Polio cases rise in Pakistan ahead of new vaccination campaign

Polio cases are increasing in Pakistan, with 39 confirmed cases this year compared to six last year. A new vaccination campaign is set to begin, but violence against health workers has hindered efforts to eradicate the disease. In a significant development, six Russian soldiers who deserted the war in Ukraine have arrived in France seeking asylum. This marks the first instance of a group of Russian deserters being welcomed in an EU country. The deserters, who fled through Kazakhstan, hope their actions will inspire others to leave the Russian military. They expressed relief at finding safety in France after facing fear and uncertainty in their previous locations.