<p>The Biden administration on Thursday (February 23) nominated former Mastercard chief executive Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. The announcement comes amid the ongoing push for development lenders to revamp and address global problems more effectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banga's nomination&nbsp;after World Bank's chief David Malpass announced plans to step down early, is the first step of the long confirmation process before the Bank's board takes the final decision. The process is set to run until March 29.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If his name gets the nod from the World Bank Board of Directors, Banga would be the first-ever Indian-American and Sikh-American to head either of the two top international financial institutions: the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>World Bank previously said that it has started accepting candidate nominations and it would "strongly" encourage women candidates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/janet-yellen-calls-for-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-as-g20-finance-chiefs-gather-in-india-565184">Janet Yellen calls for fresh sanctions on Russia as G20 finance chiefs gather in India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The World Bank president is traditionally an American citizen chosen by the US. Also, it is not clear so far if any other countries besides America will nominate a candidate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden said in a statement that Ajay Banga is "uniquely equipped to lead the World Bank at this critical moment in history" and also added that Banga has a "critical experience mobilizing public-private resources to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time, including climate change".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has spent more than three decades building and managing successful, global companies that create jobs and bring investment to developing economies, and guiding organisations through periods of fundamental change," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">US President Biden nominates Indian American Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. White House: <a href="https://t.co/RquesgxPpP">https://t.co/RquesgxPpP</a> <a href="https://t.co/XsiWUAxqLE">pic.twitter.com/XsiWUAxqLE</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1628776204655562752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Who is Ajay Banga?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The 63-year-old Banga is the current Vice Chairman at General Atlantic. Previously, he was President and CEO of Mastercard, leading the company through a strategic, technological and cultural transformation. He was conferred with India's fourth-highest civilian award, Padma Shri, in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banga was raised in India and attended schools across the nation in cities like Secunderabad, Jalandhar, Delhi, and Ahmedabad. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Economics from St Stephen's College, Delhi University. He then pursued PGP in Management from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>Banga started his business career with Nestlé in 1981. He then spent the next 13 years working in jobs spanning sales, marketing, and general management.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House states that over the course of his career, Banga has become a global leader in technology, data, financial services and innovating for inclusion.</p>

<p>He is the honorary chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce, serving as chairman from 2020-2022. He is also chairman of Exor and independent director at Temasek. He became an adviser to General Atlantic's climate-focused fund, BeyondNetZero, at its inception in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The Biden administration on Thursday (February 23) nominated former Mastercard chief executive Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. The announcement comes amid the ongoing push for development lenders to revamp and address global problems more effectively.

The Biden administration on Thursday (February 23) nominated former Mastercard chief executive Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. The announcement comes amid the ongoing push for development lenders to revamp and address global problems more effectively. Banga's nomination after World Bank's chief David Malpass announced plans to step down early, is the first step of the long confirmation process before the Bank's board takes the final decision. The process is set to run until March 29. If his name gets the nod from the World Bank Board of Directors, Banga would be the first-ever Indian-American and Sikh-American to head either of the two top international financial institutions: the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. World Bank previously said that it has started accepting candidate nominations and it would "strongly" encourage women candidates. ALSO READ | Janet Yellen calls for fresh sanctions on Russia as G20 finance chiefs gather in India The World Bank president is traditionally an American citizen chosen by the US. Also, it is not clear so far if any other countries besides America will nominate a candidate. US President Joe Biden said in a statement that Ajay Banga is "uniquely equipped to lead the World Bank at this critical moment in history" and also added that Banga has a "critical experience mobilizing public-private resources to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time, including climate change". "He has spent more than three decades building and managing successful, global companies that create jobs and bring investment to developing economies, and guiding organisations through periods of fundamental change," Biden said. US President Biden nominates Indian American Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. White House: https://t.co/RquesgxPpP pic.twitter.com/XsiWUAxqLE — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 23, 2023 × Who is Ajay Banga? The 63-year-old Banga is the current Vice Chairman at General Atlantic. Previously, he was President and CEO of Mastercard, leading the company through a strategic, technological and cultural transformation. He was conferred with India's fourth-highest civilian award, Padma Shri, in 2016. Banga was raised in India and attended schools across the nation in cities like Secunderabad, Jalandhar, Delhi, and Ahmedabad. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Economics from St Stephen's College, Delhi University. He then pursued PGP in Management from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. Banga started his business career with Nestlé in 1981. He then spent the next 13 years working in jobs spanning sales, marketing, and general management. The White House states that over the course of his career, Banga has become a global leader in technology, data, financial services and innovating for inclusion. He is the honorary chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce, serving as chairman from 2020-2022. He is also chairman of Exor and independent director at Temasek. He became an adviser to General Atlantic's climate-focused fund, BeyondNetZero, at its inception in 2021. (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 President Joe Biden nominates Indian-American Ajay Banga to head World Bank

A metal sphere washed up on the shore of Enshu beach in Hamamatsu. The object had been sealed off as officials were examining it.

Mysterious metal sphere washes up on Japan beach

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Flights grounded as massive storm hits US heartland

<p>A senior White House aide confirmed that the United States notified Russia ahead of President Joe Biden's "risky" <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-bloc-foreign-ministers-to-meet-hold-discussion-on-eu-wide-joint-arms-plan-563864">surprise visit to Ukraine</a></strong> on Monday to avoid any miscalculation that could have brought the two nuclear-armed nations into direct conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden left Kyiv after meeting his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and spending a few hours in the capital. He promised America's unwavering support to the war-torn nation and promised increased arms deliveries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Biden has left Kyiv," the report said, wrapping up Biden's lightning visit to Kyiv ahead of the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of the pro-Western country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, who accompanied the president on the trip, told reporters: "We did notify the Russians that President Biden will be travelling to Kyiv. We did so some hours before his departure for deconfliction purposes."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/biden-in-ukraine-a-perfect-photo-op-but-why-now-is-it-too-little-too-late-563977">Biden in Ukraine: A perfect photo-op, but why now? Is it too little, too late?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Sullivan added that due to the sensitive nature of the communications, he won't reveal how Russia responded or what the "precise nature" of the message sent by the US was.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Extending his pre-planned visit to Poland, Biden made an extraordinary first visit to the country since Russian troops invaded on February 24, 2022, and as a president, this was his first visit to a war zone. Experts have noted that there were risks involved and the visit was organised in conditions of strict secrecy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-johnson-to-macron-to-albanese-a-look-at-ukraines-wartime-visitors-494191">Russia-Ukraine war: From Joe Biden to Emmanuel Macron - a look at significant war-time visitors</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Other American presidents have visited war zones such as his recent predecessors, Donald Trump, Barack Obama and George W Bush, who made surprise visits to Afghanistan and Iraq during their presidencies. They met with US troops and leaders of those countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House staff said they cannot yet reveal details&nbsp;of how Biden got to the embattled Ukrainian capital. Communications director Kate Bedingfield said:&nbsp;"We are holding back on some of those mode of transportation details and other specific logistical details until the trip is fully complete."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sullivan said the trip "required a security operational and logistical effort from professionals across the US government to take what was an inherently risky undertaking and make it a manageable level of risk."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Of course, there was still risk and is still risk in an endeavour like this and President Biden felt that it was important to make this trip."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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A senior White House aide confirmed that the United States notified Russia ahead of President Joe Biden's "risky" surprise visit to Ukraine on Monday to avoid any miscalculation that could have brought the two nuclear-armed nations into direct conflict.

A senior White House aide confirmed that the United States notified Russia ahead of President Joe Biden's "risky" surprise visit to Ukraine on Monday to avoid any miscalculation that could have brought the two nuclear-armed nations into direct conflict. Biden left Kyiv after meeting his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and spending a few hours in the capital. He promised America's unwavering support to the war-torn nation and promised increased arms deliveries. "President Biden has left Kyiv," the report said, wrapping up Biden's lightning visit to Kyiv ahead of the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of the pro-Western country. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, who accompanied the president on the trip, told reporters: "We did notify the Russians that President Biden will be travelling to Kyiv. We did so some hours before his departure for deconfliction purposes." ALSO READ | Biden in Ukraine: A perfect photo-op, but why now? Is it too little, too late? Sullivan added that due to the sensitive nature of the communications, he won't reveal how Russia responded or what the "precise nature" of the message sent by the US was. Extending his pre-planned visit to Poland, Biden made an extraordinary first visit to the country since Russian troops invaded on February 24, 2022, and as a president, this was his first visit to a war zone. Experts have noted that there were risks involved and the visit was organised in conditions of strict secrecy. Watch this report: × IN PICS | Russia-Ukraine war: From Joe Biden to Emmanuel Macron - a look at significant war-time visitors Other American presidents have visited war zones such as his recent predecessors, Donald Trump, Barack Obama and George W Bush, who made surprise visits to Afghanistan and Iraq during their presidencies. They met with US troops and leaders of those countries. White House staff said they cannot yet reveal details of how Biden got to the embattled Ukrainian capital. Communications director Kate Bedingfield said: "We are holding back on some of those mode of transportation details and other specific logistical details until the trip is fully complete." Sullivan said the trip "required a security operational and logistical effort from professionals across the US government to take what was an inherently risky undertaking and make it a manageable level of risk." He added, "Of course, there was still risk and is still risk in an endeavour like this and President Biden felt that it was important to make this trip." (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 notified Russia in advance about Joe Biden's Ukraine visit to avoid direct conflict

<p>The US recently accused China of spying using a balloon, which was spotted in the American airspace and later shot down by fighter jets on President Joe Biden's orders. China called America's response "hysterical" and denied the claims by saying that it was a "civilian airship" meant for research purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US also claimed that China has been spying on dozens of other nations, including India and Japan. Although China keeps denying it, several reports suggest that Beijing might have.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January 2022, an unidentified object was reportedly seen hovering over Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, according to reports. The sphere-shaped, white-coloured object, had caused panic as it was seen in a region which has an Indian Navy base.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The object was reported to have antennas and it looked uncannily similar to the one shot down by the US. Last year's reports have resurfaced after the recent balloon saga, which escalated tensions between the US and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the reports were barely noticed by the mainstream media and just a few local outlets published it. And the issue died down without any official response. Some reports even said that there was confusion over whether it was a stratospheric balloon used for data collection for weather patterns, or if it was something else.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media outlet Andaman Sheekha reported that there was mixed opinion after the balloon was spotted. Some suspected it to be a weather balloon, but some raised suspicion over the object as it had "eight dark panels", which were attached to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>The strategic importance of the region</strong></h2>

<p>If the object was actually meant for spying, then it hovered over a region which is strategically important to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian forces conduct regular drills in the region to counter the rising Chinese influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the region, India also has the Andaman and Nicobar Command, which is the first and only tri-service theatre command of the Indian Armed Forces, based at Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The command has assets of the Navy, the Air force and the Army, which are working together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the military, India also keeps a close watch on all the activities in the region in regard to the trade route as China is eyeing most trade channels, which cut through the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just days ahead of the time the object was reported to be seen over the islands in 2022, a joint exercise involving the three forces was carried out, at the end of December 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Was the so-called spy balloon linked to the Indian military exercises? Was it there to collect data on military exercises?</p>

<p>There is no definitive answer unless the Indian government releases an official statement on it. But so far, there's none.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Airborne Exercise to validate Rapid Response Capability of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShatrujeetBrigade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShatrujeetBrigade</a> was carried out during Multi-Domain Tri-Service Exercise which is under progress at the strategically important Nicobar group of islands of Andaman and Nicobar.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongAndCapable?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongAndCapable</a> <a href="https://t.co/TZ0428NNv0">pic.twitter.com/TZ0428NNv0</a></p>
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The US recently accused China of spying using a balloon, which was spotted in the American airspace and later shot down by fighter jets on President Joe Biden's orders.

The US recently accused China of spying using a balloon, which was spotted in the American airspace and later shot down by fighter jets on President Joe Biden's orders. China called America's response "hysterical" and denied the claims by saying that it was a "civilian airship" meant for research purposes. The US also claimed that China has been spying on dozens of other nations, including India and Japan. Although China keeps denying it, several reports suggest that Beijing might have. In January 2022, an unidentified object was reportedly seen hovering over Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, according to reports. The sphere-shaped, white-coloured object, had caused panic as it was seen in a region which has an Indian Navy base. The object was reported to have antennas and it looked uncannily similar to the one shot down by the US. Last year's reports have resurfaced after the recent balloon saga, which escalated tensions between the US and China. However, the reports were barely noticed by the mainstream media and just a few local outlets published it. And the issue died down without any official response. Some reports even said that there was confusion over whether it was a stratospheric balloon used for data collection for weather patterns, or if it was something else. Local media outlet Andaman Sheekha reported that there was mixed opinion after the balloon was spotted. Some suspected it to be a weather balloon, but some raised suspicion over the object as it had "eight dark panels", which were attached to it. Watch this report: × The strategic importance of the region If the object was actually meant for spying, then it hovered over a region which is strategically important to India. Indian forces conduct regular drills in the region to counter the rising Chinese influence. In the region, India also has the Andaman and Nicobar Command, which is the first and only tri-service theatre command of the Indian Armed Forces, based at Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The command has assets of the Navy, the Air force and the Army, which are working together. Apart from the military, India also keeps a close watch on all the activities in the region in regard to the trade route as China is eyeing most trade channels, which cut through the region. Just days ahead of the time the object was reported to be seen over the islands in 2022, a joint exercise involving the three forces was carried out, at the end of December 2021. Was the so-called spy balloon linked to the Indian military exercises? Was it there to collect data on military exercises? There is no definitive answer unless the Indian government releases an official statement on it. But so far, there's none. Airborne Exercise to validate Rapid Response Capability of #ShatrujeetBrigade was carried out during Multi-Domain Tri-Service Exercise which is under progress at the strategically important Nicobar group of islands of Andaman and Nicobar.#IndianArmy#StrongAndCapable pic.twitter.com/TZ0428NNv0 — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 22, 2021 × 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 China spy on the Andaman & Nicobar Islands with a mysterious 'sphere-shaped object'?

<p>Experts were previously wrong when they mistook an ancient object for a textile tool, which apparently was something else. They believed that the object found at a Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall was used for sewing but now new theories have emerged, suggesting that the object may have been a second-century sex toy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study published in the journal Antiquity on Sunday, researchers unearthed the object in 1992 in a ditch at the Roman Fort of Vindolanda, near Hadrian’s Wall. The region was once marked the Roman Empire’s northwest frontier, in northern England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The object was found alongside dozens of shoes and dress accessories. Several small tools and craft waste products were also found such as leather off-cuts and worked antler — probably the reason behind the misidentification.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest theory of this phallus-shaped tool being a sex toy is quite intriguing but the experts said they had not ruled out whether it could have been a good luck symbol or a grinding tool.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-us-claims-of-china-on-brink-of-supplying-arms-to-russia-false-563861">Beijing says US claims of China on brink of supplying arms to Russia 'false'</a></strong></p>

<p>But now, the researchers at Newcastle University and University College Dublin researchers have reinterpreted the artefact as a disembodied phallus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They have examined it closely and have outlined some of its most likely possible functions. The report mentioned that the Vindolanda phallus is 16cm long. Both ends were quite smoother, which indicated that it was repeatedly used over time.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Carved wooden phallus found at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Roman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Roman</a> fort was possible sex toy - 2,000-year-old object uncovered at Vindolanda in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Northumberland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Northumberland</a> in 1992 has been reassessed by archaeologists.<br />
<a href="https://t.co/A9qATAj70y">https://t.co/A9qATAj70y</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RomanBritain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RomanBritain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HadriansWall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HadriansWall</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RomanArchaeology?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RomanArchaeology</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Archaeology?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Archaeology</a> <a href="https://t.co/u4VWqYq7rE">pic.twitter.com/u4VWqYq7rE</a></p>
— Roman Britain News (@Roman_Britain) <a href="https://twitter.com/Roman_Britain/status/1627559229413367811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pegging: the Roman way<br />
A roman sex toy from 2000 years ago <a href="https://t.co/wqXH8zzNlu">pic.twitter.com/wqXH8zzNlu</a></p>
— Stevie 🍁❤️🌈♀ 😷💉 (@Stevie_Ca) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stevie_Ca/status/1627745186594885645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Newcastle University archaeology senior lecturer Rob Collins, said, "I have to confess. Part of me thinks it’s kind of self-evident that it is a penis."</p>

<p>"I don’t know who entered it into the catalogue. Maybe it was somebody uncomfortable with it or didn’t think the Romans would do such silly things," Collins added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Collins said, "What makes this a first is that it is not a small, miniature phallus. It's lifesize. It’s also important because wood just doesn’t normally survive … we couldn’t find any parallels."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The object being used for sexual reasons is one theory, but researchers have two more reasoning. They think the object can also be used as a pestle or it could be used to slot into a statue for good luck.&nbsp;</p>

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Experts were previously wrong when they mistook an ancient object for a textile tool, which apparently was something else. They believed that the object found at a Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall was used for sewing but now new theories have emerged, suggesting that the object may have been a second-century sex toy.

Experts were previously wrong when they mistook an ancient object for a textile tool, which apparently was something else. They believed that the object found at a Roman fort on Hadrian's Wall was used for sewing but now new theories have emerged, suggesting that the object may have been a second-century sex toy. According to the study published in the journal Antiquity on Sunday, researchers unearthed the object in 1992 in a ditch at the Roman Fort of Vindolanda, near Hadrian’s Wall. The region was once marked the Roman Empire’s northwest frontier, in northern England. The object was found alongside dozens of shoes and dress accessories. Several small tools and craft waste products were also found such as leather off-cuts and worked antler — probably the reason behind the misidentification. The latest theory of this phallus-shaped tool being a sex toy is quite intriguing but the experts said they had not ruled out whether it could have been a good luck symbol or a grinding tool. ALSO READ | Beijing says US claims of China on brink of supplying arms to Russia 'false' But now, the researchers at Newcastle University and University College Dublin researchers have reinterpreted the artefact as a disembodied phallus. They have examined it closely and have outlined some of its most likely possible functions. The report mentioned that the Vindolanda phallus is 16cm long. Both ends were quite smoother, which indicated that it was repeatedly used over time. Carved wooden phallus found at #Roman fort was possible sex toy - 2,000-year-old object uncovered at Vindolanda in #Northumberland in 1992 has been reassessed by archaeologists. https://t.co/A9qATAj70y#RomanBritain #HadriansWall #RomanArchaeology #Archaeology pic.twitter.com/u4VWqYq7rE — Roman Britain News (@Roman_Britain) February 20, 2023 × Pegging: the Roman way A roman sex toy from 2000 years ago pic.twitter.com/wqXH8zzNlu — Stevie 🍁❤️🌈♀ 😷💉 (@Stevie_Ca) February 20, 2023 × Newcastle University archaeology senior lecturer Rob Collins, said, "I have to confess. Part of me thinks it’s kind of self-evident that it is a penis." "I don’t know who entered it into the catalogue. Maybe it was somebody uncomfortable with it or didn’t think the Romans would do such silly things," Collins added. Collins said, "What makes this a first is that it is not a small, miniature phallus. It's lifesize. It’s also important because wood just doesn’t normally survive … we couldn’t find any parallels." The object being used for sexual reasons is one theory, but researchers have two more reasoning. They think the object can also be used as a pestle or it could be used to slot into a statue for good luck. 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.

What was once thought to be a textile tool may be a 2,000-year-old Roman 'sex toy'

<p>The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, was granted protective bail&nbsp;by Lahore High Court (LHS) on Monday amid rumours that he was likely to be arrested in a case linked to violent protests outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). The case was registered against him in Islamabad. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With hundreds of his supporters being assembled outside the Court, shouting and chanting slogans, Khan reached the Court for a hearing earlier in the day. For security reasons, a large contingent of police personnel was deployed at the main gate of the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A court official told PTI news agency that a two-member bench led by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi granted the protective bail to the PTI chairman till March 3.</p>

<p>The official said, "Khan appeared before the court and told him that he wanted to appear before it last week but doctors had advised him to rest as his leg wound would heal in over two weeks. He also said he always respected the courts as he is an upholder of justice. He said 'justice' is also included in his party's name."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court had given him a last chance to appear before it by 5:00pm (local time) in the election commission protest case. He reached the court after hours-long delay because of the massive gathering outside the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year when 70-year-old Khan was disqualified by the election commission in the prohibited funding case last year, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists staged a violent protest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan's counsel had requested the court to allow his client to represent through the court staff as they claimed that the PTI chief was facing difficulty in entering the court due to security reasons and the presence of party workers in large numbers.</p>

<p>However, media reports noted that the request was denied and the court ordered the security in charge of the LHC to present the PTI chief before the bench.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry addressed the party workers. He said, "Those who are running a campaign against the judiciary are not being summoned by the courts but Imran Khan was summoned despite security threats and medical reasons."&nbsp;</p>

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The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, was granted protective bail by Lahore High Court (LHS) on Monday amid rumours that he was likely to be arrested in a case linked to violent protests outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, was granted protective bail by Lahore High Court (LHS) on Monday amid rumours that he was likely to be arrested in a case linked to violent protests outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). The case was registered against him in Islamabad. With hundreds of his supporters being assembled outside the Court, shouting and chanting slogans, Khan reached the Court for a hearing earlier in the day. For security reasons, a large contingent of police personnel was deployed at the main gate of the court. A court official told PTI news agency that a two-member bench led by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi granted the protective bail to the PTI chairman till March 3. The official said, "Khan appeared before the court and told him that he wanted to appear before it last week but doctors had advised him to rest as his leg wound would heal in over two weeks. He also said he always respected the courts as he is an upholder of justice. He said 'justice' is also included in his party's name." The court had given him a last chance to appear before it by 5:00pm (local time) in the election commission protest case. He reached the court after hours-long delay because of the massive gathering outside the court. Last year when 70-year-old Khan was disqualified by the election commission in the prohibited funding case last year, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists staged a violent protest. Khan's counsel had requested the court to allow his client to represent through the court staff as they claimed that the PTI chief was facing difficulty in entering the court due to security reasons and the presence of party workers in large numbers. However, media reports noted that the request was denied and the court ordered the security in charge of the LHC to present the PTI chief before the bench. Earlier in the day, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry addressed the party workers. He said, "Those who are running a campaign against the judiciary are not being summoned by the courts but Imran Khan was summoned despite security threats and medical reasons." 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.

Former Pak PM Imran Khan gets protective bail from Lahore High Court in one case

<p>A woman from Assam's Guwahati allegedly killed her husband and mother-in-law and stored the body parts in a freezer, and later disposed them in a river, India-based news agencies reported on Monday (February 20) citing sources. The preliminary details of the case are similar to the horrific cases of Nikki Yadav's alleged murder by her boyfriend and last year's Aaftab Poonawalla and Shraddha Walkar case. Police have not issued an official statement on the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports mentioned that the incident took place in Guwahati's Noonmati area, around seven months ago. However, it came to light only on Monday after the accused reportedly confessed to the crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior police officer said that the accused, identified as Bandana Kalita, has confessed that she killed her husband Amarjyoti Dey and mother-in-law Shankari Dey on August 17, 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guwahati police commissioner Diganta Barah said, "Investigation into the case started after Bandana Kalita filed a missing persons report in Noonmati police station on August 29, that her husband and mother-in-law were missing. Following this, police took all required steps, but failed to secure any leads on both persons."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports mentioned Kalita (32) was a gym instructor and her mother-in-law Shankari Dey was a retired government employee. Her husband was unemployed. The motive behind the crime is not known yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports also mentioned that two of her friends, Arup Deka and Dhanjit Deka, had helped her. They have been arrested for allegedly being involved in the murder and being interrogated by police officers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, the officer said, "Following the murders, Kalita stored the victims' body parts in a refrigerator and left the house."</p>

<p>"She returned four days later, on August 21, and disposed of the body pieces into Meghalaya's Dawki River, which is at a distance of at least 200 km from Guwahati," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kalita's neighbours confirmed that they saw her burning furniture on the terrace of her house, said the police sources.&nbsp;</p>

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A woman from Assam's Guwahati allegedly killed her husband and mother-in-law and stored the body parts in a freezer, and later disposed them in a river, India-based news agencies reported on Monday (February 20) citing sources.

A woman from Assam's Guwahati allegedly killed her husband and mother-in-law and stored the body parts in a freezer, and later disposed them in a river, India-based news agencies reported on Monday (February 20) citing sources. The preliminary details of the case are similar to the horrific cases of Nikki Yadav's alleged murder by her boyfriend and last year's Aaftab Poonawalla and Shraddha Walkar case. Police have not issued an official statement on the incident. Reports mentioned that the incident took place in Guwahati's Noonmati area, around seven months ago. However, it came to light only on Monday after the accused reportedly confessed to the crime. A senior police officer said that the accused, identified as Bandana Kalita, has confessed that she killed her husband Amarjyoti Dey and mother-in-law Shankari Dey on August 17, 2022. Guwahati police commissioner Diganta Barah said, "Investigation into the case started after Bandana Kalita filed a missing persons report in Noonmati police station on August 29, that her husband and mother-in-law were missing. Following this, police took all required steps, but failed to secure any leads on both persons." Media reports mentioned Kalita (32) was a gym instructor and her mother-in-law Shankari Dey was a retired government employee. Her husband was unemployed. The motive behind the crime is not known yet. Reports also mentioned that two of her friends, Arup Deka and Dhanjit Deka, had helped her. They have been arrested for allegedly being involved in the murder and being interrogated by police officers. As quoted by news agencies, the officer said, "Following the murders, Kalita stored the victims' body parts in a refrigerator and left the house." "She returned four days later, on August 21, and disposed of the body pieces into Meghalaya's Dawki River, which is at a distance of at least 200 km from Guwahati," the official added. Kalita's neighbours confirmed that they saw her burning furniture on the terrace of her house, said the police sources. 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.

Indian woman kills husband and mother-in-law, stores body parts in freezer: Report

<p>A former White House physician slammed&nbsp;the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 80-year-old was declared "fit for duty" by his doctor earlier this week. It was the final annual medical check-up before he is expected to declare he's running for re-election in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden's physician, Kevin O'Connor, said in a letter published by the White House, "President Biden remains a healthy, vigorous, 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency, to include those of as Chief Executive, Head of State and Commander in Chief."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>But Jackson told US-based Fox News that the report was nothing but a "cover-up". As per the report, Biden remains "fit for duty" and can fully execute all of his responsibilities without any "exemptions or accommodations".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted Jackson said, "The majority of Americans can see that Biden's mental health is in total decline, yet there is no transparency from the White House on what’s going on, if anything, to address this issue and his inability to do his job."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;China and its growing alliances: Is China uniting all of US' foes?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He said that the written physical exam report released by Biden's physician apparently confirms that this administration is still adamant about "concealing the truth". He said that the report doesn't mention Biden's "deteriorating mental health".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "This is alarming, considering I have already sent three letters to the White House demanding that Biden receive a cognitive test and that the results be made public, all of which have been ignored. Everyone can see something is wrong — the cover-up needs to end."&nbsp;</p>

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A former White House physician slammed the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president.

A former White House physician slammed the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president. The 80-year-old was declared "fit for duty" by his doctor earlier this week. It was the final annual medical check-up before he is expected to declare he's running for re-election in 2024. Biden's physician, Kevin O'Connor, said in a letter published by the White House, "President Biden remains a healthy, vigorous, 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency, to include those of as Chief Executive, Head of State and Commander in Chief." ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate But Jackson told US-based Fox News that the report was nothing but a "cover-up". As per the report, Biden remains "fit for duty" and can fully execute all of his responsibilities without any "exemptions or accommodations". As quoted Jackson said, "The majority of Americans can see that Biden's mental health is in total decline, yet there is no transparency from the White House on what’s going on, if anything, to address this issue and his inability to do his job." WATCH | China and its growing alliances: Is China uniting all of US' foes? × He said that the written physical exam report released by Biden's physician apparently confirms that this administration is still adamant about "concealing the truth". He said that the report doesn't mention Biden's "deteriorating mental health". He said, "This is alarming, considering I have already sent three letters to the White House demanding that Biden receive a cognitive test and that the results be made public, all of which have been ignored. Everyone can see something is wrong — the cover-up needs to end." 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.

'This cover-up needs to end': Former White House doctor slams Joe Biden's health report

Russia-Ukraine war: From Joe Biden to Emmanuel Macron - a look at significant war-time visitors

<p>United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken alleged on Sunday (February 19) that China is on the brink of sending "lethal support" to Russia for the <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/russia-ukraine-crisis">ongoing Ukraine war</a></strong>. Blinken further warned Beijing that any supplies of arms and ammunition would "cause a serious problem".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The West and analysts speculate that Russia might run out of weapons for the Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. The West raised concerns over nations like China, Iran and North Korea that might supply weapons to Moscow to overcome the shortage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In an interview on ABC, Blinken said that China was "considering providing lethal support" ranging "from ammunition to the weapons themselves."</p>

<p>The interview appeared after Blinken met top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi at the Munich Security Conference and warned him of the consequences if China considers providing material support to Russia's invasion&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Fighting continues in Ukraine's Northeast as war set to enter second year</strong></p>

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<p>US-China relations are going through a tumultuous phase in the aftermath of the Chinese balloon saga which was spotted in the US airspace and was shot down by US fighter jets. But China claimed it was a civilian airship used for research purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid escalating tensions, the top diplomats of the two superpowers met at an undisclosed location on the sidelines of a global security conference in Munich.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken said, "One of the things that I shared with him (Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi) was a growing concern on our part, that China is considering providing lethal support to Russia in its aggression against Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-news-channel-suspends-anchor-for-running-planted-stories-at-behest-of-israeli-disinformation-unit-563603">French news channel suspends anchor for running planted stories at behest of Israeli disinformation unit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"And I made clear, as President Biden has almost from day one with President Xi, that that would have serious consequences in our own relationship," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken also mentioned that US President Joe Biden had warned his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, as long ago as last March against sending weapons to Russia.</p>

<p>According to an administration source familiar with the issue, since that time, "China has been careful not to cross that line, including by holding off on selling lethal weapons systems for use on the battlefield".&nbsp;</p>

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken alleged on Sunday (February 19) that China is on the brink of sending "lethal support" to Russia for the ongoing Ukraine war.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken alleged on Sunday (February 19) that China is on the brink of sending "lethal support" to Russia for the ongoing Ukraine war. Blinken further warned Beijing that any supplies of arms and ammunition would "cause a serious problem". The West and analysts speculate that Russia might run out of weapons for the Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. The West raised concerns over nations like China, Iran and North Korea that might supply weapons to Moscow to overcome the shortage. ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate In an interview on ABC, Blinken said that China was "considering providing lethal support" ranging "from ammunition to the weapons themselves." The interview appeared after Blinken met top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi at the Munich Security Conference and warned him of the consequences if China considers providing material support to Russia's invasion WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Fighting continues in Ukraine's Northeast as war set to enter second year × US-China relations are going through a tumultuous phase in the aftermath of the Chinese balloon saga which was spotted in the US airspace and was shot down by US fighter jets. But China claimed it was a civilian airship used for research purposes. Amid escalating tensions, the top diplomats of the two superpowers met at an undisclosed location on the sidelines of a global security conference in Munich. Blinken said, "One of the things that I shared with him (Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi) was a growing concern on our part, that China is considering providing lethal support to Russia in its aggression against Ukraine." ALSO READ | French news channel suspends anchor for running planted stories at behest of Israeli disinformation unit "And I made clear, as President Biden has almost from day one with President Xi, that that would have serious consequences in our own relationship," he added. Blinken also mentioned that US President Joe Biden had warned his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, as long ago as last March against sending weapons to Russia. According to an administration source familiar with the issue, since that time, "China has been careful not to cross that line, including by holding off on selling lethal weapons systems for use on the battlefield". 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. 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.

China planning to send 'lethal support' to Russia for the Ukraine war, claims Blinken

<p>United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited earthquake-hit Turkey on Sunday (February 19) and pledged an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid to the nation. Blinken toured Turkey's southeastern regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 45,000 people died after massive earthquakes hit Turkey and the northern part of Syria earlier this month. Survivors are in a dire state and in urgent need of humanitarian aid in the aftermath of a 7.8-magnitude tremor and subsequent aftershocks amid freezing conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-claims-plans-to-send-lethal-support-to-russia-for-the-ukraine-war-563737">Antony Blinken claims plans to send 'lethal support' to Russia for the Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>With this visit, the US is showing support for the NATO ally, which has had tumultuous ties with Washington. This is Blinken's first visit to Turkey since he took office more than two years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "We're here to stand with the people in Turkey and Syria in the wake of this devastating earthquake. I just had a chance to fly over today to see some of the devastations and it's really hard to put into words."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Death toll climbs 46,000; survivors struggle to rebuild lives&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Blinken added, "We've had tens of thousands of deaths, tens of millions of people affected by this quake. And of course, we still don't know the full extent of it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While mentioning the relief, he said that the US had about $85 billion worth of assistance poured in immediately for housing, water and food and medicine and clothing earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken further announced that America will be bringing in another $100 million to assist those who are so desperately in need.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also mentioned that the US is determined to do everything possible to help the people of Turkey and Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "We'll do everything we can, including making sure, for example, that there is absolutely no doubt that whatever sanctions exist on Syria do not affect the provision of humanitarian assistance."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have mentioned that Blinken's agenda during his visit to Turkey will be the stalled NATO bids of Sweden and Finland, which Turkey has so far refused to ratify. However, recent remarks by Turkish officials suggest that Ankara would approve only Finland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited earthquake-hit Turkey on Sunday (February 19) and pledged an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid to the nation.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited earthquake-hit Turkey on Sunday (February 19) and pledged an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid to the nation. Blinken toured Turkey's southeastern regions. More than 45,000 people died after massive earthquakes hit Turkey and the northern part of Syria earlier this month. Survivors are in a dire state and in urgent need of humanitarian aid in the aftermath of a 7.8-magnitude tremor and subsequent aftershocks amid freezing conditions. ALSO READ | Antony Blinken claims plans to send 'lethal support' to Russia for the Ukraine war With this visit, the US is showing support for the NATO ally, which has had tumultuous ties with Washington. This is Blinken's first visit to Turkey since he took office more than two years ago. He said, "We're here to stand with the people in Turkey and Syria in the wake of this devastating earthquake. I just had a chance to fly over today to see some of the devastations and it's really hard to put into words." WATCH | Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Death toll climbs 46,000; survivors struggle to rebuild lives × Blinken added, "We've had tens of thousands of deaths, tens of millions of people affected by this quake. And of course, we still don't know the full extent of it." While mentioning the relief, he said that the US had about $85 billion worth of assistance poured in immediately for housing, water and food and medicine and clothing earlier. Blinken further announced that America will be bringing in another $100 million to assist those who are so desperately in need. He also mentioned that the US is determined to do everything possible to help the people of Turkey and Syria. He said, "We'll do everything we can, including making sure, for example, that there is absolutely no doubt that whatever sanctions exist on Syria do not affect the provision of humanitarian assistance." Media reports have mentioned that Blinken's agenda during his visit to Turkey will be the stalled NATO bids of Sweden and Finland, which Turkey has so far refused to ratify. However, recent remarks by Turkish officials suggest that Ankara would approve only Finland. (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.

Antony Blinken arrives in Turkey, pledges $100 million more in earthquake aid

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