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Global infant vaccination levels have stabilised after shrinking during the Covid crisis, the UN said Tuesday, but it warned that misinformation and drastic aid cuts were deepening dangerous coverage gaps and putting millions at risk.In 2024, 85 per cent of infants globally, or 109 million, had received three doses of the vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP), with the third dose serving as a key marker for global immunisation coverage, according to data published by the UN health and children's agencies.That marked an increase of one percentage point and a million more children covered than a year earlier, in what the agencies described as "modest" gains.At the same time, nearly 20 million infants missed at least one of their DTP doses last year, including 14.3 million so-called zero-dose" children who never received a single shot.While a slight improvement over 2023, when the United Nations said there were 14.5 million zero-dose children, it was 1.4 million more than in 2019 -- before the Covid pandemic wreaked havoc on global vaccination programmes."The good news is that we have managed to reach more children with life-saving vaccines," UNICEF chief Catherine Russell said in a joint statement."But millions of children remain without protection against preventable diseases," she said. "That should worry us all."<h2>Deeply unequal</h2>The World Health Organization meanwhile, warned that the planet was "off track" for reaching its goal of ensuring that 90 percent of the world's children and adolescents receive essential vaccines by 2030."Drastic cuts in aid, coupled with misinformation about the safety of vaccines, threaten to unwind decades of progress," warned WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.Tuesday's report cautioned that vaccine access remains deeply unequal, with widespread conflicts eroding efforts to boost vaccine coverage.Dramatic cuts to international aid by the United States in particular, but also by other countries, could further worsen the situation."Our ability to respond to outbreaks in nearly 50 countries has been disrupted due to the funding cuts," UNICEF immunisation chief Ephrem Lemango told reporters.While lack of access was the main cause of low coverage globally, the agencies also highlighted the threat of misinformation.<h2>Dangerous immunity gaps&nbsp;</h2>Dwindling trust in "hard-earned evidence around the safety of the vaccines" is contributing to dangerous immunity gaps and outbreaks, WHO vaccine chief Kate O'Brien told reporters.Experts have sounded the alarm in the United States especially, where Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has himself long been accused of spreading vaccine misinformation, including about the measles vaccine, even as the US grapples with its worst measles epidemic in 30 years.Last year, 60 countries experienced large and disruptive outbreaks of the highly contagious disease, nearly doubling from 33 in 2022, the report showed.An estimated two million more children worldwide were vaccinated against measles in 2024 than the year before, but the global coverage rate remained far below the 95 percent needed to avert its spread.On a positive note, Tuesday's report showed that vaccine coverage against a range of diseases had inched up last year in the 57 low-income countries supported by the vaccine alliance Gavi."In 2024, lower-income countries protected more children than ever before," Gavi chief Sania Nishtar said.But the data also indicated "signs of slippage" emerging in upper-middle and high-income countries where coverage had previously been at least 90 percent."Even the smallest drops in immunisation coverage can have devastating consequences," O'Brien said.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The World Health Organization meanwhile, warned that the planet was "off track" for reaching its goal of ensuring that 90 percent of the world's children and adolescents receive essential vaccines by 2030.

Global infant vaccination levels have stabilised after shrinking during the Covid crisis, the UN said Tuesday, but it warned that misinformation and drastic aid cuts were deepening dangerous coverage gaps and putting millions at risk. In 2024, 85 per cent of infants globally, or 109 million, had received three doses of the vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP), with the third dose serving as a key marker for global immunisation coverage, according to data published by the UN health and children's agencies. That marked an increase of one percentage point and a million more children covered than a year earlier, in what the agencies described as "modest" gains. At the same time, nearly 20 million infants missed at least one of their DTP doses last year, including 14.3 million so-called zero-dose" children who never received a single shot. While a slight improvement over 2023, when the United Nations said there were 14.5 million zero-dose children, it was 1.4 million more than in 2019 -- before the Covid pandemic wreaked havoc on global vaccination programmes. "The good news is that we have managed to reach more children with life-saving vaccines," UNICEF chief Catherine Russell said in a joint statement. "But millions of children remain without protection against preventable diseases," she said. "That should worry us all." Deeply unequal The World Health Organization meanwhile, warned that the planet was "off track" for reaching its goal of ensuring that 90 percent of the world's children and adolescents receive essential vaccines by 2030. "Drastic cuts in aid, coupled with misinformation about the safety of vaccines, threaten to unwind decades of progress," warned WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Tuesday's report cautioned that vaccine access remains deeply unequal, with widespread conflicts eroding efforts to boost vaccine coverage. Dramatic cuts to international aid by the United States in particular, but also by other countries, could further worsen the situation. "Our ability to respond to outbreaks in nearly 50 countries has been disrupted due to the funding cuts," UNICEF immunisation chief Ephrem Lemango told reporters. While lack of access was the main cause of low coverage globally, the agencies also highlighted the threat of misinformation. Dangerous immunity gaps Dwindling trust in "hard-earned evidence around the safety of the vaccines" is contributing to dangerous immunity gaps and outbreaks, WHO vaccine chief Kate O'Brien told reporters. Experts have sounded the alarm in the United States especially, where Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has himself long been accused of spreading vaccine misinformation, including about the measles vaccine, even as the US grapples with its worst measles epidemic in 30 years. Last year, 60 countries experienced large and disruptive outbreaks of the highly contagious disease, nearly doubling from 33 in 2022, the report showed. An estimated two million more children worldwide were vaccinated against measles in 2024 than the year before, but the global coverage rate remained far below the 95 percent needed to avert its spread. On a positive note, Tuesday's report showed that vaccine coverage against a range of diseases had inched up last year in the 57 low-income countries supported by the vaccine alliance Gavi. "In 2024, lower-income countries protected more children than ever before," Gavi chief Sania Nishtar said. But the data also indicated "signs of slippage" emerging in upper-middle and high-income countries where coverage had previously been at least 90 percent. "Even the smallest drops in immunisation coverage can have devastating consequences," O'Brien said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The World Health Organization, meanwhile, warned that the planet was "off track" for reaching its goal of ensuring that 90 per cent of the world's children and adolescents receive essential vaccines by 2030.

World off track on vaccine goals amid aid cuts, misinformation surge warns UN

In a major win for President Donald Trump, the US Supreme Court on Monday (Jul 14) cleared the way for his administration to resume mass layoffs at the Department of Education, effectively green-lighting his controversial plan to dismantle the agency altogether. The court's unsigned order lifts a stay imposed by a lower federal judge, allowing the conservative-led administration to continue slashing the Education Department's workforce. The ruling did not pass uncontested; three liberal justices — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — on the nine-member panel issued a dissent against it.<h2>Trump only fulfilling his campaign promises</h2>The US Department of Education was established by Congress in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. It administers billions of dollars in federal funding for public schools, student loans, and enforcement of civil rights protections. During his White House campaign, the Republican leader had vowed that he would eliminate the Education Department. In March, soon after assuming office, he made the move to slash the workforce by nearly half. He also infamously instructed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to "put herself out of a job."<h2>What does Trump have against the US Education Department?</h2>As per AFP, while the federal government only provides around 13 per cent of primary and secondary school funding — with the rest handled by states and local districts — it (the federal funding) plays a crucial role in supporting low-income students and children with disabilities/special needs.But Trump, who returned to the White House in January, has repeatedly called the department "bloated" arguing that education should be entirely managed by states. According to his administration, the move was part of a broader initiative led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), once headed by Elon Musk, to cut federal spending.<h2>A threat to the US Constitution?</h2>In their dissent, the three liberal judges — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — warned that the ruling poses a grave threat to the Constitution’s separation of powers. "Only Congress has the power to abolish the Department," they noted, adding, "The majority is either willfully blind to the implications of its ruling or naive, but either way the threat to our Constitution's separation of powers is grave." &nbsp;

The ruling did not pass uncontested; three liberal justices — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — on the nine-member panel issued a dissent against it.

In a major win for President Donald Trump, the US Supreme Court on Monday (Jul 14) cleared the way for his administration to resume mass layoffs at the Department of Education, effectively green-lighting his controversial plan to dismantle the agency altogether. The court's unsigned order lifts a stay imposed by a lower federal judge, allowing the conservative-led administration to continue slashing the Education Department's workforce. The ruling did not pass uncontested; three liberal justices — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — on the nine-member panel issued a dissent against it. Trump only fulfilling his campaign promises The US Department of Education was established by Congress in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. It administers billions of dollars in federal funding for public schools, student loans, and enforcement of civil rights protections. During his White House campaign, the Republican leader had vowed that he would eliminate the Education Department. In March, soon after assuming office, he made the move to slash the workforce by nearly half. He also infamously instructed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to "put herself out of a job." What does Trump have against the US Education Department? As per AFP, while the federal government only provides around 13 per cent of primary and secondary school funding — with the rest handled by states and local districts — it (the federal funding) plays a crucial role in supporting low-income students and children with disabilities/special needs. But Trump, who returned to the White House in January, has repeatedly called the department "bloated" arguing that education should be entirely managed by states. According to his administration, the move was part of a broader initiative led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), once headed by Elon Musk, to cut federal spending. A threat to the US Constitution? In their dissent, the three liberal judges — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — warned that the ruling poses a grave threat to the Constitution’s separation of powers. "Only Congress has the power to abolish the Department," they noted, adding, "The majority is either willfully blind to the implications of its ruling or naive, but either way the threat to our Constitution's separation of powers is grave."

The ruling did not pass uncontested; three liberal justices — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson — on the nine-member panel issued a dissent against it.

Trump gets one step closer to KILLING Education Department: US Supreme Court okays mass layoffs

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that India and China should trust rather than suspect each other and cooperate rather than compete with each other, and added that Beijing is willing to work with India to handle conflicts and differences properly. Wang Yi made the statements in a conversation with India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, in Beijing on Monday during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.&nbsp; Jaishankar also stressed at the meeting that “differences should not become disputes, nor should competition ever become conflict”.&nbsp;The Chinese minister expressed his country’s willingness to “safeguard the multilateral trading system” and thus ensure “stability of the global production and supply chain with India”.&nbsp;Wang Yi’s comments come in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies for his ‘America First’ approach.&nbsp;<h2>‘India and China should trust, not suspect, cooperate, not compete’</h2>&nbsp;“India and China should trust rather than suspect each other and cooperate rather than compete with each other,” news agency Reuters reported citing Wang Yi.&nbsp;&nbsp;He added that the essence of the India-China equation lay in mutual success and reportedly told Jaishankar that both countries should make long-term plans.&nbsp;“China and India should adhere to the direction of good-neighbourliness and friendship, and find a way for mutual respect and trust, peaceful coexistence, common development and win-win cooperation,” the Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported.&nbsp;Earlier, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Wang Yi and said the relationship requires a “far-seeing approach”.He said that ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Russia’s Kazan in October 2024, the ties between the countries have improved.Jaishankar said representatives of the two countries have met each other at international events, and he expects that such meetings can take place in India and China itself. Both the countries have completed 75 years of diplomacy with each other, he underlined.&nbsp;<h2>Jaishankar brings up border issue</h2>&nbsp;In his opening remarks at the meet, Jaishankar also raised the border issue, a point of contention between the two countries. He said ties between India and China have improved in the last nine months as a result of the “resolution of friction along the border”.“This is the fundamental basis for mutual strategic trust,” he added.Jaishankar said that “stable and constructive ties” between India and China will benefit the whole world, not just the two countries.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Wang Yi and said the relationship requires a “far-seeing approach”. He said that ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Russia’s Kazan in October 2024, the ties between the countries have improved.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that India and China should trust rather than suspect each other and cooperate rather than compete with each other, and added that Beijing is willing to work with India to handle conflicts and differences properly. Wang Yi made the statements in a conversation with India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, in Beijing on Monday during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Jaishankar also stressed at the meeting that “differences should not become disputes, nor should competition ever become conflict”. The Chinese minister expressed his country’s willingness to “safeguard the multilateral trading system” and thus ensure “stability of the global production and supply chain with India”. Wang Yi’s comments come in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies for his ‘America First’ approach. ‘India and China should trust, not suspect, cooperate, not compete’ “India and China should trust rather than suspect each other and cooperate rather than compete with each other,” news agency Reuters reported citing Wang Yi. He added that the essence of the India-China equation lay in mutual success and reportedly told Jaishankar that both countries should make long-term plans. “China and India should adhere to the direction of good-neighbourliness and friendship, and find a way for mutual respect and trust, peaceful coexistence, common development and win-win cooperation,” the Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported. Earlier, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Wang Yi and said the relationship requires a “far-seeing approach”. He said that ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Russia’s Kazan in October 2024, the ties between the countries have improved. Jaishankar said representatives of the two countries have met each other at international events, and he expects that such meetings can take place in India and China itself. Both the countries have completed 75 years of diplomacy with each other, he underlined. Jaishankar brings up border issue In his opening remarks at the meet, Jaishankar also raised the border issue, a point of contention between the two countries. He said ties between India and China have improved in the last nine months as a result of the “resolution of friction along the border”. “This is the fundamental basis for mutual strategic trust,” he added. Jaishankar said that “stable and constructive ties” between India and China will benefit the whole world, not just the two countries.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Wang Yi and said the relationship requires a “far-seeing approach”. He said that ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Russia’s Kazan in October 2024, the ties between the countries have improved.

‘Willing to work with India to resolve conflicts, differences’: China’s foreign minister Wang Yi

A high-level team from India’s Commerce and Industry Ministry has reached Washington to carry on the negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the United States, and the four-day discussions are to begin on Monday morning (US time). India’s chief negotiator, Rajesh Agrawal, who is special secretary in the Department of Commerce at Centre, will join the team on Wednesday, while the rest of the team is already on the ground to thrash out the preliminary agenda and procedural matters, said an ANI report. The visit assumes significance as both sides have to iron out issues in sectors like agriculture and automobiles, and the US has postponed the imposition of additional tariffs on several countries, including India, until August 1.&nbsp;On being asked if an interim trade deal can be expected before August 1, an official, seeking anonymity, said, “We are talking about a BTA. How it moves forward, whether there will be the first phase, second phase, whatever phase, will be mutually decided.”“We are moving in terms of a BTA and we are looking for a mutually beneficial solution,” the official added.&nbsp;Earlier, the Indian team was in Washington from June 26 to July 2 for negotiations.&nbsp;<h2>India adopts hard stance on US demand for duty concessions on agri, dairy products</h2>&nbsp;As per reports, India has hardened its position on the US demand for duty concessions on agriculture and dairy products. New Delhi has, so far, not given any duty concessions in the dairy sector to any of its trading partners in a free trade agreement.It is also seeking the easing of tariffs on steel and aluminium (50 per cent) and the auto (25 per cent) sectors. Against these, India has reserved its right under the WTO (World Trade Organization) norms to impose retaliatory duties.US President Donald Trump announced heavy tariffs on a number of countries, including India, on April 2, but postponed them first for 90 days until July 9 and then recently to August 1.&nbsp;The Trump administration has issued tariff letters to a number of its trading partners, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Serbia, and Tunisia.&nbsp;The US wants duty concessions on certain industrial goods, automobiles, wines, petrochemical products, and agri goods, like dairy items, apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops.India is seeking duty concessions for labour-intensive sectors like textiles, gems and jewellery, leather goods, garments, plastics, chemicals, shrimp, oil seeds, grapes, and bananas.&nbsp;The two countries are looking to conclude talks for the first tranche of the proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA) by September-October this year but are looking for an interim trade pact before that. India’s merchandise exports to the US rose 21.78 per cent to USD 17.25 billion in April-May this fiscal year, while imports rose 25.8 per cent to USD 8.87 billion, said a PTI report.&nbsp;India and the US have agreed to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

India’s merchandise exports to the US rose 21.78 per cent to USD 17.25 billion in April-May this fiscal year, while imports rose 25.8 per cent to USD 8.87 billion, said a PTI report. India and the US have agreed to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

A high-level team from India’s Commerce and Industry Ministry has reached Washington to carry on the negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the United States, and the four-day discussions are to begin on Monday morning (US time). India’s chief negotiator, Rajesh Agrawal, who is special secretary in the Department of Commerce at Centre, will join the team on Wednesday, while the rest of the team is already on the ground to thrash out the preliminary agenda and procedural matters, said an ANI report. The visit assumes significance as both sides have to iron out issues in sectors like agriculture and automobiles, and the US has postponed the imposition of additional tariffs on several countries, including India, until August 1. On being asked if an interim trade deal can be expected before August 1, an official, seeking anonymity, said, “We are talking about a BTA. How it moves forward, whether there will be the first phase, second phase, whatever phase, will be mutually decided.” “We are moving in terms of a BTA and we are looking for a mutually beneficial solution,” the official added. Earlier, the Indian team was in Washington from June 26 to July 2 for negotiations. India adopts hard stance on US demand for duty concessions on agri, dairy products As per reports, India has hardened its position on the US demand for duty concessions on agriculture and dairy products. New Delhi has, so far, not given any duty concessions in the dairy sector to any of its trading partners in a free trade agreement. It is also seeking the easing of tariffs on steel and aluminium (50 per cent) and the auto (25 per cent) sectors. Against these, India has reserved its right under the WTO (World Trade Organization) norms to impose retaliatory duties. US President Donald Trump announced heavy tariffs on a number of countries, including India, on April 2, but postponed them first for 90 days until July 9 and then recently to August 1. The Trump administration has issued tariff letters to a number of its trading partners, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Serbia, and Tunisia. The US wants duty concessions on certain industrial goods, automobiles, wines, petrochemical products, and agri goods, like dairy items, apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops. India is seeking duty concessions for labour-intensive sectors like textiles, gems and jewellery, leather goods, garments, plastics, chemicals, shrimp, oil seeds, grapes, and bananas. The two countries are looking to conclude talks for the first tranche of the proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA) by September-October this year but are looking for an interim trade pact before that. India’s merchandise exports to the US rose 21.78 per cent to USD 17.25 billion in April-May this fiscal year, while imports rose 25.8 per cent to USD 8.87 billion, said a PTI report. India and the US have agreed to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

India’s merchandise exports to the US rose 21.78 per cent to USD 17.25 billion in April-May this fiscal year, while imports rose 25.8 per cent to USD 8.87 billion, said a PTI report. India and the US have agreed to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

High-level Indian team in US for negotiations on trade deal: Report

US President Donald Trump has warned Russia of harsh economic retaliation if it fails to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine within 50 days, revealing frustration over what he called misleading conversations with Vladimir Putin.<h2>Trump reveals calls with Putin were ‘pleasant’, but followed by attacks</h2>Speaking from the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said his phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin were always “very pleasant”, but often followed by missile strikes on Ukrainian cities.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-we-don-t-have-a-deal-in-50-days-trump-gives-ultimatum-to-putin-over-ukraine-war-during-meet-with-nato-secretary-general-mark-rutte-1752507193212">'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said</a>“My conversations with him are always very pleasant,” Trump told reporters. “I say, isn’t that a very lovely conversation? And then the missiles go off that night. I go home. I tell the First Lady, you know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation. She said, ‘Oh, really? Another city was just hit.’”He added, “So it’s like, look, he’s, I don’t want to say he’s an assassin, but he’s a tough guy. He’s fooled a lot of people. He fooled Bush. He fooled a lot of people. He fooled Clinton, Bush, Obama, Biden. He didn’t fool me.”<h2>Trump threatens ‘very severe’ tariffs on Russia</h2>The US President said he had lost patience with Putin and announced a 100% tariff on Russian goods if there is no progress towards peace within 50 days. “We’ve very, very unhappy with them, and we’re going to be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days,” Trump said. “Tariffs at about 100 percent. You can call them secondary tariffs,” he added.He said the decision came after realising that Russia was not taking negotiations seriously. “We’re hearing so much talk, it’s all talk,” he said. “And then missiles launched into Kyiv or some other city. And I said, strange,” he added.<h2>Trump says Putin ‘didn’t fool me’</h2>Trump described Putin as someone who uses charm to mislead global leaders. “I speak to him a lot about getting this thing done,” Trump explained. “And I always hang up and say, well, that was a nice phone call. And then missiles launched into Kyiv or some other city.” “I don’t want to say he’s an assassin, but he’s a tough guy. He fooled a lot of people… He didn’t fool me,” Trump added.Trump’s warning to Russia came during his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House. During the meeting, Trump also announced a weapons deal with NATO countries, saying the US would manufacture military equipment that European allies would pay for and send to Ukraine.

Trump’s warning to Russia came during his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House. During the meeting, Trump also announced a weapons deal with NATO countries.

US President Donald Trump has warned Russia of harsh economic retaliation if it fails to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine within 50 days, revealing frustration over what he called misleading conversations with Vladimir Putin. Trump reveals calls with Putin were ‘pleasant’, but followed by attacks Speaking from the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said his phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin were always “very pleasant”, but often followed by missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. Also read: 'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said “My conversations with him are always very pleasant,” Trump told reporters. “I say, isn’t that a very lovely conversation? And then the missiles go off that night. I go home. I tell the First Lady, you know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation. She said, ‘Oh, really? Another city was just hit.’” He added, “So it’s like, look, he’s, I don’t want to say he’s an assassin, but he’s a tough guy. He’s fooled a lot of people. He fooled Bush. He fooled a lot of people. He fooled Clinton, Bush, Obama, Biden. He didn’t fool me.” Trump threatens ‘very severe’ tariffs on Russia The US President said he had lost patience with Putin and announced a 100% tariff on Russian goods if there is no progress towards peace within 50 days. “We’ve very, very unhappy with them, and we’re going to be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days,” Trump said. “Tariffs at about 100 percent. You can call them secondary tariffs,” he added. He said the decision came after realising that Russia was not taking negotiations seriously. “We’re hearing so much talk, it’s all talk,” he said. “And then missiles launched into Kyiv or some other city. And I said, strange,” he added. Trump says Putin ‘didn’t fool me’ Trump described Putin as someone who uses charm to mislead global leaders. “I speak to him a lot about getting this thing done,” Trump explained. “And I always hang up and say, well, that was a nice phone call. And then missiles launched into Kyiv or some other city.” “I don’t want to say he’s an assassin, but he’s a tough guy. He fooled a lot of people… He didn’t fool me,” Trump added. Trump’s warning to Russia came during his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House. During the meeting, Trump also announced a weapons deal with NATO countries, saying the US would manufacture military equipment that European allies would pay for and send to Ukraine.

Trump’s warning to Russia came during his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House. During the meeting, Trump also announced a weapons deal with NATO countries.

‘I tell the First Lady, I spoke to Vladimir’: Trump complains Putin’s ‘lovely’ calls often end with missile strikes

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. Click on the headlines to know more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-we-don-t-have-a-deal-in-50-days-trump-gives-ultimatum-to-putin-over-ukraine-war-during-meet-with-nato-secretary-general-mark-rutte-1752507193212">'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752507361969.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said"></figure>US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dgca-orders-fuel-control-switch-checks-on-select-boeing-aircraft-by-july-21-1752498013312">DGCA orders fuel control switch checks on select Boeing aircraft by July 21</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752500578736.jpeg?rect=(0,0,1600,1200)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="DGCA orders fuel control switch checks on select Boeing aircraft by July 21"></figure>The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday (July 14 instructed Indian carriers to inspect fuel control switches of Boeing planes, including the B787 Dreamliner and certain B737s. These planes are operated by airlines such as Air India Group, IndiGo and SpiceJet. The initial report on the June 12 crash Air India crash at Ahmedabad said that fuel to the engines was switched off when position of the fuel supply switch was moved from run to cutoff and then returned to run again. A few foreign airlines like Etihad have already started these checks on their Dreamliners. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-ready-to-reveal-truth-about-epstein-client-list-epstein-s-ex-faces-do-or-die-moment-as-supreme-court-appeal-looms-1752500944648">Ghislaine Maxwell ready to reveal ‘truth’ about Epstein client list? Epstein’s ex faces ‘do or die’ moment as Supreme Court&nbsp;appeal&nbsp;looms</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752501903580.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Ghislaine Maxwell ready to reveal ‘truth’ about Epstein client list? Epstein’s ex faces ‘do or die’ moment as Supreme Court&nbsp;appeal&nbsp;looms"></figure>Ghislaine Maxwell is reportedly prepared to testify before Congress about Jeffrey Epstein’s secret files, amid criticism against US Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice (DOJ), Daily Mail UK has reported. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-top-ulfa-i-leaders-killed-in-drone-strikes-in-myanmar-indian-army-denies-role-1752497300825">3 top ULFA-I leaders killed in ‘drone strikes’ in Myanmar, Indian Army denies role after accusations</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752498093517.jpg?zoom=0.8&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="3 top ULFA-I leaders killed in ‘drone strikes’ in Myanmar, Indian Army denies role after accusations"></figure>Three top leaders of the banned insurgent group United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) were killed and several members injured in the Sagaiang region of Myanmar. The secessionist insurgent group alleged that its leaders were killed in drone attacks by the Indian Army, but the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati outrightly rejected the accusation. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-announces-deputy-prime-minister-yulia-svyryden-as-ukraine-s-new-pm-1752502349453">Zelensky announces Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyryden as Ukraine's new PM</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752502630765.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Zelensky announces Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyryden as Ukraine's new PM"></figure>As the prospects for an end to war with Russia becomes murkier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as Ukraine's new PM. Taking to X Zelensky wrote, "We are launching a transformation of the executive branch in Ukraine. I have invited Yulia Svyrydenko to head the government of Ukraine and to significantly upgrade its work." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-a-burst-of-sweetness-and-spontaneity-radhika-yadav-s-friend-shares-heartfelt-tribute-1752493093838">Exclusive | ‘A burst of sweetness and spontaneity’: Radhika Yadav’s friend shares heartfelt tribute</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752493353893.png?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Exclusive | ‘A burst of sweetness and spontaneity’: Radhika Yadav’s friend shares heartfelt tribute"></figure>The killing of tennis player Radhika Yadav in Gurugram, Haryana, has left the sporting world stunned. Radhika Yadav, 25, a national-level player and tennis coach, was shot dead by her father after a fight over her tennis academy. Radhika's father Deepak Yadav was sent to police custody for a day by a Gurugram court on Friday (July 11). He has confessed to the crime. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nimisha-priya-case-there-is-a-point-till-which-we-can-go-what-centre-said-on-indian-nurse-execution-1752486688617">Nimisha Priya case | 'There is a point till which we can go': What Centre said on Indian nurse execution</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752486899860.jpg?rect=(0,132,480,360)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Nimisha Priya case | 'There is a point till which we can go': What Centre said on Indian nurse execution"></figure>India can't do anything more to stop the execution of Nimisha Priya - the Kerala nurse who was sentenced to death by Yemen for killing a man who was harassing her - the Supreme Court was informed on Monday (July 14). "It is unfortunate. There is a point till which we can go. We have reached it," Attorney General R Venkataramani told the court. The 'Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council' counsel also appeared to be lost; they informed Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta on Monday afternoon, "The only way is if the family (of the Yemeni man) agrees to accept the 'blood money' (i.e., financial compensation)." <a href="">Former UK PM Boris Johnson dances, sings atop table in viral video. WATCH</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752500519255.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Former UK PM Boris Johnson dances, sings atop table in viral video. WATCH"></figure>A video of former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has gone viral on the internet. In the clip, Johnson can be seen dancing at the popular Taverna Anema e Core nightclub in Capri in Italy. His exuberance was caught in videos and pictures which were later shared on various social media platforms. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/anurag-kashyap-calls-out-t-series-for-underpaying-him-for-the-music-of-dev-d-gulaal-gangs-of-wasseypur-1752500418839">Anurag Kashyap calls out T-series for underpaying him for the music of Dev D, Gulaal, Gangs of Wasseypur</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752501360512.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Anurag Kashyap calls out T-series for underpaying him for the music of Dev D, Gulaal, Gangs of Wasseypur"></figure>Bollywood director Anurag Kashyap, who has delivered several cult classics, has taken a dig at the renowned music label T-Series. He has alleged that the series, which prefers only celebrity-driven content instead of quality music, has called out the music company and revealed that he has been underpaid for his films- Gulaal, Dev D, and Gangs of Wasseypur. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-ravindra-jadeja-the-hero-for-india-but-england-win-at-lords-in-nail-bitter-lead-test-series-2-1-1752508334553">IND vs ENG: Jadeja the hero for India but England win Lord’s nail-biter, lead series 2-1</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250714/image-1752508614795.jpg?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="IND vs ENG: Jadeja the hero for India but England win Lord’s nail-biter, lead series 2-1"></figure>England triumphed over India in the third Test of this five-match Anderson-Tendulkar series at the Lord’s, taking a 2-1 lead. The hosts defended an under-par total of 192 on day five, dismissing India on 170 to win the match by 22 runs. Captain Ben Stokes stood out with the ball in hand, picking up three wickets, the same as Brydon Carse, with the returning Jofra Archer hogging all the limelight with his impactful dismissals, including removing two attacking batters in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant in the second innings. The Old Trafford in Manchester will host the fourth Test starting Wednesday (Jul 23).

Top 10 world news: Trump gives Ultimatum to Putin over Ukraine war; DGCA orders fuel control switch checks on select Boeing aircraft, and more

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. Click on the headlines to know more 'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. DGCA orders fuel control switch checks on select Boeing aircraft by July 21 The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday (July 14 instructed Indian carriers to inspect fuel control switches of Boeing planes, including the B787 Dreamliner and certain B737s. These planes are operated by airlines such as Air India Group, IndiGo and SpiceJet. The initial report on the June 12 crash Air India crash at Ahmedabad said that fuel to the engines was switched off when position of the fuel supply switch was moved from run to cutoff and then returned to run again. A few foreign airlines like Etihad have already started these checks on their Dreamliners. Ghislaine Maxwell ready to reveal ‘truth’ about Epstein client list? Epstein’s ex faces ‘do or die’ moment as Supreme Court appeal looms Ghislaine Maxwell is reportedly prepared to testify before Congress about Jeffrey Epstein’s secret files, amid criticism against US Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice (DOJ), Daily Mail UK has reported. 3 top ULFA-I leaders killed in ‘drone strikes’ in Myanmar, Indian Army denies role after accusations Three top leaders of the banned insurgent group United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) were killed and several members injured in the Sagaiang region of Myanmar. The secessionist insurgent group alleged that its leaders were killed in drone attacks by the Indian Army, but the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati outrightly rejected the accusation. Zelensky announces Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyryden as Ukraine's new PM As the prospects for an end to war with Russia becomes murkier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as Ukraine's new PM. Taking to X Zelensky wrote, "We are launching a transformation of the executive branch in Ukraine. I have invited Yulia Svyrydenko to head the government of Ukraine and to significantly upgrade its work." Exclusive | ‘A burst of sweetness and spontaneity’: Radhika Yadav’s friend shares heartfelt tribute The killing of tennis player Radhika Yadav in Gurugram, Haryana, has left the sporting world stunned. Radhika Yadav, 25, a national-level player and tennis coach, was shot dead by her father after a fight over her tennis academy. Radhika's father Deepak Yadav was sent to police custody for a day by a Gurugram court on Friday (July 11). He has confessed to the crime. Nimisha Priya case | 'There is a point till which we can go': What Centre said on Indian nurse execution India can't do anything more to stop the execution of Nimisha Priya - the Kerala nurse who was sentenced to death by Yemen for killing a man who was harassing her - the Supreme Court was informed on Monday (July 14). "It is unfortunate. There is a point till which we can go. We have reached it," Attorney General R Venkataramani told the court. The 'Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council' counsel also appeared to be lost; they informed Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta on Monday afternoon, "The only way is if the family (of the Yemeni man) agrees to accept the 'blood money' (i.e., financial compensation)." Former UK PM Boris Johnson dances, sings atop table in viral video. WATCH A video of former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has gone viral on the internet. In the clip, Johnson can be seen dancing at the popular Taverna Anema e Core nightclub in Capri in Italy. His exuberance was caught in videos and pictures which were later shared on various social media platforms. Anurag Kashyap calls out T-series for underpaying him for the music of Dev D, Gulaal, Gangs of Wasseypur Bollywood director Anurag Kashyap, who has delivered several cult classics, has taken a dig at the renowned music label T-Series. He has alleged that the series, which prefers only celebrity-driven content instead of quality music, has called out the music company and revealed that he has been underpaid for his films- Gulaal, Dev D, and Gangs of Wasseypur. IND vs ENG: Jadeja the hero for India but England win Lord’s nail-biter, lead series 2-1 England triumphed over India in the third Test of this five-match Anderson-Tendulkar series at the Lord’s, taking a 2-1 lead. The hosts defended an under-par total of 192 on day five, dismissing India on 170 to win the match by 22 runs. Captain Ben Stokes stood out with the ball in hand, picking up three wickets, the same as Brydon Carse, with the returning Jofra Archer hogging all the limelight with his impactful dismissals, including removing two attacking batters in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant in the second innings. The Old Trafford in Manchester will host the fourth Test starting Wednesday (Jul 23).

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that the United States and NATO allies have struck a major deal to supply Ukraine with large quantities of military equipment, but with Europe footing the bill. Speaking from the Oval Office after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “very unhappy” with Russia’s actions in Ukraine and warned of 100% tariffs. The meeting was also attended by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-we-don-t-have-a-deal-in-50-days-trump-gives-ultimatum-to-putin-over-ukraine-war-during-meet-with-nato-secretary-general-mark-rutte-1752507193212">'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said</a><h2>Europe to fund weapons as US agrees to manufacture military equipment</h2>Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid. “We make the best equipment, the best missiles, the best of everything, the European nations know that… and we’ve made a deal today where we are going to be sending them weapons, and they’re going to be paying for them,” Trump said. “We the United States will not be having any payment made… but we will manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he added.<h2>Rutte says Ukraine will receive ‘massive’ military support</h2>NATO chief Mark Rutte said the deal would provide Ukraine with a huge boost in military support, including air defence systems, missiles and ammunition. “This is really big. Trump called me on Thursday and said he wanted to give Ukraine what it needed to have, but asked Europeans to pay for it, which is totally logical,” Rutte said.He added that countries including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the UK, the Netherlands and Canada had already agreed to participate, with more expected to join. Rutte said NATO would work to “make sure that we know what Ukrainians need” and that this was “only the first wave.”<h2>Trump confirms Patriot missile batteries will arrive ‘within days’</h2>Trump said Ukraine would be receiving “everything,” including full Patriot missile batteries, through an arrangement in which some NATO countries would send their current Patriot systems, and the US would then replace those stockpiles.“We’re going to have some come very soon, within days… a couple of the countries that have Patriots are going to swap over and will replace the Patriots with the ones they have,” Trump said. When asked if it would be just the missiles or full systems, Trump replied, “Everything. It’s everything.”<h2>Trump says peace deal with Putin has failed multiple times</h2>Trump, who had previously promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, admitted there had been multiple failed attempts at securing peace. “It’s a very deadly war. I thought we had a deal on Ukraine about four times… but it just keeps going on and on, and every night a lot of people are dying,” he said. Rutte also criticised Russia, saying its attacks were aimed not at military targets, but to “create panic” in Ukrainian towns.

Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid.

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that the United States and NATO allies have struck a major deal to supply Ukraine with large quantities of military equipment, but with Europe footing the bill. Speaking from the Oval Office after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “very unhappy” with Russia’s actions in Ukraine and warned of 100% tariffs. The meeting was also attended by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Also read: 'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said Europe to fund weapons as US agrees to manufacture military equipment Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid. “We make the best equipment, the best missiles, the best of everything, the European nations know that… and we’ve made a deal today where we are going to be sending them weapons, and they’re going to be paying for them,” Trump said. “We the United States will not be having any payment made… but we will manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he added. Rutte says Ukraine will receive ‘massive’ military support NATO chief Mark Rutte said the deal would provide Ukraine with a huge boost in military support, including air defence systems, missiles and ammunition. “This is really big. Trump called me on Thursday and said he wanted to give Ukraine what it needed to have, but asked Europeans to pay for it, which is totally logical,” Rutte said. He added that countries including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the UK, the Netherlands and Canada had already agreed to participate, with more expected to join. Rutte said NATO would work to “make sure that we know what Ukrainians need” and that this was “only the first wave.” Trump confirms Patriot missile batteries will arrive ‘within days’ Trump said Ukraine would be receiving “everything,” including full Patriot missile batteries, through an arrangement in which some NATO countries would send their current Patriot systems, and the US would then replace those stockpiles. “We’re going to have some come very soon, within days… a couple of the countries that have Patriots are going to swap over and will replace the Patriots with the ones they have,” Trump said. When asked if it would be just the missiles or full systems, Trump replied, “Everything. It’s everything.” Trump says peace deal with Putin has failed multiple times Trump, who had previously promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, admitted there had been multiple failed attempts at securing peace. “It’s a very deadly war. I thought we had a deal on Ukraine about four times… but it just keeps going on and on, and every night a lot of people are dying,” he said. Rutte also criticised Russia, saying its attacks were aimed not at military targets, but to “create panic” in Ukrainian towns.

Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid.

'Best missiles, best of everything': Trump announces deal for 'greatest military equipment' for Ukraine, with Europe footing the bill

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-germany-s-taurus-missiles-here-s-why-ukraine-keeps-asking-for-them-1752489150206">'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them</a><h2>Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his</h2>At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.”Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.”Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.”<h2>Trump's growing frustration with Putin</h2>This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough.Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”<h2>Failed talks and Russian rejection</h2>The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?”<h2>Tariff bill targets Russian exports</h2>Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian&nbsp;uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. 

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. Also read: 'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.” Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.” Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.” Trump's growing frustration with Putin This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough. Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Failed talks and Russian rejection The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?” Tariff bill targets Russian exports Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said.&nbsp;

'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said

Iran’s foreign ministry said on Monday that the country will ‘respond’ if the United Nations sanctions on it over its nuclear programme are reinstated but did not disclose what measures Tehran is contemplating to take. Last week, a French diplomatic source said that European nations would be compelled to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran using the “snapback mechanism” if no nuclear agreement is reached that addresses the security concerns of European nations. The “snapback mechanism” is a provision in the 2015 nuclear agreement that allows for the reinstatement of UN sanctions on Iran previously lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear activities. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said at a press conference that the threat to activate the ‘snapback mechanism’ has no legal or political validity and warned that Iran would respond appropriately and proportionately, though he did not provide specific details.&nbsp;“The threat to use the snapback mechanism lacks legal and political basis and will be met with an appropriate and proportionate response from the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Baghaei said.&nbsp;<h2>UNSC can trigger ‘snapback mechanism’ under 2015 deal</h2>&nbsp;The 2015 deal with Britain, Germany, France, the US, Russia, and China—known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—specifies that if the parties cannot resolve accusations of “significant non-performance” by Iran, the “snapback mechanism” process can be triggered by the 15-member UN Security Council.“The European parties, who are constantly trying to use this possibility as a tool, have themselves committed gross and fundamental violations of their obligations under the JCPOA,” Baghaei said.“They have failed to fulfill the duties they had undertaken under the JCPOA, so they have no legal or moral standing to resort to this mechanism.”&nbsp;Western countries accuse Iran of plotting to build a nuclear weapon, which Tehran denies.The United States pulled out of the deal in 2018 under the first administration of President Donald Trump, who called the agreement “weak”.Trump is urging Tehran to restart nuclear negotiations for a new deal after a ceasefire reached last month ended a 12-day air war between Iran and Israel that destabilised the Middle East.Baghaei did not respond in the affirmative when asked if Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi would meet Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff,&nbsp;and&nbsp;said no date or location had been set for resuming the US-Iran nuclear talks.

Western countries accuse Iran of plotting to build a nuclear weapon, which Tehran denies. Trump is urging Tehran to restart nuclear negotiations for a new deal after a ceasefire reached last month ended a 12-day air war between Iran and Israel that destabilised the Middle East.

Iran’s foreign ministry said on Monday that the country will ‘respond’ if the United Nations sanctions on it over its nuclear programme are reinstated but did not disclose what measures Tehran is contemplating to take. Last week, a French diplomatic source said that European nations would be compelled to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran using the “snapback mechanism” if no nuclear agreement is reached that addresses the security concerns of European nations. The “snapback mechanism” is a provision in the 2015 nuclear agreement that allows for the reinstatement of UN sanctions on Iran previously lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear activities. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said at a press conference that the threat to activate the ‘snapback mechanism’ has no legal or political validity and warned that Iran would respond appropriately and proportionately, though he did not provide specific details. “The threat to use the snapback mechanism lacks legal and political basis and will be met with an appropriate and proportionate response from the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Baghaei said. UNSC can trigger ‘snapback mechanism’ under 2015 deal The 2015 deal with Britain, Germany, France, the US, Russia, and China—known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—specifies that if the parties cannot resolve accusations of “significant non-performance” by Iran, the “snapback mechanism” process can be triggered by the 15-member UN Security Council. “The European parties, who are constantly trying to use this possibility as a tool, have themselves committed gross and fundamental violations of their obligations under the JCPOA,” Baghaei said. “They have failed to fulfill the duties they had undertaken under the JCPOA, so they have no legal or moral standing to resort to this mechanism.” Western countries accuse Iran of plotting to build a nuclear weapon, which Tehran denies. The United States pulled out of the deal in 2018 under the first administration of President Donald Trump, who called the agreement “weak”. Trump is urging Tehran to restart nuclear negotiations for a new deal after a ceasefire reached last month ended a 12-day air war between Iran and Israel that destabilised the Middle East. Baghaei did not respond in the affirmative when asked if Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi would meet Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and said no date or location had been set for resuming the US-Iran nuclear talks.

Western countries accuse Iran of plotting to build a nuclear weapon, which Tehran denies. Trump is urging Tehran to restart nuclear negotiations for a new deal after a ceasefire reached last month ended a 12-day air war between Iran and Israel that destabilised the Middle East.

Iran warns of ‘appropriate response’ if UN sanctions are reimposed under ‘snapback mechanism’

As the prospects for an end to war with Russia becomes murkier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as Ukraine's new PM. Taking to X Zelensky wrote, "We are launching a transformation of the executive branch in Ukraine. I have invited Yulia Svyrydenko to head the government of Ukraine and to significantly upgrade its work."&nbsp;"I look forward to presenting the new government's action program in the near future," he further wrote.&nbsp;The decision by Zelensky comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to end the war has not yielded much results and Ukraine now seeks to revive its cash-strapped economy.&nbsp;Svyrydenko's appointment will have to be approved by parliament, which has largely sided by Zelensky in most matters since Russia invaded the country in February 2022.&nbsp;Who is Yulia Svyrydenko&nbsp;Svyrydenko, 39, is an economist by training and has been the deputy prime minister of Ukraine since 2021. She played a major role in negotiating a minerals deal with the United States recently.&nbsp;She has also served as the minister of economic development and trade and deputy head of the office of the president.&nbsp;Zelensky contemplating new ambassador to US&nbsp;Zelensky is also contemplating a new ambassador to Washington. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov is the likely choice as said by the Ukrainian president last week.&nbsp;“Ukraine needs more positive dynamics in relations with the United States and at the same time new steps in managing the defense sector of our state,” said Zelensky after meeting Umerov over the weekend, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The decision by Zelensky comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to end the war with Russia has not yielded much results.

As the prospects for an end to war with Russia becomes murkier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as Ukraine's new PM. Taking to X Zelensky wrote, "We are launching a transformation of the executive branch in Ukraine. I have invited Yulia Svyrydenko to head the government of Ukraine and to significantly upgrade its work." "I look forward to presenting the new government's action program in the near future," he further wrote. The decision by Zelensky comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to end the war has not yielded much results and Ukraine now seeks to revive its cash-strapped economy. Svyrydenko's appointment will have to be approved by parliament, which has largely sided by Zelensky in most matters since Russia invaded the country in February 2022. Who is Yulia Svyrydenko Svyrydenko, 39, is an economist by training and has been the deputy prime minister of Ukraine since 2021. She played a major role in negotiating a minerals deal with the United States recently. She has also served as the minister of economic development and trade and deputy head of the office of the president. Zelensky contemplating new ambassador to US Zelensky is also contemplating a new ambassador to Washington. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov is the likely choice as said by the Ukrainian president last week. “Ukraine needs more positive dynamics in relations with the United States and at the same time new steps in managing the defense sector of our state,” said Zelensky after meeting Umerov over the weekend, reported Reuters.

The decision by Zelensky comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to end the war with Russia has not yielded much results.

Zelensky announces Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyryden as Ukraine's new PM

Ghislaine Maxwell is reportedly prepared to testify before Congress about Jeffrey Epstein’s secret files, amid criticism against US Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice (DOJ), Daily Mail UK has reported.Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking network, has appealed her conviction to the US Supreme Court. The DOJ’s response is due by July 14.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sounds-like-you-re-in-the-list-maga-turns-on-trump-s-fbi-chief-kash-patel-over-epstein-files-1752425713913">‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files</a><h2>‘She would welcome the chance to tell her story’</h2>A source close to Maxwell told Daily Mail that the 63-year-old former socialite is open to testifying before Congress. “She would be more than happy to sit before Congress and tell her story,” the source said. “She remains the only person to be jailed in connection to Epstein and she would welcome the chance to tell the American public the truth.”The source added, “Despite the rumours, Ghislaine was never offered any kind of plea deal. No one from the government has ever asked her to share what she knows.”"This is a critical moment, a do or die moment. Ghislaine believes she has multiple grounds for appeal," the unnamed Department of Justice source added.<h2>Why is Maxwell appealing?</h2>Maxwell was convicted in 2022 for helping Epstein sexually abuse several underage girls over the span of a decade. She argues her prosecution violated a 2007 non-prosecution agreement granted to Epstein, which she claims should have protected her as well. She maintains that she is innocent and insists she should have never been charged.<h2>Claims of missing footage, no ‘client list’ raise more questions</h2>The Epstein scandal continues to cause political fallout. The DOJ recently claimed there is no ‘client list’ and that Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019. But critics have pointed out that video footage from inside the jail is incomplete, with key minutes missing and no view of Epstein’s cell door.This has fuelled conspiracy theories and angered Trump’s MAGA base, many of whom now accuse Pam Bondi of failing to keep her promise of transparency over the Epstein files.<h2>Trump, Elon Musk respond to Epstein ‘cover-up’ claims</h2>On Truth Social, Donald Trump hit back at Epstein-related allegations, writing, “For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again. Why are we not giving publicity to files written by Obama, Crooked Hillary, Comey, Brennan and the losers and criminals of the Biden administration?”Meanwhile, Elon Musk has claimed the cover-up exists because Trump is mentioned in the Epstein files. However, a source close to Maxwell told Daily Mail this was a “false flag”, and that Trump had broken contact with Epstein early on.<h2>No new prosecutions expected, DOJ says</h2>The DOJ has also said it is unlikely anyone else will be prosecuted in relation to the Epstein case. That includes Prince Andrew, who settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, who had accused him of having sex with her while she was underage, a claim he has always denied. Giuffre died earlier this year in what has been described as suicide.Maxwell’s Supreme Court appeal is still pending, and the DOJ’s official response is expected by July 14. “Congressional hearings have been held into everything from JFK’s assassination to 9/11. The Epstein files rank up there with those cases,” the source told Daily Mail.

Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking network, has appealed her conviction to the US Supreme Court. The DOJ’s response is due by July 14.

Ghislaine Maxwell is reportedly prepared to testify before Congress about Jeffrey Epstein’s secret files, amid criticism against US Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice (DOJ), Daily Mail UK has reported. Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking network, has appealed her conviction to the US Supreme Court. The DOJ’s response is due by July 14. Also read: ‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files ‘She would welcome the chance to tell her story’ A source close to Maxwell told Daily Mail that the 63-year-old former socialite is open to testifying before Congress. “She would be more than happy to sit before Congress and tell her story,” the source said. “She remains the only person to be jailed in connection to Epstein and she would welcome the chance to tell the American public the truth.” The source added, “Despite the rumours, Ghislaine was never offered any kind of plea deal. No one from the government has ever asked her to share what she knows.” "This is a critical moment, a do or die moment. Ghislaine believes she has multiple grounds for appeal," the unnamed Department of Justice source added. Why is Maxwell appealing? Maxwell was convicted in 2022 for helping Epstein sexually abuse several underage girls over the span of a decade. She argues her prosecution violated a 2007 non-prosecution agreement granted to Epstein, which she claims should have protected her as well. She maintains that she is innocent and insists she should have never been charged. Claims of missing footage, no ‘client list’ raise more questions The Epstein scandal continues to cause political fallout. The DOJ recently claimed there is no ‘client list’ and that Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019. But critics have pointed out that video footage from inside the jail is incomplete, with key minutes missing and no view of Epstein’s cell door. This has fuelled conspiracy theories and angered Trump’s MAGA base, many of whom now accuse Pam Bondi of failing to keep her promise of transparency over the Epstein files. Trump, Elon Musk respond to Epstein ‘cover-up’ claims On Truth Social, Donald Trump hit back at Epstein-related allegations, writing, “For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again. Why are we not giving publicity to files written by Obama, Crooked Hillary, Comey, Brennan and the losers and criminals of the Biden administration?” Meanwhile, Elon Musk has claimed the cover-up exists because Trump is mentioned in the Epstein files. However, a source close to Maxwell told Daily Mail this was a “false flag”, and that Trump had broken contact with Epstein early on. No new prosecutions expected, DOJ says The DOJ has also said it is unlikely anyone else will be prosecuted in relation to the Epstein case. That includes Prince Andrew, who settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, who had accused him of having sex with her while she was underage, a claim he has always denied. Giuffre died earlier this year in what has been described as suicide. Maxwell’s Supreme Court appeal is still pending, and the DOJ’s official response is expected by July 14. “Congressional hearings have been held into everything from JFK’s assassination to 9/11. The Epstein files rank up there with those cases,” the source told Daily Mail.

Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking network, has appealed her conviction to the US Supreme Court. The DOJ’s response is due by July 14.

Ghislaine Maxwell ready to reveal ‘truth’ about Epstein client list? Epstein’s ex faces ‘do or die’ moment as Supreme Court appeal looms

From Russia's S-400 Triumph to America's THAAD, here's a look at the top six air defense systems in the world. This list also includes these air defense systems - David’s Sling, S-300VM, MIM-104 Patriot and HQ-9.

From Russia's S-400 Triumph to America's THAAD: Top 6 air defense systems in the world

&nbsp;&nbsp;Three top leaders of the banned insurgent group United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) were killed and several members injured in the Sagaiang region of Myanmar. The secessionist insurgent group alleged that its leaders were killed in drone attacks by the Indian Army, but the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati outrightly rejected the accusation.The banned group, headed by Paresh Baruah, issued multiple statements, claiming that its eastern headquarters in Myanmar had been targeted by the Indian Army with drones in the early hours, 19 cadres had been killed, and another 19 had been injured.It said several mobile camps were targeted between 2 am and 4 am Sunday.&nbsp;Ulfa (I), the anti-talks faction, seeks to establish a sovereign Assam through armed struggle and operates from multiple mobile camps in Myanmar, along the 1,600-kilometre border with India.Internal rifts and the government’s engagement with the pro-talks faction have curtailed Ulfa (I)’s popularity and strength on the ground in Assam.ULFA-I demands the inclusion of a demand for a sovereign Assam in any talks.&nbsp;It claimed that the Indian Army used Israeli and French drones in the attacks on its leaders and cadre even though India does not operate any French drones.ULFA-I said that the outfit’s self-proclaimed Lieutenant General Nayan Medhi (alias Nayan Asom), the chairman of Ulfa(I)’s so-called “lower council”, has been killed in an aerial attack. The group then issued another statement saying that fresh attacks were carried out during the funeral of Nayan Medhi, and self-styled Brigadier Ganesh Asom and Colonel Pradip Asom were killed.“While the last rites of Nayan Asom were being carried out, missile attacks were carried out in which Ganesh Asom and Pradip Asom became martyrs and several officers, cadres and civilians sustained injuries,” read the statement, quoted by Northeast-based media outlets.&nbsp;<h2>Indian Army denies charge</h2>&nbsp;The Indian Army outrightly denied any knowledge of such an operation taking place in Myanmar or playing any role in it.“There are no inputs with the Indian Army on such an operation,” said Colonel M.S. Rawat, the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati.&nbsp;Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also has the home portfolio, also denied any role of state agencies in the incident. “Assam Police is not involved in this incident. There has been no strike from the soil of Assam,” reported Assamese news organisation Pratidin Time, citing CM Sarma.&nbsp;He added that such operations, if conducted, are usually acknowledged by the armed forces. “More information is required on the matter. I think it will be clearer by evening,” news agency PTI cited Sarma as saying.&nbsp;There was no independent confirmation of the attack or the deaths reported by Ulfa (I).The Indian Army has not issued any statement beyond the denial of knowledge, and there has been no response from the Myanmar side as well.&nbsp;<h2>Army, Assam CM deny knowledge of alleged attack, any involvement</h2>&nbsp;In 2019, India had carried out joint cross-border operations with Myanmar codenamed Operation Sunrise, targeting insurgent camps of groups like Ulfa(I), Naga militant outfit NSCN, and other rebel groups. No such operation has been officially acknowledged in the current instance.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also has the state home portfolio, denied any role of state agencies in the incident. He added that such operations, if conducted, are usually acknowledged by the armed forces. 

Three top leaders of the banned insurgent group United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) were killed and several members injured in the Sagaiang region of Myanmar. The secessionist insurgent group alleged that its leaders were killed in drone attacks by the Indian Army, but the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati outrightly rejected the accusation. The banned group, headed by Paresh Baruah, issued multiple statements, claiming that its eastern headquarters in Myanmar had been targeted by the Indian Army with drones in the early hours, 19 cadres had been killed, and another 19 had been injured. It said several mobile camps were targeted between 2 am and 4 am Sunday. Ulfa (I), the anti-talks faction, seeks to establish a sovereign Assam through armed struggle and operates from multiple mobile camps in Myanmar, along the 1,600-kilometre border with India. Internal rifts and the government’s engagement with the pro-talks faction have curtailed Ulfa (I)’s popularity and strength on the ground in Assam. ULFA-I demands the inclusion of a demand for a sovereign Assam in any talks. It claimed that the Indian Army used Israeli and French drones in the attacks on its leaders and cadre even though India does not operate any French drones. ULFA-I said that the outfit’s self-proclaimed Lieutenant General Nayan Medhi (alias Nayan Asom), the chairman of Ulfa(I)’s so-called “lower council”, has been killed in an aerial attack. The group then issued another statement saying that fresh attacks were carried out during the funeral of Nayan Medhi, and self-styled Brigadier Ganesh Asom and Colonel Pradip Asom were killed. “While the last rites of Nayan Asom were being carried out, missile attacks were carried out in which Ganesh Asom and Pradip Asom became martyrs and several officers, cadres and civilians sustained injuries,” read the statement, quoted by Northeast-based media outlets. Indian Army denies charge The Indian Army outrightly denied any knowledge of such an operation taking place in Myanmar or playing any role in it. “There are no inputs with the Indian Army on such an operation,” said Colonel M.S. Rawat, the Defence PRO (Public Relations Officer) in Guwahati. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also has the home portfolio, also denied any role of state agencies in the incident. “Assam Police is not involved in this incident. There has been no strike from the soil of Assam,” reported Assamese news organisation Pratidin Time, citing CM Sarma. He added that such operations, if conducted, are usually acknowledged by the armed forces. “More information is required on the matter. I think it will be clearer by evening,” news agency PTI cited Sarma as saying. There was no independent confirmation of the attack or the deaths reported by Ulfa (I). The Indian Army has not issued any statement beyond the denial of knowledge, and there has been no response from the Myanmar side as well. Army, Assam CM deny knowledge of alleged attack, any involvement In 2019, India had carried out joint cross-border operations with Myanmar codenamed Operation Sunrise, targeting insurgent camps of groups like Ulfa(I), Naga militant outfit NSCN, and other rebel groups. No such operation has been officially acknowledged in the current instance.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also has the state home portfolio, denied any role of state agencies in the incident. He added that such operations, if conducted, are usually acknowledged by the armed forces.&nbsp;

3 top ULFA-I leaders killed in ‘drone strikes’ in Myanmar, Indian Army denies role after accusations

The tragic accident of the London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 12 June, 2025, has been marked as the deadliest crash of the decade, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and 19 others on the ground, with only one survivor from the plane. However, there have been several such worst incidents witnessed in the past that claimed multiple lives, and several were injured.&nbsp;These incidents have fundamentally altered how the aviation industry approaches safety. Further, with the advancement of aircraft technology, it has contributed to the development of safer aircraft, planes with enhanced security measures, improved training procedures and more sophisticated safety management systems.&nbsp;Here is the list of the world's worst plane crashes ever:<h3>1. The Tenerife Airport Disaster</h3>The deadliest accident in the aviation history unfolded on 27 March, 1977, at Los Rodeos Airport (TFN) in the Canary Islands when two Boeing 747 jumbo jets, operated by KLM (KL) and Pan Am (PA), collided on the runway during takeoff, resulting in a death of 583 passengers. The crash took place when dense fog severely limited visibility, resulting in confusion at air traffic control.<h3>2. Japan Airlines Flight 123</h3>The next darkest day in aviation history was August 12, 1985, when Japan Airlines (JL) Flight 123 crashed into Mount Takamagahara, killing 520 people. The incident unfolded when Boeing 747SR was en route from Tokyo (HND) to Osaka (KIX) when a catastrophic failure of the rear pressure bulkhead caused rapid decompression and loss of hydraulic control.<h3>3. Charkhi Dadri Mid-Air Collision</h3>This horrific accident was the first such crash in the Indian aviation industry that has ever been witnessed. It was unfolded when Saudi Arabian Airlines (SV) Flight 763, a Boeing 747, collided with Kazakhstan Airlines (KZ) Flight 1907, an Ilyushin Il-76, near New Delhi on November 12, 1996. All 349 passengers travelling in the plane lost their lives immediately.<h3>4. Air India Flight 182</h3>On June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182 was brought down by a bomb mid-flight over the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in the deaths of all 329 passengers and crew. The Boeing 747 was travelling from Toronto to Delhi when an explosive planted in the cargo section detonated, causing the plane to disintegrate and plunge into the sea.<h3>5. Saudi Arabian Flight 163</h3>On August 19, 1980, a fire broke out in the cargo area of Saudi Arabian Flight 163 shortly after departing from Riyadh. Although the Lockheed L-1011 aircraft landed safely back at the airport, all 301 people onboard perished due to smoke inhalation. The fatalities occurred as a result of a delayed evacuation, which allowed toxic fumes to overwhelm the cabin.<h3>6. Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17</h3>Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was shot down on July 17, 2014, while flying over a conflict zone in eastern Ukraine. The aircraft, en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was struck by a missile, killing all 298 individuals onboard, including 193 citizens of the Netherlands.&nbsp;<h3>7. Iran Air Flight 655</h3>The Airbus A300 carrying 290 passengers is marked as one of the most controversial aviation disasters, which occurred on July 3, 1988, when Iran Air (IR) Flight 655 was shot down by the USS Vincennes over the Persian Gulf. It was struck by 2 surface-to-air missiles fired by the American warship.&nbsp;Despite the plane following a normal commercial flight path and broadcasting on civilian frequencies, the USS Vincennes crew mistakenly identified the civilian aircraft as an Iranian F-14 Tomcat fighter jet.<h3>8. American Airlines Flight 191</h3>The most catastrophic accident in United States aviation history occurred on May 25, 1979, which claimed the lives of 271 passengers when American Airlines (AA) Flight 191 crashed soon after takeoff from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).&nbsp;The incident unfolded when the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 lost its left engine during rotation, causing the aircraft to roll uncontrollably and crash into a field.<h3>9. Air India flight AI 171, Ahmedabad plane crash</h3>On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London crashed in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Both of the aircraft’s engines failed just three seconds after takeoff, resulting in a crash that killed all 241 passengers and 19 people on the ground.<h3>10. 2001: American Airlines Flight 587</h3>On November 12, 2001, American Airlines Flight 587, an Airbus A300, crashed in Queens, New York, shortly after taking off from JFK Airport. The plane was headed to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The crash led to the deaths of all 260 people onboard and five individuals on the ground.

Other than the Ahmedabad plane crash, there have been several such worst incidents witnessed in the past that claimed multiple lives, and several were injured. As a result, the aviation industry has fundamentally altered its approach towards safety.

The tragic accident of the London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 12 June, 2025, has been marked as the deadliest crash of the decade, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and 19 others on the ground, with only one survivor from the plane. However, there have been several such worst incidents witnessed in the past that claimed multiple lives, and several were injured. These incidents have fundamentally altered how the aviation industry approaches safety. Further, with the advancement of aircraft technology, it has contributed to the development of safer aircraft, planes with enhanced security measures, improved training procedures and more sophisticated safety management systems. Here is the list of the world's worst plane crashes ever: 1. The Tenerife Airport Disaster The deadliest accident in the aviation history unfolded on 27 March, 1977, at Los Rodeos Airport (TFN) in the Canary Islands when two Boeing 747 jumbo jets, operated by KLM (KL) and Pan Am (PA), collided on the runway during takeoff, resulting in a death of 583 passengers. The crash took place when dense fog severely limited visibility, resulting in confusion at air traffic control. 2. Japan Airlines Flight 123 The next darkest day in aviation history was August 12, 1985, when Japan Airlines (JL) Flight 123 crashed into Mount Takamagahara, killing 520 people. The incident unfolded when Boeing 747SR was en route from Tokyo (HND) to Osaka (KIX) when a catastrophic failure of the rear pressure bulkhead caused rapid decompression and loss of hydraulic control. 3. Charkhi Dadri Mid-Air Collision This horrific accident was the first such crash in the Indian aviation industry that has ever been witnessed. It was unfolded when Saudi Arabian Airlines (SV) Flight 763, a Boeing 747, collided with Kazakhstan Airlines (KZ) Flight 1907, an Ilyushin Il-76, near New Delhi on November 12, 1996. All 349 passengers travelling in the plane lost their lives immediately. 4. Air India Flight 182 On June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182 was brought down by a bomb mid-flight over the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in the deaths of all 329 passengers and crew. The Boeing 747 was travelling from Toronto to Delhi when an explosive planted in the cargo section detonated, causing the plane to disintegrate and plunge into the sea. 5. Saudi Arabian Flight 163 On August 19, 1980, a fire broke out in the cargo area of Saudi Arabian Flight 163 shortly after departing from Riyadh. Although the Lockheed L-1011 aircraft landed safely back at the airport, all 301 people onboard perished due to smoke inhalation. The fatalities occurred as a result of a delayed evacuation, which allowed toxic fumes to overwhelm the cabin. 6. Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was shot down on July 17, 2014, while flying over a conflict zone in eastern Ukraine. The aircraft, en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was struck by a missile, killing all 298 individuals onboard, including 193 citizens of the Netherlands. 7. Iran Air Flight 655 The Airbus A300 carrying 290 passengers is marked as one of the most controversial aviation disasters, which occurred on July 3, 1988, when Iran Air (IR) Flight 655 was shot down by the USS Vincennes over the Persian Gulf. It was struck by 2 surface-to-air missiles fired by the American warship. Despite the plane following a normal commercial flight path and broadcasting on civilian frequencies, the USS Vincennes crew mistakenly identified the civilian aircraft as an Iranian F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. 8. American Airlines Flight 191 The most catastrophic accident in United States aviation history occurred on May 25, 1979, which claimed the lives of 271 passengers when American Airlines (AA) Flight 191 crashed soon after takeoff from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). The incident unfolded when the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 lost its left engine during rotation, causing the aircraft to roll uncontrollably and crash into a field. 9. Air India flight AI 171, Ahmedabad plane crash On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London crashed in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Both of the aircraft’s engines failed just three seconds after takeoff, resulting in a crash that killed all 241 passengers and 19 people on the ground. 10. 2001: American Airlines Flight 587 On November 12, 2001, American Airlines Flight 587, an Airbus A300, crashed in Queens, New York, shortly after taking off from JFK Airport. The plane was headed to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The crash led to the deaths of all 260 people onboard and five individuals on the ground.

Other than the Ahmedabad plane crash, there have been several such worst incidents witnessed in the past that claimed multiple lives, and several were injured. As a result, the aviation industry has fundamentally altered its approach towards safety.

Which was the deadliest plane crash in history? Full list of top 10 air disasters

A huge fire engulfed an assisted living home Gabriel House in Massachusetts on Sunday evening (July 13). At least nine people have died and more than thirty were injured in the blaze, as per a report by CNN. The fire chief of the locality has termed it an "unfathomable tragedy". Crews were met with heavy fire through the main entrance and several people hanging out of the windows, looking to be rescued," Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon was quoted saying to CNN.&nbsp;“This is an unfathomable tragedy for the families involved and the Fall River community,” said Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon in a statement. “On behalf of the Fall River Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones who are grieving this morning.”&nbsp;The fire occurred on Sunday (July 13), at Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, approximately 50 miles south of Boston, where about 70 residents lived prior to the fire, Wark said. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 9:50 pm local time and immediately started rescuing people inside the building while extinguishing the fire, a press release issued by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services on Monday morning said. Around 50 firefighters, 30 of whom were off-duty, arrived on the scene.

Multiple dead, several injured after fire at Massachusetts assisted living facility

A huge fire engulfed an assisted living home Gabriel House in Massachusetts on Sunday evening (July 13). At least nine people have died and more than thirty were injured in the blaze, as per a report by CNN. The fire chief of the locality has termed it an "unfathomable tragedy". Crews were met with heavy fire through the main entrance and several people hanging out of the windows, looking to be rescued," Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon was quoted saying to CNN. “This is an unfathomable tragedy for the families involved and the Fall River community,” said Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon in a statement. “On behalf of the Fall River Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones who are grieving this morning.” The fire occurred on Sunday (July 13), at Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, approximately 50 miles south of Boston, where about 70 residents lived prior to the fire, Wark said. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 9:50 pm local time and immediately started rescuing people inside the building while extinguishing the fire, a press release issued by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services on Monday morning said. Around 50 firefighters, 30 of whom were off-duty, arrived on the scene.

According to reports, approximately 50 firefighters, including 30 who were off-duty, responded to the incident

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three fellow crew members of the Axiom-4 mission have started their return to Earth after spending 18 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their journey back began on Monday at around 4:50 pm IST, following the undocking of their Dragon spacecraft, which saw a few delays but no technical issues, according to NASA.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-germany-s-taurus-missiles-here-s-why-ukraine-keeps-asking-for-them-1752489150206">'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them</a><h2>When and where will the spacecraft land?</h2>As per NASA’s schedule, the splashdown is expected around 3 pm IST on Tuesday, July 15, off the coast of California. The return journey will last about 22-and-a-half hours, NASA’s live broadcast confirmed. The spacecraft is also carrying over 250 kilograms of cargo, including scientific samples and equipment used in various experiments during the mission.<h2>When did Shukla’s journey to space begin?</h2>The Axiom-4 mission took off on June 25, with the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft lifting off just after noon IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The spacecraft docked at the ISS the next day. Shubhanshu Shukla, serving as pilot of the mission, became the second Indian to travel to space, after Rakesh Sharma’s flight in 1984. On June 28, Shukla also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a symbolic moment for India’s growing space presence.<h2>Who else was on the Axiom-4 crew?</h2>The crew included:• Shubhanshu Shukla from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)• Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of the European Space Agency (ESA)• Tibor Kapu, part of Hungary’s HUNOR programme• Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and current director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space<h2>What did the Axiom-4 crew work on?</h2>The astronauts conducted a wide range of experiments across medicine, agriculture, and space biology. Shubhanshu Shukla focused on skeletal and muscle degradation in microgravity. He also tested microalgae growth as a sustainable food source for long-duration space missions. Other experiments included work on cancer research, plant biology, microgreens, and blood circulation in space. The team also participated in a mental health study for astronauts.

As per NASA’s schedule, the splashdown is expected around 3 pm IST on Tuesday, July 15, off the coast of California. The return journey will last about 22-and-a-half hours, NASA’s live broadcast confirmed.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three fellow crew members of the Axiom-4 mission have started their return to Earth after spending 18 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their journey back began on Monday at around 4:50 pm IST, following the undocking of their Dragon spacecraft, which saw a few delays but no technical issues, according to NASA. Also read: 'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them When and where will the spacecraft land? As per NASA’s schedule, the splashdown is expected around 3 pm IST on Tuesday, July 15, off the coast of California. The return journey will last about 22-and-a-half hours, NASA’s live broadcast confirmed. The spacecraft is also carrying over 250 kilograms of cargo, including scientific samples and equipment used in various experiments during the mission. When did Shukla’s journey to space begin? The Axiom-4 mission took off on June 25, with the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft lifting off just after noon IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The spacecraft docked at the ISS the next day. Shubhanshu Shukla, serving as pilot of the mission, became the second Indian to travel to space, after Rakesh Sharma’s flight in 1984. On June 28, Shukla also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a symbolic moment for India’s growing space presence. Who else was on the Axiom-4 crew? The crew included: • Shubhanshu Shukla from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) • Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of the European Space Agency (ESA) • Tibor Kapu, part of Hungary’s HUNOR programme • Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and current director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space What did the Axiom-4 crew work on? The astronauts conducted a wide range of experiments across medicine, agriculture, and space biology. Shubhanshu Shukla focused on skeletal and muscle degradation in microgravity. He also tested microalgae growth as a sustainable food source for long-duration space missions. Other experiments included work on cancer research, plant biology, microgreens, and blood circulation in space. The team also participated in a mental health study for astronauts.

As per NASA’s schedule, the splashdown is expected around 3 pm IST on Tuesday, July 15, off the coast of California. The return journey will last about 22-and-a-half hours, NASA’s live broadcast confirmed.

Dragon undocks from ISS: Shubhanshu Shukla begins journey back to Earth after 18 days in space - Here’s when the Axiom-4 crew will land

A German doctor was put on trial on Monday (July 14) for allegedly killing 15 patients with lethal injections and playing "master of life and death" over patients under his care. The 40-year-old palliative care physician, identified by German media as Johannes M, is suspected of having killed 12 women and three men between September 2021 and July 2024, while practicing in Berlin. The doctor is accused of having injected victims, who were between 25 and 94 years old, with lethal mixtures of sedatives and in other instances burning down their houses in an attempt to cover up his crimes.&nbsp;The defendant had “visited his patients under the pretext of providing medical care”, state prosecutor Philipp Meyhoefer said at the beginning of the trial in the Berlin state court. Johannes M had planned "house calls, already with the intention of killing" and exploited his patients' faith in him as a physician, Meyhoefer explained further. "He acted with disregard for life... and behaved as the master of life and death." &nbsp;A colleague initially raised concerns about Johannes M last July when he became suspicious that so many of his patients had died in fires, Die Zeit newspaper reported. He was arrested in August last year, as prosecutors initially charged him with four deaths. But further investigations revealed a multitude of other suspicious cases, and in April prosecutors indicted Johannes M. on 15 counts of murder. Another 96 cases are under investigation, a spokesman for the prosecutors was quoted saying to AFP, including the death of Johannes M's mother-in-law. She had been ill with cancer and died under mysterious circumstances over the same weekend Johannes M and his wife traveled to see her in Poland early in 2024, according to media reports. The suspect allegedly qualified as a radiologist and an general practitioner before proceeding to specialise in palliative medicine.&nbsp;According to Die Zeit, he submitted a doctoral thesis in 2013 examining the reasons for a string of murders in Frankfurt, which began with the question "Why do people kill?"&nbsp;In the indictment against Johannes M, prosecutors said the physician had "injected his patients with an anaesthetic and a muscle relaxant. without their knowledge or consent.". The relaxant "paralysed the respiratory muscles, causing respiratory arrest and death within minutes".<h2>‘No motive beyond killing’&nbsp;</h2>Prosecutors said that he has "no motive beyond killing" and are calling for a life sentence. The case is reminiscent of that of infamous German nurse Niels Hoegel, who was sentenced to life in 2019 after being convicted of killing 85 patients.&nbsp;Hoegel, who is believed to be modern Germany's most prolific serial killer, killed hospital patients through lethal injections between 2000 and 2005, before he was finally apprehended in the act.&nbsp;In more recent times, a 27-year-old nurse received a life sentence in 2023 for killing two patients by intentionally giving them unprescribed medication. A nurse was tried last month in Aachen charged with injecting 26 patients with heavy doses of sedatives or painkillers, killing nine of them.&nbsp;Last week, German police uncovered that they are investigating another suspected serial killer doctor who has allegedly killed several of their predominantly elderly patients. Police and prosecutors said investigators are "examining" deaths attributable to the physician in the northern German town of Pinneberg, on the outskirts of Hamburg.

Who is ‘Doctor Death’, accused of killing patients with lethal injections in Germany? Trial begins for murders

A German doctor was put on trial on Monday (July 14) for allegedly killing 15 patients with lethal injections and playing "master of life and death" over patients under his care. The 40-year-old palliative care physician, identified by German media as Johannes M, is suspected of having killed 12 women and three men between September 2021 and July 2024, while practicing in Berlin. The doctor is accused of having injected victims, who were between 25 and 94 years old, with lethal mixtures of sedatives and in other instances burning down their houses in an attempt to cover up his crimes. The defendant had “visited his patients under the pretext of providing medical care”, state prosecutor Philipp Meyhoefer said at the beginning of the trial in the Berlin state court. Johannes M had planned "house calls, already with the intention of killing" and exploited his patients' faith in him as a physician, Meyhoefer explained further. "He acted with disregard for life... and behaved as the master of life and death." A colleague initially raised concerns about Johannes M last July when he became suspicious that so many of his patients had died in fires, Die Zeit newspaper reported. He was arrested in August last year, as prosecutors initially charged him with four deaths. But further investigations revealed a multitude of other suspicious cases, and in April prosecutors indicted Johannes M. on 15 counts of murder. Another 96 cases are under investigation, a spokesman for the prosecutors was quoted saying to AFP, including the death of Johannes M's mother-in-law. She had been ill with cancer and died under mysterious circumstances over the same weekend Johannes M and his wife traveled to see her in Poland early in 2024, according to media reports. The suspect allegedly qualified as a radiologist and an general practitioner before proceeding to specialise in palliative medicine. According to Die Zeit, he submitted a doctoral thesis in 2013 examining the reasons for a string of murders in Frankfurt, which began with the question "Why do people kill?" In the indictment against Johannes M, prosecutors said the physician had "injected his patients with an anaesthetic and a muscle relaxant. without their knowledge or consent.". The relaxant "paralysed the respiratory muscles, causing respiratory arrest and death within minutes". ‘No motive beyond killing’ Prosecutors said that he has "no motive beyond killing" and are calling for a life sentence. The case is reminiscent of that of infamous German nurse Niels Hoegel, who was sentenced to life in 2019 after being convicted of killing 85 patients. Hoegel, who is believed to be modern Germany's most prolific serial killer, killed hospital patients through lethal injections between 2000 and 2005, before he was finally apprehended in the act. In more recent times, a 27-year-old nurse received a life sentence in 2023 for killing two patients by intentionally giving them unprescribed medication. A nurse was tried last month in Aachen charged with injecting 26 patients with heavy doses of sedatives or painkillers, killing nine of them. Last week, German police uncovered that they are investigating another suspected serial killer doctor who has allegedly killed several of their predominantly elderly patients. Police and prosecutors said investigators are "examining" deaths attributable to the physician in the northern German town of Pinneberg, on the outskirts of Hamburg.

The 40-year-old palliative care specialist, named by German media as Johannes M, is alleged to have killed 12 women and three men between September 2021 and July 2024 while working in Berlin

Germany has once again refused to send its long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, despite ongoing Russian air attacks and renewed appeals from Kyiv. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed the decision in an interview with the Financial Times published on 13 July, saying, “Germany would not deliver its long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine despite a wave of recent Russian air attacks and a renewed request from Kyiv.”The decision comes after Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on 1 July that Berlin was still considering the request. Kyiv has long pushed for the missile as the war with Russia continues.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-zelensky-wants-it-what-is-patriot-missile-trump-plans-to-send-most-advanced-us-air-defence-system-to-ukraine-1750870908826">What is Patriot&nbsp;missile? Trump plans to send 'most advanced' US air defence system to Ukraine after 'disappointing' call with&nbsp;Putin</a><h2>What is the Taurus missile?</h2>The Taurus is a long-range cruise missile jointly developed by Germany’s MBDA Deutschland and Sweden’s Saab Bofors Dynamics. It was first manufactured in 1998. This missile can accurately hit targets up to 500 kilometres (about 310 miles) away. That’s a significantly greater range than most of the long-range missiles Ukraine has received from Western allies so far.It is designed to strike key infrastructure, including underground bunkers, ammunition depots, and ships, using a powerful warhead capable of penetrating hardened targets. It can also navigate long distances without needing GPS.<h2>Why does Ukraine want Taurus missiles?</h2>While Ukraine already uses long-range weapons supplied by the US and UK, it believes Taurus would be the most powerful missile yet in its arsenal. With its stealth technology and ability to hit faraway targets with precision, the missile is seen as a potential game-changer on the battlefield, especially in striking behind Russian lines.Taurus missile specifications:• Range: Up to 500 km (310 miles)• Speed: Close to Mach 1• Technology: Precision-guidance and stealth features• Payload: Weighs 1,400 kg and can pierce fortified targets• Targets: Command centres, ports, bridges, ships, and bunkers<h2>What is Germany’s position on supplying Taurus, Patriot air defence systems?</h2>Aside from denying the supply of Taurus to Kyiv, Germany also said that it won't be able to offer more US-made Patriot air defence systems. Pistorius said Berlin had already sent three Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine between 2023 and 2024, but could not offer more.“We only have six left in Germany. Two had been lent to Poland and at least one was always unavailable due to maintenance or training. That’s really too few, especially considering the NATO capability goals we have to meet. We definitely can’t give any more,” he said.Still, Pistorius left the door open to discussing the purchase of two additional Patriot systems from the US for Ukraine during a meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington on 14 July.<h2>How might Russia react if Germany changes its mind?</h2>Russia has warned that long-range weapons used by Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia would be seen as a serious escalation. After Merz’s election win in April, he said he was open to sending Taurus missiles. In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said any Taurus strike would mean Germany was directly involved in the war.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Merz of causing confusion. “He has confused everyone, if not himself,” Peskov said. He also warned that supplying the missile would be “an extremely dangerous decision” that undermines efforts towards peace. Zakharova added, “Germany would drive itself deeper into the hole in which the Kyiv regime it supports&nbsp;has&nbsp;long&nbsp;been.”

The Taurus is a long-range cruise missile jointly developed by Germany’s MBDA Deutschland and Sweden’s Saab Bofors Dynamics. It was first manufactured in 1998. This missile can accurately hit targets up to 500 kilometres (about 310 miles) away.

Germany has once again refused to send its long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, despite ongoing Russian air attacks and renewed appeals from Kyiv. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed the decision in an interview with the Financial Times published on 13 July, saying, “Germany would not deliver its long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine despite a wave of recent Russian air attacks and a renewed request from Kyiv.” The decision comes after Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on 1 July that Berlin was still considering the request. Kyiv has long pushed for the missile as the war with Russia continues. Also read: What is Patriot missile? Trump plans to send 'most advanced' US air defence system to Ukraine after 'disappointing' call with Putin What is the Taurus missile? The Taurus is a long-range cruise missile jointly developed by Germany’s MBDA Deutschland and Sweden’s Saab Bofors Dynamics. It was first manufactured in 1998. This missile can accurately hit targets up to 500 kilometres (about 310 miles) away. That’s a significantly greater range than most of the long-range missiles Ukraine has received from Western allies so far. It is designed to strike key infrastructure, including underground bunkers, ammunition depots, and ships, using a powerful warhead capable of penetrating hardened targets. It can also navigate long distances without needing GPS. Why does Ukraine want Taurus missiles? While Ukraine already uses long-range weapons supplied by the US and UK, it believes Taurus would be the most powerful missile yet in its arsenal. With its stealth technology and ability to hit faraway targets with precision, the missile is seen as a potential game-changer on the battlefield, especially in striking behind Russian lines. Taurus missile specifications: • Range: Up to 500 km (310 miles) • Speed: Close to Mach 1 • Technology: Precision-guidance and stealth features • Payload: Weighs 1,400 kg and can pierce fortified targets • Targets: Command centres, ports, bridges, ships, and bunkers What is Germany’s position on supplying Taurus, Patriot air defence systems? Aside from denying the supply of Taurus to Kyiv, Germany also said that it won't be able to offer more US-made Patriot air defence systems. Pistorius said Berlin had already sent three Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine between 2023 and 2024, but could not offer more. “We only have six left in Germany. Two had been lent to Poland and at least one was always unavailable due to maintenance or training. That’s really too few, especially considering the NATO capability goals we have to meet. We definitely can’t give any more,” he said. Still, Pistorius left the door open to discussing the purchase of two additional Patriot systems from the US for Ukraine during a meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington on 14 July. How might Russia react if Germany changes its mind? Russia has warned that long-range weapons used by Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia would be seen as a serious escalation. After Merz’s election win in April, he said he was open to sending Taurus missiles. In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said any Taurus strike would mean Germany was directly involved in the war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Merz of causing confusion. “He has confused everyone, if not himself,” Peskov said. He also warned that supplying the missile would be “an extremely dangerous decision” that undermines efforts towards peace. Zakharova added, “Germany would drive itself deeper into the hole in which the Kyiv regime it supports has long been.”

The Taurus is a long-range cruise missile jointly developed by Germany’s MBDA Deutschland and Sweden’s Saab Bofors Dynamics. It was first manufactured in 1998. This missile can accurately hit targets up to 500 kilometres (about 310 miles) away.

'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them

A rare Martian meteorite, weighing over 25 kilograms, is set to go under the hammer at Sotheby’s in New York on 16 July. Known as NWA 16788, this 54-pound fragment is the largest-known piece of Mars ever found on Earth. Estimated to fetch between $2 million and $4 million, bidding has already reached $1.6 million nearly a week before the auction.According to Sotheby’s, the meteorite was ejected from the Martian surface by a massive asteroid strike before embarking on a 140 million-mile journey through space. It eventually landed in Niger’s remote Agadez Region in November 2023, discovered by a meteorite hunter. Measuring nearly 15 inches by 11 inches by 6 inches, it is about 70 per cent larger than the next biggest Martian fragment known to exist.&nbsp;<h2>Rarity and scientific value</h2>&nbsp;Martian meteorites are among the rarest objects on Earth, comprising just 0.6 per cent of the roughly 77,000 officially recognised meteorites. Sotheby’s says only around 400 Martian rocks have ever been found, and this single specimen represents nearly 6.5 per cent of all known Martian material on Earth. What makes NWA 16788 especially notable, according to the auction listing, is its state of preservation. The meteorite shows minimal terrestrial weathering, indicating its physical and chemical structure remains largely intact since it fell. “NWA 16788 is likely a relative newcomer here on Earth,” Sotheby’s notes.&nbsp;Scientists value such meteorites for what they reveal about Mars’ geological past. By studying their composition, researchers gain clues about volcanic activity, water presence, and surface conditions on the Red Planet. The specimen will remain on public view at Sotheby’s New York galleries until 15 July.&nbsp;<h2>Debate over private ownership</h2>&nbsp;While collectors are expected to bid aggressively, some scientists have raised concerns that rare specimens could vanish into private collections. Alongside the Martian meteorite, Sotheby’s Natural History auction will also feature dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils and rare geological formations, drawing global interest from museums and private collectors alike.&nbsp;

Martian meteorites are among the rarest objects on Earth, comprising just 0.6 per cent of the roughly 77,000 officially recognised meteorites. 

A rare Martian meteorite, weighing over 25 kilograms, is set to go under the hammer at Sotheby’s in New York on 16 July. Known as NWA 16788, this 54-pound fragment is the largest-known piece of Mars ever found on Earth. Estimated to fetch between $2 million and $4 million, bidding has already reached $1.6 million nearly a week before the auction. According to Sotheby’s, the meteorite was ejected from the Martian surface by a massive asteroid strike before embarking on a 140 million-mile journey through space. It eventually landed in Niger’s remote Agadez Region in November 2023, discovered by a meteorite hunter. Measuring nearly 15 inches by 11 inches by 6 inches, it is about 70 per cent larger than the next biggest Martian fragment known to exist. Rarity and scientific value Martian meteorites are among the rarest objects on Earth, comprising just 0.6 per cent of the roughly 77,000 officially recognised meteorites. Sotheby’s says only around 400 Martian rocks have ever been found, and this single specimen represents nearly 6.5 per cent of all known Martian material on Earth. What makes NWA 16788 especially notable, according to the auction listing, is its state of preservation. The meteorite shows minimal terrestrial weathering, indicating its physical and chemical structure remains largely intact since it fell. “NWA 16788 is likely a relative newcomer here on Earth,” Sotheby’s notes. Scientists value such meteorites for what they reveal about Mars’ geological past. By studying their composition, researchers gain clues about volcanic activity, water presence, and surface conditions on the Red Planet. The specimen will remain on public view at Sotheby’s New York galleries until 15 July. Debate over private ownership While collectors are expected to bid aggressively, some scientists have raised concerns that rare specimens could vanish into private collections. Alongside the Martian meteorite, Sotheby’s Natural History auction will also feature dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils and rare geological formations, drawing global interest from museums and private collectors alike.

Martian meteorites are among the rarest objects on Earth, comprising just 0.6 per cent of the roughly 77,000 officially recognised meteorites.&nbsp;

Martian giant: Earth’s largest piece of Mars heads to auction in New York

The company that brought back 'Game of Thrones' dire wolves now has plans to bring back from extinction a giant 12-foot-tall bird. Just a few months back, in April, Colossal Biosciences announced that it had brought back from the dead a wolf whose haunting howl hadn't been heard on Earth in over 12,500 years. Hidden from curious gawkers and media, somewhere on this planet roam three majestic dire wolves that are nothing short of a miracle, especially given that the last member of their species died out more than 12,500 years ago. The company behind this de-extinction has now set its sights on "Moa" a flightless 12ft (3.66 m) tall bird that once roamed New Zealand.&nbsp;<h2>What is a moa? Can bringing it back from the dead threaten humans?</h2>&nbsp;Moa, as mentioned above, was a flightless bird that once ranged across New Zealand. However, it was hunted to extinction by humans around 600 years ago. The giant bird, as per estimates, stood up to 12 ft (3.6 m) tall and weighed somewhere around 230 kg (500 lbs).&nbsp;The bird, however large it may be, does not pose humans any threat. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) it was primarily a herbivore and ate leaves, fruits or fibrous materials from trees and shrubs. It must be noted that bringing it back would have implications, positive ones. The giant bird was what is known as a cornerstone species. It's grazing and browsing actually helped prune and shape the jungle flora where it lived. Moreover, moas were also prolific spreaders of seeds from the plants they ate.&nbsp;Their extinction also relates to the extinction of Haast's eagle, which almost exclusively hunted the moa. While de-extinction of the moa would not automatically bring back Haast's eagle, it could help at least partly restore the primal New Zealand woodlands.&nbsp;<h2>How will Colossal Biosciences bring back the moa from dead?</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Colossal Biosciences will bring back the giant bird exactly how it achieved the extinction of dire wolves: with the help of ancient DNA, cloning and gene-editing technology. As per a Time report, the company is working in collaboration with Ngāi Tahu Research Center, a group that was founded in 2011 to foster intellectual development and conduct scientific studies for and by the Ngāi Tahu tribe of the Indigenous Māori people to achieve Moa's de-extinction.&nbsp;According to Ben Lamm, CEO and co-founder of Colossal, "This is completely a Māori initiative". He added that "We feel like the Colossal team is an extension of the research center and the Māori." Meanwhile, Ngāi Tahu archaeologist Kyle Davis, who is working on the moa de-extinction project, reminisced that Moa is one of "those iconic species that feature in our tribal mythology, our storytelling, are very near and dear to us".&nbsp;After the Moa, Colossal Biosciences also wants to bring back species like the Tasmanian Tiger, the Dodo bird and the Wooly mammoth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Somewhere on this planet roam three majestic dire wolves that are nothing short of a miracle, especially given that the last member of their species died out more than 12,500 years ago. The company behind this de-extinction has now set its sights on "Moa" a flightless 12ft (3.66 m) tall bird.

The company that brought back 'Game of Thrones' dire wolves now has plans to bring back from extinction a giant 12-foot-tall bird. Just a few months back, in April, Colossal Biosciences announced that it had brought back from the dead a wolf whose haunting howl hadn't been heard on Earth in over 12,500 years. Hidden from curious gawkers and media, somewhere on this planet roam three majestic dire wolves that are nothing short of a miracle, especially given that the last member of their species died out more than 12,500 years ago. The company behind this de-extinction has now set its sights on "Moa" a flightless 12ft (3.66 m) tall bird that once roamed New Zealand. What is a moa? Can bringing it back from the dead threaten humans? Moa, as mentioned above, was a flightless bird that once ranged across New Zealand. However, it was hunted to extinction by humans around 600 years ago. The giant bird, as per estimates, stood up to 12 ft (3.6 m) tall and weighed somewhere around 230 kg (500 lbs). The bird, however large it may be, does not pose humans any threat. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) it was primarily a herbivore and ate leaves, fruits or fibrous materials from trees and shrubs. It must be noted that bringing it back would have implications, positive ones. The giant bird was what is known as a cornerstone species. It's grazing and browsing actually helped prune and shape the jungle flora where it lived. Moreover, moas were also prolific spreaders of seeds from the plants they ate. Their extinction also relates to the extinction of Haast's eagle, which almost exclusively hunted the moa. While de-extinction of the moa would not automatically bring back Haast's eagle, it could help at least partly restore the primal New Zealand woodlands. How will Colossal Biosciences bring back the moa from dead? Colossal Biosciences will bring back the giant bird exactly how it achieved the extinction of dire wolves: with the help of ancient DNA, cloning and gene-editing technology. As per a Time report, the company is working in collaboration with Ngāi Tahu Research Center, a group that was founded in 2011 to foster intellectual development and conduct scientific studies for and by the Ngāi Tahu tribe of the Indigenous Māori people to achieve Moa's de-extinction. According to Ben Lamm, CEO and co-founder of Colossal, "This is completely a Māori initiative". He added that "We feel like the Colossal team is an extension of the research center and the Māori." Meanwhile, Ngāi Tahu archaeologist Kyle Davis, who is working on the moa de-extinction project, reminisced that Moa is one of "those iconic species that feature in our tribal mythology, our storytelling, are very near and dear to us". After the Moa, Colossal Biosciences also wants to bring back species like the Tasmanian Tiger, the Dodo bird and the Wooly mammoth.

Somewhere on this planet roam three majestic dire wolves that are nothing short of a miracle, especially given that the last member of their species died out more than 12,500 years ago. The company behind this de-extinction has now set its sights on "Moa" a flightless 12ft (3.66 m) tall bird.

Scientists who 'de-extincted' dire wolf now want to bring back from dead THIS 12ft tall bird

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIM) released the investigation report on Saturday (July 12) regarding the crash of AI 171, in which 260 people were killed, including the medical students of the college where the plane crashed. The preliminary report, around 15 pages, was released a month after the deadly crash. The report has revealed details around all the important aspects of the crash.&nbsp;In a communication marked to select Air India employees, Wilson said, "All mandatory maintenance tasks had been completed. There was no issue with the quality of fuel and no abnormality with the take-off roll." He also pointed out the fact that both the pilots of the aircraft had cleared mandatory pre-flight breath analyser tests."We continue to perform necessary checks on all planes, as we will any new ones that authorities may suggest," he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nimisha-priya-case-india-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-on-monday-1752485334522/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nimisha-priya-case-india-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-on-monday-1752485334522/embed</a>&nbsp;Fuel cut-off mid-air&nbsp;The investigation report revealed that the fuel to both engines of the Boeing 787 aircraft was cut-off mid mid-air, just three seconds after the plane took off. "The aircraft achieved the maximum recorded airspeed of 180 Knots IAS at about 08:08:42 UTC, and immediately thereafter, the Engine 1 and Engine 2 fuel cutoff switches transitioned from RUN to CUTOFF position one after another with a time gap of 01 sec," the report said.&nbsp;Pilots confused&nbsp;The investigation report also revealed the last moments of the plane, in which the pilot of the aircraft was heard confused in the cockpit voice recording. "In the cockpit voice recording, one of the pilots is heard asking the other why he cut off. The other pilot responded that he did not do so," the report read. Boeing advisory not followed The investigation report also revealed that Boeing had issued an optional advisory on the fuel control switch locking mechanism, but Air India had not carried out the recommended checks. The AAIB report also confirmed that the wreckage analysis, post-mortem, is ongoing. "At this stage of investigation, there are no recommended actions to B787-8 and/or GE GEnx-1B engine operators and manufacturers," the report said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIM) released the investigation report on Saturday (July 12) regarding the crash of AI 171, in which 260 people were killed, including the medical students of the college where the plane crashed. The preliminary report, around 15 pages, was released a month after the deadly crash. The report has revealed details around all the important aspects of the crash. In a communication marked to select Air India employees, Wilson said, "All mandatory maintenance tasks had been completed. There was no issue with the quality of fuel and no abnormality with the take-off roll." He also pointed out the fact that both the pilots of the aircraft had cleared mandatory pre-flight breath analyser tests. "We continue to perform necessary checks on all planes, as we will any new ones that authorities may suggest," he added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nimisha-priya-case-india-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-on-monday-1752485334522/embed Fuel cut-off mid-air The investigation report revealed that the fuel to both engines of the Boeing 787 aircraft was cut-off mid mid-air, just three seconds after the plane took off. "The aircraft achieved the maximum recorded airspeed of 180 Knots IAS at about 08:08:42 UTC, and immediately thereafter, the Engine 1 and Engine 2 fuel cutoff switches transitioned from RUN to CUTOFF position one after another with a time gap of 01 sec," the report said. Pilots confused The investigation report also revealed the last moments of the plane, in which the pilot of the aircraft was heard confused in the cockpit voice recording. "In the cockpit voice recording, one of the pilots is heard asking the other why he cut off. The other pilot responded that he did not do so," the report read. Boeing advisory not followed The investigation report also revealed that Boeing had issued an optional advisory on the fuel control switch locking mechanism, but Air India had not carried out the recommended checks. The AAIB report also confirmed that the wreckage analysis, post-mortem, is ongoing. "At this stage of investigation, there are no recommended actions to B787-8 and/or GE GEnx-1B engine operators and manufacturers," the report said.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines

'There was NO ISSUE with the quality of fuel': Air India CEO says no mechanical issue found in probe report

The crash at London's Southend Airport has shocked many at the airport, waiting to board their flight. Many saw the Beech B200 Super King Air flight burst into flames as they were waiting for takeoff. A family present at the location said the pilots waved at them as they were taxiing. Talking to news outlet Sky News, John Johnson said, “We all waved back at them as they carried on taxiing to their take-off point and turned around. Then they throttled up the engines and passed by us. The aircraft took off and within a few seconds it had a steep bank angle to its left." He continued, “It almost seemed to invert and unfortunately crashed," he said. "There was a large fireball.”

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Wren Stranix, who was in another plane waiting to take off with her family and boyfriend, said she saw the aircraft come down. From their flight, they saw emergency services rush to the accident site. "The flight attendant didn't know what was going on. They said the plane had exploded and they didn't know if it was safe or not. The airport was in lockdown,” she said&nbsp;<h2>What happened? &nbsp;</h2>On Sunday (July 14), a small aircraft at London’s Southend Airport crashed and burst into flames right moments after takeoff. It was a Netherlands-bound plane which was engulfed in thick smoke and prompting an emergency response by the fire department. The incident involved the plane Beech B200 Super King Air, and details on casualties are yet to be ascertained.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aircraft-crashes-moments-after-takeoff-in-london-s-southend-airport-casualties-unknown-video-1752425657893">Aircraft crashes moments after takeoff at London's Southend Airport; casualties unknown - Video</a>&nbsp;The Essex Police Dept was alerted just before 4 PM (local time) about a crash. In the statement, they said, “We are working with all emergency services at the scene now, and that work will be ongoing for several hours. We would ask the public to avoid this area where possible while this work continues.” "We ask that any passengers due to travel via London Southend Airport contact their airline for information and advice," it added.

The crash at London's Southend Airport has shocked many at the airport, waiting to board their flight. Many saw the Beech B200 Super King Air flight burst into flames as they were waiting for takeoff.

The crash at London's Southend Airport has shocked many at the airport, waiting to board their flight. Many saw the Beech B200 Super King Air flight burst into flames as they were waiting for takeoff. A family present at the location said the pilots waved at them as they were taxiing. Talking to news outlet Sky News, John Johnson said, “We all waved back at them as they carried on taxiing to their take-off point and turned around. Then they throttled up the engines and passed by us. The aircraft took off and within a few seconds it had a steep bank angle to its left." He continued, “It almost seemed to invert and unfortunately crashed," he said. "There was a large fireball.”

The crash at London's Southend Airport has shocked many at the airport, waiting to board their flight. Many saw the Beech B200 Super King Air flight burst into flames as they were waiting for takeoff.

Pilots waved at children: Family watched Beech B200 Super King Air burst into flames at London's Southend Airport

A senior Iranian official has claimed that Israel deployed “the occult and supernatural spirits” during its recent 12-day war with Iran, according to Iran International. Abdollah Ganji, former editor of the IRGC-linked newspaper Javan and now an advisor to the mayor of Tehran, stated on X that a 'strange phenomenon' occurred during the conflict. “After the recent war, several pieces of paper were found on the streets of Tehran containing talismans with Jewish symbols,” Ganji wrote.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">پدیده ای عجیب! بعد از جنگ اخیر چند برگ کاغذ در کف خیابان های تهران یافت شده که طلسم با نمادهای یهودی است. در سال اول جنگ غزه نیز خبری از دیدار نتانياهو با متخصصان علوم غریبه درز شده بود. چند سال پیش مقام معظم رهبری گفته بودند کشور‌های متخاصم و سرویس‌های اطلاعاتی غربی و عبری از…&mdash; عبدالله گنجی (@ab_ganji) <a href="https://twitter.com/ab_ganji/status/1942949953485013080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The claim follows earlier remarks from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, who in 2020 alleged that 'hostile countries and Western and Hebrew intelligence services use occult sciences and jinn entities for espionage.' This quote was later removed from some official transcripts. During the conflict, which began with Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities on 13 June, Iran accused Israel of blending conventional attacks with alleged supernatural methods.&nbsp;<h2>Response from Israel</h2>&nbsp;The Mossad’s official X account in Persian responded dismissively to Ganji’s claims: “Using drugs and talking to the jinn are not desirable traits for someone leading a country.” Israeli diplomat Waleed Gadban reposted the message, adding in Farsi: “Jinn, jinn are everywhere,” along with a ghost emoji.&nbsp;The debate over jinn has a deeper history in Iranian political discourse. Clerics on Iranian state television have previously discussed the idea that Israel uses jinn for espionage. In March 2023, Quranic scholar Hojjat ol-Eslam Valiyollah Naghipourfar claimed that Iran’s intelligence services had thwarted Israeli infiltration efforts conducted via jinn. Some clerics treat these entities as literal threats; others, including modernist theologians, interpret them metaphorically.<h2>Strange patterns in the desert &nbsp;</h2>Adding to the speculation, social media users circulated satellite images showing geometric patterns, including Stars of David and triangles, etched into a desert near an Iranian missile base. The origin of these markings remains unclear. Iranian authorities removed the symbols after they were discovered, but Gadban reposted an image with the caption: “We are closer to you than your jugular vein.”&nbsp;The recent confrontation concluded after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered strikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites on June 23, before brokering a ceasefire.

“After the recent war, several pieces of paper were found on the streets of Tehran containing talismans with Jewish symbols,” Ganji wrote.

A senior Iranian official has claimed that Israel deployed “the occult and supernatural spirits” during its recent 12-day war with Iran, according to Iran International. Abdollah Ganji, former editor of the IRGC-linked newspaper Javan and now an advisor to the mayor of Tehran, stated on X that a 'strange phenomenon' occurred during the conflict. “After the recent war, several pieces of paper were found on the streets of Tehran containing talismans with Jewish symbols,” Ganji wrote.

&nbsp;“After the recent war, several pieces of paper were found on the streets of Tehran containing talismans with Jewish symbols,” Ganji wrote.

Iranian official claims Israel used jinn, dark arts and supernatural forces in Tehran conflict

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia</h2>In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia.&nbsp;This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News.<h2>How will a bill against Russia affect India?</h2>The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How?In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia.Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed</a><h2>Will Trump use the bill to sanction India?</h2>While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."&nbsp;&nbsp;

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know. Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia. This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News. How will a bill against Russia affect India? The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How? In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia. Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed Will Trump use the bill to sanction India? While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

India in crosshairs? Trump's 'SLEDGEHAMMER' Russia sanctions bill could slam New Delhi with 500% tariffs. Here's how

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is in China and met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, marking the first visit in five years after the Galwan clash on June 15, 2020. The minister noted the improvement in the bilateral ties between the two countries, which includes the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and continued normalisation of our ties can produce mutually beneficial outcomes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Beijing, China: &quot;Our bilateral relationship, as you have pointed, has been steadily improving since the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October. I am confident that my discussions in this visit will maintain that positive… <a href="https://t.co/ZZgEuuC9sM">pic.twitter.com/ZZgEuuC9sM</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1944601491945463963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the meeting, he said, "Our bilateral relationship, as you have pointed, has been steadily improving since the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October. I am confident that my discussions in this visit will maintain that positive trajectory."He added, "It is a pleasure to be with you during my visit for the SCO Foreign Ministers Meeting. India supports a successful Chinese presidency at the SCO."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-record-of-what-happened-very-clear-jaishankar-again-denies-trump-s-claims-on-india-pak-ceasefire-1751530071286">‘Record of what happened very clear’: Jaishankar again denies Trump’s claims on India-Pak ceasefire</a>&nbsp;Later, sharing a photograph from his meeting, S Jaishankar wrote, "Pleased to meet Vice President Han Zheng soon after my arrival in Beijing today. Conveyed India’s support for China’s SCO Presidency."He also mentioned that there have been significant improvements in the relations. He continued, "Noted the improvement in our bilateral ties. And expressed confidence that discussions during my visit will maintain that positive trajectory."&nbsp;He added, "Let me say that it is a pleasure to be with you during my visit for the SCO Foreign Ministers Meeting. India supports a successful Chinese presidency at the SCO. Excellency, our bilateral relationship, as you have pointed, has been steadily improving since the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-jaishankar-s-cautious-response-to-us-lawmaker-s-proposed-500-tariff-bill-here-s-what-he-said-1751542455960">India's Jaishankar's cautious response to US lawmaker's proposed '500% tariff' bill - Here's what he said</a>&nbsp;This meeting highlights an open exchange of views and perspectives between India and China, which is looked at as an important move between the two neighbouring nations and major economies.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is in China and met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, marking the first visit in five years after the Galwan clash on June 15, 2020.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is in China and met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, marking the first visit in five years after the Galwan clash on June 15, 2020. The minister noted the improvement in the bilateral ties between the two countries, which includes the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and continued normalisation of our ties can produce mutually beneficial outcomes.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is in China and met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, marking the first visit in five years after the Galwan clash on June 15, 2020.

'Steadily improving,' says EAM S Jaishankar, highlighting India-China's relations in first visit after Galwan clash

As part of the Axiom-4 mission crew, India's Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla flew to space on June 25th&nbsp;and docked with the International Space Station on June 26th. The crew was to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting lab, which is 420 km above the Earth. If the Axiom-4 crew were to return after their two-week mission, they should've been back on Earth by July 10th&nbsp;or so. However, their return journey is now scheduled to commence at 4:30 pm Indian time, Monday, 14th&nbsp;July, and they are to splash down off the American coast at 3 pm Indian time, Tuesday. Why did the Axiom-4 crew spend a handful of extra days aboard the space station?<h2>High Solar Beta&nbsp;</h2>While announcing that the Axiom-4 mission (Crew Dragon spacecraft) is targeting to undock around 14th&nbsp;July, NASA's Commercial Crew Program Manager had said that the undocking and return would be done after the high solar beta period. In simple terms, solar beta is the angle between the Sun and the orbit of a spacecraft (like the Axiom-4 Crew Dragon).&nbsp;In the case of a high solar beta angle, the sun is above or below the spacecraft, and the craft is exposed to a constant period of sunlight. During ideal conditions, the spacecraft frequently alternates between sunlight and Earth's shadow. Having high solar beta conditions would mean that the craft is continuously illuminated by the sun for days or even weeks, depending on the orbit.&nbsp;<h2>How high solar beta and continuous Sunlight exposure affect spacecraft</h2>In space, while being exposed to sunlight, the spacecraft's external temperature can get as high as 120-150 degrees Celsius. While the outside is burning at up to 150 degrees Celsius, the&nbsp;inside of the craft maintains a temperature of 20-30 degrees Celsius for the comfort of astronauts and for maintaining an ideal working temperature for electronics.&nbsp;In space, while the craft is in Earth's shadow, the external temperature of the craft can dip to minus 150-170 degrees Celsius. The temperature inside the craft must be maintained at a temperature of 20-30 degrees Celsius for the comfort of astronauts and for maintaining an ideal working temperature for electronics.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed</a>For a spacecraft, long-term sunlight exposure and long-term exposure to Earth's shadow are both potentially harmful. When there is continuous sunlight exposure, there is a risk of overheating in some of the external components of the craft, such as the solar panels, radiators. These components and their functioning become less effective during excessive heating caused by prolonged sunlight exposure. Overall, the heat management becomes challenging when there is prolonged sunlight exposure. While sunlight exposure is helpful to generate solar power and charge the batteries, it could also potentially overload the systems, affect batteries and related electronics. This is why space agencies avoid certain types of missions and activities during high solar beta periods.&nbsp;<h2>High Solar beta was mentioned even before Axiom-4 launch</h2>Owing to a variety of reasons, the launch of Axiom-4 was postponed at least seven times, over a four-week period between May and June. Amid these repeated postponements, Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA, had said that the Axiom-4 Crew Dragon had a launch window until 30th&nbsp;June. If the launch does not take place by June 30th, it can be done after the High Solar Beta period ends in the second week of July, she had said.&nbsp;Typically, every rocket launch mission has a launch window/launch opportunity- an ideal period of a few days or weeks within which the launch can take place. On each of these specific days within the launch window, there are a few minutes when the rocket can blast off to space. All of these launch times are precisely planned down to the second, based on various technical parameters. Which is why many rocket launch missions happen at odd hours, and no two missions (even of the same type) follow the same launch time.&nbsp;In the case of Axiom-4, NASA has been clear that they will not carry out either the launch or the return during the high solar beta period, owing to the possible technical challenges caused by overheating of the spacecraft, due to excessive sunlight exposure. This is standard practice for all missions.&nbsp; &nbsp;

While announcing that the Axiom-4 mission (Crew Dragon spacecraft) is targeting to undock around 14th July, NASA's Commercial Crew Program Manager had said that the undocking and return would be done after the high solar beta period.

As part of the Axiom-4 mission crew, India's Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla flew to space on June 25th and docked with the International Space Station on June 26th. The crew was to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting lab, which is 420 km above the Earth. If the Axiom-4 crew were to return after their two-week mission, they should've been back on Earth by July 10th or so. However, their return journey is now scheduled to commence at 4:30 pm Indian time, Monday, 14th July, and they are to splash down off the American coast at 3 pm Indian time, Tuesday. Why did the Axiom-4 crew spend a handful of extra days aboard the space station? High Solar Beta While announcing that the Axiom-4 mission (Crew Dragon spacecraft) is targeting to undock around 14th July, NASA's Commercial Crew Program Manager had said that the undocking and return would be done after the high solar beta period. In simple terms, solar beta is the angle between the Sun and the orbit of a spacecraft (like the Axiom-4 Crew Dragon). In the case of a high solar beta angle, the sun is above or below the spacecraft, and the craft is exposed to a constant period of sunlight. During ideal conditions, the spacecraft frequently alternates between sunlight and Earth's shadow. Having high solar beta conditions would mean that the craft is continuously illuminated by the sun for days or even weeks, depending on the orbit. How high solar beta and continuous Sunlight exposure affect spacecraft In space, while being exposed to sunlight, the spacecraft's external temperature can get as high as 120-150 degrees Celsius. While the outside is burning at up to 150 degrees Celsius, the inside of the craft maintains a temperature of 20-30 degrees Celsius for the comfort of astronauts and for maintaining an ideal working temperature for electronics. In space, while the craft is in Earth's shadow, the external temperature of the craft can dip to minus 150-170 degrees Celsius. The temperature inside the craft must be maintained at a temperature of 20-30 degrees Celsius for the comfort of astronauts and for maintaining an ideal working temperature for electronics. https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed For a spacecraft, long-term sunlight exposure and long-term exposure to Earth's shadow are both potentially harmful. When there is continuous sunlight exposure, there is a risk of overheating in some of the external components of the craft, such as the solar panels, radiators. These components and their functioning become less effective during excessive heating caused by prolonged sunlight exposure. Overall, the heat management becomes challenging when there is prolonged sunlight exposure. While sunlight exposure is helpful to generate solar power and charge the batteries, it could also potentially overload the systems, affect batteries and related electronics. This is why space agencies avoid certain types of missions and activities during high solar beta periods. High Solar beta was mentioned even before Axiom-4 launch Owing to a variety of reasons, the launch of Axiom-4 was postponed at least seven times, over a four-week period between May and June. Amid these repeated postponements, Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA, had said that the Axiom-4 Crew Dragon had a launch window until 30th June. If the launch does not take place by June 30th, it can be done after the High Solar Beta period ends in the second week of July, she had said. Typically, every rocket launch mission has a launch window/launch opportunity- an ideal period of a few days or weeks within which the launch can take place. On each of these specific days within the launch window, there are a few minutes when the rocket can blast off to space. All of these launch times are precisely planned down to the second, based on various technical parameters. Which is why many rocket launch missions happen at odd hours, and no two missions (even of the same type) follow the same launch time. In the case of Axiom-4, NASA has been clear that they will not carry out either the launch or the return during the high solar beta period, owing to the possible technical challenges caused by overheating of the spacecraft, due to excessive sunlight exposure. This is standard practice for all missions.

While announcing that the Axiom-4 mission (Crew Dragon spacecraft) is targeting to undock around 14th&nbsp;July, NASA's Commercial Crew Program Manager had said that the undocking and return would be done after the high solar beta period.

What is Solar Beta that extended astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's stay in space?

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What is Solar Beta that extended astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's stay in space?