The Early Spring is proof not everyone can talk about their real feelings, and it is perfectly OK

UN votes to ‘correct the map’ as India backs fairer world view

Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

Who is Aditi Paudel? 17-year-old becomes Japan's first literacy ambassador

Bengaluru: Officials find 40 kg expired chilli at chairman's club 

Jaishankar rejects trade link to ending Ukraine war 

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill three, injure 23 despite truce

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

South Korea mulls deploying military assets to Strait of Hormuz

World's fifth-largest economy, British army can't afford to train

Breaking | Vance takes the podium: First White House briefing since Leavitt's exit

Taiwan raises 'concerns' over China's missile test

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

What is Iran's Pickaxe Mountain that Trump has again threatened to bomb?

UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years

Former NewJeans member Danielle launches YouTube channel, hints at new solo journey

Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy creates history with 350 not out in South Africa

Brendan Fraser’s transformation fuels The Mummy 4 excitement as fans welcome back Rick O’Connell

Krishna Janmashtami 2026: From Dhaniya Panjiri to Makhana Kheer- 5 best sweet dishes perfect for celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth

Donald Trump plans to travel to Ireland on Qatari-donated jet amid security concerns

Nazi-looted art to return to Jewish heirs

Eight killed in Kerala’s Thrissur after car rams into lorry parked on highway

Why Russian fighter jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres compared to US jets

FBI-wanted fraud accused arrested in Jalandhar over $600,000 scam

Why US tanks weigh over 20 tons more than Russian tanks

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

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 2024: Rawalpindi commissioner resigns admits unfair play in polls

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 17) lashed out at Russia over its offensive in his country. Addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC), President Zelensky said, "Feb 24 (when the war started) could have marked the end of the world we know. Every outbreak of war risks turning into a worldwide catastrophe."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the Ukrainian military withdrawing from the eastern town of Avdiivka, Zelensky said the main aim of this pullback was to "save our soldiers' lives." He pointed out that Ukraine's battle to repel Russian troops was being held back by a lack of long-range weapons and artillery shells.</p>

<p>"Keeping Ukraine in the artificial deficits of weapons, particularly in a deficit of artillery and long-range capabilities, allows Putin to adapt to the current intensity of the war," the Ukrainian president told the conference.&nbsp;</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>In a veiled reference to the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, Zelensky said that human life was worthless to the Russian state. "Russian President Vladimir Putin kills whoever he wants, be it an opposition leader or whoever is a target for him. Dictators do not go on vacation," he added.</p>

<p>The Munich Security Conference started on Friday and will go on till Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky landed in Munich as the war with Russia nears its third year. This is his first foreign trip since he replaced his popular army chief and reshuffled his military command.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Is Russia using thousands of SpaceX Starlink terminals in Ukraine?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-russia-using-thousands-of-spacex-starlink-terminals-in-ukraine-690976/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On Friday, the Ukrainian president signed a new long-term security pact with France, after securing a similar deal and aid from Germany. Zelensky is visiting Germany and France to drum up military assistance.</p>

<p>According to French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine's 10-year security pact with Paris includes commitments to deliver more arms to the war-torn country, &nbsp;train soldiers and send up to $3.2 billion in military aid to Kyiv this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the security pact with Germany which is also 10 years long, commits Germany to supporting Ukraine with military assistance hitting Russia with sanctions and export controls, and ensuring that Russian assets remain frozen.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 17) lashed out at Russia over its offensive in his country. Addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC), President Zelensky said, "Feb 24 (when the war started) could have marked the end of the world we know.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 17) lashed out at Russia over its offensive in his country. Addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC), President Zelensky said, "Feb 24 (when the war started) could have marked the end of the world we know. Every outbreak of war risks turning into a worldwide catastrophe." On the Ukrainian military withdrawing from the eastern town of Avdiivka, Zelensky said the main aim of this pullback was to "save our soldiers' lives." He pointed out that Ukraine's battle to repel Russian troops was being held back by a lack of long-range weapons and artillery shells. "Keeping Ukraine in the artificial deficits of weapons, particularly in a deficit of artillery and long-range capabilities, allows Putin to adapt to the current intensity of the war," the Ukrainian president told the conference. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal In a veiled reference to the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, Zelensky said that human life was worthless to the Russian state. "Russian President Vladimir Putin kills whoever he wants, be it an opposition leader or whoever is a target for him. Dictators do not go on vacation," he added. The Munich Security Conference started on Friday and will go on till Sunday. Zelensky landed in Munich as the war with Russia nears its third year. This is his first foreign trip since he replaced his popular army chief and reshuffled his military command. Also watch | Is Russia using thousands of SpaceX Starlink terminals in Ukraine? × On Friday, the Ukrainian president signed a new long-term security pact with France, after securing a similar deal and aid from Germany. Zelensky is visiting Germany and France to drum up military assistance. According to French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine's 10-year security pact with Paris includes commitments to deliver more arms to the war-torn country, train soldiers and send up to $3.2 billion in military aid to Kyiv this year. Meanwhile, the security pact with Germany which is also 10 years long, commits Germany to supporting Ukraine with military assistance hitting Russia with sanctions and export controls, and ensuring that Russian assets remain frozen. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s battle to repel Russian forces held back by...: Zelensky addresses Munich Security Conference

The Iran-backed Hezbollah signalled on Friday it would escalate attacks on Israel in response to the deaths of 10 Lebanese civilians killed in Israeli attacks this week, while Israel said it would remove Hezbollah from the border if diplomacy failed.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel urges removal of Hezbollah fighters from border

Lawyers for the Biden administration and Texas faced off in a federal court in Austin on Thursday to argue whether a new state law that would allow police to arrest people suspected of crossing the Texas-Mexico border illegally should go into effect next month.

US court to decide on Texas Immigration bill | US-Mexico Migrant Crisis

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: France and Ukraine signed a bilateral security pact on February 16, which includes pledges from Paris to deliver more arms, train soldiers and send up to 3.25 billion dollars as military aid to Kyiv to help the country in its war against Russia. France also pledges to provide more military equipment particularly for air defence. Watch to know more!

Ukraine-France sign pact: Paris to send 3.25 billion dollars military aid to Kyiv

<p>The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us."</p>

<p>UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.”</p>

<p>Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government.</p>

<p>“It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added.</p>

<p>“If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview.</p>

<p>After facing the backlash, he took to&nbsp;social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council.<br />
<br />
This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along.</p>
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNReliefChief/status/1758177347969106311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added.</p>

<p>Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-due-to-lack-of-medical-hospital-in-israel-raided-gaza-hospital-says-hamas-run-health-ministry-690999">Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry</a></p>

<p>“As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Shame on him'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”.</p>

<p>Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.”</p>

<p>“We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.”</p>

<p>“The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us.

The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us." UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.” Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government. “It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added. “If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview. After facing the backlash, he took to social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview. "Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X. Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council. This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along. — Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) February 15, 2024 × "This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added. Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.” Also read: Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry “As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added. 'Shame on him' Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”. Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.” “We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.” Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.” “The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read. (With inputs from agencies)

'Shame on him': Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’

A compelling speech by 21-year-old Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, New Zealand's youngest MP in 170 years, sparked viral attention since she read her maiden speech on December 6th 2023. The MP speaks to WION's Eric Njoka about that moment, her career as an advocate for the minority Maori community and her future in politics, in this new segment #talktowion.

WION talks to viral New Zealand MP Hana-Rawhiti

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested&nbsp;over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations.</p>

<p>Additionally, the British government announced its decision to summon the Russian embassy to convey its stance about&nbsp;Russian authorities being entirely responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.</p>

<p>Expressing deep concern, the foreign ministry stressed on the necessity for a thorough and transparent investigation into Navalny's death at an Arctic penal colony,&nbsp;reported Reuters.</p>

<p>British Foreign Minister David Cameron asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin should be held accountable for Navalny's demise. While attending a security conference in Munich, Cameron also stressed on&nbsp;the need for consequences, highlighting Navalny's courageous fight against corruption and for democracy.</p>

<p>Both Cameron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to Navalny, acknowledging his significant role as a staunch advocate for Russian democracy. Sunak praised Navalny as a fearless fighter for justice, underscoring the profound impact of his activism.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ho-ho-ho-to-i-love-you-heres-how-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-described-his-last-days-in-arctic-prison-691111">Also read |&nbsp;'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison</a></p>

<h2><strong>Supporters offer tribute across US, Europe</strong></h2>

<p>Supporters of Navalny gathered across Europe and the United States on Friday (Feb 16) to honour the prominent opposition figure, who was widely recognised as Russia's leading dissident even during his imprisonment.</p>

<p>Navalny's death was confirmed on Friday by officials at the Arctic prison where he was serving a 19-year sentence.</p>

<p>From New York and Washington to various cities in Western Europe and capitals of former Soviet states, mourners paid tribute to Navalny, a charismatic lawyer who galvanised domestic opposition against Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>Many attendees&nbsp;attributed Navalny's death to Putin, with chants of "Putin murderer! Putin to The Hague" echoing outside Russian&nbsp;embassy in Berlin, referencing the International Criminal Court.</p>

<p>In Warsaw, demonstrators gathered outside the Russian embassy, while in Switzerland, hundreds convened outside Zurich's railway station and in front of the United Nations in Geneva, carrying portraits of Navalny and white flowers.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-putin-and-his-thugs-caused-navalnys-death-691097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In Moscow, small groups laid flowers at makeshift memorials, and similar scenes unfolded in cities like London, Vilnius, and New York, where people expressed grief and condemnation of Putin's regime.</p>

<p>Navalny, allegedly&nbsp;collapsed and died at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony where he was serving a lengthy prison sentence. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within Russia and beyond.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations.

Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations. Additionally, the British government announced its decision to summon the Russian embassy to convey its stance about Russian authorities being entirely responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Expressing deep concern, the foreign ministry stressed on the necessity for a thorough and transparent investigation into Navalny's death at an Arctic penal colony, reported Reuters. British Foreign Minister David Cameron asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin should be held accountable for Navalny's demise. While attending a security conference in Munich, Cameron also stressed on the need for consequences, highlighting Navalny's courageous fight against corruption and for democracy. Both Cameron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to Navalny, acknowledging his significant role as a staunch advocate for Russian democracy. Sunak praised Navalny as a fearless fighter for justice, underscoring the profound impact of his activism. Also read | 'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison Supporters offer tribute across US, Europe Supporters of Navalny gathered across Europe and the United States on Friday (Feb 16) to honour the prominent opposition figure, who was widely recognised as Russia's leading dissident even during his imprisonment. Navalny's death was confirmed on Friday by officials at the Arctic prison where he was serving a 19-year sentence. From New York and Washington to various cities in Western Europe and capitals of former Soviet states, mourners paid tribute to Navalny, a charismatic lawyer who galvanised domestic opposition against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Many attendees attributed Navalny's death to Putin, with chants of "Putin murderer! Putin to The Hague" echoing outside Russian embassy in Berlin, referencing the International Criminal Court. In Warsaw, demonstrators gathered outside the Russian embassy, while in Switzerland, hundreds convened outside Zurich's railway station and in front of the United Nations in Geneva, carrying portraits of Navalny and white flowers. Also watch | Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death In Moscow, small groups laid flowers at makeshift memorials, and similar scenes unfolded in cities like London, Vilnius, and New York, where people expressed grief and condemnation of Putin's regime. Navalny, allegedly collapsed and died at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony where he was serving a lengthy prison sentence. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within Russia and beyond. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia

<p>The recent mysterious death&nbsp;of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths.</p>

<p>Navalny's death at&nbsp;an Arctic Circle jail, as announced by the Russian prison service, adds to a troubling pattern of suppression and elimination faced by those who dare to challenge Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>From mysterious plane crashes to suspicious poisonings, the fates of these dissenting voices paint a chilling picture of political opposition in Russia. Take a look.</p>

<h2><strong>Yevgeny Prigozhin: The mutiny and the midair explosion</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, once a powerful oligarch within Putin's inner circle, met a dramatic end in 2023 when the plane he was flying in exploded midair. This incident followed a failed mutiny led by Prigozhin against the Russian Ministry of Defence, highlighting the perilous consequences of dissent within Putin's regime.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ho-ho-ho-to-i-love-you-heres-how-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-described-his-last-days-in-arctic-prison-691111">Also read |&nbsp;'From ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison</a></p>

<h2><strong>Boris Nemtsov: A bridge too far</strong></h2>

<p>Boris Nemtsov, a vocal Kremlin critic and former deputy prime minister, was assassinated in 2015 near the Kremlin in Moscow. His outspoken opposition to Putin's government and his efforts to rally against Russian military actions in Ukraine ultimately led to his tragic demise.</p>

<h2><strong>Boris Berezovsky: From power to exile</strong></h2>

<p>Boris Berezovsky, once a formidable Russian businessman who went into exile in England, was found dead in 2013 with a noose around his neck. His fall from grace and subsequent death underscore the risks faced by those who fall out of favor with the Kremlin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-tributes-for-navalny-supporters-condemn-russia-hold-putin-accountable-for-his-death-691127">Also read |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Global tributes pour in, supporters condemn Russia, hold Putin accountable</a></p>

<h2><strong>Alexander Litvinenko: Poisoned truths</strong></h2>

<p>Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy turned critic, was fatally poisoned with polonium-210 in London in 2006. Despite evidence implicating Russian agents in his death, the Kremlin continues to deny involvement, reflecting a pattern of impunity.</p>

<h2><strong>Ravil Maganov: The Fatal fall</strong></h2>

<p>Ravil Maganov, chairman of Lukoil, died in a suspicious fall from a Moscow hospital window after openly criticising the war in Ukraine. His death, deemed a suicide by Russian state media, raises questions about the dangers of dissent within Russia's corporate elite.</p>

<h2><strong>Anna Politkovskaya: Targeted truths</strong></h2>

<p>Anna Politkovskaya, a courageous journalist and critic of Russia's actions in Chechnya, was gunned down in 2006. Despite convictions in connection with her murder, the masterminds behind her assassination remain elusive, highlighting the pervasive climate of impunity.</p>

<h2><strong>Sergei Magnitsky: Silenced by corruption</strong></h2>

<p>Sergei Magnitsky, a whistleblower who exposed corruption, died in prison under suspicious circumstances in 2009. His tragic fate underscores the dangers faced by those who challenge corruption within Putin's regime.</p>

<h2><strong>Alexander Perepilichnyy: Whistleblower's woes</strong></h2>

<p>Alexander Perepilichnyy, a financier turned whistleblower, died in 2012 under murky circumstances in the UK. While initially ruled as natural causes, allegations of poisoning cast a shadow over his untimely demise.</p>

<p>Beyond these high-profile cases, numerous Russian businessmen have reportedly met similar fates in the past year, with suicides and mysterious deaths haunting the landscape of dissent in Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The recent mysterious death of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths.

The recent mysterious death of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths. Navalny's death at an Arctic Circle jail, as announced by the Russian prison service, adds to a troubling pattern of suppression and elimination faced by those who dare to challenge Vladimir Putin. From mysterious plane crashes to suspicious poisonings, the fates of these dissenting voices paint a chilling picture of political opposition in Russia. Take a look. Yevgeny Prigozhin: The mutiny and the midair explosion Yevgeny Prigozhin, once a powerful oligarch within Putin's inner circle, met a dramatic end in 2023 when the plane he was flying in exploded midair. This incident followed a failed mutiny led by Prigozhin against the Russian Ministry of Defence, highlighting the perilous consequences of dissent within Putin's regime. Also read | 'From ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison Boris Nemtsov: A bridge too far Boris Nemtsov, a vocal Kremlin critic and former deputy prime minister, was assassinated in 2015 near the Kremlin in Moscow. His outspoken opposition to Putin's government and his efforts to rally against Russian military actions in Ukraine ultimately led to his tragic demise. Boris Berezovsky: From power to exile Boris Berezovsky, once a formidable Russian businessman who went into exile in England, was found dead in 2013 with a noose around his neck. His fall from grace and subsequent death underscore the risks faced by those who fall out of favor with the Kremlin. Also read | Alexei Navalny death: Global tributes pour in, supporters condemn Russia, hold Putin accountable Alexander Litvinenko: Poisoned truths Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy turned critic, was fatally poisoned with polonium-210 in London in 2006. Despite evidence implicating Russian agents in his death, the Kremlin continues to deny involvement, reflecting a pattern of impunity. Ravil Maganov: The Fatal fall Ravil Maganov, chairman of Lukoil, died in a suspicious fall from a Moscow hospital window after openly criticising the war in Ukraine. His death, deemed a suicide by Russian state media, raises questions about the dangers of dissent within Russia's corporate elite. Anna Politkovskaya: Targeted truths Anna Politkovskaya, a courageous journalist and critic of Russia's actions in Chechnya, was gunned down in 2006. Despite convictions in connection with her murder, the masterminds behind her assassination remain elusive, highlighting the pervasive climate of impunity. Sergei Magnitsky: Silenced by corruption Sergei Magnitsky, a whistleblower who exposed corruption, died in prison under suspicious circumstances in 2009. His tragic fate underscores the dangers faced by those who challenge corruption within Putin's regime. Alexander Perepilichnyy: Whistleblower's woes Alexander Perepilichnyy, a financier turned whistleblower, died in 2012 under murky circumstances in the UK. While initially ruled as natural causes, allegations of poisoning cast a shadow over his untimely demise. Beyond these high-profile cases, numerous Russian businessmen have reportedly met similar fates in the past year, with suicides and mysterious deaths haunting the landscape of dissent in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

From Navalny to Prigozhin, many of Putin's critics have met unceremonious deaths

<p lang="en-US">Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel.<br />
<br />
"The enemy will pay with blood" for every child and woman who lost their lives during a cross-border fire in Lebanon, said Nasrallah, in a televised address.<br />
<br />
He further said that his Iran-backed movement has "precision-guided missiles that can reach... Eilat", on the Red Sea coast of Israel, beyond the northern towns which are generally targeted in retaliatory strikes.<br />
<br />
Hezbollah, which is an ally of Hamas, has been exchanging fires with its arch-foe Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out on October 7.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-claims-to-have-killed-hezbollah-commander-in-lebanon-strike-690703">&nbsp;Israel Army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">February 14 turned out as the bloodiest day for Lebanon when the Israeli military claimed that they had killed Hezbollah commander Ali al-Debs along with his deputy and another fighter in Nabatiyeh.<br />
<br />
In the strikes, 10 civilians were also killed as well as two other Hezbollah fighters, as per an AFP tally. Nasrallah said that civilians were killed with the aim of "putting pressure" on Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israel, however, they emphasised that the group will intensify its ongoing cross-border firing.<br />
<br />
"The response to the massacre must be to pursue the resistance (against Israel)" and Hezbollah will not just strike "(military) positions... and spying equipment" as it has carried out before, Nasrallah said.<br />
<br />
The Israeli army said that the strikes were carried out on Feb 14 after a soldier lost his life in a rocket fired from Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets which were fired at the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona and said that this was their "first response" to the deadly Israeli strikes.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>UN reiterates 'rules of war: protect civilians'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) appealed "intensified" diplomatic efforts "to restore stability and safeguard the safety of civilians" after the bloodshed on Wednesday (Feb 14).</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-hezbollah-says-israel-will-pay-in-blood-for-killing-civilians-691090/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">"The devastation, loss of life and injuries witnessed are deeply concerning," said UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti, appealing "all parties involved to halt hostilities immediately to prevent further escalation".<br />
<br />
UN humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Imran Riza said that "the rules of war are clear: parties must protect civilians".<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the deadly Israeli strikes and vowed to lodge a complaint with the UN Security Council.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel.

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel. "The enemy will pay with blood" for every child and woman who lost their lives during a cross-border fire in Lebanon, said Nasrallah, in a televised address. He further said that his Iran-backed movement has "precision-guided missiles that can reach... Eilat", on the Red Sea coast of Israel, beyond the northern towns which are generally targeted in retaliatory strikes. Hezbollah, which is an ally of Hamas, has been exchanging fires with its arch-foe Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out on October 7. Also Read: Israel Army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike February 14 turned out as the bloodiest day for Lebanon when the Israeli military claimed that they had killed Hezbollah commander Ali al-Debs along with his deputy and another fighter in Nabatiyeh. In the strikes, 10 civilians were also killed as well as two other Hezbollah fighters, as per an AFP tally. Nasrallah said that civilians were killed with the aim of "putting pressure" on Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israel, however, they emphasised that the group will intensify its ongoing cross-border firing. "The response to the massacre must be to pursue the resistance (against Israel)" and Hezbollah will not just strike "(military) positions... and spying equipment" as it has carried out before, Nasrallah said. The Israeli army said that the strikes were carried out on Feb 14 after a soldier lost his life in a rocket fired from Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets which were fired at the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona and said that this was their "first response" to the deadly Israeli strikes. UN reiterates 'rules of war: protect civilians' The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) appealed "intensified" diplomatic efforts "to restore stability and safeguard the safety of civilians" after the bloodshed on Wednesday (Feb 14). Watch: Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians "The devastation, loss of life and injuries witnessed are deeply concerning," said UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti, appealing "all parties involved to halt hostilities immediately to prevent further escalation". UN humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Imran Riza said that "the rules of war are clear: parties must protect civilians". Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the deadly Israeli strikes and vowed to lodge a complaint with the UN Security Council. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel will pay 'with blood', vows Hezbollah chief after killing of Lebanon civilians

<p lang="en-US">Israel carried out&nbsp;attacks on two major gas pipelines in Iran on February 14, which&nbsp;led to disruption of&nbsp;supplies, reported The New York Times.<br />
<br />
The report, which cited Western officials as well as military strategists who are affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, claimed that the attacks caused disruption in the flow of cooking gas and heat to provinces where millions of people lived.<br />
<br />
Speaking to the Iranian media regarding the attack, the country's Oil Minister Javad Owji said, "The enemy’s plan was to completely disrupt the flow of gas in winter to several main cities and provinces in our country."</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-pipelines-hit-in-act-of-terrorism-and-sabotage-gas-supply-disrupted-690236">Iranian pipelines hit in act of ‘terrorism and sabotage’, gas supply disrupted</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">However, the minister did not blame Israel publicly, even though he has called such incidents&nbsp;"sabotage and terrorist attacks" on earlier occasions.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Iran vs&nbsp;Israel</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Even though such attacks rarely happen in Iran,&nbsp;terrorists in the country had claimed in 2017 that two pipelines were blown by them in co-ordinated attacks which were carried out in western Khuzestan province of Iran.<br />
<br />
Five people, who were accused of having links with Israel's Mossad intelligence service, were executed by Iran in December as part of a decades-long shadow war in which Tehran has accused Israel of carrying out attacks on its nuclear and missile efforts.<br />
<br />
As per reports, Israel has been targeting Iran's military and nuclear sites for a long time and has also carried out the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists and commanders.<br />
<br />
Cyberattacks have also been waged by Israel to disable servers which belong to the oil ministry and create chaos at gas stations nationwide.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Tehran: Gas pipeline exploded in an 'act of sabotage'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tehran-gas-pipeline-exploded-in-an-act-of-sabotage-690980/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Iran has stated that it does not wish to indulge in a direct war with the United States and has also denied its direct involvement in either the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel or the attacks carried out on American and Israeli targets since the war started.<br />
<br />
However, Iran faces the accusation of supporting a network of proxy militias which have been fighting actively against Israel and the United States, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Houthis in Yemen, and terrorists in Iraq and Syria.<br />
<br />
Iran also faces the accusation of providing arms and training to Hamas and other Palestinian fighters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel carried out attacks on two major gas pipelines in Iran on February 14, which led to disruption of supplies, reported The New York Times. The report, which cited Western officials as well as military strategists who are affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, claimed that the attacks caused disruption in the flow of cooking gas and heat to provinces where millions of people lived.

Israel carried out attacks on two major gas pipelines in Iran on February 14, which led to disruption of supplies, reported The New York Times. The report, which cited Western officials as well as military strategists who are affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, claimed that the attacks caused disruption in the flow of cooking gas and heat to provinces where millions of people lived. Speaking to the Iranian media regarding the attack, the country's Oil Minister Javad Owji said, "The enemy’s plan was to completely disrupt the flow of gas in winter to several main cities and provinces in our country." Also Read: Iranian pipelines hit in act of ‘terrorism and sabotage’, gas supply disrupted However, the minister did not blame Israel publicly, even though he has called such incidents "sabotage and terrorist attacks" on earlier occasions. Iran vs Israel Even though such attacks rarely happen in Iran, terrorists in the country had claimed in 2017 that two pipelines were blown by them in co-ordinated attacks which were carried out in western Khuzestan province of Iran. Five people, who were accused of having links with Israel's Mossad intelligence service, were executed by Iran in December as part of a decades-long shadow war in which Tehran has accused Israel of carrying out attacks on its nuclear and missile efforts. As per reports, Israel has been targeting Iran's military and nuclear sites for a long time and has also carried out the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists and commanders. Cyberattacks have also been waged by Israel to disable servers which belong to the oil ministry and create chaos at gas stations nationwide. Watch: Tehran: Gas pipeline exploded in an 'act of sabotage' Iran has stated that it does not wish to indulge in a direct war with the United States and has also denied its direct involvement in either the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel or the attacks carried out on American and Israeli targets since the war started. However, Iran faces the accusation of supporting a network of proxy militias which have been fighting actively against Israel and the United States, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Houthis in Yemen, and terrorists in Iraq and Syria. Iran also faces the accusation of providing arms and training to Hamas and other Palestinian fighters. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report

<p>The US&nbsp;State Department announced on Friday (Feb 16) that a Panamanian-flagged tanker carrying crude oil bound for India was struck by a missile in the Red Sea. According to reports, the missile, launched from Yemen, hit the M/T Pollux on its port side.</p>

<p>Earlier on the same day, both the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency and British maritime security firm Ambrey reported that a Panama-flagged tanker had been hit approximately 72 nautical miles&nbsp;(133 km)&nbsp;northwest of the port of Mokha, off Yemen. Ambrey stated that the vessel, identified as the M/T Pollux, sustained minor damage and confirmed that the crew was safe and unharmed.</p>

<p>"The vessel... reportedly sustained minor damage. The crew was reported safe and unharmed," Ambrey said.</p>

<p>"This is yet another example of the&nbsp;lawless attacks on international shipping, which continue after numerous joint and international statements calling the Houthis to cease," a State Department spokesperson said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-conducts-cyberattack-against-iranian-spy-ship-to-deter-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-690938">Also read |&nbsp;US conducts cyberattack against Iranian ‘spy ship' to deter Houthi attacks in Red Sea</a></p>

<h2><strong>International response</strong></h2>

<p>US State Department spokesperson condemned the attack as another instance of lawless assaults on international shipping. Despite numerous calls for the Houthis to cease such actions, attacks on vessels have continue unabated.</p>

<p>The M/T Pollux began its journey from Russia's Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk on January 24. Its destination was the port of Paradip in India, where it was scheduled to discharge its cargo of crude oil on February 28. Paradip is home to an oil refinery owned by the Indian Oil Company, with a refining capacity of 300,000 barrels per day (bpd), located in eastern Odisha state.</p>

<p>According to data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the M/T Pollux is owned by Oceanfront Maritime Co SA and managed by Sea Trade Marine SA. Representatives from these companies have yet to respond to requests for comment on the incident.</p>

<p>Additionally, Ambrey reported that another vessel located three nautical miles northeast of the M/T Pollux altered its course to port, moving away from the tanker following the missile strike.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Yemen rebels claim strike on 'British ship' off Aden</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemen-rebels-claim-strike-on-british-ship-off-aden-690886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they&nbsp;intend&nbsp;to continue targeting ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with the Palestinians. Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi emphasised the impact of their operations on their adversaries and declared their actions as a success.</p>

<p>The attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have raised concerns about disruptions to global commerce and increased fears of inflation. Additionally, there are growing concerns that the conflict between Israel and Hamas could escalate further, potentially affecting maritime security in the region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US State Department announced on Friday (Feb 16) that a Panamanian-flagged tanker carrying crude oil bound for India was struck by a missile in the Red Sea. According to reports, the missile, launched from Yemen, hit the M/T Pollux on its port side.

The US State Department announced on Friday (Feb 16) that a Panamanian-flagged tanker carrying crude oil bound for India was struck by a missile in the Red Sea. According to reports, the missile, launched from Yemen, hit the M/T Pollux on its port side. Earlier on the same day, both the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency and British maritime security firm Ambrey reported that a Panama-flagged tanker had been hit approximately 72 nautical miles (133 km) northwest of the port of Mokha, off Yemen. Ambrey stated that the vessel, identified as the M/T Pollux, sustained minor damage and confirmed that the crew was safe and unharmed. "The vessel... reportedly sustained minor damage. The crew was reported safe and unharmed," Ambrey said. "This is yet another example of the lawless attacks on international shipping, which continue after numerous joint and international statements calling the Houthis to cease," a State Department spokesperson said. Also read | US conducts cyberattack against Iranian ‘spy ship' to deter Houthi attacks in Red Sea International response US State Department spokesperson condemned the attack as another instance of lawless assaults on international shipping. Despite numerous calls for the Houthis to cease such actions, attacks on vessels have continue unabated. The M/T Pollux began its journey from Russia's Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk on January 24. Its destination was the port of Paradip in India, where it was scheduled to discharge its cargo of crude oil on February 28. Paradip is home to an oil refinery owned by the Indian Oil Company, with a refining capacity of 300,000 barrels per day (bpd), located in eastern Odisha state. According to data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the M/T Pollux is owned by Oceanfront Maritime Co SA and managed by Sea Trade Marine SA. Representatives from these companies have yet to respond to requests for comment on the incident. Additionally, Ambrey reported that another vessel located three nautical miles northeast of the M/T Pollux altered its course to port, moving away from the tanker following the missile strike. Also watch | Yemen rebels claim strike on 'British ship' off Aden The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they intend to continue targeting ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with the Palestinians. Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi emphasised the impact of their operations on their adversaries and declared their actions as a success. The attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have raised concerns about disruptions to global commerce and increased fears of inflation. Additionally, there are growing concerns that the conflict between Israel and Hamas could escalate further, potentially affecting maritime security in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Red Sea attack: Houthi missile strikes India-bound oil tanker

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.

Germany: Day 2 of the Munich Security Conference

Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah warns that Israel will pay ‘in blood’ for killing civilians

<p>Japan's space agency achieved a significant milestone on Saturday (Feb 17) with the successful launch of the second test model of its latest flagship rocket, the H3. The&nbsp;achievement comes as a welcome boost to Japan's space endeavours following the setback of last year's inaugural flight failure.</p>

<h2>Building on recent success: SLIM moon landing</h2>

<p>Just last month, Japan celebrated the historic "pinpoint" moon landing of its SLIM spacecraft, further solidifying its presence in space exploration.</p>

<p>The success of the H3 launch adds another feather to Japan's cap, showcasing its growing expertise and capabilities in space missions.</p>

<p>Developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the H3 rocket is positioned to replace the ageing H-IIA.</p>

<p>With lower costs and increased payload capacity, the H3 aims to attract launch orders from international clients.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan no longer third-largest economy</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-no-longer-third-largest-economy-690436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Successful liftoff and operational milestones</strong></h2>

<p>The H3 rocket lifted off at 9:22 am&nbsp;Tokyo time, with JAXA confirming its successful liftoff and proper functioning of its engines, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>This achievement was met with jubilation at the Tanegashima Space Center, as scientists rejoiced in the culmination of their efforts. The rocket's mission includes the release of micro-satellites and a dummy satellite.</p>

<p>The success of this launch comes after the setback of the H3's first flight, which ended prematurely due to technical issues. JAXA's thorough review identified potential electrical faults but was unable to pinpoint the exact cause.</p>

<p>With its ability to carry a 6.5 metric tonne payload and lower per-launch costs, the H3 is poised to play a crucial role in Japan's future space missions.</p>

<p>Plans include launching satellites and probes, collaborating on lunar exploration projects with India and the United States, and supporting initiatives such as the Artemis moon exploration programme.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-slips-into-recession-economy-shrinks-in-the-last-three-months-of-2023-690388">Also read |&nbsp;Japan slips into recession, overtaken by Germany as third largest economy</a></p>

<p>Japan's space ambitions coincide with a competitive landscape, with the emergence of commercial players like SpaceX and new rockets from established entities like the United Launch Alliance and the European Space Agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan's space agency achieved a significant milestone on Saturday (Feb 17) with the successful launch of the second test model of its latest flagship rocket, the H3.

Japan's space agency achieved a significant milestone on Saturday (Feb 17) with the successful launch of the second test model of its latest flagship rocket, the H3. The achievement comes as a welcome boost to Japan's space endeavours following the setback of last year's inaugural flight failure. Building on recent success: SLIM moon landing Just last month, Japan celebrated the historic "pinpoint" moon landing of its SLIM spacecraft, further solidifying its presence in space exploration. The success of the H3 launch adds another feather to Japan's cap, showcasing its growing expertise and capabilities in space missions. Developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the H3 rocket is positioned to replace the ageing H-IIA. With lower costs and increased payload capacity, the H3 aims to attract launch orders from international clients. Also watch | Japan no longer third-largest economy Successful liftoff and operational milestones The H3 rocket lifted off at 9:22 am Tokyo time, with JAXA confirming its successful liftoff and proper functioning of its engines, reported Reuters. This achievement was met with jubilation at the Tanegashima Space Center, as scientists rejoiced in the culmination of their efforts. The rocket's mission includes the release of micro-satellites and a dummy satellite. The success of this launch comes after the setback of the H3's first flight, which ended prematurely due to technical issues. JAXA's thorough review identified potential electrical faults but was unable to pinpoint the exact cause. With its ability to carry a 6.5 metric tonne payload and lower per-launch costs, the H3 is poised to play a crucial role in Japan's future space missions. Plans include launching satellites and probes, collaborating on lunar exploration projects with India and the United States, and supporting initiatives such as the Artemis moon exploration programme. Also read | Japan slips into recession, overtaken by Germany as third largest economy Japan's space ambitions coincide with a competitive landscape, with the emergence of commercial players like SpaceX and new rockets from established entities like the United Launch Alliance and the European Space Agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year

<p>A group of 20 tech companies on Friday (Feb 16) said that they had agreed for a joint effort to prevent deceptive AI content creating interference in elections across the globe in the current year.</p>

<p>Generative AI tools have proliferated since the craze was started by ChatGPT in 2022. Now, written as well as pictorial content can be easily generated using these tools and likeness of the end-product with one created by human is uncanny. This has raised fears of misuse of these tools to fool voters in a year more than half of world's population will take part in elections.</p>

<p>Companies like Microsoft, Adobe and OpenAI are among the signatories of the tech accord. The names of the signatories were announced at the Munich Security Conference. Other signatories are social media giants like Meta, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas | OpenAI's text-to-video AI generator: All about Sora</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-openais-text-to-video-ai-generator-all-about-sora-691064/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The companies have agreed to commitments in the agreement to come together to develop tools for detection of AI-generated images, video and audio which can be misleading. The companies have also agreed to create public awareness campaigns in order to educate voters to make them better positioned to recognise deceptive content</p>

<p>Technology to identify AI-generated content or certify its origin could include watermarking or embedding metadata, the companies said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-watchdog-forces-tiktok-to-remove-french-scar-challenge-videos-691078">Italy watchdog forces TikTok to remove 'French scar' challenge videos</a></strong></p>

<p>The accord did not specify a timeline for meeting the commitments or how each company would implement them.</p>

<p>“I think the utility of this (accord) is the breadth of the companies signing up to it,” said Nick Clegg, president of global affairs at Meta Platforms.</p>

<p>“It’s all good and well if individual platforms develop new policies of detection, provenance, labeling, watermarking and so on, but unless there is a wider commitment to do so in a shared interoperable way, we’re going to be stuck with a hodgepodge of different commitments,” Clegg said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A group of 20 tech companies on Friday (Feb 16) said that they had agreed for a joint effort to prevent deceptive AI content creating interference in elections across the globe in the current year.

A group of 20 tech companies on Friday (Feb 16) said that they had agreed for a joint effort to prevent deceptive AI content creating interference in elections across the globe in the current year. Generative AI tools have proliferated since the craze was started by ChatGPT in 2022. Now, written as well as pictorial content can be easily generated using these tools and likeness of the end-product with one created by human is uncanny. This has raised fears of misuse of these tools to fool voters in a year more than half of world's population will take part in elections. Companies like Microsoft, Adobe and OpenAI are among the signatories of the tech accord. The names of the signatories were announced at the Munich Security Conference. Other signatories are social media giants like Meta, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter). Watch | Gravitas | OpenAI's text-to-video AI generator: All about Sora × The companies have agreed to commitments in the agreement to come together to develop tools for detection of AI-generated images, video and audio which can be misleading. The companies have also agreed to create public awareness campaigns in order to educate voters to make them better positioned to recognise deceptive content Technology to identify AI-generated content or certify its origin could include watermarking or embedding metadata, the companies said. Also Read | Italy watchdog forces TikTok to remove 'French scar' challenge videos The accord did not specify a timeline for meeting the commitments or how each company would implement them. “I think the utility of this (accord) is the breadth of the companies signing up to it,” said Nick Clegg, president of global affairs at Meta Platforms. “It’s all good and well if individual platforms develop new policies of detection, provenance, labeling, watermarking and so on, but unless there is a wider commitment to do so in a shared interoperable way, we’re going to be stuck with a hodgepodge of different commitments,” Clegg said. (With inputs from agencies)

Tech giants join forces to fight AI election interference

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment.</p>

<p>"The wounded and sick enemy prisoners are going through very difficult conditions and are struggling to stay alive," Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a televised statement.</p>

<p>"This is not surprising because everything that our people are suffering from, be it hunger, thirst and lack of medical help, is also what the enemy prisoners are suffering from," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Efforts underway to reach truce</strong></h2>

<p>As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, the efforts are being made to reach a truce by mediators from the US, Qatar and Egypt. The provisions of the truce deal would be the same as previous ones: Israel will release prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-builds-wall-deploys-tanks-on-gaza-border-to-prevent-refugee-influx-report-690935">Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (Feb 15) he believed a deal was still "possible" but there has been no public announcement of any breakthrough.</p>

<p>Hamas maintains only Israel and its military campaign is responsible for the miserable situation in the Gaza Strip. “Time is running out fast," Abu Obeida added.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s the status of hostages in Gaza?</strong></h2>

<p>Some 250 hostages were taken to the Gaza Strip during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Out of those 250 hostages, roughly 130 are still being held there, according to Israeli officials. 30 of them are believed to be dead, while more than 100 had been freed during a one-week truce that ended on December 1.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel army video shows 'Hamas' Sinwar in tunnel'</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israel-army-video-shows-hamas-sinwar-in-tunnel-690073/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Three hostages were mistakenly killed by Israeli soldiers in December, while some have been rescued in military operations. Several hostages among those still captive in Gaza are suffering from various illnesses and attempts have been made to supply medicines to them.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment. "The wounded and sick enemy prisoners are going through very difficult conditions and are struggling to stay alive," Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a televised statement. "This is not surprising because everything that our people are suffering from, be it hunger, thirst and lack of medical help, is also what the enemy prisoners are suffering from," he added. Efforts underway to reach truce As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, the efforts are being made to reach a truce by mediators from the US, Qatar and Egypt. The provisions of the truce deal would be the same as previous ones: Israel will release prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas. Also read: Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (Feb 15) he believed a deal was still "possible" but there has been no public announcement of any breakthrough. Hamas maintains only Israel and its military campaign is responsible for the miserable situation in the Gaza Strip. “Time is running out fast," Abu Obeida added. What’s the status of hostages in Gaza? Some 250 hostages were taken to the Gaza Strip during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Out of those 250 hostages, roughly 130 are still being held there, according to Israeli officials. 30 of them are believed to be dead, while more than 100 had been freed during a one-week truce that ended on December 1. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel army video shows 'Hamas' Sinwar in tunnel' × Three hostages were mistakenly killed by Israeli soldiers in December, while some have been rescued in military operations. Several hostages among those still captive in Gaza are suffering from various illnesses and attempts have been made to supply medicines to them. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Time running out fast,’ Hamas warns hostages in Gaza ‘struggling to survive’

<p>Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital&nbsp;that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis.</p>

<p>Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that&nbsp;"a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-forces-are-storming-main-hospital-in-southern-gaza-says-hamas-690551">Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside</a></strong></p>

<p>A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for&nbsp;safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire.</p>

<p>On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility.</p>

<p>But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-special-forces-enter-largest-functioning-nasser-hospital-in-gaza-690947/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex.</p>

<p>The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far&nbsp;killed&nbsp;at least 28,775&nbsp;Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said. "The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control. Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that "a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply." The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital. Also read | Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire. On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex. Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility. But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex. Also watch | Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza × Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex. The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far killed at least 28,775 Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry

Greece has become the first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage despite opposition from the church and some politicians. Watch in for more details!

Greece becomes first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially approved a bill legalising the medical use of cannabis, as revealed by a parliamentary database on Thursday (Feb 15). This landmark decision marks a significant shift in Ukraine's approach to cannabis legislation, aimed at providing relief to millions of people&nbsp;grappling with various medical conditions.</p>

<p>The legalisation of medical cannabis is deemed crucial for over 6 million Ukrainians, including cancer patients, civilians coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and wounded soldiers.</p>

<p>These individuals rely on cannabis-based medication for managing their health conditions and alleviating symptoms associated with their ailments.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-will-be-assassinated-if-he-steps-back-from-ukraine-war-says-elon-musk-690104">Also read |&nbsp;Russia's Putin will be 'assassinated' if he steps back from Ukraine war, says Elon Musk</a></p>

<h2><strong>What are the key provisions of the bill?</strong></h2>

<p>The bill, signed into law by President Zelensky on Tuesday, is set to take effect six months after its official publication.</p>

<p>Importantly, the legislation maintains the prohibition on the sale or supply of cannabis for recreational purposes. While initially endorsed by parliament in December with the backing of wartime volunteers, the bill encountered opposition from members of the party led by former Prime Minister Yuliia Tymoshenko, who view it as a potential threat to the nation's future.</p>

<p>Despite political divisions, the Ukrainian health ministry stands in favour of the legislation. Under its purview, the ministry is tasked with compiling a comprehensive list of diseases and conditions warranting medical cannabis prescriptions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia has obtained a 'troubling' emerging anti-satellite weapon, claims US</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-has-obtained-a-troubling-emerging-anti-satellite-weapon-claims-us-690779/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Moreover, the bill outlines stringent regulations, including the requirement for special licenses for cannabis cultivation and distribution. Additionally, producers are mandated to maintain 24-hour video surveillance accessible to law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially approved a bill legalising the medical use of cannabis, as revealed by a parliamentary database on Thursday (Feb 15).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially approved a bill legalising the medical use of cannabis, as revealed by a parliamentary database on Thursday (Feb 15). This landmark decision marks a significant shift in Ukraine's approach to cannabis legislation, aimed at providing relief to millions of people grappling with various medical conditions. The legalisation of medical cannabis is deemed crucial for over 6 million Ukrainians, including cancer patients, civilians coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and wounded soldiers. These individuals rely on cannabis-based medication for managing their health conditions and alleviating symptoms associated with their ailments. Also read | Russia's Putin will be 'assassinated' if he steps back from Ukraine war, says Elon Musk What are the key provisions of the bill? The bill, signed into law by President Zelensky on Tuesday, is set to take effect six months after its official publication. Importantly, the legislation maintains the prohibition on the sale or supply of cannabis for recreational purposes. While initially endorsed by parliament in December with the backing of wartime volunteers, the bill encountered opposition from members of the party led by former Prime Minister Yuliia Tymoshenko, who view it as a potential threat to the nation's future. Despite political divisions, the Ukrainian health ministry stands in favour of the legislation. Under its purview, the ministry is tasked with compiling a comprehensive list of diseases and conditions warranting medical cannabis prescriptions. Also watch | Russia has obtained a 'troubling' emerging anti-satellite weapon, claims US Moreover, the bill outlines stringent regulations, including the requirement for special licenses for cannabis cultivation and distribution. Additionally, producers are mandated to maintain 24-hour video surveillance accessible to law enforcement agencies. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine legalises use of medical cannabis, implementation to happen after 6 months

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidD0iMcUle4ow3" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>As Prabowo Subianto is almost certain to become the next Indonesian president, families of activists who were tortured by soldiers 25 years ago have expressed shock over the victory of the ex-special forces commander and current defence minister.</p>

<p>The families, standing outside the presidential palace in Jakarta, held posters with photographs of the generals they held responsible for the 1998 disappearances, news agency Associated Press reported.</p>

<p>One of the photographs showed Subianto, who was a former top general and commander of the army’s special forces called Kopassus.</p>

<p>The Kopassus unit was blamed for human rights abuses including the torture of 22 activists who had opposed dictator Suharto's rule.</p>

<h2><strong>An appeal to Prabowo</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the Associated Press, 77-year-old Paian Siahaan, whose activist son was brutally assaulted by soldiers after Suharto’s rule collapsed in 1998, said that if Prabowo would be the next president of Indonesia, he should "resolve the enforced disappearance cases so that we, the victims’ families, can have peace."</p>

<p><img alt="File photo. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6b6dbd2-a9c4-4ac1-b5ec-ae189a3e11ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-16T115143.053.png" /></p>

<h5><em><strong>In this photo from Feb 15, 2024, families of activists hold posters with photographs of the generals they held responsible for the 1998 disappearances.&nbsp;</strong></em></h5>

<p>Another protester, 71-year-old Maria Catarina Sumarsih, told the news agency that her son was shot by security forces in 1998 on a university campus. In a letter addressed to outgoing president Joko Widodo, Maria condemned Prabowo's election victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-prabowo-subianto-the-fiery-nationalist-turned-statesman-set-to-be-indonesias-next-president-690466">Who is Prabowo Subianto, the fiery nationalist-turned politician, likely to be Indonesia's next president?</a></strong></p>

<p>Prabowo, 72, has long been dogged by accusations of past misdeeds including involvement in the kidnapping of activists in 1998 and human rights abuses in Papua and East Timor. The allegations remain unproven to this day.</p>

<p>He was dismissed from the army in 1998 and was banned from travelling to the United States for the alleged abuses. However, the ban was lifted when he was named defence minister in 2019.</p>

<p>He has always denied the claims and when pressed, has said all operations he conducted were legal.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Indonesia's Prabowo Subianto claims victory within four hours</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesias-prabowo-subianto-claims-victory-within-four-hours-690653/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In this year's election campaign, Subianto avoided human rights issues and benefitted from many voters’ focus on his promise to continue Widodo’s economic roadmap, Adhi Primarizki of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told the Associated Press.</p>

<h2><strong>Over 60% of Gen Z voters back Prabowo</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, pre-election results showed that over 60 per cent of Gen Z voters backed Prabowo, many of whom were likely too young to remember the events of 1998.</p>

<p>“Unfortunately, human rights issues are not a popular issue in this election,” Primarizki said and pointed out that many voters were too young to witness human rights abuses during Suharto's rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As Prabowo Subianto is almost certain to become the next Indonesian president, families of activists who were tortured by soldiers 25 years ago have expressed shock over the victory of the ex-special forces commander and current defence minister.

As Prabowo Subianto is almost certain to become the next Indonesian president, families of activists who were tortured by soldiers 25 years ago have expressed shock over the victory of the ex-special forces commander and current defence minister. The families, standing outside the presidential palace in Jakarta, held posters with photographs of the generals they held responsible for the 1998 disappearances, news agency Associated Press reported. One of the photographs showed Subianto, who was a former top general and commander of the army’s special forces called Kopassus. The Kopassus unit was blamed for human rights abuses including the torture of 22 activists who had opposed dictator Suharto's rule. An appeal to Prabowo Speaking to the Associated Press, 77-year-old Paian Siahaan, whose activist son was brutally assaulted by soldiers after Suharto’s rule collapsed in 1998, said that if Prabowo would be the next president of Indonesia, he should "resolve the enforced disappearance cases so that we, the victims’ families, can have peace." In this photo from Feb 15, 2024, families of activists hold posters with photographs of the generals they held responsible for the 1998 disappearances. Another protester, 71-year-old Maria Catarina Sumarsih, told the news agency that her son was shot by security forces in 1998 on a university campus. In a letter addressed to outgoing president Joko Widodo, Maria condemned Prabowo's election victory. Also read | Who is Prabowo Subianto, the fiery nationalist-turned politician, likely to be Indonesia's next president? Prabowo, 72, has long been dogged by accusations of past misdeeds including involvement in the kidnapping of activists in 1998 and human rights abuses in Papua and East Timor. The allegations remain unproven to this day. He was dismissed from the army in 1998 and was banned from travelling to the United States for the alleged abuses. However, the ban was lifted when he was named defence minister in 2019. He has always denied the claims and when pressed, has said all operations he conducted were legal. Also watch | Indonesia's Prabowo Subianto claims victory within four hours × In this year's election campaign, Subianto avoided human rights issues and benefitted from many voters’ focus on his promise to continue Widodo’s economic roadmap, Adhi Primarizki of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told the Associated Press. Over 60% of Gen Z voters back Prabowo According to a report by the news agency Reuters, pre-election results showed that over 60 per cent of Gen Z voters backed Prabowo, many of whom were likely too young to remember the events of 1998. “Unfortunately, human rights issues are not a popular issue in this election,” Primarizki said and pointed out that many voters were too young to witness human rights abuses during Suharto's rule. (With inputs from agencies)

If you're going to be prez...: Kin of Indonesian activists tortured by soldiers shocked at Prabowo's poll win

<p>During the celebratory rally for the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory in the US, tragedy struck as one person was killed and 22 others injured in a shooting incident near Kansas City's Union Station on Thursday (Feb 15). Police swiftly took into custody three individuals in connection with the attack.</p>

<p>Police disclosed that two juveniles were were among those detained,&nbsp;although the identities of the suspects have yet to be revealed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
But for social media conspiracy theorists, there is one suspect: Sahil Omar.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Sahil Omar, the suspect in social media speculation?</strong></h2>

<p>Social media platforms erupted with speculation linking a "44-year-old illegal immigrant Sahil Omar" to the Kansas City shooting.</p>

<p>Despite these claims circulating widely, there was no credible evidence to support the allegations against Sahil Omar.</p>

<p>But there is a problem: Sahil Omar doesn't exist. He is a figment of someone's imagination.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-lisa-lopez-galvan-mom-of-two-fatally-shot-at-kansas-city-chiefs-super-bowl-victory-parade-690628">Also read |&nbsp;Who was Lisa Lopez-Galvan? Mom of two fatally shot at Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade</a></p>

<h2><strong>Pattern of misinformation</strong></h2>

<p>The unfounded association of a Muslim-sounding name and false accusations of illegal immigration with recent crimes is a recurring trend on social media platforms.</p>

<p>Similar instances of misinformation involving the name "Sahil Omar" have surfaced in connection with previous unrelated incidents, such as the Sandman Hotel explosion in Fort Worth, Texas, and other tragedies, aiming to falsely implicate immigrants in criminal activities, according to a compilation done by news agency AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mass shooting at Kansas City Super Bowl parade, 1 killed &amp; 22 injured in gunfire</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mass-shooting-at-kansas-city-super-bowl-parade-1-killed-22-injured-in-gunfire-690658/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Context of the shooting incident</strong></h2>

<p>The shooting at the Super Bowl victory rally, which resulted in one fatality and numerous injuries, including children, was determined by authorities to be the result of a personal altercation.</p>

<p>The Kansas City Police Chief, Stacey Graves, told reporters that the incident did not have any ties to terrorism or homegrown violent extremism, attributing it to a dispute among individuals that escalated into gunfire.</p>

<p>Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with a focus on determining the full extent of involvement of those detained. Chief Graves noted the recovery of several firearms from the scene and assured the public that efforts are underway to establish clarity regarding the incident.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


During the celebratory rally for the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory in the US, tragedy struck as one person was killed and 22 others injured in a shooting incident near Kansas City's Union Station on Thursday (Feb 15).

During the celebratory rally for the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory in the US, tragedy struck as one person was killed and 22 others injured in a shooting incident near Kansas City's Union Station on Thursday (Feb 15). Police swiftly took into custody three individuals in connection with the attack. Police disclosed that two juveniles were were among those detained, although the identities of the suspects have yet to be revealed. But for social media conspiracy theorists, there is one suspect: Sahil Omar. Who is Sahil Omar, the suspect in social media speculation? Social media platforms erupted with speculation linking a "44-year-old illegal immigrant Sahil Omar" to the Kansas City shooting. Despite these claims circulating widely, there was no credible evidence to support the allegations against Sahil Omar. But there is a problem: Sahil Omar doesn't exist. He is a figment of someone's imagination. Also read | Who was Lisa Lopez-Galvan? Mom of two fatally shot at Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade Pattern of misinformation The unfounded association of a Muslim-sounding name and false accusations of illegal immigration with recent crimes is a recurring trend on social media platforms. Similar instances of misinformation involving the name "Sahil Omar" have surfaced in connection with previous unrelated incidents, such as the Sandman Hotel explosion in Fort Worth, Texas, and other tragedies, aiming to falsely implicate immigrants in criminal activities, according to a compilation done by news agency AFP. Also watch | Mass shooting at Kansas City Super Bowl parade, 1 killed & 22 injured in gunfire Context of the shooting incident The shooting at the Super Bowl victory rally, which resulted in one fatality and numerous injuries, including children, was determined by authorities to be the result of a personal altercation. The Kansas City Police Chief, Stacey Graves, told reporters that the incident did not have any ties to terrorism or homegrown violent extremism, attributing it to a dispute among individuals that escalated into gunfire. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with a focus on determining the full extent of involvement of those detained. Chief Graves noted the recovery of several firearms from the scene and assured the public that efforts are underway to establish clarity regarding the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Kansas City attack: Who is Sahil Omar, and why does his name trend after most US shootings, explosions?

<p lang="en-US">United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House.<br />
<br />
Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, John Kirby made the announcement in the wake of numerous attacks on Indian-origin students in various parts of the country.<br />
<br />
"There is no excuse for violence, certainly based on race or gender or religion or any other factor. That's just unacceptable here in the United States," said Kirby, while speaking to the reporters when asked about the multiple attacks on Indian-origin students.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-quad-bill-what-does-it-mean-for-india-690743">US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India?</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"The president and this administration have been working very, very hard to make sure we're doing everything we can to work with state and local authorities to try to thwart and disrupt those kinds of attacks and make it clear to anybody who might consider them that they'll be held properly accountable," said Kirby.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Indian-origin students under attack in the US?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year.<br />
<br />
Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve.<br />
<br />
Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play.<br />
<br />
Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother.<br />
<br />
A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US braces for winter storms: Flights canceled, heavy snow blankets north-east region</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-braces-for-winter-storms-flights-canceled-heavy-snow-blankets-north-east-region-690748/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January.<br />
<br />
Speaking about the issue, Indian American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria said that he was troubled by the news of the deaths of these students and emphasised the need for enhanced safety measures for those people who are pursuing education in the US.<br />
<br />
"These incidents understandably worry parents and families in India, and their concerns are shared. It's crucial to address safety issues to ensure the well-being of Indian students studying in the USA," he said, further stating that the Indian American community has united in the call for improved support systems and safety measures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House.

United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House. Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, John Kirby made the announcement in the wake of numerous attacks on Indian-origin students in various parts of the country. "There is no excuse for violence, certainly based on race or gender or religion or any other factor. That's just unacceptable here in the United States," said Kirby, while speaking to the reporters when asked about the multiple attacks on Indian-origin students. Also Read: US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India? "The president and this administration have been working very, very hard to make sure we're doing everything we can to work with state and local authorities to try to thwart and disrupt those kinds of attacks and make it clear to anybody who might consider them that they'll be held properly accountable," said Kirby. Indian-origin students under attack in the US? Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year. Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve. Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play. Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother. A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16. Watch: US braces for winter storms: Flights canceled, heavy snow blankets north-east region Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January. Speaking about the issue, Indian American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria said that he was troubled by the news of the deaths of these students and emphasised the need for enhanced safety measures for those people who are pursuing education in the US. "These incidents understandably worry parents and families in India, and their concerns are shared. It's crucial to address safety issues to ensure the well-being of Indian students studying in the USA," he said, further stating that the Indian American community has united in the call for improved support systems and safety measures. (With inputs from agencies)

President Biden working 'very hard' to thwart attacks on Indian students: White House

<p>In a contentious hearing, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Deputy Prosecutor Nathan Wade faced allegations regarding their past relationship and its impact on the criminal case against Donald Trump and his associates. Defendant Mike Roman urged disqualification of Willis and Wade, citing conflict of interest, potentially jeopardising the entire district attorney’s office.</p>

<h2><b>Here are some explosive moments from the testimony</b></h2>

<p><strong>Witness dilemma</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Terrence Bradley, a former colleague of Nathan Wade, was anticipated to provide crucial testimony suggesting that the district attorney's relationship commenced earlier than Wade had claimed in an affidavit. Judge Scott McAfee hinted that the fate of subpoenas for Wade, Willis, and others rested partly on the strength of Bradley's testimony, which would determine whether the legal proceedings were legitimate or mere distractions. However, citing attorney-client privilege, Bradley, who had previously served as Wade's divorce attorney, declined to disclose details regarding his knowledge of the relationship between Wade and Willis. This momentary standoff suggested a potentially premature conclusion to the hearing.</p>

<p><strong>Damning testimony</strong></p>

<p>Robin Bryant-Yeartie, a former associate of Willis, testified that she knew of Willis's romantic involvement with Wade, stating that they began dating in 2019, prior to Willis's election as district attorney and before the controversial phone call from Donald Trump to Georgia secretary of state Brad Raffensberger, which triggered the investigation.</p>

<p>Bryant-Yeartie's testimony directly contradicted Wade's sworn affidavit in his divorce case, wherein he claimed not to have been in a relationship while still married. Despite prosecutors highlighting Bryant-Yeartie's strained relationship with Willis and her departure from the district attorney's office amid conflict, her testimony prompted Wade, and later Willis, to testify.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-quad-bill-what-does-it-mean-for-india-690743">Also read |&nbsp;US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India?</a></p>

<p><strong>Wade's testimony</strong></p>

<p>Wade's testimony was characterised by unexpected developments, disclosing additional details about the timeline, including his battle with cancer in 2020, which constrained his ability to engage in external relationships during the pandemic. He also stressed the manner in which he and Willis claimed to manage expenses, with him using a credit card for payment and her reimbursing him with cash.</p>

<p><strong>Fani Willis's vigorous defence</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially hesitant to testify, Willis ultimately disregarded her legal counsel's objections and took the stand on Thursday afternoon, asserting, "I'm prepared to proceed." Under the scrutiny of the courtroom, Willis endeavoured to address and dismiss every accusation while redirecting the narrative. Displaying a mix of humour and defiance, she remarked on her preferences compared to Wade's during a trip to Napa Valley, and at times, she directly challenged the attorneys and sought to convey a broader message to the public about the nature of the trial.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Fani Willis blames Trump co-defendants of 'lying' in court about misconduct</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-fani-willis-blames-trump-co-defendants-of-lying-in-court-about-misconduct-690762/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a contentious hearing, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Deputy Prosecutor Nathan Wade faced allegations regarding their past relationship and its impact on the criminal case against Donald Trump and his associates.

In a contentious hearing, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Deputy Prosecutor Nathan Wade faced allegations regarding their past relationship and its impact on the criminal case against Donald Trump and his associates. Defendant Mike Roman urged disqualification of Willis and Wade, citing conflict of interest, potentially jeopardising the entire district attorney’s office. Here are some explosive moments from the testimony Witness dilemma Terrence Bradley, a former colleague of Nathan Wade, was anticipated to provide crucial testimony suggesting that the district attorney's relationship commenced earlier than Wade had claimed in an affidavit. Judge Scott McAfee hinted that the fate of subpoenas for Wade, Willis, and others rested partly on the strength of Bradley's testimony, which would determine whether the legal proceedings were legitimate or mere distractions. However, citing attorney-client privilege, Bradley, who had previously served as Wade's divorce attorney, declined to disclose details regarding his knowledge of the relationship between Wade and Willis. This momentary standoff suggested a potentially premature conclusion to the hearing. Damning testimony Robin Bryant-Yeartie, a former associate of Willis, testified that she knew of Willis's romantic involvement with Wade, stating that they began dating in 2019, prior to Willis's election as district attorney and before the controversial phone call from Donald Trump to Georgia secretary of state Brad Raffensberger, which triggered the investigation. Bryant-Yeartie's testimony directly contradicted Wade's sworn affidavit in his divorce case, wherein he claimed not to have been in a relationship while still married. Despite prosecutors highlighting Bryant-Yeartie's strained relationship with Willis and her departure from the district attorney's office amid conflict, her testimony prompted Wade, and later Willis, to testify. Also read | US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India? Wade's testimony Wade's testimony was characterised by unexpected developments, disclosing additional details about the timeline, including his battle with cancer in 2020, which constrained his ability to engage in external relationships during the pandemic. He also stressed the manner in which he and Willis claimed to manage expenses, with him using a credit card for payment and her reimbursing him with cash. Fani Willis's vigorous defence Initially hesitant to testify, Willis ultimately disregarded her legal counsel's objections and took the stand on Thursday afternoon, asserting, "I'm prepared to proceed." Under the scrutiny of the courtroom, Willis endeavoured to address and dismiss every accusation while redirecting the narrative. Displaying a mix of humour and defiance, she remarked on her preferences compared to Wade's during a trip to Napa Valley, and at times, she directly challenged the attorneys and sought to convey a broader message to the public about the nature of the trial. Also watch | US: Fani Willis blames Trump co-defendants of 'lying' in court about misconduct (With inputs from agencies)

Trump Fulton County case: Explosive moments from Fani Willis' fiery testimony

<p>Google is preparing to launch an anti-misinformation campaign across five countries in the European Union (EU), the company told Reuters ahead of the bloc's parliamentary elections and tougher new rules tackling online content.</p>

<p>In June, EU citizens will elect a new European Parliament to pass policies and laws in the region and lawmakers fear the spread of misinformation online could sway voters.</p>

<p>France, Poland and Germany accused Russia on Monday of putting together an elaborate network of websites to spread pro-Russian propaganda.</p>

<p>Europe's Digital Services Act, which comes into force this week, will require very large online platforms and search engines to do more to tackle illegal content and risks to public security.</p>

<p>From this spring, Google's internal Jigsaw unit which operates to tackle threats to societies, will run a series of animated ads across platforms such as TikTok and YouTube in five EU countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland.</p>

<p>Building on previous campaigns the company has tested in Germany and central Europe, Jigsaw said the new project was an opportunity to reach citizens in countries with some of the largest number of voters in the EU, utilising the company's local expertise in these regions.</p>

<p>The ads will feature so-called "prebunking" techniques, developed in partnership with researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol, aimed at helping viewers identify manipulative content before encountering it.</p>

<p>Viewers watching the ads on YouTube will be asked to fill in a short multiple-choice questionnaire, designed to gauge what they have learned about misinformation.</p>

<p>"We've spent so much time having these really polarised debates. Our democracy is at stake, and the temperature just keeps getting higher and higher," said Beth Goldberg, head of research at Jigsaw.</p>

<p>"Prebunking is the only technique, at least that I've seen, that works equally effectively across the political spectrum," Goldberg said.</p>

<p>Other measures to control misinformation like fact checking can add to polarisation because they come after the information has already spread, she added.</p>

<p>Last month, an investigation conducted by the EEAS (European Union External Action Service) uncovered 750 incidents of misleading information being deliberately spread by foreign actors, many voicing support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Jigsaw's ads will be translated into all 24 official EU languages, the company said.</p>

<p>The campaign will run for at least one month, with a view to extend it based on reach and performance. Results from the campaign, including survey responses and the number of people reached, are expected to be published in summer 2024.</p>


Google is preparing to launch an anti-misinformation campaign across five countries in the European Union (EU), the company told Reuters ahead of the bloc's parliamentary elections and tougher new rules tackling online content.

Google is preparing to launch an anti-misinformation campaign across five countries in the European Union (EU), the company told Reuters ahead of the bloc's parliamentary elections and tougher new rules tackling online content. In June, EU citizens will elect a new European Parliament to pass policies and laws in the region and lawmakers fear the spread of misinformation online could sway voters. France, Poland and Germany accused Russia on Monday of putting together an elaborate network of websites to spread pro-Russian propaganda. Europe's Digital Services Act, which comes into force this week, will require very large online platforms and search engines to do more to tackle illegal content and risks to public security. From this spring, Google's internal Jigsaw unit which operates to tackle threats to societies, will run a series of animated ads across platforms such as TikTok and YouTube in five EU countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland. Building on previous campaigns the company has tested in Germany and central Europe, Jigsaw said the new project was an opportunity to reach citizens in countries with some of the largest number of voters in the EU, utilising the company's local expertise in these regions. The ads will feature so-called "prebunking" techniques, developed in partnership with researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol, aimed at helping viewers identify manipulative content before encountering it. Viewers watching the ads on YouTube will be asked to fill in a short multiple-choice questionnaire, designed to gauge what they have learned about misinformation. "We've spent so much time having these really polarised debates. Our democracy is at stake, and the temperature just keeps getting higher and higher," said Beth Goldberg, head of research at Jigsaw. "Prebunking is the only technique, at least that I've seen, that works equally effectively across the political spectrum," Goldberg said. Other measures to control misinformation like fact checking can add to polarisation because they come after the information has already spread, she added. Last month, an investigation conducted by the EEAS (European Union External Action Service) uncovered 750 incidents of misleading information being deliberately spread by foreign actors, many voicing support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Jigsaw's ads will be translated into all 24 official EU languages, the company said. The campaign will run for at least one month, with a view to extend it based on reach and performance. Results from the campaign, including survey responses and the number of people reached, are expected to be published in summer 2024.

Google to launch anti-misinformation campaign ahead of EU elections

<p>Politicians, military officers and diplomats from more than 100 nations across the globe have started arriving in Munich for the 60th Munich Security Conference.&nbsp;As the global leaders gather,&nbsp;security as&nbsp;per a Reuters report, was tight in the city.</p>

<p>Speaking at the conference on Friday, US Vice President Kamala Harris reassured allies that the United States will continue to play a leading role in global security.</p>

<p>"In these unsettled times, it is clear America cannot retreat," she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know that there are questions here in Europe and around the world, about the future of America's role of global leadership," Harris acknowledged.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, she asserted that it is in America's interest to fulfil its "long standing role of global leadership" and characterized her and President Joe Biden's commitment to NATO as "sacred" and "ironclad."</p>

<p>Her remarks come in the wake of former US President Donald Trump's questioning of the NATO military alliance's value and his recent comments suggesting he would encourage Russia to attack allies that do not spend enough on defence.</p>

<h2><strong>Munich Security Conference Agenda</strong></h2>

<p>According to the report, this year, talks at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) will be dominated by the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. Additionally, there will be a discussion on fears over the United States' commitment to defend its allies.</p>

<p>Furthermore,&nbsp;the MSC, which was founded in the fall of 1963, will celebrate its 60th anniversary up to and during the next main conference.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brutal-murder-world-reacts-to-reports-of-kremlin-critic-alexei-navalnys-death-690970">'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the UK-based news agency's report, the core mission of the MSC is "To build peace through dialogue and strengthen the rules-based international order."</p>

<p>The fundamental goal of the MSC remains the same: to foster peace through dialogue and reinforce the international order based on rules.</p>

<h2><strong>Who will be in attendance at the conference?</strong></h2>

<p>Among the top officials in attendance at the Munich conference will be German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, United States Vice President Kamala Harris and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p>Israel's President Isaac Herzog and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh are also expected to attend the conference.</p>

<p>The annual global gathering focused on defence and diplomacy begins today (Friday, Feb 16th) and will run until Sunday at the luxury Bayerischer Hof hotel in the southern German city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-signs-historic-security-pact-with-germany-691013">Zelensky signs 'historic' security pact with Germany</a></strong></p>

<p>As per Reuters, a recent report released before the conference raised concerns about negative trends due to increasing global tensions and economic instability. Key issues included the rising risks of large-scale migration and extremist terrorism.</p>

<p>This change in focus is expected to influence discussions at the 2024 MSC. This year's event will promote inclusivity by highlighting countries from the global south, such as those in Latin America and Southeast Asia.</p>

<p>Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will also be in attendance at the conference, where he is expected to present China's stance on international security issues. He is also expected to promote China's Global Security Initiative as a solution to security issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Politicians, military officers and diplomats from more than 100 nations across the globe have started arriving in Munich for the 60th Munich Security Conference.

Politicians, military officers and diplomats from more than 100 nations across the globe have started arriving in Munich for the 60th Munich Security Conference. As the global leaders gather, security as per a Reuters report, was tight in the city. Speaking at the conference on Friday, US Vice President Kamala Harris reassured allies that the United States will continue to play a leading role in global security. "In these unsettled times, it is clear America cannot retreat," she stated. "I know that there are questions here in Europe and around the world, about the future of America's role of global leadership," Harris acknowledged. Nevertheless, she asserted that it is in America's interest to fulfil its "long standing role of global leadership" and characterized her and President Joe Biden's commitment to NATO as "sacred" and "ironclad." Her remarks come in the wake of former US President Donald Trump's questioning of the NATO military alliance's value and his recent comments suggesting he would encourage Russia to attack allies that do not spend enough on defence. Munich Security Conference Agenda According to the report, this year, talks at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) will be dominated by the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. Additionally, there will be a discussion on fears over the United States' commitment to defend its allies. Furthermore, the MSC, which was founded in the fall of 1963, will celebrate its 60th anniversary up to and during the next main conference. Also read | 'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death As per the UK-based news agency's report, the core mission of the MSC is "To build peace through dialogue and strengthen the rules-based international order." The fundamental goal of the MSC remains the same: to foster peace through dialogue and reinforce the international order based on rules. Who will be in attendance at the conference? Among the top officials in attendance at the Munich conference will be German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, United States Vice President Kamala Harris and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Israel's President Isaac Herzog and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh are also expected to attend the conference. The annual global gathering focused on defence and diplomacy begins today (Friday, Feb 16th) and will run until Sunday at the luxury Bayerischer Hof hotel in the southern German city. Also read | Zelensky signs 'historic' security pact with Germany As per Reuters, a recent report released before the conference raised concerns about negative trends due to increasing global tensions and economic instability. Key issues included the rising risks of large-scale migration and extremist terrorism. This change in focus is expected to influence discussions at the 2024 MSC. This year's event will promote inclusivity by highlighting countries from the global south, such as those in Latin America and Southeast Asia. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will also be in attendance at the conference, where he is expected to present China's stance on international security issues. He is also expected to promote China's Global Security Initiative as a solution to security issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Munich Security Conference: US' role in NATO, Gaza war dominate as leaders gather in Germany

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news