Eating two servings of avocados a week was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study.

The study was published in 'Journal of the American Heart Association'.

Avocados contain dietary fibre, unsaturated fats especially monounsaturated fat (healthy fats) and other favourable components that have been associated with good cardiovascular health. Clinical trials have previously found avocados have a positive impact on cardiovascular risk factors including high cholesterol.

Researchers have believed this is the first, large, prospective study to support the positive association between higher avocado consumption and lower cardiovascular events, such as coronary heart disease and stroke.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-staying-active-travelling-can-help-people-cope-with-anxiety-depression-says-study-465151">Staying active, travelling can help people cope with anxiety, depression, says study</a>

"Our study provides further evidence that the intake of plant-sourced unsaturated fats can improve diet quality and is an important component in cardiovascular disease prevention," said Lorena S. Pacheco, PhD, M.P.H., R.D.N., lead author of the study and a postdoctoral research fellow in the nutrition department at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston.

"These are particularly notable findings since the consumption of avocados has risen steeply in the U.S. in the last 20 years, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture," she added.

For 30 years, researchers followed more than 68,780 women (ages 30 to 55 years) from the Nurses 'Health Study and more than 41,700 men (ages 40 to 75 years) from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. All study participants were free of cancer, coronary heart disease and stroke at the start of the study and living in the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Hidden immunity: Study gives clues on how some escape Covid-19 infection

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Researchers documented 9,185 coronary heart disease events and 5,290 strokes during more than 30 years of follow-up. Researchers assessed participants'&nbsp;diet using food frequency questionnaires given at the beginning of the study and then every four years. They calculated avocado intake from a questionnaire item that asked about the amount consumed and frequency. One serving equalled half of an avocado or a half cup of avocado.

The analysis found:

1. After considering a wide range of cardiovascular risk factors and overall diet, study participants who ate at least two servings of avocado each week had a 16 per cent lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21 per cent lower risk of coronary heart disease, compared to those who never or rarely ate avocados.

2. Based on statistical modelling, replacing half a serving daily of margarine, butter, egg, yoghurt, cheese or processed meats such as bacon with the same amount of avocado was associated with a 16 per cent to 22 per cent lower risk of cardiovascular disease events.

3. Substituting half a serving a day of avocado for the equivalent amount of olive oil, nuts and other plant oils showed no additional benefit.

4. No significant associations were noted in relation to stroke risk and how much avocado was eaten.

"The study's results have provided additional guidance for health care professionals to share. Offering the suggestion to replace certain spreads and saturated fat-containing foods, such as cheese and processed meats, with avocado is something physicians and other health care practitioners such as registered dietitians can do when they meet with patients, especially since avocado is a well-accepted food," Pacheco said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-probably-just-hormones-womens-illnesses-going-undiagnosed-460442">'Probably just hormones': Women's illnesses going undiagnosed</a>

"These findings are significant because a healthy dietary pattern is a cornerstone for cardiovascular health, however, it can be difficult for many Americans to achieve and adhere to healthy eating patterns," said Cheryl Anderson, PhD, M.P.H., FAHA, chair of the American Heart Association's Council on Epidemiology and Prevention.

"We desperately need strategies to improve intake of AHA-recommended healthy diets -- such as the Mediterranean diet -- that is rich in vegetables and fruits," said Anderson, who is a professor and dean of the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science at University of California San Diego.

"Although no one food is the solution to routinely eating a healthy diet, this study is evidence that avocados have possible health benefits. This is promising because it is a food item that is popular, accessible, desirable and easy to include in meals eaten by many Americans at home and in restaurants," Cheryl concluded.

Eating two servings of avocados a week was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study. The study was published in 'Journal of the American Heart Association'.

Eating two servings of avocados a week was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study. The study was published in 'Journal of the American Heart Association'. Avocados contain dietary fibre, unsaturated fats especially monounsaturated fat (healthy fats) and other favourable components that have been associated with good cardiovascular health. Clinical trials have previously found avocados have a positive impact on cardiovascular risk factors including high cholesterol. Researchers have believed this is the first, large, prospective study to support the positive association between higher avocado consumption and lower cardiovascular events, such as coronary heart disease and stroke. Also read | Staying active, travelling can help people cope with anxiety, depression, says study "Our study provides further evidence that the intake of plant-sourced unsaturated fats can improve diet quality and is an important component in cardiovascular disease prevention," said Lorena S. Pacheco, PhD, M.P.H., R.D.N., lead author of the study and a postdoctoral research fellow in the nutrition department at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. "These are particularly notable findings since the consumption of avocados has risen steeply in the U.S. in the last 20 years, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture," she added. For 30 years, researchers followed more than 68,780 women (ages 30 to 55 years) from the Nurses 'Health Study and more than 41,700 men (ages 40 to 75 years) from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. All study participants were free of cancer, coronary heart disease and stroke at the start of the study and living in the United States. Watch | Hidden immunity: Study gives clues on how some escape Covid-19 infection Researchers documented 9,185 coronary heart disease events and 5,290 strokes during more than 30 years of follow-up. Researchers assessed participants' diet using food frequency questionnaires given at the beginning of the study and then every four years. They calculated avocado intake from a questionnaire item that asked about the amount consumed and frequency. One serving equalled half of an avocado or a half cup of avocado. The analysis found: 1. After considering a wide range of cardiovascular risk factors and overall diet, study participants who ate at least two servings of avocado each week had a 16 per cent lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21 per cent lower risk of coronary heart disease, compared to those who never or rarely ate avocados. 2. Based on statistical modelling, replacing half a serving daily of margarine, butter, egg, yoghurt, cheese or processed meats such as bacon with the same amount of avocado was associated with a 16 per cent to 22 per cent lower risk of cardiovascular disease events. 3. Substituting half a serving a day of avocado for the equivalent amount of olive oil, nuts and other plant oils showed no additional benefit. 4. No significant associations were noted in relation to stroke risk and how much avocado was eaten. "The study's results have provided additional guidance for health care professionals to share. Offering the suggestion to replace certain spreads and saturated fat-containing foods, such as cheese and processed meats, with avocado is something physicians and other health care practitioners such as registered dietitians can do when they meet with patients, especially since avocado is a well-accepted food," Pacheco said. Also read | 'Probably just hormones': Women's illnesses going undiagnosed "These findings are significant because a healthy dietary pattern is a cornerstone for cardiovascular health, however, it can be difficult for many Americans to achieve and adhere to healthy eating patterns," said Cheryl Anderson, PhD, M.P.H., FAHA, chair of the American Heart Association's Council on Epidemiology and Prevention. "We desperately need strategies to improve intake of AHA-recommended healthy diets -- such as the Mediterranean diet -- that is rich in vegetables and fruits," said Anderson, who is a professor and dean of the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science at University of California San Diego. "Although no one food is the solution to routinely eating a healthy diet, this study is evidence that avocados have possible health benefits. This is promising because it is a food item that is popular, accessible, desirable and easy to include in meals eaten by many Americans at home and in restaurants," Cheryl concluded.

Avocados may lower risk of cardiovascular disease, study finds

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, during a televised address to the nation, called for fresh elections after the national assembly of the country was dissolved and a no-confidence motion against Khan was blocked on Sunday (April 3).&nbsp;

Dissolution of the national assembly means fresh elections must be held in the country within three months. Pakistan's State Minister for Information Farrukh Habib said that fresh elections in Pakistan will be held in 90 days.&nbsp;

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Habib made the announcement, although a final decision will come from the president of Pakistan and the election commission.&nbsp;

OPINION&nbsp; | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/new-polls-interim-govt-or-army-rule-pm-imran-khan-plunges-pakistan-into-constitutional-crisis-467929">New polls, interim govt, or Army rule? PM Imran Khan plunges Pakistan into constitutional crisis</a>

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New elections will be held in 90 days
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On the day it was expected that PM Khan will be ousted from power, the country's assembly deputy speaker refused to accept a motion of no confidence in the government, which was presented by the opposition.&nbsp;

Minutes after the no-confidence motion was rejected, Khan addressed the nation and reiterated that there had been "foreign interference" in Pakistan's democratic institutions.&nbsp;

Calling for a "democratic" way to resolve the crisis, Khan said, "I have sent advice to the president to dissolve the assemblies. We will go to the public and hold elections, and let the nation decide."&nbsp;

OPINION |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/im-the-dim-how-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-turned-out-to-be-a-terrible-caricature-of-the-champion-cricketer-467848">&nbsp;'Im the dim': How Pakistan PM Imran Khan turned out to be a terrible caricature of the champion cricketer</a>

WATCH |&nbsp;From political to a constitutional crisis: Political slugfest in Pakistan peaks

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On the other hand, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, head of the opposition Pakistan People's Party, told reporters, "We are also moving to the Supreme Court today."&nbsp;

Shehbaz Sharif, who is tipped to replace Imran Khan, referred to the parliamentary block as "nothing short of high treason". On his Twitter handle, he said, "There will be consequences for blatant and brazen violation of the Constitution."&nbsp;

It's still uncertain what will happen next but the opposition said they would petition the courts, arguing the constitution had been violated.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agency AFP, Shehbaz Sharif said, "This day will be remembered as a black day in Pakistan's constitutional history."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the country's Army has distanced itself from the political drama, clearing the air over alleged involvement in Sunday's developments.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agency Reuters, Major General Babar Iftikhar, the head of the military's public relations wing, said: "Army has nothing to do with the political process."&nbsp;

Imran Khan has been accused of failing to revive the economy and crackdown on corruption.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, during a televised address to the nation, called for fresh elections after the national assembly of the country was dissolved and a no-confidence motion against Khan was blocked on Sunday (April 3).

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, during a televised address to the nation, called for fresh elections after the national assembly of the country was dissolved and a no-confidence motion against Khan was blocked on Sunday (April 3). Dissolution of the national assembly means fresh elections must be held in the country within three months. Pakistan's State Minister for Information Farrukh Habib said that fresh elections in Pakistan will be held in 90 days. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Habib made the announcement, although a final decision will come from the president of Pakistan and the election commission. OPINION | New polls, interim govt, or Army rule? PM Imran Khan plunges Pakistan into constitutional crisis New elections will be held in 90 days — Farrukh Habib (@FarrukhHabibISF) April 3, 2022 × On the day it was expected that PM Khan will be ousted from power, the country's assembly deputy speaker refused to accept a motion of no confidence in the government, which was presented by the opposition. Minutes after the no-confidence motion was rejected, Khan addressed the nation and reiterated that there had been "foreign interference" in Pakistan's democratic institutions. Calling for a "democratic" way to resolve the crisis, Khan said, "I have sent advice to the president to dissolve the assemblies. We will go to the public and hold elections, and let the nation decide." OPINION | 'Im the dim': How Pakistan PM Imran Khan turned out to be a terrible caricature of the champion cricketer WATCH | From political to a constitutional crisis: Political slugfest in Pakistan peaks × On the other hand, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, head of the opposition Pakistan People's Party, told reporters, "We are also moving to the Supreme Court today." Shehbaz Sharif, who is tipped to replace Imran Khan, referred to the parliamentary block as "nothing short of high treason". On his Twitter handle, he said, "There will be consequences for blatant and brazen violation of the Constitution." It's still uncertain what will happen next but the opposition said they would petition the courts, arguing the constitution had been violated. As quoted by news agency AFP, Shehbaz Sharif said, "This day will be remembered as a black day in Pakistan's constitutional history." Meanwhile, the country's Army has distanced itself from the political drama, clearing the air over alleged involvement in Sunday's developments. As quoted by news agency Reuters, Major General Babar Iftikhar, the head of the military's public relations wing, said: "Army has nothing to do with the political process." Imran Khan has been accused of failing to revive the economy and crackdown on corruption. (With inputs from agencies)

Fresh elections in 90 days? What's next for Pakistan politics?

Nearly&nbsp;4.2&nbsp;million&nbsp;Ukrainians have fled their country since Russia's invasion began on February 24, with almost 40,000 pouring into neighbouring countries in the past 24 hours, UN numbers show.

The United Nations&nbsp;refugee&nbsp;agency, UNHCR, said Sunday that 4,176,401 Ukrainians had fled in just over five weeks, up 38,559 from the figure given a day earlier.

Women and children account for 90 percent of those who have left Ukraine, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irpin-bucha-gostomel-and-the-whole-kyiv-region-liberated-ukraine-467833">Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine</a>

The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that in addition to&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;refugees,&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;205,500 non-Ukrainians living, studying or working in the country have also left.&nbsp;

Nearly&nbsp;6.48&nbsp;million&nbsp;people were meanwhile estimated to be internally displaced within Ukraine as of mid-March, according IOM.

That puts the total number of people displaced by the conflict at well over 10&nbsp;million, or around a quarter of Ukraine's total population.

Before the Russian invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37&nbsp;million&nbsp;in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist regions in the east.&nbsp;

Children have been disproportionately affected.

The UN children's agency UNICEF said in late March that more than half of the country's estimated 7.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;children had been displaced -- 2.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;internally and two&nbsp;million&nbsp;abroad.

Watch |&nbsp;UN: Over 4.1 million Ukrainians have fled country and 6.83 million displaced since Russia invaded

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Here is a breakdown of how many&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR:

Poland

Nearly&nbsp;six out of 10&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;-- 2,429,265 so far -- have crossed into Poland, according to the UN tally.&nbsp;

Polish border guards put the number even higher, saying Sunday that 2,461,000 people had entered from Ukraine since February 24.&nbsp;

The small border city of Przemysl alone has seen some 800,000&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;arrive, according to its mayor, with up to 55,000 people arriving each day at the peak --&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;equivalent to the city's total population.

Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-putin-went-straight-for-the-nuclear-threat-467809">Why Putin went straight for the nuclear threat</a>

Romania

A total of 635,816 Ukrainians have entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries.&nbsp;

Moldova

The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa, which was hit by air strikes Sunday morning.&nbsp;Some 392,933 Ukrainians have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe.

Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6&nbsp;million&nbsp;people, sandwiched between Ukraine and Romania, have moved on.

But around 93,000 have stayed, with the UN Development Programme saying that some 80 percent are being housed by private individuals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mykolaivs-governor-says-at-least-35-killed-from-russian-strike-on-government-building-467790">Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building</a>

Hungary

A total of 385,783 Ukrainians have entered Hungary.&nbsp;

Russia

Some 350,632&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;had sought shelter in Russia as of last Tuesday.

In addition, 113,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 21 and 23.&nbsp;

Slovakia

A total of 298,183 people have crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia.&nbsp;

Belarus

Another 12,746&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;had made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus as of last Thursday.

Nearly 4.2 million Ukrainians have fled their country since Russia's invasion began on February 24, with almost 40,000 pouring into neighbouring countries in the past 24 hours, UN numbers show.

Nearly 4.2 million Ukrainians have fled their country since Russia's invasion began on February 24, with almost 40,000 pouring into neighbouring countries in the past 24 hours, UN numbers show. The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, said Sunday that 4,176,401 Ukrainians had fled in just over five weeks, up 38,559 from the figure given a day earlier. Women and children account for 90 percent of those who have left Ukraine, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave. Also read | Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that in addition to Ukrainian refugees, nearly 205,500 non-Ukrainians living, studying or working in the country have also left. Nearly 6.48 million people were meanwhile estimated to be internally displaced within Ukraine as of mid-March, according IOM. That puts the total number of people displaced by the conflict at well over 10 million, or around a quarter of Ukraine's total population. Before the Russian invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37 million in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist regions in the east. Children have been disproportionately affected. The UN children's agency UNICEF said in late March that more than half of the country's estimated 7.5 million children had been displaced -- 2.5 million internally and two million abroad. Watch | UN: Over 4.1 million Ukrainians have fled country and 6.83 million displaced since Russia invaded Here is a breakdown of how many Ukrainian refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR: Poland Nearly six out of 10 Ukrainian refugees -- 2,429,265 so far -- have crossed into Poland, according to the UN tally. Polish border guards put the number even higher, saying Sunday that 2,461,000 people had entered from Ukraine since February 24. The small border city of Przemysl alone has seen some 800,000 refugees arrive, according to its mayor, with up to 55,000 people arriving each day at the peak -- nearly equivalent to the city's total population. Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone. Also read | Why Putin went straight for the nuclear threat Romania A total of 635,816 Ukrainians have entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine. The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries. Moldova The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa, which was hit by air strikes Sunday morning. Some 392,933 Ukrainians have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe. Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people, sandwiched between Ukraine and Romania, have moved on. But around 93,000 have stayed, with the UN Development Programme saying that some 80 percent are being housed by private individuals. Also read | Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building Hungary A total of 385,783 Ukrainians have entered Hungary. Russia Some 350,632 refugees had sought shelter in Russia as of last Tuesday. In addition, 113,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 21 and 23. Slovakia A total of 298,183 people have crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia. Belarus Another 12,746 refugees had made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus as of last Thursday.

Russia Ukraine crisis: Nearly 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees flee war

The world's largest Muslim-majority nation of&nbsp;Indonesia&nbsp;welcomed the start of the holy fasting month of&nbsp;Ramadan&nbsp;with a&nbsp;mass&nbsp;prayer&nbsp;at Jakarta's grand mosque on Saturday, with plateauing coronavirus cases allowing for&nbsp;eased restrictions this year.

Thousands gathered after dusk at Istiqlal mosque in the&nbsp;Indonesian capital to join the Tarawih&nbsp;prayer, special&nbsp;prayers performed only during the month of&nbsp;Ramadan, donning masks and using check-in apps to take part in the event.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ukraine-conflict-creates-noodle-crisis-in-indonesia-464590">Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia</a>

For the past two years&nbsp;Indonesia&nbsp;has grappled with one of the highest rates of&nbsp;COVID-19 in Asia, but this&nbsp;Ramadan, traditionally a time of community, reflection and&nbsp;prayer, cases have&nbsp;eased enough to allow for&nbsp;mass&nbsp;gatherings.

"I feel grateful that we are finally able to gather for the Tarawih&nbsp;prayer, and there are no strict restrictions this time like before," said Tri Haryono, 28.

"I'm very grateful that we can finally pray here together."

Watch |&nbsp;A story of hope: Rare Sumatran rhino born in Indonesia

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Amid the worst spikes in the coronavirus pandemic,&nbsp;Indonesian Muslims have been prohibited from praying at the mosque, and joining the annual mudik or exodus tradition, when millions travel to visit their families across the sprawling archipelago.

President Joko Widodo announced last week that mudik would be permitted this year after pandemic-related travel bans have prevented the practise for the past two years.

"The improving covid&nbsp;situation has brought optimism as the&nbsp;Ramadan&nbsp;holy month is upon us," he told a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-cooking-oil-shortage-turns-deadly-two-killed-after-queuing-for-liquid-gold-463809">Indonesia’s cooking oil shortage turns deadly, two killed after queuing for liquid gold</a>

The start of&nbsp;Ramadan, during which observers abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset, can fall on different dates due to differences in sightings of the new moon.

This year fasting month began earlier in much of the Middle East and South Asia than in Southeast Asia, which started fasting on Sunday.

The world's largest Muslim-majority nation of Indonesia welcomed the start of the holy fasting month of Ramadan with a mass prayer at Jakarta's grand mosque on Saturday, with plateauing coronavirus cases allowing for eased restrictions this year.

The world's largest Muslim-majority nation of Indonesia welcomed the start of the holy fasting month of Ramadan with a mass prayer at Jakarta's grand mosque on Saturday, with plateauing coronavirus cases allowing for eased restrictions this year. Thousands gathered after dusk at Istiqlal mosque in the Indonesian capital to join the Tarawih prayer, special prayers performed only during the month of Ramadan, donning masks and using check-in apps to take part in the event. Also read | Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia For the past two years Indonesia has grappled with one of the highest rates of COVID-19 in Asia, but this Ramadan, traditionally a time of community, reflection and prayer, cases have eased enough to allow for mass gatherings. "I feel grateful that we are finally able to gather for the Tarawih prayer, and there are no strict restrictions this time like before," said Tri Haryono, 28. "I'm very grateful that we can finally pray here together." Watch | A story of hope: Rare Sumatran rhino born in Indonesia Amid the worst spikes in the coronavirus pandemic, Indonesian Muslims have been prohibited from praying at the mosque, and joining the annual mudik or exodus tradition, when millions travel to visit their families across the sprawling archipelago. President Joko Widodo announced last week that mudik would be permitted this year after pandemic-related travel bans have prevented the practise for the past two years. "The improving covid situation has brought optimism as the Ramadan holy month is upon us," he told a news conference. Also read | Indonesia’s cooking oil shortage turns deadly, two killed after queuing for liquid gold The start of Ramadan, during which observers abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset, can fall on different dates due to differences in sightings of the new moon. This year fasting month began earlier in much of the Middle East and South Asia than in Southeast Asia, which started fasting on Sunday.

Indonesia greets Ramadan with mass prayer as Covid curbs ease

Pope&nbsp;Francis, struggling with&nbsp;leg&nbsp;pain, on Sunday said countries should always help those trying to survive "amidst the waves of the sea" as he wrapped up a&nbsp;trip&nbsp;to one of the Mediterranean countries at the heart of Europe's migration debate.

At the start of the last day of his&nbsp;trip, Francis visited the grotto in the town of Rabat, where according to tradition, St. Paul lived for two months when he was among 75 people shipwrecked on their way to Rome in the year 60 AD. The Bible says they received unusual kindness.

"No one knew their names, their place of birth or their social status; they knew only one thing: that these were people in need of help," the&nbsp;pope&nbsp;said in a prayer in the grotto.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-pope-francis-implicitly-criticises-russian-president-vladimir-putin-for-first-time-467777">&nbsp;Ukraine invasion: Pope Francis implicitly criticises Putin for 'savage' war</a>

The 85-year-old pontiff is suffering from a flare-up of&nbsp;leg&nbsp;pain&nbsp;and had difficultly walking in the small grotto. He has been sitting in ceremonies more than usual. At a Mass for about 20,000 people afterwards, he mostly sat while Valletta Archbishop Charles Scicluna led much of the liturgy.

Francis had to use a freight lift to board his flight in Rome and disembark on arrival in Valletta on Saturday, and at the end of Sunday's Mass, he skipped the traditional exit procession with all the bishops.

Malta, one of the more important routes used by&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;who cross from Libya to Europe, was a natural venue for the&nbsp;pope&nbsp;to repeat his appeal for the safety of&nbsp;migrants.

"Help us to recognise from afar those in need, struggling amidst the waves of the sea, dashed against the reefs of unknown shores," he prayed at the grotto.

Watch |&nbsp;Landmark reform by Pope Francis: Women and Lay Catholics to head departments

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The government of Prime Minister Robert Abela insists that the island, by far Europe’s most densely populated country, is "full up", refusing to allow the disembarkation of&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;other than those rescued within its own rescue zone.

Malta&nbsp;says any rescued&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;must be taken to the nearest harbour.

On Friday, German NGO ship Sea Eye IV was off Maltese territorial waters seeking to disembark 106&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;rescued from Libyan waters and was denied entry.

Human rights organisations have criticised the island for its involvement in "pushbacks" where&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;rescued in coordination with&nbsp;Malta&nbsp;are taken back to Libya. The organizations say this breaks international law since Libya is not a safe country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-warns-of-a-global-conflict-over-ukraine-war-465997">Pope Francis warns of a global conflict over Ukraine war</a>

Speaking to government officials on Saturday, Francis denounced "sordid agreements with criminals who enslave other human beings". He has in the past compared conditions in centres holding&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;in Libya to Nazi and Soviet camps.

Malta&nbsp;argues that Europe should have an effective "burden sharing" mechanism, saying that&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;want to go to mainland Europe. Francis also has called several times for shared responsibility for&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;among European countries.

Pope Francis, struggling with leg pain, on Sunday said countries should always help those trying to survive "amidst the waves of the sea" as he wrapped up a trip to one of the Mediterranean countries at the heart of Europe's migration debate.

Pope Francis, struggling with leg pain, on Sunday said countries should always help those trying to survive "amidst the waves of the sea" as he wrapped up a trip to one of the Mediterranean countries at the heart of Europe's migration debate. At the start of the last day of his trip, Francis visited the grotto in the town of Rabat, where according to tradition, St. Paul lived for two months when he was among 75 people shipwrecked on their way to Rome in the year 60 AD. The Bible says they received unusual kindness. "No one knew their names, their place of birth or their social status; they knew only one thing: that these were people in need of help," the pope said in a prayer in the grotto. Also read | Ukraine invasion: Pope Francis implicitly criticises Putin for 'savage' war The 85-year-old pontiff is suffering from a flare-up of leg pain and had difficultly walking in the small grotto. He has been sitting in ceremonies more than usual. At a Mass for about 20,000 people afterwards, he mostly sat while Valletta Archbishop Charles Scicluna led much of the liturgy. Francis had to use a freight lift to board his flight in Rome and disembark on arrival in Valletta on Saturday, and at the end of Sunday's Mass, he skipped the traditional exit procession with all the bishops. Malta, one of the more important routes used by migrants who cross from Libya to Europe, was a natural venue for the pope to repeat his appeal for the safety of migrants. "Help us to recognise from afar those in need, struggling amidst the waves of the sea, dashed against the reefs of unknown shores," he prayed at the grotto. Watch | Landmark reform by Pope Francis: Women and Lay Catholics to head departments The government of Prime Minister Robert Abela insists that the island, by far Europe’s most densely populated country, is "full up", refusing to allow the disembarkation of migrants other than those rescued within its own rescue zone. Malta says any rescued migrants must be taken to the nearest harbour. On Friday, German NGO ship Sea Eye IV was off Maltese territorial waters seeking to disembark 106 migrants rescued from Libyan waters and was denied entry. Human rights organisations have criticised the island for its involvement in "pushbacks" where migrants rescued in coordination with Malta are taken back to Libya. The organizations say this breaks international law since Libya is not a safe country. Also read | Pope Francis warns of a global conflict over Ukraine war Speaking to government officials on Saturday, Francis denounced "sordid agreements with criminals who enslave other human beings". He has in the past compared conditions in centres holding migrants in Libya to Nazi and Soviet camps. Malta argues that Europe should have an effective "burden sharing" mechanism, saying that migrants want to go to mainland Europe. Francis also has called several times for shared responsibility for migrants among European countries.

Pope struggles with leg pain on Malta trip, defends migrants

Another gaffe! The United States President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake was corrected by the White House, however, the clip went viral on social media, leaving the netizens abuzz.

Another gaffe! The United States President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake was corrected by the White House, however, the clip went viral on social media, leaving the netizens abuzz. Biden was speaking while commissioning the commemoration Ceremony of the USS Delaware on Saturday (April 2), where he was praising his wife, the current First Lady, Jill Biden. In the video, Biden can be heard as saying, "I'm deeply proud of the work she [Jill] is doing as First Lady with Joining Forces initiative she started with Michelle Obama when she was Vice President and now carries on." The transcript of the speech, which was uploaded on the official website of the White House, struck the word "she" and added the word "I" in a bracket. The corrected statement read: "...she started with Michelle Obama when she [I] was Vice President and now carries on." This is not the first time the White House has corrected Biden's mistakes and slip-ups. Recently, Biden's comments targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to be a call for his exit. While speaking in front of a crowd in Warsaw, Poland on March 26, Biden said: "For God's sake, this man [Putin] cannot remain in power." The Biden administration rushed to correct it. They said Biden was not asking for "regime change". ALSO READ | North Korea slams South minister’s remarks over military strike capability, warns of response Watch the video here: Breaking news After waking up from a nap Joe Biden says that Michelle Obama was the former Vice President pic.twitter.com/ylPrSYsmZr — I_see_the_black_sun (@Iseetheblacksun) April 3, 2022 × It's time for the old man to retire. He has clearly lost his mind. #Biden @POTUS named Michelle #Obama a vice president. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony for the new submarine, he said: "I'm incredibly proud of the work [Jill] is doing as First Lady through the Joining pic.twitter.com/n3gZhOPwfx — Viacheslav (@Angry_Slavik) April 3, 2022 × I was thinking he meant when his wife was "VP", as in wife of the VP. Still a mistake tho — Jefe (@J22R) April 3, 2022 × On Saturday, the US President was lauding the First Lady for all the efforts she has been putting in for the Joining Forces, which is an initiative by the US government. The initiative was founded in 2011 by then-First Lady Michelle Obama and then-Second Lady Jill Biden. The initiative is run by the White House, which aims to seek to support the families, caregivers and survivors of members of the United States Armed Forces. ALSO READ | Ukraine invasion: Pope Francis implicitly criticises Putin for 'savage' war During his address, Biden said, "As First Lady, she doesn't — she's been to more military installations around the world. She's hosted more than 20 events for military families." He added, "And she's working — working to expand economic opportunities for military spouses who — by the way, in the words of Keats, "They also serve who only stand and wait." And a submariner's spouse stands and waits a lot."

Watch: Joe Biden mistakenly refers to Michelle Obama as ex-Vice President, White House corrects it

President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.S. And allies have imposed steep sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

The announcement could come as soon as Thursday, when the White House says Biden is planning to deliver remarks on his administration's plans to combat rising gas prices. The duration of the release hasn't been finalised but could last for several months. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the decision.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-makes-the-pure-terror-of-lynching-a-federal-crime-466801">Biden makes the 'pure terror' of lynching a federal crime</a>

High oil prices have not coaxed more production, creating a challenge for Biden. The president has seen his popularity sink as inflation reached a 40-year high in February and the cost of petroleum and gasoline climbed after Russia invaded Ukraine. Crude oil on Wednesday traded at nearly $105 a barrel, up from about $60 a year ago.

Still, oil producers have been more focused on meeting the needs of investors, according to a survey released last week by the Dallas Federal Reserve. About 59 per cent&nbsp;of the executives surveyed said investor pressure to preserve capital discipline amid high prices was the reason they weren't pumping more, while fewer than 10 per cent&nbsp;blamed government regulation.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-apologies-for-saying-putin-cannot-remain-in-power-us-president-biden-466503">&nbsp;'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden</a>

The steady release from the reserves would be a meaningful sum and come near to closing the domestic production gap relative to February 2020, before the coronavirus caused a steep decline in oil output.

The Biden administration in November announced the release of 50 million barrels from the strategic reserve in coordination with other countries. And after the Ukrainian war began, the U.S. And 30 other countries agreed to an additional release of 60 million barrels from reserves, with half of the total coming from the U.S.

According to the Department of Energy, which manages it, more than 568 million barrels of oil were held in the reserve as of Mar. 25.

News of the administration's planning was first reported by Bloomberg.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-putin-misled-on-how-war-progressed-467047/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.

President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.S. And allies have imposed steep sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The announcement could come as soon as Thursday, when the White House says Biden is planning to deliver remarks on his administration's plans to combat rising gas prices. The duration of the release hasn't been finalised but could last for several months. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the decision. Also read | Biden makes the 'pure terror' of lynching a federal crime High oil prices have not coaxed more production, creating a challenge for Biden. The president has seen his popularity sink as inflation reached a 40-year high in February and the cost of petroleum and gasoline climbed after Russia invaded Ukraine. Crude oil on Wednesday traded at nearly $105 a barrel, up from about $60 a year ago. Still, oil producers have been more focused on meeting the needs of investors, according to a survey released last week by the Dallas Federal Reserve. About 59 per cent of the executives surveyed said investor pressure to preserve capital discipline amid high prices was the reason they weren't pumping more, while fewer than 10 per cent blamed government regulation. Also read | 'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden The steady release from the reserves would be a meaningful sum and come near to closing the domestic production gap relative to February 2020, before the coronavirus caused a steep decline in oil output. The Biden administration in November announced the release of 50 million barrels from the strategic reserve in coordination with other countries. And after the Ukrainian war began, the U.S. And 30 other countries agreed to an additional release of 60 million barrels from reserves, with half of the total coming from the U.S. According to the Department of Energy, which manages it, more than 568 million barrels of oil were held in the reserve as of Mar. 25. News of the administration's planning was first reported by Bloomberg. Watch | United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

Joe Biden planning to tap oil reserve to control gas prices

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine plans to vote to confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, ensuring that President Joe Biden’s nominee and the first Black woman to be put forward for the post will receive at least one Republican backer.

But whether Collins’ support is singular or opens the door to Jackson attracting the votes of other Republicans remained to be seen. The universe of potential backers from across the aisle shrunk Wednesday with an announcement by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., that he would oppose the nominee. Tillis, a member of the Judiciary Committee, had once been seen as a potential vote for confirmation.

Even as he praised Jackson’s “knowledge, her composure and her character,” Tillis said he could not vote to put her on the court.

Collins made her decision to back the nomination after a second personal meeting with the judge Tuesday afternoon. Collins said Jackson had alleviated some concerns that surfaced after last week’s hearings.

The centrist senator, often a key vote on Supreme Court clashes, said that she had been reassured that Jackson would not be “bending the law to meet a personal preference” and that the nominee met her personal standard for serving on the court.

If Democrats stay united, Collins' vote would avoid the spectacle of Vice President Kamala Harris having to break a tie to seat a nominee on the Supreme Court, an unprecedented outcome that some saw as potentially damaging to the court’s standing.

Among other Republicans on the White House wish list are two retiring senators, Richard Burr of North Carolina and Roy Blunt of Missouri, but it appeared unlikely that either of them would back her.

That leaves two other Republicans, Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of Utah, as the most promising prospects for crossover support of Jackson. Romney met with the judge Tuesday but said he had not made up his mind and probably would not reveal his decision until the vote, now expected next week.

Murkowski, who is running for reelection this year in a contest projected to be the most expensive and challenging of her career, also may not make her decision known until next week.

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine plans to vote to confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, ensuring that President Joe Biden’s nominee and the first Black woman to be put forward for the post will receive at least one Republican backer.

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine plans to vote to confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, ensuring that President Joe Biden’s nominee and the first Black woman to be put forward for the post will receive at least one Republican backer. But whether Collins’ support is singular or opens the door to Jackson attracting the votes of other Republicans remained to be seen. The universe of potential backers from across the aisle shrunk Wednesday with an announcement by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., that he would oppose the nominee. Tillis, a member of the Judiciary Committee, had once been seen as a potential vote for confirmation. Even as he praised Jackson’s “knowledge, her composure and her character,” Tillis said he could not vote to put her on the court. Collins made her decision to back the nomination after a second personal meeting with the judge Tuesday afternoon. Collins said Jackson had alleviated some concerns that surfaced after last week’s hearings. The centrist senator, often a key vote on Supreme Court clashes, said that she had been reassured that Jackson would not be “bending the law to meet a personal preference” and that the nominee met her personal standard for serving on the court. If Democrats stay united, Collins' vote would avoid the spectacle of Vice President Kamala Harris having to break a tie to seat a nominee on the Supreme Court, an unprecedented outcome that some saw as potentially damaging to the court’s standing. Among other Republicans on the White House wish list are two retiring senators, Richard Burr of North Carolina and Roy Blunt of Missouri, but it appeared unlikely that either of them would back her. That leaves two other Republicans, Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of Utah, as the most promising prospects for crossover support of Jackson. Romney met with the judge Tuesday but said he had not made up his mind and probably would not reveal his decision until the vote, now expected next week. Murkowski, who is running for reelection this year in a contest projected to be the most expensive and challenging of her career, also may not make her decision known until next week.

Collins to back Jackson for Supreme Court, giving her a GOP vote

NASA's Hubble space telescope has detected the light of a star that existed within the first billion years after the universe’s birth in the big bang, astronomers said on Wednesday (March 30). It is said to be the farthest individual star ever seen to date.&nbsp;

NASA informed that the newly discovered star, called "Earendel". Scientists have said that the star is so far away its light has taken 12.9 billion years to reach Earth, when the universe was seven per cent its current age.&nbsp;

"We almost didn’t believe it at first, it was so much farther than the previous most-distant, highest redshift star," said astronomer Brian Welch of the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.&nbsp;

Welch is the lead author of the paper describing the discovery, which is published in the March 30 journal Nature.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturn-is-eating-its-own-rings-they-may-disappear-altogether-466925">Saturn is 'eating' its own rings, they may disappear altogether</a>

NASA has informed that the discovery was made from data collected during Hubble's RELICS (Reionization Lensing Cluster Survey) programme. The programme was led by co-author Dan Coe at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI).&nbsp;

As per NASA, the previous single-star record holder was detected by Hubble in 2018. That star existed when the universe was about four billion years old, or 30 per cent of its current age. At a time that astronomers referred to as "redshift 1.5."&nbsp;

NASA revealed that scientists use the word "redshift" because as the universe expands, light from distant objects is stretched or "shifted" to longer and redder wavelengths as it travels toward us.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, talking about the newly-detected star, NASA said that Earendel's light came from an era called redshift 6.2.&nbsp;

Welch said, "Normally at these distances, entire galaxies look like small smudges, the light from millions of stars blending together."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-dying-star-is-forming-rings-around-itself-confusing-scientists-466682">A dying star is forming rings around itself, confusing scientists</a>

The galaxy hosting the star has been naturally magnified and distorted by an effect called gravitational lensing.&nbsp;

"The galaxy hosting this star has been magnified and distorted by gravitational lensing into a long crescent that we named the Sunrise Arc," said Welch.&nbsp;

After he studied the galaxy in detail, Welch found that one feature is an extremely magnified star that he called Earendel, which means "morning star" in Old English.&nbsp;

Welch added that Earendel existed so long ago that it may not have had the same raw materials as the stars that exist today.

"It's like we've been reading a really interesting book, but we started with the second chapter, and now we will have a chance to see how it all got started," he said.

Astronomers intend to gaze at the star using the James Webb Space Telescope, Hubble's successor, which is highly sensitive to infrared light from the oldest celestial bodies, in order to confirm Earendel's age, mass and radius.

It has been hypothesized that primordial stars were made solely from the elements forged after the Big Bang: hydrogen, helium and trace amounts of lithium, and should be more massive than stars that exist today.&nbsp;

It remains to be seen if Earendel belongs to these so-called "Population III" stars, but while the probability is small, it is enticing, said Welch.&nbsp;

WATCH | Gravitas: Giant ice volcanoes spotted on Pluto

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NASA's Hubble space telescope has detected the light of a star that existed within the first billion years after the universe’s birth in the big bang, astronomers said on Wednesday (March 30).

NASA's Hubble space telescope has detected the light of a star that existed within the first billion years after the universe’s birth in the big bang, astronomers said on Wednesday (March 30). It is said to be the farthest individual star ever seen to date. NASA informed that the newly discovered star, called "Earendel". Scientists have said that the star is so far away its light has taken 12.9 billion years to reach Earth, when the universe was seven per cent its current age. "We almost didn’t believe it at first, it was so much farther than the previous most-distant, highest redshift star," said astronomer Brian Welch of the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Welch is the lead author of the paper describing the discovery, which is published in the March 30 journal Nature. ALSO READ | Saturn is 'eating' its own rings, they may disappear altogether NASA has informed that the discovery was made from data collected during Hubble's RELICS (Reionization Lensing Cluster Survey) programme. The programme was led by co-author Dan Coe at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI). As per NASA, the previous single-star record holder was detected by Hubble in 2018. That star existed when the universe was about four billion years old, or 30 per cent of its current age. At a time that astronomers referred to as "redshift 1.5." NASA revealed that scientists use the word "redshift" because as the universe expands, light from distant objects is stretched or "shifted" to longer and redder wavelengths as it travels toward us. Meanwhile, talking about the newly-detected star, NASA said that Earendel's light came from an era called redshift 6.2. Welch said, "Normally at these distances, entire galaxies look like small smudges, the light from millions of stars blending together." ALSO READ | A dying star is forming rings around itself, confusing scientists The galaxy hosting the star has been naturally magnified and distorted by an effect called gravitational lensing. "The galaxy hosting this star has been magnified and distorted by gravitational lensing into a long crescent that we named the Sunrise Arc," said Welch. After he studied the galaxy in detail, Welch found that one feature is an extremely magnified star that he called Earendel, which means "morning star" in Old English. Welch added that Earendel existed so long ago that it may not have had the same raw materials as the stars that exist today. "It's like we've been reading a really interesting book, but we started with the second chapter, and now we will have a chance to see how it all got started," he said. Astronomers intend to gaze at the star using the James Webb Space Telescope, Hubble's successor, which is highly sensitive to infrared light from the oldest celestial bodies, in order to confirm Earendel's age, mass and radius. It has been hypothesized that primordial stars were made solely from the elements forged after the Big Bang: hydrogen, helium and trace amounts of lithium, and should be more massive than stars that exist today. It remains to be seen if Earendel belongs to these so-called "Population III" stars, but while the probability is small, it is enticing, said Welch. WATCH | Gravitas: Giant ice volcanoes spotted on Pluto × (With inputs from agencies)

Extraordinary Earendel! NASA's Hubble sees most distant star ever

Here are some of the top stories to start your day:&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Imran Khan. Watch's WION's report on why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks.&nbsp;

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Click on headlines to read the full report:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khans-life-under-threat-as-there-was-a-plot-to-assassinate-him-claims-pti-leader-467031">Pakistan PM Imran Khan's life in danger as there was a plot to assassinate him, claims PTI leader</a> 
Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan.&nbsp;

<img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8442e719-ab8d-4e06-843d-7b407901982b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran%20Khan%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-preparing-for-new-russian-offensive-in-the-east-dismisses-russian-claims-of-scaleback-467037">Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east, dismisses Russian claims of scaleback</a> 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (March 30) claimed that the Ukrainian forces are preparing for new Russian attacks in the east of the country.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f560d3c-d3a7-487d-8920-1bc9bf0fa519" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ukraine-Russia%20conflict%20%286%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-million-covid-cases-in-asia-1-million-every-2-days-467032">Over 100 million Covid cases in Asia, 1 million every 2 days</a> 
Coronavirus infections in Asia passed 100 million on Wednesday, according to a Reuters tally, as the region records a resurgence in cases, dominated by the BA.2 Omicron sub-variant.

<img alt="Covid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c25be18f-9e35-42fa-a270-9e5258d8a05c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covid_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-smith-refused-to-leave-oscars-academy-says-as-it-weighs-discipline-467028">Will Smith refused to leave Oscars, reveals Academy as it weighs disciplinary action</a> 
Will Smith reportedly refused a request to leave the Oscars 2022 ceremony soon after he slapped presenter Chris Rock, a new statement by the Academy has revealed. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has started a process that could lead to the expulsion of the best actor winner from the group.

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WATCH | Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks 
Global investors are feeling jittery about investing in China. In March, over $11 billion has gone out the door. Why are foreign investors dumping Chinese stocks?&nbsp;

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Here are some of the top stories to start your day: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Imran Khan.

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Imran Khan. Watch's WION's report on why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks. Click on headlines to read the full report: Pakistan PM Imran Khan's life in danger as there was a plot to assassinate him, claims PTI leader Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan. Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east, dismisses Russian claims of scaleback Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (March 30) claimed that the Ukrainian forces are preparing for new Russian attacks in the east of the country. Over 100 million Covid cases in Asia, 1 million every 2 days Coronavirus infections in Asia passed 100 million on Wednesday, according to a Reuters tally, as the region records a resurgence in cases, dominated by the BA.2 Omicron sub-variant. Will Smith refused to leave Oscars, reveals Academy as it weighs disciplinary action Will Smith reportedly refused a request to leave the Oscars 2022 ceremony soon after he slapped presenter Chris Rock, a new statement by the Academy has revealed. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has started a process that could lead to the expulsion of the best actor winner from the group. WATCH | Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks Global investors are feeling jittery about investing in China. In March, over $11 billion has gone out the door. Why are foreign investors dumping Chinese stocks? ×

Morning news brief: Zelensky dismisses Russian claims of scaleback, Pakistan politics, and more

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (March 30) claimed that the Ukrainian forces are preparing for new Russian attacks in the east of the country. Dismissing Russia's vows to de-escalate fighting, Zelensky said in a video address to the nation that the Russian troops were regrouping to strike the eastern Donbass region. Zelensky said, "We don't believe anyone, not a single beautiful phrase. We will not give anything away. We will fight for every meter of our territory." After another round of peace talks in Istanbul on Tuesday (March 29), a Russian negotiator said Moscow would "radically" scale back its attacks around the capital Kyiv and the northern city of Chernigiv. However, reports mentioned that shelling continued during the night. A day after, US military officials said Russian forces did begin to pull out of the defunct Chernobyl nuclear power site north of Kyiv. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian leader said in his video address that any retreat by Russian forces was "the result of the work of our defenders." "Freedom must be armed as well as tyranny," Zelensky said, claiming that as the centre of the global fight for freedom, Ukraine has the right to demand weapons from the international community, including tanks, planes, artillery systems. Important to note that the Donbass region encompasses two self-proclaimed "people's republics" that Russia says it is helping to free from Ukrainian control. The leader of the Donetsk People's Republic, Denis Pushilin, said on Wednesday that offensive operations were intensifying. Donetsk includes the besieged port city of Mariupol, which has seen some of the war's heaviest fighting and bombardment and where about 170,000 people are trapped with scarce food and water. WATCH | Gravitas: Donbas rebel republics to join Russia? × (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east, dismisses Russian claims of scaleback

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan.&nbsp;

Pakistan is going through political turmoil at the moment as the country's opposition political parties have introduced a no-confidence vote in parliament seeking the ouster of Imran Khan, accusing him of economic mismanagement.&nbsp;

Faisal Vawda said that PM Imran Khan has been advised to use a bulletproof shield while addressing the public gatherings as there was a plan to assassinate the leader but the PM said he will leave this world at the time fixed by Almighty Allah, India-based&nbsp;news agency ANI reported quoting ARY News' "Off the Record" programme.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-is-no-zulfikar-ali-bhutto-ex-wife-reham-khan-slams-beleaguered-pak-pm-466987">Imran Khan is no Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: Senior journalist Reham Khan slams beleaguered Pak PM</a>

During his conversation with the channel, the PTI leader also affirmed Khan's position amid the political chaos in the country. He said that the PM is brave and will not let the nation bow down before anyone.&nbsp;

Vawda further cleared the air on Khan's stance on foreign policy as he said that now Pakistan will not become part of "anyone's war", adding that that airbases of the country will not be given to anyone to "attack our neighbouring countries".&nbsp;

The cricketer-turned-politician had said earlier said that he will share the 'foreign-funded conspiracy' letter with senior journalists and ally party members.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-confidence-vote-mqm-p-breaks-alliance-with-pti-bilawal-attacks-pm-imran-466946">No-confidence vote: MQM-P breaks alliance with PTI; Bilawal attacks PM Imran</a>

"The letter will reveal the elements who are conspiring against the country from abroad," he said at the launch of e-passport services in Islamabad and added, "suspicions were cast that the government is doing all this to save itself."&nbsp;

"The letter clearly shows how big conspiracy is against the government and it is far bigger conspiracy than what I am telling to you," he added.&nbsp;

In case it happens, Khan's ouster is likely to bring another round of instability to the nuclear-armed country. In Pakistan, the military has a long record of intervening in politics.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Premiership: A poisoned chalice in Pakistan

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(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan.

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan. Pakistan is going through political turmoil at the moment as the country's opposition political parties have introduced a no-confidence vote in parliament seeking the ouster of Imran Khan, accusing him of economic mismanagement. Faisal Vawda said that PM Imran Khan has been advised to use a bulletproof shield while addressing the public gatherings as there was a plan to assassinate the leader but the PM said he will leave this world at the time fixed by Almighty Allah, India-based news agency ANI reported quoting ARY News' "Off the Record" programme. ALSO READ | Imran Khan is no Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: Senior journalist Reham Khan slams beleaguered Pak PM During his conversation with the channel, the PTI leader also affirmed Khan's position amid the political chaos in the country. He said that the PM is brave and will not let the nation bow down before anyone. Vawda further cleared the air on Khan's stance on foreign policy as he said that now Pakistan will not become part of "anyone's war", adding that that airbases of the country will not be given to anyone to "attack our neighbouring countries". The cricketer-turned-politician had said earlier said that he will share the 'foreign-funded conspiracy' letter with senior journalists and ally party members. ALSO READ | No-confidence vote: MQM-P breaks alliance with PTI; Bilawal attacks PM Imran "The letter will reveal the elements who are conspiring against the country from abroad," he said at the launch of e-passport services in Islamabad and added, "suspicions were cast that the government is doing all this to save itself." "The letter clearly shows how big conspiracy is against the government and it is far bigger conspiracy than what I am telling to you," he added. In case it happens, Khan's ouster is likely to bring another round of instability to the nuclear-armed country. In Pakistan, the military has a long record of intervening in politics. WATCH | Gravitas | Premiership: A poisoned chalice in Pakistan × (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan's life in danger as there was a plot to assassinate him, claims PTI leader

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