'Where are they': Mexican women protest on Mother's Day for their missing children

Thailand said Tuesday it was seeking a "humanitarian" solution for three Myanmar journalists arrested after fleeing across the border to escape a junta crackdown.

The trio's employer -- the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) -- and the Thai foreign correspondents' club urged the authorities not to deport them, warning their lives could be in danger if they returned to the coup-hit country.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/myanmar-detained-leader-aung-san-suu-kyi-to-appear-in-court-in-person-on-may-24-384147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, triggering a mass uprising as large swathes of the population take to the streets to demand democracy.

The junta has responded with force -- shooting protesters, arresting suspected dissidents in night raids, and targeting journalists and news outlets by shutting them down.

Thai authorities on Tuesday confirmed the arrests, while foreign ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat said they were seeking a way out of the case.

"Thai authorities concerned are coordinating to find possible humanitarian solution(s) to this case," Tanee told reporters.

DVB said the group was arrested during a random search in the northern city of Chiang Mai, and would appear in court on Tuesday to face charges of illegally entering Thailand.

"DVB strongly urges the Thai authorities to not deport them back to Burma, as their life will be in serious danger if they were to return," said Aye Chan Naing, DVB's chief editor, who is based in Oslo. Burma is Myanmar's old name.

The Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand warned Tuesday that if the journalists were deported, they would face "certain arrest and persecution, if not worse".

"The world is watching what the Thai authorities do in this important case for press freedom in Myanmar and the region," it said.&nbsp;

A well-known news organisation within Myanmar, DVB started as an exile media outlet during the previous junta, broadcasting uncensored reports on TV and radio.

It moved into Myanmar in 2012, a year after the military dictatorship loosened its grip, but had its broadcast licence revoked in March, sending its journalists into hiding.

Despite this setback, it has continued to report, posting regular updates on its Facebook page about the daily protests and crackdowns across the country.&nbsp;

It also broadcasts via satellite television -- a move that the junta attempted to halt when it banned homes from having satellite dishes.

More than 80 journalists have been detained since the February 1 coup, according to a local monitoring group -- which has tracked a total of nearly 5,000 arrests nationwide.&nbsp;

Thailand said Tuesday it was seeking a "humanitarian" solution for three Myanmar journalists arrested after fleeing across the border to escape a junta crackdown.

Thailand said Tuesday it was seeking a "humanitarian" solution for three Myanmar journalists arrested after fleeing across the border to escape a junta crackdown. The trio's employer -- the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) -- and the Thai foreign correspondents' club urged the authorities not to deport them, warning their lives could be in danger if they returned to the coup-hit country. Watch | Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, triggering a mass uprising as large swathes of the population take to the streets to demand democracy. The junta has responded with force -- shooting protesters, arresting suspected dissidents in night raids, and targeting journalists and news outlets by shutting them down. Thai authorities on Tuesday confirmed the arrests, while foreign ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat said they were seeking a way out of the case. "Thai authorities concerned are coordinating to find possible humanitarian solution(s) to this case," Tanee told reporters. DVB said the group was arrested during a random search in the northern city of Chiang Mai, and would appear in court on Tuesday to face charges of illegally entering Thailand. "DVB strongly urges the Thai authorities to not deport them back to Burma, as their life will be in serious danger if they were to return," said Aye Chan Naing, DVB's chief editor, who is based in Oslo. Burma is Myanmar's old name. The Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand warned Tuesday that if the journalists were deported, they would face "certain arrest and persecution, if not worse". "The world is watching what the Thai authorities do in this important case for press freedom in Myanmar and the region," it said. A well-known news organisation within Myanmar, DVB started as an exile media outlet during the previous junta, broadcasting uncensored reports on TV and radio. It moved into Myanmar in 2012, a year after the military dictatorship loosened its grip, but had its broadcast licence revoked in March, sending its journalists into hiding. Despite this setback, it has continued to report, posting regular updates on its Facebook page about the daily protests and crackdowns across the country. It also broadcasts via satellite television -- a move that the junta attempted to halt when it banned homes from having satellite dishes. More than 80 journalists have been detained since the February 1 coup, according to a local monitoring group -- which has tracked a total of nearly 5,000 arrests nationwide.

Thailand seeking 'humanitarian' solution for detained Myanmar journalists

Britain's parliamentary standards watchdog confirmed Monday it is investigating Prime Minister Boris Johnson over how he paid for a luxury Caribbean holiday, the latest of multiple probes into his conduct.

Kathryn Stone, the current Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, is looking into the controversial trip to the privately owned island of Mustique over Christmas 2019 by the UK leader and his fiancee Carrie Symonds.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Johnson, who was buoyed by successful local election results in England last week, has long been dogged by questions about the holiday.

In the register of MPs' interests, he claimed the £15,000 ($21,200, 17,400 euros) trip was provided by David Ross, a businessman and donor to his ruling Conservative party.

However there was confusion after Ross initially denied handing over any money, and later clarified that it was a "benefit in kind".

Johnson's spokesman reiterated Monday that the British premier had followed the rules throughout.

"The prime minister transparently declared this benefit in kind in the Commons register of interests," he said.&nbsp;

"Clearly the rules are set out and it's important that everyone abides by them."

Meanwhile a spokesman for Ross said in a statement he had "facilitated accommodation" for Johnson on Mustique which was valued at £15,000.

"Therefore this is a benefit in kind from Mr Ross to Mr Johnson, and Mr Johnson's declaration to the House of Commons is correct."

<h2>'Lavish lifestyle'&nbsp;</h2>

The luxury trip is one of a host of controversies swirling around the British leader that have sparked multiple investigations by watchdogs and scrutiny agencies.

They include a probe by the Electoral Commission, which regulates the accounts of political parties, into who initially footed the bill for a reported £200,000 (230,000 euros) refurbishment of Johnson's Downing Street flat.

The parliamentary commissioner -- an independent figure -- investigates allegations that MPs have breached parliamentary code of conduct rules, which include correctly declaring financial interests and gifts.

Stone, who confirmed the Johnson probe is one of nine current investigations into lawmakers for possible breaches, can refer serious offences to parliament's Committee on Standards for sanctioning.

The main opposition Labour Party -- which is still reeling from a disappointing performance in last Thursday's local elections -- seized on the latest probe as further evidence of "sleaze" within Johnson's government.

"We need to know what these donors were promised or expected in return for their generosity," said Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner.&nbsp;

"Boris Johnson needs to stop using the office of Prime Minister as an opportunity to fund his lavish lifestyle and enrich his mates." 
&nbsp;

Britain's parliamentary standards watchdog confirmed Monday it is investigating Prime Minister Boris Johnson over how he paid for a luxury Caribbean holiday, the latest of multiple probes into his conduct.

Britain's parliamentary standards watchdog confirmed Monday it is investigating Prime Minister Boris Johnson over how he paid for a luxury Caribbean holiday, the latest of multiple probes into his conduct. Kathryn Stone, the current Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, is looking into the controversial trip to the privately owned island of Mustique over Christmas 2019 by the UK leader and his fiancee Carrie Symonds. Watch | Johnson, who was buoyed by successful local election results in England last week, has long been dogged by questions about the holiday. In the register of MPs' interests, he claimed the £15,000 ($21,200, 17,400 euros) trip was provided by David Ross, a businessman and donor to his ruling Conservative party. However there was confusion after Ross initially denied handing over any money, and later clarified that it was a "benefit in kind". Johnson's spokesman reiterated Monday that the British premier had followed the rules throughout. "The prime minister transparently declared this benefit in kind in the Commons register of interests," he said. "Clearly the rules are set out and it's important that everyone abides by them." Meanwhile a spokesman for Ross said in a statement he had "facilitated accommodation" for Johnson on Mustique which was valued at £15,000. "Therefore this is a benefit in kind from Mr Ross to Mr Johnson, and Mr Johnson's declaration to the House of Commons is correct." 'Lavish lifestyle' The luxury trip is one of a host of controversies swirling around the British leader that have sparked multiple investigations by watchdogs and scrutiny agencies. They include a probe by the Electoral Commission, which regulates the accounts of political parties, into who initially footed the bill for a reported £200,000 (230,000 euros) refurbishment of Johnson's Downing Street flat. The parliamentary commissioner -- an independent figure -- investigates allegations that MPs have breached parliamentary code of conduct rules, which include correctly declaring financial interests and gifts. Stone, who confirmed the Johnson probe is one of nine current investigations into lawmakers for possible breaches, can refer serious offences to parliament's Committee on Standards for sanctioning. The main opposition Labour Party -- which is still reeling from a disappointing performance in last Thursday's local elections -- seized on the latest probe as further evidence of "sleaze" within Johnson's government. "We need to know what these donors were promised or expected in return for their generosity," said Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner. "Boris Johnson needs to stop using the office of Prime Minister as an opportunity to fund his lavish lifestyle and enrich his mates."

UK's Johnson faces watchdog probe over luxury Caribbean holiday in 2020

A bipartisan group of 44 attorneys general has written to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg urging him to drop company plans for a version of Instagram for children under the age of 13, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey announced Monday.

The attorneys general in the letter said they are concerned about social media's effects on the physical and emotional well-being of children, the potential for increased cyberbullying, possible vulnerability to online predators, and what they called Facebook's "checkered record" in protecting children on its platforms.

"It appears that Facebook is not responding to a need, but instead creating one, as this platform appeals primarily to children who otherwise do not or would not have an Instagram account," said the letter, signed by the attorneys general of 40 states, the District of Columbia and three US territories.

Children under 13 are technically not allowed to use the Instagram app in its current form due to federal privacy regulations. But Facebook in March confirmed a report by Buzzfeed News, saying it is "exploring a parent-controlled experience"&nbsp;on Instagram.

"It's shameful that Facebook is ignoring the very real threat that social media poses to the safety and well-being of young children in an attempt to profit off of a vulnerable segment of our population,"&nbsp;Healey said in a statement.

Facebook in a statement Monday said it is exploring Instagram for kids to give parents more control over what children who are already online are exposed to, will make every effort to protect children, and will not show advertising on the platform.

"We are developing these experiences in consultation with experts in child development, child safety and mental health, and privacy advocates," the company said. "We also look forward to working with legislators and regulators, including the nation's attorneys general."&nbsp;

Facebook also pointed out that it is a founding sponsor of the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children's Hospital, launched in March to study the effects of digital technology on kids' "brains, bodies, and behaviors."

The effort of the attorneys general is backed by Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood.

Facebook faces a critical choice: will they plow ahead with their ill-conceived plan to ensnare young children, or will they listen to the growing chorus of parents, experts, advocates, lawmakers and regulators who are telling them that an Instagram kids' site will undermine young children's healthy development and right to privacy,&nbsp;Executive Director Josh Golin said in a statement.

Facebook faced similar criticism in 2017 when it launched the Messenger Kids app, touted as a way for children to chat with family members and friends approved by parents.&nbsp;

A bipartisan group of 44 attorneys general has written to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg urging him to drop company plans for a version of Instagram for children under the age of 13, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey announced Monday.

A bipartisan group of 44 attorneys general has written to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg urging him to drop company plans for a version of Instagram for children under the age of 13, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey announced Monday. The attorneys general in the letter said they are concerned about social media's effects on the physical and emotional well-being of children, the potential for increased cyberbullying, possible vulnerability to online predators, and what they called Facebook's "checkered record" in protecting children on its platforms. "It appears that Facebook is not responding to a need, but instead creating one, as this platform appeals primarily to children who otherwise do not or would not have an Instagram account," said the letter, signed by the attorneys general of 40 states, the District of Columbia and three US territories. Children under 13 are technically not allowed to use the Instagram app in its current form due to federal privacy regulations. But Facebook in March confirmed a report by Buzzfeed News, saying it is "exploring a parent-controlled experience" on Instagram. "It's shameful that Facebook is ignoring the very real threat that social media poses to the safety and well-being of young children in an attempt to profit off of a vulnerable segment of our population," Healey said in a statement. Facebook in a statement Monday said it is exploring Instagram for kids to give parents more control over what children who are already online are exposed to, will make every effort to protect children, and will not show advertising on the platform. "We are developing these experiences in consultation with experts in child development, child safety and mental health, and privacy advocates," the company said. "We also look forward to working with legislators and regulators, including the nation's attorneys general." Facebook also pointed out that it is a founding sponsor of the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children's Hospital, launched in March to study the effects of digital technology on kids' "brains, bodies, and behaviors." The effort of the attorneys general is backed by Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood. Facebook faces a critical choice: will they plow ahead with their ill-conceived plan to ensnare young children, or will they listen to the growing chorus of parents, experts, advocates, lawmakers and regulators who are telling them that an Instagram kids' site will undermine young children's healthy development and right to privacy, Executive Director Josh Golin said in a statement. Facebook faced similar criticism in 2017 when it launched the Messenger Kids app, touted as a way for children to chat with family members and friends approved by parents.

More than 40 US attorneys-general ask Facebook to drop 'Instagram for kids' proposal

US politician Elise Stefanik began her Washington career as a moderate, but has changed tack and surged in influence to likely become the most powerful Republican woman in Congress -- a trajectory she owes entirely to her staunch defense of Donald Trump.

Stefanik, just 36 and in Congress for six years, is aiming to oust principled conservative Liz Cheney as House Republican conference chair, a dramatic change of course that concedes the extraordinary shift that is shaping the party's future around the defeated ex-president.

Political scion Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney, is on the verge of being punished for refusing to buy into what she calls Trump's "BIG LIE" that election fraud caused his 2020 defeat to Joe Biden.

The Wyoming conservative's adherence to election truth appears to be apostasy in Trump's remade Republican Party, and its members are expected to vote her out of her number three leadership post as early as Wednesday during a scheduled meeting.

Their argument: The party requires solidarity rather than Cheney's persistent public denunciations of Trump as it seeks to win back the House and Senate majorities in next year's midterm elections.

Stefanik, a Harvard graduate representing an upstate New York district, has stressed party unity and her unstinting loyalty to Trump as she campaigns for the powerful role.

She ticks several important boxes: Aside from being a woman, she can connect with millennials and voters on the US East Coast, demographics with which Republicans have traditionally struggled.

Trump himself has endorsed her for the post, as has number two House Republican Steve Scalise, making her the clear frontrunner.

"My vision is to run with support from the president and his coalition of voters," Stefanik told Steve Bannon, a former Trump White House aide, on his Thursday radio show when asked about her plans for helping the GOP win in 2022.

"We are going to run as an alternative to the Biden agenda," she added.

"I'm committed to being a voice and sending a clear message that we are one team, and that means working with the (former) president and working with all of our excellent Republican members of Congress."

Stefanik's rise is emblematic of how advancing in the party no longer requires adherence to fiscal conservative values or muscular foreign policy, but fealty to a controversial former president who still drives the direction of the Republican Party.

<h2>'New Republican star'&nbsp;</h2>

Stefanik, who worked in George W Bush's White House, won her first House race in 2014 at age 30, becoming the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the time.

She earned plaudits for her centrist positions and efforts at bipartisanship.&nbsp;

In 2017 she voted against Trump's controversial tax cuts, and her 2019 support for legislation that bans discrimination based on sexual orientation riled some conservatives.

She even told Cheney she was "very proud" to have nominated her for conference chair.

But Stefanik also began recognizing that her own district's voters were becoming increasingly enamored with Trump, and she made a shrewd political calculation to join them.

She rose to national prominence in late 2019 when she fiercely defended Trump during his first impeachment hearings.

Trump took notice and trained a spotlight on Stefanik, hailing her as "a new Republican star."

Even though she drew a determined Democratic effort to unseat her, Stefanik handily won reelection in November 2020.

Weeks later her fidelity was complete, as she announced in January that she would oppose the Electoral College certification in some swing states that voted for Biden.

She told Bannon she "fully" supports an ongoing, unofficial election recount in Arizona, a process apparently intended to legitimize Trump's false claims of voter fraud.

The majority of Republican lawmakers have been loath to publicly deny Trump's fraudulent election claims, but on Sunday Congressman Adam Kinzinger, siding with Cheney, told CBS that the 74 million people who voted for Trump "weren't disenfranchised, they were simply outnumbered."

"You cannot unify truth with lies. The lie is that the election was stolen, the truth is Joe Biden beat Donald Trump," he said.

While Stefanik may satisfy a pro-Trump litmus test, conservative organizations have raised concerns about her voting record.

Stefanik "is a liberal" with just a 35 percent lifetime rating, "4th worst in the House GOP," the Club For Growth tweeted as it opposed her for conference chair.

"House Republicans should find a conservative to lead messaging and win back the House majority."

Cheney is far more likely than Stefanik to adhere to traditional Republican positions. According to an index by nonpartisan public policy think tank the Lugar Center, Stefanik was ranked as the 13th most bipartisan member of Congress from 2019 to 2020.&nbsp;

Cheney ranked 421st on the index out of the House's 435 members.

US politician Elise Stefanik began her Washington career as a moderate, but has changed tack and surged in influence to likely become the most powerful Republican woman in Congress -- a trajectory she owes entirely to her staunch defense of Donald Trump.

US politician Elise Stefanik began her Washington career as a moderate, but has changed tack and surged in influence to likely become the most powerful Republican woman in Congress -- a trajectory she owes entirely to her staunch defense of Donald Trump. Stefanik, just 36 and in Congress for six years, is aiming to oust principled conservative Liz Cheney as House Republican conference chair, a dramatic change of course that concedes the extraordinary shift that is shaping the party's future around the defeated ex-president. Political scion Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney, is on the verge of being punished for refusing to buy into what she calls Trump's "BIG LIE" that election fraud caused his 2020 defeat to Joe Biden. The Wyoming conservative's adherence to election truth appears to be apostasy in Trump's remade Republican Party, and its members are expected to vote her out of her number three leadership post as early as Wednesday during a scheduled meeting. Their argument: The party requires solidarity rather than Cheney's persistent public denunciations of Trump as it seeks to win back the House and Senate majorities in next year's midterm elections. Stefanik, a Harvard graduate representing an upstate New York district, has stressed party unity and her unstinting loyalty to Trump as she campaigns for the powerful role. She ticks several important boxes: Aside from being a woman, she can connect with millennials and voters on the US East Coast, demographics with which Republicans have traditionally struggled. Trump himself has endorsed her for the post, as has number two House Republican Steve Scalise, making her the clear frontrunner. "My vision is to run with support from the president and his coalition of voters," Stefanik told Steve Bannon, a former Trump White House aide, on his Thursday radio show when asked about her plans for helping the GOP win in 2022. "We are going to run as an alternative to the Biden agenda," she added. "I'm committed to being a voice and sending a clear message that we are one team, and that means working with the (former) president and working with all of our excellent Republican members of Congress." Stefanik's rise is emblematic of how advancing in the party no longer requires adherence to fiscal conservative values or muscular foreign policy, but fealty to a controversial former president who still drives the direction of the Republican Party. 'New Republican star' Stefanik, who worked in George W Bush's White House, won her first House race in 2014 at age 30, becoming the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the time. She earned plaudits for her centrist positions and efforts at bipartisanship. In 2017 she voted against Trump's controversial tax cuts, and her 2019 support for legislation that bans discrimination based on sexual orientation riled some conservatives. She even told Cheney she was "very proud" to have nominated her for conference chair. But Stefanik also began recognizing that her own district's voters were becoming increasingly enamored with Trump, and she made a shrewd political calculation to join them. She rose to national prominence in late 2019 when she fiercely defended Trump during his first impeachment hearings. Trump took notice and trained a spotlight on Stefanik, hailing her as "a new Republican star." Even though she drew a determined Democratic effort to unseat her, Stefanik handily won reelection in November 2020. Weeks later her fidelity was complete, as she announced in January that she would oppose the Electoral College certification in some swing states that voted for Biden. She told Bannon she "fully" supports an ongoing, unofficial election recount in Arizona, a process apparently intended to legitimize Trump's false claims of voter fraud. The majority of Republican lawmakers have been loath to publicly deny Trump's fraudulent election claims, but on Sunday Congressman Adam Kinzinger, siding with Cheney, told CBS that the 74 million people who voted for Trump "weren't disenfranchised, they were simply outnumbered." "You cannot unify truth with lies. The lie is that the election was stolen, the truth is Joe Biden beat Donald Trump," he said. While Stefanik may satisfy a pro-Trump litmus test, conservative organizations have raised concerns about her voting record. Stefanik "is a liberal" with just a 35 percent lifetime rating, "4th worst in the House GOP," the Club For Growth tweeted as it opposed her for conference chair. "House Republicans should find a conservative to lead messaging and win back the House majority." Cheney is far more likely than Stefanik to adhere to traditional Republican positions. According to an index by nonpartisan public policy think tank the Lugar Center, Stefanik was ranked as the 13th most bipartisan member of Congress from 2019 to 2020. Cheney ranked 421st on the index out of the House's 435 members.

Republicans seek to oust Liz Cheney from key role in  House as ex-centrist Stefanik rises on embrace of Trump

The US government declared a regional emergency Sunday as the largest fuel pipeline system in the United States remained largely shut down, two days after a major ransomware attack was detected.

The Colonial Pipeline Company ships gasoline and jet fuel from the Gulf Coast of Texas to the populous East Coast through 5,500 miles (8,850 kilometres) of pipeline, serving 50 million consumers.

The company said it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack involving ransomware -- attacks that encrypt computer systems and seek to extract payments from operators.

"This Declaration addresses the emergency conditions creating a need for immediate transportation of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products and provides necessary relief," the Department of Transportation said in a statement.

The emergency declaration allows for fuel to be transported by road to the affected states: Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

The declaration also provides regulatory relief to commercial motor vehicle operations that are part of the emergency support efforts.

Colonial said earlier Sunday that it had opened some smaller delivery lines, but the main system was not yet back up and running.

"While our mainlines remain offline, some smaller lateral lines between terminals and delivery points are now operational," Colonial said in a statement, adding it would "bring our full system back online only when we believe it is safe to do so."

"We have remained in contact with law enforcement and other federal agencies, including the Department of Energy who is leading the Federal Government response," it added.&nbsp;

"Maintaining the operational security of our pipeline, in addition to safely bringing our systems back online, remain our highest priorities."

<h2>Calls for improved oversight&nbsp;</h2>

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told CBS on Sunday that authorities were working to prevent any disruption to supplies.

Colonial, based in the southern state of Georgia, is the largest pipeline operator in the United States by volume, normally transporting 2.5 million barrels of gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other refined petroleum products per day.

The attack prompted calls from cybersecurity experts for improved oversight of the industry to prepare for future threats.

"This attack is unusual for the US. But the bottom line is that attacks targeting operational technology -- the industrial control systems on the production line or plant floor -- are becoming more frequent," Algirde Pipikaite, cyber strategy lead at the World Economic Forum's Centre for Cybersecurity, told AFP on Saturday.

"Unless cybersecurity measures are embedded in a technology's development phase, we are likely to see more frequent attacks on industrial systems like oil and gas pipelines or water treatment plants."

Gas prices jumped in the United States on Sunday following the ransomware attack. Analysts warn that prices could climb even higher if the pipeline is not reopened soon. Oil prices rose more than one per cent Monday.

The United States was rocked in recent months by news of two major cybersecurity breaches -- the SolarWinds hack that compromised thousands of US government and private sector computer networks and was officially blamed on Russia; and a potentially devastating penetration of Microsoft email servers.

The latter is believed to have affected at least 30,000 US organizations including local governments and was attributed to an aggressive Chinese cyberespionage campaign. 
&nbsp;

The US government declared a regional emergency Sunday as the largest fuel pipeline system in the United States remained largely shut down, two days after a major ransomware attack was detected.

The US government declared a regional emergency Sunday as the largest fuel pipeline system in the United States remained largely shut down, two days after a major ransomware attack was detected. The Colonial Pipeline Company ships gasoline and jet fuel from the Gulf Coast of Texas to the populous East Coast through 5,500 miles (8,850 kilometres) of pipeline, serving 50 million consumers. The company said it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack involving ransomware -- attacks that encrypt computer systems and seek to extract payments from operators. "This Declaration addresses the emergency conditions creating a need for immediate transportation of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products and provides necessary relief," the Department of Transportation said in a statement. The emergency declaration allows for fuel to be transported by road to the affected states: Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. The declaration also provides regulatory relief to commercial motor vehicle operations that are part of the emergency support efforts. Colonial said earlier Sunday that it had opened some smaller delivery lines, but the main system was not yet back up and running. "While our mainlines remain offline, some smaller lateral lines between terminals and delivery points are now operational," Colonial said in a statement, adding it would "bring our full system back online only when we believe it is safe to do so." "We have remained in contact with law enforcement and other federal agencies, including the Department of Energy who is leading the Federal Government response," it added. "Maintaining the operational security of our pipeline, in addition to safely bringing our systems back online, remain our highest priorities." Calls for improved oversight Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told CBS on Sunday that authorities were working to prevent any disruption to supplies. Colonial, based in the southern state of Georgia, is the largest pipeline operator in the United States by volume, normally transporting 2.5 million barrels of gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other refined petroleum products per day. The attack prompted calls from cybersecurity experts for improved oversight of the industry to prepare for future threats. "This attack is unusual for the US. But the bottom line is that attacks targeting operational technology -- the industrial control systems on the production line or plant floor -- are becoming more frequent," Algirde Pipikaite, cyber strategy lead at the World Economic Forum's Centre for Cybersecurity, told AFP on Saturday. "Unless cybersecurity measures are embedded in a technology's development phase, we are likely to see more frequent attacks on industrial systems like oil and gas pipelines or water treatment plants." Gas prices jumped in the United States on Sunday following the ransomware attack. Analysts warn that prices could climb even higher if the pipeline is not reopened soon. Oil prices rose more than one per cent Monday. The United States was rocked in recent months by news of two major cybersecurity breaches -- the SolarWinds hack that compromised thousands of US government and private sector computer networks and was officially blamed on Russia; and a potentially devastating penetration of Microsoft email servers. The latter is believed to have affected at least 30,000 US organizations including local governments and was attributed to an aggressive Chinese cyberespionage campaign.

Major US pipeline struggles to reopen after ransomware attack

May 10 in History: South Africa's first black president, Nazi crimes, and more

In another shooting incident in the US, a gunman killed six people at a birthday party in Colorado before taking his on life on Sunday. Meanwhile, former president Donald Trump motivated the Capitol rioters and so earned his Facebook ban, but the social media giant's rules are in "shambles" and need fixing, the co-chair of the network's oversight panel said.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shooting-gunman-kills-six-before-taking-his-own-life-383959">US shooting: Gunman kills six before taking his own life</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/17/178807-shooting-in-mexico.jpg?itok=QPqdYEf2" />

A gunman shot dead six people at a birthday party in Colorado, United States, before killing himself on Sunday, police said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-egged-on-us-capitol-rioters-facebook-oversight-panel-co-chair-383955">Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/07/177395-untitled-design-12.jpg?itok=arAiHcCn" />

Donald Trump encouraged the Capitol rioters and so earned his Facebook ban, but the social media giant's rules are in "shambles" and need fixing, the co-chair of the network's oversight panel said Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-egged-on-us-capitol-rioters-facebook-oversight-panel-co-chair-383955">'Vaccine tourists' fly from abroad for injections on US beach</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/05/10/194399-untitled-design-3.jpg?itok=s2suA40o" />

A long line of people snaked across the sand of Miami Beach, Florida, as dozens of travellers from Latin America waited their turn at a pop-up coronavirus vaccination booth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-is-likely-undercounting-covid-deaths-says-dr-fauci-383933">US is likely 'undercounting' Covid deaths, says Dr Fauci</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/30/134882-3500.jpg?itok=s5BdkJC3" />

Dr Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to US President Joe Biden said on Saturday (local time) that it was likely that US officials have been undercounting the number of deaths due to COVID-19. His comments have come after a new report from University of Washington that says the death toll was nearly double.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-remembers-victory-over-nazi-germany-with-parade-on-red-square-383894">Russia remembers victory over Nazi Germany with parade on Red Square</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/05/09/194366-russia-moscow-red-square-parade.jpg?itok=7KEHDbnj" />

In another shooting incident in the US, a gunman killed six people at a birthday party in Colorado before taking his on life on Sunday. Meanwhile, former president Donald Trump motivated the Capitol rioters and so earned his Facebook ban, but the social media giant's rules are in "shambles" and need fixing, the co-chair of the network's oversight panel said.

In another shooting incident in the US, a gunman killed six people at a birthday party in Colorado before taking his on life on Sunday. Meanwhile, former president Donald Trump motivated the Capitol rioters and so earned his Facebook ban, but the social media giant's rules are in "shambles" and need fixing, the co-chair of the network's oversight panel said. Click on headlines to read more US shooting: Gunman kills six before taking his own life A gunman shot dead six people at a birthday party in Colorado, United States, before killing himself on Sunday, police said. Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair Donald Trump encouraged the Capitol rioters and so earned his Facebook ban, but the social media giant's rules are in "shambles" and need fixing, the co-chair of the network's oversight panel said Sunday. 'Vaccine tourists' fly from abroad for injections on US beach A long line of people snaked across the sand of Miami Beach, Florida, as dozens of travellers from Latin America waited their turn at a pop-up coronavirus vaccination booth. US is likely 'undercounting' Covid deaths, says Dr Fauci Dr Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to US President Joe Biden said on Saturday (local time) that it was likely that US officials have been undercounting the number of deaths due to COVID-19. His comments have come after a new report from University of Washington that says the death toll was nearly double. Russia remembers victory over Nazi Germany with parade on Red Square

Morning news brief: US shooting, Trump Facebook ban, and more

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday was asked to appear in court in person on May 24, her lawyer said.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi has not been seen publicly since the military overthrew her government and detained her on February 1 in a coup.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-suspended-at-myanmar-universities-as-junta-targets-education-384083">Thousands suspended at Myanmar universities as junta targets education&nbsp;</a>

She has expressed her frustration with the pace of the trial during a number of hearings via video conferencing.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/body-of-arrested-myanmar-poet-khet-thi-returned-to-family-with-organs-missing-383972">Body of arrested Myanmar poet Khet Thi returned to family with organs missing</a>

A judge on Monday ordered her to appear in a special courtroom based near her residence.&nbsp;

"She will appear in person in court on May 24," lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told news agency AFP.

However, he said that the court has still not given nod to a private meeting of Suu Kyi with her lawyers.&nbsp;

"The problem is not solved yet because the police did not answer on whether they can arrange our meeting," the lawyer said, adding that private counsel is "the right of the defendant".

The 75-year-old leader has been charged six times since her arrest including charges of violating coronavirus restrictions during an election rally last year.&nbsp;

She has also been charged under the colonial-era Official Secrets Act and for receiving bribes of gold and cash.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday was asked to appear in court in person on May 24, her lawyer said. Suu Kyi has not been seen publicly since the military overthrew her government and detained her on February 1 in a coup.

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday was asked to appear in court in person on May 24, her lawyer said. Suu Kyi has not been seen publicly since the military overthrew her government and detained her on February 1 in a coup. Also read | Thousands suspended at Myanmar universities as junta targets education She has expressed her frustration with the pace of the trial during a number of hearings via video conferencing. Also read | Body of arrested Myanmar poet Khet Thi returned to family with organs missing A judge on Monday ordered her to appear in a special courtroom based near her residence. "She will appear in person in court on May 24," lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told news agency AFP. However, he said that the court has still not given nod to a private meeting of Suu Kyi with her lawyers. "The problem is not solved yet because the police did not answer on whether they can arrange our meeting," the lawyer said, adding that private counsel is "the right of the defendant". The 75-year-old leader has been charged six times since her arrest including charges of violating coronavirus restrictions during an election rally last year. She has also been charged under the colonial-era Official Secrets Act and for receiving bribes of gold and cash. (With inputs from agencies)

Aung San Suu Kyi asked to appear in person in court: Lawyer

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), through its Twitter handle, released a list of 105 vaccination centres that would be functional on Monday, but informed that these would be administering only the Covishield vaccine.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-receive-360-million-sputnik-jabs-by-march-2022-383908/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday also, the BMC had not administered Covaxin to the beneficiaries due to the unavailability of the vaccine.

Several citizens expressed anger and frustration at the state of affairs as many of them are due for their second dose since they had taken the first jab over 42 days back.

As per the government guidelines, the recommended gap between two doses of Covaxin is four-six weeks and for Covishield the suggested interval is four-eight weeks.

Local resident Rupesh Lingayat took to Twitter to express his frustration.

"My father took 1st dose of Covaxin, now it is impossible to get second dose of Covaxin and its been 43 days since took 1st dose. He is 63. Please help," he tweeted.

Another resident Param Sampat also tweeted that his sister had got a booking on Saturday for 3-5 pm slot, but when she reached at 2.45 pm, authorities told her they were out of stock gave her a token for Monday.

"Today when she reached at 8, she was denied a vaccine. This is absolutely irresponsible," he tweeted.

The BMC's executive health officer, Mangala Gomare, did not respond to calls or text messages on the lack of Covaxin doses in the city.

According to a BMC report, a total of 1,76,505 people have been administered Covaxin doses in the city, including 1,20,167 who have received the first dose and 56,338 who have got the second dose as well.

Till Sunday evening, 27,00,431 people were vaccinated in Mumbai against COVID-19. These included 20,52,963 beneficiaries who have taken the first dose and 6,47,468 people who have received their second dose, the report said.

Currently, there are 175 active vaccination centres in Mumbai, included 81 run by the BMC, 20 by the state government and 74 private facilities.&nbsp;

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19.

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), through its Twitter handle, released a list of 105 vaccination centres that would be functional on Monday, but informed that these would be administering only the Covishield vaccine. Watch | On Sunday also, the BMC had not administered Covaxin to the beneficiaries due to the unavailability of the vaccine. Several citizens expressed anger and frustration at the state of affairs as many of them are due for their second dose since they had taken the first jab over 42 days back. As per the government guidelines, the recommended gap between two doses of Covaxin is four-six weeks and for Covishield the suggested interval is four-eight weeks. Local resident Rupesh Lingayat took to Twitter to express his frustration. "My father took 1st dose of Covaxin, now it is impossible to get second dose of Covaxin and its been 43 days since took 1st dose. He is 63. Please help," he tweeted. Another resident Param Sampat also tweeted that his sister had got a booking on Saturday for 3-5 pm slot, but when she reached at 2.45 pm, authorities told her they were out of stock gave her a token for Monday. "Today when she reached at 8, she was denied a vaccine. This is absolutely irresponsible," he tweeted. The BMC's executive health officer, Mangala Gomare, did not respond to calls or text messages on the lack of Covaxin doses in the city. According to a BMC report, a total of 1,76,505 people have been administered Covaxin doses in the city, including 1,20,167 who have received the first dose and 56,338 who have got the second dose as well. Till Sunday evening, 27,00,431 people were vaccinated in Mumbai against COVID-19. These included 20,52,963 beneficiaries who have taken the first dose and 6,47,468 people who have received their second dose, the report said. Currently, there are 175 active vaccination centres in Mumbai, included 81 run by the BMC, 20 by the state government and 74 private facilities.

Covid in India: Covaxin doses unavailable for 2nd day in Mumbai; citizens fume

Newly sworn-in Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the aim of his government is to make the state one of the top five in India in the next five years.

"We will start working from tomorrow to achieve this objective," Sarma told reporters here after taking oath.

The NEDA convenor said the prime focus of the second BJP government in Assam will be to control the COVID-19 pandemic, fulfil all poll promises and make the state free from the annual flood havoc.

"The COVID-19 situation in Assam is alarming. Our daily cases have crossed the 5,000-mark. In our cabinet meeting tomorrow, we will discuss it from all perspectives, and take measures," Sarma said.

Unless the pandemic is controlled in Assam, cases will not go down in other northeastern states, he said.

Sarma also appealed to the insurgent groups, especially the ULFA(I), to lay down arms and be a part of the mainstream to establish peace in the state.

"I request Paresh Barua to come to the discussion table and resolve issues. Kidnappings and killings complicate problems, not solve them. I hope we will be able to make the underground insurgents return to the mainstream in the next five years," the CM said.

Asked about the contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC), the chief minister said his government wants reverification of 20 per cent names in the border districts of Assam, and 10 per cent in other areas.

"If very negligible error is found, then we can proceed with the existing NRC. But, if there are huge anomalies, I hope the court will take note and do the needful with a new perspective," he said without elaborating.

On BJP's assurance of bringing in law against 'love jihad', Sarma said: "Every promise was meant for implementation. We will do everything possible to fulfil them."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Newly sworn-in Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the aim of his government is to make the state one of the top five in India in the next five years.

Newly sworn-in Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the aim of his government is to make the state one of the top five in India in the next five years. "We will start working from tomorrow to achieve this objective," Sarma told reporters here after taking oath. The NEDA convenor said the prime focus of the second BJP government in Assam will be to control the COVID-19 pandemic, fulfil all poll promises and make the state free from the annual flood havoc. "The COVID-19 situation in Assam is alarming. Our daily cases have crossed the 5,000-mark. In our cabinet meeting tomorrow, we will discuss it from all perspectives, and take measures," Sarma said. Unless the pandemic is controlled in Assam, cases will not go down in other northeastern states, he said. Sarma also appealed to the insurgent groups, especially the ULFA(I), to lay down arms and be a part of the mainstream to establish peace in the state. "I request Paresh Barua to come to the discussion table and resolve issues. Kidnappings and killings complicate problems, not solve them. I hope we will be able to make the underground insurgents return to the mainstream in the next five years," the CM said. Asked about the contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC), the chief minister said his government wants reverification of 20 per cent names in the border districts of Assam, and 10 per cent in other areas. "If very negligible error is found, then we can proceed with the existing NRC. But, if there are huge anomalies, I hope the court will take note and do the needful with a new perspective," he said without elaborating. On BJP's assurance of bringing in law against 'love jihad', Sarma said: "Every promise was meant for implementation. We will do everything possible to fulfil them."

Aim to make Assam one among top five Indian states, says new Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma

NASA chief has criticised China for "failing to meet responsible standards regarding their space debris" after parts of its biggest rocket landed in the Indian Ocean on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Spacefaring nations must minimise the risks to people and property on Earth of re-entries of space objects and maximise transparency regarding those operations," Bill Nelson, NASA administrator, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chinese-rocket-segment-disintegrates-over-indian-ocean-383776">Chinese rocket segment disintegrates over Indian Ocean</a>

"It is clear that China is failing to meet responsible standards regarding their space debris."

He also urged China and other spacefacing nations, organisations to act "responsibly" and "transparently" for safe, stable and sustainable space activities.

Debris from the Long March 5B has raised global concerns since it took off from China's Hainan island on April 29.&nbsp;

The Chinese space agency on Sunday confirmed that the wreckage of the rocket re-entered the Earth's atmosphere and dropped into the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

Experts have predicted that there are more chances of the debris landing on water as 70 per cent of our planet is covered by it, but the uncontrolled descent also raised concerns that it could lead to loss of lives and property.&nbsp;

Earlier, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also slammed China for being negligent in allowing rocking to fall out of orbit.&nbsp;

NASA chief has criticised China for "failing to meet responsible standards regarding their space debris" after parts of its biggest rocket landed in the Indian Ocean on Sunday.

NASA chief has criticised China for "failing to meet responsible standards regarding their space debris" after parts of its biggest rocket landed in the Indian Ocean on Sunday. "Spacefaring nations must minimise the risks to people and property on Earth of re-entries of space objects and maximise transparency regarding those operations," Bill Nelson, NASA administrator, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. Also read | Chinese rocket segment disintegrates over Indian Ocean "It is clear that China is failing to meet responsible standards regarding their space debris." He also urged China and other spacefacing nations, organisations to act "responsibly" and "transparently" for safe, stable and sustainable space activities. Debris from the Long March 5B has raised global concerns since it took off from China's Hainan island on April 29. The Chinese space agency on Sunday confirmed that the wreckage of the rocket re-entered the Earth's atmosphere and dropped into the Indian Ocean. Experts have predicted that there are more chances of the debris landing on water as 70 per cent of our planet is covered by it, but the uncontrolled descent also raised concerns that it could lead to loss of lives and property. Earlier, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also slammed China for being negligent in allowing rocking to fall out of orbit.

NASA chief slams China for 'failing to meet responsible standards' over rocket debris fall

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