<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidK3CUehTububW" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Former United States president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump&nbsp;on Sunday (Apr 7) dismissed a report by The Washington Post that said he could end the war in Ukraine if he becomes president by pressuring Kyiv to give up some territory. Speaking to The New York Post, a Trump campaign adviser called The Washington Post report "fake news" and insisted that the 77-year-old would not settle on a peace plan until he is in office and can properly weigh all the options.</p>

<p>“The whole thing is fake news from The Washington Post. They’re just making it up,” Trump adviser Jason Miller said, adding, that his boss was the only one talking about stopping the killing and President Joe Biden was talking more about killing.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the report say?</strong></h2>

<p>Citing people familiar with the matter, The Washington Post report on Sunday said that Trump could end the conflict by pressuring Ukraine to give up some territory. His proposal consisted&nbsp;of Ukraine ceding Crimea and the Donbas border region to Russia, people familiar with the matter said.</p>

<p>Trump, 77, has previously boasted that he could negotiate a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine within 24 hours if elected to power. However, he has repeatedly declined to specify publicly how he would quickly settle the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conflict-trumps-stop-the-war-in-24-hrs-claim-very-dangerous-says-zelensky-681953">Ukraine conflict: Trump's 'stop the war in 24 hrs' claim 'very dangerous,' says Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>A source told the publication that privately Trump thinks that Russia and Ukraine “want to save face, they want a way out,” and that people in parts of Ukraine would be okay with being part of Russia.</p>

<p>Trump has also pressurised congressional Republicans to resist additional US support for Ukraine’s efforts to fight Russia. A return to the White House would significantly expand his influence over this debate, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'I will have the war settled in one day'</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with CNN last year, Donald Trump said if he was elected as president again, he&nbsp;would have that (Russia-Ukraine) war "settled in one day, 24 hours.”</p>

<p>Asked how, Trump said he would meet Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "They both have weaknesses and they both have strengths and within 24 hours that war will be settled, that war will be over," he added.</p>

<p>Trump has repeatedly said he is well-positioned to negotiate an end to the war, saying he has a good relationship with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former United States president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump on Sunday (Apr 7) dismissed a report by The Washington Post that said he could end the war in Ukraine if he becomes president by pressuring Kyiv to give up some territory.

Former United States president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump on Sunday (Apr 7) dismissed a report by The Washington Post that said he could end the war in Ukraine if he becomes president by pressuring Kyiv to give up some territory. Speaking to The New York Post, a Trump campaign adviser called The Washington Post report "fake news" and insisted that the 77-year-old would not settle on a peace plan until he is in office and can properly weigh all the options. “The whole thing is fake news from The Washington Post. They’re just making it up,” Trump adviser Jason Miller said, adding, that his boss was the only one talking about stopping the killing and President Joe Biden was talking more about killing. What did the report say? Citing people familiar with the matter, The Washington Post report on Sunday said that Trump could end the conflict by pressuring Ukraine to give up some territory. His proposal consisted of Ukraine ceding Crimea and the Donbas border region to Russia, people familiar with the matter said. Trump, 77, has previously boasted that he could negotiate a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine within 24 hours if elected to power. However, he has repeatedly declined to specify publicly how he would quickly settle the war. Also read | Ukraine conflict: Trump's 'stop the war in 24 hrs' claim 'very dangerous,' says Zelensky A source told the publication that privately Trump thinks that Russia and Ukraine “want to save face, they want a way out,” and that people in parts of Ukraine would be okay with being part of Russia. Trump has also pressurised congressional Republicans to resist additional US support for Ukraine’s efforts to fight Russia. A return to the White House would significantly expand his influence over this debate, the report added. 'I will have the war settled in one day' In an interview with CNN last year, Donald Trump said if he was elected as president again, he would have that (Russia-Ukraine) war "settled in one day, 24 hours.” Asked how, Trump said he would meet Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "They both have weaknesses and they both have strengths and within 24 hours that war will be settled, that war will be over," he added. Trump has repeatedly said he is well-positioned to negotiate an end to the war, saying he has a good relationship with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid15NgtaZyFb8V" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>At least 94&nbsp;people died after an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Apr 7) citing authorities. The ferry, which was a converted fish boat, was carrying around 130 people and ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province. The deceased also included children, authorities added.</p>

<p>The ferry was headed to the Island of Mozambique.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-chinese-migrants-headed-to-the-us-found-dead-on-mexico-beach-after-boat-capsized-706076">Eight Chinese migrants headed to the US found dead on Mexico beach after boat capsize</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, Nampula’s Secretary of State Jaime Neto said, "Because the boat was overcrowded and unsuited to carry passengers, it ended up sinking. Many children were among the victims."</p>

<h2><strong>Panic caused by cholera disinformation</strong></h2>

<p>Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more but sea conditions were making the operation difficult. Neto told AFP that most of the passengers were trying to escape the mainland because of a panic caused by disinformation about cholera.</p>

<p>Neto added that an investigating team was working to find out the causes of the disaster. Of the five survivors, two were receiving treatment in a hospital, the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mozambique has recorded almost 15,000 cases and 32 deaths due to cholera since October last year, AFP reported citing government data. Nampula is the worst affected region and accounts for a third of all cases.</p>

<p>The province has also received a large influx of people fleeing a wave of jihadist attacks in its northern neighbour of Cabo Delgado.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least 94 people died after an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Apr 7) citing authorities.

At least 94 people died after an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Apr 7) citing authorities. The ferry, which was a converted fish boat, was carrying around 130 people and ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province. The deceased also included children, authorities added. The ferry was headed to the Island of Mozambique. Also read | Eight Chinese migrants headed to the US found dead on Mexico beach after boat capsize Speaking to AFP, Nampula’s Secretary of State Jaime Neto said, "Because the boat was overcrowded and unsuited to carry passengers, it ended up sinking. Many children were among the victims." Panic caused by cholera disinformation Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more but sea conditions were making the operation difficult. Neto told AFP that most of the passengers were trying to escape the mainland because of a panic caused by disinformation about cholera. Neto added that an investigating team was working to find out the causes of the disaster. Of the five survivors, two were receiving treatment in a hospital, the official added. Mozambique has recorded almost 15,000 cases and 32 deaths due to cholera since October last year, AFP reported citing government data. Nampula is the worst affected region and accounts for a third of all cases. The province has also received a large influx of people fleeing a wave of jihadist attacks in its northern neighbour of Cabo Delgado. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 90 dead after overcrowded vessel sinks off Mozambique coast

<p>The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan." Kirby also said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured US President Joe Biden that he would make changes in Israel's military operations.</p>

<p>Russia on Sunday blamed Ukraine for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. According to Russian officials, no serious damage happened to the reactor and the radiation levels remained normal.</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, a judge in Brazil has opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781"><strong>US calls Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza a 'rest and refit' plan, says Biden govt ‘frustrated’</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423561-wion-banners-prisha-43.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations.&nbsp;White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscows-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-comes-under-drone-strike-un-watchdog-condemns-708779"><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes damage Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423560-russia-ukraine.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Russia on Sunday (April 7) held Ukraine responsible for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns.&nbsp;Ukraine's military was held responsible for the attack by Russia's nuclear power corporation Rosatom and international energy officials for detonating a drone against the dome which covered the closed nuclear reactor.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-under-inquiry-after-defying-brazil-judges-unconstitutional-order-to-block-certain-x-accounts-708784"><strong>Elon Musk under inquiry after defying Brazil judge's 'unconstitutional' order to block certain X accounts</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423562-new-wion-2024-04-08t074410650.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>A Brazilian judge on Sunday (Apr 7) opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;This comes after Musk challenged a decision by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, ordering X to block certain accounts.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/probe-begins-in-another-boeing-mishap-after-engine-cover-falls-off-passenger-records-scary-moment-watch-708794"><strong>Probe begins in another Boeing mishap after engine cover falls off. Passenger records 'scary' moment: Watch</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423571-boeing.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>The airline regulators in the United States have started investigating another mishap involving a Boeing jet after an engine cowling in one of its jets fell off during take-off and hit a wing flap.&nbsp;After the mishap, Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737-800 flight flew back safely to Denver International airport at around 15:15 GMT.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India: West Bengal police lodges FIR against NIA</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-west-bengal-police-lodges-fir-against-nia-708803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan.

The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan." Kirby also said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured US President Joe Biden that he would make changes in Israel's military operations. Russia on Sunday blamed Ukraine for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. According to Russian officials, no serious damage happened to the reactor and the radiation levels remained normal. In other news from around the world, a judge in Brazil has opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X. Click on the headlines to read more: US calls Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza a 'rest and refit' plan, says Biden govt ‘frustrated’ The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops." Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes damage Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant Russia on Sunday (April 7) held Ukraine responsible for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. Ukraine's military was held responsible for the attack by Russia's nuclear power corporation Rosatom and international energy officials for detonating a drone against the dome which covered the closed nuclear reactor. Elon Musk under inquiry after defying Brazil judge's 'unconstitutional' order to block certain X accounts A Brazilian judge on Sunday (Apr 7) opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X, formerly Twitter. This comes after Musk challenged a decision by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, ordering X to block certain accounts. Probe begins in another Boeing mishap after engine cover falls off. Passenger records 'scary' moment: Watch The airline regulators in the United States have started investigating another mishap involving a Boeing jet after an engine cowling in one of its jets fell off during take-off and hit a wing flap. After the mishap, Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737-800 flight flew back safely to Denver International airport at around 15:15 GMT. Watch | India: West Bengal police lodges FIR against NIA ×

Morning brief: US reacts to Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza, and more

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidK3CUehTububW" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>New Zealand said on Sunday (Apr 7) that it was immediately making changes to its Accredited Employer Worker Visa (AEWV) following a near-record&nbsp;migration last year which it said was "unsustainable." The changes in the employment visa programme include introducing English language requirements for low-skilled jobs and setting a minimum skills and work experience threshold for most employer work visas.</p>

<p>The maximum continuous stay for most low-skilled roles would be reduced to three years from five years. In a statement, <strong><a href="https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-responds-unsustainable-net-migration">Immigration Minister Erica Stanford </a></strong>said that the government was focused on attracting and retaining "highly-skilled migrants such as secondary teachers, where there is a skill shortage."</p>

<h2><strong>Rebuilding the economy</strong></h2>

<p>Immigration Minister Stanford added that at the same time, it had to be ensured that New Zealanders were put to the front of the line for jobs where there were no skills shortages.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/new-zealand-central-bank-implements-cyber-reporting-rules-amid-rising-online-threats-696325">New Zealand central bank implements cyber reporting rules amid rising online threats</a></strong></p>

<p>“Getting our immigration settings right is critical to this Government’s plan to rebuild the economy," she said and highlighted that by having an English language requirement, migrants would be better able to understand their rights or raise concerns about an employer early.</p>

<h2><strong>In 2023, nearly 173,000 migrated to New Zealand</strong></h2>

<p>Last year,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>nearly 173,000 people migrated to New Zealand, a near record. Stanford also said in the statement that most of the changes in AEWV were not new, but rather a return to the pre-pandemic settings that better balanced the needs of business with the wider interests of the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US increases immigration fees for various visa categories</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-increases-immigration-fees-for-various-visa-categories-707855/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“It is important that the AEWV settings facilitate the right mix of skilled temporary migrants to address genuine skill and labour shortages, support rebuilding the economy, and help manage numbers and pressures on core infrastructure, such as schools, housing, and the health system,” she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a population of about 5.1 million, New Zealand has seen a rapid growth in its migrant numbers since the end of the pandemic, raising concerns in 2023 that it was fanning inflation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand said on Sunday (Apr 7) that it was immediately making changes to its Accredited Employer Worker Visa (AEWV) following a near-record migration last year which it said was "unsustainable.

New Zealand said on Sunday (Apr 7) that it was immediately making changes to its Accredited Employer Worker Visa (AEWV) following a near-record migration last year which it said was "unsustainable." The changes in the employment visa programme include introducing English language requirements for low-skilled jobs and setting a minimum skills and work experience threshold for most employer work visas. The maximum continuous stay for most low-skilled roles would be reduced to three years from five years. In a statement, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said that the government was focused on attracting and retaining "highly-skilled migrants such as secondary teachers, where there is a skill shortage." Rebuilding the economy Immigration Minister Stanford added that at the same time, it had to be ensured that New Zealanders were put to the front of the line for jobs where there were no skills shortages. Also read | New Zealand central bank implements cyber reporting rules amid rising online threats “Getting our immigration settings right is critical to this Government’s plan to rebuild the economy," she said and highlighted that by having an English language requirement, migrants would be better able to understand their rights or raise concerns about an employer early. In 2023, nearly 173,000 migrated to New Zealand Last year, nearly 173,000 people migrated to New Zealand, a near record. Stanford also said in the statement that most of the changes in AEWV were not new, but rather a return to the pre-pandemic settings that better balanced the needs of business with the wider interests of the country. Also watch | US increases immigration fees for various visa categories × “It is important that the AEWV settings facilitate the right mix of skilled temporary migrants to address genuine skill and labour shortages, support rebuilding the economy, and help manage numbers and pressures on core infrastructure, such as schools, housing, and the health system,” she added. With a population of about 5.1 million, New Zealand has seen a rapid growth in its migrant numbers since the end of the pandemic, raising concerns in 2023 that it was fanning inflation.

New Zealand makes changes to visa programme to combat 'unsustainable' migration

<p>A 25-year-old man from Delhi died shortly after he took a slide at a water park located in a mall's premise&nbsp;in Noida, prompting a probe by the police. A report by the news agency PTI on Monday (Apr 8) said that Dhanjay Maheshwari, along with his four friends, visited the water park in Noida on Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“After collecting costumes and keeping their belongings in lockers, all the friends went straight to the slide. They arrived one by one and started sliding when Maheshwari suddenly started having trouble breathing,” a police spokesperson told PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spokesperson said that Maheshwari sat on the ground to rest but did not feel better, and was taken to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead. Maheswari was a resident of Delhi's Adarsh Nagar.</p>

<p>Family members of Maheshwari reached Noida soon after the incident, the police said.</p>

<p>Legal proceedings have been initiated and the 25-year-old's body was sent for autopsy after which the reason will&nbsp;be confirmed, the police further told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the family's allegation of negligence on the part of the mall’s management, the police said that this claim was being investigated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 25-year-old man from Delhi died shortly after he took a slide at a water park located in a mall's premise in Noida, prompting a probe by the police. A report by the news agency PTI on Monday (Apr 8) said that Dhanjay Maheshwari, along with his four friends, visited the water park in Noida on Sunday afternoon.

A 25-year-old man from Delhi died shortly after he took a slide at a water park located in a mall's premise in Noida, prompting a probe by the police. A report by the news agency PTI on Monday (Apr 8) said that Dhanjay Maheshwari, along with his four friends, visited the water park in Noida on Sunday afternoon. “After collecting costumes and keeping their belongings in lockers, all the friends went straight to the slide. They arrived one by one and started sliding when Maheshwari suddenly started having trouble breathing,” a police spokesperson told PTI. The spokesperson said that Maheshwari sat on the ground to rest but did not feel better, and was taken to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead. Maheswari was a resident of Delhi's Adarsh Nagar. Family members of Maheshwari reached Noida soon after the incident, the police said. Legal proceedings have been initiated and the 25-year-old's body was sent for autopsy after which the reason will be confirmed, the police further told the news agency. On the family's allegation of negligence on the part of the mall’s management, the police said that this claim was being investigated. (With inputs from agencies)

Man from India's Delhi dies after taking slide at water park in Noida, probe launched: Report

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid7VHsJfJnXW1t" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency over the "Kush" drug epidemic that poses an “existential threat” to the West African nation. Last Thursday (Apr 5), President Bio said in a televised address that the country's fight against Kush should be a collective effort, and added that he would be setting up a national task force on drugs and substance abuse, "with a particular focus on combating the rising kush crisis."</p>

<p>Bio added that the task force would carry out awareness campaigns, offer treatment and clamp down on the sale of the drugs, which is cheap and easily accessible, according to health authorities and non-governmental organisations.</p>

<h2><strong>Scores of youth addicted to Kush</strong></h2>

<p>A report by Bloomberg on April 6 said that scores of young people in Sierra Leone are addicted to Kush, and the government has no reliable data on the exact number of users. It is a form of synthetic cannabinoid often mixed with additives including acetone, the opioid tramadol, and formaldehyde, a toxic chemical commonly used to preserve bodies in mortuaries.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT JULIUS MAADA BIO’S NATIONAL ADDRESS ON THE DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE EPIDEMIC IN <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SIERRALEONE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SIERRALEONE</a>: DECLARING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY ON DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL TASK FORCE ON DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE (NaTFDSA)… <a href="https://t.co/4P5SQCr3oS">pic.twitter.com/4P5SQCr3oS</a></p>
— Presidency | Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 (@Presidency_SL) <a href="https://twitter.com/Presidency_SL/status/1776049904978202902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>President Bio said that the scale of the threat posed by the drug is similar to the outbreak of the Ebola epidemic. He further pointed out the drug's spread would threaten Sierra Leone's bid to become a middle-income country by 2039.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Addicts dig up human bones to get high</strong></h2>

<p>Several Kush addicts in Sierra Leone are digging up human bones to get high on the drug.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bloomberg report also said that there has been an uptick in the use of Kush in Liberia and Guinea, both of which share porous land borders with Sierra Leone.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency over the "Kush" drug epidemic that poses an “existential threat” to the West African nation.

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency over the "Kush" drug epidemic that poses an “existential threat” to the West African nation. Last Thursday (Apr 5), President Bio said in a televised address that the country's fight against Kush should be a collective effort, and added that he would be setting up a national task force on drugs and substance abuse, "with a particular focus on combating the rising kush crisis." Bio added that the task force would carry out awareness campaigns, offer treatment and clamp down on the sale of the drugs, which is cheap and easily accessible, according to health authorities and non-governmental organisations. Scores of youth addicted to Kush A report by Bloomberg on April 6 said that scores of young people in Sierra Leone are addicted to Kush, and the government has no reliable data on the exact number of users. It is a form of synthetic cannabinoid often mixed with additives including acetone, the opioid tramadol, and formaldehyde, a toxic chemical commonly used to preserve bodies in mortuaries. HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT JULIUS MAADA BIO’S NATIONAL ADDRESS ON THE DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE EPIDEMIC IN #SIERRALEONE: DECLARING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY ON DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL TASK FORCE ON DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE (NaTFDSA)… pic.twitter.com/4P5SQCr3oS — Presidency | Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 (@Presidency_SL) April 5, 2024 × President Bio said that the scale of the threat posed by the drug is similar to the outbreak of the Ebola epidemic. He further pointed out the drug's spread would threaten Sierra Leone's bid to become a middle-income country by 2039. Addicts dig up human bones to get high Several Kush addicts in Sierra Leone are digging up human bones to get high on the drug. The Bloomberg report also said that there has been an uptick in the use of Kush in Liberia and Guinea, both of which share porous land borders with Sierra Leone. (With inputs from agencies)

Sierra Leone declares national emergency over 'Kush' drug threat

<p>Mariyam Shiuna, a suspended minister in the Maldives government led by President Mohamed Muizzu, has apologised for her now-deleted social media post where she mocked the Indian flag. Shiuna's post on X was against the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).</p>

<p>The post, which mocked the MDP, showed an altered picture of Ashok Chakra, a part of the Indian flag. It triggered severe backlash from Indians as well as Maldivians.</p>

<h3><strong>Here's a look at the deleted post which came ahead of the parliamentary elections in the Maldives:</strong></h3>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looks like a deliberate instance of mis-info by the suspended Maldives minister mixing the campaign poster of opposition MDP with India ahead of Parliamentary polls. Ahead of Maldives Prez election last year, anti India mis info was seen. <a href="https://t.co/Oja4kXBHBL">pic.twitter.com/Oja4kXBHBL</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1777013049045713071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A clarification</strong></h2>

<p>Following the sharp criticism of the post, Shiuna deleted it and issued a clarification. "I would like to address a recent social media post of mine that has garnered attention and criticism. I extend my sincerest apologies for any confusion or offence caused by the content of my recent post," Shiuna said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I would like to address a recent social media post of mine that has garnered attention and criticism .I extend my sincerest apologies for any confusion or offense caused by the content of my recent post.<br />
<br />
It was brought to my attention that the image used in my response to the…</p>
— Mariyam Shiuna (@shiuna_m) <a href="https://twitter.com/shiuna_m/status/1777139111285158058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It was brought to my attention that the image used in my response to the Maldivian opposition party MDP bore a resemblance to the Indian flag. I want to make it clear that this was entirely unintentional, and I sincerely regret any misunderstanding it may have caused," she added.</p>

<p>The suspended minister also said that Maldives deeply "values its relationship and, the mutual respect we share with India."</p>

<h2><strong>Earlier controversy involving Shiuna</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first time that Shiuna has stoked controversy. Before being suspended from the cabinet, Shiuna&nbsp;as the&nbsp;deputy minister of the Maldives Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Art, made disparaging remarks on social media about Indian Prime Minister <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-govt-suspends-ministers-who-made-racist-remarks-against-indians-to-target-pm-modis-lakshadweep-visit-677475">Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshadweep</a></strong>. Following severe backlash, she removed her remarks, while&nbsp;Male distanced itself from her statements.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-fm-thanks-eam-indian-government-for-allowing-export-of-essential-commodities-708363">Maldives FM thanks Indian government, EAM for allowing export of essential commodities</a></strong></p>

<p>The latest controversy comes days after India renewed the quota to allow the export of certain&nbsp;quantities of essential commodities to Maldives. In a post, the Indian High Commission in the Maldives said that New Delhi allowed the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 at the 'request' of the Maldivian government and that it was being done under a unique bilateral mechanism.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I sincerely thank EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> and the Government of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> for the renewal of the quota to enable <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a> to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025.<br />
<br />
This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong…</p>
— Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoosaZameer/status/1776324964381343971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"I sincerely thank EAM S Jaishankar and the Government of India for the renewal of the quota to enable Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries," Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer said on Saturday (April 6).&nbsp;</p>


Mariyam Shiuna, a suspended minister in the Maldives government led by President Mohamed Muizzu, has apologised for her now-deleted social media post where she mocked the Indian flag.

Mariyam Shiuna, a suspended minister in the Maldives government led by President Mohamed Muizzu, has apologised for her now-deleted social media post where she mocked the Indian flag. Shiuna's post on X was against the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The post, which mocked the MDP, showed an altered picture of Ashok Chakra, a part of the Indian flag. It triggered severe backlash from Indians as well as Maldivians. Here's a look at the deleted post which came ahead of the parliamentary elections in the Maldives: Looks like a deliberate instance of mis-info by the suspended Maldives minister mixing the campaign poster of opposition MDP with India ahead of Parliamentary polls. Ahead of Maldives Prez election last year, anti India mis info was seen. pic.twitter.com/Oja4kXBHBL — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 7, 2024 × A clarification Following the sharp criticism of the post, Shiuna deleted it and issued a clarification. "I would like to address a recent social media post of mine that has garnered attention and criticism. I extend my sincerest apologies for any confusion or offence caused by the content of my recent post," Shiuna said. I would like to address a recent social media post of mine that has garnered attention and criticism .I extend my sincerest apologies for any confusion or offense caused by the content of my recent post. It was brought to my attention that the image used in my response to the… — Mariyam Shiuna (@shiuna_m) April 8, 2024 × "It was brought to my attention that the image used in my response to the Maldivian opposition party MDP bore a resemblance to the Indian flag. I want to make it clear that this was entirely unintentional, and I sincerely regret any misunderstanding it may have caused," she added. The suspended minister also said that Maldives deeply "values its relationship and, the mutual respect we share with India." Earlier controversy involving Shiuna This is not the first time that Shiuna has stoked controversy. Before being suspended from the cabinet, Shiuna as the deputy minister of the Maldives Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Art, made disparaging remarks on social media about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshadweep. Following severe backlash, she removed her remarks, while Male distanced itself from her statements. Also read | Maldives FM thanks Indian government, EAM for allowing export of essential commodities The latest controversy comes days after India renewed the quota to allow the export of certain quantities of essential commodities to Maldives. In a post, the Indian High Commission in the Maldives said that New Delhi allowed the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 at the 'request' of the Maldivian government and that it was being done under a unique bilateral mechanism. I sincerely thank EAM @DrSJaishankar and the Government of #India for the renewal of the quota to enable #Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong… — Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) April 5, 2024 × "I sincerely thank EAM S Jaishankar and the Government of India for the renewal of the quota to enable Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries," Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer said on Saturday (April 6).

Maldives ex-minister apologises following backlash over social media post involving Indian flag

Dana White Teases Conor McGregor’s Return to UFC

UFC President Dana White is expected to make a major announcement soon, setting the table for the return of Conor McGregor (Ireland) - one of the promotion’s biggest stars.

In an Instagram story, White showed McGregor walking into a building ahead of a UFC event and captioned the story as “Coming soon...”

But Will McGregor’s Return Actually Happen?

McGregor and the UFC have been going back and forth on his return to the octagon. The Irishman announced in January that he would be fighting Michael Chandler (United States) in June but White never confirmed this fight in subsequent press conferences and interviews.

McGregor, the former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight champion, fought last in 2021 against Dustin Poirier (United States) and suffered a severe leg injury. Since making a full recovery, the Irishman has been waiting to return to the octagon.

Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system. It is 11 times wider than Earth.

Around 1,300 Earths can fit inside Jupiter. So what happens if Earth was the size of Jupiter?

Prominent astronomy YouTuber Astro Kobi has said that if Earth were the size of Jupiter, there would be a massive increase in our body weight due to an 11 times increase in gravity. For example, if you weigh 80 kilogrammes currently on Earth, you would weigh nearly a tonne on the massively-sized Earth.

If the Earth’s rotation speed was to be the same, a day on this newly-sized planet would last 269 hours.

Our Moon would likely be torn apart and form rings around Earth similar to Saturn.

What if Earth was the Size of Jupiter?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuide6vPsI0rxfLL" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Nationalist-left government candidate Peter Pellegrini, 48, won Slovakia's presidential elections on Saturday (Apr 6), solidifying the influence of pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico over Slovakia. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Pellegrini, secured 53.26% of the vote while pro-Western opposition candidate Ivan Korcok secured 46.73%, results from 99.66% of voting districts showed.</p>

<p>Pellegrini, the former prime minister, emphasised that his win in the elections signified support for the government's agenda and a rejection of an "opportunistic opposition power centre," a reference to outgoing president Zuzana Caputova.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-weighs-in-on-multi-year-commitments-to-support-ukraine-for-long-haul-707327">NATO chief weighs in on ‘multi-year’ commitments to support Ukraine for ‘long haul’</a></strong></p>

<p>"I aspire to be the President I promised, who consistently upholds our international commitments, and protects and defends the interests of the Slovak Republic and its citizens. I am committed to doing everything in my power to achieve this goal, and I will actively support efforts to improve the lives of people in Slovakia. It is imperative that the government fulfils its program statement, ensuring a better, safer, and more prosperous life for the people of Slovakia," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>The powers of a Slovak president</strong></h2>

<p>Presidents in Slovakia do not have many executive powers. However, they can veto laws or challenge them in the constitutional court. They also nominate constitutional court judges.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NATO wrong on Russia's war backfiring?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-wrong-on-russias-war-backfiring-slovakia-bulgaria-hungary-pro-russia-in-their-attitudes-641980/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier, Pellegrini had said that his election would not mean a rush to any fundamental change in Slovakia's foreign policy. "This is not about the future direction of foreign policy. I also guarantee, like the other candidate, that we will continue to be a strong member of the EU and NATO," the 48-year-old said after casting his vote in Rovinka.</p>

<h2><strong>Korcok concedes defeat</strong></h2>

<p>Pellegrini portrayed his poll rival Korcok as a warmonger for his support for arming Ukraine (which is a war with Russia) and suggested he could take Slovak troops into the war in the neighbouring country, which Korcok denied.</p>

<p>Korcok has argued that a halt in supplying Ukraine would not lead to peace but to Russia's victory. Conceding defeat in the elections, Korcok congratulated Pellegrini but lashed out at him for winning by spreading fear.</p>

<p>"A campaign can be won by making the other a candidate of war. I will not forget this. The decisive factor was high turnout, I respect that, but it was fear that decided...spreading fear and hatred," Korcok said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nationalist-left government candidate Peter Pellegrini, 48, won Slovakia's presidential elections on Saturday (Apr 6), solidifying the influence of pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico over Slovakia.

Nationalist-left government candidate Peter Pellegrini, 48, won Slovakia's presidential elections on Saturday (Apr 6), solidifying the influence of pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico over Slovakia. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Pellegrini, secured 53.26% of the vote while pro-Western opposition candidate Ivan Korcok secured 46.73%, results from 99.66% of voting districts showed. Pellegrini, the former prime minister, emphasised that his win in the elections signified support for the government's agenda and a rejection of an "opportunistic opposition power centre," a reference to outgoing president Zuzana Caputova. Also read | NATO chief weighs in on ‘multi-year’ commitments to support Ukraine for ‘long haul’ "I aspire to be the President I promised, who consistently upholds our international commitments, and protects and defends the interests of the Slovak Republic and its citizens. I am committed to doing everything in my power to achieve this goal, and I will actively support efforts to improve the lives of people in Slovakia. It is imperative that the government fulfils its program statement, ensuring a better, safer, and more prosperous life for the people of Slovakia," he said. The powers of a Slovak president Presidents in Slovakia do not have many executive powers. However, they can veto laws or challenge them in the constitutional court. They also nominate constitutional court judges. Also watch | NATO wrong on Russia's war backfiring? × Earlier, Pellegrini had said that his election would not mean a rush to any fundamental change in Slovakia's foreign policy. "This is not about the future direction of foreign policy. I also guarantee, like the other candidate, that we will continue to be a strong member of the EU and NATO," the 48-year-old said after casting his vote in Rovinka. Korcok concedes defeat Pellegrini portrayed his poll rival Korcok as a warmonger for his support for arming Ukraine (which is a war with Russia) and suggested he could take Slovak troops into the war in the neighbouring country, which Korcok denied. Korcok has argued that a halt in supplying Ukraine would not lead to peace but to Russia's victory. Conceding defeat in the elections, Korcok congratulated Pellegrini but lashed out at him for winning by spreading fear. "A campaign can be won by making the other a candidate of war. I will not forget this. The decisive factor was high turnout, I respect that, but it was fear that decided...spreading fear and hatred," Korcok said. (With inputs from agencies)

Slovakia presidential polls: Peter Pellegrini wins elections, hits out at outgoing prez

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidG8L3tNKVA9ON" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>As the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip&nbsp;completes&nbsp;six months, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) chief Jose Andres accuses&nbsp;Israel of conducting a "war against humanity itself." Speaking to ABC News, Andres said on Saturday (Apr 6) that this conflict did not seem like a war against terror.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's been six months of targeting anything that seems moves. This doesn't seem a war against terror. This doesn't seem anymore a war about defending Israel. This really, at this point, seems is a war against humanity itself," he added.</p>

<h2>Seven WCK workers killed in Israeli strike</h2>

<p>Andres and his foundation the WCK recently made headlines after seven workers of the agency were killed in a strike on their aid convoy by the Israeli military on Monday (April 1). The strike, which Israel said was unintentional, took place in an area that was overseen by the Israeli military, according to Andres.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-between-killed-killers-and-captives-gaza-completes-a-semester-of-war-708599">Explained: Between killed, killers, and captives, Gaza completes a semester of war</a></strong></p>

<p>The seven aid workers killed included an Australian, three British citizens, and an American.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel dismisses two officers for WCK killings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, the Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders following an inquiry into the April 1 killings of the seven WCK workers. The inquiry found that the military mistakenly believed they were attacking Hamas gunmen when drones hit the three vehicles of the WCK, and that standard procedure had not been followed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Six months into Israel-Hamas war, no end to devastation in Gaza</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/six-months-into-israel-hamas-war-no-end-to-devastation-in-gaza-708533/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The strike on the aid vehicles is a grave mistake stemming from a serious failure due to a mistaken identification, errors in decision-making, and an attack contrary to the Standard Operating Procedures," the military said on Friday.</p>

<p>The military's justification came as the WCK demanded an independent commission to investigate the killings, saying that Israel could not credibly investigate its own "failure."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip completes six months, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) chief Jose Andres accuses Israel of conducting a "war against humanity itself.

As the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip completes six months, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) chief Jose Andres accuses Israel of conducting a "war against humanity itself." Speaking to ABC News, Andres said on Saturday (Apr 6) that this conflict did not seem like a war against terror. "It's been six months of targeting anything that seems moves. This doesn't seem a war against terror. This doesn't seem anymore a war about defending Israel. This really, at this point, seems is a war against humanity itself," he added. Seven WCK workers killed in Israeli strike Andres and his foundation the WCK recently made headlines after seven workers of the agency were killed in a strike on their aid convoy by the Israeli military on Monday (April 1). The strike, which Israel said was unintentional, took place in an area that was overseen by the Israeli military, according to Andres. Also read | Explained: Between killed, killers, and captives, Gaza completes a semester of war The seven aid workers killed included an Australian, three British citizens, and an American. Israel dismisses two officers for WCK killings Earlier this week, the Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders following an inquiry into the April 1 killings of the seven WCK workers. The inquiry found that the military mistakenly believed they were attacking Hamas gunmen when drones hit the three vehicles of the WCK, and that standard procedure had not been followed. Also watch | Six months into Israel-Hamas war, no end to devastation in Gaza × "The strike on the aid vehicles is a grave mistake stemming from a serious failure due to a mistaken identification, errors in decision-making, and an attack contrary to the Standard Operating Procedures," the military said on Friday. The military's justification came as the WCK demanded an independent commission to investigate the killings, saying that Israel could not credibly investigate its own "failure." (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: World Central Kitchen chief says Israel conducting 'war against humanity itself'

Israeli embassies around the world shut down on Friday as the Israeli military braced for a potential retaliatory attack by Iran. The move follows a strike in Syria, attributed to Israel, that killed senior officers from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Six months on, Gaza Health Ministry says 33,137 civilians killed

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Harshit Sabarwal

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.