Pope urges ceasefire in Ukraine ahead of invasion anniversary

Pope Francis, speaking two days before the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, on Wednesday called for a ceasefire and peace negotiations, saying no victory could be “built on ruins”. Francis, who has appealed for an end to violence in Ukraine at nearly every public appearance since Russia’s invasion of the country on Feb. 24, 2022, spoke at his weekly general audience at the Vatican. “It has been a year since the start of this absurd and cruel war, a sad anniversary,” he said.

China likely to see trade deficit in 2023: Report

 China is likely to see a trade deficit in 2023, dragging down GDP growth and depressing profits and employment in the manufacturing sector, The Hong Kong Post reported, adding that there is a clear message that markets should not be too optimistic about Chinese growth this year, according to comments seen on the Chinese microblogging website Sina Weibo.

Arun Vijay’s Borrder postponed

Arun Vijay’s film with director Arivazhagan, Borrder, was supposed to have hit the theatres on February 24. However, the makers have once again postponed the release. In a note, the makers said, “Our recent film production titled Arun Vijay in Borrder directed by Arivazhagan with an amazing cast and crew.

Swiatek downs Samsonova to advance into quarter-finals

World No.1 Iga Swiatek advanced into the quarterfinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships on Wednesday, overpowering No.14 seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-1, 6-0 in their Round of 16 showdown. Swiatek won her last five matches, including a title defence last week in Doha.

Aishwary Pratap Singh wins gold in ISSF World Cup

Olympian Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar claimed the gold medal in the men’s individual 50m rifle 3 positions competition at the ISSF World Cup here on Wednesday as India continued their dominance in the tournament.

Jay Shah likely to attend Women’s T20 WC semi-final: Sources

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah is likely to attend the Women’s T20I World Cup semi-final match between India and Australia on Thursday to extend his support to Women in Blue. Women in Blue will take on unbeaten Australia on Thursday in the Women’s T20I World Cup semi-final match at the Newlands in Cape Town.

Real Madrid pay injury price for Anfield win

 Real Madrid’s impressive win away to Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday night has come with a price ahead of their La Liga derby at home to Atletico Madrid this weekend. David Alaba had to leave the game in the first half after suffering a hamstring problem, while Rodrygo was forced out in the second half after suffering a strain high on the back of his left leg.