As Ukraine faces a series of losses on the frontlines amid its ongoing war with Russia, a report by the New York Times said Kyiv has ramped up conscription efforts and while many Ukrainian men have answered the call to serve, thousands are either hiding or fleeing the country.&nbsp;

<h2>Thousands try to evade conscription</h2>

Vladyslav, a 45-year-old Ukrainian who went into hiding, told the NYT that officers serving draft notices are “everywhere now,” forcing thousands who are trying to evade conscription to either stay in hiding or flee the war-torn country.&nbsp;

According to the report, even before the latest mobilisation push thousands of Ukrainian men fled the country, including some who swam across the river separating Ukraine and Romania.&nbsp;

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Currently, Ukrainian officials are scouring the country to find draft men of military age, which is 25 to 60, as of now. However, many including Vladyslav fear that the conscription would be a “one-way ticket to the front line,” the NYT reported.&nbsp;

The report noted that while the number of men trying to avoid being drafted is unclear, tens of thousands of men are part of social media groups which alert other members about the movements of draft officers.&nbsp;

NYT citing military analysts said that Kyiv is having a difficult time holding its lines because the Ukrainian troops often lack proper and enough training as Ukraine is quick to send personnel to the battleground to replace losses.&nbsp;

However, Colonel Volodymyr Novosiadlyi, an official responsible for conscription in Kyiv told the newspaper that those drafted are trained for at least a month and that the military is also trying to treat draftees with fairness and empathy.&nbsp;

He added, “Every citizen should understand the need to fulfill their duties” in defending their country.

The mobilisation law passed in April made it compulsory for all draft-age men to register their details on a government website based on which the draftees would be chosen. Failure to register by July 16 will be a criminal offence.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine sends criminals to front lines</h2>

Earlier this year, the Ukrainian parliament also adopted a law which authorised certain convicts to fight on the frontlines. The move, which Russia was once criticised for, led thousands of prisoners to trade their prison jumpsuits for Ukrainian army uniforms.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-3-killed-52-injured-after-russian-guided-bombs-hit-apartment-building-in-ukraines-kharkiv-734278">At least 3 killed, 52 injured after Russian guided bombs hit apartment building in Ukraine’s Kharkiv</a>

More than 2,750 convicts have been released from Ukrainian prisons since the law was adopted in May, according to a report by the Washington Post.&nbsp;

The law authorised certain convicts including those jailed for dealing drugs and committing armed assaults and murders were allowed to enlist.&nbsp;

However, it does not allow those convicted of crimes against the foundations of national security of Ukraine, or particularly serious corruption offences.

After the law was passed, the Ukrainian justice ministry said that the inmates, who must sign up of their own free will, would serve in separate units. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As Ukraine faces a series of losses on the frontlines amid its ongoing war with Russia, a report by the New York Times said Kyiv has ramped up conscription efforts and while many Ukrainian men have answered the call to serve, thousands are either hiding or fleeing the country.

As Ukraine faces a series of losses on the frontlines amid its ongoing war with Russia, a report by the New York Times said Kyiv has ramped up conscription efforts and while many Ukrainian men have answered the call to serve, thousands are either hiding or fleeing the country. Thousands try to evade conscription Vladyslav, a 45-year-old Ukrainian who went into hiding, told the NYT that officers serving draft notices are “everywhere now,” forcing thousands who are trying to evade conscription to either stay in hiding or flee the war-torn country. According to the report, even before the latest mobilisation push thousands of Ukrainian men fled the country, including some who swam across the river separating Ukraine and Romania. Currently, Ukrainian officials are scouring the country to find draft men of military age, which is 25 to 60, as of now. However, many including Vladyslav fear that the conscription would be a “one-way ticket to the front line,” the NYT reported. The report noted that while the number of men trying to avoid being drafted is unclear, tens of thousands of men are part of social media groups which alert other members about the movements of draft officers. NYT citing military analysts said that Kyiv is having a difficult time holding its lines because the Ukrainian troops often lack proper and enough training as Ukraine is quick to send personnel to the battleground to replace losses. However, Colonel Volodymyr Novosiadlyi, an official responsible for conscription in Kyiv told the newspaper that those drafted are trained for at least a month and that the military is also trying to treat draftees with fairness and empathy. He added, “Every citizen should understand the need to fulfill their duties” in defending their country. The mobilisation law passed in April made it compulsory for all draft-age men to register their details on a government website based on which the draftees would be chosen. Failure to register by July 16 will be a criminal offence. Ukraine sends criminals to front lines Earlier this year, the Ukrainian parliament also adopted a law which authorised certain convicts to fight on the frontlines. The move, which Russia was once criticised for, led thousands of prisoners to trade their prison jumpsuits for Ukrainian army uniforms. Also Read | At least 3 killed, 52 injured after Russian guided bombs hit apartment building in Ukraine’s Kharkiv More than 2,750 convicts have been released from Ukrainian prisons since the law was adopted in May, according to a report by the Washington Post. The law authorised certain convicts including those jailed for dealing drugs and committing armed assaults and murders were allowed to enlist. However, it does not allow those convicted of crimes against the foundations of national security of Ukraine, or particularly serious corruption offences. After the law was passed, the Ukrainian justice ministry said that the inmates, who must sign up of their own free will, would serve in separate units. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of Ukrainians go into hiding as Kyiv expands military draft: Report

Former United States President Donald Trump, who is known for his often dehumanising and inflammatory remarks against immigrants, has said&nbsp;he had floated the idea of a “migrant league of fighters” to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) chief Dana White.&nbsp;

During his campaign speeches on Saturday (June 22), the&nbsp;presumptive Republican presidential nominee also backed the controversial plan of displaying the Ten Commandments in schools and elsewhere.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Migrant league of fighters’</h2>

“I said, ‘Dana I have an idea. Why don’t you set up a migrant league of fighters and have your regular league fighters,” Trump told a crowd of conservative Christians at a Faith and Freedom Coalition gathering in Washington DC.&nbsp;

He added, “And then you have the champion of your league – these are the greatest fighters in the world – fight the champion of the migrants. I think the migrants’ guy might win, that’s how tough they are.”&nbsp;

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Trump went on to say that White “didn’t like that idea too much, but actually, it’s not the worst idea I’ve ever had.”

Trump repeated the comments at a campaign rally in the US city of Philadelphia, where he sought to court Black voters, later on Saturday.&nbsp;

The former president has repeatedly come under fire for his inflammatory language while speaking about migrants.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, the Republican said he thought undocumented migrants who commit violent crimes are “not humans” but&nbsp;“animals.”&nbsp;

In December, Trump insisted that he never even read Adolf Hitler’s manifesto Mein Kampf after he said immigrants are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-hasnt-read-hitlers-mein-kampf-after-backlash-on-remarks-against-migrants-671963">“poisoning the blood of our country”</a> and was accused of using Nazi rhetoric.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden campaign responds</h2>

The incumbent US president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden’s campaign responded to Trump’s latest remarks calling them “incoherent” and “unhinged”.&nbsp;

“Fitting that convicted felon Donald Trump spent his time at a religious conference threatening to round up Latinos, bragging about ripping away Americans’ freedoms, and promising to be even more extreme if he regains power,” said a spokesperson for the Biden campaign, Sarafina Chitika.&nbsp;

She added, “Trump’s incoherent, unhinged tirade showed voters in his own words that he is a threat to our freedoms and is too dangerous to be let anywhere near the White House again.”

<h2>Trump backs controversial law</h2>

While speaking to the group of evangelicals Trump said they “cannot afford to sit on the sidelines” during the upcoming election.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-approves-draft-logistics-agreement-with-india-734297">Russia approves draft logistics agreement with India</a>

He also endorsed displaying the Ten Commandments days after the US state of Louisiana passed a controversial law requiring the list of religious precepts to be displayed in every public school classroom.

The opponents of the law have said that they will challenge in court&nbsp;the new mandate, which raises questions about the constitutional separation of church and state.&nbsp;

“Has anyone read the ‘Thou shalt not steal’? I mean, has anybody read this incredible stuff? It’s just incredible,” Trump said on Saturday. He added, “They don’t want it to go up. It’s a crazy world.’’

The former president’s remarks were met with cheers, as he&nbsp;sought the support of the religious right ahead of the election in November.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former United States President Donald Trump, who is known for his often dehumanising and inflammatory remarks against immigrants, has said he had floated the idea of a “migrant league of fighters” to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) chief Dana White.

Former United States President Donald Trump, who is known for his often dehumanising and inflammatory remarks against immigrants, has said he had floated the idea of a “migrant league of fighters” to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) chief Dana White. During his campaign speeches on Saturday (June 22), the presumptive Republican presidential nominee also backed the controversial plan of displaying the Ten Commandments in schools and elsewhere. ‘Migrant league of fighters’ “I said, ‘Dana I have an idea. Why don’t you set up a migrant league of fighters and have your regular league fighters,” Trump told a crowd of conservative Christians at a Faith and Freedom Coalition gathering in Washington DC. He added, “And then you have the champion of your league – these are the greatest fighters in the world – fight the champion of the migrants. I think the migrants’ guy might win, that’s how tough they are.” Trump went on to say that White “didn’t like that idea too much, but actually, it’s not the worst idea I’ve ever had.” Trump repeated the comments at a campaign rally in the US city of Philadelphia, where he sought to court Black voters, later on Saturday. The former president has repeatedly come under fire for his inflammatory language while speaking about migrants. Earlier this year, the Republican said he thought undocumented migrants who commit violent crimes are “not humans” but “animals.” In December, Trump insisted that he never even read Adolf Hitler’s manifesto Mein Kampf after he said immigrants are “poisoning the blood of our country” and was accused of using Nazi rhetoric. Biden campaign responds The incumbent US president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden’s campaign responded to Trump’s latest remarks calling them “incoherent” and “unhinged”. “Fitting that convicted felon Donald Trump spent his time at a religious conference threatening to round up Latinos, bragging about ripping away Americans’ freedoms, and promising to be even more extreme if he regains power,” said a spokesperson for the Biden campaign, Sarafina Chitika. She added, “Trump’s incoherent, unhinged tirade showed voters in his own words that he is a threat to our freedoms and is too dangerous to be let anywhere near the White House again.” Trump backs controversial law While speaking to the group of evangelicals Trump said they “cannot afford to sit on the sidelines” during the upcoming election. Also Read | Russia approves draft logistics agreement with India He also endorsed displaying the Ten Commandments days after the US state of Louisiana passed a controversial law requiring the list of religious precepts to be displayed in every public school classroom. The opponents of the law have said that they will challenge in court the new mandate, which raises questions about the constitutional separation of church and state. “Has anyone read the ‘Thou shalt not steal’? I mean, has anybody read this incredible stuff? It’s just incredible,” Trump said on Saturday. He added, “They don’t want it to go up. It’s a crazy world.’’ The former president’s remarks were met with cheers, as he sought the support of the religious right ahead of the election in November. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Not the worst idea’: Trump floats plan for UFC-style ‘migrant league of fighters’ amid border crisis

Chaos erupted at the United Kingdom’s Manchester International Airport after a power cut impacted a “significant number of flights” on Sunday (Jun 23) morning prompting authorities to ask all passengers flying from terminals one and two not to travel to the airport.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Widespread disruption’</h2>

Manchester airport, located in northern England, was hit by a major power cut which caused “widespread disruption,” said Manchester Airports Group, which also operates London Stansted and the East Midlands airports, in a post on social media.&nbsp;

While the power has been restored, the incident has caused a “significant number of flights” to be cancelled and/or delayed, said the Manchester airport, adding that they were also unable to load the luggage onto some flights due to the disruption.&nbsp;

“Passengers due to fly from terminal 3 should come to the airport as normal unless advised otherwise by their airline, but could be affected by delays,” said the group.&nbsp;

Airport authorities also said that they are working to get passengers already at the airport on their flights as soon as possible to work through some of the backlog.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-backed-hezbollah-releases-video-of-sensitive-israeli-targets-report-734302">Iran-backed Hezbollah releases video of sensitive Israeli targets: Report</a>

The disruption on the UK’s third-busiest airport comes at the beginning of the summer holiday season.&nbsp;

“All of this is happening at a time when aviation is just getting into the peak season, very heavy bookings on flights, and if you knock out a whole load of those, then it’s going to get very messy, and you could find people waiting several days to get where they need to be,” travel expert Simon Calder told Leading Britain’s Conversation (LBC).&nbsp;

He also said that there have been “crowds of many thousands of people” waiting for hours as of Sunday morning and no flights are leaving.&nbsp;

The airport, as per the travel expert, was also going to instruct airlines to “cancel a whole swathe of flights for several hours…in a bid to recover the operation later today”.

<h2>Situation at the airport</h2>

Images and videos from the airport show passengers waiting in long queues with their bags. Some passengers took to X and described the “chaos” that unfolded.&nbsp;

One passenger said that their “baggage thrown on any carousel,” while another said they were “stuck on the plane”.&nbsp;

A video posted on X shows dozens of people waiting in line. The user said that the Manchester airport was “cancelling one flight after another! No communication from staff.”

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/manchesterairport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#manchesterairport</a> cancelling one flight after another! No communication from staff. <a href="https://t.co/T2XipXTnA3">pic.twitter.com/T2XipXTnA3</a>
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Notably, the UK’s travel industry has faced a number of disruptions in recent years. Last month, a nationwide outage of immigration e-gates had caused long delays for thousands of passengers.&nbsp;

The incident in May had affected all major airports in the UK including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Chaos erupted at the United Kingdom’s Manchester International Airport after a power cut impacted a “significant number of flights” on Sunday (Jun 23) morning prompting authorities to ask all passengers flying from terminals one and two not to travel to the airport.

Chaos erupted at the United Kingdom’s Manchester International Airport after a power cut impacted a “significant number of flights” on Sunday (Jun 23) morning prompting authorities to ask all passengers flying from terminals one and two not to travel to the airport. ‘Widespread disruption’ Manchester airport, located in northern England, was hit by a major power cut which caused “widespread disruption,” said Manchester Airports Group, which also operates London Stansted and the East Midlands airports, in a post on social media. While the power has been restored, the incident has caused a “significant number of flights” to be cancelled and/or delayed, said the Manchester airport, adding that they were also unable to load the luggage onto some flights due to the disruption. “Passengers due to fly from terminal 3 should come to the airport as normal unless advised otherwise by their airline, but could be affected by delays,” said the group. Airport authorities also said that they are working to get passengers already at the airport on their flights as soon as possible to work through some of the backlog. Also Read | Iran-backed Hezbollah releases video of sensitive Israeli targets: Report The disruption on the UK’s third-busiest airport comes at the beginning of the summer holiday season. “All of this is happening at a time when aviation is just getting into the peak season, very heavy bookings on flights, and if you knock out a whole load of those, then it’s going to get very messy, and you could find people waiting several days to get where they need to be,” travel expert Simon Calder told Leading Britain’s Conversation (LBC). He also said that there have been “crowds of many thousands of people” waiting for hours as of Sunday morning and no flights are leaving. The airport, as per the travel expert, was also going to instruct airlines to “cancel a whole swathe of flights for several hours…in a bid to recover the operation later today”. Situation at the airport Images and videos from the airport show passengers waiting in long queues with their bags. Some passengers took to X and described the “chaos” that unfolded. One passenger said that their “baggage thrown on any carousel,” while another said they were “stuck on the plane”. A video posted on X shows dozens of people waiting in line. The user said that the Manchester airport was “cancelling one flight after another! No communication from staff.” #manchesterairport cancelling one flight after another! No communication from staff. pic.twitter.com/T2XipXTnA3 — Sarah Campbell (@SarahCa05376756) June 23, 2024 × Notably, the UK’s travel industry has faced a number of disruptions in recent years. Last month, a nationwide outage of immigration e-gates had caused long delays for thousands of passengers. The incident in May had affected all major airports in the UK including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Power cut causes ‘widespread disruption’ at Manchester airport, several flights cancelled, delayed

A Virgin Atlantic flight which was headed for San Francisco, United States from London, United Kingdom was forced to turn around after the windscreen of a Boeing 787-9 cracked midair, reportedly leaving the cockpit crew baffled.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The cockpit crew of the packed commercial flight from London’s Heathrow Airport was forced to turn around after the Boeing jet suffered “damage to the outer layer of the cockpit windscreen,” said a spokesperson from Virgin Atlantic.&nbsp;

The Virgin Atlantic flight was said to be at an altitude of 40,000 feet when the crack penetrated Flight VS41’s glass.

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The cause of the damage to the flight, on May 27, was not clear, but Virgin Atlantic assured that at “no point was the safety of the aircraft, our customers or our cabin crew compromised.”&nbsp;

The flight was three hours into its 11-hour journey and was said to be somewhere between Greenland and Iceland cruising at an altitude of 40,000 feet when the incident took place.&nbsp;

<h2>Virgin Atlantic issues apology to passengers</h2>

The British airline&nbsp;issued an apology to the passengers affected by the delay and provided overnight accommodation for them before they were placed on alternative flights the following day.

“At no point was the safety of the aircraft, our customers or our cabin crew compromised and the Captain made the decision to return to Heathrow, where we had the replacement parts and tooling in place to fix the issue and avoid further impact to our customers and our schedules,” said a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson, as quoted by the&nbsp;Evening Standard.&nbsp;

“We always work well above industry safety standards and the aircraft was back in service within 24 hours of the event. We’d like to apologise to the customers involved, for the delay to their journeys.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-australia-bound-boeing-737-800-planes-engine-erupts-in-flames-with-loud-bangs-732568">Australia-bound Boeing 737-800 plane's engine erupts in flames with loud bangs</a>

The airline offered no explanation about what could have led to the crack in the cockpit windscreen which it said is made of multiple layers.

<h2>Boeing and it’s many woes</h2>

The incident in May was just among many involving the the US planemaker, which&nbsp;has come under scrutiny in recent months.

Notably, it was also not the first time that a Boeing plane had witnessed cracked windscreens.&nbsp;

Last year, a Tokyo-bound Air New Zealand flight had to return to Auckland because the aircraft’s windscreen was damaged.

Flight ANZ99 was forced to make a U-turn three and a half hours into an 11-hour journey after it had crossed Port Vila in Vanuatu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A Virgin Atlantic flight which was headed for San Francisco, United States from London, United Kingdom was forced to turn around after the windscreen of a Boeing 787-9 cracked midair, reportedly leaving the cockpit crew baffled.

A Virgin Atlantic flight which was headed for San Francisco, United States from London, United Kingdom was forced to turn around after the windscreen of a Boeing 787-9 cracked midair, reportedly leaving the cockpit crew baffled. What happened? The cockpit crew of the packed commercial flight from London’s Heathrow Airport was forced to turn around after the Boeing jet suffered “damage to the outer layer of the cockpit windscreen,” said a spokesperson from Virgin Atlantic. The Virgin Atlantic flight was said to be at an altitude of 40,000 feet when the crack penetrated Flight VS41’s glass. The cause of the damage to the flight, on May 27, was not clear, but Virgin Atlantic assured that at “no point was the safety of the aircraft, our customers or our cabin crew compromised.” The flight was three hours into its 11-hour journey and was said to be somewhere between Greenland and Iceland cruising at an altitude of 40,000 feet when the incident took place. Virgin Atlantic issues apology to passengers The British airline issued an apology to the passengers affected by the delay and provided overnight accommodation for them before they were placed on alternative flights the following day. “At no point was the safety of the aircraft, our customers or our cabin crew compromised and the Captain made the decision to return to Heathrow, where we had the replacement parts and tooling in place to fix the issue and avoid further impact to our customers and our schedules,” said a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson, as quoted by the Evening Standard. “We always work well above industry safety standards and the aircraft was back in service within 24 hours of the event. We’d like to apologise to the customers involved, for the delay to their journeys.” Also Read | Australia-bound Boeing 737-800 plane's engine erupts in flames with loud bangs The airline offered no explanation about what could have led to the crack in the cockpit windscreen which it said is made of multiple layers. Boeing and it’s many woes The incident in May was just among many involving the the US planemaker, which has come under scrutiny in recent months. Notably, it was also not the first time that a Boeing plane had witnessed cracked windscreens. Last year, a Tokyo-bound Air New Zealand flight had to return to Auckland because the aircraft’s windscreen was damaged. Flight ANZ99 was forced to make a U-turn three and a half hours into an 11-hour journey after it had crossed Port Vila in Vanuatu. (With inputs from agencies)

San Francisco-bound Virgin Atlantic flight rerouted after Boeing 787-9’s windscreen cracks at 40,000 feet

David DePape, the man who attacked US Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was found guilty on five charges in a court in California on Friday (Jun 21). He was also convicted of aggravated kidnapping which mandates life in prison without the possibility of parole.

<h2>About the recent verdict</h2>

The verdict on Friday comes weeks after DePape, 44, was sentenced to 30 years in prison by a federal judge after being convicted&nbsp;for the violent attack in October 2022.

A San Francisco jury, on Friday, found the 44-year-old guilty of first-degree burglary, false imprisonment, threatening a family member of a public official, aggravated kidnapping and preventing or dissuading a witness by force or threat.

DePape reportedly had no visible reaction as the verdict was being read in court and his lawyer, public defender Adam Lipson, later said that he plans to appeal it.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-attacked-nancy-pelosis-husband-sentenced-to-30-years-in-prison-722680">David DePape, who attacked Nancy Pelosi’s husband, sentenced to 30 years in prison</a>

Ahead of the trial, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Harry Dorfman dismissed three charges that the 44-year-old was facing – attempted murder, assault of an elder and assault with a deadly weapon.&nbsp;

This was after DePape’s lawyers argued that the state trial represented double jeopardy following the federal conviction.&nbsp;

The attack in October 2022 on Paul Pelosi, who was 83 years old at the time, left him with multiple injuries including a fractured skull for which he was hospitalised for nearly a week.

Paul Pelosi’s attacker was sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted of assault and attempted kidnapping of a federal official, by the San Francisco federal court, in May.&nbsp;

DePape, a Canadian citizen who has lived in the US for around two decades was found guilty of attempting to kidnap Nancy Pelosi, who was in Washington DC at the time, instead confronted her husband who was eventually able to call the police.&nbsp;

<h2>What now?</h2>

Lipson said he was disappointed with the verdict and called the prosecutors’ decision to file a kidnapping for ransom charge “vindictive.”

However, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said all charges her office filed against the 44-year-old were based on evidence and since the jury was “able to find that he was guilty” there was “no need for any accusations of vindictive prosecution.”&nbsp;

The public defender said the verdict means that DePape will serve 30 years in federal prison after which he will be transferred to California “to spend the rest of his life in a California prison.”

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Aaron Bennett, a spokesperson for Nancy Pelosi, on Friday, said that her family is grateful for the “kind thoughts and prayers they continue to receive,” but that they will “refrain from further substantive comment until sentencing is complete.”

<h2>DePape’s ex-wife removed from court</h2>

During the trial, the judge also removed DePape’s ex-wife, Gypsy Taub from the courtroom. The judge also barred her from the courtroom and the second floor of the courthouse for the rest of the trial after Dorfman said she attempted to tamper with members of the jury.

Taub, who has two sons with DePape, runs a website that promotes conspiracy theories and was found in a women’s bathroom near the courtroom.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

David DePape, the man who attacked US Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was found guilty on five charges in a court in California on Friday (Jun 21).

David DePape, the man who attacked US Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was found guilty on five charges in a court in California on Friday (Jun 21). He was also convicted of aggravated kidnapping which mandates life in prison without the possibility of parole. About the recent verdict The verdict on Friday comes weeks after DePape, 44, was sentenced to 30 years in prison by a federal judge after being convicted for the violent attack in October 2022. A San Francisco jury, on Friday, found the 44-year-old guilty of first-degree burglary, false imprisonment, threatening a family member of a public official, aggravated kidnapping and preventing or dissuading a witness by force or threat. DePape reportedly had no visible reaction as the verdict was being read in court and his lawyer, public defender Adam Lipson, later said that he plans to appeal it. Also Read | David DePape, who attacked Nancy Pelosi’s husband, sentenced to 30 years in prison Ahead of the trial, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Harry Dorfman dismissed three charges that the 44-year-old was facing – attempted murder, assault of an elder and assault with a deadly weapon. This was after DePape’s lawyers argued that the state trial represented double jeopardy following the federal conviction. The attack in October 2022 on Paul Pelosi, who was 83 years old at the time, left him with multiple injuries including a fractured skull for which he was hospitalised for nearly a week. Paul Pelosi’s attacker was sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted of assault and attempted kidnapping of a federal official, by the San Francisco federal court, in May. DePape, a Canadian citizen who has lived in the US for around two decades was found guilty of attempting to kidnap Nancy Pelosi, who was in Washington DC at the time, instead confronted her husband who was eventually able to call the police. What now? Lipson said he was disappointed with the verdict and called the prosecutors’ decision to file a kidnapping for ransom charge “vindictive.” However, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said all charges her office filed against the 44-year-old were based on evidence and since the jury was “able to find that he was guilty” there was “no need for any accusations of vindictive prosecution.” The public defender said the verdict means that DePape will serve 30 years in federal prison after which he will be transferred to California “to spend the rest of his life in a California prison.” Also Read | Three killed, 10 injured in shooting outside grocery store in Arkansas, US Aaron Bennett, a spokesperson for Nancy Pelosi, on Friday, said that her family is grateful for the “kind thoughts and prayers they continue to receive,” but that they will “refrain from further substantive comment until sentencing is complete.” DePape’s ex-wife removed from court During the trial, the judge also removed DePape’s ex-wife, Gypsy Taub from the courtroom. The judge also barred her from the courtroom and the second floor of the courthouse for the rest of the trial after Dorfman said she attempted to tamper with members of the jury. Taub, who has two sons with DePape, runs a website that promotes conspiracy theories and was found in a women’s bathroom near the courtroom. (With inputs from agencies)

Man who attacked Nancy Pelosi’s husband convicted again, faces life in prison

Three people were killed and 10 others were injured after a shooter opened fire at a grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas on Friday (June 21). In other news, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday&nbsp;afternoon.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-killed-10-injured-in-massing-shooting-outside-grocery-store-in-arkansas-734030">Three killed, 10 injured in mass shooting outside grocery store in Arkansas</a>

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The shooting where three&nbsp;people were killed and 10 others were injured&nbsp;occurred at about 11.30 am local time Friday at the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce.&nbsp;The injured included two law enforcement officers who exchanged fire and shot the suspect, police said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-cross-says-at-least-22-killed-after-shelling-near-its-gaza-office-idf-denies-responsibility-for-attack-734014">Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack</a>

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The Red Cross said&nbsp;its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which&nbsp;took place near its Gaza office that is&nbsp;surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/911-attacks-video-showing-saudi-man-raises-questions-whether-riyadh-provided-assistance-to-hijackers-734019">9/11 attacks: Video showing Saudi man raises questions whether Riyadh provided assistance to hijackers</a>

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For more than 20 years, the US position has been that Al Qaeda acted alone on&nbsp;September 11, 2001, when hijacked jetliners crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania.&nbsp;However, American media reports on Thursday (June 20) said that a newly released video has raised questions about whether Saudi Arabia provided&nbsp;crucial assistance to the hijackers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-attacked-nancy-pelosis-husband-convicted-again-in-california-court-faces-life-in-prison-734038">Man who attacked Nancy Pelosi’s husband convicted, again, in California court, faces life in prison</a>

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David DePape, the man who attacked&nbsp;Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was found guilty on five charges in&nbsp;a court in California, United States, on Friday (Jun 21). He was also&nbsp;convicted&nbsp;of aggravated kidnapping which&nbsp;mandates life in prison&nbsp;without the possibility of parole.

WATCH |&nbsp;Swiss Court sentences UK's Hinduja family for exploiting Indian staff

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Three people were killed and 10 others were injured after a shooter opened fire at a grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas on Friday (June 21). In other news, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday afternoon.

Three people were killed and 10 others were injured after a shooter opened fire at a grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas on Friday (June 21). In other news, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday afternoon. Click on the headlines to read more Three killed, 10 injured in mass shooting outside grocery store in Arkansas The shooting where three people were killed and 10 others were injured occurred at about 11.30 am local time Friday at the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce. The injured included two law enforcement officers who exchanged fire and shot the suspect, police said. Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack The Red Cross said its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which took place near its Gaza office that is surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it. 9/11 attacks: Video showing Saudi man raises questions whether Riyadh provided assistance to hijackers For more than 20 years, the US position has been that Al Qaeda acted alone on September 11, 2001, when hijacked jetliners crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania. However, American media reports on Thursday (June 20) said that a newly released video has raised questions about whether Saudi Arabia provided crucial assistance to the hijackers. Man who attacked Nancy Pelosi’s husband convicted, again, in California court, faces life in prison David DePape, the man who attacked Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was found guilty on five charges in a court in California, United States, on Friday (Jun 21). He was also convicted of aggravated kidnapping which mandates life in prison without the possibility of parole. WATCH | Swiss Court sentences UK's Hinduja family for exploiting Indian staff

Morning news brief: Mass shooting in Arkansas; Red Cross says 22 killed after shelling in Gaza, & more

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in the Palestinian enclave said at least 25 people were killed and 50 others were injured after Israeli forces shelled tent camps for displaced Palestinians outside Gaza’s southern city of Rafah on Friday.

<h2>What we know about the shelling</h2>

The ICRC said that the shelling took place near its Gaza office, which is surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it.&nbsp;

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“Heavy-calibre projectiles landed within metres” of the Red Cross offices and residences, said the humanitarian organisation, in a statement, adding that it also “damaged the structure” of the ICRC base.&nbsp;

“Firing so dangerously close to humanitarian structures puts the lives of civilians and humanitarians at risk,” said the Red Cross.&nbsp;

It also noted that this “grave security incident is one of several in recent days” as “stray bullets have reached ICRC structures” previously.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the health ministry say?&nbsp;</h2>

The Palestinian health ministry said that the Israeli forces shelled tent camps near Rafah and that the strike had “targeted the tents of the displaced in the Al-Mawasi area” which is around the ICRC base.

A report by the Associated Press citing a witness whose relatives died in one of the bombardments near a Red Cross field hospital north of Rafah said that the Israeli forces fired a second volley that killed people who came out of their tents.

Ahmed Radwan, a spokesperson for Civil Defense first responders in Rafah, citing witnesses, said that the shelling on Friday targeted two locations in a coastal area which has been filled with makeshift tents, reported the AP.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrims-death-98-indians-die-amid-day-temperature-soaring-above-50-degrees-733871">Hajj pilgrims death: 98 Indians die amid day temperature soaring above 50 degrees</a>

The location mentioned by the emergency officials and that of the Red Cross hospital is said to be just outside an Israeli-designated safe zone on the Mediterranean coast, known as Muwasi, west of Rafah.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No indication’</h2>

A spokesperson from the Israel Defence Force (IDF) said “there is no indication that a strike was carried out by the IDF” but that the incident was “under review”. However, it did not provide any other details.&nbsp;

Israel, as per reports, has previously bombed locations in the vicinity of the “humanitarian zone” in Muwasi. The has also previously said that it is conducting “precise, intelligence-based” actions in the Rafah area.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in the Palestinian enclave said at least 25 people were killed and 50 others were injured after Israeli forces shelled tent camps for displaced Palestinians outside Gaza’s southern city of Rafah on Friday. What we know about the shelling The ICRC said that the shelling took place near its Gaza office, which is surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it. “Heavy-calibre projectiles landed within metres” of the Red Cross offices and residences, said the humanitarian organisation, in a statement, adding that it also “damaged the structure” of the ICRC base. “Firing so dangerously close to humanitarian structures puts the lives of civilians and humanitarians at risk,” said the Red Cross. It also noted that this “grave security incident is one of several in recent days” as “stray bullets have reached ICRC structures” previously. What did the health ministry say? The Palestinian health ministry said that the Israeli forces shelled tent camps near Rafah and that the strike had “targeted the tents of the displaced in the Al-Mawasi area” which is around the ICRC base. A report by the Associated Press citing a witness whose relatives died in one of the bombardments near a Red Cross field hospital north of Rafah said that the Israeli forces fired a second volley that killed people who came out of their tents. Ahmed Radwan, a spokesperson for Civil Defense first responders in Rafah, citing witnesses, said that the shelling on Friday targeted two locations in a coastal area which has been filled with makeshift tents, reported the AP. Also Read | Hajj pilgrims death: 98 Indians die amid day temperature soaring above 50 degrees The location mentioned by the emergency officials and that of the Red Cross hospital is said to be just outside an Israeli-designated safe zone on the Mediterranean coast, known as Muwasi, west of Rafah. ‘No indication’ A spokesperson from the Israel Defence Force (IDF) said “there is no indication that a strike was carried out by the IDF” but that the incident was “under review”. However, it did not provide any other details. Israel, as per reports, has previously bombed locations in the vicinity of the “humanitarian zone” in Muwasi. The has also previously said that it is conducting “precise, intelligence-based” actions in the Rafah area. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack

In pics | International Yoga Day celebrations across the world

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a United States government agency, said that it is investigating an incident where a Southwest Airlines flight dropped dangerously low over a town in the US state of Oklahoma before landing. The flight in question had descended to just 525 feet above ground as it approached the airport triggering an altitude warning from air traffic control.&nbsp;

<h2>About the incident</h2>

The incident took place on Wednesday (Jun 19) when Southwest Flight 4069 flying in from Las Vegas, Nevada was nine miles (14.5 kilometres away) from the Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City and over the town of Yukon, Oklahoma when it descended to the low altitude just after midnight.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“After an automated warning sounded, an air traffic controller alerted the crew of Southwest Airlines Flight 4069 that the aircraft had descended to a low altitude nine miles away from Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City,” the FAA told CNN, in a statement, published on Friday (Jun 21).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-investigators-find-southwest-airlines-flight-suffered-structural-damage-after-dutch-roll-732011">US investigators find Southwest Airlines flight suffered structural damage after ‘Dutch roll’</a>

“Southwest 4069, low altitude alert. You doing OK?” an air traffic controller asked the aircraft’s pilots, according to audio captured by LiveATC.net, reported&nbsp;the Associated Press.&nbsp;

In response, one of the pilots of the Southwest Airlines operating&nbsp;Boeing 737-800 said they were “going around,” with the controller instructing the aviator to maintain an altitude of 3,000 feet.

The data&nbsp;by FlightRadar24 shows that the plane quickly adjusted and climbed briefly before successfully landing at the airport in Oklahoma City.&nbsp;

“It woke me up and I thought it was gonna hit my house,” a person wrote on the Yukon Happenings Facebook group, according to The Oklahoman.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the airline say?</h2>

In a statement to Business Insider, a spokesperson for Southwest said that the airline is following its “robust” safety management system, adding that it&nbsp;is in contact with the FAA to “understand and address any irregularities with the aircraft’s approach to the airport.”

“Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees,” said the spokesperson.&nbsp;

<h2>Previous incident</h2>

The close call on Wednesday was the second recent incident involving a Southwest flight narrowly missing the ground or in the previous case, the ocean.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elliott-investment-management-acquires-2-billion-stake-in-southwest-airlines-730446">Elliott Investment Management acquires $2 billion stake in Southwest Airlines</a>

In April, a Southwest flight nearly crashed into the ocean after a pilot accidentally sent the plane into a dive off the coast of Hawaii.&nbsp;

The pilot had reportedly caused the aircraft to plummet from an altitude of 1,000 feet to just 400 above the Pacific Ocean in a couple of seconds amid bad weather.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a United States government agency, said that it is investigating an incident where a Southwest Airlines flight dropped dangerously low over a town in the US state of Oklahoma before landing.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a United States government agency, said that it is investigating an incident where a Southwest Airlines flight dropped dangerously low over a town in the US state of Oklahoma before landing. The flight in question had descended to just 525 feet above ground as it approached the airport triggering an altitude warning from air traffic control. About the incident The incident took place on Wednesday (Jun 19) when Southwest Flight 4069 flying in from Las Vegas, Nevada was nine miles (14.5 kilometres away) from the Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City and over the town of Yukon, Oklahoma when it descended to the low altitude just after midnight. “After an automated warning sounded, an air traffic controller alerted the crew of Southwest Airlines Flight 4069 that the aircraft had descended to a low altitude nine miles away from Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City,” the FAA told CNN, in a statement, published on Friday (Jun 21). Also Read | US investigators find Southwest Airlines flight suffered structural damage after ‘Dutch roll’ “Southwest 4069, low altitude alert. You doing OK?” an air traffic controller asked the aircraft’s pilots, according to audio captured by LiveATC.net, reported the Associated Press. In response, one of the pilots of the Southwest Airlines operating Boeing 737-800 said they were “going around,” with the controller instructing the aviator to maintain an altitude of 3,000 feet. The data by FlightRadar24 shows that the plane quickly adjusted and climbed briefly before successfully landing at the airport in Oklahoma City. “It woke me up and I thought it was gonna hit my house,” a person wrote on the Yukon Happenings Facebook group, according to The Oklahoman. What did the airline say? In a statement to Business Insider, a spokesperson for Southwest said that the airline is following its “robust” safety management system, adding that it is in contact with the FAA to “understand and address any irregularities with the aircraft’s approach to the airport.” “Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees,” said the spokesperson. Previous incident The close call on Wednesday was the second recent incident involving a Southwest flight narrowly missing the ground or in the previous case, the ocean. Also Read | Elliott Investment Management acquires $2 billion stake in Southwest Airlines In April, a Southwest flight nearly crashed into the ocean after a pilot accidentally sent the plane into a dive off the coast of Hawaii. The pilot had reportedly caused the aircraft to plummet from an altitude of 1,000 feet to just 400 above the Pacific Ocean in a couple of seconds amid bad weather. (With inputs from agencies)

FAA investigates Southwest flight that flew just 525 feet above Oklahoma town, triggering altitude warning

An eight-year-old Pekingese named Wild Thang was crowned winner at the world’s ugliest dog competition, on Friday (Jun 21). The canine, who has been competing for the title for years now, beat seven other competitors at the event held on a fairground in California, United States.&nbsp;

<h2>Wild Thang wins the title</h2>

The eight-year-old Pekingese from Coos Bay, Oregon was finally crowned the winner at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, marking his first win after he had competed four times before. Wild Thang had secured second place three times before finally winning this year.&nbsp;

The dog born and raised in Los Angeles recently retired to Oregon. The eight-year-old canine was among eight dogs who were competing for the title and walked the red carpet at the fair on Friday.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/shiny-monolith-removed-from-nevada-desert-days-after-its-mysterious-appearance-heres-why-734088">Shiny monolith removed from Nevada desert days after its mysterious appearance. Here’s why</a>

According to the contest’s website, the competition has been going on for nearly 50 years and welcomes dogs of “all breeds and sizes”.&nbsp;

“The annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of ‘ugly’ dogs, but having fun with some wonderful characters and showing the world that these dogs are really beautiful!” the website reads.&nbsp;

Wild Thang, and his owner Ann Lewis, will receive $5,000. Meanwhile, a 14-year-old pug named Rome, who was contesting for the first time, secured second place and received a prize of $3,000.&nbsp;

A white-coated and mixed-breed rescue dog named Daisy May, who is also 14 years old, won third place and received $2,000. It was also Daisy May’s first time at the competition.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Glugly’</h2>

Wild Thang’s look has been attributed to a disease which prevented the growth of his teeth, leaving his tongue hanging outside his mouth. The canine also suffers from a muscular disorder in one of his legs.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/florida-family-claims-over-80000-from-nasa-after-space-debris-hit-their-home-734074">US family claims over $80,000 from NASA after space debris hit their home</a>

According to his bio, Wild Thang contracted distemper as a puppy from a rescue foster, and “barely” survived. “His teeth did not grow in, causing his tongue to stay out and his right front leg paddles 24/7,” said his owner.&nbsp;

But other than that, she described Wild Thang as a “healthy, happy Glugly (glamourous/ugly) guy”. &nbsp;

According to his owner, Wild Thang “loves people, other dogs and especially his toys” and his “purpose in life is to promote the necessity of getting your pets vaccinated”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An eight-year-old Pekingese named Wild Thang was crowned winner at the world’s ugliest dog competition, on Friday (Jun 21). The canine, who has been competing for the title for years now, beat seven other competitors at the event held on a fairground in California, United States.

An eight-year-old Pekingese named Wild Thang was crowned winner at the world’s ugliest dog competition, on Friday (Jun 21). The canine, who has been competing for the title for years now, beat seven other competitors at the event held on a fairground in California, United States. Wild Thang wins the title The eight-year-old Pekingese from Coos Bay, Oregon was finally crowned the winner at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, marking his first win after he had competed four times before. Wild Thang had secured second place three times before finally winning this year. The dog born and raised in Los Angeles recently retired to Oregon. The eight-year-old canine was among eight dogs who were competing for the title and walked the red carpet at the fair on Friday. Also Read | Shiny monolith removed from Nevada desert days after its mysterious appearance. Here’s why According to the contest’s website, the competition has been going on for nearly 50 years and welcomes dogs of “all breeds and sizes”. “The annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of ‘ugly’ dogs, but having fun with some wonderful characters and showing the world that these dogs are really beautiful!” the website reads. Wild Thang, and his owner Ann Lewis, will receive $5,000. Meanwhile, a 14-year-old pug named Rome, who was contesting for the first time, secured second place and received a prize of $3,000. A white-coated and mixed-breed rescue dog named Daisy May, who is also 14 years old, won third place and received $2,000. It was also Daisy May’s first time at the competition. ‘Glugly’ Wild Thang’s look has been attributed to a disease which prevented the growth of his teeth, leaving his tongue hanging outside his mouth. The canine also suffers from a muscular disorder in one of his legs. Also Read | US family claims over $80,000 from NASA after space debris hit their home According to his bio, Wild Thang contracted distemper as a puppy from a rescue foster, and “barely” survived. “His teeth did not grow in, causing his tongue to stay out and his right front leg paddles 24/7,” said his owner. But other than that, she described Wild Thang as a “healthy, happy Glugly (glamourous/ugly) guy”. According to his owner, Wild Thang “loves people, other dogs and especially his toys” and his “purpose in life is to promote the necessity of getting your pets vaccinated”. (With inputs from agencies)

World’s Ugliest Dog Contest 2024: Wild Thang, an eight-year-old Pekingese, crowned winner

As the mystery surrounding the shiny monolith which appeared out of nowhere in the desert near the US city of Las Vegas continued, the local police said that they had removed the structure over “public safety” concerns. The move, which has been described as “lame” by social media users, came after the mirrored structure was spotted last week.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was it removed?</h2>

In an update about the pandemic-era mystery, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) said that they had removed the “mysterious monolith” on Thursday (Jun 20) afternoon “due to public safety and environmental concerns.”

The mysterious monoliths which appeared seemingly out of nowhere across several countries and multiple US states during the COVID-19 pandemic had resurfaced over the weekend when the LVMPD announced the latest sighting.&nbsp;

However, on Friday (Jun 21), in a series of posts on X, the Las Vegas police announced the removal of the glimmering, six-foot-four prism.&nbsp;

“It is being stored at an undisclosed location while public authorities determine the most appropriate way to dispose/store the item,” said the Las Vegas police.&nbsp;

It added that the structure was “made out of reflective sheet metal folded into a triangle and secured with rebar and concrete.”&nbsp;

The officials also said that they are not sure how the monolith got to its location or who might be responsible.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MYSTERIOUS MONOLITH UPDATE: 
 
A lot of you have asked about the mysterious monolith that was recently spotted north of Las Vegas. 
Yesterday afternoon, we assisted with the removal of the item due to public safety and environmental concerns. <a href="https://t.co/4NrR9FDo4T">pic.twitter.com/4NrR9FDo4T</a>
— LVMPD (@LVMPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/LVMPD/status/1804181133225267447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The monolith, similar to that of an object which appears in Stanley Kubrick’s movie ‘2001: A Space Odyssey,’ was spotted by the Las Vegas Metro Search and Rescue team at Gass Peak which is 64 kilometres north of Sin City.&nbsp;

The Las Vegas police, in subsequent posts on X, also reminded hikers and visitors to remain on marked trails and discouraged people from “venturing off” or “leaving objects and items behind.”

<h2>‘Lame’: Social media users respond</h2>

Hundreds of people commented on the social media post by the Las Vegas police and called the removal of the monolith “lame” while others called it a waste of taxpayers’ money.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mysterious-monolith-returns-mirrored-structure-spotted-near-las-vegas-733033">‘Mysterious monolith’ returns! Mirrored structure spotted in desert near Las Vegas</a>

“Thank goodness you got rid of that thing. The environment was in danger! People could have been hurt! Heroic stuff. Bravo,” said one user. &nbsp;

The series of discoveries starting in 2020 has sparked many conspiracy theories involving aliens, while others suggest that it could just be a highly coordinated and elaborate prank.&nbsp;

The first monolith was discovered by accident when wildlife officials in the US state of Utah. The structure mysteriously disappeared less than 10 days later.&nbsp;

The more recent one was found on a hill in Wales, United Kingdom back in March.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the mystery surrounding the shiny monolith which appeared out of nowhere in the desert near the US city of Las Vegas continued, the local police said that they had removed the structure over “public safety” concerns.

As the mystery surrounding the shiny monolith which appeared out of nowhere in the desert near the US city of Las Vegas continued, the local police said that they had removed the structure over “public safety” concerns. The move, which has been described as “lame” by social media users, came after the mirrored structure was spotted last week. Why was it removed? In an update about the pandemic-era mystery, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) said that they had removed the “mysterious monolith” on Thursday (Jun 20) afternoon “due to public safety and environmental concerns.” The mysterious monoliths which appeared seemingly out of nowhere across several countries and multiple US states during the COVID-19 pandemic had resurfaced over the weekend when the LVMPD announced the latest sighting. However, on Friday (Jun 21), in a series of posts on X, the Las Vegas police announced the removal of the glimmering, six-foot-four prism. “It is being stored at an undisclosed location while public authorities determine the most appropriate way to dispose/store the item,” said the Las Vegas police. It added that the structure was “made out of reflective sheet metal folded into a triangle and secured with rebar and concrete.” The officials also said that they are not sure how the monolith got to its location or who might be responsible. MYSTERIOUS MONOLITH UPDATE: A lot of you have asked about the mysterious monolith that was recently spotted north of Las Vegas. Yesterday afternoon, we assisted with the removal of the item due to public safety and environmental concerns. pic.twitter.com/4NrR9FDo4T — LVMPD (@LVMPD) June 21, 2024 × The monolith, similar to that of an object which appears in Stanley Kubrick’s movie ‘2001: A Space Odyssey,’ was spotted by the Las Vegas Metro Search and Rescue team at Gass Peak which is 64 kilometres north of Sin City. The Las Vegas police, in subsequent posts on X, also reminded hikers and visitors to remain on marked trails and discouraged people from “venturing off” or “leaving objects and items behind.” ‘Lame’: Social media users respond Hundreds of people commented on the social media post by the Las Vegas police and called the removal of the monolith “lame” while others called it a waste of taxpayers’ money. Also Read | ‘Mysterious monolith’ returns! Mirrored structure spotted in desert near Las Vegas “Thank goodness you got rid of that thing. The environment was in danger! People could have been hurt! Heroic stuff. Bravo,” said one user. The series of discoveries starting in 2020 has sparked many conspiracy theories involving aliens, while others suggest that it could just be a highly coordinated and elaborate prank. The first monolith was discovered by accident when wildlife officials in the US state of Utah. The structure mysteriously disappeared less than 10 days later. The more recent one was found on a hill in Wales, United Kingdom back in March. (With inputs from agencies)

Shiny monolith removed from Nevada desert days after its mysterious appearance. Here’s why

Explosions were reported near a ship east of the Yemeni port city of Aden on Friday, Britain's maritime safety agency UKMTO said.

The agency, which did not identify the vessel, said the ship was able to continue its journey and "the crew are reported safe".

Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels have been targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2023 in attacks they say are in solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-cross-says-at-least-22-killed-after-shelling-near-its-gaza-office-idf-denies-responsibility-for-attack-734014">Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack</a>

The rebel attacks have prompted reprisal strikes by US and British forces and the formation of an international coalition to protect the vital shipping lanes through the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.

The US military said Thursday that it had destroyed four Huthi nautical drones and two aerial ones over the Red Sea off Yemen.

Washington also called on the Huthis to release humanitarian workers detained earlier this month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebels-believed-to-have-sunk-second-ship-in-red-sea-after-deadly-attack-733091">Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack</a>

The Huthis are engaged in a long-running civil war that has triggered one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. More than half of the population is dependent on aid in the Arabian Peninsula's poorest country.

Explosions were reported near a ship east of the Yemeni port city of Aden on Friday, Britain's maritime safety agency UKMTO said. The agency, which did not identify the vessel, said the ship was able to continue its journey and "the crew are reported safe".

Explosions were reported near a ship east of the Yemeni port city of Aden on Friday, Britain's maritime safety agency UKMTO said. The agency, which did not identify the vessel, said the ship was able to continue its journey and "the crew are reported safe". Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels have been targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2023 in attacks they say are in solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Also Read | Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack The rebel attacks have prompted reprisal strikes by US and British forces and the formation of an international coalition to protect the vital shipping lanes through the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. The US military said Thursday that it had destroyed four Huthi nautical drones and two aerial ones over the Red Sea off Yemen. Washington also called on the Huthis to release humanitarian workers detained earlier this month. Also Read | Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack The Huthis are engaged in a long-running civil war that has triggered one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. More than half of the population is dependent on aid in the Arabian Peninsula's poorest country.

Explosions near ship off Yemen, crew 'reported safe': UKMTO

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Nishtha Badgamia

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