IND vs JPN one-off T20I: India survive scare from Japan to win five-over a side match by 2 runs

Putin's United Russia party wins 355 seats in Duma election; 4 other parties cross threshold to enter parliament

AI models chose to harm humans to stop ‘pain,’ alarming study raises fresh safety questions

‘0% chance’: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang dismisses AI extinction fears by 2030

Samay Raina-Mukesh Chhabra controversy explained: What happened over girlfriend joke on India's Got Latent?

Trump's helipad event overshadowed by audio failure as major TV networks suspend pool coverage

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian strikes knock out three of Ukraine's largest steel plants

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J&K Assembly Session begins amid chaos: BJP, ruling alliance clash as statehood demand dominates

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New OTT releases this week (September 21-27, 2026): Shaque: Trust No One, Hunkkaar, Don’t Be Shy- 5 new titles coming to Netflix, Prime Video and more

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UK PM Burnham agrees to 'defensive' military support for Saudi Arabia against Houthis 

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Two infants die after fire breaks out at RIMS newborn care unit in Telangana's Adilabad

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Latest News Today Live Updates: It's another feather in the hat as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday (Sep 4) successfully launched the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying the Earth observation satellite EOS-05 from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.In international space, Trump hails Syria's push for an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran war. And in other news, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's comments followed the EU's announcement that it was ready to back further economic pressure on Iran, including support for the US-led operation, while emphasising the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and efforts toward de-escalation.As the US seals oil deal with Venezuela, opposition leader and Nobel laureate María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for inking the deal, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”.Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Five European Union countries are seeking a deal with an unnamed non-EU country to host a "return hub" for migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected, with a targeted start date of January 1, a Danish minister said Friday.Denmark, Greece, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands agreed to the initiative during a meeting in Copenhagen. "Around New Year, we expect to have a common understanding with a partner country outside of the European Union," said Morten Bodskov, the Danish Minister for Immigration.

5 EU countries seeking deal with non-EU country for migrants 'return hub': Danish minister

Romanian prosecutors have indicted social media influencer Andrew Tate on charges including trafficking minors, money laundering, sex with a minor and witness tampering, while his brother Tristan faces allegations of complicity, authorities said Friday (Sep 4). The indictment follows years of investigation into the brothers, former kickboxers who hold US and British citizenship. Both were arrested in Miami in late July after Britain requested their extradition. They have denied all wrongdoing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/andrew-tate-faces-fresh-charges-of-trafficking-minors-money-laundering-in-romania-1788519295192">Read more.</a>

Andrew Tate faces fresh charges of trafficking minors, money laundering in Romania

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel next week to Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, three Latin American nations whose leaders are close to President Donald Trump, the State Department said Friday.The trip from Tuesday to Thursday comes just days after Washington sealed a controversial deal with Venezuela that grants the United States control of about one-fifth of Venezuela's huge oil reserves.In recent months, Latin America has seen a wave of conservative success at the ballot box, with Peru's Keiko Fujimori and Colombia's Abelardo de la Espriella -- both Trump-approved candidates -- taking office.The aim of the trip, which will also see Rubio meet right-wing Ecuadoran President Daniel Noboa, is to "strengthen key US partnerships," discuss increased cooperation on battling drug cartels, and deepening trade relations, the State Department said.

Rubio to visit Trump-friendly allies Colombia, Ecuador, Peru: State Dept

Nepal’s flood death toll has climbed to 1,287, while 5,083 people remain missing, the country’s disaster authority said Friday, as rescue teams continue searching areas devastated by the August 26 glacial and mountain collapse along the China-Nepal border.Across the border, Chinese state media reported 21 deaths and 541 missing in Tibet, bringing the combined toll to 1,308 dead and 5,624 missing.More than 800 foreigners remain unaccounted for, including Himalayan trekkers and pilgrims who had travelled to Mount Kailash, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists.The disaster’s impact has also reached India. At least 17 bodies have been recovered from rivers, with officials presuming they were swept downstream from Nepal. These deaths have not been included in the reported toll.

Nepal flood death toll reaches 1,287, with 5,083 still missing

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;🇷🇺🇮🇳 Chief Justice of &lt;a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Russia&lt;/a&gt; Igor Krasnov has arrived in New &lt;a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Delhi&lt;/a&gt; to participate in the BRICS Chief Justices’ Forum.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;👉 &lt;a href="https://t.co/oxSQXjjqJJ"&gt;https://t.co/oxSQXjjqJJ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://x.com/hashtag/BRICS?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#BRICS&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RussiaIndia?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#RussiaIndia&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/yPmp40H1eG"&gt;pic.twitter.com/yPmp40H1eG&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) &lt;a href="https://x.com/RusEmbIndia/status/2095760270673272976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;September 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Chief Justice of Russia Igor Krasnov arrives in New Delhi to participate in the BRICS Chief Justices’ Forum

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Congratulated extended his warm greetings to his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Friday for becoming the longest serving Prime Minister in the country's postwar history. Congratulating the Prime Minister, Modi said the milestone is a reflection of the enduring faith of the Italian public in Meloni. He also emphasised the vital role the Italian Prime Minister has played in elevating bilateral relations between the two countries.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/congratulations-to-my-friend-meloni-pm-modi-extends-greetings-to-italy-government-for-scripting-history-1788512234490">Read here</a>

'Congratulations to my friend Meloni': PM Modi extends greetings to Italy government for scripting history

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected return to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026 comes at a particularly sensitive moment for India’s relationship with Moscow, and for its increasingly complicated economic relationship with Washington. Putin was last in India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit. His expected appearance at the September BRICS gathering would therefore put the Russian president in Delhi for a second time in less than a year, underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship even as New Delhi simultaneously manages its ties with the United States and other Western powers. Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said on Friday that Putin is expected to attend the summit.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-putin-s-second-india-visit-in-10-months-comes-amid-focus-on-russian-oil-1788508682752">Read here</a>

BRICS Summit 2026: Putin’s second India visit in 10 months comes amid focus on Russian oil

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital, New Delhi, next Saturday and Sunday (Sep 12–13). To be held at Bharat Mandapam under India’s chairship, the summit will bring together leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, along with outreach invitees. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend. The year also marks 20 years since the establishment of BRICS. Here are all the main details you should know:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-in-delhi-date-venue-schedule-agenda-and-key-leaders-all-you-need-to-know-security-office-open-or-shut-traffic-1788506325018">Read here</a>

BRICS Summit 2026 in Delhi: Date, venue, schedule, agenda and key leaders - All you need to know

Israel’s army claimed that it has completed an operation in Nablus where it destroyed over 30 weapon-production machines and arrested 10 “wanted individuals”, according to a statement on social platform X. The operation which lasted 48 hours, has been with confiscated concealed firearms, handguns and ammunition.

Ten ‘wanted individuals’ arrested during 48-hour operation in Nablus, says Israeli army

A missile that hit a wedding in Iran, killing four people, including two children, was likely fired by the United States, according to Reuters analysis. The strike took place Tuesday in the southern Iranian city of Kuhestak and left 68 others injured.

Iranian wedding deaths likely caused by US strike

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the arson attack carried out by Israeli settlers on a mosque in the occupied West Bank, describing it as "repulsive" and "reckless" and comparing it to "terrorism" during an interview with Israel's national broadcaster, Kan.The settlers had spray-painted a message on the mosque directly targeting Huckabee, reading "regards to Huckabee from the terrorists." Huckabee said such attacks fit the "dictionary definition of terrorism," adding that it was regrettable that a "very tiny" fraction of people could tarnish Israel's image.

US Ambassador Huckabee Slams Settler Mosque Arson as "Repulsive," Calls It Terrorism

Israeli forces have shelled the town of Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, sparking a fire in the targeted neighbourhood, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.

Israeli shelling hits southern Lebanese town

China's southern coastal provinces of Fujian and Guangdong braced for further torrential rain on Friday (September 4), after severe downpours linked to Typhoon Saudel triggered flooding in urban and rural areas.

Typhoon Saudel brings torrential rain to China's coastal areas

The Energy Minister's office confirmed on Friday (Sep 4) that two people were rescued alive from the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project tunnel. Each passing day, the death toll is mounting; 1,259 have been declared dead, and 5,083 have been reported missing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-2-rescued-alive-from-trishuli-3a-hydropower-plant-days-after-nepal-floods-1788495687014">READ MORE</a>

2 rescued alive from Trishuli 3A hydropower plant days after Nepal floods

Meloni has now been in charge of the same government for 1,413 days, surpassing the previous record held by billionaire media tycoon and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi by one day.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-s-government-breaks-berlusconi-s-record-becomes-italy-s-longest-lasting-since-wwii-1788501472527">READ MORE</a>

Giorgia Meloni’s government breaks Berlusconi’s record, becomes Italy’s longest-lasting since WWII

The Ebola virus has continued to spread across Congo leading to death toll cross 3,000. In the wake of the virus spreading rapidly and toll mounting, authorities in eastern Congo are shifting to a village-centred approach, Africa’s top public health agency said Thursday. According to Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the outbreak is yet to peak. Since being declared in mid-May, the virus has spread from three health zones to 60, with 6,250 cases, including 3,039 deaths. The reasons for the spread and mounting toll is largely being attributed to insecurity, displacement and intense population movements.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-challenges-congo-is-facing-in-containing-ebola-outbreak-wion-lists-out-reasons-1788495578142">Read more</a>

What are the challenges Congo is facing in containing Ebola outbreak?

Rescuers operating inside the tunnels of a stricken Nepali hydropower plant have heard voices from within, local officials informed news outlet CNN. The discovery marks the first sign of life eight days after massive flash floods and landslides trapped hundreds of workers across several Himalayan energy facilities.This breakthrough offers hope during a round-the-clock rescue effort carried out under treacherous conditions. Emergency crews at the Trishuli 3A hydropower plant have been drilling into a tunnel to reach 42 unaccounted-for workers. Bipin Regmi, the police chief for Nuwakot district, said that "rescuers heard voices," and noted that a specialised medical team was dispatched to the scene. The tunnel leading to the underground powerhouse spans more than four kilometers (2.5 miles), where dozens were working when sudden floodwaters struck.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/voices-heard-after-days-underground-hope-mounts-as-rescuers-reach-trapped-nepal-power-plant-workers-1788493124785">Read more</a>

Voices heard after days underground: Hope mounts as rescuers reach trapped Nepal power plant workers

The Volkswagen Board has approved a plan to cut another 50,000 jobs as part of sweeping changes amid losses. In March, the German car giant had announced that it would chop off 50,000 positions by 2030. This brings the total number of roles that will be eliminated by the end of the decade to 100,000. The group manufactures Audi, Porsche, and Skoda, besides the VW brand. SEAT, Bentley, and Lamborghini are also wholly owned subsidiaries of the Volkswagen Group.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/volkswagen-to-cut-50-000-more-jobs-100-000-roles-to-be-eliminated-by-2030-1788493872872">Read more</a>

Volkswagen to cut 50,000 more jobs, 100,000 roles to be eliminated by 2030

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (September 3) stated that the European Union has "officially joined" the US-led "Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran, throwing its weight behind Donald Trump's strong campaign. Welcoming the move, Bessent described it as the bloc's strong and early stance in continuing economic pressure on Tehran as the West Asia conflict continues.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-officially-joins-us-led-operation-economic-outcast-against-iran-says-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-1788489418578">Read more</a>

EU officially joins US-led 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran, says Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday (September 4) successfully launched the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying the Earth observation satellite EOS-05 from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. Following a 27.5-hour countdown, the 51.7-metre-tall rocket lifted off from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at the pre-scheduled time of 2.55 am. The launch was marked by bright orange flames and fumes from the rocket's tail as it thundered into the early morning sky.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-successfully-launches-earth-observation-satellite-eos-05-from-sriharikota-1788485713930">Read more</a>

ISRO successfully launches earth observation satellite EOS-05 from Sriharikota, targets six more launches

US President Donald Trump has backed Syria’s proposal to emerge as an alternative transit corridor to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing US-Iran war, calling the idea “GREAT!” Trump’s response came after a recent media report highlighted Syria’s efforts to position itself as a new overland route for the movement of oil and other goods, potentially reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. The development comes as tensions surrounding the key maritime chokepoint continue to escalate. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, and the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran has intensified concerns over the security and continuity of maritime shipments through the waterway.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-great-trump-hails-syria-s-push-for-alternative-to-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-iran-war-1788487903144">Read more</a>

'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war

Stay updated with live news: ISRO successfully launches the EOS-05 Earth observation satellite aboard GSLV-F17. Meanwhile, US-Iran war tensions flare as Trump pushes Hormuz alternatives, and María Corina Machado questions the US-Venezuela oil agreement. 

Latest News Today Live Updates: It's another feather in the hat as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday (Sep 4) successfully launched the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying the Earth observation satellite EOS-05 from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. In international space, Trump hails Syria's push for an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran war. And in other news, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's comments followed the EU's announcement that it was ready to back further economic pressure on Iran, including support for the US-led operation, while emphasising the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and efforts toward de-escalation. As the US seals oil deal with Venezuela, opposition leader and Nobel laureate María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for inking the deal, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”. Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Stay updated with live news: ISRO successfully launches the EOS-05 Earth observation satellite aboard GSLV-F17. Meanwhile, US-Iran war tensions flare as Trump pushes Hormuz alternatives, and María Corina Machado questions the US-Venezuela oil agreement.

Latest News India and World LIVE Updates: 2 rescued alive from Nepal tunnel days after floods; Putin’s second India visit in 10 months

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected return to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026 comes at a particularly sensitive moment for India’s relationship with Moscow, and for its increasingly complicated economic relationship with Washington. Putin was last in India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit. His expected appearance at the September BRICS gathering would therefore put the Russian president in Delhi for a second time in less than a year, underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship even as New Delhi simultaneously manages its ties with the United States and other Western powers. Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said on Friday that Putin is expected to attend the summit.&nbsp;But beyond the optics of another Modi-Putin meeting, one issue will inevitably hang over the summit: Russian oil. India’s dependence on Russian crude has grown dramatically since the Ukraine war. In July 2026, Russian crude accounted for a record 50.83% of India’s total oil imports, or about 2.47 million barrels per day, according to trade data cited by news agency Reuters. That makes the oil question far more complicated than a simple diplomatic choice between Washington and Moscow.<h2>The 50% tariff episode, and what changed</h2>The Trump administration had imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports in August 2025 specifically over India’s purchases of Russian oil. Combined with the existing reciprocal tariff, the total reached 50%. The White House said the additional duty was intended to pressure countries purchasing Russian oil. But that is not the current tariff structure. In February 2026, Washington removed the additional 25% Russia-oil tariff after saying India had committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian oil. The US also lowered its reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18%. Crucially, however, the February executive order contains a warning: if India resumes direct or indirect purchases of Russian oil, US officials can recommend bringing back the additional 25% tariff. And India's subsequent oil-import numbers make that provision highly relevant.<h2>Why India cannot simply walk away from Russian crude</h2>India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and relies heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements. Russian crude became particularly attractive after Western sanctions and price restrictions disrupted Moscow's traditional markets. For Indian refiners, Russian crude has not simply been a geopolitical purchase. Price, availability, refinery economics and supply security have all mattered. The scale of the trade illustrates the problem. India's imports from Russia have become heavily concentrated in energy: crude oil alone accounted for $35.76 billion of imports in FY2025-26 through November, according to IBEF data. Fertilisers were another major category at $2.11 billion. And crude is not the only Russian commodity India has reasons to keep buying.<h2>What India buys from Russia</h2>Crude oil: By far the biggest component. Russian supplies have become crucial to Indian refiners, and July's record share shows how difficult it is to immediately replace those volumes. Fertilisers: Russia remains an important source of fertilisers for India's agriculture sector. Any disruption has implications beyond foreign policy, potentially affecting input costs and food security.&nbsp;Defence equipment: Russia has historically been India's biggest defence supplier, although India's dependence has declined as New Delhi has diversified its procurement. The relationship nevertheless includes decades of equipment, spares, maintenance and technology links. Diamonds, metals and other commodities: India also imports diamonds, iron and steel, vegetable oils and several other commodities from Russia, although their strategic significance is generally much smaller than oil, fertilisers and defence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-has-become-an-old-continent-belgian-pm-warns-us-china-are-surpassing-europe-1788505852108">'Europe has become an old continent': Belgian PM warns US, China are surpassing Europe</a><h2>What India can reduce, and what it cannot easily replace</h2>This is where the Russian oil debate becomes more nuanced. India can diversify its crude purchases. It already buys from suppliers in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. It can also adjust refinery configurations and procurement patterns depending on prices, sanctions and shipping costs. But replacing Russian oil overnight is another matter.&nbsp;The challenge is not simply finding another barrel. India needs barrels that are economically viable, available in sufficient volumes and compatible with its refinery system. Removing one of its largest sources could raise procurement costs and put pressure on refiners and consumers. The same logic applies, in a different way, to fertilisers and defence sustainment. India can diversify suppliers over time. But diversification is not the same as immediate substitution.<h2>Why Putin’s BRICS visit matters?</h2>This makes Putin’s expected Delhi visit particularly significant. India's BRICS presidency comes at a time when the grouping is discussing energy security, economic cooperation, local-currency trade and reducing vulnerabilities created by global financial and supply-chain disruptions. Russia, meanwhile, has a strong interest in preserving access to major markets such as India.&nbsp;For Moscow, India is not merely a diplomatic partner. It is a major energy customer and an increasingly important economic relationship. For New Delhi, Russia remains one pillar of a broader strategic-autonomy strategy: maintaining ties with Moscow while simultaneously engaging Washington, Europe, the Gulf, Japan and other partners.That does not mean India is choosing Russia over the US. It means India is trying to avoid being forced to choose.<h2>The bigger India-US question</h2>The oil issue therefore puts the Modi government in a delicate position. Washington has already demonstrated that Russian energy purchases can become a trade issue. The February 2026 executive order removed the additional 25% tariff but explicitly kept the door open to bringing it back if Russian oil imports resume.&nbsp;At the same time, India's latest import data suggest that Russian crude remains extremely difficult to displace. With Russian oil reaching more than half of India's imports in July, the economic relationship has moved far beyond the limited purchases that existed before the Ukraine war. That is why the Putin-Modi meeting on the sidelines of BRICS Summit 2026 will carry significance beyond the usual India-Russia agenda.&nbsp;The discussion is likely to encompass energy security, fertilisers, defence, trade imbalances and payment mechanisms. But underneath all of it will be one fundamental question: How much Russian oil can India continue buying without reopening the tariff confrontation with Washington, and how much Russian oil can India realistically afford to stop buying? For Moscow, the answer is strategically important. For Washington, it is a test of economic pressure. And for New Delhi, it is ultimately a question of energy security, economic interests and strategic autonomy.

BRICS Summit 2026: Putin’s expected Delhi visit comes as India’s Russian oil imports surge. Here’s what India buys from Russia and why it can’t easily stop

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected return to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026 comes at a particularly sensitive moment for India’s relationship with Moscow, and for its increasingly complicated economic relationship with Washington. Putin was last in India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit. His expected appearance at the September BRICS gathering would therefore put the Russian president in Delhi for a second time in less than a year, underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship even as New Delhi simultaneously manages its ties with the United States and other Western powers. Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said on Friday that Putin is expected to attend the summit. But beyond the optics of another Modi-Putin meeting, one issue will inevitably hang over the summit: Russian oil. India’s dependence on Russian crude has grown dramatically since the Ukraine war. In July 2026, Russian crude accounted for a record 50.83% of India’s total oil imports, or about 2.47 million barrels per day, according to trade data cited by news agency Reuters. That makes the oil question far more complicated than a simple diplomatic choice between Washington and Moscow. The 50% tariff episode, and what changed The Trump administration had imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports in August 2025 specifically over India’s purchases of Russian oil. Combined with the existing reciprocal tariff, the total reached 50%. The White House said the additional duty was intended to pressure countries purchasing Russian oil. But that is not the current tariff structure. In February 2026, Washington removed the additional 25% Russia-oil tariff after saying India had committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian oil. The US also lowered its reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18%. Crucially, however, the February executive order contains a warning: if India resumes direct or indirect purchases of Russian oil, US officials can recommend bringing back the additional 25% tariff. And India's subsequent oil-import numbers make that provision highly relevant. Why India cannot simply walk away from Russian crude India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and relies heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements. Russian crude became particularly attractive after Western sanctions and price restrictions disrupted Moscow's traditional markets. For Indian refiners, Russian crude has not simply been a geopolitical purchase. Price, availability, refinery economics and supply security have all mattered. The scale of the trade illustrates the problem. India's imports from Russia have become heavily concentrated in energy: crude oil alone accounted for $35.76 billion of imports in FY2025-26 through November, according to IBEF data. Fertilisers were another major category at $2.11 billion. And crude is not the only Russian commodity India has reasons to keep buying. What India buys from Russia Crude oil: By far the biggest component. Russian supplies have become crucial to Indian refiners, and July's record share shows how difficult it is to immediately replace those volumes. Fertilisers: Russia remains an important source of fertilisers for India's agriculture sector. Any disruption has implications beyond foreign policy, potentially affecting input costs and food security. Defence equipment: Russia has historically been India's biggest defence supplier, although India's dependence has declined as New Delhi has diversified its procurement. The relationship nevertheless includes decades of equipment, spares, maintenance and technology links. Diamonds, metals and other commodities: India also imports diamonds, iron and steel, vegetable oils and several other commodities from Russia, although their strategic significance is generally much smaller than oil, fertilisers and defence. Also Read: 'Europe has become an old continent': Belgian PM warns US, China are surpassing Europe What India can reduce, and what it cannot easily replace This is where the Russian oil debate becomes more nuanced. India can diversify its crude purchases. It already buys from suppliers in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. It can also adjust refinery configurations and procurement patterns depending on prices, sanctions and shipping costs. But replacing Russian oil overnight is another matter. The challenge is not simply finding another barrel. India needs barrels that are economically viable, available in sufficient volumes and compatible with its refinery system. Removing one of its largest sources could raise procurement costs and put pressure on refiners and consumers. The same logic applies, in a different way, to fertilisers and defence sustainment. India can diversify suppliers over time. But diversification is not the same as immediate substitution. Why Putin’s BRICS visit matters? This makes Putin’s expected Delhi visit particularly significant. India's BRICS presidency comes at a time when the grouping is discussing energy security, economic cooperation, local-currency trade and reducing vulnerabilities created by global financial and supply-chain disruptions. Russia, meanwhile, has a strong interest in preserving access to major markets such as India. For Moscow, India is not merely a diplomatic partner. It is a major energy customer and an increasingly important economic relationship. For New Delhi, Russia remains one pillar of a broader strategic-autonomy strategy: maintaining ties with Moscow while simultaneously engaging Washington, Europe, the Gulf, Japan and other partners. That does not mean India is choosing Russia over the US. It means India is trying to avoid being forced to choose. The bigger India-US question The oil issue therefore puts the Modi government in a delicate position. Washington has already demonstrated that Russian energy purchases can become a trade issue. The February 2026 executive order removed the additional 25% tariff but explicitly kept the door open to bringing it back if Russian oil imports resume. At the same time, India's latest import data suggest that Russian crude remains extremely difficult to displace. With Russian oil reaching more than half of India's imports in July, the economic relationship has moved far beyond the limited purchases that existed before the Ukraine war. That is why the Putin-Modi meeting on the sidelines of BRICS Summit 2026 will carry significance beyond the usual India-Russia agenda. The discussion is likely to encompass energy security, fertilisers, defence, trade imbalances and payment mechanisms. But underneath all of it will be one fundamental question: How much Russian oil can India continue buying without reopening the tariff confrontation with Washington, and how much Russian oil can India realistically afford to stop buying? For Moscow, the answer is strategically important. For Washington, it is a test of economic pressure. And for New Delhi, it is ultimately a question of energy security, economic interests and strategic autonomy.

Putin’s expected BRICS 2026 visit comes as India’s Russian oil imports surge, reviving questions over US tariffs, energy security and strategic autonomy

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital, New Delhi, next Saturday and Sunday (Sep 12–13). To be held at Bharat Mandapam under India’s chairship, the summit will bring together leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, along with outreach invitees. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend. The year also marks 20 years since the establishment of BRICS. Here are all the main details you should know:<h2>India’s chairship of BRICS and the theme of the summit</h2>India, a founding member of BRICS along with Brazil, Russia and South Africa, previously held the chairship in 2012, 2016 and 2021. New Delhi assumed the chairship for the fourth time on January 1 this year. Under India’s chairship, the theme for 2026 is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, reflecting India’s spirit of “Humanity First”.More than 350 meetings and high-level engagements have been held in more than 25 Indian cities during India’s chairship, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. These engagements focused on strengthening the BRICS strategic partnership and producing practical and development-oriented outcomes. BRICS foreign ministers met in Delhi on May 14 and 15.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/xi-at-brics-summit-us-factor-lac-normalisation-and-other-variables-ahead-of-chinese-president-s-likely-visit-1788426519607">Xi at BRICS Summit: US factor, LAC normalisation and other variables ahead of Chinese president's likely visit</a><h2>BRICS Summit schedule, venue and events</h2>The BRICS Leaders’ Summit will take place on Saturday and Sunday (September 12–13) at Bharat Mandapam, located in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The BRICS Business Forum is scheduled for September 11 at Bharat Mandapam. There will also be a Women’s Business Alliance meeting alongside the Forum.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-invites-bangladesh-pm-tarique-rahman-to-brics-summit-1784830358596/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-invites-bangladesh-pm-tarique-rahman-to-brics-summit-1784830358596/embed</a><h2>BRICS arrangements across Delhi: Tight security, holiday for government offices on Friday</h2>India’s Central Government offices located in Delhi will remain closed on Friday (Sep 11) to facilitate logistical arrangements and minimise inconvenience to the public. Security has been tightened around the summit area and the rest of the national capital. The Delhi government separately declared September 11 a public holiday for its offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings. The capital is likely to see heavy security deployment and traffic restrictions through the summit days given the VVIP movements.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-seeks-consensus-as-expanded-brics-prepares-for-new-delhi-summit-1787815256214">India seeks consensus as expanded BRICS prepares for New Delhi summit</a><h2>BRICS Summit 2026: What are the priorities?</h2>BRICS has three core pillars: political and security cooperation, economic and financial cooperation, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. The summit and associated events will deliberate on strengthening resilience, encouraging innovation, expanding cooperation and advancing sustainability, while keeping the grouping’s work people-centric.Resilient supply chains and trade, cross-border payments and greater use of national currencies are focus areas. Growth of MSMEs, digital trade, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies will also be discussed. Energy security, development finance, including the New Development Bank, climate resilience and reform of global governance institutions are also likely to come up in the deliberations.A joint Leaders’ Declaration is expected, although negotiations and the final text remain subject to agreement among members at the Sherpa level. The first such meeting was chaired by India’s BRICS Sherpa, Sudhakar Dalela.<h2>About BRICS: Who are the members and partners?</h2>BRICS has 11 members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. It also has 10 partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.Indonesia joined as a full member in 2025. The 10 partner countries were formally welcomed into the expanded BRICS framework.<h2>Xi, Putin and more: Who are the leaders attending and participating in BRICS Summit 2026?</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the summit, which is likely to see attendance by Chinese President Xi Jinping, though China had not formally confirmed his participation at the time of writing. If Xi visits, it would be his first trip to India since the 2019 Mamallapuram informal summit with Modi. A Modi-Xi bilateral meeting on the sidelines is widely anticipated. The Chinese leader's delegation could run to around 400 officials, roughly double the 2019 contingent, according to some media reports. There has been intense diplomacy between China and India, the latest being the 25th round of Special Representative talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on August 28.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend, as confirmed by the Kremlin. This would be his second India visit in under a year, after the annual bilateral summit in New Delhi in December 2025. Modi renewed the invitation to Putin in person when the two leaders met at the SCO summit in Bishkek on August 31.South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul are also expected to attend the summit.United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will likely take part, though a formal announcement is pending.<h2>BRICS 2026 website</h2>The official logo and website for the Indian chairship were launched on January 13. You can visit the BRICS 2026 portal, brics2026.gov.in, for details of the summit.

The 18th BRICS Summit is set to take place on September 12-13 as India chairs the grouping for the fourth time. India's capital Delhi is readying to welcome the key leaders as BRICS turns 20. 

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital, New Delhi, next Saturday and Sunday (Sep 12–13). To be held at Bharat Mandapam under India’s chairship, the summit will bring together leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, along with outreach invitees. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend. The year also marks 20 years since the establishment of BRICS. Here are all the main details you should know: India’s chairship of BRICS and the theme of the summit India, a founding member of BRICS along with Brazil, Russia and South Africa, previously held the chairship in 2012, 2016 and 2021. New Delhi assumed the chairship for the fourth time on January 1 this year. Under India’s chairship, the theme for 2026 is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, reflecting India’s spirit of “Humanity First”. More than 350 meetings and high-level engagements have been held in more than 25 Indian cities during India’s chairship, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. These engagements focused on strengthening the BRICS strategic partnership and producing practical and development-oriented outcomes. BRICS foreign ministers met in Delhi on May 14 and 15. Also read: Xi at BRICS Summit: US factor, LAC normalisation and other variables ahead of Chinese president's likely visit BRICS Summit schedule, venue and events The BRICS Leaders’ Summit will take place on Saturday and Sunday (September 12–13) at Bharat Mandapam, located in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The BRICS Business Forum is scheduled for September 11 at Bharat Mandapam. There will also be a Women’s Business Alliance meeting alongside the Forum. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-invites-bangladesh-pm-tarique-rahman-to-brics-summit-1784830358596/embed BRICS arrangements across Delhi: Tight security, holiday for government offices on Friday India’s Central Government offices located in Delhi will remain closed on Friday (Sep 11) to facilitate logistical arrangements and minimise inconvenience to the public. Security has been tightened around the summit area and the rest of the national capital. The Delhi government separately declared September 11 a public holiday for its offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings. The capital is likely to see heavy security deployment and traffic restrictions through the summit days given the VVIP movements. Also read: India seeks consensus as expanded BRICS prepares for New Delhi summit BRICS Summit 2026: What are the priorities? BRICS has three core pillars: political and security cooperation, economic and financial cooperation, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. The summit and associated events will deliberate on strengthening resilience, encouraging innovation, expanding cooperation and advancing sustainability, while keeping the grouping’s work people-centric. Resilient supply chains and trade, cross-border payments and greater use of national currencies are focus areas. Growth of MSMEs, digital trade, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies will also be discussed. Energy security, development finance, including the New Development Bank, climate resilience and reform of global governance institutions are also likely to come up in the deliberations. A joint Leaders’ Declaration is expected, although negotiations and the final text remain subject to agreement among members at the Sherpa level. The first such meeting was chaired by India’s BRICS Sherpa, Sudhakar Dalela. About BRICS: Who are the members and partners? BRICS has 11 members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. It also has 10 partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Indonesia joined as a full member in 2025. The 10 partner countries were formally welcomed into the expanded BRICS framework. Xi, Putin and more: Who are the leaders attending and participating in BRICS Summit 2026? Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the summit, which is likely to see attendance by Chinese President Xi Jinping, though China had not formally confirmed his participation at the time of writing. If Xi visits, it would be his first trip to India since the 2019 Mamallapuram informal summit with Modi. A Modi-Xi bilateral meeting on the sidelines is widely anticipated. The Chinese leader's delegation could run to around 400 officials, roughly double the 2019 contingent, according to some media reports. There has been intense diplomacy between China and India, the latest being the 25th round of Special Representative talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on August 28. Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend, as confirmed by the Kremlin. This would be his second India visit in under a year, after the annual bilateral summit in New Delhi in December 2025. Modi renewed the invitation to Putin in person when the two leaders met at the SCO summit in Bishkek on August 31. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul are also expected to attend the summit. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will likely take part, though a formal announcement is pending. BRICS 2026 website The official logo and website for the Indian chairship were launched on January 13. You can visit the BRICS 2026 portal, brics2026.gov.in, for details of the summit.

The 18th BRICS Summit is set to take place on September 12-13 as India chairs the grouping for the fourth time. India's capital Delhi is readying to welcome the key leaders as BRICS turns 20.&nbsp;

The government of China has demanded answers from America after a Chinese man reportedly died hours after the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) taken him taken into custody. The 51-year-old deceased identified as Lianyong Wei died on August 23 at a hospital in the Northern Mariana Islands. According to ICE, Wei was arrested on Aug. 21 by the Northern Mariana Islands Department of Public Safety on criminal charges. The accusation against Wei stemmed from an alleged assault on a family of five at their home. ICE claimed that a guard at the lockup in Saipan discovered Wei being unresponsive during routine morning checks on Aug. 23. Later, he was rushed to a hospital emergency room, pronouncing dead after "life-sustaining interventions were initiated," the agency said, adding that the cause of his death is under probe. Wei arrived in the US in February 2019 on a two-week authorized stay. Removal proceedings against him stated in July 2026, with his next hearing set for this month. The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles confirmed it had been informed of his death. "We have expressed serious concerns to the relevant U.S. authorities over this incident and required a timely and thorough investigation into the cause of Wei's death, notification of the findings, measures to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents, and assistance to the family of the deceased in handling the aftermath," the consulate said in a statement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stuffed-into-socks-and-shoes-chinese-man-charged-for-trying-to-smuggle-163-australian-snakes-and-lizards-1788502167543">Stuffed into socks and shoes: Chinese man charged for trying to smuggle 163 Australian snakes and lizards</a><h3>Death of fifth Chinese national</h3>Wei is at least the fifth Chinese national to die in ICE or Border Patrol custody since March 2025. Of the previous four deaths, two were ruled suicides and two resulted from medical complications, according to Associated Press. Since Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, at least 57 ICE detainees have died, raising alarms to public health experts of increasing death rate. It remains unclear whether Wei received the medical intake screening, which the ICE says it provides detainees within their first 12 hours in custody; medical experts consider such screening essential to preventing deaths. It's also unclear why ICE took more than a week to confirm Wei's death, which authorities in the Northern Mariana Islands had already announced on August 24, despite the agency's stated goal of releasing detainee-death information within two business days. The Saipan facility has held an average of 18 ICE detainees per day this year, in a territory with a population of roughly 50,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since US President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, at least 57 ICE detainees have died, raising alarms to public health experts of increasing death rate. 

The government of China has demanded answers from America after a Chinese man reportedly died hours after the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) taken him taken into custody. The 51-year-old deceased identified as Lianyong Wei died on August 23 at a hospital in the Northern Mariana Islands. According to ICE, Wei was arrested on Aug. 21 by the Northern Mariana Islands Department of Public Safety on criminal charges. The accusation against Wei stemmed from an alleged assault on a family of five at their home. ICE claimed that a guard at the lockup in Saipan discovered Wei being unresponsive during routine morning checks on Aug. 23. Later, he was rushed to a hospital emergency room, pronouncing dead after "life-sustaining interventions were initiated," the agency said, adding that the cause of his death is under probe. Wei arrived in the US in February 2019 on a two-week authorized stay. Removal proceedings against him stated in July 2026, with his next hearing set for this month. The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles confirmed it had been informed of his death. "We have expressed serious concerns to the relevant U.S. authorities over this incident and required a timely and thorough investigation into the cause of Wei's death, notification of the findings, measures to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents, and assistance to the family of the deceased in handling the aftermath," the consulate said in a statement. Also read: Stuffed into socks and shoes: Chinese man charged for trying to smuggle 163 Australian snakes and lizards Death of fifth Chinese national Wei is at least the fifth Chinese national to die in ICE or Border Patrol custody since March 2025. Of the previous four deaths, two were ruled suicides and two resulted from medical complications, according to Associated Press. Since Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, at least 57 ICE detainees have died, raising alarms to public health experts of increasing death rate. It remains unclear whether Wei received the medical intake screening, which the ICE says it provides detainees within their first 12 hours in custody; medical experts consider such screening essential to preventing deaths. It's also unclear why ICE took more than a week to confirm Wei's death, which authorities in the Northern Mariana Islands had already announced on August 24, despite the agency's stated goal of releasing detainee-death information within two business days. The Saipan facility has held an average of 18 ICE detainees per day this year, in a territory with a population of roughly 50,000.

Since US President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, at least 57 ICE detainees have died, raising alarms to public health experts of increasing death rate.&nbsp;

Chinese national dies in ICE custody hours after arrest, Beijing demands answers from US

A triple hurricane threat is brewing in the Pacific, where Hurricanes Lowell, Karina, and Marie are simultaneously churning across the Central and Eastern Pacific Ocean. Such setups in the Pacific are extremely rare. The warm sea surface temperatures linked to strong El Niño conditions have caused three hurricanes to form together. While Lowell is Category 4, Karina is currently somewhere between Cat 2 and 3, while Marie is a Cat 2 storm. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hurricane Lowell is moving towards Hawaii and remained a powerful Category 4 storm on Thursday. It could bring heavy rains, high waves, and dangerous winds to the islands. The National Hurricane Center said that Lowell had maximum sustained winds of 215 km per hour on Thursday and was approximately 950 kilometres from Kauaʻi. However, no coastal watches or warnings were in effect at the time of this information. NHC asked, "interests in the Hawaiian Islands to monitor the progress of Lowell."&nbsp;"Lowell is expected to remain a major hurricane for the next several days," the NHC said. It reached Category 5 earlier this week and has only slightly weakened.<h2>Will Hurricane Lowell hit Hawaii?</h2> There is uncertainty over whether the storm will slam into the islands or pass west, as per computer models. However, the NHC has forecast that Lowell will continue to move west through Friday night and then make an abrupt turn to the northwest and north over the weekend. The hurricane will pass near Kauaʻi County late Monday into early Tuesday. Meanwhile, according to AccuWeather meteorologists, the final path will be decided by the dynamics between Lowell and Hurricane Karina, which has formed farther east in the Pacific.&nbsp;Spaghetti models, used to track possible paths of tropical storms and hurricanes, warn that Kauai will face the strongest impact from Lowell. The island has 100,000 people on most days. O'ahu, Maui and the Big Island could also face the brunt of Lowell, according to multiple storm tracks.<h2>Expected hazards from Hurricane Lowell</h2> The storm has started generating major swells in the sea as it approaches Hawaii, triggering "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions". Anticipated hazards include hazardous swells on the south and southeast shorelines. Gusty winds and heavy rainfall are expected over the Labor Day weekend, especially in elevated areas.&nbsp;Hawaii Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency, which means the National Guard personnel are alert and resources have been deployed to tackle any eventuality. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also urged residents to take the threat seriously. Using Hurricane Lala as an example that slammed into the region three weeks ago, he said that they lost 500 trees, and 50 to 60 houses also lost their roofs.&nbsp;

Hurricane Lowell is moving towards Hawaii after taking a sudden turn. It will bring extremely hazardous conditions, especially to Kauai, triggering large swells and bringing heavy rains. It is not certain whether it will hit Hawaii, as several factors are still at play. 

A triple hurricane threat is brewing in the Pacific, where Hurricanes Lowell, Karina, and Marie are simultaneously churning across the Central and Eastern Pacific Ocean. Such setups in the Pacific are extremely rare. The warm sea surface temperatures linked to strong El Niño conditions have caused three hurricanes to form together. While Lowell is Category 4, Karina is currently somewhere between Cat 2 and 3, while Marie is a Cat 2 storm. Hurricane Lowell is moving towards Hawaii and remained a powerful Category 4 storm on Thursday. It could bring heavy rains, high waves, and dangerous winds to the islands. The National Hurricane Center said that Lowell had maximum sustained winds of 215 km per hour on Thursday and was approximately 950 kilometres from Kauaʻi. However, no coastal watches or warnings were in effect at the time of this information. NHC asked, "interests in the Hawaiian Islands to monitor the progress of Lowell." "Lowell is expected to remain a major hurricane for the next several days," the NHC said. It reached Category 5 earlier this week and has only slightly weakened. Will Hurricane Lowell hit Hawaii? There is uncertainty over whether the storm will slam into the islands or pass west, as per computer models. However, the NHC has forecast that Lowell will continue to move west through Friday night and then make an abrupt turn to the northwest and north over the weekend. The hurricane will pass near Kauaʻi County late Monday into early Tuesday. Meanwhile, according to AccuWeather meteorologists, the final path will be decided by the dynamics between Lowell and Hurricane Karina, which has formed farther east in the Pacific. Spaghetti models, used to track possible paths of tropical storms and hurricanes, warn that Kauai will face the strongest impact from Lowell. The island has 100,000 people on most days. O'ahu, Maui and the Big Island could also face the brunt of Lowell, according to multiple storm tracks. Expected hazards from Hurricane Lowell The storm has started generating major swells in the sea as it approaches Hawaii, triggering "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions". Anticipated hazards include hazardous swells on the south and southeast shorelines. Gusty winds and heavy rainfall are expected over the Labor Day weekend, especially in elevated areas. Hawaii Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency, which means the National Guard personnel are alert and resources have been deployed to tackle any eventuality. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also urged residents to take the threat seriously. Using Hurricane Lala as an example that slammed into the region three weeks ago, he said that they lost 500 trees, and 50 to 60 houses also lost their roofs.

Hurricane Lowell is moving towards Hawaii after taking a sudden turn. It will bring extremely hazardous conditions, especially to Kauai, triggering large swells and bringing heavy rains. Three hurricanes are present in the Pacific Ocean at the same time.

Three hurricanes form in the Pacific Ocean because of El Nino, Category 4 Lowell heads for Hawaii

Europe is falling behind the United States and China in innovation and productivity and is struggling to take responsibility for its own defence, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said on Monday. "All of Europe is in difficulty, the world is changing very quickly, and Europe has become an old continent. The Chinese and Americans are surpassing us; we are no longer at the forefront in innovation and productivity, so we are taking hits from all sides," De Wever told broadcaster Bel RTL. &nbsp;"We are not capable of taking care of our own defense; we are humiliated all the time," he added. De Wever said Europeans were increasingly aware of the challenges confronting the continent and believed the public was prepared to accept difficult measures to address them. "So people know very well that we need to get moving, and certainly in Belgium, we are in serious trouble," he said. His comments came as Belgium's federal government prepares a major budget-cutting drive, with a target of identifying around €10 billion ($11.7 billion) in savings by 2029. The Belgian prime minister acknowledged that the measures would affect people across the country, rather than being limited to a small section of society. "I am not sleeping well, and I think about it a lot," he said, referring to the difficult budget decisions ahead.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-s-government-breaks-berlusconi-s-record-becomes-italy-s-longest-lasting-since-wwii-1788501472527">Giorgia Meloni’s government breaks Berlusconi’s record, becomes Italy’s longest-lasting since WWII</a> "We are in a situation where everyone will feel the consequences of what we do, no matter how we do it," he added. De Wever also warned against the idea that increasing government revenues could be achieved simply by asking wealthy taxpayers to shoulder the burden. "If we seek revenue, it will be from the rich. And someone who is rich is always richer than you. You are never rich; it's someone else, richer than you, who has to pay the bills," he said. He also pointed to the tendency among people to believe that spending cuts should affect someone else rather than themselves. "Everyone thinks: if we make savings, it will be at my neighbour's expense, not mine," he added. The remarks underline the economic and strategic pressures facing Belgium and Europe as governments grapple with sluggish productivity, competitiveness concerns, rising defence requirements and difficult fiscal choices.

Belgian PM Bart De Wever warns Europe is falling behind the US and China in innovation, productivity and defence as Belgium plans €10 billion in savings

Europe is falling behind the United States and China in innovation and productivity and is struggling to take responsibility for its own defence, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said on Monday. "All of Europe is in difficulty, the world is changing very quickly, and Europe has become an old continent. The Chinese and Americans are surpassing us; we are no longer at the forefront in innovation and productivity, so we are taking hits from all sides," De Wever told broadcaster Bel RTL. "We are not capable of taking care of our own defense; we are humiliated all the time," he added. De Wever said Europeans were increasingly aware of the challenges confronting the continent and believed the public was prepared to accept difficult measures to address them. "So people know very well that we need to get moving, and certainly in Belgium, we are in serious trouble," he said. His comments came as Belgium's federal government prepares a major budget-cutting drive, with a target of identifying around €10 billion ($11.7 billion) in savings by 2029. The Belgian prime minister acknowledged that the measures would affect people across the country, rather than being limited to a small section of society. "I am not sleeping well, and I think about it a lot," he said, referring to the difficult budget decisions ahead. Also Read: Giorgia Meloni’s government breaks Berlusconi’s record, becomes Italy’s longest-lasting since WWII "We are in a situation where everyone will feel the consequences of what we do, no matter how we do it," he added. De Wever also warned against the idea that increasing government revenues could be achieved simply by asking wealthy taxpayers to shoulder the burden. "If we seek revenue, it will be from the rich. And someone who is rich is always richer than you. You are never rich; it's someone else, richer than you, who has to pay the bills," he said. He also pointed to the tendency among people to believe that spending cuts should affect someone else rather than themselves. "Everyone thinks: if we make savings, it will be at my neighbour's expense, not mine," he added. The remarks underline the economic and strategic pressures facing Belgium and Europe as governments grapple with sluggish productivity, competitiveness concerns, rising defence requirements and difficult fiscal choices.

Belgian PM Bart De Wever warns Europe is falling behind the US and China in innovation, productivity and defence as Belgium prepares major budget cuts

'Europe has become an old continent': Belgian PM warns US, China are surpassing Europe

A Chinese man has been charged with trying to smuggle 163 native Australian reptiles to Hong Kong, putting the creatures inside basic items in bags to ensure they are not detected by the X-ray machines at airports. The National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held 38 parcels between December and March which contained the live animals. These included shingleback lizards, dragon species, blue-tongued lizards, eastern hooded scaly-foots, and Cunningham’s skinks.&nbsp;The man, a Chinese national, put the animals in mail parcels and attempted to fly them to Hong Kong and mainland China. He took the native Australian reptiles and stuffed them alive into socks, shoes and boots. He put them in plastic containers and cosmetic bags, and also used children's toys as an evasion mechanism. He did this to evade detection by the X-ray machines.<h2>Reptiles were placed in inhumane conditions</h2>An investigation was launched, and officials said that this was part of an international wildlife trafficking syndicate which sourced the animals through a local breeder. Officials noted that the animals were subjected to extreme cruelty. They were bound and jammed into tight spaces, had no access to food, water, light, or adequate airflow, all of which resulted in high mortality risks during transit.<h2>Lizards found at Adelaide house</h2>In August, investigators raided a residence in Adelaide belonging to an Australian reptile breeder, where they found two dead lizards, a live lizard in poor health, and several electronic devices. Head of Compliance and Enforcement at the National EPA, Dani Yannopoulos, said Australian wildlife is in high demand in the international market and among global criminal networks. Individual specimens can command thousands of dollars on the black market due to strict Australian export regulations.&nbsp;Under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, illegal export or possession of regulated native wildlife invites fines of up to $330,000 per offence and up to 10 years' imprisonment. A foreign national can be deported along with facing potential visa cancellation.

The man packed 163 native Australian reptiles, including snakes and lizards, into socks and shoes, small boxes and other such items so that they would not show up on airport X-ray machines. Investigators also found dead lizards in an Adelaide home. 

A Chinese man has been charged with trying to smuggle 163 native Australian reptiles to Hong Kong, putting the creatures inside basic items in bags to ensure they are not detected by the X-ray machines at airports. The National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held 38 parcels between December and March which contained the live animals. These included shingleback lizards, dragon species, blue-tongued lizards, eastern hooded scaly-foots, and Cunningham’s skinks. The man, a Chinese national, put the animals in mail parcels and attempted to fly them to Hong Kong and mainland China. He took the native Australian reptiles and stuffed them alive into socks, shoes and boots. He put them in plastic containers and cosmetic bags, and also used children's toys as an evasion mechanism. He did this to evade detection by the X-ray machines. Reptiles were placed in inhumane conditions An investigation was launched, and officials said that this was part of an international wildlife trafficking syndicate which sourced the animals through a local breeder. Officials noted that the animals were subjected to extreme cruelty. They were bound and jammed into tight spaces, had no access to food, water, light, or adequate airflow, all of which resulted in high mortality risks during transit. Lizards found at Adelaide house In August, investigators raided a residence in Adelaide belonging to an Australian reptile breeder, where they found two dead lizards, a live lizard in poor health, and several electronic devices. Head of Compliance and Enforcement at the National EPA, Dani Yannopoulos, said Australian wildlife is in high demand in the international market and among global criminal networks. Individual specimens can command thousands of dollars on the black market due to strict Australian export regulations. Under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, illegal export or possession of regulated native wildlife invites fines of up to $330,000 per offence and up to 10 years' imprisonment. A foreign national can be deported along with facing potential visa cancellation.

The man packed 163 native Australian reptiles, including snakes and lizards, into socks and shoes, small boxes and other such items so that they would not show up on airport X-ray machines. Investigators also found dead lizards in an Adelaide home.&nbsp;

Stuffed into socks and shoes: Chinese man charged for trying to smuggle 163 Australian snakes and lizards

A suspect accused of planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye was neutralised by the police after he opened fire on officers during an operation in Istanbul’s Sultanbeyli district late Thursday, authorities said. Istanbul Police Department’s Counterterrorism Branch Directorate in coordination with the Intelligence Branch Directorate carried out the operation.&nbsp;According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, the suspect identified as 21-year-old Berkan C had links to the Daesh terrorist organisation and was planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye.&nbsp;“An operation was carried out in Sultanbeyli to capture Berkan C. (21), who was assessed to have links to the Daesh armed terrorist organization and to be planning a terrorist attack in our country,” the governor’s office was quoted as saying by Turkiyetoday.&nbsp;During the operation, Berkan C. opened fire on police officers in Istanbul’s Sultanbeyl, prompting security forces to respond. The suspect was neutralized in the ensuing clash.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plans-for-military-deployment-in-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-pressure-1788497052424">South Korea plans for military deployment in Strait of Hormuz amid US pressure</a>&nbsp;A civilian was injured in the shootout between the security forces and the suspect.&nbsp;“After the suspect opened fire on our police officers on duty, fire was returned and suspect Berkan C. was neutralized. During this time, one of our citizens was injured,” the statement by the governor’s office read.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">SON DAKİKA! Operasyon anına ait görüntüler ortaya çıktı! <a href="https://t.co/iHrt7DZIRV">https://t.co/iHrt7DZIRV</a> <a href="https://t.co/EOGcxy6UHO">pic.twitter.com/EOGcxy6UHO</a>&mdash; Burak Doğan (@doganburak29) <a href="https://x.com/doganburak29/status/2095615177974538503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Security has been tightened in the area and investigation into the shooting is underway .&nbsp;Early this year in April nine suspects were arrested in connection with a terror attack targeting a police post in front of the Besiktas district in Istanbul.&nbsp;According to the police the attackers arrived in a car with backpacks and long-barreled weapons, and opened fire on police units nearby.&nbsp;The attackers were said to be ISIS (Daesh) terrorist, according to the police.

According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, the suspect had links to the Daesh terrorist organisation and was planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye.

A suspect accused of planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye was neutralised by the police after he opened fire on officers during an operation in Istanbul’s Sultanbeyli district late Thursday, authorities said. Istanbul Police Department’s Counterterrorism Branch Directorate in coordination with the Intelligence Branch Directorate carried out the operation. According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, the suspect identified as 21-year-old Berkan C had links to the Daesh terrorist organisation and was planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye. “An operation was carried out in Sultanbeyli to capture Berkan C. (21), who was assessed to have links to the Daesh armed terrorist organization and to be planning a terrorist attack in our country,” the governor’s office was quoted as saying by Turkiyetoday. During the operation, Berkan C. opened fire on police officers in Istanbul’s Sultanbeyl, prompting security forces to respond. The suspect was neutralized in the ensuing clash. ALSO READ: South Korea plans for military deployment in Strait of Hormuz amid US pressure A civilian was injured in the shootout between the security forces and the suspect. “After the suspect opened fire on our police officers on duty, fire was returned and suspect Berkan C. was neutralized. During this time, one of our citizens was injured,” the statement by the governor’s office read.

According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, the suspect had links to the Daesh terrorist organisation and was planning a terrorist attack in Turkiye.

Istanbul police neutralises suspect 'planning terrorist attack'

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday celebrated a historic political milestone as her hard-right government became the longest-lasting administration in Italy’s postwar history, even as thousands of supporters gathered for a rally and protesters demonstrated nearby. Meloni has now been in charge of the same government for 1,413 days, surpassing the previous record held by billionaire media tycoon and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi by one day.The milestone is particularly significant in a country that has experienced 68 governments in 80 years, with previous administrations frequently collapsing because of political crises, defections and coalition disputes. Meloni, however, has so far managed to keep her governing coalition together.<h2>Meloni celebrates record with Bari rally</h2>Around 80 coaches are expected to bring supporters to Bari, the capital of southern Italy's Puglia region, for a major rally organised by Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy (FdI) party. The event is being held in an area of the port capable of accommodating up to 10,000 people, according to organisers. Meloni is scheduled to address the crowd in the early evening. Her deputy prime ministers, Matteo Salvini and Antonio Tajani, are also expected to participate through video links. The gathering effectively doubles as an early campaign-style event ahead of Italy's 2027 general election.&nbsp;Under the official slogan "Il Governo piu stabile, l’Italia piu forte" ("The Most Stable Government, the Strongest Italy"), the celebrations will feature traditional Puglian light shows and DJ performances. The government is expected to highlight its record in office, including the creation of more than one million additional jobs and a reported 21-billion-euro ($24-billion) reduction in personal income taxes.&nbsp;Italy's fiscal position has also improved significantly despite its heavy debt burden. Critics, however, argue that greater fiscal stability has not translated into stronger economic growth or improved living standards. "Have wages increased? No. Petrol costs more, job insecurity has increased, people are retiring less and the healthcare system is functioning less effectively," Maurizio Landini, head of the CGIL trade union, said ahead of the event.<h2>Migration and security at centre of Meloni's record</h2>Meloni has also argued that Italy's influence internationally has grown during her time in office. Her relationship with US President Donald Trump, once described as a close friendship, has nevertheless suffered a dramatic setback after she criticised him for attacking the pope. Meloni's coalition includes her Brothers of Italy, the far-right anti-immigration League led by Salvini and the centre-right Forza Italia party.&nbsp;Together, the coalition has passed around 300 laws and decrees, with many focused on what the government describes as security threats. The measures have addressed issues ranging from petty crime to rave parties and climate protests. Meloni's Brothers of Italy, which has roots in the neo-Fascist political tradition, won the 2022 election after campaigning heavily on illegal migration.&nbsp;The government says its policies have helped reduce migrant arrivals by 80 percent. But maintaining political momentum will be more difficult as the government moves closer to the next election. Meloni will also have to say how she intends to use these last months ahead of the vote, a very interesting question, Flavia Perina, an editorialist with La Stampa daily, told a press conference in Rome on Thursday.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-vs-tata-chemicals-why-president-william-ruto-ordered-company-to-stop-operations-1788498964263">Kenya vs Tata Chemicals: Why President William Ruto ordered company to stop operations</a><h2>Protesters challenge Meloni's record</h2>While supporters gather to celebrate the government's longevity, Meloni's opponents are planning an anti-government demonstration across Bari's historic centre. The protest organisers accuse the government of creating a war and weapons economy and a police state, while also alleging that its policies have contributed to a climate of hostility towards migrants. The demonstrations underscore the political divisions surrounding Meloni as she approaches the final stretch before the 2027 election.<h2>Far-right challenger emerges</h2>Meloni also faces a challenge from further to her political right. A former general has emerged as the leader of a party that is even further to the right than Meloni's Brothers of Italy. The party's rapid rise has seen it overtake both the League and Forza Italia in opinion polls, potentially creating a new threat to Meloni's dominance of Italy's right-wing political landscape. As supporters gather for Meloni's record-breaking celebration, with food trucks serving Bari's traditional ‘Assassin Spaghetti’, the prime minister faces a more complicated question: whether she can turn her government's historic longevity into another electoral victory in 2027.

Giorgia Meloni marks 1,413 days in power as Italy’s longest-lasting postwar government, amid a rally, protests and scrutiny over her record

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday celebrated a historic political milestone as her hard-right government became the longest-lasting administration in Italy’s postwar history, even as thousands of supporters gathered for a rally and protesters demonstrated nearby. Meloni has now been in charge of the same government for 1,413 days, surpassing the previous record held by billionaire media tycoon and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi by one day. The milestone is particularly significant in a country that has experienced 68 governments in 80 years, with previous administrations frequently collapsing because of political crises, defections and coalition disputes. Meloni, however, has so far managed to keep her governing coalition together. Meloni celebrates record with Bari rally Around 80 coaches are expected to bring supporters to Bari, the capital of southern Italy's Puglia region, for a major rally organised by Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy (FdI) party. The event is being held in an area of the port capable of accommodating up to 10,000 people, according to organisers. Meloni is scheduled to address the crowd in the early evening. Her deputy prime ministers, Matteo Salvini and Antonio Tajani, are also expected to participate through video links. The gathering effectively doubles as an early campaign-style event ahead of Italy's 2027 general election. Under the official slogan "Il Governo piu stabile, l’Italia piu forte" ("The Most Stable Government, the Strongest Italy"), the celebrations will feature traditional Puglian light shows and DJ performances. The government is expected to highlight its record in office, including the creation of more than one million additional jobs and a reported 21-billion-euro ($24-billion) reduction in personal income taxes. Italy's fiscal position has also improved significantly despite its heavy debt burden. Critics, however, argue that greater fiscal stability has not translated into stronger economic growth or improved living standards. "Have wages increased? No. Petrol costs more, job insecurity has increased, people are retiring less and the healthcare system is functioning less effectively," Maurizio Landini, head of the CGIL trade union, said ahead of the event. Migration and security at centre of Meloni's record Meloni has also argued that Italy's influence internationally has grown during her time in office. Her relationship with US President Donald Trump, once described as a close friendship, has nevertheless suffered a dramatic setback after she criticised him for attacking the pope. Meloni's coalition includes her Brothers of Italy, the far-right anti-immigration League led by Salvini and the centre-right Forza Italia party. Together, the coalition has passed around 300 laws and decrees, with many focused on what the government describes as security threats. The measures have addressed issues ranging from petty crime to rave parties and climate protests. Meloni's Brothers of Italy, which has roots in the neo-Fascist political tradition, won the 2022 election after campaigning heavily on illegal migration. The government says its policies have helped reduce migrant arrivals by 80 percent. But maintaining political momentum will be more difficult as the government moves closer to the next election. Meloni will also have to say how she intends to use these last months ahead of the vote, a very interesting question, Flavia Perina, an editorialist with La Stampa daily, told a press conference in Rome on Thursday. Also read: Kenya vs Tata Chemicals: Why President William Ruto ordered company to stop operations Protesters challenge Meloni's record While supporters gather to celebrate the government's longevity, Meloni's opponents are planning an anti-government demonstration across Bari's historic centre. The protest organisers accuse the government of creating a war and weapons economy and a police state, while also alleging that its policies have contributed to a climate of hostility towards migrants. The demonstrations underscore the political divisions surrounding Meloni as she approaches the final stretch before the 2027 election. Far-right challenger emerges Meloni also faces a challenge from further to her political right. A former general has emerged as the leader of a party that is even further to the right than Meloni's Brothers of Italy. The party's rapid rise has seen it overtake both the League and Forza Italia in opinion polls, potentially creating a new threat to Meloni's dominance of Italy's right-wing political landscape. As supporters gather for Meloni's record-breaking celebration, with food trucks serving Bari's traditional ‘Assassin Spaghetti’, the prime minister faces a more complicated question: whether she can turn her government's historic longevity into another electoral victory in 2027.

Giorgia Meloni celebrates her government becoming Italy’s longest-lasting since WWII as supporters rally and protesters challenge her record

Uber's direct staff, drivers and riders got surprise news on Wednesday 2nd September 2026 as the Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi announced change in the company's operations to shrink workforce. The company said the purpose is to reduce management layers, speed up decision-making and slash about 3300 jobs globally, thereby refocusing spending on its core business of E-hailig.&nbsp;It is known that the company had introduced services beyond conventional car rides. For istance, in 2019, it launched Uber Boat in Lagos as an alternative transport option aimed at helping commuters avoid the city’s traffic. Part of the announcement was immediate complete stoppage of operations in Nigeria and Uganda, which took effect Wednesday, the company said the decision followed a review of its business priorities and investment focus across Africa, but said operations in other African markets continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;The sentiments accross Nigeria is that uber's decision after 12 years of operation, could not have been unconnected to recent tension about airport parking, dispute over fare and commission, however, uber did not state specific reasons to quit Nigeria and Uganda order than investment priorities and refocus.&nbsp;While some Nigerians are indifferent about the exit decision, many are worried it will worsen the economic hardship, considering the investment and employment it has generated in the country. Some opposition politicians have also blamed the exit as reflection of harsh macroeconomic reality facing multinationals and indigenous companies.With uber's exit from Nigeria, it may mean more opportunities for other competitors like bolt, in-drive, lagride who had all shared from 450 million dollars Nigeria market.&nbsp;Experts actually believes uber is over staffed, with multiple staff layers sitting below the CEO, creating too many small teams, making operations ambiguous. Uber investors too seem to welcome the lay-off decision as Shares rose nearly 2% after the announcement.&nbsp;Analysts said the global layoffs could generate up to $2bn in annual saving, which can be diverted to their Autonomous vehicle technology, that uses a mix of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to navigate roads without human help.

The company said the purpose is to reduce management layers, speed up decision-making and slash about 3300 jobs globally, thereby refocusing spending on its core business of E-hailig.

Uber's direct staff, drivers and riders got surprise news on Wednesday 2nd September 2026 as the Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi announced change in the company's operations to shrink workforce. The company said the purpose is to reduce management layers, speed up decision-making and slash about 3300 jobs globally, thereby refocusing spending on its core business of E-hailig. It is known that the company had introduced services beyond conventional car rides. For istance, in 2019, it launched Uber Boat in Lagos as an alternative transport option aimed at helping commuters avoid the city’s traffic. Part of the announcement was immediate complete stoppage of operations in Nigeria and Uganda, which took effect Wednesday, the company said the decision followed a review of its business priorities and investment focus across Africa, but said operations in other African markets continues. The sentiments accross Nigeria is that uber's decision after 12 years of operation, could not have been unconnected to recent tension about airport parking, dispute over fare and commission, however, uber did not state specific reasons to quit Nigeria and Uganda order than investment priorities and refocus. While some Nigerians are indifferent about the exit decision, many are worried it will worsen the economic hardship, considering the investment and employment it has generated in the country. Some opposition politicians have also blamed the exit as reflection of harsh macroeconomic reality facing multinationals and indigenous companies. With uber's exit from Nigeria, it may mean more opportunities for other competitors like bolt, in-drive, lagride who had all shared from 450 million dollars Nigeria market. Experts actually believes uber is over staffed, with multiple staff layers sitting below the CEO, creating too many small teams, making operations ambiguous. Uber investors too seem to welcome the lay-off decision as Shares rose nearly 2% after the announcement. Analysts said the global layoffs could generate up to $2bn in annual saving, which can be diverted to their Autonomous vehicle technology, that uses a mix of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to navigate roads without human help.

The company said the purpose is to reduce management layers, speed up decision-making and slash about 3300 jobs globally, thereby refocusing spending on its core business of E-hailig.

Uber's exit from Nigeria, Uganda and global job cut: Good news for other E-hailing companies?

Kenya's President William Ruto has ordered Tata Chemicals to stop its operations in the country, sharply escalating a dispute that has been simmering since July. Ruto expressed disappointment with the Indian company, saying its operations ‘failed to benefit’ Kenya sufficiently. The president's comments came during a visit to Kajiado in southern Kenya, where Tata Chemicals operates its Magadi soda ash business.&nbsp;Tata Chemicals, however, has maintained that it is complying with applicable regulations. In a recent statement, the company said it ‘submitted all the information and documents sought by the Kenyan government’ and is compliant with applicable regulations and is waiting for the government to review its response. The dispute centres on Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited (TCML), which runs the Magadi soda ash operation in Kajiado County. What started as a government-ordered suspension of mining activities in July has now turned into a much broader confrontation, with Kenya's president calling for the company to be replaced.<h2>What did Tata Chemicals say?</h2>Tata Chemicals said it acquired the Magadi business in 2005 and has since contributed to Kenya's economy through employment, business activity and community initiatives. According to the company, its Kenyan subsidiary submitted "all the information, reports and documentation" requested by Kenya's Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs on August 11.&nbsp;The company said its submission provided a detailed response to the concerns raised by the ministry, including information relating to its regulatory compliance. Tata Chemicals said it is now waiting for the ministry to assess the documents and provide further directions. The company has adopted a conciliatory position amid the escalating dispute. It said it respects the Kenyan government's authority and remains committed to ‘constructive engagement’ through legal and regulatory channels to resolve the issues. Tata Chemicals also said the welfare of its employees, the Magadi community and its wider group of stakeholders remains a priority, alongside Kenya's economic development.<h2>Why is Kenya angry with Tata Chemicals?</h2>Ruto's criticism focuses on more than the immediate regulatory dispute. During his Kajiado visit, the Kenyan president questioned the economic benefits that the country and local communities have received from Tata Chemicals despite the company's long presence in the region.&nbsp;Ruto said the company had a contract for 100 years but had not established a factory in Kajiado. "Are we slaves to other people?" he asked. The president said Kenya would bring in two companies to replace Tata Chemicals. One would be expected to establish a large glass manufacturing operation in Kajiado, while the other would manufacture chemicals locally. The government's broader objective appears to be increasing value addition within Kenya rather than relying primarily on the extraction and export of raw or minimally processed resources.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kenya wants more manufacturing, jobs, investment and industrial activity to take place near the areas where its natural resources are extracted. According to a Reuters report cited in coverage of the dispute, Ruto's government plans to bring in two companies to take over Tata Chemicals' operations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plans-for-military-deployment-in-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-pressure-1788497052424">South Korea plans for military deployment in Strait of Hormuz amid US pressure</a><h2>What exactly happened in July?</h2>The latest confrontation has its roots in a July 28 decision by Kenya's Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho. Joho ordered Tata Chemicals Magadi to suspend all mining operations, citing several unresolved compliance concerns. The issues raised by the government included royalty reconciliation and payments, export reporting, mineral beneficiation and value addition, community development agreements, employment and skills transfer for Kenyan citizens, procurement from local suppliers and environmental compliance.&nbsp;Kenya's mining ministry said it had been engaging with Tata Chemicals for years regarding the company's statutory obligations. The government said Tata Chemicals would need to provide documentation demonstrating full compliance and settle outstanding liabilities before its mining operations could resume.&nbsp;Tata Chemicals disputed the allegations and maintained that it was fully compliant with the relevant regulations.Following the order, the company shut down its mining operations while saying it would cooperate with authorities to find an amicable and speedy resolution. The suspension also disrupted soda ash exports from the Magadi facility.<h2>Tata Chemicals says thousands benefit From Magadi operations</h2>Tata Chemicals has rejected the suggestion that its operations have failed to benefit Kenya. In an August 17 statement, the company said approximately 500 employees and their families, together with contractors, suppliers, transporters and local businesses, depend directly or indirectly on economic activity associated with the operation.&nbsp;Tata Chemicals also said around 30,000 people in the Magadi community directly benefit from its support programmes covering water, healthcare, education, infrastructure and community development. The scale of the Magadi operation is significant. Tata Chemicals Magadi is one of Africa's major producers of natural soda ash. Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is an important industrial chemical used in the manufacture of glass, detergents and other chemicals. It is also used in water treatment.&nbsp;The Magadi operation produces soda ash from trona, a naturally occurring mineral found at Lake Magadi. Tata Chemicals says its Kenyan business exports more than 3,50,000 tonnes of soda ash annually to markets across Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East and Africa. The business also has a long history in Kenya. The soda ash operation dates back to 1911, when it was established as the Magadi Soda Company. Tata Chemicals acquired the business in 2005.

Kenya's William Ruto orders Tata Chemicals to stop operations amid a dispute over mining compliance, local jobs, manufacturing and value addition

Kenya's President William Ruto has ordered Tata Chemicals to stop its operations in the country, sharply escalating a dispute that has been simmering since July. Ruto expressed disappointment with the Indian company, saying its operations ‘failed to benefit’ Kenya sufficiently. The president's comments came during a visit to Kajiado in southern Kenya, where Tata Chemicals operates its Magadi soda ash business. Tata Chemicals, however, has maintained that it is complying with applicable regulations. In a recent statement, the company said it ‘submitted all the information and documents sought by the Kenyan government’ and is compliant with applicable regulations and is waiting for the government to review its response. The dispute centres on Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited (TCML), which runs the Magadi soda ash operation in Kajiado County. What started as a government-ordered suspension of mining activities in July has now turned into a much broader confrontation, with Kenya's president calling for the company to be replaced. What did Tata Chemicals say? Tata Chemicals said it acquired the Magadi business in 2005 and has since contributed to Kenya's economy through employment, business activity and community initiatives. According to the company, its Kenyan subsidiary submitted "all the information, reports and documentation" requested by Kenya's Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs on August 11. The company said its submission provided a detailed response to the concerns raised by the ministry, including information relating to its regulatory compliance. Tata Chemicals said it is now waiting for the ministry to assess the documents and provide further directions. The company has adopted a conciliatory position amid the escalating dispute. It said it respects the Kenyan government's authority and remains committed to ‘constructive engagement’ through legal and regulatory channels to resolve the issues. Tata Chemicals also said the welfare of its employees, the Magadi community and its wider group of stakeholders remains a priority, alongside Kenya's economic development. Why is Kenya angry with Tata Chemicals? Ruto's criticism focuses on more than the immediate regulatory dispute. During his Kajiado visit, the Kenyan president questioned the economic benefits that the country and local communities have received from Tata Chemicals despite the company's long presence in the region. Ruto said the company had a contract for 100 years but had not established a factory in Kajiado. "Are we slaves to other people?" he asked. The president said Kenya would bring in two companies to replace Tata Chemicals. One would be expected to establish a large glass manufacturing operation in Kajiado, while the other would manufacture chemicals locally. The government's broader objective appears to be increasing value addition within Kenya rather than relying primarily on the extraction and export of raw or minimally processed resources. Kenya wants more manufacturing, jobs, investment and industrial activity to take place near the areas where its natural resources are extracted. According to a Reuters report cited in coverage of the dispute, Ruto's government plans to bring in two companies to take over Tata Chemicals' operations. Also Read: South Korea plans for military deployment in Strait of Hormuz amid US pressure What exactly happened in July? The latest confrontation has its roots in a July 28 decision by Kenya's Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho. Joho ordered Tata Chemicals Magadi to suspend all mining operations, citing several unresolved compliance concerns. The issues raised by the government included royalty reconciliation and payments, export reporting, mineral beneficiation and value addition, community development agreements, employment and skills transfer for Kenyan citizens, procurement from local suppliers and environmental compliance. Kenya's mining ministry said it had been engaging with Tata Chemicals for years regarding the company's statutory obligations. The government said Tata Chemicals would need to provide documentation demonstrating full compliance and settle outstanding liabilities before its mining operations could resume. Tata Chemicals disputed the allegations and maintained that it was fully compliant with the relevant regulations. Following the order, the company shut down its mining operations while saying it would cooperate with authorities to find an amicable and speedy resolution. The suspension also disrupted soda ash exports from the Magadi facility. Tata Chemicals says thousands benefit From Magadi operations Tata Chemicals has rejected the suggestion that its operations have failed to benefit Kenya. In an August 17 statement, the company said approximately 500 employees and their families, together with contractors, suppliers, transporters and local businesses, depend directly or indirectly on economic activity associated with the operation. Tata Chemicals also said around 30,000 people in the Magadi community directly benefit from its support programmes covering water, healthcare, education, infrastructure and community development. The scale of the Magadi operation is significant. Tata Chemicals Magadi is one of Africa's major producers of natural soda ash. Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is an important industrial chemical used in the manufacture of glass, detergents and other chemicals. It is also used in water treatment. The Magadi operation produces soda ash from trona, a naturally occurring mineral found at Lake Magadi. Tata Chemicals says its Kenyan business exports more than 3,50,000 tonnes of soda ash annually to markets across Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East and Africa. The business also has a long history in Kenya. The soda ash operation dates back to 1911, when it was established as the Magadi Soda Company. Tata Chemicals acquired the business in 2005.

Kenya President William Ruto has ordered Tata Chemicals to stop operations, escalating a dispute over mining compliance, jobs and local value addition

Kenya vs Tata Chemicals: Why President William Ruto ordered company to stop operations

South Korea is planning to station military assets in order to support freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz with focus to send them before the end of the year, several media reports confirmed on Thursday (September 3), citing government and military sources. The development after US President Donald Trump increased pressure on the Americans ally over its lack of support for the war with Iran. &nbsp;Reports indicated that the government was preparing procedures to demand parliamentary approval for the deployment, that include submission of a consent motion to parliament this month following cabinet review. The government was weighing several among them dispatching a maritime patrol aircraft, a logistics support vessel, or a mine detection and clearance unit, and had held discussions on the size and scope of a potential contribution with nations including the United States, Britain, and France.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-adam-telle-the-newly-appointed-acting-us-army-secretary-1788490582153">Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed acting US Army Secretary?</a><h3>Freedom of navigation</h3>South Korea's presidential Blue House stated that Seoul had been exploring practical avenues to contribute to freedom of navigation in the strait, however, clarified suggesting the government had finalised a deployment did not precisdiely reflect the situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an August social media pos, &nbsp;US President Donald Trump stated that he had reduced US-South Korea joint military exercises partly because South Korea had refused to assist the US in the war conflct with Iran. "We are making concrete preparations to dispatch naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz," a National Defense Ministry official told Australia's broadcaster SBS.&nbsp;The report indicated that the ongoing deployment consists of P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal team, and a logistics support ship. South Korea's government had earlier stated that it would only move forward with a deployment to the strait once the conflict between the US and Iran had come to an end.

The government was preparing procedures to demand parliamentary approval for the deployment, that include submission of a consent motion to parliament this month following cabinet review. 

South Korea is planning to station military assets in order to support freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz with focus to send them before the end of the year, several media reports confirmed on Thursday (September 3), citing government and military sources. The development after US President Donald Trump increased pressure on the Americans ally over its lack of support for the war with Iran. Reports indicated that the government was preparing procedures to demand parliamentary approval for the deployment, that include submission of a consent motion to parliament this month following cabinet review. The government was weighing several among them dispatching a maritime patrol aircraft, a logistics support vessel, or a mine detection and clearance unit, and had held discussions on the size and scope of a potential contribution with nations including the United States, Britain, and France. Also read: Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed acting US Army Secretary? Freedom of navigation South Korea's presidential Blue House stated that Seoul had been exploring practical avenues to contribute to freedom of navigation in the strait, however, clarified suggesting the government had finalised a deployment did not precisdiely reflect the situation. In an August social media pos, US President Donald Trump stated that he had reduced US-South Korea joint military exercises partly because South Korea had refused to assist the US in the war conflct with Iran. "We are making concrete preparations to dispatch naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz," a National Defense Ministry official told Australia's broadcaster SBS. The report indicated that the ongoing deployment consists of P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal team, and a logistics support ship. South Korea's government had earlier stated that it would only move forward with a deployment to the strait once the conflict between the US and Iran had come to an end.

The government was preparing procedures to demand parliamentary approval for the deployment, that include submission of a consent motion to parliament this month following cabinet review.&nbsp;

South Korea plans for military deployment in Strait of Hormuz amid US pressure

The Ebola virus has continued to spread across Congo leading to death toll cross 3,000. In the wake of the virus spreading rapidly and toll mounting, authorities in eastern Congo are shifting to a village-centred approach, Africa’s top public health agency said Thursday.&nbsp;According to Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the outbreak is yet to peak. Since being declared in mid-May, the virus has spread from &nbsp;three health zones to 60, with 6,250 cases, including 3,039 deaths. The reasons for the spread and mounting toll is largely being attributed to insecurity, displacement and intense population movements.&nbsp;<h2>So, what are the challenges that Congo is facing to curb the spread?</h2>&nbsp;Community-based surveillance that helps in quickly raise alerts to detect, track and slow the spread of the virus is limited, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;Delays in detection, reluctance to report cases and inadequate community engagement are big contributing factors in rising death toll&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-great-trump-hails-syria-s-push-for-alternative-to-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-iran-war-1788487903144">'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war</a>&nbsp;According to Africa CDC data, about 63% of deaths recorded in the past week occurred outside Ebola treatment centers&nbsp;Contact-tracing has been extremely poor across the six provinces affected by the virus outbreak&nbsp;Though, treatment centers expanded isolation capacity to more than 1,300 beds in late August, more treatment and isolation centers and beds are needed in affected health zones to prepare for cases that have yet to be detected.&nbsp;Laboratory testing capacity is limited and therefore needs to be expanded in order to promptly identify cases and treat patients. According to World Health Organization several treatment and transit centres in North Kivu, the second-most affected province, lacked sufficient options to refer patients to specialized facilities&nbsp;Burials need to be carried out cautiously as Ebola can spread between people through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of someone who is sick with or has died from Ebola&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community-based surveillance that helps in quickly raise alerts to detect, track and slow the spread of the Ebola virus is limited.

The Ebola virus has continued to spread across Congo leading to death toll cross 3,000. In the wake of the virus spreading rapidly and toll mounting, authorities in eastern Congo are shifting to a village-centred approach, Africa’s top public health agency said Thursday. According to Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the outbreak is yet to peak. Since being declared in mid-May, the virus has spread from three health zones to 60, with 6,250 cases, including 3,039 deaths. The reasons for the spread and mounting toll is largely being attributed to insecurity, displacement and intense population movements. So, what are the challenges that Congo is facing to curb the spread? Community-based surveillance that helps in quickly raise alerts to detect, track and slow the spread of the virus is limited, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Delays in detection, reluctance to report cases and inadequate community engagement are big contributing factors in rising death toll ALSO READ: 'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war According to Africa CDC data, about 63% of deaths recorded in the past week occurred outside Ebola treatment centers Contact-tracing has been extremely poor across the six provinces affected by the virus outbreak Though, treatment centers expanded isolation capacity to more than 1,300 beds in late August, more treatment and isolation centers and beds are needed in affected health zones to prepare for cases that have yet to be detected. Laboratory testing capacity is limited and therefore needs to be expanded in order to promptly identify cases and treat patients. According to World Health Organization several treatment and transit centres in North Kivu, the second-most affected province, lacked sufficient options to refer patients to specialized facilities Burials need to be carried out cautiously as Ebola can spread between people through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of someone who is sick with or has died from Ebola

Community-based surveillance that helps in quickly raise alerts to detect, track and slow the spread of the Ebola virus is limited.

Nepal has been living in despair, yet hope lingers. The recent rescue of two people trapped in the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project tunnel stands as a testament to that hope. Days after severe floods ravaged the Himalayan nation, this is one of the few miracles people are celebrating.&nbsp;The Energy Minister's office confirmed on Friday (Sep 4) that two people were rescued alive from the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project tunnel. Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority team on X posted, “Two individuals were safely rescued this morning from inside the tunnel of the Trishuli 3 A Hydropower Project due to the devastating flood that struck Bhotekoshi in Rasuwa on the 10th of Bhadra. The rescued individuals, freed by the joint search and rescue team, are Supervisor Kabir Maharjan and Foreman Mechanic Sanjay Shah.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-two-hydropower-workers-rescued-in-nepal-after-more-than-a-week-1788508240069/embed">https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-two-hydropower-workers-rescued-in-nepal-after-more-than-a-week-1788508240069/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Rescuers operating inside the tunnels of a stricken Nepali hydropower plant have heard voices from within, which showed them a ray of hope amid rubble and debris. The discovery marks the first sign of life eight days after massive flash floods and landslides trapped hundreds of workers across several Himalayan energy facilities.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">सुखद खबर ! रसुवाको भोटेकोशीमा १० भदौमा आएको विनाशकारी बाढीका कारण त्रिशुली ३ ए जलविद्युत आयोजनाको सुरुङभित्रबाट आज बिहान दुई जनाको सकुशल उद्वार गरिएको छ। संयुक्त खोज तथा उद्धार टोलीद्वारा उद्वार गरिएकामा सुपरभाइजर कबिर महर्जन र फोरम्यान मेकानिक सञ्जय साह रहनु भएको छ। <a href="https://t.co/j7qKksU0YD">pic.twitter.com/j7qKksU0YD</a>&mdash; NDRRMA (@NDRRMA_Nepal) <a href="https://x.com/NDRRMA_Nepal/status/2095748614379454472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The catastrophic flooding along Nepal's Trishuli River killed more than 1,200 people across the country. Thick, cement-like torrents submerged the river basin and surrounding infrastructure, leaving behind severe destruction. The trapped workforce includes foreign nationals from China, South Korea, and India, intensifying international concern as rescue operations stretched past a week.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-nepal-police-collects-dna-samples-to-identify-missing-people-1788265201955">Nepal floods: Nepal police collects DNA samples to identify missing people</a>&nbsp;As the death toll mounts each day, 1,259 people have been declared dead, and 5,083 have been reported missing. Families of those affected by the flood have been asked to provide DNA samples to identify their loved ones as rescue operations continue for eight days on to search for the living and the dead. Nature is ruthless when not conserved, and this climate impact has raised bigger, bolder questions.

Rescue teams in Nepal have successfully pulled two workers out alive from the flooded Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project. Emergency operations continue as teams search for remaining survivors following severe flash floods.

Nepal has been living in despair, yet hope lingers. The recent rescue of two people trapped in the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project tunnel stands as a testament to that hope. Days after severe floods ravaged the Himalayan nation, this is one of the few miracles people are celebrating. The Energy Minister's office confirmed on Friday (Sep 4) that two people were rescued alive from the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project tunnel. Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority team on X posted, “Two individuals were safely rescued this morning from inside the tunnel of the Trishuli 3 A Hydropower Project due to the devastating flood that struck Bhotekoshi in Rasuwa on the 10th of Bhadra. The rescued individuals, freed by the joint search and rescue team, are Supervisor Kabir Maharjan and Foreman Mechanic Sanjay Shah.” https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-two-hydropower-workers-rescued-in-nepal-after-more-than-a-week-1788508240069/embed Rescuers operating inside the tunnels of a stricken Nepali hydropower plant have heard voices from within, which showed them a ray of hope amid rubble and debris. The discovery marks the first sign of life eight days after massive flash floods and landslides trapped hundreds of workers across several Himalayan energy facilities.

Rescue teams in Nepal have successfully pulled two workers out alive from the flooded Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project. Emergency operations continue as teams search for remaining survivors following severe flash floods.

Light at the end of the tunnel: 2 rescued alive from Trishuli 3A hydropower plant days after Nepal floods

The Volkswagen Board has approved a plan to cut another 50,000 jobs as part of sweeping changes amid losses. In March, the German car giant had announced that it would chop off 50,000 positions by 2030. This brings the total number of roles that will be eliminated by the end of the decade to 100,000. The group manufactures Audi, Porsche, and Skoda, besides the VW brand. SEAT, Bentley, and Lamborghini are also wholly owned subsidiaries of the Volkswagen Group.&nbsp;Volkswagen is facing a demand crunch as other players enter the field. Chinese car brands have turned into fierce competitors, forcing the company to take drastic steps amid falling profits. VW's chief executive Oliver Blume said in a statement on Thursday, “This is a strong signal for the future of the Volkswagen Group. [The plan will] make our iconic brands even more attractive, stronger, and competitive.”<h2>What Volkswagen said about job cuts</h2>He added that "a consistent alignment of workforce capacity with economic reality is essential" amid "intensifying global competition, shifting demand, and technological change in the automotive industry." Blume had talked about the additional cuts in July this year. The company stated the conditions necessitate "a Group-wide workforce adjustment of approximately 50,000 positions - including management roles."&nbsp;Volkswagen plans to prioritise the "most compelling vehicles" and make more of these models to lower costs. Alternate uses of manufacturing plants in Emden, Zwickau, Hanover and Neckarsulm will be assessed since the production capacity here exceeds demand.<h2>Chinese brands are giving fierce competition</h2>Volkswagen started operations in 1937 and has never witnessed such drastic restructuring in all these decades. VW employed more than 660,000 people worldwide as of 2025. But the demand for its cars has seen a sharp drop, especially in China, which once used to be its biggest market. It also witnessed a drop in sales in the United States, with the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump being partly responsible.&nbsp;Christianne Benner, the president of Europe's largest industrial union IG Metall and deputy chair of VW's Supervisory Board, said the company tried its best to fix the crisis situation.&nbsp;

Volkswagen has announced 50,000 more job cuts, taking the total number to a massive 100,000. All these positions will be eliminated by the end of 2030. The German car maker is facing fierce competition from Chinese brands and is suffering because of extreme tariffs in the US. 

The Volkswagen Board has approved a plan to cut another 50,000 jobs as part of sweeping changes amid losses. In March, the German car giant had announced that it would chop off 50,000 positions by 2030. This brings the total number of roles that will be eliminated by the end of the decade to 100,000. The group manufactures Audi, Porsche, and Skoda, besides the VW brand. SEAT, Bentley, and Lamborghini are also wholly owned subsidiaries of the Volkswagen Group. Volkswagen is facing a demand crunch as other players enter the field. Chinese car brands have turned into fierce competitors, forcing the company to take drastic steps amid falling profits. VW's chief executive Oliver Blume said in a statement on Thursday, “This is a strong signal for the future of the Volkswagen Group. [The plan will] make our iconic brands even more attractive, stronger, and competitive.” What Volkswagen said about job cuts He added that "a consistent alignment of workforce capacity with economic reality is essential" amid "intensifying global competition, shifting demand, and technological change in the automotive industry." Blume had talked about the additional cuts in July this year. The company stated the conditions necessitate "a Group-wide workforce adjustment of approximately 50,000 positions - including management roles." Volkswagen plans to prioritise the "most compelling vehicles" and make more of these models to lower costs. Alternate uses of manufacturing plants in Emden, Zwickau, Hanover and Neckarsulm will be assessed since the production capacity here exceeds demand. Chinese brands are giving fierce competition Volkswagen started operations in 1937 and has never witnessed such drastic restructuring in all these decades. VW employed more than 660,000 people worldwide as of 2025. But the demand for its cars has seen a sharp drop, especially in China, which once used to be its biggest market. It also witnessed a drop in sales in the United States, with the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump being partly responsible. Christianne Benner, the president of Europe's largest industrial union IG Metall and deputy chair of VW's Supervisory Board, said the company tried its best to fix the crisis situation.

Volkswagen has announced 50,000 more job cuts, taking the total number to a massive 100,000. All these positions will be eliminated by the end of 2030. The German car maker is facing fierce competition from Chinese brands and is suffering because of extreme tariffs in the US.&nbsp;

Rescuers operating inside the tunnels of a stricken Nepali hydropower plant have heard voices from within, local officials informed news outlet CNN. The discovery marks the first sign of life eight days after massive flash floods and landslides trapped hundreds of workers across several Himalayan energy facilities.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-pm-shah-denies-declining-international-aid-1788373186062/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-pm-shah-denies-declining-international-aid-1788373186062/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;This breakthrough offers hope during a round-the-clock rescue effort carried out under treacherous conditions. Emergency crews at the Trishuli 3A hydropower plant have been drilling into a tunnel to reach 42 unaccounted-for workers. Bipin Regmi, the police chief for Nuwakot district, said that "rescuers heard voices," and noted that a specialised medical team was dispatched to the scene. The tunnel leading to the underground powerhouse spans more than four kilometers (2.5 miles), where dozens were working when sudden floodwaters struck.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-nepal-pm-balendra-shah-govt-cannot-absolve-itself-of-blame-1788286782643">Nepal floods: Nepal &amp; PM Balendra Shah govt cannot absolve itself of blame</a>&nbsp;The catastrophic flooding along Nepal's Trishuli River killed more than 1,200 people across the country. Thick, cement-like torrents submerged the river basin and surrounding infrastructure, leaving behind severe destruction. The trapped workforce includes foreign nationals from China, South Korea, and India, intensifying international concern as rescue operations stretched past a week.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Survivor pulled out of Trishuli 3A hydropower project tunnel, 9 days after Nepal floods<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Nepal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nepal</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/rescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rescue</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/tunnel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tunnel</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/floods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#floods</a> <a href="https://t.co/nmYnBez6tf">pic.twitter.com/nmYnBez6tf</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2095721554420314263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Speaking to CNN, Indian Army Colonel Parikshit Mehra highlighted the severe psychological and physical toll on individuals trapped underground. Leading a team of specialised troops at the site, Mehra explained that "the first 48 hours are the most crucial" in complex subterranean rescues.&nbsp;"People who are stuck tend to panic much more than when they are outside in the open," Mehra added. He observed that total darkness causes individuals to become disoriented within 24 to 25 hours, adding that "beyond that, (after) 48 hours, you start hallucinating. And then I think from there on it’s always a fight."&nbsp;Despite the extreme timeframe and conditions inside the flooded complex, Mehra noted that survival remains possible under extraordinary circumstances, concluding that "there have been miracles." Rescuers continue working through the complex network to clear blockages and establish a secure route to the survivors.

Rescuers in Nepal are racing against time to reach workers trapped inside a flooded hydropower plant. Signs of life spark hope as multi-national teams dig through debris following devastating flash floods.

Rescuers operating inside the tunnels of a stricken Nepali hydropower plant have heard voices from within, local officials informed news outlet CNN. The discovery marks the first sign of life eight days after massive flash floods and landslides trapped hundreds of workers across several Himalayan energy facilities. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-pm-shah-denies-declining-international-aid-1788373186062/embed This breakthrough offers hope during a round-the-clock rescue effort carried out under treacherous conditions. Emergency crews at the Trishuli 3A hydropower plant have been drilling into a tunnel to reach 42 unaccounted-for workers. Bipin Regmi, the police chief for Nuwakot district, said that "rescuers heard voices," and noted that a specialised medical team was dispatched to the scene. The tunnel leading to the underground powerhouse spans more than four kilometers (2.5 miles), where dozens were working when sudden floodwaters struck. Also read: Nepal floods: Nepal & PM Balendra Shah govt cannot absolve itself of blame The catastrophic flooding along Nepal's Trishuli River killed more than 1,200 people across the country. Thick, cement-like torrents submerged the river basin and surrounding infrastructure, leaving behind severe destruction. The trapped workforce includes foreign nationals from China, South Korea, and India, intensifying international concern as rescue operations stretched past a week.

Rescuers in Nepal are racing against time to reach workers trapped inside a flooded hydropower plant. Signs of life spark hope as multi-national teams dig through debris following devastating flash floods.

A judge has ordered the jury in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial to continue deliberating after a dramatic sixth day ended without a verdict and tensions emerged among jurors. The development came after the jury forewoman sent a note to Judge William Sullivan alleging that one juror was refusing to follow the court's instructions on reasonable doubt. The revelation prompted Clancy's defence team to ask for the juror to be removed. The judge rejected the request, telling both sides that he did not want to intervene in the jury's deliberations.&nbsp;There was audible shock in the courtroom when the defence raised the request. Clancy, 36, is facing three counts of first-degree murder over the deaths of her three children, five-year-old Cora, three-year-old Dawson and eight-month-old Callan, at the family's Massachusetts home on January 24, 2023. The former labour and delivery nurse does not dispute that she strangled her two sons and daughter in the basement of the family home.&nbsp;Her defence, however, argues that she was experiencing postpartum psychosis at the time and was unable to distinguish right from wrong. The jury, comprising nine women and three men in Plymouth, has spent around 35 hours deliberating after nearly six weeks of testimony and proceedings. The panel had already sent two notes to the judge saying it was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. Thursday's proceedings, however, marked the first indication of significant disagreement inside the deliberation room.<h2>Defence seeks removal of juror</h2>Clancy's lawyer, Kevin Reddington, told the court that the forewoman had submitted another note, alleging that a juror was refusing to listen to the law concerning reasonable doubt. Reddington and prosecutor Jennifer Sprague then had an animated exchange with Judge Sullivan. Reddington subsequently approached Clancy and appeared to explain what had happened. The conversation appeared tense.&nbsp;Clancy, who became paralysed from the waist down after jumping from a second-floor window following the deaths of her children, was later pushed in her wheelchair by her lawyer to take part in a discussion with the judge. Judge Sullivan subsequently brought each juror into the courtroom individually and questioned them. He reminded them that they must unanimously determine, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Clancy was guilty before convicting her. As individual jurors approached, some looked towards Clancy while others avoided eye contact.<h2>Judge refuses to remove juror</h2>When Reddington formally raised his request to remove a juror, gasps could be heard in the courtroom as reporters quickly began typing. Judge Sullivan ruled that the juror could remain and that deliberations should continue. "I don't feel it is proper for me to side with one side or the other of the deliberations," the judge said. Prosecutor Jennifer Sprague defended the judge's instructions and argued that the court could not determine which juror was right or wrong during deliberations.&nbsp;"There's no way to determine what the deliberations are, who's correct, who's incorrect, nor should we attempt to," she said. Clancy lowered her head as journalists began leaving the courtroom. Reddington, appearing upset, consoled his client, placing an arm around her and rubbing her back as reporters exited.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-adam-telle-the-newly-appointed-acting-us-army-secretary-1788490582153">Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed acting US Army Secretary?</a><h2>What did the defence say?</h2>Speaking to reporters afterwards, Reddington said the forewoman's note described one juror as refusing to follow the law concerning reasonable doubt. He said he had asked the judge to consider removing that juror. Reddington said he had suggested to the judge "a motion to remove the juror who refuses to accept your instructions on the law on a reasonable doubt". The defence lawyer said he did not know what the juror's position was and did not confirm whether the jury was split 11-1, despite the forewoman previously indicating that there was a lone holdout.&nbsp;<h2>What happens if the jury remains deadlocked?</h2>If the jury fails to reach a unanimous verdict, Judge Sullivan could declare a mistrial. Prosecutors would then have to decide whether to pursue a new trial against Clancy. A conviction for first-degree murder could result in life imprisonment without parole. Alternatively, if Clancy is found not guilty because she lacked criminal responsibility or was legally insane at the time of the killings, she could be committed to a state psychiatric hospital.&nbsp;Under US law, jurors must unanimously conclude that prosecutors have established guilt beyond a reasonable doubt before returning a criminal conviction. The standard represents the highest burden of proof used in the US criminal justice system. It requires the government to establish the accused's guilt rather than requiring the accused to prove her innocence.

Lindsay Clancy's murder trial remains deadlocked after 35 hours as her defence seeks removal of a juror accused of refusing to follow reasonable doubt instructions

A judge has ordered the jury in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial to continue deliberating after a dramatic sixth day ended without a verdict and tensions emerged among jurors. The development came after the jury forewoman sent a note to Judge William Sullivan alleging that one juror was refusing to follow the court's instructions on reasonable doubt. The revelation prompted Clancy's defence team to ask for the juror to be removed. The judge rejected the request, telling both sides that he did not want to intervene in the jury's deliberations. There was audible shock in the courtroom when the defence raised the request. Clancy, 36, is facing three counts of first-degree murder over the deaths of her three children, five-year-old Cora, three-year-old Dawson and eight-month-old Callan, at the family's Massachusetts home on January 24, 2023. The former labour and delivery nurse does not dispute that she strangled her two sons and daughter in the basement of the family home. Her defence, however, argues that she was experiencing postpartum psychosis at the time and was unable to distinguish right from wrong. The jury, comprising nine women and three men in Plymouth, has spent around 35 hours deliberating after nearly six weeks of testimony and proceedings. The panel had already sent two notes to the judge saying it was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. Thursday's proceedings, however, marked the first indication of significant disagreement inside the deliberation room. Defence seeks removal of juror Clancy's lawyer, Kevin Reddington, told the court that the forewoman had submitted another note, alleging that a juror was refusing to listen to the law concerning reasonable doubt. Reddington and prosecutor Jennifer Sprague then had an animated exchange with Judge Sullivan. Reddington subsequently approached Clancy and appeared to explain what had happened. The conversation appeared tense. Clancy, who became paralysed from the waist down after jumping from a second-floor window following the deaths of her children, was later pushed in her wheelchair by her lawyer to take part in a discussion with the judge. Judge Sullivan subsequently brought each juror into the courtroom individually and questioned them. He reminded them that they must unanimously determine, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Clancy was guilty before convicting her. As individual jurors approached, some looked towards Clancy while others avoided eye contact. Judge refuses to remove juror When Reddington formally raised his request to remove a juror, gasps could be heard in the courtroom as reporters quickly began typing. Judge Sullivan ruled that the juror could remain and that deliberations should continue. "I don't feel it is proper for me to side with one side or the other of the deliberations," the judge said. Prosecutor Jennifer Sprague defended the judge's instructions and argued that the court could not determine which juror was right or wrong during deliberations. "There's no way to determine what the deliberations are, who's correct, who's incorrect, nor should we attempt to," she said. Clancy lowered her head as journalists began leaving the courtroom. Reddington, appearing upset, consoled his client, placing an arm around her and rubbing her back as reporters exited. Also Read: Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed acting US Army Secretary? What did the defence say? Speaking to reporters afterwards, Reddington said the forewoman's note described one juror as refusing to follow the law concerning reasonable doubt. He said he had asked the judge to consider removing that juror. Reddington said he had suggested to the judge "a motion to remove the juror who refuses to accept your instructions on the law on a reasonable doubt". The defence lawyer said he did not know what the juror's position was and did not confirm whether the jury was split 11-1, despite the forewoman previously indicating that there was a lone holdout. What happens if the jury remains deadlocked? If the jury fails to reach a unanimous verdict, Judge Sullivan could declare a mistrial. Prosecutors would then have to decide whether to pursue a new trial against Clancy. A conviction for first-degree murder could result in life imprisonment without parole. Alternatively, if Clancy is found not guilty because she lacked criminal responsibility or was legally insane at the time of the killings, she could be committed to a state psychiatric hospital. Under US law, jurors must unanimously conclude that prosecutors have established guilt beyond a reasonable doubt before returning a criminal conviction. The standard represents the highest burden of proof used in the US criminal justice system. It requires the government to establish the accused's guilt rather than requiring the accused to prove her innocence.

Lindsay Clancy's murder trial takes a dramatic turn as a deadlocked jury disputes reasonable doubt, prompting her defence to seek a juror's removal

Lindsay Clancy murder trial: Tensions rise as juror disputes over 'reasonable doubt' as verdict remains elusive

US President Donald Trump on Thursday named Adam Telle as the acting Army secretary following the resignation of Dan Driscoll. The change of guard comes amid widespread reports of tensions between Driscoll and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Making the announcement on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I am pleased to announce that Adam Telle, the current Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, will become Acting Secretary of the Army, effective immediately."&nbsp;Hegseth too congratulated Telle on his appointment. Taking to X he wrote, “Huge congrats to Adam. Strong and whip smart. He is indeed a great Patriot — and will be an immediate asset to the @USArmy.”&nbsp;The appointment was made after Driscoll who was said to be at loggerheads with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the army’s future and the removal of several senior officers, resigned from his position.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-officially-joins-us-led-operation-economic-outcast-against-iran-says-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-1788489418578">EU officially joins US-led 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran, says Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent</a>&nbsp;Driscoll, however did not give any explanation for his decision to quit this week as the Army secretary.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed Army secretary?</h2>&nbsp;So, who is Adam Telle, the new Army secretary to be appointed during a time US is engaged in conflict with Iran and significant Army forces are stationed in the Middle East?&nbsp;Telle was an assistant secretary of the Army for civil works a civilian leader in the US Army Corps of Engineers, before his appointment as the new army secretary, by Trump.&nbsp;He has spent over 20 years working for Republican senators. He worked as chief of staff for Republican Sen. Bill Hagerty of Tennessee from 2021 to 2025.&nbsp;He also spent 18 months working in the White House during Trump’s first term. For 10 years he worked for the late Republican Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi, reported Associated Press.&nbsp;Telle also worked as the chief staff member on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Homeland Security Subcommittee, after he was nominated for the civil works job in May 2025.&nbsp;

The appointment was made after Driscoll, who was said to be at loggerheads with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the army’s future and the removal of several senior officers, resigned from his position.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday named Adam Telle as the acting Army secretary following the resignation of Dan Driscoll. The change of guard comes amid widespread reports of tensions between Driscoll and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Making the announcement on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I am pleased to announce that Adam Telle, the current Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, will become Acting Secretary of the Army, effective immediately." Hegseth too congratulated Telle on his appointment. Taking to X he wrote, “Huge congrats to Adam. Strong and whip smart. He is indeed a great Patriot — and will be an immediate asset to the @USArmy.” The appointment was made after Driscoll who was said to be at loggerheads with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the army’s future and the removal of several senior officers, resigned from his position. ALSO READ: EU officially joins US-led 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran, says Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Driscoll, however did not give any explanation for his decision to quit this week as the Army secretary. Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed Army secretary? So, who is Adam Telle, the new Army secretary to be appointed during a time US is engaged in conflict with Iran and significant Army forces are stationed in the Middle East? Telle was an assistant secretary of the Army for civil works a civilian leader in the US Army Corps of Engineers, before his appointment as the new army secretary, by Trump. He has spent over 20 years working for Republican senators. He worked as chief of staff for Republican Sen. Bill Hagerty of Tennessee from 2021 to 2025. He also spent 18 months working in the White House during Trump’s first term. For 10 years he worked for the late Republican Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi, reported Associated Press. Telle also worked as the chief staff member on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Homeland Security Subcommittee, after he was nominated for the civil works job in May 2025.

The appointment was made after Driscoll, who was said to be at loggerheads with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the army’s future and the removal of several senior officers, resigned from his position.

Who is Adam Telle, the newly appointed acting US Army Secretary?

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (September 3) stated that the European Union has "officially joined" the US-led "Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran, throwing its weight behind Donald Trump's strong campaign. Welcoming the move, Bessent described it as the bloc's strong and early stance in continuing economic pressure on Tehran as the West Asia conflict continues. "The European Union has officially joined Operation Economic Outcast and we appreciate their strong and early stance," Bessent said in a statement on social media platform X. "The United States stands firm with our allies in ensuring the murderous Iranian regime cannot exploit the global financial system to fund its nuclear ambitions, weapons programs, and terror proxies. The world is sending a clear message to the Iranian regime: We will not stop until every remaining financial lifeline has been severed," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The European Union has officially joined Operation Economic Outcast and we appreciate their strong and early stance. The United States stands firm with our allies in ensuring the murderous Iranian regime cannot exploit the global financial system to fund its nuclear ambitions,…&mdash; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (@SecScottBessent) <a href="https://x.com/SecScottBessent/status/2095654604943815139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bessent's comments followed the EU's announcement that it was ready to back further economic pressure on Iran, including support for the US-led operation, while emphasising the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and efforts toward de-escalation. "The European Union has consistently urged Iran to curb its nuclear programme, and its ballistic missile programme, refrain from destabilising activities in the region and in Europe, stop its military support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and cease the violence and repression against its own people," the EU said in a statement shared by Bessent.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-great-trump-hails-syria-s-push-for-alternative-to-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-iran-war-1788487903144"> 'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war</a><h3>Freedom of navigation</h3>The bloc stated that it views continued diplomatic efforts as essential to reach a peace settlement, restoring stability in the region and ensure complete freedom of navigation along with safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, the EU noted that it had already implemented extensive sanctions designed to avoid Iran from exploiting the global economy and financial system to sustain what it characterised as hostile conduct and to safeguard international security. "It remains ready to take further measures, where necessary, to safeguard its security and interests, including freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," the EU said. The bloc welcomed efforts aimed at ensuring Iran ceases its destabilising activities and engages in peace negotiations "with good faith", adding that this could include additional economic pressure through Operation Economic Outcast.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's comments followed the EU's announcement that it was ready to back further economic pressure on Iran, including support for the US-led operation, while emphasising the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and efforts toward de-escalation.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (September 3) stated that the European Union has "officially joined" the US-led "Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran, throwing its weight behind Donald Trump's strong campaign. Welcoming the move, Bessent described it as the bloc's strong and early stance in continuing economic pressure on Tehran as the West Asia conflict continues. "The European Union has officially joined Operation Economic Outcast and we appreciate their strong and early stance," Bessent said in a statement on social media platform X. "The United States stands firm with our allies in ensuring the murderous Iranian regime cannot exploit the global financial system to fund its nuclear ambitions, weapons programs, and terror proxies. The world is sending a clear message to the Iranian regime: We will not stop until every remaining financial lifeline has been severed," he added.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's comments followed the EU's announcement that it was ready to back further economic pressure on Iran, including support for the US-led operation, while emphasising the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and efforts toward de-escalation.

US President Donald Trump has backed Syria’s proposal to emerge as an alternative transit corridor to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing US-Iran war, calling the idea “GREAT!” Trump’s response came after a recent media report highlighted Syria’s efforts to position itself as a new overland route for the movement of oil and other goods, potentially reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. The development comes as tensions surrounding the key maritime chokepoint continue to escalate. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, and the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran has intensified concerns over the security and continuity of maritime shipments through the waterway.<h2>Syria’s overland route</h2>According to a report by The Washington Post, Syria’s push began in April with a trial run involving trucks transporting supplies between refineries in southern Iraq and the Syrian port of Baniyas on the Mediterranean coast. The overland route gained momentum following the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which triggered a conflict that has now entered its sixth month. As the war intensified, Tehran tightened its control over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Syria, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is now seeking to use its Mediterranean coastline and links to European markets to establish itself as an alternative route for energy and commercial shipments. The proposal would effectively position Baniyas as a gateway connecting Iraq’s oil-producing regions with Mediterranean shipping routes and, ultimately, European markets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-laureate-machado-says-venezuela-s-illegitimate-regime-has-no-right-to-strike-us-oil-deal-1788463885343">Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal</a>

<h2>Pipeline plans gain momentum</h2>The Syrian proposal is not limited to trucking. The Trump administration has also endorsed a Chevron-led pipeline project aimed at creating a major alternative energy route between Iraq and Syria. The proposed pipeline would transport up to 2 million barrels of crude oil per day between Basra in Iraq and Baniyas on Syria’s Mediterranean coast.The planned infrastructure, however, will not be available immediately. The project is expected to take at least two and a half years to complete.&nbsp;With an estimated cost of $5.7 billion and a length of around 1,000 miles, the pipeline would represent a major investment in regional energy infrastructure. While the proposed route would not have the capacity to completely replace tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, it could provide another option for moving crude and diversify energy supply routes.<h2>Why the Strait of Hormuz matters</h2>The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global energy markets, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Any prolonged disruption to the waterway could have significant consequences for oil supplies, shipping costs and global energy prices. Against that backdrop, Syria’s push to establish an alternative corridor has attracted interest from foreign governments and major energy companies.&nbsp;If the proposed pipeline and associated infrastructure are completed, Baniyas could gain greater importance as a Mediterranean energy hub, giving Iraq an additional export route and potentially reducing the region’s reliance on maritime traffic through Hormuz. For Washington, the project could also support a broader effort to diversify energy transit routes amid heightened tensions with Tehran.

Trump backs Syria’s proposed alternative to the Strait of Hormuz as the Iran war raises tensions over the vital energy corridor and global oil routes

US President Donald Trump has backed Syria’s proposal to emerge as an alternative transit corridor to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing US-Iran war, calling the idea “GREAT!” Trump’s response came after a recent media report highlighted Syria’s efforts to position itself as a new overland route for the movement of oil and other goods, potentially reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. The development comes as tensions surrounding the key maritime chokepoint continue to escalate. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, and the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran has intensified concerns over the security and continuity of maritime shipments through the waterway. Syria’s overland route According to a report by The Washington Post, Syria’s push began in April with a trial run involving trucks transporting supplies between refineries in southern Iraq and the Syrian port of Baniyas on the Mediterranean coast. The overland route gained momentum following the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which triggered a conflict that has now entered its sixth month. As the war intensified, Tehran tightened its control over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Syria, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is now seeking to use its Mediterranean coastline and links to European markets to establish itself as an alternative route for energy and commercial shipments. The proposal would effectively position Baniyas as a gateway connecting Iraq’s oil-producing regions with Mediterranean shipping routes and, ultimately, European markets. Also Read: Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal

Donald Trump backs Syria’s plan to develop an overland energy corridor via Baniyas as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran war

Pakistan wants the world to see it as a peacemaker in the US-Iran war. Well, you cannot present yourself as a peacemaker while continuing to kill civilians in Afghanistan. Even though Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif have portrayed themselves as the peacemakers to US President Donald trump, their own backyard has skeletons of civilians, including children and women, buried. The right to defend yourself does not give any government a free pass to put civilian lives at risk.&nbsp;Pakistan's credibility has always been questionable. If Islamabad is calling for restraint and dialogue in the Iran conflict, then those same principles must apply to Afghanistan. Peace in Iran, but military pressure on Afghanistan: Munir's actions continue to contradict his own position. If Pakistan genuinely wants to play the role of mediator in West Asia, it should first demonstrate that it can apply the same standards to its own neighbourhood.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-wouldn-t-call-it-a-war-says-jd-vance-on-ongoing-conflict-with-iran-1788467837247">‘I wouldn’t call it a war,’ says JD Vance on ongoing conflict with Iran</a>&nbsp;Pakistan does not have to choose between defending its people and respecting Afghan civilians. A responsible state is expected to do both. You see, the real test of diplomacy is not what you say when the world's cameras are watching. It is what you do when dealing with your own neighbours. Credibility is earned through consistent action, not dramatic and diplomatic speeches.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/pakistan-s-internal-war-ttp-attacks-expose-growing-security-crisis-1788500084641/embed">https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/pakistan-s-internal-war-ttp-attacks-expose-growing-security-crisis-1788500084641/embed</a>&nbsp;You cannot demand restraint from others while using force against your innocents. If Pakistan wants to be taken seriously as a regional peacemaker, it must first show that peace is a principle, not a position it adopts only when it suits its interests.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Pakistan’s bid to mediate in the Iran conflict faces scrutiny as Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif call for peace while civilian deaths in Afghanistan continue

Pakistan wants the world to see it as a peacemaker in the US-Iran war. Well, you cannot present yourself as a peacemaker while continuing to kill civilians in Afghanistan. Even though Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif have portrayed themselves as the peacemakers to US President Donald trump, their own backyard has skeletons of civilians, including children and women, buried. The right to defend yourself does not give any government a free pass to put civilian lives at risk. Pakistan's credibility has always been questionable. If Islamabad is calling for restraint and dialogue in the Iran conflict, then those same principles must apply to Afghanistan. Peace in Iran, but military pressure on Afghanistan: Munir's actions continue to contradict his own position. If Pakistan genuinely wants to play the role of mediator in West Asia, it should first demonstrate that it can apply the same standards to its own neighbourhood. Also Read: ‘I wouldn’t call it a war,’ says JD Vance on ongoing conflict with Iran Pakistan does not have to choose between defending its people and respecting Afghan civilians. A responsible state is expected to do both. You see, the real test of diplomacy is not what you say when the world's cameras are watching. It is what you do when dealing with your own neighbours. Credibility is earned through consistent action, not dramatic and diplomatic speeches. https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/pakistan-s-internal-war-ttp-attacks-expose-growing-security-crisis-1788500084641/embed You cannot demand restraint from others while using force against your innocents. If Pakistan wants to be taken seriously as a regional peacemaker, it must first show that peace is a principle, not a position it adopts only when it suits its interests. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Pakistan seeks a peacemaker role in the Iran conflict, but military action and civilian deaths in Afghanistan raise questions over Islamabad’s credibility

The Verdict: Peace for Iran, pressure on Afghanistan: Pakistan’s contradictory diplomacy

Vice President JD Vance on Thursday disputed whether the ongoing US conflict with Iran was still a war, saying major combat operations ended after about six weeks. On being asked during a White House news briefing if the war would be over by the midterm elections in November, Vance said, “I wouldn’t call it a war. Right now, there is no active shooting. I recognize there have been places where this has flared up.”&nbsp;The vice president further said that major combat operations ended after about six weeks.&nbsp;“When you ask, ‘When will this end?’ You’re asking me a question like, ‘When will the Iranians stop shooting at ships?’ I think the reality is I don’t know the answer to that question. You would have to ask the Iranians,” Vance said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-laureate-machado-says-venezuela-s-illegitimate-regime-has-no-right-to-strike-us-oil-deal-1788463885343">Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal</a><h2>‘No negotiations until Strait of Hormuz attacks stop’</h2>&nbsp;Vice President Vance further said that the US would not negotiate with Iran while attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz continue.“The president’s been very clear: We’re not talking to them, and we’re not going to talk to them unless they stop shooting at commercial shipping,” Vance said during the news briefing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ganga-nears-danger-mark-in-varanasi-most-ghats-submerged-pm-modi-orders-relief-work-on-war-footing-1788455040726">Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’</a><h2>‘Gas could have been much, much higher’</h2>&nbsp;On being asked when Americans would expect lower gas prices and could expect to pay less at the pump, Vance said the US has been able to avert a global energy crisis from Iran’s attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;“We’ve been quite successful up to this point,” Vance said. “Gas, frankly, could have been much, much higher were it not for our efforts, but I’m not going to make a promise about when it’s going to return to $3.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-ready-to-help-end-russia-ukraine-war-says-eam-jaishankar-during-kyiv-visit-1788437687980">India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit</a>&nbsp;The vice president said the US was fighting Iran so it wouldn’t be able to have a nuclear weapon. He argued that the energy crisis from the war with Iran could have been much worse if it hadn’t been responded to effectively.<h2>‘Extremely skeptical about hitting Iran wedding’</h2>&nbsp;The Vice President further said that he was “extremely skeptical” of the Iranian allegations that the US hit a wedding party during strikes earlier this week.Iranian officials said four civilians were killed and dozens more were wounded in the attack. The US military said it was looking into the allegations.&nbsp;“I will say that the Iranian state media has not been a very good scribe about what’s happened in the conflict thus far, so I’m extremely skeptical of this,” Vance told reporters.He reiterated what the US military has been saying, which is that civilians are not targeted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-council-has-no-power-to-discipline-law-students-before-enrollment-supreme-court-1788442808743">Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;“Unfortunately, obviously, sometimes things happen, but in this particular case, I don't think that we have any information one way or the other,” Vance said. “We’re investigating it because obviously we care, we want to know.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Oil flow through Hormuz nearly back to pre-war levels’</h2>&nbsp;Vance went on to say that the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz was nearly back to levels seen before the Iran war, adding that Tehran’s control of the waterway was “effectively gone”.&nbsp;“If you go back three months ago, how much oil and gas was coming out of the strait under Iranian threats? It was virtually nothing. Now, it’s almost back to where it was before the conflict even started,” the VP said.&nbsp;Vance also downplayed the threat of Iranian cyberattacks in America and said that Iran’s ability to disrupt the daily lives of Americans was “not zero, but it’s quite limited.”&nbsp;“What I would say is that we feel quite confident the homeland is safe,” he said. “We also feel quite confident that the Iranians are going to try to do a lot of things that they don’t have the capability to do.”&nbsp;He added that the Trump administration’s stated goal of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon was of top importance.

On being asked when Americans would expect lower gas prices, Vance said the US has been able to avert a global energy crisis from Iran’s attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. He argued that the energy crisis from the Iran war could have been much worse if it hadn’t been responded to effectively.

Vice President JD Vance on Thursday disputed whether the ongoing US conflict with Iran was still a war, saying major combat operations ended after about six weeks. On being asked during a White House news briefing if the war would be over by the midterm elections in November, Vance said, “I wouldn’t call it a war. Right now, there is no active shooting. I recognize there have been places where this has flared up.” The vice president further said that major combat operations ended after about six weeks. “When you ask, ‘When will this end?’ You’re asking me a question like, ‘When will the Iranians stop shooting at ships?’ I think the reality is I don’t know the answer to that question. You would have to ask the Iranians,” Vance said. Also Read: Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal ‘No negotiations until Strait of Hormuz attacks stop’ Vice President Vance further said that the US would not negotiate with Iran while attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz continue. “The president’s been very clear: We’re not talking to them, and we’re not going to talk to them unless they stop shooting at commercial shipping,” Vance said during the news briefing. Also Read: Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’ ‘Gas could have been much, much higher’ On being asked when Americans would expect lower gas prices and could expect to pay less at the pump, Vance said the US has been able to avert a global energy crisis from Iran’s attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. “We’ve been quite successful up to this point,” Vance said. “Gas, frankly, could have been much, much higher were it not for our efforts, but I’m not going to make a promise about when it’s going to return to $3.” Also Read: India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit The vice president said the US was fighting Iran so it wouldn’t be able to have a nuclear weapon. He argued that the energy crisis from the war with Iran could have been much worse if it hadn’t been responded to effectively. ‘Extremely skeptical about hitting Iran wedding’ The Vice President further said that he was “extremely skeptical” of the Iranian allegations that the US hit a wedding party during strikes earlier this week. Iranian officials said four civilians were killed and dozens more were wounded in the attack. The US military said it was looking into the allegations. “I will say that the Iranian state media has not been a very good scribe about what’s happened in the conflict thus far, so I’m extremely skeptical of this,” Vance told reporters. He reiterated what the US military has been saying, which is that civilians are not targeted. Also Read: Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court “Unfortunately, obviously, sometimes things happen, but in this particular case, I don't think that we have any information one way or the other,” Vance said. “We’re investigating it because obviously we care, we want to know.” ‘Oil flow through Hormuz nearly back to pre-war levels’ Vance went on to say that the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz was nearly back to levels seen before the Iran war, adding that Tehran’s control of the waterway was “effectively gone”. “If you go back three months ago, how much oil and gas was coming out of the strait under Iranian threats? It was virtually nothing. Now, it’s almost back to where it was before the conflict even started,” the VP said. Vance also downplayed the threat of Iranian cyberattacks in America and said that Iran’s ability to disrupt the daily lives of Americans was “not zero, but it’s quite limited.” “What I would say is that we feel quite confident the homeland is safe,” he said. “We also feel quite confident that the Iranians are going to try to do a lot of things that they don’t have the capability to do.” He added that the Trump administration’s stated goal of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon was of top importance.

On being asked when Americans would expect lower gas prices, Vance said the US has been able to avert a global energy crisis from Iran’s attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. He argued that the energy crisis from the Iran war could have been much worse if it hadn’t been responded to effectively.

‘I wouldn’t call it a war,’ says JD Vance on ongoing conflict with Iran

Venezuela’s opposition leader María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for signing an oil deal with the US, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”. Machado said the country’s people were feeling “sadness, anger and unease” at a new energy agreement&nbsp;Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner living in exile, walked a diplomatic tightrope between being critical of the agreement and trying not to rile the White House as she broke her silence over the pact under which the Pentagon will take a 35 per cent stake in a Venezuelan oil company.&nbsp;She also said the US was the “key partner” that Venezuela needed to develop its oil industry and that this view was supported by a majority of people in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ganga-nears-danger-mark-in-varanasi-most-ghats-submerged-pm-modi-orders-relief-work-on-war-footing-1788455040726">Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’</a>&nbsp;In a video posted on social media, Machado said, “Of course the United States is the principal partner Venezuela needs to fully develop its strategic potential. This is what the majority of Venezuelans believe … and it is something I’ve spent my whole life defending.”&nbsp;However, the current occupants of the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas did not have the right or the democratic mandate to negotiate Venezuela’s natural resources, she said. “The wealth of our subsoil does not belong to an illegitimate regime—it belongs to the Venezuelan people,” she said, adding that supporters felt “sadness and anger” at being excluded from the decision-making process.&nbsp;Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-ready-to-help-end-russia-ukraine-war-says-eam-jaishankar-during-kyiv-visit-1788437687980">India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit</a>&nbsp;Trump’s deal was struck with the un-elected interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, who took power in January after her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, was abducted by US special forces.&nbsp;Many expected Trump would replace Maduro with Machado, a conservative democracy activist who later gave her Nobel prize award to the US president. But Trump backed Rodríguez, while sidelining Machado.The White House claims the oil deal will help secure US “energy dominance for the next century” as well as “purging foreign malign influence from our back yard” by excluding China and Russia.&nbsp;Speaking outside the Miraflores palace on Wednesday, the US energy secretary, Chris Wright, said the aim was “to massively grow production and economic opportunities in Venezuela,” adding, “President Trump has a clear mission in Venezuela. The mission is to bring peace, freedom, opportunity, and prosperity to everyone in Venezuela.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-council-has-no-power-to-discipline-law-students-before-enrollment-supreme-court-1788442808743">Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Trump and Rodríguez brushed off questions on when an election could be held. “You had a very powerful, very nasty dictatorship in Venezuela – and they’re just not going to be ready for it yet,” Trump told reporters, before adding, “But soon.”&nbsp;Rodríguez said, “There will be an electoral process, but when Venezuela is ready. I don’t set dates.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Machado had supported the US military’s January raid that captured former president Nicolás Maduro, who now awaits trial in the US on drug-trafficking charges.&nbsp;

Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.

Venezuela’s opposition leader María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for signing an oil deal with the US, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”. Machado said the country’s people were feeling “sadness, anger and unease” at a new energy agreement Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner living in exile, walked a diplomatic tightrope between being critical of the agreement and trying not to rile the White House as she broke her silence over the pact under which the Pentagon will take a 35 per cent stake in a Venezuelan oil company. She also said the US was the “key partner” that Venezuela needed to develop its oil industry and that this view was supported by a majority of people in the country. Also Read: Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’ In a video posted on social media, Machado said, “Of course the United States is the principal partner Venezuela needs to fully develop its strategic potential. This is what the majority of Venezuelans believe … and it is something I’ve spent my whole life defending.” However, the current occupants of the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas did not have the right or the democratic mandate to negotiate Venezuela’s natural resources, she said. “The wealth of our subsoil does not belong to an illegitimate regime—it belongs to the Venezuelan people,” she said, adding that supporters felt “sadness and anger” at being excluded from the decision-making process. Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. Also Read: India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit Trump’s deal was struck with the un-elected interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, who took power in January after her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, was abducted by US special forces. Many expected Trump would replace Maduro with Machado, a conservative democracy activist who later gave her Nobel prize award to the US president. But Trump backed Rodríguez, while sidelining Machado. The White House claims the oil deal will help secure US “energy dominance for the next century” as well as “purging foreign malign influence from our back yard” by excluding China and Russia. Speaking outside the Miraflores palace on Wednesday, the US energy secretary, Chris Wright, said the aim was “to massively grow production and economic opportunities in Venezuela,” adding, “President Trump has a clear mission in Venezuela. The mission is to bring peace, freedom, opportunity, and prosperity to everyone in Venezuela.” Also Read: Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections. On Wednesday, Trump and Rodríguez brushed off questions on when an election could be held. “You had a very powerful, very nasty dictatorship in Venezuela – and they’re just not going to be ready for it yet,” Trump told reporters, before adding, “But soon.” Rodríguez said, “There will be an electoral process, but when Venezuela is ready. I don’t set dates.” Machado had supported the US military’s January raid that captured former president Nicolás Maduro, who now awaits trial in the US on drug-trafficking charges.

Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.

Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal

Even as US President Donald Trump stated that his military was prepared to attack Iran any time he wants, Tehran remains undeterred. For the second day in a row, it conducted retaliatory strikes in West Asia, after at least 18 were killed across Iran due to US strikes.&nbsp;Iran’s army claimed to have launched a barrage of missiles and drones at key US military installations in West Asia a few hours earlier.&nbsp;According to Iran, satellite communication systems, fighter aircraft hangars and equipment depots were hit in the strikes on Kuwait’s Ahmed al-Jaber airbase.&nbsp;It also targeted troop deployment areas and radar systems at UAE’s Al Minhad airbase.&nbsp;Visuals released by Iranian state media showed drones being launched by the army towards the American bases.&nbsp;Sirens sounded in Kuwait in the early hours of morning as it confronted missile and drone attacks from Iran.&nbsp;The country’s ministry of defence described it as ‘blatant Iranian aggression’.&nbsp;In the aftermath of the attack, visuals also showed damage caused to a residential building in Kuwait city.&nbsp;Until now, UAE is yet to break its silence on Iran’s attack.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-us-bases-in-kuwait-uae-supersecret-missile-project-in-focus-1788457805605/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-us-bases-in-kuwait-uae-supersecret-missile-project-in-focus-1788457805605/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, IRGC Chief Ahmad Vahidi vowed that the killing of innocent civilians at a wedding ceremony due to US strikes will definitely be avenged...&nbsp;Amid the ongoing hostilities, a report has again thrown light on how Russia is helping Iran.&nbsp;According to the Financial Times, Moscow has been secretly helping Iran develop supersonic cruise missiles that could threaten American warships in West Asia.&nbsp;Under a secret programme codenamed C-340-L launched in 2023, Russia is reportedly trying to assist Iran develop a ramjet propulsion system.&nbsp;This is an engine which allows a cruise missile to fly faster than the speed of sound.&nbsp;Now, supersonic cruise missiles are lethal as they are very difficult to intercept.&nbsp;This is because they fly at a low altitude at speed of up to two thousand two hundred kilometres.&nbsp;According to the report, senior missile engineers from a US-sanctioned Russian rocket company also played a key role in this project.&nbsp;However, it is unclear as to whether Iran used supersonic cruise missiles in the ongoing war.&nbsp;Now, the defence collaboration between the two countries is not new.&nbsp;Iran has supplied Moscow its Kamikaze Shahed drones, which have been extensively used in its bombardments of Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;Previously, a report claimed that Russia has begun sending military supplies, including TNT, drone components and ammunition to Iran through the Caspian Sea.&nbsp;During his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier this week, Putin acknowledged that Moscow is supplying Iran with necessary goods.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel which has stayed away from directly attacking Iran in recent weeks, issued a fresh warning.&nbsp;It threatened to send Iran back to the Stone Age if attacked by Tehran.&nbsp;With Iran's fresh strikes, the next few hours will be vital to see how US will respond...

Iran’s army claimed to have launched a barrage of missiles and drones at key US military installations in West Asia few hours earlier. According to Iran, satellite communication systems, fighter aircraft hangars and equipment depots were hit in the strikes on Kuwait’s Ahmed al-Jaber airbase.

Even as US President Donald Trump stated that his military was prepared to attack Iran any time he wants, Tehran remains undeterred. For the second day in a row, it conducted retaliatory strikes in West Asia, after at least 18 were killed across Iran due to US strikes. Iran’s army claimed to have launched a barrage of missiles and drones at key US military installations in West Asia a few hours earlier. According to Iran, satellite communication systems, fighter aircraft hangars and equipment depots were hit in the strikes on Kuwait’s Ahmed al-Jaber airbase. It also targeted troop deployment areas and radar systems at UAE’s Al Minhad airbase. Visuals released by Iranian state media showed drones being launched by the army towards the American bases. Sirens sounded in Kuwait in the early hours of morning as it confronted missile and drone attacks from Iran. The country’s ministry of defence described it as ‘blatant Iranian aggression’. In the aftermath of the attack, visuals also showed damage caused to a residential building in Kuwait city. Until now, UAE is yet to break its silence on Iran’s attack. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-us-bases-in-kuwait-uae-supersecret-missile-project-in-focus-1788457805605/embed Meanwhile, IRGC Chief Ahmad Vahidi vowed that the killing of innocent civilians at a wedding ceremony due to US strikes will definitely be avenged... Amid the ongoing hostilities, a report has again thrown light on how Russia is helping Iran. According to the Financial Times, Moscow has been secretly helping Iran develop supersonic cruise missiles that could threaten American warships in West Asia. Under a secret programme codenamed C-340-L launched in 2023, Russia is reportedly trying to assist Iran develop a ramjet propulsion system. This is an engine which allows a cruise missile to fly faster than the speed of sound. Now, supersonic cruise missiles are lethal as they are very difficult to intercept. This is because they fly at a low altitude at speed of up to two thousand two hundred kilometres. According to the report, senior missile engineers from a US-sanctioned Russian rocket company also played a key role in this project. However, it is unclear as to whether Iran used supersonic cruise missiles in the ongoing war. Now, the defence collaboration between the two countries is not new. Iran has supplied Moscow its Kamikaze Shahed drones, which have been extensively used in its bombardments of Ukrainian cities. Previously, a report claimed that Russia has begun sending military supplies, including TNT, drone components and ammunition to Iran through the Caspian Sea. During his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier this week, Putin acknowledged that Moscow is supplying Iran with necessary goods. Meanwhile, Israel which has stayed away from directly attacking Iran in recent weeks, issued a fresh warning. It threatened to send Iran back to the Stone Age if attacked by Tehran. With Iran's fresh strikes, the next few hours will be vital to see how US will respond...

Iran’s army claimed to have launched a barrage of missiles and drones at key US military installations in West Asia few hours earlier. According to Iran, satellite communication systems, fighter aircraft hangars and equipment depots were hit in the strikes on Kuwait’s Ahmed al-Jaber airbase.

Iran attacks US bases in Kuwait & UAE, supersecret missile project in focus | Gravitas

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has stepped down following controversy over a €70 million (around Rs 768.50 crore) contract for artillery supplies intended for Ukraine. Pevkur announced his resignation on Wednesday after Estonia’s National Audit Office raised serious questions about the way the deal was handled.&nbsp;&nbsp;The contract involved an Indian-owned company that had no previous experience in manufacturing or selling artillery shells.&nbsp;The deal has also triggered a legal dispute. Estonia is contesting the contracts in proceedings before the European Court of Arbitration in Strasbourg.&nbsp;Pevkur, who became defence minister in 2022, said he had decided to resign because the concerns raised by the audit office also raised questions about political accountability.&nbsp;Speaking to public broadcaster ETV, he said a minister may not personally handle every procurement contract but must still accept responsibility for the work carried out under the ministry.&nbsp;“Although the minister does not count socks and ammunition or conduct contract negotiations, the National Audit Office’s criticisms, primarily concerning the activities of the Defence Forces and the Centre for Defence Investments, raise the question of political responsibility,” Pevkur said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-within-reach-netanyahu-says-iran-regime-could-soon-fall-as-us-strikes-resume-1788455731565">‘It is within reach’: Netanyahu says Iran regime could soon fall as US strikes resume</a><h3>Defence minister says he did not handle contract</h3>Pevkur said he had not read the specific artillery contracts and explained that ministers generally do not negotiate individual arms purchases.&nbsp;“The defence minister does not conduct contract negotiations. The defence minister does not count socks and ammunition,” Pevkur said.&nbsp;He added that the minister’s role is to make broader strategic decisions, including decisions on military assistance to Ukraine. “The defence minister makes the fundamental decision to support Ukraine,” he said.&nbsp;The €70 million came from the European Peace Facility, an EU mechanism designed to support conflict prevention, peacebuilding and international security.&nbsp;The fund was established before the breakout of the full-scale war between Russia and Ukraine in 2022. Since then, the EU has increasingly used it to finance military support and weapons procurement for Ukraine.&nbsp;The controversy could now have financial consequences for Estonia. European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand said the EU was in discussions with Estonian officials to establish whether the country would have to return the €70 million.

Estonia’s Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has resigned after an audit raised concerns over a €70 million EU-funded artillery contract awarded to an Indian owned company with no previous record of selling shells.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has stepped down following controversy over a €70 million (around Rs 768.50 crore) contract for artillery supplies intended for Ukraine. Pevkur announced his resignation on Wednesday after Estonia’s National Audit Office raised serious questions about the way the deal was handled. The contract involved an Indian-owned company that had no previous experience in manufacturing or selling artillery shells. The deal has also triggered a legal dispute. Estonia is contesting the contracts in proceedings before the European Court of Arbitration in Strasbourg. Pevkur, who became defence minister in 2022, said he had decided to resign because the concerns raised by the audit office also raised questions about political accountability. Speaking to public broadcaster ETV, he said a minister may not personally handle every procurement contract but must still accept responsibility for the work carried out under the ministry. “Although the minister does not count socks and ammunition or conduct contract negotiations, the National Audit Office’s criticisms, primarily concerning the activities of the Defence Forces and the Centre for Defence Investments, raise the question of political responsibility,” Pevkur said. Also Read: ‘It is within reach’: Netanyahu says Iran regime could soon fall as US strikes resume Defence minister says he did not handle contract Pevkur said he had not read the specific artillery contracts and explained that ministers generally do not negotiate individual arms purchases. “The defence minister does not conduct contract negotiations. The defence minister does not count socks and ammunition,” Pevkur said. He added that the minister’s role is to make broader strategic decisions, including decisions on military assistance to Ukraine. “The defence minister makes the fundamental decision to support Ukraine,” he said. The €70 million came from the European Peace Facility, an EU mechanism designed to support conflict prevention, peacebuilding and international security. The fund was established before the breakout of the full-scale war between Russia and Ukraine in 2022. Since then, the EU has increasingly used it to finance military support and weapons procurement for Ukraine. The controversy could now have financial consequences for Estonia. European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand said the EU was in discussions with Estonian officials to establish whether the country would have to return the €70 million.

Estonia’s Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has resigned after an audit raised concerns over a €70 million EU-funded artillery contract awarded to an Indian owned company with no previous record of selling shells.

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