The move aims to protect communities, counter radicalization, and deepen cooperation with global partners working to prevent violence.

Public Safety officials in Toronto announced that four extremist and insurgent networks operating across borders have been formally added to the national security list.

The decision reflects Canada’s evolving approach to identifying threats that exploit digital spaces and target vulnerable populations, especially young people.

Authorities emphasized that these groups engage in activities that undermine international stability and promote violence.

By designating them, Canada is increasing its ability to restrict their financial operations, block their recruitment capabilities, and support global security alliances.

Among the newly listed organizations are extremist networks known for spreading harmful ideologies online.

These groups have leveraged technology to attempt to influence individuals, making Canada’s action a timely step toward safeguarding digital environments.

Officials highlighted that the designations also include a branch connected to a well-known international insurgent organization operating in parts of Africa.

Canada Strengthens Global Security Measures with New Designations

Canada has reinforced its commitment to international peace and collective safety by expanding its list of designated foreign terrorist entities.
The move aims to protect communities, counter radicalization, and deepen cooperation with global partners working to prevent violence.

Public Safety officials in Toronto announced that four extremist and insurgent networks operating across borders have been formally added to the national security list.
The decision reflects Canada’s evolving approach to identifying threats that exploit digital spaces and target vulnerable populations, especially young people.

Authorities emphasized that these groups engage in activities that undermine international stability and promote violence.
By designating them, Canada is increasing its ability to restrict their financial operations, block their recruitment capabilities, and support global security alliances.

Among the newly listed organizations are extremist networks known for spreading harmful ideologies online.
These groups have leveraged technology to attempt to influence individuals, making Canada’s action a timely step toward safeguarding digital environments.

Officials highlighted that the designations also include a branch connected to a well-known international insurgent organization operating in parts of Africa.
This addition underscores Canada’s recognition of security challenges that cross continents and require coordinated international responses.

The announcement drew support from analysts who praised Canada for adopting a proactive security framework.
They noted that such actions help align Canada with global partners seeking to counter violent extremism through intelligence sharing and policy coordination.

Canada’s strengthened measures also contribute to broader counterterrorism efforts within the G7 and United Nations frameworks.
By tightening legal and financial restrictions, the government is helping disrupt the channels that allow extremist groups to operate internationally.

Public Safety officials stressed that the designations are not only punitive but preventative.
They aim to deter recruitment, disrupt communication hubs, and close gaps that extremist networks exploit to influence at-risk communities.

Community leaders across Canada welcomed the announcement as a demonstration of the country’s dedication to keeping citizens safe.
They emphasized the importance of protecting youth from online radicalization and maintaining digital platforms free from extremist influence.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting civil society initiatives that counter harmful ideologies through education and engagement.
These efforts include programs that encourage digital literacy, promote community cooperation, and strengthen resilience against misinformation.

Canada’s security agencies also emphasized the importance of partnerships with global organizations that monitor extremist activity.
Such collaborations allow for rapid information exchange and coordinated action when emerging threats are identified.

By updating its list of designated terrorist entities, Canada continues to modernize its laws in response to shifts in global extremism.
Officials noted that security strategies must evolve as extremist groups adopt new tactics, technologies, and methods of communication.

Legal experts highlighted that the designations allow Canada to pursue financial investigations that can disrupt funding streams.
Cutting off resources is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to weaken organizations involved in violent activities.

The announcement reinforces Canada’s long-standing commitment to the rule of law and the protection of human rights.
Authorities emphasized that all actions are taken within a framework that respects due process and democratic values.

As global threats evolve, Canada aims to remain a leading voice in promoting peace, stability, and international cooperation.
The latest measures reflect the nation’s dedication to ensuring safer communities at home and contributing to global security abroad.

With these designations, Canada strengthens its role as a responsible international partner working to reduce violence and prevent extremist influence.

The move underscores a continued commitment to safeguarding the well-being of citizens and supporting peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

This addition underscores Canada’s recognition of security challenges that cross continents and require coordinated international responses.

The announcement drew support from analysts who praised Canada for adopting a proactive security framework.

They noted that such actions help align Canada with global partners seeking to counter violent extremism through intelligence sharing and policy coordination.

Canada’s strengthened measures also contribute to broader counterterrorism efforts within the G7 and United Nations frameworks.

By tightening legal and financial restrictions, the government is helping disrupt the channels that allow extremist groups to operate internationally.

Public Safety officials stressed that the designations are not only punitive but preventative.

They aim to deter recruitment, disrupt communication hubs, and close gaps that extremist networks exploit to influence at-risk communities.

Community leaders across Canada welcomed the announcement as a demonstration of the country’s dedication to keeping citizens safe.

They emphasized the importance of protecting youth from online radicalization and maintaining digital platforms free from extremist influence.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting civil society initiatives that counter harmful ideologies through education and engagement.

These efforts include programs that encourage digital literacy, promote community cooperation, and strengthen resilience against misinformation.

Canada’s security agencies also emphasized the importance of partnerships with global organizations that monitor extremist activity.
Such collaborations allow for rapid information exchange and coordinated action when emerging threats are identified.

By updating its list of designated terrorist entities, Canada continues to modernize its laws in response to shifts in global extremism.

Officials noted that security strategies must evolve as extremist groups adopt new tactics, technologies, and methods of communication.

Legal experts highlighted that the designations allow Canada to pursue financial investigations that can disrupt funding streams.

Cutting off resources is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to weaken organizations involved in violent activities.

The announcement reinforces Canada’s long-standing commitment to the rule of law and the protection of human rights.

Authorities emphasized that all actions are taken within a framework that respects due process and democratic values.

As global threats evolve, Canada aims to remain a leading voice in promoting peace, stability, and international cooperation.

The latest measures reflect the nation’s dedication to ensuring safer communities at home and contributing to global security abroad.

With these designations, Canada strengthens its role as a responsible international partner working to reduce violence and prevent extremist influence.

The move underscores a continued commitment to safeguarding the well-being of citizens and supporting peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

Following extended discussions in Moscow between Putin and the US President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, joined by senior adviser Jared Kushner, Russian officials stated that the dialogue was constructive. A Kremlin aide acknowledged that compromises had not yet been finalized, but emphasized that the talks represented an important beginning in aligning perspectives.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that it would be inaccurate to say the proposals were rejected in full. Instead, he described the talks as a direct exchange of views, with some ideas accepted and others deemed unsuitable. This, he noted, was part of a normal negotiation process in which both sides work through disagreements to identify shared ground.

Peskov highlighted Russia’s appreciation for the diplomatic efforts being made by the US administration. He added that while the Kremlin values transparency, ongoing discussions would not be accompanied by detailed public updates, as discretion was essential to maintaining a productive environment for negotiations.

According to Peskov, expert-level teams from both sides are now working through the details of the proposals. These discussions are expected to produce tangible results that will pave the way for potential future engagements at the highest political level. The structured approach indicates a deliberate attempt to build a durable foundation for peace efforts.

The developments come amid a series of overlapping proposals from different international actors. A previous set of 28 US draft peace points circulated in November, prompting concerns among Ukrainian and European officials who felt they were overly accommodating to Moscow’s demands. European states later drafted their own counter-proposal, while new discussions in Geneva led the US and Ukraine to assemble what they described as an updated and refined peace framework.

Putin expressed unease with certain European suggestions, stating that some of the ideas were completely unacceptable to Russia. However, the ongoing talks illustrate that Moscow remains engaged in the broader diplomatic process, even while disagreements persist. The Russian president’s foreign policy aide, Yuri Ushakov, said the discussions with Witkoff covered a series of documents, including previous sets of proposals and new additions.

The outlines of the peace frameworks under discussion have not been disclosed publicly. Nonetheless, the continuity of dialogue and the acknowledgment that some US ideas have been accepted signal a potentially meaningful shift in tone. Both sides appear committed to repeated meetings if necessary, reflecting an understanding of the complexity of the issues at stake.

The diplomatic momentum suggests a shared desire to identify avenues for de-escalation. As expert teams continue to review, revise and refine proposals, the possibility of creating a balanced and practical peace framework becomes increasingly viable. While challenges remain, the reaffirmation of dialogue underscores a broader recognition that sustained communication is essential for progress.

In a global climate where conflicts carry far-reaching consequences, this renewed engagement between the US and Russia may help stabilize the international environment. With both parties expressing readiness for continued negotiations, the path toward a workable agreement remains open, setting the stage for future diplomatic breakthroughs.

The meeting underscored the growing alignment between the two nations on global aid priorities and the need for long-term, resilient solutions that address rising humanitarian pressures.

The Saudi delegation was led by Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, advisor at the Royal Court and supervisor-general of KSrelief, accompanied by representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Finance and the Saudi Fund for Development.

The UK delegation was headed by Minister of State for International Development and Africa, Baroness Jennifer Chapman. Their discussions highlighted the significant progress made since the previous session held in Riyadh.

The dialogue showcased the continued expansion of joint humanitarian initiatives.

Dr. Al-Rabeeah noted that Saudi Arabia and the UK had collaborated on five major projects with a combined value exceeding $30 million, aimed at enhancing humanitarian response, supporting communities in crisis and promoting global stability and prosperity.

The partnership has become an essential pillar in international development planning.

Participants emphasized the importance of aligning aid with long-term outcomes. Both sides discussed ways to transition from emergency interventions to sustainable development models that improve health systems, strengthen educational infrastructure, and expand livelihood opportunities.

The focus on sustainability reflects global shifts in aid frameworks as humanitarian needs grow across conflict-affected and climate-vulnerable regions.

The meeting also reviewed the outcomes of the workshop on Saudi-British official development assistance held in London earlier in 2025, along with joint participation in international forums such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

These engagements have helped both partners explore new opportunities, exchange expertise and enhance coordination mechanisms.

Dr. Al-Rabeeah highlighted Saudi Arabia’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

He presented a forward-looking vision that integrates the Kingdom’s capabilities in healthcare delivery, education support and economic empowerment with UK experience in long-term development strategy.

The approach aims to create durable, self-sustaining solutions for vulnerable communities.

The Strategic Aid Dialogue is taking place at a time when humanitarian needs are rapidly increasing. Conflicts, climate disruptions and economic instability have placed added pressure on relief systems worldwide.

Against this backdrop, the Saudi-UK partnership serves as a model of joint international responsibility, showing how coordinated action can strengthen the global humanitarian landscape.

For both nations, the continued expansion of cooperation reflects strategic priorities. It enables more effective resource allocation, enhances the impact of aid programming and opens avenues for future initiatives that address emerging global challenges.

The dialogue in London provided an important platform to evaluate progress, refine shared goals and set a roadmap for the next phase of partnership.

As international development becomes more complex, Saudi Arabia and the UK are working to promote stability, resilience and dignity in communities most affected by global crises.

Their partnership illustrates the growing international recognition that sustainable humanitarian action requires collaboration, long-term planning and a commitment to inclusive global development.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has reaffirmed the alliance’s strength and unity after the successful completion of its annual nuclear exercise, stating that the drills showcased the credibility and preparedness of NATO’s nuclear deterrence capabilities in the face of rising tensions with Russia.

Speaking to German media, Rutte emphasized that the exercise, conducted earlier this month, demonstrated the alliance’s ability to respond decisively to any form of nuclear intimidation.

“When Russia is using dangerous and reckless nuclear rhetoric, our populations must know that there is no need to panic, because NATO has a strong nuclear deterrent,” he said.

Rutte’s remarks come at a critical time, as Russia continues to issue nuclear threats in connection with its war in Ukraine. The NATO chief sought to reassure citizens across member nations that the alliance remains capable and united in its commitment to collective defense.

“Putin must know that nuclear war can never be won and must never be fought,” Rutte added, echoing a long-standing principle that has underpinned global nuclear stability for decades.

The annual NATO nuclear exercise, known for its strict operational secrecy, brings together multiple member states to test readiness and coordination.

This year’s drills reportedly included simulated flight operations, nuclear strike scenarios, and rapid-response coordination between ground, air, and naval forces.

The exercises are seen as a vital demonstration of the alliance’s defensive posture and its message of deterrence against any nuclear escalation.

Rutte, who took over as NATO Secretary-General earlier this year, has been vocal about strengthening deterrence and reinforcing unity among members.

His leadership comes at a moment when the alliance faces one of its most complex security environments in decades, marked by the ongoing war in Ukraine, cyber threats, and increasing geopolitical competition.

He noted that while NATO does not seek confrontation, it cannot afford complacency. “Our deterrence remains defensive, measured, and responsible,” Rutte said. “But it is also unshakable. Every adversary must understand that NATO will defend every inch of allied territory.”

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly issued nuclear warnings since launching the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In October, he declared that Moscow could consider using nuclear weapons if struck by conventional missiles, and that any attack supported by a nuclear power would be treated as a joint assault on Russia. These comments have intensified global concerns about the potential for escalation.

Rutte, however, stressed that NATO remains firmly focused on preventing such a scenario. The alliance’s collective deterrence strategy, he explained, is built not just on nuclear capabilities but also on diplomacy, strategic stability, and transparency among allies. “Our goal is not to provoke conflict but to preserve peace through strength,” he said.

The NATO chief’s confidence follows a broader pattern of reassurance within the alliance. Member nations, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France — all nuclear powers — have reaffirmed their commitments to NATO’s shared defense framework. These exercises serve both as a technical test of readiness and as a political signal of cohesion among allies.

Analysts say Rutte’s strong stance sends a message of stability to both allies and adversaries. It underscores NATO’s capability to deter aggression while maintaining the balance of power that has prevented direct conflict between nuclear states since the Cold War.

As tensions between Russia and the West remain high, the success of NATO’s nuclear drills reinforces a clear message: the alliance is alert, united, and prepared.

For citizens across Europe and North America, Rutte’s words serve as a reminder that deterrence, discipline, and diplomacy remain central to NATO’s mission — ensuring that the shadow of nuclear war stays where it belongs: in history, not in reality.

While Zelenskiy arrived seeking advanced weaponry such as Tomahawk missiles, the talks ultimately centered on diplomacy, dialogue, and the possibility of a negotiated settlement that could bring an end to years of devastation.

Trump’s tone throughout the meeting was notably conciliatory and focused on immediate de-escalation. “You stop at the battle line, and both sides should go home,” he said, urging Ukraine and Russia to “stop the killing” and return to peace talks. His emphasis on diplomacy over weaponry highlights a broader strategic vision — one that seeks to restore stability through negotiation rather than escalation.

The discussion came at a sensitive moment, as both Russia and Ukraine weigh the human and economic costs of a prolonged war. Trump, who is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary in the coming weeks, has positioned himself as a potential mediator capable of reviving dialogue between the two nations.

His willingness to engage with both leaders signals a proactive American role in fostering global peace efforts.

President Zelenskiy, while reiterating Ukraine’s right to defend its sovereignty, acknowledged the importance of Trump’s approach. “We want this. Putin doesn’t want (it),” Zelenskiy said, stressing that Ukraine is prepared to work toward a ceasefire if Russia shows genuine commitment. Despite the challenges, the Ukrainian leader expressed optimism that Trump’s influence could help push Moscow back to the negotiating table.

While Trump did not rule out future military assistance, including the Tomahawk missiles requested by Ukraine, he emphasized that the United States must balance its own defense priorities. “We want Tomahawks also. We don’t want to be giving away things that we need to protect our country,” Trump stated.

His words reflected a cautious but clear message — that long-term peace requires more than arms transfers; it requires mutual compromise and constructive engagement.

The meeting, described as “productive” by Zelenskiy, underscored a shared understanding between the two leaders. Following their private talks, Zelenskiy told reporters that while the U.S. was not immediately providing new weapons, he remained hopeful that Trump’s diplomatic outreach to Putin could lead to an eventual ceasefire.

“President Trump is right, and we have to stop where we are. This is important, to stop where we are, and then to speak,” Zelenskiy said.

The international community has responded with cautious optimism. A spokesperson for the European Union welcomed the renewed talks, saying that “any initiative that helps bring peace to Ukraine is a step in the right direction.” The Kremlin also indicated a willingness to continue discussions, noting that while much remains undecided, dialogue remains open.

Observers believe that Trump’s push for direct engagement between Kyiv and Moscow could help break the diplomatic stalemate that has persisted since 2022. His approach, blending realism with negotiation, could pave the way for what many hope will be a sustainable peace framework — one that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing security concerns across the region.

Beyond politics, the Trump–Zelenskiy meeting reflected a humanitarian shift in focus — from confrontation to cooperation. Both leaders expressed concern for the millions affected by the conflict and stressed the importance of rebuilding efforts once hostilities cease. Trump’s emphasis on “going home to families” resonated with war-weary populations on both sides.

Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s continued dialogue with European leaders following the meeting suggests a coordinated international effort to support diplomatic solutions. Analysts note that Ukraine’s resilience, combined with Trump’s outreach to Russia, could create a foundation for renewed negotiations under global supervision.

Although uncertainties remain, the White House discussions symbolized a meaningful step toward peace. President Trump’s call for an immediate halt to hostilities, paired with President Zelenskiy’s pragmatic acknowledgment of the situation, offers a glimpse of hope that the war could shift from the battlefield to the negotiating table.

As the world watches, the possibility of dialogue between Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow stands as a reminder that diplomacy — when backed by determination and goodwill — can still change the course of history.

Both leaders’ focus on stability, humanitarian recovery, and cooperation signals a positive path forward, rekindling hopes for peace in Europe’s most enduring conflict.

His proposal reflects both moral conviction and strategic foresight, positioning the EU as a proactive force for stability, solidarity, and justice in the face of ongoing conflict.

Speaking before the Bundestag, Germany’s lower house of parliament, Merz said he would urge EU leaders to approve a €140 billion ($163 billion) interest-free loan for Ukraine.

This unprecedented financial initiative would be backed by the Russian assets frozen in Western nations following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The move, according to Merz, would not only reinforce Ukraine’s resilience but also send a powerful message to Moscow that Europe’s support will remain unwavering.

“We do not want to do this in order to prolong the war, but to end it,” Merz stated, emphasizing that peace can only be achieved through strength, unity, and consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

“President Putin must realize that our support for Ukraine will not wane, but will grow, and that he cannot count on outlasting us.”

A Vision of Responsible European Leadership

Merz’s stance marks a defining moment for European leadership. By proposing the use of frozen Russian assets, the German Chancellor demonstrates that Europe is prepared to act collectively and responsibly, ensuring that those who breach international law contribute to repairing its consequences.

His plan represents a pragmatic yet principled approach — combining financial innovation with moral clarity.

The proposal has already attracted attention across the continent as a potential blueprint for how democratic nations can finance peace and reconstruction without burdening taxpayers.

By leveraging assets already immobilized by sanctions, the EU could unlock crucial funding to sustain Ukraine’s defense, rebuild infrastructure, and maintain essential services — all without expanding public debt.

Reinforcing European Unity and Values

Merz’s address to parliament also underscored broader priorities for the EU summit, including European defense, security, competitiveness, migration policy, and the Middle East situation.

His remarks highlighted Germany’s ongoing role as a stabilizing force within Europe and its commitment to shared values of freedom, democracy, and collective security.

By linking the use of frozen assets to a transparent and coordinated EU mechanism, Merz aims to demonstrate that Europe can act decisively when its fundamental principles are threatened.

The plan also reflects growing consensus among EU members that economic and legal tools must be used more effectively to deter aggression and support international law.

A Signal of Hope and Determination

Merz’s initiative carries a hopeful message for Ukraine and for Europe as a whole. It reinforces the idea that democratic nations are not powerless in the face of aggression — that they can respond not only with sanctions and aid but with bold, constructive financial strategies.

The €140 billion loan, if approved, could provide Ukraine with vital long-term stability and strengthen its capacity to rebuild and modernize even amid conflict.

Moreover, Merz’s message to the Bundestag was not merely about financial measures. It was a reaffirmation of Europe’s unity and moral purpose.

By choosing to focus on ending the war through sustained support, rather than fatigue or hesitation, the German Chancellor framed the EU as a community of enduring resolve — one that stands firm against coercion and violence.

As leaders prepare to meet at the upcoming EU summit, Merz’s proposal could become a turning point in European policy toward Russia and Ukraine. It offers a way to transform frozen assets into instruments of peace, stability, and justice.

The Chancellor’s forward-looking approach embodies a broader shift in European politics — from reactive crisis management to proactive global leadership. His vision aligns with growing calls for transparency, accountability, and strategic solidarity within the European Union.

By advocating for this landmark initiative, Friedrich Merz not only reaffirms Germany’s leadership role but also strengthens Europe’s moral and political unity.

His proposal represents more than a financial mechanism; it is a statement of hope — that through unity, resilience, and principled action, Europe can help end the war, rebuild Ukraine, and shape a safer, fairer world.

In a landmark move blending innovation, diplomacy, and solidarity, the European Union is advancing a forward-looking financial framework to channel frozen Russian assets into Ukraine’s rebuilding and defense — setting a global precedent for responsible, future-focused economic governance.

In a bold step towards global stability and reconstruction, the European Union has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to leverage Russia’s frozen sovereign assets for Ukraine’s defense and recovery.

In a landmark move blending innovation, diplomacy, and solidarity, the European Union is advancing a forward-looking financial framework to channel frozen Russian assets into Ukraine’s rebuilding and defense — setting a global precedent for responsible, future-focused economic governance.

The proposal, designed to balance international law with humanitarian responsibility, represents a creative model of financial diplomacy — one that reinforces Europe’s commitment to peace, resilience, and accountability.

Under the plan, the EU aims to mobilize up to €185 billion ($216 billion) from the €210 billion in Russian assets currently held in Europe. Rather than confiscating the funds — a move prohibited under international law — the initiative converts them into productive capital through carefully structured financial instruments.

This innovative approach could mark a turning point in how global powers address the aftermath of conflict without violating international norms.

The European Commission’s proposal would allow funds held by Euroclear, the Belgian central securities depository, to be invested in zero-coupon bonds issued by the Commission.

These proceeds would then finance a “Reparations Loan” to Ukraine, enabling the country to rebuild infrastructure, stabilize its economy, and invest in defense capabilities — all before Russia formally pays reparations in a future peace settlement.

This system allows Ukraine to access urgently needed resources immediately, while maintaining the principle that Russia remains liable for the damages caused by its invasion. It is, as EU officials describe, “a bridge between justice and economic realism.”

The initiative has garnered strong political backing across Europe, with leaders highlighting its pragmatic design and humanitarian purpose. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the program reflects “Europe’s shared commitment to rebuilding what war has destroyed — not with vengeance, but with vision.”

Financially, the move is highly structured and risk-mitigated. The €185 billion held by Euroclear would be fully covered by EU government guarantees, ensuring stability and protecting taxpayers

In addition, the plan safeguards against premature release of frozen assets by introducing a qualified majority mechanism for sanction rollovers — preventing any single member state from blocking the process.

Experts see the proposal as a major leap in sustainable geopolitical financing, offering a model for future conflict recovery efforts. By avoiding confiscation and using advanced financial tools, the EU demonstrates that international cooperation and rule of law can go hand-in-hand with economic innovation.

The “Reparations Loan” mechanism, in particular, is being praised as a balanced solution — offering Ukraine an immediate economic lifeline while keeping Russia’s financial obligations intact.

The funds will prioritize rebuilding critical infrastructure, energy facilities, housing, and healthcare systems, while supporting Ukraine’s transition to a more resilient and self-reliant economy.

With Ukraine’s financing needs estimated at €130 billion between 2026 and 2027, this mechanism provides a timely cushion that aligns with IMF assessments and G7 commitments. Analysts predict the plan could set a new standard for multilateral responses to aggression-driven crises.

While Russia has criticized the move as “unlawful,” the EU maintains that the proposal does not constitute confiscation but a responsible reinvestment of idle funds — aligning moral duty with financial discipline.

This initiative underscores Europe’s evolving role as a leader in ethical economic governance, signaling a new era where innovation, legality, and global solidarity converge.

It also reaffirms the EU’s determination to support Ukraine not only militarily, but also structurally and economically — ensuring that reconstruction and justice go hand in hand.