<p>The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The US will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained, Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts in a letter seen by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lawyers for Donald Trump asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president on the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also watch a report on South Asia's currency rollercoaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read the full report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-sending-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-from-denmark-and-netherlands-626571">US approves sending F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373890-f-16-fighter-jets.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-requests-april-2026-trial-date-for-election-interference-trial-626587">Donald Trump requests April 2026 trial date for election interference trial</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
Lawyers for Donald Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president. The trial will be on the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373896-donald-trump-2.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauis-emergency-management-agency-chief-resigns-amid-criticism-626589">Maui's emergency management agency chief resigns amid criticism</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
Maui County Emergency Management chief Herman Andaya, on Thursday (August 17), resigned from his position, after being denounced by locals over the island's response to the deadly wildfires that tore through the Hawaiian town of Lahaina and claimed the lives of at least 111 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373905-succession-2023-08-18t094458830.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-evergrande-files-for-bankruptcy-in-new-york-amidst-ongoing-crisis-626550">China's Evergrande files for bankruptcy in New York amidst ongoing crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
China's Evergrande Group officially filed for bankruptcy in New York on Thursday. The company which was once China's second-largest property developer in terms of sales has been facing substantial borrowing and debt defaults since 2021. This triggered an ongoing property crisis within China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373881-new-wion-2023-08-18t040510858.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><strong>South Asia's currency rollercoaster: Pakistan's rupee in freefall&nbsp;</strong><br />
South Asia's local currencies have had a roller coaster ride for the last couple of years. This story gives a report about the Indian rupee, Pakistani rupee, Sri Lankan rupee and Bangladeshi taka.&nbsp;</p>

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The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The US will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained, Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts in a letter seen by Reuters.

The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The US will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained, Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts in a letter seen by Reuters. Lawyers for Donald Trump asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president on the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Also watch a report on South Asia's currency rollercoaster. Click on headlines to read the full report: US approves sending F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US officials. Donald Trump requests April 2026 trial date for election interference trial Lawyers for Donald Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president. The trial will be on the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Maui's emergency management agency chief resigns amid criticism Maui County Emergency Management chief Herman Andaya, on Thursday (August 17), resigned from his position, after being denounced by locals over the island's response to the deadly wildfires that tore through the Hawaiian town of Lahaina and claimed the lives of at least 111 people. China's Evergrande files for bankruptcy in New York amidst ongoing crisis China's Evergrande Group officially filed for bankruptcy in New York on Thursday. The company which was once China's second-largest property developer in terms of sales has been facing substantial borrowing and debt defaults since 2021. This triggered an ongoing property crisis within China. South Asia's currency rollercoaster: Pakistan's rupee in freefall South Asia's local currencies have had a roller coaster ride for the last couple of years. This story gives a report about the Indian rupee, Pakistani rupee, Sri Lankan rupee and Bangladeshi taka. ×

Morning news brief: F-16 jets to Ukraine, Trump requests 2026 trial date, and more

<p>Lawyers for Donald Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A filing showed that Trump requested US District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, DC, to reject the proposal of Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, who brought the subversion allegations.</p>

<p>Judge Chutkan is set to decide the trial date on August 28.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hillary-clinton-felt-great-profound-sadness-over-donald-trumps-multiple-legal-woes-625922">Hillary Clinton feels 'great profound sadness' over Donald Trump's multiple indictments</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Smith is pushing for a January 2 start date in the case, one of four criminal prosecutions that Trump is facing. But the trial might impact his election presidential campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by US media outlets, Trumps said that he "seeks a trial calendar more rapid than most no-document misdemeanours, requesting just four months from the beginning of discovery to jury selection."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The government's objective is clear: to deny President Trump and his counsel a fair ability to prepare for trial. The Court should deny the government's request," Trump's lawyers wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-indicted-over-2020-election-interference-in-georgia-625533">Donald Trump indicted over 2020 election interference in Georgia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"The public interest lies in justice and fair trial, not a rush to judgment," the ex-president's lawyers said and also argued the amount of documents in the case would require months to process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They said: "Assuming we could begin reviewing the documents today, we would need to proceed at a pace of 99,762 pages per day to finish the government's initial production by its proposed date for jury selection."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That is the entirety of Tolstoy's War and Peace, cover to cover, 78 times a day, every day, from now until jury selection," the filling added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US court limits access to abortion pills: Biden administration to appeal against ruling&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What did Smith say?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Smith has asked for a January start to&nbsp;the trial. He previously said in a court filing that the "government's proposed (January 2) trial date represents an appropriate balance of the defendant's right to prepare a defence and the public's strong interest in a speedy trial in the case."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case is the most serious of four criminal investigations that have led to dozens of felony charges against Trump, including accusations that he attempted to circumvent campaign finance laws by concealing payments to a porn star.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government also accuses Trump of mishandling dozens of classified documents he took from the White House as he left office, including military plans and nuclear secrets, and plotting with his staff to hide them from investigators.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Lawyers for Donald Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.

Lawyers for Donald Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges that he allegedly attempted to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. A filing showed that Trump requested US District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, DC, to reject the proposal of Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, who brought the subversion allegations. Judge Chutkan is set to decide the trial date on August 28. Also read: Hillary Clinton feels 'great profound sadness' over Donald Trump's multiple indictments Smith is pushing for a January 2 start date in the case, one of four criminal prosecutions that Trump is facing. But the trial might impact his election presidential campaign. As quoted by US media outlets, Trumps said that he "seeks a trial calendar more rapid than most no-document misdemeanours, requesting just four months from the beginning of discovery to jury selection." "The government's objective is clear: to deny President Trump and his counsel a fair ability to prepare for trial. The Court should deny the government's request," Trump's lawyers wrote. Also read: Donald Trump indicted over 2020 election interference in Georgia "The public interest lies in justice and fair trial, not a rush to judgment," the ex-president's lawyers said and also argued the amount of documents in the case would require months to process. They said: "Assuming we could begin reviewing the documents today, we would need to proceed at a pace of 99,762 pages per day to finish the government's initial production by its proposed date for jury selection." "That is the entirety of Tolstoy's War and Peace, cover to cover, 78 times a day, every day, from now until jury selection," the filling added. Watch: US court limits access to abortion pills: Biden administration to appeal against ruling × What did Smith say? Smith has asked for a January start to the trial. He previously said in a court filing that the "government's proposed (January 2) trial date represents an appropriate balance of the defendant's right to prepare a defence and the public's strong interest in a speedy trial in the case." The case is the most serious of four criminal investigations that have led to dozens of felony charges against Trump, including accusations that he attempted to circumvent campaign finance laws by concealing payments to a porn star. The government also accuses Trump of mishandling dozens of classified documents he took from the White House as he left office, including military plans and nuclear secrets, and plotting with his staff to hide them from investigators. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump requests April 2026 date for 2020 election interference trial

<p>The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US official who apparently confirmed it on Thursday (August 17). According to the report, it will happen as soon as pilot training is completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained, Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts in letters seen by the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark and the Netherlands had recently asked for those assurances. The US&nbsp;must approve the transfer of military jets from its allies to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joseph-schulte-the-first-ukraine-ship-to-challenge-russias-black-sea-blockade-reaches-istanbul-626548">Joseph Schulte, the first Ukraine ship to challenge Russia's Black Sea blockade reaches Istanbul</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In the letter, Blinken told the officials: "I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken said, "It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty."</p>

<p>He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security</a>'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia calls it a 'nuclear' threat</strong></h2>

<p>During the course of the war, Ukraine has actively sought US-made F-16 fighter jets to help it counter Russian air superiority. But Russia says that the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow will regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Russian foreign ministry quoted Lavrov as saying, "We will regard the very fact that the Ukrainian armed forces have such systems as a threat from the West in the nuclear sphere."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Netherlands and Denmark plan to train Ukrainian pilots on using US-made aircraft as part of an 11-nation coalition. Denmark's defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen had earlier said that the training would start in his country in August.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US official who apparently confirmed it on Thursday (August 17).

The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US official who apparently confirmed it on Thursday (August 17). According to the report, it will happen as soon as pilot training is completed. The US will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained, Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts in letters seen by the news agency. Denmark and the Netherlands had recently asked for those assurances. The US must approve the transfer of military jets from its allies to Ukraine. Also read: Joseph Schulte, the first Ukraine ship to challenge Russia's Black Sea blockade reaches Istanbul In the letter, Blinken told the officials: "I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors." Blinken said, "It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty." He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training." Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Russia calls it a 'nuclear' threat During the course of the war, Ukraine has actively sought US-made F-16 fighter jets to help it counter Russian air superiority. But Russia says that the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration. Last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow will regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons. Watch this report: × Russian foreign ministry quoted Lavrov as saying, "We will regard the very fact that the Ukrainian armed forces have such systems as a threat from the West in the nuclear sphere." The Netherlands and Denmark plan to train Ukrainian pilots on using US-made aircraft as part of an 11-nation coalition. Denmark's defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen had earlier said that the training would start in his country in August. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US approves sending F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands

<p>Chinese academics have called for renaming Tibet to Xizang in order to refer to the autonomous region in English to help "reconstruct" its image, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region is widely recognised as Tibet worldwide and the name is used in media reports globally as well. Though changing the narrative could be challenging for China, the appeal came during an official conference on Tibet held in Beijing from Monday to Wednesday. The details of the conference were mentioned in a WeChat account managed by the United Front Work Department (UFWD), the SCMP report added.</p>

<p>UFWD is an agency in charge of overseeing matters pertaining to ethnic and minority groups. It is a department of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) tasked with "united front work".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-evergrande-files-for-bankruptcy-in-new-york-amidst-ongoing-crisis-626550">China's Evergrande files for bankruptcy in New York amidst ongoing crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted, Wang Linping, who is a professor at Harbin Engineering University's College of Marxism, said: "To establish China's dominant position in the international discourse related to Tibet, there is an urgent need for an English translation of 'Tibet' that can accurately describe China's position."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to him, the use of the name Tibet had "seriously misled the international community" over the "geographical scope" of the region. Wang also suggested using the name Xizang for Tibet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research stated that "Tibet" is used outside of China to refer to regions in the provinces of Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, and Yunnan as well as Tibet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said, "This overlaps greatly with the so-called Greater Tibet long advocated by the 14th Dalai Lama."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-congresswoman-ilhan-omars-controversial-visit-to-pok-sponsored-by-islamabad-626645">US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's controversial visit to PoK sponsored by Islamabad</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>India's stance on Tibet</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>As quoted by local media reports, former Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane (retd) said on Wednesday (August 16) that Tibetans from all over the world have a right to return to the land of their forefathers. Naravane said that the Tibetans must experience their culture and traditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Over the decades, China has fully occupied Tibet and made territorial and administrative changes that would transform the identity and culture of Tibetans."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gen. Naravane continued by claiming that the most recent white paper issued by China asserts that Tibet has been a part of China from antiquity, or from the 7th century AD onwards, which is "incorrect and an attempt to rewrite history".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;<br />
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Chinese academics have called for renaming Tibet to Xizang in order to refer to the autonomous region in English to help "reconstruct" its image, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Chinese academics have called for renaming Tibet to Xizang in order to refer to the autonomous region in English to help "reconstruct" its image, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. The region is widely recognised as Tibet worldwide and the name is used in media reports globally as well. Though changing the narrative could be challenging for China, the appeal came during an official conference on Tibet held in Beijing from Monday to Wednesday. The details of the conference were mentioned in a WeChat account managed by the United Front Work Department (UFWD), the SCMP report added. UFWD is an agency in charge of overseeing matters pertaining to ethnic and minority groups. It is a department of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) tasked with "united front work". Also read: China's Evergrande files for bankruptcy in New York amidst ongoing crisis As quoted, Wang Linping, who is a professor at Harbin Engineering University's College of Marxism, said: "To establish China's dominant position in the international discourse related to Tibet, there is an urgent need for an English translation of 'Tibet' that can accurately describe China's position." According to him, the use of the name Tibet had "seriously misled the international community" over the "geographical scope" of the region. Wang also suggested using the name Xizang for Tibet. The research stated that "Tibet" is used outside of China to refer to regions in the provinces of Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, and Yunnan as well as Tibet. The report said, "This overlaps greatly with the so-called Greater Tibet long advocated by the 14th Dalai Lama." Also read: US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's controversial visit to PoK sponsored by Islamabad Watch this report: × India's stance on Tibet As quoted by local media reports, former Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane (retd) said on Wednesday (August 16) that Tibetans from all over the world have a right to return to the land of their forefathers. Naravane said that the Tibetans must experience their culture and traditions. He said, "Over the decades, China has fully occupied Tibet and made territorial and administrative changes that would transform the identity and culture of Tibetans." Gen. Naravane continued by claiming that the most recent white paper issued by China asserts that Tibet has been a part of China from antiquity, or from the 7th century AD onwards, which is "incorrect and an attempt to rewrite history". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese academics call for renaming Tibet as Xizang for ‘reconstructing’ image

<p>Archaeologists have shared details after examining a young Mediaeval girl's remains. The girl was reportedly buried face down with her ankles potentially tied together. It was excavated between 2016 and 2018, but remains have now been studied.</p>

<p>The experts believe her ankles may have been tied together and she was buried face down in an effort to prevent "returning from the grave".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) said the skeletal remains were found in a pit at an Early Medieval settlement near the southeastern English village of Conington in the county of Cambridgeshire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/grave-of-vampire-child-with-padlocked-ankle-unearthed-in-poland-624702">Grave of 'vampire child' with padlocked ankle unearthed in Poland</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a statement released Monday (August 14), Don Walker, a senior human osteologist (bone specialist) at MOLA, said: "We will probably never know exactly how this young woman was viewed by the community she grew up in, but the way she was buried tells us she was almost certainly seen as different."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Her burial rites may have reflected the nature of her death, or her social identity or that of her family," Walker added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the official statement, the evidence suggests that the girl experienced many hardships during her short life. Her unusual grave sheds light on a rare early medieval burial practice, which is perhaps even contemporary attitudes towards those within the community who were considered "different".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Walker also said that the burial provides an interesting opportunity, which is tragic in so many senses, to view the realities of life, and death, for those seen as outsiders in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japan-scientists-developing-drug-to-regrow-teeth-trials-to-begin-in-july-2024-624592">Scientists developing drug to regrow teeth, trials to begin in July 2024</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Even though the kingdoms of England were Christian by the ninth century, burial in graveyards connected to churches wasn't the custom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although there were no defined burial customs in early mediaeval England, one element of funerals during this time was that the deceased was placed face up. This young woman stands out as unique since she was found face-down in a pit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The analysis also revealed that she could have faced malnutrition and also had a spinal joint disease, which was made worse by carrying out hard manual labour from a young age. All of this indicates that she was of low social status.&nbsp;</p>

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Archaeologists have shared details after examining a young Mediaeval girl's remains. The girl was reportedly buried face down with her ankles potentially tied together.

Archaeologists have shared details after examining a young Mediaeval girl's remains. The girl was reportedly buried face down with her ankles potentially tied together. It was excavated between 2016 and 2018, but remains have now been studied. The experts believe her ankles may have been tied together and she was buried face down in an effort to prevent "returning from the grave". The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) said the skeletal remains were found in a pit at an Early Medieval settlement near the southeastern English village of Conington in the county of Cambridgeshire. Also read: Grave of 'vampire child' with padlocked ankle unearthed in Poland In a statement released Monday (August 14), Don Walker, a senior human osteologist (bone specialist) at MOLA, said: "We will probably never know exactly how this young woman was viewed by the community she grew up in, but the way she was buried tells us she was almost certainly seen as different." "Her burial rites may have reflected the nature of her death, or her social identity or that of her family," Walker added. As per the official statement, the evidence suggests that the girl experienced many hardships during her short life. Her unusual grave sheds light on a rare early medieval burial practice, which is perhaps even contemporary attitudes towards those within the community who were considered "different". Walker also said that the burial provides an interesting opportunity, which is tragic in so many senses, to view the realities of life, and death, for those seen as outsiders in the past. Also read: Scientists developing drug to regrow teeth, trials to begin in July 2024 Even though the kingdoms of England were Christian by the ninth century, burial in graveyards connected to churches wasn't the custom. Although there were no defined burial customs in early mediaeval England, one element of funerals during this time was that the deceased was placed face up. This young woman stands out as unique since she was found face-down in a pit. The analysis also revealed that she could have faced malnutrition and also had a spinal joint disease, which was made worse by carrying out hard manual labour from a young age. All of this indicates that she was of low social status. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Unusual burial of this Medieval girl suggests she was 'different' in the community

Maui wildfires: 8 key points about Hawaii's deadliest disaster

Wildfires on Hawaii's Maui have killed more than 100 people.

Tens of thousands of residents and tourists have evacuated the island.

The fires started the night of August 8 and wreaked widespread destruction in Lahaina. 

The fire destroyed or damaged more than 2,200 buildings, 86% of them residential.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates it will cost $5.5 billion to rebuild the town.


The Maui blaze is the deadliest US wildfire since 1918 when northern Minnesota's Cloquet Fire claimed 453 lives.

Hawaii wildfires also constitute the most lethal disaster to hit the islands since a tsunami that killed 61 people in 1960.

The cause of the fires has not yet been determined, but some reports suggest that power lines likely caused Maui's first reported fire.

<p>Satellite imagery taken by the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (August 12)&nbsp;shows the island of Maui in Hawaii four days after flames started.&nbsp;The picture was taken as the space-based laboratory orbited over the Pacific Ocean at a height of around 417 kilometres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Search and rescue work&nbsp;is&nbsp;still underway in Hawaii following deadly wildfires that ravaged the Maui resort town of Lahaina last week. More than one hundred people died and thousands have lost their homes and properties in the catastrophic fires.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-tenerife-battles-out-of-control-wildfire-as-it-spreads-across-islands-626236">Spain's Tenerife battles 'out of control' wildfire as it spreads across island's north</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Josh Green, the state governor, said that "101 lives have now been lost". He added that over a quarter of the disaster zone has been searched, with dogs trained to look for bodies combing the ashes of what was once Lahaina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Green also cautioned Hawaiians that the final count from the tragedy will be significantly higher, urging Hawaiians to gird for a number that could be two or three times its present level.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-402000-acre-wildfire-threatens-canadas-yellowknife-authorities-sound-the-alarm-626228">Massive 402,000 acre wildfire threatens Canada's Yellowknife, authorities sound the alarm</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Biden to visit Hawaii next week</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the White House said Wednesday that President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden will visit Hawaii next week after the deadliest US wildfire in over a century killed more than 100 people there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The press release mentioned that Biden and the first lady will "meet with first responders, survivors, as well as federal, state, and local officials" on Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President continues to marshal a whole-of-government response to the deadly Maui fires, and he has committed to delivering everything that the people of Hawaii need from the federal government as they recover from this disaster," the statement continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Satellite imagery taken by the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (August 12) shows the island of Maui in Hawaii four days after flames started. The picture was taken as the space-based laboratory orbited over the Pacific Ocean at a height of around 417 kilometres.

Satellite imagery taken by the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (August 12) shows the island of Maui in Hawaii four days after flames started. The picture was taken as the space-based laboratory orbited over the Pacific Ocean at a height of around 417 kilometres. Search and rescue work is still underway in Hawaii following deadly wildfires that ravaged the Maui resort town of Lahaina last week. More than one hundred people died and thousands have lost their homes and properties in the catastrophic fires. Also read: Spain's Tenerife battles 'out of control' wildfire as it spreads across island's north Josh Green, the state governor, said that "101 lives have now been lost". He added that over a quarter of the disaster zone has been searched, with dogs trained to look for bodies combing the ashes of what was once Lahaina. Green also cautioned Hawaiians that the final count from the tragedy will be significantly higher, urging Hawaiians to gird for a number that could be two or three times its present level. View this post on Instagram A post shared by International Space Station (@iss) × Also read: Massive 402,000 acre wildfire threatens Canada's Yellowknife, authorities sound the alarm Biden to visit Hawaii next week Meanwhile, the White House said Wednesday that President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden will visit Hawaii next week after the deadliest US wildfire in over a century killed more than 100 people there. The press release mentioned that Biden and the first lady will "meet with first responders, survivors, as well as federal, state, and local officials" on Maui. "The President continues to marshal a whole-of-government response to the deadly Maui fires, and he has committed to delivering everything that the people of Hawaii need from the federal government as they recover from this disaster," the statement continued. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A picture taken from space shows just how massive the Hawaii wildfires are

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said.</p>

<p>Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ukrainian-captives-claim-they-were-brutally-tortured-by-russia-626049">Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russian strike on Ukrainian ports</strong></h2>

<p>After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US working to identify alternatives</strong></h2>

<p>The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs. Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea." "The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added. Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa. "The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said. Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat. However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply. Also read: Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia × Russian strike on Ukrainian ports After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River. In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight. He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once." US working to identify alternatives The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports. "The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky hails first cargo ship in Black Sea since end of grain deal

<p>On Tenerife, one of the Spanish Canary Islands, a forest fire started on Wednesday (August 16). As quoted by news agencies, the officials said that around 250 firefighters are battling the wildfire that is raging "out of control" and has forced road closures and the evacuation of five villages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a mountainous area, the fire is largely confined, but firefighters are battling to stop it from spreading to surrounding populated areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But concerns have been raised because the fire is spreading. Spain's highest peak, the Mount Teide volcano, is nearby, but entry has been made difficult by the fire's perimeter, which has grown to 22 kilometres across dry woodland covering both flanks of steep ravines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-402000-acre-wildfire-threatens-canadas-yellowknife-authorities-sound-the-alarm-626228">Massive 402,000 acre wildfire threatens Canada's Yellowknife, authorities sound the alarm</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Local media reported that around 150 people have been evacuated so far from half a dozen villages in the sparsely populated area in the island's northeast, made up mostly of farms and holiday homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media also reported that Tenerife's two airports were operating normally.</p>

<p>Fernando Clavijo, who is the region's leader, told an evening news conference in Tenerife's capital, Santa Cruz: "The fire is out of control... the outlook is not positive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our goal for tonight is defensive so that the fire does not continue its advance. We will carry out operations to protect residents' property," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 14 aircraft and a combined 250 firefighters and military personnel were deployed by the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IFArafoCandelaria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IFArafoCandelaria</a> has brutal long borders. Have not yet heard about its actual size, the government has other challenges as this right now on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tenerife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tenerife</a> <a href="https://t.co/mUQs4PdPQC">pic.twitter.com/mUQs4PdPQC</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Some scary scenes coming out of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain as an out-of-control wildfire continues to grow. The fire is now exhibiting extreme fire behaviour due to very dry conditions. A mandatory evacuation is in effect for villages threatened by the wildfire. <a href="https://t.co/fE6pW0TXzm">pic.twitter.com/fE6pW0TXzm</a></p>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1691854919265911212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/maui-these-highly-trained-dogs-are-on-mission-to-find-wildfire-victims-626124">These highly-trained dogs are on mission to find wildfire victims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A Reuters report mentioned that a waterbombing seaplane arrived on Wednesday afternoon from the mainland and two others were expected on Thursday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vicky Palma, a wildfire adviser to the Tenerife council, told Canarias Radio that the expected drop in temperatures at night to around 20 degree&nbsp;Celsius would likely increase the strength of winds in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, the island's emergency services chief Pedro Martinez said: "We don't rule out that tomorrow we'll again see intense fire activity".</p>

<p>Rosa Davila, who is the head of the Tenerife council, said all access to the mountains on the island has been closed off. "We are doing this to prevent any incidents," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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On Tenerife, one of the Spanish Canary Islands, a forest fire started on Wednesday (August 16). As quoted by news agencies, the officials said that around 250 firefighters are battling the wildfire that is raging "out of control" and has forced road closures and the evacuation of five villages.

On Tenerife, one of the Spanish Canary Islands, a forest fire started on Wednesday (August 16). As quoted by news agencies, the officials said that around 250 firefighters are battling the wildfire that is raging "out of control" and has forced road closures and the evacuation of five villages. In a mountainous area, the fire is largely confined, but firefighters are battling to stop it from spreading to surrounding populated areas. But concerns have been raised because the fire is spreading. Spain's highest peak, the Mount Teide volcano, is nearby, but entry has been made difficult by the fire's perimeter, which has grown to 22 kilometres across dry woodland covering both flanks of steep ravines. Also read: Massive 402,000 acre wildfire threatens Canada's Yellowknife, authorities sound the alarm Local media reported that around 150 people have been evacuated so far from half a dozen villages in the sparsely populated area in the island's northeast, made up mostly of farms and holiday homes. Media also reported that Tenerife's two airports were operating normally. Fernando Clavijo, who is the region's leader, told an evening news conference in Tenerife's capital, Santa Cruz: "The fire is out of control... the outlook is not positive." "Our goal for tonight is defensive so that the fire does not continue its advance. We will carry out operations to protect residents' property," he added. At least 14 aircraft and a combined 250 firefighters and military personnel were deployed by the authorities. #IFArafoCandelaria has brutal long borders. Have not yet heard about its actual size, the government has other challenges as this right now on #Tenerife pic.twitter.com/mUQs4PdPQC — Roger (@efadi_LP) August 16, 2023 × Some scary scenes coming out of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain as an out-of-control wildfire continues to grow. The fire is now exhibiting extreme fire behaviour due to very dry conditions. A mandatory evacuation is in effect for villages threatened by the wildfire. pic.twitter.com/fE6pW0TXzm — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) August 16, 2023 × Also read: These highly-trained dogs are on mission to find wildfire victims A Reuters report mentioned that a waterbombing seaplane arrived on Wednesday afternoon from the mainland and two others were expected on Thursday morning. Vicky Palma, a wildfire adviser to the Tenerife council, told Canarias Radio that the expected drop in temperatures at night to around 20 degree Celsius would likely increase the strength of winds in the area. As quoted by news agencies, the island's emergency services chief Pedro Martinez said: "We don't rule out that tomorrow we'll again see intense fire activity". Rosa Davila, who is the head of the Tenerife council, said all access to the mountains on the island has been closed off. "We are doing this to prevent any incidents," she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's Tenerife battles 'out of control' wildfire as it spreads across island's north

<p>The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days. With the announcement of the ban, NYC has joined a number of US cities and states that have put such restrictions on the short video-sharing app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after a review by the NYC Cyber Command, in which a city official found TikTok, used by more than 150 million Americans, posed a security threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TikTok is owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance and has faced growing calls from US lawmakers for a nationwide ban over concerns about possible Chinese government influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-recreate-pink-floyds-song-from-brainwaves-to-unlock-speech-musicality-for-neurological-patients-626028">Scientists recreate Pink Floyd's song by listening to brainwaves of people; feat to help cure patients</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>City personnel are not permitted to download or use the app or access the TikTok website from any city-owned devices as of right now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement that TikTok "posed a security threat to the city's technical networks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Employees will no longer have access to the app and its website on city-owned devices and networks if the app is not removed by New York City agencies within the given period of time. On mobile devices provided by the state, TikTok was already prohibited in New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-suggests-brains-of-teenage-smokers-may-be-different-from-non-smokers-626125">Study suggests brains of teenage smokers may be different from non-smokers</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, TikTok said it "has not shared, and would not share, US&nbsp;user data with the Chinese government, and has taken substantial measures to protect the privacy and security of TikTok users."&nbsp;</p>

<p>New York City Hall spokesperson told The Verge in a statement on Wednesday: "While social media is great at connecting New Yorkers with one another and the city, we have to ensure we are always using these platforms in a secure manner" and "NYC Cyber Command regularly explores and advances proactive measures to keep New Yorkers' data safe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days.

The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days. With the announcement of the ban, NYC has joined a number of US cities and states that have put such restrictions on the short video-sharing app. This comes after a review by the NYC Cyber Command, in which a city official found TikTok, used by more than 150 million Americans, posed a security threat. TikTok is owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance and has faced growing calls from US lawmakers for a nationwide ban over concerns about possible Chinese government influence. Also read: Scientists recreate Pink Floyd's song by listening to brainwaves of people; feat to help cure patients City personnel are not permitted to download or use the app or access the TikTok website from any city-owned devices as of right now. The administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement that TikTok "posed a security threat to the city's technical networks." Employees will no longer have access to the app and its website on city-owned devices and networks if the app is not removed by New York City agencies within the given period of time. On mobile devices provided by the state, TikTok was already prohibited in New York. Also Read: Study suggests brains of teenage smokers may be different from non-smokers As quoted by news agencies, TikTok said it "has not shared, and would not share, US user data with the Chinese government, and has taken substantial measures to protect the privacy and security of TikTok users." New York City Hall spokesperson told The Verge in a statement on Wednesday: "While social media is great at connecting New Yorkers with one another and the city, we have to ensure we are always using these platforms in a secure manner" and "NYC Cyber Command regularly explores and advances proactive measures to keep New Yorkers' data safe". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns

<p>The United States President Joe Biden and the increasing incidence of his gaffes are quite common. Recently, he mistakenly referred to the Grand Canyon as one of the "nine" wonders of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But now, he is facing criticism for forgetting the name of Maui, which has been destroyed because of the Hawaii wildfires, which have killed more than 100 people while the toll is expected to go up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by The New York Post mentioned that on Tuesday Biden finally spoke out about the deadly wildfires in Hawaii, but he seemed to forget the name of Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He apparently also said that while he typically prefers to keep his talks brief, he would make an exception in this case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hawaii-wildfire-international-space-station-shares-image-taken-from-space-626273">A picture taken from space shows just how massive the Hawaii wildfires are</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by NYP, he said, "I apologise because I try very hard to keep my speeches between 15 and 18 minutes, but I got to talk a little bit about Hawaii."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He began by highlighting the actions taken by the US government to control the wildfire situation in Hawaii, noting that he had given the victims federal help, including a $700 one-time award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The amount has also been slammed by online users as many people have said on social media platforms that the Biden administration is willing to provide Ukraine with millions of dollars, but not to Hawaii.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, he got confused with Hawaii, known as the Big Island, and Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "The Army helicopters helped fire suppression efforts on the Big Island because there's still some burning on the Big Island — not the one that, not the one where you see on television all the time."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Bidens to visit the crisis-hit region&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Biden and his wife Jill Biden will visit Hawaii next week, the White House said Wednesday (August 16).&nbsp;</p>

<p>A White House press release read: Biden and the first lady on Monday will "meet with first responders, survivors, as well as federal, state, and local officials" on Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The United States President Joe Biden and the increasing incidence of his gaffes are quite common. Recently, he mistakenly referred to the Grand Canyon as one of the "nine" wonders of the world.

The United States President Joe Biden and the increasing incidence of his gaffes are quite common. Recently, he mistakenly referred to the Grand Canyon as one of the "nine" wonders of the world. But now, he is facing criticism for forgetting the name of Maui, which has been destroyed because of the Hawaii wildfires, which have killed more than 100 people while the toll is expected to go up. A report by The New York Post mentioned that on Tuesday Biden finally spoke out about the deadly wildfires in Hawaii, but he seemed to forget the name of Maui. He apparently also said that while he typically prefers to keep his talks brief, he would make an exception in this case. Also read: A picture taken from space shows just how massive the Hawaii wildfires are As quoted by NYP, he said, "I apologise because I try very hard to keep my speeches between 15 and 18 minutes, but I got to talk a little bit about Hawaii." He began by highlighting the actions taken by the US government to control the wildfire situation in Hawaii, noting that he had given the victims federal help, including a $700 one-time award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The amount has also been slammed by online users as many people have said on social media platforms that the Biden administration is willing to provide Ukraine with millions of dollars, but not to Hawaii. As per the report, he got confused with Hawaii, known as the Big Island, and Maui. He said: "The Army helicopters helped fire suppression efforts on the Big Island because there's still some burning on the Big Island — not the one that, not the one where you see on television all the time." Bidens to visit the crisis-hit region Biden and his wife Jill Biden will visit Hawaii next week, the White House said Wednesday (August 16). A White House press release read: Biden and the first lady on Monday will "meet with first responders, survivors, as well as federal, state, and local officials" on Maui. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did Joe Biden forget 'Maui' during his address on catastrophic Hawaii wildfires?

<p>Indonesian President Joko Widodo has been struggling&nbsp;with cough for several weeks, which could be because of the worsening air pollution in the city. This came just a few days after the Swiss company IQAir released data showing that Jakarta's air quality had deteriorated in recent weeks. It has apparently become the worst in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a parliamentary meeting between ministers in Jakarta, Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, told reporters on Monday: "President Joko Widodo has asked that there be concrete steps (to tackle air pollution) within one week."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has been coughing for almost four weeks and said he has never felt this way," Uno added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hawaii-wildfire-international-space-station-shares-image-taken-from-space-626273">A picture taken from space shows just how massive the Hawaii wildfires are</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A report by CNN cited Uno as saying that physicians were still determining the source of Widodo's cough but added that it might be connected to the deteriorating air quality.</p>

<p>The CNN report also mentioned that Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that Widodo was battling a cough.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sadikin also said that his ministry was increasing tests in the general public to determine whether lung and respiratory illnesses like asthma had become more prevalent in extremely polluted locations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-tenerife-battles-out-of-control-wildfire-as-it-spreads-across-islands-626236">Spain's Tenerife battles 'out of control' wildfire as it spreads across island's north</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Last week on Friday, the Indonesian authorities blamed the city's traffic-clogged pollution spike on weather patterns and vehicle emissions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Jakarta and its surroundings, the airborne concentration of tiny particles known as PM2.5 has outpaced other heavily polluted cities such as Riyadh, Doha and Lahore of late. The mentioned region has about 30 million people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Activists have blamed groups of factories and coal-fired power plants in the vicinity of the city for the high amounts of poisonous haze. Greenpeace Indonesia said that there are 10 such facilities within a 100-kilometre radius.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Indonesian President Joko Widodo has been struggling with cough for several weeks, which could be because of the worsening air pollution in the city. This came just a few days after the Swiss company IQAir released data showing that Jakarta's air quality had deteriorated in recent weeks.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo has been struggling with cough for several weeks, which could be because of the worsening air pollution in the city. This came just a few days after the Swiss company IQAir released data showing that Jakarta's air quality had deteriorated in recent weeks. It has apparently become the worst in the world. After a parliamentary meeting between ministers in Jakarta, Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, told reporters on Monday: "President Joko Widodo has asked that there be concrete steps (to tackle air pollution) within one week." "He has been coughing for almost four weeks and said he has never felt this way," Uno added. Also read: A picture taken from space shows just how massive the Hawaii wildfires are A report by CNN cited Uno as saying that physicians were still determining the source of Widodo's cough but added that it might be connected to the deteriorating air quality. The CNN report also mentioned that Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that Widodo was battling a cough. Sadikin also said that his ministry was increasing tests in the general public to determine whether lung and respiratory illnesses like asthma had become more prevalent in extremely polluted locations. Also read: Spain's Tenerife battles 'out of control' wildfire as it spreads across island's north Last week on Friday, the Indonesian authorities blamed the city's traffic-clogged pollution spike on weather patterns and vehicle emissions. In Jakarta and its surroundings, the airborne concentration of tiny particles known as PM2.5 has outpaced other heavily polluted cities such as Riyadh, Doha and Lahore of late. The mentioned region has about 30 million people. Activists have blamed groups of factories and coal-fired power plants in the vicinity of the city for the high amounts of poisonous haze. Greenpeace Indonesia said that there are 10 such facilities within a 100-kilometre radius. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indonesian president's struggle with cough highlights Jakarta's severe air pollution crisis

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