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UK PM Johnson says sanctions on Russian energy very much 'on the table'
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a joint press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday said that London and other Western governments are seriously considering sanctions on Russian energy exports in response to the ongoing military operation in Ukraine.
- Country:
- United Kingdom
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a joint press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday said that London and other Western governments are seriously considering sanctions on Russian energy exports in response to the ongoing military operation in Ukraine. "Something that perhaps three or four weeks ago we would never have considered, is now very much on the table. We have to all consider how we can all move away ... from dependence, reliance on Russian hydrocarbons," Johnson told a press briefing alongside his Canadian and Dutch counterparts in response to a question regarding sanctions on Russian energy exports.
On February 24, Russia launched a special operation in Ukraine in response to calls from the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics to defend themselves against intensifying attacks by Ukrainian troops. The Russian Defense Ministry said the operation is targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure only and the civilian population is not in danger.
"NATO allies. Commonwealth nations. Firm friends. Working together to ensure Russia's barbaric and illegal invasion of Ukraine ends in failure," tweeted Johnson. "The UK is working at pace with Netherlands & Canada and other partners to mobilise sustained support for Ukraine in the face of Putin's invasion," added the UK PM.
However, Johnson said that Russian oil and gas deliveries cannot be shut down overnight and such a transition will require time to find appropriate substitute supplies. "You can't simply close down the use of oil and gas overnight, even from Russia. That's obviously not something that every country around the world can do," said Johnson.
"Clearly, there is going to be a transitional period. We are going to have to look for supply, we are going have to look for substitute supplies from elsewhere," he said. "Today I am announcing a further 175 million pounds in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, bringing the total during the crisis to 400 million pounds. After 12 days it's clear that Putin has made a miscalculation. He has underestimated Ukrainians and their heroic resistance," said the British PM.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced to impose sanctions on 10 individuals linked to Russia's ongoing military operation in Ukraine. "Today, Canada is announcing new sanctions on 10 individuals complicit in this unjustified invasion. This includes former and current senior government officials, oligarchs and supporters of the Russian leadership," said Trudeau.
"Names of these individuals come from a list compiled by jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These sanctions put increased pressure on Russia's leadership including on Putin's inner circle. Canada has sent about a billion dollars' worth of financial assistance to Ukraine," added the Canadian PM. He said that Canada will continue to defend democracy and continue to make sure that Russian President Vladimir Putin is held accountable.
"The individuals include former and current senior Russian government officials, oligarchs and supporters of the Russian leadership," said Trudeau. The Canadian leader said he hoped the sanctions and "massive tariffs" imposed on Russian and Belarusian imports would punish "Putin where it hurts most in particular financial systems and sanctioning their central bank so far."
Further, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte also agreed about the importance of moving in steps. "We have got to do this "step by step", he said. Rutte said that sanctions must not create "unmanageable risks" to European energy supplies.
"Over time, Europe must reduce its reliance on Russian energy," he added. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952650-uk-pm-johnson-says-sanctions-on-russian-energy-very-much-on-the-table
| 2022-03-07T18:14:19
|
en
| 0.971552
|
At least 13 civilians killed in airstrike on bread factory in Kyiv: Ukraine's state emergency service
At least 13 Ukrainian civilians were killed in an airstrike on a bread factory in Kyiv, local media reported citing Ukraine's state emergency service.
- Country:
- Ukraine
At least 13 Ukrainian civilians were killed in an airstrike on a bread factory in Kyiv, local media reported citing Ukraine's state emergency service. "State Emergency Service: At least 13 civilians killed in air strike on bread factory in Kyiv Oblast. Five people were rescued. There may be more victims: Around 30 people are believed to have been at the factory," tweeted The Kyiv Independent, a Ukraine media outlet.
Earlier, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Ukraine had said that 1,207 civilian casualties, including 406 killed and 801 injured people, were recorded in the country since Russia's military operation began on February 24 till Sunday (local time). Notably, Russian forces launched military operations in Ukraine on February 24, three days after Moscow recognized Ukraine's breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk as independent republics followed by the announcement of a "special military operation" to "demilitarize" and "denazify" Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the third round of negotiations between the delegations of Ukraine and Russia began on Monday, informed the Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The two countries will discuss political, humanitarian aspects and a military settlement during the third round of talks, Sputnik reported citing the head of the Russian delegation, presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
|
https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952651-at-least-13-civilians-killed-in-airstrike-on-bread-factory-in-kyiv-ukraines-state-emergency-service
| 2022-03-07T18:14:26
|
en
| 0.964282
|
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)- Medical assistants (MA) are expected to be in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates three times as many MAs as nurses will be needed by 2030. Bryant and Stratton College has announced a one-year program to help meet the demand for MA’s.
Job growth is anticipated to be 18% for medical assistants from now through 2030, triple the projected growth for nursing positions (9%), according to BLS.
“Now more than ever, there is a need for passionate and dedicated medical professionals to join the workforce and provide expert care to patients in need,” said Albany Market Director for the college, Mike Gutierrez. “Through the introduction of a one-year medical assisting diploma program, we look forward to focusing our curriculum on skills-based, critical learning opportunities that will prepare career-ready professionals to benefit healthcare institutions in our region and beyond.”
The average annual salary for an MA is $36,930 but that changes based on which area of the health care industry an MA works. MA’s working in nursing homes, assisted living, or other long-term care facilities earn the least, an average of $30,870 a year. MA’s working at outpatient facilities earn the most, $42,330 annually on average, based on BLS statistics.
Working as an MA could be a good way for someone debating a career in health care to get a first-hand look before deciding on a career that requires more time in school. MAs are trained to complete administrative work but they are also trained to work directly with patients taking medical histories, vital signs, collecting laboratory specimens, and explaining procedures, said the New York State Education Department.
Bryant and Stratton’s MA program requires 33 credits with courses like Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology, as well as Clinical Procedures, and an internship. “Students that pursue an MA diploma at the College will have the opportunity to learn industry-current skills, including working directly with patients, healthcare teams, and third-party medical providers throughout the region,” the college said Monday.
The college is accepting MA program students to start in spring 2022. Base tuition for the program is $9,450 per semester, according to the college’s website. Financial aid is available for students that qualify for the program. The college said they have also implemented a tuition freeze for the 2022-2023 academic year to help make college more accessible.
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https://www.news10.com/news/bryant-and-stratton-1-year-medical-assistant-program/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:28
|
en
| 0.963657
|
GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. (NEWS10) — The Wallflowers are set to perform at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington. The show is on May 20 and starts at 8 p.m.
The rock band, fronted by Jakob Dylan, first came to fame in the 1990s. Their second album, “Bringing Down the Horse” in 1996 featured hits such as “One Headlight’ and “6th Avenue Heartache.” In 2021, the Wallflowers released “Exit Wounds,” which was their first album since 2012.
Tickets go on sale to the public Saturday, March 12 at noon. Tickets for Mahaiwe Members go on sale Thursday, March 10 at noon. Tickets can be purchased on the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center website.
|
https://www.news10.com/news/entertainment/the-wallflowers-to-perform-in-berkshire-county/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:34
|
en
| 0.966982
|
Violence against Shia Muslims continues unabated in Pakistan
Pakistan's largest Muslim minority, Shias Muslims are living under the shadow of fear post a terror attack by a suicide bomber on a Shia mosque in Peshawar during Friday prayers.
- Country:
- Pakistan
Pakistan's largest Muslim minority, Shias Muslims are living under the shadow of fear post a terror attack by a suicide bomber on a Shia mosque in Peshawar during Friday prayers. The blast resulted in the death of 62 people, including seven children below 10, and 194 injured on March 4, reported Islam Khabar.
In the absence of an official headcount for long years, the number of Shias is estimated around 16 million, or 9.5 per cent to 15 per cent of the 200 million population. They are spread across the country. Old records testify that Shia Muslim civilians were victims of unprovoked hate since the beginning of Pakistan. After the "Islamisation" in the 1980s, Pakistan has been seeing a surge in violence against Shia Muslims in the country in recent decades, reported Islam Khabar.
According to one estimate, over 1,900 Shias were killed in bomb blasts or targeted gun attacks from 2012 to May 2015 alone. The violence has claimed the lives of thousands of men, women and children. Shias are mostly excluded from positions of power. Doctors, businessmen and other professionals have been targeted in Karachi by Sunni terrorists on a regular basis.
Most have been targeted by terrorist attacks by Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan which are Sunni militant organizations affiliated with Al-Qaeda and Taliban, reported Islam Khabar. In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, such as Parachinar and Gilgit-Baltistan, Sunni militants have continuously been attacking and killing Shia Muslim civilians.
Shia Muslims also fear their religious freedom is being legislated away. In July 2020, Tahaffuz-e-Bunyad-e-Islam (protection of foundation of Islam bill) was passed by the Punjab assembly, which supported only the Sunni interpretation of Islam, provoking a huge backlash from the Shia community. Commenting on the government's efforts to pass the blame for last Friday's violence to "conspiracies", Dawn newspaper in its editorial (March 5, 2022) said: "Despite what those in power have said or will say, the attack betrayed the national security apparatus's unpreparedness for what now seems to be a gradually expanding spectrum of terrorist activities.
Writing in the same vein, but more to the point, The News International (March 5, 2022) observed: "Militancy in the form of the TTP or the Islamic State of Khorasan or any of their allies is obviously a national problem, and while they attack indiscriminately, they bear a particular animosity for the Shia community that has been ruthlessly targeted since the 1980s with hundreds of sectarian attacks on places of worship in the last 15 years." "This raises the questions of why the government has not done more to provide security to imambargahs or Shia mosques, especially on Fridays when militants are most likely to strike so that they can cause maximum casualties," editorial said. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952653-violence-against-shia-muslims-continues-unabated-in-pakistan
| 2022-03-07T18:14:34
|
en
| 0.962844
|
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — A Florida police chief has been fired after only about six months on the job following an investigation into several discrimination complaints. A city of Fort Lauderdale news release says Chief Larry Scirotto was fired by City Manager Chris Lagerbloom on Thursday.
The complaints centered on allegations that Scirotto made hiring and promotion decisions with an improper minority-first approach.
Scirotto was the first openly gay chief hired in Fort Lauderdale and also is from a mixed-race background.
An investigation into the bias complaints concluded that Scirotto was unfairly focused on minority candidates for jobs and that he once said a conference room wall of photos was “too white.”
|
https://www.news10.com/news/florida-police-chief-accused-of-minority-first-approach-is-fired/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:40
|
en
| 0.972018
|
Pakistan: 7-day-old infant shot dead by her father in Mianwali district
A seven-day-old infant was gunned down in the Mianwali district of Pakistan's Punjab province by her father named Shahzeb because his first child was a daughter instead of a son.
- Country:
- Pakistan
A seven-day-old infant was gunned down in the Mianwali district of Pakistan's Punjab province by her father named Shahzeb because his first child was a daughter instead of a son. The cruel father shot his baby five times, reported ARY News. The news has been circulating on social media. Users have shared pictures of the infant that can be seen dead.
Inspector general (IG) Punjab has taken heed of the incident and has summoned a report of the incident from the Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sargodha. The IG has ordered to arrest the brutal accused immediately. The IG also ordered strict legal action against the accused. In a separate incident, a woman killed her two children in Lahore for an unknown reason, last year.
The incident was reported near Lahore's Gulshan Hayyat Park, where a woman named Najma, strangulated her two sons to death. The deceased children were identified as eight-year-old Talha and Bilal, 12 years old. After killing her children, the woman also injured herself with a sharp blade. The woman was rushed to a nearby medical facility by the neighbours, reported ARY News. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952661-pakistan-7-day-old-infant-shot-dead-by-her-father-in-mianwali-district
| 2022-03-07T18:14:42
|
en
| 0.986241
|
WYANSTKILL N.Y. (NEWS10) – An iconic Capital Region burger joint is now open for the season! Jack’s Drive-In was opened in 1938 by the founder Jack Horn. Jack’s Drive-In has been serving hotdogs and hamburgers ever since.
“Looking forward to seeing everybody, bring the sunshine! We’ll be here,” said Co-owner Joe Deebs, Co-Owner of Jack’s Drive-In. For over 8 decades, Jack’s Drive-In has been a Capital Region staple for hotdogs and hamburgers, and over the years, they kept adding more ingredients and items to the menu. “We added french fries and cheeseburgers, mini hotdogs, and meat sauce, cheese fries…we expanded the menu…that’s about as far as we’re going to go,” said Joe.
In 1966 Ted Deeb purchased the business for his brothers and today it is still owned and operated by the same family, cousins S.K and Joseph Deeb. The family has not changed much, only adding cheese for the burgers, delicious meat sauce for their hotdogs, and a variety of shakes. The family looks forward to serving all their customers for the opening of our 84th season as a family-owned business, spring is officially around the corner for North Greenbush.
You can smell the onions from a distance! “No one does the onions like us and put it all together and you have a unique taste.” Troy resident Robert Kehn was the first customer of the season, I probably come at least a dozen times in the season.”
The pandemic has caused so much financial stress to many local restaurants, including Jack’s Drive-In but Joe says it’s his loyal customers, like Robert Kehn, who help keep the lights on and grills hot. “It’s a tough time to be in business as a restaurant. I try to support all of them as much as I can,” said Robert.
“Expect a good crew ready to serve and we’re happy to be open,” said Joe. Jack’s is open 7 days a week, every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during summertime they will be open until 9 p.m.
|
https://www.news10.com/news/jacks-drive-in-opens-for-its-84th-season/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:46
|
en
| 0.971212
|
Human rights situation in Afghanistan continues to be a matter of concern: India at 49th session of UNHRC
India at the 49th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Monday (local time) said that the recent developments in Afghanistan particularly the human rights situation continued to be a matter of concern.
- Country:
- Switzerland
India at the 49th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Monday (local time) said that the recent developments in Afghanistan particularly the human rights situation continued to be a matter of concern. Indian Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey on Afghanistan at UNHRC said that India shares concerns of the international community on issues related to providing immediate humanitarian assistance; ensuring the formation of a truly inclusive and representative Government; combating terrorism and drug trafficking; and, preserving the rights of women, children and minorities.
In his remarks, the ambassador said, "India's approach to Afghanistan has always been guided by its historical friendship with its people. Our special relationship with the Afghan people and the stipulations spelt out in UNSC Resolution 2593 would continue to guide India's approach to Afghanistan. We remain steadfast in our commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan." He added that India has already supplied 4000MT of wheat, half a million doses of COVAXIN, 13 tons of essential lifesaving medicines and winter clothing for the Afghan people.
These consignments were handed over to the UN specialized agencies, namely World Health Organization (WHO) and World Food Programme (WFP), he added. "As Afghanistan's largest regional development partner, India would continue to coordinate with other stakeholders to work towards enabling the expeditious provision of much needed humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people," said the Ambassador.
Taliban led a major offensive in Afghanistan during the withdrawal of US troops from the country and took over power in August 2021. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952665-human-rights-situation-in-afghanistan-continues-to-be-a-matter-of-concern-india-at-49th-session-of-unhrc
| 2022-03-07T18:14:50
|
en
| 0.950839
|
ALBANY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — New York Attorney General Letitia James released the top ten consumer fraud complaints that her office received in 2021. The list also included ways to avoid common scams.
“Let this list serve as a warning to all New Yorkers to keep their guard up against scam artists,” said Attorney General James. “Consumers have been valuable in helping my office identify and eradicate fraud, and I urge them to remain vigilant and follow these tips.”
Top 10 Complaints
- Internet: internet services and service providers, data privacy and security, digital media, data breaches, frauds through internet manipulation
- Landlord / Tenant: security deposit releases, tenant-harassment
- Retail Sales: price gouging, defective merchandise, poor customer service, pet stores, and animal breeders
- Services: COVID-19 testing facilities, alarm companies, dry cleaners, restaurants, movers, services for personal household use
- Automobile: sales, service, financing, repairs
- Credit: debt collection, credit card billing, debt settlement and debt relief, payday loans, credit repair, credit reporting agencies, identity theft
- Utilities: wireless and residential phones, energy servicers and suppliers, cable, and satellite
- Home Repair / Improvement: repair issues, deceitful contractors
- Health Clubs: inability to cancel memberships, inability to access facilities, refunds not provided, no response from clubs
- Furniture / Appliances: defective merchandise, delivery problems, and service and repair issues
How to Avoid Fraud
Internet
- do not use the same password for multiple accounts
- enable two-factor authentication
- check your accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity
- register with breach notification services
Landlord / Tenant
- your landlord has 14 days to return your security deposit and must provide an itemized receipt describing damages if money is withheld, failure to comply may entitle you to double your security deposit
- contact the local Department of Social Services if you have trouble paying rent
Retail Sales
- report price-gouging for at-home COVID-19 test kits or other vital health, safety, and welfare goods to the Office of the Attorney General
Services
- Misleading facilities should be reported to the Office of the Attorney General
Automobile
- never sign any documents or leave the dealership with a car until you have carefully reviewed your paperwork
- do not sign a blank document with numbers or terms not filled in
- make sure what you sign is consistent with what you were told
- ask for explanation on any fees or charges you do not understand and if they are required by law
Credit
- debt collectors must provide you with key information about the origin and history of your debt within five days of communication
- you have a right to dispute debt
- collectors cannot harass you and must follow limits on how often you are contacted you
- you cannot be sued or threatened of litigation on debts older than three years old beginning on April 7, 2022
Utilities
- consumers who believe they have received a high utility bill from an error should contact the Office of the Attorney General
- contact your utility company if you have trouble paying your bill for resources and payment plans
- low-income individuals can apply to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Home Improvement / Repair
- before entering a contract for home repairs, compare estimates and check with neighbors for references
- you have three days to cancel a home improvement contract after signing it
Health Clubs
- NY Health Club Law authorizes members to cancel memberships under certain circumstances
Furniture / Appliances
- research the retailer’s return policy before a purchase
You can report to the Office of the Attorney General through this form or by calling (800) 771-7755.
|
https://www.news10.com/news/ny-news/how-to-avoid-the-top-10-ny-consumer-fraud-complaints/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:52
|
en
| 0.922249
|
Have assisted evacuation of 146,000 foreign citizens since Russia's invasion, says Ukrainian govt
Ukrainian government has assisted around 146,000 foreign citizens to leave Ukraine since Russia's invasion, said the country's foreign ministry on Monday.
- Country:
- Ukraine
Ukrainian government has assisted around 146,000 foreign citizens to leave Ukraine since Russia's invasion, said the country's foreign ministry on Monday. "Since Russia's invasion, Ukrainian government has assisted 146K foreign citizens to leave Ukraine, including 20K Indian students evacuated from the besieged cities," tweeted Ukraine Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
It further said that Russia must cease-fire immediately to open humanitarian corridors for civilians in Sumy, Kharkiv and Mariupol cities of Ukraine. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky amid the ongoing conflict with Russia and sought continued support from his government for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Sumy.
In a phone call that lasted for about 35 minutes, PM Modi thanked President Zelensky for the help extended by the Government of Ukraine in the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine. Meanwhile, the third round of negotiations between the delegations of Ukraine and Russia began on Monday, informed the Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
The two countries will discuss political, humanitarian aspects and a military settlement during the third round of talks, Sputnik reported citing the head of the Russian delegation, presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. Russian forces launched military operations in Ukraine on February 24, three days after Moscow recognized Ukraine's breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk as independent republics followed by the announcement of a "special military operation" to "demilitarize" and "denazify" Ukraine. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952671-have-assisted-evacuation-of-146000-foreign-citizens-since-russias-invasion-says-ukrainian-govt
| 2022-03-07T18:14:57
|
en
| 0.953978
|
DENVER (KDVR) — According to AAA, the national average for regular fuel is $4.06. New York is ranked 9th in the nation averaging out at $4.26.
During the first full week of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the price of regular gas rose by almost 41 cents, according to the AAA motor club. That represents the second-largest jump in average national prices in a week, GasBuddy reported.
Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy, said in a statement that the Russian invasion and seasonal price changes mean Americans should prepare to pay more for gas than ever before.
Most expensive states for gas as of Monday:
- California: $5.34
- Hawaii: $4.69
- Nevada: $4.59
- Oregon: $4.51
- Washington: $4.44
- Alaska: $4.39
- Illinois: $4.30
- Connecticut: $4.28
- New York: $4.26
- Pennsylvania: $4.23
Each state with the highest average price per gallon also saw a significant week-to-week increase, according to AAA.
- California: up $.51
- Hawaii: up $.15
- Nevada: up $.56
- Oregon: up $.48
- Washington: $.44
- Alaska: up $.50
- Illinois: up $.45
- Connecticut: up $.56
- New York: up $.45
- Pennsylvania: up $.48
While California had the highest average price per gallon Monday, March 7 at $5.34, the least expensive state for a gallon of gas was Missouri at $3.62 per gallon, according to AAA.
The all-time high for average gasoline prices was set on July 17, 2008, at $4.10 per gallon.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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https://www.news10.com/news/ny-ranked-9th-most-expensive-state-for-gas-prices/
| 2022-03-07T18:14:58
|
en
| 0.906272
|
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — According to New York State Police, a Troy man was arrested in Albany on drug charges. The man allegedly had over 900 grams of cocaine.
On March 1, Troopers stopped Samuel L. Robinson, 48, of Troy, for a traffic violation in Albany. During the stop, Robinson attempted to flee the scene on foot and was taken into custody after a brief struggle.
Robinson was found to be in possession of around 920 grams of cocaine and a digital scale.
Charges:
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd degree-Intent to Sell (Felony)
- Obstruction of Governmental Administration 2nd degree
- Resisting Arrest
Robinson was transported to SP Latham where he was processed. He was arraigned in Albany City Court and remanded to Albany County Jail. He is due back in court on a later date.
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https://www.news10.com/news/nysp-troy-man-arrested-in-albany-with-cocaine/
| 2022-03-07T18:15:04
|
en
| 0.972135
|
Afghans in Toronto protest against Taliban to defend women's rights in Afghanistan
Defending women's rights in Afghanistan, about 25 Afghans gathered in Toronto city of Canada, on Sunday and protested against the Taliban.
- Country:
- Canada
Defending women's rights in Afghanistan, about 25 Afghans gathered in Toronto city of Canada, on Sunday and protested against the Taliban. Protesters carrying placards chanted, "The Taliban have not changed and cooperating with Taliban is a crime against humanity," according to Afghanistan's online media portal, Reporterly.
The Taliban members continue to threaten and harass women activists to intimidate them after arresting some women activists recently, according to a media report.Even as the Taliban tries to persuade the world to recognise and financially support its government, it has embarked on a violent crackdown on dissent. In recent weeks, Taliban fighters have targeted women's rights activists, especially those protesting the Taliban's denial of their basic rights. Armed militants have beaten female demonstrators, sprayed pepper spray in their faces and shocked them with electric prods, according to a half-dozen activists interviewed by the US-based publication.
Taliban fighters have targeted women's rights activists, especially those protesting the Taliban's denial of their basic rights. Recently, the Taliban arrested some women activists who were protesting against the Taliban and asking them to provide women with their basic rights. Sahar Fetrat, Assistant Researcher for Human Rights Watch said that through the abduction of these women, the Taliban are sending a clear message about how society should function, who is the authority and the power, and how people should obey it.
"It is about stopping any kind of activism, any kind of protest against the Taliban." Taliban led a major offensive in Afghanistan during the withdrawal of US troops from the country and took over power in August 2021. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952676-afghans-in-toronto-protest-against-taliban-to-defend-womens-rights-in-afghanistan
| 2022-03-07T18:15:05
|
en
| 0.966566
|
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) – Two St. Patrick’s Day Parades are planned for this Saturday, March 12, in Albany. The first, the North Albany Limerick Parade, runs from noon to 1 p.m. and will step off on North First Street just west of North Pearl Street at the North Albany American Legion Post.
The parade will then make its way down North Pearl Street then south to Emmett Street, east on Emmett Street to Broadway, north on Broadway to Wolfert Avenue in Menands, and back south on North Pearl Street to North First Street.
The following road closures will be enforced for the North Albany Limerick Parade:
- North First Street between Broadway and Van Rensselaer Avenue
- North Pearl Street between Wolfert Avenue and Emmett Street
- Broadway between Wolfert Avenue and Emmett Street
- North Second Street, eastbound at Broadway & eastbound and westbound at North Pearl Street
- North Third Street, eastbound at Broadway & eastbound and westbound at North Pearl Street
- Lawn Avenue, westbound at Broadway & eastbound and westbound at North Pearl Street
- Bonheim Street, eastbound at Broadway & eastbound and westbound at North Pearl Street
- Lindbergh Avenue, eastbound at Broadway & eastbound and westbound at North Pearl Street
Following the North Albany Limerick Parade will be the Albany St. Patrick’s Day Parade, hosted by NEWS10’s own Stephanie Rivas. Parade staging and lineup will begin at noon and force closures on Central Avenue between Manning Boulevard and Quail Street. At 1:00 p.m. all eastbound and westbound roads on the parade route will be closed, and all north and southbound traffic will follow at 1:30 p.m.
At 2:00 p.m., the parade steps off from Central Avenue and Quail Street. Marchers from all departments here at NEWS10 will participate in the parade, which will proceed east on Central Avenue to Washington Avenue, then east on Washington Avenue to State Street, and east on State Street to the area of James Street.
Road closures for the Albany St. Patrick’s Day Parade:
- Central Avenue from Manning Boulevard east to Washington Avenue
- Washington Avenue from Central Avenue east to Washington Avenue/Eagle Street/State Stree
- State Street from Washington Avenue/Eagle Street east to Broadway.
Parking restrictions:
On March 12 from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., parking will be restricted at the following locations:
- Central Avenue, both sides from Ontario Street to Lake Avenue
- Quail Street, east and west sides from Bradford Street to Sherman Street
- Washington Avenue, north side from Dove Street to South Swan Street
- Eagle Street, east side from State Street to Pine Street
- State Street, north and south sides from Lark Street east 3 spaces on each side.
- State Street, north and south sides from South Swan Street east to Plaza Road east of Legislative Office Building
- State Street, south side from Eagle Street to Broadway
- State Street, north side from Pearl Street to Broadway
- South Swan Street, east side from Madison Avenue to Washington Avenue
- Broadway, east and west sides from Pine Street to Hudson Avenue
- Green Street both sides from State Street to Madison Avenue
- Dallius Street, both sides from Hudson Avenue to Division Street
- South Swan Street, east side from Madison Avenue to Washington Avenue
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https://www.news10.com/top-stories/road-closures-announced-for-st-patricks-day-parades/
| 2022-03-07T18:15:10
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en
| 0.923313
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Hungary refuses to join new Western sanctions on Russian energy sector: Finance Minister
Hungary will not support the expansion of anti-Russian sanctions in the energy sector as this would threaten both the national currency and welfare of Hungarians, Hungarian Finance Minister Mihaly Varga said on Monday.
- Country:
- Hungary
Budapest [Hungary], March 7 (ANI/Sputnik): Hungary will not support the expansion of anti-Russian sanctions in the energy sector as this would threaten both the national currency and welfare of Hungarians, Hungarian Finance Minister Mihaly Varga said on Monday.
"The Hungarian forint is also a victim of the Brussels sanctions. Sanctions already mean a serious threat to the Hungarian economy. The expansion of sanctions into the energy sector means the biggest threat to the forint and the Hungarian people. Whoever asks for the expansion of sanctions wants to make the Hungarian people pay the price of the war. The Hungarian government will not support such a move in any international fora," Varga said in a video message published on Facebook.
On February 24, Russia launched an operation in Ukraine after the breakaway Donbas republics appealed for help in defending themselves against the Ukrainian military. In response, Western nations have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow. (ANI/Sputnik)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952680-hungary-refuses-to-join-new-western-sanctions-on-russian-energy-sector-finance-minister
| 2022-03-07T18:15:13
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en
| 0.952003
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Security advisor to Bangladesh PM calls on PM Modi, praises him for strengthening Indo-Bangla friendship
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Security Advisor Major General (Retd.) Tarique Ahmed Siddique called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and thanked him for strengthening the Indo-Bangla friendship and standing firmly with Bangladesh in times of crisis, including the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Country:
- India
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Security Advisor Major General (Retd.) Tarique Ahmed Siddique called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and thanked him for strengthening the Indo-Bangla friendship and standing firmly with Bangladesh in times of crisis, including the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi fondly recalled his visit to Bangladesh in March 2021 and conveyed his best wishes to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Moreover, PM Modi commended the leadership of the Bangladeshi PM in ensuring the all-round development of Bangladesh and expressed his commitment to work with her to further strengthen India-Bangladesh ties.
India and Bangladesh on Friday held Commerce Secretary-level talks in New Delhi on a variety of issues of mutual interest, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry informed in a press release. The Indian delegation was led by Commerce Secretary Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, while the visiting Bangladeshi delegation was led by Senior Secretary, Ministry of Commerce Tapan Kanti Ghosh.
Both sides held extensive discussions on a variety of issues, including the development of railway infrastructure, port infrastructure, Joint Study on Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), border Haats, regional connectivity through multi-modal transportation, harmonization of standards and mutual recognition agreement, the press release said. The two delegations also discussed the progress of the bilateral ties between the two countries in recent years with an emphasis on the development of Railway infrastructure and accompanying logistical facilities to increase commerce between the two countries.
Notably, Bangladesh is the 6th largest trade partner of India. Earlier on Wednesday, the 14th meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Trade, at the level of Joint/Additional Secretaries of India and Bangladesh had taken place to discuss issues of mutual interest.
It was also agreed that the next meetings of the JWG and Commerce Secretaries will be held in Bangladesh, at mutually convenient dates. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952684-security-advisor-to-bangladesh-pm-calls-on-pm-modi-praises-him-for-strengthening-indo-bangla-friendship
| 2022-03-07T18:15:21
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en
| 0.950839
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India focuses on Revitalization Agreement, election preparations in South Sudan at UNSC
At the UN Security Council (UNSC) briefing on the situation in South Sudan, India highlighted the implementation of the Revitalization Agreement and issues concerning election preparations.
- Country:
- United States
At the UN Security Council (UNSC) briefing on the situation in South Sudan, India highlighted the implementation of the Revitalization Agreement and issues concerning election preparations. India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, R Ravindra noted a series of positive developments in South Sudan and said, "In the coming days, the focus should be on further expediting the implementation of the Revitalization Agreement, particularly graduation and unification of the necessary Unified Forces, addressing legislative issues concerning election preparations."
He also welcomed the efforts of holding talks between President Salva Kiir and first Vice President Riek Machar and hoped that it will help to resolve outstanding issues, including with regard to the electoral timetable. "Implementation of the transitional security arrangements remains critical for the electoral process at the end of the transitional period. So is the early resumption of the Rome mediation by the Ant' Egidio Community with the non-signatories.," said the Indian envoy.
Meanwhile, the security situation has remained tenuous in some regions of South Sudan and the humanitarian situation continues to remain a matter of concern. "Hope the remaining non-signatory groups will also engage with the government to enter the mainstream. The international community, including the UN, needs to step in to bridge the resource and capacity gaps faced by the government," said Ravindra.
Regarding United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) mandate implementation, the Indian ambassador to UNSC noted the improved communication between UNMISS and the government. "The Indian contingent in UNMISS is contributing to the sustainable development and welfare of the people of South Sudan. It is a matter of immense satisfaction that Level-II Plus hospital in Juba and Level-II hospital in Malakal operated by Indian contingent has been functioning at full capacity with high-grade capability," SAID THE Indian envoy.
He also reiterated to recall the provisions of Resolution 2589 and the responsibility of the host state to bring propagators of crimes against peacekeepers to justice, adding "In this regard, we request an update from the Secretary-General in his next report." "Our actions in the Council should encourage the authorities of South Sudan to move towards full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement. The Council also needs to be realistic and practical while setting out the mandate for the Mission," he added. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952685-india-focuses-on-revitalization-agreement-election-preparations-in-south-sudan-at-unsc
| 2022-03-07T18:15:29
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en
| 0.9444
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Canada announces sanctions against Kremlin Spokesman Peskov, Businessman Deripaska
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday imposed sanctions against ten individuals with close ties to the Russian leadership, including Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, and businessman Oleg Deripaska.
- Country:
- United Kingdom
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday imposed sanctions against ten individuals with close ties to the Russian leadership, including Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, and businessman Oleg Deripaska. The announcement was made in a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday.
"Today, Canada is announcing new sanctions on 10 individuals complicit in this unjustified invasion. This includes former and current senior government officials, oligarchs and supporters of the Russian leadership," said Trudeau. "Names of these individuals come from a list compiled by jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These sanctions put increased pressure on Russia's leadership including on Putin's inner circle. Canada has sent about a billion dollars worth of financial assistance to Ukraine," added the Canadian PM.
Canada has imposed sanctions against ten individuals with close ties to the Russian leadership, including Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, businessman Oleg Deripaska and RT Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan, Ottawa said on Monday in an updated sanctions document. Additions to the so-called Special Economic Measures Act also include Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko, parliamentarian Pavel Krasheninnikov, businessman Dmitry Patrushev, TV personality Vladimir Solovyov, TV executive Konstantin Ernst as well as Victor Gavrilov and Dmitry Ivanov.
He said that Canada will continue to defend democracy and continue to make sure that Russian President Vladimir Putin is held accountable. "The individuals include former and current senior Russian government officials, oligarchs and supporters of the Russian leadership", Trudeau said.
The Canadian leader said he hoped the sanctions and "massive tariffs" imposed on Russian and Belarusian imports would punish "Putin where it hurts most in particular financial systems and sanctioning their central bank so far." (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952690-canada-announces-sanctions-against-kremlin-spokesman-peskov-businessman-deripaska
| 2022-03-07T18:15:37
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en
| 0.954412
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Ukraine Crisis Updates: UK, western nations considering sanctions targeting Russian energy exports
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a joint press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday said that London and other Western governments are seriously considering sanctions on Russian energy exports in response to the ongoing military operation in Ukraine.
- Country:
- India
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a joint press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday said that London and other Western governments are seriously considering sanctions on Russian energy exports in response to the ongoing military operation in Ukraine. President of European Union Commission Ursula von der Leyen said the EU will table proposals to 'quickly get rid' of the dependency on Russian fossil fuels.
She noted that the approach to reduce dependency on Russia is by diversifying suppliers, switching to LNG and pipeline gas and by investing in renewables. Hungary, on the other hand, said it will not support the expansion of anti-Russian sanctions in the energy sector as this would threaten both the national currency and welfare of Hungarians.
The third round of negotiations between the delegations of Ukraine and Russia kicked off in Belarus. Moreover, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet in Turkey's coastal Antalya province, according to their Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu. After the diplomatic efforts by Turkey, Foreign Ministers of Ukraine and Russia have agreed to meet in Turkey on Thursday amid the ongoing tensions after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Permanent Representative of President of Ukraine in Crimea, Anton Korynevich, told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that Kyiv intends to prove the groundlessness of Russia's accusations of genocide against Ukraine. He slammed Russia for "disrespecting the international law." US President Joe Biden, during a conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, welcomed the decisions of Visa and Mastercard to suspend services in Russia, the White House said.Earlier, Zelenskyy said on Twitter that he held phone talks with Biden on Saturday, discussing Western support for Kyiv and anti-Russia sanctions.
The Russian government approved a list of countries and territories that are 'unfriendly' with Russia and has imposed sanctions against the country after the start of a special military operation of the Russian Armed Forces in Ukraine. Ukraine's MFA shared the details of the losses that Russia has incurred since the invasion of Ukraine started noting that a total of 11,000 Russian forces were killed till Monday (local time).
According to the MFA data, 999 armoured vehicles of different types, 46 aircraft, 68 helicopters, 290 tanks, 117 artillery pieces and 50 MLRs were hit during the combat. Ukrainian forces have retaken control of Mykolaiv airport, local media reported citing Mykolaiv governor Vitaliy Kim. Earlier, Kim had said that the Russian forces had taken control of Mykolaiv international airport.
Russian Defense Ministry said a total of 150 civilians were used as a human shield in Mariupol while the Ukrainian nationalists opened fire on the Donetsk People's Republics (DPR) fighters from behind the civilians' back. Furthermore, Under Operation Ganga, 83 flights have brought over 17,100 Indians back to India from war-hit Ukraine so far including a total of 1,250 on board 7 flights that landed in the last 24 hours. Nearly 22,000 Indians have exited Ukraine since the issuance of advisory in January 2022.
In a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin said that the Russian military personnel are making every effort to ensure the evacuation of the Indian citizens from the Ukrainian city of Sumy. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/1952699-ukraine-crisis-updates-uk-western-nations-considering-sanctions-targeting-russian-energy-exports
| 2022-03-07T18:15:45
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en
| 0.949413
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Assam: Top Maoist leader Kanchan Da and his aide arrested from Cachar
In a major success, the Assam police have arrested the most wanted top Maoist leader Kanchan Da from the Cachar district of Assam on Sunday evening, the police said on Monday.
- Country:
- India
In a major success, the Assam police have arrested the most wanted top Maoist leader Kanchan Da from the Cachar district of Assam on Sunday evening, the police said on Monday. Police had also arrested one Akash Orang who is an Assam state-level member of the outlawed along with 72-year-old Kanchan Da from the Patimara tea garden area under Udharbond police station in Cachar district.
Guwahati City Police Commissioner Harmeet Singh on Monday said that it is a big victory for Assam police and also the forces fighting for sovereignty and national security. "We have received information that a top Maoist leader is camping in the bordering district of Assam. For the last two months, we have been running operations and we missed him two or three times. We finally caught him yesterday (March 6). Yesterday evening a team of Guwahati city police trace the person at 16 no line of Patimara tea garden under Udharband police station of Cachar district and caught him and he confessed during interrogation that he is Kanchan Da," Harmeet Singh said.
Police had recovered one laptop, other devices, mobile phone, Maoist literature, Rs 3.60 lakh. "His (Kanchan Da) main task to visit Assam was to set up a state-level team of CPI (Maoist) in Assam and to set up a red corridor from a neighbouring country, engage youth, to manage weapons and terror funding. He had been in touch to set up a completely new system of Maoism in Assam. Rs 3.60 lakh recovered in possession from him," Harmeet Singh said.
The top police official further said, "It is a big success and the central agencies are in touch with us." "There are about 200 cases against Kanchan Da in different parts of the country. Rewards on his name is about Rs 3 crore," Harmeet Singh said.
The Guwahati City Police Commissioner also said that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma who holds the Home department, monitors law and order, anti-insurgency, anti-terrorism, anti-drugs campaigns very closely and he is aware of this big success. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952636-assam-top-maoist-leader-kanchan-da-and-his-aide-arrested-from-cachar
| 2022-03-07T18:15:52
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en
| 0.972036
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LONDON (AP) — The global soccer union is asking FIFA to allow foreign players based in Russia to leave their clubs permanently, although the governing body looks set to only permit a temporary suspension of their contracts.
FIFPRO and the organization representing the world's soccer leagues — the World Leagues Forum — jointly wrote to FIFA seeking permission for Russia-based players to terminate their contracts. They have been told that players can only temporarily join another club until June 30 but must then return to Russia.
A final decision is set to be taken by the FIFA Bureau, which features the presidents of the six regional confederations.
After Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, FIFA suspended the country from international soccer games last week but has yet to suspend its soccer federation or officials.
But the umbrella organization representing European leagues has already expelled Russia’s top leagues as members.
There are hundreds of foreign players in Russia who would typically not be able to leave their clubs or sign for new ones outside the two transfer trading periods in the year. FIFPRO general secretary Jonas Baer-Hoffmann and WLF counterpart Jerome Perlemuter wrote to FIFA last week to raise the issue of allowing the players to continue their careers in another country.
“These foreign players may rightfully consider that they are not willing to represent any longer a Russian team,” Baer-Hoffmann and Perlemuter wrote to FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura, "and should be able to immediately terminate their contract with their employer without facing any sanction whatsoever from international bodies and to be registered in a new club without being restricted by transfer period regulations."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin after Russia staged the 2018 World Cup. FIFA has declined to respond to questions from The Associated Press in detail about Russia over the last week or whether Infantino has been in contact with Putin, who awarded him Russia's Order of Friendship medal.
Russian clubs are already seeing foreigners leave, including two German coaches. Daniel Farke quit FC Krasnodar after seven weeks in the job and Markus Gisdol left Lokomotiv Moscow.
Ukraine's league has been suspended with war engulfing the country.
___
More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/fifa-set-to-let-foreign-players-leave-russia-until-june/TKCH45A6LVATDISZ7FXVY4MTI4/
| 2022-03-07T18:15:57
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en
| 0.971428
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Putin has deployed nearly 100 pct of pre-staged forces into Ukraine- US official
- Country:
- United States
Russian President Vladimir Putin has now deployed into Ukraine nearly 100 percent of the more than 150,000 forces that he had pre-staged outside the country before the invasion, a senior U.S. defense official said on Monday.
"That's our best estimate right now," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The Pentagon has also ordered over the weekend an additional 500 troops to Europe, which would bring the total number of American forces there to about 100,000, the official said, as the United States seeks to guard against the war's spillover into NATO nations.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952640-putin-has-deployed-nearly-100-pct-of-pre-staged-forces-into-ukraine--us-official
| 2022-03-07T18:15:59
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| 0.976794
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said Monday that the state will formally recommend against COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children.
Ladapo made the announcement at a roundtable event organized by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis that featured a group of doctors who criticized coronavirus lockdowns and mandate policies. It was not immediately clear when the state would release its health guidance.
“The Florida Department of Health is going to be the first state to officially recommend against the COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children,” Ladapo said at the end of the roundtable discussion.
“We’re kind of scraping at the bottom of the barrel, particularly with healthy kids, in terms of actually being able to quantify with any accuracy and any confidence the even potential of benefit,” he added.
Late last month, Ladapo and DeSantis announced new virus policy recommendations that discouraged mask-wearing and directed physicians to exercise their own judgment when treating virus patients, including the use of emerging treatments and off-label medications.
The Florida state Senate confirmed Ladapo as surgeon general despite criticism that his virus health policy is too aligned with the anti-lockdown and mandate politics of DeSantis.
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/florida-to-recommend-against-covid-vaccines-for-healthy-kids/NIWSQXHMUNAPRJROZKVI2RVCLU/
| 2022-03-07T18:16:04
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en
| 0.965679
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SC issues notice to Bihar, UPSC on PIL challenging appointment of DGP
The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the Bihar government and the UPSC on a PIL challenging the appointment of SK Singhal as the Director-General of Police (DGP) of the state.
- Country:
- India
The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the Bihar government and the UPSC on a PIL challenging the appointment of SK Singhal as the Director-General of Police (DGP) of the state. A bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana and Justices AS Bopanna and Hima Kohli sought response from the state government on the PIL filed by Bihar resident Narendra Kumar Dhiraj contending that the appointment has violated the apex court 2006 judgment.
The top court also sought response from Singhal, a 1988 batch Bihar cadre IPS officer, who was appointed as the state DGP in December 2020 for two years ending in the month of December 2022. The 2006 apex court verdict in the Prakash Singh case had said that the DGP of a state shall be "selected by the state government from amongst the three senior-most officers of the department who have been empanelled for promotion to that rank by the UPSC on the basis of their length of service, very good record and range of experience for heading the police force."
The top court had said that once he has been selected for the job, he should have a minimum tenure of at least two years irrespective of his date of superannuation. However, the DGP may be relieved of his responsibilities by the State government acting in consultation with the State Security Commission, consequent upon any action taken against him under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules or following his conviction in a court of law in a criminal offence or a case of corruption, or if he is otherwise incapacitated from discharging his duties, the apex court's 2006 verdict had stated. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952642-sc-issues-notice-to-bihar-upsc-on-pil-challenging-appointment-of-dgp
| 2022-03-07T18:16:07
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en
| 0.974813
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LOS ANGELES (AP) — When her daughter was diagnosed with cancer, Tetiana Chatokhina didn't hesitate to make the trip back to her native Ukraine to help her recover from surgery and care for her 14-year-old grandson.
But the 75-year-old disabled American citizen found herself trapped alongside her family in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, targeted by nightly shelling and bombs after Russia invaded a little more than a week ago.
The underground shelter wasn't big enough for all three of them, so Chatokhina, her daughter Olena Iarova, and Iarova's son stayed above ground despite the risk. Two lay beneath a table; Chatokhina, nearby, on the floor. They took turns sleeping and keep the lights off, and voices low, in the hopes the Russian military would think the home was abandoned and pass them by.
“Every time we go to bed, we don't even sleep,” Chatokhina said in whispers over the phone before the family left the city and headed West toward Poland, hoping to make it across the border.
The family is one of many stranded in Ukraine since the Russian invasion, including American citizens caring for family members who are Ukrainian citizens. The closure of the U.S. embassy in Kyiv postponed many visa interviews and limited the services the country can provide to people seeking to leave Ukraine. Families have been contacting Congress and immigration lawyers in the U.S. pleading for help.
There’s no known estimate of how many Americans remain in Ukraine after weeks of warnings urging them to leave before the invasion.
The State Department has been “just completely unhelpful,” said U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, a New York Republican whose office worked for several days to push forward the visa application of a Ukrainian woman whose husband lives in Malliotakis' district. “I know some of my colleagues are facing that same experience, and it’s just really reminiscent of what occurred in Afghanistan when we were trying to evacuate families and help people get out of Afghanistan.”
The department has support teams near the Ukrainian border in four neighboring countries to assist U.S. citizens and opened a “welcome center” in Poland. But people seeking immigrant visas who are trying to transfer their case to another U.S. embassy have to contact that specific embassy for a list of requirements, the department said this week.
After several emails sent by Malliotakis' office, the State Department agreed to transfer the woman's case to Moldova and the couple has now reached that country.
Thousands of miles away, in a hilltop home in Los Angeles, Chatokhina's son and daughter-in-law have been sleepless as well. They've called their congressional representative and the State Department, desperate to get the family out.
They want to get them to the border with Poland — a stretch for Chatokhina, who recently underwent surgery herself and needs walking assistance — and then to a U.S. consulate for a long-awaited interview for a green card for Iarova, for which she was sponsored years ago.
“I actually called the State Department and I was told that there's nothing they can do until she's in a EU country or any country outside of Ukraine," said Galina Blank, Chatokhina's daughter-in-law. ”The State Department can't do anything. They're not doing anything for United States citizens."
“She’s old. She’s sick. She’s a citizen,” she said.
In 1990, then-21-year-old Edward Chatokhin left his hometown of Kharkiv in what was the Soviet Union to try to make a life in the United States. Years later, he married Blank, who had moved to Los Angeles as a Soviet refugee when she was a child.
After Chatokhin became an American citizen, he sponsored his mother for a green card and she went to live with them in California. Once she, too, became a U.S. citizen, she applied for Iarova to join them.
Although U.S. authorities have approved her application, Iarova still needs a consular interview to get a green card. Since the coronavirus pandemic, many of these interviews have been delayed, and Blank said she's unsure how long it would have taken before the invasion. She said the State Department told her that if Iarova can get to another country they would expedite her interview.
The situation in Kharkiv is dire, the family said. They were running out of food. Their water was cut off. The weather is extremely cold.
When the invasion began, they thought the Russians were trying to scare them. But it only got worse, Iarova said.
“There is no mercy, not to anyone at all. We could imagine anything, but not that they would drop bombs on us," she said. “I just want to save my child.”
In Los Angeles, Blank, a lawyer, and Chatokhin, an internet entrepreneur, have been working the phones, trying to find someone to help the family flee. Initially, a friend offered to drive them to the border, but a nearby bridge blew up and he couldn't reach them, Blank said.
When his mother left Los Angeles about two months ago, Chatokhin said he didn't have any worries about the situation in Kharkiv. Even as chatter surfaced about a possible attack, he said he and his friends saw it as no more than media bluster, adding that the two countries have a shared language, history and culture.
Last Wednesday, his nephew went to school, like always. A day later, there was war.
“We’re the same people. It just makes no sense," Blank said. “That’s why nobody ever believed that anything like this could happen.”
___
Merchant reported from Washington. AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee and AP journalists Padmananda Rama and Lynn Berry in Washington contributed to this report.
Credit: Eugene Garcia
Credit: Eugene Garcia
Credit: Eugene Garcia
Credit: Eugene Garcia
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/in-ukraine-under-attack-american-hopes-for-daughters-visa/JTS5B2MMXFHSBLOCHX3W3DULXM/
| 2022-03-07T18:16:11
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en
| 0.983748
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Operation Ganga: Indian student Harjot Singh who sustained bullet injuries in Kyiv admitted to Army's RR Hospital after arrival in Delhi
Harjot Singh, an Indian national who sustained bullet injuries in Ukraine's Kyiv has been shifted to Army's RR Hospital in Delhi for further treatment on Monday.
- Country:
- India
Harjot Singh, an Indian national who sustained bullet injuries in Ukraine's Kyiv has been shifted to Army's RR Hospital in Delhi for further treatment on Monday. Today evening, Singh's flight arrived at the Hindon Air Base. He was flown back to India on an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft as part of the Central government's evacuation programme "Operation Ganga".
Earlier in the day, Harjot met Union Minister General VK Singh at Poland airport.The student has crossed the Ukrainian border and entered neighbouring Poland and is among the stranded Indians being brought back. Earlier, the student had told ANI that he sustained multiple injuries after bullets were fired upon his car in which he was travelling in Kyiv in Ukraine.
"This is February 27 incident. We were three people in a cab on our way to the third checkpoint where we were told to return due to security reasons. While coming back, multiple bullets were fired at our car due to which I sustained multiple bullet injuries," Harjot Singh said. The Indian student said he regained consciousness at 10 pm on the night of March 2. The Indian student is pursuing studies in Information Technology said that he has got a new life.
Tensions have escalated following Russia's military action in Ukraine and the government has arranged flights from countries neighbouring Ukraine for the evacuation of Indian students. With thousands of Indian nationals being brought back from Ukraine under Operation Ganga, Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Monday apprised about the efforts taken by the Indian Embassies to help people in conflict-ridden Ukraine.
Speaking to ANI today, Muraleedharan said, "Out of 20,000 Indian citizens, we have been able to evacuate more than 16,000 citizens. Around 3,000 citizens are still there in the neighbouring countries of Ukraine. Around 600 students are there in Sumy area. The Embassy is making arrangements to evacuate them." (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952643-operation-ganga-indian-student-harjot-singh-who-sustained-bullet-injuries-in-kyiv-admitted-to-armys-rr-hospital-after-arrival-in-delhi
| 2022-03-07T18:16:15
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| 0.975315
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BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — The International Judo Federation has removed the titles and jobs Vladimir Putin and a long-time Kremlin-supporting oligarch held at the organization.
"The International Judo Federation announces that Mr. Vladimir Putin and Mr. Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation," the Budapest-based governing body said in a statement late Sunday.
Putin’s honorary presidency of the IJF was suspended last week with the organization citing “the ongoing war conflict in Ukraine.”
The Russian president is an avid judoka and attended the sport at the 2012 London Olympics.
Rotenberg is a long-time friend of Putin from their home city of St. Petersburg and was a member of the IJF executive committee as “development manager.”
___
More AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/apf-sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Credit: Mikhail Klimentyev
Credit: Mikhail Klimentyev
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/judo-federation-removes-titles-from-putin-russian-oligarch/UYLLFYVQLVAS5N3B5YS7YRSEPQ/
| 2022-03-07T18:16:17
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en
| 0.952028
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Induction of women in NDA a major policy decision, need three months to study impact: Centre to SC
The Central government on Monday told the Supreme Court that induction of women cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA) has been a major policy decision and it requires at least three months for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces.
- Country:
- India
The Central government on Monday told the Supreme Court that induction of women cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA) has been a major policy decision and it requires at least three months for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces. The Centre has filed its affidavit in a PIL saying, "The induction of woman cadets in NDA has been a major policy decision. The respondents need sufficient time for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces. It is, therefore, submitted that the respondents require at least three months additional time towards this."
The affidavit was filed pursuant to the apex court's January 18 direction on a plea filed by advocate Kush Kalra about the data of the women who have appeared for the NDA-2021 examination and the number of women inducted. With respect to the number of candidates who took the examination and how many women were successful, it is submitted that a total of 5,75,854 candidates applied for the exam and 3,57,197 candidates took the examination.
"A total of 8,009 candidates, including 1,002 women candidates passed the NDA written examination held during November 2021. The Service Selection Board (SSB) is scheduled with effect from March-April 2022," the affidavit stated. In respect of the number of women to be inducted for 'NDA-II 2021' and 'NDA-I 2022, it is submitted that each course at NDA has 370 vacancies for the three services out of which 208 will get commissioned in the Indian Army, 120 cadets will get commissioned in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 42 will get commissioned in the Indian Navy.
The Centre while justifying the number of women cadets for all three forces, said that in respect of the Army, the ratio is to ensure that there is a younger profile and mobility of officer cadre, borne out of its operational role and tasks in difficult areas. Officers commissioned through NDA have a major component of combat Arms and Women officers are not being inducted in combat arms, added the affidavit.
The Centre said that the average intake in the last four years of women officers in the eight arms and services has been up to 15 per cent of the total cadre strength. The Indian Army since has been simultaneously engaged in a large number of operational challenges, especially on Northern Borders which have effected permanent changes in deployment and various other operational facets requiring in-depth analysis and extrapolated impacts in cadre management to include women officers operational employment, it added.
On January 18, the Supreme Court had sought a response from the Centre regarding the intake of only 19 women candidates in National Defence Academy and other military-run schools and colleges for the year 2022. A Bench of Justice Sanjay Kaul and MM Sundresh had issued notice to the Centre after it was informed that 19 women candidates would be admitted in NDA out of a total 370 seats.
The apex court had asked the Centre to make its stand clear on restricting the intake of women candidates in NDA to 19, the figure same as last year. It had asked the Central government to place the figures on record about the total number of candidates including women who have appeared in the NDA examination 2021, for entrance tests for Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) and for Rashtriya Military School (RMS).
Counsel appearing for petitioner Kush Kalra had told the Bench that even for the 2021 examination, the intake of women candidates was limited to 19 for the Army, Navy and Airforce. Though the Centre had undertaken before the top court to put in place the infrastructural requirements for women candidates by May 2022, it has limited the number of intake to 19 candidates for this year also, the apex court was told.
Last year the apex court had directed that female aspirants be allowed to appear in the NDA entrance examination. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952652-induction-of-women-in-nda-a-major-policy-decision-need-three-months-to-study-impact-centre-to-sc
| 2022-03-07T18:16:22
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The latest developments on the Russia-Ukraine war:
MADRID — U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman says that getting military material for Ukrainians to fight a Russian invasion is set to become more difficult for the U.S. and its allies.
“I think that the international community has been tremendously responsive and have found ways to get the material in. That may become harder in the coming days, and we’ll have to find other ways to manage this,” Sherman said Monday during a visit to the Spanish capital for meetings with officials.
The Biden administration is considering how to fulfill Ukrainian President Volodmyr Zelenskyy’s request for warplanes, the official said, considering that Ukrainians would only be able to operate soviet-era warplanes provided by Poland.
“People are trying to see whether this is possible and doable,” she said, adding that the warplanes should not be regarded by Moscow as direct involvement in the conflict: “We would expect that this delivery would be seen as all the deliveries have been seen as a right for Ukraine to defend itself.”
Sherman met in Madrid with Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and other officials. She arrived from Turkey and was on her way to Morocco, Algeria and Egypt for a week of intense diplomatic contacts amid the war in Ukraine.
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PARIS — French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian criticized Russia’s offer of humanitarian corridors for Ukrainian civilians as a “trap” that could possibly lead to more bombing in Ukraine.
Le Drian referred to Russia’s tactic of bombing and then offering humanitarian corridors in the past, citing Aleppo in Syria and Grozny, in Chechnya. He said in such cases Russia’s proposal of establishing humanitarian corridors actually led to more bombings after negotiations failed.
“We must not fall into traps,” Le Drian said Monday in France’s southern city of Montpellier after a meeting of European ministers.
“I’m even wondering if in Russian military schools there are classes to explain: ‘bombing, corridor, negotiations, breach (of negotiations), we start it all again’. It’s quite tragic but unfortunately it sends shivers down your spine,” he said.
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TIRANA, Albania — Albania’s capital Tirana on Monday named a street “Free Ukraine” to express solidarity with Ukraine’s resistance to the Russian invasion.
Tirana’s city hall council, or parliament, voted unanimously to rename a downtown street in the capital where the Ukrainian, Russian, Serbian and Kosovar embassies are located.
“The two conflicts: Serbia against Kosovo and Russian Against Ukraine are two marking points for the generations and memories of a modern Europe,” said Mayor Erion Veliaj.
Albania has joined the European Union in the hard-hitting sanctions against Russian top officials and institutions. Last week, Albania joined the United States in initiating a resolution at the United Nations Security Council denouncing the Russian invasion.
“We have always aligned on the fair and glorious side of the world’s history, like we did once with the Hebrews, yesterday with the Afghans and today with the Ukrainians,” said Veliaj, adding that 1,500 families have offered shelter for the Ukrainian refugees if they come to the country.
Albania was the only country during World War II to have more Jews in the end compared to the start offering them shelter from Nazi persecution. Last year, Albania was the first country to offer shelter to the Afghans fleeing their country after the Taliban regime came to power.
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NEW YORK -- All four of the so-called Big Four accounting firms are now cutting ties with Russia over its war in Ukraine.
Deloitte on Monday was the last of the four to say it will no longer operate in Russia, joining Ernst & Young, Pricewaterhousecoopers and KPMG in making similar announcements.
Deloitte said it is also cutting its ties to Russia-allied Belarus. The company said it is separating its global network of member firms from the firms based in Russia and Belarus.
Deloitte Global CEO Punit Renjen said in a statement “we know this is the right decision” but it will have an impact on Deloitte’s 3,000 employees in Russia and Belarus who “have no voice in the actions of their government.”
Pricewaterhousecoopers and KPMG announced they were pulling out of Russia on Sunday, and Ernst & Young earlier on Monday.
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LONDON — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has defended his government’s treatment of Ukrainians fleeing war, after France accused U.K. authorities of “inhumane” behavior towards the refugees.
Johnson said Britain was being “very, very generous,” but would not have “a system where people can come into the U.K. without any checks or any controls at all.”
Britain says it expects to take in as many as 200,000 displaced Ukrainians. Very few have managed to reach Britain so far. The Home Office said “around 50” visas had been granted by Sunday.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Sunday that hundreds of Ukrainian refugees in the English Channel port of Calais had been turned away and told by British authorities that they must obtain visas at U.K. embassies in Paris or Brussels.
Calling that “a bit inhumane,” Darmanin urged Britain to “stop the technocratic nit-picking."
U.K. Home Secretary Priti Patel denied Britain was turning anyone away. The British government confirmed Monday that it did not have a visa center in Calais.
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BUDAPEST - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban signed a decree on Monday allowing for NATO troops to station on Hungarian territory in response to the Russian invasion of neighboring Ukraine.
The government decree reaffirmed Orban’s earlier insistence that Hungary would not allow troops or lethal weapons to be delivered across its borders into Ukraine, but allowed for the transit of NATO forces across its territory into other NATO member countries.
Non-lethal aid, such as personal protective equipment, first aid and medical supplies and humanitarian materials, are permitted to cross into Ukraine from Hungary, according to the decree.
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ROME — Italian Premier Mario Draghi said Russia appears determined to carry on with its war in Ukraine until it can install a government “friendly” to Moscow.
Draghi was asked by reporters in Brussels on Monday if he thought there was still room for diplomacy. “Look, up till now, (diplomacy) hasn’t yielded any fruits. Up till now, the determination of Russia is very clear,’’ Draghi replied.
Russia will proceed until “the country has surrendered, (and it) probably installs a friendly government and defeats the resistance,’’ the Italian leader said. “That’s what the facts demonstrate.”
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BRUSSELS — European Commission spokesman for foreign affairs Peter Stano said the EU would like to see China play a mediation role and convince Russia to stop its war in Ukraine.
“China has the potential to reach out to Moscow because of their relationship obviously and we would like China to use its influence to press for a cease-fire and to make Russia to stop the brutal unprecedented shelling and killing of civilians in Ukraine.”
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LONDON — Leading Russian banks are looking into issuing cards that operate on a Chinese payment system after Visa and Mastercard said they would cut their services in Russia over the invasion of Ukraine.
Sberbank and Tinkoff Bank said Sunday that they are considering the possibility of payment cards powered by China’s UnionPay system. They told users that Visa and Mastercard will work within Russia but will stop working for payments outside of the country after Wednesday.
Russian banks are scrambling to find new ways to facilitate cross-border payments after a host of foreign companies suspended financial services, part of a larger move by the West to isolate Russia and cut it off from the global financial system.
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PRAGUE — Two Czech army convoys are on the way to neighboring Slovakia to help the NATO and European Union ally cope with the wave of refugees from Ukraine
“We didn’t have to think twice and immediately met the Slovak request,” Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova said on Monday.
Over 128,000 refugees from Ukraine have arrived in neighboring Slovakia since the beginning of the Russian invasion.
The Czech Republic and Slovakia have remained close allies following the peaceful split of Czechoslovakia in 1993.
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GENEVA -- The U.N. human rights office says it has been able to confirm the deaths of 406 civilians in Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion.
It said that another 801 injured civilians had been confirmed as of midnight Sunday. The rights office uses strict methodology and only reports casualties it has confirmed.
It says it believes the real figures are considerably higher, “especially in government-controlled territory and especially in recent days.” Fighting has delayed its receipt of information and many reports still need to be corroborated.
Ukrainian officials have presented far higher numbers.
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BERLIN -- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is making clear that he stands by exempting Russian energy deliveries from an increasing raft of sanctions against Russia.
Scholz said in a statement on Monday emphasizing Germany’s support for tough measures against Russia that Europe has deliberately exempted energy deliveries.
He added: “Europe’s supply with energy for heating, for mobility, power supply and for industry cannot at the moment be secured otherwise.” That, he said, is of “essential significance” for people’s daily lives.
The chancellor added that Germany has been working with its partners in the European Union and beyond for months to “develop alternatives to Russian energy.” But he said that that can’t be done overnight, “so it is a conscious decision on our part” to allow companies to continue their involvement with Russian energy supplies.
On Sunday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the U.S. and its allies are having a “very active discussion” about banning the import of Russian oil and natural gas.
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WARSAW, Poland -- Poland, the country receiving the largest numbers of refugees from Russia’s war against Ukraine, on Monday approved legislation offering financial help to refugees and allowing them to stay legally in the country for 18 months.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki described helping the Ukrainians as the most important challenge Poland has faced in decades, and he argued that the efforts “cannot be only spontaneous.”
Poland has accepted more than 1 million refugees since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, more than half of the 1.7 million to flee.
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PARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron criticized “hypocritical” rhetoric and “cynicism” from Moscow about offering to open humanitarian corridors to Russia for Ukrainian civilians.
“Humanitarian actors need to be able to intervene, so we must get full cease-fires when they intervene to place under protection women, children, men who need to be protected. And (we must) be able to get them out of the conflict area,” Macron said Monday in an interview on French news broadcaster LCI.
The issue won’t be solved via “corridors which are being threatened right away (by Russia),” he said. Saying that “we are going to protect people by bringing them to Russia” is “hypocritical,” he added. “This is cynicism" that is “unbearable,” he said.
Macron addressed the issue publicly after the Russian task force said the new pledge for humanitarian corridors was announced at his request, following a call with Putin on Sunday. Macron’s office said he asked for a broader end to military operations in Ukraine and protections for civilians.
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WARSAW, Poland -- Polish government officials on Monday said that Poland has not, and will not, send its fighter jets to Ukraine to support Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
A deputy foreign minister, Marcin Przydacz, said in an interview on Radio Zet that: “We will not open our airports and Polish planes will not fight over Ukraine … Polish planes will not fight over Ukraine.”
But separately the government spokesman, Piotr Mueller, indicated a final decision had not been made. He said that a decision on whether to send fighter jets presents risks and is a “very delicate matter.”
The comments come after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy begged the United States to help Kyiv get more warplanes to fight Russia’s invasion and retain control of its airspace.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington was looking at a proposal under which Poland would supply Kyiv with Soviet-era fighters and in turn receive American F-16s to make up for their loss.
Poland has been less than enthusiastic about the idea, at least publicly, largely because Russia has warned that supporting Ukraine’s air force would be seen in Moscow as participating in the conflict and could create a risk of retaliation.
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VATICAN CITY — The Vatican says two cardinals dispatched by Pope Francis to promote peace will visit refugee centers in Poland and Hungary before going to war-ravaged Ukraine.
In the first details of the mission announced by Pope Francis on Sunday, the Vatican said Monday that both prelates will press the pontiff’s oft-repeated cry that war is folly.
Cardinal Michael Czerny will arrive in Hungary on Tuesday. There, he will “raise concern that African and Asian residents in Ukraine, also suffering fear and displacement, be allowed to seek refuge without discrimination.”
Czerny also will highlight “the sad similarity between the Ukrainians’ sufferings and the protracted conflicts that no longer attract the world’s attention,” the Vatican said, citing the pope’s frequent denunciation of suffering in wars in Yemen, Syria and Ethiopia.
Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, a Pole, traveled to the Polish-Ukrainian border on Monday, where he will initially meet with refugees and volunteers in shelters and homes.
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GENEVA -- The United Nations’ refugee agency says the number of people who have fled the war in Ukraine has increased to more than 1.7 million.
The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees on Monday put the number of people who have arrived in other countries since the Russian invasion started on Feb. 24 at some 1.735 million. That’s up from more than 1.53 million on Sunday.
Nearly three-fifths of the total - nearly 1.03 million -- arrived in Poland, according to the agency. Over 180,000 went to Hungary and 128,000 to Slovakia.
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LVIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Monday for a global boycott of all Russian products – including oil.
“If the invasion continues and Russia does not abandon its plans against Ukraine, then we need a new sanctions package,” Zelenskyy said in a video address Monday, including “a boycott of Russian exports, in particular, the rejection of oil and oil products from Russia.”
“The international community must act even more decisively.
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LVIV, Ukraine — A senior Ukrainian official on Monday rejected a Russian proposal to evacuate civilians from besieged Ukraine to Russia and Belarus.
“This is an unacceptable option for opening humanitarian corridors,” Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Irina Vereshchuk said at a briefing.
According to the Russian proposal, the only options for civilians fleeing Kyiv and its suburbs would be to go to Gomel in neighboring Belarus. Civilians in Kharkiv and Sumy in eastern Ukraine would have to flee to the Russian city of Belgorod.
Belarus is a key ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin and served as a launching ground for the invasion.
The Ukrainian government is proposing eight humanitarian corridors, including from the southern port of Mariupol, that would allow civilians to travel to the western regions of Ukraine, where there is no Russian shelling.
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BEIJING — China’s Foreign Minister on Monday called Russia Beijing’s “most important strategic partner,” amid its continued refusal to condemn the invasion of Ukraine.
Wang Yi told reporters ties with Moscow constituted “one of the most crucial bilateral relationships in the world," adding “no matter how perilous the international landscape, we will maintain our strategic focus and promote the development of comprehensive China-Russia partnership in the new era.”
China has broken with the U.S., Europe and others that have imposed sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. It says Washington is to blame for the conflict in Ukraine.
Credit: Emilio Morenatti
Credit: Emilio Morenatti
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Marienko Andrew
Credit: Marienko Andrew
Credit: Efrem Lukatsky
Credit: Efrem Lukatsky
Credit: Uncredited
Credit: Uncredited
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Markus Schreiber
Credit: Markus Schreiber
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Visar Kryeziu
Credit: Markus Schreiber
Credit: Markus Schreiber
Credit: Sam McNeil
Credit: Sam McNeil
Credit: Efrem Lukatsky
Credit: Efrem Lukatsky
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/live-updates-le-drian-criticizes-corridor-offer-as-trap/QFUHWMRBDVBFLH64UT42HC76OM/
| 2022-03-07T18:16:24
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ED arrests Chhattisgarh bizman in Rs 54 cr PMLA case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said that it has arrested one Chhattisgarh-based businessman Subhash Sharma, in connection with a Prevention of Money Laundering case of a bank fraud of Rs 54 crore.
- Country:
- India
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said that it has arrested one Chhattisgarh-based businessman Subhash Sharma, in connection with a Prevention of Money Laundering case of a bank fraud of Rs 54 crore. ED initiated a money-laundering investigation on the basis of multiple FIRs registered by Chhattisgarh Police and CBI against Subhash Sharma and others for fraudulently obtaining loans from various banks through companies owned and controlled by him, law enforcement agency said in a statement today.
The law enforcement agency further said that the total Proceeds of Crime (POC) involved in the above FIRs is around Rs 54 Crore. Investigations by ED revealed that during the period from December 2009 to December 2014, the loans obtained fraudulently by the companies owned and controlled by Subhash Sharma were diverted and used for investment in non-intended businesses and part of the Proceeds of Crime was also utilized to purchase immovable properties in the name of shell entities.
Most of the companies of Subhash Sharma did not have any business activities and were created only for the purpose of transfer/routing of loan funds received in his companies to other companies. Two PAO attaching movable and immovable properties valuing Rs. 39.68 Crore derived out of the Proceeds of Crime has been issued. The Special Judge of PMLA Court in Raipur and Chhattisgarh has granted 10 days of ED custody of the arrestee Subash Sharma. Further investigation into the case is underway. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952657-ed-arrests-chhattisgarh-bizman-in-rs-54-cr-pmla-case
| 2022-03-07T18:16:29
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Palestinian shot after stabbing two Israeli police officers in Jerusalem, police say
A Palestinian stabbed two Israeli policemen at a gate to Jerusalem's walled Old City on Monday and was then shot by the officers, a police statement said, in the second such incident in two days. Later that day, Israeli soldiers shot a Palestinian who threw a fire bomb at an army post outside Jerusalem, a military spokesman said.
- Country:
- Israel
A Palestinian stabbed two Israeli policemen at a gate to Jerusalem's walled Old City on Monday and was then shot by the officers, a police statement said, in the second such incident in two days. The statement said the assailant was "neutralised", and several Israeli media outlets reported he was killed. A video on social media showed several police officers pointing their guns and yelling at the man as he lay on the ground at the Cotton Merchants' Gate.
Photos distributed by police showed a bloodied knife on the ground. Police said the two officers suffered light to moderate wounds and were taken to hospital.
On Sunday, a Palestinian who stabbed and wounded an Israeli policeman in the Old City was killed after officers fired at him, police said. Later that day, Israeli soldiers shot a Palestinian who threw a fire bomb at an army post outside Jerusalem, a military spokesman said. Palestinian officials identified him as a 16-year-old who later died of his wounds.
Israel captured East Jerusalem, and the Old City, along with the West Bank and Gaza in a 1967 war. Palestinians seek those areas for a future state. Israeli-Palestinian peace talks collapsed in 2014.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952658-palestinian-shot-after-stabbing-two-israeli-police-officers-in-jerusalem-police-say
| 2022-03-07T18:16:37
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India's maritime, inland waterways witnessed lot of improvement, says country's first woman merchant navy captain
India's first woman merchant navy captain Captain Radhika Menon lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday saying whenever she travelled to China, Pakistan or in any other country, she received the feedback that India has a very strong leader.
- Country:
- India
India's first woman merchant navy captain Captain Radhika Menon lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday saying whenever she travelled to China, Pakistan or in any other country, she received the feedback that India has a very strong leader. On the eve of International Women's Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an interactive session with the Nari Shakti Puraskar awardees for the years 2020 and 2021, at Lok Kalyan Marg on Monday.
Menon is the first woman to receive an award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea from International Maritime Organization (IMO). During the interaction, Captain Radhika Menon told Prime Minister Modi, "After you have come into power, there is a lot of improvement in maritime field and inland waterways. I travelled the entire world with ships. Whenever I go to China, Pakistan or a country with which we are not on good terms, they always tell me 'You have a very strong leader.' I am really happy about it and very proud of you."
Prime Minister praised the awardees for the tremendous work done by them, adding that they are contributing to society as well as the country. He said that while their work has a spirit of service, what is also clearly visible in their work is innovation. He added that now there is no sector where women have not made their mark and made the country proud. Prime Minister said that the government is committed to working towards realizing the potential of women and is framing policies through which such potential can be identified. He noted that it is important to ensure that all women become part of decision-making at the family level, which will follow as a result of their economic empowerment.
'Nari Shakti Puraskar' is an initiative of the Ministry of Women and Child Development to acknowledge the exceptional contribution made by individuals and institutions, to celebrate women as game changers and catalysts of positive change in society. In all, 28 awards (14 each for the years 2020 and 2021) will be presented to 29 individuals in recognition of their exceptional work in rendering distinguished services towards the empowerment of women, especially vulnerable and marginalized women.
The winners of the Nari Shakti Puraskar for the year 2020 are from fields as diverse as entrepreneurship, agriculture, innovation, social work, arts and crafts, STEMM, wildlife conservation, etc. The winners of the Nari Shakti Puraskar for the year 2021 are from the fields of linguistics, entrepreneurship, agriculture, social work, arts and crafts, Merchant Navy, STEMM, education and literature, disability rights, etc. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952682-indias-maritime-inland-waterways-witnessed-lot-of-improvement-says-countrys-first-woman-merchant-navy-captain
| 2022-03-07T18:16:44
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TOP WRAP 9-Ukraine says bread factory hit as peace talks due
In the besieged southern port city of Mariupol hundreds of thousands of people remained trapped without food and water under regular bombardments. A Ukrainian negotiator urged Russia to stop its assault on Ukraine, which the United Nations said had sent 1.7 million people fleeing to Central Europe.
Ukrainian officials said a bread factory had been hit by a Russian air strike on Monday as the country's negotiators assembled for talks with Russian officials after previous rounds that brought no respite in the conflict.
The bodies of at least 13 civilians were recovered from rubble after factory in the town of Makariv in the Kyiv region was hit, local emergency services said. Five people were rescued of the 30 believed to have been there at the time. Reuters was not immediately able to verify the reported attack. Russia earlier offered Ukrainians escape routes to Russia and its close ally Belarus on Monday after weekend evacuation ceasefire attempts failed. In the besieged southern port city of Mariupol hundreds of thousands of people remained trapped without food and water under regular bombardments.
A Ukrainian negotiator urged Russia to stop its assault on Ukraine, which the United Nations said had sent 1.7 million people fleeing to Central Europe. "In a few minutes, we will start talking to representatives of a country that seriously believes large-scale violence against civilians is an argument," Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak said on Twitter. "Prove that this is not the case."
Under the Russian offer, a corridor from the capital Kyiv would lead to Russia's ally Belarus, while civilians from Kharkiv, Ukraine's second biggest city, would be directed to Russia, according to maps published by the RIA news agency. "Attempts by the Ukrainian side to deceive Russia and the whole civilised world...are useless this time," the Russian defence ministry said after announcing the "humanitarian corridors".
A spokesperson for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the Russian proposal was "completely immoral". "They are citizens of Ukraine, they should have the right to evacuate to the territory of Ukraine," the spokesperson said.
A day earlier, Reuters journalists had witnessed people trying to flee the town of Irpin near Kyiv getting caught in Russian shelling. On Monday people picked their way over the twisted ruins of a large bridge in Irpin, with river water rushing just beneath them.
"It's like a disaster. The city is almost ruined and the district where I'm living (there are) no houses which were not bombed," a young woman leaving with her children told Reuters. Russia denies deliberately targeting civilians. It calls the campaign it launched on Feb. 24 a "special military operation" to disarm Ukraine and remove leaders it describes as neo-Nazis. Ukraine and its Western allies call this a transparent pretext for an invasion to conquer a nation of 44 million people.
OIL BAN MULLED Western nations have placed heavy sanctions on Moscow to isolate it from global commerce and are now considering banning Russian oil imports. Oil prices spiked to their highest levels since 2008 amid the prospect of less supply from Russia, the world's biggest exporter of oil and gas.
International businesses and sports bodies have suspended ties, and wider economic disruption is likely as Russia and Ukraine are both among the world's main exporters of food and industrial metals. Prices of nickel, which is used to make stainless steel and batteries for electric vehicles, surged about 60% on Monday and have now nearly doubled since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.
The general staff of Ukraine's armed forces said Russian forces were "beginning to accumulate resources for the storming of Kyiv", a city of more than 3 million, after days of slow progress in their main advance south from Belarus. Ukraine said 2,000 civilians had been evacuated from Irpin, where Reuters journalists on Sunday saw people running for their lives and diving for cover as explosions burst and flames shot up into the sky. Panting with exhaustion and shock, they were helped onto busses by Ukrainian troops.
In Mariupol, deputy mayor Sergei Orlov said there had also been continuous air raids overnight. Orlov told CNN authorities were ready to evacuate 6,000 people on Saturday but the Russians had bombed 29 big municipal buses that were to transport them. Moscow has accused the Ukrainians of blocking the planned evacuations.
Ukraine said on Monday its forces had retaken control of the town of Chuhuiv in the northeast, site of heavy fighting for days, and of the strategic Mykolayiv airport in the south, which the regional governor said was under tank fire. Neither claim could immediately be verified. The United Nations called for safe passage to reach people cut off from lifesaving aid across Ukraine. In a humanitarian update it described one psychiatric hospital 60 km (40 miles)from Kyiv running out of water and medicine with 670 people trapped inside, including bedridden patients with severe needs.
The World Health Organization said at least six people had been confirmed killed in nine attacks on health care facilitaties since the start of the war. PICK UP PACE
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters Moscow would halt operations if Ukraine ceased fighting, amended its constitution to declare neutrality, and recognised Russia's annexation of Crimea and the independence of regions held by Russian-backed separatists. Ed Arnold, an analyst with Britain's Royal United Services Institute said Russia would need to try to consolidate the gains it has already made and pause to mobilise more forces unless the pace of its assault picked up.
"At the current rate of Russian losses ... we do have indications that this operation would be unsustainable within about three weeks," he said. While Russia's advance in the north on Kyiv has been stalled for days with an armoured column stretching for miles along a highway, it has made more progress in the south, pushing east and west along the Black and Azov Sea coasts.
Moscow has acknowledged nearly 500 deaths among its soldiers, but Western countries say the true number is much higher and Ukraine says it is many thousands. Death tolls cannot be verified, but footage widely filmed across Ukraine shows burnt-out wreckage of Russian tanks and armour, and parts of Ukrainian cities reduced to rubble by Russian strikes.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952686-top-wrap-9-ukraine-says-bread-factory-hit-as-peace-talks-due
| 2022-03-07T18:16:52
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| 0.976364
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On the eve of International Women`s Day, Bollywood actresses Neena Gupta and Madhuri Dixit shared their thoughts on the changing landscape of Indian content with regards to female artists and how this change could bring about a more inclusive space.
Commenting on the occasion, Neena Gupta opined that the evolution of entertainment space has been in perfect sync with the changing society, "The entertainment space has evolved, alongside our evolution as a society. As women become breadwinners, led businesses & teams, and became a central figure in every aspect of life, the roles that were offered to me became central to the story. In today`s scripts, roles for women are not dependent on a man, rather stand on their own."
Speaking on the sidelines of streaming platform Netflix's women's day programme 'Stree-ming', she further said, "I love that every day I get to see more stories that reflect the lives of incredible women - portraying all their layers, shades, and flaws. It`s safe to say there`s no going back. We are not just a part of the story, but we are the story."
Adding onto it, she said as to how a lot of change in Indian content has come from women who hold the fort behind the camera to craft compelling narratives, "More women writers, directors, producers have also acted as a powerful driving force behind this change. Behind the screen, inclusivity is critical not only in amplifying voices that are not always heard but also because it creates opportunities for stories that might not otherwise have been told."
Indian content has undergone a sea change in the past few decades where now women are not hired in films or audio-visual content purely based on pretty faces. Instead, it's their ability to put up powerful performances that sets the roadmap ahead for a more just society one frame at a time.
Voicing her opinion on the subject, Madhuri Dixit said, "There has been an evolution, and the evolution has been tremendous. Women are no longer just pretty faces or avenging angels. Today women are viewed as whole people, playing different characters from different professions - whether it`s a mathematician or a sportswoman or a housewife with unfulfilled aspirations, women are taking on different roles every day and it`s fascinating to see this change in the industry."
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https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-madhuri-dixit-neena-gupta-talk-about-evolution-of-entertainment-space-for-female-artists-2938299
| 2022-03-07T18:16:58
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| 0.972883
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Repolling will take place tomorrow in six booths in two districts of Manipur, where assembly elections were recently held, officials said on Monday. Voting in these polling stations in Ukhrul and Senapati were declared ‘to be void’ following violence on March 5 during the second and final phase of the assembly polls in the state, they said.
The repoll will begin at 7 am and conclude by 4 pm in Ukhrul, Kalhang, Pen, Ngamju, Yangkhullen and Mao Marafii. An estimated 84.90 per cent turnout was registered in the second phase. One person was killed and another suffered injuries on March 5 after security personnel fired at a group of people for allegedly trying to snatch an EVM at Ngamju village in Senapati district, state election commission sources said.
The assembly polls will decide the electoral fate of 92 candidates, including 12 from the BJP, followed by Congress (18), National People's Party (11), Janata Dal (United) and Naga People's Front (10 each). Counting of votes will take place on March 10.
READ | UP Assembly Elections 2022: 54.76% voter turnout in last phase
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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-manipur-assembly-elections-2022-repolling-in-six-booths-tomorrow-2938304
| 2022-03-07T18:16:59
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| 0.97086
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Two UN peacekeepers killed in Mali, four wounded
A convoy from the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA) hit an improvised explosive device north of Mopti on Monday, killing at least two ‘blue helmets’, and wounding four others.
In a statement, MINUSMA said the peacekeepers were part of a logistics convoy on its way to Timbuktu.
Saddened by the death of 2 #Peacekeepers killed today near Mopti when their vehicle, part of an @UN_MINUSMA logistics convoy, hit an #IED. 4 others were wounded. This is a tragic reminder of the daily threat facing us as we strive to further #peace in #Mali. #ServiceandSacrifice
— El-Ghassim Wane (@elghassimw) March 7, 2022
The UN Special Representative and head of MINUSMA, El-Ghassim WANE, strongly condemned the attack in the volatile central region of Mali, where Government forces have been fighting an Islamist insurgency for the past decade.
Possible war crime
MINUSMA said that Mr. WANE “recalls that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law. He calls on the Malian authorities to spare no effort to identify the perpetrators of these attacks so that they can be quickly brought to justice.”
He stressed that this latest attack, like the others that preceded it, “is a further reminder of the urgent need for even more sustained efforts to stabilize central Mali.”
In a tweet, the MINUSMA head reinforced that blue helmets, in what continues to be the most dangerous UN peacekeeping operation in the world, faced a “daily threat as we “strive to further peace in Mali”. More than 250 have died since 2013.
In a separate attack on Monday on Government forces, at least two soldiers died in the northern region of Gao, just three days after another clash with insurgents left 27 dead, and 32 wounded, according to news reports.
Crises mount
The growing insecurity in the central region has fed the humanitarian crisis in the country, along with deep political uncertainty, following military coups in 2020 and 2021.
Last month, the UN launched its 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan, seeking $686 million from donors to help more than five million of Mali’s most vulnerable citizens.
Visit UN News for more.
- READ MORE ON:
- Malian
- Islamist
- United Nations
- Timbuktu
- Mali
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952691-two-un-peacekeepers-killed-in-mali-four-wounded
| 2022-03-07T18:16:59
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| 0.944867
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Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Monday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and discussed the issue of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMS).
After meeting Shah at his residence, he said: "The main issue was the BBMB and officers should be deployed earlier. The Centre wants to deploy people from outside. I requested him to reconsider it.a
"He assured me that he will discuss with his minister in 1-2 days and act as per Punjab`s wish."
Channi also said that 997 students from the state were in Ukraine, out of whom 420 have returned, and 200 students have reached Poland and are safe but some of the people are still stuck in Ukraine.
"I made a request for them. HM assured me that they are monitoring and the students will be back," he said.
Earlier in the day, former Chief Minister and Punjab Lok Congress Chief Captain Amarinder Singh also met Amit Shah on Monday.
Soon after the meeting he said that he had a general discussion with the Home Minister. "There will be a detailed discussion once the results come in. It was a general discussion on Punjab, not on elections," he said.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-punjab-cm-channi-meets-amit-shah-discusses-bhakra-beas-management-board-issue-2938294
| 2022-03-07T18:17:02
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| 0.98972
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Watch: Heart touching moments as Jewish children evacuated from Ukraine, amid Russian invasion
Members of the Jewish Community of Odessa on Monday (March 7) fled Ukraine for Romania as President Zelenskiy has warned that Russia's next big target could be the historic Black Sea port of one million people.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-watch-heart-touching-moments-as-jewish-children-evacuated-from-ukraine-amid-russian-invasion-2938301
| 2022-03-07T18:17:02
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| 0.961272
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Special PMLA court grants bail to businessman and actor-producer Sachin Joshi
Special PMLA court on Monday granted bail to businessman and actor-producer Sachin Joshi in a money laundering case linked to another city-based firm Omkar Realtors and Developers but imposed a set of conditions on him.
- Country:
- India
Special PMLA court on Monday granted bail to businessman and actor-producer Sachin Joshi in a money laundering case linked to another city-based firm Omkar Realtors and Developers but imposed a set of conditions on him. ED had arrested Joshi on February 14 last year.
Last year, Sachin Joshi was arrested under the sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA), in the case of siphoning/diversion of bank funds to the tune of Rs 410 crore. The ED initiated an investigation on the basis of FIR registered by City Chowk police station Aurangabad, Maharashtra against promoters of M/s Omkar Group in the month of March 2020. The said FIR alleged cheating and diversion of bank funds.
"During the investigation, searches were conducted on various premises including residential and office premises of key persons and subsequently ED arrested Babulal Varma and Kamal Kishore Gupta, promoters of M/s Omkar Group, on January 27, 2021, under PMLA, 2002," the release read. According to ED, the role of Sachin Joshi and his companies were found in the further diversion of said bank funds through non-genuine transactions. It was found that nearly Rs 87 Crores were diverted through such transactions. Accordingly, Sachin Joshi was summoned and questioned.
Based on the investigation Sachin Joshi was arrested on February 14, 2021, under PMLA, 2002. Further investigation is underway. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952692-special-pmla-court-grants-bail-to-businessman-and-actor-producer-sachin-joshi
| 2022-03-07T18:17:07
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| 0.977587
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#ZeeExitPoll: AAP likely to form govt in Punjab, stun other parties | DNAIndia | Zee Exit Polls|
Assembly Election Exit Polls Zee News: The post-poll survey - done extensively in all the 5 states - gives you the most accurate picture as to which party is likely to form the government in which state.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-zeeexitpoll-aap-likely-to-form-govt-in-punjab-stun-other-parties-dnaindia-zee-exit-polls-2938296
| 2022-03-07T18:17:08
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| 0.942959
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RIGA, Latvia (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday thanked Israel for its efforts to end Russia's war with Ukraine as he and his Israeli counterpart met to discuss the conflict and ongoing nuclear talks with Iran in Vienna.
Blinken said that any initiative to try to halt the conflict would be welcome as long as the move is consistent with U.S., NATO and European principles that Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity are respected.
He made the comments as he and Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid sat down for hastily arranged talks in the Latvian capital of Riga just two days after Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
“We very much appreciate the efforts that any of our close partners and friends and allies can make to see if there’s any opening to end the war consistent, of course, with the principles that we’ve all established,” Blinken told Lapid.
“I look forward to hearing your ideas, hearing about some of the engagements that Israel has had, but we appreciate all efforts by friends and allies to look for a diplomatic resolution,” he said.
Lapid, who flew to Latvia especially to brief Blinken on Bennett's meeting with Putin and express Israel's grave concern at the prospect of a new nuclear deal with Iran, said the meeting was taking place "at the moment the world order is changing."
“The war that is going on in Ukraine and the nuclear talks in Vienna are events that are changing the world as we know it,” he said. He said Israel is “totally committed” to doing everything in its power to bring an end to the war in Ukraine.
On Iran, Lapid noted Israel's concerns about the nuclear negotiations potentially at the point of a breakthrough, saying Israel has well-known differences with the U.S. on a deal even if they share the end goal of preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.
“It’s no secret we have our differences on this, but it’s it’s a conversation between allies that have a common goal, which is preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear threshold country and to stop Iran’s ability to spread terror and instability all around the world," Lapid said.
Blinken responded that both Israel and the United States are “united and committed to the proposition that Iran must never obtain a nuclear weapon.”
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
Credit: Olivier Douliery
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/russia-ukraine-central-to-blinken-talks-with-israel-minister/QCHFPCPPRREO7PJJ5B5MTYNWBM/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:10
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| 0.960287
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Russia reduced Genocide Convention 'to confetti', Ukraine tells world court
Ukraine addressed the UN’s highest court on Monday to reject as a “grotesque lie” Russia’s claims that genocide has been committed in eastern Ukrainian oblasts, or regions, before calling for emergency measures to halt Russian aggression.
The development at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) came on day 12 of the crisis in Ukraine, where more than 1.5 million refugees have sought shelter across the country’ s borders and where cities have been surrounded by Russian forces and civilians are subject to indiscriminate shelling.
“Let us settle our dispute like civilized nations. Lay down your arms and put forward your evidence,” said Anton Korynevych, Permanent Representative of the President of Ukraine, in his opening address.
WATCH LIVE: Ukraine presents its argument on its request for the indication of provisional measures in the case of Allegations of Genocide under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (#Ukraine v. #Russia) before the #ICJ https://t.co/fvTv03lUKA
— CIJ_ICJ (@CIJ_ICJ) March 7, 2022
“Ukraine respects this court and follows its orders. Russia must as well,” he added. “But if Russia will not return to international law on its own, the court has the power to act. With respect, the court has responsibility to act.”
Direct violation of international law
Also representing Ukraine at the world court in The Hague, international lawyers argued that the Russian offensive was in direct violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention – and that its actions had reduced the global treaty to “confetti”, despite having signed the text.
Russia’s claim that it was duty-bound to intervene to prevent the massacre of people in Donetsk and Luhansk was “absurd”, they maintained- before a row of empty Russian seats -noting that Russia had not provided any proof to back up its allegations of genocide against nearly four million people in Russian-speaking Donetsk and Luhansk.
Unfounded Donbass allegations
Citing violence in the eastern oblasts dating back to 2014, the court heard that international monitoring missions there had reported a dramatic drop in the number of casualties in recent years.
“It would be an understatement to say that Russia has provided no evidence for genocide in the course of this conflict,” said David Zionts, for Ukraine.
“The closest President Putin has come to even explaining his allegation of genocide is to assert as he did on 21 February of this year, and I quote, ‘Not a single day goes by without Donbass communities coming under shelling attacks’, end quote. This is another flagrant lie, for which Russia has offered no support.”
Addressing a 10-strong panel of judges in the Great Hall of Justice, Mr. Zionts insisted that Russia’s narrative was based on “forgeries, fakes and distortions...The consequences are unprovoked aggression, cities under siege, civilians under fire, a humanitarian catastrophe and people fleeing for their lives”.
Sounding the alarm
The ICJ also heard how UN Human Rights Council-appointed monitoring missions in Ukraine raised the alarm in May 2014 about pro-Russian armed groups in the east.
They were responsible for a “rise in intimidation, harassment and killings” and a “reign of intimidation and terror” to maintain their position in eastern Ukraine, Mr. Zionts said, referring to a report by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU).
© UNICEF/John Stanmeyer VII PhotoRefugees from Ukraine cross the border into Medyka, Poland.“Then, as now, Russia’s aggression is based on lies”, he continued, adding that although the death of every single civilian on both sides of the contact line was a tragedy, “to claim that Ukraine targets civilians is to distort facts”.
“If there were attacks on civilians, rising to the level of genocide, allegedly warranting an armed invasion, one would think that there must have been a massive recent escalation in civilian casualties at the least. But that is transparently not the case,” he added.
The International Court of Justice is scheduled to hear Russia’s response to Ukraine’s Allegations of Genocide under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide on Tuesday 8 March. Proceedings begin at 10am CET and can be followed at webtv.un.org.
Visit UN News for more.
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952694-russia-reduced-genocide-convention-to-confetti-ukraine-tells-world-court
| 2022-03-07T18:17:15
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| 0.958697
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South Carolina remained No. 1 in The Associated Press women's basketball poll Monday despite suffering its second loss of the season.
The Gamecocks (29-2) fell to Kentucky in the Southeastern Conference Tournament title game Sunday, but stayed atop the poll, edging No. 2 Stanford.
South Carolina received 17 first-place votes from the 30-member national media panel. Stanford, which won the Pac-12 tournament, got 11 first-place ballots. North Carolina State was No. 3 with two top votes. Baylor and Louisville rounded out the top five.
The Gamecocks' loss snapped an 18-game winning streak for the team, which has gone 11-0 against ranked opponents this season.
“We’ve put ourselves in a really good position. Going into the NCAA Tournament it doesn’t feel good, but we’ve got a lot of feel-goods throughout the season that we’ll draw on,” South Carolina coach Dawn Staley said after the loss Sunday. “The ultimate goal is still very much in front of us, and we’ll buckle down and try not to be the sad faces that are in the locker room today in the next couple of weeks.”
It's the second time this season that the Gamecocks still were No. 1 after losing a game.
Kentucky jumped into the poll at No. 16 after also beating then-No. 6 LSU and No. 18 Tennessee in the SEC tournament. Kentucky was ranked for the first 11 weeks of the season before falling out in the middle of January. The Wildcats have now won 10 straight games to get back in the AP Top 25.
UConn was sixth, with Texas, Iowa — jumping four spots from No. 12 — LSU and Iowa State rounding out the top 10. The Big 12 is the only Power Five conference yet to begin its tournament.
Central Florida earned its first ranking ever, coming into the poll at No. 25. UCF has won 10 straight games and is the top seed in the American Athletic Conference tournament that begins Tuesday.
Florida, Georgia and Georgia Tech all fell out of the Top 25.
The final poll of the season will be released next Monday, a day after the NCAA announces this season's field of 68 teams.
EYE OF THE TIGER
Princeton entered the Top 25 for the first time this season at No. 24 after going undefeated in the Ivy League regular season. The Tigers are 22-4 and have won 15 straight games. Princeton was last ranked for the final five weeks of the 2019-20 season. The Ivy League didn't play sports last year because of the pandemic.
“We’re very grateful to be playing this year and being back together,” Princeton coach Carla Berube said. “It was over 18 months we hadn’t been all together playing any kind of organized basketball. In November and December we were trying to figure things out and the team came to work every day and worked really, really hard.”
GAME OF THE WEEK
The Big 12 championship game will be played Sunday with Baylor looking to sweep the regular season and tournament crowns again this year.
___
More AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25
Credit: Mark Humphrey
Credit: Mark Humphrey
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/south-carolina-remains-atop-womens-ap-top-25-despite-loss/NE5MT4LFMBB7PCV74WWOYR5SYE/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:17
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| 0.973314
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Blinken, Israel's Lapid discuss Ukraine-Russia diplomacy, Iran nuclear talks
The pair would also discuss the talks in Vienna on a possible return to the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, Lapid said in remarks at the start of the meeting with reporters present. The meeting comes after Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett held surprise talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week at Ukraine's request.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met in the Latvian capital of Riga on Monday to discuss Israel's diplomatic initiative to end Russia's war with Ukraine. The pair would also discuss the talks in Vienna on a possible return to the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, Lapid said in remarks at the start of the meeting with reporters present.
The meeting comes after Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett held surprise talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week at Ukraine's request. "Israel is a partner in the global effort to make sure and clarify that this war must be stopped," Lapid said. "The way to stop the war is to negotiate."
Blinken said the United States appreciated any efforts of its allies "to see if there’s any opening to end the war," and insisted that any solution must ensure the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Russia calls its campaign a "special military operation" to disarm Ukraine and remove leaders it describes as neo-Nazis. Ukraine and its Western allies have said Russia's actions were a transparent pretext for an invasion to conquer a nation of 44 million people.
Lapid said his meeting with Blinken comes at a time "when the world order is changing," referring to both the war in Ukraine and the nuclear talks. Russia said on Saturday that Western sanctions imposed over Ukraine had become a stumbling block for an Iran deal.
While not a party to the nuclear negotiations between Iran and world powers in Vienna, Israel has conferred with the U.S. administration in hope of wielding more clout over any revival of a 2015 deal with Tehran that was reached over its objections. "It’s not secret we have our differences on this, but it is a conversation between allies that have a common goal which is to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear threshold country," Lapid said.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952700-blinken-israels-lapid-discuss-ukraine-russia-diplomacy-iran-nuclear-talks
| 2022-03-07T18:17:22
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| 0.961024
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DENVER (AP) — The trial for a lawsuit accusing Denver police of using indiscriminate force two years ago against people protesting the killing of George Floyd was set to start Monday in federal court.
Opening statements will come after a jury is seated for what lawyers involved in the case believe is the first trial of a lawsuit challenging police tactics during the protests that erupted across the United States.
About a dozen lawsuits have been filed on behalf of over 60 people injured or arrested in Denver's protests, including several from people who were shot in the eye with less-lethal ammunition amid the demonstrations in the city from May 28 to June 2 in 2020, according to The Denver Post.
The Denver lawsuit heading to trial first was brought by 12 protesters who say they suffered injuries like skull and jaw fractures, a brain bleed and burning eyes, throats and face after police attacked them.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified financial damages and asks for a declaration that Denver officials that police violated protesters’ constitutional rights, including their First Amendment right to protest. It also seeks an order for the city to change how officers deals with protesters.
In court filings, lawyers for the city of Denver said officers used force like pepper balls and chemical agents when people acted aggressively, including instances when they threw objects at police, and that peaceful protesters may have been inadvertently hit by police.
There is no evidence that the demonstrators were targeted by officers to try to discourage them from protesting, the lawyers for Denver said.
A court filing by the lawyers last month said that officers perceived a “riotous mob condition” at times during the protests and that 80 officers were injured, most of them by projectiles thrown by protesters including chunks of concrete, bottles and landscaping rocks launched with lacrosse sticks.
The lawyers also said that the state Capitol, the hub of the protests, suffered $1.1 million in damage during the demonstrations.
Police’s aggressive response to people protesting police brutality nationally have led to financial settlements, the departures of police chiefs and criminal charges.
In Austin, Texas, officials have agreed to pay over $13 million to people injured in protests in May 2020 and 19 officers have been indicted for their actions against protesters. Last month, two police officers in Dallas accused of injuring protesters after firing less lethal munitions were charged.
However, in 2021, a federal judge dismissed most of the claims filed by activists and civil liberties groups over the forcible removal of protesters by police before then-President Donald Trump walked to a church near the White House for a photo op.
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
Credit: David Zalubowski
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/trial-to-start-for-lawsuit-over-denver-police-use-of-force/CJYHTQAQOFD2NEVLP2WUMRXC3U/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:23
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| 0.977171
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#ZeeExitPoll: BJP likely to retain power in UP, expected to win 223- 248 seats | DNAIndia |
Assembly Election Exit Polls Zee News: The post-poll survey - done extensively in all the 5 states - gives you the most accurate picture as to which party is likely to form the government in which state.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-zeeexitpoll-bjp-likely-to-retain-power-in-up-expected-to-win-223-248-seats-dnaindia-2938302
| 2022-03-07T18:17:24
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en
| 0.953964
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LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday defended his government's treatment of Ukrainians fleeing war, after France accused U.K. authorities of "inhumane" behavior towards the refugees.
Johnson said Britain was being “very, very generous,” but wouldn't have “a system where people can come into the U.K. without any checks or any controls at all.”
Britain says it expects to take in as many as 200,000 Ukrainians displaced by Russia's invasion, and has set no upper limit on the number it will accept.
But very few have managed to reach Britain so far. The Home Office said “around 50” visas had been granted by Sunday, though Johnson said Monday he wasn't sure that number was correct.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Sunday that hundreds of Ukrainian refugees in the English Channel port of Calais had been turned away and told by British authorities that they must obtain visas at U.K. embassies in Paris or Brussels.
Calling that “a bit inhumane,” Darmanin urged Britain to “stop the technocratic nit-picking” and be more generous. He said he had urged Britain to set up a consulate in Calais to deal with applications.
Home Secretary Priti Patel denied Britain was turning anyone away, though the British government confirmed Monday that it didn't have a visa center in Calais, meaning applications need to be made elsewhere.
Patel said Britain had set up a visa application center “en route to Calais” but not at the port, to avoid bottlenecks.
“It is wrong to say we’re just turning people back, we’re absolutely not, we’re supporting those that have been coming to Calais,” she said in the House of Commons.
European Union nations are allowing Ukrainians live and work for up to three years without having to go through a formal asylum-seeking process. The U.K., which left the bloc last year, isn't waiving the paperwork, citing security reasons, though it is loosening its rules.
Ukrainians based in Britain can bring over family members, including spouses, parents and children. The government has also announced a separate route for groups in the U.K. to sponsor Ukrainian refugees, but details of that were still being worked out.
Patel said the U.K. was flying staff out to countries neighboring Ukraine “so we can fast-track and speed up applications.”
The United Nations says more than 1.7 million people have fled the war in Ukraine, in what it calls Europe’s fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.
___
Follow the AP's coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Credit: Alberto Pezzali
Credit: Alberto Pezzali
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https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/uk-government-denies-giving-cool-welcome-to-ukraine-refugees/CB3OHXJMQFE6TPXOEKZT3PLI2M/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:30
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| 0.977329
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ZeeExitPoll: Will BJP form government in Goa? | DNAIndia | Zee Exit Polls|
Assembly Election Exit Polls Zee News: The post-poll survey - done extensively in all the 5 states - gives you the most accurate picture as to which party is likely to form the government in which state.
|
https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-zeeexitpoll-will-bjp-form-government-in-goa-dnaindia-zee-exit-polls-2938297
| 2022-03-07T18:17:31
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| 0.934932
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France says its citizens still in Ukraine should leave the country immediately
- Country:
- France
French citizens still in Ukraine should leave the country without delay, the French Foreign Affairs ministry said on Monday on its website.
It added that the French embassy in Ukraine, now relocated to Lviv, would remain operational.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1952702-france-says-its-citizens-still-in-ukraine-should-leave-the-country-immediately
| 2022-03-07T18:17:30
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| 0.971819
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Petrol and diesel prices are likely to be hiked this week as oil companies prepare to pare losses accumulated from keeping rates steady for over four months in the run-up to assembly elections in five states, including UP, despite international oil prices jumping to a 13-year high of USD 140 per barrel.
West Texas Intermediate crude futures, the US oil benchmark, rose to USD 130.50 per barrel on Sunday evening, its highest since July 2008, before retreating. The international benchmark, Brent crude, hit a high of USD 139.13 at one point overnight, also its highest since July 2008.
To compound things, the Indian rupee tumbled to a record low of 77.01 per dollar on Monday. India relies on overseas purchases to meet about 85 per cent of its oil requirement, making it one of the most vulnerable in Asia to higher oil prices. The twin blows of oil prices, already up more than 60 per cent this year, and a weakening rupee may hurt the nation's finances, upend a nascent economic recovery and fire up inflation.
Petrol and diesel prices need to be increased by Rs 15 a litre for fuel retailers to break even, industry sources said. Since 2017, fuel prices are to be adjusted daily in line with the benchmark international rate in the preceding 15 days. But rates have been on the freeze since November 4, 2021. The basket of crude oil that India buys rose above USD 111 per barrel on March 1, according to information from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) of the oil ministry.
This compares to an average of USD 81.5 per barrel price of the Indian basket of crude oil at the time of freezing of petrol and diesel prices four months back. "With the last phase of polling ending on Monday, it is now expected that the government will allow state-owned fuel retailers to return to daily price revision," an industry official said. But oil companies are not expected to pass on the entire loss in one go and they will moderate it - raising rates by less than 50 paise a litre every day.
International oil prices have been on the boil ever since Russia put its forces on the Ukraine border last month. They spiked after it invaded the central Asian nation on fears that oil and gas supplies from energy giant Russia could be disrupted, either by the conflict in Ukraine or retaliatory western sanctions.
READ | Exit Poll 2022 LIVE: How many seats will BJP win? Check state-wise predictions
While western sanctions have so far kept energy trade out, a prospect for a full embargo of Russian oil and products is leading to the latest rally in international oil prices. Rating agency ICRA in a report said it expects India's current account deficit to widen to 3.2 per cent of GDP in 2022-23 if the crude oil price averages USD 130 per barrel, crossing 3 per cent for the first time in a decade.
"We expect the USD-Rupee cross rate to trade in a range of 76.0-79.0 per US dollar until the conflict subsides," it said. The current account deficit (CAD) is likely to widen by USD 14-15 billion (0.4 per cent of GDP) for every USD 10 per barrel rise in the average price of the Indian crude basket. ICRA said its baseline forecast pegs the average consumer price inflation and wholesale price inflation at 5 per cent each in FY2023. However, the continuous hardening of crude oil prices poses upside risks, unless there is a cut in excise duty to absorb the impact of the same (on retail inflation).
Russia makes up for a third of Europe's natural gas and about 10 per cent of global oil production. About a third of Russian gas supplies to Europe usually travel through pipelines crossing Ukraine. But for India, Russian supplies account for a very small percentage. While India imported 43,400 barrels per day of oil from Russia in 2021 (about 1 per cent of its overall imports), coal imports from Russia at 1.8 million tonne in 2021 made up for 1.3 per cent of all coal imports. India also buys 2.5 million tonne of LNG a year from Gazprom of Russia.
While supplies at the moment seem to be of little worry for India, it is the prices that are a cause of concern. Domestic fuel prices - which are directly linked to international oil prices as India imports 85 per cent of its oil needs - have not been revised for a record 123 days in a row. Rates are supposed to be revised on a daily basis but state-owned fuel retailers IOC, BPCL and HPCL froze rates on sooner did electioneering to elect a new government in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and three other states.
Petrol costs Rs 95.41 a litre in Delhi and diesel is priced at Rs 86.67. This price is after accounting for the excise duty cut and a reduction in the VAT rate by the Delhi government. Before these tax reductions, petrol price had touched an all-time high of Rs 110.04 a litre and diesel came for Rs 98.42. These rates corresponded to Brent soaring to a peak of USD 86.40 per barrel on October 26, 2021. Brent was USD 82.74 on November 5, 2021, before it started to fall and touched USD 68.87 a barrel in December.
READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Third round of peace talks underway
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https://www.dnaindia.com/personal-finance/report-fuel-price-hike-alert-petrol-diesel-could-get-costlier-by-rs-15-per-litre-know-details-2938298
| 2022-03-07T18:17:37
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| 0.951196
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A three-alarm fire destroyed two Liberty Twp. apartments and forced families in six others to abandon their homes Sunday afternoon but no one was injured, said fire officials.
The fire, which was reported at approximately 4:30 p.m. Sunday at the Four Bridges Complex in the 8300 block of Cypress Lane, left two apartment units gutted but caused mainly smoke and water damage in six other units.
Fire crews from five area departments joined Liberty Twp. firefighters in battling the blaze at the two-story building, located near the intersection of Bethany and Butler-Warren Roads, said Liberty Battalion Chief Jason Knollman.
Neither apartment residents nor firefighters were injured but the cost of damages are still being determined, said Knollman.
“The apartment of origin is pretty much burnt through and the roof collapsed,” said Knollman.
The blaze took about one hour to get the fire under control, he said.
“The American Red Cross, the management of the apartment complex and a local church took care of finding them (families) places to stay,” he said.
Knollman said two apartment units were uninhabitable after the fire but the families in the other six apartments were allowed to go in and retrieve belongings.
The fire’s cause remains under investigation, he said.
About the Author
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https://www.journal-news.com/news/area-apartment-blaze-forces-out-8-families/3ZP3W222AVFNZNVH6BJSDLCBWA/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:37
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en
| 0.98621
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2022 Assembly polls: AAP will get 80 plus seats in Punjab, says Bhagwant Mann
Aam Aadmi Party's chief ministerial candidate for Punjab, Bhagwant Mann on Monday exuded confidence that AAP will bag 80 plus seats in the Punjab Assembly elections.
- Country:
- India
Aam Aadmi Party's chief ministerial candidate for Punjab, Bhagwant Mann on Monday exuded confidence that AAP will bag 80 plus seats in the Punjab Assembly elections. His remarks came after paying an inspection visit to a strong room where the EVM machines are stored.
Mann said, "People's mandate is locked in those EVM machines. It will decide Punjab's future for the next 5 years. Results will come on 10 March, we will accept the people's mandate." He thanked the workers of the Aam Aadmi Party who have guarded the EVMs day and night since the election.
Reacting to Congress' Bibi Rajinder Kaur Bhattal's statement on alliance with AAP, Mann said, "Our (AAP) government is going to be formed in Punjab. AAP will get 80 plus seats. Congress should tie-up with other parties for the alliance." Punjab Chief Electoral Officer S Karuna Raju on February 20 said that Punjab witnessed a 63.44 voting percentage in the single-phased assembly polls where voters came in large numbers to elect 117 representatives for assembly constituencies of the state.
Speaking on Bhakra Beas Management Board, he said, "When our government will be formed, we will sit and talk with the Centre about it." The Government of India recently has changed norms for selecting the full-time chairman and two members of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). Earlier, posts of the two full-time members -- member (power) and member (irrigation) -- have always been filled by eligible candidates of Punjab and Haryana, respectively, from the panel of engineers nominated by respective state governments. This practice ensured that Punjab, the biggest stakeholder, with more than 50 per cent share in BBMB waters, has a say in its management. Some political parties reacting to it said that it will adversely affect the interest of Punjab and Punjabis.
Punjab went to the polls on February 20 and the counting of votes will take place on March 10. In the 2017 Assembly polls in the state, the Congress had won an absolute majority by winning 77 seats and ousted the SAD-BJP government which had been in power for 10 years. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952645-2022-assembly-polls-aap-will-get-80-plus-seats-in-punjab-says-bhagwant-mann
| 2022-03-07T18:17:38
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en
| 0.963619
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Schemes offered by the Post Office are one of the most trusted, safe and secure investment options in today’s highly volatile financial scenario. For people looking for risk-free options to get great returns on their savings, this scheme is a perfect investment option.
Persons looking to get high returns by investing small sums of money should turn their attention to the scheme offered by Post Office. The scheme guaranteeing terrific returns with a meagre investment is called the Post Office Recurring Deposit scheme. Guaranteed by the government the Post Office RD scheme lets individuals deposit small sums in their account on an improved rate of interest. In fact, you can earn a handsome amount by investing as less as Rs 100. It is to be noted that the scheme has no maximum limit for the amount invested.
Interest rate guaranteed in the Post Office Recurring Deposit scheme
A person investing in the scheme needs to open an RD account with the Post Office for a minimum period of 5 years. The interest is calculated on the deposits every quarter, based on the annual rate. The sum is added to account at the end of each quarter, along with compound interest. Currently, an interest of 5.80% is being offered on the RD scheme by the Post Office.
Get Rs 16 lakh from an investment of only Rs 10,000
An investment of Rs 10,000 every month in the RD scheme for a period of 10 years will fetch you a grand total of Rs 16.28 lakh at the time of maturity. Persons investing in the scheme should be aware that inability to timely deposit the instalment will entail a fine. A penalty of 1% per month will have to be paid in case of a delayed payment of instalment. Furthermore, not depositing four consecutive instalments will invite closure of the account. Nevertheless, an accountholder can reactivate the RD account for the next two months.
Read | Multibagger stock: Rs 1 lakh investment turns into Rs 46 lakh - Know details
With this, if you do not deposit four consecutive instalments, then your account will be closed. However, once the account is closed, it can be activated again for the next two months.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/personal-finance/report-post-office-scheme-make-rs-10000-investments-to-get-over-rs-16-lakh-here-s-how-rd-scheme-2938305
| 2022-03-07T18:17:43
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en
| 0.947102
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CLICK HERE for Utah Boat Show Wakesurf Board Sweepstakes Rules
Posted at 10:24 AM, Mar 07, 2022
and last updated 2022-03-07 12:24:38-05
Copyright 2022 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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https://www.fox13now.com/community/seen-on-tv/utah-boat-show-wakesurf-board-sweepstakes-rules
| 2022-03-07T18:17:43
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en
| 0.780125
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CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Browns have placed a franchise tag for next season on tight end David Njoku, preventing him from hitting the free agent market.
Njoku was one of the few bright spots last season for the Browns, who went 8-9 and missed the playoffs amid massive expectations. The 25-year-old caught 35 passes for 475 yards and four touchdowns in 2021.
The Browns believe Njoku, a first-round draft pick in 2017 from Miami, can produce even more and have spoken to his agent about a long-term contract.
It's a dramatic turnaround for Njoku, who previously asked to be traded before emerging as one of the team's most dependable weapons. The franchise tag means Njoku will be under contract through the 2022 season for roughly $11 million.
Njoku has 148 career receptions for 1,754 yards and 15 TDs in five seasons with the Browns. His 71-yard touchdown catch against the Los Angeles Chargers last season was the longest in the NFL by a tight end.
Cleveland also tendered contracts to exclusive rights free agent wide receiver Ja'Marcus Bradley and offensive linemen Blake Hance and Michael Dunn.
___
More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://apnews.com/hub/pro-32 and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL
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https://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio/browns-place-franchise-tag-on-tight-end-david-njoku/EOWT4XWNFNE4ZFUW2G637F5AI4/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:43
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en
| 0.972007
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TDP stages walkout during Governor's address on first day of Andhra Assembly Budget session
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLAs and MLCs staged a walkout during Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswa Bhusan Harichandan's address to the joint session of the state legislature on the first day of the Budget Session of the State Assembly in Amaravati on Monday.
- Country:
- India
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLAs and MLCs staged a walkout during Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswa Bhusan Harichandan's address to the joint session of the state legislature on the first day of the Budget Session of the State Assembly in Amaravati on Monday. TDP legislators alleged that the Governor failed to safeguard the constitutional institutions.
This was the Governor's first offline address since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the earlier two occasions, Governor addressed the joint session of the Andhra Pradesh Legislature in virtual mode from the Raj Bhavan, due to the pandemic situation. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952649-tdp-stages-walkout-during-governors-address-on-first-day-of-andhra-assembly-budget-session
| 2022-03-07T18:17:45
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en
| 0.940625
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Russia-Ukraine War: Members of Ukraine's territorial defence unit ties knot amid Russian invasion
For a Kyiv couple of Lesia Ivashchenko and Valerii Filimonov, who have been together for twenty years and raised an 18-year-old daughter, an official marriage was never of any significance.
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https://www.dnaindia.com/world/video-russia-ukraine-war-members-of-ukraine-s-territorial-defence-unit-ties-knot-amid-russian-invasion-2938300
| 2022-03-07T18:17:49
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en
| 0.935159
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CLICK HERE for Utah Sportsman’s Vacation & RV Show Sweepstakes Rules
Posted at 10:22 AM, Mar 07, 2022
and last updated 2022-03-07 12:22:56-05
Copyright 2022 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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https://www.fox13now.com/community/seen-on-tv/utah-sportsmans-vacation-rv-show-sweepstakes-rules
| 2022-03-07T18:17:49
|
en
| 0.774989
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CLEVELAND (AP) _ These Ohio lotteries were drawn Monday:
Estimated jackpot: $126 million
0-4-7
(zero, four, seven)
6-1-2-9
(six, one, two, nine)
1-5-2-2-3
(one, five, two, two, three)
Estimated jackpot: $90 million
In Other News
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2
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3
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4
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5
Man who drowned in West Chester pond discovered by person walking dog
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https://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio/oh-lottery/PIV7O4ZWSBHMHDZ2PQXNOQXM4E/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:50
|
en
| 0.876905
|
'Wait till March 10': Charanjit Singh Channi on exit poll predictions
With exit polls predicting a clear win for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, State Chief Minister and Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi urged people to wait till March 10, the day when Assembly election results will be declared.
- Country:
- India
With exit polls predicting a clear win for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, State Chief Minister and Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi urged people to wait till March 10, the day when Assembly election results will be declared. Channi arrived in the national capital today to hold discussions on various issues with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Addressing the reporters after the meeting, Channi said, "Only boxes (EVMs) will tell what has to happen. All of you, please wait till March 10." Exit polls on Monday predicted a clear victory for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab with the scale of the party's victory varying across various surveys. Several surveys predicted Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP, which is in power in Delhi, getting a landslide victory.
The surveys also predicted that the ruling Congress will finish a distant second in the state followed by Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) which had allied with Bahujan Samaj Party. The BJP and its allies are not predicted to do well, according to the surveys. If the results come as per the prediction of exit polls, it will be the first time that AAP will come to power in Punjab.
It is the first time that BJP fought over 65 seats in Punjab. It formed an alliance with the Punjab Lok Congress of Capt Amarinder Singh and SAD (Samyukt) led by SS Dhindsa. Polling was held in the state on February 20 and the results will be declared on March 10.
Further today, Chief Minister Channi after the meeting mentioned that the main issues discussed were on amending Bhakra Beas Management Board rules and the ongoing Operation Ganga. Speaking to reporters here today after meeting Shah, Channi said, "Main issue was BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board), officers should be deployed like earlier. The Centre wants to deploy people from outside. I requested Home Minister to reconsider it. He assured me that he'll discuss this with his minister in 1-2 days and act as per Punjab's wish."
Notably, political parties in Punjab, barring the BJP, are against the Centre's decision to amend the rules regarding appointments to two key positions on the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The Central Government issued a notification on February 23 2022 to amend the BBMB Rules 1974, thereby changing the criteria for the selection of whole-time members of the Board. Further speaking to reporters today, Channi said, "Secondly, 997 of our students were in Ukraine out of whom 420 have returned, 200 have gone to Poland and are safe but some people are still stranded. I made a request for them, Home Minister assured me that they are monitoring the situation and the students will be evacuated."
The Centre arranged for flights from neighbouring countries of Ukraine for the evacuation of Indian students under 'Operation Ganga'. With thousands of Indian nationals being brought back from Ukraine under Operation Ganga, Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Monday apprised about the efforts taken by the Indian Embassies to help people in conflict-ridden Ukraine.
Speaking to ANI today, Muraleedharan said, "Out of 20,000 Indian citizens, we have been able to evacuate more than 16,000 citizens. Around 3,000 citizens are still there in the neighbouring countries of Ukraine. Around 600 students are there in Sumy area." (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952667-wait-till-march-10-charanjit-singh-channi-on-exit-poll-predictions
| 2022-03-07T18:17:53
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en
| 0.957555
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Families can start ordering more COVID-19 test kits this week.
President Joe Biden announced during the State of the Union last week that people could request more free tests even if they’ve already ordered them from the government’s website, covidtests.gov.
People can order an additional set of four tests at no cost.
Households can also request test kits by calling the hotline at 1-800-232-0233 or TTY 1-888-720-7489.
The hotline is open from 8 a.m. to midnight ET every day.
|
https://www.fox13now.com/news/national/coronavirus/you-can-order-more-covid-19-test-kits-even-if-youve-already-received-them
| 2022-03-07T18:17:55
|
en
| 0.934409
|
CLEVELAND (AP) _ The winning numbers in Monday afternoon's drawing of the Ohio Lottery's "Pick 3 Midday" game were:
0-4-7
(zero, four, seven)
In Other News
1
Gas prices soar throughout Tri-State; national average breaks $4 per...
2
Parts of region experience flooding after heavy rains overnight and...
3
Area apartment blaze forces out 8 families
4
Operation Pumpkin dates set; New weigh-off partner joins committee
5
Man who drowned in West Chester pond discovered by person walking dog
|
https://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio/winning-numbers-drawn-in-pick-3-midday-game/PMLM7W422BC4DGXMXAGWRDQO7E/
| 2022-03-07T18:17:56
|
en
| 0.876935
|
Queen Elizabeth II appears to have recovered from COVID-19.
On Monday, The queen held her first in-person engagement since being diagnosed with the virus.
The queen hosted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for an audience at Windsor Castle.
While Queen Elizabeth is mostly known for her role in the monarchy in the United Kingdom, she is also the "Queen of Canada."
The Canadian parliament bestowed that title upon her in 1953.
Queen Elizabeth II, who is vaccinated, tested positive for COVID-19 in late February. The 95-year-old experienced cold-like symptoms, according to Buckingham Palace.
Trudeau is in the UK to speak with Prime Minister Boris Johnson about the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, The Associated Press reported.
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https://www.fox13now.com/news/national/queen-elizabeth-ii-hosts-first-in-person-engagement-since-covid-diagnosis
| 2022-03-07T18:18:01
|
en
| 0.967614
|
ANALYSIS-Naming and shaming Russia not part of pope's diplomatic playbook, experts say
Parolin described the war as "unleashed by Russia", and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, head of the Vatican department that oversees Eastern-rite Catholic Churches, called it an "unjustified invasion".
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Pope Francis has called out "those who make war", condemned violation of international law, spoken of people "oppressed by bombs and fear" and lamented Ukraine as a "martyred country".
But he has shied away from publicly using the words "Russia" or "invasion" in speaking publicly of the conflict, making him one of the few Western leaders not to do so. On Sunday he came closest to pointing a finger directly at Russia by implicitly rejecting Moscow's use of the term "special military operation" for its invasion of Ukraine.
"In Ukraine, rivers of blood and tears are flowing. This is not just a military operation but a war which sows death, destruction and misery," he said in his weekly address to crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square. But again, the R-word and the I-word were notably absent.
"This incomprehensible obstinacy of his is not good," said an editorial on the Il Sismografo website, which specialises in Vatican and Catholic affairs. "The rights of man, of peoples, of nations, are at play here," the editorial said, adding that the pope should publicly call out Russian President Vladimir Putin as the aggressor and appeal to Russian Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill, who backs Putin.
But experts say naming and shaming are not part of the Vatican's diplomatic play book. "These are the nuances that have been practised by Vatican diplomacy throughout the centuries," said Victor Gaetan, author of "God's Diplomats", a 2021 book about Vatican diplomacy.
"You always leave room for the next conversation, for the next dialogue," he told Reuters by telephone from Washington. MEDIATION POSSIBILITY
On Sunday, the pope said "the Holy See is willing to do anything to put itself at the service of peace". Ukraine has said it would welcome Vatican mediation and Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has said it is willing to "facilitate" dialogue".
While the pope has not been specific, top aides have been more direct. Parolin described the war as "unleashed by Russia", and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, head of the Vatican department that oversees Eastern-rite Catholic Churches, called it an "unjustified invasion". "Lower-level officials making stronger statements than the pope is a bit of a departure from tradition but it is apparently part of the strategy," Gaeten said.
On Feb. 25, a day after the invasion started, the pope, in an unprecedented gesture, went to the Russian embassy to the Vatican to talk to Moscow's ambassador. No details emerged. One complication for the Vatican is its relations with the Russian Orthodox Church.
In 2016, Francis became the first pope to meet a leader of the Russian Orthodox Church since the great schism that split Christianity into Eastern and Western branches in 1054. Both sides have declared a willingness to work towards unity but they are still far apart theologically and over what role the papacy would play in an eventually reunited Church.
Any direct criticism by the pope of Russia or Putin could set back relations by decades and thwart a second meeting between the pope and Patriarch Kirill that both sides had hoped to hold this year, diplomats say. POTENTIAL RELIGIOUS MINEFIELD
Of 300 million Orthodox Christians in the world, about 100 million are in Russia and more than 30 million are in Ukraine, some of those in union with the Russian Orthodox Church. There are also about 4.5 million Byzantine-rite Catholics in Ukraine who are in allegiance with Rome. They are heavily pro-West and Vatican sources say the pope is keen to avoid anything that could lead to religious strife.
When Kirill and the pope met in Havana in 2016, they issued a joint statement deploring any hostility in Ukraine and vowed that their churches would work for social harmony in the country. But in recent years Kirill appears to have grown increasingly closer to Putin.
On Sunday, Kirill delivered an anti-West sermon praising the people of Donbass, the separatist region in Eastern Ukraine that is backed by Moscow. He lauded them for resisting what he called sinful Western practices, such as gay pride parades. Last week Archbishop Stanislaw Gadecki, president of the Polish Bishops Conference, sent a public letter to Kirill asking him to tell Russian soldiers "not to participate in this unjust war", calling such a refusal "a moral obligation" before God.
Some are calling on the pope to use similarly strong language.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952670-analysis-naming-and-shaming-russia-not-part-of-popes-diplomatic-playbook-experts-say
| 2022-03-07T18:18:01
|
en
| 0.967963
|
CLEVELAND (AP) _ The winning numbers in Monday afternoon's drawing of the Ohio Lottery's "Pick 4 Midday" game were:
6-1-2-9
(six, one, two, nine)
In Other News
1
Gas prices soar throughout Tri-State; national average breaks $4 per...
2
Parts of region experience flooding after heavy rains overnight and...
3
Area apartment blaze forces out 8 families
4
Operation Pumpkin dates set; New weigh-off partner joins committee
5
Man who drowned in West Chester pond discovered by person walking dog
|
https://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio/winning-numbers-drawn-in-pick-4-midday-game/OIYROSJR4ZH5JGC3VPSP3GZS7I/
| 2022-03-07T18:18:03
|
en
| 0.893813
|
Netflix and TikTok suspended most of their services in Russia on Sunday as the government cracks down on what people and media outlets can say about Russia’s war in Ukraine.
"In light of Russia's new ‘fake news’ law, we have no choice but to suspend livestreaming and new content to our video service while we review the safety implications of this law," TikTok said in a statement. "Our in-app messaging service will not be affected."
After announcing it would pause all future productions in Russia, Netflix took their protest of the country's invasion of Ukraine a step further.
“Given the circumstances on the ground, we have decided to suspend our service in Russia,” a spokesperson for Netflix told Variety.
The publication reports that Netflix is still relatively new in Russia, launching in 2016. The service reportedly has 1 million subscribers in the country.
Pulling the plug on online entertainment — and information — is likely to further isolate the country and its people.
A growing number of multinational businesses have cut off Russia from vital financial services, technology and a variety of consumer products in response to Western economic sanctions and global outrage over the invasion of Ukraine.
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https://www.fox13now.com/news/national/russia-ukraine-conflict/netflix-tiktok-block-services-in-russia-to-avoid-crackdown
| 2022-03-07T18:18:07
|
en
| 0.951371
|
Amid tight security Tripura set to give rousing reception to Amit Shah tomorrow
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is slated to visit Tripura on Tuesday to attend a set of programmes organized by both the Tripura government as well as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.
- Country:
- India
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is slated to visit Tripura on Tuesday to attend a set of programmes organized by both the Tripura government as well as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. According to official sources, Shah will land at MBB Airport Agartala at around 11 am in the morning on a chartered flight. He will straight fly to Udaipur to attend the scheduled programme of inaugurating the silver made door of Tripura Sundari temple.
After that, Shah will address a mammoth public rally at Swami Vivekananda Stadium organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party to mark the fourth year of the BJP-IPFT government here in Tripura. "We have named the rally as four years of development. It has been four years since the first BJP government was formed in the state and the main agenda of the government remained development", said state BJP Vice President and MP from East Tripura Parliamentary Constituency Rebati Tripura.
Senior party leaders have been found visiting the Swami Vivekananda ground all across the day to inspect the preparedness in the ground. BJP State President Dr Manik Saha said, "the political change of guard in Tripura became possible due to the apt guidance of the then BJP National President Amit Shah. After the formation of the government, he did not arrive here in the state and this is for the first time he will be arriving here".
Meanwhile, security arrangements had been tightened ahead of the visit of the Union Home Minister. "We have arranged elaborate security ahead of Home Minister Amit Shah's visit tomorrow to avert any kind of untoward incidents. We will deploy police, Tripura State Rifle Jawans, and CRPF as well", said superintendent of police West Tripura district Bogati Jagadishwar Reddy said. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952674-amid-tight-security-tripura-set-to-give-rousing-reception-to-amit-shah-tomorrow
| 2022-03-07T18:18:09
|
en
| 0.968069
|
CLEVELAND (AP) _ The winning numbers in Monday afternoon's drawing of the Ohio Lottery's "Pick 5 Midday" game were:
1-5-2-2-3
(one, five, two, two, three)
In Other News
1
Gas prices soar throughout Tri-State; national average breaks $4 per...
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Parts of region experience flooding after heavy rains overnight and...
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Area apartment blaze forces out 8 families
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Operation Pumpkin dates set; New weigh-off partner joins committee
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Man who drowned in West Chester pond discovered by person walking dog
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https://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio/winning-numbers-drawn-in-pick-5-midday-game/H2OB2XDTY5BYPKR6UUCAIQ3WCI/
| 2022-03-07T18:18:10
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More than 15,000 acres across Florida are burning, according to the Florida Forest Service.
The Adkins Avenue Fire, Bertha Swamp Road Fire Star Ave Fire are all part of the Chipola Complex Fire.
Firefighters have been battling the flames over the weekend in the Florida Panhandle.
More than 1,000 homes have been evacuated and there is currently no timeline for families to return.
The largest blaze, the Bertha Swamp Road Fire expanded over the weekend and is still a threat, Governor Ron DeSantis said.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said the fire originated in Gulf County, east of Panama City.
The agency said the Bertha Swamp Road Fire has grown due to debris left behind from Hurricane Michael.
Winds have pushed the flames through thick, dry dead trees and vegetation that was destroyed during the hurricane.
However, firefighters are hopeful that an increase in humidity and cloud cover on Monday will help reduce the intensity of the fire.
The Star Ave Fire began on Sunday and forced a nursing home to be evacuated, the agency said.
This fire also grew due to debris left over from Hurricane Michael.
Two homes were destroyed in the Adkins Avenue Fire, the FFS said.
Governor DeSantis has already expanded a state of emergency to include all three counties affected.
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https://www.fox13now.com/news/national/two-florida-wildfires-have-grown-due-to-debris-from-hurricane-michael
| 2022-03-07T18:18:13
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| 0.966043
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Exit polls predict tight race in Uttarakhand, edge to BJP
The exit polls on Monday predicted a tight race in Uttarakhand with many of them giving an edge to the BJP in forming the government.
- Country:
- India
The exit polls on Monday predicted a tight race in Uttarakhand with many of them giving an edge to the BJP in forming the government. Some exit polls also predicted that Congress would finish ahead and could cross the halfway mark in the 70-member assembly.
News24 Chanakya survey predicted that the ruling BJP would win 43 seats and Congress 24 seats. News18-P-MARQ survey predicted that the BJP would win 35 to 39 seats and Congress 28 to 34 seats. AAP could win 0 to 3 seats, the exit poll said.
India Today-Axis My India exit poll predicted that the BJP would win 36-46 seats and Congress 20-30 seats. BSP, it said, could win two to four seats. NewsX-Polstrat predicted Congress getting 33-35 seats, BJP 31-33 seats and AAP 0-3 seats.
ABP News-C Voter predicted Congress winning 32-38 seats, BJP 26-32 seats and AAP 0-2 seats. Times Now-VETO survey predicted the BJP getting majority with 37 seats, Congress 31 seats and AAP one seat.
According to the India News-Jan Ki Baat survey, BJP would win 32-41 seats, Congress 27-35 seats, AAP 0-1 seat. ETG-Research predicted BJP getting 37-40 seats, Congress 29-32 seats, AAP 0-1 seat.
Polling in Uttrakhand took place on February 14 and the counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952695-exit-polls-predict-tight-race-in-uttarakhand-edge-to-bjp
| 2022-03-07T18:18:16
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| 0.960175
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LAUSANNE, Switzerland — Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak is expected to be investigated after displaying a symbol on his uniform supporting the invasion of Ukraine.
Kuliak taped the “Z” symbol to his vest at a World Cup event in Qatar. The symbol has been seen on Russian tanks and military vehicles in Ukraine and embraced by supporters of the war.
According to The Guardian, there are various theories behind the origins behind the "Z" symbol, but videos have shown Putin supporters wearing it while praising the invasion of Ukraine.
According to CNN, Kuliak even wore the "Z" symbol on the podium after earning the bronze medal in the parallel bars. Standing next to Kuliak on the podium was Ukrainian Illia Kovtun, who took home gold in the competition.
The International Gymnastics Federation says it was “shocking behavior” and has asked for an independent investigation.
Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak wearing the “Z” pro-invasion symbol on his shirt while sharing a podium with a Ukrainian rival on Saturday.
— Megha Mohan (@meghamohan) March 6, 2022
Kuliak finished third - behind winner Ukraine's Illia Kovtun in the parallel bars at a World Cup event in Doha. pic.twitter.com/evtG1iEBgq
"The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against Ivan Kuliak following his shocking behavior at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar," the FIG's full statement read.
The 20-year-old Kuliak was able to compete in Qatar because the exclusion of all gymnasts and officials from Russia and Belarus did not take effect until Monday.
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https://www.fox13now.com/sports/russian-gymnast-wore-pro-invasion-z-symbol-on-podium-next-to-ukrainian-competitor
| 2022-03-07T18:18:19
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La Comedia Dinner Theatre’s outstanding, vocally strong production of “Phantom” continues through April 3 in Springboro.
Written by composer Maury Yeston (“Nine,” “Titanic”) and librettist Arthur Kopit (“Nine”), “Phantom” is the 1991 musical adaptation of Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel “The Phantom of the Opera.” Often overlooked in the shadow of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global megahit, this version captivates nonetheless as an intimate, dark, heartbreaking and musically gorgeous tale.
Within the catacombs under the Paris Opera House, Erik, a masked musical genius, wreaks havoc. Upset by the opera company’s new owners, Erik finds solace in Christine, a street singer whose rapturous voice renews his hope that all is not lost. He agrees to give her singing lessons upon strict condition he remain anonymous, ultimately falling in love with her yet eventually recognizing his desires will be unrequited.
In addition to Chris Beiser’s directorial fluidity and sophisticated choreography as well as costume coordinator Emercita Erb’s beautiful period costumes (gorgeous gowns heighten the ambiance of ensemble number “The Bistro”), here are five reasons why you should see this impressive, tear-jerking presentation.
Matthew Wade superbly embodies the mysterious Erik/Phantom
As the gifted yet troubled Erik, Matthew Wade superbly commands the stage with brooding intimidation, comedic charm, masculine grace (he knows how to work a cape), and rich, resonant vocals. He opens his portrayal with an excellently introspective “Where In The World,” and climaxes with a powerful “My Mother Bore Me,” a poignant meditation on life, love and loss executed with lyric-driven finesse.
Lily Autumn Page supplies lovely vocals as Christine
Training in opera for over 10 years, Lily Autumn Page, who has also studied with the Joffrey Ballet School, is a lovely soprano well-suited to the vocal demands of portraying Christine Daaé. She brings joyous ease to cheerful opening number “Melodie de Paris,” feminine flair to the aforementioned “Bistro” (nicely assisted by dashing tenors Justin Perez and Bryson Tyler Wires as the Waiters), and passionately conveys the yearning within “My True Love,” one of Yeston’s finest ballads. She also marvelously partners with Wade in “Home” and “You Are Music.”
Linda Dew delights as diva Carlotta
Last appearing at La Comedia as Mother Abbess in “The Sound of Music,” Linda Dew is a domineering delight as vengeful diva Carlotta, jealous of Christine’s artistry and a constant thorn in Erik’s side (and ears). Enjoyably paired with John Dorney as Alain Cholet, Carlotta’s doting husband, Dew offers a fine rendition of “This Place Is Mine” that properly sets the tone for Carlotta’s imminent treachery.
Steven Lakes fuels drama as portal to the past
Baritone Steven Lakes, a memorable King Triton in La Comedia’s lively production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” last summer, fuels the drama as opera company manager Gérard Carrière, seeking to protect Erik at all costs. Terrifically narrating “The Story of Erik,” a gripping flashback featuring Charmien Byrd, the aforementioned Perez, and Isaac Muniz and Maxtyn Barton sharing the role of Young Erik, Lakes also shines opposite Wade for an incredibly moving rendition of “You Are My Own,” a singular moment that cuts deep and doesn’t let go.
‘Phantom’ has been a La Comedia hit for decades
La Comedia’s 2022 season has been dubbed “Magnificent 7,” spotlighting the seven best-selling or most-requested shows in its history. I saw La Comedia’s first production of “Phantom” in 1992, and the show successfully returned in 1993, 2000 and 2010. This fifth production is just as emotionally satisfying as the previous iterations and also marks the return of professional, New York-based talent. “We went back to New York and auditioned there for the first time since the pandemic started,” said producer Joe Adkins. “It’s exciting to start that process back up again, using local talent and going to New York to audition talent.” Whether you’ve seen “Phantom” before or thinking about seeing it for the first time, you won’t be disappointed. Trust me. And don’t forget to bring your tissues.
HOW TO GO
What: “Phantom”
Where: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, 765 W. Central Ave., Springboro
When: Through April 3; Thursday and Friday matinee and evening, Saturday evening, and Sunday brunch and evening
Cost: $37-$78
Tickets: 937-746-4554 or lacomedia.com
About the Author
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https://www.journal-news.com/what-to-do/events/5-reasons-to-see-phantom-at-la-comedia/ZWVSIKE2PRDA3PGKFEAYMS6LFM/
| 2022-03-07T18:18:23
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| 0.916816
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ANALYSIS-Naming and shaming Russia not part of pope's diplomatic playbook, experts say
Parolin described the war as "unleashed by Russia", and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, head of the Vatican department that oversees Eastern-rite Catholic Churches, called it an "unjustified invasion". "Lower-level officials making stronger statements than the pope is a bit of a departure from tradition but it is apparently part of the strategy," Gaeten said.
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Pope Francis has called out "those who make war", condemned violation of international law, spoken of people "oppressed by bombs and fear" and lamented Ukraine as a "martyred country". But he has shied away from publicly using the words "Russia" or "invasion" in speaking publicly of the conflict, making him one of the few world leaders not to do so.
On Sunday he came closest to pointing a finger directly at Russia by implicitly rejecting Moscow's use of the term "special military operation" for its invasion of Ukraine. "In Ukraine, rivers of blood and tears are flowing. This is not just a military operation but a war which sows death, destruction and misery," he said in his weekly address to crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square.
But again, the R-word and the I-word were notably absent. "This incomprehensible obstinacy of his is not good," said an editorial on the Il Sismografo website, which specialises in Vatican and Catholic affairs.
"The rights of man, of peoples, of nations, are at play here," the editorial said, adding that the pope should publicly call out Russian President Vladimir Putin as the aggressor and appeal to Russian Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill, who backs Putin. But experts say naming and shaming are not part of the Vatican's diplomatic play book.
"These are the nuances that have been practised by Vatican diplomacy throughout the centuries," said Victor Gaetan, author of "God's Diplomats", a 2021 book about Vatican diplomacy. "You always leave room for the next conversation, for the next dialogue," he told Reuters by telephone from Washington.
MEDIATION POSSIBILITY On Sunday, the pope said "the Holy See is willing to do anything to put itself at the service of peace".
Ukraine has said it would welcome Vatican mediation and Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has said it is willing to "facilitate" dialogue". While the pope has not been specific, top aides have been more direct. Parolin described the war as "unleashed by Russia", and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, head of the Vatican department that oversees Eastern-rite Catholic Churches, called it an "unjustified invasion".
"Lower-level officials making stronger statements than the pope is a bit of a departure from tradition but it is apparently part of the strategy," Gaeten said. On Feb. 25, a day after the invasion started, the pope, in an unprecedented gesture, went to the Russian embassy to the Vatican to talk to Moscow's ambassador. No details emerged.
One complication for the Vatican is its relations with the Russian Orthodox Church. In 2016, Francis became the first pope to meet a leader of the Russian Orthodox Church since the great schism that split Christianity into Eastern and Western branches in 1054.
Both sides have declared a willingness to work towards unity but they are still far apart theologically and over what role the papacy would play in an eventually reunited Church. Any direct criticism by the pope of Russia or Putin could set back relations by decades and thwart a second meeting between the pope and Patriarch Kirill that both sides had hoped to hold this year, diplomats say.
POTENTIAL RELIGIOUS MINEFIELD Of 300 million Orthodox Christians in the world, about 100 million are in Russia and more than 30 million are in Ukraine, some of those in union with the Russian Orthodox Church.
There are also about 4.5 million Byzantine-rite Catholics in Ukraine who are in allegiance with Rome. They are heavily pro-West and Vatican sources say the pope is keen to avoid anything that could lead to religious strife. When Kirill and the pope met in Havana in 2016, they issued a joint statement deploring any hostility in Ukraine and vowed that their churches would work for social harmony in the country.
But in recent years Kirill appears to have grown increasingly closer to Putin. On Sunday, Kirill delivered an anti-West sermon praising the people of Donbass, the separatist region in Eastern Ukraine that is backed by Moscow. He lauded them for resisting what he called sinful Western practices, such as gay pride parades.
Last week Archbishop Stanislaw Gadecki, president of the Polish Bishops Conference, sent a public letter to Kirill asking him to tell Russian soldiers "not to participate in this unjust war", calling such a refusal "a moral obligation" before God. Some are calling on the pope to use similarly strong language.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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Blast heard in rebel-held city in eastern Ukraine - Reuters witness
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952703-analysis-naming-and-shaming-russia-not-part-of-popes-diplomatic-playbook-experts-say
| 2022-03-07T18:18:24
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| 0.965623
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Exit polls predict BJP would be largest party in Manipur
The exit polls in Manipur gave a clear edge to the ruling BJP in forming the next government with many of them predicting that it may fall short of the halfway mark.
- Country:
- India
The exit polls in Manipur gave a clear edge to the ruling BJP in forming the next government with many of them predicting that it may fall short of the halfway mark. Republic-P-MARQ survey predicted BJP and its allies getting 27-31 seats in the 60-member assembly. It said Congress and allies would win 11-17 seats, National People's Party alliance 6-10 seats and Naga People's Front alliance 2-6 seats.
According to India News-Jan Ki Baat's predictions, BJP would emerge as the single-largest party falling short of the halfway mark with 23-28 seats. Congress is predicted to win 10-14 seats, NPP 7-8 seats, NPF 5-8 seats, JDU 5-7 seats and independents 2-3 seats. According to the ABP News-CVoter, BJP is likely to get 23-27 seats, Congress 12-16 seats, NPP 10-14 seats and NPF 3-7 seats.
India Today-Axis My India exit poll predicted BJP getting 33-43 seats, Congress 4-8 seats, NPP 4-8 seats and others 6-15 seats. Manipur went to the polls on February 28 and March 5. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/1952704-exit-polls-predict-bjp-would-be-largest-party-in-manipur
| 2022-03-07T18:18:32
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| 0.965037
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The Latvian woman driving into Ukraine to rescue pets
"There were many people and we were afraid that he would be trampled." Rasma Krecia, a Latvian volunteer, is the rescuer hoping to take Charly and dozens of other pets across the border into Poland until the war is over. "We’re going to try to take as many animals as we can out, back to Latvia, back to Europe, back to safety," Krecia said at the Home for Rescued Animals in Lviv, where she was loading up three vans with the first batch of dogs and cats.
- Country:
- Ukraine
At an animal shelter in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, Natalia Horobets bid an emotional farewell to her beloved pet cat Charly on Monday.
Horobets and her husband had fled their home in the eastern city of Kramatorsk as Ukrainian troops fought Russian invaders. But after a difficult journey west on a packed train they finally decided to let their pet go, concluding that setting up a new life hundreds of miles from home would be hard enough without a hyperactive cat to care for.
"Our trip by train lasted for 40 hours," Natalia Horobets said in Lviv, which along with the rest of Ukraine's west has so far been largely untouched by the conflict. "There were many people and we were afraid that he would be trampled." Rasma Krecia, a Latvian volunteer, is the rescuer hoping to take Charly and dozens of other pets across the border into Poland until the war is over.
"We're going to try to take as many animals as we can out, back to Latvia, back to Europe, back to safety," Krecia said at the Home for Rescued Animals in Lviv, where she was loading up three vans with the first batch of dogs and cats. She couldn't have remained in Latvia and done nothing, she told Reuters. "If I have an opportunity, if I have a large van, if I can bring food here and take some animals back to safety, I can't stay at home."
The Lviv sanctuary previously dealt with wild animals and strays, but since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 it has taken in more animals from people fleeing the violence. Now dogs, cats and even a pet rat jostle for attention alongside foxes and storks.
While Reuters was at the centre, a Lviv resident brought in half a dozen puppies that her friend had found in a box at the train station three days before, where thousands of internally displaced people pass through on a daily basis. As Krecia prepared to fit cages to her vans, the Horobets family said their final farewells to their cat.
"Charly, my little one, you will come back home, but you need to stay in a different place for now, you will be good there," said Natalia Horobets. Her husband Volodymir said they did not know what their future held: "We hope that Ukraine will endure and win and we will come back home."
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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Latvia to deliver anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine on Tuesday
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/science-environment/1952697-the-latvian-woman-driving-into-ukraine-to-rescue-pets
| 2022-03-07T18:18:40
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| 0.980523
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WHO says at least nine killed in 16 attacks on Ukraine health care
These attacks took place between 24 Feb and 3 March. More reported incidents are currently in the process of being verified," it said via Twitter. "These attacks have led to at least 9 deaths and 16 injuries.
- Country:
- United States
The World Health Organization said on Monday at least nine people had died in 16 attacks on health care in Ukraine.
"As of 7 March, WHO has verified 16 attacks on health care in Ukraine. These attacks took place between 24 Feb and 3 March. More reported incidents are currently in the process of being verified," it said via Twitter.
"These attacks have led to at least 9 deaths and 16 injuries. At least 7 of those injured are health workers."
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
- READ MORE ON:
- Ukraine
- The World Health Organization
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| 2022-03-07T18:18:48
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Soccer-PSG's Mbappe suffers injury during training ahead of Madrid clash
Mbappe scored a stunning individual goal in stoppage time to give PSG a 1-0 home victory over Madrid in the first leg in February. "Kylian Mbappe suffered a shock to the left foot during training today," PSG said in a statement.
Paris St Germain said forward Kylian Mbappe suffered a foot injury during training on Monday, casting doubts over his participation in the return leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Mbappe scored a stunning individual goal in stoppage time to give PSG a 1-0 home victory over Madrid in the first leg in February.
"Kylian Mbappe suffered a shock to the left foot during training today," PSG said in a statement. "He was treated this afternoon. The clinical examination is reassuring and a new check-in will be made in 24 hours." The 23-year-old Mbappe missed his side's 1-0 Ligue 1 defeat by Nice on Saturday due to suspension, in which PSG managed just two shots on target.
PSG turned down multiple bids from Madrid for the 23-year-old last year, who can leave as a free agent at the end of the season when his contract expires.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/1952664-soccer-psgs-mbappe-suffers-injury-during-training-ahead-of-madrid-clash
| 2022-03-07T18:18:56
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| 0.974556
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ISL: Jamshedpur becomes Shield City with historic win over Mariners
Ritwik Das helped Jamshedpur FC and himself gallop into the history books with a second-half winner to down ATK Mohun Bagan by a 1-0 margin and bag the League Shield for the first time creating history, in the Indian Super League at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Monday.
- Country:
- India
Ritwik Das helped Jamshedpur FC and himself gallop into the history books with a second-half winner to down ATK Mohun Bagan by a 1-0 margin and bag the League Shield for the first time creating history, in the Indian Super League at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Monday. Jamshedpur needed to draw to finish top of the table and clinch the League Shield, and the Red Miners rode Ritwik's goal in the 56th minute to ensure they finish the season on a high, capping off a stellar campaign under Owen Coyle. They finished with 43 points from 20 games, winning 13 games. ATKMB ended their league engagements having 37 in their kitty from 20 matches.
Jamshedpur will take on Kerala Blasters FC on March 11 in the first semi final while ATKMB will square off with Hyderabad FC the next day in the second last-four clash. Jamshedpur will get richer by Rs 3.5 Crore, the prize money for the League Shield. ATKMB needed to win by a 2-0 victory to leapfrog Jamshedpur and second-placed Hyderabad FC, but it was not to be as Ritwik continued his purple patch with a sumptuous strike after Greg Stewart did all the spadework.
With stakes so high, it was expected to be a cagey affair and so it was with both teams eager to suss eachother out. The Mariners enjoyed more of the ball in the initial exchanges, coming closest to breaking the deadlock when a wild attempt from Tiri went wide. The busiest person on the field was the referee as he reached to his pocket thrice, flashing yellow cards in the first half and all to Jamshedpur players. After change of ends, Stewart started bossing proceedings with his mazy runs and incisive passing, the industry bearing fruit four minutes to the hour mark when the Scotsman evaded two ATKMB shirts to cut into his right and beat his marker. Stewart went for goal himself but the ball came off an ATKMB player and fell to Ritwik who shot first time as the ball went past Amrinder Singh and into the back of the net.
ATKMB tried hard to forge a comeback but Jamshedpur held firm and eventually bagged three points, becoming the first side in the ISL history to make seven wins in a row. It was a new dawn for football in the steel city, boasting of one of India's biggest academies, Tata Football Academy which has produced a plethora of footballers over the years. Jamshedpur's renaissance under Coyle began last year when they finished a credible sixth, hinting at a playing style under the reputed English tactician and also a roadmap for the future. This year, Stewart was exceptional for Jamshedpur and so was Daniel Chima Chukwu whose move to the club in January proved to be a masterstroke.
It remains to be seen whether the newly-crowned League Shield winners go on to win the ISL or not but it has already been an exceptional season for them. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/1952678-isl-jamshedpur-becomes-shield-city-with-historic-win-over-mariners
| 2022-03-07T18:19:03
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| 0.971114
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Former FIFA official Valcke denies bribery charges in Swiss appeals court
Valcke, 61, who was secretary general of the world soccer body from 2007 to 2015, was initially cleared in 2020 of accepting bribes and aggravated criminal mismanagement, but Swiss prosecutors appealed the ruling. The advantages Valcke allegedly received, including the rent-free use of a villa owned by Al-Khelaifi in Sardinia and payments totalling 1.25 million euros ($1.36 million) from a third defendant, a Greek businessman, were linked to the awarding of media rights for FIFA World and Confederations Cups.
Former FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke and Qatari sports and broadcasting executive Nasser Al-Khelaifi denied bribery charges involving World Cup media rights in the appeals court of Switzerland's Federal Criminal Court on Monday. Valcke, 61, who was secretary general of the world soccer body from 2007 to 2015, was initially cleared in 2020 of accepting bribes and aggravated criminal mismanagement, but Swiss prosecutors appealed the ruling.
The advantages Valcke allegedly received, including the rent-free use of a villa owned by Al-Khelaifi in Sardinia and payments totalling 1.25 million euros ($1.36 million) from a third defendant, a Greek businessman, were linked to the awarding of media rights for FIFA World and Confederations Cups. Judges first questioned 48-year-old Al-Khelaifi, chairman of Qatar-based media group beIN Sports and of French football club Paris Saint-Germain, about the acquisition of the villa Valcke allegedly used without paying rent in return for securing beIN media group media rights for the 2026 and 2030 World Cups.
Asked whether he had struck a "corrupt arrangement" with Valcke, Al-Khelaifi said: "That is totally wrong. It's a false accusation." Valcke, who has been banned from all football-related activity until mid-2032 by FIFA's ethics committee, said his professional and financial situation had deteriorated since 2015 as he had no income.
"My health is all I have left," he told the court. Valcke said he had asked Al-Khelaifi to help him as a friend back in 2013 because he was facing difficulties financing the purchase of the villa and of a new boat.
"I'm not proud of it, I would have had fewer problems if I'd been reasonable," Valcke said. "I turned to Nasser because I knew him ... That was Jerome talking to Nasser and not the FIFA secretary general to the president of beIN Sports." He said his request was not related to negotiations going on at the same time for World Cup media rights, adding the contract signed between beIN Sports and FIFA, also a party in the case, was financially very attractive for the world soccer body.
"I'm determined to contest the whole interpretation the court adopted in the first ruling," Valcke said. He was sentenced in 2020 to a suspended fine for forging documents, while Al-Khelaifi as well as the Greek businessman were cleared of inciting Valcke to commit aggravated criminal mismanagement. Bribery charges against Al-Khelaifi were dropped ahead of the 2020 trial after he reached an agreement with FIFA.
The appeals trial is due to last until Thursday. ($1 = 0.9198 euros)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/1952681-former-fifa-official-valcke-denies-bribery-charges-in-swiss-appeals-court
| 2022-03-07T18:19:11
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| 0.978701
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Sony Xperia 10 IV new leaks show familiar design
Sony's Xperia 10 lineup has been going on for over three years and a new model may arrive this year.
- Country:
- Japan
Sony's Xperia 10 lineup has been going on for over three years and a new model may arrive this year. As per GSM Arena, renders of the upcoming Xperia 10 IV have been leaked which depict a familiar design to the outgoing Xperia 10 III with a tall and narrow 6-inch flat OLED screen and triple camera around the back.
The phone's listed dimension comes in at 153.3 x 67.3 x 8.4mm and it features a flat side compared to the more rounded ones on its predecessor. We can also spot a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. According to GSM Arena, the phone will offer stereo speakers, the same Snapdragon 690 chipset and a 4,000 mAh battery.
The 10 IV will retain the headphone jack while details on its camera setup are not provided. Xperia 10 IV is said to arrive in Black, White, Mint Green, and Berry Blue colours with a starting price of AED 1,100 which rounds out to USD 300. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/technology/1952660-sony-xperia-10-iv-new-leaks-show-familiar-design
| 2022-03-07T18:19:18
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| 0.94854
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'USD 10 Billion investment needed to tap into USD 2 trillion market in semiconductors'
Investment of a scale of USD 10 billion can create opportunities to tap into a USD 2 trillion market in the semiconductor ecosystem, according to Prof V Ramgopal Rao of IIT Delhi at the 12th edition of "Bengaluru India Nano Summit 2022" in Bengaluru on Monday.
- Country:
- India
Investment of a scale of USD 10 billion can create opportunities to tap into a USD 2 trillion market in the semiconductor ecosystem, according to Prof V Ramgopal Rao of IIT Delhi at the 12th edition of "Bengaluru India Nano Summit 2022" in Bengaluru on Monday. India's Flagship Nanotech Event focusing on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology was inaugurated by Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.
Speaking at a session on 'Fuelling Manufacturing on the Nanoscale in India by Developing Semiconductor Ecosystem', he said there is a need to bridge the gap between academia and the industry with multiple start-ups beginning to mushroom in the nanotechnology sector. He said, "More centres of excellence (CoE) need to come up and a patenting culture should be encouraged to grow on the strengths of the fledgling nanotechnology ecosystem. The Maruti Suzuki model has transformed the semiconductor space in meeting the demand for semiconductors with a few critical changes taking place due to the collaborative working between Maruti and Suzuki."
Prof Rao further said that India is ranked 5th in Nano-Electronic research in the world and there are seven institutions in India that are working to boost research and development in the nano space. He added, "Agriculture, health care, and automotive sectors have huge potential in adopting nanotechnologies. India ranks 3rd in nanotechnology after US and China in terms of wealth and knowledge generation while India ranks 5TH in cognitive technology where there is a need for it to take off to newer heights."
Nanotechnology has impacted 100 million lives in India and the country's strength lies in a top-down approach. Balajee Sowrirajan, Head, R&D, Samsung India, said, "The world is getting connected through intelligent devices that include the proliferation of 3D videos, gaming technology, and the adoption of 5G technology. There are millions of devices connected within a short area and nanotechnology helps in faster communication."
"The use of sensors in mobile camera phones has become mind-boggling with a capacity of 200 megapixels in devices. There are smell sensors (sniffers) that are set to become anchor technologies of the future and the storage of big data through cloud devices and SSD. He said Artificial Intelligence is moving towards end devices," he added. He also told companies are beginning to Design in India and Design for India as the country is all set to become a product innovation giant with the adoption of the 'Make in India' programme announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Jitendra Chaddah, Country Manager - Global Supply Chain, Intel India at Intel Corporation moderated the proceedings at the Bengaluru India Nano Summit 2022. Later, Shashi Adiga moderated another session on the success stories of start-ups in the nanotechnology eco-space. Various dignitaries presented the success stories of their enterprises.
12th edition of Bengaluru India Nano with the theme 'Nanotech for Sustainable Future' began today - The 3-day event has participation from over 2500 Delegates, over 75 National & International renowned speakers addressing over 25 immersive sessions. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/technology/1952663-usd-10-billion-investment-needed-to-tap-into-usd-2-trillion-market-in-semiconductors
| 2022-03-07T18:19:26
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Britain says Russian limiting social media out of concern over public's attitude
Russia's restriction of domestic social media indicates the Kremlin's concern over the attitude of the public to its invasion of Ukraine, Britain's defence ministry said on Monday.
"Russia is increasingly restricting domestic social media access to limit negative coverage of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This will further confine the information space and make it increasingly difficult for the Russian population to gain access to anything other than the Russian state's official view," Britain's Ministry of Defence said.
"This indicates the Kremlin's concern over the Russian population's attitude to the conflict."
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/technology/1952666-britain-says-russian-limiting-social-media-out-of-concern-over-publics-attitude
| 2022-03-07T18:19:34
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| 0.940875
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Apple to unveil more powerful Mac mini at March 8 event
With Apple's 'Peek Performance' launch event right around the corner, the latest leaks have unveiled details of the new Mac mini.
- Country:
- United States
With Apple's 'Peek Performance' launch event right around the corner, the latest leaks have unveiled details of the new Mac mini. As per GSM Arena, Apple will introduce a more powerful Mac Mini which is rumoured to arrive with Apple's M1 Pro or M2 processor.
The other new bit is a more affordable 27-inch Apple display without mini-LED. Apple currently offers a single monitor in its lineup - the 32-inch Pro Display XDR which starts at USD 4,999. Having a more affordable option will definitely be a welcome development. As per sources, Apple will leave out the rumoured next-gen Mac Pro and iMac Pro for 2023.
The rest of the expected announcements at the event include a new iPhone SE model with 5G connectivity, an Apple A15 chipset and the same basic design as its predecessor from 2020. A new iPad Air is also expected with updated hardware. Apple's event starts at 10:00 AM PST (11:30 pm IST) on Tuesday, March 8. (ANI)
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/technology/1952679-apple-to-unveil-more-powerful-mac-mini-at-march-8-event
| 2022-03-07T18:19:41
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| 0.914101
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LA VERGNE, Tennessee (AP) — Sometimes even Dolly Parton has a hard time keeping up with the legend of Dolly Parton.
“I often go into my museum in Dollywood, you know, because I’m in the mood to be there or we’re in there doing something or putting something new in. And I look at all that stuff and think ‘When, how did that happen?’” she says. “I shake my head when I see, like a documentary or something. I think how did I do all that, how did I get all that done?”
The singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist is speaking from another wing of her empire, one of two sound stages at a 7,200-square foot studio complex outside of Nashville, with assistants and technicians moving about and Parton herself in a characteristically cheerful mood on an otherwise overcast afternoon. Seated next to her — and wearing a dark tuxedo jacket touched with black and red to match the pattern of her dress — is a novelist as prolific in his field as she is in songwriting, James Patterson.
He is among the best selling authors in history and, like Parton, a champion of literacy programs. He is 74 and has written or co-written hundreds of books. She is 76 and has written thousands of songs. Until a couple of years ago, they were mutual admirers who had never met. Now, they have completed a novel that comes out this week, “Run, Rose, Run,” an Amazon.com bestseller even before publication and the rare work of fiction to arrive with an accompanying soundtrack.
“He’d give me ideas for the songs. I gave him ideas that he expanded on for the characters and incorporated in the book,” says Parton, whose “Run, Rose, Run” album includes 12 new songs. “So it really was a magical team.”
The collaboration began as just one of countless ideas for Patterson, who reliably turns out several books a year, from children’s stories to a biography of the Kennedys to two best-selling thrillers written with former President Bill Clinton. Patterson spent a lot of time in Nashville in the 1960s while attending Vanderbilt University and thought of an archetypal story — a young, promising and frightened country singer, AnnieLee Keyes, facing a “million to one odds,” and her bond with a retired country superstar, Ruthanna Ryder.
As Patterson and Parton both recall, Patterson contacted Parton’s team and the two soon spoke in Nashville.
“We liked each other right away. And we kind of made the deal right there — no lawyers. We didn’t want anybody in the way,” Patterson says.
“Run, Rose, Run” is a close look at the Nashville music scene, through the eyes of women. The narrative has music and romance and cheering crowds, and lyrics to Parton songs such as the mid-tempo rocker “Big Dreams and Faded Jeans.” On the darker side are unscrupulous executives, unwanted physical advances and the male-oriented ways of the market, defined by a radio consultant’s “salad” theory, in which men are the essential artists, “the lettuce,” the women more like tomatoes, “to be sprinkled into airplay now and again as garnish.”
Parton, who famously rose from a cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to international acclaim, says her back story differs from AnnieLee’s. But she did endure “having bad managers and having to, you know, just squirm, trying to get out of situations.” AnnieLee’s struggles to take control of her career reminded Parton of her early work with Porter Waggoner, who helped her break through professionally in 1967 when he brought her on to his popular television show. They recorded and toured together for seven years, their battles well publicized, before she announced her departure. The end of their working partnership inspired her classic “I Will Always Love You.”
“Oh God, I used to fight all the time with Porter Waggoner,” she says of the late singer, who died in 2007. “We were known for, you know, for our disagreements. But he gave me a big hand up and I always appreciated that. But I (also) had always wanted to be my own star, and I said that at the start. I didn’t want to be just a girl singer in somebody else’s group.”
Parton’s life now is much closer to Ruthanna’s, “one of country music’s grandest queens.” But Parton is a bit gentler. When Ruthanna first meets AnnieLee, at a small table in the back of a bar, Ruthanna praises her talent as “something special” before advising her to “get the hell out of Nashville” and be spared ending up broke and on her own.
“I would never, ever tell somebody not to follow their dream,” Parton says. “I would just say, ‘If you’re dead serious about what you’re doing, you got to buckle up and take it. You’ve got to sacrifice as far as you can and compromise, but don’t ever sacrifice your soul and your principles and your values.’ That’s where Ruthanna and I differ. I would never tell a young person not to follow their dream because I would crush somebody. Even if they weren’t that talented, I wouldn’t tell them that.”
Ruthanna is out of the business and well pleased to be past the “desire to pour her heart out into a melody.” Parton is all in, writing so often she likes to tell Patterson that she could turn out a song while standing on her head. “Run, Rose, Red” is just one part of their 2022. His other books this year include the memoir “James Patterson: The Stories of My Life” and another “Michael Bennett” thriller. She was scheduled to host the Academy of Country Music Awardson the night her book comes out and, via livestream, will later this month appear for the first time at the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas.
“Where would I go?” she says when asked if she would ever retire. “You can’t leave yourself behind. I would be doing my music, writing my songs if I had to sell them out of the trunk of my car. And I did that in the early days when I was young and trying to get things going. So I would do it no matter what, even if I had to take another job.”
“One of the similarities that Dolly and I have is we don’t work for a living,” Patterson adds. “We play for a living. You don’t stop doing that. Why would you stop playing if you can, if you can do it?”
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| 2022-03-07T18:19:58
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Here’s a collection curated by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists of what’s arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week.
MOVIES
— “Turning Red,”the third straight Pixar movie to bypass theaters for a streaming debut, lands Friday on Disney+. Directed by Domee Shi, who made the Pixar short “Bao,” “Turning Red” is the first Pixar feature directed solely by a woman. It’s about Meilin Lee (voiced by Rosalie Chiang), a 13-year-old Chinese-Canadian teenager with an over-protective mother (Sandra Oh), who begins turning into a giant, fluffy red panda when she feels a strong emotion. The film, featuring a pivotal BTS-like boy band, includes original songs from Billie Eilish and Finneas.
— In Netflix’s “The Adam Project,” Ryan Reynolds reunites with “Free Guy” director Shawn Levy to star as a time-traveling pilot who crash lands in his old backyard, where his younger self (Walker Scobell) and mother (Jennifer Garner) live. It’s a big-budget throwback that has some of the bouncy spirit of 1980s sci-fi adventures. And being a starry, expensive movie based on an original concept, it’s the kind of movie unlikely to be bankrolled by today’s studios for theaters. Instead, “The Adam Project,” which debuts Friday, is the latest in a string of Netflix releases for Reynolds, who starred in “Red Notice” and “6 Underground.” Mark Ruffalo co-stars.
— Many of the standouts of last year’s Cannes Film Festival have already made a major impression with moviegoers — films like “Drive My Car,” “The Worst Person in the World,” “Titane,” “A Hero” and many more. But don’t sleep on “Lingui, the Sacred Bonds.”Mahamat-Saleh Haroun’s powerful drama is about a Chadian single mother (Achouackh Abakar Soulymane) seeking an abortion for her 15-year-old daughter (Rihane Khalil Alio) in a country where the procedure is all but outlawed. Yet having a child out of wedlock, too, could mean being socially ostracized. The film, which begins streaming Tuesday on MUBI, packs a brilliant mother-daughter story — and an important portrait of modern-day capital N’Djamena — into less than 90 minutes.
— AP Film Writer Jake Coyle
MUSIC
— Alabama-bred soulful rapper Mooski is ready to drop his debut album, “Melodic Therapy 4 The Broken.” Mooski has upped the interest with catchy songs like “Track Star,” which racked up more than 475 million views on TikTok and has been streamed almost 74 million times on Spotify. A “Track Star” TikTok challenge inspired videos from Keyshia Cole, Lala Anthony, Dream Doll and Halle Berry, among others. His new album, out Friday, is led by the luscious “Soul Bleed.” Mooski has had a different path to music stardom — he served as a sergeant during a four-year tenure in the Marine Corps.
— Bryan Adams’ pandemic-influenced “So Happy It Hurts” album arrives Friday. The title track — an arena-rocking celebration of driving — “is about freedom, autonomy, spontaneity and the thrill of the open road,” the Canadian musician says. It is a joyous album and one outstanding track is “Never Gonna Rain,” with the lyrics “I’m gonna smile like I never had a heartache/Laugh like I never had a care.” One unusual track is the lead single, “Kick Ass,” with a lengthy spoken word introduction from comedian John Cleese.
— Legendary Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim is still being celebrated and the latest tribute is theater icon Betty Buckley’s releases of a compilation album, “Betty Buckley Sings Stephen Sondheim.” The album collects various of the “Cats” Tony-winner’s previous interpretations of two dozen Sondheim’s songs, including “Anyone Can Whistle,” “Children Will Listen” and “Send in the Clowns.”
— AP Entertainment Writer Mark Kennedy
TELEVISION
— A small-town murder case gets big-star wattage in NBC’s “The Thing About Pam,” with Renée Zellweger in the title role. Pam Hupp’s links to several deaths have been recounted in multiple episodes of “Dateline NBC,” a podcast, books and now the series co-starring Josh Duhamel and Judy Greer. The 2011 killing of Betsy Faria (Katy Mixon) in Troy, Missouri, led to the conviction of her husband, Russ (Glenn Fleshler). He was exonerated in a second trial, but Betsy Faria’s death began the unraveling of “a diabolical scheme deeply involving” Hupp, as the network put it. The series debuts 10 p.m. EST Tuesday.
— Another film star, Samuel L. Jackson, headlines the six-part series “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey,” arriving Friday on Apple TV+. Based on the Walter Mosley novel, Jackson plays an forgotten man, one facing dementia, who becomes the caretaker for an orphaned teen (Dominique Fishback, “Judas and the Black Messiah”). The pair learns that Ptolemy’s memories might be restored by treatment, leading to difficult truths about the past, present and even the future. Cynthia Kaye McWilliams, Damon Gupton, and Walton Goggins are in the cast.
— Italian scenery, Italian food and Stanley Tucci make for a banquet in the return of CNN’s series “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy,” a combination travelogue and drool-inducing food celebration with actor as engaging tour guide. He’s also our proxy taster, with the contrasting dishes of Umbria and Venice part of the menu in season two, debuting 9 p.m. EST Sunday, March 13, on the cable channel. Tucci wants us to do more than eat: His goal is to educate himself and viewers on Italy’s culture and history through its much-loved cuisine. Viewers will have time to digest what they’re learning, with the series’ second half arriving in the fall.
— AP Television Writer Lynn Elber
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Catch up on AP’s entertainment coverage here: https://apnews.com/apf-entertainment.
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https://www.fox44news.com/entertainment-news/new-this-week-turning-red-ryan-reynolds-and-mooski-album/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:05
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| 0.940034
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NEW YORK (AP) — One of the planet’s biggest celebrities will play a woman desperately craving fame when Pamela Anderson makes her Broadway debut next month in the musical “Chicago,” The Associated Press has learned.
Anderson will play Roxie Hart from April 12-June 5 at the Ambassador Theatre, a remarkable union of one of the most recognizable sex icons of the last few decades with a show that skewers fame.
“From ‘Baywatch’ to Broadway. I am inspired by the unexpected,” Anderson told the AP in a Monday statement. “This is it, and I will not hold back anymore. I am letting go. I am ready to see what I’m capable of. For ‘Chicago,’ I’ll be putting all my cards on the table. I am doubling down — on me.”
Set in the 1920s, the musical is a scathing satire of how show business and the media make celebrities out of criminals. It has Bob Fosse-inspired choreography, skimpy outfits and killer songs such as “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango.”
“Chicago” tells the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to leave her. To avoid conviction, Roxie hires Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to help her dupe the public, media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by creating shocking headlines.
“Pam is a very moral person, extremely moral. She cares about animals. She cares about the planet. She cares about people,” said producer Barry Weissler. “The difference between her as Pam and Roxie is Roxie doesn’t care about anyone but herself, and she doesn’t give a damn about the outside world as long as she can be famous. So Pam comes with totally opposite attributes in life, but she fits because of her celebrity, what she’s gone through in life.”
Anderson had a breakout role on “Home Improvement” as a “Tool Time girl” before getting global attention for playing C.J. Parker on “Baywatch.” Her credits include “Barb Wire” and “Superhero Movie.”
There’s been renewed interest in Anderson’s life story thanks to the Hulu series “Pam & Tommy,” which stars Lily James as Anderson and Sebastian Stan as Tommy Lee and fictionalizes their whirlwind romance. Anderson also this month announced a new authorized documentary about her life upcoming from Netflix.
Weissler said he had approached Anderson about the Roxie part over a decade ago, but their schedules didn’t work.
“Now that we’re doing it, it’s even more opportune. It’s more timely. She’s really standing for something now — as a professional, as an activist, as a very talented lady. She can surprise a lot of people. The woman has acting chops. She certainly can dance, and her singing voice is quite good. So here we go.”
The celebrity-craving heroine at the heart of “Chicago” has been played by dozens of women since the show opened in 1996, including Melanie Griffith, Christie Brinkley, Marilu Henner, Brooke Shields, Lisa Rinna, Gretchen Mol, Ashlee Simpson, Brandy Norwood, Jennifer Nettles and Robin Givens.
The revival has managed to last a quarter of a century thanks to the savvy decision to cast celebrity replacements in all the lead spots — basically asking famous performers to join a musical about the venality of celebrities — and mold the show around their strengths.
Just some of the other stars who have done stints in the show include Sofia Vergara, Paige Davis, Rita Wilson, Usher, Huey Lewis, Michael C. Hall, Jerry Springer and Billy Zane. A 2002 film version starred Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Queen Latifah and Richard Gere.
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Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits
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https://www.fox44news.com/entertainment-news/pamela-anderson-set-to-make-her-broadway-debut-in-chicago/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:12
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The investment firm of billionaire Ryan Cohen has taken a large stake in Bed Bath & Beyond and is recommending that the struggling retailer sell all or part of its business.
RC Ventures LLC has acquired a nearly 10% stake in Bed Bath & Beyond, according to a regulatory filing. RC stands for Ryan Cohen, a co-founder at Chewy, who was at heart of the GameStop meme saga last year.
Cohen built a huge following on Reddit and on social media in 2021 as smaller investors gobbled up GameStop and other meme stocks. Bed Bath & Beyond was among those companies and news of Cohen’s interest sent its shares, which have tumbled 15% this year, up more than 70% at the opening bell Monday.
In a letter sent to Bed Bath & Beyond Inc., Cohen said that declining sales can no longer be blamed on the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that other national chains are seeing sales near or exceed pre-pandemic levels. Bed Bath & Beyond has lost money for three consecutive years.
Cohen suggests in the letter the possible sale of part or all of the Union, New Jersey, company. One part of the business that could be sold or spun off, according to Cohen, is the Buy Buy Baby chain. Any money obtained from a full or partial sale could be used to pay off debt, put cash on the balance sheet and lower debt, creating more shareholder value, Cohen said.
“The past 10 years have shown that Bed Bath faces a difficult existence in the public market. The market is not giving the company nearly enough credit for (Buy Buy Baby’s) value,” Cohen wrote. “A sale that can lock in a substantial premium for shareholders and provide Bed Bath the flexibility of the private market could be an ideal outcome for customers, employees and investors.”
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https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/bed-bath-beyond-shares-soar-as-ryan-cohen-takes-huge-stake/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:19
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| 0.963288
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DETROIT (AP) — The Biden administration is proposing stronger pollution regulations for new tractor-trailer rigs that would clean up smoky diesel engines and encourage new technologies during the next two decades.
The proposal released Monday by the Environmental Protection Agency would require the industry to cut smog-and-soot-forming nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90% per truck over current standards by 2031. New rules would start in 2027 to limit the emissions, which can cause respiratory problems in humans.
Although truck manufacturers are working on battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell powertrains, the EPA says the proposal is not a zero-emissions truck requirement. Rather, the agency says there are pollution control devices in development that can keep diesels in use and still clean the air.
The EPA also is drawing up stronger limits for heat-trapping greenhouse gas emissions. Current standards would be updated starting in 2027 and stronger new standards would begin in 2030. Requirements were last updated in 2001, with the next big step coming in 2024.
The stronger new standards would not apply to old trucks, limiting the impact of the new rules.
Environmental groups praised the EPA’s action on truck emissions, but many urged the administration to move quickly on the proposal and then go farther toward requiring zero-emissions trucks.
“The administration must build on today’s proposal by driving a nationwide transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles,” American Lung Association CEO Harold Wimmer said. “Future rules must achieve the goal of 100% zero-emission new heavy-duty vehicle sales.”
Truck engine makers and other industry groups said they favor cutting pollution, but raised concerns that the requirements may not be technically possible or could make trucks costly and unreliable.
“We look forward to working with EPA to ensure that the final version of today’s rule is practical, technically feasible, cost-effective, and will result in the necessary fleet turnover to achieve the nation’s environmental objectives,” Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association President Jed Mandel said in a statement.
EPA officials say the new requirements comply with an executive order from President Joe Biden to clean up transportation, which is the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions nationwide. Transportation emits 29% of the gases, and heavy-duty trucks account for 23% of that. Biden is trying to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 to battle the effects of climate change.
The new standards would bring widespread air quality improvements, particularly in areas already exposed to heavy truck traffic, officials say.
“Seventy-two million people are estimated to live near truck freight routes in America, and they are more likely to be people of color and those with lower incomes,” EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a statement.
The agency says it will offer several options to reduce heavy truck and bus pollution, and it will take public comments into account before developing final standards by the end of this year.
“The EPA has engaged with stakeholders and identified several options in the proposal that address the robustness of the standards, timing for phasing in the standards, options to incentivize early clean technology adoption and improvements to emissions warranties,” the agency said in a statement.
The EPA also would tighten requirements for school buses, transit buses, commercial delivery trucks and short-haul tractors, areas where the shift to zero-emissions vehicles is farther along.
Early versions of fully electric semis are now going on sale, and the industry is testing trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity.
The EPA says that new greenhouse gas standards could help hasten the transition to zero-emissions trucks and buses that weigh over 26,000 pounds.
Currently, battery electric trucks have limited travel ranges, and it takes a long time to recharge batteries. For hydrogen fuel cell trucks, there are few filling stations, and pollution is emitted when most hydrogen is made now from natural gas. But researchers are working on so-called “green hydrogen” that would be made using electricity from renewable sources such as wind or solar.
Under the pollution standards, manufacturers would be required to certify that their trucks meet the stricter requirements or face penalties. The EPA also wants them to lengthen the warranties on emissions controls, making them more cost effective for trucking companies to buy.
The new exhaust-treatment systems would come with a higher cost, as would the warranties, which likely would be passed along to truck and bus buyers. But the EPA says reduced pollution from the most stringent option would save the country up to $250 billion from 2027 through 2045, largely by preventing deaths and reducing health care costs.
The EPA said the stricter standards would prevent up to 2,100 premature deaths, cut hospital admissions and emergency room visits by 6,700 and prevent 18,000 cases of child asthma.
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https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/biden-epa-proposes-stronger-heavy-truck-pollution-limits/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:26
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NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Moderna signed a memorandum of understanding with Kenya’s government on Monday for the drugmaker’s first mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility in Africa, the company said.
The goal is to produce up to 500 million doses of vaccines a year for the African continent, Moderna said in a statement. The focus is on drug substance manufacturing, it said, though the facility could be expanded to include fill-and-finish work.
“In parallel, Moderna is also working on plans to allow it to fill doses of its COVID-19 vaccine in Africa as early as 2023, subject to demand,” the company said.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the huge need for vaccine manufacturing on the African continent, which remains the least-vaccinated region in the world against the coronavirus. The continent relies on imports for about 99% of its vaccine needs, the World Health Organization has said.
Frustrated by richer nations’ vaccine hoarding, African leaders joined together to pursue the goal of bringing more vaccine manufacturing to the continent of 1.3 billion people.
In October, Senegal and Rwanda signed an agreement with BioNTech for the construction of its first start-to-finish factories to make messenger RNA vaccines in Africa.
The novel mRNA process uses the genetic code for the spike protein of the coronavirus and is thought to trigger a better immune response than traditional vaccines. Scientists hope the technology, which is easier to scale up than traditional vaccine methods, might ultimately be used to make vaccines against other diseases, including malaria.
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https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/moderna-signs-with-kenya-for-first-mrna-facility-in-africa/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:33
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Public transit systems straining to win back riders after being crushed by the COVID-19 pandemic are getting a $3.7 billion boost to stay afloat and invest in new fleets of electric buses.
With mask restrictions fading and workers beginning to return to offices, the Biden administration said Monday it was awarding $2.2 billion in coronavirus relief money from the American Rescue Plan to 35 financially strapped transit agencies in 18 states. The money would be used to prop up day-to-day operations, including staffing and payroll as well as cleaning and sanitization to limit the spread of illness in public transportation. A federal mask mandate for public transit remains in effect until at least March 18.
Another $1.5 billion in grants will be made available under President Joe Biden’s infrastructure law — a total of $7.5 billion over five years — for transit agencies to purchase low- or no-emission buses and build bus facilities. That’s more than double the combined amount from the previous year.
Transit agencies will have until May to apply for the Transportation Department’s infrastructure grants, which will be awarded by fall. About 5% of the money must be used for workforce training to help transit workers prepare for the technological change.
“We’re making the largest ever investment in this program for buses and bus facilities, helping to deliver better commutes and cleaner air to American communities,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said.
Buttigieg joined Vice President Kamala Harris and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan at the White House on Monday to unveil a range of actions to promote green friendly transit and protect health. They included proposed stronger pollution regulations for new tractor-trailer rigs that would clean up smoky diesel engines as well as $17 million in funding for school districts to buy electric zero-emission and low-emission school buses. The emissions can cause respiratory problems in humans.
Several transit systems have already been moving in the direction of electric buses. California has committed to all-electric bus fleets by 2040, as well as New York City and Boston. Washington, D.C., has set a target of 2045. Transportation is the biggest U.S. contributor to global warming.
The effort comes at a challenging time for public transit.
Only about 55% of transit riders nationwide have returned compared with pre-pandemic times, according to the American Public Transportation Association. The biggest losses have been in commuter rail systems serving white-collar suburbanites traveling to downtown workplaces.
As COVID-19 cases decline, Biden has urged Americans to shed remote work, describing a return to offices as necessary to boost economic growth. Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said about 90% of the U.S. population lives in counties where the risk of the coronavirus is posing a low or medium threat, meaning residents don’t need to wear masks in most indoor settings.
“It’s time for America to get back to work and fill our great downtowns again with people,” Biden said in his State of the Union address.
Among the recipients of COVID-19 relief funds Monday were big-city transit systems that had been hit hard from revenue losses due to decreased ridership. New York City’s transit system, the nation’s largest, garnered $769 million to steady its operations, while San Francisco’s Bay Area Rapid Transit got $270 million to bolster service and safety protocols.
Others receiving grants were the Washington, D.C., metro system at $120 million as it anticipates a return of federal employees to offices and Houston’s public transit at $137 million, which has significantly added rapid transit bus lines.
“These funds are crucial to avoid drastic service cuts and layoffs that would damage the economy and public health,” said Nuria Fernandez, head of the Federal Transit Administration, which oversees the grants.
At the start of the pandemic, transit agencies cut payroll and slashed services. That came even as essential workers, who are disproportionately nonwhite and lower income, continued to rely on public transportation to get to work. But three rounds totaling nearly $70 billion in federal COVID-19 emergency assistance, including $30.5 billion that Biden signed into law last year, pulled transit agencies from the brink of financial collapse.
“The COVID funds will be vital to keeping workers connected to their offices, but, even more importantly, the long-term funds in the bipartisan infrastructure bill will provide generational change,” said Paul P. Skoutelas, president of the American Public Transportation Association. He said the money will allow transit systems “to re-evaluate routes and service plans, address equity issues and place more alternative fuels vehicles on the road to help address our global climate crisis.”
___
AP Auto Writer Tom Krisher in Detroit contributed to this report.
|
https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/public-transit-gets-3-7b-to-woo-riders-adopt-green-fleets/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:40
|
en
| 0.954437
|
Ryan Cohen, a favorite of the Reddit investors who drove the GameStop stock mania in 2020, now wants to shake things up at Bed Bath & Beyond.
Cohen’s company RC Ventures bought a nearly 10% stake in Bed Bath & Beyond (BBBY), making the investment firm a top-5 shareholder, Cohen said in a letter to the retail chain’s board of directors Sunday.
Shares of Bed Bath & Beyond soared roughly 40% in early trading Monday following the announcement, dropping back to about a 34% gain midday.
Cohen, who took a stake in GameStop in 2020 and became chairman of the company’s board last year, clearly wants to shake things up. In his letter to the board, he criticized Bed Bath & Beyond’s current strategy and urged the company to make changes.
Bed Bath & Beyond “is struggling to reverse sustained market share losses, stem years-long share price declines and navigate supply chain volatility,” Cohen wrote to the board, adding that company leaders’ “outsized” financial compensation did not match the company’s performance.
In response to Cohen, Bed Bath & Beyond said Monday that it will “carefully review” his letter and “hope to engage constructively around the ideas” he proposed.
Cohen, who also founded online pet retailer Chewy (CHWY), also wrote that Bed Bath & Beyond is trying to implement too many “cumbersome” plans at once and instead should “narrow its focus” to priorities, such as improving its supply chain and merchandise mix. He also recommended the company consider spinning off its Buy Buy Baby stores or even look to find a buyer to take the whole company private.
While many activist shareholders seek board director roles to exert their influence, Cohen himself will not because of his chairman role at GameStop. But he did not rule out nominating new board directors or new management.
Bed Bath & Beyond has struggled in recent years against pressure from Amazon (AMZN)and big box chains such as Walmart and Target (CBDY). In 2019, the company hired CEO Mark Tritton from Target (CBDY), who installed a new leadership team and implemented new strategies like store renovations and culling back on the number of product options.
The retailer did enjoy a bump from homebound shoppers redecorating during the pandemic, but its turnaround has stalled in recent months. In January, the company posted a quarterly sales decline even as rivals enjoyed big gains. Bed Bath & Beyond said it was hit hard by supply chain disruptions.
|
https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/07/business/bed-bath-beyond-stock-ryan-cohen-gamestop/index.html
| 2022-03-07T18:20:42
|
en
| 0.968788
|
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Get ready for the Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship this week with the Gold and Blue Nation crew.
The Big 12 Tournament tips off Wednesday night when the Mountaineers compete in the first round. We’ll set the stage for you Tuesday with our Mountaineer GameDay Big 12 Tournament Special, which begins at 7:30 p.m. and will feature live coverage from Kansas City, Missouri.
Get pregame thoughts from head coach Bob Huggins, as well as impact players to watch throughout the tournament. Nick Farrell and Ryan Decker will host the special from Morgantown, and Anjelica Trinone will provide live updates from T-Mobile Center. WVU Sports Hall of Famer Warren Baker will also shares his keys to success for West Virginia at the conference tournament.
The Mountaineers are the No. 9-seed in the tournament field, but they’ve historically had success at T-Mobile Center. In 2019, Huggins led his No. 10-seed WVU team to the semifinals, knocking off eventual national finalist Texas Tech in the process.
This 30-minute conference tournament special will air Tuesday night on the following Nexstar stations in West Virginia and Maryland:
- Clarksburg NBC (WBOY) Channel 12
- Charleston CBS (WOWK) Channel 13
- Wheeling CBS (WTRF) Channel 7
- Beckley CBS (WVNS) Channel 59
- Hagerstown (WDVM) Channel 25
The show will also be archived at www.GoldAndBlueNation.com.
Check your local TV listings for more details on the Mountaineer GameDay Big 12 Tournament Special.
Mountaineer GameDay is produced by Gold and Blue Nation and is an exclusive presentation of Learfield. The Gold and Blue Nation team brings you “the most fun pregame show in West Virginia,” featuring highlights from recent games, expert analysis, insight from coaches, interviews with players and more.
Gold and Blue Nation is the local leader for Mountaineer sports news, producing comprehensive coverage on TV and online. Download the free Gold and Blue Nation app via your preferred app store so you’re never more than a touch away from our WVU sports reporting, highlights and archived shows.
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https://www.wowktv.com/goldandbluenation/mgd-big-12-tournament-special-set-for-tuesday/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:42
|
en
| 0.919535
|
LONDON (AP) — Leading Russian banks are looking into using a Chinese payment rival after Visa and Mastercard suspended operations, while all the big global accounting firms said they would pull out of Russia in the latest corporate fallout over the invasion of Ukraine.
Ernst & Young and Deloitte cut ties Monday with their operations in Russia, both saying they would work to support thousands of colleagues who will be affected. Ernst & Young cited what it called the “shocking and abhorrent war in Ukraine,” and Deloitte also said it would exit Moscow-allied Belarus.
KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers, the other so-called Big Four accounting firms, announced their exits from Russia a day earlier.
A host of foreign companies have suspended financial services in Russia — as well as major brands from Apple to Shell and Ikea — as part of a larger move by the West to isolate Russia and cut it off from the global financial system. Visa, Mastercard and American Express withdrew their services over the weekend.
That has left Russian banks scrambling to find new ways to facilitate cross-border payments.
Sberbank and Tinkoff Bank said Sunday that they are considering the possibility of payment cards powered by China’s UnionPay system. Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, said it would announce the launch date later.
Sberbank and Tinkoff told users that they will be able to use Visa and Mastercard for transactions within Russia but they will stop working for payments outside of the country after Wednesday.
The Russian central bank has warned that all cards using the Visa or Mastercard systems will stop working for both purchases on foreign websites and transactions abroad.
As Western companies pull out of Russia, China has emerged as a critical connection. Beijing reaffirmed its ties Monday, with the foreign minister describing Russia as China’s “most important strategic partner.”
China has refused to criticize the invasion of Ukraine but tried to distance itself by calling for dialogue and respect of national sovereignty.
The Chinese payment processor UnionPay benefits from its position as a payment monopoly bolstered by the large Chinese population and the world’s second-largest economy, helping it to grow into a serious rival to Visa and Mastercard.
UnionPay cards are accepted at physical stores in 180 countries and regions and at online stores in 200 countries and regions, according to its website.
|
https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/russian-banks-consider-china-unionpay-cards-after-sanctions/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:47
|
en
| 0.961269
|
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — “Success stops when you do.”
That’s a motto that WVU women’s soccer coach Nikki Izzo-Brown lives by — and it’s the centerpiece of a new clothing collaboration that will raise money for cancer research in West Virginia.
Izzo-Brown and the Mountaineers hosted their annual 4v4 Breast Cancer Awareness Tournament on Saturday at the Caperton Indoor Practice Facility. Local youth soccer players gathered to play in matches alongside WVU women’s soccer players and coaches. WVU football head coach Neal Brown and WVU men’s soccer head coach Dan Stratford also made guest appearances.
“Obviously, it started with our trailblazer, Betty Puskar, who started her center at the WVU Cancer Institute. We just felt it was so important because one of eight women will be affected by this disease,” Izzo-Brown said. “So, we wanted to kick cancer to the curb. It’s a fundraising effort and it gets the community and my team together.”
Each team in the 4v4 tournament was comprised of at least three youth athletes and one current WVU player.
Rising sophomore forward Rhea Kijowski, a native of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, competed in the tournament as a kid. Sunday, she experienced the other side of the event.
“It’s fun because I know they take it seriously. I took it seriously” Kijowski said.
Lisa Stoia, associate head coach and former player, participated in the events. Stoia donned a ‘Team Jess’ shirt, honoring a former teammate who had been affected by cancer.
“It’s for a great cause and a way to give back,” Stoia said. “We get to interact with the community and it’s just for a great cause.”
An online auction was held before the event, raffling off marquee items like gear signed by Brown and Bob Huggins and pink WVU women’s soccer jerseys. The highest bidders also locked down Brown and Stratford to coach their team of choice at the tournament.
All proceeds benefit the Betty Puskar Cancer Research Center at Ruby Memorial hospital.
Izzo-Brown also debuted her clothing collaboration with Bend Active. Proceeds of purchase also benefit the Betty Puskar Cancer Research Center.
The line includes t-shirts, joggers, leggings and headbands designed by Izzo-Brown. The collection is available now at Bend Active.
Nikki Goodenow, WVU director of brand and trademark licensing and former associate head coach, helped coordinate the collaboration with Bend Active and Izzo-Brown.
WVU women’s soccer will open its spring schedule March 27 when the Virginia Tech Hokies come to Dick Dlesk. Kickoff is set for noon.
|
https://www.wowktv.com/goldandbluenation/success-stops-when-you-do-wvu-womens-soccer-hosts-annual-4v4-tournament/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:49
|
en
| 0.970368
|
LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday defended his government’s treatment of Ukrainians fleeing war, after France accused U.K. authorities of “inhumane” behavior towards the refugees.
Johnson said Britain was being “very, very generous,” but wouldn’t have “a system where people can come into the U.K. without any checks or any controls at all.”
Britain says it expects to take in as many as 200,000 Ukrainians displaced by Russia’s invasion, and has set no upper limit on the number it will accept.
But very few have managed to reach Britain so far. The Home Office said “around 50” visas had been granted by Sunday, though Johnson said Monday he wasn’t sure that number was correct.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Sunday that hundreds of Ukrainian refugees in the English Channel port of Calais had been turned away and told by British authorities that they must obtain visas at U.K. embassies in Paris or Brussels.
Calling that “a bit inhumane,” Darmanin urged Britain to “stop the technocratic nit-picking” and be more generous. He said he had urged Britain to set up a consulate in Calais to deal with applications.
Home Secretary Priti Patel denied Britain was turning anyone away, though the British government confirmed Monday that it didn’t have a visa center in Calais, meaning applications need to be made elsewhere.
Patel said Britain had set up a visa application center “en route to Calais” but not at the port, to avoid bottlenecks.
“It is wrong to say we’re just turning people back, we’re absolutely not, we’re supporting those that have been coming to Calais,” she said in the House of Commons.
European Union nations are allowing Ukrainians live and work for up to three years without having to go through a formal asylum-seeking process. The U.K., which left the bloc last year, isn’t waiving the paperwork, citing security reasons, though it is loosening its rules.
Ukrainians based in Britain can bring over family members, including spouses, parents and children. The government has also announced a separate route for groups in the U.K. to sponsor Ukrainian refugees, but details of that were still being worked out.
Patel said the U.K. was flying staff out to countries neighboring Ukraine “so we can fast-track and speed up applications.”
The United Nations says more than 1.7 million people have fled the war in Ukraine, in what it calls Europe’s fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/uk-government-denies-giving-cool-welcome-to-ukraine-refugees/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:54
|
en
| 0.973948
|
TULSA, Okla. – Sunday night couldn’t have been any sweeter, as redshirt senior Killian Cardinale led off the final session of the 2022 Big 12 Wrestling Championship by capturing the third Big 12 title in West Virginia University wrestling history inside a packed BOK Center.
“I can’t say enough about how Killian is wrestling,” fourth-year coach Tim Flynn said. “It’s such a long season and so much work goes into it, but I certainly knew that he had that potential.”
Cardinale, the top seed at 125 pounds, claimed an 8-3 decision over 2021 Big 12 Champion and third-seeded Brody Teske (Northern Iowa). After a scoreless first period, the West Virginia Mountaineer pulled off an escape seven seconds into the second, followed by a four-point combination of a takedown and near fall to cruise into the third up 5-1. He scored another takedown and locked up the riding time to seal the five-point victory.
The Bristow, Virginia, native joins former WVU standouts Dylan Cottrell (2017) and Noah Adams (2020) as the only other Mountaineers to reach the top of the Big 12 since West Virginia moved to the conference in 2012, and becomes the second to do it during Flynn’s tenure.
He now sets his sights on another prize in the form of a second All-American nod at the 2022 Division I Wrestling Championships in Detroit, as the second-year Mountaineer can become the first grappler in school history to capture a conference championship as well as a top-8 finish on the mat at nationals in the same season.
Five bouts later at 165 pounds, sophomore Peyton Hall walked onto the mat to face off against the top-seeded Keegan O’Toole (Missouri) in a rematch from the duo’s previous meeting in the finals of the Southern Scuffle back on Jan. 2.
Hall, in a hard-fought battle, finished second after falling to O’Toole, 13-7, to round out the Mountaineers weekend at the Big 12 Championship. The sophomore scored the first takedown of the match to take an early 2-0 lead in his Big 12 finals debut. His lead was short-lived though as O’Toole responded with two takedowns and an escape for a 5-3 advantage heading into the second period. The wrestlers went back-and-forth from there, where Hall would score the first two points of the second and third, before the Missouri Tiger answered right back with the escape-takedown combination in both cases to eventually seal the win.
Prior to the championship rounds, redshirt junior Alex Hornfeck (157) cruised to a 8-2 decision and redshirt sophomore Michael Wolfgram (HWT) nailed down a 3-1 decision to place seventh in their respective brackets. Tied at 1-1 late in the third period, Wolfgram found the opening he needed, as the York, Pennsylvania, native secured a takedown on North Dakota State’s Brandon Metz with one second remaining in the match.
Additionally, redshirt sophomores Jeffrey Boyd (149) and Anthony Carman (184), and sophomore Dennis Robin (174) placed eighth.
Of note, Cardinale, Hall, and Robin have each clinched a trip to the NCAA Championships in Detroit, while Boyd, Hornfeck, Carman, and Wolfgram look forward with anticipation for the NCAA committee’s announcement of who will be awarded one of the remaining 43 at-large bids on Tuesday, March 8.
Final brackets and seeding are set to be revealed on Wednesday, March 9, at 6 p.m. ET. Coverage of the NCAA Division I Wrestling Selection Show will be streamed at NCAA.com.
As a team, West Virginia scored 62 points to place seventh in the final championship standings, while landing seven wrestlers on the podium to match a program-best set by the 2015-16 squad.
“I’m pleased. We moved up from ninth to seventh, scored more points, had a lot of place winners and a Big 12 Champion,” Flynn said. “Our program is improving, not at the rate that we want it, but man, we’re getting better.”
Missouri claimed the Big 12 crown after registering 131.5 points and making its return to the conference in the spring of 2021. Oklahoma (113), Iowa State (110), Oklahoma State (107.5), and Northern Iowa (100) rounded out the top five.
Finals
125: Killian Cardinale (WVU) dec. Brody Teske (Northern Iowa), 8-3 – [Champion]
165: Keegan O’Toole (Missouri) dec. Peyton Hall (WVU), 13-7 – [Runner-up]
Consolations
149: Gaven Sax (NDSU) major dec. Jeffrey Boyd (WVU), 12-5 – [8th place]
157: Alex Hornfeck (WVU) dec. Kenny O`Neil (SDSU), 8-2 – [7th place]
174: Joel Devine (Iowa State) dec. Dennis Robin (WVU), 7-0 – [8th place]
184: Tate Samuelson (UW) won by fall Anthony Carman (WVU), (T – 1:40) – [8th place]
HWT: Michael Wolfgram (WVU) dec. Brandon Metz (NDSU), 3-1 – [7th place]
|
https://www.wowktv.com/goldandbluenation/wvus-cardinale-claims-big-12-wrestling-crown/
| 2022-03-07T18:20:55
|
en
| 0.938381
|
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — What is the price to pay for stealing to gamble? Over $70,000 for a Dunbar man who pocketed money from a nonprofit.
Walter Greenhowe, 73, was sentenced to probation and must pay restitution to a local nonprofit for stealing over $100,000 for gambling.
Court documents state Greenhowe was president of a community caretaking nonprofit that serves West Dunbar, Institute and Pinewood.
Greenhowe gambled with cash he withdrew from the organization’s debit card in the early morning or late at night. Greenhow admitted these withdraws were unapproved by the nonprofit.
Greenhowe also admitted he deposited a $25,000 donation check to a bank account in the nonprofit’s name at a different bank than the organization regularly used. Greenhowe withdrew the funds in cash for three months.
Greenhowe previously repaid the nonprofit about $85,000 before his fraud was discovered.
Greenhowe must pay $70,349.07 to the nonprofit, which does neighborhood cleanups, road repair and senior citizen events.
U.S. Judge Joseph R. Goodwin also sentenced Greenhowe to two years of federal probation.
|
https://www.wowktv.com/news/crime/dunbar-man-to-pay-nonprofit-over-70000-for-stealing-to-gamble/
| 2022-03-07T18:21:01
|
en
| 0.967133
|
BANGKOK (AP) — The official global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 6 million on Monday — underscoring that the pandemic, now entering its third year, is far from over.
The milestone, recorded by Johns Hopkins University, is the latest tragic reminder of the unrelenting nature of the pandemic even as people are shedding masks, travel is resuming and businesses are reopening around the globe.
Remote Pacific islands, whose isolation had protected them for more than two years, are just now grappling with their first outbreaks and deaths, fueled by the highly contagious omicron variant.
Hong Kong, which is seeing deaths soar, is testing its entire population of 7.5 millionthree times this month as it clings to mainland China’s “zero-COVID” strategy.
As death rates remain high in Poland, Hungary, Romania and other Eastern European countries, the region has seen more than 1.5 million refugees arrive from war-torn Ukraine, a country with poor vaccination coverage and high rates of cases and deaths.
And despite its wealth and vaccine availability, the United States is nearing 1 million reported deaths on its own.
Death rates worldwide are still highest among people unvaccinated against the virus, said Tikki Pang, a visiting professor at the National University of Singapore’s medical school and co-chair of the Asia Pacific Immunization Coalition.
“This is a disease of the unvaccinated — look what is happening in Hong Kong right now, the health system is being overwhelmed,” said Pang, the former director of research policy and cooperation with the World Health Organization. “The large majority of the deaths and the severe cases are in the unvaccinated, vulnerable segment of the population.”
It took the world seven months to record its first million deaths from the virus after the pandemic began in early 2020. Four months later another million people had died, and 1 million have died every three months since, until the death toll hit 5 million at the end of October. Now it has reached 6 million — more than the populations of Berlin and Brussels combined, or the entire state of Maryland.
But despite the enormity of the figure, the world undoubtedly hit its 6 millionth death some time ago. Poor record-keeping and testing in many parts of the world has led to an undercount in coronavirus deaths, in addition to excess deaths related to the pandemic but not from actual COVID-19 infections, like people who died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full.
Edouard Mathieu, head of data for the Our World in Data portal, said that — when countries’ excess mortality figures are studied — as many as nearly four times the reported death toll have likely died because of the pandemic.
An analysis of excess deaths by a team at The Economist estimates that the number of COVID-19 deaths is between 14.1 million and 23.8 million.
“Confirmed deaths represent a fraction of the true number of deaths due to COVID, mostly because of limited testing, and challenges in the attribution of the cause of death,” Mathieu told The Associated Press. “In some, mostly rich, countries that fraction is high and the official tally can be considered to be fairly accurate, but in others it is highly underestimated.”
The United States has the biggest official death toll in the world, but the numbers have been trending downward over the last month.
Lonnie Bailey lost his 17-year-old nephew, Carlos Nunez Jr., who contracted COVID-19 last April — the same month Kentucky opened his age group to vaccinations. The Louisville resident said the family is still suffering, including Carlos’ younger sibling, who had to be hospitalized himself and still has lingering symptoms. The aggressive reopening of the country has been jarring for them to witness.
“For us it is hard to let our guard down; it’s going to take a while for us to adjust,” Bailey said.
The world has seen more than 445 million confirmed COVID-19 cases, and new weekly cases have been declining recently in all regions except for the Western Pacific, which includes China, Japan and South Korea, among others, the World Health Organization reported this week.
Although the overall figures in the Pacific islands seeing their first outbreaks are small compared to larger countries, they are significant among their tiny populations and threaten to overwhelm fragile health care systems.
“Given what we know about COVID … it’s likely to hit them for the next year or so at least,” said Katie Greenwood, head of the Red Cross Pacific delegation.
Tonga reported its first outbreak after the virus arrived with international aid vessels following the Jan. 15 eruption of amassive volcano, followed by a tsunami. It now has several hundred cases, but — with 66% of its population fully vaccinated — it has so far reported people suffering mostly mild symptoms and no deaths.
TheSolomon Islands saw the first outbreak in January and now has thousands of cases and more than 100 deaths. The actual death toll is likely much higher, with the capital’s hospital overwhelmed and many dying at home, Greenwood said.
Only 12% of Solomon Islanders are fully vaccinated, though the outbreak has provided new impetus to the country’s vaccination campaign and 29% now have at least one shot.
Global vaccine disparity continues, with only 6.95% of people in low-income countries fully vaccinated, compared to more than 73% in high-income nations, according to Our World in Data.
In a good sign, at the end of last month Africa surpassed Europe in the number of doses administered daily, but only about 12.5% of its population has received two shots.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still pressing for more vaccines, though it has been a challenge. Some shipments arrive with little warning for countries’ health systems and others near the expiration date — forcing doses to be destroyed.
Eastern Europe has been particularly hard hit by the omicron variant, and with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a new risk has emerged as hundreds of thousands of people flee to places like Poland on crowded trains. Health officials there have been offering free vaccinations to all refugees, but have not been making them test upon arrival or quarantine.
“This is really tragic because great stress has a very negative effect on natural immunity and increases the risk of infections,” said Anna Boron-Kaczmarska, a Polish infectious disease specialist. “They are in very high stress, being afraid for their lives, the lives of their children, they family members.”
Mexico has reported 300,000 deaths, but with little testing, a government analysis of death certificates puts the real number closer to 500,000. Still, four weeks of falling infection rates have left health officials optimistic.
In India, where the world was shocked by images of open-air pyres of bodies burned as crematoria were overwhelmed, the scars are fading as the number of new cases and deaths has slowed.
India has recorded more than 500,000 deaths, but experts believe its true toll is in the millions, primarily from the delta variant. Migrants from India’s vast hinterland are now returning to its megacities in search of jobs, and the streets are packed with traffic. Shopping malls have customers, albeit still masked, while schools and universities are welcoming students after a months-long gap.
In Britain, infections have fallen since an omicron-driven surge in December, but remain high. England has now lifted all restrictions, including mask mandates and the requirement that all who test positive isolate at home.
With about 250,000 reported deaths, the African continent’s smaller death toll is thought to stem from underreporting, as well as a generally younger and less mobile population.
“Africa is a big question mark for me, because it has been relatively spared from the worst so far, but it could just be a time bomb,” Pang said, noting its low vaccination rates.
In South Africa, Soweto resident Thoko Dube said she received news of the deaths of two family members on the same day in January 2021 — a month before the country received its first vaccines.
It has been difficult, but “the family is coping,” she said. “We have accepted it because it has been happening to other families.”
___
AP journalists Jill Lawless in London, Aniruddha Ghosal in New Delhi, Cara Anna in Nairobi, Mogomotsi Magome in Johannesburg, Monika Scislowska in Warsaw, Fabiola Sanchez in Mexico City, and Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, contributed to this story.
___
Follow David Rising on Twitter @davidrising
___
Follow AP’s pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
|
https://www.fox44news.com/news/death-toll-surpasses-6-million-for-pandemic-now-in-3rd-year/
| 2022-03-07T18:21:01
|
en
| 0.971364
|
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo says the state will formally recommend against COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children. Ladapo made the announcement at a roundtable event organized by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis that featured a group of doctors who criticized coronavirus lockdowns and mandate policies.
It was not immediately clear when the state would release its health guidance. Late last month, Ladapo and DeSantis announced new virus policy recommendations that discouraged mask-wearing and directed physicians to exercise their own judgment when treating virus patients, including the use of emerging treatments and off-label medications.
|
https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/florida-to-recommend-against-covid-vaccines-for-healthy-kids
| 2022-03-07T18:21:07
|
en
| 0.961994
|
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