World News in Brief: Wave of ‘fear and dread’ in Ukraine, UN expert slams Navalny disappearance, youth leaders for nuclear disarmament meet

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21 December 2023

World News in Brief: Wave of ‘fear and dread’ in Ukraine, UN expert slams Navalny disappearance, youth leaders for nuclear disarmament meet

That’s according to UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Regional Director Regina De Dominicis who said in a statement on Monday that bombardment was “particularly unrelenting” in the east and south of the country.

The UNICEF official said the past week provided a concerning trend with an increase in ballistic missiles and mass drone attacks, including widespread targeted attacks on Kyiv’s infrastructure.

“These attacks have caused injuries among children, sent an intensified wave of fear and dread through already deeply distressed communities, and left millions of children across Ukraine without sustained access to electricity, heating and water, exposing them to additional serious harm as temperatures plummet”, she said.

“Children and families most at risk are those who already have the least access to basic, life-depending resources to start with, and who have already endured immense hardship”, she added. “These children and their families have nothing to fall back on.”

Winter temperatures regularly go as low as -20°C.

“Children simply cannot withstand these conditions without energy”, she warned.

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Blackouts

“Blackouts and power cuts make it extremely challenging for health facilities to provide critical services, another dire situation given the rise in cases of pneumonia, seasonal influenza and waterborne diseases among children across Ukraine.”

Around 1,800 children have been killed or injured since the escalation of the war in Ukraine in February 2022.

“UNICEF is providing generators and other equipment to support the Government of Ukraine in keeping water supply, heating, health and education facilities running”, said Ms. De Dominicis. “In the hardest hit areas, UNICEF is providing winter clothing sets for children along with blankets for their families. We are also reaching families with cash assistance.”

Russia: Rights expert slams Navalny’s ‘enforced disappearance’

Jailed Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny should be immediately released and “provided remedies and reparations for all the harm suffered” in accordance with international law, a UN-appointed independent rights expert said on Monday.

Mr. Navalny’s whereabouts have been unknown for over 10 days, which according to Mariana Katzarova, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Russia, amounts to enforced disappearance.

“I am greatly concerned that the Russian authorities will not disclose Mr. Navalny’s whereabouts and wellbeing for such a prolonged period of time,” she said.

A Friday court hearing on the violations of Mr. Navalny’s human rights in detention did not take place and Mr. Navalny’s lawyers were reportedly told by the court that their client is no longer held in the Vladimir region.

Ms. Katzarova cited concerns about Mr. Navalny’s “persistent” ill-treatment in detention and lack of access to adequate medical care since January 2021.

On 4 August 2023 he was sentenced to an additional 19 years on “extremism” charges, a term which, according to the independent expert, “has no basis in international law”.

Following sentencing Mr. Navalny was being prepared to be transferred to a harsher regime penal colony. Three of his lawyers were arrested in October.

Human Rights Council-appointed independent experts, including Special Rapporteurs, serve in their individual capacity and receive no salary for their work, nor are they UN staff members.

Nuclear disarmament youth leader programme gets underway

The 100 young people selected to serve on the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs’ Youth Leader Fund for a World without Nuclear Weapons, met together for the first time on Monday.

Representing over 60 countries and selected from over 2,000 applicants from around the world, “they will spend the next year learning about nuclear disarmament and developing their skills to become changemakers for a world without nuclear weapons – the most destructive weapons on earth”, said the UN disarmament affairs office (UNODA) in a news release.

As part of this innovative training programme, made possible by the generous support of Japan and implemented by UNODA – with support from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research – they will take part in interactive online learning, engagement with experts from the field and an immersive study tour to Japan, including participation in a youth-led conference.

As the programme kicked off on Monday, the future changemakers heard from the Prime Minister of Japan Mr. Fumio Kishida, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Prime Minister Kishida, a native of Hiroshima, has been a strong advocate for keeping alive the lessons of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki – which wrought tremendous death, suffering and devastation.

“No matter how difficult the path to a world without nuclear weapons may be, we should not stop our steps. Now is the time when we need the power of young people like you, the bearers of our future”, he told the group.

Safeguarding ‘our common future’

In his message, Mr. Guterres encouraged the participants to tap into their energy, innovative ideas, and creativity to help usher in a new era of a world free of nuclear weapons.

“In the name of our common future – in the name of humanity – let us spare no effort to rid the world of nuclear weapons, once and for all”, he said.

In recent years, the Secretary-General has made a major push to empower youth, recognizing their role as the ultimate force for change and noting they have become a strong and powerful force in support of disarmament.

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Legal migration: Council and Parliament reach deal on a single permit directive

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Council of the EU and European Council

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20 December 2023

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Legal migration: Council and Parliament reach deal on a single permit directive

Today member states’ representatives to the Council (Coreper) confirmed the provisional agreement between the Spanish presidency of the Council and the European Parliament on an update of an EU law that deals with legal migration to the EU labour market.

The updated rules streamline the procedure to apply for a permit to reside for the purpose of work in the territory of a member state. This will give a boost to international recruitment of talent. In addition, more rights for third-country workers and their equal treatment compared to EU workers will reduce labour exploitation.

Many employers are facing a tense labour market situation. The proposal we have agreed on today is a response to this
situation of shortages as it will result in a smooth and predictable process for third-country nationals to apply for work and residence permit in one go.Elma Saiz, Spanish Minister for the inclusion, Social security and migration

Elma Saiz, Spanish Minister for the inclusion, Social security and migration

The single permit directive sets out the application process for EU countries to issue this single permit and establishes common rights for workers from third countries. Member states keep the final say about which and how many third-country workers they want to admit to their labour market.

Application procedure

A third-country worker can submit an application from the territory of a third-country or, according to the agreement reached between the co-legislators, from within the EU if he or she is a holder of a valid residence permit. When a member state decides to issue the single permit this decision will serve both as residence and as work permit.

Duration

The Council and European Parliament decided that issuing a single permit should be made within three months after receipt of the complete application. This period also covers the time needed to check the labour market situation before a decision on the single permit is adopted. Member states will then issue the requisite visa to allow initial entry into their territory.

Change of employer

Single permit holders will have the possibility to change employer, subject to a notification to the competent authorities. Member states may also require a minimum period of time during which the single permit holder is required to work for the first employer. In case of loss of employment, third-country workers are allowed to remain in the territory of the member state if the total period of unemployment does not exceed three months during the validity of the single permit or six months after two years of the permit.

Background and next steps

The current single permit directive dates back to 2011. On 27 April 2022, the Commission proposed an update of the 2011 directive.

The proposal is part of the ‘skills and talent’ package which addresses the shortcomings of the EU as regards legal migration and has as objective to attract the skills and talent the EU needs.

Eurostat data from 2019 show that 2 984 261 single permit decisions were reported by member states of which 1 212 952 were for issuing first permits. The other decisions were for renewing or changing permits.

Following today’s approval, the text will now have to be formally adopted by both the Council and European Parliament.

UN agency heads unite in urgent plea for women and children in Gaza

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United Nations News

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20 December 2023

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UN agency heads unite in urgent plea for women and children in Gaza

Briefing the Security Council, Sima Bahous, Catherine Russell and Natalia Kanem – heads of UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and UN Population Fund (UNFPA), respectively – also welcomed the agreement on the release of some of the hostages taken during the Hamas attack on Israel and emphasized the need for a lasting truce.

They also stressed the importance of Security Council resolution 2712 that was adopted last week and calls for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout Gaza to save and protect civilian lives.

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‘They continue caring’: UN Women head

Speaking first, Ms. Bahous highlighted the intensity of violence in Gaza and the devastating impact on its population, in particular women and girls, who are estimated to account for 67 per cent of the 14,000 fatalities in the enclave.

She also expressed deep concern for pregnant women and those who delivered babies without medical supplies, painkillers, anaesthesia for C-sections, or water.

“Yet, they continue caring for their children, the sick, the elderly, mixing baby formula with contaminated water, going without food so that their children can live another day, enduring multiple risks in severely overcrowded shelters,” she said.

Working under severe constraints

Ms. Bahous said that Gaza’s only two women’s shelters are now closed but women-led organizations continue to operate there, though under severe constraints, using their networks to source and distribute emergency items and to document and respond to protection concerns.

In her briefing, the head of UN Women also spoke of an escalation in the West Bank, where demolitions of public infrastructure, revocation of work permits, increased settler violence, and detentions have “significantly impacted” the lives and livelihoods of women.

She also said that UN Women met with Israeli women who shared their work in documenting gender-based atrocities, as well as sharing their hope for peace, with women – both Israeli and Palestinian – at the table.

Most dangerous place to be a child: UNICEF chief

Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, highlighted the severe impact of the crisis on children and noted that over 5,300 Palestinian children have been reported killed in 46 days, accounting for 40 per cent of deaths in the enclave.

“This is unprecedented. In other words, the Gaza Strip is the most dangerous place in the world to be a child,” she said.

She added that the children who survive the war are likely to see their lives irrevocably altered through repeated exposure to traumatic events.

“The violence and upheaval around them can induce toxic stress that interferes with their physical and cognitive development,” she said, noting also that one million children – or all children inside the territory – are now food insecure, “facing what could soon become a catastrophic nutrition crisis.”

True cost measured in children’s lives

Ms. Russell also emphasized that the “true cost” of the war will be measured in children’s lives: those lost to the violence and those forever changed by it.

“Without an end to the fighting and full humanitarian access, the cost will continue to grow exponentially,” she said, adding that the destruction of Gaza and killing of civilians will not bring peace or safety to the region.

“The people of this region deserve peace. Only a negotiated political solution – one that prioritizes the rights and wellbeing of this and future generations of Israeli and Palestinian children – can ensure that,” she said.

Joy overshadowed by death, destruction: UNFPA head

Also briefing, Ms. Kanem outlined the challenges in Gaza, emphasizing the critical lack of healthcare, with hospitals shutting down, leaving thousands of pregnant women and those who delivered recently at risk.

“At a moment when new life is beginning, what should be a moment of joy is overshadowed by death and destruction, horror and fear. The situation is most dire for women facing obstetric complications – some 15 per cent of pregnant women,” she said.

“Their lives are at risk due to severely limited access to healthcare and emergency obstetric care,” she added.

Ms. Kanem also voiced deep concern over lack of clean water and sanitation, which creates multiple health risks, including for women who have no access to menstrual hygiene.

Lack of food and water across Gaza will have adverse impacts on the health and wellbeing of pregnant and breastfeeding women who have higher daily water and caloric intake requirements, she said.

An urgent test of humanity

The head of UNFPA underscored the need for protection of humanitarian workers in Gaza, “who risk their lives in the service of others”, and mourned the loss of over 100 staff members of the UN agency assisting Palestine refugees (UNRWA), and scores of aid workers killed in the conflict.

In conclusion, she emphasized that the fate of humanity does not belong in the hands of those wielding weapons, “it rests with women and young people and allies standing together waging peace.”

“In this urgent test of humanity, women and girls desperately need peace to prevail. I call upon the Security Council to do everything in your power to make that peace happen,” she said.

Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

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Ukraine: Türk calls on Russia to silence the guns in appeal for ‘a just peace’

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United Nations News

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20 December 2023

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Ukraine: Türk calls on Russia to silence the guns in appeal for ‘a just peace’

Since the onset of the invasion the UN human rights office (OHCHR) has meticulously monitored the situation. As of December 4, there have been over 10,000 civilian deaths, including 560 children, with an additional 18,500 civilians confirmed injured, with actual figures believed to be much higher due to the difficulties of verifying figures.

“I feel for the Ukrainians, who have a right to peace, and who deserve peace, in line with the UN Charter and international law. Instead, I fear that protracted and entrenched conflict will impact lives and human rights for generations to come,” warned the High Commissioner.

The Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) has diligently documented the crisis using a methodology developed over decades. Mr. Türk highlighted the findings, revealing gross violations of international human rights and serious breaches of international humanitarian law, primarily by Russian forces.

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Report’s findings

Between 1 August and 30 November, 2,440 civilian deaths and injuries were documented.

The data showed a 25 per cent decrease compared to the previous four months and a 46 per cent compared with the same period in 2022, attributed to factors such as frontline stabilization, civilian evacuations, and strengthened air defense systems.

Most of those killed were in the areas of Donetsk, Kharkiv, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia near the frontlines, with a disproportionate number of older people among the casualties, as they were unwilling or unable to relocate.

The majority of civilian casualties, 86 per cent, occurred in territory controlled by Ukraine, while the remaining 14 per cent – areas under Russian control.

Missile threat

However, being away from the frontline is no guarantee of safety, with missile attacks launched by the Russian armed forces regularly launched against targets in densely populated residential areas. Attacks on Kyiv in the past few days wounded over 50 people and damaged numerous buildings.

“People across the country do not feel safe,” Mr. Türk said, adding that attacks have also targeted grain storage and transport facilities that constitute protected civilian objects under international humanitarian law.

Over 1,300 education and health facilities have been damaged or destroyed since February 2022, with more than 100 incidents reported in the last four months. Mines and explosive materials continue to threaten lives.

Human rights violations

In Russian-occupied territories, documented patterns of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and widespread abuse by Russian armed forces continue to be reported.

Despite lacking access to Russian detention centers, OHCHR highlighted at least 100 civilian deaths resulting from arbitrary detention, incommunicado detention, and enforced disappearance.

The report mentions thorough examination of six new cases of Russian soldiers killing civilians in occupied territory.

“The Russian authorities announced the arrest of two Russian soldiers in connection with the killing of a family of nine, including two children, in Volnovakha, in Donetsk oblast. There are also indications that an investigation has been opened into a second case that we have verified, in which a couple was killed in Maly Kopani, Kherson oblast,” Mr. Türk said.

He also reminded that under international law the occupying power must maintain the status quo, to the extent possible, and criticized Russian attempts to impose its own laws and practices in violation of international law – even conscripting Ukrainian men to serve in the Russian military.

Call on Ukrainians

On the Ukrainian side, Mr. Türk urged authorities to narrow the definition of “collaboration” in prosecutions, expressing concern over convictions related to what are lawful activities.

As of 30 November, some 8,600 criminal charges have been filed by authorities in Kyiv in relation to alleged collaboration, with courts ordering, in most cases, that the accused remain in custody pending trial.

Many have been convicted for conduct that could be lawful – including, for example, working to ensure the continued functioning of social services and schools in occupied areas.

The High Commissioner also noted concerns regarding freedom of religion and belief in Ukraine, given continuing action by Kyiv against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. A draft law under consideration, he added, could lead to the dissolution of any religious organization with ties to Russia, which is not in compliance with international human rights law.

Respect human rights

Mr. Türk appealed to all States to push for immediate and decisive measures by both parties, particularly the Russian Federation, to comply with international human rights and humanitarian law.

He called for an end to the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, timely investigations into allegations of violations, and the need for accountability for perpetrators.

Mr. Türk called on Russia to allow access by independent monitors to places of detention and an end to conscription of civilians.

He urged Ukraine to align all laws with international standards, protect freedom of religion, and swiftly adopt a national strategy for the protection of civilians.

“Ultimately, there is only one solution to this tragic and far-reaching conflict: a just peace,” the rights chief said.

Citing General Assembly Resolution ES-11/1 and the binding order by the International Court of Justice, he called on Russia to immediately cease its use of force against Ukraine.

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Top 5 Mobile Tracking Apps for Keeping Tabs on Loved Ones

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Newsdesk

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20 December 2023

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Top 5 Mobile Tracking Apps for Keeping Tabs on Loved Ones

There is nothing so important as knowing that your dear ones are safe and sound. However, constantly calling or texting them to check-in can be annoying on both sides. Fortunately, there are special mobile apps that offer a more convenient way to track a phone number. With just a few taps, you can discreetly track anyone’s current location, monitor their geo history, and even set geo-fences.

In this blog, we will round up the top 5 mobile tracking apps to monitor your loved one’s location on the map without them suspecting anything. We will go through the key features of each app to help you make up your mind.

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1. Find My Device by Google

Among the most popular tracking apps is Find My Device from Google. This free app comes pre-installed on most Android phones. It allows users to remotely find, lock, and delete sensitive data from a parent device.

But not everyone knows that Find My Device can also be used to track phone number location free of charge. This can be easily done if you permit location sharing option on the target’s device. Once you do so, you will be able to view the live phone’s location on Google Maps and confirm that your dear one has arrived safely at a predetermined place. The application also shows the recent movement history, so you can always be sure that your dear one is following normal daily patterns.

Here’s how to start tracking a phone number with Find My Device:

Open Find My Device on the target phone.
Head to ‘Location sharing’ and tap on ‘Share location’.
Share the location with your contact and set the required duration.
Turn on the location services (if they are disabled).
Open the app on your device and monitor your dear one in real time.

With customizable options for location tracking, Find My Device provides a great monitoring solution, but only once location access permissions have been granted.

2. Find My Mobile for Samsung Phones

Like Google’s Find My Device, Samsung Galaxy users also can rely on a proprietary app called Find My Mobile to track phone location by a number for free. As a rule, it comes preloaded on most recent Samsung models or can be easily downloaded from the Galaxy Apps store. This tracking application detects GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular network tower signals to find a Galaxy phone’s location.

Find My Mobile is equipped with many standout features that make it one of the top free trackers on the market:

GPS tracking showing real-time and recent movements
Access to multiple registered Samsung devices from one account
Alarm sound option to find a lost phone
Lock, delete, or back up functions
Recent calls and messages monitoring

While Find My Mobile can help you track Samsung phone location for free, this feature requires prior permission to run without disruptions.

3. GEOfinder.mobi

As compared to the previous 2 methods, GEOfinder.mobi offers a more discrete way to track phone location by number for free. It boasts an extensive suite of features, including a GPS tracker, IP logger, Wi-Fi scanner, and even a VPN detector. But what really makes it stand out is its unique URL location link. With nothing more than a simple link click required by the receiving party, you can use GEOfinder.mobi to pull accurate GPS coordinates without arousing suspicion.

The tracking process works like this:

Having subscribed, log in to your user space at GEOfinder.mobi from any browser.
Select the SMS text with a trackable URL link tied to your account.
Send the text to a target phone number.
Wait for the recipient to click the link on their device.
Access geolocation information via your dashboard.

The best part about GEOfinder.mobi is that this tracker runs in an anonymous mode. This way, you won’t need to worry about your identity being disclosed.

4. LocationTracker.mobi

Our list won’t be complete if we don’t add LocationTracker.mobi to it. As you may have guessed right, LocationTracker also utilizes a tracking link that taps the target device’s location services upon clicking.

To track a cell phone by its number, you need to choose any picture or photo and upload it to the app. LocationTracker.mobi will process the file and generate a link with a hidden tracker. Simply copy the link and send it to your intended recipient in any messenger. Once clicked, the tool will show you the target’s exact location. This is great news for users who seek a surefire way to track their dear ones. It offers live chat support, a money-back guarantee, and a free trial that needs to be requested.

5. uMobix

We would like to round up our list with a premium all-in-one solution – uMobix tracker. This full-suite app offers unrestricted device access that goes beyond mere location look-up. With uMobix at your disposal, you can easily track cell phone number, read SMS and private chats, and even see browsing history.

Once you secretly install uMobix on the target’s Android or iPhone, it will start gathering the location data that can be viewed via your personal user space. The tracker gets updated every 5 minutes and sends regular notifications about the target’s whereabouts. If you don’t have the possibility to install it, it has a Geofinder option that allows you to locate a person by phone number remotely.

When most trackers offer basic features, uMobix leaves no stone unturned. Whether you want to see someone’s location history or check their current coordinates, uMobix is a great option, logging every keystroke and taking screenshots of every phone activity. Moreover, the app has a 2-day free trial available upon request to give you a taste of its tracking capabilities.

How to Choose the Best App to Track Phone Number Location?

Choosing the right phone number tracker starts with identifying your needs. Do you need it only once, or is constant monitoring required? Also, consider how precise the location details have to be. In case you need exact latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates, double-check if the app collects geo details from several sources (e.g., GPS and Wi-Fi). Apps relying on less specific network-based location checks may only determine general whereabouts. Last but not least, assess the app’s reliability and compatibility with the device. Read reviews to confirm tracking success rates without draining phone batteries or causing other unwanted disasters.

In short, look for a phone tracker that aligns with your needs. And that doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune. There are some wonderful deals on our list that prove you don’t need to break the bank to track your dear one’s phone number.

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Whales and dolphins are highly threatened by warming oceans

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Newsroom

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20 December 2023

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The consequences of climate change are increasingly threatening whales and dolphins, says a new report cited by DPA.

The non-governmental organization “Conservation of whales and dolphins” published the document on the occasion of the COP 28 climate conference, which is being held in Dubai.

It warns that warming oceans are having a dramatic impact on a large number of species, and their habitats are changing so rapidly that animals are starting to compete or even fight with each other.

Rising temperatures have led to an increase in algal blooms, which release toxins. The organization says they are increasingly being found in dead whales and dolphins.

In addition, toxins can slow down the animals’ reactions, exposing them to greater risks, such as collisions with ships.

“The sudden mass mortality is most likely due to the algal bloom,” said the report, quoted by DPA.

According to him, at least 343 toothless whales (Mysticetes) died in Chile in 2015, with extremely high concentrations of paralyzing toxins found in more than two-thirds.

A problem is also the reduction of krill – one of the most important sources of food for these mammals, the organization points out. It is declining due to industrial fishing and higher water temperatures.

Food shortages mean marine mammals can store less fat and no longer have enough energy for their seasonal migrations. It is also observed that many animals no longer go to warmer waters to mate. The result: fewer young animals.

The creation of protected areas is of particular importance for animals, as well as achieving the goals outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement – limiting the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, if possible.

Governments and industry must ban destructive fishing practices, the report urges. The authors believe that catch limits and alternative fishing gear should be introduced, DPA notes.

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-black-killer-whale-on-blue-pool-34809/

EU adopts new sanctions against Russia

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Council of the EU and European Council

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19 December 2023

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EU adopts new sanctions against Russia — © Council of the EU

The twelfth package of new sanctions against Russia includes a ban on the import, purchase or transfer of diamonds from Russia. It also reinforces enforcement and measures against circumvention of sanctions.

The Council adopted today a twelfth package of economic and individual restrictive measures in view of the continued Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. These measures deliver a further blow to Putin’s ability to wage war by targeting high-value sectors of the Russian economy and making it more difficult to circumvent EU sanctions.

The agreed package includes the following measures:

Diamonds

The EU is imposing a prohibition on the direct or indirect import, purchase or transfer of diamonds from Russia. This prohibition applies to diamonds originating in Russia, diamonds exported from Russia, diamonds transiting Russia and Russian diamonds when processed in third countries.

A direct ban applies to non-industrial natural and synthetic diamonds as well as diamond jewellery, as of 1 January 2024. Furthermore, an indirect import ban of Russian diamonds when processed (i.e. cut and/or polished) in third countries, including jewellery incorporating diamonds originating in Russia, will be phased in progressively as of 1 March 2024 and be completed by 1 September 2024. This phasing-in of indirect import bans is justified by the need to deploy a traceability mechanism that enables effective enforcement measures and minimises disruptions for the EU market.

The ban of Russian diamonds is part of a G7 effort to develop an internationally coordinated diamond ban that aims at depriving Russia of this important revenue source.

No Russia clause

Today’s decision requires that EU exporters contractually prohibit re-exportation to Russia and re-exportation for use in Russia of particularly sensitive goods and technology, when selling, supplying, transferring or exporting to a third country, with the exception of partner countries. The clause covers prohibited items used in Russian military systems found on the battlefield in Ukraine or critical to the development, production or use of those Russian military systems, as well as aviation goods and weapons.

Import-export controls and restrictions

The Council added 29 new entities to the list of those directly supporting Russia’s military and industrial complex in its war of aggression against Ukraine. They will be subject to tighter export restrictions concerning dual use goods and technologies, as well as goods and technology which might contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia’s defence and security sector. Some of these 29 entities belong to third countries involved in the circumvention of trade restrictions, or are Russian entities involved in the development, production and supply of electronic components for Russia’s military and industrial complex.

Furthermore, today’s decision expands the list of restricted items that could contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia’s defence and security sector to include: chemicals, lithium batteries, thermostats, DC motors and servomotors for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), machine tools and machinery parts.

Lastly, the EU introduced further restrictions on imports of goods which generate significant revenues for Russia and thereby enable the continuation of its war of aggression against Ukraine, such pig iron and spiegeleisen, copper wires, aluminium wires, foil, tubes and pipes for a total value of €2.2 billion per year. A new import ban is introduced on liquefied propane (LPG) with a 12-month transitional period.

Lastly, the Council decided to introduce some exemptions to import restrictions concerning personal use items, such as personal hygiene items, or clothing worn by travellers or contained in their luggage, and for cars that have a diplomatic vehicle registration plate to enter the EU. Additionally, in order to facilitate the entry into the Union of EU citizens living in Russia, member states can authorise the entry of their cars provided that the cars are not for sale and are driven for strictly personal use.

Enforcement and anti-circumvention measures

The transit ban that currently applies to dual use goods and technologies exported from the EU to third countries via the territory of Russia will be extended to all battlefield goods.

In order to further limit circumvention, today’s decision includes a ban on Russian nationals from owning, controlling or holding any posts on the governing bodies of the legal persons, entities or bodies providing crypto-asset wallet, account or custody services to Russian persons and residents.

Additionally, the existing prohibition on the provision of services will be extended to also include the provision of software for the management of enterprises and software for industrial design and manufacture.

Lastly the EU is imposing notification requirements for the transfer of funds outside the EU by any entity established in the EU that is owned or controlled by an entity established in Russia, or by a Russian national or natural person residing in Russia.

Enforcement of oil price cap

The Council is introducing tighter compliance rules to support the implementation of the oil price cap and clamp down on circumvention. Furthermore a strengthened information sharing mechanism will allow better identification of vessels and entities carrying out deceptive practices, such as ship-to-ship transfers used to conceal the origin or destination of cargo and AIS manipulations, while transporting Russian crude oil and petroleum products.

The Council also decided to introduce notification rules for the sale of tankers to any third country in order to make more transparent their sale and export, in particular in the case of second-hand carriers that could be used to evade the import ban on Russian crude or petroleum products and the G7 Price Cap.

Iron and steel

Today’s decision adds Switzerland to a list of partner countries which apply a set of restrictive measures on imports of iron and steel from Russia, and a set of import control measures that are substantially equivalent to those of the EU.

It also extends the wind-down periods for the import of specific steel products.

Individual listings

In addition to economic sanctions, the Council decided to list a significant amount of additional individuals and entities.

Background

In the European Council conclusions of 26-27 October 2023, the EU reiterated its resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which constitutes a manifest violation of the UN Charter and reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and its inherent right of self-defence against the Russian aggression.

The European Union will continue to provide strong financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes.

The leaders of Hungary and Turkey exchanged generous gifts

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Newsroom

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19 December 2023

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This happened upon the arrival of the Turkish president in Budapest. Viktor Orbán surprised him with a gift – a horse, – “A gift from one horse nation to another horse nation: Aristocrat, a stallion of the Nonius breed from the Mezehedish horse farm,” he wrote on Facebook and accompanied the post with a photo.

In return, he received an electric car from Recep Erdogan.

The two demonstrated a serious warming of relations. This is Erdogan’s second visit to Hungary in the last few months. The official occasion is the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, but the focus is on the subject of Sweden’s membership in NATO – which neither Turkey nor Hungary has yet ratified.

“For Hungary, Turkey is very important. Hungary has no security without Turkey. We cannot stop the migration that threatens us without their help. The only country that was able to achieve some result in the direction of peace between Ukraine and Russia was Turkey – with the grain deal,” Orban specified.

The world’s fourth Harry Potter store opens in Istanbul

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Newsroom

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19 December 2023

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The store will become a hub for fans not only from Turkey, but also from the Middle East, the Balkans and neighboring regions who share their passion for the wizarding world of Harry Potter

Anticipation among “Harry Potter” fans in Istanbul is reaching its peak as the fourth Wizarding World store worldwide is set to open its doors in the city, Daily Sabah reported. The company “Magic Shop” started preparations for the opening of the store with an investment amounting to millions of euros.

The store aims to become a hub for fans not only from Turkey, but also from the Middle East, the Balkans and neighboring regions who share their passion for the wizarding world of Harry Potter.

The series of books “Harry Potter”, created by the author J. K. Rowling, gained worldwide fame and became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences of all ages with her books and films.

This distinctive and innovative store will offer a variety of products under one roof, providing Harry Potter lovers with an unparalleled shopping and immersive experience featuring local and international merchandise.

Located in the Mall of Istanbul, the store occupies an area of 200 square meters. “Wizarding World Shop by Sihir Dükkanı” will be able to boast a wide range of about 1,500 products from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” series.

The store will reflect the captivating atmosphere of the Harry Potter universe in its interior design and will feature excerpts from the series on the walls, iconic figurines of the characters in the windows and unique details around every corner.

Visitors can expect exclusive experiences such as “Choosing a Wand”, “Determining a Home from the Sorting Hat”, “Trying on the Invisibility Cloak” and “Platform 9 ¾ Photos” daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Photo: Dukes Chocolate Frog Cauldron Mug / Wizarding World Shop by Sihir Dükkanı. – “Win the Trophy and You’ll Be in the Harry Potter World… We often encounter these miraculous drinks in the magical world of Harry Potter. These potions are made in a witch’s cauldron. As the Magic Shop, we create valuable and unique mugs that will transport you to the mysterious and fantastic universe and make you think as if you are with Harry Potter. Honey Dukes Chocolate Frog Cauldron Mug is a very valuable mug that will create a feeling of magic that we brought for you from this fantastic world.”

Financial scandal in the Vatican: Cardinal was sentenced to prison

By

Gaston de Persigny

-

19 December 2023

0

This is happening for the first time in the history of the Catholic Church

A cardinal was sentenced to prison by a Vatican court. This is happening for the first time in the history of the Catholic Church, and the sentence was pronounced in a landmark case for a financial scandal involving questionable transactions for millions of euros, DPA reported.

A Vatican court has sentenced Italian Cardinal Angelo Beccu to five years and six months in prison for his role in a willful embezzlement scandal. Never before has a cardinal of the Roman Curia been sentenced to prison by a Vatican court. Bechu’s lawyers said they would appeal the verdict.

Vatican prosecutor Alessandro Didi initially asked for seven years and three months in prison for Bechu, 75, and a heavy fine. Nine other people are accused along with him.

The process is one of the most noisy in the history of the Vatican. For the first time, a high-ranking cardinal stands on the dock.

The case, which had been going on for more than five years, had as its main subject the purchase of luxury properties in the London district of Chelsea by the Vatican Secretariat of State, where Bechu held an important position for several years.

The accusation against him was that the deal caused significant financial damage to the Vatican, since more money was invested in its conclusion than expected. This has cost the Vatican hundreds of millions.

Meanwhile, along with the investigation into the dubious multi-million euro deal in London, dubious relationships and machinations in the Vatican itself were also revealed.

The Vatican Prosecutor’s Office accused the Italian cleric and nine other people of extortion, money laundering, fraud, corruption, misappropriation of funds and abuse of office.

The case caused significant damage to the image of the world’s smallest country.

After the accusations were brought against him, Bechu, who is originally from Sardinia, lost his rights as a cardinal and thus, for example, could not participate in the election of a new pope, or the so-called conclave.

However, Bechu, who was once considered a possible candidate for the papacy, still has the right to be called a cardinal.

When the scandal surrounding him broke out, Pope Francis removed him from his position as prefect of the Congregation for Canonization. Pope Francis and the Vatican administration learned a lesson from the property scandal. The pontiff restructured the responsibilities of the Curia, as the Vatican government is known.

It took away the right of the powerful Secretariat of State to dispose of assets and other powers of the Holy See. It is now the responsibility of the Vatican property administration, known as the Administration for the Property of the Apostolic See, and the Vatican Bank, known as the Institute for Religious Activity

Photo by Aliona & Pasha: https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-view-of-vatican-city-3892129/

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