At least 32 people lost their lives after southern and mid-western parts of the United States were torn by a number of tornadoes in recent days, leaving a trail of destruction and debris in its path, as per the officials.

At least eight states were struck by a monster storm over the weekend, leading to at least 50 preliminary reports of tornadoes. The affected states include Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Delaware and Alabama.

In the affected area, which has a population of 85 million people, at least 900,000 places had no power supply after the storms tore through the states on Friday evening.

On Sunday, United States President Joe Biden said that an expedited major disaster declaration has been approved to quickly provide federal assistance to Arkansas.&nbsp;

The president further stated that the federal organisations are closely working with as well as impacted states as the damage due to widespread storms remains under assessment.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-dozens-of-devastating-tornadoes-wreck-the-us-midwest-and-south-578379"> IN PICS | Dozens of devastating tornadoes wreck the US Midwest and South</a>

“We … stand ready to respond to any additional requests for federal assistance. There’s nothing we can do to heal the hole left in the hearts of far too many families who lost loved ones this weekend, but we will be there every step of the way as they rebuild and recover," said Biden.&nbsp;

Tennessee, which has been hardest hit by the storm, recorded nine deaths due to the weather, as per the Memphis-based news channel WREG. Trees were twisted, homes were flattened into a heap of wooden boards and walls of still-standing structures were ripped by a tornado.&nbsp;

“The whole house, you can feel it shaking,” stated Janice Pieterick, whose glass windows and house doors blew out when the tornado swept through Lewis county of the state. “We just all hunkered down," she added.&nbsp;

WATCH | America's ravaging tornadoes: 26 killed as tornadoes pound Southern US

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The deaths due to the storm also included at least 17 lives across &nbsp;Mississippi and Alabama in the south, Delaware in the mid-Atlantic, Arkansas, Indiana and Illinois in the midwest. &nbsp;Dozens were also left injured due to the storm.&nbsp;

In Sullivan, Indiana, the storms led to “severe damage” to several houses. Sullivan’s mayor Clint Lamb, on Saturday, wrote on Facebook: “We need all citizens to stay safe and stay put. Multiple houses have experienced severe damage. First responders need clear streets so they can tend to affected areas.”&nbsp;

A state of emergency has been declared by Indiana’s governor Eric Holcomb who has appealed for an “all hands on deck effort” in Sullivan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 32 people lost their lives after southern and mid-western parts of the United States were torn by a number of tornadoes in recent days, leaving a trail of destruction and debris in its path, as per the officials.

At least 32 people lost their lives after southern and mid-western parts of the United States were torn by a number of tornadoes in recent days, leaving a trail of destruction and debris in its path, as per the officials. At least eight states were struck by a monster storm over the weekend, leading to at least 50 preliminary reports of tornadoes. The affected states include Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Delaware and Alabama. In the affected area, which has a population of 85 million people, at least 900,000 places had no power supply after the storms tore through the states on Friday evening. On Sunday, United States President Joe Biden said that an expedited major disaster declaration has been approved to quickly provide federal assistance to Arkansas. The president further stated that the federal organisations are closely working with as well as impacted states as the damage due to widespread storms remains under assessment. ALSO READ | IN PICS | Dozens of devastating tornadoes wreck the US Midwest and South “We … stand ready to respond to any additional requests for federal assistance. There’s nothing we can do to heal the hole left in the hearts of far too many families who lost loved ones this weekend, but we will be there every step of the way as they rebuild and recover," said Biden. Tennessee, which has been hardest hit by the storm, recorded nine deaths due to the weather, as per the Memphis-based news channel WREG. Trees were twisted, homes were flattened into a heap of wooden boards and walls of still-standing structures were ripped by a tornado. “The whole house, you can feel it shaking,” stated Janice Pieterick, whose glass windows and house doors blew out when the tornado swept through Lewis county of the state. “We just all hunkered down," she added. WATCH | America's ravaging tornadoes: 26 killed as tornadoes pound Southern US The deaths due to the storm also included at least 17 lives across Mississippi and Alabama in the south, Delaware in the mid-Atlantic, Arkansas, Indiana and Illinois in the midwest. Dozens were also left injured due to the storm. In Sullivan, Indiana, the storms led to “severe damage” to several houses. Sullivan’s mayor Clint Lamb, on Saturday, wrote on Facebook: “We need all citizens to stay safe and stay put. Multiple houses have experienced severe damage. First responders need clear streets so they can tend to affected areas.” A state of emergency has been declared by Indiana’s governor Eric Holcomb who has appealed for an “all hands on deck effort” in Sullivan. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Monster tornadoes and storms create havoc in United States, kill at least 32

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence.

Pavel, the abbot of Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site 'Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery', has resisted the order of the authorities to vacate the complex.

Earlier this week, he cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and threatened him with damnation.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-orders-100-rosomak-armoured-vehicles-from-poland-578017"> Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland</a>

During a court hearing held in Kyiv, the metropolitan rejected SBU's claim that he condoned the invasion of Russia. The accusations were described by Pavel as politically driven.

“I have never been on the side of aggression. This is my land,” said Pavel in the courthouse.

The Orthodox leader's residence was raided was SBU agents and prosecutors appealed to the court to put Pavel under house arrest till the investigation is over.

The court hearing was adjourned on Saturday until Monday after the metropolitan stated that the leader was not feeling well.

The monks living in the monastery are part of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church which is facing the accusation of having links with Russia.

Dozens of supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church protested outside the monastery on Saturday, as they sang hymns in the rain. Another group of protesters also reached, accusing the monastery of sympathising with Russia.

WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately

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“They wash the brains of people with Russian support, and they are very dangerous for Ukraine,” said a 38-year-old protester, Senia Kravchuk, from Kyiv. “They sing songs in support of Russia, and that’s horrible, here, in the centre of Kyiv,” he added.

“Look at me. I’m in priest’s clothes, with a Ukrainian flag and a cross around my neck. Could you say that I’m pro-Russian? The priests are currently singing a Ukrainian hymn, and they’re being called pro-Russian. Can you believe it?” said another protester David.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence.

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence. Pavel, the abbot of Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site 'Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery', has resisted the order of the authorities to vacate the complex. Earlier this week, he cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and threatened him with damnation. ALSO READ | Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland During a court hearing held in Kyiv, the metropolitan rejected SBU's claim that he condoned the invasion of Russia. The accusations were described by Pavel as politically driven. “I have never been on the side of aggression. This is my land,” said Pavel in the courthouse. The Orthodox leader's residence was raided was SBU agents and prosecutors appealed to the court to put Pavel under house arrest till the investigation is over. The court hearing was adjourned on Saturday until Monday after the metropolitan stated that the leader was not feeling well. The monks living in the monastery are part of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church which is facing the accusation of having links with Russia. Dozens of supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church protested outside the monastery on Saturday, as they sang hymns in the rain. Another group of protesters also reached, accusing the monastery of sympathising with Russia. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately “They wash the brains of people with Russian support, and they are very dangerous for Ukraine,” said a 38-year-old protester, Senia Kravchuk, from Kyiv. “They sing songs in support of Russia, and that’s horrible, here, in the centre of Kyiv,” he added. “Look at me. I’m in priest’s clothes, with a Ukrainian flag and a cross around my neck. Could you say that I’m pro-Russian? The priests are currently singing a Ukrainian hymn, and they’re being called pro-Russian. Can you believe it?” said another protester David. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine's SBU demands house arrest for famed Orthodox leader

A record 682,420 accounts in India, which were reportedly promoting non-consensual nudity and child sexual exploitation, were banned between January 26 and February 25 by Twitter in a major overhaul.

Elon Musk's micro-blogging platform also removed 1,548 accounts for promoting terrorism on its platform.

In its monthly report on compliance&nbsp;with India's new IT rules, Twitter said that it had received only 73 complaints from Indian users in the same time frame through the company's grievance redressal mechanisms.

In addition, 27 grievances were processed by Twitter that were appealing account suspensions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-makes-part-of-its-source-code-public-577863">Twitter makes part of its source code public</a>

"We overturned 10 of these account suspensions after reviewing the specifics of the situation. The remaining reported accounts remain suspended," the company said.

"We also received 24 requests related to general questions about Twitter accounts during this reporting period," it further added.

WhatsApp bans 4.5 million accounts in India

A record 4.5 million accounts were banned by Meta-owned WhatsApp in India in February in compliance with the country's new IT Rules 2021, informed the company on Saturday.

WATCH | Twitter to remove all unpaid blue ticks from April 1

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Between February 1 and February 28, "4,597,400 WhatsApp accounts were banned and 1,298,000 of these accounts were proactively banned, before any reports from users", said WhatsApp in its monthly compliance report.

"This user-safety report contains details of the user complaints received and the corresponding action taken by WhatsApp, as well as WhatsApp's own preventive actions to combat abuse on our platform," a company spokesperson said

"We will continue with transparency to our work and include information about our efforts in future reports," the spokesperson further stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A record 682,420 accounts in India, which were reportedly promoting non-consensual nudity and child sexual exploitation, were banned between January 26 and February 25 by Twitter in a major overhaul.

A record 682,420 accounts in India, which were reportedly promoting non-consensual nudity and child sexual exploitation, were banned between January 26 and February 25 by Twitter in a major overhaul. Elon Musk's micro-blogging platform also removed 1,548 accounts for promoting terrorism on its platform. In its monthly report on compliance with India's new IT rules, Twitter said that it had received only 73 complaints from Indian users in the same time frame through the company's grievance redressal mechanisms. In addition, 27 grievances were processed by Twitter that were appealing account suspensions. ALSO READ | Twitter makes part of its source code public "We overturned 10 of these account suspensions after reviewing the specifics of the situation. The remaining reported accounts remain suspended," the company said. "We also received 24 requests related to general questions about Twitter accounts during this reporting period," it further added. WhatsApp bans 4.5 million accounts in India A record 4.5 million accounts were banned by Meta-owned WhatsApp in India in February in compliance with the country's new IT Rules 2021, informed the company on Saturday. WATCH | Twitter to remove all unpaid blue ticks from April 1 Between February 1 and February 28, "4,597,400 WhatsApp accounts were banned and 1,298,000 of these accounts were proactively banned, before any reports from users", said WhatsApp in its monthly compliance report. "This user-safety report contains details of the user complaints received and the corresponding action taken by WhatsApp, as well as WhatsApp's own preventive actions to combat abuse on our platform," a company spokesperson said "We will continue with transparency to our work and include information about our efforts in future reports," the spokesperson further stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 680,000 Twitter and 4.5 million WhatsApp accounts banned in India

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday.

"I urge the current UNSC members to thwart any Russian attempts to abuse its presidency," said Kuleba at the start of Russia's tenure of the presidency.

Taking to Twitter, Kuleba called Russia "an outlaw on the UNSC".

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-orders-100-rosomak-armoured-vehicles-from-poland-578017">Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland</a>

Moscow has stated that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be chairing a UN Security Council meeting on "effective multilateralism" later this month.

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Lavrov will discuss the Middle East on April 25.

The role of Russia was criticised by the United States and its permanent seat on the Security Council.

"A country that flagrantly violates the UN Charter and invades its neighbour has no place on the UN Security Council," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said.

"Unfortunately Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council and no feasible international legal pathway exists to change that reality," she had stated, calling the presidency "a largely ceremonial position."

Meanwhile, a top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia taking over the rotating presidency on Saturday.

WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately

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"It's not just a shame. It is another symbolic blow to the rules-based system of international relations," said Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, on Twitter.

Russia took over UN Security Council's presidency on Saturday which rotates every month. Moscow had last time held the post in February 2022 when its army troops had launched Ukraine's full-scale invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday. "I urge the current UNSC members to thwart any Russian attempts to abuse its presidency," said Kuleba at the start of Russia's tenure of the presidency. Taking to Twitter, Kuleba called Russia "an outlaw on the UNSC". ALSO READ | Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland Moscow has stated that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be chairing a UN Security Council meeting on "effective multilateralism" later this month. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Lavrov will discuss the Middle East on April 25. The role of Russia was criticised by the United States and its permanent seat on the Security Council. "A country that flagrantly violates the UN Charter and invades its neighbour has no place on the UN Security Council," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said. "Unfortunately Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council and no feasible international legal pathway exists to change that reality," she had stated, calling the presidency "a largely ceremonial position." Meanwhile, a top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia taking over the rotating presidency on Saturday. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately "It's not just a shame. It is another symbolic blow to the rules-based system of international relations," said Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, on Twitter. Russia took over UN Security Council's presidency on Saturday which rotates every month. Moscow had last time held the post in February 2022 when its army troops had launched Ukraine's full-scale invasion. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's presidency of Security Council a 'slap in the face': Ukraine FM

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence.

"I bring an order placed yesterday by (Ukrainian) Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal for 100 Rosomaks that will be fabricated here," said Mateusz Morawiecki, during his visit to the Rosomak manufacturing site located in Poland's southern town of Siemianowice Slaskie.

He said that the order will be financed using funds given by the European Union to Poland and US funds that have been received by Ukraine.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-set-to-take-chair-of-un-security-council-us-ukraine-call-it-april-fools-joke-577949">Russia takes over presidency of UN Security Council; US, Ukraine call it ‘April Fools' joke’</a>

The United States and its allies have provided many weapons and multiple funds to Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022.

An 8x8 multi-purpose armoured vehicle, Rosomak is being manufactured under the licence from Patria, Finland.

<h2>Russia's Shoigu promises more munition&nbsp;supplies</h2>

Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday promised to increase munition&nbsp;supplies to Russian forces in Ukraine during his visit to the headquarters of Russian troops fighting in the country, as per the defence ministry's video on Saturday.

In the video published on Telegram by the ministry, Shoigu is presiding over a meeting with the military's senior officers, including Russia's most senior soldier General Valery Gerasimov.

WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately

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In the video, Shoigu, while speaking to colleagues, can be heard saying that steps will be taken by Russia to boost the supply of munitions to troops at the front.

“The volume of supplies of the most demanded ammunition has been determined. Necessary measures are being taken to increase them,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence.

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence. "I bring an order placed yesterday by (Ukrainian) Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal for 100 Rosomaks that will be fabricated here," said Mateusz Morawiecki, during his visit to the Rosomak manufacturing site located in Poland's southern town of Siemianowice Slaskie. He said that the order will be financed using funds given by the European Union to Poland and US funds that have been received by Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russia takes over presidency of UN Security Council; US, Ukraine call it ‘April Fools' joke’ The United States and its allies have provided many weapons and multiple funds to Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022. An 8x8 multi-purpose armoured vehicle, Rosomak is being manufactured under the licence from Patria, Finland. Russia's Shoigu promises more munition supplies Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday promised to increase munition supplies to Russian forces in Ukraine during his visit to the headquarters of Russian troops fighting in the country, as per the defence ministry's video on Saturday. In the video published on Telegram by the ministry, Shoigu is presiding over a meeting with the military's senior officers, including Russia's most senior soldier General Valery Gerasimov. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately In the video, Shoigu, while speaking to colleagues, can be heard saying that steps will be taken by Russia to boost the supply of munitions to troops at the front. “The volume of supplies of the most demanded ammunition has been determined. Necessary measures are being taken to increase them,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland

Donald Trump has been indicted. What impact will it have on the 2024 Presidential race? Are the charges credible or is this a witch-hunt? Molly Gambhir explains.

Gravitas Plus: Donald Trump indictment explained

In another targeted killing of a minority community member, a Christian man was shot dead by unknown assailants in the northwestern region of Pakistan on Saturday, police said.

The unfortunate incident took place when the victim Kashif Masih was present at his home in the Sufaid Dheri Pishtakhara area of Peshawar.

As per the police, armed motorcyclists gunned down Kashif Maseeh on his doorstep.

"Kashif Masih was gunned down at home by a few unknown men," said police said, adding that efforts to catch the gunmen are being made.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/minorities-hell-sikh-shopkeeper-shot-dead-in-pakistan-in-another-round-of-targetted-killing-577892">'Minorities hell': Sikh shopkeeper shot dead in Pakistan in another targetted killing</a>

This is the second such incident reported of minority members' target killing in the last 24 hours in Peshawar as on Friday, a Sikh trader, Diyal Singh, was killed in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province.

As per reports, Singh was in his shop which is located in Peshawar's Dir Colony market when the assailants forcefully barged into his shop and started firing indiscriminately.

Singh was twice shot in the head which led to his death instantly. Around 30 bore bullet shells were recovered by the police from the site of the incident.

In May 2020, two members of the Sikh community were gunned down in Peshawar by extremists.

Victims, Guljeet Singh (42) and Ranjeet Singh (38) were operating their spice shops located in Battathal Bazaar when the attackers came and opened fire.

WATCH | High political drama in Pakistan: Shireen Mazari attacks the government

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Pakistan is known for holding a sketchy record in upholding the minority community's rights. Last month, its neighbouring nation India criticised Islamabad at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) stating 'no religious minority can freely live or practice' their religion in the country.

As per estimates of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, in the population of 207 million, Muslims account for 96 per cent, Hindus 2.1 per cent and Christians about 1.6 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In another targeted killing of a minority community member, a Christian man was shot dead by unknown assailants in the northwestern region of Pakistan on Saturday, police said.

In another targeted killing of a minority community member, a Christian man was shot dead by unknown assailants in the northwestern region of Pakistan on Saturday, police said. The unfortunate incident took place when the victim Kashif Masih was present at his home in the Sufaid Dheri Pishtakhara area of Peshawar. As per the police, armed motorcyclists gunned down Kashif Maseeh on his doorstep. "Kashif Masih was gunned down at home by a few unknown men," said police said, adding that efforts to catch the gunmen are being made. ALSO READ | 'Minorities hell': Sikh shopkeeper shot dead in Pakistan in another targetted killing This is the second such incident reported of minority members' target killing in the last 24 hours in Peshawar as on Friday, a Sikh trader, Diyal Singh, was killed in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province. As per reports, Singh was in his shop which is located in Peshawar's Dir Colony market when the assailants forcefully barged into his shop and started firing indiscriminately. Singh was twice shot in the head which led to his death instantly. Around 30 bore bullet shells were recovered by the police from the site of the incident. In May 2020, two members of the Sikh community were gunned down in Peshawar by extremists. Victims, Guljeet Singh (42) and Ranjeet Singh (38) were operating their spice shops located in Battathal Bazaar when the attackers came and opened fire. WATCH | High political drama in Pakistan: Shireen Mazari attacks the government Pakistan is known for holding a sketchy record in upholding the minority community's rights. Last month, its neighbouring nation India criticised Islamabad at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) stating 'no religious minority can freely live or practice' their religion in the country. As per estimates of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, in the population of 207 million, Muslims account for 96 per cent, Hindus 2.1 per cent and Christians about 1.6 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In another minority killing, Christian man gunned down by assailants in Pakistan

A Belgian man committed suicide after conversing with an artificial intelligence chatbot about climate change, as per reports.

The AI chatbot is believed to have encouraged the man to give up his life for saving the planet.

“Without Eliza (the chatbot), he would still be here,” the wife of the deceased said while speaking to the Belgian outlet La Libre.

Six weeks before the man's death, the father of two was allegedly holding intensive conversations with the chatbot on an application called Chai.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artificial-intelligence-could-replace-300-million-jobs-worldwide-goldman-sachs-report-576795">AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk?</a>

The bots of the app are based on a system which has been developed by the non-profit research lab EleutherAI as an “open-source alternative” to language models which have been released by OpenAI and are being incorporated by companies in different sectors, from healthcare to academia.

The chatbot, which is currently under fire, had received training from Chai Research co-founders Thomas Rianlan and William Beauchamp, reported Vice, adding that the Chai app has till now garnered five million users.

“The second we heard about this (suicide), we worked around the clock to get this feature implemented,” said Beauchamp, while speaking to Vice.

“So now, when anyone discusses something that could be not safe, we’re gonna be serving a helpful text underneath it in the exact same way that Twitter or Instagram do&nbsp;on their platforms,” he further stated.

As per the widow, the man had become “extremely pessimistic about the effects of global warming” and was seeking solace by confiding in the AI.

WATCH | Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of mankind? | This World

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“When he spoke to me about it, it was to tell me that he no longer saw any human solution to global warming. He placed all his hopes in technology and artificial intelligence to get out of it. He was so isolated in his eco-anxiety and in search of a way out that he saw this chatbot as a breath of fresh air,” she added.

“Eliza answered all his questions. She had become his confidante. Like a drug in which he took refuge, morning and evening, and which he could no longer do without,” the wife said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Belgian man committed suicide after conversing with an artificial intelligence chatbot about climate change, as per reports. The AI chatbot is believed to have encouraged the man to give up his life for saving the planet.

A Belgian man committed suicide after conversing with an artificial intelligence chatbot about climate change, as per reports. The AI chatbot is believed to have encouraged the man to give up his life for saving the planet. “Without Eliza (the chatbot), he would still be here,” the wife of the deceased said while speaking to the Belgian outlet La Libre. Six weeks before the man's death, the father of two was allegedly holding intensive conversations with the chatbot on an application called Chai. ALSO READ | AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk? The bots of the app are based on a system which has been developed by the non-profit research lab EleutherAI as an “open-source alternative” to language models which have been released by OpenAI and are being incorporated by companies in different sectors, from healthcare to academia. The chatbot, which is currently under fire, had received training from Chai Research co-founders Thomas Rianlan and William Beauchamp, reported Vice, adding that the Chai app has till now garnered five million users. “The second we heard about this (suicide), we worked around the clock to get this feature implemented,” said Beauchamp, while speaking to Vice. “So now, when anyone discusses something that could be not safe, we’re gonna be serving a helpful text underneath it in the exact same way that Twitter or Instagram do on their platforms,” he further stated. As per the widow, the man had become “extremely pessimistic about the effects of global warming” and was seeking solace by confiding in the AI. WATCH | Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of mankind? | This World “When he spoke to me about it, it was to tell me that he no longer saw any human solution to global warming. He placed all his hopes in technology and artificial intelligence to get out of it. He was so isolated in his eco-anxiety and in search of a way out that he saw this chatbot as a breath of fresh air,” she added. “Eliza answered all his questions. She had become his confidante. Like a drug in which he took refuge, morning and evening, and which he could no longer do without,” the wife said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Killed by AI? Belgian man commits suicide after talking with chatbot

Media mogul and 92-year-old owner of Fox News, Rupert Murdoch, played a direct role in how the 2020 US election was called for Joe Biden over Donald Trump by Fox News, revealed the new unredacted messages accessed from Dominion Voting Systems' defamation case worth $1.6 billion on Friday.

“It would be great if we call it for Biden as soon as he gets over, say, 35,000 ahead in Pennsylvania,” wrote Murdoch to the network’s chief executive Suzanne Scott on November 6, 2020, three days after the election was held, but a day before Biden was put on top by Pennsylvania.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rupert-murdoch-is-engaged-and-gearing-up-for-a-summer-wedding-574105">Rupert Murdoch to marry Ann Lesley Smith in a summer wedding</a>

“Whenever we do it, it will all be over. Regardless of Arizona,” he added. Many observers were surprised and most of Trump's followers were enraged after Fox News made an election night call to Arizona for Joe Biden.

The attempts made by Trump to have the call rescinded are also documented. Author Michael Wolff said that when Murdoch was reminded of Trump's fury over Arizona, responding with a “signature grunt”, he said, “Fuck him.”

The reports have been denied by Fox News. However, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, in his memoir, wrote that Murdoch on election night told him that “the numbers are ironclad – it’s not even close”.

In the emails sent to Scott, which were revealed on Friday, Murdoch pointed to the commitment of Trump to his life about the electoral fraud and its accommodation by Fox News when he stated that on “second thoughts” the network should “maybe” call the election when Joe Biden was leading by “50,000 in Pennsylvania” but also added that the call was “subject to litigation”.

In the end, 10 minutes after the other news networks, Fox called Pennsylvania for Biden when he was leading Trump by almost 35,000 votes in the state.

WATCH |&nbsp;Media mogul Rupert Murdoch testifies Fox News hosts 'endorsed' Trump's stolen election narrative

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Speaking to the viewers, anchor Martha MacCallum said, “Keep in mind the Trump campaign is in the midst of waging legal challenges in several states. But the path is clear for the new president-elect.”

In the emails sent to Scott, the media mogul also said that Fox News contributor and Wall Street Journal editor Paul Gigot believed such a call “won’t change Trump”.

“But he’s got to get some real evidence. Fact that Rudy is advising really bad!” wrote Murdoch.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Media mogul and 92-year-old owner of Fox News, Rupert Murdoch, played a direct role in how the 2020 US election was called for Joe Biden over Donald Trump by Fox News, revealed the new unredacted messages accessed from Dominion Voting Systems' defamation case worth $1.

Media mogul and 92-year-old owner of Fox News, Rupert Murdoch, played a direct role in how the 2020 US election was called for Joe Biden over Donald Trump by Fox News, revealed the new unredacted messages accessed from Dominion Voting Systems' defamation case worth $1.6 billion on Friday. “It would be great if we call it for Biden as soon as he gets over, say, 35,000 ahead in Pennsylvania,” wrote Murdoch to the network’s chief executive Suzanne Scott on November 6, 2020, three days after the election was held, but a day before Biden was put on top by Pennsylvania. ALSO READ | Rupert Murdoch to marry Ann Lesley Smith in a summer wedding “Whenever we do it, it will all be over. Regardless of Arizona,” he added. Many observers were surprised and most of Trump's followers were enraged after Fox News made an election night call to Arizona for Joe Biden. The attempts made by Trump to have the call rescinded are also documented. Author Michael Wolff said that when Murdoch was reminded of Trump's fury over Arizona, responding with a “signature grunt”, he said, “Fuck him.” The reports have been denied by Fox News. However, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, in his memoir, wrote that Murdoch on election night told him that “the numbers are ironclad – it’s not even close”. In the emails sent to Scott, which were revealed on Friday, Murdoch pointed to the commitment of Trump to his life about the electoral fraud and its accommodation by Fox News when he stated that on “second thoughts” the network should “maybe” call the election when Joe Biden was leading by “50,000 in Pennsylvania” but also added that the call was “subject to litigation”. In the end, 10 minutes after the other news networks, Fox called Pennsylvania for Biden when he was leading Trump by almost 35,000 votes in the state. WATCH | Media mogul Rupert Murdoch testifies Fox News hosts 'endorsed' Trump's stolen election narrative Speaking to the viewers, anchor Martha MacCallum said, “Keep in mind the Trump campaign is in the midst of waging legal challenges in several states. But the path is clear for the new president-elect.” In the emails sent to Scott, the media mogul also said that Fox News contributor and Wall Street Journal editor Paul Gigot believed such a call “won’t change Trump”. “But he’s got to get some real evidence. Fact that Rudy is advising really bad!” wrote Murdoch. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rupert Murdoch played direct role in how Fox News called 2020 US election: Report

A massive black hole has been spotted by space agency NASA on the Sun, which is 20 times bigger than the Earth and can blast powerful solar storms towards the planet, as per reports.

The region named "coronal hole" looks like the empty space on the Sun's surface. After spotting the hole, an alert was issued by US federal agency National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for geomagnetic storms.

The “coronal hole” is not exactly a hole but a wide region which is comparatively cooler than the rest of the Sun's surface and hence, is appearing black.

“Coronal holes are magnetically open areas that are one source of high-speed solar wind. They appear dark when viewed in many wavelengths of extreme ultraviolet light. At times, the solar wind can generate aurora at higher latitudes on Earth,” NASA explained.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a> spacecraft watches as a huge ‘hole’ in the Sun’s atmosphere rotates into view <a href="https://t.co/2lqvZEQOEg">https://t.co/2lqvZEQOEg</a> <a href="https://t.co/h2Tnt6DzDN">pic.twitter.com/h2Tnt6DzDN</a>
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rainmaker1973/status/807673714175254528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to a report published by news.com.au, solar winds of 2.9 million kmph are being unleashed by the gaping hole towards Earth, which may hit our planet on Friday (March 31).

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-massive-tornado-on-the-sun-the-height-of-14-earths-caught-on-camera-574514">A massive 'tornado' on the sun, the height of 14 Earths, caught on camera</a>

Scientists are monitoring the situation to asses how these solar winds will impact our planet, the report said. Charged particles, which continuously flow from the Sun, impact the satellites, GPS, magnetic field and mobile phones on the Earth.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) discovered the coronal hole on March 23 near the Sun's South Pole. "The current coronal hole, the big one right now, is about 300,000 to 400,000 kilometres across. That is about 20-30 Earths lined up back-to-back," said Alex Young, who works at NASA Goddard's Heliophysics Science Division, while speaking to Business Insider.

<h2>Solar storm may hit Earth</h2>

University College London's Associate Professor of Space and Climate Physics Daniel Verscharen said that Earth may be hit by a geomagnetic storm which is coming towards the planet at a speed of about 1.8 million miles per hour.

“The shape of this coronal hole is not particularly special. However, its location makes it very interesting. I would expect some fast wind from that coronal hole to come to Earth around Friday night into Saturday morning of this week," he stated.

WATCH | A Super-Earth will toss us into the Sun or leave us lost in interstellar space?

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Meanwhile, Mathew Owens, professor of Space Physics at the University of Reading, said that these kinds of holes appear when Sun is reaching its peak of activity which occurs in a span of 11 years.

“This one being at the equator means we’re pretty much guaranteed to see some fast wind at Earth a couple of days after it rotates past the central meridian. I doubt it will result in too much excitement. Unless we just so happen to get an Earth-directed CME around the same time,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive black hole has been spotted by space agency NASA on the Sun, which is 20 times bigger than the Earth and can blast powerful solar storms towards the planet, as per reports.

A massive black hole has been spotted by space agency NASA on the Sun, which is 20 times bigger than the Earth and can blast powerful solar storms towards the planet, as per reports. The region named "coronal hole" looks like the empty space on the Sun's surface. After spotting the hole, an alert was issued by US federal agency National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for geomagnetic storms. The “coronal hole” is not exactly a hole but a wide region which is comparatively cooler than the rest of the Sun's surface and hence, is appearing black. “Coronal holes are magnetically open areas that are one source of high-speed solar wind. They appear dark when viewed in many wavelengths of extreme ultraviolet light. At times, the solar wind can generate aurora at higher latitudes on Earth,” NASA explained. A @NASA spacecraft watches as a huge ‘hole’ in the Sun’s atmosphere rotates into view https://t.co/2lqvZEQOEg pic.twitter.com/h2Tnt6DzDN — Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) December 10, 2016 × According to a report published by news.com.au, solar winds of 2.9 million kmph are being unleashed by the gaping hole towards Earth, which may hit our planet on Friday (March 31). ALSO READ | A massive 'tornado' on the sun, the height of 14 Earths, caught on camera Scientists are monitoring the situation to asses how these solar winds will impact our planet, the report said. Charged particles, which continuously flow from the Sun, impact the satellites, GPS, magnetic field and mobile phones on the Earth. NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) discovered the coronal hole on March 23 near the Sun's South Pole. "The current coronal hole, the big one right now, is about 300,000 to 400,000 kilometres across. That is about 20-30 Earths lined up back-to-back," said Alex Young, who works at NASA Goddard's Heliophysics Science Division, while speaking to Business Insider. Solar storm may hit Earth University College London's Associate Professor of Space and Climate Physics Daniel Verscharen said that Earth may be hit by a geomagnetic storm which is coming towards the planet at a speed of about 1.8 million miles per hour. “The shape of this coronal hole is not particularly special. However, its location makes it very interesting. I would expect some fast wind from that coronal hole to come to Earth around Friday night into Saturday morning of this week," he stated. WATCH | A Super-Earth will toss us into the Sun or leave us lost in interstellar space? Meanwhile, Mathew Owens, professor of Space Physics at the University of Reading, said that these kinds of holes appear when Sun is reaching its peak of activity which occurs in a span of 11 years. “This one being at the equator means we’re pretty much guaranteed to see some fast wind at Earth a couple of days after it rotates past the central meridian. I doubt it will result in too much excitement. Unless we just so happen to get an Earth-directed CME around the same time,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Massive 'hole' on Sun may blast solar storms towards Earth

Virgin Orbit, the rocket company of British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, announced that it is laying off 85 per cent of its staff after the firm failed to get new investment.

As per the media reports, the firm's operations will remain ceased for the foreseeable future. This comes weeks after the operations of the company were paused in an attempt to shore up its finances.

Earlier in 2023, Virgin Orbit was not able to complete the first satellite launch, using its rocket, from UK soil.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/virgin-orbit-suspends-operations-furloughs-entire-workforce-as-financial-woes-bite-572587"> Virgin Orbit suspends operations, furloughs entire workforce as financial woes bite</a>

The shares of the company fell by more than 44 per cent during after-hours trading in New York on Thursday.

In a US regulatory filing, the firm said it made the decision "in order to reduce expenses in light of the company's inability to secure meaningful funding."

Virgin Orbit's layoffs will impact around 675 employees who "are located in all areas of the company."

It stated that $10.9 million (£8.8 million) has been injected by Sir Richard's investment firm Virgin Investments into Virgin Orbit "to fund severance and other costs related to the workforce reduction".

WATCH | Richard Branson's rocket company Virgin Orbit to layoff 675 employees

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Virgin Orbit said that, as per estimates, the final payments to the laid-off employees and other costs will sum up to around $15 million.

The announcement comes amid media reports that the company's head has informed its staff about the suspension of all activities till further notice.

"We have no choice but to implement immediate, dramatic and extremely painful changes," said Virgin Orbit chief executive Dan Hart in a meeting with employees, as per CNBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Virgin Orbit, the rocket company of British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, announced that it is laying off 85 per cent of its staff after the firm failed to get new investment.

Virgin Orbit, the rocket company of British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, announced that it is laying off 85 per cent of its staff after the firm failed to get new investment. As per the media reports, the firm's operations will remain ceased for the foreseeable future. This comes weeks after the operations of the company were paused in an attempt to shore up its finances. Earlier in 2023, Virgin Orbit was not able to complete the first satellite launch, using its rocket, from UK soil. ALSO READ | Virgin Orbit suspends operations, furloughs entire workforce as financial woes bite The shares of the company fell by more than 44 per cent during after-hours trading in New York on Thursday. In a US regulatory filing, the firm said it made the decision "in order to reduce expenses in light of the company's inability to secure meaningful funding." Virgin Orbit's layoffs will impact around 675 employees who "are located in all areas of the company." It stated that $10.9 million (£8.8 million) has been injected by Sir Richard's investment firm Virgin Investments into Virgin Orbit "to fund severance and other costs related to the workforce reduction". WATCH | Richard Branson's rocket company Virgin Orbit to layoff 675 employees Virgin Orbit said that, as per estimates, the final payments to the laid-off employees and other costs will sum up to around $15 million. The announcement comes amid media reports that the company's head has informed its staff about the suspension of all activities till further notice. "We have no choice but to implement immediate, dramatic and extremely painful changes," said Virgin Orbit chief executive Dan Hart in a meeting with employees, as per CNBC. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Orbit lays off 85 per cent of employees

Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips.

Japan, home to major global chip equipment makers such as Nikon Corp and Tokyo Electron Ltd, did not specify China as the target of the measures, saying equipment makers would need to seek export permission for all regions.

"We are fulfilling our responsibility as a technological nation to contribute to international peace and stability," Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura told a news conference.

Japan wants to stop advanced technology being used for military purposes and does not have one specific country in mind with the measures, he said.

But Japan's decision is seen as a major diplomatic win for US President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on China's access to US chipmaking tech to slow its technological and military advances.

Without the co-operation of industry heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands, the US measures would have been ineffective and its companies would face a competitive disadvantage.

Japan and the Netherlands in January agreed to join the U.S. in restricting equipment exports to China that could be used to manufacture sub-14 nanometre chips, but did not announce the pact to avoid provoking China, sources said earlier.

Japan has never publicly acknowledged any agreement.

A nanometre, or one-billionth of a metre, refers to a specific semiconductor industry technology, with fewer nanometres generally meaning the chip is more advanced.

In the Netherlands, the government said in a letter to parliament this month that it planned to restrict chipmaking equipment exports. Dutch major ASML Holding NV dominates the market for lithography systems used to create chips' minute circuitry.

China, which has accused the U.S. of "tech hegemony" because of its export restrictions, urged the Netherlands "not to follow export control measure by certain countries".

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-tweaks-flagship-h100-chip-for-export-to-china-amid-us-bans-574621">Nvidia tweaks flagship H100 chip for export to China amid US bans</a>

Limited Impact?

Japan said it would impose export controls on six categories of equipment used in chip manufacturing, including cleaning, deposition, lithography and etching.

The restrictions, effective from July, are likely to affect equipment manufactured by at least a dozen Japanese companies, such as Nikon, Tokyo Electron, Screen Holdings Co Ltd and Advantest Corp.

Takamoto Suzuki, head of economic research for Marubeni in China, said the measures would be a blow to Japanese equipment makers given the absence of a strong domestic chip market.

"It will undermine the market development of Japanese companies and certainly reduce their competitiveness from a regulatory aspect," he said.

When asked about the impact, minister Nishimura said, without elaborating, that he expected limited impact on domestic companies.

Some industry watchers point to potential sales elsewhere.

"If you take a long-term view, the effect will be diminished, with new semiconductor plants coming into operation in places like the United States and Japan," said Takahiro Shinada, a professor at Japan's Tohoku University.

Japan, which once dominated chip production but has seen its market share slip to about 10%, is still a major supplier of chipmaking machines and semiconductor materials. Tokyo Electron and Screen make around a fifth of the world's chipmaking tools, while Shin-Etsu Chemical Co Ltd&nbsp;and Sumco Corp produce most silicone wafers.

Shares of Nikon and Advantest rose 0.8% and 1.9% respectively after the news, broadly in line with the wider market's 1.1% rise. Tokyo Electron and Screen were little changed.

"We will continue to comply with any rules and work to maximize our results within them," a Nikon spokesperson said.

 
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Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips.

Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips. Japan, home to major global chip equipment makers such as Nikon Corp and Tokyo Electron Ltd, did not specify China as the target of the measures, saying equipment makers would need to seek export permission for all regions. "We are fulfilling our responsibility as a technological nation to contribute to international peace and stability," Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura told a news conference. Japan wants to stop advanced technology being used for military purposes and does not have one specific country in mind with the measures, he said. But Japan's decision is seen as a major diplomatic win for US President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on China's access to US chipmaking tech to slow its technological and military advances. Without the co-operation of industry heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands, the US measures would have been ineffective and its companies would face a competitive disadvantage. Japan and the Netherlands in January agreed to join the U.S. in restricting equipment exports to China that could be used to manufacture sub-14 nanometre chips, but did not announce the pact to avoid provoking China, sources said earlier. Japan has never publicly acknowledged any agreement. A nanometre, or one-billionth of a metre, refers to a specific semiconductor industry technology, with fewer nanometres generally meaning the chip is more advanced. In the Netherlands, the government said in a letter to parliament this month that it planned to restrict chipmaking equipment exports. Dutch major ASML Holding NV dominates the market for lithography systems used to create chips' minute circuitry. China, which has accused the U.S. of "tech hegemony" because of its export restrictions, urged the Netherlands "not to follow export control measure by certain countries". ALSO READ | Nvidia tweaks flagship H100 chip for export to China amid US bans Limited Impact? Japan said it would impose export controls on six categories of equipment used in chip manufacturing, including cleaning, deposition, lithography and etching. The restrictions, effective from July, are likely to affect equipment manufactured by at least a dozen Japanese companies, such as Nikon, Tokyo Electron, Screen Holdings Co Ltd and Advantest Corp. Takamoto Suzuki, head of economic research for Marubeni in China, said the measures would be a blow to Japanese equipment makers given the absence of a strong domestic chip market. "It will undermine the market development of Japanese companies and certainly reduce their competitiveness from a regulatory aspect," he said. When asked about the impact, minister Nishimura said, without elaborating, that he expected limited impact on domestic companies. Some industry watchers point to potential sales elsewhere. "If you take a long-term view, the effect will be diminished, with new semiconductor plants coming into operation in places like the United States and Japan," said Takahiro Shinada, a professor at Japan's Tohoku University. Japan, which once dominated chip production but has seen its market share slip to about 10%, is still a major supplier of chipmaking machines and semiconductor materials. Tokyo Electron and Screen make around a fifth of the world's chipmaking tools, while Shin-Etsu Chemical Co Ltd and Sumco Corp produce most silicone wafers. Shares of Nikon and Advantest rose 0.8% and 1.9% respectively after the news, broadly in line with the wider market's 1.1% rise. Tokyo Electron and Screen were little changed. "We will continue to comply with any rules and work to maximize our results within them," a Nikon spokesperson said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan to restrict export of chipmaking equipment as it aligns with curbs by US

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