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Ukraine criticises Pope’s ‘white flag’ comment

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Ukraine has firmly rejected Pope Francis’ suggestion for Kyiv to negotiate an end to its conflict with Russia and to “raise the white flag.” The country’s foreign minister emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to its blue and yellow flag, stating they would never raise any other flag. President Zelensky dismissed the Pope’s remarks as “virtual mediation,” while a Vatican spokesman clarified that the Pope was advocating for negotiation rather than capitulation.

The Pope’s comments, made in an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI and set to air on March 20, sparked widespread criticism. President Zelensky praised Ukrainian chaplains on the frontline but did not directly address the Pope’s statement. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba reiterated Ukraine’s allegiance to its flag, while the country’s ambassador to the Vatican compared the Pope’s words to advocating talks with Adolf Hitler during World War Two.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni explained that the Pope used the metaphor of the white flag proposed by the interviewer to indicate a truce achieved through negotiation, emphasizing that negotiations are not a surrender. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has continued for over two years, with Ukraine facing defensive challenges. In the United States, a bill to provide $60 billion to Ukraine was blocked in Congress, and European countries are struggling to reach a consensus on supporting Kyiv.

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Director Roman Polanski goes on trial for defamation

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In Paris, a defamation lawsuit against the long-standing filmmaker Roman Polanski was scheduled to commence on Tuesday, brought forward by British actress Charlotte Lewis.

The lawsuit stems from Polanski’s remarks to Paris Match magazine in 2019, where he accused Lewis of fabricating a sexual assault allegation against him from four decades ago. Polanski, now 90, had fled the United States in 1978 after admitting to unlawful sexual activity with a thirteen-year-old girl. Despite numerous allegations of abuse from other women, Polanski has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Polanski, residing in Paris, has opted not to attend the trial personally, with his legal representation handling the proceedings. On the other hand, Lewis, currently living in the UK, was expected to be present.

Lewis initiated the legal action four years ago, expressing her readiness for the trial despite the prolonged and distressing process. In 2010, she had accused Polanski of assaulting her at the age of 16 during a casting trip to Paris in 1983, although she later appeared in one of his films.

Polanski’s defense in the defamation case refers to a 1999 article in a now-defunct British tabloid, where Lewis allegedly expressed admiration for him. However, Lewis maintains that the quotes attributed to her were inaccurate.

The defamation complaint led to automatic charges against Polanski under French law. The filmmaker, celebrated for works like “Chinatown” and “The Pianist,” has remained a controversial figure, evading extradition attempts by US authorities due to his French and Polish citizenship.

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Tucker Carlson to interview Russia’s Putin

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Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson has announced plans to conduct a one-on-one interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Carlson stated that he aims to provide Americans with a deeper understanding of the conflict in Ukraine, which he believes mainstream media coverage has failed to deliver. He emphasized his personal funding of the trip, highlighting his commitment to independent journalism.

This interview would mark President Putin’s first engagement with a Western journalist since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Carlson’s decision to pursue this interview underscores the significance of the conflict and the need for diverse perspectives in understanding its complexities. It also reflects a departure from traditional media channels, as Carlson intends to broadcast the interview live and unedited on his social media platform, X.

Critics have raised concerns about the potential risks and ethical implications of such an interview, given Putin’s track record and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. However, Carlson remains steadfast in his belief that Americans deserve access to unfiltered information about the conflict. The interview is expected to spark significant interest and debate, shaping public discourse on both sides of the Atlantic.

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Firefighters rescue injured owl from crows

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In Smolensk, Russia, firefighters went beyond the typical animal rescue scenario when they found an injured Ural owl outside their fire station gates on Monday morning. The owl, with a damaged wing, was under attack by crows. The firefighters promptly intervened, rescuing the distressed bird from the crows and providing warmth and nourishment.

Following the rescue, the Ural owl was transported to a veterinarian for an x-ray and additional care. The next step involves sending the owl to a wild bird rehabilitation and reintroduction center, as stated by Smolensk’s emergency services.

Natalia Arbuzova, a press officer interviewed by Russian state media, recounted the incident. She explained how the firefighters noticed the motionless owl with an injured wing being pecked by crows at 10:00 local time. The firefighters acted swiftly, driving away the crows, placing the owl on a shovel, and bringing it inside the station. To protect the owl from light sensitivity, it was kept in a dark box and provided with nourishment.

The bird is anticipated to recover well, but it will remain at the vet’s until it is ready to be transferred to the rehabilitation center, Arbuzova added.

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Empowering Dreams: A Conversation with Miss Glam World 2023 Second Runner-Up, Samruddi V Shetty

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Introducing Miss Glam World 2023, an exceptional international pageant by Pegasus Event Production Company. Beyond the glitz and crowns, it empowers women worldwide with life skills and celebrates resilience. In this interview segment, we meet the second runner-up, Samruddi V Shetty, whose remarkable journey as an engineering graduate and model inspires all. Her dedication and commitment to creating a positive impact on society embody the true essence of Miss Glam World 2023.

Congratulations on your achievement as the second runner-up for Miss Glam World! Can you give us a short intro about you?

Hi, I am Samruddi Shetty. About me, I am an engineering graduate and I currently work as a data engineer in an IT firm. Alongside my engineering career, I am also into modeling and have always been passionate about beauty pageants. It has been a great experience and a privilege to represent India on an International platform like Miss Glam World. Embracing both my professional and personal interests has been a fulfilling journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.

Can you tell us about your preparation for the competition? How has Pegasus helped you out to ensure you were ready for the stage?

Being honest, beauty pageants require a lot of preparation, it’s not just about how beautiful you look but it’s more about how you represent yourself, the knowledge you possess about what is happening around you and your take on the issues and how you would use your voice to bring about a change. My preparation began with me realising why I want to be on this stage, working on every aspect it takes to be on this stage and molding myself with new learning’s every day.
Pegasus has played a very integral part in this journey of mine, the grooming we got on various aspects like ramp walk, personality development, voice modulation, stage presence, etc has helped me in cracking the code of pageants. Thank you to our groomer Konchita ma’am and the entire Pegasus organisation, Ajit Ravi sir, Jebitha ma’am and everyone for this wonderful opportunity.

What challenges did you encounter during the pageant, and how did you overcome them?

As to how beautiful pageant might seem to be but the journey might be the same challenging There are many challenges, may it be financially, mentally or may be some days are just not meant for us. What I have realised is, the key here is to just learn from the situation and move ahead. Consistently working on our dreams will definitely take us to what belongs to us. Let us keep patience and faith in the journey.

How has participating in Miss Glam World impacted your life and personal growth?

It has made me a much more confident individual. It has shown me that hard work will never leave your side. The learning from this platform is something that I will cherish forever and put to the right use in my everyday life too.

As the second runner-up, what do you believe set you apart from the other contestants?

Throughout the pageant, I have always kept reminding myself why I am here and never forget my goal but at the same time, a very prominent lesson that pageants have taught me is to embrace the journey and live every moment to the fullest. And I think that is what sets me apart. Being present, staying calm, embracing the journey and learning sometimes from every situation, person or event.

What are the most significant lessons you learned from your Miss Glam World experience?

Miss glam world is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It taught me that more than the destination it’s the journey that matters. So many contestants from so many different countries, so much diversity but at same time there was love, care, and sisterhood for one another. This experience did show the beauty of pageants and the wonderful essence it carries on humankind.

How do you plan to use your platform and recognition as the second runner-up to make a positive impact on society?

I know that I can’t suddenly bring a big change in society but practically whatever little is possible from my end, I will work to the fullest to bring that positive difference. May it be like the smallest of motivating someone who is doubting their own ability irrespective of what field it is. Or being a voice or lending a helping hand to the ones in need.
I was always taught the importance of education and through this platform, I want to show the world the importance of education and the change it can bring on a personal and at a global level. By this even if I can bring about a change in few people’s life that itself would mean a lot to me.

Can you share your favorite aspect of the pageant experience and why it was so meaningful to you?

It would definitely be the sisterhood. This journey just blesses us with so many sisters , friends, mentors, role models, etc. We all most definitely know that this is a competition but at the same time everyone here is there for one another. There is love, empathy, sharing, caring for one another and this is something that certainly stands out when it comes to pageants.

What advice would you give to aspiring contestants who are considering participating in Miss Glam World in the future?

Just go for it girl! This journey will mold you into a better individual in so many ways, not just in the pageant space but on a personal level too. This is definitely a very safe place with right mentors, right guidance and great environment. Try to always give your best but do not ever forget your roots.

How do you see yourself continuing to be involved in the pageant world or the beauty and fashion industry moving forward?

THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING, this is what I tell myself every time. Like any other field I believe pageants are also a limitless journey of learning and knowledge gaining. So I will certainly continue this journey of pageants and grab every opportunity that comes my way and make the best use of it.

Throughout the competition, you must have met and interacted with various contestants. Have you formed any strong friendships or connections that you plan to maintain?

It’s said “You are an average of 5 people around you “ and I feel it’s always important to be surrounded by like-minded people and for me these friendships that I have been fortunate to make during my pageant journey are very precious. The energy, and vibe when you talk to people having similar goals like us is wonderful. Yes, I have also made some precious friendships that I will treasure forever.

What do you think the pageant industry can do to further empower and support women in their personal and professional endeavors?

Pageant industry can become more inclusive, open and welcoming to every individual irrespective of their colour, creed, height, age, marital status, etc and with the help of social media and other platforms it should show the world what a beautiful platform this is and how it empowers women community as a whole.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of pageantry, what are your personal interests and passions?

Beyond the glitz and glamour of pageantry, I would want to be a strong, independent woman who is successful in her professional career and who can inspire others with her positive actions.
Being an engineer myself my parents have always emphasised on the importance of education and through this platform I want to voice for the education of underprivileged and show the world the prominence of education.

How has your experience in Miss Glam World shaped your perception of beauty and its role in today’s society?

Beauty for me has always been something beyond one’s external appearance. In my perspective beauty, especially when it comes to beauty pageants is all about how confidently you project yourself and your thoughts and in doing so, It’s essential that we all collectively promote diverse representations of beauty and focus on inner qualities and talents.

In the future, would you consider participating in other pageants or similar competitions to further your personal and professional growth?

Yes, I have always believed beauty pageants is a journey of limitless learning and continuous personal development, it has also helped me in both, my personal and professional front in putting forth my ideas confidently. So I will continue to work hard, follow my heart , trust the process and grab every opportunity that comes my way and make the best use of it.
As I mentioned before, THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING!!

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