World News
‘Major gas pipeline at stake if…’: US, Germany warn Russia amid Ukraine row
The United States and Germany warned Russia on Thursday that a major gas pipeline would be at risk if it invaded Ukraine, and despite a lukewarm statement from Moscow, Washington said it wanted a diplomatic route out of the woods.
A day after the United States and its allies formally responded to Russia’s security demands, senior officials in Moscow said their main concerns had not been addressed, but in particular did not rule out new talks.
The United States has warned Russia of swift and severe consequences if it invades Ukraine after Moscow amassed tens of thousands of troops on its border with its Western-leaning neighbor.
After speaking about divisions within Europe, German Foreign Minister Annalena Berbock told parliament that her government was “developing a strong package of sanctions” with allies including Nord Stream 2.
Despite criticism from the United States and Eastern European countries, Germany has stubbornly built the pipeline, which will more than double Russia’s gas supply to Europe’s largest economy.
In Washington, a senior official expressed confidence that the invasion would prevent Germany from launching the multibillion-dollar project, which was completed in September but still requires testing and regulatory approval.
“If Russia somehow invades Ukraine, Nord Stream 2 will not move forward,” said Victoria Nuland, the undersecretary of state for political affairs.
“I think even today the statement from Berlin is very, very powerful,” she told reporters.
New German Chancellor Olaf Schultz will visit on February 7 and discuss the crisis with President Joe Biden, the White House announced.
Stepping up its diplomatic offensive, the United States held a public meeting at the U.N. Security Council on Monday to discuss Russia’s “threatened behavior”, hoping to provoke condemnation even if Moscow could veto any resolution.
Biden also had a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday and said the U.S. was considering economic support after $650 million in military aid over the past year.
The White House statement said Biden “reiterated that the United States and its allies and partners stand ready to respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine.”
But Biden, recognizing the immediate danger, warned again that Ukraine could indeed face a Russian invasion next month.
Emily Horn, a spokeswoman for the National Security Council, told AFP: “President Biden said there was a high probability that the Russians would invade Ukraine in February.”
NATO has placed 8,500 soldiers on standby in the Ukraine crisis, reminiscent of the Cold War with the Soviet Union.
“There is only one decider”
Russia denies any planned invasion but last month demanded broad security assurances from the West, including never allowing Ukraine to join the U.S.-led NATO military alliance.
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
Hollywood
Review of the spy thriller “Heart of Stone”: Alia Bhatt shines.
In a realm where intrigue and suspense collide, Bollywood’s beloved star Alia Bhatt has once again proven her mettle in the enthralling spy thriller “Heart of Stone.” Directed by the visionary Raj Mehta, this cinematic marvel takes audiences on a roller-coaster ride through espionage, deception, and unrelenting action, with Bhatt’s luminous performance at its epicenter.
A Glimpse into the Plot
“Heart of Stone” delves into the shadowy world of espionage, where nothing is as it seems, and allegiances can crumble in an instant. Bhatt’s character, Maya Verma, is a compelling enigma—a resolute intelligence operative navigating a labyrinth of covert operations and intricate deceptions. As the layers of the narrative peel away, Maya finds herself ensnared in a high-stakes game where trust is elusive and danger lurks in every frame.
The Resplendent Alia Bhatt
Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of Maya Verma is nothing short of a revelation. Known for her remarkable versatility, Bhatt imbues Maya with a potent mix of strength and vulnerability. With every expression, every gesture, she breathes life into a character that resonates on both emotional and cerebral levels. Bhatt’s artistry reaches its zenith as Maya grapples with inner demons while outwitting her adversaries—a captivating dance that only an actress of her caliber could orchestrate.
Raj Mehta’s Directorial Panache
Raj Mehta, celebrated for his directorial finesse, orchestrates the tapestry of “Heart of Stone” with masterful precision. Seamlessly weaving heart-thumping action sequences and labyrinthine plot twists, Mehta keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. His meticulous attention to detail manifests in every scene, painting a cinematic canvas that’s as thrilling as it is visually arresting.
Supporting Cast: A Tapestry of Brilliance
The constellation of talent in “Heart of Stone” goes beyond Alia Bhatt. The ensemble cast, featuring Rajkummar Rao, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Vicky Kaushal, contributes to the film’s tapestry with their impeccable performances. The chemistry between the characters adds depth to the narrative, amplifying the emotional resonance and enriching the overall storytelling.
A Symphony of Cinematic Excellence
“Heart of Stone” is an embodiment of cinematic finesse. The film’s production values, from picturesque locations to evocative cinematography, envelop the viewer in a sensory feast. The musical score, composed with an acute understanding of the narrative’s ebbs and flows, elevates the tension and emotions, further ensnaring the audience in the movie’s spellbinding aura.
A Triumph of Genre Fusion
Critics and audiences alike have bestowed “Heart of Stone” with effusive praise for its seamless fusion of espionage, action, and drama. The film’s ingenious plot twists, coupled with Alia Bhatt’s extraordinary performance, thrust it into the echelons of standout espionage thrillers. It’s a symphony of storytelling that resonates long after the credits roll.
In a year replete with cinematic treasures, “Heart of Stone” stands tall as an embodiment of brilliance. Alia Bhatt’s luminosity shines with unparalleled intensity, solidifying her place as one of Bollywood’s brightest stars. This cinematic tour de force is a must-watch, an experience that unearths the magic created when remarkable talent converges to craft an indelible cinematic journey.
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