<p>Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe a conspiracy theory which suggests that Taylor Swift is part of a secret government plot to help US President Joe Biden win a second term, as per a new poll by Monmouth University.</p>

<p>“The supposed Taylor Swift psyop conspiracy has legs among a decent number of Trump supporters,” Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, said in a statement on Tuesday.</p>

<p>“Even many who hadn’t heard about it before we polled them accept the idea as credible. Welcome to the 2024 election," he added.</p>

<p>The poll showed that 46 per cent of the respondents had heard about the conspiracy, whereas 18 per cent said that they believed it.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-for-ban-on-assault-weapons-after-deadly-shooting-at-super-bowl-parade-690387">Kansas shooting: Biden calls for ban on assault weapons after deadly shooting at Super Bowl parade</a></p>

<p>Among those who believed the conspiracy theory, 71 per cent identified as Republicans whereas 83 per cent as staunch supporters of Trump. Close to&nbsp;73 per cent also believed that the results of the 2020 US Presidential elections were fraudulent.</p>

<p>The conspiracy theory suggests that the United States Defence Department is working alongside Swift to push for pro-Biden propaganda in order to divert the public's attention from Trump.</p>

<p>The theory further posits that the famous pop star may be making use of the NFL to expand her reach to an even broader audience. Swift is dating&nbsp;Travis Kelce of the NFL team Kansas City Chiefs, which won this year's Super Bowl.</p>

<p>Swift endorsed Biden over Trump during the 2020 presidential race. On the other hand, Kelce, a star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, endorsed Bud Light beer and vaccinations against coronavirus, which have been the targets of rightwing ire.</p>

<p>Donald Trump has said that Swift would be “disloyal” if she went ahead and endorsed Biden as she widely benefited from the Music Modernization Act, which was related to royalties from streaming services, that was passed during Trump's term.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe a conspiracy theory which suggests that Taylor Swift is part of a secret government plot to help US President Joe Biden win a second term, as per a new poll by Monmouth University.

Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe a conspiracy theory which suggests that Taylor Swift is part of a secret government plot to help US President Joe Biden win a second term, as per a new poll by Monmouth University. “The supposed Taylor Swift psyop conspiracy has legs among a decent number of Trump supporters,” Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, said in a statement on Tuesday. “Even many who hadn’t heard about it before we polled them accept the idea as credible. Welcome to the 2024 election," he added. The poll showed that 46 per cent of the respondents had heard about the conspiracy, whereas 18 per cent said that they believed it. Also read: Kansas shooting: Biden calls for ban on assault weapons after deadly shooting at Super Bowl parade Among those who believed the conspiracy theory, 71 per cent identified as Republicans whereas 83 per cent as staunch supporters of Trump. Close to 73 per cent also believed that the results of the 2020 US Presidential elections were fraudulent. The conspiracy theory suggests that the United States Defence Department is working alongside Swift to push for pro-Biden propaganda in order to divert the public's attention from Trump. The theory further posits that the famous pop star may be making use of the NFL to expand her reach to an even broader audience. Swift is dating Travis Kelce of the NFL team Kansas City Chiefs, which won this year's Super Bowl. Swift endorsed Biden over Trump during the 2020 presidential race. On the other hand, Kelce, a star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, endorsed Bud Light beer and vaccinations against coronavirus, which have been the targets of rightwing ire. Donald Trump has said that Swift would be “disloyal” if she went ahead and endorsed Biden as she widely benefited from the Music Modernization Act, which was related to royalties from streaming services, that was passed during Trump's term. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe in Taylor Swift-Joe Biden election conspiracy theory, poll finds

<p>Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub.</p>

<p>"According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media.</p>

<p>"The Ukrainian defenders continue to hold back the enemy who keeps trying to encircle Avdiivka... the Ukrainian soldiers are standing their ground," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine&nbsp;earlier today said that its armed forces were further equipping new defensive positions around the embattled eastern city, hinting at a possible drawdown of forces as Russia steps up its offensive.</p>

<p>The move comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky released a statement saying that he would do "everything" to safeguard the lives in the city that has been encircled by the Russian forces on all three sides.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fbi-informant-faces-allegations-of-lying-about-business-dealings-of-president-joe-biden-son-hunter-biden-690747">Ex-FBI informant faces allegations of lying about business dealings of President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fierce battles are taking place within the city," Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a Ukrainian general in the east, said on social media.</p>

<p>"Our troops are using all available forces and means to restrain the enemy," he added.</p>

<p>"New positions have been prepared and powerful fortifications continue to be prepared, taking into account all possible scenarios," said Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a senior Ukrainian commander responsible for forces in the east of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that Kyiv wanted to safeguard its troops, "We value every piece of Ukrainian land, but the highest value and priority for us is the preservation of the life of a Ukrainian soldier."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tarnavskiy said that the situation in Avdiivka was "difficult but controlled", further stating that the commanders were tasked to "stabilise the situation".</p>

<p>Russia has been attempting to seize Avdiivka for months now.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub. "According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media.

Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub. "According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media. "The Ukrainian defenders continue to hold back the enemy who keeps trying to encircle Avdiivka... the Ukrainian soldiers are standing their ground," it added. Ukraine earlier today said that its armed forces were further equipping new defensive positions around the embattled eastern city, hinting at a possible drawdown of forces as Russia steps up its offensive. The move comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky released a statement saying that he would do "everything" to safeguard the lives in the city that has been encircled by the Russian forces on all three sides. Also read: Ex-FBI informant faces allegations of lying about business dealings of President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden "Fierce battles are taking place within the city," Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a Ukrainian general in the east, said on social media. "Our troops are using all available forces and means to restrain the enemy," he added. "New positions have been prepared and powerful fortifications continue to be prepared, taking into account all possible scenarios," said Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a senior Ukrainian commander responsible for forces in the east of the country. He said that Kyiv wanted to safeguard its troops, "We value every piece of Ukrainian land, but the highest value and priority for us is the preservation of the life of a Ukrainian soldier." Tarnavskiy said that the situation in Avdiivka was "difficult but controlled", further stating that the commanders were tasked to "stabilise the situation". Russia has been attempting to seize Avdiivka for months now. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says reinforcing troops in embattled eastern town of Avdiivka as Russia steps up attacks

<p>An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.</p>

<p>On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire.</p>

<p>While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah.</p>

<p>An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports.</p>

<p>"The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-probes-deadly-strikes-in-gaza-and-reported-use-of-white-phosphorus-in-lebanon-report-690361">US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report</a></p>

<p>Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family.</p>

<p>The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13.</p>

<p>The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters.</p>

<p>The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel".<br />
&nbsp;<br />
It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh.</p>

<p>Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.

An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah. An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports. "The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Also read: US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family. The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13. The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters. The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel". It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh. Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill 9 amid concerns over cross-border escalation

<p>In a shocking development, a 40-year-old woman from the United States went missing in Spain amid a bitter divorce. Ana Knezevich, a US citizen from Colombia, disappeared nearly two weeks ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her family, as per the New York Post reports, claim that they received "bizarre messages" from her phone before she mysteriously vanished.</p>

<p>Knezevich's family revealed that she was going through a painful separation from her husband, who is originally from Serbia.</p>

<p>Knezevich, who decided to take a break and travel to Europe, went missing on Feb 5 in Madrid. She had plans to meet her friend in Barcelona, but never arrived there, Knezevich's brother Felipe Henao said.</p>

<p>Henao stated that his sister mysteriously vanished after a man, who was spotted wearing a helmet, blacked out security cameras at the apartment by using spray paint.</p>

<p>He then said that the family members got extremely worried after they got text messages in Spanish from Knezevich's number.</p>

<p>"That message in Spanish, it is like it's translated from Google. It's not her. She doesn't say those things. Like nobody in Spanish will say it like that," Henao was quoted as saying by DailyMail.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-1-dead-21-injured-in-kansas-city-chiefs-parade-shooting-690378">At least 1 dead, 22 injured in Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade shooting</a></p>

<p>The messages, when translated, said that Knezevich was visiting a person who lived two hours away from Madrid for a few days and that she would get in touch with them as soon as she was back as there was no phone service available there.</p>

<p>Knezevich's friend Sanna Rameau said that she was last seen on Feb 2 by her neighbours.</p>

<p>Rameau said that the day when Knezevich went missing, she sent her a text message but did not receive a reply.</p>

<p>However, she got a text message the next day from her number saying that she had met a person whom she had an instant connection with and that she would call Rameau as soon as she got back.</p>

<p>“We received very bizarre messages from her phone, I have to say from her phone because I don't believe it was her sending it, that Saturday afternoon after she disappeared. That she had met a man on the street,” Rameau told WSVN.</p>

<p>The Spanish authorities, as per the local media reports, have launched an inquiry and are now investigating the matter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a shocking development, a 40-year-old woman from the United States went missing in Spain amid a bitter divorce. Ana Knezevich, a US citizen from Colombia, disappeared nearly two weeks ago.

In a shocking development, a 40-year-old woman from the United States went missing in Spain amid a bitter divorce. Ana Knezevich, a US citizen from Colombia, disappeared nearly two weeks ago. Her family, as per the New York Post reports, claim that they received "bizarre messages" from her phone before she mysteriously vanished. Knezevich's family revealed that she was going through a painful separation from her husband, who is originally from Serbia. Knezevich, who decided to take a break and travel to Europe, went missing on Feb 5 in Madrid. She had plans to meet her friend in Barcelona, but never arrived there, Knezevich's brother Felipe Henao said. Henao stated that his sister mysteriously vanished after a man, who was spotted wearing a helmet, blacked out security cameras at the apartment by using spray paint. He then said that the family members got extremely worried after they got text messages in Spanish from Knezevich's number. "That message in Spanish, it is like it's translated from Google. It's not her. She doesn't say those things. Like nobody in Spanish will say it like that," Henao was quoted as saying by DailyMail. Also read: At least 1 dead, 22 injured in Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade shooting The messages, when translated, said that Knezevich was visiting a person who lived two hours away from Madrid for a few days and that she would get in touch with them as soon as she was back as there was no phone service available there. Knezevich's friend Sanna Rameau said that she was last seen on Feb 2 by her neighbours. Rameau said that the day when Knezevich went missing, she sent her a text message but did not receive a reply. However, she got a text message the next day from her number saying that she had met a person whom she had an instant connection with and that she would call Rameau as soon as she got back. “We received very bizarre messages from her phone, I have to say from her phone because I don't believe it was her sending it, that Saturday afternoon after she disappeared. That she had met a man on the street,” Rameau told WSVN. The Spanish authorities, as per the local media reports, have launched an inquiry and are now investigating the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

US woman shockingly disappears in Spain amid bitter divorce with husband

<p>The special counsel prosecuting Donald Trump on federal charges involving the former president's efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss urged the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday to reject Trump's bid to further delay trial proceedings as he presses his claim of immunity.</p>

<p>"The nation has a compelling interest in seeing the charges brought to trial," Special Counsel Jack Smith said in his filing to the justices, adding that "the public interest in a prompt trial is at its zenith where, as here, a former president is charged with conspiring to subvert the electoral process so that he could remain in office."</p>

<p>Smith's filing responded to a request by Trump's lawyers on Monday to put on hold a decision by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejecting the claim of presidential immunity from prosecution.</p>

<p>If the justices do not immediately reject Trump's request, Smith asked that they take up the case and hear it on a fast-track basis.</p>

<p>Smith said Trump's criminal charges reflect an alleged effort to "perpetuate himself in power and prevent the lawful winner of the 2020 presidential election from taking office. The charged crimes strike at the heart of our democracy."</p>

<p>"A president's alleged criminal scheme to overturn an election and thwart the peaceful transfer of power to his successor should be the last place to recognize a novel form of absolute immunity from federal criminal law," Smith added.</p>

<p>Trump's lawyers asked the justices to halt the trial proceedings pending their bid for the full slate of judges on the D.C. Circuit to reconsider the case, and, if necessary, an appeal to the Supreme Court. Smith told the justices that granting such a request would serve only to unnecessarily postpone Trump's trial.</p>

<p>Trump is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden, who defeated him in 2020, in the Nov. 5 U.S. election. If the Supreme Court grants Trump's requests or otherwise does not act quickly to resolve the case, the trial could be pushed to late in the campaign or after the election.</p>

<p>Trump, who served in the White House from 2017 to 2021 and has become the first former president to be criminally prosecuted, has made sweeping claims of immunity both while in office and since leaving the White House.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court in December declined Smith's request to decide the immunity claim even before the D.C. Circuit ruled - a bid by the special counsel to speed up the process of resolving the matter. The justices opted instead to let the lower appeals court rule first, as is customary.</p>

<p>Smith was appointed by U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022 to investigate Trump's actions in the aftermath of the 2020 election and his retention of classified documents after leaving the White House in 2021. Smith brought charges against Trump concerning both issues.</p>

<h2><strong>Trial Delays</strong></h2>

<p>A March 4 trial date for Trump in federal court in Washington on four criminal counts pursued by Smith in the election subversion case was postponed, with no new date yet set. Trump has pleaded not guilty and has sought to portray the case as politically motivated.</p>

<p>Slowing the case could be to Trump's benefit. If he wins the election and returns to the White House, he could use his presidential powers to force an end to the prosecution or potentially pardon himself for any federal crimes.</p>

<p>Trump has appealed a decision by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Dec. 1 rejecting his bid to dismiss the case. Chutkan found no legal support for the position argued by Trump's lawyers that former presidents cannot face criminal charges for conduct related to their official responsibilities.</p>

<p>The charges, brought by Smith in August 2023, represent one of four criminal cases now pending against Trump.</p>

<p>In their filing to the Supreme Court, Trump's lawyers said a months-long criminal trial of Trump during "at the height of election season will radically disrupt" his ability to campaign against Biden. They painted a dark picture of what they said would befall future presidents if Trump's prosecution is permitted to move forward, warning of partisan prosecutions, extortion, blackmail and more.</p>

<p>Trump and his allies made false claims that the 2020 election was stolen and devised a plan to use false electors to thwart congressional certification of Biden's victory. Trump also sought to pressure Vice President Mike Pence not to allow certification to go forward. Trump's supporters attacked the Capitol in a bid to prevent the certification.</p>

<p>The indictment accused Trump of conspiring to defraud the United States, obstructing the congressional certification of Biden's electoral victory and conspiring to do so, and conspiring against right of Americans to vote.</p>


The special counsel prosecuting Donald Trump on federal charges involving the former president's efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss urged the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday to reject Trump's bid to further delay trial proceedings as he presses his claim of immunity.

The special counsel prosecuting Donald Trump on federal charges involving the former president's efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss urged the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday to reject Trump's bid to further delay trial proceedings as he presses his claim of immunity. "The nation has a compelling interest in seeing the charges brought to trial," Special Counsel Jack Smith said in his filing to the justices, adding that "the public interest in a prompt trial is at its zenith where, as here, a former president is charged with conspiring to subvert the electoral process so that he could remain in office." Smith's filing responded to a request by Trump's lawyers on Monday to put on hold a decision by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejecting the claim of presidential immunity from prosecution. If the justices do not immediately reject Trump's request, Smith asked that they take up the case and hear it on a fast-track basis. Smith said Trump's criminal charges reflect an alleged effort to "perpetuate himself in power and prevent the lawful winner of the 2020 presidential election from taking office. The charged crimes strike at the heart of our democracy." "A president's alleged criminal scheme to overturn an election and thwart the peaceful transfer of power to his successor should be the last place to recognize a novel form of absolute immunity from federal criminal law," Smith added. Trump's lawyers asked the justices to halt the trial proceedings pending their bid for the full slate of judges on the D.C. Circuit to reconsider the case, and, if necessary, an appeal to the Supreme Court. Smith told the justices that granting such a request would serve only to unnecessarily postpone Trump's trial. Trump is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden, who defeated him in 2020, in the Nov. 5 U.S. election. If the Supreme Court grants Trump's requests or otherwise does not act quickly to resolve the case, the trial could be pushed to late in the campaign or after the election. Trump, who served in the White House from 2017 to 2021 and has become the first former president to be criminally prosecuted, has made sweeping claims of immunity both while in office and since leaving the White House. The Supreme Court in December declined Smith's request to decide the immunity claim even before the D.C. Circuit ruled - a bid by the special counsel to speed up the process of resolving the matter. The justices opted instead to let the lower appeals court rule first, as is customary. Smith was appointed by U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022 to investigate Trump's actions in the aftermath of the 2020 election and his retention of classified documents after leaving the White House in 2021. Smith brought charges against Trump concerning both issues. Trial Delays A March 4 trial date for Trump in federal court in Washington on four criminal counts pursued by Smith in the election subversion case was postponed, with no new date yet set. Trump has pleaded not guilty and has sought to portray the case as politically motivated. Slowing the case could be to Trump's benefit. If he wins the election and returns to the White House, he could use his presidential powers to force an end to the prosecution or potentially pardon himself for any federal crimes. Trump has appealed a decision by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Dec. 1 rejecting his bid to dismiss the case. Chutkan found no legal support for the position argued by Trump's lawyers that former presidents cannot face criminal charges for conduct related to their official responsibilities. The charges, brought by Smith in August 2023, represent one of four criminal cases now pending against Trump. In their filing to the Supreme Court, Trump's lawyers said a months-long criminal trial of Trump during "at the height of election season will radically disrupt" his ability to campaign against Biden. They painted a dark picture of what they said would befall future presidents if Trump's prosecution is permitted to move forward, warning of partisan prosecutions, extortion, blackmail and more. Trump and his allies made false claims that the 2020 election was stolen and devised a plan to use false electors to thwart congressional certification of Biden's victory. Trump also sought to pressure Vice President Mike Pence not to allow certification to go forward. Trump's supporters attacked the Capitol in a bid to prevent the certification. The indictment accused Trump of conspiring to defraud the United States, obstructing the congressional certification of Biden's electoral victory and conspiring to do so, and conspiring against right of Americans to vote.

Special counsel urges US Supreme Court to rebuff Trump in immunity fight

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese left the world gushing in love over his adorable marriage proposal after he got engaged to his long-time partner Jodie Haydon on Valentine's Day.</p>

<p>Making it official on Instagram, Albanese shared a picture of the two beaming in joy and captioned it, "She said yes".</p>

<p>The photo has Haydon flashing her engagement ring that her fiancée helped design.</p>

<p>"It is such a joy to be able to share this news with people," a beaming and slightly bashful Albanese said, after walking hand-in-hand with Haydon from the prime minister's official residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's wonderful that I've found a partner who I want to spend the rest of my life with," he further said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-prefers-joe-bidens-presidency-over-trump-in-white-house-690509">Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House</a></p>

<p>Haydon expressed her heartfelt thanks to "everybody for such a warm congratulations today, from our friends to our family, from people that we don't know. It's just been overwhelming but beautiful."</p>

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<p>Among the world leaders wishing the couple well were New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and English celebrity chef Nigella Lawson.</p>

<p>"Love is a beautiful thing. I'm so happy for you both!" Foreign Minister Penny Wong posted.</p>

<p>Albanese, who popped the question after relishing a fancy meal at an Italian restaurant, unveiled that "a lot of planning and thought went into everything, from the date obviously Valentine's Day, and the ring that I helped to design."</p>

<p>The couple had first met at a Melbourne business dinner in the year 2020. Their engagement is the first for a prime minister while in office.</p>

<p>Opposition leader Peter Dutton also congratulated the two in parliament saying that he was looking forward to "our version" of the royal wedding.</p>

<p>"I'll be there throwing roses out there in front of you Prime Minister, whatever it takes to get an invite to the gala wedding," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese left the world gushing in love over his adorable marriage proposal after he got engaged to his long-time partner Jodie Haydon on Valentine's Day.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese left the world gushing in love over his adorable marriage proposal after he got engaged to his long-time partner Jodie Haydon on Valentine's Day. Making it official on Instagram, Albanese shared a picture of the two beaming in joy and captioned it, "She said yes". The photo has Haydon flashing her engagement ring that her fiancée helped design. "It is such a joy to be able to share this news with people," a beaming and slightly bashful Albanese said, after walking hand-in-hand with Haydon from the prime minister's official residence. "It's wonderful that I've found a partner who I want to spend the rest of my life with," he further said. Also read: Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House Haydon expressed her heartfelt thanks to "everybody for such a warm congratulations today, from our friends to our family, from people that we don't know. It's just been overwhelming but beautiful." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anthony Albanese (@albomp) × Among the world leaders wishing the couple well were New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and English celebrity chef Nigella Lawson. "Love is a beautiful thing. I'm so happy for you both!" Foreign Minister Penny Wong posted. Albanese, who popped the question after relishing a fancy meal at an Italian restaurant, unveiled that "a lot of planning and thought went into everything, from the date obviously Valentine's Day, and the ring that I helped to design." The couple had first met at a Melbourne business dinner in the year 2020. Their engagement is the first for a prime minister while in office. Opposition leader Peter Dutton also congratulated the two in parliament saying that he was looking forward to "our version" of the royal wedding. "I'll be there throwing roses out there in front of you Prime Minister, whatever it takes to get an invite to the gala wedding," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'She said yes': Australian PM Anthony Albanese proposes to partner Jodie Haydon on Valentine's Day

<p>India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first&nbsp;on&nbsp;the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).</p>

<p>Out of the 254 cities, Delhi's pollution levels were recorded at the highest with the average PM2.5 concentration at 206 micrograms per cubic metre.</p>

<p>The city exceeded the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) every day of the month.</p>

<p>The next on the list, after Delhi, was Bhagalpur in the state of Bihar.&nbsp;The daily NAAQS for PM2.5, which as per WHO's daily safe limit should be 15 micrograms per cubic metre, was recorded at 60 micrograms per cubic metre.</p>

<p>The other cities to be named in this list were Saharsa, Byrnihat, Greater Noida, Hanumangarh, Noida, Baddi, Sri Ganganagar and Faridabad.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lucknow-espionage-case-indian-embassy-staff-in-moscow-falls-prey-to-pakistan-isi-honey-trap-690341">Espionage case: Indian embassy staff in Moscow fell prey to Pakistan ISI honey trap</a></p>

<p>"The lower temperature and no rainy day in Delhi during Jan aggravated the anthropogenic air pollution crisis, which is largely a result of a mismatch of policies and actions on reducing emissions and geographies in the city and larger airshed around it," said Sunil Dahiya, an analyst with CREA.</p>

<p>"Delhi or any other city in the country is yet to see a comprehensive approach to put emission caps and reduction targets. In the absence of an airshed level emission load reduction approach for air pollution governance and regulation, the fight will be inefficient," he added.</p>

<p>Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) still shows no signs of improvement as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 294 on Thursday at 9 am, as per the data by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).</p>

<p>An AQI between zero and 50 is considered as good, between 51 to 100 id satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first on the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first on the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). Out of the 254 cities, Delhi's pollution levels were recorded at the highest with the average PM2.5 concentration at 206 micrograms per cubic metre. The city exceeded the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) every day of the month. The next on the list, after Delhi, was Bhagalpur in the state of Bihar. The daily NAAQS for PM2.5, which as per WHO's daily safe limit should be 15 micrograms per cubic metre, was recorded at 60 micrograms per cubic metre. The other cities to be named in this list were Saharsa, Byrnihat, Greater Noida, Hanumangarh, Noida, Baddi, Sri Ganganagar and Faridabad. Also read: Espionage case: Indian embassy staff in Moscow fell prey to Pakistan ISI honey trap "The lower temperature and no rainy day in Delhi during Jan aggravated the anthropogenic air pollution crisis, which is largely a result of a mismatch of policies and actions on reducing emissions and geographies in the city and larger airshed around it," said Sunil Dahiya, an analyst with CREA. "Delhi or any other city in the country is yet to see a comprehensive approach to put emission caps and reduction targets. In the absence of an airshed level emission load reduction approach for air pollution governance and regulation, the fight will be inefficient," he added. Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) still shows no signs of improvement as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 294 on Thursday at 9 am, as per the data by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI between zero and 50 is considered as good, between 51 to 100 id satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi tops list of most polluted Indian cities in January 2024

<p>At least one person was killed while 22 were injured in a shooting incident in Missouri during a parade celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs winning the Super Bowl LVIII, earlier this week, US media reported. In other news, the US has intelligence of Russian nuclear capabilities in space which could threaten satellites, a report in the New York Times has claimed. The intel has been briefed to Congress and key US allies with some lawmakers demanding that President Joe Biden's administration declassify the information.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-1-dead-21-injured-in-kansas-city-chiefs-parade-shooting-690378">At least 1 dead, 22 injured in Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade shooting</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/15/412207-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Three suspects have been detained so far for investigation, according to Kansas City Police chief Stacey Graves who described Wednesday's incident as a "tragedy".&nbsp;“There are a lot more people who are going to be forever impacted by what happened here today," said Graves.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-for-ban-on-assault-weapons-after-deadly-shooting-at-super-bowl-parade-690387">Biden calls for ban on assault weapons after shooting at Super Bowl parade</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/15/412212-untitled-design-2024-02-15t083246560.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden appealed to all Americans on Wednesday (Feb 14) to support his appeal to Congress to ban assault weapons, stating that the deadly shootout which took place at a Super Bowl victory parade in Kansas City "cuts deep." "Today's events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting," said Biden, in a White House statement.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usas-new-intel-report-warns-of-russian-nuclear-capabilities-in-space-690379">USA's new intel report warns of Russian nuclear capabilities in space</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399767-succession-2023-12-17t234144610.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Citing unnamed sources, the report claimed that Russia's potential deployment of a nuclear anti-satellite weapon in space&nbsp;could&nbsp;knock out US military&nbsp;communications and reconnaissance capabilities from above.&nbsp;The threat becomes even more pertinent as Washington does not have the capability to&nbsp;counter such a weapon and defend its satellites, the report added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-20-protesters-plan-to-block-trains-demand-pm-modi-to-intervene-690408">Farmers' protest 2.0: Protesters plan to block trains, demand PM to intervene</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/15/412227-untitled-design-2024-02-15t092627583.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>The farmer unions Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ugrahan) and BKU Dakaunda (Dhaner faction), which have been leading the ongoing protests announced a ‘rail roko’ (stop trains) in the state of Punjab between 12 noon and 4 pm (local time) on Thursday (Feb 15) as the protesters geared up to hold a meeting with the cabinet ministers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Tech companies pledge to fight deepfakes ahead of elections</strong></p>

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At least one person was killed while 22 were injured in a shooting incident in Missouri during a parade celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs winning the Super Bowl LVIII, earlier this week, US media reported.

At least one person was killed while 22 were injured in a shooting incident in Missouri during a parade celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs winning the Super Bowl LVIII, earlier this week, US media reported. In other news, the US has intelligence of Russian nuclear capabilities in space which could threaten satellites, a report in the New York Times has claimed. The intel has been briefed to Congress and key US allies with some lawmakers demanding that President Joe Biden's administration declassify the information. Click on headlines to read more: At least 1 dead, 22 injured in Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade shooting Three suspects have been detained so far for investigation, according to Kansas City Police chief Stacey Graves who described Wednesday's incident as a "tragedy". “There are a lot more people who are going to be forever impacted by what happened here today," said Graves. Biden calls for ban on assault weapons after shooting at Super Bowl parade United States President Joe Biden appealed to all Americans on Wednesday (Feb 14) to support his appeal to Congress to ban assault weapons, stating that the deadly shootout which took place at a Super Bowl victory parade in Kansas City "cuts deep." "Today's events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting," said Biden, in a White House statement. USA's new intel report warns of Russian nuclear capabilities in space Citing unnamed sources, the report claimed that Russia's potential deployment of a nuclear anti-satellite weapon in space could knock out US military communications and reconnaissance capabilities from above. The threat becomes even more pertinent as Washington does not have the capability to counter such a weapon and defend its satellites, the report added. Farmers' protest 2.0: Protesters plan to block trains, demand PM to intervene The farmer unions Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ugrahan) and BKU Dakaunda (Dhaner faction), which have been leading the ongoing protests announced a ‘rail roko’ (stop trains) in the state of Punjab between 12 noon and 4 pm (local time) on Thursday (Feb 15) as the protesters geared up to hold a meeting with the cabinet ministers. Watch | Tech companies pledge to fight deepfakes ahead of elections ×

Morning news brief: Super Bowl victory parade shooting; India farmers' protest day 3; and more

<p><strong>Electoral Bonds:</strong> India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Feb 15) struck down as&nbsp;unconstitutional the so-called 'electoral bonds', in a landmark judgement that&nbsp;ruled that the controversial financial instruments to support political parties can lead to 'quid pro quo'.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Supreme Court says it has delivered a unanimous verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the legal validity of the Central government’s Electoral Bond scheme which allows for anonymous funding to political parties. <a href="https://t.co/HkBIrDJr9O">pic.twitter.com/HkBIrDJr9O</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1757996330494959886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>A five-judge bench of Chief Justice of Inda DY Chandrachud, Justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra delivered the unanimous verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the legal validity of the Central government's scheme.</p>

<p>The bench stated that the scheme was a violation of the right to information and freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of Constitution.<br />
<br />
The court&nbsp;also asked the State Bank of India (SBI), India's largest public sector lender, to stop issuing the controversial financial instruments.</p>

<p>Electoral&nbsp;bonds were used by individuals and corporates to fund political parties anonymously.<br />
<br />
The Supreme Court&nbsp;was looking into several aspects of the constitution with regards to the bonds.<br />
<br />
Petitioners had pleaded that not revealing information on contributions to parties were violative of several aspects of the constitution.</p>

<p>They included the amendments to Section 29C of the Representation of the People Act, Section 183(3) of the Companies Act, Section 13A(b) of the Income Tax Act and the right to information under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.<br />
<br />
The court had reserved the verdict in November.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-20-protesters-plan-to-block-trains-demand-pm-modi-to-intervene-690408">Farmers' protest 2.0: Protesters plan to block trains, demand PM Modi to intervene</a></p>

<h2><strong>Electoral Bonds&nbsp;judgement key highlights:</strong></h2>

<p>- Supreme Court said that the scheme was violative of freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.</p>

<p>- SC directed the issuing bank, SBI, to stop the issuance of electoral bonds with immediate effect.</p>

<p>- It ordered the State Bank of India to share the details of electoral bonds purchased since April 12, 2019 till date to the Election Commission and directed the Indian election body to&nbsp;publish the details&nbsp;on its website.</p>

<p>- “This court recognised right to information about social, cultural, political and economical issues, and that it is not limited to state affairs but to further participatory democracy principle," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.</p>

<p>- The court held that amendments in the Companies Act permitting unlimited political contributions by companies is arbitrary and unconstitutional.</p>

<p>- The top court said infringement to the Right to Information is not justified for the purpose of curbing black money.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The scheme, notified by the government on 2 January, 2018, was pitched as an alternative to cash donations that were made to political parties, in a bid to bring about transparency to political funding.</p>

<p>As per the provisions of the scheme, electoral bonds may be bought by a citizen of India or any entity that is either incorporated or established in the country.</p>

<p>An individual can purchase electoral bonds, singly or jointly clubbing with other individuals, without sharing their identity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Electoral Bonds: India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Feb 15) struck down as unconstitutional the so-called 'electoral bonds', in a landmark judgement that ruled that the controversial financial instruments to support political parties can lead to 'quid pro quo'.

Electoral Bonds: India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Feb 15) struck down as unconstitutional the so-called 'electoral bonds', in a landmark judgement that ruled that the controversial financial instruments to support political parties can lead to 'quid pro quo'. Supreme Court says it has delivered a unanimous verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the legal validity of the Central government’s Electoral Bond scheme which allows for anonymous funding to political parties. pic.twitter.com/HkBIrDJr9O — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2024 × A five-judge bench of Chief Justice of Inda DY Chandrachud, Justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra delivered the unanimous verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the legal validity of the Central government's scheme. The bench stated that the scheme was a violation of the right to information and freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of Constitution. The court also asked the State Bank of India (SBI), India's largest public sector lender, to stop issuing the controversial financial instruments. Electoral bonds were used by individuals and corporates to fund political parties anonymously. The Supreme Court was looking into several aspects of the constitution with regards to the bonds. Petitioners had pleaded that not revealing information on contributions to parties were violative of several aspects of the constitution. They included the amendments to Section 29C of the Representation of the People Act, Section 183(3) of the Companies Act, Section 13A(b) of the Income Tax Act and the right to information under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. The court had reserved the verdict in November. Also read: Farmers' protest 2.0: Protesters plan to block trains, demand PM Modi to intervene Electoral Bonds judgement key highlights: - Supreme Court said that the scheme was violative of freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. - SC directed the issuing bank, SBI, to stop the issuance of electoral bonds with immediate effect. - It ordered the State Bank of India to share the details of electoral bonds purchased since April 12, 2019 till date to the Election Commission and directed the Indian election body to publish the details on its website. - “This court recognised right to information about social, cultural, political and economical issues, and that it is not limited to state affairs but to further participatory democracy principle," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud. - The court held that amendments in the Companies Act permitting unlimited political contributions by companies is arbitrary and unconstitutional. - The top court said infringement to the Right to Information is not justified for the purpose of curbing black money. The scheme, notified by the government on 2 January, 2018, was pitched as an alternative to cash donations that were made to political parties, in a bid to bring about transparency to political funding. As per the provisions of the scheme, electoral bonds may be bought by a citizen of India or any entity that is either incorporated or established in the country. An individual can purchase electoral bonds, singly or jointly clubbing with other individuals, without sharing their identity. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Supreme Court strikes down electoral bonds scheme as unconstitutional

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin and Tucker Carlson came under the spotlight on Thursday (Feb 8) after the Russian president gave an interview, a first in years to an American journalist.</p>

<p>During the one-on-one, Putin, who served as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB, mocked Carlson for being rejected by the CIA.</p>

<p>While discussing the 2014 Ukrainian Maidan revolution, Putin stated that the ousting of then pro-Moscow Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych took place "with the backing of the CIA of course."</p>

<p>"The organisation you wanted to join back in the day as I understand. We should thank God they didn't let you in. Although it is a serious organisation I understand," the Russian leader said.</p>

<p>Soviet Russia's secret service the KGB and America’s CIA were at odds since their inceptions, which further became an extension of the Great Game.</p>

<p>Putin served as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB for 15 years which included six years in Dresden, East Germany.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">46 minutes into his history lesson, Putin stops to mock Tucker for applying to the CIA when he was younger and getting rejected. <a href="https://t.co/oyoADwytpI">pic.twitter.com/oyoADwytpI</a></p>
— Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonFilipkowski/status/1755757290953515479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel in the year 1990.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tucker-carlson-accuses-biden-administration-of-illegally-spying-on-him-to-prevent-interview-with-putin-688599">Tucker Carlson launches scathing attack against Biden administration after interviewing Vladimir Putin</a></p>

<p>The Russian president also made a mention about the sabotage of the Nord Stream undersea gas pipelines linking Germany, Finland and Russia stating that the CIA or NATO was behind the attacks which took place in the Baltic Sea in September 2022.</p>

<p>On being asked by Carlson who “blew up the Nord Stream”, Putin replied: “You for sure.”</p>

<p>When the American journalist jokingly replied saying he was “busy that day”, Putin said: “The CIA has no such alibi”. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin then went on to allege, without presenting any evidence, that only the US was capable of, and could have any interest in, carrying out that attack.</p>

<p>Notably, Washington has consistently denied that it had any role in the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin says invading Poland or Latvia 'out of question'</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Putin said it was "out of the question" to invade Poland or Latvia. "We simply don't have any interest" in expanding the Ukraine war, he added.</p>

<p>"Can you imagine a scenario where you send Russian troops to Poland?" asked Carlson.</p>

<p>"Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia," said Putin, adding: "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest... It is absolutely out of the question."</p>

<p>The two-hour interview with Carlson, a former Fox News host and right-wing commentator who supports former US president Donald Trump, was recorded in Moscow.</p>

<p>It was the first interview given by Putin to a Western media outlet since his troops invaded Ukraine in February 2022.</p>

<p>In the past, Carlson has openly criticised the United States for supporting Ukraine and has called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a “rat-like Ukrainian pimp.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin and Tucker Carlson came under the spotlight on Thursday (Feb 8) after the Russian president gave an interview, a first in years to an American journalist.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Tucker Carlson came under the spotlight on Thursday (Feb 8) after the Russian president gave an interview, a first in years to an American journalist. During the one-on-one, Putin, who served as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB, mocked Carlson for being rejected by the CIA. While discussing the 2014 Ukrainian Maidan revolution, Putin stated that the ousting of then pro-Moscow Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych took place "with the backing of the CIA of course." "The organisation you wanted to join back in the day as I understand. We should thank God they didn't let you in. Although it is a serious organisation I understand," the Russian leader said. Soviet Russia's secret service the KGB and America’s CIA were at odds since their inceptions, which further became an extension of the Great Game. Putin served as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB for 15 years which included six years in Dresden, East Germany. 46 minutes into his history lesson, Putin stops to mock Tucker for applying to the CIA when he was younger and getting rejected. pic.twitter.com/oyoADwytpI — Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 9, 2024 × He retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel in the year 1990. Also read: Tucker Carlson launches scathing attack against Biden administration after interviewing Vladimir Putin The Russian president also made a mention about the sabotage of the Nord Stream undersea gas pipelines linking Germany, Finland and Russia stating that the CIA or NATO was behind the attacks which took place in the Baltic Sea in September 2022. On being asked by Carlson who “blew up the Nord Stream”, Putin replied: “You for sure.” When the American journalist jokingly replied saying he was “busy that day”, Putin said: “The CIA has no such alibi”. Putin then went on to allege, without presenting any evidence, that only the US was capable of, and could have any interest in, carrying out that attack. Notably, Washington has consistently denied that it had any role in the attacks. Putin says invading Poland or Latvia 'out of question' Russian President Putin said it was "out of the question" to invade Poland or Latvia. "We simply don't have any interest" in expanding the Ukraine war, he added. "Can you imagine a scenario where you send Russian troops to Poland?" asked Carlson. "Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia," said Putin, adding: "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest... It is absolutely out of the question." The two-hour interview with Carlson, a former Fox News host and right-wing commentator who supports former US president Donald Trump, was recorded in Moscow. It was the first interview given by Putin to a Western media outlet since his troops invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In the past, Carlson has openly criticised the United States for supporting Ukraine and has called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a “rat-like Ukrainian pimp.” (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin, a former KGB agent, mocks Tucker Carlson for being rejected by CIA

<p>A gunman on Friday (Feb 9) opened fire and killed four people at a market in the southeastern Georgian city of Rustavi before being detained by the police, said the Black Sea nation's interior ministry.</p>

<p>It added that the suspect, who has been identified as a man born in 1988, fired several rounds at a market in the city of Rustavi, which is an industrial hub of 126,000 people 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the capital Tbilisi.</p>

<p>"Four people were killed as a result, including the suspect's uncle who worked at the market," it said in its statement.</p>

<p>"The suspect was detained at the scene," the ministry added. "One person was injured and taken to a hospital."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hints-at-release-of-evan-gershkovich-speaks-about-personal-relationship-with-trump-688462">'I share personal relationship with Trump,' says Putin; hints US journalist can be released</a></p>

<p>The reports did not specify the type of firearm used by the assailant or the motive behind the incident.</p>

<p>Incidents of mass shootings are a rare occurrence in Georgia as the illegal possession of firearms there is punishable by six years in jail.</p>

<p>In 2023, a retired military officer, before committing suicide, killed five people, including a police officer, and wounded another five in the country's eastern Kakheti region.</p>

<p>The country's government had in the year 2014 toughened previously relaxed gun laws, making it illegal for people to buy or carry guns without special permission.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A gunman on Friday (Feb 9) opened fire and killed four people at a market in the southeastern Georgian city of Rustavi before being detained by the police, said the Black Sea nation's interior ministry.

A gunman on Friday (Feb 9) opened fire and killed four people at a market in the southeastern Georgian city of Rustavi before being detained by the police, said the Black Sea nation's interior ministry. It added that the suspect, who has been identified as a man born in 1988, fired several rounds at a market in the city of Rustavi, which is an industrial hub of 126,000 people 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the capital Tbilisi. "Four people were killed as a result, including the suspect's uncle who worked at the market," it said in its statement. "The suspect was detained at the scene," the ministry added. "One person was injured and taken to a hospital." Also read: 'I share personal relationship with Trump,' says Putin; hints US journalist can be released The reports did not specify the type of firearm used by the assailant or the motive behind the incident. Incidents of mass shootings are a rare occurrence in Georgia as the illegal possession of firearms there is punishable by six years in jail. In 2023, a retired military officer, before committing suicide, killed five people, including a police officer, and wounded another five in the country's eastern Kakheti region. The country's government had in the year 2014 toughened previously relaxed gun laws, making it illegal for people to buy or carry guns without special permission. (With inputs from agencies)

Gunman opens fire at market in Georgia, killing four people

<p>Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government has ramped up security measures in the state in order to prevent the Punjab farmers from marching to Delhi who are set to stage the ‘Delhi Chalo’ demonstration on Tuesday (Feb 13).</p>

<p>In a bid to tackle any untoward situation, the authorities have converted two large stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of the planned march, as per the Tribune reports.</p>

<p>Sirsa Deputy Commissioner Partha Gupta said that the administration, with immediate effect, had set up temporary jails at Chaudhary Dalbir Singh Indoor Stadium in Sirsa, and Guru Gobind Singh Stadium, Sirsa Road in Dabwali.</p>

<h2><strong>Haryana govt suspends internet services</strong></h2>

<p>The state government had on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the suspension of internet services in several districts.</p>

<p>The mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services have been blocked in seven districts till Tuesday when the farmers are scheduled to stage their protest. The suspension of the services began on Sunday (Feb 11).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-on-high-alert-ahead-of-farmers-protest-police-prohibit-gatherings-at-delhi-up-border-689239">Indian capital on high alert ahead of farmers’ protest, police prohibit gatherings at Delhi-UP border</a></p>

<p>As per an official order, the suspension of the mobile internet services began at 6 am on February 11 in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa and will go on until 11.59 pm on February 13.</p>

<h2><strong>Authorities lay barricades, iron nails to stop protesting farmers</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Haryana authorities&nbsp;have laid barricades, and iron nails at state borders in order to prevent farmers from executing their scheduled protest. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Police barricading at Tikri border, ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. <a href="https://t.co/9IJPXM8okg">pic.twitter.com/9IJPXM8okg</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1756872531443605676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per news agency ANI, the police have blocked one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border and deputed a heavy police force, including women personnel.</p>

<p>Higher officials, including Hisar range Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Matta Ravi Kiran, have asked local police officials to ensure a ban on entry of Punjab farmers in Delhi on Feb 13.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ambala, Haryana: Shambhu border sealed ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. <a href="https://t.co/9jbrddosnV">pic.twitter.com/9jbrddosnV</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1756876574454943861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi Police issues traffic advisory</strong></h2>

<p>The Delhi Police on Sunday (Feb 11) issued a traffic advisory ahead of the protest alerting about the restrictions in place at three borders directing to India's capital city.</p>

<p>As per the traffic advisory issued, restrictions, and diversions will be imposed from Monday for commercial vehicles.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi Police has imposed Section 144 at the Ghazipur Border, Tikri Border and Singhu Border ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1756890205494116366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The restrictions and diversions will also be imposed at the Singhu Border from Monday for commercial vehicles and from Tuesday for all types of vehicles.</p>

<p>The interstate buses which are planning to move towards Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal etc. via NH-44 will take ISBT to Majnu Ka Tilla to Signature Bridge to Khajuri Chowk to Loni Border to KMP via Khekra, it said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | RPF personnel deployed &amp; security tightened near Ghazipur border area, ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February. <a href="https://t.co/9dyqfriGr4">pic.twitter.com/9dyqfriGr4</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1756886741653348706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The HGVs intending to go towards Bahadurgarh, Rohtak, etc. are suggested to take Outer Ring Road from Mukarba Chowk to Madhuban Chowk to Bhagwan Mahavir Road to Rithala to Pansali Chowk to Helipad to UER-II to Kanjhawala Road-Karala T-Point-Kanjhawala Chowk to Jaunti Village to Jaunti Border/Nizampur Border and enter in Haryana village Bamnoli and may go further go via Nahra-Nahari road to Bahadurgarh road," it read.</p>

<p>"The cars and LGVs intending to go towards Bahadurgarh, Rohtak, etc. are suggested to take exit from exit number-2 DSIIDC cut towards Bawana road to Kanjhawala T-Point to Kanjhawala Chowk via Dr Sahib Singh Verma Road to Jhanda Chowk/Ghevra to take right Nizampur Border via Savdha Village to Bahadurgarh Connecting NH-9," it stated.</p>

<p>The Delhi Police imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in North-East<br />
Delhi and at the borders with neighbouring Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>Approximately 200 farmers' unions are set to march towards Delhi on Tuesday to press the authorities over a set of demands, including a separate law to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farm produce and the withdrawal of cases filed against them during previous protests.</p>

<p>"Information has been received that some farmer organisations have given a call to their supporters to gather/march to Delhi on 13th February for their demands of the law on MSP and others. They are likely to sit at the border of Delhi till their demands are met. In order to avoid any untoward incident and to maintain Law and Order, a precautionary Order of section 144 Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, is required to be issued to save the lives and property in the area," read an order issued by Delhi Police on Sunday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government has ramped up security measures in the state in order to prevent the Punjab farmers from marching to Delhi who are set to stage the ‘Delhi Chalo’ demonstration on Tuesday (Feb 13).

Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government has ramped up security measures in the state in order to prevent the Punjab farmers from marching to Delhi who are set to stage the ‘Delhi Chalo’ demonstration on Tuesday (Feb 13). In a bid to tackle any untoward situation, the authorities have converted two large stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of the planned march, as per the Tribune reports. Sirsa Deputy Commissioner Partha Gupta said that the administration, with immediate effect, had set up temporary jails at Chaudhary Dalbir Singh Indoor Stadium in Sirsa, and Guru Gobind Singh Stadium, Sirsa Road in Dabwali. Haryana govt suspends internet services The state government had on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the suspension of internet services in several districts. The mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services have been blocked in seven districts till Tuesday when the farmers are scheduled to stage their protest. The suspension of the services began on Sunday (Feb 11). Also read: Indian capital on high alert ahead of farmers’ protest, police prohibit gatherings at Delhi-UP border As per an official order, the suspension of the mobile internet services began at 6 am on February 11 in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa and will go on until 11.59 pm on February 13. Authorities lay barricades, iron nails to stop protesting farmers Meanwhile, the Haryana authorities have laid barricades, and iron nails at state borders in order to prevent farmers from executing their scheduled protest. #WATCH | Delhi: Police barricading at Tikri border, ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/9IJPXM8okg — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024 × As per news agency ANI, the police have blocked one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border and deputed a heavy police force, including women personnel. Higher officials, including Hisar range Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Matta Ravi Kiran, have asked local police officials to ensure a ban on entry of Punjab farmers in Delhi on Feb 13. #WATCH | Ambala, Haryana: Shambhu border sealed ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/9jbrddosnV — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024 × Delhi Police issues traffic advisory The Delhi Police on Sunday (Feb 11) issued a traffic advisory ahead of the protest alerting about the restrictions in place at three borders directing to India's capital city. As per the traffic advisory issued, restrictions, and diversions will be imposed from Monday for commercial vehicles. Delhi Police has imposed Section 144 at the Ghazipur Border, Tikri Border and Singhu Border ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February. — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024 × The restrictions and diversions will also be imposed at the Singhu Border from Monday for commercial vehicles and from Tuesday for all types of vehicles. The interstate buses which are planning to move towards Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal etc. via NH-44 will take ISBT to Majnu Ka Tilla to Signature Bridge to Khajuri Chowk to Loni Border to KMP via Khekra, it said. #WATCH | RPF personnel deployed & security tightened near Ghazipur border area, ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/9dyqfriGr4 — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024 × "The HGVs intending to go towards Bahadurgarh, Rohtak, etc. are suggested to take Outer Ring Road from Mukarba Chowk to Madhuban Chowk to Bhagwan Mahavir Road to Rithala to Pansali Chowk to Helipad to UER-II to Kanjhawala Road-Karala T-Point-Kanjhawala Chowk to Jaunti Village to Jaunti Border/Nizampur Border and enter in Haryana village Bamnoli and may go further go via Nahra-Nahari road to Bahadurgarh road," it read. "The cars and LGVs intending to go towards Bahadurgarh, Rohtak, etc. are suggested to take exit from exit number-2 DSIIDC cut towards Bawana road to Kanjhawala T-Point to Kanjhawala Chowk via Dr Sahib Singh Verma Road to Jhanda Chowk/Ghevra to take right Nizampur Border via Savdha Village to Bahadurgarh Connecting NH-9," it stated. The Delhi Police imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in North-East Delhi and at the borders with neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. Approximately 200 farmers' unions are set to march towards Delhi on Tuesday to press the authorities over a set of demands, including a separate law to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farm produce and the withdrawal of cases filed against them during previous protests. "Information has been received that some farmer organisations have given a call to their supporters to gather/march to Delhi on 13th February for their demands of the law on MSP and others. They are likely to sit at the border of Delhi till their demands are met. In order to avoid any untoward incident and to maintain Law and Order, a precautionary Order of section 144 Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, is required to be issued to save the lives and property in the area," read an order issued by Delhi Police on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Haryana government converts two stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of farmers' march

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