A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland.

A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland. According to the Polish authorities, the Polish man named Paweł K was tasked “to help, among other things, in planning by Russian special services a possible attack on the life of the head of a foreign state – President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky,” as per a statement on Thursday (April 18). According to the prosecutors, the man was willing to provide information to Russian spies regarding the security details at Rzeszow-Jasionka airport in southeastern Poland, which is nearly 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Poland's border with Ukraine. Also Read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signs army mobilisation bill into law It is known that Zelensky uses the airport when departing on foreign trips since it is one of the airports closest to the Ukrainian border. Ukrainian prosecutor general Andriy Kostin said that the suspect allegedly "proactively established contact" with Russian military command representatives and "informed them of his readiness to cooperate" with the Russian Federation's foreign military intelligence agency. Polish man faces eight years imprisonment if convicted According to the office, the suspect, if convicted, can face up to eight years in prison. "This case underscores the persistent threat Russia poses not only to Ukraine and Ukrainians but to the entire free world," said Kostin. "The Kremlin's criminal regime is constantly trying to undermine European and global security. It organises and carries out sabotage operations on the territory of other sovereign states," he added. The news of a Polish man working as a spy came just hours after German police stated that two suspected Russian agents were arrested by them in the Bavarian town of Bayreuth. Watch: Ukraine war: Zelensky condemns Iran, says Ukraine needs help too The two individuals, who were identified as German-Russian nationals, faced accusations of plotting sabotage attacks and also being involved in an explosive detonation, as per a statement by the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office in Karlsruhe. In April 2023, Zelensky visited Poland and was accorded a warm welcome by its citizens as well as President Andrzej Duda. Poland is located on the western border of Ukraine. After the Russian invasion, Poland took many refugees who had fled from Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination

A complete jury of 12 members, along with an alternate, was sworn in for the historic criminal trial in former US President Donald Trump's hush money case in New York City on Thursday (April 18).

A complete jury of 12 members, along with an alternate, was sworn in for the historic criminal trial in former US President Donald Trump's hush money case in New York City on Thursday (April 18). The jury was finalised after nearly 200 potential jurors were questioned by the two sides regarding how fair and impartial they could be towards the former president, who has criminal charges against him. After the 12 jurors were selected, state Judge Juan Merchan said, "We have our jury." The court still needs to select five more alternates. "I am hopeful we will finish tomorrow," said the judge, before he swore the jury in. The court had earlier excused two of the jurors seated. Also Read: Juror excused from Trump hush money trial due to fear of influence: What you need to know If the five alternates are selected by April 19, the opening statements in the criminal trial can start as early as Monday. The panel comprises seven men and five women. The new jurors who were added to the panel on Thursday (April 18) include a product development manager, a physical therapist, a retired wealth manager and a speech therapist. A lawyer, a salesman, a teacher and a software engineer were sworn in as the jurors on Tuesday (April 16). Trump calls the case "ridiculous", "unfair" While leaving the court on Thursday (April 18), Trump showed dozens of media articles which criticised the Manhattan charges against him and said that the charges were "political" in nature. "It's a very unfair, very bad thing," said the presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, who is most likely to challenge President Joe Biden in November's election. "The whole world is watching this hoax. I’m supposed to be in a lot of different places campaigning. But I’ve been here all day on a trial that really is a very unfair trial," said the former president. Watch: Trump on Trial: Friend turned foe? Former Trump aide Michael Cohen becomes star witness "And I’m sitting here for days now from morning till night. In that freezing room freezing. Everybody was freezing," Trump added. The criminal trial, which is the first one in which a former US president is the defendant, started from an alleged hush-money payment made to a porn star. Before the 2016 elections, porn star Stormy Daniels was made a payment of $130,000 (£105,000) to purchase her silence regarding her alleged affair with Trump. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors & an alternate, announces 'we have our jury'

More than 100 people were arrested and summons were issued against them for trespassing after an encampment was set up by the protesters at New York’s Columbia University to show their solidarity with Gaza.

More than 100 people were arrested and summons were issued against them for trespassing after an encampment was set up by the protesters at New York’s Columbia University to show their solidarity with Gaza. According to the police, among those arrested was Republican Ilhan Omar’s daughter Isra Hirsi. For 30 hours, the space on the South Lawn of the university was occupied by the demonstrators, said Mayor Eric Adams, after the arrests were made on Thursday (April 18). The university asked the New York Police Department (NYPD) for help and stated that the university suspended the students, however, they still did not leave. 🚨UPDATE🚨 THOUSANDS of students at Columbia University are on the plaza with 100s of students occupying the West Lawn pic.twitter.com/0maFuvzs0R — sebas 🇵🇸🇸🇩🇨🇩🇵🇬 (@cybersebb) April 18, 2024 × “Columbia University’s students have a proud history of protests and raising their voices,” said Adams, but added that the students do not have the right to violate the policies of the university. “We will not be a city of lawlessness,” said the mayor. Also Read: Pro-Palestinian protesters block traffic on Golden Gate Bridge, airport highways in major US cities Twenty-one-year-old Hirsi, who attends Barnard College in Manhattan, wrote on X that she was suspended for “standing in solidarity with Palestinians facing a genocide,” along with two other students. Hirsi, who is an organiser of a student group which advocates for Palestinians, said that for the first time, she is being punished as a student activist in her three years at the school. "Those of us in Gaza Solidarity Encampment will not be intimidated,” Hirsi wrote. Protesting students call police officers "KKK", "baby killers" Police arrested more than 108 students and gave them summonses for trespass, which included Hirsi. Two of them also faced charges of obstructing governmental administration, as per the authorities. As per NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, the students were peacefully arrested and did not resist and said what they wanted to stay "in a peaceful manner". However, nearly 500 other students left surrounded the police “and were telling us that we’re the KKK,” among other insults, said Caban. Another police official said that they called them "baby killers" and to "go kill ourselves". "It was very sad to see," he added. NYC Mayor Eric Adams said, "It's very troubling when you protest protesting for peace. You should not be using inflammatory comments like we saw. It was very vile." Watch: US: How Pro-Palestine protests overshadow Biden's re-election bid | Israel war Earlier in the day, Columbia University’s president, Nemat “Minouche” Shafik, in a memo to the police, said that more than 100 students had occupied the area. "I have determined that the encampment and related disruptions pose a clear and present danger to the substantial functioning of the University," said the memo. Shafik added that she authorised police to clear the encampment “out of an abundance of concern” for safety on campus. "Columbia is committed to allowing members of our community to engage in political expression — within established rules and with respect for the safety of all," the memo read. (With inputs from agencies)

US police arrest more than 100 pro-Palestinian protesters at Columbia University

The United States, by casting a veto in the United Nations Security Council on Thursday (April 18), blocked a resolution that recommended recognition of a Palestinian state by providing it full membership in the world body.

The United States, by casting a veto in the United Nations Security Council on Thursday (April 18), blocked a resolution that recommended recognition of a Palestinian state by providing it full membership in the world body. The US vetoed a draft resolution which proposed to the 193-member UN General Assembly that "the State of Palestine be admitted to membership" of the UN. Twelve member countries of the UN Security Council voted in favour of the resolution. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and Switzerland abstained. Also Read: Pro-Palestinian protesters block traffic on Golden Gate Bridge, airport highways in major US cities Speaking in the council, Deputy US Ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood said, "The United States continues to strongly support a two-state solution. This vote does not reflect opposition to Palestinian statehood, but instead is an acknowledgement that it will only come from direct negotiations between the parties." Palestine criticises US veto, Israel stands in support Palestinian Authority President, Mahmoud Abbas, in a statement, slammed the US veto, stating that it was “unfair, immoral, and unjustified, and defies the will of the international community, which strongly supports the State of Palestine obtaining full membership in the United Nations.” Meanwhile, speaking in the council after the voting, Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour, said, "The fact that this resolution did not pass will not break our will and it will not defeat our determination. We will not stop in our effort." However, Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz was full of praise for the US and appreciated the country's decision to veto what he said was a “shameful proposal". “The proposal to recognise a Palestinian state, more than 6 months after the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust and after the sexual crimes and other atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists was a reward for terrorism”, wrote Katz, on X. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Israel hostage swap for Palestinian prisoners Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan, while addressing the 12 countries who voted in favour of the resolution, said, "It's very sad because your vote will only embolden Palestinian rejectionism even more and make peace almost impossible." The Palestinian bid for full membership of the world body came six months after the war started between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Currently, the Palestinians are a non-member observer state after they were granted a de facto recognition of statehood by the UN General Assembly in 2012. The Security Council and two-thirds of the General Assembly need to approve their application for a full UN membership so that Palestine can achieve complete statehood. (With inputs from agencies)

US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations

In a new research, it has been found that astronomers may need to study the pinpoints of purple to discover life on far-off planets. The new research has discovered the light signals which travel from worlds that lack sunlight and oxygen, like in many exoplanets found so far.

In a new research, it has been found that astronomers may need to study the pinpoints of purple to discover life on far-off planets. The new research has discovered the light signals which travel from worlds that lack sunlight and oxygen, like in many exoplanets found so far. The dominant colour which gives a signal of life on Earth is green because of the plants and bacteria which transform sunlight into energy with the help of green chlorophyll. On the planet, which orbits around smaller and dimmer stars, the organisms are expected by scientists to survive if they run their metabolism on other infrared light. Also Read: Scientists believe Uranus and Neptune are 'ice giants,' but a new study hints at something else Infrared-powered bacteria exist in different niches on Earth, especially where there is no penetration of sunlight like deep-sea hydrothermal vents or murky marshes. Astrobiologist grows bacteria to study alien life lurking in other worlds According to the study published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, an astrobiologist at Cornell University Ligia Fonseca Coelho and her co-authors grew various bacteria and measured the wavelengths of light which were reflected by them and simulated them with the kind of light signals seen in other worlds. As per the study researchers, telescopes like the Extremely Large Telescope - which has been under construction in Chile - and the Habitable Worlds Observatory - which is being planned out, will be able to look for these light spectra. In a statement, the director of Carl Sagan Institute and a Cornell University astronomer and co-author Lisa Kaltenegger said, "We need to create a database for signs of life to make sure our telescopes don't miss life if it happens not to look exactly like what we encounter around us every day." Purple bacteria thriving in low-oxygen environment hints at aliens' existence? Purple bacteria, which belong to a phylum known as Pseudomonadota, are able to thrive in low-oxygen environments, as per the scientists. Twenty species of purple non-sulfur-producing bacteria and 20 species of purple sulfur-producing bacteria were grown by Coelho and her colleagues. Watch: Pluto: Should 'Pluto' be a planet again? The debate rages on These species were gleaned by them from different environments, which included pre-existing lab colonies; a pond on Cornell's campus in upstate New York and the waters near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. "Our models show that depending on the surface coverage of the biota and the cloud coverage, a wide variety of terrestrial planets could show signs of purple bacteria surface biopigments," stated the researchers, in their paper. "While it is unknown whether life — or purple bacteria — can evolve on other worlds, purple might just be the new green in the search for surface life," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists

The best juice for a diabetic patient is that of bitter gourd since it lowers blood sugar levels. It can either be enjoyed by itself or you can add some cucumber and lemon to make it tastier.

People with diabetes can also go for amla juice as it contains vitamin C and antioxidants.  

Spinach juice is among the best choices for people with diabetes because it contains fewer carbohydrates. 

Pomegranate juice is a nutritious option as it is filled with beneficial nutrients. Pomegranate contains vitamin C, fibre, folate, and potassium. It contains a low glycemic index (GI) that does not rapidly increase blood sugar levels. 

Carrot juice, although sweet, helps in managing sugar levels. It does not lead to a significant increase in blood sugar levels. Carrots also contain beneficial minerals, vitamins, and carotenoids. 

Kale is filled with minerals like potassium as well as vitamins A, C, and K. It is a low-glycemic vegetable which does not lead to spike in blood sugar.

The content provided on the website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.


6 Juices Best For Diabetic Patients 

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia.

Lava tubes are caves which were formed in a volcanic eruption. The surface of a river of lava cooled down and solidified and the hot molten rock continued to flow under it. The lava eventually drained out of the tube and left behind a tunnel.

<h2>All about Saudi Arabia's biggest lava tube</h2>

Umm Jirsan is the biggest lava tube which runs across 1.5 kilometres in Saudi Arabia. Researcher Mathew Stewart, who works at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, excavated a trench inside Umm Jirsan along with his colleagues.

In their excavation, the researchers found stone tools, animal bones and pottery which were estimated to be at least 7,000 years old.

For more than 15 years, Stewart and his team have been exploring the region and earlier found numerous stone structures on the surface which proved human habitation.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-brains-getting-larger-in-size-and-this-may-be-good-news-for-some-704458">Human brains getting larger in size, and this may be good news for some</a>

The organic material present in the region broke down due to the desert’s hot, arid climate, which has made it difficult to estimate its age.

The landscape on the surface is a “hot, dry and flat basalt desert”, said Stewart. “But when you are down in the lava tube, it’s much cooler. It’s very sheltered and it would have been a great place of refuge. It’s transforming our understanding of the prehistory of the Arabian peninsula,” he said, as reported by the New Scientist.

<h2>What did the researchers discover in the lava tube?&nbsp;</h2>

The researchers, while excavating parts of the underground network at Umm Jirsan, discovered human bones. However, it is believed that they were dragged inside the cave by hyenas.

In a different lava tube, Stewart and his colleagues discovered rock art which included representational images of domestic sheep and goats which were likely carved by “cultural contemporaries” of the groups which used the lava tubes as a refuge, he said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Vampire Bacteria's thirst for human blood, deadly discovery of bacteria

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vampire-bacterias-thirst-for-human-blood-deadly-discovery-of-bacteria-712447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the analysis of the researchers, the humans were not living in the lava tube for long periods at one given point in time.&nbsp;

"The lava tube does not appear to have served as a permanent habitation location, but rather as a site that likely lay on herding routes and that allowed access to shade and water for passing herders and their animals," wrote the authors&nbsp;in the study.&nbsp;

"Prior to this, as well as during pastoral periods, the lava tube was likely also linked with hunting activities, which probably remained a cornerstone of local economies into the Bronze Age," they added.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia.

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia. Lava tubes are caves which were formed in a volcanic eruption. The surface of a river of lava cooled down and solidified and the hot molten rock continued to flow under it. The lava eventually drained out of the tube and left behind a tunnel. All about Saudi Arabia's biggest lava tube Umm Jirsan is the biggest lava tube which runs across 1.5 kilometres in Saudi Arabia. Researcher Mathew Stewart, who works at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, excavated a trench inside Umm Jirsan along with his colleagues. In their excavation, the researchers found stone tools, animal bones and pottery which were estimated to be at least 7,000 years old. For more than 15 years, Stewart and his team have been exploring the region and earlier found numerous stone structures on the surface which proved human habitation. Also Read: Human brains getting larger in size, and this may be good news for some The organic material present in the region broke down due to the desert’s hot, arid climate, which has made it difficult to estimate its age. The landscape on the surface is a “hot, dry and flat basalt desert”, said Stewart. “But when you are down in the lava tube, it’s much cooler. It’s very sheltered and it would have been a great place of refuge. It’s transforming our understanding of the prehistory of the Arabian peninsula,” he said, as reported by the New Scientist. What did the researchers discover in the lava tube? The researchers, while excavating parts of the underground network at Umm Jirsan, discovered human bones. However, it is believed that they were dragged inside the cave by hyenas. In a different lava tube, Stewart and his colleagues discovered rock art which included representational images of domestic sheep and goats which were likely carved by “cultural contemporaries” of the groups which used the lava tubes as a refuge, he said. Watch: Vampire Bacteria's thirst for human blood, deadly discovery of bacteria According to the analysis of the researchers, the humans were not living in the lava tube for long periods at one given point in time. "The lava tube does not appear to have served as a permanent habitation location, but rather as a site that likely lay on herding routes and that allowed access to shade and water for passing herders and their animals," wrote the authors in the study. "Prior to this, as well as during pastoral periods, the lava tube was likely also linked with hunting activities, which probably remained a cornerstone of local economies into the Bronze Age," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient humans lived in THIS vast lava tube in Saudi Arabia 7,000 years ago

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack.&nbsp;

The prime minister made the statement as Western countries called for restraint in responding to a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran.

The United States, the G7 group of industrialised nations and the European Union announced that they will impose tougher sanctions on Iran, with the hope that Israel will avoid any retaliatory attack.

German and British Foreign Ministers, Annalena Baerbock and David Cameron, respectively,&nbsp;also travelled to Israel to stop the confrontation between Israel and Iran from escalating.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-reassessing-its-role-as-mediator-between-israel-and-hamas-712420">Qatar reassessing its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas</a>

Addressing a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday (April 17), Netanyahu thanked both visiting foreign ministers for extending their support.

However, he said that Israel will make the call on its own on how it will respond despite “all sorts of suggestions and advice” coming from Israel’s allies, which include the United States, the United Kingdom and France.

“I want to be clear: we will make our decisions ourselves. The state of Israel will do whatever is necessary to defend itself,” said Netanyahu.

During his meetings with the German and British foreign ministers, Netanyahu’s office had earlier said that the prime minister “reiterated that Israel would maintain its right to self-defence.”

Israel has promised to respond to the unprecedented attack by Iran amid calls from other countries to exercise restraint.

<h2>Iran vows 'massive and harsh' response amid deteriorating ties</h2>

Amid increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel, Iran’s president warned that even the “tiniest” invasion of its territory by Tel Aviv will see a “massive and harsh” response.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, violence escalated between Israel and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant Hezbollah group on Wednesday (April 17) after the latter fired a volley of rockets and drones on northern Israel.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iran attacks Israel: Does the West have a plan to stop the war?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-israel-does-the-west-have-a-plan-to-stop-the-war-712406/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the attack, nearly 14 Israeli soldiers suffered injuries out of which six were in a serious condition, said the army. The military said that it hit Hezbollah targets&nbsp;in Lebanon&nbsp;in response.

Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated after its embassy in Damascus was allegedly hit by an Israeli airstrike on April 1.&nbsp;

In response, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel, most of which were shot down and no deaths were reported.&nbsp;

However, Israel argues that it should retaliate to the attack to preserve the credibility of its deterrents. According to Iran, the matter is closed as of now but they will retaliate again if Israel attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack. The prime minister made the statement as Western countries called for restraint in responding to a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran. The United States, the G7 group of industrialised nations and the European Union announced that they will impose tougher sanctions on Iran, with the hope that Israel will avoid any retaliatory attack. German and British Foreign Ministers, Annalena Baerbock and David Cameron, respectively, also travelled to Israel to stop the confrontation between Israel and Iran from escalating. Also Read: Qatar reassessing its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas Addressing a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday (April 17), Netanyahu thanked both visiting foreign ministers for extending their support. However, he said that Israel will make the call on its own on how it will respond despite “all sorts of suggestions and advice” coming from Israel’s allies, which include the United States, the United Kingdom and France. “I want to be clear: we will make our decisions ourselves. The state of Israel will do whatever is necessary to defend itself,” said Netanyahu. During his meetings with the German and British foreign ministers, Netanyahu’s office had earlier said that the prime minister “reiterated that Israel would maintain its right to self-defence.” Israel has promised to respond to the unprecedented attack by Iran amid calls from other countries to exercise restraint. Iran vows 'massive and harsh' response amid deteriorating ties Amid increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel, Iran’s president warned that even the “tiniest” invasion of its territory by Tel Aviv will see a “massive and harsh” response. Meanwhile, violence escalated between Israel and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant Hezbollah group on Wednesday (April 17) after the latter fired a volley of rockets and drones on northern Israel. Watch: Iran attacks Israel: Does the West have a plan to stop the war? In the attack, nearly 14 Israeli soldiers suffered injuries out of which six were in a serious condition, said the army. The military said that it hit Hezbollah targets in Lebanon in response. Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated after its embassy in Damascus was allegedly hit by an Israeli airstrike on April 1. In response, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel, most of which were shot down and no deaths were reported. However, Israel argues that it should retaliate to the attack to preserve the credibility of its deterrents. According to Iran, the matter is closed as of now but they will retaliate again if Israel attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says will make its 'own decisions', hints at inevitable response to Iran attacks

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional."

The trial brought to an end a months-long plan to take action against the secretary for the way he is handling the southern border.

The trial against top border security official Mayorkas, who has been&nbsp;a target of Republican criticism&nbsp;over the way he is handling southern border and immigration policy, continued for only three hours after senators were sworn in as jurors.

In the Senate, a 51-member Democratic majority voted to dismiss the two charges as unconstitutional, rejecting Republican members' objections.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-the-four-republicans-who-rescued-alejandro-mayorkas-from-impeachment-687680">Meet the four Republicans who rescued Alejandro Mayorkas from impeachment</a>

The Senate passed a motion in which it declared the first impeachment article, which accused Mayorkas of not being able to enforce immigration laws, “does not allege conduct that rises to the level of a high crime or misdemeanour” and “is therefore unconstitutional.”&nbsp;

In the Senate, 51 people voted to reject the impeachment charges, as Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, voted “present.” After this, the Senate then voted to end the trial "sine die," which means for good in, less than 3 1/2 hours after it started.

"Once and for all, the Senate has rightly voted down this baseless impeachment that even conservative legal scholars said was unconstitutional," said Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson.

“President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas will continue doing their jobs to keep America safe and pursue actual solutions at the border, and Congressional Republicans should join them, instead of wasting time on baseless political stunts while killing real bipartisan border security reforms," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Mayorkas becomes second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment in US history</h2>

In the history of the United States, Mayorkas became the second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment when he was charged with "willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law" and a "breach of public trust" by the House in February.&nbsp;

The impeachment effort was strongly opposed by the Democrats who called it a political stunt and said that the allegations included a policy disagreement which fell short of the constitutional threshold for impeachment.

Watch:&nbsp;US: President Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-bidens-immigration-chief-alejandro-mayorkas-impeached-over-border-crisis-690184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We felt very strongly that we had to set a precedent that impeachment should never be used to settle policy disagreements," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, on Wednesday evening (April 17).&nbsp;

"If we allowed that to happen, it would set a disastrous precedent for Congress — could throw our system of checks and balances into cycles of chaos," he added.&nbsp;

The Senate, under the Constitution, is responsible for conducting a trial to determine if impeached officials are guilty and need to be removed from office.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional.

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional." The trial brought to an end a months-long plan to take action against the secretary for the way he is handling the southern border. The trial against top border security official Mayorkas, who has been a target of Republican criticism over the way he is handling southern border and immigration policy, continued for only three hours after senators were sworn in as jurors. In the Senate, a 51-member Democratic majority voted to dismiss the two charges as unconstitutional, rejecting Republican members' objections. Also Read: Meet the four Republicans who rescued Alejandro Mayorkas from impeachment The Senate passed a motion in which it declared the first impeachment article, which accused Mayorkas of not being able to enforce immigration laws, “does not allege conduct that rises to the level of a high crime or misdemeanour” and “is therefore unconstitutional.” In the Senate, 51 people voted to reject the impeachment charges, as Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, voted “present.” After this, the Senate then voted to end the trial "sine die," which means for good in, less than 3 1/2 hours after it started. "Once and for all, the Senate has rightly voted down this baseless impeachment that even conservative legal scholars said was unconstitutional," said Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson. “President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas will continue doing their jobs to keep America safe and pursue actual solutions at the border, and Congressional Republicans should join them, instead of wasting time on baseless political stunts while killing real bipartisan border security reforms," he added. Mayorkas becomes second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment in US history In the history of the United States, Mayorkas became the second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment when he was charged with "willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law" and a "breach of public trust" by the House in February. The impeachment effort was strongly opposed by the Democrats who called it a political stunt and said that the allegations included a policy disagreement which fell short of the constitutional threshold for impeachment. Watch: US: President Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis "We felt very strongly that we had to set a precedent that impeachment should never be used to settle policy disagreements," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, on Wednesday evening (April 17). "If we allowed that to happen, it would set a disastrous precedent for Congress — could throw our system of checks and balances into cycles of chaos," he added. The Senate, under the Constitution, is responsible for conducting a trial to determine if impeached officials are guilty and need to be removed from office. (With inputs from agencies)

US Senate rejects impeachment charges against Biden's top border official Mayorkas

United Airlines said that Boeing was responsible for a $200 million (£161mn) hit to its earnings in the initial three months of the year.

For three weeks, the carrier had to ground its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet after its door blew out mid-air on an Alaska Airlines flight in January.&nbsp;

United Airlines said that the incident pushed them into a pre-tax loss of $164mn for the first quarter. The airline stated that it "would have reported a quarterly profit" otherwise.

However, the loss was less than what was expected by Wall Street and the shares of United Airlines increased by more than 5 per cent after the announcement.&nbsp;

There are 79 Boeing 737 MAX 9s in the fleet of United Airlines, which is more than any of its rivals.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeings-troubles-increase-after-whistleblower-claims-flaws-in-787-dreamliner-faa-investigates-709608">More turbulence for Boeing as whistleblower claims flaws in 787 Dreamliner</a>

Thousands of flights were cancelled by United Airlines and Alaska Airlines as inspections were carried out in January before the planes resumed clearance from the US aviation regulator to resume flying.

<h2>Boeing's unending troubles&nbsp;</h2>

Boeing, earlier this month, paid $160 million to Alaska to cover the losses of the airline. Speaking to investigators, United Airlines said that its operations also faced an impact because of delays in deliveries of Boeing planes.

"We've adjusted our fleet plan to better reflect the reality of what the manufacturers are able to deliver," said United's chief executive Scott Kirby, in a statement.

Recently, Boeing&nbsp;faced pressure after safety concerns regarding the manufacturing of the jets were reported by a whistleblower to US regulators. &nbsp;

Boeing has been accused by engineer Sam Salehpour of taking shortcuts in the making of its 787 and 777 jets.

Salehpour stated that he was "threatened with termination" after he raised similar concerns with senior officials.

Watch:&nbsp;Putin calls Ukraine peace summit a 'circus' | Boeing safety hearing in focus

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-calls-ukraine-peace-summit-a-circus-boeing-safety-hearing-in-focus-710423/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, Boeing stated that the allegations were "inaccurate" and that it was confident its planes were safe. Salehpour will be the key witness at a US Senate hearing to be held on April 17.

On January 5, an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9's door plug blew off shortly after&nbsp;take-off which left the passengers terrified and forced an emergency landing at the Portland, Oregon airport.

This incident raised major concerns regarding the safety of Boeing's aircraft. The company came under intense scrutiny after 737 Max 8 passenger jets' two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, in which&nbsp;346 people were killed.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Airlines said that Boeing was responsible for a $200 million (£161mn) hit to its earnings in the initial three months of the year. For three weeks, the carrier had to ground its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet after its door blew out mid-air on an Alaska Airlines flight in January.

United Airlines said that Boeing was responsible for a $200 million (£161mn) hit to its earnings in the initial three months of the year. For three weeks, the carrier had to ground its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet after its door blew out mid-air on an Alaska Airlines flight in January. United Airlines said that the incident pushed them into a pre-tax loss of $164mn for the first quarter. The airline stated that it "would have reported a quarterly profit" otherwise. However, the loss was less than what was expected by Wall Street and the shares of United Airlines increased by more than 5 per cent after the announcement. There are 79 Boeing 737 MAX 9s in the fleet of United Airlines, which is more than any of its rivals. Also Read: More turbulence for Boeing as whistleblower claims flaws in 787 Dreamliner Thousands of flights were cancelled by United Airlines and Alaska Airlines as inspections were carried out in January before the planes resumed clearance from the US aviation regulator to resume flying. Boeing's unending troubles Boeing, earlier this month, paid $160 million to Alaska to cover the losses of the airline. Speaking to investigators, United Airlines said that its operations also faced an impact because of delays in deliveries of Boeing planes. "We've adjusted our fleet plan to better reflect the reality of what the manufacturers are able to deliver," said United's chief executive Scott Kirby, in a statement. Recently, Boeing faced pressure after safety concerns regarding the manufacturing of the jets were reported by a whistleblower to US regulators. Boeing has been accused by engineer Sam Salehpour of taking shortcuts in the making of its 787 and 777 jets. Salehpour stated that he was "threatened with termination" after he raised similar concerns with senior officials. Watch: Putin calls Ukraine peace summit a 'circus' | Boeing safety hearing in focus However, Boeing stated that the allegations were "inaccurate" and that it was confident its planes were safe. Salehpour will be the key witness at a US Senate hearing to be held on April 17. On January 5, an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9's door plug blew off shortly after take-off which left the passengers terrified and forced an emergency landing at the Portland, Oregon airport. This incident raised major concerns regarding the safety of Boeing's aircraft. The company came under intense scrutiny after 737 Max 8 passenger jets' two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, in which 346 people were killed. (With inputs from agencies)

United Airlines blames Boeing blowout case for $200mn hit in earnings

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's proposal to place a ban on smoking cleared its first parliamentary hurdle even though it faced opposition from within his cabinet, while Labour backed the bill.

Sunak proposed to increase the legal age for buying cigarettes annually so that the habit could be eventually phased out, along with imposing restrictions on the sale&nbsp;of vaping products.

If the proposals are passed, it will make selling tobacco products illegal to anyone&nbsp;born after January 1, 2009, as the prime minister dreams of creating a "smoke-free" generation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-criminalise-creation-of-sexually-explicit-deepfake-images-712010">UK to criminalise creation of sexually explicit ‘deepfake’ images</a>

During the voting, 165 Conservatives either abstained or voted against the proposal and 180 Tories gave votes in its support.&nbsp;

<h2>What does Sunak's proposed smoking ban involve?</h2>

As per the government's plans, the legal age for the purchase of cigarettes will annually increase from the age of 18 and will go beyond the pension age so as to make smoking obsolete.

However, the government doesn't aim to criminalise smoking which means that anybody who can legally purchase cigarettes won't be stopped from buying it in the future.

Till 2043, only those who are aged 35 or above will be able to purchase cigarettes legally and shopkeepers will be able to seek the ID of those seeking to purchase tobacco.

The legislation also includes new restrictions on flavours and a ban on disposable vapes, with only four flavours of vape set to be allowed.

<h2>What did UK PM Sunak say about the ban?</h2>

Sunak announced the plans at the Conservative Party Conference in October, and informed the delegates that it would mean that “a 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they, and their generation, can grow up smoke-free”.

“We have a chance to cut cancer deaths by a quarter, significantly ease those pressures and protect our children, and we should take it. This is not a values judgment on people who smoke," the UK prime minister said.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces rebellion over smoking ban

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-faces-rebellion-over-smoking-ban-711884/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“I don’t believe it would be fair to take away the rights of anyone to smoke who currently does so, and the vote on this in Parliament will be a free vote, as the bar on smoking in public places was and raising the smoking age to 18 was," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Are the proposals being supported by Conservative MPs?</h2>

Tory's Kemi Badenoch voted against the bill stating that the government should not treat legally competent adults differently.&nbsp;

“I do not support the approach this bill is taking and so will be voting against it,” she said.

United Kingdom's former prime minister Liz Truss also voted against the bill. “I think the whole idea that we can protect adults from themselves is hugely problematic and it effectively infantilises people,” Truss said.

“People want to make their own decisions about what they eat and what they drink and how they enjoy themselves," she added.&nbsp;

Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman also voted against the bill, while Priti Patel and Penny Mordaunt abstained.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's proposal to place a ban on smoking cleared its first parliamentary hurdle even though it faced opposition from within his cabinet, while Labour backed the bill.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's proposal to place a ban on smoking cleared its first parliamentary hurdle even though it faced opposition from within his cabinet, while Labour backed the bill. Sunak proposed to increase the legal age for buying cigarettes annually so that the habit could be eventually phased out, along with imposing restrictions on the sale of vaping products. If the proposals are passed, it will make selling tobacco products illegal to anyone born after January 1, 2009, as the prime minister dreams of creating a "smoke-free" generation. Also Read: UK to criminalise creation of sexually explicit ‘deepfake’ images During the voting, 165 Conservatives either abstained or voted against the proposal and 180 Tories gave votes in its support. What does Sunak's proposed smoking ban involve? As per the government's plans, the legal age for the purchase of cigarettes will annually increase from the age of 18 and will go beyond the pension age so as to make smoking obsolete. However, the government doesn't aim to criminalise smoking which means that anybody who can legally purchase cigarettes won't be stopped from buying it in the future. Till 2043, only those who are aged 35 or above will be able to purchase cigarettes legally and shopkeepers will be able to seek the ID of those seeking to purchase tobacco. The legislation also includes new restrictions on flavours and a ban on disposable vapes, with only four flavours of vape set to be allowed. What did UK PM Sunak say about the ban? Sunak announced the plans at the Conservative Party Conference in October, and informed the delegates that it would mean that “a 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they, and their generation, can grow up smoke-free”. “We have a chance to cut cancer deaths by a quarter, significantly ease those pressures and protect our children, and we should take it. This is not a values judgment on people who smoke," the UK prime minister said. Watch: UK: PM Rishi Sunak faces rebellion over smoking ban “I don’t believe it would be fair to take away the rights of anyone to smoke who currently does so, and the vote on this in Parliament will be a free vote, as the bar on smoking in public places was and raising the smoking age to 18 was," he added. Are the proposals being supported by Conservative MPs? Tory's Kemi Badenoch voted against the bill stating that the government should not treat legally competent adults differently. “I do not support the approach this bill is taking and so will be voting against it,” she said. United Kingdom's former prime minister Liz Truss also voted against the bill. “I think the whole idea that we can protect adults from themselves is hugely problematic and it effectively infantilises people,” Truss said. “People want to make their own decisions about what they eat and what they drink and how they enjoy themselves," she added. Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman also voted against the bill, while Priti Patel and Penny Mordaunt abstained. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Rishi Sunak's smoking ban clears first hurdle. What it entails and who will be affected

A press conference to showcase 'alien mummies' in Peru saw a bizarre twist when a 'pregnant' new specimen was displayed to the audience which later authorities tried to seize.

Ufologist Jaime Maussan, who hosted the event in Peru, presented a new 'alien' specimen named Montserrat&nbsp;to the audience.

What made this 'mummified alien' different from the others presented by the ufologist seven months ago was his claim that this one was apparently pregnant at the time of her death.&nbsp;

70-year-old Maussan, who is well-known for his research into extraterrestrial phenomena, had earlier claimed the existence of two alleged mummified aliens, which he said were found in Palpa and Nazca in Peru in 2016. The claims were made at the Mexican Congress in September 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-spot-everest-size-hidden-volcano-on-mars-in-hunt-for-water-ice-705970">Scientists, in hunt for water ice, spot Everest-size hidden volcano on Mars</a>

As per the ufologist, there is a 'definitive proof' related to tridactyl mummies, which he said have three fingers and toes.

According to Maussan, the 'alien' was expecting a tridactyl foetus who had been named by him as Rafael.

<h2>Peruvian authorities' failed attempt to confiscate 'mummified aliens'</h2>

However, the press conference took a dramatic turn after the Peruvian Ministry of Culture's officials interrupted the event and tried to seize Montserrat's mummified body.&nbsp;

The officials, who were accompanied by specialised police officers, suddenly took control of the microphone.

"Sorry for the interruption, we are taking an unexpected preventive action with the Ministry of Culture and the Specialised Cultural Heritage Police regarding the exhibition of the tridactyl mummies that you have reported on social networks," said the official.

However, the plans of the officials to confiscate Montserrat's body fell flat after they learned that the physical mummies were not brought to the event.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-chief-says-aliens-exist-this-world-636678/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Maussan and colleagues had only prepared a video presentation of the tridactyl mummy and the officials were asked to watch the 15-minute video along with the audience.&nbsp;

The presentation included an analysis carried out by forensic odontologist and retired professor at the University of Colorado John McDowell.

John McDowell was accompanied by Dr James Caruso, a medical examiner based in Denver, Colorado and William Rodriguez, forensic anthropologist for Maryland State Medical Examiner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A press conference to showcase 'alien mummies' in Peru saw a bizarre twist when a 'pregnant' new specimen was displayed to the audience which later authorities tried to seize.

A press conference to showcase 'alien mummies' in Peru saw a bizarre twist when a 'pregnant' new specimen was displayed to the audience which later authorities tried to seize. Ufologist Jaime Maussan, who hosted the event in Peru, presented a new 'alien' specimen named Montserrat to the audience. What made this 'mummified alien' different from the others presented by the ufologist seven months ago was his claim that this one was apparently pregnant at the time of her death. 70-year-old Maussan, who is well-known for his research into extraterrestrial phenomena, had earlier claimed the existence of two alleged mummified aliens, which he said were found in Palpa and Nazca in Peru in 2016. The claims were made at the Mexican Congress in September 2023. Also Read: Scientists, in hunt for water ice, spot Everest-size hidden volcano on Mars As per the ufologist, there is a 'definitive proof' related to tridactyl mummies, which he said have three fingers and toes. According to Maussan, the 'alien' was expecting a tridactyl foetus who had been named by him as Rafael. Peruvian authorities' failed attempt to confiscate 'mummified aliens' However, the press conference took a dramatic turn after the Peruvian Ministry of Culture's officials interrupted the event and tried to seize Montserrat's mummified body. The officials, who were accompanied by specialised police officers, suddenly took control of the microphone. "Sorry for the interruption, we are taking an unexpected preventive action with the Ministry of Culture and the Specialised Cultural Heritage Police regarding the exhibition of the tridactyl mummies that you have reported on social networks," said the official. However, the plans of the officials to confiscate Montserrat's body fell flat after they learned that the physical mummies were not brought to the event. Watch: NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World Maussan and colleagues had only prepared a video presentation of the tridactyl mummy and the officials were asked to watch the 15-minute video along with the audience. The presentation included an analysis carried out by forensic odontologist and retired professor at the University of Colorado John McDowell. John McDowell was accompanied by Dr James Caruso, a medical examiner based in Denver, Colorado and William Rodriguez, forensic anthropologist for Maryland State Medical Examiner. (With inputs from agencies)

'Alien mummies' conference takes bizarre turn after a 'pregnant' alien is unveiled

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