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US Senate moves forward with bipartisan Russia sanctions bill

ByJustpaste.in

The US Senate has taken the first major step toward approving a bipartisan sanctions package aimed at increasing pressure on Russia by targeting its energy sector and financial network. The legislation advanced with strong support on Tuesday as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington to urge American lawmakers to strengthen measures against Moscow and continue backing Ukraine.

Senators voted 86 to 12 to begin formal debate on the bill, allowing it to clear its first procedural stage. Although the proposal still requires further discussion and a final vote before becoming law, the overwhelming support highlighted broad agreement in the Senate on increasing economic pressure against Russia as the war in Ukraine continues.

The proposed legislation would expand sanctions on Russian government officials, wealthy business figures, financial institutions and the network of ships often referred to as the shadow fleet. These vessels have been used to transport Russian oil while avoiding existing international restrictions. Lawmakers believe cutting off these channels would reduce Russia’s ability to earn revenue from energy exports.

Another major feature of the bill would give President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on imports from countries that continue buying large amounts of Russian oil and natural gas. Nations such as China and India could be affected if the measure is implemented. Supporters argue that reducing demand for Russian energy is one of the most effective ways to weaken Moscow’s financial resources and limit its ability to fund military operations in Ukraine.

The Senate vote came only hours after Zelensky met President Trump at the White House during his visit to the United States. The Ukrainian leader also attended the funeral of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington. Graham had been one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters in Congress and spent more than a year helping build bipartisan backing for the sanctions proposal before his death earlier this month.

After meeting with lawmakers, Zelensky urged senators to maintain strong support for Ukraine and approve tougher sanctions against Russia as fighting on the battlefield continues and diplomatic efforts led by the United States remain at a standstill. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly argued that increasing economic pressure on Moscow is necessary to reduce Russia’s ability to continue the conflict.

The legislation has been named in honor of Senator Graham, whose work played a key role in shaping the proposal. Shortly before his death, he reached an agreement with the White House on a revised version of the bill. In a joint statement, six Republican and Democratic senators said moving the legislation forward was the best way to recognize Graham’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against Russia.

The updated measure also includes provisions requested by President Trump to extend existing sanctions authority related to Iran’s energy and weapons sectors. Lawmakers said the changes broaden the scope of the legislation while maintaining its primary focus on increasing pressure on Russia.

Despite receiving strong bipartisan backing, the proposal has faced some criticism from Democratic lawmakers. Some have expressed concern that allowing the president to impose high tariffs gives the White House too much authority. Others warned that such tariffs could increase costs for American consumers and create economic difficulties for European allies that maintain trade relationships with countries affected by the measure.

Even if the Senate approves the bill, it will not become law immediately. The House of Representatives has already begun its summer recess and is not expected to return to Washington until September. As a result, final congressional action on the legislation is likely to be delayed for several weeks before lawmakers can decide whether to send it to the president for approval.

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    Polling resumes at 23 stations in AJK’s Bagh

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    BAGH: Voting is underway at 23 polling stations in two constituencies of Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Bagh district as authorities conduct re-polling following the suspension of results from the earlier phase. Polling began at 8am and is scheduled to continue until 5pm. Security arrangements have been strengthened around the polling stations to ensure voters can cast their ballots without fear or disruption. The re-polling covers parts of LA-15 Bagh Central and LA-16 Eastern Bagh. Voting had earlier failed to take place at nine polling stations in LA-15 and 14 stations in LA-16. The AJK Election Commission subsequently withheld the results of both constituencies and ordered voting at the affected stations. In LA-15, Pakistan Peoples Party candidate Sardar Ziaul Qamar had secured 16,637 votes in the polling that took place earlier. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz candidate Mushtaq Ahmed Minhas was second with 15,015 votes, while Jamaat-i-Islami candidate retired Brigadier Dr Muhammad Khan received 12,259 votes. In LA-16, PML-N’s Sardar Mir Akbar was leading on the basis of votes already counted. He had obtained 19,515 votes and held a lead of 3,225 votes over PPP candidate Sardar Qamaruz Zaman. The contest in both constituencies has remained tense. Candidates have levelled allegations of large-scale rigging against their political opponents. AJK Chief Election Commissioner retired Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said adequate security had been deployed at the polling stations. He said sufficient police and other law-enforcement personnel were available to provide voters with a secure environment. The re-polling is part of the third phase of the AJK elections, which has been conducted amid concerns over law and order in parts of the region. The third phase was initially scheduled across Poonch Division, covering 11 constituencies in Bagh, Haveli, Poonch and Sudhnoti districts. However, the Election Commission limited polling to Bagh and Haveli because of security concerns. Polling was held earlier in both districts, but the commission withheld the results of two Bagh constituencies after voting could not be conducted at the 23 affected stations. The commission had already announced the result of LA-14 Bagh-I, commonly known as Dhirkot. Jammu Kashmir Awami Dast-o-Bazu Party candidate Sajid Iqbal Abbasi won the seat by securing 40,522 votes. Another closely watched contest was LA-17 Haveli, where AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore was a candidate. The constituency became embroiled in controversy after the returning officer declared Rathore the winner. PML-N candidate Engineer Mohsin Aziz challenged the result and claimed that an assurance had been given that the result would not be announced before his complaint was considered. The AJK chief election commissioner heard arguments from both sides and later reserved his decision.

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    Pakistan explores digital assets, tokenisation to expand access to finance

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    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is examining the potential use of digital assets and tokenisation in areas including real estate and other investment instruments as part of broader efforts to accelerate digital transformation and expand access to financial services. The matter came under discussion during a meeting between Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA) Chairperson Dr Sohail Munir on Thursday. The meeting focused on digital finance, technology-driven economic activity and measures aimed at making financial services more accessible and efficient. According to the Finance Division, the participants reviewed the emerging role of digital assets and tokenisation, particularly their possible application in real estate and other investment-related assets. The discussion also stressed the need for an appropriate regulatory and institutional framework to ensure that such technologies are adopted in a responsible and sustainable manner. Tokenisation generally involves representing ownership or economic rights in an asset through digital tokens. The approach has attracted growing international attention because it can potentially make certain investment opportunities easier to access, improve transaction efficiency and broaden participation in financial markets. The finance minister stressed that Pakistan’s regulatory and institutional arrangements must keep pace with rapid developments in digital technology and new business models. He emphasised that emerging technologies should be supported by clear rules and mechanisms that provide certainty to businesses, investors and financial institutions. The meeting also examined the need to create an enabling environment for electronic transactions and encourage the wider adoption of digital processes across trade and financial activities. Aurangzeb highlighted the importance of using technology to reduce procedural barriers and improve access to finance. In this regard, the participants discussed simplifying customer onboarding procedures, strengthening mechanisms for sharing financial data and improving interoperability among different financial systems. Greater connectivity between banks and capital markets was also identified as an important area for development. The participants considered how digital platforms and simplified account-opening procedures could encourage more people to participate in the capital market and gain access to a broader range of investment opportunities.   The finance minister also called for stronger integration of banking and capital-market systems, noting that better-connected digital infrastructure could help improve financial inclusion while making investment processes more convenient and efficient. Another key area discussed during the meeting was the use and interoperability of data across government institutions. Aurangzeb noted that better integration of government data could improve the quality and speed of policymaking, planning and decision-making. The meeting also considered the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies in strengthening government systems and improving the delivery of public and financial services. The participants reviewed opportunities to enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure so that government departments, financial institutions and businesses can operate through more efficient and interconnected systems. Aurangzeb appreciated the initiatives being undertaken by the Pakistan Digital Authority and stressed the need to prioritise practical projects capable of delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, financial access and digital capacity. He further emphasised continued coordination among government institutions, regulators, financial-sector stakeholders and technology organisations to ensure that digital initiatives translate into tangible economic benefits. The discussions form part of wider efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy by modernising financial processes, expanding technology-based services and creating an environment in which emerging financial technologies can develop within an appropriate regulatory framework. With digital assets, tokenisation, artificial intelligence and data-driven financial services developing rapidly worldwide, Pakistan’s efforts to establish suitable frameworks could play an important role in determining how effectively the country participates in the next phase of digital financial development.

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    Greek police arrest boxer over death of Scottish c…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Greek authorities have arrested a 26 year old former boxer in connection with the death of a Scottish aid worker whose body was discovered in a suitcase in Athens, according to a British broadcaster. The suspect, identified as Sharif Ahmadzai, was taken into custody after officers found the remains of 38 year old Elisabeth Jane Ross in an abandoned building in the Kypseli district of the Greek capital on July 18, several days after she had been reported missing. Ahmadzai is scheduled to appear in court in Athens on Wednesday. Ahmadzai was born in Afghanistan and later became a champion boxer before settling permanently in Greece, where he currently lives with his American wife and their child. He left Afghanistan as a teenager after losing both parents to the conflict there. His father, who served as a commander in the Afghan army, was shot dead, while his mother and siblings died in a suicide bombing in Kabul when he was 15 years old. According to a video account published by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Ahmadzai made his way to Greece by traveling through Iran and Turkey before eventually reaching a refugee camp on the island of Lesbos. It was there that he is understood to have met his future wife and converted to Christianity. The couple went on to found a charity called Love Every Nation Athens, which works to support other refugees arriving in the country. Police say Ross, who was from Edinburgh and known to friends and family as Lisa, entered Greece on June 26 and initially stayed in the Kertasini area of Piraeus until July 10. She had traveled to volunteer with an Athens based refugee support organization. She later told friends in Greece that she planned to travel to Kypseli on July 15 to meet up with American acquaintances. A police union in Greece said investigators confirmed that Ahmadzai held a key to the apartment where Ross had been staying. The union also said officers verified surveillance footage that appears to show him carrying a suitcase believed to have contained her body. Data from a location sharing application used by Ahmadzai’s wife reportedly placed the suspect at an address on Rethymnou Street, the location where Ross is believed to have died, in the days leading up to her death. Authorities said the suspect also used the victim’s bank cards to withdraw cash after her death. The building where her body was ultimately found sits roughly twenty minutes away from the area where Ross had originally been staying during her time in the city. Mourners have since left flowers at the site where her remains were discovered. One handwritten note left among the tributes expressed hope that her memory would live on and that she would not be forgotten. In Edinburgh, Pastor Peter Anderson said Ross had belonged to the congregation at City on a Hill church for two decades. He described her as someone with a strong commitment to missionary work who had traveled widely to help others. Speaking in a video shared on the church’s social media page, Anderson called her a deeply valued member of the community and said her loss had been felt profoundly by those who knew her. During a search of Ahmadzai’s residence, police said officers seized a replica pistol along with a knife. Authorities have also fast tracked a toxicology examination in an effort to determine the exact cause of Ross’s death. Investigators say they are additionally trying to locate the American friends Ross had mentioned to acquaintances shortly before her disappearance. The case has drawn significant attention both in Greece and in the United Kingdom, where Ross’s church community and friends have publicly mourned her loss while the investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death continues.

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    Fazlur Rehman urges peace as Kashmir protests cont…

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    ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has called for restraint and dialogue amid the ongoing protest movement in Kashmir, urging state institutions to prioritize reconciliation over confrontation. In a video message released on Friday, the veteran religious and political leader said demonstrations in Kashmir have continued for nearly two months, describing the movement as a reflection of public frustration. He paid tribute to the patience and resilience of the Kashmiri people, saying they had shown remarkable endurance despite prolonged unrest. According to Fazlur Rehman, tensions escalated on June 5, prompting efforts by a mediation committee to help resolve the crisis through negotiations. He said the committee had approached him with confidence to support a peaceful settlement, but claimed its efforts did not receive the attention they deserved from the authorities. The JUI-F chief alleged that the government had remained focused on suppressing the movement through the use of force rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue. He appealed to the protest committee to allow more time for mediation and avoid taking any major step that could further escalate the situation. “I salute the patience and perseverance of the Kashmiri people,” Fazlur Rehman said, adding that the movement was spreading across Kashmir and drawing attention from audiences around the world. He also urged state institutions to adopt a path of peace instead of violence, emphasizing that reconciliation and mutual understanding were essential for resolving political disputes and restoring stability. The remarks come at a time of heightened political activity and continued demonstrations in parts of Kashmir, where various groups have been calling for action on governance and public concerns. While political leaders continue to offer differing assessments of the situation, Fazlur Rehman stressed that dialogue remains the most effective way to reduce tensions and move toward a lasting solution.

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    Germany weighs tougher rules on sick leave

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    BERLIN: Germany is considering tougher rules for workers taking sick leave, but researchers warn that stricter requirements may not address the deeper reasons behind the country’s high absenteeism. German employees took an average of around 22 sick days in 2024. The figure is among the highest reported internationally. The government’s proposed changes are part of a wider effort to improve productivity. Germany is dealing with an ageing population and years of weak economic growth. Under the proposed changes, employers could require workers to provide a medical certificate from the first day of absence. Telephone-based sick notes could also be scrapped. However, researchers say the debate should focus on why workers are becoming ill rather than simply making it harder to take sick leave. Healthcare, education and social services are among the sectors reporting the highest levels of absenteeism. Workers in these fields often face heavy workloads. They also deal with staff shortages, emotional pressure and difficult working conditions. BKK data shows that women working in healthcare and social work took an average of 27 sick days in 2024. Teachers recorded around 24 days. The figures were lower in several other sectors. Workers in finance averaged about 18 days, while employees in communications recorded around 16 days. Researchers say mental health is an important part of the problem. Mental health-related cases represent a relatively small share of total sickness cases. However, they often result in much longer absences. Data from AOK shows that sick-leave days linked to mental health problems have increased by 47% since 2014. Mental health conditions are now one of the biggest causes of prolonged absence after respiratory illnesses. Experts say burnout and exhaustion can develop without reaching the level of a diagnosed mental disorder. Healthcare workers and teachers are particularly exposed to these pressures. They carry significant responsibilities while dealing with emotional and sometimes physical challenges. Teachers have reported violence and aggressive behaviour in schools. A 2024 survey found that almost half had experienced psychological or physical violence among pupils at their schools. More than one-third also reported feeling emotionally exhausted several times a week. Nursing faces similar difficulties. Germany has a shortage of healthcare workers, but studies indicate that wage growth has remained limited in some hospitals and public institutions. Researchers describe the situation as an imbalance between effort and reward. Workers face high demands but may receive relatively low pay, limited career opportunities and insufficient recognition. Studies have linked such conditions to mental health problems and long-term sickness absence. However, experts caution against blaming Germany’s absenteeism solely on workplace stress. Sick leave is affected by many factors. These include the age of the workforce, working conditions, social attitudes and differences in healthcare systems. Germany also has generous sick-pay provisions. Workers can generally receive full wages during the initial period of illness. Several other European countries, however, report even higher levels of sick leave among full-time employees. Researchers have also found little evidence of widespread abuse of sick-note rules. A study by DAK and the IGES Institute found that the sharp rise in recorded absences in 2022 was largely linked to improved electronic reporting and unusually high levels of respiratory infections and Covid-19. Sick-leave levels have since stabilised. Researchers also found no clear evidence that telephone sick notes introduced during the pandemic caused the increase. The government’s proposal has faced opposition from labour representatives. The Verdi services union has described the plan as creating a culture of distrust towards employees. Doctors have also warned that tougher certification requirements could put additional pressure on already busy medical practices. The government has defended its approach. It says employers would have the option of requiring certificates from the first day of illness while allowing companies to retain existing arrangements. The debate is therefore moving beyond the question of whether German workers take too many sick days. Researchers argue that reducing absenteeism in the long term may require better staffing, improved working conditions, stronger career prospects and greater support for workers facing emotional pressure.

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    Danish-Anmol’s Nishtar teaser sets screens on fire

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    Pakistani actors Danish Taimoor and Anmol Baloch are set to share the screen in an upcoming drama serial, Nishtar, which is expected to be another major television project for the two stars. The first teaser of the drama has been released, giving viewers a glimpse into what appears to be an intense story filled with power, ambition, pride and romance. Danish Taimoor will reportedly play a powerful and confident young man whose life revolves around wealth, influence and authority. His character appears to have a strong personality and an attitude shaped by his privileged background. Anmol Baloch, meanwhile, will portray a fearless woman who enters his life and challenges his established way of thinking. The teaser suggests that her arrival could become a turning point for the central character and dramatically change the direction of his life. The drama has been written by renowned writer Maha Malik and directed by Seraj Ul Haq, who is known for his work on popular television projects. Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi are serving as producers. The project features a large ensemble cast, including Usman Peerzada, Haroon Shahid, Yousuf Bashir Qureshi, Shahnawaz Zaidi, Mahmood Aslam, Nida Mumtaz, Ali Dayyan Walji, Muhammad Faizan Sheikh, Ramsha Salahuddin, Syed Afzal Ali, Fatima Gohar, Ayesha Gul, Laiba Rehman Butt, Zarafshan Amir, Annie Zaidi, Muhammad Asad Gojar and Talia Jan. Danish Taimoor is among Pakistan’s well-known television actors and has appeared in several successful dramas over the years. His performances in projects such as Deewangi, Kaisi Teri Khudgarzi, Jaan Nisar and Ishq Hai have earned him a large following. Anmol Baloch has also gained recognition through her performances in dramas including Siyani, Sirf Tum and Iqtidar. Her pairing with Danish Taimoor has already generated interest among television audiences. The teaser has sparked excitement among fans, particularly those looking forward to seeing Danish return in an intense role. Many viewers have also expressed curiosity about the chemistry between the two lead actors.

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