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Ukraine president declares ‘day of unity’ amid fears of imminent Russian attack

Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday called on the country’s people to fly flags and sing the national anthem in unison on February 16th, a date that some Western media say Russian could invade.

Ukrainian government officials stressed that Zelenskiy was not predicting an attack on Wednesday, but responding skeptically to the foreign media reports.

“They tell us February 16th will be the day of the attack. We will make it a day of unity,” Mr Zelenskiy said in a video address to the nation.

“They are trying to frighten us by yet again naming a date for the start of military action,” Mr Zelenskiy said. “On that day, we will hang our national flags, wear yellow and blue banners, and show the whole world our unity.”

Mr Zelenskiy has long said that, while he believes Russia is threatening to attack his country, the likelihood of an imminent invasion has been overstated by Western allies, responding to Moscow’s efforts to intimidate Ukraine and sow panic.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Mr Zelenskiy’s chief of staff, told Reuters the president was responding in part “with irony” to media reports of the potential date of the invasion.

Diplomacy

German chancellor Olaf Scholz has assured Kyiv that it could rely on his country’s support as he prepared to fly to Moscow to discuss the security crisis around Ukraine, amid signs that Russia has not abandoned diplomacy despite massing forces near its neighbour’s territory.

“There are no good reasons for the activities on the Ukrainian border. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine are not negotiable. We expect Russia to take clear steps to resolve the situation,” Mr Scholz said beside Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday.

“Our common goal is to prevent an escalation. For this, we are working on all levels very intensively… We are ready for serious dialogue with Russia on the issue of European security. Nato and the United States have provided Russia with specific proposals that we support, and now we are waiting for a response from Russia.”

The US and several European states have begun withdrawing diplomats from Kyiv and urged their citizens to leave Ukraine, amid warnings from Washington and London that a new, large-scale attack by Russia could be imminent.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken said on Monday the country will relocate its embassy in Ukraine from Kyiv to the western city of Lviv, citing the “dramatic acceleration in the build-up of Russian forces”.

Russia has sent more than 100,000 troops and heavy weapons towards Ukraine while threatening to take “military-technical” steps if the West refuses to bar Ukraine and other countries in eastern Europe from joining Nato, and the alliance does not withdraw forces from existing member states in the region – demands the US and allies have flatly rejected.

“Is there a chance to reach an agreement with our partners on key issues or is it an attempt to drag us into an endless negotiation process?” Russian president Vladimir Putin asked his foreign minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday.

“As head of the foreign ministry, I must say there is always a chance,” Mr Lavrov replied. “Our possibilities are far from exhausted; they should not go on endlessly, of course, but at this stage I would propose continuing and intensifying them.”

Nato membership

Ukraine insisted on Monday that it will continue to strive for Nato membership, despite the issue being a major irritant for Russia.

Top Ukrainian officials rejected comments from the country’s ambassador to London, Vadym Prystaiko, in which he suggested Kyiv could be “flexible” on its Nato ambitions if “pushed to it” by the threat of a new, bigger attack by Russia.

“We would like Nato membership, which would ensure our security and territorial integrity, and this is also enshrined in Ukrainian legislation,” Mr Zelenskiy said after talks with Mr Scholz.

He said Mr Prystaiko’s words should be taken in the context of growing pressure on Ukraine from some quarters “maybe not to risk it, not to constantly raise this question of future membership of the alliance. Because these risks are linked to Russia’s reaction.”

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba added: “Ukraine’s strategic course on joining Nato remains unchanged. It is enshrined in our constitution and national foreign policy strategy, supported by a growing majority of Ukrainians. It’s only up to Ukraine and thirty Nato allies to decide on the issue of membership.”

Mr Scholz said in Kyiv he wanted to “make clear during my talks with President Zelensky: Germany stands closely alongside Ukraine and supports it on the European path”.

“Should Russia violate the territorial integrity (of Ukraine), we and our partners know what to do,” he added, amid warnings from western powers that they are ready to impose sweeping and severe economic sanctions on Moscow if it launches a new attack on Ukraine.

Exercises

Mr Putin and his allies insist the forces now grouped near Ukraine – which include tanks, fighter jets, missile systems, warships and electronic warfare equipment – are merely on exercises and are not part of an attack force.

At the same time, Moscow says it is not satisfied with the West’s response to its security demands and claims Ukraine could be used as a staging ground for a US attack on Russia.

Mr Putin and Mr Scholz are expected to discuss the fate of the €9.7 billion Nord Stream 2 pipeline to carry Russian gas directly to Germany under the Baltic Sea, which will bypass eastern Europe, deprive Ukraine of important fuel transit fees and, critics say, make it easier for Moscow to use energy flows as a political weapon against Kyiv.

The US has vowed to ensure that the pipeline never becomes operational if Russia launches a new attack on Ukraine, but Mr Scholz has not publicly stated Berlin’s position on the issue in recent weeks.

He said in Kyiv that “further military aggression against Ukraine will entail serious political, economic and geostrategic consequences for Russia. I will mention this tomorrow in Moscow as well.”

The British government, under heavy pressure at home, is playing a prominent role in western diplomacy around Ukraine and in supplying the country with anti-tank weapons.

“We are on an edge of a precipice but there is still time for President Putin to step back,” UK prime minister Boris Johnson tweeted on Monday. “We’re urging everybody to engage in dialogue and for the Russian government to avoid what would be a disastrous mistake for Russia.”

Irish warnings

Meanwhile, Ireland has followed the US, Germany and others in warning citizens to leave Ukraine.The Government has also advised Irish people in Ukraine to register with the embassy in Kyiv.

On Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said that the number of Irish citizens registered with the embassy in Kyiv has increased to 145 and this number may rise further over the coming days.

In common with the embassies of partner states, the Embassy of Ireland in Kyiv will remain open, with a small number of essential staff remaining. That situation will be kept under review. – Additional reporting Reuters

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From a cosy aeroplane cockpit to an old railway station and a humble Kent home – with its very own CAVE… the strangest Airbnbs you can book for a very unique staycation

Are you looking for a staycation a little more thrilling than a cottage by the sea?

Well look no further, as whether you fancy sleeping in an aeroplane cockpit or cosying up for the night in a cave – there’s a holiday home for you.

A simple hotel stay isn’t for everyone, and quirky holiday retreats have been popping up across the country in recent years.

From an old railway station in the Scottish Highlands to Welsh ‘moon bathing’, there are many places you can have an out-of-the-ordinary trip.

Here, MailOnline reveals some of the strangest Airbnbs you can book for a unique UK stay.

Jetstream, Lincolnshire

This Lincolnshire camping spot turns the cockpit into the destination for just £115 a night

However to make a cup of tea or use the toilet you will have to leave the plane

The small aircraft is kitted out with a King bed up against the cockpit

The Jetstream is a plane that has been converted into a glamping pod and it can fit up to five people ‘at a squeeze’

Many people think planes are simply for travelling somewhere else.

But this Lincolnshire camping spot turns the cockpit into the destination, for just £115-a-night.

The Jetstream is a plane that has been converted into a glamping pod and it can fit up to five people ‘at a squeeze’.

The small aircraft is kitted out with a King bed up against the cockpit and a v-shaped double bed squeezed into the nose of the aircraft – which is called the radome. There is also a small pull-out single bed.

However to make a cup of tea or use the toilet you will have to leave the plane – but you won’t have to travel far as the kitchen and bathroom are just 20m away.

Cromdale Railway Station, Strathspey

Cromdale Railway Station is now one of the Scottish Highlands’ most unique holiday destinations

What was once a ticket office is now the kitchen, while the waiting room has become the lounge

The converted railway station in Strathspey, which was built in 1863, also comes with a train carriage made into a camping coach

Guests have access to an art studio in the ‘station master’s shed’ and a games room – which comes with a ping pong table, small pool table and table football

Closed to passengers in 1965, Cromdale Railway Station is now one of the Scottish Highlands’ most unique holiday destinations.

The converted railway station in Strathspey, which was built in 1863, also comes with a train carriage made into a camping coach.

What was once a ticket office is now the kitchen, while the waiting room has become the lounge. The lamp room now has a triple bunk bed in it, making it the perfect room for kids.

With five bedrooms, the station and carriage combined can sleep up to eight people – which works out as a bargain at £238-a-night. There is even a summer house complete with garden toys and a barbecue.

On top of the nostalgia of staying in a disused railway station, guests have access to an art studio in the ‘station master’s shed’ and a games room – which comes with a ping pong table, small pool table and table football. There is also a trampoline and a rowing machine.

White Cliffs cave, Kent

But this house in Dover, Kent, comes complete with its very own not-at-all-creepy White Cliffs cave

Described as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime experience’ by its host, you can dine, relax, or even sleep in an actual cave, for just £144-a-night

Eerie pictures of the cave show it scattered with candles in cross holders, colourful lights and what appear to be markings scratched into the wall

While the two-bedroom home itself appears ordinary, the dark entrance to the cave can be seen and accessed from the kitchen

On the face of it this may look like a humble home for a quiet coastal stay.

But this house in Dover, Kent, comes complete with its very own not-at-all-creepy White Cliffs cave.

Described as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime experience’ by its host, you can dine, relax, or even sleep in an actual cave, for just £144-a-night.

While the two-bedroom home itself appears ordinary, the dark entrance to the cave can be seen and accessed from the kitchen.

Eerie pictures of the cave show it scattered with candles in cross holders, colourful lights and what appear to be markings scratched into the wall – as well as the rather forlorn-looking outline of a face.

Sleep Explorer’s Globe, Leicestershire

What makes the Sleep Explorer’s Globe, in Hallaton, Lecestershire, stand out, is that it looks as though it’s floating

It has one double bed, one single bed and an oil heater and wood burner for colder nights

The ‘low-impact’ dome, which can sleep three people, is situated in a two-acre patch of woodland – and is a strictly no-wifi type of retreat

The £150-a-night eco-Globe has a composting loo and a warm shower with a view of the woods so you can really feel at one with nature

Luxury tree-houses have been popping up all over the country in recent years.

But what makes the Sleep Explorer’s Globe, in Hallaton, Lecestershire, stand out, is that it looks as though it’s floating.

The ‘low-impact’ dome, which can sleep three people, is situated in a two-acre patch of woodland – and is a strictly no-wifi type of retreat.

It has one double bed, one single bed and an oil heater and wood burner for colder nights.

The £150-a-night eco-Globe has a composting loo and a warm shower with a view of the woods so you can really feel at one with nature.

PilotHouse PH5, Drimnin

PilotHouse PH5, in Drimnim, offers 360 views of the stunning west Scotland coast

The wrap-around balcony means you can enjoy the stunning view across the water of the Isle of Mull

Despite its industrial feel, the home has a comfortable-looking living room with leather seats and a cosy bedroom

Always dreamed of staying in a submarine? Then this aluminium holiday spot could be the next best thing.

Granted you won’t be surrounded by sea life, but PilotHouse PH5, in Drimnim, offers 360 views of the stunning west Scotland coast.

Designed by architect Roderick Hames and Amanda Markham, the £170-a-night tiny home’s inside even matches its outside, with ridged metal walls adding to the mechanical decor.

The wrap-around balcony means you can enjoy the stunning view across the water of the Isle of Mull, one of Scotland’s 790 offshore islands – 93 of which are inhabited.

Despite its industrial feel, the home has a comfortable-looking living room with leather seats and a cosy bedroom. It also comes complete with a wood burning stove for those chilly Scottish nights.

Moon Conker, Powys

The Moon Conker in Llanafan-fawr, Powys, is a dome-shaped tree-house complete with observatory holes for those starry nights

If you’re a fan of stargazing but don’t want to brave the open elements, this is the staycation for you

Moon bathing is this property’s key feature – so take a bath outside in its hot and cold Scandi-style tubs

The hosts say the moon bathing helps in ‘harnessing of natural energies from the river’ in what is suggested to be ‘plain Celtic magic’

If you’re a fan of stargazing but don’t want to brave the open elements, this is the staycation for you.

The Moon Conker in Llanafan-fawr, Powys, is a dome-shaped tree-house complete with observatory holes for those starry nights.

And given its name, moon bathing is this property’s key feature – so take a bath outside in its hot and cold Scandi-style tubs – which are filled by hand pump with water from the nearby stream and heated in a kettle.

There are basic kitchen essentials, tea and coffee facilities and marshmallows for toasting over the fire.

The hosts say the moon bathing helps in ‘harnessing of natural energies from the river’ in what is suggested to be ‘plain Celtic magic’.

Double decker glamping bus, Wrexham

This upcycled double decker bus is the perfect holiday home if you are looking for something a bit unconventional

The quirky bus has its own fenced off garden, and old bus seats make up the dining area

Set in a family farm in Llan-y-pwll, Wrexham, the bus can sleep six people comfortably as it has one King bed, one double and two singles

The bus – which was operated by Crosville Motor Services, a bus company sold off in the 90s – has a small kitchenette as well as field views

This upcycled double decker bus is the perfect holiday home if you are looking for something a bit unconventional.

Set in a family farm in Llan-y-pwll, Wrexham, the bus can sleep six people comfortably as it has one King bed, one double and two singles.

The quirky bus has its own fenced off garden, and old bus seats make up the dining area.

The bus – which was operated by Crosville Motor Services, a bus company sold off in the 90s – has a small kitchenette as well as field views. It also has its own fenced off garden.

If you are planning on a winter trip, be warned that while there are electric heater and blankets on board, the bus can get chilly.

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“The Creator”: A Glimpse Into A Future Defined By Artificial Intelligence (AI) Warfare

By Cindy Porter

In “The Creator” visionary director Gareth Edwards thrusts us into the heart of a dystopian future, where the battle lines are drawn between artificial intelligence and the free Western world.

Set against the backdrop of a post-rebellion Los Angeles, the film grapples with pressing questions about the role of AI in our society.

A Glimpse into a Future Defined by Artificial Intelligence (AI) Warfare

While the narrative treads familiar ground, it is timely, given the rising prominence of artificial intelligence in our daily lives.

A Fusion of Genres

Edwards embarks on an ambitious endeavor, blending elements of science fiction classics with contemporary themes.

The result is a cinematic stew reminiscent of James Cameron’s “Aliens” tinged with shades of “Blade Runner” a dash of “Children of Men,” and a sprinkle of “Akira” This concoction, while intriguing, occasionally veers toward familiarity rather than forging its own distinct identity.

Edwards’ Cinematic Journey

The British filmmaker, known for his foray into doomsday scenarios with the BBC docudrama “End Day” in 2005, has traversed a path from indie gem “Monsters” (2010) to the expansive Star Wars universe with “Rogue One” (2016).

“The Creator” marks another bold step in his repertoire. The film introduces compelling concepts like the posthumous donation of personality traits, punctuated by impactful visuals, and raises pertinent ethical dilemmas. It stands as a commendable endeavor, even if it occasionally falters in execution.

Navigating Complexity

In his pursuit of depth, Edwards at times stumbles into the realm of convolution, leaving the audience grappling with intricacies rather than immersing in the narrative.

While adept at crafting visual spectacles and orchestrating soundscapes, the film occasionally falters in the art of storytelling.

In an era where classic storytelling is seemingly on the wane, some may argue that this approach is emblematic of the times.

AI: Savior or Peril?

“The Creator” leaves us with a question that resonates long after the credits roll: Will artificial intelligence be humanity’s salvation or its undoing? The film’s take on machine ethics leans toward simplicity, attributing AI emotions to programmed responses.

This portrayal encapsulates the film’s stance on the subject – a theme as enigmatic as the AI it grapples with.

“The Creator”

Director: Gareth Edwards.
Starring: John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Madeleine Yuna Boyles, Ken Watanabe.
Genre: Science fiction.
Release Year: 2023.
Duration: 133 minutes.
Premiere Date: September 29.

WATCH: TRAILER

Top 5 Movies by Gareth Edwards:

1. “Monsters” (2010)

– A breakout hit, “Monsters” showcases Edwards’ talent for blending intimate human drama with towering sci-fi spectacles. Set in a world recovering from an alien invasion, it’s a poignant tale of love amidst chaos.

2. “Rogue One” (2016)

– Edwards helms this epic Star Wars installment, seamlessly integrating new characters with the beloved original trilogy. It’s a testament to his ability to navigate complex narratives on a grand scale.

3. “End Day” (2005)

– This BBC docudrama marked Edwards’ entry into the world of speculative storytelling. Presenting five doomsday scenarios, it set the stage for his later exploration of dystopian futures.

4. “The Creator” (2023)

– Edwards’ latest venture, “The Creator,” immerses audiences in a future fraught with AI warfare. While not without its challenges, it boldly tackles pertinent questions about the role of artificial intelligence in our lives.

5. Potential Future Project

– As Edwards continues to push the boundaries of speculative cinema, audiences eagerly anticipate his next cinematic endeavor, poised to be another thought-provoking addition to his illustrious filmography.

“The Creator” stands as a testament to Gareth Edwards’ unyielding vision and his penchant for exploring the frontiers of speculative cinema.

While it doesn’t shy away from the complexities of AI, it occasionally falters in navigating its intricate narrative.

As we peer into this cinematic crystal ball, we’re left with a stark question: Will artificial intelligence be our beacon of hope, or will it cast a shadow over humanity’s future? Only time will unveil the answer.

We Can’t Thank You Enough For Your Support!

— By Cindy Porter

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Energize Your Property Value: The Surge In Demand For Home EV Charging Points

By Raza H. Qadri (ALI)

In a rapidly evolving real estate landscape, home electric vehicle (EV) charging points have emerged as a coveted feature. Here, we will explore the surge in demand for these charging stations and their potential to transform property value desirability.

Surge in Demand:

Estate agents are witnessing an unprecedented uptick in requests for properties equipped with EV charging points. Rightmove reports a staggering 592% increase in listings mentioning EV chargers since 2019. This summer, Jackson-Stops even incorporated EV charging points into their top-ten must-have property features for the first time.

Adding Value To Property:

Integrating electric vehicle (EV) charging points into residential properties has become a key factor in boosting their market value. According to insights from the National Association of Property Buyers, homes equipped with EV charging facilities can see an uptick in value ranging from £3,000 to £5,000. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable features in real estate. Rightmove’s Greener Homes report highlights a remarkable 40% surge in listings mentioning EV chargers in comparison to the previous year. Such statistics underscore the significance of these installations as a sought-after feature among buyers.

Beyond the potential increase in property value, homeowners can reap substantial benefits from dedicated EV charging points. These specialized units offer significantly faster charging speeds compared to standard three-pin plugs. With an output of 32 amps/7kw, a dedicated charger can provide up to 28 miles per hour of charging, a substantial improvement over the 9 miles offered by a standard plug.

Moreover, safety considerations play a pivotal role. Standard domestic sockets may not be designed for prolonged high-output usage, potentially leading to overheating and related wiring issues.

Therefore, the integration of a dedicated EV charging point not only adds tangible value to a property but also ensures a safer and more efficient charging experience for homeowners and their electric vehicles.

Benefits Beyond Convenience:

Dedicated charge points offer benefits beyond convenience. According to James McKemey from Pod Point, these units deliver significantly faster charging speeds compared to standard three-pin plugs. Safety considerations also come into play, as standard domestic sockets may not be built for prolonged high-output usage.

Cost-Efficiency:

Charging an EV at home proves more cost-effective than relying on public charging stations. Smart charging capabilities enable homeowners to take advantage of lower rates, typically offered during off-peak hours, such as at night.

Charger prices vary, ranging from approximately £300 to over £1,000, with installation costs potentially adding another £400 to £600.

Solar Integration:

Solar integration presents a game-changing opportunity for homeowners seeking both environmental sustainability and financial benefits. The global solar energy capacity reached an astounding 793 gigawatts (GW), illuminating the rapid adoption of this renewable energy source.

For homeowners, integrating solar panels with an electric vehicle (EV) charging point can lead to substantial savings. On average, a standard solar panel system costs around £6,000 to £7,000 per kWp (kilowatt peak), with the typical installation size being 4kWp. This equates to an initial investment of approximately £24,000 to £28,000.

However, the return on investment is impressive. Solar panels can generate roughly 3,200 kWh (kilowatt-hours) per year for a 4kWp system in the UK. With the average cost of electricity sitting at 16.1p per kWh, homeowners can save approximately £515 annually on energy bills.

Moreover, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme allows homeowners to earn money by exporting excess electricity back to the grid. As of September 2021, the SEG offers rates ranging from 1.79p to 5.24p per kWh. Over the course of 20 years, a solar panel system can generate savings of over £10,000, demonstrating the substantial financial benefits of solar integration. This trend is expected to surge further as advancements in solar technology continue to drive down installation costs and boost energy production.

Regulations and Grants:

Regulations surrounding EV charging point installations vary, particularly for listed buildings, which require planning permission for wall-mounted units. However, for flat owners, renters, and landlords with off-street parking, there’s an opportunity to benefit from government grants.

These grants provide a substantial subsidy, offering £350 or covering 75% of the total installation cost, whichever is lower. This incentive has spurred a surge in installations, with a notable uptick in applications over the past year.

In fact, according to recent data, the number of approved grant applications for EV charging points has risen by an impressive 68% compared to the previous year. This demonstrates a growing recognition of the value and importance of these installations in both residential and rental properties.

Renting Out Your Charging Point:

Renting out your EV charging point also presents a compelling opportunity for homeowners to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicle infrastructure.

According to recent market trends, the number of registered electric vehicles worldwide surpassed 14 million in 2023, marking a significant milestone. With projections indicating an annual growth rate of 29% – 34% for the global electric vehicle market, the need for accessible charging solutions is set to skyrocket. In the UK alone, the number of electric vehicles on the road has tripled over the last three years, reaching over 857,000 at the end of 2023.

This surge in EV ownership underscores the potential market for homeowners looking to rent out their charging points. Platforms like JustPark and Co Charger facilitate this process by connecting drivers in need of charging with available charging stations.

By participating in this shared economy, homeowners not only contribute to the expansion of EV infrastructure but also stand to generate a supplementary income stream. This symbiotic relationship between EV owners and charging point hosts aligns with the broader shift towards sustainable transportation solutions.

WATCH: EV CHARGING & OPPORTUNITIES

Finally, we can conclude that the surge in demand for properties with EV charging points signals a shifting paradigm in real estate. With added convenience, cost-efficiency, and potential for monetization, these installations are poised to become a cornerstone of future property value and desirability.

We Can’t Thank You Enough For Your Support!

— By Raza H. Qadri | Science, Technology & Business Contributor “THE VOICE OF EU”

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