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Israel's First Lady, Michal Herzog, welcomed the United Nations' decision to add Hamas to its official "blacklist" of countries, stressing that they have committed sexual crimes in violent conflicts.The first lady called the United Nations' move a "long time coming", saying that the evidence has been clear for months.Herzog has been actively raising concerns over Hamas' sexual violence since the October 7 attack on southern Israel that killed hundreds of people.“The world must understand: Hamas uses rape as a weapon,” Herzog says. “These atrocities — rape, gang rape, genital mutilation, sexual abuse in captivity — are not incidental. They are deliberate, premeditated and systematic tools of terror," she saidHerzog pointed to a 2024 report by the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict that showed Hamas' deliberate and systematic crimes.This comes a week after UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres placed Hamas on the blacklist for the first time. He further warned that Israel itself could be added in the future if allegations of misconduct by its forces are substantiated.Earlier on Monday, Hamas agreed to the Gaza ceasefire proposal submitted to it on Sunday, according to sources, Al Jazeera reported. Hamas informed mediators that it has accepted the ceasefire-hostage release deal proposal submitted to it on Sunday, reported Reuters and Times of Israel.A Hamas source told Al Jazeera, “We informed the mediators of our approval of their proposal, which was presented yesterday.”Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been mediating between Israel and Hamas since the beginning of the Gaza war, but the efforts of mediators have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Monday that the destruction of Hamas was the only way to get the remaining Gaza hostages back home.“We will only see the return of the remaining hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The Israel's first lady stressed that Hamas has been using "rape as a weapon", adding that the United Nations' putting Hamas in blacklist was "long time coming". She added that the evidence has been clear for months.

Israel's First Lady, Michal Herzog, welcomed the United Nations' decision to add Hamas to its official "blacklist" of countries, stressing that they have committed sexual crimes in violent conflicts. The first lady called the United Nations' move a "long time coming", saying that the evidence has been clear for months. Herzog has been actively raising concerns over Hamas' sexual violence since the October 7 attack on southern Israel that killed hundreds of people. “The world must understand: Hamas uses rape as a weapon,” Herzog says. “These atrocities — rape, gang rape, genital mutilation, sexual abuse in captivity — are not incidental. They are deliberate, premeditated and systematic tools of terror," she said Herzog pointed to a 2024 report by the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict that showed Hamas' deliberate and systematic crimes. This comes a week after UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres placed Hamas on the blacklist for the first time. He further warned that Israel itself could be added in the future if allegations of misconduct by its forces are substantiated. Earlier on Monday, Hamas agreed to the Gaza ceasefire proposal submitted to it on Sunday, according to sources, Al Jazeera reported. Hamas informed mediators that it has accepted the ceasefire-hostage release deal proposal submitted to it on Sunday, reported Reuters and Times of Israel. A Hamas source told Al Jazeera, “We informed the mediators of our approval of their proposal, which was presented yesterday.” Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been mediating between Israel and Hamas since the beginning of the Gaza war, but the efforts of mediators have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Monday that the destruction of Hamas was the only way to get the remaining Gaza hostages back home. “We will only see the return of the remaining hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The Israel's first lady stressed that Hamas has been using "rape as a weapon", adding that the United Nations' putting Hamas in blacklist was "long time coming". She added that the evidence has been clear for months.

'Uses rape as weapon': Israel's First Lady backs UN move to 'blacklist' Hamas, says 'sexual abuse' in captivity is not 'incidental'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gifted a special golf course to US President Donald Trump during his meeting in the Oval Office on August 18. The golf course holds significance as it belonged to a wounded serviceman during his visit to Washington this week, Kyiv said. The American president is fond of golf nd even owns multiple golf courses. He accepted Zelensky's gift and gave the symbolic keys to the White House in return.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Zelenskyy gifted US President Trump a golf club from Ukrainian soldier Kostiantyn Kartavtsev, who lost his leg saving comrades in 2022 and used golf in his recovery. 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/dnn0WP3Cp4">pic.twitter.com/dnn0WP3Cp4</a>&mdash; UNITED24 Media (@United24media) <a href="https://twitter.com/United24media/status/1957808436776734888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"The president of Ukraine presented the president of the United States with a golf club,” Zelenskyy’s office said. The club belonged to Kostiantyn Kartavtsev, a soldier who “had lost a leg in the first months of Russia’s full-scale invasion while saving his brothers-in-arms”, it added. Zelenskyy also showed Trump a video of Kartavtsev.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;After this, the Ukrainian veteran organisation United by Golf published a video of Trump holding the club and thanking Kartavtsev.&nbsp;“I just watched your swing. I know a lot about golf and your swing is great,” Trump said.“You’re an amazing person, and you just keep playing golf and doing all of the other things. Your country is a great country. We’re trying to bring it back to health," he added.<h2>'I don't think you need a ceasefire'</h2>Trump had previously said there would be "severe consequences" if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. When he was asked if his ultimate goal remains unchanged, the American president he does not think that a ceasefire is needed in the first place.&nbsp;"I don’t think you need a ceasefire," Trump said. He says a ceasefire is “good to have,” but he could understand why one country might not want one. "We can work a peace deal while they’re fighting. They have to fight. I wish they could stop, I’d like them to stop, but strategically that could be a disadvantage for one side or the other," the American president said.

Ukraine President Zelensky gave a gold course to Donald Trump as a gift during his visit to the Oval Office on August 18. In return, the US president gave symbolic keys. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gifted a special golf course to US President Donald Trump during his meeting in the Oval Office on August 18. The golf course holds significance as it belonged to a wounded serviceman during his visit to Washington this week, Kyiv said. The American president is fond of golf nd even owns multiple golf courses. He accepted Zelensky's gift and gave the symbolic keys to the White House in return.

Ukraine's Zelensky gave a gold course to Donald Trump as a gift during his visit to the Oval Office on August 18. In return, the US president gave symbolic keys.

Zelensky gifted Trump a golf club in Oval Office? Here's what US president gave in return

China’s job crisis for the Gen Z population has become so severe that many are now paying to “work” in fake offices. With the youth unemployment rate at 14.5%, graduates with top degrees are struggling to find jobs in a slowing economy. To cope, some are joining spaces run by “Pretend to Work Company”, which offer a mock office environment where jobless young adults can spend their days as if they were employed.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-gen-z-are-finding-it-harder-than-ever-to-land-first-job-graduate-unemployment-hits-37-year-high-in-us-1755606828918">Why Gen Z are finding it harder than ever to land first job? Graduate unemployment hits 37-year high in US</a><h2>How does 'pretending to work' actually work?</h2>These mock workplaces, found in cities such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Chengdu, Nanjing and Kunming, charge between 30 and 50 yuan a day (about $4–$7). The cost may sound small, but when compared with China’s average annual salary of just under $16,000, it adds up to nearly $2,000 a year for a full-time “pretend job.”The offices are fully equipped with desks, computers, free snacks, lunch and drinks. Some attendees use the time to apply for jobs, work on personal projects, or simply spend the day around others facing the same struggle.<h2>Why are young people doing this?</h2>Experts say the phenomenon is less about playacting and more about survival. “The phenomenon of pretending to work is now very common,” said Christian Yao, senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington’s School of Management, told the BBC. “Due to economic transformation and the mismatch between education and the job market, young people need these places to think about their next steps, or to do odd jobs as a transition… Pretend office companies are one of the transitional solutions,” Yao added.<h2>From ‘rat people’ to ‘lying flat’</h2>China’s young professionals have faced years of difficulty entering the workforce, a crisis worsened by the pandemic. At one point in 2023, unemployment among 16- to 24-year-olds was estimated at 46.5%, according to Peking University professor Zhang Dandan. The situation became so dire that the government even stopped publishing youth unemployment data.Since then, some identify as “rat people”, spending their days “bed rotting,” scrolling on their phones, ordering takeaway and napping. Others have embraced the “lying flat” trend, rejecting high-pressure careers to do the bare minimum.<h2>What is the government doing?</h2>The Chinese government has introduced measures to address the crisis. Since 2011, it has threatened to scrap university majors if fewer than 60% of graduates find jobs for two consecutive years. Reports also suggest some universities have pressured graduates to falsify their employment status to keep programmes alive.

Amid 14.5% youth unemployment, some Gen Z in China are paying to spend time in fake offices, mimicking work to cope with joblessness. Even top graduates are struggling in the country’s slowing economy.

China’s job crisis for the Gen Z population has become so severe that many are now paying to “work” in fake offices. With the youth unemployment rate at 14.5%, graduates with top degrees are struggling to find jobs in a slowing economy. To cope, some are joining spaces run by “Pretend to Work Company”, which offer a mock office environment where jobless young adults can spend their days as if they were employed. Also read: Why Gen Z are finding it harder than ever to land first job? Graduate unemployment hits 37-year high in US How does 'pretending to work' actually work? These mock workplaces, found in cities such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Chengdu, Nanjing and Kunming, charge between 30 and 50 yuan a day (about $4–$7). The cost may sound small, but when compared with China’s average annual salary of just under $16,000, it adds up to nearly $2,000 a year for a full-time “pretend job.” The offices are fully equipped with desks, computers, free snacks, lunch and drinks. Some attendees use the time to apply for jobs, work on personal projects, or simply spend the day around others facing the same struggle. Why are young people doing this? Experts say the phenomenon is less about playacting and more about survival. “The phenomenon of pretending to work is now very common,” said Christian Yao, senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington’s School of Management, told the BBC. “Due to economic transformation and the mismatch between education and the job market, young people need these places to think about their next steps, or to do odd jobs as a transition… Pretend office companies are one of the transitional solutions,” Yao added. From ‘rat people’ to ‘lying flat’ China’s young professionals have faced years of difficulty entering the workforce, a crisis worsened by the pandemic. At one point in 2023, unemployment among 16- to 24-year-olds was estimated at 46.5%, according to Peking University professor Zhang Dandan. The situation became so dire that the government even stopped publishing youth unemployment data. Since then, some identify as “rat people”, spending their days “bed rotting,” scrolling on their phones, ordering takeaway and napping. Others have embraced the “lying flat” trend, rejecting high-pressure careers to do the bare minimum. What is the government doing? The Chinese government has introduced measures to address the crisis. Since 2011, it has threatened to scrap university majors if fewer than 60% of graduates find jobs for two consecutive years. Reports also suggest some universities have pressured graduates to falsify their employment status to keep programmes alive.

Amid 14.5% youth unemployment, some Gen Z in China are paying to spend time in fake offices, mimicking work to cope with joblessness. Even top graduates are struggling in the country’s slowing economy.

Why are Gen Z paying $2,000 a year to pretend they have jobs? Inside China’s ‘fake office’ spaces for jobless graduates

The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly targeting world leaders who have recognised or are planning to recognise a Palestinian state. As per AFP, the Israeli PM sent a letter to the French President Emmanuel Macron and accused him of being antisemitic.&nbsp;"Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on this antisemitic fire. It is not diplomacy, it is appeasement. It rewards Hamas terror, hardens Hamas’s refusal to free the hostages, emboldens those who menace French Jews and encourages the Jew-hatred now stalking your streets," Netanyahu wrote in the letter.&nbsp;Moreover, the American news channel Sky News revealed on August 19 that &nbsp;it was not the first time Netanyahu has used this tactic. The Israeli PM sent a similar letter to the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, indicating that he’s sending them to the leaders of all countries that announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state next month.<h2>'You believe him? He's an atheist'</h2>&nbsp;Former Sephardic chief rabbi and Shas spiritual leader Yitzhak Yosef slammed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called him an "atheist." While charging the Haredi political party heads for being dragged along by the Israeli PM, who has repeatedly delayed passing legislation that would give military enlistment exemptions for yeshiva students, the spiritual leader said, "You believe him? He’s an atheist. You trust someone like that? Why do you trust him?”<h2>Netanyahu working against Israel's interest?</h2>Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, hinted that she might sanction Israel by saying that Benjamin Netanyahu is now the actual problem. In an interview with a Danish daily, Frederiksen hinted she might sanction the Israeli prime minister or even Israel as a whole.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;She said in the interview, "Netanyahu himself is a problem now," adding that she believes he shouldn't be leading Israel anymore and that the country would be better off without him.

It has been revealed that every time a country supremo announces their plan to recognise the Palestinian state, Israeli PM Netanyahu sends them a letter. What does he write in it? Here we find out. 

The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly targeting world leaders who have recognised or are planning to recognise a Palestinian state. As per AFP, the Israeli PM sent a letter to the French President Emmanuel Macron and accused him of being antisemitic. "Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on this antisemitic fire. It is not diplomacy, it is appeasement. It rewards Hamas terror, hardens Hamas’s refusal to free the hostages, emboldens those who menace French Jews and encourages the Jew-hatred now stalking your streets," Netanyahu wrote in the letter. Moreover, the American news channel Sky News revealed on August 19 that it was not the first time Netanyahu has used this tactic. The Israeli PM sent a similar letter to the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, indicating that he’s sending them to the leaders of all countries that announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state next month. 'You believe him? He's an atheist' Former Sephardic chief rabbi and Shas spiritual leader Yitzhak Yosef slammed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called him an "atheist." While charging the Haredi political party heads for being dragged along by the Israeli PM, who has repeatedly delayed passing legislation that would give military enlistment exemptions for yeshiva students, the spiritual leader said, "You believe him? He’s an atheist. You trust someone like that? Why do you trust him?” Netanyahu working against Israel's interest? Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, hinted that she might sanction Israel by saying that Benjamin Netanyahu is now the actual problem. In an interview with a Danish daily, Frederiksen hinted she might sanction the Israeli prime minister or even Israel as a whole. Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points She said in the interview, "Netanyahu himself is a problem now," adding that she believes he shouldn't be leading Israel anymore and that the country would be better off without him.

It has been revealed that every time a country's supremo announces their plan to recognise the Palestinian state, Israeli PM Netanyahu sends them a letter. What does he write in it? Let's find out.

'Jew-hatred now stalking your...’: Every time a country leader recognises Palestine, Netanyahu sends them a letter. Here’s what he writes

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (August 19) said that although he has a "good relationship" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, it will only matter if they get things done, referring to the peace deal and ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump, during an interview with Fox and Friends, noted that he has good ties with Putin, but it should lead to a peace deal to end the killings in Ukraine.&nbsp;"Otherwise, I don't care about the relationship," the US president said.&nbsp;He further said that both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will need to show they are willing to end the conflict prompted by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;"I hope President Putin is going to be good, and if he's not, it's going to be a rough situation," Trump said. "And I hope that Zelenskyy, President Zelensky will do what he has to do. He has to show some flexibility also."&nbsp;Further stressing his relationship with Putin, Trump spoke about the "warmth" in his ties with the Russian president. He said that he spoke with Putin away from Western leaders as it would be "disrespectful" to him to have them in the room.&nbsp;Trump said a call with Putin on Monday took place separately from European leaders. "I didn't do it in front of them," Trump said. "I thought that would be disrespectful to President Putin. I wouldn't do that because they have not had the warmest relations."&nbsp;The US president said that "despite the 'Russia, Russia, Russia' hoax," he maintained "a very good relationship" with Putin.&nbsp;"I mean, you saw that when he got off his plane, I got off my plane, there's a warmth there that you can't ... you know, there's a decent feeling," Trump said, referring to the Alaska summit which happened last week. "That's a good thing, not a bad thing."

Trump stressed that he shares good relationship with both Zelensky and Putin, but they need to show that they are willing to the war. This comes after the US president held meeting with the Ukrainian president on Monday, along with the European leaders.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (August 19) said that although he has a "good relationship" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, it will only matter if they get things done, referring to the peace deal and ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump, during an interview with Fox and Friends, noted that he has good ties with Putin, but it should lead to a peace deal to end the killings in Ukraine. "Otherwise, I don't care about the relationship," the US president said. He further said that both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will need to show they are willing to end the conflict prompted by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "I hope President Putin is going to be good, and if he's not, it's going to be a rough situation," Trump said. "And I hope that Zelenskyy, President Zelensky will do what he has to do. He has to show some flexibility also." Further stressing his relationship with Putin, Trump spoke about the "warmth" in his ties with the Russian president. He said that he spoke with Putin away from Western leaders as it would be "disrespectful" to him to have them in the room. Trump said a call with Putin on Monday took place separately from European leaders. "I didn't do it in front of them," Trump said. "I thought that would be disrespectful to President Putin. I wouldn't do that because they have not had the warmest relations." The US president said that "despite the 'Russia, Russia, Russia' hoax," he maintained "a very good relationship" with Putin. "I mean, you saw that when he got off his plane, I got off my plane, there's a warmth there that you can't ... you know, there's a decent feeling," Trump said, referring to the Alaska summit which happened last week. "That's a good thing, not a bad thing."

Trump stressed that he shares good relationship with both Zelensky and Putin, but they need to show that they are willing to the war. This comes after the US president held meeting with the Ukrainian president on Monday, along with the European leaders.

'Otherwise I don't care': Trump says 'good relationship' with Putin only matters if it ends Ukraine war - See what US prez said

US President Donald Trump has claimed that the UK, France and Germany are prepared to put their troops on the ground to secure peace in Ukraine, while insisting that no American soldiers will be sent.<h2>What did Trump tell Fox News?</h2>Speaking by phone to Fox News, the US president said he hoped Russian leader Vladimir Putin “is going to be good”. “If he’s not, it’s going to be a rough situation,” Trump added. He also suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin were “doing okay” after recent talks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-time-in-moscow-putin-offers-to-host-zelensky-in-russian-capital-for-talks-to-end-war-here-s-what-ukrainian-president-said-1755615224258">Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said</a><h2>Europe ‘to frontload’ security</h2>On the issue of security guarantees for Kyiv, Trump said that European countries “are going to frontload it”. He added, “They want to have boots on the ground. I don’t think it’s going to be a problem.” When pressed on whether the US could join them, Trump was firm, “You have my assurance and I’m president. I’m just trying to stop people being killed.”<h2>Air power instead of ground troops</h2>Trump indicated that Washington’s support may instead come from the skies. “When it comes to security, [the Europeans are] willing to put people on the ground. We’re willing to help them with things, especially, probably talk about by air, because there’s nobody [has the] kind of stuff we have. But I don’t think it’s going to be a problem,” he added.<h2>Trump’s call with Putin</h2>The president also revealed he spoke with Putin following meetings with Zelensky and European leaders. “I didn’t do it in front of them, I thought it would have been disrespectful to President Putin,” Trump said. “Putin wouldn’t talk to the people from Europe,” he added. Afterwards, Trump wrote on social media that security guarantees “would be provided by the various European Countries, with coordination with the United States of America.”<h2>No NATO membership for Ukraine</h2>Despite pledges of support, Trump repeated his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO, warning that membership would bring obligations under Article 5 of the alliance. “Who would want&nbsp;that?”&nbsp;he&nbsp;said.

President Trump claimed the UK, France, and Germany are ready to send troops to Ukraine, while ruling out US involvement. Speaking to Fox News, he expressed cautious optimism about ending Ukraine war.

US President Donald Trump has claimed that the UK, France and Germany are prepared to put their troops on the ground to secure peace in Ukraine, while insisting that no American soldiers will be sent. What did Trump tell Fox News? Speaking by phone to Fox News, the US president said he hoped Russian leader Vladimir Putin “is going to be good”. “If he’s not, it’s going to be a rough situation,” Trump added. He also suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin were “doing okay” after recent talks. Also read: Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said Europe ‘to frontload’ security On the issue of security guarantees for Kyiv, Trump said that European countries “are going to frontload it”. He added, “They want to have boots on the ground. I don’t think it’s going to be a problem.” When pressed on whether the US could join them, Trump was firm, “You have my assurance and I’m president. I’m just trying to stop people being killed.” Air power instead of ground troops Trump indicated that Washington’s support may instead come from the skies. “When it comes to security, [the Europeans are] willing to put people on the ground. We’re willing to help them with things, especially, probably talk about by air, because there’s nobody [has the] kind of stuff we have. But I don’t think it’s going to be a problem,” he added. Trump’s call with Putin The president also revealed he spoke with Putin following meetings with Zelensky and European leaders. “I didn’t do it in front of them, I thought it would have been disrespectful to President Putin,” Trump said. “Putin wouldn’t talk to the people from Europe,” he added. Afterwards, Trump wrote on social media that security guarantees “would be provided by the various European Countries, with coordination with the United States of America.” No NATO membership for Ukraine Despite pledges of support, Trump repeated his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO, warning that membership would bring obligations under Article 5 of the alliance. “Who would want that?” he said.

President Trump claimed the UK, France, and Germany are ready to send troops to Ukraine, while ruling out US involvement. Speaking to Fox News, he expressed cautious optimism about ending Ukraine war.

US to send jets to help Ukraine? Trump rules out US boots on the ground in Ukraine, but offers air support

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday (August 19) concluded his visit to India, as he met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The officials discussed several key issues, including cross-border terrorism, Brahmaputra dam construction and Taiwan.&nbsp;The Chinese foreign minister visited India at the invitation of National Security Adviser Shri Ajit Doval, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi paid an official visit to India on August 18-19.&nbsp;Yi co-chaired the 24th round of the Special Representatives' (SRs) Dialogue on the Boundary Question between India and China with India's NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;China's foreign minister also held bilateral talks with Jaishankar and PM Modi.<h2>Here's what they discussed - 5 points</h2><h3>Boundary issues</h3>Wang Yi, during the Special Representatives' (SRs) Dialogue, discussed issues related to de-escalation, delimitation, and boundary affairs.&nbsp;"Discussions between the Foreign Ministers covered bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest," India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.<h3>Cross-border terrorism</h3>India strongly raised the issue of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. It further recalled that one of the original objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was to counter the evil of terrorism.&nbsp;"Minister Wang Yi concurred that countering terrorism should be given the highest priority," the MEA said in the statement. &nbsp;<h3>PM Modi to attend SCO Summit</h3>The SCO is scheduled to be held later this month in China. PM Modi will also be visiting Beijing to attend the SCO Summit, signalling positive ties between the two countries.&nbsp;PM Modi thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for the invitation to the SCO Summit, as he conveyed his acceptance. He expressed support for China's Presidency of the SCO Summit and said that he looked forward to meeting President Xi in Tianjin.<h3>Brahmaputra dam construction</h3>During the discussions with Wang Yi, EAM Jaishankar underlined India's concerns regarding the mega dam construction being undertaken by China in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River).&nbsp;Jaishankar stressed that it will have implications for lower riparian states. "The need for utmost transparency in this regard was strongly underlined," the statement read.<h3>Taiwan</h3>Further, the Chinese foreign minister also raised the issue of Taiwan. The Indian officials stressed that there was no change in their position on this issue.&nbsp;They further noted that India had a relationship with Taiwan that focuses on economic, technological and cultural ties and that this would continue.&nbsp;"The Indian side noted that China also cooperates with Taiwan in these very domains," the statement read.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chinese foreign minister met with India's EAM Jaishankar and PM Modi on Tuesday. Wang Yi discussed several key issues with the officials, including the construction of Brahmaputra dam, issue of Taiwan and countering terrorism. 

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday (August 19) concluded his visit to India, as he met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The officials discussed several key issues, including cross-border terrorism, Brahmaputra dam construction and Taiwan. The Chinese foreign minister visited India at the invitation of National Security Adviser Shri Ajit Doval, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi paid an official visit to India on August 18-19. Yi co-chaired the 24th round of the Special Representatives' (SRs) Dialogue on the Boundary Question between India and China with India's NSA Ajit Doval. China's foreign minister also held bilateral talks with Jaishankar and PM Modi. Here's what they discussed - 5 points Boundary issues Wang Yi, during the Special Representatives' (SRs) Dialogue, discussed issues related to de-escalation, delimitation, and boundary affairs. "Discussions between the Foreign Ministers covered bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest," India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Cross-border terrorism India strongly raised the issue of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. It further recalled that one of the original objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was to counter the evil of terrorism. "Minister Wang Yi concurred that countering terrorism should be given the highest priority," the MEA said in the statement. PM Modi to attend SCO Summit The SCO is scheduled to be held later this month in China. PM Modi will also be visiting Beijing to attend the SCO Summit, signalling positive ties between the two countries. PM Modi thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for the invitation to the SCO Summit, as he conveyed his acceptance. He expressed support for China's Presidency of the SCO Summit and said that he looked forward to meeting President Xi in Tianjin. Brahmaputra dam construction During the discussions with Wang Yi, EAM Jaishankar underlined India's concerns regarding the mega dam construction being undertaken by China in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River). Jaishankar stressed that it will have implications for lower riparian states. "The need for utmost transparency in this regard was strongly underlined," the statement read. Taiwan Further, the Chinese foreign minister also raised the issue of Taiwan. The Indian officials stressed that there was no change in their position on this issue. They further noted that India had a relationship with Taiwan that focuses on economic, technological and cultural ties and that this would continue. "The Indian side noted that China also cooperates with Taiwan in these very domains," the statement read.

The Chinese foreign minister met with India's EAM Jaishankar and PM Modi on Tuesday. Wang Yi discussed several key issues with the officials, including the construction of Brahmaputra dam, issue of Taiwan and countering terrorism.&nbsp;

Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points

Russian President Vladimir Putin raised the idea of hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Moscow as part of efforts to end the war, according to two sources who spoke to AFP about a recent phone conversation between Putin and then US President Donald Trump.<h2>What was said on the call?</h2>During the discussion, which took place on Monday, “Putin mentioned Moscow” as a potential venue for talks, the sources said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-jets-to-help-ukraine-trump-rules-out-us-boots-on-the-ground-in-ukraine-but-offers-air-support-1755619239094">US to send jets to help Ukraine? Trump rules out US boots on the ground in Ukraine, but offers air support</a><h2>Zelensky’s response</h2>However, Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed the idea. According to the report, Zelensky had said “no” in response to Putin’s&nbsp;proposal. After a summit at the White House on Monday with the leaders of Germany, France, Finland, Italy and the UK, Trump said the next step to ending the war could be a direct meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents. The Ukrainian leader has said in recent weeks he is ready to sit down with Putin to stop the invasion, which has already killed tens of thousands and forced millions from their homes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-time-in-moscow-putin-offers-to-host-zelensky-in-russian-capital-for-talks-to-end-war-here-s-what-ukrainian-president-said-1755615224258">Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said</a><h2>What is Moscow saying?</h2>Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told state media that Putin was open to the “idea” of direct talks with Ukraine, confirming what he told Trump in their call. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov added on Tuesday that any meeting between Putin and Zelensky would need to be “very thoroughly” prepared.<h2>Why is Switzerland involved?</h2>Switzerland has said it would grant Putin immunity if he travelled there for peace talks, despite the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him.<h2>What happened in Alaska?</h2>Just last week, Trump met Putin in Alaska, breaking with years of Western attempts to isolate the Russian president. But the meeting ended without Putin offering any firm guarantees&nbsp;on&nbsp;peace.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed the possibility of hosting a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Moscow to help end the war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin raised the idea of hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Moscow as part of efforts to end the war, according to two sources who spoke to AFP about a recent phone conversation between Putin and then US President Donald Trump. What was said on the call? During the discussion, which took place on Monday, “Putin mentioned Moscow” as a potential venue for talks, the sources said. Also read: US to send jets to help Ukraine? Trump rules out US boots on the ground in Ukraine, but offers air support Zelensky’s response However, Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed the idea. According to the report, Zelensky had said “no” in response to Putin’s proposal. After a summit at the White House on Monday with the leaders of Germany, France, Finland, Italy and the UK, Trump said the next step to ending the war could be a direct meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents. The Ukrainian leader has said in recent weeks he is ready to sit down with Putin to stop the invasion, which has already killed tens of thousands and forced millions from their homes. Also read: Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said What is Moscow saying? Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told state media that Putin was open to the “idea” of direct talks with Ukraine, confirming what he told Trump in their call. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov added on Tuesday that any meeting between Putin and Zelensky would need to be “very thoroughly” prepared. Why is Switzerland involved? Switzerland has said it would grant Putin immunity if he travelled there for peace talks, despite the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him. What happened in Alaska? Just last week, Trump met Putin in Alaska, breaking with years of Western attempts to isolate the Russian president. But the meeting ended without Putin offering any firm guarantees on peace.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed the possibility of hosting a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Moscow to help end the war.

Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said

A new report from IMPACT-se, which stands for the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Culture Tolerance in School Education, accused the Pakistani school curriculum of promoting Jihadist ideology and fueling antisemitic narratives. The study by IMPACT-se shows that children are exposed to lessons showing jihad as a religious and moral duty; Pakistan's ideological rivalries with India and Israel are mentioned in detail. India, is described literally as ‘the enemy country.’&nbsp;The study explored 86 government-approved textbooks across disciplines such as Islamic education, history, social sciences, English, and Urdu. It reveals findings that are concerning on multiple levels.&nbsp;<h2>Portrayal of India&nbsp;</h2>The textbooks are marred with historical distortions, cultural biases, and political agendas. The two-nation theory of Sir Seyed Ahmed Khan, and propagated by Muhammad Ali Jinnah as an antithesis to Mahatma Gandhi and unified India, had been glorified. The textbooks portray a selective history showing Hindus and India as oppressors of Muslims, justifying partition and Pakistan's creation. Hinduism is portrayed in a negative light, a narrative of the civilizational and religious incompatibility with India. It is shown as a threat to Pakistan's survival, to reinforce Pakistan's national identity. Jihad, as a physical struggle or armed defence, is glorified as a legitimate form of resistance with a broader obligation to religious and noble purposes without shedding light on the violence and negative consequences.<h2>Portrayal of Pakistan</h2>Pakistan is portrayed as a vanguard of the Islamic world. Its involvement in supporting Middle Eastern countries against Israel is presented as an attempt to create a unified Muslim front. Israel is depicted as a sole aggressor in the Middle East, a treacherous country. No mentions of the holocaust or Judaism in comparative religion studies. Jews are held responsible for the crucifixion of Prophet Isa (Jesus Christ) and the suffering of his mother. The textbooks portray Jews through the lens of interaction between the Prophet Muhammad and the Jewish tribes of Medina.&nbsp;

A recent report published on August 18, by IMPACT-se, shows Pakistani textbooks' depiction of India, Hinduism, Pakistan, its role in global politics, Israel and Jews.

A new report from IMPACT-se, which stands for the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Culture Tolerance in School Education, accused the Pakistani school curriculum of promoting Jihadist ideology and fueling antisemitic narratives. The study by IMPACT-se shows that children are exposed to lessons showing jihad as a religious and moral duty; Pakistan's ideological rivalries with India and Israel are mentioned in detail. India, is described literally as ‘the enemy country.’ The study explored 86 government-approved textbooks across disciplines such as Islamic education, history, social sciences, English, and Urdu. It reveals findings that are concerning on multiple levels. Portrayal of India The textbooks are marred with historical distortions, cultural biases, and political agendas. The two-nation theory of Sir Seyed Ahmed Khan, and propagated by Muhammad Ali Jinnah as an antithesis to Mahatma Gandhi and unified India, had been glorified. The textbooks portray a selective history showing Hindus and India as oppressors of Muslims, justifying partition and Pakistan's creation. Hinduism is portrayed in a negative light, a narrative of the civilizational and religious incompatibility with India. It is shown as a threat to Pakistan's survival, to reinforce Pakistan's national identity. Jihad, as a physical struggle or armed defence, is glorified as a legitimate form of resistance with a broader obligation to religious and noble purposes without shedding light on the violence and negative consequences. Portrayal of Pakistan Pakistan is portrayed as a vanguard of the Islamic world. Its involvement in supporting Middle Eastern countries against Israel is presented as an attempt to create a unified Muslim front. Israel is depicted as a sole aggressor in the Middle East, a treacherous country. No mentions of the holocaust or Judaism in comparative religion studies. Jews are held responsible for the crucifixion of Prophet Isa (Jesus Christ) and the suffering of his mother. The textbooks portray Jews through the lens of interaction between the Prophet Muhammad and the Jewish tribes of Medina.

A recent report published on August 18, by IMPACT-se, shows Pakistani textbooks' depiction of India, Hinduism, Pakistan, its role in global politics, Israel and Jews.

Pakistani 9th grade Islamic education textbook portrays jihad as a moral duty, India as enemy country

Air Canada flight attendants said Tuesday they had reached a "tentative" deal with the airline to end a strike over wages and ground work that has cancelled travel for half a million people worldwide.&nbsp;Roughly 10,000 flight attendants walked off the job after midnight Saturday, insisting Air Canada had failed to address their demands for higher pay and compensation for unpaid ground work, including during boarding.&nbsp;The attendants' union defied two orders from a regulatory tribunal to return to work, forcing Air Canada to roll back plans to partially restore service.&nbsp;But after resuming talks on Monday evening, the union said it had reached a potential deal with the airline that it would put to its members for consideration.&nbsp;"The strike has ended. We have a tentative agreement we will bring forward to you," the Canadian Union of Public Employees' (CUPE) Air Canada branch said in a statement.&nbsp;"We are required to advise our membership that we must fully cooperate with resumption of operations," the statement said.&nbsp;Air Canada said in a statement that it would "gradually restart its operations" after reaching an agreement with CUPE through a mediator, William Kaplan.It said the first flights were scheduled for Tuesday evening but warned that full service may not return for seven to 10 days.&nbsp;"Restarting a major carrier like Air Canada is a complex undertaking. Full restoration may require a week or more," Air Canada president Michael Rousseau said.&nbsp;Neither the union nor the airline immediately provided details of the proposed agreement.&nbsp;But CUPE said the deal achieves "transformational change for our industry after a historic fight."&nbsp;"Unpaid work is over," it added, a reference to a key demand throughout the talks that flight attendants also be compensated for time not spent in the air.&nbsp;"When our rights were taken away, we stood strong, we fought back -- and we secured a tentative agreement that our members can vote on," CUPE further said.&nbsp;Air Canada said it would not comment on the terms of the deal "until the ratification process is complete."&nbsp;It was not immediately clear when CUPE would schedule a vote.<h2>More travel disruption</h2>&nbsp;Air Canada -- the national carrier which flies directly to 180 cities domestically and abroad -- has said the strike forced cancellations impacting 500,000 people.&nbsp;Over the weekend, federal labour minister Patty Hajdu invoked a legal provision to halt the strike and force both sides into binding arbitration.&nbsp;Following that intervention, the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), a regulatory tribunal, ordered the flight attendants back to work in two separate orders -- on Sunday and Monday.&nbsp;But the union said it would not comply with the orders, forcing Air Canada to walk back service resumption plans.&nbsp;Air Canada told customers on Tuesday to expect continued disruption "as aircraft and crew are out of position."&nbsp;It urged passengers to only travel to the airport if their flight was shown as operating.&nbsp;"The suspension of our service is extremely difficult for our customers. We deeply regret and apologise for the impact on them of this labour disruption," Rousseau said.&nbsp;Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters Monday it was "disappointing" that eight months of negotiations between the carrier and union had not produced an agreement.&nbsp;He said it was "important" that flight attendants were "compensated equitably," but voiced unease that hundreds of thousands of people were facing travel uncertainty.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

After resuming talks on Monday evening, the union said it had reached a potential deal with the airline that it would put to its members for consideration.

Air Canada flight attendants said Tuesday they had reached a "tentative" deal with the airline to end a strike over wages and ground work that has cancelled travel for half a million people worldwide. Roughly 10,000 flight attendants walked off the job after midnight Saturday, insisting Air Canada had failed to address their demands for higher pay and compensation for unpaid ground work, including during boarding. The attendants' union defied two orders from a regulatory tribunal to return to work, forcing Air Canada to roll back plans to partially restore service. But after resuming talks on Monday evening, the union said it had reached a potential deal with the airline that it would put to its members for consideration. "The strike has ended. We have a tentative agreement we will bring forward to you," the Canadian Union of Public Employees' (CUPE) Air Canada branch said in a statement. "We are required to advise our membership that we must fully cooperate with resumption of operations," the statement said. Air Canada said in a statement that it would "gradually restart its operations" after reaching an agreement with CUPE through a mediator, William Kaplan. It said the first flights were scheduled for Tuesday evening but warned that full service may not return for seven to 10 days. "Restarting a major carrier like Air Canada is a complex undertaking. Full restoration may require a week or more," Air Canada president Michael Rousseau said. Neither the union nor the airline immediately provided details of the proposed agreement. But CUPE said the deal achieves "transformational change for our industry after a historic fight." "Unpaid work is over," it added, a reference to a key demand throughout the talks that flight attendants also be compensated for time not spent in the air. "When our rights were taken away, we stood strong, we fought back -- and we secured a tentative agreement that our members can vote on," CUPE further said. Air Canada said it would not comment on the terms of the deal "until the ratification process is complete." It was not immediately clear when CUPE would schedule a vote. More travel disruption Air Canada -- the national carrier which flies directly to 180 cities domestically and abroad -- has said the strike forced cancellations impacting 500,000 people. Over the weekend, federal labour minister Patty Hajdu invoked a legal provision to halt the strike and force both sides into binding arbitration. Following that intervention, the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), a regulatory tribunal, ordered the flight attendants back to work in two separate orders -- on Sunday and Monday. But the union said it would not comply with the orders, forcing Air Canada to walk back service resumption plans. Air Canada told customers on Tuesday to expect continued disruption "as aircraft and crew are out of position." It urged passengers to only travel to the airport if their flight was shown as operating. "The suspension of our service is extremely difficult for our customers. We deeply regret and apologise for the impact on them of this labour disruption," Rousseau said. Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters Monday it was "disappointing" that eight months of negotiations between the carrier and union had not produced an agreement. He said it was "important" that flight attendants were "compensated equitably," but voiced unease that hundreds of thousands of people were facing travel uncertainty. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

After resuming talks on Monday evening, the union said it had reached a potential deal with the airline that it would put to its members for consideration.

Air Canada flight attendants reach 'tentative' deal after talks, end strike

Rescuers and residents resumed searching on Tuesday for survivors as the death toll from five days of torrential rain rose to almost 400, with authorities warning monsoon downpours would continue until the weekend.&nbsp;Torrential rains across Pakistan's north have caused flooding and landslides that have swept away entire villages, leaving many residents trapped in the rubble and scores missing.&nbsp;The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said 356 people were killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a mountainous province in Pakistan's northwest bordering Afghanistan, since Thursday evening.&nbsp;Dozens more were killed in surrounding regions, taking the toll in the past five days to almost 400.&nbsp;Rescuers dug through mud and stone in hard-hit Dalori village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the hope of finding survivors and the bodies of people missing.&nbsp;Villagers stood watching and praying as the rescuers worked, a day after the search was halted by more intense rain.&nbsp;Umar Islam, a 31-year-old labourer, struggled to hold back his tears as he spoke about his father, who was killed on Monday."Our misery is beyond explanation," Islam told AFP as neighbours tried to console him.&nbsp;"In a matter of minutes, we lost everything we had," he said."Our lives are ruined."&nbsp;Fazal Akbar, 37, another villager, described the aftermath of the floods as "terrifying".&nbsp;"It happened so suddenly that no one even had a minute to react. Announcements were made from the mosque, and villagers rushed to begin the rescue themselves," said Akbar."In less than 20 minutes, our village was reduced to ruins."<h2>More rain</h2>Many roads have been damaged, making it hard for rescuers to reach areas damaged by the floods.&nbsp;Communication also remains difficult, with phone networks hit in flood-affected areas.&nbsp;Heavy rain also began falling on Tuesday in southern parts of Pakistan that had so far been spared the worst of the monsoon downpours.&nbsp;The rain was expected to continue until Saturday, and "another spell is to start by the end of the month", said NDMA chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik.&nbsp;More than 700 people have been killed in the monsoon rains since June 26, the NDMA said, with close to 1,000 injured. The monsoon is expected to last until mid-September.&nbsp;Authorities also warned of urban flooding in big cities in coastal areas of Sindh province, including the financial capital Karachi, "due to weak infrastructure".&nbsp;It has also been raining in 15 districts in neighbouring Balochistan province, and the main highway connecting it with Sindh has been blocked for heavy vehicles, said provincial disaster official Muhammad Younis.&nbsp;Between 40 and 50 houses had been damaged in two districts, he said.&nbsp;Landslides and flash floods are common during the monsoon season, which typically begins in June and lasts until the end of September.&nbsp;Pakistan is among the world's most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change and is increasingly facing extreme weather events.&nbsp;Monsoon floods submerged one-third of Pakistan in 2022, resulting in approximately 1,700 deaths.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Torrential rains across Pakistan's north have caused flooding and landslides that have swept away entire villages, leaving many residents trapped in the rubble and scores missing.

Rescuers and residents resumed searching on Tuesday for survivors as the death toll from five days of torrential rain rose to almost 400, with authorities warning monsoon downpours would continue until the weekend. Torrential rains across Pakistan's north have caused flooding and landslides that have swept away entire villages, leaving many residents trapped in the rubble and scores missing. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said 356 people were killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a mountainous province in Pakistan's northwest bordering Afghanistan, since Thursday evening. Dozens more were killed in surrounding regions, taking the toll in the past five days to almost 400. Rescuers dug through mud and stone in hard-hit Dalori village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the hope of finding survivors and the bodies of people missing. Villagers stood watching and praying as the rescuers worked, a day after the search was halted by more intense rain. Umar Islam, a 31-year-old labourer, struggled to hold back his tears as he spoke about his father, who was killed on Monday. "Our misery is beyond explanation," Islam told AFP as neighbours tried to console him. "In a matter of minutes, we lost everything we had," he said. "Our lives are ruined." Fazal Akbar, 37, another villager, described the aftermath of the floods as "terrifying". "It happened so suddenly that no one even had a minute to react. Announcements were made from the mosque, and villagers rushed to begin the rescue themselves," said Akbar. "In less than 20 minutes, our village was reduced to ruins." More rain Many roads have been damaged, making it hard for rescuers to reach areas damaged by the floods. Communication also remains difficult, with phone networks hit in flood-affected areas. Heavy rain also began falling on Tuesday in southern parts of Pakistan that had so far been spared the worst of the monsoon downpours. The rain was expected to continue until Saturday, and "another spell is to start by the end of the month", said NDMA chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik. More than 700 people have been killed in the monsoon rains since June 26, the NDMA said, with close to 1,000 injured. The monsoon is expected to last until mid-September. Authorities also warned of urban flooding in big cities in coastal areas of Sindh province, including the financial capital Karachi, "due to weak infrastructure". It has also been raining in 15 districts in neighbouring Balochistan province, and the main highway connecting it with Sindh has been blocked for heavy vehicles, said provincial disaster official Muhammad Younis. Between 40 and 50 houses had been damaged in two districts, he said. Landslides and flash floods are common during the monsoon season, which typically begins in June and lasts until the end of September. Pakistan is among the world's most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change and is increasingly facing extreme weather events. Monsoon floods submerged one-third of Pakistan in 2022, resulting in approximately 1,700 deaths. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Torrential rains across Pakistan's north have caused flooding and landslides that have swept away entire villages, leaving many residents trapped in the rubble and scores missing.

Pakistan monsoon floods: Death toll nears 400 as downpours continue

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, in New Delhi on Tuesday during his India visit as the two neighbouring nations seek to reset their relations after having strained ties following the violent clashes between troops of the two nations along the border in 2020. The Chinese FM’s visit is being seen as an effort to put the relationship back on track at a time of global economic turmoil amid the threat of tariff wars.The efforts to reset ties become vital since US President Donald Trump’s recent moves to impose tariffs on both China and India. By imposing tariffs, Trump may have inadvertently set the stage for an unlikely improvement in India-China relations due to economic compulsions.&nbsp;Wang Yi handed over a message and invitation from President Xi to the Prime Minister for the SCO Summit being held in Tianjin. He also shared his positive assessment of his bilateral meeting with EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar and the 24th Meeting of the Special Representatives, which he co-chaired with NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;PM Modi emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity on the border and reiterated India's commitment to a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Glad to meet Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Since my meeting with President Xi in Kazan last year, India-China relations have made steady progress guided by respect for each other&#39;s interests and sensitivities. I look forward to our next meeting in Tianjin on the sidelines of the SCO… <a href="https://t.co/FyQI6GqYKC">pic.twitter.com/FyQI6GqYKC</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1957806973120065968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The PM also welcomed the steady and positive progress in bilateral ties since his meeting with President Xi in Kazan last year, guided by mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity, including the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. PM Modi thanked President Xi for the invitation to the SCO Summit and conveyed his acceptance. He expressed support for China’s presidency of the SCO Summit and said that he looked forward to meeting President Xi in Tianjin. The PM underlined that stable, predictable, and constructive ties between India and China will contribute significantly to regional and global peace and prosperity. Before calling on Prime Minister Modi, Wang held talks with the National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on a range of issues, including the border situation, trade, and resumption of flight services. During the meeting with Wang Yi on Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that “having seen a difficult period in our relationship… our two nations now seek to move ahead.” Wang Yi’s visit comes ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s expected trip to Tianjin, China, for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit from August 31 to September 1.

The two nations started the de-escalation process with the dismantling of military infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, in New Delhi on Tuesday during his India visit as the two neighbouring nations seek to reset their relations after having strained ties following the violent clashes between troops of the two nations along the border in 2020. The Chinese FM’s visit is being seen as an effort to put the relationship back on track at a time of global economic turmoil amid the threat of tariff wars. The efforts to reset ties become vital since US President Donald Trump’s recent moves to impose tariffs on both China and India. By imposing tariffs, Trump may have inadvertently set the stage for an unlikely improvement in India-China relations due to economic compulsions. Wang Yi handed over a message and invitation from President Xi to the Prime Minister for the SCO Summit being held in Tianjin. He also shared his positive assessment of his bilateral meeting with EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar and the 24th Meeting of the Special Representatives, which he co-chaired with NSA Ajit Doval. PM Modi emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity on the border and reiterated India's commitment to a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question.

The two nations started the de-escalation process with the dismantling of military infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

China’s FM Wang Yi meets PM Modi as Delhi, Beijing seek to reset ties

In another shocking racist attack, two elderly Sikh men were brutally assaulted outside Wolverhampton Railway Station in the United Kingdom. The incident, which happened on Friday (Aug 15), is being seen as a racially aggravated hate crime. The police have confirmed that three men have been arrested for being involved in the attack. The video of the incident has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage.&nbsp;In the video that is being widely shared on social media, one of the victims can be seen lying on the side of the road with his turban removed, while the other is being kicked and punched by a man.&nbsp;In the video, a woman, who was likely filming the attack, is heard saying, “These two men have just gotten beaten up by these white men.” She then shouts at the attackers, “What are you doing!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I strongly condemn the horrific attack on two elderly Sikh men in Wolverhampton, UK, during the course of which one Sikh’s turban was removed forcibly. ▪️This racist hate crime targets the Sikh community, which always seeks Sarbat Da Bhala (the well-being of all). ▪️Known for… <a href="https://t.co/5G0DJbZbBs">pic.twitter.com/5G0DJbZbBs</a>&mdash; Sukhbir Singh Badal (@officeofssbadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/officeofssbadal/status/1957425901190136166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reportedly, the incident took place around 1:45 pm BST on Friday (Aug 15). The victims were taken to a hospital for treatment and were later discharged.&nbsp;The BBC reported that the arrested suspects are aged 17, 19, and 25. They were bailed pending further inquiries.The incident sparked outrage from Sikh leaders in India and the Sikh Federation in the UK, who condemned the racist attack.&nbsp;Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal took to X, posting the video and strongly condemning the attack.&nbsp;“I strongly condemn the horrific attack on two elderly Sikh men in Wolverhampton, UK, during the course of which one Sikh’s turban was removed forcibly,” he wrote. This racist hate crime targets the Sikh community, which always seeks Sarbat Da Bhala (the well-being of all). Known for its benevolence and compassion, the Sikh community deserves safety and respect worldwide.”&nbsp;He further added, “I urge West Midlands Police and the UK Home Office to act swiftly &amp; deliver justice the victims. I also urge Union External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to raise this issue with the UK government to ensure the safety of the Sikh diaspora.”&nbsp;“Meanwhile, I appeal to all Sikh brethren settled abroad to support each other in this hour of need,” he said.

Two elderly Sikh men brutally attacked outside Wolverhampton Railway Station in the United Kingdom. The UK police have arrested three men following the incident.

In another shocking racist attack, two elderly Sikh men were brutally assaulted outside Wolverhampton Railway Station in the United Kingdom. The incident, which happened on Friday (Aug 15), is being seen as a racially aggravated hate crime. The police have confirmed that three men have been arrested for being involved in the attack. The video of the incident has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage. In the video that is being widely shared on social media, one of the victims can be seen lying on the side of the road with his turban removed, while the other is being kicked and punched by a man. In the video, a woman, who was likely filming the attack, is heard saying, “These two men have just gotten beaten up by these white men.” She then shouts at the attackers, “What are you doing!”

Two elderly Sikh men brutally attacked outside Wolverhampton Railway Station in the United Kingdom. The UK police have arrested three men following the incident.

Two elderly Sikh men brutally attacked in Wolverhampton; UK police arrests 3

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday categorically ruled out any “long-term peace deal” with Ukraine without considering the security interests of Russians and the “Russian-speaking people who live in Ukraine”. “Without respect for Russia's security interests, without full respect for the rights of Russians and Russian-speaking people who live in Ukraine, there can be no talk of any long-term agreements,” Lavrov told state TV channel Rossiya 24 in an interview.&nbsp;Lavrov further said that preparations have to made “very thoroughly” for any meeting between Russian and Ukrainian presidents for conflict resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the meeting with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday, US President Donald Trump had hinted at a possible trilateral meeting if “everything worked out”.&nbsp;“We’re going to have a meeting. I think if everything works out well today we’ll have a trilateral and I think there will be a reasonable chance of ending the war when we do that,” Trump said.Trump had also pushed for a long-term peace agreement instead of a “two-year” one that would end up in a “mess” again.&nbsp;<h2>Trump wants ‘long-term peace deal’, not temporary, fragile settlement</h2>&nbsp;The high-stakes meeting between Trump and Zelensky signalled a new phase in Washington’s engagement with Kyiv amid Russia’s ongoing aggression. Trump assured that the United States would remain involved in Ukraine’s “future security” and emphasised that discussions were yielding “substantial progress.”&nbsp;Trump’s remarks underlined his push for what he described as a “long-term peace,” rejecting the notion of a temporary or fragile settlement that might unravel within a few years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharing details of the telephone conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, Lavrov said the presidents confirmed that the conflict in Ukraine must be resolved in such a way that the crisis never happens again.&nbsp;<h2>It’s all childish babble, can’t find another word’</h2>&nbsp;The foreign minister added that Russia never had the goal of simply seizing territories, be it Crimea, Donbass, or Novorossiya, but has always sought to protect Russians.&nbsp;Lavrov further rejected the claims of European leaders about Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation.“The talk that some presidents and prime ministers from Europe are having about Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation is all childish babble, I can’t find another word for it,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Preparations for high-level summits take time’</h2>&nbsp;Lavrov also said that President Putin was open to meeting Zelensky, but stressed that preparations for high-level summits take time, even as European leaders indicated the talks are likely to take place within two weeks.“We’re not refusing any kind of work format, neither bilateral nor trilateral. The president [Putin] has said that repeatedly,” Lavrov said.&nbsp;"Any contacts involving leaders must be prepared very thoroughly," Lavrov said.&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that Russia never had the goal of simply seizing territories, be it Crimea, Donbass, or Novorossiya, but has always sought to protect Russians. He also rejected the claim of Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday categorically ruled out any “long-term peace deal” with Ukraine without considering the security interests of Russians and the “Russian-speaking people who live in Ukraine”. “Without respect for Russia's security interests, without full respect for the rights of Russians and Russian-speaking people who live in Ukraine, there can be no talk of any long-term agreements,” Lavrov told state TV channel Rossiya 24 in an interview. Lavrov further said that preparations have to made “very thoroughly” for any meeting between Russian and Ukrainian presidents for conflict resolution. During the meeting with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday, US President Donald Trump had hinted at a possible trilateral meeting if “everything worked out”. “We’re going to have a meeting. I think if everything works out well today we’ll have a trilateral and I think there will be a reasonable chance of ending the war when we do that,” Trump said. Trump had also pushed for a long-term peace agreement instead of a “two-year” one that would end up in a “mess” again. Trump wants ‘long-term peace deal’, not temporary, fragile settlement The high-stakes meeting between Trump and Zelensky signalled a new phase in Washington’s engagement with Kyiv amid Russia’s ongoing aggression. Trump assured that the United States would remain involved in Ukraine’s “future security” and emphasised that discussions were yielding “substantial progress.” Trump’s remarks underlined his push for what he described as a “long-term peace,” rejecting the notion of a temporary or fragile settlement that might unravel within a few years. Sharing details of the telephone conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, Lavrov said the presidents confirmed that the conflict in Ukraine must be resolved in such a way that the crisis never happens again. It’s all childish babble, can’t find another word’ The foreign minister added that Russia never had the goal of simply seizing territories, be it Crimea, Donbass, or Novorossiya, but has always sought to protect Russians. Lavrov further rejected the claims of European leaders about Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation. “The talk that some presidents and prime ministers from Europe are having about Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation is all childish babble, I can’t find another word for it,” he added. ‘Preparations for high-level summits take time’ Lavrov also said that President Putin was open to meeting Zelensky, but stressed that preparations for high-level summits take time, even as European leaders indicated the talks are likely to take place within two weeks. “We’re not refusing any kind of work format, neither bilateral nor trilateral. The president [Putin] has said that repeatedly,” Lavrov said. "Any contacts involving leaders must be prepared very thoroughly," Lavrov said.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that Russia never had the goal of simply seizing territories, be it Crimea, Donbass, or Novorossiya, but has always sought to protect Russians. He also rejected the claim of Russia attacking Ukraine without provocation.

Lavrov rejects call for ‘long-term peace deal’ after Trump-Zelensky talks, cites Russia’s specific concerns

A Finnish lawmaker on Tuesday (August 19) committed suicide inside Helsinki's Parliament House, the local media reported. The person died in the parliament building. Emergency medical officials and rescue units arrived at the spot.The Finnish daily Iltalehti reported that it appears to be a suicide by a member of parliament.&nbsp;SDP MP Eemeli Peltonen, 30, was confirmed dead in the parliament building this morning. He was elected to parliament in 2023 and was a member of its Administrative Committee and Legal Committee and also the chairman of the city board.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aaro Toivonen, the head of the parliament's security department, said, "A death occurred in the morning. Emergency medical services, rescue units, and police authorities were alerted to the scene via the emergency center."&nbsp;Toivonen refused to comment on the exact location where the lawmaker died. He further did not comment whether the death happened within the Parliament House or whether it involved an MP or a parliamentary employee.&nbsp;"This is a very unfortunate and sad case," Toivonen added.<h2>What were his last words?</h2>Earlier in June, Peltonen on social media said that he was receiving treatment for some kidney problems, adding that he had taken a few weeks off his parliamentary duties to recover at home.&nbsp;Later, he revealed that he had contracted a bacterial infection while being treated. Before his death, he said, "To control the bacteria, I was started on an intravenous antibiotic course in [hospital], which will take time. At the same time, treatment for my kidney problems will continue."&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, police are investigating the suicide case. The police further said that there does not appear to be any criminal involvement in the incident.&nbsp;"There is a mission underway, with rescue authorities, police and emergency services on site. I cannot say more than that at this stage," Toivonen said about the current situation at the parliament.&nbsp;"I can't say what the emergency response from the emergency center has been. Parliament is a bit of an exceptional site, so one could imagine that such things have been considered when the situation has been unclear."&nbsp;The Helsinki Police Situation Center stated that an armoured vehicle was also there at the scene. However, they noted that it was a regular police car that normally patrols there.&nbsp;The police said that the armoured car arrived at the scene since it was driving nearby.<h2>Here's what eyewitnesses say</h2>One of the eyewitnesses said that she was on the phone outside his office when he woke up to the sounds of emergency vehicles.&nbsp;Jussi Seppala worked near the Parliament Building and said, "Ambulances drove behind the Parliament Building with their whistles blaring. Then a full-size fire truck, a police car, and, with a slight delay, an armoured police Mercedes also drove there."

The police are investigating the suicide case. The police further said that there does not appear to be any criminal involvement in the incident.

A Finnish lawmaker on Tuesday (August 19) committed suicide inside Helsinki's Parliament House, the local media reported. The person died in the parliament building. Emergency medical officials and rescue units arrived at the spot. The Finnish daily Iltalehti reported that it appears to be a suicide by a member of parliament. SDP MP Eemeli Peltonen, 30, was confirmed dead in the parliament building this morning. He was elected to parliament in 2023 and was a member of its Administrative Committee and Legal Committee and also the chairman of the city board. Aaro Toivonen, the head of the parliament's security department, said, "A death occurred in the morning. Emergency medical services, rescue units, and police authorities were alerted to the scene via the emergency center." Toivonen refused to comment on the exact location where the lawmaker died. He further did not comment whether the death happened within the Parliament House or whether it involved an MP or a parliamentary employee. "This is a very unfortunate and sad case," Toivonen added. What were his last words? Earlier in June, Peltonen on social media said that he was receiving treatment for some kidney problems, adding that he had taken a few weeks off his parliamentary duties to recover at home. Later, he revealed that he had contracted a bacterial infection while being treated. Before his death, he said, "To control the bacteria, I was started on an intravenous antibiotic course in [hospital], which will take time. At the same time, treatment for my kidney problems will continue." Moreover, police are investigating the suicide case. The police further said that there does not appear to be any criminal involvement in the incident. "There is a mission underway, with rescue authorities, police and emergency services on site. I cannot say more than that at this stage," Toivonen said about the current situation at the parliament. "I can't say what the emergency response from the emergency center has been. Parliament is a bit of an exceptional site, so one could imagine that such things have been considered when the situation has been unclear." The Helsinki Police Situation Center stated that an armoured vehicle was also there at the scene. However, they noted that it was a regular police car that normally patrols there. The police said that the armoured car arrived at the scene since it was driving nearby. Here's what eyewitnesses say One of the eyewitnesses said that she was on the phone outside his office when he woke up to the sounds of emergency vehicles. Jussi Seppala worked near the Parliament Building and said, "Ambulances drove behind the Parliament Building with their whistles blaring. Then a full-size fire truck, a police car, and, with a slight delay, an armoured police Mercedes also drove there."

The police are investigating the suicide case. The police further said that there does not appear to be any criminal involvement in the incident.

Finnish lawmaker takes own life in Finland's parliament building - What were his LAST WORDS

India's national security advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval has told Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi that PM Modi will be travelling to China later this month to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin. This is the first public confirmation of the Indian side that PM Modi travelled to China, a visit that comes after a gap of 7 years and is seen as a reset in ties.Both Ajit Doval and Wang Yi led the 24th round of border talks in the Indian national&nbsp;capital on&nbsp;Tuesday &amp; emphasised stability at the border. NSA Ajit Doval said, "an upward trend (in ties). Borders have been quiet, and there has been peace and tranquillity. Bilateral engagement has been substantial". The Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi emphasised, "setbacks we experienced in the last 2 years, were not in the interest of people of 2 countries...heartening to see the stability that has been restored in the border."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-foreign-minister-arzu-rana-deuba-to-visit-india-ahead-of-pm-oli-s-trip-1755545639410">Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba to visit India ahead of PM Oli’s trip</a>During the 23rd round of border talks in December 2014, both sides achieved "new and important consensus on management of disputes, stabilising the border, and moving towards a settlement. Identified specific goals and formed a working framework", the Chinese foreign minister pointed out. Ties between the 2 Asian giants were on a free fall since the 2020 Galwan clashes, and saw a normalcy returning after the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi on the sidelines of the BRICS Kazan summit last year. Both sides are now working to restart direct flight connectivity that could possibly be announced during PM Modi's upcoming visit to China.The Chinese foreign minister's visit is part of high-level visits that the 2 sides have seen since the Kazan meetings. This included the visit of NSA Ajit Doval, EAM Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to China for the SCO meetings. Wang Yi arrived on Monday evening and held talks with EAM Jaishankar. During the talks, he told the Indian foreign minister that the Chinese side is now working to remove restrictions on fertilisers, rare earths and tunnel boring machines. The impact of this will be positive for the Indian agriculture sector, especially the Rabi planting season, and India’s auto and electronics sectors.During the Monday evening talks, EAM Jaishankar told Chinese FM that India seeks "a fair, balanced and multi-polar world order, including a multi-polar Asia. Reformed multilateralism is also the call of the day. In the current environment, there is clearly an imperative of maintaining and enhance stability in the global economy as well. The fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is another major priority".<h2>No change in Taiwan policy: India</h2>The Chinese readout of FM Wang Yi, EAM Jaishankar talks said that the latter told the former that "Taiwan is part of China". Sources have clarified that there is "no change in our position on Taiwan", explaining that "we stressed that like the rest of the world, India has a relationship with Taiwan that focuses on economic, technology and cultural ties. We intend to continue it."In fact, sources also said, when the matter was raised by the Chinese FM on Taiwan, then India's External Affairs Minister said that "China itself was dealing with the areas that we were - economic, technological, cultural, etc, so how is that possible?" for India to disengage with the Taiwanese side. India has upped its engagement with Taiwan in several areas, including conductors. Major Taiwanese companies like Foxconn and Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) are key partners in India’s ambition to become a semiconductor and manufacturing hub.India, in the past, has restated the "One China" policy, but since the last such mention was in 2008. While India doesn't have a formal diplomatic mission in Taiwan, it maintains ties through a representative office, the India-Taipei Association (ITA). Taiwan also has its "office" in India, known as the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC), to facilitate trade, investment, tourism, cultural exchanges, and consular services.

NSA Ajit Doval confirmed PM Modi’s upcoming visit to China for the SCO summit, marking a reset in ties after 7 years. India-China border talks stressed peace, stability, and improved bilateral engagement despite past setbacks.

India's national security advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval has told Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi that PM Modi will be travelling to China later this month to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin. This is the first public confirmation of the Indian side that PM Modi travelled to China, a visit that comes after a gap of 7 years and is seen as a reset in ties. Both Ajit Doval and Wang Yi led the 24th round of border talks in the Indian national capital on Tuesday & emphasised stability at the border. NSA Ajit Doval said, "an upward trend (in ties). Borders have been quiet, and there has been peace and tranquillity. Bilateral engagement has been substantial". The Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi emphasised, "setbacks we experienced in the last 2 years, were not in the interest of people of 2 countries...heartening to see the stability that has been restored in the border."

NSA Ajit Doval confirmed PM Modi’s upcoming visit to China for the SCO summit, marking a reset in ties after 7 years. India-China border talks stressed peace, stability, and improved bilateral engagement despite past setbacks.

PM Modi to visit China this month, says NSA Doval

US President Donald Trump repeated on Monday that he has “ended six wars” and is now pushing for a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested that stopping the Ukraine-Russia conflict could be his next big breakthrough. “I thought this maybe would be the easiest one,” he said. He has also promoted himself as a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize.<h2>How real are his six wars claim?</h2>Trump’s team later confirmed the list of conflicts he claims to have resolved, even adding a seventh. But in reality, some of these peace efforts remain incomplete, and in a few cases, the fighting has continued. Two of the examples date back to his first term, including one where no formal deal was ever signed.<h2>Armenia and Azerbaijan</h2>In August, leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a peace agreement at the White House. Trump declared the two countries would “be friends a long time.” The deal even names a transit route after him, the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity.” But both Iran and Russia strongly objected to the agreement.<h2>Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda</h2>In June, the DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington. Trump hailed it as a “new chapter of hope and opportunity.” Yet, within weeks, both sides accused each other of breaking the truce.<h2>Israel and Iran</h2>Trump ordered strikes on Iran during a short war in June, before brokering a ceasefire with Israel. The White House says the action set back Iran’s nuclear programme, but critics point out that the U.S. was an active combatant.<h2>India and Pakistan</h2>Following the Pahalgam attack and India's retaliatory strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' in May, Trump announced a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. However, India has repeatedly denied that Washington had any role in halting the fighting.<h2>Cambodia and Thailand</h2>A brief border war between Cambodia and Thailand ended after US pressure. The two countries agreed to a ceasefire in July, though both sides accused each other of fresh attacks soon after.<h2>Egypt and Ethiopia (first term)</h2>Trump also counts his earlier intervention over Ethiopia’s dam project on the Nile as a success. No peace deal was ever signed, and the dispute continues today.<h2>Serbia and Kosovo (first term)</h2>Back in 2020, Trump’s administration brokered an economic normalisation deal between Serbia and Kosovo. But tensions over recognition and borders remain unresolved.<h2>Where things stand now?</h2>While Trump has indeed helped broker talks and agreements, many of these conflicts are far from permanently settled. Wars in Ukraine and Gaza continue despite his promises to end them.

Donald Trump claimed he ended six wars and aims to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia, calling it potentially his “easiest” success. His team listed seven conflicts, though several remain unresolved or ongoing, with some lacking formal agreements.

US President Donald Trump repeated on Monday that he has “ended six wars” and is now pushing for a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested that stopping the Ukraine-Russia conflict could be his next big breakthrough. “I thought this maybe would be the easiest one,” he said. He has also promoted himself as a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize. How real are his six wars claim? Trump’s team later confirmed the list of conflicts he claims to have resolved, even adding a seventh. But in reality, some of these peace efforts remain incomplete, and in a few cases, the fighting has continued. Two of the examples date back to his first term, including one where no formal deal was ever signed. Armenia and Azerbaijan In August, leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a peace agreement at the White House. Trump declared the two countries would “be friends a long time.” The deal even names a transit route after him, the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity.” But both Iran and Russia strongly objected to the agreement. Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda In June, the DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington. Trump hailed it as a “new chapter of hope and opportunity.” Yet, within weeks, both sides accused each other of breaking the truce. Israel and Iran Trump ordered strikes on Iran during a short war in June, before brokering a ceasefire with Israel. The White House says the action set back Iran’s nuclear programme, but critics point out that the U.S. was an active combatant. India and Pakistan Following the Pahalgam attack and India's retaliatory strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' in May, Trump announced a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. However, India has repeatedly denied that Washington had any role in halting the fighting. Cambodia and Thailand A brief border war between Cambodia and Thailand ended after US pressure. The two countries agreed to a ceasefire in July, though both sides accused each other of fresh attacks soon after. Egypt and Ethiopia (first term) Trump also counts his earlier intervention over Ethiopia’s dam project on the Nile as a success. No peace deal was ever signed, and the dispute continues today. Serbia and Kosovo (first term) Back in 2020, Trump’s administration brokered an economic normalisation deal between Serbia and Kosovo. But tensions over recognition and borders remain unresolved. Where things stand now? While Trump has indeed helped broker talks and agreements, many of these conflicts are far from permanently settled. Wars in Ukraine and Gaza continue despite his promises to end them.

Donald Trump claimed he ended six wars and aims to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia, calling it potentially his “easiest” success. His team listed seven conflicts, though several remain unresolved or ongoing, with some lacking formal agreements.

Trump says he ended ‘six wars’ – How real is his claim? Here's the list of conflicts US president claims he ended

United States President Donald Trump, during his campaign for the presidency, claimed that he would end the Russia-Ukraine war "within 24 to 48 hours" if re-elected. Six months after coming to the White House again, he is still unable to chart out a plan to strike a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war. While Trump is desperate to turn this failure into an achievement, the Russia-Ukraine peace deal contains more than one contention. Ahead of Trump's high-stakes meeting with Putin this week, the US president hinted at a ‘swap of territories," but his Ukrainian counterpart Zelensky rejected the proposal. After Trump met with both Zelensky and Putin, a territory swap seems the major bone of contention in the peace deal, with the Donbas region serving as the talking point. So, what is it about the Donbas region that both Russia and Ukraine do not want to give up on it?<h2>Russia-Ukraine war and Donbas region</h2>Donbas – Ukraine’s industrial heartland in the east – is rich in coal and heavy industry. As per a report by The Guardian, Russia currently controls around 46,570 square kilometers of the Donbas region, including all of Luhansk and most of Donetsk. However, Ukraine still holds several key cities and strong defensive positions in Donetsk. Over 250,000 civilians remain in the Ukrainian-held areas of the region. Viktor Yanukovych, the former president of Ukraine who was backed by Russia, was born in Donetsk and was based in the Donbas region. He played an indirect role in helping Russia with the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Zelensky banked on anti-Moscow sentiments after the Crimean annexation and defeated Victor in the 2019 Ukrainian election. Almost seven years after Crimea's annexation, when Putin launched an attack on Ukraine, he described it as a military operation to protect the people of the Donbas region.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-to-lose-donbas-why-is-it-so-important-to-putin-1755592178998/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-to-lose-donbas-why-is-it-so-important-to-putin-1755592178998/embed</a>&nbsp;Like Crimea, Russia justifies the takeover of the region, stating that it has a large Russian-speaking population. The reason for the presence of the Russian-speaking population has been attributed to significant migration during the Soviet era, when the area’s mines and steelworks were developed into a major economic hub of the USSR. Kremlin has long accused Kyiv of discriminating against the people of the Donbas region. Now, as Putin expresses his intention regarding Donbas internationally, Ukraine has warned that conceding Donbas would be like giving Russia a launchpad for deeper advances into central Ukraine.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-meets-crimea-roadblock-why-russia-wants-it-desperately-what-is-its-history-9001857">Trump's Russia-Ukraine peace plan meets Crimea roadblock: Why Russia wants it desperately? What is its history</a><h2>Trump-Zelensky meeting</h2>Trump and Zelensky met in Washington two days after Trump’s much-awaited summit with Putin in Alaska. Their meeting, described as cordial unlike a tense February encounter, focused on long-term security for Ukraine, though NATO membership wasn’t discussed. Trump proposed a future meeting between Zelensky and Putin, possibly with him mediating. He also raised the idea of Ukraine making territorial concessions to Russia, though Zelensky didn’t agree. European leaders, who joined later, emphasised the need for a ceasefire before peace talks, but Trump disagreed, suggesting negotiations could proceed during the ongoing conflict. While Trump appeared confident that Putin wanted a deal, European leaders remained doubtful. The talks marked progress in diplomacy but left key issues unresolved.<h2>Trump-Putin Summit in Alaska&nbsp;</h2>Trump met Putin in Alaska for a private summit focused on ending the war in Ukraine. While no ceasefire or formal agreement emerged, Trump described the talks as "hopeful." He later said Putin showed interest in negotiating a peace deal, possibly to give Trump credit as a peacemaker. The meeting lasted around 40 minutes and set the stage for potential future talks between Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Neither leader took any questions from the reporters, but the summit proved to be strong in optics with Putin and Trump shaking hands. However, details remain vague, and European leaders remain cautious about Russia’s true intentions.

Six months into his return, Trump has yet to deliver on his promise to end the Russia-Ukraine war. His proposed territorial swap, focused on Donbas, faces strong resistance from Zelensky. Rich in resources and historically Russian-speaking, Donbas remains a key flashpoint for both sides.

United States President Donald Trump, during his campaign for the presidency, claimed that he would end the Russia-Ukraine war "within 24 to 48 hours" if re-elected. Six months after coming to the White House again, he is still unable to chart out a plan to strike a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war. While Trump is desperate to turn this failure into an achievement, the Russia-Ukraine peace deal contains more than one contention. Ahead of Trump's high-stakes meeting with Putin this week, the US president hinted at a ‘swap of territories," but his Ukrainian counterpart Zelensky rejected the proposal. After Trump met with both Zelensky and Putin, a territory swap seems the major bone of contention in the peace deal, with the Donbas region serving as the talking point. So, what is it about the Donbas region that both Russia and Ukraine do not want to give up on it? Russia-Ukraine war and Donbas region Donbas – Ukraine’s industrial heartland in the east – is rich in coal and heavy industry. As per a report by The Guardian, Russia currently controls around 46,570 square kilometers of the Donbas region, including all of Luhansk and most of Donetsk. However, Ukraine still holds several key cities and strong defensive positions in Donetsk. Over 250,000 civilians remain in the Ukrainian-held areas of the region. Viktor Yanukovych, the former president of Ukraine who was backed by Russia, was born in Donetsk and was based in the Donbas region. He played an indirect role in helping Russia with the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Zelensky banked on anti-Moscow sentiments after the Crimean annexation and defeated Victor in the 2019 Ukrainian election. Almost seven years after Crimea's annexation, when Putin launched an attack on Ukraine, he described it as a military operation to protect the people of the Donbas region. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-to-lose-donbas-why-is-it-so-important-to-putin-1755592178998/embed Like Crimea, Russia justifies the takeover of the region, stating that it has a large Russian-speaking population. The reason for the presence of the Russian-speaking population has been attributed to significant migration during the Soviet era, when the area’s mines and steelworks were developed into a major economic hub of the USSR. Kremlin has long accused Kyiv of discriminating against the people of the Donbas region. Now, as Putin expresses his intention regarding Donbas internationally, Ukraine has warned that conceding Donbas would be like giving Russia a launchpad for deeper advances into central Ukraine. Read More | Trump's Russia-Ukraine peace plan meets Crimea roadblock: Why Russia wants it desperately? What is its history Trump-Zelensky meeting Trump and Zelensky met in Washington two days after Trump’s much-awaited summit with Putin in Alaska. Their meeting, described as cordial unlike a tense February encounter, focused on long-term security for Ukraine, though NATO membership wasn’t discussed. Trump proposed a future meeting between Zelensky and Putin, possibly with him mediating. He also raised the idea of Ukraine making territorial concessions to Russia, though Zelensky didn’t agree. European leaders, who joined later, emphasised the need for a ceasefire before peace talks, but Trump disagreed, suggesting negotiations could proceed during the ongoing conflict. While Trump appeared confident that Putin wanted a deal, European leaders remained doubtful. The talks marked progress in diplomacy but left key issues unresolved. Trump-Putin Summit in Alaska Trump met Putin in Alaska for a private summit focused on ending the war in Ukraine. While no ceasefire or formal agreement emerged, Trump described the talks as "hopeful." He later said Putin showed interest in negotiating a peace deal, possibly to give Trump credit as a peacemaker. The meeting lasted around 40 minutes and set the stage for potential future talks between Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Neither leader took any questions from the reporters, but the summit proved to be strong in optics with Putin and Trump shaking hands. However, details remain vague, and European leaders remain cautious about Russia’s true intentions.

Six months into his return, Trump has yet to deliver on his promise to end the Russia-Ukraine war. His proposed territorial swap, focused on Donbas, faces strong resistance from Zelensky. Rich in resources and historically Russian-speaking, Donbas remains a key flashpoint for both sides.

Donbas becomes root cause of contention amid Russia-Ukraine peace talks: Why Putin calls it a part of Russia

The heat in the United Kingdom is triggering delays in the commute as the trains are running slower than usual. The connection might sound strange, but this is happening not because of some heat storm, but because of the hot and dry weather. This has led to the clay soil on which its rail tracks sit to dry out and shrink. Because of this, the tracks are becoming uneven. Since this problem cannot exactly be fixed, train operators have lowered the speed of the trains for safety reasons. This has already caused a problem as people are unable to reach their destinations on time. Officials have warned people to expect delays and be ready for train cancellations since the timetable is taking a hit. The UK is experiencing one of the hottest summers, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-erin-1-000-kilometre-wall-of-rain-threatens-parts-of-uk-met-department-predicts-1755576920896">1,000-kilometre 'wall of rain' in UK? Met department says country could face Hurricane Erin after-effects</a> &nbsp;<h2>Trains are moving slower</h2>Network Rail Anglia and C2C are among the train operators hit by the driest spring in over 50 years. It has been forced to change its timetable because of the track conditions. Passengers have been told to check their train status before leaving their homes. Simon Milburn, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said: “We are really sorry for the disruption to passengers from the timetable alterations, but we need to keep everyone moving safely. He added, that "even with the significant challenges we face with clay soil following prolonged dry spells", the company is doing its best to ensure minimal disruption in services. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/portugal-tsunami-waves-roll-clouds-beach-heatwave-1751367271740">150km-long feature in Portugal appeared to be tsunami waves. It turned out to be...</a><h2>Driest spring in 200 years</h2>Meanwhile, South Western Railway, another affected train company, said that the conditions are the driest on record in the last 200 years. It added that the route between Gillingham and Axminster has witnessed terrible levels of dry clay soil embankments for long stretches. C2C, which operates between London and South Essex, said the shrinking of the clay soil has made the tracks uneven, and so the trains can't run as normal for safety reasons. Network Rail pushed a whopping 12,600 tonnes of ballast across its route last year to minimise problems on the track. However, the spring is so dry that the problem has failed to alleviate. It said the problem could only be solved if it rains for a good three months.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Trains in the UK are moving more slowly than usual because of the heat. The problem has led to trains getting delayed and even cancelled. People are being urged to check the train schedules before leaving their homes. The UK is battling one of its hottest spring seasons.

The heat in the United Kingdom is triggering delays in the commute as the trains are running slower than usual. The connection might sound strange, but this is happening not because of some heat storm, but because of the hot and dry weather. This has led to the clay soil on which its rail tracks sit to dry out and shrink. Because of this, the tracks are becoming uneven. Since this problem cannot exactly be fixed, train operators have lowered the speed of the trains for safety reasons. This has already caused a problem as people are unable to reach their destinations on time. Officials have warned people to expect delays and be ready for train cancellations since the timetable is taking a hit. The UK is experiencing one of the hottest summers, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. Also Read: 1,000-kilometre 'wall of rain' in UK? Met department says country could face Hurricane Erin after-effects Trains are moving slower Network Rail Anglia and C2C are among the train operators hit by the driest spring in over 50 years. It has been forced to change its timetable because of the track conditions. Passengers have been told to check their train status before leaving their homes. Simon Milburn, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said: “We are really sorry for the disruption to passengers from the timetable alterations, but we need to keep everyone moving safely. He added, that "even with the significant challenges we face with clay soil following prolonged dry spells", the company is doing its best to ensure minimal disruption in services. Also Read: 150km-long feature in Portugal appeared to be tsunami waves. It turned out to be... Driest spring in 200 years Meanwhile, South Western Railway, another affected train company, said that the conditions are the driest on record in the last 200 years. It added that the route between Gillingham and Axminster has witnessed terrible levels of dry clay soil embankments for long stretches. C2C, which operates between London and South Essex, said the shrinking of the clay soil has made the tracks uneven, and so the trains can't run as normal for safety reasons. Network Rail pushed a whopping 12,600 tonnes of ballast across its route last year to minimise problems on the track. However, the spring is so dry that the problem has failed to alleviate. It said the problem could only be solved if it rains for a good three months.

Trains in the UK are moving at slow speeds because of the heat. The problem has led to trains getting delayed and even cancelled. People are being urged to check the train schedules before leaving their homes. The UK is battling one of its hottest spring seasons.

Hot weather is slowing down trains in the UK. Here's what's happening

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, today said that 70 people are still missing in the Kishtwar area of the Jammu division after the Cloudburst incident, which claimed over 63 lives. The rescue operations are still being carried out by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration.The Chief Minister said that the government will form teams of experts to help identify the vulnerable spots across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The team will assist in developing a strategy to prevent loss of life.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-rains-schools-shut-in-jammu-for-second-consecutive-day-met-says-weather-to-improve-tomorrow-onwards-1755588292400">Jammu &amp; Kashmir rains: Schools shut in Jammu for second consecutive day</a>''The situation in Kishtwar is well-known, and day by day, it is becoming increasingly difficult to trace the approximately 70 missing people alive. In such a situation, our efforts will be to recover as many bodies as possible and hand them over to their families for the last rites. Several issues have been raised by the people there, and the government will look into them and make decisions accordingly. We will ensure every possible assistance to the people," said Omar Abdullah, CM JK.More than 70 people have died in the two Cloudburst Incidents in Kishtwar and Kathua districts of the Jammu Division in the last ten days. According to officials, the relief and rescue operation by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration is still being carried out in the Kishtwar region, with three new dead bodies recovered from the incident site today.On Sunday, a massive Cloud Burst in the Kathua district caused major landslides and Mudslides, leading to the deaths of seven people and injuring six. A massive rescue and relief operation was carried out by NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and civil administration.The Indian Army swiftly mounted large-scale rescue and relief operations to support the distressed population. The sudden deluge triggered massive landslides and flooding, causing the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage to infrastructure. Army relief columns with an Engineer detachment were immediately pressed into action in the worst-affected regions.The MeT Department in Jammu and Kashmir has predicted more rain for the next 12 hours, which could lead to cloud bursts and landslides, and mudslides in various areas. MeT says that Light to moderate Rain/Thunder at many places with intense showers/heavy Rain at a few places of Jammu Division, including Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba &amp; Kathua, with moderate to intense showers over Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban.However, from tomorrow onwards, the weather is likely to improve.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reported 70 missing and 63 dead after a Kishtwar cloudburst. Rescue operations continue, and expert teams will identify vulnerable areas to prevent future tragedies.

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, today said that 70 people are still missing in the Kishtwar area of the Jammu division after the Cloudburst incident, which claimed over 63 lives. The rescue operations are still being carried out by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration. The Chief Minister said that the government will form teams of experts to help identify the vulnerable spots across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The team will assist in developing a strategy to prevent loss of life. Also read: Jammu & Kashmir rains: Schools shut in Jammu for second consecutive day ''The situation in Kishtwar is well-known, and day by day, it is becoming increasingly difficult to trace the approximately 70 missing people alive. In such a situation, our efforts will be to recover as many bodies as possible and hand them over to their families for the last rites. Several issues have been raised by the people there, and the government will look into them and make decisions accordingly. We will ensure every possible assistance to the people," said Omar Abdullah, CM JK. More than 70 people have died in the two Cloudburst Incidents in Kishtwar and Kathua districts of the Jammu Division in the last ten days. According to officials, the relief and rescue operation by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration is still being carried out in the Kishtwar region, with three new dead bodies recovered from the incident site today. On Sunday, a massive Cloud Burst in the Kathua district caused major landslides and Mudslides, leading to the deaths of seven people and injuring six. A massive rescue and relief operation was carried out by NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and civil administration. The Indian Army swiftly mounted large-scale rescue and relief operations to support the distressed population. The sudden deluge triggered massive landslides and flooding, causing the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage to infrastructure. Army relief columns with an Engineer detachment were immediately pressed into action in the worst-affected regions. The MeT Department in Jammu and Kashmir has predicted more rain for the next 12 hours, which could lead to cloud bursts and landslides, and mudslides in various areas. MeT says that Light to moderate Rain/Thunder at many places with intense showers/heavy Rain at a few places of Jammu Division, including Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba & Kathua, with moderate to intense showers over Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban. However, from tomorrow onwards, the weather is likely to improve.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reported 70 missing and 63 dead after a Kishtwar cloudburst. Rescue operations continue, and expert teams will identify vulnerable areas to prevent future tragedies.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah says 70 people are still missing in the Kishtwar cloudburst

27-year-old Tommi Pedruzzi claimed, he had published 1500 books on Amazon, and reportedly earned a revenue of $3 million. Historically, literary success and financial stability have very rarely gone hand in hand; Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde, and Herman Melville are a few of the many writers who have died poor. But this entrepreneur claimed to have increased his productivity with the assistance of AI and has produced one-of-a-kind success. He now claims to help other authors write ebooks and get them published, and collect royalties for years.&nbsp;His technique, as he claims, does not write 'what you enjoy', because nobody cares what 'you find interesting'. The old saying that claims ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover', contrastingly, Tommi thinks ‘it’s the cover, not the content that gets you paid.'

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’ve made <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%243M&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$3M</a> publishing 1,500 books on Amazon. Now my girlfriend wants to make <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%2410K&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$10K</a>/month writing books. I told her: “Honey, It’s boring. But if you follow these 7 rules, it works.”🧵 Rule 1. Don’t think like a writer. <a href="https://t.co/XuZRKTmvRi">pic.twitter.com/XuZRKTmvRi</a>&mdash; Tommi Pedruzzi (@TommiPedruzzi) <a href="https://twitter.com/TommiPedruzzi/status/1956701441382330391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>People are sceptical about Tommi's scheme</h2>People have questioned the validity of Tommi's ‘getting rich quick’ scheme. One user commented, ‘I wonder if Shakespeare would have taken this advice.’ One user said that a search for Tommi Pedruzzi on Amazon does not show any results. Others suggested that he was just one of those marketing 'marketing gurus'. His thread recently got attention on the subreddit r/AntiAi, with folks raising an alarm about slop books.&nbsp;“There is no evidence of Tommi Pedruzzi publishing this number of books, as search results reveal. Also, he uses the image of a book by Dan Whalen, an author who has been publishing cookbooks well before the release of generative AI. This is likely bait for his course for sale,” read a community note on the article.Amazon had recently seen growing numbers of Scam books; this had gone up since the advent of large language models like ChatGPT and Grok. However, it's not illegal to sell AI-generated content, but the royalties that people can derive from these do not belong to the authors. One, because LLMs get information from available content online, two, these authors pay their ghost writers minimal wages, and three, they mostly buy fake reviews. So even though it's not illegal, it's unethical. Amazon claimed to have control over the scam books.&nbsp;“We have more recently begun limiting the publication of summaries and workbooks based on existing titles in our store. When patterns of abuse warrant it, we also suspend publisher accounts to prevent repeated abuse,” said Amazon spokesperson Lindsey Hamilton.&nbsp;

Tommi Pedruzzi claims that he used an AI language model to streamline the process and publish 1500 books; people online bashed him, calling him a marketing guru.

27-year-old Tommi Pedruzzi claimed, he had published 1500 books on Amazon, and reportedly earned a revenue of $3 million. Historically, literary success and financial stability have very rarely gone hand in hand; Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde, and Herman Melville are a few of the many writers who have died poor. But this entrepreneur claimed to have increased his productivity with the assistance of AI and has produced one-of-a-kind success. He now claims to help other authors write ebooks and get them published, and collect royalties for years. His technique, as he claims, does not write 'what you enjoy', because nobody cares what 'you find interesting'. The old saying that claims ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover', contrastingly, Tommi thinks ‘it’s the cover, not the content that gets you paid.'

Tommi Pedruzzi claims that he used an AI language model to streamline the process and publish 1500 books; people online bashed him, calling him a marketing guru.

27-year-old guy claims used AI to publish 1500 books and earn $3million, gets bashed online

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (August 19) in a post on X, slammed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, calling him a "weak politician".The prime minister's office shared a post on X, saying that Israeli PM Netanyahu wrote that Albanese betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews."History will remember Albanese for what he is: A weak politician, who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews," the PM said, according to the social media post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: History will remember Albanese for what he is: A weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia&#39;s Jews.&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1957722795049398502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This comes just a day after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced the revocation of residency visas for Australia's diplomatic representatives to the Palestinian Authority. “I also instructed the Israeli embassy in Canberra to carefully examine any official Australian visa application for entry to Israel,” he said on social media.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-under-a-ceasefire-top-iranian-official-cautions-conflict-with-israel-could-resume-1755583488152">Also read: 'Not under a ceasefire': Top Iranian official cautions conflict with Israel could resume</a>&nbsp;To this, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that revoking the diplomats' visas was an "unjustified reaction" by Israel.&nbsp;WATCH | Israel-Gaza War: Hamas Says It Accepts Proposal For Ceasefire And Release Of Hostages<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-hamas-says-it-accepts-proposal-for-ceasefire-and-release-of-hostages-1755573243062/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-hamas-says-it-accepts-proposal-for-ceasefire-and-release-of-hostages-1755573243062/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“At a time when dialogue and diplomacy are needed more than ever, the Netanyahu Government is isolating Israel and undermining international efforts towards peace and a two-state solution,” she said in a statement.It came after Australia decided to bar far-right Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman from visiting the country. Moreover, Canberra also banned the entry of former justice minister Ayelet Shaked and pro-Israel activist and influencer Hillel Fuld.Notably, Australia also announced that it will recognise a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly.Sa'ar has also accused the Australian government of igniting the flames of antisemitism, which has hit the country's 120,000-strong Jewish community hard since the Hamas-led attack in Israel on October 7.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-agrees-to-gaza-ceasefire-proposal-in-hostage-release-deal-report-1755530819817">Also read: Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal in hostage release deal: Report</a>

The prime minister's office shared a post on X, saying that Israeli PM Netanyahu wrote that Albanese betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (August 19) in a post on X, slammed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, calling him a "weak politician". The prime minister's office shared a post on X, saying that Israeli PM Netanyahu wrote that Albanese betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews. "History will remember Albanese for what he is: A weak politician, who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews," the PM said, according to the social media post.

The prime minister's office shared a post on X, saying that Israeli PM Netanyahu wrote that Albanese betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews.

'Betrayed and abandoned Israel': Netanyahu slams Australian PM, calls him a 'weak politician'

Two towns in Australia were in for a rude shock when tests showed Naegleria fowleri, nicknamed the "brain-eating amoeba", was swimming in the treated drinking water supplied to their area. Notably, it is one of the most dangerous microorganisms and causes a fatal infection that is almost certain to kill the patient. The towns are located in the state of Queensland, and the deadly bug was noticed when the drinking water was tested. A public health notice has been issued to both Charleville and Augathella. "Murweh Shire Council is advising residents and visitors to Charleville and Augathella that Naegleria fowleri, a rare but potentially harmful organism, has recently been detected in the town water supplies," the health notice stated. "This detection follows a comprehensive water quality project commissioned by Queensland Health and undertaken by a Queensland university." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-naegleria-fowleri-the-brain-eating-amoeba-that-killed-five-year-old-in-india-724411">What is Naegleria fowleri, the brain-eating amoeba that killed five-year-old in India?</a>&nbsp; Naegleria fowleri is a rare organism and reaches the brain after entering through the nasal passage. It is mostly found in warm, untreated freshwater and soil, and enters the body while swimming in lakes. Experts say that drinking contaminated water or washing clothes in it cannot infect a person. A Queensland Health spokesperson said, "There is minimal risk to the community as long as people don't allow water to go up their nose when bathing, showering or washing their face." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alert-sounded-kerala-girl-dies-of-brain-eating-amoeba-how-safe-are-you-explained-primary-amoebic-meningoencephalitis-naegleria-fowleri-1755492493924">Alert sounded after Kerala girl dies of 'brain-eating amoeba' — How safe are you?</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/9-year-old-dead-from-rare-brain-infection-due-to-amoebic-encephalitis-1755534544969/embed&nbsp;<h2>How does brain-eating amoeba enter brain?</h2>It is known as the "brain-eating" amoeba because it literally feeds on the human brain after entering the body. It travels through the nasal passage and breaks through the bony cribriform plate, the point that separates the brain and the nose. From here, it reaches the olfactory bulb and then attacks the brain, feeding on cells. The feeding frenzy triggers oxidative stress and leads to the cells exploding. The immune system is activated, leading to extreme inflammation. Severe meningitis, encephalitis or oedema can set in, leading to death within seven to 10 days.Earlier this year, a 71-year-old woman in Texas died after she used a nasal irrigation device, resulting in the brain-eating amoeba entering her brain. She had used tap water that came from a recreational vehicle.&nbsp;

Naegleria fowleri, the ‘brain-eating amoeba’, has been found in treated drinking water in two Australian towns. A test revealed the presence of the deadly microorganism. Officials have issued a public notice about it and said whether it could affect the residents.

Two towns in Australia were in for a rude shock when tests showed Naegleria fowleri, nicknamed the "brain-eating amoeba", was swimming in the treated drinking water supplied to their area. Notably, it is one of the most dangerous microorganisms and causes a fatal infection that is almost certain to kill the patient. The towns are located in the state of Queensland, and the deadly bug was noticed when the drinking water was tested. A public health notice has been issued to both Charleville and Augathella. "Murweh Shire Council is advising residents and visitors to Charleville and Augathella that Naegleria fowleri, a rare but potentially harmful organism, has recently been detected in the town water supplies," the health notice stated. "This detection follows a comprehensive water quality project commissioned by Queensland Health and undertaken by a Queensland university." Also Read: What is Naegleria fowleri, the brain-eating amoeba that killed five-year-old in India? Naegleria fowleri is a rare organism and reaches the brain after entering through the nasal passage. It is mostly found in warm, untreated freshwater and soil, and enters the body while swimming in lakes. Experts say that drinking contaminated water or washing clothes in it cannot infect a person. A Queensland Health spokesperson said, "There is minimal risk to the community as long as people don't allow water to go up their nose when bathing, showering or washing their face." Also Read: Alert sounded after Kerala girl dies of 'brain-eating amoeba' — How safe are you? https://www.wionews.com/videos/9-year-old-dead-from-rare-brain-infection-due-to-amoebic-encephalitis-1755534544969/embed How does brain-eating amoeba enter brain? It is known as the "brain-eating" amoeba because it literally feeds on the human brain after entering the body. It travels through the nasal passage and breaks through the bony cribriform plate, the point that separates the brain and the nose. From here, it reaches the olfactory bulb and then attacks the brain, feeding on cells. The feeding frenzy triggers oxidative stress and leads to the cells exploding. The immune system is activated, leading to extreme inflammation. Severe meningitis, encephalitis or oedema can set in, leading to death within seven to 10 days. Earlier this year, a 71-year-old woman in Texas died after she used a nasal irrigation device, resulting in the brain-eating amoeba entering her brain. She had used tap water that came from a recreational vehicle.

Naegleria fowleri, the ‘brain-eating amoeba’, has been found in treated drinking water in two Australian towns. A test revealed the presence of the deadly microorganism. Officials have issued a public notice about it and said whether it could affect the residents.

'Brain-eating amoeba' detected in treated drinking water in Australian towns. Officials say, do not let...

One of the ways in which his detractors are trying to criticise Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is by sharing videos from his past as an entertainer. The dance videos being shared include one in which he appeared bare-chested, wearing latex pants and high heels. Some feature moves so bizarre that I am not including them in the links, for fear they could be deepfakes. But one thing is clear: Zelensky had a strong run in Ukraine’s showbiz industry, before becoming a leader watched by the world for standing up to mighty Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. In fact, one of the roles he portrayed was that of a man who accidentally became president. Here is what you should know about the Ukrainian president’s entertainment past.<h2>Zelensky was a showbiz star since the 1990s</h2>Zelensky started as a comedian, forming the troupe ‘Kvartal 95’ in 1997. The troupe, named after his childhood neighbourhood, competed in KVN, a well-known Russian comedy competition, and gained regional fame. Between 1998 and 2003, Zelensky performed with Kvartal 95 in KVN’s Major League, touring post-Soviet nations.In 2003, he left KVN after declining a job offer and experiencing an antisemitic incident (Zelensky is Jewish). Kvartal 95 then transformed into Studio Kvartal 95, a production company that created television shows for Ukraine’s 1+1 channel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-a-dictator-or-popular-war-president-ukrainian-prez-says-elections-impossible-during-war-but-could-he-win-if-held-1755564255636">Zelensky, a 'dictator' or popular war president? Ukrainian Prez tells Trump elections impossible during war — but could he win if held?</a><h2>Zelensky was the director of Studio Kvartal 95</h2>Zelensky took up leadership of Studio Kvartal 95 from 2003 to 2011 as its artistic director, turning it into one of Ukraine’s top entertainment studios, producing films, cartoons and television shows. In 2005, it launched the popular comedy show Vechirniy Kvartal on Ukraine’s Inter TV. Zelensky was a key performer and producer of the show.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ready-for-a-trilateral-meet-zelensky-on-meeting-putin-after-talks-with-trump-in-white-house-1755588502294">‘Ready for a trilateral meet’: Zelensky on meeting Putin after talks with Trump in White House</a><h2>Acting career of Zelensky</h2>The dance videos resurfacing currently on social media are mainly from 2006, when Zelensky won Ukraine’s Dancing with the Stars competition—something that, at the time, boosted his popularity. He went on to star in romantic comedies between 2008 and 2012, including Love in the Big City and its sequel. He also starred in Rzhevskiy Versus Napoleon, establishing himself as a leading actor. He was a general producer of Inter TV from 2011 to 2012, expanding his influence in Ukrainian media.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-moldova-s-unity-can-t-be-broken-zelensky-1755460776724/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-moldova-s-unity-can-t-be-broken-zelensky-1755460776724/embed</a><h2>How reel became real: Zelensky acted as Ukraine’s president before becoming one</h2>Zelensky gained international attention as the voice of Paddington Bear in the Ukrainian versions of the films Paddington (2014) and Paddington 2 (2017), earning global recognition.Then, the most unlikely thing happened in 2015: Zelensky starred as an accidental president, and went on to become president of Ukraine. In the hit TV series Servant of the People, he played Vasiliy Goloborodko, a teacher who is elected president after his anti-corruption rant goes viral and strikes a chord with the public. This established his image as an anti-corruption advocate and set the stage for his political rise in 2019. The show was a massive success and even inspired a political party with the same name.<h2>Yes, Zelensky is an award-winning, influential entertainer of Ukraine</h2>Zelensky returned as artistic director of Kvartal 95 from 2013 to 2019, producing content and performing.He also founded the NGO The League of Laughter and produced 10 feature films. He won more than 30 Teletriumph National Television Awards during this period.&nbsp;Also story: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-exactly-happened-in-trump-zelensky-meeting-know-in-6-points-putin-ceasefire-1755545706120">What exactly happened in Trump-Zelensky meeting? Know in 6 points</a><h2>Is it fair to target Zelensky for having been an entertainer?</h2>His detractors are now using clips and videos from his past to tarnish Zelensky’s image. They’re calling him a puppet simply because he used to be a dancer and comedic performer. Many world leaders, including US President Ronald Reagan, had careers in entertainment.Zelensky’s showbiz years, while defined by his comedic talent, charisma, and media skills, should not be used as fodder for judging his performance as a president. In a way, Zelensky is a victim of his own success in the entertainment industry. But it is noteworthy that, in spite of the power imbalance, Zelensky stood up to a leader like Russian President Vladimir Putin. His legacy should be judged on that basis—not on what he did for a living before becoming president.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">⚔️⚔️⚔️ ZELENSKY'S DRAG SHAME: Old clip shows Ukraine's Zelensky prancing in high heels and latex, midriff out, dancing with dudes. Media screams "fear Russia," but this clown's the real joke. Stand against this globalist puppet show! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZelenskyExposed?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZelenskyExposed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MAGA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MAGA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheHiddenTruth?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheHiddenTruth</a> <a href="https://t.co/8fMAq3ZNBr">pic.twitter.com/8fMAq3ZNBr</a>— The Watchman (@WatchmanHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/WatchmanHQ/status/1956780460845207730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

link 3

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Resurfaced footage of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dancing in high heels is taking over the internet! Before politics, Zelensky was a comedian, and actor, and even won Dancing With The Stars in Ukraine. Now, people are revisiting his showbiz past and praising his… <a href="https://t.co/srSNEQWiws">pic.twitter.com/srSNEQWiws</a>— Before They Were Famous (@michaelmccbtwf) <a href="https://twitter.com/michaelmccbtwf/status/1896567363266330975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">⚔️⚔️⚔️ ZELENSKY'S DRAG SHAME: Old clip shows Ukraine's Zelensky prancing in high heels and latex, midriff out, dancing with dudes. Media screams "fear Russia," but this clown's the real joke. Stand against this globalist puppet show! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZelenskyExposed?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZelenskyExposed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MAGA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MAGA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheHiddenTruth?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheHiddenTruth</a> <a href="https://t.co/8fMAq3ZNBr">pic.twitter.com/8fMAq3ZNBr</a>— The Watchman (@WatchmanHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/WatchmanHQ/status/1956780460845207730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It is fair to argue that Zelensky is a victim of his own success in the entertainment industry but he should be remembered as a leader who stood up to a powerful rival like Russian President Vladimir Putin

One of the ways in which his detractors are trying to criticise Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is by sharing videos from his past as an entertainer. The dance videos being shared include one in which he appeared bare-chested, wearing latex pants and high heels. Some feature moves so bizarre that I am not including them in the links, for fear they could be deepfakes. But one thing is clear: Zelensky had a strong run in Ukraine’s showbiz industry, before becoming a leader watched by the world for standing up to mighty Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. In fact, one of the roles he portrayed was that of a man who accidentally became president. Here is what you should know about the Ukrainian president’s entertainment past. Zelensky was a showbiz star since the 1990s Zelensky started as a comedian, forming the troupe ‘Kvartal 95’ in 1997. The troupe, named after his childhood neighbourhood, competed in KVN, a well-known Russian comedy competition, and gained regional fame. Between 1998 and 2003, Zelensky performed with Kvartal 95 in KVN’s Major League, touring post-Soviet nations. In 2003, he left KVN after declining a job offer and experiencing an antisemitic incident (Zelensky is Jewish). Kvartal 95 then transformed into Studio Kvartal 95, a production company that created television shows for Ukraine’s 1+1 channel. Also read: Zelensky, a 'dictator' or popular war president? Ukrainian Prez tells Trump elections impossible during war — but could he win if held? Zelensky was the director of Studio Kvartal 95 Zelensky took up leadership of Studio Kvartal 95 from 2003 to 2011 as its artistic director, turning it into one of Ukraine’s top entertainment studios, producing films, cartoons and television shows. In 2005, it launched the popular comedy show Vechirniy Kvartal on Ukraine’s Inter TV. Zelensky was a key performer and producer of the show. Also read: ‘Ready for a trilateral meet’: Zelensky on meeting Putin after talks with Trump in White House Acting career of Zelensky The dance videos resurfacing currently on social media are mainly from 2006, when Zelensky won Ukraine’s Dancing with the Stars competition—something that, at the time, boosted his popularity. He went on to star in romantic comedies between 2008 and 2012, including Love in the Big City and its sequel. He also starred in Rzhevskiy Versus Napoleon, establishing himself as a leading actor. He was a general producer of Inter TV from 2011 to 2012, expanding his influence in Ukrainian media. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-moldova-s-unity-can-t-be-broken-zelensky-1755460776724/embed How reel became real: Zelensky acted as Ukraine’s president before becoming one Zelensky gained international attention as the voice of Paddington Bear in the Ukrainian versions of the films Paddington (2014) and Paddington 2 (2017), earning global recognition. Then, the most unlikely thing happened in 2015: Zelensky starred as an accidental president, and went on to become president of Ukraine. In the hit TV series Servant of the People, he played Vasiliy Goloborodko, a teacher who is elected president after his anti-corruption rant goes viral and strikes a chord with the public. This established his image as an anti-corruption advocate and set the stage for his political rise in 2019. The show was a massive success and even inspired a political party with the same name. Yes, Zelensky is an award-winning, influential entertainer of Ukraine Zelensky returned as artistic director of Kvartal 95 from 2013 to 2019, producing content and performing. He also founded the NGO The League of Laughter and produced 10 feature films. He won more than 30 Teletriumph National Television Awards during this period. Also story: What exactly happened in Trump-Zelensky meeting? Know in 6 points Is it fair to target Zelensky for having been an entertainer? His detractors are now using clips and videos from his past to tarnish Zelensky’s image. They’re calling him a puppet simply because he used to be a dancer and comedic performer. Many world leaders, including US President Ronald Reagan, had careers in entertainment. Zelensky’s showbiz years, while defined by his comedic talent, charisma, and media skills, should not be used as fodder for judging his performance as a president. In a way, Zelensky is a victim of his own success in the entertainment industry. But it is noteworthy that, in spite of the power imbalance, Zelensky stood up to a leader like Russian President Vladimir Putin. His legacy should be judged on that basis—not on what he did for a living before becoming president.

It is fair to argue that Zelensky is a victim of his own success in the entertainment industry but he should be remembered as a leader who stood up to a powerful rival like Russian President Vladimir Putin

It's NOT AI-generated: Zelensky's dances in high heels, latex pants being misused on social media to tarnish him. He had a strong past in showbiz

Ukrainian defence forces on Tuesday (Aug 19) destroyed a Russian freight train transporting fuel in the Zaporizhia region. The incident was reported by Petro Andryushchenko, head of the Center for the Study of Occupation. Following the attack, only ruins of the railway line remained, according to media reports.&nbsp;“Yes. It’s burning down. The train. There is no more Russian rail service through occupied Zaporizhzhia. As promised - epic footage of the destruction of a freight train with tanks. Nothing alive was left. Who asked why the Russians are hauling fuel and cars at night? That’s why. To avoid such losses. It didn’t work. A unique operation by the Defence Forces of Ukraine,” Andryuschenko wrote on Telegram while sharing the footage of the train set ablaze.&nbsp;The images showed the extent of the damage caused to train as the long train was seen burning. Reportedly, the train was derailed in the attack that happened between between Urozhayny and Tokmak in the southern Ukraine region of Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;No official confirmation has been issued by either Ukraine or Russia yet. It is unclear how the attack was launched.&nbsp;This incident is not the first time Ukraine has attacked Russian train. Earlier in May, Ukrainian drones targeted a Russian freight train transporting fuel in the occupied territory of Zaporizhia region.&nbsp;The latest attack comes a day after Russian missile strikes killed three and injured 20 in Zaporizhzhia City.&nbsp;The Russian forces have gained control of several parts of Zaporizhzhia. Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly told US President Donald Trump that he ready to freeze the frontline there and in Kherson, in exchange for Ukraine forces withdrawing from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.&nbsp;The attack comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Trump and European leaders in the White House on Monday (Aug 18). Their meeting came after Trump held talks with Putin in Alaska as part of efforts aimed to end the war in Ukraine that is currently in its fourth year.

Ukrainian defence forces on Tuesday (Aug 19) targeted a Russian train carrying fuel in the Zaporizhia region. The train derailed following the attack and was seen burning. The railway line has also been destroyed.

Ukrainian defence forces on Tuesday (Aug 19) destroyed a Russian freight train transporting fuel in the Zaporizhia region. The incident was reported by Petro Andryushchenko, head of the Center for the Study of Occupation. Following the attack, only ruins of the railway line remained, according to media reports. “Yes. It’s burning down. The train. There is no more Russian rail service through occupied Zaporizhzhia. As promised - epic footage of the destruction of a freight train with tanks. Nothing alive was left. Who asked why the Russians are hauling fuel and cars at night? That’s why. To avoid such losses. It didn’t work. A unique operation by the Defence Forces of Ukraine,” Andryuschenko wrote on Telegram while sharing the footage of the train set ablaze. The images showed the extent of the damage caused to train as the long train was seen burning. Reportedly, the train was derailed in the attack that happened between between Urozhayny and Tokmak in the southern Ukraine region of Zaporizhzhia. No official confirmation has been issued by either Ukraine or Russia yet. It is unclear how the attack was launched. This incident is not the first time Ukraine has attacked Russian train. Earlier in May, Ukrainian drones targeted a Russian freight train transporting fuel in the occupied territory of Zaporizhia region. The latest attack comes a day after Russian missile strikes killed three and injured 20 in Zaporizhzhia City. The Russian forces have gained control of several parts of Zaporizhzhia. Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly told US President Donald Trump that he ready to freeze the frontline there and in Kherson, in exchange for Ukraine forces withdrawing from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The attack comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Trump and European leaders in the White House on Monday (Aug 18). Their meeting came after Trump held talks with Putin in Alaska as part of efforts aimed to end the war in Ukraine that is currently in its fourth year.

Ukrainian defence forces on Tuesday (Aug 19) targeted a Russian train carrying fuel in the Zaporizhia region. The train derailed following the attack and was seen burning. The railway line has also been destroyed.

Ukrainian forces blast Russian train transporting fuel, destroy railway line in Zaporizhzhia

President Donald Trump gathered European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for a hastily arranged White House meeting on Monday to discuss a path to ending Russia war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Here are the takeaways from the talks:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-shows-ukraine-map-to-zelensky-highlighting-putin-s-control-1755594847928/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-shows-ukraine-map-to-zelensky-highlighting-putin-s-control-1755594847928/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Warm tone, little substance</h2>Seven European leaders, the Ukrainian president, their motorcades, dozens of Trump administration staff and more than 100 journalists swarmed the White House campus on Monday in anticipation of the unusual meeting. Would Trump and Zelenskiy agree on a path to peace? Or would their latest Oval Office session devolve into a bitter squabble as in February? Neither scenario occurred. Zelenskiy, chided for his appearance and manner in February, adjusted both. Wearing more formal clothing and repeatedly expressing his gratitude to Trump, he was greeted by a far more complimentary US president than in the past. But, despite Trump's vow to assist in Ukraine's security after a hypothetical peace deal, there was no immediate sign that any party had substantially changed position on land swaps, security guarantees or sanctions.&nbsp;Instead, Trump ended with promises to host a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the many remaining issues.<h2>Heaping praise</h2>"Have you said 'thank you' once?" US Vice President JD Vance asked Zelenskiy in February, accusing him of failing to show sufficient gratitude for US support. On Monday, Zelenskiy made sure that was not an issue. His opening remarks in the Oval Office included eight thank-yous, mostly for Trump.&nbsp;"Thank you so much, Mr. President ... thank you for your attention. Thank you very much for your efforts, personal efforts to stop killings and stop this war. Thank you," Zelenskiy said.&nbsp;He included the U.S. first lady, who sent a letter to Putin about abducted children in Ukraine.&nbsp;"Using this opportunity, my thanks to your wife," the Ukrainian president said."And thanks to all our partners and that you supported this format. And after our meeting, we're going to have leaders who are around us, the UK and France, Germany... all partners around Ukraine supporting us. Thanks (to) them. Thank you very much for your invitation."Unlike in February, Vance this time sat largely silent.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ready-for-a-trilateral-meet-zelensky-on-meeting-putin-after-talks-with-trump-in-white-house-1755588502294">‘Ready for a trilateral meet’: Zelensky on meeting Putin after talks with Trump in White House</a><h2>Combat format</h2>The stakes of the meeting could not have been higher. But one of the most-asked questions among diplomats in D.C. could not have been more frivolous: Would the Ukrainian president wear a suit?The answer: kind of.Zelenskiy showed up to the White House in what one European diplomat described as "almost a suit." His black jacket had tiny lapels and jetted chest pockets. He did not wear a tie. His attire, which split the difference between the battlefield and the boardroom, could be described as combat formal.&nbsp;Those sartorial details matter when it comes to dealing with the US president, who was upset that Zelenskiy did not wear a suit for their February meeting. Zelenskiy passed the fashion test this time, however. When one journalist in the Oval Office said Zelenskiy looked "fabulous," Trump chimed in to agree.&nbsp;"I said the same thing," Trump told reporters.<h2>Divide over the ceasefire</h2>The assembled European leaders, Zelenskiy included, were careful to paper over policy disagreements with Trump, keeping their comments vague and showering the U.S. president with compliments.But one point of disagreement did bubble to the surface.German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told the assembled leaders and media that he wanted to see Putin agree to a ceasefire.Trump had long pushed for a ceasefire in Ukraine. But he largely jettisoned that goal after meeting with Putin last week in Alaska, a shift that was widely seen as a diplomatic defeat for Ukraine. The U.S. president now says he is fine trying to move directly to a peace deal."To be honest, we all would like to see a ceasefire," Merz said. "I can't imagine that the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire, so let's work on that."Trump pushed back, arguing he has solved many conflicts without first reaching a ceasefire.<h2>Whose boots on the ground?</h2>One of the great mysteries that hung over the summit was what support the U.S. would give to secure any Russia-Ukraine deal long term.Trump hasn't offered U.S. troops' "boots on the ground" to guarantee Ukraine's security from Russia, reflecting American reticence to commit to military entanglements or a head-to-head confrontation with a nuclear power.Instead, he has offered weapons sales and promised that Americans will do business in Ukraine, assurances that Ukrainians see as far less than a security guarantee. Europeans are preparing for a peacekeeping mission backed by their forces.&nbsp;Yet, asked explicitly whether U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine could include U.S. troops in the country, Trump did not rule it out. Instead, he teased an announcement as soon as Monday on the topic.&nbsp;"We'll let you know that, maybe, later today," Trump said. He said Europe was the "first line of defense" but that "we'll be involved."<h2>What's next…</h2>Trump said he would call Putin and set up a trilateral meeting with Ukraine at a time and place to be determined.Despite some private misgivings, the assembled leaders agreed that such a meeting was a logical next step.Still, the path forward is more complex than Trump and his allies are letting on.&nbsp;For one, Russia has delayed and obstructed high-level meetings with Ukraine in the past, and it was not immediately clear that Putin would actually sit down with Zelenskiy, who he frequently describes as an illegitimate leader.Additionally, it is unclear how much a principal-level meeting would actually advance the cause of peace. The gulf between the Russian and Ukrainian positions is vast. The Kremlin said on Monday the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine is a non-starter, a stance that would be hard for Ukraine to swallow. Russia is also calling for Ukraine to fork over significant chunks of territory that Kyiv controls, another proposal that Ukraine's leaders are not entertaining. &nbsp;

After his second meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump is already preparing for the next step. He his certain of bringing peace to the warring countries. He is arranging a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’. 

President Donald Trump gathered European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for a hastily arranged White House meeting on Monday to discuss a path to ending Russia war in Ukraine. Here are the takeaways from the talks: https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-trump-shows-ukraine-map-to-zelensky-highlighting-putin-s-control-1755594847928/embed Warm tone, little substance Seven European leaders, the Ukrainian president, their motorcades, dozens of Trump administration staff and more than 100 journalists swarmed the White House campus on Monday in anticipation of the unusual meeting. Would Trump and Zelenskiy agree on a path to peace? Or would their latest Oval Office session devolve into a bitter squabble as in February? Neither scenario occurred. Zelenskiy, chided for his appearance and manner in February, adjusted both. Wearing more formal clothing and repeatedly expressing his gratitude to Trump, he was greeted by a far more complimentary US president than in the past. But, despite Trump's vow to assist in Ukraine's security after a hypothetical peace deal, there was no immediate sign that any party had substantially changed position on land swaps, security guarantees or sanctions. Instead, Trump ended with promises to host a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the many remaining issues. Heaping praise "Have you said 'thank you' once?" US Vice President JD Vance asked Zelenskiy in February, accusing him of failing to show sufficient gratitude for US support. On Monday, Zelenskiy made sure that was not an issue. His opening remarks in the Oval Office included eight thank-yous, mostly for Trump. "Thank you so much, Mr. President ... thank you for your attention. Thank you very much for your efforts, personal efforts to stop killings and stop this war. Thank you," Zelenskiy said. He included the U.S. first lady, who sent a letter to Putin about abducted children in Ukraine. "Using this opportunity, my thanks to your wife," the Ukrainian president said. "And thanks to all our partners and that you supported this format. And after our meeting, we're going to have leaders who are around us, the UK and France, Germany... all partners around Ukraine supporting us. Thanks (to) them. Thank you very much for your invitation."Unlike in February, Vance this time sat largely silent. Also read: ‘Ready for a trilateral meet’: Zelensky on meeting Putin after talks with Trump in White House Combat format The stakes of the meeting could not have been higher. But one of the most-asked questions among diplomats in D.C. could not have been more frivolous: Would the Ukrainian president wear a suit? The answer: kind of. Zelenskiy showed up to the White House in what one European diplomat described as "almost a suit." His black jacket had tiny lapels and jetted chest pockets. He did not wear a tie. His attire, which split the difference between the battlefield and the boardroom, could be described as combat formal. Those sartorial details matter when it comes to dealing with the US president, who was upset that Zelenskiy did not wear a suit for their February meeting. Zelenskiy passed the fashion test this time, however. When one journalist in the Oval Office said Zelenskiy looked "fabulous," Trump chimed in to agree. "I said the same thing," Trump told reporters. Divide over the ceasefire The assembled European leaders, Zelenskiy included, were careful to paper over policy disagreements with Trump, keeping their comments vague and showering the U.S. president with compliments. But one point of disagreement did bubble to the surface. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told the assembled leaders and media that he wanted to see Putin agree to a ceasefire. Trump had long pushed for a ceasefire in Ukraine. But he largely jettisoned that goal after meeting with Putin last week in Alaska, a shift that was widely seen as a diplomatic defeat for Ukraine. The U.S. president now says he is fine trying to move directly to a peace deal. "To be honest, we all would like to see a ceasefire," Merz said. "I can't imagine that the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire, so let's work on that." Trump pushed back, arguing he has solved many conflicts without first reaching a ceasefire. Whose boots on the ground? One of the great mysteries that hung over the summit was what support the U.S. would give to secure any Russia-Ukraine deal long term. Trump hasn't offered U.S. troops' "boots on the ground" to guarantee Ukraine's security from Russia, reflecting American reticence to commit to military entanglements or a head-to-head confrontation with a nuclear power. Instead, he has offered weapons sales and promised that Americans will do business in Ukraine, assurances that Ukrainians see as far less than a security guarantee. Europeans are preparing for a peacekeeping mission backed by their forces. Yet, asked explicitly whether U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine could include U.S. troops in the country, Trump did not rule it out. Instead, he teased an announcement as soon as Monday on the topic. "We'll let you know that, maybe, later today," Trump said. He said Europe was the "first line of defense" but that "we'll be involved." What's next… Trump said he would call Putin and set up a trilateral meeting with Ukraine at a time and place to be determined. Despite some private misgivings, the assembled leaders agreed that such a meeting was a logical next step. Still, the path forward is more complex than Trump and his allies are letting on. For one, Russia has delayed and obstructed high-level meetings with Ukraine in the past, and it was not immediately clear that Putin would actually sit down with Zelenskiy, who he frequently describes as an illegitimate leader. Additionally, it is unclear how much a principal-level meeting would actually advance the cause of peace. The gulf between the Russian and Ukrainian positions is vast. The Kremlin said on Monday the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine is a non-starter, a stance that would be hard for Ukraine to swallow. Russia is also calling for Ukraine to fork over significant chunks of territory that Kyiv controls, another proposal that Ukraine's leaders are not entertaining.

After his second meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump is already preparing for the next step. He his certain of bringing peace to the warring countries. He is arranging a meeting at a ‘location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky’.&nbsp;

Well-mannered White House welcome for Ukraine leaves many questions

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Ukraine blasts Russian train transporting fuel, destroys railway line

Well-mannered White House welcome for Ukraine leaves many questions