Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) &nbsp;as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage. The cause of the fire was unknown.

Herat police spokesman Abdul Ahad Walizada said a 10-person investigating team included four officials from Kabul, including a director of the criminal division of the interior ministry.

Herat's governor Waheed Qatali told media that there were no reports of deaths and they were still investigating.

A tanker caught fire, triggering the blaze, but the cause of that fire was still unclear, he said.

Amin Babak, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said around 600 vehicles waiting to complete customs inspections had been damaged in the fire. More than half contained fuel and gas and some had been looted, he said.

Babak said the losses for Afghan traders were estimated at around USD 100 million. This is another blow for Afghanistan economy which is already struggling due COVID pandemic.

Omar Joya, chief economist at the Kabul-based Biruni Institute, said that the blaze could lead to a temporary increase in domestic oil prices, but that importers had sufficient capital to import new oil so prices would likely stabilise relatively quickly.

(With Reuters inputs)

Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage.

Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage. The cause of the fire was unknown. Herat police spokesman Abdul Ahad Walizada said a 10-person investigating team included four officials from Kabul, including a director of the criminal division of the interior ministry. Herat's governor Waheed Qatali told media that there were no reports of deaths and they were still investigating. A tanker caught fire, triggering the blaze, but the cause of that fire was still unclear, he said. Amin Babak, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said around 600 vehicles waiting to complete customs inspections had been damaged in the fire. More than half contained fuel and gas and some had been looted, he said. Babak said the losses for Afghan traders were estimated at around USD 100 million. This is another blow for Afghanistan economy which is already struggling due COVID pandemic. Omar Joya, chief economist at the Kabul-based Biruni Institute, said that the blaze could lead to a temporary increase in domestic oil prices, but that importers had sufficient capital to import new oil so prices would likely stabilise relatively quickly. (With Reuters inputs)

Afghanistan sends investigators to look into the massive fire at Afghan-Iran border

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades.

The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.91 percent, or 564.08 points, to 30,084.15, the highest close since 1990.

The broader Topix index advanced 1.04 percent, or 20.06 points, to 1,953.94.

"The 30,000 mark is symbolic but it's still a waypoint," said Toshikazu Horiuchi, a broker at IwaiCosmo Securities.

"Market sentiment has been supported by hopes for business recovery ahead of the nation's first vaccination," Horiuchi told AFP.

The coronavirus vaccine rollout is scheduled to start as early as Wednesday in Japan for healthcare professionals.

"Hopes for stimulus and monetary easing are also high, which helped bolster positive sentiment, but profit-taking could emerge at this level as the market is overheating," he added.

Masayuki Kubota, chief strategist at Rakuten Securities, said: "The Nikkei index is climbing as central banks in Japan, the United States and Europe keep their massive monetary easing policies in place because of the pandemic."

Ahead of the opening bell, the government said Japan's economy shrank in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade as it was battered by the coronavirus but the contraction was less than expected.

"The market largely shrugged off the GDP figures, which were already factored in," Horiuchi said.

The dollar fetched 105.02 yen in Asian afternoon trade, against 104.91 yen in New York late Friday.

Investors were paying attention to the impact of a 7.3-magnitude earthquake, which hit northeastern Japan late Saturday as news reports said more than 150 people were injured and shinkansen bullet train services were suspended.

"There was a chilling moment after the powerful quake in the Tohoku region this weekend, but the impact on the market seems to be limited," Okasan Online Securities said.

In Tokyo trading, SoftBank Group surged 2.12 percent to 10,005 yen after releasing strong earnings last week, while Uniqlo casual wear chain operator Fast Retailing jumped 4.09 percent to 99,460 yen.

Nissan plunged 2.83 percent to 609.9 yen following a news report that Apple had approached it in recent months about self-driving cars, which did not move forward. Nissan denied it was in talks with the US tech giant.

Toyota rose 0.51 percent to 8,456 yen with Honda up 1.09 percent at 3,052 yen.

Online mall giant and mobile carrier Rakuten plunged 6.48 percent to 1,110 yen after it reported a massive annual loss last week.

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades.

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades. The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.91 percent, or 564.08 points, to 30,084.15, the highest close since 1990. The broader Topix index advanced 1.04 percent, or 20.06 points, to 1,953.94. "The 30,000 mark is symbolic but it's still a waypoint," said Toshikazu Horiuchi, a broker at IwaiCosmo Securities. "Market sentiment has been supported by hopes for business recovery ahead of the nation's first vaccination," Horiuchi told AFP. The coronavirus vaccine rollout is scheduled to start as early as Wednesday in Japan for healthcare professionals. "Hopes for stimulus and monetary easing are also high, which helped bolster positive sentiment, but profit-taking could emerge at this level as the market is overheating," he added. Masayuki Kubota, chief strategist at Rakuten Securities, said: "The Nikkei index is climbing as central banks in Japan, the United States and Europe keep their massive monetary easing policies in place because of the pandemic." Ahead of the opening bell, the government said Japan's economy shrank in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade as it was battered by the coronavirus but the contraction was less than expected. "The market largely shrugged off the GDP figures, which were already factored in," Horiuchi said. The dollar fetched 105.02 yen in Asian afternoon trade, against 104.91 yen in New York late Friday. Investors were paying attention to the impact of a 7.3-magnitude earthquake, which hit northeastern Japan late Saturday as news reports said more than 150 people were injured and shinkansen bullet train services were suspended. "There was a chilling moment after the powerful quake in the Tohoku region this weekend, but the impact on the market seems to be limited," Okasan Online Securities said. In Tokyo trading, SoftBank Group surged 2.12 percent to 10,005 yen after releasing strong earnings last week, while Uniqlo casual wear chain operator Fast Retailing jumped 4.09 percent to 99,460 yen. Nissan plunged 2.83 percent to 609.9 yen following a news report that Apple had approached it in recent months about self-driving cars, which did not move forward. Nissan denied it was in talks with the US tech giant. Toyota rose 0.51 percent to 8,456 yen with Honda up 1.09 percent at 3,052 yen. Online mall giant and mobile carrier Rakuten plunged 6.48 percent to 1,110 yen after it reported a massive annual loss last week.

Tokyo's Nikkei closes above 30,000, first time since 1990

South Korea said on Monday that it will not use Astrazeneca's coronavirus vaccine for people aged 65 and above. This has amounted to reversal of an earlier decision. South Korea has scaled back initial vaccination targets due to delayed shipments from global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX.

The target has come down to 750,000 people from 1.3 million people to be vaccinated by first quarter of this year with Astrazeneca shots.

Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said on Monday that the decision has come largely due to adjustment in supply timetable of 2.6 million Astrazeneca doses from COVAX.

South Korea has said that it would delay inoculation of the elderly until more efficacy data on this specific vaccine becomes available.

(With Reuters inputs)

South Korea said on Monday that it will not use Astrazeneca's coronavirus vaccine for people aged 65 and above. This has amounted to reversal of an earlier decision.

South Korea said on Monday that it will not use Astrazeneca's coronavirus vaccine for people aged 65 and above. This has amounted to reversal of an earlier decision. South Korea has scaled back initial vaccination targets due to delayed shipments from global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX. The target has come down to 750,000 people from 1.3 million people to be vaccinated by first quarter of this year with Astrazeneca shots. Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said on Monday that the decision has come largely due to adjustment in supply timetable of 2.6 million Astrazeneca doses from COVAX. South Korea has said that it would delay inoculation of the elderly until more efficacy data on this specific vaccine becomes available. (With Reuters inputs)

Won't use Astrazeneca COVID vaccine for elderly, says South Korea

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot"

The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation".

Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi.

His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike.

"In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair.

"To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz

Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest.

In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added.

(With ANI inputs)

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees.

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot" The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation". Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi. His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike. "In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair. "To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest. In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added. (With ANI inputs)

Fired tear gas on employees to test it as it had been unused for a long time: Pakistan Minister

Syrian state media said on Monday that Israel launched missile strikes against several targets near Damascus. The report said that the strike prompted activation of Syrian air defences. Israel has routinely carried out raids in Syria since the outbreak of Syrian war in 2011. These strikes have mostly targetted Iranian, Hezbollah forces and government troops.

Shortly after midnight, "the Israeli enemy launched an assault, firing missiles from the occupied Golan and Galilee," the SANA news agency reported, citing a military source.

The strikes were aimed at targets near Damascus, the source said, adding that defences shot down "most" of the missiles.

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According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13.

The Observatory is a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources on the ground in Syria for its reports.

Israel rarely confirms strikes in Syria, but the army said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country in 2020, without providing details.

It has consistently vowed to prevent its arch-enemy Iran from gaining a foothold in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad throughout the nearly decade-long war.

(With AFP inputs)

Syrian state media said on Monday that Israel launched missile strikes against several targets near Damascus. The report said that the strike prompted activation of Syrian air defences.

Syrian state media said on Monday that Israel launched missile strikes against several targets near Damascus. The report said that the strike prompted activation of Syrian air defences. Israel has routinely carried out raids in Syria since the outbreak of Syrian war in 2011. These strikes have mostly targetted Iranian, Hezbollah forces and government troops. Shortly after midnight, "the Israeli enemy launched an assault, firing missiles from the occupied Golan and Galilee," the SANA news agency reported, citing a military source. The strikes were aimed at targets near Damascus, the source said, adding that defences shot down "most" of the missiles. × According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13. The Observatory is a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources on the ground in Syria for its reports. Israel rarely confirms strikes in Syria, but the army said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country in 2020, without providing details. It has consistently vowed to prevent its arch-enemy Iran from gaining a foothold in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad throughout the nearly decade-long war. (With AFP inputs)

Syria intercepted Israeli missiles over Damascus, says state media

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in impeachment trial on Sunday (Indian time). This put an end to political turmoil centered around the only US President who got impeached twice in his presidency. US Senate voted 53-47 in favour of conviction of Donald Trump but the number could not reach the two-thirds majority required to put a seal on impeachment. Several Republican Senators broke ranks and voted for Trump's conviction.

After Trump's acquittal, reactions poured in from prominent political figures in the US.

Sitting US President Joe Biden said that though Trump was acquitted, the substance of the charge was not in dispute. This indicated that Biden was in no mood to dissociate Trump from US Capitol attack.

"While the final vote did not lead to a conviction, the substance of the charge is not in dispute," Biden said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile. That it must always be defended. That we must be ever vigilant."

Trump showed no signs of remorse after his acquittal.

&nbsp;Trump said the movement to "Make America Great Again" has just begun, suggesting not quitting politics and seeking another run for the presidency in 2024.&nbsp;

"Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," Trump in a statement said.&nbsp;

US Senate Speaker Nancy Pelosi was more direct in her words to criticise those who supported Trump.

"I salute the Republican Senators who voted their conscience and for our Country. Other Senate Republicans’ refusal to hold Trump accountable will go down as one of the darkest days and most dishonorable acts in our nation’s history," she tweeted.

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I salute the Republican Senators who voted their conscience and for our Country. 
 
Other Senate Republicans’ refusal to hold Trump accountable will go down as one of the darkest days and most dishonorable acts in our nation’s history.
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1360728544213688320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

During the Senate trail, top Republican Senator Mitch McConnell held Trump responsible for Capitol attack.

"There's no question -- none -- that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day," McConnell said in a speech following the vote that led to Trump's acquittal.

"These criminals were carrying his banners. Hanging his flags. And screaming their loyalty to him."

He called Trump's actions leading up to the siege "a disgraceful dereliction of duty."

However, Republican Party under McConnell''s leadership closed ranks to defeat the impeachment motion.

Not all Republican voted to Support Trump, several Republicans broke the party line. Senator Bill Cassidy was among them. In his tweet, Cassidy said that Trump was 'guilty'

"Our Constitution and our country is more important than any one person. I voted to convict President Trump because he is guilty," he tweeted with a video message

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Our Constitution and our country is more important than any one person. I voted to convict President Trump because he is guilty. <a href="https://t.co/ute0xPc4BH">pic.twitter.com/ute0xPc4BH</a>
— U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@SenBillCassidy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenBillCassidy/status/1360697544293183488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Democratic Party Senator Bernie Sanders said that it was 'sad' that 'only' 7 Republican Senators voted to convict Trump.

"It is truly sad and dangerous that only 7 Republicans voted to convict a president who is promoting a Big Lie, conspiracy theories and violence, and is aggressively trying to destroy American democracy," he tweeted.

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It is truly sad and dangerous that only 7 Republicans voted to convict a president who is promoting a Big Lie, conspiracy theories and violence, and is aggressively trying to destroy American democracy.
— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSanders/status/1360709157339475972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in impeachment trial on Sunday (Indian time). This put an end to political turmoil centered around the only US President who got impeached twice in his presidency.

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in impeachment trial on Sunday (Indian time). This put an end to political turmoil centered around the only US President who got impeached twice in his presidency. US Senate voted 53-47 in favour of conviction of Donald Trump but the number could not reach the two-thirds majority required to put a seal on impeachment. Several Republican Senators broke ranks and voted for Trump's conviction. After Trump's acquittal, reactions poured in from prominent political figures in the US. Sitting US President Joe Biden said that though Trump was acquitted, the substance of the charge was not in dispute. This indicated that Biden was in no mood to dissociate Trump from US Capitol attack. "While the final vote did not lead to a conviction, the substance of the charge is not in dispute," Biden said in a statement. "This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile. That it must always be defended. That we must be ever vigilant." Trump showed no signs of remorse after his acquittal. Trump said the movement to "Make America Great Again" has just begun, suggesting not quitting politics and seeking another run for the presidency in 2024. "Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," Trump in a statement said. US Senate Speaker Nancy Pelosi was more direct in her words to criticise those who supported Trump. "I salute the Republican Senators who voted their conscience and for our Country. Other Senate Republicans’ refusal to hold Trump accountable will go down as one of the darkest days and most dishonorable acts in our nation’s history," she tweeted. I salute the Republican Senators who voted their conscience and for our Country. Other Senate Republicans’ refusal to hold Trump accountable will go down as one of the darkest days and most dishonorable acts in our nation’s history. — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) February 13, 2021 × During the Senate trail, top Republican Senator Mitch McConnell held Trump responsible for Capitol attack. "There's no question -- none -- that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day," McConnell said in a speech following the vote that led to Trump's acquittal. "These criminals were carrying his banners. Hanging his flags. And screaming their loyalty to him." He called Trump's actions leading up to the siege "a disgraceful dereliction of duty." However, Republican Party under McConnell''s leadership closed ranks to defeat the impeachment motion. Not all Republican voted to Support Trump, several Republicans broke the party line. Senator Bill Cassidy was among them. In his tweet, Cassidy said that Trump was 'guilty' "Our Constitution and our country is more important than any one person. I voted to convict President Trump because he is guilty," he tweeted with a video message Our Constitution and our country is more important than any one person. I voted to convict President Trump because he is guilty. pic.twitter.com/ute0xPc4BH — U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@SenBillCassidy) February 13, 2021 × Democratic Party Senator Bernie Sanders said that it was 'sad' that 'only' 7 Republican Senators voted to convict Trump. "It is truly sad and dangerous that only 7 Republicans voted to convict a president who is promoting a Big Lie, conspiracy theories and violence, and is aggressively trying to destroy American democracy," he tweeted. It is truly sad and dangerous that only 7 Republicans voted to convict a president who is promoting a Big Lie, conspiracy theories and violence, and is aggressively trying to destroy American democracy. — Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) February 13, 2021 ×

Trump acquittal: US leaders on both sides react strongly

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial.

Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden.

Donald Trump

Although Trump's acquittal by the Senate was a near certainty, the verdict must have come as a relief to the former president.

In a statement, Trump denounced what he called a "witch hunt" and talked about the future.

"Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," he said.&nbsp;

"We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-acquitted-by-us-senate-in-his-second-impeachment-trial-363474">Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial&nbsp;</a>

Trump has flirted with the idea of running for the White House again in 2024 and a conviction would have likely barred him from holding federal office again.

Since leaving the White House on January 20, Trump has been holed up in his Mar-a-Lago resort, deprived of the Twitter account he used to communicate with his many millions of followers.

Capri Cafaro, executive in residence at American University in Washington and a former Democratic member of the Ohio state senate, said the acquittal could be a "rallying cry" for Trump and his backers.

But, Cafaro added, "the legacy of Donald Trump for many at this point may be the events of January 6, regardless of acquittal."

"There will be Americans who think that Donald Trump had some kind of role," she said, and that could carry over to the real estate tycoon's activities in the private sector.

"It's almost like he has no choice but to continue to try to be in politics," she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-lawyers-deny-he-incited-capitol-mob-363466">Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob</a>

Wendy Schiller, a professor of political science at Brown University, agreed that Trump's future may be limited.

"If a corporation were to offer him a speaking appearance, the social media backlash would be swift and severe, with possible boycotts of their products," Schiller said.

"Even holding conferences or events at Trump properties will be a problem for large publicly traded companies, or companies that provide a direct to consumer product," she said.

The Republican Party

The fact that the vast majority of Senate Republicans voted to acquit Trump is a clear signal that he retains a grip on the GOP, the Grand Old Party.

"The party is his," Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of his most fervent supporters, said last week. "It doesn't belong to anyone else."

But seven Republican senators voted to convict the former president and 10 Republican members of the House of Representatives voted last month to impeach him, including the party's third-ranking member, Liz Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney.

Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voted for acquittal but said Trump was "practically and morally" responsible for the January 6 violence.

A number of Republicans have distanced themselves from the former president and are lining up to take their own shot at the White House in 2024.

Among them is former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who said Republicans were wrong for supporting Trump's campaign to reverse the election results, a course that led to the January 6 attack on Congress.

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&nbsp;

"He went down a path he shouldn't have, and we shouldn't have followed him," Haley said in an interview with Politico magazine.

Haley also dismissed speculation Trump will seek the presidency in 2024. "I don't think he can," she said. "He's fallen so far."

But the Republicans advocating a complete break with Trump are in the minority and most remain fearful of the power he holds over his base.

"GOP senators who vote to acquit may be protecting themselves against primary challenges from the more extreme wing of their party in 2022, or even 2024," Schiller said. "But they may simultaneously make themselves more vulnerable to defeat in the general election."

Cafaro said Republican lawmakers remaining faithful to Trump were making an "incredibly risky" gamble.

"They're making a decision based upon a snapshot in time that may not exist for them in two years," she said.

A group of anti-Trump former Republican officials has raised the idea of creating a center-right third party but it is unlikely to gain much traction.

Joe Biden

Trump's impeachment trial has been hanging over the start of Biden's presidency and the Democrats must be glad it took just five days.

The Senate will now be in a position to swiftly confirm Biden's cabinet appointees and work on his legislative agenda as the country struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic and severe economic woes.

"President Biden has done a very good job of separating himself from the impeachment trial proceedings and keep his messaging on the Covid-19 crisis and the accompanying economic crisis," Schiller said.

But Trump remains a force to be reckoned with.

"There's no saying that we're immune from more protests, demonstrations, activism from the far right," Cafaro said. "If and when that happens how Joe Biden deals with them will be something to watch."

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial. Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden.

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial. Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden. Donald Trump Although Trump's acquittal by the Senate was a near certainty, the verdict must have come as a relief to the former president. In a statement, Trump denounced what he called a "witch hunt" and talked about the future. "Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," he said. "We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future." Also Read | Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial Trump has flirted with the idea of running for the White House again in 2024 and a conviction would have likely barred him from holding federal office again. Since leaving the White House on January 20, Trump has been holed up in his Mar-a-Lago resort, deprived of the Twitter account he used to communicate with his many millions of followers. Capri Cafaro, executive in residence at American University in Washington and a former Democratic member of the Ohio state senate, said the acquittal could be a "rallying cry" for Trump and his backers. But, Cafaro added, "the legacy of Donald Trump for many at this point may be the events of January 6, regardless of acquittal." "There will be Americans who think that Donald Trump had some kind of role," she said, and that could carry over to the real estate tycoon's activities in the private sector. "It's almost like he has no choice but to continue to try to be in politics," she said. Also Read | Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob Wendy Schiller, a professor of political science at Brown University, agreed that Trump's future may be limited. "If a corporation were to offer him a speaking appearance, the social media backlash would be swift and severe, with possible boycotts of their products," Schiller said. "Even holding conferences or events at Trump properties will be a problem for large publicly traded companies, or companies that provide a direct to consumer product," she said. The Republican Party The fact that the vast majority of Senate Republicans voted to acquit Trump is a clear signal that he retains a grip on the GOP, the Grand Old Party. "The party is his," Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of his most fervent supporters, said last week. "It doesn't belong to anyone else." But seven Republican senators voted to convict the former president and 10 Republican members of the House of Representatives voted last month to impeach him, including the party's third-ranking member, Liz Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney. Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voted for acquittal but said Trump was "practically and morally" responsible for the January 6 violence. A number of Republicans have distanced themselves from the former president and are lining up to take their own shot at the White House in 2024. Among them is former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who said Republicans were wrong for supporting Trump's campaign to reverse the election results, a course that led to the January 6 attack on Congress. × "He went down a path he shouldn't have, and we shouldn't have followed him," Haley said in an interview with Politico magazine. Haley also dismissed speculation Trump will seek the presidency in 2024. "I don't think he can," she said. "He's fallen so far." But the Republicans advocating a complete break with Trump are in the minority and most remain fearful of the power he holds over his base. "GOP senators who vote to acquit may be protecting themselves against primary challenges from the more extreme wing of their party in 2022, or even 2024," Schiller said. "But they may simultaneously make themselves more vulnerable to defeat in the general election." Cafaro said Republican lawmakers remaining faithful to Trump were making an "incredibly risky" gamble. "They're making a decision based upon a snapshot in time that may not exist for them in two years," she said. A group of anti-Trump former Republican officials has raised the idea of creating a center-right third party but it is unlikely to gain much traction. Joe Biden Trump's impeachment trial has been hanging over the start of Biden's presidency and the Democrats must be glad it took just five days. The Senate will now be in a position to swiftly confirm Biden's cabinet appointees and work on his legislative agenda as the country struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic and severe economic woes. "President Biden has done a very good job of separating himself from the impeachment trial proceedings and keep his messaging on the Covid-19 crisis and the accompanying economic crisis," Schiller said. But Trump remains a force to be reckoned with. "There's no saying that we're immune from more protests, demonstrations, activism from the far right," Cafaro said. "If and when that happens how Joe Biden deals with them will be something to watch."

What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden?

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in the impeachment trial. Majority of Senate republicans closed ranks to aquit Trump in his second impeachment trial. During the five-day trial, Democratic Senators argued strongly in favour of impeaching Donald Trump who is the only US President to have been impeached twice. It follows logically that this Trump's second acquittal.

Majority of the Republicans expectedly declared Trump not guilty. This was a sign of the powerful grip Trump still has on the Republican party.

But while the 57-43 majority that voted to convict fell short of the two-thirds needed in the Senate, seven Republicans joined with Democrats to seek Trump's conviction, making it the most bipartisan impeachment trial in US history.

Trump welcomed the verdict and denounced the proceedings as&nbsp;"yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country." He has been secluded in his Florida club since leaving the presidency.

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Despite the stain of a second impeachment, Trump hinted at a possible political future, saying that "our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun."

"We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future," he said in a statement. 
Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives on January 13, a week after the chaotic assault that stunned the nation and provoked widespread bipartisan outrage.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-next-for-trump-the-republican-party-and-biden-363484">What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden?</a>

During the impeachment trial, Democratic Senators argued that Trump's behaviour was an&nbsp;"open and shut" case of impeachable conduct. They retraced how Trump spent two months repeating false allegations of election fraud before inciting his supporters to attack US Capitol building on January 6.

"He summoned his supporters to Washington, on the Ellipse, whipped them into a frenzy, and directed them at the Capitol," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said after the vote.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-lawyers-deny-he-incited-capitol-mob-363466">Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob</a>

The defense team swatted the evidence away, arguing that Trump's appeal to supporters to "fight like hell, at the rally that preceded the attack," was merely rhetorical.

But their central argument was that the Senate had no constitutional jurisdiction to try a former president. Most Republican senators agreed.

(With AFP inputs)

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in the impeachment trial. Majority of Senate republicans closed ranks to aquit Trump in his second impeachment trial.

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in the impeachment trial. Majority of Senate republicans closed ranks to aquit Trump in his second impeachment trial. During the five-day trial, Democratic Senators argued strongly in favour of impeaching Donald Trump who is the only US President to have been impeached twice. It follows logically that this Trump's second acquittal. Majority of the Republicans expectedly declared Trump not guilty. This was a sign of the powerful grip Trump still has on the Republican party. But while the 57-43 majority that voted to convict fell short of the two-thirds needed in the Senate, seven Republicans joined with Democrats to seek Trump's conviction, making it the most bipartisan impeachment trial in US history. Trump welcomed the verdict and denounced the proceedings as "yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country." He has been secluded in his Florida club since leaving the presidency. × Despite the stain of a second impeachment, Trump hinted at a possible political future, saying that "our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun." "We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future," he said in a statement. Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives on January 13, a week after the chaotic assault that stunned the nation and provoked widespread bipartisan outrage. Also Read | What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden? During the impeachment trial, Democratic Senators argued that Trump's behaviour was an "open and shut" case of impeachable conduct. They retraced how Trump spent two months repeating false allegations of election fraud before inciting his supporters to attack US Capitol building on January 6. "He summoned his supporters to Washington, on the Ellipse, whipped them into a frenzy, and directed them at the Capitol," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said after the vote. Also Read | Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob The defense team swatted the evidence away, arguing that Trump's appeal to supporters to "fight like hell, at the rally that preceded the attack," was merely rhetorical. But their central argument was that the Senate had no constitutional jurisdiction to try a former president. Most Republican senators agreed. (With AFP inputs)

Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial 

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us. A new study has found that obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths than smoking in England and Scotland. The new research has been published in open-access journal BMC Public Health.

Between 2003 and 2017, the percentage of deaths attributable to smoking is calculated to have decreased from 23.1 per cent to 19.4 per cent while deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat are calculated to have increased from 17.9 per cent to 23.1 per cent. The authors estimate that deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat overtook those attributable to smoking in 2014.

"For several decades smoking has been a major target of public health interventions as it is a leading cause of avoidable deaths. As a result, the prevalence of smoking has fallen in the United Kingdom. At the same time the prevalence of obesity has increased. Our research indicates that, since 2014, obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths in England and Scotland than smoking," said Jim Pell (Glasgow University).

To examine changes in the prevalence of smoking, obesity and excess body fat in adults, the authors analysed data collected between 2003 and 2017 as part of the Health Surveys for England, and Scottish Health Surveys, on 192,239 adults across England and Scotland, who were 50 years old on average.

(With ANI inputs)

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us.

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us. A new study has found that obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths than smoking in England and Scotland. The new research has been published in open-access journal BMC Public Health. Between 2003 and 2017, the percentage of deaths attributable to smoking is calculated to have decreased from 23.1 per cent to 19.4 per cent while deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat are calculated to have increased from 17.9 per cent to 23.1 per cent. The authors estimate that deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat overtook those attributable to smoking in 2014. "For several decades smoking has been a major target of public health interventions as it is a leading cause of avoidable deaths. As a result, the prevalence of smoking has fallen in the United Kingdom. At the same time the prevalence of obesity has increased. Our research indicates that, since 2014, obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths in England and Scotland than smoking," said Jim Pell (Glasgow University). To examine changes in the prevalence of smoking, obesity and excess body fat in adults, the authors analysed data collected between 2003 and 2017 as part of the Health Surveys for England, and Scottish Health Surveys, on 192,239 adults across England and Scotland, who were 50 years old on average. (With ANI inputs)

Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs.

Modi handed over the tank to Army Chief General M.M. Naravane.

He accepted a salute by the state-of-the-art tank, indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by the Defence Research and Development Organisation`s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment here.

Fifteen academic institutions, eight labs and several MSMEs were also involved in the project. The Defence Ministry had recently cleared the induction of 118 Arjun Mark 1A tanks into the Indian Army, costing around Rs 8,400 crore.

Modi said that Tamil Nadu is already a leading manufacturing hub of India and now he sees the state evolving as the tank manufacturing hub.

Stating that one of the two defence corridors is in Tamil Nadu, Modi said it already received an investment commitment of over Rs 8,100 crore.

"A tank made in Tamil Nadu will be used to defend our borders in northern India. This shows the united nature of India," he said. Modi said India believes in peace but it will protect its sovereignty at all costs. He recited Bharatiyar poem in Tamil to highlight the importance of defence projects in the country.

Modi also paid homage to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the terror attack at Pulwama two years ago. "No Indian can forget this day. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack," he said.

He also mentioned about the support provided to displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka and the Tamil fishermen captured by Sri Lanka. He declared that there are currently no fishermen in Sri Lankan custody.

Later, at a programme held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Prime Minister either inaugurated or laid the foundation stone for a slew of infrastructure projects.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam felicitated Modi, who also paid tributes to late Chief Ministers J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi.

Modi, who began his speech in English by greeting people with `Vanakkam Chennai`, praised the enthusiasm of the city.

"Chennai is full of energy and enthusiasm. It is a city of knowledge and creativity. From here, we begin key infrastructure projects. These projects are symbols of innovation and indigenous development," he said.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I extension completed at a cost of Rs 3,770 crore and flagged off passenger services from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar. He noted that the work was completed on time despite the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the material for the 9.05-km stretch was procured locally and supports his idea of `Aatmanirbhar Bharat`.

Modi also inaugurated 22-km fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Attipattu. It will be an additional track to Thiruvallur districts meant to ease traffic from Chennai Port.

Railway Electrification of single line section in Villupuram - Cuddalore - Mayiladuthurai - Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai-Thiruvarur completed at a cost of Rs 423 crore was launched by Modi. He said this will be a great boon to delta districts. The electrification of this 228-km route will enable free flow of traffic without the need for a change of traction between Chennai Egmore and Kanyakumari.

The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Discovery Campus of IIT-Madras. The campus is to be built at Thaiyur near Chennai at an estimated cost of Rs 1,000 crore in the first phase, over an area of 2 lakh sqm. He exuded confidence that it will very soon be the leading centre of discovery and draw the best talent from all over India.

The Prime Minister also laid foundation stone for the extension, renovation and modernisation of the Grand Anicut Canal System, which is an important source of irrigation in the delta districts. The modernisation of this canal system will be taken up at a cost of Rs 2,640 crore.

He recited a poem on the importance of conserving water, and said that the aim is to maximise each drop of water available. "Always remember the mantra of per drop, more crop," he said adding that conservation of water is a global issue.

Deputy Chief Minister Panneerselvam welcomed Modi and thanked him for the interest he has taken in the progress of the state. He praised the Prime Minister`s work ethic and referred to his recent emotional speech in the Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs. Modi handed over the tank to Army Chief General M.M. Naravane. He accepted a salute by the state-of-the-art tank, indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by the Defence Research and Development Organisation`s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment here. Fifteen academic institutions, eight labs and several MSMEs were also involved in the project. The Defence Ministry had recently cleared the induction of 118 Arjun Mark 1A tanks into the Indian Army, costing around Rs 8,400 crore. Modi said that Tamil Nadu is already a leading manufacturing hub of India and now he sees the state evolving as the tank manufacturing hub. Stating that one of the two defence corridors is in Tamil Nadu, Modi said it already received an investment commitment of over Rs 8,100 crore. "A tank made in Tamil Nadu will be used to defend our borders in northern India. This shows the united nature of India," he said. Modi said India believes in peace but it will protect its sovereignty at all costs. He recited Bharatiyar poem in Tamil to highlight the importance of defence projects in the country. Modi also paid homage to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the terror attack at Pulwama two years ago. "No Indian can forget this day. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack," he said. He also mentioned about the support provided to displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka and the Tamil fishermen captured by Sri Lanka. He declared that there are currently no fishermen in Sri Lankan custody. Later, at a programme held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Prime Minister either inaugurated or laid the foundation stone for a slew of infrastructure projects. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam felicitated Modi, who also paid tributes to late Chief Ministers J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi. Modi, who began his speech in English by greeting people with `Vanakkam Chennai`, praised the enthusiasm of the city. "Chennai is full of energy and enthusiasm. It is a city of knowledge and creativity. From here, we begin key infrastructure projects. These projects are symbols of innovation and indigenous development," he said. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I extension completed at a cost of Rs 3,770 crore and flagged off passenger services from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar. He noted that the work was completed on time despite the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the material for the 9.05-km stretch was procured locally and supports his idea of `Aatmanirbhar Bharat`. Modi also inaugurated 22-km fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Attipattu. It will be an additional track to Thiruvallur districts meant to ease traffic from Chennai Port. Railway Electrification of single line section in Villupuram - Cuddalore - Mayiladuthurai - Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai-Thiruvarur completed at a cost of Rs 423 crore was launched by Modi. He said this will be a great boon to delta districts. The electrification of this 228-km route will enable free flow of traffic without the need for a change of traction between Chennai Egmore and Kanyakumari. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Discovery Campus of IIT-Madras. The campus is to be built at Thaiyur near Chennai at an estimated cost of Rs 1,000 crore in the first phase, over an area of 2 lakh sqm. He exuded confidence that it will very soon be the leading centre of discovery and draw the best talent from all over India. The Prime Minister also laid foundation stone for the extension, renovation and modernisation of the Grand Anicut Canal System, which is an important source of irrigation in the delta districts. The modernisation of this canal system will be taken up at a cost of Rs 2,640 crore. He recited a poem on the importance of conserving water, and said that the aim is to maximise each drop of water available. "Always remember the mantra of per drop, more crop," he said adding that conservation of water is a global issue. Deputy Chief Minister Panneerselvam welcomed Modi and thanked him for the interest he has taken in the progress of the state. He praised the Prime Minister`s work ethic and referred to his recent emotional speech in the Rajya Sabha.

PM Modi hands over Arjun battle tank to Indian Army

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019.

"We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai.

The Prime Minister said that the people were proud of Indian security forces and their bravery would continue to inspire generations.

On February 14, 2019, a car filled with explosives had exploded near a Central Reserve Police Forces convoy while on way to Srinagar from Jammu, killing 40 men.

Modi inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects which he said were examples of innovation and the idea of `Swadeshi` which would promote development.

The Prime Minister said that the Chennai Metro Phase-1 project had been completed within stipulated time despite the coronavirus pandemic. Its civil construction activities were completed by Indian contractors which symbolises `Atmanirbhar` Bharat, he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019. "We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019. "We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai. The Prime Minister said that the people were proud of Indian security forces and their bravery would continue to inspire generations. On February 14, 2019, a car filled with explosives had exploded near a Central Reserve Police Forces convoy while on way to Srinagar from Jammu, killing 40 men. Modi inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects which he said were examples of innovation and the idea of `Swadeshi` which would promote development. The Prime Minister said that the Chennai Metro Phase-1 project had been completed within stipulated time despite the coronavirus pandemic. Its civil construction activities were completed by Indian contractors which symbolises `Atmanirbhar` Bharat, he added.

PM Modi pays tribute to Pulwama martyrs

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14.

In the Russian capital, women waited inside the heated cabins while men had to swap after each ride.

After a complete round, each participant secretly marked their picks on a form with organisers promising to put the matching couples in touch.

This never seen before speed dating found many takers with participants giving thumb up to the method. Especially with the unforgiving Russian winter taking the country in its grips, those seeking a special someone to spend the Valentine's Day with had a reason to smile.

'Navalny is love'

Valentines Day in Russia this year assumes political overtones as well. With the most prominent Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny behind bars, his supporters and allies came out to celebrate what can be called a Navalny themed Valentine.

People gathered outside their homes for 15 minutes on the evening of Valentine's Day. They planned to shine their mobile torches and arrange candles in the shape of hearts. 
"Putin is fear. Navalny is love. That's why we will win," Leonid Volkov, Navalny's close ally tweeted, urging people to join the demonstrations.

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14.

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14. In the Russian capital, women waited inside the heated cabins while men had to swap after each ride. After a complete round, each participant secretly marked their picks on a form with organisers promising to put the matching couples in touch. This never seen before speed dating found many takers with participants giving thumb up to the method. Especially with the unforgiving Russian winter taking the country in its grips, those seeking a special someone to spend the Valentine's Day with had a reason to smile. 'Navalny is love' Valentines Day in Russia this year assumes political overtones as well. With the most prominent Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny behind bars, his supporters and allies came out to celebrate what can be called a Navalny themed Valentine. People gathered outside their homes for 15 minutes on the evening of Valentine's Day. They planned to shine their mobile torches and arrange candles in the shape of hearts. "Putin is fear. Navalny is love. That's why we will win," Leonid Volkov, Navalny's close ally tweeted, urging people to join the demonstrations.

Valentine's Day: Russians speed-date on a Ferris wheel in Moscow

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