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Report: Hunger kills hundreds of kids in Ethiopia's Tigray
At least 1,900 children under 5 have died from malnutrition in Ethiopia’s embattled Tigray region in the past year, according to a study conducted by regional health officials and seen by the Associated Press
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Kyiv citizens warned not to return due to revenge airstrikes
After two weeks of relative calm in the city, sinking of Moskva warship leads to retaliatory missile attacks
While life seemed to be slowly returning to the streets of Kyiv, a fresh series of Russian airstrikes came as a reminder this weekend that the war in the Ukrainian capital is far from over.
Following two weeks of relative calm, on Friday the Russian forces destroyed a plant which allegedly produced one of the missiles used to sink the Moskva warship in the Black Sea. The attack was the most significant revenge strike by the Kremlin after the sinking of Russia’s flagship vessel.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/17/kyiv-citizens-warned-not-to-return-due-to-revenge-airstrikes
Ukraine-Russia peace talks will end if Moscow ‘eliminates’ Mariupol fighters, says Zelenskiy
Russia has told Ukrainian soldiers in southern city to surrender as Ukraine president laments ‘inhuman’ situation there
Russia’s demand that Ukrainian forces in Mariupol surrender by 3am GMT passed without immediate signs of a response, as Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned that peace talks would be scrapped if the city’s remaining defenders were killed.
As air raid sirens sounded across Ukraine, including in the Kyiv region, early on Sunday, Russia said its troops had cleared most of the besieged city, with only a small contingent of Ukrainian fighters remaining in the giant Azovstal steelworks in the south-eastern port, as missiles hit Kyiv and other cities.
Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich has travelled to Kyiv in a bid to restart peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, according to Bloomberg. The report, based on unnamed sources, said Abramovich had met Ukrainian negotiators in an attempt to rescue the flagging talks. A spokesperson for Abramovich has denied the report.
The mayor of Irpin, on the western edge of Kyiv, says more than 70% of buildings in the town have been damaged or destroyed by Russian forces, according to the Kyiv Independent. In a Telegram post Oleksandr Markushin said a UN study based on satellite data showed 115 buildings were completely destroyed, 698 were significantly damaged, and 187 were partially damaged.
A forthcoming sixth round of EU sanctions on Russia will target oil and banks, in particular Sberbank, the head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has told German newspaper Bild am Sonntag. The EU has so far spared Sberbank because it, along with Gazprombank, is one of the main channels for payments for Russian oil and gas.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/17/ukraine-russia-peace-talks-will-end-if-moscow-eliminates-mariupol-fighters-says-zelenskiy
Modular homes on way to accommodate New South Wales flood victims
More than a month after they were announced 2,000 temporary pod homes are being sent to flood-affected communities
Up to 2,000 modular homes will be sent to accommodate displaced flood victims in northern New South Wales, a month after the state government announced the measure.
The temporary modular “pods” will be rolled out on the Northern Rivers, with the first 25 recovery pods to be delivered to Ballina, followed by additional sites to be named across Tweed, Byron, Richmond Valley and Lismore in coming weeks.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/17/modular-homes-on-way-to-accommodate-new-south-wales-flood-victims
Russia-Ukraine war: Russian deadline for Mariupol defenders to ‘surrender or die’ passes – live
Moscow set 3am GMT time for Ukrainian fighters to lay down arms in Mariupol; Zelenskiy warns ‘extermination’ of city’s defenders would jeopardise peace talks
- What we know on day 53 of the invasion
- Johnson and senior ministers banned from entering Russia
- Kyiv arms plant hit by Russia may have made missiles that sank Moskva
- Stay or go? Ukrainian mayors’ agonising choice as Russia invaded
- This week’s must-read news and analysis
Good morning from Delhi and happy Easter to those who celebrate. Hannah Ellis-Petersen here on the live blog for the next few hours following the developments in Ukraine. Here is a summary of today’s events so far:
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2022/apr/17/russia-ukraine-war-russian-deadline-for-mariupol-defenders-to-surrender-or-die-passes-live
Dutch golden age painting worth up to $5m discovered at Blue Mountains property
Experts say 400-year-old work is likely collaboration between Dutch master Willem Claesz Heda and his son
A 400-year-old “one in a million” Dutch painting worth up to $5m has been found at a property in the New South Wales Blue Mountains.
Called Still Life, the work was recently located at the National Trust of Australia-managed Woodford Academy during a restoration project.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/17/dutch-golden-age-painting-worth-up-to-5m-discovered-at-blue-mountains-property
Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 53 of the invasion
Southern port city of Mariupol sees further intense fighting, as Ukraine president admits situation there is ‘extremely severe’
Mariupol appears close to falling under Russian control after a fierce battle for the key port city. The Russian defence ministry says it has cleared urban areas of Ukraine forces, and issued a 3am GMT “surrender or die” ultimatum to remaining defenders it says are trapped in a steelworks. If it falls, it would be Russia’s first seizure of a major city.
Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskiy has ceded the situation in Mariupol remains “extremely severe” but has not acknowledged it could fall. He warned peace talks would be scrapped if Russia killed the city’s remaining defenders. “The elimination of our troops, of our men (in Mariupol) will put an end to any negotiations,” he said.
Zelenskiy spoke on Saturday to the British prime minister, Boris Johnson, who praised the “bravery” of Ukraine’s defenders and promised to “continue to provide the means for Ukraine to defend itself”.
Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich has travelled to Kyiv in a bid to restart peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, according to Bloomberg. The report, based on unnamed sources, said Abramovich had met Ukrainian negotiators in an attempt to rescue the flagging talks.
Russia has resumed scattered missile attacks on Kyiv and western cities in Ukraine, with some civilian deaths reported in Kharkiv and in the capital. Russia had warned it would step up its missile bombardment following the sinking of its flagship missile cruiser Moskva.
The mayor of Irpin, on the western edge of Kyiv, says more than 70% of buildings in the town have been damaged or destroyed by Russian forces, according to the Kyiv Independent. In a Telegram post Oleksandr Markushin said a UN study based on satellite data showed 115 buildings were completely destroyed, 698 were significantly damaged, and 187 were partially damaged.
A forthcoming sixth round of EU sanctions on Russia will target oil and banks, in particular Sberbank, the head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has told German newspaper Bild am Sonntag. The EU has so far spared Sberbank because it, along with Gazprombank, is one of the main channels for payments for Russian oil and gas.
Ukraine’s president warned that the world “needs to prepare” for the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons. He told journalists in Kyiv “we shouldn’t wait for the moment” Russia used chemical or nuclear weapons. “[They] can use any weapon, I’m convinced of it,” he said.
Russia’s foreign ministry barred entry to the country for Johnson and other British government politicians and members in response to the government’s “hostile action” including sanctions. The Kremlin said it would expand restrictions against British politicians over what it calls a “wave of anti-Russian hysteria”.
The number of people evacuated from Ukrainian cities through humanitarian corridors dropped significantly on Saturday from the day before. A total of 1,449 people were evacuated, fewer than the 2,864 who escaped on Friday.
Pope Francis has condemned “the darkness and cruelty of war” in an Easter Saturday homily at the Vatican. Francis said his prayers were with four Ukraine politicians in the gathering, including the mayor of the occupied city of Melitopol, and “for all those suffering”.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/17/russia-ukraine-war-what-we-know-on-day-53-of-the-invasion
Kim Jong-un oversees missile test that North Korea claims advances nuclear program
Leader appears well pleased with latest test of what state media reported was a new type of tactical guided weapon
North Korea has test-fired a new weapons system, under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, that it claims will boost the efficiency of its tactical nuclear weapons, state media reported.
The “new-type tactical guided weapon ... is of great significance in drastically improving the firepower of the frontline long-range artillery units and enhancing the efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes,” the official Korean Central News Agency said early on Sunday, without specifying when the test took place. It said the test was successful.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/17/kim-jong-un-oversees-missile-test-that-north-korea-claims-advances-nuclear-program
Fears second Darwin port and industrial hub could have ‘significant adverse impacts’ on health
Proposed $1.5bn development announced by Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce may threaten air, soil and water quality, NT environment report says
A new Darwin port industrial hub spruiked by the deputy prime minister could have severe impacts on human health, a Northern Territory government environmental report says.
Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce on Tuesday announced $1.5bn to transform Middle Arm Peninsula into a world-leading gas, hydrogen and minerals processing and export precinct.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/17/fears-second-darwin-port-and-industrial-hub-could-have-significant-adverse-impacts-on-health
Australia news live updates: Scott Morrison to name new health minister; industrial relations in campaign spotlight
PM expected to officially name Anne Ruston as health minister if the Coalition is reelected. Follow the day’s news
My colleagues Josh Butler and Sarah Martin report this morning that the Australian Electoral Commission and Facebook have voiced alarm at a bubbling campaign from minor party candidates raising baseless claims about election fraud or ballots being altered, warning of “dangerous” voter integrity misinformation being imported from the United States.
The AEC said it has successfully applied to Facebook to take action against misinformation in the lead-up to the election, with at least five posts removed and two pages being taken down entirely.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2022/apr/17/australia-news-live-updates-scott-morrison-to-name-new-health-minister-industrial-relations-in-campaign-spotlight-anthony-albanese-easter-sunday-election-anne-ruston-integrity-commission
Migrant boat capsizes off Libya, with 35 people dead or presumed dead
Wooden vessel launched from Sabratha, a major departure point for Europe, says UN migration agency
A migrant boat has capsized off the Libyan coast, leaving at least 35 people dead or presumed dead, the UN migration agency said.
The shipwreck took place on Friday off the western Libyan city of Sabratha, a major launching point for the mainly African migrants making the dangerous voyage across the Mediterranean, said the International Organization for Migration.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/migrant-boat-capsizes-off-libya-with-35-people-dead-or-presumed-dead
China tightens controls as Shanghai reports record Covid cases
Japan urges local government to address business concerns as ongoing restrictions hit commerce
Shanghai reported a record number of symptomatic Covid-19 cases on Saturday and other areas across China tightened controls as the country kept up its “dynamic clearance” approach that aims to stamp out the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
The Zhengzhou airport economic zone, a central Chinese manufacturing area that includes Apple supplier Foxconn, announced a 14-day lockdown on Friday “to be adjusted according to the epidemic situation”.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/china-tightens-controls-as-shanghai-reports-record-covid-cases
South Africa’s flood-ravaged east hit by more heavy rain
Emergency services on high alert in KwaZulu-Natal as search for victims continues, with almost 400 dead
South Africa’s flood-ravaged east has been hit by another downpour of rain, after the catastrophic storm killed nearly 400 people and left tens of thousands homeless.
Flood waters from the deadliest storm to hit the country in living memory engulfed parts of the coastal city of Durban earlier this week – tearing apart roads, sweeping away homes and those trapped inside them, and sinking heavy cargo containers.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/south-africa-flood-ravaged-east-more-heavy-rain
France braced for protests as Macron and Le Pen prepare for presidential runoff
Rights groups call for united front against far-right candidate as polls predict a win for centrist Emmanuel Macron
Protests were expected around France on Saturday as opponents of the far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen seek to form a united front to prevent her from winning an election runoff against incumbent Emmanuel Macron on 24 April.
Police warned of possible incidents as demonstrators convened in 30 cities.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/france-protests-macron-le-pen
Lord Plumb, former European parliament president, dies aged 97
Only Briton to hold role was also president of National Farmers’ Union from 1970 to 1979 and an MEP
Henry Plumb, the only British president of the European parliament, has died aged 97.
The former Tory politician was president of the National Farmers’ Union from 1970 to 1979 and was elected an MEP for the Cotswolds in 1979. He remained a member of the European parliament until 1999 and served as its president from 1987 until 1989.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2022/apr/16/lord-plumb-former-european-parliament-president-dies-aged-97
North Korea marks founder Kim Il-sung’s birthday with mass parade but no weapons
Kim Jong-un is expected to display advanced weapons at military parade later this month and escalate missile testing
Thousands of North Koreans marched in a choreographed display of loyalty to the ruling Kim family during a massive civilian parade celebrating the birthday of the country’s founder attended by his grandson and current leader, Kim Jong-un.
State media images showed Kim waving from a balcony overlooking the vast square in Pyongyang named after his grandfather, Kim Il-sung, as huge columns of people carrying red plastic flowers and floats with political slogans marched below.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/north-korea-marks-founder-kim-il-sungs-birthday-with-mass-parade-but-no-weapons
South Africa flooding death toll nears 400 as rescuers search for missing
More weather warnings ahead as search continues for those hit by deadly storms in KwaZulu-Natal province
South African police, army and volunteer rescuers have widened the search for dozens still missing five days after the deadliest storm to strike the city of Durban in living memory as the death toll rose to nearly 400.
The floods, which affected nearly 41,000 people, left a trail of destruction and killed at least 395 people, said Sipho Hlomuka, the regional head of the disaster management ministry.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/south-africa-flooding-death-toll-nears-400-as-rescuers-search-for-missing
Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 52 of the invasion
Ukraine braces for revenge attacks after Russian warship Moskva sunk; bodies of more than 900 civilians found in Kyiv region
The captain of the Russian warship Moskva has been killed during the attack that sank it, Ukraine has claimed. Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Kyiv’s ministry of internal affairs, said Anton Kuprin died during an explosion and fire onboard the ship.
Ukraine is now bracing for revenge attacks for its hand in sinking the Moskva. Western intelligence has corroborated Ukraine’s account that two of its missiles sunk the warship, though Russia has provided an alternative explanation. Russian strikes targeted the factory near Kyiv where the Ukrainian missiles used to sink the flagship are made.
More than 900 civilian bodies have been discovered in the region surrounding Kyiv after the withdrawal of Russian forces, local police said. Almost all of them were shot dead, indicating execution during the Russian occupation, it was claimed. Their number was far greater than previously thought. In Kharkiv, officials also said that 10 people, including a baby, were killed and 35 wounded following Russian air strikes.
The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, recently made a direct appeal to his US counterpart, Joe Biden, for Washington to designate Russia a “state sponsor of terrorism”. The Washington Post first reported the news. It would be a rare and radical sanction. But Zelenskiy has been firm in putting pressure on the west to assist in Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s invasion.
In his latest address, Zelenskiy once again pushed for more weapons, and more sanctions – so the war could end sooner. Zelenskiy also spoke about a return to “normal life” in some parts of the country – or efforts to regain normality amid the tragedy. In parts of Ukraine, Zelenskiy noted that four-fifths of Ukranian enterprises have returned to work in safe areas.
Sweden and Finland say they are deliberating Nato membership. Tytti Tuppurainen, Finland’s minister for European affairs, said: “The people of Finland seem to have already made up their mind”. She added the decision was “highly likely” but “not made yet” pending discussions in parliament.
Outgunned, outnumbered and surrounded by Russian forces, one of Europe’s biggest metallurgical plants has become Mariupol’s redoubt. The factory is “an enormous space” in which the Russians “simply can’t find” Ukrainian forces, Oleh Zhdanov – a military analyst based in Kyiv – told Reuters.
Russia threatened to intensify its attacks on Kyiv if Ukrainian forces carry out any operations on Russian territory. A spokesperson for Moscow’s defence ministry said: “The number and scale of missile strikes against targets in Kyiv will increase in response to the Kyiv nationalist regime committing any attacks of a terrorist nature or sabotage on Russian territory.”
Russia has designated journalist and YouTuber Yury Dud and political analyst Ekaterina Schulmann as “foreign agents”, a continuation of Moscow’s crackdown on those critical of the government within the country. Dud and Schulmann have both been publicly critical of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/16/russia-ukraine-war-what-we-know-on-day-52-of-the-invasion
Sydney acid attack: woman taken to hospital after being assaulted by three men in face masks
Woman, 32, left with injuries to her face after incident on Dixon Street in Haymarket
A woman has been taken to hospital after a suspected acid attack in Sydney overnight.
NSW police are investigating the attack that left the 32-year-old woman with injuries to her face.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/16/sydney-acid-attack-woman-taken-to-hospital-after-being-assaulted-by-three-men-in-face-masks
Scott Morrison faces Liberal mutiny over Warringah candidate Katherine Deves’ trans views
NSW treasurer Matt Kean and long-time Liberal activist Walter Villatora call for Deves to be disendorsed
Scott Morrison is facing a mutiny over the Liberal party’s controversial candidate in Warringah, Katherine Deves, with intensifying calls for her to be dumped because of “hurtful and divisive” comments about transgender people.
Liberal moderates have been concerned for some time that Deves’ candidacy would prove damaging to the Liberal party’s standing with centre-right progressive voters in key metropolitan contests.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/16/scott-morrison-faces-liberal-mutiny-over-warringah-candidate-katherine-deves-trans-views
Australia live news election updates: Albanese promises federal Icac within months; Morrison under pressure over Warringah candidate
Liberals split over Katherine Deves’ candidacy; new Covid subvariant detected in Victorian wastewater
- Pork this way: which electorates have been promised the most in the election campaign?
- Katharine Murphy: ‘Australia now remembers Scott Morrison can campaign. But will voters forget the past three years?’
- Read Guardian Australia’s full federal election coverage
Hello and welcome to the Australia news live blog for Saturday. I’m Josh Taylor and I will be taking you through the news this morning.
Labor leader Anthony Albanese has promised to legislate a national anti-corruption commission by the end of the year if a Labor government is elected, saying it is a “first priority”.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2022/apr/16/australia-live-news-election-updates-albanese-promises-federal-icac-within-months-morrison-under-pressure-over-warringah-candidate
China’s zero-Covid policy threatens global supply chain, says Huawei exec
Head of consumer division warns of ‘massive losses’ in tech industry in comments that show growing tensions over lockdowns
A top Huawei executive has broken ranks to warn that China’s stringent zero-Covid policy may trigger “massive losses” for the tech industry, putting the country’s economy as well as the global supply chain at greater risk.
“If Shanghai cannot resume production by May, all of the tech and industrial players who have supply chains in the area will come to a complete halt, especially the automotive industry,” Richard Yu Chengdong, head of Huawei’s consumer and auto division said in a WeChat post. “That will pose severe consequences and massive losses for the whole industry.”
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/15/china-zero-covid-policy-global-supply-chain-huawei-executive
Sending UK asylum seekers to Rwanda will save money, says minister
Claim about long-term benefits disputed by MP Andrew Mitchell who describes reported cost of £30,000 a person as ‘eye-watering’
Britain will save money in the “longer term” by sending some asylum seekers to Rwanda, a minister has said after the reported cost of about £30,000 a person was described as “eye-watering”.
Defending the decision to fly out many of those who arrive on the Kent coast to a country more than 4,000 miles away, Home Office minister Tom Pursglove said it would “crush” the business model of people smugglers.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/apr/15/sending-uk-asylum-seekers-to-rwanda-will-save-money-says-minister
Boarding house regulations in Sydney’s inner west under review after fatal Newtown fire
Owner of Newtown property ordered to make repairs and clean three other boarding houses after council inspections
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An urgent review of “totally inadequate” boarding house inspection practices has been launched by the Inner West council following the fatal fire at a property that claimed three lives in Newtown last month.
Mayor Darcy Byrne has also written to the New South Wales government to request a joint review of boarding house regulation in a bid to make the last resort housing measures safer and fairer.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/15/boarding-house-regulations-in-sydneys-inner-west-under-review-after-fatal-newtown-fire
Russia-Ukraine war latest: Russia says Moskva warship has sunk after Ukraine claims missile strike – live
Ukraine claims responsibility for attack on flagship of Russia’s Black Sea fleet, though Moscow maintains fire on board and ‘stormy sea conditions’ to blame
- Russia says warship has sunk after reported Ukrainian missile strike
- Russia-Ukraine war at a glance: what we know on day 51
- Russia issues warning over Sweden and Finland’s Nato plans
- Inside Ukraine’s suburban horror: ‘I have nothing left’
- British Airways sorry for refusing to let Ukrainian family board
Hello and welcome back to the Guardian’s live coverage of the war in Ukraine.
I’m Samantha Lock and I’ll be bringing you all the latest developments before my colleague Martin Belam takes the reins a little later on.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2022/apr/15/russia-ukraine-war-latest-russia-says-moskva-warship-has-sunk-after-ukraine-claims-missile-strike-live
Are Australia’s unemployment figures cause for celebration or is the devil in the detail?
The last time the jobless rate was this low was November 1974 – but flat wages and job insecurity are still prevalent
On the face of it, another month of Australia’s unemployment remaining around the 4% mark should be cause for celebration.
Since the Australian Bureau of Statistics began releasing labour force figures in 1978, it has never released a figure as low as March’s official estimate of 3.95% (or, in its full, geeky glory, of 3.9542384%). The last time it was this low was in November 1974.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/15/are-australias-unemployment-figures-cause-for-celebration-or-is-the-devil-in-the-detail
‘People feel abandoned’: as masks come off, thousands of Australians feel scared to go out
As anti-Covid restrictions ease, many immunocompromised people feel theatres and concerts are now too risky. Are mask-only performances the answer?
As of this week, Queenslanders no longer have to prove they are double vaccinated to gain entry to entertainment and cultural venues, which are back at 100% capacity a month after mask requirements eased. And in South Australia, mask restrictions are lifting on Friday.
But more than an estimated 700,000 Australians are, at any given time, considered immunocompromised – through genetic causes, as organ recipients, undergoing treatments for cancer and some infections and simply age. Many in these groups are choosing to remain in self-imposed lockdown as Covid-19 precautions in public settings ease.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/apr/14/people-feel-abandoned-as-masks-come-off-thousands-of-australians-feel-scared-to-go-out
Jack Newton: Australian golf great dies aged 72
Australian Open champion’s golf career ended in 1983 when he lost his right arm and eye after walking into plane’s propeller
Australian golfing great Jack Newton has died, aged 72.
Newton, the 1979 Australian Open champion, died overnight due to “health complications”, his family says.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2022/apr/15/jack-newton-australian-golf-great-dies-aged-72
Home aged care staff at ‘breaking point’, as most miss out on Coalition’s $800 bonus
Australia’s home aged care providers facing ‘abysmal’ turnover rates as rising stress and poor pay take their toll
The nation’s largest home care provider says its aged care workers are at “breaking point” and are only receiving a fraction of the Coalition’s promised $800 bonus due to flaws with the scheme’s design.
The vast and systemic problems facing aged care were exposed during the pandemic, including in home care, where workers have faced increased demand for services, huge staff turnover, abuse from families, and continuing low rates of pay.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/15/home-aged-care-staff-at-breaking-point-as-most-miss-out-on-coalitions-800-bonus
‘People feel abandoned’: as masks come off, thousands of Australians feel scared to go out
As anti-Covid restrictions ease, many immunocompromised people feel theatres and concerts are now too risky. Are mask-only performances the answer?
As of this week, Queenslanders no longer have to prove they are double vaccinated to gain entry to entertainment and cultural venues, which are back at 100% capacity a month after mask requirements eased. And in South Australia, mask restrictions are lifting on Friday.
But more than an estimated 700,000 Australians are, at any given time, considered immunocompromised – through genetic causes, as organ recipients, undergoing treatments for cancer and some infections and simply age. Many in these groups are choosing to remain in self-imposed lockdown as Covid-19 precautions in public settings ease.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/apr/14/people-feel-abandoned-as-masks-come-off-thousands-of-australians-feel-scared-to-go-out
Home aged care staff at ‘breaking point’, as most miss out on Coalition’s $800 bonus
Australia’s home aged care providers facing ‘abysmal’ turnover rates as rising stress and poor pay take their toll
The nation’s largest home care provider says its aged care workers are at “breaking point” and are only receiving a fraction of the Coalition’s promised $800 bonus due to flaws with the scheme’s design.
The vast and systemic problems facing aged care were exposed during the pandemic, including in home care, where workers have faced increased demand for services, huge staff turnover, abuse from families, and continuing low rates of pay.
Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/15/home-aged-care-staff-at-breaking-point-as-most-miss-out-on-coalitions-800-bonus
Alexei Navalny calls for social media ‘information front’ against Russia
Jailed opposition leader tells west to support huge ad campaign in order to break through Kremlin war propaganda
Alexei Navalny has called for an “information front” against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the jailed opposition leader asserted that poll results showing 75% of Russians support the conflict were a “Kremlin lie”.
In an extended series of tweets, Navalny called on western leaders to support a massive social media ad campaign in order to break through Kremlin propaganda regarding the invasion.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/alexei-navalny-calls-for-social-media-information-front-against-russia
Rio carnival groups fight for right to party ahead of official celebrations
Samba schools will return to action but ‘blocos’ – street groups – are furious they have not yet received authorization to gather
Some of Rio’s most cherished street carnival groups say they are fighting for the right to party ahead of the city’s first official celebrations since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
Rio’s world-famous samba schools will return to action next week for their first parades at the Sambódromo stadium in more than two years. But the carnival enthusiasts behind hundreds of “blocos” – riotous musical troupes that roam the streets clutching brass instruments and booze – are furious they have not received authorization to gather.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/rio-carnival-street-groups-party-official-celebrations
German chancellor ‘stalling on heavy weaponry to Ukraine’
Coalition partners accuse Olaf Scholz of failing to live up to promises as major Russian offensive looms
Germany’s chancellor is under growing pressure to authorise the delivery of heavy weaponry to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s looming eastern offensive, with Olaf Scholz’s coalition partners accusing him of failing to live up to his promises.
The centre-left leader had surprised even close partners in his three-party coalition when on 27 February he announced an “epochal change” in Germany’s foreign policy to boost defence spending and relax its restrictive stance on exporting weapons to conflict zones.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/german-chancellor-stalling-heavy-weaponry-ukraine-coalition-olaf-scholz-russia-offensive
Rwandan opposition criticises deal to accept UK’s asylum seekers
UK accused of shifting international obligations and Rwanda of ignoring issues causing its own refugees
Opposition politicians in Rwanda have criticised its agreement to accept thousands of unauthorised asylum seekers flown from the UK, saying wealthy western countries should “own up to international obligations on the migration issues”.
Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, the leader of DALFA-Umurinzi, said officials in Rwanda should focus on solving its political and social issues that made Rwandans seek refuge abroad before offering “to host refugees or migrants from other countries”.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/rwandan-opposition-criticises-deal-to-accept-uks-asylum-seekers
Russia’s war in Ukraine: complete guide in maps, video and pictures
Where is fighting happening and how did we get here?
Ammunition has exploded on board Russia’s Soviet-era missile cruiser Moskva, leaving the ship badly damaged and dealing a blow to Russia’s war effort. Ukraine claimed it had hit the ship with a missile and that the ship had started to sink. Russia has not acknowledged that the ship was attacked. It said the fire had been brought under control and the crew safely evacuated.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/mar/17/russias-war-in-ukraine-complete-guide-in-maps-video-and-pictures
Russia denies Moskva has sunk after apparent Ukrainian missile strike
Defence ministry ‘investigating’ what happened to Black Sea flagship and claims all 510 crew are safe
• Russia-Ukraine war: latest updates
Russia’s defence ministry said it was investigating what happened to its flagship cruiser Moskva after Ukraine said it had hit the vessel with an anti-ship missile, forcing its crew to abandon ship.
The ministry denied reports the warship had sunk to the bottom of the Black Sea. It said the Moskva had “retained buoyancy”, with fires extinguished and the crew transferred to another vessel.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/russia-moskva-ship-ukraine-black-sea
Tens of thousands of asylum seekers could be sent to Rwanda, says Johnson
PM insists east African country is safe and scheme will prove ‘very considerable deterrent’
Tens of thousands of unauthorised migrants who seek sanctuary in the UK will be flown more than 4,000 miles to Rwanda under a new set of immigration policies, Boris Johnson has said.
The prime minister insisted at a press conference that the African state, criticised last year by the UK for its human rights record, was one of the safest countries in the world. He also announced that the Royal Navy would take over patrolling the Channel to intercept small boats from France.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/apr/14/tens-of-thousands-of-asylum-seekers-could-be-sent-to-rwanda-says-boris-johnson
Sunny weather forecast for most of Australia over Easter long weekend
After its wettest ever start to the year, Sydney is forecast to have a dry long weekend
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It will be a sunny Easter weekend for most of Australia, with light showers scattered across the country predicted to ease as people enjoy the festive period.
After its wettest ever start to the year, Sydney is forecast to have a mostly sunny and dry long weekend.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/14/sunny-weather-forecast-for-most-of-australia-over-easter-long-weekend
As Russia continues to bomb Ukraine, are its weapons of choice getting worse?
Analysis: Russia’s indiscriminate use of weaponry has already led to high numbers of civilian deaths
A Russian tank is filmed firing on apartments in Mariupol; evidence emerges that a cluster bomb was used to strike against the train station in Kramatorsk and concerns surface about the possible use of phosphorus in Ukraine’s cities.
Moscow’s forces have been repeatedly accused of using indiscriminate weapons in cities throughout the seven-week-long Ukraine war, a disregard for civilian life that has already almost certainly led to thousands of unnecessary deaths.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/as-russia-continues-to-bomb-ukraine-are-its-weapons-of-choice-getting-worse
Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 50 of the invasion
Russia defence ministry says entire crew of Moskva warship evacuated after ammunition blast; Ukraine earlier claimed it had struck the cruiser
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/14/russia-ukraine-war-what-we-know-on-day-50-of-the-invasion
Companies linked to Urannah Dam project donate more than $150,000 to Liberal National party
Detailed business case for Queensland project includes analysis that shows a negative return on investment
Companies linked to the proponent of the massive Urannah Dam project in north Queensland have given more than $150,000 to the Liberal National party, including a donation made a week after the Morrison government promised to spend $483m on its construction.
A member of the disbanded National Water Grid advisory body, Stuart Khan, last month wrote to colleagues saying that taxpayer funding to the Urannah project had been allocated for “brazenly political purposes” and before a detailed business case had been scrutinised.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/14/companies-linked-to-urannah-dam-project-donate-more-than-150000-to-liberal-national-party
Melbourne CBD crowds back to pre-pandemic levels due to major events
City’s weekend foot traffic was up 15% due to F1 and comedy festival, but office occupancy still lags behind rest of Australia at 30%
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Record crowds at Melbourne’s Grand Prix and comedy festival have boosted foot traffic in the CBD, with pedestrian activity in the heart of the city exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 15% over the weekend.
Melbourne CBD’s office occupancy is still lagging, with average attendance at 30%, according to March data from the Property Council. Wednesdays and Thursdays are the city’s busiest days – with over 70% of pre-pandemic foot traffic. Mondays and Fridays – the most popular days for people to work at home – continue to languish with office occupancy as low as 17%.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/14/melbourne-cbd-crowds-back-to-pre-pandemic-levels-due-to-major-events
Companies linked to Urannah Dam project donate more than $150,000 to Liberal National party
Detailed business case for Queensland project includes analysis that shows a negative return on investment
Companies linked to the proponent of the massive Urannah Dam project in north Queensland have given more than $150,000 to the Liberal National party, including a donation made a week after the Morrison government promised to spend $483m on its construction.
A member of the disbanded National Water Grid advisory body, Stuart Khan, last month wrote to colleagues saying that taxpayer funding to the Urannah project had been allocated for “brazenly political purposes” and before a detailed business case had been scrutinised.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/14/companies-linked-to-urannah-dam-project-donate-more-than-150000-to-liberal-national-party
Melbourne CBD crowds back to pre-pandemic levels due to major events
City’s weekend foot traffic was up 15% due to F1 and comedy festival, but office occupancy still lags behind rest of Australia at 30%
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Record crowds at Melbourne’s Grand Prix and comedy festival have boosted foot traffic in the CBD, with pedestrian activity in the heart of the city exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 15% over the weekend.
Melbourne CBD’s office occupancy is still lagging, with average attendance at 30%, according to March data from the Property Council. Wednesdays and Thursdays are the city’s busiest days – with over 70% of pre-pandemic foot traffic. Mondays and Fridays – the most popular days for people to work at home – continue to languish with office occupancy as low as 17%.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/14/melbourne-cbd-crowds-back-to-pre-pandemic-levels-due-to-major-events
Australia politics live updates: Coalition poised for forestry and infrastructure announcements, Labor to target marginal NSW seats
Scott Morrison expected to reveal package for forestry industry in Tasmania, while Anthony Albanese in Sydney to propose healthcare reforms. Follow all the day’s news
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Anthony Albanese is kicking the morning off in Cessnock, with Hunter candidate Dan Repacholi talking healthcare – Labor is hoping to retain the seat Joel Fitzgibbon is retiring from, which the Liberal party is also heavily targeting.
Scott Morrison is in northern Tasmania where he will promise a $220m forestry package, to take advantage of the timber shortage across the world, promising 73,000 forestry jobs.
source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2022/apr/14/australia-politics-live-updates-election-2022-scott-morrison-anthony-albanese-coalition-labor-liberal-nsw-tasmania-vic-covid-coronavirus-weather
Hospital in Ethiopia's Tigray struggles to treat patients
Doctors at the flagship hospital in Ethiopia’s embattled Tigray region say patients are dying amid shortages of life-saving drugs and oxygen
Originally posted here: https://ift.tt/gdVRDfs
Key independents say they will push next Australian government to lift jobseeker payment
Incumbent MPs and first-time ‘teal’ candidates say unemployment benefit below poverty line is unacceptable
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High-profile independents vying for a place in the next parliament have vowed to push for an increase to the jobseeker payment after Labor dumped plans to review the benefit.
In a move that angered welfare groups, Labor on Tuesday confirmed it would not commit to lifting the payment – currently at a base rate of $46 a day – and had ditched an independent review proposed in 2019, citing budget constraints.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/13/key-independents-say-they-will-push-next-australian-government-to-lift-jobseeker-payment
Russia-Ukraine war latest: Biden accuses Putin of genocide; Russia building up troops on eastern border, satellite images show – live
Biden says Putin ‘trying to wipe out the idea of even being Ukrainian’; satellite images show Russia building up troops in east of Ukraine
- Joe Biden accuses Vladimir Putin of committing genocide in Ukraine
- Ukraine announces arrest of Putin ally in ‘lightning-fast’ operation
- Civilians flee eastern Ukraine ahead of new Russian offensive
- Vladimir Putin insists Russia will achieve its ‘noble’ goals in Ukraine
- Did Russia really use chemical weapons in Ukraine?
- Russia-Ukraine war at a glance: what we know on day 49 of the invasion
Satellite images suggest Russia is building up troops and equipment in at least three regions near Ukraine’s eastern border.
According to images released by Maxar Technologies, a convoy of armoured vehicles and trucks was seen on a highway in the village of Vilkhuvatka, near Kharkiv, over the weekend.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2022/apr/13/russia-ukraine-war-latest-biden-accuses-putin-of-genocide-russia-building-up-troops-on-eastern-border-satellite-images-show-live
‘Couldn’t sleep last night’: joy at New Zealand airports as Covid travel ban on Australians lifts
Change to border restrictions marks first step in welcoming international visitors back to country after two years
“Hello & kia ora & g’day & welcome” a sign waved at Auckland’s international airport said on Wednesday morning as Australian travellers set foot on New Zealand soil for the first time since the short-lived travel bubble between the two countries abruptly ended in mid-2021.
More than 4,000 people travelling from Australia on Air New Zealand flights are expected to arrive at Auckland and Wellington airports on Wednesday, after the Covid-19 border restrictions lifted at midnight.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/13/couldnt-sleep-last-night-joy-at-new-zealand-airports-as-covid-travel-ban-on-australians-lifts
Christian lobby groups push major parties to support unamended religious discrimination bill
FamilyVoice says Labor not to blame for ‘Morrison’s failure’ to pass bill as Albanese pledges to extend school chaplaincy program with secular pastoral care
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Christian lobby groups are pressing both major parties to recommit to the unamended religious discrimination bill as Labor guarantees to extend the chaplaincy program with a secular choice for schools.
Guardian Australia understands Labor has told FamilyVoice it has “consistently supported” the $61m-a-year chaplaincy program but will move to give schools the option of a secular pastoral care worker.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/13/christian-lobby-groups-push-major-parties-to-support-unamended-religious-discrimination-bill
Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 49 of the invasion
Biden accuses Putin of genocide, while Ukraine captures the Russian leader’s closest ally in the country
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/13/russia-ukraine-war-what-we-know-on-day-49-of-the-invasion
Cricket Australia appoint Andrew McDonald as men’s head coach
- Interim coach handed permanent job to replace Justin Langer
- Takes charge of team across all three formats of the game
Andrew McDonald has been confirmed as the man to lead Australia on upcoming tours to Sri Lanka and India, the T20 World Cup, an away Ashes series and beyond after being officially unveiled as Justin Langer’s replacement as head coach.
McDonald had been in the position on an interim basis since Langer stepped down in February, and oversaw the recent tour to Pakistan, where Australia won a tightly-contested Test series 1-0, lost a three-match ODI series 2-1 and won a one-off T20.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2022/apr/13/cricket-australia-appoint-andrew-mcdonald-as-mens-head-coach
Joe Biden accuses Vladimir Putin of committing genocide in Ukraine
US president says Russian leader is ‘trying to wipe out the idea of even being Ukrainian’ in comments welcomed by Voldymyr Zelenskiy
Joe Biden has accused Russia of carrying out genocide in Ukraine, saying that Vladimir Putin is “trying to wipe out the idea of even being Ukrainian”.
Biden has been consistently outspoken in denouncing Russian wholesale killing of Ukrainian civilians, labelling Putin as a “war criminal” in mid-March. Multiple investigations are under way into Russian atrocities in Ukraine, which include the razing of Mariupol and the executions of civilians in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/13/joe-biden-accuses-vladimir-putin-of-committing-genocide-in-ukraine
Mexican truckers blockade border crossings over Texas inspection delays
Business groups warn of supply chain disruptions after Governor Greg Abbott orders checks for people and contraband smuggling
Mexican truck drivers have blockaded bridges at the border with the United States for a second day to protest against an order by the Texas governor, Greg Abbott, to increase safety inspections that has snarled traffic at ports of entry and led business groups to warn of supply chain disruptions.
“Yesterday it took me 17 hours to cross into the United States and return,” said Raymundo Galicia, a Mexican driver participating in a protest at the Santa Teresa bridge connecting San Jerónimo, Chihuahua, to Santa Teresa, New Mexico.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/apr/12/mexican-truckers-blockade-border-crossings-texas-inspection-delays
Reader call-out: how has the changing mood in New Zealand’s housing market affected you?
House prices are dropping amid rising living costs and higher interest rates – what does that mean for you?
For the first time in more than a decade, New Zealand house prices recorded a quarterly drop. ANZ economists say the mood in the market has shifted – from “fear of missing out” to “I’m not paying that”.
We’re eager to hear from our New Zealand readers on how this might be affecting you.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/13/reader-call-out-how-has-the-changing-mood-in-new-zealands-housing-market-affected-you
Organized crime and corrupt officials responsible for Mexico’s disappearances, UN says
Number of young people disappeared is increasing as total number of cases exceeds 95,000, very few of which are solved
Corrupt state officials and organized crime factions are to blame for Mexico’s soaring number of enforced disappearances, whose victims increasingly include children – some as young as 12, according to a new UN investigation.
Just over 95,000 people were registered as disappeared at the end of November 2021. Of those, 40,000 were added in the past five years, according to the new report by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/12/organized-crime-corrupt-officials-mexico-enforced-disappearances-un
Australia politics live update: George Christensen to stand for One Nation, Scott Morrison confronted by activist
Former Liberal National MP announces he will run for Pauline Hanson’s party after changing his mind about quitting politics. Follow developments live
- Billionaire tax to fund Greens’ $7.5bn plan for Medicare to cover dental
- Labor to commit $135m to trial 50 urgent care clinics
- Australian election voters’ guide: everything you need to know
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If you haven’t seen the Canberra Times, it has a story about the Rheem factory Scott Morrison visited yesterday to talk job creation – the factory is about to cut jobs.
But while Mr Morrison used the hot water heater manufacturer to promote his government’s record on job creation, ACM can reveal a cloud hangs over the more than 500-strong workforce at the Rydalmere site.
The union which represents manufacturing workers claims a third of the work undertaken at the Western Sydney factory is set to be shifted to Rheem’s site in Vietnam, putting more than 100 local jobs on the line.
Look, I think it was a press release. It was a wish, if you like, a promise. There’s not a lot of detail behind it, so I think what we would say is if you’re going to achieve this sort of goal, then you do need to have these things that we’re talking about. You do need to be investing in skills, you do need to be encouraging more people into the labour force and the third part of the equation is we do need to have stronger migration again. We have had the border shut for two years. We need to make sure that we’re now getting back to a more ambitious level of migration.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2022/apr/13/australia-politics-live-update-election-campaign-scott-morrison-anthony-albanese-adam-bandt-coalition-labor-greens
Koala IVF could help save species from extinction
University of Newcastle scientists suggest frozen sperm could be used to impregnate females in breed-for-release programs
Freezing koala sperm could become a key part of a strategy to save koalas from extinction by 2050.
University of Newcastle scientists Lachlan Howell and Ryan Witt say koala “biobanking”, could be harnessed with IVF technology to help the endangered species reproduce.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/13/koala-ivf-could-help-save-species-from-extinction
George Christensen says he will be a candidate for One Nation at federal election
Former LNP MP goes back on retirement plans, saying he should have made the move to Pauline Hanson’s party ‘a long time ago’
The former federal Liberal National Party MP George Christensen is trying to make a political comeback with One Nation after changing his mind about retiring.
Christensen, who was the MP for the Queensland seat of Dawson, said he would be announced as a candidate for Pauline Hanson’s party for the 21 May federal election.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/13/george-christensen-says-he-will-be-a-candidate-for-one-nation-at-federal-election
Australia politics live updates: Morrison to make election promise on jobs, Albanese focuses on Medicare
Scott Morrison will pledge to create 1.3m new jobs in the next five years as he campaigns in Sydney, while the Labor leader will announce greater health support for regions. Follow all the day’s news
- Liberal moderates concerned by Morrison raising trans women sport ban during election campaign
- What key numbers should Australian politicians – and voters – know and care about?
- Australian election voters’ guide: everything you need to know
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Bill Shorten popped up on the Nine Network this morning, where he repeated the ‘it’s a leadership test, not a memory test’ Labor MPs have been using when asked about Anthony Albanese’s stumble yesterday.
Shorten then moved on to the season:
Listen, it was a mistake which I know that Albo didn’t want to make. He has come out and taken responsibility for it. But I also know that across 42 days there is going to be a lot of spills and adventures and good days and bad days. The last person who never made a mistake - we are celebrating Easter - was 2,000 years ago. Sure, you wouldn’t want to have said it but we absolutely have got to get back on the bike and focus on getting our policies out to the people.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2022/apr/12/australia-politics-live-updates-election-2022-campaign-scott-morrison-anthony-albanese-nsw-victoria-weather-covid-coronavirus
Former Colombia player Freddy Rincón in critical condition after car crash
- Rincón was driving car that collided with bus in Cali
- Hospital treating 55-year-old for ‘traumatic brain injury’
Freddy Rincón, the former Colombia captain, is in a critical condition with severe head injuries after being involved in a car crash in the city of Cali.
Four other people who were in the vehicle that Rincon was driving were also injured following the collision with a bus at around 4.30am. The bus driver was also hurt, according to local authorities who are reviewing CCTV footage of the accident.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/apr/11/freddy-rincon-colombia-real-madrid-player-car-crash
Morning mail: Putin confronted by Austria’s leader, flood-related scams, Sydney’s last video shop
Tuesday: Austrian chancellor becomes first western leader to hold face-to-face talks with Russian president since invasion of Ukraine. Plus: Australia’s top travel experiences
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Good morning. Putin meets Austria’s chancellor in his first face-to-face visit with a western leader since the invasion of Ukraine. Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese will be out campaigning in marginal seats, with jobs and healthcare on the election agenda. And Lonely Planet selects Australia’s top travel experiences.
The last Ukrainian soldiers defending Mariupol said they were “running out of ammunition” on Monday and expected to be killed or taken prisoner very soon by Russian forces surrounding the city. Writing on Facebook, the 36th brigade said its 47-day defence of Mariupol was coming to a tragic conclusion. “We were bombed from airplanes and shot at by artillery and tanks. We have been doing everything possible and impossible,” it said. Meanwhile, Austria’s chancellor, Karl Nehammer, said he told Vladimir Putin that “all those responsible” for war crimes must be brought to justice and warned that western sanctions would intensify as long as people kept dying in Ukraine. After becoming the first western leader to hold face-to-face talks with the Russian president since the invasion, Nehammer said his trip to Moscow was not “a visit of friendship” and that the two had had a “direct, open and hard” conversation.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/12/morning-mail-putin-confronted-by-austrias-leader-flood-related-scams-sydneys-last-video-shop
Teenage boy dies after stabbing at Sydney’s Royal Easter Show
One person is in custody after the brawl, which has left another teenager seriously injured
A teenage boy is dead and another seriously injured after both were stabbed at Sydney’s Royal Easter Show.
A brawl broke out at the crowded carnival ride area of the showground about 8pm on Monday, NSW Police said.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/12/teenage-boy-dies-after-stabbing-at-sydneys-royal-easter-show
Nato’s ‘achilles heel’: alliance conducts war games in nervous Lithuania
Baltic nation is calling for increased military presence in response to Russian invasion of Ukraine
About 30km west of the Belarusian border, the enemy’s tanks were rolling through the pine forests of Lithuania at speed until a makeshift obstacle made of barbed wire blocked their path. Soldiers carrying bolt cutters jumped out of the armoured vehicle at the front to clear the road.
Then, a deafening bang. In its rush to victory, the advancing party had neglected to check the sandy terrain underneath the roadblock for mines. Luckily, for them, this was merely a dress rehearsal for a showdown between Russia and the North Atlantic alliance.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/11/nato-achilles-heel-alliance-conducts-war-games-nervous-lithuania
Austrian chancellor to meet Putin in Russia amid warnings of fresh offensive against Ukraine
Karl Nehammer will be first EU leader to meet Russian president since invasion began, and called for a ceasefire and full investigation of war crimes
Austria’s chancellor is set to meet Vladimir Putin on Monday, the Russian president’s first face-to-face meeting with an EU leader since ordering the invasion of Ukraine, amid warnings of a fresh offensive and shelling in the east.
Karl Nehammer said the meeting would take place in Moscow and that Austria had a “clear position on the Russian war of aggression”, calling for humanitarian corridors, a ceasefire and full investigation of war crimes.
Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/apr/11/austrian-chancellor-to-meet-putin-in-russia-amid-warnings-of-fresh-offensive-against-ukraine
Alan Tudge ‘technically’ still member of cabinet, Scott Morrison says
PM grilled again on education minister’s future after previously saying Tudge would not return to frontbench
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Scott Morrison has said the sidelined education minister, Alan Tudge, is “technically” still a member of his cabinet, but is not receiving a ministerial salary.
After Labor insisted voters deserved to know whether Tudge would be a fully fledged minister if the Coalition won re-election, Morrison told ABC Radio the Victorian MP “stood aside for his own health and family reasons, and when he is ready to return to the cabinet then he will”.
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Continue reading...source https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/apr/11/alan-tudge-technically-still-member-of-cabinet-scott-morrison-says
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