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World mourns Russian opposition leader's death. Russian police officials detain over 100 people at memorials organised for kremlin critic leader's death. Meanwhile, Navalny's team says Russian investigators are lying to keep the leader's body. Watch to know more!

Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team accuses Russia of 'hiding' body | Latest News

<p>Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension&nbsp;to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide&nbsp;“certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK.</p>

<p>“This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the&nbsp;extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's struggles in the war</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed&nbsp;pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives.</p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the&nbsp;capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict&nbsp;could drag on.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084">Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads.</p>

<p>With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18). Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide “certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK. “This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians. Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war. Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News × Ukraine's struggles in the war The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory". Notably, the capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads. With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through. (With inputs from agencies)

UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians

Promoting Maritime cooperation and security India's Vishakhapatnam is all set to host Milan 2024. The flagship International Naval exercise under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command of the Navy. At least 50 countries have confirmed participation in the event. The Indian Navy will host its largest-ever multinational exercise - "Milan - 2024" - from February 19 to February 27. Watch to know more.

Indian Navy to host 'Milan 2024' mega naval exercise in Visakhapatnam

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Bolivia: Six dead, two children missing after heavy rains

<p>The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has called for the urgent relocation of 61 asylum seekers stranded on the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia for over two years. The development was first reported by The Guardian and the BBC.<br />
<img alt="Diego Garcia is located 9,457 km from London" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="953f0bd3-c567-4d8e-8ada-942aaea4cbc0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-18T194705.088.png" /></p>

<p><em>Diego Garcia is located 9,457 km from London | Google Maps</em></p>

<p>The asylum seekers reportedly consist of Tamils from Sri Lanka. They have reportedly faced violence, abuse, and arbitrary detention during the last two years.</p>

<p>The UN inspection, sanctioned by the Supreme Court of British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), revealed that the asylum seekers, under the "effective control" of the UK government, were subjected to conditions of "arbitrary detention". The UN said that these individuals must be moved promptly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-be-included-in-uk-safe-states-list-no-asylum-rights-for-countrys-illegal-migrants-656963">India to be included in UK safe states list, no asylum rights for country's illegal migrants</a></strong></p>

<p>The asylum seekers arrived on Diego Garcia in October 2021 after their boat, en route to Canada for asylum, encountered difficulties, whose nature could not be immediately ascertained.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does the UN report say?</strong></h2>

<p>The damning UN report highlighted accusations of sexual harassment and abuse against women and children within the asylum-seeking&nbsp;group, along with increased levels of mental distress and conditions akin to abetment of suicide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of particular concern, the detention of 16 children among the 61 was labelled as "particularly troubling," prompting a call for their transfer to the UK if found in need of international protection.</p>

<h2><strong>How asylum seekers are being kept in detention?</strong></h2>

<p>The asylum seekers are confined to a fenced-in area equivalent to a football pitch, guarded by G4S staff.</p>

<p>The G4S is a UK-based private security and facility services company.</p>

<p>The asylum seekers are not allowed to cook for themselves and have suffered rat bites, as the rodents, described as "ubiquitous" on the island, gnaw holes in their tents.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK Asylum seeker suspected to be 'Russian spy' found to have 'worked for MI6'</strong></p>

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<p>Conditions in Diego Garcia were vividly described by one mother as "living in hell," according to the UN report accessed by British media publications. The report disclosed that a guard dog could roam outside the fence while the children remained confined.</p>

<p>The UK government maintains that Diego Garcia is part of the British Indian Overseas Territory, administered from London but constitutionally separate from the UK. In contrast, the UN General Assembly designates the island as part of Mauritius.</p>

<p>The UNHCR report surfaced during a case in the British Indian Ocean Territories' supreme court, where a group of asylum seekers argued their treatment on the island constituted unlawful detention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK Foreign Office spokesperson told the British media that BIOT is not a suitable location for migrants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"BIOT is not a suitable location for migrants, which is why we have been working tirelessly to process the migrants’ claims for protection and to find a suitable third country for those whose claims are upheld. At all times, the welfare and safety of migrants on BIOT has been our top priority," The Guardian quoted the UK Foreign Office as saying.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has called for the urgent relocation of 61 asylum seekers stranded on the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia for over two years.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has called for the urgent relocation of 61 asylum seekers stranded on the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia for over two years. The development was first reported by The Guardian and the BBC. Diego Garcia is located 9,457 km from London | Google Maps The asylum seekers reportedly consist of Tamils from Sri Lanka. They have reportedly faced violence, abuse, and arbitrary detention during the last two years. The UN inspection, sanctioned by the Supreme Court of British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), revealed that the asylum seekers, under the "effective control" of the UK government, were subjected to conditions of "arbitrary detention". The UN said that these individuals must be moved promptly. Also read | India to be included in UK safe states list, no asylum rights for country's illegal migrants The asylum seekers arrived on Diego Garcia in October 2021 after their boat, en route to Canada for asylum, encountered difficulties, whose nature could not be immediately ascertained. What does the UN report say? The damning UN report highlighted accusations of sexual harassment and abuse against women and children within the asylum-seeking group, along with increased levels of mental distress and conditions akin to abetment of suicide. Of particular concern, the detention of 16 children among the 61 was labelled as "particularly troubling," prompting a call for their transfer to the UK if found in need of international protection. How asylum seekers are being kept in detention? The asylum seekers are confined to a fenced-in area equivalent to a football pitch, guarded by G4S staff. The G4S is a UK-based private security and facility services company. The asylum seekers are not allowed to cook for themselves and have suffered rat bites, as the rodents, described as "ubiquitous" on the island, gnaw holes in their tents. Also watch | UK Asylum seeker suspected to be 'Russian spy' found to have 'worked for MI6' × Conditions in Diego Garcia were vividly described by one mother as "living in hell," according to the UN report accessed by British media publications. The report disclosed that a guard dog could roam outside the fence while the children remained confined. The UK government maintains that Diego Garcia is part of the British Indian Overseas Territory, administered from London but constitutionally separate from the UK. In contrast, the UN General Assembly designates the island as part of Mauritius. The UNHCR report surfaced during a case in the British Indian Ocean Territories' supreme court, where a group of asylum seekers argued their treatment on the island constituted unlawful detention. UK Foreign Office spokesperson told the British media that BIOT is not a suitable location for migrants. "BIOT is not a suitable location for migrants, which is why we have been working tirelessly to process the migrants’ claims for protection and to find a suitable third country for those whose claims are upheld. At all times, the welfare and safety of migrants on BIOT has been our top priority," The Guardian quoted the UK Foreign Office as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Asylum-seeking Sri Lankan Tamils stuck on British island for two years face abuse, violence: UN report

Protest against election rigging grips Pakistan. Pakistan election that seemed concluded with results out has turned out as anything but with all the efforts put in by all parties, there is no sign of an Alliance to form a government and now the challenges for Pakistan's 241 million people looms larger than ever. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: Pak election commission probes into election rigging allegations

<p>Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;billionaire leader, wearing a neck brace and sitting next to his daughter, could be seen leaving the police hospital in central Bangkok. Shortly after, he was spotted arriving at his home where a welcome-home banner was tied across the gate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A handful of people had gathered in front of the hospital, protesting the divisive figure's release from prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thaksin, now 74, is among the 930 prisoners granted early release, falling into the category of those in critical condition or aged over 70.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Thaksin Shinawatra?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Thaksin Shinawatra is a controversial billionaire who twice held Thailand's prime ministerial office before being ousted in a 2006 military coup. He dramatically returned to the country six months ago from a self-imposed 15 years of exile.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Former Thai PM Shinawatra requests pardon from jail term</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-thai-pm-shinawatra-requests-pardon-from-jail-term-631051/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>In August 2023, Thaksin was sentenced to eight years in prison on charges of graft and abuse of power. However, King Maha Vajiralongkorn swiftly reduced his sentence to one year shortly after the initial ruling.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thaskin's return to Bangkok</strong></h2>

<p>Thaksin's return to Thailand coincided with his political party, Pheu Thai, regaining power through an alliance with pro-military parties last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Machester City owner's surprise return and subsequent transfer to a police hospital fuelled speculations that a backroom deal had been agreed to cut his jail time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably,&nbsp;Thaksin was suffering from&nbsp;chest tightness and high blood pressure when he was admitted to hospital where he underwent two procedures, according to his family.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-thaksin-shinawatra-former-thai-pm-returns-to-country-after-15-years-in-self-exile-627898">Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM jailed immediately after return from exile</a></b></p>

<p>The former telecom&nbsp;tycoon remains a highly influential yet polarising figure in modern Thai history, drawing support from millions of rural Thais for his populist policies in the early 2000s while facing opposition from the country's royalist and pro-military establishment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports.

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports. The billionaire leader, wearing a neck brace and sitting next to his daughter, could be seen leaving the police hospital in central Bangkok. Shortly after, he was spotted arriving at his home where a welcome-home banner was tied across the gate. A handful of people had gathered in front of the hospital, protesting the divisive figure's release from prison. Thaksin, now 74, is among the 930 prisoners granted early release, falling into the category of those in critical condition or aged over 70. Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Thaksin Shinawatra is a controversial billionaire who twice held Thailand's prime ministerial office before being ousted in a 2006 military coup. He dramatically returned to the country six months ago from a self-imposed 15 years of exile. Also watch | Former Thai PM Shinawatra requests pardon from jail term In August 2023, Thaksin was sentenced to eight years in prison on charges of graft and abuse of power. However, King Maha Vajiralongkorn swiftly reduced his sentence to one year shortly after the initial ruling. Thaskin's return to Bangkok Thaksin's return to Thailand coincided with his political party, Pheu Thai, regaining power through an alliance with pro-military parties last year. The former Machester City owner's surprise return and subsequent transfer to a police hospital fuelled speculations that a backroom deal had been agreed to cut his jail time. Notably, Thaksin was suffering from chest tightness and high blood pressure when he was admitted to hospital where he underwent two procedures, according to his family. Also read | Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM jailed immediately after return from exile The former telecom tycoon remains a highly influential yet polarising figure in modern Thai history, drawing support from millions of rural Thais for his populist policies in the early 2000s while facing opposition from the country's royalist and pro-military establishment. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra leaves prison hospital on parole: Reports

The Philippines on February 17 accused Chinese coast guard ships of "dangerous" manoeuvres after they repeatedly blocked a vessel delivering supplies to Filipino fishermen at a reef off the Southeast Asian nation's coast.

Philippines slams China for chasing its boats

World leaders gather for the sixtieth Munich Security Conference with growing concerns about a continued war in Ukraine and threats to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) cohesion. Dr S Jaishankar at Munich panel with Blinken: On the sidelines of the Munich security conference India's external affairs minister S Jaishanker sat down with the American Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock in an in-person event. S Jaishankar expanded on India's relationship with United States and Russia amidst Moscow's military operations in Kyiv. watch to know more!

Munich Security Conference 2024: India is non-west but not anti-west, says EAM S Jaishankar

<p>The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and&nbsp;unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal.</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 18) said that his government would vote on a "declaratory decision" about Israel's resistance to the imposition of Palestinian independence by force.</p>

<p>At the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said that this move comes after "recent talk in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose on Israel a Palestinian state."</p>

<p>He said the formal statement would reflect that, "Israel rejects outright international dictates regarding a permanent arrangement with the Palestinians. Such an arrangement can only be reached in direct negotiations between the sides, without preconditions."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Israel will continue to oppose a unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Such a recognition, following the massacre of October 7, will give terrorism a huge reward, a reward like no other, and will prevent any future peace agreement," the Israeli prime minister said.</p>

<p>The ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, which&nbsp;raged&nbsp;after Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, is the latest in the conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians that have reverberated for over seven decades and destabilised the Middle East.</p>

<p>Since 2014, attempts to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel in the West Bank and Gaza have been stalled.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prospects-for-new-pause-in-gaza-war-not-promising-qatar-691370">Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar</a></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden has been attempting to broker a more comprehensive agreement that would see the establishment of a Palestinian state in addition to Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations restoring diplomatic relations with Israel.</p>

<h2><strong>US threatens to veto ceasefire proposal at UNSC for third time</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal.</p>

<p>For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—the US, UK, China, Russia and France.</p>

<p>“The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield says in a statement Saturday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal.

The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 18) said that his government would vote on a "declaratory decision" about Israel's resistance to the imposition of Palestinian independence by force. At the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said that this move comes after "recent talk in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose on Israel a Palestinian state." He said the formal statement would reflect that, "Israel rejects outright international dictates regarding a permanent arrangement with the Palestinians. Such an arrangement can only be reached in direct negotiations between the sides, without preconditions." "Israel will continue to oppose a unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Such a recognition, following the massacre of October 7, will give terrorism a huge reward, a reward like no other, and will prevent any future peace agreement," the Israeli prime minister said. The ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, which raged after Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, is the latest in the conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians that have reverberated for over seven decades and destabilised the Middle East. Since 2014, attempts to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel in the West Bank and Gaza have been stalled. Also read: Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar United States President Joe Biden has been attempting to broker a more comprehensive agreement that would see the establishment of a Palestinian state in addition to Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations restoring diplomatic relations with Israel. US threatens to veto ceasefire proposal at UNSC for third time Meanwhile, the US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal. For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—the US, UK, China, Russia and France. “The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield says in a statement Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli cabinet rejects ‘unilateral’ recognition of Palestinian state, terms offer a ‘prize for terror’

On the day six of farmers' protests in India a fourth round of talks is likely to be held between the farmers and the government later today. Ahead of the crucial meeting the farmers have demanded an ordinance from the government to provide a legal guarantee over one of their main demands, the minimum support price. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP. Watch to know more!

India Farmers' Protest: Ministers Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal, Nityanand Rai to meet farmers

After a half-century long and winding road of mystery, an iconic stolen bass has found its way back in the hands of Sir Paul.

Paul McCartney's long-lost bass recovered

<p>Ukrainian officials claimed that Russian forces shelled and fired missiles at a number of cities in eastern Ukraine Saturday night (Feb 17), killing at least three people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Ukraine, two cities close to the front line in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region - Kramatorsk and Slovyansk - were targeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Donetsk Governor Vadim Filashkin said that Russia had fired three rockets at Kramatorsk, which killed at least two people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438">Alexei Navalny’s body found with 'bruises' as West holds Putin responsible</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Rescuers pulled the body of a woman born in 1977 from the rubble," he wrote on social media, adding later that the body of a 23-year-old man had also been found.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Filashkin added that one more person was feared buried under the piles of broken concrete and debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP mentioned that dozens of rescue personnel were on the site of the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The emergency services teams were working by lamplight and using construction tools to move the wreckage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At one point, they turned off floodlights powered by loud generators to look for signs of life beneath debris near a two-metre crater.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-congratulates-military-as-russia-assumes-full-control-of-ukraines-avdiivka-691344">Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian shells hit a school in the nearby town of Slovyansk, with rescuer teams searching for at least one person trapped underneath piles of debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The governor of the Kharkiv region said that in the town of Kupiansk, which is further north, one person was killed when Russian shells struck a two-storey house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacks are&nbsp;believed to have taken place in places where Russian attacks are common, but the news agencies have not independently verified any of the reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Former US ambassador to NATO speaks to WION&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>China denies selling 'lethal weapons' to Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The West has often accused China of selling weapons to Russia, which are being used while targeting Ukraine, but Beijing has denied such claims. The same was reiterated as China's foreign minister told his Ukrainian counterpart that Beijing does not sell lethal weapons to Russia for its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a foreign ministry readout, Wang Yi told Dmytro Kuleba during a meeting on the sidelines of a major security conference in Munich on Saturday that China "does not take any advantage of the situation, and does not sell lethal weapons to conflict areas or parties to the conflict".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian officials claimed that Russian forces shelled and fired missiles at a number of cities in eastern Ukraine Saturday night (Feb 17), killing at least three people.

Ukrainian officials claimed that Russian forces shelled and fired missiles at a number of cities in eastern Ukraine Saturday night (Feb 17), killing at least three people. As per Ukraine, two cities close to the front line in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region - Kramatorsk and Slovyansk - were targeted. Donetsk Governor Vadim Filashkin said that Russia had fired three rockets at Kramatorsk, which killed at least two people. Also read: Alexei Navalny’s body found with 'bruises' as West holds Putin responsible "Rescuers pulled the body of a woman born in 1977 from the rubble," he wrote on social media, adding later that the body of a 23-year-old man had also been found. Filashkin added that one more person was feared buried under the piles of broken concrete and debris. A report by the news agency AFP mentioned that dozens of rescue personnel were on the site of the strike. The emergency services teams were working by lamplight and using construction tools to move the wreckage. At one point, they turned off floodlights powered by loud generators to look for signs of life beneath debris near a two-metre crater. Also read: Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka Meanwhile, Russian shells hit a school in the nearby town of Slovyansk, with rescuer teams searching for at least one person trapped underneath piles of debris. The governor of the Kharkiv region said that in the town of Kupiansk, which is further north, one person was killed when Russian shells struck a two-storey house. The attacks are believed to have taken place in places where Russian attacks are common, but the news agencies have not independently verified any of the reports. Watch: Former US ambassador to NATO speaks to WION × China denies selling 'lethal weapons' to Russia The West has often accused China of selling weapons to Russia, which are being used while targeting Ukraine, but Beijing has denied such claims. The same was reiterated as China's foreign minister told his Ukrainian counterpart that Beijing does not sell lethal weapons to Russia for its war against Ukraine. According to a foreign ministry readout, Wang Yi told Dmytro Kuleba during a meeting on the sidelines of a major security conference in Munich on Saturday that China "does not take any advantage of the situation, and does not sell lethal weapons to conflict areas or parties to the conflict". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine claims Russian shells and missile strikes at number of cities kill at least three

Eleven lions were rescued from Sudan's war zones, find a new beginning at Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa.

Eleven Lions find refuge in South Africa after rescue from Sudan

Protests surge across Pakistan amidst claims of vote rigging. Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has announced protests across the country on Saturday against what it called widespread rigging in the general elections. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections: PTI supporters protest over alleged rigging in election

Pakistan election that seemed concluded with results out has turned out as anything but with all the efforts put in by all parties, there is no sign of an Alliance to form a government and now the challenges for Pakistan's 241 million people looms larger than ever. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: PML-N wants to sit in opposition?

<p>Alexei Navalny’s body has been found, which shows signs of bruises and use of force, reported several media outlets citing paramedics. On Friday (Feb 16), Russia’s prison service said the 47-year-old Putin critic died after a walk at the ‘Polar Wolf’ penal colony in Kharp – about 1,900 km (1,200 miles) northeast of Moscow.</p>

<p>Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have held Russia’s Vladimir Putin responsible for Navalny’s death.</p>

<p>"What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said Biden.</p>

<p>Moscow has responded to these allegations by calling them “unacceptable and absolutely rabid.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Cameras in the prison were not operating’</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Gulagu.net, a human rights group that focuses on the rights of prisoners in Russia, has claimed that cameras in the prison where Navalny was being held were not operating on the day of his death.</p>

<p>The rights group claims that the officials of the Federal Security Service (FSB) visited the prison two days before and dismantled listening devices and hidden cameras “that could have recorded what happened to Alexey Navalny on February 15-16.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'</strong></p>

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<p>The group further claimed that on the evening of February 16, the officials conducting the autopsy were directed to declare that bruises occurred only after Navalny’s death.</p>

<p>WION was not able to verify these claims independently.</p>

<h2><strong>The official version</strong></h2>

<p>Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of ‘sudden death syndrome.’</p>

<p>"When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1WPNNH7fjwh_C3Ktq11u7O" data-ved="2ahUKEwjao7KD8LSEAxVryDgGHUCDBjkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-mother-was-told-he-died-by-sudden-death-syndrome-says-leaders-team-691308" jsname="YKoRaf">Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’</a></strong></p>

<p>According to details, 'sudden death syndrome" is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death.</p>

<h2><strong>Brazil's Lula says should avoid accusations</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Brazilian&nbsp;President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Sunday (Feb 18) said&nbsp;a thorough investigation should be conducted&nbsp;into the death of&nbsp;Navalny before making any accusations.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference after attending an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Lula said refraining from taking a stance on the death at this moment was a matter of "common sense."</p>

<p>"A citizen died in prison, I don't know if he was ill or had any issues," Lula said. "To make an accusation is to trivialize. I hope that a coroner will provide an explanation for why the individual died, that's all," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alexei Navalny’s body has been found, which shows signs of bruises and use of force, reported several media outlets citing paramedics. On Friday (Feb 16), Russia’s prison service said the 47-year-old Putin critic died after a walk at the ‘Polar Wolf’ penal colony in Kharp – about 1,900 km (1,200 miles) northeast of Moscow.

Alexei Navalny’s body has been found, which shows signs of bruises and use of force, reported several media outlets citing paramedics. On Friday (Feb 16), Russia’s prison service said the 47-year-old Putin critic died after a walk at the ‘Polar Wolf’ penal colony in Kharp – about 1,900 km (1,200 miles) northeast of Moscow. Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have held Russia’s Vladimir Putin responsible for Navalny’s death. "What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said Biden. Moscow has responded to these allegations by calling them “unacceptable and absolutely rabid.” ‘Cameras in the prison were not operating’ Meanwhile, Gulagu.net, a human rights group that focuses on the rights of prisoners in Russia, has claimed that cameras in the prison where Navalny was being held were not operating on the day of his death. The rights group claims that the officials of the Federal Security Service (FSB) visited the prison two days before and dismantled listening devices and hidden cameras “that could have recorded what happened to Alexey Navalny on February 15-16.” Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately' × The group further claimed that on the evening of February 16, the officials conducting the autopsy were directed to declare that bruises occurred only after Navalny’s death. WION was not able to verify these claims independently. The official version Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of ‘sudden death syndrome.’ "When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X. Also read: Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’ According to details, 'sudden death syndrome" is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death. Brazil's Lula says should avoid accusations Meanwhile, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Sunday (Feb 18) said a thorough investigation should be conducted into the death of Navalny before making any accusations. Speaking at a press conference after attending an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Lula said refraining from taking a stance on the death at this moment was a matter of "common sense." "A citizen died in prison, I don't know if he was ill or had any issues," Lula said. "To make an accusation is to trivialize. I hope that a coroner will provide an explanation for why the individual died, that's all," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible

Russia claims full control of Ukraine's eastern city Avdiivka. Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal. Watch former US Ambassador to NATO, Kurt Volker speak to WION on Russia capturing Avdiivka...Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Former US ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker speaks to WION on ongoing war

<p>The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan.</p>

<p>Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran.</p>

<p>It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension,"&nbsp;a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport</strong></h2>

<p>Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0zwyumly2RUq4PD1A0sDj8" data-ved="2ahUKEwjD0q2c6rSEAxW3xDgGHU17DooQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-attacked-two-major-iranian-pipelines-disrupted-supply-suggests-report-691162" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport.</p>

<p>"The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said.</p>

<h2><strong>Stance of Iraqi government</strong></h2>

<p>The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad</strong></p>

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<p>Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>US military presence in Iraq</strong></h2>

<p>The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’</p>

<p>They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18).

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan. Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran. It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension," a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters. Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read: Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport. "The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said. Stance of Iraqi government The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers. Watch: Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad × Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters. US military presence in Iraq The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’ They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers continue to press for MSP, pensions & debt waiver

Moscow back on the offensive in eastern Ukraine. Russia has claimed 'full control' of Ukraine's eastern city of Avdiivka. Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Biden says, 'Without US' help Ukraine can lose further territory to Russia'

The Philippines on February 17 accused Chinese coast guard ships of "dangerous" manoeuvres after they repeatedly blocked a vessel delivering supplies to Filipino fishermen at a reef off the Southeast Asian nation's coast. Watch to know more!

China-Philippines tensions: Manila repeatedly accuses Chinese coast guard of harassment

The India-China relations are back in focus on account of two major developments, first reports on the meeting between Dr. S Jaishankar and Chinese counterpart Wang and reports of Occupational activity along the Lac. In the latest external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang met on the sidelines of the Munich security conference. This is the first in-person meeting between the two in about 6 months. Watch to know more!

China's moves along LAC raise concerns | India's Jaishankar meets China's Wang at Munich Conference

<p>The US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal.</p>

<p>For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—US, UK, China, Russia and France.</p>

<p>“The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield said&nbsp;in a statement Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>US already vetoed two proposals</strong></h2>

<p>Since the war in Gaza began after the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas terrorists, the US has vetoed two proposals aimed at forcing a humanitarian peace deal. The US has abstained twice when proposals were tabled regarding boosting humanitarian aid to Gaza and calling for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses in the fighting.</p>

<h2><strong>What negotiations are going on?</strong></h2>

<p>As per media reports, the US diplomats are engaging intensely with those from Israel, Qatar and Egypt to seek a peace deal and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Satellite images show construction of wall on Egypt-Rafah border</strong></p>

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<p>“It is critical that other parties give this process the best odds of succeeding, rather than push measures that put it – and the opportunity for an enduring resolution of hostilities – in jeopardy,” Thomas-Greenfield was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Arab nations support Algerian proposal</strong></h2>

<p>Last Wednesday, several Arab nations showed confidence in the Algerian proposal amid the looming ground invasion of Rafah by Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0hfWxzTo0MqJFhexYEu8pd" data-ved="2ahUKEwiGt5L93rSEAxXexzgGHRJHAjIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prospects-for-new-pause-in-gaza-war-not-promising-qatar-691370" jsname="YKoRaf">Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar</a></strong></p>

<p>In a press briefing alongside other members, Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, urged the UN to act and said the group believes there is “massive” support for the proposed resolution.</p>

<p>The US maintains all nations should act together to further build pressure on Hamas and convince it to accept the offer on the table.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago.

The US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal. For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—US, UK, China, Russia and France. “The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield said in a statement Saturday. US already vetoed two proposals Since the war in Gaza began after the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas terrorists, the US has vetoed two proposals aimed at forcing a humanitarian peace deal. The US has abstained twice when proposals were tabled regarding boosting humanitarian aid to Gaza and calling for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses in the fighting. What negotiations are going on? As per media reports, the US diplomats are engaging intensely with those from Israel, Qatar and Egypt to seek a peace deal and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Satellite images show construction of wall on Egypt-Rafah border × “It is critical that other parties give this process the best odds of succeeding, rather than push measures that put it – and the opportunity for an enduring resolution of hostilities – in jeopardy,” Thomas-Greenfield was quoted as saying. Arab nations support Algerian proposal Last Wednesday, several Arab nations showed confidence in the Algerian proposal amid the looming ground invasion of Rafah by Israel. Also read: Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar In a press briefing alongside other members, Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, urged the UN to act and said the group believes there is “massive” support for the proposed resolution. The US maintains all nations should act together to further build pressure on Hamas and convince it to accept the offer on the table. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: US threatens to veto ceasefire proposal at UNSC for the third time

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra freed on parole. The jailed leader was seen leaving the police hospital wearing a neck brace. The former PM has been released after 6 months in detention. Watch to know more!

Thailand's Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra freed on parole

Russia claims full control of Ukraine's eastern city Avdiivka. Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Putin congratulates military, calls capture of Avdiivka 'important victory'

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