Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

A report published by the Ukrainian military claimed that convicted women are being recruited by Russia from penal colonies in Ukraine's occupied regions to help Moscow in its war effort.

The military of Ukraine, in its intelligence report, stated that attempts are being made by the Russian forces to "replenish" their army.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-defence-minister-to-be-replaced-with-spy-agencys-chief-confirms-zelenskyys-close-aide-559032">Ukraine's defence minister to be replaced with spy agency's chief, confirms Zelenskyy's close aide</a>

“In order to replenish the losses in manpower, the enemy is trying to attract convicted women to participate in hostilities. Over the course of a week, the occupiers recruited about 50 people from the women's correctional colony of the city of Snizhne in the temporarily occupied territory of the Donetsk region. It is also known that they were sent to the territory of the Russian Federation for training,” said the statement.

A partial mobilisation was ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in September 2022 which was aimed at adding 300,000 reservists to support the country's military campaign.

However, according to the latest reports, homeless people and those who have very less military experience were being recruited by Russia to reinforce its army.

Meanwhile, the mayor of Ukraine's Kharkiv said that the city's centre was hit by two Russian S-300 missiles.

WATCH | China abetting Russian invasion of Ukraine as it sends military aid to Moscow

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Also, Odesa and its surrounding areas in Ukraine continue to face power outages as assaults are repelled by Kyiv near nine settlements in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, reported Reuters.

A senior lawmaker also claimed that Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is also likely to be replaced in wartime reshuffle as Kyiv prepares for a Russian offensive.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. A report published by the Ukrainian military claimed that convicted women are being recruited by Russia from penal colonies in Ukraine's occupied regions to help Moscow in its war effort. The military of Ukraine, in its intelligence report, stated that attempts are being made by the Russian forces to "replenish" their army. ALSO READ | Ukraine's defence minister to be replaced with spy agency's chief, confirms Zelenskyy's close aide “In order to replenish the losses in manpower, the enemy is trying to attract convicted women to participate in hostilities. Over the course of a week, the occupiers recruited about 50 people from the women's correctional colony of the city of Snizhne in the temporarily occupied territory of the Donetsk region. It is also known that they were sent to the territory of the Russian Federation for training,” said the statement. A partial mobilisation was ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in September 2022 which was aimed at adding 300,000 reservists to support the country's military campaign. However, according to the latest reports, homeless people and those who have very less military experience were being recruited by Russia to reinforce its army. Meanwhile, the mayor of Ukraine's Kharkiv said that the city's centre was hit by two Russian S-300 missiles. WATCH | China abetting Russian invasion of Ukraine as it sends military aid to Moscow Also, Odesa and its surrounding areas in Ukraine continue to face power outages as assaults are repelled by Kyiv near nine settlements in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, reported Reuters. A senior lawmaker also claimed that Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is also likely to be replaced in wartime reshuffle as Kyiv prepares for a Russian offensive. (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 'recruiting female prisoners' to contribute to Ukraine war, report claims

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's close ally on Sunday said that the country's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is set to be replaced with the military spy agency's chief in a wartime reshuffle.

Chief of Servant of the People parliamentary bloc and senior lawmaker David Arakhamia said that Reznikov would be given another ministerial position and his position will be filled by the GUR military intelligence agency's head Kyrylo Budanov.

"War dictates changes in personnel policy," said Arakhamia, using the Telegram messaging app.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-arms-package-for-ukraine-includes-longer-range-rockets-that-will-double-kyivs-strike-range-558682">US arms package for Ukraine includes longer-range rockets that will double Kyiv's strike range</a>

Replacing of the country's defence minister would be the highest profile reshuffle in the government amid a slew of sackings and resignations after a corruption scandal took place last month and the president pledged that the nation would meet standards of the West in the aspect of clean governance.

Arakhamia said that politicians should not head the “force” agencies of Ukraine, like the defence ministry, in wartime, instead, they should be led by people who have a background in security or defence.

He added that the position of minister of strategic industries will be offered to Reznikov.

Reznikov, who had earlier stated that it was up to Zelenskyto decide on the reshuffle, later while speaking to the Ukrainian Fakty ICTV online media said that his reshuffle to the new ministry was news to him.

"If I suddenly received such an offer from the president of Ukraine or the prime minister, I would refuse it, because I do not have the expertise," said Reznikov.

WATCH | Russia &amp; Ukraine exchange prisoners of war | World News | WION

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Zelensky did not release any media statement immediately on the reshuffling of Reznikov, who had taken oath as the country's defence minister in November 2021, just a few months before a full-scale invasion was launched by Russia on February 24, 2022.

Meanwhile, speaking about the possibility of a reshuffle on national television Sunday night, the Ukrainian presidential adviser&nbsp;Mykhailo Podolyak said, "Reznikov was extremely efficient in terms of communication with our partners. And this is a very important component in this case."

During wartime, the defence minister fostered ties with Western defence officials and also monitored the receipt of military aid worth billions of dollars to help Kyiv fight the Moscow invasion.

Podolyak stated that the "wonderful" personal relations of Reznikov with allies have helped the country receive military supplies.

"Negotiations are not just mathematical formulae but also personal relationships. And trust. Unfortunately, today we are losing a measure of trust in us," Podolyak added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's close ally on Sunday said that the country's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is set to be replaced with the military spy agency's chief in a wartime reshuffle.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's close ally on Sunday said that the country's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is set to be replaced with the military spy agency's chief in a wartime reshuffle. Chief of Servant of the People parliamentary bloc and senior lawmaker David Arakhamia said that Reznikov would be given another ministerial position and his position will be filled by the GUR military intelligence agency's head Kyrylo Budanov. "War dictates changes in personnel policy," said Arakhamia, using the Telegram messaging app. ALSO READ | US arms package for Ukraine includes longer-range rockets that will double Kyiv's strike range Replacing of the country's defence minister would be the highest profile reshuffle in the government amid a slew of sackings and resignations after a corruption scandal took place last month and the president pledged that the nation would meet standards of the West in the aspect of clean governance. Arakhamia said that politicians should not head the “force” agencies of Ukraine, like the defence ministry, in wartime, instead, they should be led by people who have a background in security or defence. He added that the position of minister of strategic industries will be offered to Reznikov. Reznikov, who had earlier stated that it was up to Zelenskyto decide on the reshuffle, later while speaking to the Ukrainian Fakty ICTV online media said that his reshuffle to the new ministry was news to him. "If I suddenly received such an offer from the president of Ukraine or the prime minister, I would refuse it, because I do not have the expertise," said Reznikov. WATCH | Russia & Ukraine exchange prisoners of war | World News | WION Zelensky did not release any media statement immediately on the reshuffling of Reznikov, who had taken oath as the country's defence minister in November 2021, just a few months before a full-scale invasion was launched by Russia on February 24, 2022. Meanwhile, speaking about the possibility of a reshuffle on national television Sunday night, the Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said, "Reznikov was extremely efficient in terms of communication with our partners. And this is a very important component in this case." During wartime, the defence minister fostered ties with Western defence officials and also monitored the receipt of military aid worth billions of dollars to help Kyiv fight the Moscow invasion. Podolyak stated that the "wonderful" personal relations of Reznikov with allies have helped the country receive military supplies. "Negotiations are not just mathematical formulae but also personal relationships. And trust. Unfortunately, today we are losing a measure of trust in us," Podolyak added. (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 defence minister to be replaced with spy agency's chief, confirms Zelensky's close aide

In Pics | Harrowing images emerge of Turkiye's deadly earthquake

The Chinese officials on Monday confirmed that a ballon spotted by Bogota and Washington flying in the sky of Latin America is Chinese after the United States shot down a similar device over the weekend.

The Pentagon on Friday stated that they have spotted a second balloon, suspected to be a Chinese spying object, flying across the sky of Latin America.

The air force of Colombia then reported an object seen with "characteristics similar to those of a balloon" had been detected and "monitored until it left the national air space".

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seriously-impacted-relations-chinas-rebuke-to-us-shooting-down-suspected-spy-balloon-559092">‘Seriously impacted relations’: China’s rebuke to US shooting down suspected spy balloon</a>

The air force stated that investigations are being conducted in co-ordination with other institutions and nations "to establish the origins of the object".

The foreign ministry of Beijing on Monday claimed that the balloon was "from China" and that it was of "a civilian nature and used for flight tests".

"Affected by weather forces in addition to its maneuverability being limited, the airship deviated greatly from its expected course, and accidentally entered Latin American and Caribbean airspace," said spokesperson Mao Ning, while speaking at a press briefing.

"China is a responsible country and has always strictly abided by international law. We have communicated with the relevant parties and are handling appropriately, and will not cause any threat to any country,” she added.

WATCH | U.S. shoots down Chinese balloon over the Atlantic

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The detection of China's other balloon flying over the United States led to the cancellation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to China, who was due to land in Beijing on Sunday.

After the earlier balloon was shot down, China expressed its anger on Sunday and continued to claim that it was an unmanned weather surveillance aircraft, which had veered off course.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese officials on Monday confirmed that a ballon spotted by Bogota and Washington flying in the sky of Latin America is Chinese after the United States shot down a similar device over the weekend.

The Chinese officials on Monday confirmed that a ballon spotted by Bogota and Washington flying in the sky of Latin America is Chinese after the United States shot down a similar device over the weekend. The Pentagon on Friday stated that they have spotted a second balloon, suspected to be a Chinese spying object, flying across the sky of Latin America. The air force of Colombia then reported an object seen with "characteristics similar to those of a balloon" had been detected and "monitored until it left the national air space". ALSO READ | ‘Seriously impacted relations’: China’s rebuke to US shooting down suspected spy balloon The air force stated that investigations are being conducted in co-ordination with other institutions and nations "to establish the origins of the object". The foreign ministry of Beijing on Monday claimed that the balloon was "from China" and that it was of "a civilian nature and used for flight tests". "Affected by weather forces in addition to its maneuverability being limited, the airship deviated greatly from its expected course, and accidentally entered Latin American and Caribbean airspace," said spokesperson Mao Ning, while speaking at a press briefing. "China is a responsible country and has always strictly abided by international law. We have communicated with the relevant parties and are handling appropriately, and will not cause any threat to any country,” she added. WATCH | U.S. shoots down Chinese balloon over the Atlantic The detection of China's other balloon flying over the United States led to the cancellation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to China, who was due to land in Beijing on Sunday. After the earlier balloon was shot down, China expressed its anger on Sunday and continued to claim that it was an unmanned weather surveillance aircraft, which had veered off course. (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

Beijing confirms balloon flying in Latin America's sky is Chinese

The police and the Excise department have carried out a series of drug hauls in the Indian state of Kerala which led to a sharp increase in cases related to banned tobacco products, liquor and narcotics in 2022, indicating the state's new and escalating problem of drugs.

As per the data, 26,629 cases were registered by the police under India's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in 2022, which is an increase of 300 per cent compared to 5,924 cases registered in 2016 and 188 per cent when compared to 9,245 cases registered in the pre-pandemic year of 2019.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-legalise-use-of-mdma-and-magic-mushrooms-for-treating-depression-post-trauma-stress-558658">Australia to legalise use of MDMA and magic mushrooms for treating depression</a>

As the data reflects, the cases have steadily increased since 2016, and have only witnessed a dip in the numbers in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, and now the numbers have sharply shot up in 2022.

The Excise data's analysis shows that there was an 87.47 per cent increase in the number of people arrested in the cases filed under the NDPS Act between 2016 and 2022, from 3,217 to 6,031, as the number of cases registered between the same years increased by 104 per cent.

The number of cases increased steadily even though there was only a marginal increase in the number of raids from 1,39,366 in 2016 to 1,44,200 in 2022.

The cases registered under the NDPS Act by the Excise department also reflect the steady increase from 2016, as the highest number of cases get registered in 2019 in a span of six years.

Drug offences are handled by both the Excise departments and police under the NDPS Act, as the quantum of punishment varies on the quantity of drugs seized.

WATCH | Gravitas: British Columbia decriminalises hard drugs

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Additional Director-General Police and Excise Commissioner S Ananthakrishnan said that such an increase in drug-related cases in the state is a factor of both “strict enforcement and raids” and the contraband's easier access.

“Accessibility of synthetic drugs such as MDMA and LSD has increased. Youngsters are now aware about the availability of synthetic drugs. There is also peer pressure to explore these drugs,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The police and the Excise department have carried out a series of drug hauls in the Indian state of Kerala which led to a sharp increase in cases related to banned tobacco products, liquor and narcotics in 2022, indicating the state's new and escalating problem of drugs.

The police and the Excise department have carried out a series of drug hauls in the Indian state of Kerala which led to a sharp increase in cases related to banned tobacco products, liquor and narcotics in 2022, indicating the state's new and escalating problem of drugs. As per the data, 26,629 cases were registered by the police under India's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in 2022, which is an increase of 300 per cent compared to 5,924 cases registered in 2016 and 188 per cent when compared to 9,245 cases registered in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. ALSO READ | Australia to legalise use of MDMA and magic mushrooms for treating depression As the data reflects, the cases have steadily increased since 2016, and have only witnessed a dip in the numbers in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, and now the numbers have sharply shot up in 2022. The Excise data's analysis shows that there was an 87.47 per cent increase in the number of people arrested in the cases filed under the NDPS Act between 2016 and 2022, from 3,217 to 6,031, as the number of cases registered between the same years increased by 104 per cent. The number of cases increased steadily even though there was only a marginal increase in the number of raids from 1,39,366 in 2016 to 1,44,200 in 2022. The cases registered under the NDPS Act by the Excise department also reflect the steady increase from 2016, as the highest number of cases get registered in 2019 in a span of six years. Drug offences are handled by both the Excise departments and police under the NDPS Act, as the quantum of punishment varies on the quantity of drugs seized. WATCH | Gravitas: British Columbia decriminalises hard drugs Additional Director-General Police and Excise Commissioner S Ananthakrishnan said that such an increase in drug-related cases in the state is a factor of both “strict enforcement and raids” and the contraband's easier access. “Accessibility of synthetic drugs such as MDMA and LSD has increased. Youngsters are now aware about the availability of synthetic drugs. There is also peer pressure to explore these drugs,” 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

Kerala's drug issue escalates, as cases jump by 300 per cent in six years

Five Palestinians were killed by the Israeli forces during a gunfight that broke out when a raid was being conducted in Jericho, a Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank, as the forces tried to arrest suspects involved in a shooting attack, said an Israeli security official said, as Hamas Islamists confirming their fighters were among those killed.

The official added that the bodies of the Palestinians killed are being held by the army. In a statement, Hamas said it was mourning the death of their armed wing members who were killed "in an armed clash with the Zionist occupation".

"During the activity, a number of armed assailants were killed after firing toward IDF (Israel Defence Forces) soldiers who were operating in the area," claimed the army in a statement on the operation carried out in Aqabat Jabr camp at the city's entrance.

The Palestinian health ministry stated that "three citizens were shot by the Israeli occupation during the attack on Jericho," and one of them is in critical condition.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-looking-into-sending-military-aid-to-ukraine-558051">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine</a>

The army did not claim how many armed men were killed in the camp. Also, no casualties were reported among its forces.

The raid that took place on Monday was aimed at arresting "the Hamas terrorist squad that carried out the shooting attack" on January 28, after two armed men reached an Israeli restaurant near Jericho, stated the army.

At the restaurant, one of the gunmen opened fire, however, his weapon was jammed after only one bullet which did not hurt anybody.

WATCH | Anti-government protests continue in Israel decrying judicial reforms

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Both the gunmen then fled to Jericho, and since then, searches are being conducted by the army in the area.

The raid took place at a time of heightened tensions which increased fears of further escalation in violence and both sides were appealed to maintain calm by the United States and international bodies, which includes the United Nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Five Palestinians were killed by the Israeli forces during a gunfight that broke out when a raid was being conducted in Jericho, a Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank, as the forces tried to arrest suspects involved in a shooting attack, said an Israeli security official said, as Hamas Islamists confirming their fighters were among those killed.

Five Palestinians were killed by the Israeli forces during a gunfight that broke out when a raid was being conducted in Jericho, a Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank, as the forces tried to arrest suspects involved in a shooting attack, said an Israeli security official said, as Hamas Islamists confirming their fighters were among those killed. The official added that the bodies of the Palestinians killed are being held by the army. In a statement, Hamas said it was mourning the death of their armed wing members who were killed "in an armed clash with the Zionist occupation". "During the activity, a number of armed assailants were killed after firing toward IDF (Israel Defence Forces) soldiers who were operating in the area," claimed the army in a statement on the operation carried out in Aqabat Jabr camp at the city's entrance. The Palestinian health ministry stated that "three citizens were shot by the Israeli occupation during the attack on Jericho," and one of them is in critical condition. ALSO READ | Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine The army did not claim how many armed men were killed in the camp. Also, no casualties were reported among its forces. The raid that took place on Monday was aimed at arresting "the Hamas terrorist squad that carried out the shooting attack" on January 28, after two armed men reached an Israeli restaurant near Jericho, stated the army. At the restaurant, one of the gunmen opened fire, however, his weapon was jammed after only one bullet which did not hurt anybody. WATCH | Anti-government protests continue in Israel decrying judicial reforms Both the gunmen then fled to Jericho, and since then, searches are being conducted by the army in the area. The raid took place at a time of heightened tensions which increased fears of further escalation in violence and both sides were appealed to maintain calm by the United States and international bodies, which includes the United Nations. (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

Five Palestinians killed in Jericho raid by forces, claims Israeli official

US President Joe Biden is set to deliver his first State of the Union address after the control of the House of Representatives went to Republicans. The speech will mark the unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season.

When will Biden deliver the State of the Union address?&nbsp;

The second State of the Union speech will be delivered by Biden on February 7, 2023 (Tuesday) at around 9 pm Eastern time (0200 GMT Wednesday). The speech will be live-streamed on all important US broadcast television networks and online.

Why is Biden's State of the Union address important?&nbsp;

The address is likely to provide Biden with his widest television audience of the year. As per the data provider Nielsen, the speech was watched by around 38.2 million people on televisions across the country last year.&nbsp;

With such a large audience, Biden will get a chance to change the perception of people over social spending, the Russia-Ukraine war, the debt limit and other issues as he is working to announce his re-election campaign in the weeks ahead.

The address will also work as an opporutnity to gain support among Democrats, some of whom have concerns regarding his age and other topics. In November, Biden turned 80 and if he will be re-elected, he will be 82 at the start of the second term.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-us-wont-be-sending-f-16-fighter-jets-to-ukraine-557428">Biden says US won't be sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine</a>

What to expect from Biden's address?&nbsp;

Biden is likely to use the address as an unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season and will list down the policy priorities that Congress may or may not support.&nbsp;

He is also expected to talk about the economic progress following the recession post-COVID-19, outline sharp contrasts with some Republican opponents' priorities and also mention the "unity" agenda items that the president believes will unite the two parties.

It takes weeks to prepare the speech, as its many drafts are exchanged between Biden, his speechwriters and other political and policy officials present in the administration.

The last speech of Biden was delivered just after Ukraine was invaded by Russia and had a heavy emphasis on Washington's response.

Who will attend the State of the Union address?&nbsp;

Biden will deliver the address during the joint session of Congress. All members of the Republican-controlled House and Democratic-controlled Senate are invited to the State of the Union address. It will also be attended by the members of Biden's Cabinet, the armed forces and the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Earlier in January, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy had formally invited Biden to deliver the address. The event will be presided over by McCarthy as &nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris, who is also the Senate's president, will accompany.

The president extends the invitation to family members and other guests who will watch the address from the First Lady's view box from the balcony. Guests are also invited by the Members of Congress.

The list of guests this year will include the mother and stepfather of Tyre Nichols, who was recently beaten to death by Memphis police officers. They were sent an invitation by Congressional Black Caucus chair Representative Steven Horsford.&nbsp;

WATCH | WION-VOA Co-Production: Biden to raise China, Russia 'challenges' in speech

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Who is the 'designated survivor'?

The one person from Biden's Cabinet who does not take part in the address will be picked as a "designated survivor".&nbsp;

The person will be kept in a secure location and has the duty of taking over the government in case of a situation which may the president as well as his other successors at the Capitol.

The government has till now not announced this year's designated survivor.&nbsp;

Who will deliver the Republican response?

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who was earlier White House press secretary under Donald Trump, has been selected by Republicans to deliver their response. The speech will be delivered shortly after the president's address.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden is set to deliver his first State of the Union address after the control of the House of Representatives went to Republicans. The speech will mark the unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season.

US President Joe Biden is set to deliver his first State of the Union address after the control of the House of Representatives went to Republicans. The speech will mark the unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season. When will Biden deliver the State of the Union address? The second State of the Union speech will be delivered by Biden on February 7, 2023 (Tuesday) at around 9 pm Eastern time (0200 GMT Wednesday). The speech will be live-streamed on all important US broadcast television networks and online. Why is Biden's State of the Union address important? The address is likely to provide Biden with his widest television audience of the year. As per the data provider Nielsen, the speech was watched by around 38.2 million people on televisions across the country last year. With such a large audience, Biden will get a chance to change the perception of people over social spending, the Russia-Ukraine war, the debt limit and other issues as he is working to announce his re-election campaign in the weeks ahead. The address will also work as an opporutnity to gain support among Democrats, some of whom have concerns regarding his age and other topics. In November, Biden turned 80 and if he will be re-elected, he will be 82 at the start of the second term. ALSO READ | Biden says US won't be sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine What to expect from Biden's address? Biden is likely to use the address as an unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season and will list down the policy priorities that Congress may or may not support. He is also expected to talk about the economic progress following the recession post-COVID-19, outline sharp contrasts with some Republican opponents' priorities and also mention the "unity" agenda items that the president believes will unite the two parties. It takes weeks to prepare the speech, as its many drafts are exchanged between Biden, his speechwriters and other political and policy officials present in the administration. The last speech of Biden was delivered just after Ukraine was invaded by Russia and had a heavy emphasis on Washington's response. Who will attend the State of the Union address? Biden will deliver the address during the joint session of Congress. All members of the Republican-controlled House and Democratic-controlled Senate are invited to the State of the Union address. It will also be attended by the members of Biden's Cabinet, the armed forces and the Supreme Court. Earlier in January, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy had formally invited Biden to deliver the address. The event will be presided over by McCarthy as Vice President Kamala Harris, who is also the Senate's president, will accompany. The president extends the invitation to family members and other guests who will watch the address from the First Lady's view box from the balcony. Guests are also invited by the Members of Congress. The list of guests this year will include the mother and stepfather of Tyre Nichols, who was recently beaten to death by Memphis police officers. They were sent an invitation by Congressional Black Caucus chair Representative Steven Horsford. WATCH | WION-VOA Co-Production: Biden to raise China, Russia 'challenges' in speech Who is the 'designated survivor'? The one person from Biden's Cabinet who does not take part in the address will be picked as a "designated survivor". The person will be kept in a secure location and has the duty of taking over the government in case of a situation which may the president as well as his other successors at the Capitol. The government has till now not announced this year's designated survivor. Who will deliver the Republican response? Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who was earlier White House press secretary under Donald Trump, has been selected by Republicans to deliver their response. The speech will be delivered shortly after the president's address. (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

Explained: When will Biden deliver his State of the Union address in 2023? and what to expect?

Google is likely to launch its own chatbot technology in the public in “the coming weeks and months” as a response to ChatGPT's success after the artificial intelligence chatbot - backed by Microsoft - emerged as a global phenomenon after it was made available to people free of charge.

Chief executive of Google’s parent company Alphabet Sundar Pichai said that AI's use had reached an “inflection point” and that the company is “extremely well positioned” in this field.

Pichai talked about the two large language models which the company has developed, LaMDA and PaLM, as the former is ready to be released in the public soon.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chatgpt-to-destroy-google-in-minimum-two-years-says-gmail-creator-557376">ChatGPT to destroy Google in minimum two years, says Gmail creator</a>

CNBC had earlier this week reported that an AI chatbot which shares similarities with ChatGPT is being tested by Google and is called Apprentice Bard, in which LaMDA technology is being used.

LaMDA came into prominence last year after an engineer was first suspended and then dismissed by Google after he claimed that LaMDA was “sentient”.

Google had called the claims of Blake Lemoine about LaMDA, which is an acronym used for dialogue applications' language model, “wholly unfounded”.

In a conference call held with the investors of Alphabet, Pichai said, “In the coming weeks and months, we’ll make these language models available, starting with LaMDA so that people can engage directly with them.”

Pichai also indicated that Google is likely to integrate chatbot technology. “Very soon, people will be able to interact directly with our newest, most powerful language models as a companion to search in experimental and innovative ways,” he added.

A set of LaMDA demo was released by Google last year as part of an “AI Test Kitchen”.

Alphabet’s UK-based AI unit DeepMinds' achievements were also flagged by Pichai as he stated that its database of “all 200m proteins known to science has been used by 1 million biologists around the world”.

WATCH | ChatGPT takes the world by storm within 50 days of launch

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University of Oxford's computer science professor Michael Wooldridge said that OpenAI had “put a firework” under the world's big tech companies after ChatGPT's release

“They achieved that with a fraction of the number of employees of big tech companies, which must have caused consternation in Silicon Valley boardrooms. My guess is we’ll see a massive pivot in other big tech companies towards large language models and generative AI – and a frantic rush to get products to market and secure a user base,” the professor stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Google is likely to launch its own chatbot technology in the public in “the coming weeks and months” as a response to ChatGPT's success after the artificial intelligence chatbot - backed by Microsoft - emerged as a global phenomenon after it was made available to people free of charge.

Google is likely to launch its own chatbot technology in the public in “the coming weeks and months” as a response to ChatGPT's success after the artificial intelligence chatbot - backed by Microsoft - emerged as a global phenomenon after it was made available to people free of charge. Chief executive of Google’s parent company Alphabet Sundar Pichai said that AI's use had reached an “inflection point” and that the company is “extremely well positioned” in this field. Pichai talked about the two large language models which the company has developed, LaMDA and PaLM, as the former is ready to be released in the public soon. ALSO READ | ChatGPT to destroy Google in minimum two years, says Gmail creator CNBC had earlier this week reported that an AI chatbot which shares similarities with ChatGPT is being tested by Google and is called Apprentice Bard, in which LaMDA technology is being used. LaMDA came into prominence last year after an engineer was first suspended and then dismissed by Google after he claimed that LaMDA was “sentient”. Google had called the claims of Blake Lemoine about LaMDA, which is an acronym used for dialogue applications' language model, “wholly unfounded”. In a conference call held with the investors of Alphabet, Pichai said, “In the coming weeks and months, we’ll make these language models available, starting with LaMDA so that people can engage directly with them.” Pichai also indicated that Google is likely to integrate chatbot technology. “Very soon, people will be able to interact directly with our newest, most powerful language models as a companion to search in experimental and innovative ways,” he added. A set of LaMDA demo was released by Google last year as part of an “AI Test Kitchen”. Alphabet’s UK-based AI unit DeepMinds' achievements were also flagged by Pichai as he stated that its database of “all 200m proteins known to science has been used by 1 million biologists around the world”. WATCH | ChatGPT takes the world by storm within 50 days of launch University of Oxford's computer science professor Michael Wooldridge said that OpenAI had “put a firework” under the world's big tech companies after ChatGPT's release “They achieved that with a fraction of the number of employees of big tech companies, which must have caused consternation in Silicon Valley boardrooms. My guess is we’ll see a massive pivot in other big tech companies towards large language models and generative AI – and a frantic rush to get products to market and secure a user base,” the professor 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

Google heading towards launching its own chatbot technology in response to ChatGPT?

In a survey conducted by a US-based consulting firm 'Morning Consult', Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ranked as the most popular leader globally as he received an approval rating of 78 per cent.

According to the survey, the ratings of PM Modi trumped those of world leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden. Around 22 world leaders were surveyed in the poll for the ratings.

The Political Intelligence research firm stated that the "Global Leader Approval" survey has been based on the data which was collected between January 26 and January 31, this year.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-officials-chalking-out-plans-for-pm-modis-visit-to-white-house-report-558762"> India, US officials chalking out plans for PM Modi’s visit to White House: Report</a>

A seven-day moving average of every country's adult residents was collated by the firm, as sample sizes of different countries varied.

India's Prime Minister Modi received 78 per cent of approval ratings, which was way more than the 40 per cent ratings which US President Biden received.

The second place was clinched by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador with 68 per cent ratings and the third position was occupied by Swiss President Alain Berset with a 62 per cent approval rating.

As per the data shared by the website of the US-tracking firm, PM Modi received 78 per cent of approval while 18 per cent of people disapproved of him as a leader.

The firm regularly updates the list with US President Joe Biden standing at number seven currently.

WATCH | Decoding 8 years of Narendra Modi as Indian PM

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Among the 22 nations, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida were ranked at the last three positions on the list.

Italy's newly elected first female Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stood in sixth place after receiving 52 per cent ratings.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was also featured in fourth place in the survey with a 58 per cent approval rating.\

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a survey conducted by a US-based consulting firm 'Morning Consult', Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ranked as the most popular leader globally as he received an approval rating of 78 per cent.

In a survey conducted by a US-based consulting firm 'Morning Consult', Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ranked as the most popular leader globally as he received an approval rating of 78 per cent. According to the survey, the ratings of PM Modi trumped those of world leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden. Around 22 world leaders were surveyed in the poll for the ratings. The Political Intelligence research firm stated that the "Global Leader Approval" survey has been based on the data which was collected between January 26 and January 31, this year. ALSO READ | India, US officials chalking out plans for PM Modi’s visit to White House: Report A seven-day moving average of every country's adult residents was collated by the firm, as sample sizes of different countries varied. India's Prime Minister Modi received 78 per cent of approval ratings, which was way more than the 40 per cent ratings which US President Biden received. The second place was clinched by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador with 68 per cent ratings and the third position was occupied by Swiss President Alain Berset with a 62 per cent approval rating. As per the data shared by the website of the US-tracking firm, PM Modi received 78 per cent of approval while 18 per cent of people disapproved of him as a leader. The firm regularly updates the list with US President Joe Biden standing at number seven currently. WATCH | Decoding 8 years of Narendra Modi as Indian PM Among the 22 nations, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida were ranked at the last three positions on the list. Italy's newly elected first female Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stood in sixth place after receiving 52 per cent ratings. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was also featured in fourth place in the survey with a 58 per cent approval rating.\ (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

PM Modi emerges as world's most popular leader, defeating Sunak, Biden

The price of Tesla Inc's best-selling vehicle, Model Y, was increased by $1,000 in the United States after the ceiling on the crossover electric vehicles' price which is eligible for tax credits was raised by the government.

The price of the Model Y Long Range was increased to $54,990 and the Model Y Performance was revised to $57,990, with a raise of $1,000 each by Tesla, as per the previous and current prices posted on the company's website.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-found-not-guilty-over-2018-tesla-funding-secured-tweet-558705">Elon Musk found not guilty in 2018 Tesla ‘funding secured’ tweet case</a>

This was the second increase in the Model Y Long Range's price in the last two weeks.

The models are still 15% and 17% cheaper, respectively, compared to their earlier prices before they were slashed by Tesla last month to stoke demand and before the company had accounted for the $7,500 tax credit that buyers now can receive.

The Treasury Department, in a reversal, on Friday ruled that crossover cars like the Model Y will become eligible for electric vehicle tax credits as long as their prices are below $80,000.

The ceiling for wagons, cars and sedans is further lower at $55,000.

The decision turned into a win for General Motors, Ford, Tesla as well as other automakers which had appealed to the government to loosen the vehicle definitions in the incentive plan's implementation so that their more lineups are eligible.

WATCH | WION Fineprint | Tesla to recall around 1.1 million cars over window issue

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A buyer of Tesla Model Y, at its previous price, would have been able to only add around $1,000 in extra features, like a tow hitch, before the price is pushed above the level at which one can apply the tax incentive.

The prices were cut by Tesla globally in January responding to the signs of decreasing demand. The prices were deducted for the second time on Friday in South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The price of Tesla Inc's best-selling vehicle, Model Y, was increased by $1,000 in the United States after the ceiling on the crossover electric vehicles' price which is eligible for tax credits was raised by the government.

The price of Tesla Inc's best-selling vehicle, Model Y, was increased by $1,000 in the United States after the ceiling on the crossover electric vehicles' price which is eligible for tax credits was raised by the government. The price of the Model Y Long Range was increased to $54,990 and the Model Y Performance was revised to $57,990, with a raise of $1,000 each by Tesla, as per the previous and current prices posted on the company's website. ALSO READ | Elon Musk found not guilty in 2018 Tesla ‘funding secured’ tweet case This was the second increase in the Model Y Long Range's price in the last two weeks. The models are still 15% and 17% cheaper, respectively, compared to their earlier prices before they were slashed by Tesla last month to stoke demand and before the company had accounted for the $7,500 tax credit that buyers now can receive. The Treasury Department, in a reversal, on Friday ruled that crossover cars like the Model Y will become eligible for electric vehicle tax credits as long as their prices are below $80,000. The ceiling for wagons, cars and sedans is further lower at $55,000. The decision turned into a win for General Motors, Ford, Tesla as well as other automakers which had appealed to the government to loosen the vehicle definitions in the incentive plan's implementation so that their more lineups are eligible. WATCH | WION Fineprint | Tesla to recall around 1.1 million cars over window issue A buyer of Tesla Model Y, at its previous price, would have been able to only add around $1,000 in extra features, like a tow hitch, before the price is pushed above the level at which one can apply the tax incentive. The prices were cut by Tesla globally in January responding to the signs of decreasing demand. The prices were deducted for the second time on Friday in South Korea. (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

Tesla's Model Y price shoots by $1,000 after tax credit terms relaxed in US

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.&nbsp;"The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-swap-dozens-of-prisoners-of-war-558794">Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war</a>

The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator.

Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity.

On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine

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Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day.

He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine. "The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator. Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity. On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day. He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage. (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

New blow to power grid in Ukraine after major accident in Odesa, says PM

New standards for tackling obesity and providing nutritious school meals to millions of American children were proposed by the United States Agriculture Department on Friday.&nbsp;"Many children aren't getting the nutrition they need, and diet-related diseases are on the rise," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, in a statement.

"Research shows school meals are the healthiest meals in a day for most kids, proving that they are an important tool for giving kids access to the nutrition they need for a bright future," he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-research-explains-why-high-fat-diet-could-reduce-brain%E2%80%99s-ability-to-regulate-food-intake-556957">Research explains why high fat diet could reduce brain’s ability to regulate food intake</a>

The changes proposed, if incorporated, in the federally funded school meals would slowly reduce the children's intake of sodium in a week, which increases the risk of heart disease or high blood pressure.

This would also limit the sugar intake, which can lead to Type 2 diabetes or obesity, by targeting products which are high in sugar like breakfast cereals and yoghurts.

As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 20 per cent or 14.7 million children and adolescents between the age of 2-19 in the United States are obese.

Meanwhile, as per the proposed standard, low-fat and non-fat milk will be more accessible to younger children while older children will be allowed to consume flavoured milk "with reasonable limits on added sugars".

The proposal has emphasised whole grains which are said to decrease the risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

WATCH | Gravitas: Study finds more children on weight loss diets

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As per the Agriculture Department, around 30 million children participate every year in the National School Lunch Programme, through which low-cost or no-cost meals are provided in non-profit private schools and public schools.

Around 15 million children are enrolled every year in the School Breakfast Programme.

The changes proposed will remain open for people's comment for 60 days before they are adopted for the school year 2024-25.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New standards for tackling obesity and providing nutritious school meals to millions of American children were proposed by the United States Agriculture Department on Friday.

New standards for tackling obesity and providing nutritious school meals to millions of American children were proposed by the United States Agriculture Department on Friday. "Many children aren't getting the nutrition they need, and diet-related diseases are on the rise," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, in a statement. "Research shows school meals are the healthiest meals in a day for most kids, proving that they are an important tool for giving kids access to the nutrition they need for a bright future," he added. ALSO READ | Research explains why high fat diet could reduce brain’s ability to regulate food intake The changes proposed, if incorporated, in the federally funded school meals would slowly reduce the children's intake of sodium in a week, which increases the risk of heart disease or high blood pressure. This would also limit the sugar intake, which can lead to Type 2 diabetes or obesity, by targeting products which are high in sugar like breakfast cereals and yoghurts. As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 20 per cent or 14.7 million children and adolescents between the age of 2-19 in the United States are obese. Meanwhile, as per the proposed standard, low-fat and non-fat milk will be more accessible to younger children while older children will be allowed to consume flavoured milk "with reasonable limits on added sugars". The proposal has emphasised whole grains which are said to decrease the risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. WATCH | Gravitas: Study finds more children on weight loss diets As per the Agriculture Department, around 30 million children participate every year in the National School Lunch Programme, through which low-cost or no-cost meals are provided in non-profit private schools and public schools. Around 15 million children are enrolled every year in the School Breakfast Programme. The changes proposed will remain open for people's comment for 60 days before they are adopted for the school year 2024-25. (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

US Agriculture Department proposes to cut down on sugar and salt in school meals

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