Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Oct 5) that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club, President Putin alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Oct 5) that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club, President Putin alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy." "At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said. He added that the West was trying to cast Arabs as the enemy. The Russian president also said that countries such as India, Brazil, and South Africa deserve more representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and added that the UN should be reformed but gradually. Ukraine would only last for a week if foreign aid stopped: Putin During Thursday's event, Vladimir Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped. "Generally speaking, the Ukrainian economy can not function without external assistance. Things have changed. Look, on the outside, it is all balanced there. The Ukrainian budget is balanced, and the macroeconomic indicators have levelled. But thanks to what? Thanks to multi-billion donations that come each month," Putin said. "If one just stops it (SNAPS FINGERS), it will all die in a week. The same applies to the defence system. Just imagine - the aid stops tomorrow. It will live only for a week - when they run out of ammo," he added. 'Russia did not start war in Ukraine' The Russian president also asserted that Moscow did not start the war in Ukraine but launched what it calls a "special military operation" to try to stop it. "There is this ever-increasing military and political pressure. We have to respond. I have said many times that we did not start the so-called war in Ukraine. On the contrary, we are trying to end it. It was not us who worked a state coup in Kyiv in 2014 - bloody and anti-constitutional," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian leadership self-directed, led by national interests: Putin

An elderly&nbsp;woman&nbsp;in Russia's Far East was revealed on Wednesday to have lived for 80 years with an inch-long needle in her brain, after doctors made the unexpected discovery during a CT scan.

Doctors believe the&nbsp;woman&nbsp;was the victim of a failed infanticide carried out by her parents, and said they would not attempt to remove the needle for fear of worsening her condition.

"Such cases during years of famine were not uncommon," the local health department in the remote&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;region of Sakhalin said.

It said her parents likely decided to put their child to death during World War II, as she had been living with the three-centimetre-long needle "since birth".

This method was often used to hide evidence of the crime, it said.

Food shortages were prevalent across the Soviet Union during the war, and many people lived in dire poverty.

"The needle penetrated her left parietal lobe, but it did not have the intended effect -- the girl survived," the local health department said.

It said the patient had never complained of headaches due to the injury, and was not in any danger.

"Her condition is being monitored by the attending physician," it said.

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An elderly woman in Russia's Far East was revealed on Wednesday to have lived for 80 years with an inch-long needle in her brain, after doctors made the unexpected discovery during a CT scan.

An elderly woman in Russia's Far East was revealed on Wednesday to have lived for 80 years with an inch-long needle in her brain, after doctors made the unexpected discovery during a CT scan. Doctors believe the woman was the victim of a failed infanticide carried out by her parents, and said they would not attempt to remove the needle for fear of worsening her condition. "Such cases during years of famine were not uncommon," the local health department in the remote Russian region of Sakhalin said. It said her parents likely decided to put their child to death during World War II, as she had been living with the three-centimetre-long needle "since birth". This method was often used to hide evidence of the crime, it said. Food shortages were prevalent across the Soviet Union during the war, and many people lived in dire poverty. "The needle penetrated her left parietal lobe, but it did not have the intended effect -- the girl survived," the local health department said. It said the patient had never complained of headaches due to the injury, and was not in any danger. "Her condition is being monitored by the attending physician," it said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian doctors find needle in 80-year-old woman's brain

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2). In his Tory conference speech, Prime Minister Sunak sought to make fun of Sturgeon after she was arrested and questioned as part of the police's investigation into her party,&nbsp;the Scottish National Party's (SNP) finances,&nbsp;dubbed Operation Branchform.

As per the report, Alba Party's General Secretary Chris McEleny reported Sunak to the Scottish Police for contempt of court allegations. "The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak) is commenting on, and making an assumption about a live Police Scotland investigation," McEleny said. “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak”, he added.

Sunak made the comments about Sturgeon as he claimed the union between Scotland and the rest of the UK was “the strongest it has been in a quarter of a century.”

However, McEleny said, “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak.” The Alba General secretary added that as a result, he was “formally complaining about the offence of Contempt of Court”, requesting police to investigate this.

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2).

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been reported to the Scottish Police over his comments made about former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, a report by the Independent said late Wednesday (Oct 2). In his Tory conference speech, Prime Minister Sunak sought to make fun of Sturgeon after she was arrested and questioned as part of the police's investigation into her party, the Scottish National Party's (SNP) finances, dubbed Operation Branchform. As per the report, Alba Party's General Secretary Chris McEleny reported Sunak to the Scottish Police for contempt of court allegations. "The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak) is commenting on, and making an assumption about a live Police Scotland investigation," McEleny said. “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak”, he added. Sunak made the comments about Sturgeon as he claimed the union between Scotland and the rest of the UK was “the strongest it has been in a quarter of a century.” However, McEleny said, “Operation Branchform should be free to pursue its investigation fearlessly without interference from Rishi Sunak.” The Alba General secretary added that as a result, he was “formally complaining about the offence of Contempt of Court”, requesting police to investigate this. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK PM Sunak reported to Scottish police over comments on Sturgeon

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried's lawyer Mark Cohen said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that crypto was not for everyone and acknowledged that his client was in a risky business. In his opening statement at Bankman-Fried's trial, Cohen said, "You will learn that crypto was not for everyone. On the one hand, it was new and exciting."

"But on the other hand, many factors that nobody controlled could make crypto go up and down in value. So too crypto companies themselves could rise and fall very quickly," he added.

<h2>A car race ad contradicts lawyer's remarks</h2>

However, FTX asserted the opposite in an online post about a car race it sponsored in Miami Beach, six months before the cryptocurrency exchange's collapse in November last year. "Crypto is for everyone, as should be motorsports," FTX posted on May 13, 2022, on its official account on Twitter, now called X. A video alongside the post showed racing cars, bartenders pouring cocktails, and retired basketball star Shaquille O'Neal giving high-fives.

During the trial, prosecutors played for the jury FTX video advertisements in which a narrator said, "We're inviting everyone in," as well as spots featuring NFL star Tom Brady and comedian Larry David.

Cohen told the jury that it was not a crime to "try to get Tom Brady to come on ads for your company."

The bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange's promoters, including O'Neal, Brady and David had been sued over the claims that they had engaged in deceptive practices. The celebrities have said the lawsuit should be dismissed, arguing they did not cause FTX investors' losses.

Bankman-Fried, 31, pleaded not guilty to two counts of fraud and five counts of conspiracy over the collapse of FTX. On Wednesday, prosecutors said that the disgraced crypto star stole $10 billion in customer funds to buy luxury real estate, donate to US political candidates, and plug losses at his hedge fund.

Prosecutor Thane Rehn said FTX's commercials promoted the exchange as trustworthy - even while Bankman-Fried was allegedly stealing deposits. Cohen responded by saying that his client never intended to steal funds.

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FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried's lawyer Mark Cohen said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that crypto was not for everyone and acknowledged that his client was in a risky business.

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried's lawyer Mark Cohen said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that crypto was not for everyone and acknowledged that his client was in a risky business. In his opening statement at Bankman-Fried's trial, Cohen said, "You will learn that crypto was not for everyone. On the one hand, it was new and exciting." "But on the other hand, many factors that nobody controlled could make crypto go up and down in value. So too crypto companies themselves could rise and fall very quickly," he added. A car race ad contradicts lawyer's remarks However, FTX asserted the opposite in an online post about a car race it sponsored in Miami Beach, six months before the cryptocurrency exchange's collapse in November last year. "Crypto is for everyone, as should be motorsports," FTX posted on May 13, 2022, on its official account on Twitter, now called X. A video alongside the post showed racing cars, bartenders pouring cocktails, and retired basketball star Shaquille O'Neal giving high-fives. During the trial, prosecutors played for the jury FTX video advertisements in which a narrator said, "We're inviting everyone in," as well as spots featuring NFL star Tom Brady and comedian Larry David. Cohen told the jury that it was not a crime to "try to get Tom Brady to come on ads for your company." The bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange's promoters, including O'Neal, Brady and David had been sued over the claims that they had engaged in deceptive practices. The celebrities have said the lawsuit should be dismissed, arguing they did not cause FTX investors' losses. Bankman-Fried, 31, pleaded not guilty to two counts of fraud and five counts of conspiracy over the collapse of FTX. On Wednesday, prosecutors said that the disgraced crypto star stole $10 billion in customer funds to buy luxury real estate, donate to US political candidates, and plug losses at his hedge fund. Prosecutor Thane Rehn said FTX's commercials promoted the exchange as trustworthy - even while Bankman-Fried was allegedly stealing deposits. Cohen responded by saying that his client never intended to steal funds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bankman-Fried trial: Crypto was not for everyone, says FTX founder's lawyer

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday (Oct 4) carried out a satellite-based study on the outburst of the South Lhonk Lake in Sikkim which caused a flash flood in the state.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday (Oct 4) carried out a satellite-based study on the outburst of the South Lhonk Lake in Sikkim which caused a flash flood in the state. In a statement, ISRO said, "It is observed that Lake is Burst and about 105 Hectares area has been drained out (28 September 2023 image versus 04 October 2023) which might have created a flash flood downstream." "ISRO will continue monitoring the lake further using the satellite data," the statement added. What do the satellite images show? A satellite image shared by ISRO on its website depicted South Lhonak Lake and its surroundings as observed by RISAT 1A on Wednesday; Pre & Post view of South Lhonak Lake as observed by RISAT 1A on Wednesday morning and by Sentinel 1A on September 28 evening; temporal changes in the lake area as on September 17, 2023, September 28, 2023, and October 4, 2023. In another satellite image, ISRO said it received information about the flash flood in Teesta River, adding the suspected reason from various ground sources was the outburst of the South Lhonk Lake. "It is found that the lake area is reduced drastically when compared with September 17, 2023, RISAT 1A satellite data," the space agency added. Death toll climbs to 14; 102 still missing The death toll due to the flash flood has climbed to 14 and 102 missing are still missing. Twenty-six people have been injured so far. On Wednesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and took stock of the situation. "Spoke to Sikkim CM Shri @PSTamangGolay and took stock of the situation in the wake of the unfortunate natural calamity in parts of the state. Assured all possible support in addressing the challenge. I pray for the safety and well-being of all those affected," Prime Minister Modi said in a post on X. Several towns, including Dikchu, Singtam and Rangpo located in the Teesta basin, have also been flooded with the upsurge in the river. Meanwhile, all schools located in Mangan, Gangtok, Pakyong and Namchi districts will remain closed till October 8, the state government said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sikkim floods: Death toll climbs to 14; ISRO conducts image-based study of South Lhonk Lake

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Oct 4) announced that his administration approved an additional $9 billion in student debt relief for 125,000 borrowers.

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Oct 4) announced that his administration approved an additional $9 billion in student debt relief for 125,000 borrowers. President Biden said that this additional approval brought the total approved debt cancellation by his administration to $127 billion for nearly 3.6 million American citizens. "This kind of relief is life-changing for individuals and their families. But it's good for our economy as a whole as well," Biden said. "Next, we fixed what's called the income-driven repayment program. Here's how that works. If you have an undergraduate loan, after 20 years of straight pay, not missing paying a debt on a monthly basis, whatever's left of your loan is forgiven after 20 years. But because of administrative failures, some people who did pay their loans for 20 years or more did not get the debt relief they'd earned. We fixed that and made sure borrowers got credit for every single payment they made," he added. Biden also said that his administration was doing everything it could to deliver student debt relief "to as many as we can as fast as we can." Biden admits worry about aid for war-torn Ukraine On Wednesday, President Biden also said that he was worried that the ongoing political turmoil in the US could threaten Washington's aid to war-torn Ukraine. He urged Republicans to stop their infighting and back "critically important" assistance for Kyiv. "It does worry me," Biden told reporters when asked whether the ousting of Republican House speaker Kevin McCarthy by hardliners in his own party could derail more funds for Ukraine's war effort. "But I know there are a majority of members of the House and Senate of both parties who have said that they support funding Ukraine," he added. The president also said he would soon be giving a major speech on the need to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion. He declined to comment on when he would make the speech. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Biden announces $9 billion more in student debt relief

Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig.

Elsewhere in Europe's elite club competition there was a victory for Barcelona in Xavi Hernandez's 100th game as coach and an agonising last-gasp defeat for Celtic against Lazio.

But Newcastle stole the show on a night to remember for their fans on Tyneside as Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schaer all scored to inflict on the French club their heaviest&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group-stage loss since the Qatari takeover of 2011.

Almiron gave Saudi-owned Newcastle a 17th-minute lead following an error by PSG captain Marquinhos, and a Burn header that crossed the line before Gianluigi Donnarumma could swat it away was given after a VAR check for a possible offside six minutes prior to the break.

With Kylian Mbappe unable to make an impact, Longstaff pounced on passive defending to make it 3-0 early in the second half.

Lucas Hernandez pulled one back but a classy strike by Schaer rounded off a fine night for Newcastle at the death.

"PSG are such a good team, we had to defend really well and our spirit was brilliant," Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told broadcaster TNT Sports.

Newcastle go top of Group F and PSG are second after rivals Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan played out a 0-0 draw in Germany.

<h2>Alvarez strike sinks Leipzig</h2>

Reigning&nbsp;champions&nbsp;City are well on course to qualify for the knockout stages after successfully negotiating their hardest test in Group G to beat Leipzig 3-1 away.

Phil Foden finished off a fine move to put City ahead midway through the first half, only for Lois Openda to equalise just after the interval.

Foden then hit the bar from a free-kick and it looked like Pep Guardiola's side might have to settle for a point until substitute Julian Alvarez found the top corner with a superb strike on 84 minutes.

Alvarez then turned provider for Jeremy Doku to make it 3-1 in stoppage time as City made it two wins out of two in the competition this season.

"We played a fantastic game in all departments. Everyone was perfect," Guardiola told TNT Sports.

Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys got off the mark in the same group with a 2-2 draw in Serbia, where Osman Bukari grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser for the home team.

Cherif Ndiaye had given Red Star the lead but Young Boys -- who face City next -- drew level through Filip Ugrinic and then went ahead courtesy of a Cedric Itten penalty.

<h2>Barcelona beat Porto</h2>

Barcelona celebrated a landmark night for Xavi with a 1-0 victory away to Porto in Portugal in what was on paper their toughest assignment in Group H.

Ferran Torres scored the only goal as Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever starter in a&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;match at the age of 16 years and 83 days.

"We had been talking about it, this match was worth half of the qualification," Torres told broadcaster Movistar.

Barcelona ended the game with 10 men after Gavi was sent off late on.

Earlier, Shakhtar Donetsk got a first win in the same group with a remarkable comeback from two goals down to beat Royal Antwerp 3-2 in Belgium.

Arbnor Muja and Michel-Ange Balikwisha had Antwerp 2-0 up at the break, but a brace by Danylo Sikan either side of a Yaroslav Rakitskyy goal turned the game on its head.

Antwerp still could have earned a draw but Toby Alderweireld missed a penalty deep in stoppage time.

Celtic suffered a second straight defeat in Group E after Pedro Rodriguez's 95th-minute strike gave Lazio a 2-1 victory in Glasgow.

Kyogo Furuhashi had put Celtic in front but Matias Vecino equalised, paving the way for the dramatic finale.

Atletico Madrid beat Feyenoord 3-2 in the same group, with Alvaro Morata scoring twice and Antoine Griezmann also on target.

The Dutch&nbsp;champions&nbsp;had led twice, first through a Mario Hermoso own goal and then through David Hancko, but Atletico hit back each time.

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Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first Champions League match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig.

Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first Champions League match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig. Elsewhere in Europe's elite club competition there was a victory for Barcelona in Xavi Hernandez's 100th game as coach and an agonising last-gasp defeat for Celtic against Lazio. But Newcastle stole the show on a night to remember for their fans on Tyneside as Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schaer all scored to inflict on the French club their heaviest Champions League group-stage loss since the Qatari takeover of 2011. Almiron gave Saudi-owned Newcastle a 17th-minute lead following an error by PSG captain Marquinhos, and a Burn header that crossed the line before Gianluigi Donnarumma could swat it away was given after a VAR check for a possible offside six minutes prior to the break. With Kylian Mbappe unable to make an impact, Longstaff pounced on passive defending to make it 3-0 early in the second half. Lucas Hernandez pulled one back but a classy strike by Schaer rounded off a fine night for Newcastle at the death. "PSG are such a good team, we had to defend really well and our spirit was brilliant," Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told broadcaster TNT Sports. Newcastle go top of Group F and PSG are second after rivals Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan played out a 0-0 draw in Germany. Alvarez strike sinks Leipzig Reigning champions City are well on course to qualify for the knockout stages after successfully negotiating their hardest test in Group G to beat Leipzig 3-1 away. Phil Foden finished off a fine move to put City ahead midway through the first half, only for Lois Openda to equalise just after the interval. Foden then hit the bar from a free-kick and it looked like Pep Guardiola's side might have to settle for a point until substitute Julian Alvarez found the top corner with a superb strike on 84 minutes. Alvarez then turned provider for Jeremy Doku to make it 3-1 in stoppage time as City made it two wins out of two in the competition this season. "We played a fantastic game in all departments. Everyone was perfect," Guardiola told TNT Sports. Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys got off the mark in the same group with a 2-2 draw in Serbia, where Osman Bukari grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser for the home team. Cherif Ndiaye had given Red Star the lead but Young Boys -- who face City next -- drew level through Filip Ugrinic and then went ahead courtesy of a Cedric Itten penalty. Barcelona beat Porto Barcelona celebrated a landmark night for Xavi with a 1-0 victory away to Porto in Portugal in what was on paper their toughest assignment in Group H. Ferran Torres scored the only goal as Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever starter in a Champions League match at the age of 16 years and 83 days. "We had been talking about it, this match was worth half of the qualification," Torres told broadcaster Movistar. Barcelona ended the game with 10 men after Gavi was sent off late on. Earlier, Shakhtar Donetsk got a first win in the same group with a remarkable comeback from two goals down to beat Royal Antwerp 3-2 in Belgium. Arbnor Muja and Michel-Ange Balikwisha had Antwerp 2-0 up at the break, but a brace by Danylo Sikan either side of a Yaroslav Rakitskyy goal turned the game on its head. Antwerp still could have earned a draw but Toby Alderweireld missed a penalty deep in stoppage time. Celtic suffered a second straight defeat in Group E after Pedro Rodriguez's 95th-minute strike gave Lazio a 2-1 victory in Glasgow. Kyogo Furuhashi had put Celtic in front but Matias Vecino equalised, paving the way for the dramatic finale. Atletico Madrid beat Feyenoord 3-2 in the same group, with Alvaro Morata scoring twice and Antoine Griezmann also on target. The Dutch champions had led twice, first through a Mario Hermoso own goal and then through David Hancko, but Atletico hit back each time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Newcastle hand PSG a Champions League lesson, Man City beat Leipzig

Representative Jim Jordan became the first Republican on Wednesday (Oct 4) to launch a run for Speaker of the House of Representatives after the unprecedented ouster of Kevin McCarthy in a vote by his own party.

According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Jordan, 59, will likely contend with Steve Scalise.

Kevin McCarthy's removal from the House speaker's post was the first time the chamber has removed its leader from a position that is second in line to the president after the vice president.

Republicans have set a vote on October 11 to choose a successor and are due to meet the day before to hear from their candidates. On Wednesday, Republican lawmakers emerging from a private party meeting mainly named Scalise and Jordan as leading candidates.

Jordan, who has led investigations of the current Biden administration, is the first to publicly say he is interested in the House Speaker's job, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

In a letter to fellow party leaders, Jordan wrote of his leading role in a bill that would dramatically tighten immigration, calling it "the most significant legislation this Congress.

"We can focus on the changes that improve the country and unite us in offering real solutions. But no matter what we do, we must do it together as a conference," he said.

The 59-year-old first gained prominence as a leader of the party's right wing before eventually allying with McCarthy.&nbsp;

As chair of the Judiciary Committee, he is involved in the impeachment investigation into Biden and has tangled with state prosecutors who have filed criminal cases against Trump.

Scalise, meanwhile, is yet to announce his candidacy despite meeting Republicans to gather support. "I've been just listening to a lot of members and have had a lot of really good conversations,” he told reporters.

The leadership fight is eating into the time lawmakers have to extend government spending before it expires on November 18 and update farm subsidy and nutrition programs, among other tasks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Representative Jim Jordan became the first Republican on Wednesday (Oct 4) to launch a run for Speaker of the House of Representatives after the unprecedented ouster of Kevin McCarthy in a vote by his own party.

Representative Jim Jordan became the first Republican on Wednesday (Oct 4) to launch a run for Speaker of the House of Representatives after the unprecedented ouster of Kevin McCarthy in a vote by his own party. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Jordan, 59, will likely contend with Steve Scalise. Kevin McCarthy's removal from the House speaker's post was the first time the chamber has removed its leader from a position that is second in line to the president after the vice president. Republicans have set a vote on October 11 to choose a successor and are due to meet the day before to hear from their candidates. On Wednesday, Republican lawmakers emerging from a private party meeting mainly named Scalise and Jordan as leading candidates. Jordan, who has led investigations of the current Biden administration, is the first to publicly say he is interested in the House Speaker's job, Reuters reported. In a letter to fellow party leaders, Jordan wrote of his leading role in a bill that would dramatically tighten immigration, calling it "the most significant legislation this Congress. "We can focus on the changes that improve the country and unite us in offering real solutions. But no matter what we do, we must do it together as a conference," he said. The 59-year-old first gained prominence as a leader of the party's right wing before eventually allying with McCarthy. As chair of the Judiciary Committee, he is involved in the impeachment investigation into Biden and has tangled with state prosecutors who have filed criminal cases against Trump. Scalise, meanwhile, is yet to announce his candidacy despite meeting Republicans to gather support. "I've been just listening to a lot of members and have had a lot of really good conversations,” he told reporters. The leadership fight is eating into the time lawmakers have to extend government spending before it expires on November 18 and update farm subsidy and nutrition programs, among other tasks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Following McCarthy's ouster, Jim Jordan to run for House speaker's post

Canada's House of Commons on Tuesday (Oct 3) elected&nbsp;Greg Fergus as its new speaker, making him the first Black Canadian to take charge of the top post. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the members of the 338-seat House voted for Fergus in a secret ballot. Fergus came ahead of candidates including fellow Liberal MP Sean Casey, Conservative Chris d'Entremont, and Green Party leader Elizabeth May.

"Today you're the first Black Canadian to become speaker.&nbsp;It should be inspiring for all Canadians, especially younger generations who want to get involved in politics," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said.&nbsp;

Fergus' appointment comes after previous speaker&nbsp;Anthony Rota resigned last week after inviting former Nazi soldier&nbsp;Yaroslav Hunka to the Canadian Parliament.&nbsp;

Without knowing Hunka's full background, Rota publicly recognized him as a veteran soldier for Ukraine and a hero who had emigrated to Canada, prompting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally apologize for the gaffe last week.

The House speaker is meant to be an impartial arbitrator of parliamentary procedure, seeking to maintain order and decorum during debates. The speaker votes only to break a tie, and plays a ceremonial role as an institutional representative of parliament.

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Canada's House of Commons on Tuesday (Oct 3) elected Greg Fergus as its new speaker, making him the first Black Canadian to take charge of the top post. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the members of the 338-seat House voted for Fergus in a secret ballot.

Canada's House of Commons on Tuesday (Oct 3) elected Greg Fergus as its new speaker, making him the first Black Canadian to take charge of the top post. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the members of the 338-seat House voted for Fergus in a secret ballot. Fergus came ahead of candidates including fellow Liberal MP Sean Casey, Conservative Chris d'Entremont, and Green Party leader Elizabeth May. "Today you're the first Black Canadian to become speaker. It should be inspiring for all Canadians, especially younger generations who want to get involved in politics," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Fergus' appointment comes after previous speaker Anthony Rota resigned last week after inviting former Nazi soldier Yaroslav Hunka to the Canadian Parliament. Without knowing Hunka's full background, Rota publicly recognized him as a veteran soldier for Ukraine and a hero who had emigrated to Canada, prompting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally apologize for the gaffe last week. The House speaker is meant to be an impartial arbitrator of parliamentary procedure, seeking to maintain order and decorum during debates. The speaker votes only to break a tie, and plays a ceremonial role as an institutional representative of parliament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greg Fergus becomes first Black Canadian to be elected as House speaker

Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted from his role as the speaker of the US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Oct 3) by eight Republican hardliners, said that he would not run for speaker again, adding he would have the conference pick somebody else.

Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted from his role as the speaker of the US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Oct 3) by eight Republican hardliners, said that he would not run for speaker again, adding he would have the conference pick somebody else. "I believe I can continue to fight, maybe in a different manner. I will not run for speaker again; I’ll have the conference pick somebody else," McCarthy, 58, told reporters. "I ended up being the 55th speaker of the House -- one of the greatest honours. I loved every minute," he said. McCarthy added that he did not regret standing up for choosing to govern over grievance, adding it was his responsibility and his job. Hitting out at the Republicans who led the ouster, the 58-year-old said, "My fear is the institution fell today because you can't do the job if eight people, you have 94% of, or 96% of your entire conference, but eight people can partner with the whole other side. How do you govern?" The first ouster of a speaker in House's 234-year history For the first time in its 234-year history, the House backed a resolution "to vacate the office of the speaker" with a 216-210 vote, setting the stage for an unprecedented contest to replace McCarthy a year before the presidential election. McCarthy had sparked fury among the Republican hardliners last weekend when he worked with Democrats to pass a stopgap funding measure to avert a government shutdown. The call for his ouster was led by Republican lawmaker Matt Gaetz. Republicans will now gather at 6:30 pm (2230 GMT) to discuss putting up a candidate for a vote to be the new speaker. McCarthy's ouster amounts to victory for Trump Speaking to the news agency Reuters, an analyst said that McCarthy's ouster was indicative of the disintegration of the Republican party, and amounted to a victory for former president Donald Trump, who is a 2024 presidential hopeful. Princeton University historian Sean Wilentz said that McCarthy’s ouster by a wing of the Republican party close to Trump allowed the former president to achieve some of the goals his supporters failed to when they stormed the US Capitol in January 2021. If the removal of McCarthy led to a shutdown of the US government, history showed that neither party would benefit, Wilentz added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will not run for US House speaker again: McCarthy after he was forced out in historic vote

Colombian President Gustavo Petro launched a new national drug policy on Tuesday (Oct 3) that would focus on reducing the size of coca crops, cutting potential cocaine output, and preventing deforestation linked to drug trafficking. Addressing an event in El Tambo, a municipality in Cauca province, President Petro said that the policy would run from 2023 to 2033.

Petro said that the policy would support regions, communities, and ecosystems affected by illegal drugs, helping people to abandon illegal activities in favour of legal economies, and transforming their economic and social conditions in the process.

"We want to carry out the first concerted experience with the entire community, some will want to, some will not. This is to transform one economy into another. This is undoubtedly worth money and this requires a state and more than the state, a social effort that goes beyond our own nation. It is a national effort. With you we want to change this economy," Petro added.

The president also pointed out that his government wanted to show the world how a policy that is not based on prison, extradition, and state corruption or repression could be far more effective. It would encourage the voluntary eradication of coca crops, to replace the plants with coffee, cocoa, or fruit, and will see the State increase its presence in Colombia's remote regions.&nbsp;

The policy would also focus on implementing environmental management and measures to conserve and restore areas affected by drug trafficking while tackling drug use with a focus on public health and human rights.

Colombia has been among the top global producers of cocaine and of the coca leaf it is made of. As per the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, in 2022, coca crops covered some 2,300 square kilometres of Colombia's territory - up 13% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the potential cocaine output rose 24% to 1,738 metric tons.

Despite the launch of the new drug policy, the government would continue to target the finances of criminal organizations involved in the drug trade.&nbsp;

Last month, President Petro proposed an alliance between Latin American countries to transform the war on drugs by recognising drug consumption as a public health problem instead of confronting it with what he called a "failed" militarized approach.

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Colombian President Gustavo Petro launched a new national drug policy on Tuesday (Oct 3) that would focus on reducing the size of coca crops, cutting potential cocaine output, and preventing deforestation linked to drug trafficking.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro launched a new national drug policy on Tuesday (Oct 3) that would focus on reducing the size of coca crops, cutting potential cocaine output, and preventing deforestation linked to drug trafficking. Addressing an event in El Tambo, a municipality in Cauca province, President Petro said that the policy would run from 2023 to 2033. Petro said that the policy would support regions, communities, and ecosystems affected by illegal drugs, helping people to abandon illegal activities in favour of legal economies, and transforming their economic and social conditions in the process. "We want to carry out the first concerted experience with the entire community, some will want to, some will not. This is to transform one economy into another. This is undoubtedly worth money and this requires a state and more than the state, a social effort that goes beyond our own nation. It is a national effort. With you we want to change this economy," Petro added. The president also pointed out that his government wanted to show the world how a policy that is not based on prison, extradition, and state corruption or repression could be far more effective. It would encourage the voluntary eradication of coca crops, to replace the plants with coffee, cocoa, or fruit, and will see the State increase its presence in Colombia's remote regions. The policy would also focus on implementing environmental management and measures to conserve and restore areas affected by drug trafficking while tackling drug use with a focus on public health and human rights. Colombia has been among the top global producers of cocaine and of the coca leaf it is made of. As per the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, in 2022, coca crops covered some 2,300 square kilometres of Colombia's territory - up 13% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the potential cocaine output rose 24% to 1,738 metric tons. Despite the launch of the new drug policy, the government would continue to target the finances of criminal organizations involved in the drug trade. Last month, President Petro proposed an alliance between Latin American countries to transform the war on drugs by recognising drug consumption as a public health problem instead of confronting it with what he called a "failed" militarized approach. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Colombia launches new anti-drug plan till 2033. Here's what it focuses on

The trial of disgraced crypto star Sam Bankman-Fried got underway on Tuesday (Oct 3) with a jury set to determine if he committed massive fraud by stealing billions of dollars from clients.

The trial of disgraced crypto star Sam Bankman-Fried got underway on Tuesday (Oct 3) with a jury set to determine if he committed massive fraud by stealing billions of dollars from clients. The first day of the trial was devoted to jury selection for the case which would last for six weeks. Bankman-Fried, 31, faces seven counts including wire fraud, securities and commodities fraud, and money laundering. In the federal courthouse in lower Manhattan, US District Judge Lewis Kaplan told a group of 50 prospective jurors that he would ask them questions to try to seat a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates that could be fair to both prosecutors and the defence, the news agency Reuters reported. "The object is to select a jury of individuals who no matter what they may know or not know about these parties or about this case are willing and able to decide this case in a manner that's fair and impartial to both sides based solely on the evidence," Kaplan said. Bankman-Fried entered the courtroom alone - without being escorted by security guards - uncuffed, and took his place alongside his lawyers. The case According to federal prosecutors, Bankman-Fried embezzled from FTX customers from its founding in 2019 until its November 2022 bankruptcy to prop up his hedge fund Alameda Research, buy luxury properties, and donate over $100 million to American political candidates. A report by the news agency AFP said that the climax of the six-week trial is expected when the 31-year-old's former friends and colleagues take the stand, including his one-time romantic partner and Alameda executive Caroline Ellison, and his closest ally Gary Wang. Ellison and Wang have also been indicted in the case and agreed to cooperate with US authorities, which may prove Bankman-Fried's undoing. Bankman-Fried's defence The disgraced crypto star is expected to argue that FTX's Terms of Service did not prohibit the exchange from using customer funds for its own purposes, as long as it allowed users to withdraw their money. Bankman-Fried acknowledged inadequate risk management, but he denied stealing funds. The possible trial witnesses The possible witnesses in the trial might include Bankman-Fried's father and brother, as well as Donald Trump's former spokesman Anthony Scaramucci. Scaramucci, Bankman-Fried's father Joseph Bankman and his brother Gabriel Bankman-Fried were on a list of potential witnesses prosecutor Danielle Sassoon read in court during jury selection at the outset of Bankman-Fried's trial in order to see if any prospective jurors knew them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Trial of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried gets underway with jury selection

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