Two airport authority workers who manage the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have been arrested for allegedly leaking surveillance video of the deadly Washington&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">DC plane crash</a> to US-based media outlet CNN.&nbsp;
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-deserve-this-jo-ellis-transgender-pilot-wrongly-named-in-washington-plane-crash-speaks-out-who-is-she-8682211" rel="dofollow">'I don&rsquo;t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH</a>
After this came to light, the two workers now face charges of computer trespass, New York Post reported.&nbsp;
The deadly mid-air collision that happened on Wednesday (Jan 29), killed 67 people, who were onboard the plane and helicopter.&nbsp;
The crash shocked the whole nation and triggered a debate on the role of the military chopper in the collision.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429" rel="dofollow"> 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67</a>
<h2>What is there in the video?&nbsp;</h2>
The exclusive video received by CNN gave a closer and clearer look at the mid-air disaster. In one of the clips, the chopper was seen darting from the left side of the screen as the American Airlines flight approached the airport.&nbsp;
A second short clip showed the Black Hawk military chopper, which was carrying three soldiers, and the Bombardier CRJ700 streaming toward each other before the two smash into each other and explode.&nbsp;
CNN reported that both videos were shot on mobile phones.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected'</a>
The MWAA said that Mohamed Lamine Mbengue, 21, of Rockville Maryland, and Jonathan Savoy, 45, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, were both charged.
Mbengue was booked into Arlington County Adult Detention Center but eventually released. Savoy, meanwhile, was issued a summons by the magistrate and cut loose.
The authorities have recovered most of the bodies of the 67 people who died in the crash.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records and now are facing charges of computer trespass. 

Two airport authority workers who manage the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have been arrested for allegedly leaking surveillance video of the deadly Washington DC plane crash to US-based media outlet CNN. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records. Also read: 'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH After this came to light, the two workers now face charges of computer trespass, New York Post reported. The deadly mid-air collision that happened on Wednesday (Jan 29), killed 67 people, who were onboard the plane and helicopter. The crash shocked the whole nation and triggered a debate on the role of the military chopper in the collision. Also read: 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67 What is there in the video? The exclusive video received by CNN gave a closer and clearer look at the mid-air disaster. In one of the clips, the chopper was seen darting from the left side of the screen as the American Airlines flight approached the airport. A second short clip showed the Black Hawk military chopper, which was carrying three soldiers, and the Bombardier CRJ700 streaming toward each other before the two smash into each other and explode. CNN reported that both videos were shot on mobile phones. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected' The MWAA said that Mohamed Lamine Mbengue, 21, of Rockville Maryland, and Jonathan Savoy, 45, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, were both charged. Mbengue was booked into Arlington County Adult Detention Center but eventually released. Savoy, meanwhile, was issued a summons by the magistrate and cut loose. The authorities have recovered most of the bodies of the 67 people who died in the crash. (With inputs from agencies)

Two airport workers arrested for leaking video of DC plane crash. What was there in the video?

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America.
The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore.&nbsp;
The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government.&nbsp;
The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-first-female-coast-guard-chief-admiral-linda-lee-fagan-elon-musk-reacts-8642254" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Racist, sexist diversity nonsense&rsquo;: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan</a>
The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional.
"In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-closes-its-diversity-office-ahead-of-donald-trumps-return-to-white-house-us-president-elect-alleges-corruption-8629574" rel="dofollow">FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption'</a>
The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget.
Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants.&nbsp;
The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-fact-checking-meta-dismantles-diversity-programmes-is-mark-zuckerberg-trying-to-appease-president-elect-donald-trump-8609188" rel="dofollow">Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump?</a>
<h2>'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse'</h2>
"In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read.&nbsp;
Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-judge-orders-boeing-and-doj-to-clarify-diversity-policy-before-ruling-on-plea-767944" rel="dofollow">US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea</a>
The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity and inclusion practices within the federal government. 

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America. The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore. The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice. Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government. The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals. Also read: ‘Racist, sexist diversity nonsense’: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional. "In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore. Also read: FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption' The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget. Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants. The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity. Also read: Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump? 'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse' "In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read. Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions." Also read: US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire</a> talks with Hamas.&nbsp;
According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit</a>
However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group.&nbsp;
Earlier on Sunday, Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-20-hostages-in-gaza-yet-to-be-released-from-hamas-captives-8684589" rel="dofollow">Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas?</a>
<h2>'No guarantees...'</h2>
As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold."
Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran&rsquo;s nuclear programme.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-netanyahu-to-white-house-on-feb-4-confirms-israel-pm-office-8662623" rel="dofollow">Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms</a>
It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him.&nbsp;
On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump&rsquo;s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: There has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped Gaza ceasefire talks with Hamas. According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1. Also read: Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during ‘historic’ US visit However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks. Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group. Earlier on Sunday, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,” he added. Also read: Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas? 'No guarantees...' As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold." Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas. Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. Also read: Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him. On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement. Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu skips Gaza ceasefire talks deadline with Hamas to meet Trump

As Ukrainian troops hang on a sliver of hope of Western Russia which they have occupied for six months, most of the soldiers have been ordered not to interact with the civilians living under their control, the Washington Post reported.&nbsp;
However, there's a small unit in the Ukrainian military which has been assigned specially for that. These soldiers wear uniforms but are unarmed and visit locals to help deliver food and medical aid. They are tasked to persuade the locals to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
These Ukrainian soldiers are also filming their outreach. This reflects the controversial role Kyiv plays as occupier in Russia's Kursk region, where some of its troops are engaged in deadly battles with &nbsp;Russian and North Korean troops.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, others are making a military-backed documentary about fighting for the hearts and minds of civilians, according to a Washington Post report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-blame-each-other-for-deadly-missile-strike-on-school-in-kursk-that-killed-four-8683804" rel="dofollow">Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four</a>
For long, Russia has been hiding the realities of the Ukraine war from its citizens. But, as Ukrainians in the Kursk region attempt to reveal decades of deep-seated Russian propaganda, they are also carefully deploying their own.&nbsp;
They believe that their tactics will bolster its troop's credibility among Russians and disapprove of claims that they are abusing locals in Kursk.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710" rel="dofollow">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
Moreover, these tactics used by Ukrainian troops are being used among a population largely made up of Soviet-born retirees and others who were unwilling or unable to flee the surprise Ukrainian attack in August.&nbsp;
These people have been cut off from most communication, with no working phone network or electricity, and the Ukrainian troops they meet are the only human contact they have with the outside world.&nbsp;
<h2>'Planting seeds of truth in their hands'</h2>
Col. Oleksii Dmytrashkivskyi, who leads the military&rsquo;s TRO Media division said, "We are planting the seeds of truth in their heads, which I&rsquo;m sure at some point will grow."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-barrage-kills-four-in-east-ukraine-8675037" rel="dofollow">Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine</a>
Dmytrashkivskyi, who is also the spokesman for Ukraine's military commandant office in Kursk, is the one documenting the incursion.&nbsp;
However, the Washington Post was unable to independently verify accounts of the current situation for Russian civilians in Kursk because of the dangers of travelling in the region.
Russia has been claiming that Kyiv is mistreating civilians as it is controlling Kursk.&nbsp;
Amid Russian allegations that torture chambers had been found in parts of Kursk retaken by Russian forces, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that proof &ldquo;must be voiced and shown.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/russias-new-school-textbook-teaches-children-ukraine-war-was-inevitable-and-forced-upon-it-8661208" rel="dofollow">Russia's new school textbook teaches children Ukraine war was 'inevitable' and 'forced' upon it</a>
Dmytrashkivskyi said that these allegations of mistreatment are not true, adding, "The accusations that people were tortured in cellars are not supported by any evidence.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ukrainian soldiers are tasked to persuade the locals in Kursk to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

As Ukrainian troops hang on a sliver of hope of Western Russia which they have occupied for six months, most of the soldiers have been ordered not to interact with the civilians living under their control, the Washington Post reported. However, there's a small unit in the Ukrainian military which has been assigned specially for that. These soldiers wear uniforms but are unarmed and visit locals to help deliver food and medical aid. They are tasked to persuade the locals to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. These Ukrainian soldiers are also filming their outreach. This reflects the controversial role Kyiv plays as occupier in Russia's Kursk region, where some of its troops are engaged in deadly battles with Russian and North Korean troops. Meanwhile, others are making a military-backed documentary about fighting for the hearts and minds of civilians, according to a Washington Post report. Also read: Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four For long, Russia has been hiding the realities of the Ukraine war from its citizens. But, as Ukrainians in the Kursk region attempt to reveal decades of deep-seated Russian propaganda, they are also carefully deploying their own. They believe that their tactics will bolster its troop's credibility among Russians and disapprove of claims that they are abusing locals in Kursk. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict Moreover, these tactics used by Ukrainian troops are being used among a population largely made up of Soviet-born retirees and others who were unwilling or unable to flee the surprise Ukrainian attack in August. These people have been cut off from most communication, with no working phone network or electricity, and the Ukrainian troops they meet are the only human contact they have with the outside world. 'Planting seeds of truth in their hands' Col. Oleksii Dmytrashkivskyi, who leads the military’s TRO Media division said, "We are planting the seeds of truth in their heads, which I’m sure at some point will grow." Also read: Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine Dmytrashkivskyi, who is also the spokesman for Ukraine's military commandant office in Kursk, is the one documenting the incursion. However, the Washington Post was unable to independently verify accounts of the current situation for Russian civilians in Kursk because of the dangers of travelling in the region. Russia has been claiming that Kyiv is mistreating civilians as it is controlling Kursk. Amid Russian allegations that torture chambers had been found in parts of Kursk retaken by Russian forces, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that proof “must be voiced and shown.” Also read: Russia's new school textbook teaches children Ukraine war was 'inevitable' and 'forced' upon it Dmytrashkivskyi said that these allegations of mistreatment are not true, adding, "The accusations that people were tortured in cellars are not supported by any evidence.” Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian troops brainwashing Russian minds in Kursk against Putin and filming it

Days after the Washington DC plane crash, US First Lady Melania Trump expressed her condolences to the families of those killed in the mid-air collision. Netizens were impressed by her post on social media, saying she showed "true compassion".&nbsp;
The helicopter and the American Airlines passenger plane collision killed at least 67 people.&nbsp;
Melania in a heartfelt message for the families of the victims, said, "My heart goes out to those impacted by last night&rsquo;s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families &amp; loved ones, &amp; the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flight-data-from-the-mid-air-collision-in-dc-shows-discrepancy-in-altitudes-8683481" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My heart goes out to those impacted by last night&rsquo;s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families &amp; loved ones, &amp; the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time.
&mdash; First Lady Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1884991986073059607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
Her post gained over 2.5 million views and more than 2000 comments.&nbsp;
However, on the contrary, when asked if he would be visiting the crash site, US President Donald Trump sarcastically replied, "You tell me, what&rsquo;s the site? The water? You want me to go swimming?&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585" rel="dofollow">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
He also took to Truth Social, saying, "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!!."
<h2>Netizens call Trump 'classless'</h2>
The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House.
&ldquo;Thank you for being such a compassionate First Lady in time of need. We should all join together to pray,&rdquo; another commented.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961" rel="dofollow"> 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
Another user commented, "Thank You First Lady Trump. Hearing it come from you with your grace and sincere empathy must mean a lot to the grieving families during this horrific tragedy."
However, some other users asked the First Lady to note her husband's reaction to the incident. They said that Melania should talk to her husband about being "more human".&nbsp;
"Maybe talk to your husband about being a little more human about this event. Oh and ask why he gutted the FAA. Always thoughts and prayers with this administration and nothing else,&rdquo; a user said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560" rel="dofollow">Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash?</a>
&ldquo;Better response than your classless husband gave,&rdquo; another stated.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House.

Days after the Washington DC plane crash, US First Lady Melania Trump expressed her condolences to the families of those killed in the mid-air collision. Netizens were impressed by her post on social media, saying she showed "true compassion". The helicopter and the American Airlines passenger plane collision killed at least 67 people. Melania in a heartfelt message for the families of the victims, said, "My heart goes out to those impacted by last night’s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families & loved ones, & the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time." Also read: Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise My heart goes out to those impacted by last night’s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families & loved ones, & the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time. — First Lady Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) January 30, 2025 Her post gained over 2.5 million views and more than 2000 comments. However, on the contrary, when asked if he would be visiting the crash site, US President Donald Trump sarcastically replied, "You tell me, what’s the site? The water? You want me to go swimming?” Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on He also took to Truth Social, saying, "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!!." Netizens call Trump 'classless' The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House. “Thank you for being such a compassionate First Lady in time of need. We should all join together to pray,” another commented. Also read: 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' Another user commented, "Thank You First Lady Trump. Hearing it come from you with your grace and sincere empathy must mean a lot to the grieving families during this horrific tragedy." However, some other users asked the First Lady to note her husband's reaction to the incident. They said that Melania should talk to her husband about being "more human". "Maybe talk to your husband about being a little more human about this event. Oh and ask why he gutted the FAA. Always thoughts and prayers with this administration and nothing else,” a user said. Also read: Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash? “Better response than your classless husband gave,” another stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Netizens praise Melania's 'compassion' towards DC crash victims, ask her to speak to 'classless' Trump

The website of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) went offline on Saturday without giving any explanation as thousands of furloughs, layoffs, and program shutdowns continued.&nbsp;
This comes after US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump </a>froze US-funded foreign aid and development across the world.&nbsp;
Congressional Democrats have been raising concerns saying that Trump may be headed toward ending the USAID as an independent agency and absorbing it into the State Department.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-donald-trump-freezes-foreign-aid-military-funding-for-israel-egypt-8651682" rel="dofollow">'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted</a>
They stressed that Trump has no legal authority to eliminate a congressionally funded independent agency, adding that the work of USAID is important to national security.&nbsp;
Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut shared a post on X, saying, presidents cannot eliminate congressionally appropriated federal agencies by executive order, adding that Trump was poised to "double down on a constitutional crisis.&rdquo;
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s what a despot &mdash; who wants to steal the taxpayers&rsquo; money to enrich his billionaire cabal &mdash; does,&rdquo; Murphy said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-unveils-sweeping-tariffs-on-canada-mexico-and-china-8682715" rel="dofollow">US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China</a>
Meanwhile, Elon Musk, while advising Trump, endorsed the posts on his X site, calling for dissolving USAID.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Live by executive order, die by executive order,&rdquo; Musk posted Saturday in reference to USAID.&nbsp;
The US president and other congressional Republicans have said that the foreign aid and development programs are wasteful.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710" rel="dofollow">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
Notably, America is the world's largest donor of humanitarian aid by far as it spends less than one percent of its budget on foreign aid, a smaller share overall than some other countries.
USAID was created by former President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War to counter Soviet influence. Congress passed the Foreign Assistance Act in 1961, and Kennedy signed that law and an executive order establishing USAID as an independent agency.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Congressional Democrats have been saying that Trump may be headed toward ending the USAID as an independent agency and absorbing it into the State Department. 

The website of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) went offline on Saturday without giving any explanation as thousands of furloughs, layoffs, and program shutdowns continued. This comes after US President Donald Trump froze US-funded foreign aid and development across the world. Congressional Democrats have been raising concerns saying that Trump may be headed toward ending the USAID as an independent agency and absorbing it into the State Department. Also read: 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted They stressed that Trump has no legal authority to eliminate a congressionally funded independent agency, adding that the work of USAID is important to national security. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut shared a post on X, saying, presidents cannot eliminate congressionally appropriated federal agencies by executive order, adding that Trump was poised to "double down on a constitutional crisis.” “That’s what a despot — who wants to steal the taxpayers’ money to enrich his billionaire cabal — does,” Murphy said. Also read: US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China Meanwhile, Elon Musk, while advising Trump, endorsed the posts on his X site, calling for dissolving USAID. “Live by executive order, die by executive order,” Musk posted Saturday in reference to USAID. The US president and other congressional Republicans have said that the foreign aid and development programs are wasteful. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict Notably, America is the world's largest donor of humanitarian aid by far as it spends less than one percent of its budget on foreign aid, a smaller share overall than some other countries. USAID was created by former President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War to counter Soviet influence. Congress passed the Foreign Assistance Act in 1961, and Kennedy signed that law and an executive order establishing USAID as an independent agency. (With inputs from agencies)

End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team have been granted access to the US Treasury Department's payment systems, The New York Times reported.&nbsp;
It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system.&nbsp;
The official was later put on leave and then retired after the dispute.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366" rel="dofollow"> Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
US Senator Ron Wyden (Democrat) confirmed the news in a post on Bluesky, saying, "Sources tell my office that Treasury Secretary Bessent has granted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/doge" rel="dofollow">DOGE </a>*full* access to this system. Social Security and Medicare benefits, grants, and payments to government contractors, including those that compete directly with Musk's own companies. All of it."&nbsp;
The billionaire's allies, who were granted access to the payment systems, were reportedly made employees of the department and underwent government vetting and received security clearances.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-chief-musk-wants-to-delete-irs-and-people-agree-with-him-779792" rel="dofollow">DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him</a>
The Treasury Payments system controls more than USD 6 trillion annually and handles key functions including Social Security benefits, tax refunds and federal employee salaries.&nbsp;
As the Musk team has now access to the system, the Trump administration could restrict the disbursement of money approved by Congress for specific purposes, according to a New York Times report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-and-ramaswamy-led-doge-plan-to-stop-work-from-home-for-federal-employees-777953" rel="dofollow">Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees</a>
<h2>Critics react&nbsp;</h2>
Democrats have criticised the move, stressing political interference in the Treasury's payment systems.&nbsp;
Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in a letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent said, "To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy."
Meanwhile, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) called for an investigation into the matter, pointing to the dangers of allowing Musk's team to oversee payments that affect millions of US citizens.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system. 

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team have been granted access to the US Treasury Department's payment systems, The New York Times reported. It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system. The official was later put on leave and then retired after the dispute. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom US Senator Ron Wyden (Democrat) confirmed the news in a post on Bluesky, saying, "Sources tell my office that Treasury Secretary Bessent has granted DOGE *full* access to this system. Social Security and Medicare benefits, grants, and payments to government contractors, including those that compete directly with Musk's own companies. All of it." The billionaire's allies, who were granted access to the payment systems, were reportedly made employees of the department and underwent government vetting and received security clearances. Also read: DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him The Treasury Payments system controls more than USD 6 trillion annually and handles key functions including Social Security benefits, tax refunds and federal employee salaries. As the Musk team has now access to the system, the Trump administration could restrict the disbursement of money approved by Congress for specific purposes, according to a New York Times report. Also read: Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees Critics react Democrats have criticised the move, stressing political interference in the Treasury's payment systems. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in a letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent said, "To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy." Meanwhile, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) called for an investigation into the matter, pointing to the dangers of allowing Musk's team to oversee payments that affect millions of US citizens. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean

Britain is set to become the first country to introduce laws against the use of AI tools to generate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/child-sexual-abuse" rel="dofollow">sexual abuse</a> images. This comes after law enforcement agencies warned of an alarming proliferation in such cases of the technology.
It has been a major concern for the UK police, and the government has taken the decision to close the legal loophole.&nbsp;
Those found guilty will face up to five years in prison.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-served-deadline-by-eu-to-come-up-with-answers-regarding-child-abuse-material-on-instagram-665284" rel="dofollow">Meta served deadline by EU to come up with answers regarding child abuse material on Instagram</a>
<h2>What does the law include?&nbsp;</h2>
Under the new law, it will be illegal to possess, create or distribute AI tools designed to generate child sexual abuse material.&nbsp;
Moreover, it will also be illegal for anyone to possess manuals that teach potential offenders how to use AI tools to either make abusive imagery or to help them abuse children, and the person found guilty will face up to three years in prison.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/orphanage-in-indias-madhya-pradesh-under-scanner-for-child-abuse-minors-burnt-hung-upside-down-681580" rel="dofollow">'Minors burnt, hung upside down': Orphanage in India's Madhya Pradesh under scanner for child abuse</a>
The law will target people who run or moderate websites designed to share images or advice with other offenders.&nbsp;
The Border Force will be granted some extra powers, through which they will be able to compel anyone who they suspect of posing a sexual risk to children to unlock their digital devices for inspection.&nbsp;
This comes after continuous warnings over the use of AI tools in creating child sexual abuse imagery, as its cases have more than quadrupled in the space of a year.&nbsp;
According to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), there were 245 confirmed reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse images last year, up from 51 in 2023.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-fines-musks-x-385000-for-failure-to-provide-information-on-child-abuse-content-647290" rel="dofollow"> Australia fines Musk&rsquo;s X $385,000 for failure to provide information on child abuse content</a>
In a 30-day period last year, it found 3,512 AI images on a single dark website.&nbsp;
Moreover, in these, the voices of real children and victims are also being used.&nbsp;
These AI tools are also helping the perpetrators disguise their identity to help them groom and abuse their victims.&nbsp;
Senior police figures said that there is now well-established evidence that those who view such images are likely to go on to abuse children in person.
They are further worried that the use of AI imagery could also normalise the sexual abuse of children in the country.&nbsp;
The bill, however, has not yet been tabled in the parliament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Under the new law, it will be illegal to possess, create or distribute artificial intelligence (AI) tools designed to generate child sexual abuse material. 

Britain is set to become the first country to introduce laws against the use of AI tools to generate sexual abuse images. This comes after law enforcement agencies warned of an alarming proliferation in such cases of the technology. It has been a major concern for the UK police, and the government has taken the decision to close the legal loophole. Those found guilty will face up to five years in prison. Also read: Meta served deadline by EU to come up with answers regarding child abuse material on Instagram What does the law include? Under the new law, it will be illegal to possess, create or distribute AI tools designed to generate child sexual abuse material. Moreover, it will also be illegal for anyone to possess manuals that teach potential offenders how to use AI tools to either make abusive imagery or to help them abuse children, and the person found guilty will face up to three years in prison. Also read: 'Minors burnt, hung upside down': Orphanage in India's Madhya Pradesh under scanner for child abuse The law will target people who run or moderate websites designed to share images or advice with other offenders. The Border Force will be granted some extra powers, through which they will be able to compel anyone who they suspect of posing a sexual risk to children to unlock their digital devices for inspection. This comes after continuous warnings over the use of AI tools in creating child sexual abuse imagery, as its cases have more than quadrupled in the space of a year. According to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), there were 245 confirmed reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse images last year, up from 51 in 2023. Also read: Australia fines Musk’s X $385,000 for failure to provide information on child abuse content In a 30-day period last year, it found 3,512 AI images on a single dark website. Moreover, in these, the voices of real children and victims are also being used. These AI tools are also helping the perpetrators disguise their identity to help them groom and abuse their victims. Senior police figures said that there is now well-established evidence that those who view such images are likely to go on to abuse children in person. They are further worried that the use of AI imagery could also normalise the sexual abuse of children in the country. The bill, however, has not yet been tabled in the parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to become first country to ban AI tools creating child sexual abuse images. What all does it include?

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike.
Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia-0" rel="dofollow">Russia</a> bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate.&nbsp;
"This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is how Russia wages war&mdash;Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/MG4MVhcumS">pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1885779119180238928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-barrage-kills-four-in-east-ukraine-8675037" rel="dofollow">Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine</a>
Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region.
<h2>Strike on Ukraine's Poltava</h2>
In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night.&nbsp;
On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow">Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen&nbsp;other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos &nbsp; (With inputs from agencies)

World: Four people were killed and four others were seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. 

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike. Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate. "This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said. This is how Russia wages war—Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.… pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 1, 2025 The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine. Also read: Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region. Strike on Ukraine's Poltava In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night. On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed. Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four

Astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stranded in space for the past eight months, said that she has lost the capacity to do a lot of fundamental tasks, stressing that she does not even know what it's like to walk.&nbsp;
Williams, in a video conference with classmates at Needham High School in Massachusetts on Monday, said that she has been trying to remember what it's like to walk.&nbsp;
Saying, "I haven't laid down", Williams said, "I've been up here long enough, right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-spacex-for-fast-track-return-of-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-to-home-says-musk-8662914" rel="dofollow">Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home</a>
She has spent around 234 days in microgravity. &ldquo;You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here. We initially thought it might be around a month, but the extension turned out to be quite different,&rdquo; she said.&nbsp;
Williams, 59, and Barry Wilmore, 62, were supposed to spend eight days on the ISS when they embarked on their mission on June 5. However, the Boeing capsule that took them suffered technical issues.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-live-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-step-of-international-space-station-for-first-spacewalk-together-8675770" rel="dofollow">Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk together</a>
The capsule then returned to Earth without the two astronauts, leaving them stuck on the ISS until at least late March.&nbsp;
Days back, President Donald Trump said 'the two brave astronauts' were 'virtually abandoned by the Biden administration' and asked Elon Musk and SpaceX to 'go get' them.
'Elon will soon be on his way. Hopefully, all will be safe,' the president said. 'Good luck Elon!!!'
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-coming-out-sunita-williams-conducts-spacewalk-after-being-stuck-in-orbit-for-seven-months-8628341" rel="dofollow">'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months</a>
Musk then posted and vowed to retrieve Williams and Wilmore "as soon as possible".&nbsp;
Due to delays, their mission has now been extended to 10 months, with their return planned for late March or early April.
NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-upbeat-seven-months-into-eight-day-nasa-space-mission-says-dont-feel-like-a-cast-away-8603858" rel="dofollow">Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission</a>
NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not &ldquo;stranded,&rdquo; but that the Starliner didn&rsquo;t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth.
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & technology Trending: Williams, in a video conference with classmates at Needham High School, said that she has been trying to remember what it's like to walk. 

Astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stranded in space for the past eight months, said that she has lost the capacity to do a lot of fundamental tasks, stressing that she does not even know what it's like to walk. Williams, in a video conference with classmates at Needham High School in Massachusetts on Monday, said that she has been trying to remember what it's like to walk. Saying, "I haven't laid down", Williams said, "I've been up here long enough, right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down.” Also read: Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home She has spent around 234 days in microgravity. “You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here. We initially thought it might be around a month, but the extension turned out to be quite different,” she said. Williams, 59, and Barry Wilmore, 62, were supposed to spend eight days on the ISS when they embarked on their mission on June 5. However, the Boeing capsule that took them suffered technical issues. Also read: Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk together The capsule then returned to Earth without the two astronauts, leaving them stuck on the ISS until at least late March. Days back, President Donald Trump said 'the two brave astronauts' were 'virtually abandoned by the Biden administration' and asked Elon Musk and SpaceX to 'go get' them. 'Elon will soon be on his way. Hopefully, all will be safe,' the president said. 'Good luck Elon!!!' Also read: 'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months Musk then posted and vowed to retrieve Williams and Wilmore "as soon as possible". Due to delays, their mission has now been extended to 10 months, with their return planned for late March or early April. NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner. Also read: Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not “stranded,” but that the Starliner didn’t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Stranded astronaut Sunita Williams reveals she has forgotten ‘what it is like to walk’

As China tries to achieve global leadership in defence and military technologies, it is now building a new military command centre near its capital, which is expected to be ten times the size of the Pentagon, Financial Times reported, citing US intelligence officials.&nbsp;
Dubbed 'Beijing Military City', the construction of the facility began in mid-2024.&nbsp;
Recent satellite images show deep holes dug in the 1500-acre land, which is located 30 km southwest of Beijing.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-chinas-deepseek-a-startup-shaking-the-global-tech-look-at-other-key-players-in-chinese-ai-industry-8662290" rel="dofollow">What is China's DeepSeek, a startup shaking the global tech. A look at other players in Chinese AI industry</a>
The new military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, which will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict, including a nuclear war.&nbsp;
<h2>'10 times bigger than Pentagon'</h2>
"Nearly 10 times bigger than the Pentagon, it's fitting for Xi Jinping's ambitions to surpass the US," an unnamed Chinese researcher told the publication.
The researcher added, "This fortress only serves one purpose, which is to act as a doomsday bunker for China's increasingly sophisticated and capable military."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-trump-vows-tariffs-on-china-india-brazil-and-other-nations-that-harm-us-8661806" rel="dofollow"> 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US</a>
The facility is further expected to replace the existing Western Hills complex and provide immense enhanced protection against the potential US "bunker buster" munitions and nuclear attacks.&nbsp;
The US intelligence officials and former CIA analysts suggested that the construction of the facility points to China's intent to develop advanced nuclear warfighting capabilities, The Telegraph reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-secretly-trying-to-gain-control-in-japan-specifically-in-okinawa-close-to-taiwan-8655020" rel="dofollow">China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan</a>
Notably, access to the facility is strictly restricted, with signs prohibiting drone flights and photography.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-deepseek-deepseek-or-deep-secrecy-netizens-slam-chinas-new-ai-chatbot-for-deflecting-questions-on-dark-chinese-history-lets-talk-about-something-else-8660727" rel="dofollow">DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history</a>
"Guards at one gate abruptly said that entry was prohibited and refused to talk about the project. One supervisor leaving the construction site refused to comment on the project," according to the report.
Dennis Wilder, the former head of China analysis for the CIA, said, "If confirmed, this new advanced underground command bunker for the military leadership, including President Xi as the chairman of the Central Military Commission, signals Beijing's intent to build not only a world-class conventional force but also an advanced nuclear warfighting capability."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: New military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, that will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict. 

As China tries to achieve global leadership in defence and military technologies, it is now building a new military command centre near its capital, which is expected to be ten times the size of the Pentagon, Financial Times reported, citing US intelligence officials. Dubbed 'Beijing Military City', the construction of the facility began in mid-2024. Recent satellite images show deep holes dug in the 1500-acre land, which is located 30 km southwest of Beijing. Also read: What is China's DeepSeek, a startup shaking the global tech. A look at other players in Chinese AI industry The new military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, which will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict, including a nuclear war. '10 times bigger than Pentagon' "Nearly 10 times bigger than the Pentagon, it's fitting for Xi Jinping's ambitions to surpass the US," an unnamed Chinese researcher told the publication. The researcher added, "This fortress only serves one purpose, which is to act as a doomsday bunker for China's increasingly sophisticated and capable military." Also read: 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US The facility is further expected to replace the existing Western Hills complex and provide immense enhanced protection against the potential US "bunker buster" munitions and nuclear attacks. The US intelligence officials and former CIA analysts suggested that the construction of the facility points to China's intent to develop advanced nuclear warfighting capabilities, The Telegraph reported. Also read: China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan Notably, access to the facility is strictly restricted, with signs prohibiting drone flights and photography. Also read: DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history "Guards at one gate abruptly said that entry was prohibited and refused to talk about the project. One supervisor leaving the construction site refused to comment on the project," according to the report. Dennis Wilder, the former head of China analysis for the CIA, said, "If confirmed, this new advanced underground command bunker for the military leadership, including President Xi as the chairman of the Central Military Commission, signals Beijing's intent to build not only a world-class conventional force but also an advanced nuclear warfighting capability." (With inputs from agencies)

China building military command centre, 10 times bigger than Pentagon: Report

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted on India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations, while reducing some for others.&nbsp;
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated a total of Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries.&nbsp;
India's aid to foreign countries has given primacy to its "Neighbourhood First", with more than 60 per cent of the budget assigned for immediate neighbours.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2025-key-takeaways-from-major-tax-cuts-to-job-creation-push-8682017" rel="dofollow">Union Budget 2025: From major tax cuts to job creation push | 9 key takeaways</a>
<h2>Bhutan takes top spot&nbsp;</h2>
As per the budget, Bhutan continues to be India's largest foreign aid receiver, as it has been allocated Rs 2,150 crore in the 2025-2026 budget. The aid has been hiked from last year's allocation of Rs 2,068 crore.&nbsp;
<h2>Hike in Maldives aid&nbsp;</h2>
India has increased its budget for providing aid to the Maldives from Rs 400 crore to Rs 600 crore. The hike in Maldives aid marks great significance as it comes as Male tries to mend relations with Delhi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-long-was-nirmala-sitharamans-2025-union-budget-speech-heres-how-it-compares-to-her-past-records-8681759" rel="dofollow">How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here&rsquo;s how it compares to her past records</a>
Out of the total allocated budget, Rs 1,80,000 crore has been earmarked to the armed forces for capital expenditure that largely includes purchasing new weapons, aircraft, warships, and other military hardware.&nbsp;
Moreover, it has outlined Rs 6,81,210 crore as the defence outlay for 2025-26, higher than the current fiscal's allocation of Rs 6.22 lakh crore.&nbsp;
Also read: I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/implications-of-the-union-budget-2025-26-on-indias-sustainable-development-8682018" rel="dofollow">mplications of the union budget 2025-26 on India&rsquo;s sustainable development</a>
<h2>Reduction in Afghanistan's aid&nbsp;</h2>
According to this year's budget, Afghanistan's aid has been reduced from Rs 200 crore last year to Rs 100 crore in 2025-26.&nbsp;
This marks a sharp decline from the Rs 207 crore allocated to the country two years ago.&nbsp;
For some time now, India has been cautious in dealing with the Taliban government, as it has limited its engagement to humanitarian aid and economic cooperation.&nbsp;
<h2>Hike in Myanmar's aid&nbsp;</h2>
Myanmar's allocation has increased from Rs 250 crore last year to Rs 350 crore for 2025-2026 as the country has been dealing with the ongoing turmoil.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/simplified-kyc-process-coming-in-2025-with-new-central-registry-8681980" rel="dofollow">Budget 2025: Simplified KYC process coming in 2025 with new central registry</a>
<h2>Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh&nbsp;</h2>
India has allocated Rs 700 crore for Nepal, while the allocation for Sri Lanka has seen a hike from Rs 245 crore to Rs 300 crore.&nbsp;
The aid to Bangladesh remains unchanged at Rs 120 crore amid the ongoing diplomatic row between the two nations.&nbsp;
<h2>Africa</h2>
Aid to African nations has been hiked to Rs 225 crore from Rs 200 crore last year.&nbsp;
<h2>Latin America</h2>
The aid for Latin America has also increased from Rs 30 crore to Rs 60 crore.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the aid allocation for Chabahar Port in Iran stays the same at Rs 100 crore.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries. 

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted on India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations, while reducing some for others. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated a total of Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries. India's aid to foreign countries has given primacy to its "Neighbourhood First", with more than 60 per cent of the budget assigned for immediate neighbours. Also read: Union Budget 2025: From major tax cuts to job creation push | 9 key takeaways Bhutan takes top spot As per the budget, Bhutan continues to be India's largest foreign aid receiver, as it has been allocated Rs 2,150 crore in the 2025-2026 budget. The aid has been hiked from last year's allocation of Rs 2,068 crore. Hike in Maldives aid India has increased its budget for providing aid to the Maldives from Rs 400 crore to Rs 600 crore. The hike in Maldives aid marks great significance as it comes as Male tries to mend relations with Delhi. Also read: How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here’s how it compares to her past records Out of the total allocated budget, Rs 1,80,000 crore has been earmarked to the armed forces for capital expenditure that largely includes purchasing new weapons, aircraft, warships, and other military hardware. Moreover, it has outlined Rs 6,81,210 crore as the defence outlay for 2025-26, higher than the current fiscal's allocation of Rs 6.22 lakh crore. Also read: Implications of the union budget 2025-26 on India’s sustainable development Reduction in Afghanistan's aid According to this year's budget, Afghanistan's aid has been reduced from Rs 200 crore last year to Rs 100 crore in 2025-26. This marks a sharp decline from the Rs 207 crore allocated to the country two years ago. For some time now, India has been cautious in dealing with the Taliban government, as it has limited its engagement to humanitarian aid and economic cooperation. Hike in Myanmar's aid Myanmar's allocation has increased from Rs 250 crore last year to Rs 350 crore for 2025-2026 as the country has been dealing with the ongoing turmoil. Also read: Budget 2025: Simplified KYC process coming in 2025 with new central registry Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh India has allocated Rs 700 crore for Nepal, while the allocation for Sri Lanka has seen a hike from Rs 245 crore to Rs 300 crore. The aid to Bangladesh remains unchanged at Rs 120 crore amid the ongoing diplomatic row between the two nations. Africa Aid to African nations has been hiked to Rs 225 crore from Rs 200 crore last year. Latin America The aid for Latin America has also increased from Rs 30 crore to Rs 60 crore. Meanwhile, the aid allocation for Chabahar Port in Iran stays the same at Rs 100 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: India hikes foreign aid to Maldives, but THIS country tops the chart

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