23 March

The coronavirus pandemic has now caused over 11,000 deaths worldwide.

According to the World Health Organization, as of Saturday the number of confirmed infections exceeded 260,000.

In Italy, the number of fatalities increased by over 650 to surpass 5,400.

The country also reported about 5,500 new infections, bringing the total to more than 59,000.

The government is strengthening its lockdown.

All businesses not producing essential goods and services are ordered to close.

Permission to remain open has been given to supermarkets, pharmacies, post offices and banks. Public transportation and other essential services are still operating.

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke on the phone with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and offered aid. Italy had asked for Russia's help.

The Russian Defense Ministry says the country is ready to send cargo planes to Italy.

NHK