians.</p>

<p>According to Seoul's Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo, over 8,890 junior doctors, constituting 78.5 per cent of the trainee workforce, have resigned in opposition to the government's plans to significantly boost medical school admissions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why are South Korean trainee doctors on strike?</strong></p>

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<p>Park Min-soo stated in a press briefing that 7,863 of the resigned doctors have not reported for duty, though their resignation letters have not been officially accepted or processed. The government has issued orders for many of them to return to their hospitals.</p>

<p>In South Korea, doctors are legally prohibited from striking, being deemed essential workers. The government contends that the mass resignation is illegal, asserting, "Illegal collective actions that threaten public health cannot be justified for any reason."</p>

<p>The collective action has led to the cancellation or postponement of surgeries for cancer patients and C-sections for pregnant women, prompting urgent appeals from patients with severe illnesses for the doctors to resume work.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-trainee-doctors-stop-work-to-protest-medical-reforms-692126">South Korean trainee doctors stop work to protest medical reforms</a></strong></p>

<p>Park informed reporters that due to concerns about the damage to citizens' health caused by the collective actions of doctors, the health care disaster alert level has been upgraded from 'caution' to 'severe.' This is the first time the alert has been raised to the ‘severe’ level due to a health care service crisis.</p>

<p>It is worth mentioning that South Korea's general hospitals heavily rely on trainees for emergency operations and surgeries.</p>

<p>While addressing the situation, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assured that the government would ensure all public hospitals operate at ‘maximum’ capacity, extending weekday hours and enhancing service availability on weekends and holidays.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-orders-striking-doctors-back-to-work-as-emergency-units-turn-away-patients-692497">South Korea orders striking doctors back to work as emergency units turn away patients</a></strong></p>

<p>South Korea, with one of the lowest doctor-to-population ratios among developed countries, is aiming to admit an additional 2,000 students to medical schools annually from the next year.</p>

<p>Doctors argue against the government's plan, expressing concerns about its impact on service quality, while supporters of the reform claim doctors fear potential salary and status reductions.</p>

<p>Junior doctors argue that the new medical education reforms exacerbate the challenges they already face in a profession with demanding working conditions. Polls indicate that up to 75 per cent of the South Korean public supports the increase in medical school admissions, with those in remote areas struggling to access quality healthcare.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Korea on Friday (Feb 23) elevated its public health alert to the highest level as authorities declared a health services crisis, attributing it to the resignation of thousands of doctors in protest against proposed medical reforms.

South Korea on Friday (Feb 23) elevated its public health alert to the highest level as authorities declared a health services crisis, attributing it to the resignation of thousands of doctors in protest against proposed medical reforms. Also read | Explained: Proposed reforms that have led South Korea’s doctors to walk out The doctors are protesting against the government’s proposed reforms to boost the country’s healthcare sector. The doctors have argued that Seoul needs to address existing issues before increasing the number of physicians. According to Seoul's Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo, over 8,890 junior doctors, constituting 78.5 per cent of the trainee workforce, have resigned in opposition to the government's plans to significantly boost medical school admissions. WATCH | Why are South Korean trainee doctors on strike? × Park Min-soo stated in a press briefing that 7,863 of the resigned doctors have not reported for duty, though their resignation letters have not been officially accepted or processed. The government has issued orders for many of them to return to their hospitals. In South Korea, doctors are legally prohibited from striking, being deemed essential workers. The government contends that the mass resignation is illegal, asserting, "Illegal collective actions that threaten public health cannot be justified for any reason." The collective action has led to the cancellation or postponement of surgeries for cancer patients and C-sections for pregnant women, prompting urgent appeals from patients with severe illnesses for the doctors to resume work. Also Read | South Korean trainee doctors stop work to protest medical reforms Park informed reporters that due to concerns about the damage to citizens' health caused by the collective actions of doctors, the health care disaster alert level has been upgraded from 'caution' to 'severe.' This is the first time the alert has been raised to the ‘severe’ level due to a health care service crisis. It is worth mentioning that South Korea's general hospitals heavily rely on trainees for emergency operations and surgeries. While addressing the situation, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assured that the government would ensure all public hospitals operate at ‘maximum’ capacity, extending weekday hours and enhancing service availability on weekends and holidays. Also Read | South Korea orders striking doctors back to work as emergency units turn away patients South Korea, with one of the lowest doctor-to-population ratios among developed countries, is aiming to admit an additional 2,000 students to medical schools annually from the next year. Doctors argue against the government's plan, expressing concerns about its impact on service quality, while supporters of the reform claim doctors fear potential salary and status reductions. Junior doctors argue that the new medical education reforms exacerbate the challenges they already face in a profession with demanding working conditions. Polls indicate that up to 75 per cent of the South Korean public supports the increase in medical school admissions, with those in remote areas struggling to access quality healthcare. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea declares 'severe' health alert amid doctors' strike

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