The United States will seek to take action against individuals or companies linked with&nbsp;China's military that supported the flight of a Chinese spy balloon into the airspace of the United States last week, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. In other news,&nbsp;North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s wife was spotted wearing a pendant in the shape of a ballistic missile ahead of a major military parade that is scheduled to take place in North Korea. Finally,&nbsp;South Africa on Thursday (February 9) declared a national "state of disaster" over the crippling power shortages in the country.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-live-updates-intercepted-61-russian-missiles-says-ukrainian-air-force-560642">Ukraine war LIVE updates: Intercepted 61 Russian missiles, says Ukrainian Air Force</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331375-collage-maker-10-feb-2023-0600-pm.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In spite of its recent successes against Russian forces, Ukraine is still on the receiving end from Russian attacks. WION brings you Live updates from the conflict that is on the verge of completing a year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-may-soon-sanction-chinese-entities-linked-with-spy-balloon-row-560673">Biden administration may soon sanction Chinese entities linked with spy balloon row</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331391-screenshot-2023-02-10-191540.png?imwidth=1920" />

&nbsp;

Washington is confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon shot down by the US forces last week, had a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre repeated that the United States would look at taking action against such entities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-uns-wife-spotted-wearing-missile-shaped-pendant-before-major-military-parade-560688">North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s wife spotted wearing missile shaped pendant before major military parade</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331399-foga4zamamkmq.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Ri Sol Ju was snapped wearing the pendant at a banquet to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, North Korea, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;The silver pendant, in the shape of North Korea’s largest intercontinental ballistic missile, took the spotlight from other accessories Ri Sol Ju wore on Tuesday night (February 7).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-declares-national-state-of-disaster-to-tackle-power-crisis-560691">South Africa declares national&nbsp;'state of disaster' to tackle power crisis</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/06/07/268698-ramaphosa.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the massive power outages posed an existetial threat to the economy and social fabric.

The electricity crunch has been years in the making, a product of delays in building new coal-fired power stations, corruption in coal-supply contracts, criminal sabotage and failures to ease up regulation to enable private providers to swiftly bring renewable energy on tap.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-defends-possible-talks-with-xinjiang-governor-erkin-tuniyaz-amid-outrage-from-mps-560666">UK government defends possible talks with Xinjiang governor Erkin Tuniyaz amid outrage from MPs</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331388-untitled-design-2023-02-10t185236805.png?imwidth=1920" />

Amid the outrage from lawmakers in the UK, who highlighted the abuse of the rights against Uyghyr Muslims in the Xinjiang region, the United Kingdom defended the possibility that its officials will hold talks with Erkin Tuniyaz, the governor of the Chinese region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/italian-prime-minister-giorgia-meloni-may-visit-india-in-march-560624">Plans are on for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's India&nbsp;visit&nbsp;in&nbsp;March</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331367-untitled-design-2023-02-10t171803776.png?imwidth=1920" />

&nbsp;

Plans are afoot for the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni&nbsp;to India next month, which will be her visit to the country in her current capacity since taking office in October of last year. Talks are on between the two sides on the highly-anticipated visit that comes as both nations look to strengthen their bilateral ties in trade, investment, counter-terrorism, and people-to-people relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soon-h1-b-l1-visa-holders-may-get-their-visa-re-stamped-in-the-us-itself-560709">Soon, H1-B, L1 visa holders may get their visa re-stamped in the US itself</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331409-untitled-design-27.png?imwidth=1920" />

The United States will resume "domestic visa revalidation" in a selected few categories on a pilot basis. The pilot project is set to launch later in 2023. The move, once fully implemented, would be a big relief for the thousands of Indian professionals in the United States who wouldn't need to get out of the United States to get their passports re-stamped after the expiration of their stay.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-people-injured-in-east-jerusalems-terror-ramming-israel-police-560648">Two people, including a child, killed in East Jerusalem's 'terror' ramming</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/10/331382-untitled-design-26.png?imwidth=1920" />

In East Jerusalem, a suspected assailant rammed his car into several pedestrians, in which two people, including a child and a 20-year-old, were killed.&nbsp;Five more people, including another child, were wounded.&nbsp;

Watch | IMF seeks more time to conclude Pakistan deal worth $1.1 billion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mf-seeks-more-time-to-conclude-pakistan-deal-worth-11-billion-560697/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch |&nbsp;UK Chancellor: Economy is resilient after avoiding recession

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-chancellor-economy-is-resilient-after-avoiding-recession-560682/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States will seek to take action against individuals or companies linked with China's military that supported the flight of a Chinese spy balloon into the airspace of the United States last week, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

The United States will seek to take action against individuals or companies linked with China's military that supported the flight of a Chinese spy balloon into the airspace of the United States last week, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. In other news, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s wife was spotted wearing a pendant in the shape of a ballistic missile ahead of a major military parade that is scheduled to take place in North Korea. Finally, South Africa on Thursday (February 9) declared a national "state of disaster" over the crippling power shortages in the country. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukraine war LIVE updates: Intercepted 61 Russian missiles, says Ukrainian Air Force In spite of its recent successes against Russian forces, Ukraine is still on the receiving end from Russian attacks. WION brings you Live updates from the conflict that is on the verge of completing a year. Biden administration may soon sanction Chinese entities linked with spy balloon row Washington is confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon shot down by the US forces last week, had a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA). White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre repeated that the United States would look at taking action against such entities. North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s wife spotted wearing missile shaped pendant before major military parade Ri Sol Ju was snapped wearing the pendant at a banquet to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, North Korea, according to the Associated Press. The silver pendant, in the shape of North Korea’s largest intercontinental ballistic missile, took the spotlight from other accessories Ri Sol Ju wore on Tuesday night (February 7). South Africa declares national 'state of disaster' to tackle power crisis South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the massive power outages posed an existetial threat to the economy and social fabric. The electricity crunch has been years in the making, a product of delays in building new coal-fired power stations, corruption in coal-supply contracts, criminal sabotage and failures to ease up regulation to enable private providers to swiftly bring renewable energy on tap. UK government defends possible talks with Xinjiang governor Erkin Tuniyaz amid outrage from MPs Amid the outrage from lawmakers in the UK, who highlighted the abuse of the rights against Uyghyr Muslims in the Xinjiang region, the United Kingdom defended the possibility that its officials will hold talks with Erkin Tuniyaz, the governor of the Chinese region. Plans are on for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's India visit in March Plans are afoot for the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to India next month, which will be her visit to the country in her current capacity since taking office in October of last year. Talks are on between the two sides on the highly-anticipated visit that comes as both nations look to strengthen their bilateral ties in trade, investment, counter-terrorism, and people-to-people relations. Soon, H1-B, L1 visa holders may get their visa re-stamped in the US itself The United States will resume "domestic visa revalidation" in a selected few categories on a pilot basis. The pilot project is set to launch later in 2023. The move, once fully implemented, would be a big relief for the thousands of Indian professionals in the United States who wouldn't need to get out of the United States to get their passports re-stamped after the expiration of their stay. Two people, including a child, killed in East Jerusalem's 'terror' ramming In East Jerusalem, a suspected assailant rammed his car into several pedestrians, in which two people, including a child and a 20-year-old, were killed. Five more people, including another child, were wounded. Watch | IMF seeks more time to conclude Pakistan deal worth $1.1 billion Watch | UK Chancellor: Economy is resilient after avoiding recession

Top 10 world news: Ukraine war updates, Kim Jong Un’s wife wears missile pendant before military parade, more

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address.&nbsp;

The president is under great pressure. He will soon open a new session of Parliament in Cape Town, the country's most developed city which is also facing long power cuts and high unemployment levels, ABC&nbsp;News reported.

Watch |&nbsp;South African President Ramaphosa opposes Tourism Ministry's deal with Tottenham

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The country is not only dealing with the power and employment crisis, but&nbsp;food and fuel prices have also increased.&nbsp;

The recent power cuts have added to the country's economic woes, which include an unemployment rate of over 30 per cent, where almost two million lost their jobs during Covid.&nbsp;

Gwede Mantashe, Energy Minister earlier this week said that the economy is approximately losing almost $56 million daily due to ongoing power blackouts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosa-re-elected-as-leader-of-ruling-anc-party-in-south-africa-544513">Also read |&nbsp;Cyril Ramaphosa re-elected as leader of ruling ANC party in South Africa</a>

The power utility Eskom is currently unable to produce adequate power due to frequent breakdowns at its ageing coal-fired power stations and years of corruption

The opposition has threatened to disrupt Ramaphosa's upcoming address.&nbsp;

Steenhuisen earlier this week, delivering his party’s alternative state of the nation said, "nothing that President Ramaphosa says on Thursday will change this reality. In fact, Ramaphosa is the one who has taken us down this path of failure over the last five wasted years, during which time this country has rapidly gone backwards on every conceivable metric."

(with inputs from agencies)

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address. The president is under great pressure. He will soon open a new session of Parliament in Cape Town, the country's most developed city which is also facing long power cuts and high unemployment levels, ABC News reported. Watch | South African President Ramaphosa opposes Tourism Ministry's deal with Tottenham The country is not only dealing with the power and employment crisis, but food and fuel prices have also increased. The recent power cuts have added to the country's economic woes, which include an unemployment rate of over 30 per cent, where almost two million lost their jobs during Covid. Gwede Mantashe, Energy Minister earlier this week said that the economy is approximately losing almost $56 million daily due to ongoing power blackouts. Also read | Cyril Ramaphosa re-elected as leader of ruling ANC party in South Africa The power utility Eskom is currently unable to produce adequate power due to frequent breakdowns at its ageing coal-fired power stations and years of corruption The opposition has threatened to disrupt Ramaphosa's upcoming address. Steenhuisen earlier this week, delivering his party’s alternative state of the nation said, "nothing that President Ramaphosa says on Thursday will change this reality. In fact, Ramaphosa is the one who has taken us down this path of failure over the last five wasted years, during which time this country has rapidly gone backwards on every conceivable metric." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to address nation amid power cuts

In a big development, the Church of England's governing body has endorsed plans to let priests offer blessings to same-sec couples. This comes hours after the acrimonious debates highlighting deep Anglican divisions on the issue.

UK: Church of England to let priests offer blessings to same-sex couples

Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak on Friday announced that Moscow plans to cut oil output by 500,000 barrels per day in March in response to price caps imposed by the West on Moscow’s crude and oil products. The announcement triggered a quick market response and oil&nbsp;prices jumped more than 2 per cent&nbsp;on Friday, heading for weekly gains.

Brent crude futures rose $2.17, or 2.57 per cent, to $86.67 a barrel by 0900 GMT. US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $2.01, or 2.57 per cent, at $80.07.&nbsp;Both contracts were on course for weekly gains above 8 per cent. 
 
The Group of Seven major democracies, the European Union and Australia have imposed a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil shipped to non-Western countries. The goal is to keep oil flowing to the world to prevent price spikes that were seen last year, while limiting Russia’s financial gains that can be used to pay for its campaign against Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-no-sanctions-on-india-for-russian-energy-imports-560101">Also read |&nbsp;US: No sanctions on India for Russian energy imports</a>

Deputy PM Novak said on Friday that Russia plans to reduce its crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;production&nbsp;in March by 500,000 barrels per day (bpd), or about 5 per cent&nbsp;of the output. 
 
“As of today, we fully sell all our crude output, but as we stated before, we will not sell oil to those who directly or indirectly adhere to the price ceiling and hence will voluntarily cut production by 500,000 barrels a day,” Novak said in remarks carried by Russian news agencies.

"The Russian economy is fraying in the face of Western sanctions," PVM analyst Stephen Brennock said.&nbsp;The measures will crimp the Kremlin’s fossil fuel earnings and exacerbate its fiscal woes by the end of the year, he added.

The EU also banned purchases of Russian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;products and set price caps from Feb. 5. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/demand-for-oil-storage-tanks-in-singapore-is-rising-heres-the-reason-554720">Also read |&nbsp;Demand for oil storage tanks in Singapore is rising. Here's the reason</a>

The announcement marked a turnaround for bearish sentiment that characterised trade on Thursday and Friday morning against a backdrop of recession fears in the United States and weak demand data from China.

Goldman Sachs lowered its Brent 2023 price forecast to $92 a barrel (bbl) from $98/bbl and its 2024 price forecast to $100/bbl from $105/bbl.

China's consumer price index (CPI) in January increased from December, with inflation approaching the target of about 3 per cent&nbsp;set by the government last year.

The latest U.S.&nbsp;oil&nbsp;inventory data this week also raised fears of a slowdown in the world's biggest economy, with crude stocks having climbed to their highest since June 2021.

This was followed by a rise in weekly US&nbsp;jobless claims.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak on Friday announced that Moscow plans to cut oil output by 500,000 barrels per day in March in response to price caps imposed by the West on Moscow’s crude and oil products.

Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak on Friday announced that Moscow plans to cut oil output by 500,000 barrels per day in March in response to price caps imposed by the West on Moscow’s crude and oil products. The announcement triggered a quick market response and oil prices jumped more than 2 per cent on Friday, heading for weekly gains. Brent crude futures rose $2.17, or 2.57 per cent, to $86.67 a barrel by 0900 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $2.01, or 2.57 per cent, at $80.07. Both contracts were on course for weekly gains above 8 per cent. The Group of Seven major democracies, the European Union and Australia have imposed a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil shipped to non-Western countries. The goal is to keep oil flowing to the world to prevent price spikes that were seen last year, while limiting Russia’s financial gains that can be used to pay for its campaign against Ukraine. Also read | US: No sanctions on India for Russian energy imports Deputy PM Novak said on Friday that Russia plans to reduce its crude oil production in March by 500,000 barrels per day (bpd), or about 5 per cent of the output. “As of today, we fully sell all our crude output, but as we stated before, we will not sell oil to those who directly or indirectly adhere to the price ceiling and hence will voluntarily cut production by 500,000 barrels a day,” Novak said in remarks carried by Russian news agencies. "The Russian economy is fraying in the face of Western sanctions," PVM analyst Stephen Brennock said. The measures will crimp the Kremlin’s fossil fuel earnings and exacerbate its fiscal woes by the end of the year, he added. The EU also banned purchases of Russian oil products and set price caps from Feb. 5. Also read | Demand for oil storage tanks in Singapore is rising. Here's the reason The announcement marked a turnaround for bearish sentiment that characterised trade on Thursday and Friday morning against a backdrop of recession fears in the United States and weak demand data from China. Goldman Sachs lowered its Brent 2023 price forecast to $92 a barrel (bbl) from $98/bbl and its 2024 price forecast to $100/bbl from $105/bbl. China's consumer price index (CPI) in January increased from December, with inflation approaching the target of about 3 per cent set by the government last year. The latest U.S. oil inventory data this week also raised fears of a slowdown in the world's biggest economy, with crude stocks having climbed to their highest since June 2021. This was followed by a rise in weekly US jobless claims. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Oil prices jump over 2% as Russia announces plan to slash production by 500,000 barrels a day

For the last few months in Nevada, United States, a dog named 'Ghost,' a four-year-old bull terrier mix was&nbsp;roaming with a pack of coyotes, who observers say had&nbsp;accepted him as one of them.&nbsp;The white dog was spotted by residents in Henderson running through the neighbourhood at night. Worries among residents began when residents spotted an injury on Ghost's leg that was causing a severe limp. They tried catching him for treatment but&nbsp;failed, a fundraiser for the animal said, as per a Guardian report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thirty-year-old-portuguese-dog-named-oldest-living-canine-ever-558648">Also read |&nbsp;Thirty-year-old dog in Portugal named oldest living canine ever by Guinness</a>

Rescuers tracked the pup's movements for several weeks, before laying a trap for him&nbsp;and caught him. Rescuers suspect that he was probably abandoned in the desert as a puppy following concerns over his health. They said that the pup warmed up to people quickly.&nbsp;

GoFundMe said, "It was immediately determined by the trappers that Ghost was a sweetheart of a pup! He was skin and bones, so food was a priority, so the trappers began feeding him right out of their hands."

Susan McMullen with Southern Nevada Trapping Team told Fox5 that it seems like he may have been abandoned between seven and eight months and somehow the coyotes accepted him. She said, "He was actually just running with them and eating with them, but then he started to limp, and we were afraid … that the coyotes could turn on him."

The rescue team determined that he is a lovely and wonderful dog.

Rescuers and the fundraising team claimed that the dog had a broken toe requiring amputation, an injury to his scrotum, ear infections and bites all over his body that led to some infections. He has rocks in his stomach, probably because he was hungry.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-here-are-the-winners-of-international-dog-photography-awards-2022-551867">Also read |&nbsp;In pics | Here are the winners of International Dog Photography Awards 2022</a>

As per medics, his medical expense is more than $4,000. Till now, only $1,000 has been covered by an anonymous donor.&nbsp;

Ghost is still trying to adapt to his new life. The night is hard for him, he is not able to sleep at night.&nbsp;The dog is highly&nbsp;adoptive, but controversy has risen over his care.&nbsp;

According to the rescuers and rescuers group, his owners showed up at McMullen's home for him and harassed her.&nbsp;

A member of the rescue group, Sandy said, "We don’t believe this is their dog. We want to make sure that Ghost is going to the best family possible. We are still willing to take Ghost into our rescue, pay for his care and get him into the most loving home."

Multiple people have claimed Ghost to be their dog, but the shelter is trying to determine who he actually belongs to.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

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For the last few months in Nevada, United States, a dog named 'Ghost,' a four-year-old bull terrier mix was roaming with a pack of coyotes, who observers say had accepted him as one of them.

For the last few months in Nevada, United States, a dog named 'Ghost,' a four-year-old bull terrier mix was roaming with a pack of coyotes, who observers say had accepted him as one of them. The white dog was spotted by residents in Henderson running through the neighbourhood at night. Worries among residents began when residents spotted an injury on Ghost's leg that was causing a severe limp. They tried catching him for treatment but failed, a fundraiser for the animal said, as per a Guardian report. Also read | Thirty-year-old dog in Portugal named oldest living canine ever by Guinness Rescuers tracked the pup's movements for several weeks, before laying a trap for him and caught him. Rescuers suspect that he was probably abandoned in the desert as a puppy following concerns over his health. They said that the pup warmed up to people quickly. GoFundMe said, "It was immediately determined by the trappers that Ghost was a sweetheart of a pup! He was skin and bones, so food was a priority, so the trappers began feeding him right out of their hands." Susan McMullen with Southern Nevada Trapping Team told Fox5 that it seems like he may have been abandoned between seven and eight months and somehow the coyotes accepted him. She said, "He was actually just running with them and eating with them, but then he started to limp, and we were afraid … that the coyotes could turn on him." The rescue team determined that he is a lovely and wonderful dog. Rescuers and the fundraising team claimed that the dog had a broken toe requiring amputation, an injury to his scrotum, ear infections and bites all over his body that led to some infections. He has rocks in his stomach, probably because he was hungry. Also read | In pics | Here are the winners of International Dog Photography Awards 2022 As per medics, his medical expense is more than $4,000. Till now, only $1,000 has been covered by an anonymous donor. Ghost is still trying to adapt to his new life. The night is hard for him, he is not able to sleep at night. The dog is highly adoptive, but controversy has risen over his care. According to the rescuers and rescuers group, his owners showed up at McMullen's home for him and harassed her. A member of the rescue group, Sandy said, "We don’t believe this is their dog. We want to make sure that Ghost is going to the best family possible. We are still willing to take Ghost into our rescue, pay for his care and get him into the most loving home." Multiple people have claimed Ghost to be their dog, but the shelter is trying to determine who he actually belongs to. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Meet Ghost, a four-year-old bull terrier mix who was living with coyote pack in Nevada

The chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, James Comer, has made the panel's first official request, asking for documents from the US President Joe Biden's son&nbsp;Hunter Biden and brother James Biden, over their foreign business pursuits. According to CBS News, as part of his committee's probe, Comer informed Hunter, James and their then-business managers that he wants documents and communications from the Bidens, to look for any potential involvement by the president in their deals, particularly in foreign business deals "with people connected to China's Communist Party."

He&nbsp;has accused the family of taking "significant amounts of money from foreign companies without providing any known legitimate services."

Watch |&nbsp;US: Probe into Hunter Biden laptop saga, Republican led-house panel begins public hearing

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Comer has asked the president's son and brother to submit&nbsp;any documents designated as "classified" the two may possess, and even communication between the Bidens, including the president or James's wife Sara Jones Biden.

Now as the Republicans have the House majority, they have subpoena power. He&nbsp;has given the Bidens February 22 as the&nbsp;deadline to respond before he considers issuing a 'subpoena' for documents and testimony.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-slams-biden-over-extremely-irresponsible-remarks-on-xi-jinping-560250">Also read |&nbsp;Beijing slams Biden over 'extremely irresponsible' remarks on Xi Jinping</a>

In addition to the probe, Comer also said that the committee is considering writing a bill to strengthen 'federal ethics laws' around the officials and families.&nbsp;

Last week, Hunter's legal team went on the offensive, demanding a state and federal probe into the dissemination of his personal things, anticipated to be on his laptop.

In January, Comer called on the US White House to provide details of all visitors to the president's Wilmington, Delaware house since the start of his presidency term.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, James Comer, has made the panel's first official request, asking for documents from the US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden and brother James Biden, over their foreign business pursuits.

The chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, James Comer, has made the panel's first official request, asking for documents from the US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden and brother James Biden, over their foreign business pursuits. According to CBS News, as part of his committee's probe, Comer informed Hunter, James and their then-business managers that he wants documents and communications from the Bidens, to look for any potential involvement by the president in their deals, particularly in foreign business deals "with people connected to China's Communist Party." He has accused the family of taking "significant amounts of money from foreign companies without providing any known legitimate services." Watch | US: Probe into Hunter Biden laptop saga, Republican led-house panel begins public hearing Comer has asked the president's son and brother to submit any documents designated as "classified" the two may possess, and even communication between the Bidens, including the president or James's wife Sara Jones Biden. Now as the Republicans have the House majority, they have subpoena power. He has given the Bidens February 22 as the deadline to respond before he considers issuing a 'subpoena' for documents and testimony. Also read | Beijing slams Biden over 'extremely irresponsible' remarks on Xi Jinping In addition to the probe, Comer also said that the committee is considering writing a bill to strengthen 'federal ethics laws' around the officials and families. Last week, Hunter's legal team went on the offensive, demanding a state and federal probe into the dissemination of his personal things, anticipated to be on his laptop. In January, Comer called on the US White House to provide details of all visitors to the president's Wilmington, Delaware house since the start of his presidency term. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: House Oversight panel head widens probe, requests for records from Hunter and James Biden

In a big development, the Church of England's governing body on Thursday (February 9) endorsed plans to let priests offer blessings to same-sex couples. In other news, following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice president William Lai will donate a month's salary for the&nbsp;relief efforts. Finally,&nbsp;Russia on Thursday (February 9) responded to the claims made by the international prosecutors that there were "strong indications" that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, which killed all on board.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-earthquake-hospital-parking-turns-makeshift-morgue-as-people-scramble-to-identify-their-kins-560364">Turkey earthquake: Hospital parking turns makeshift morgue as people scramble to identify their kin</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331209-screenshot-2023-02-09-190304.png?imwidth=1920" />

A car parking space in Southern Turkey has become a makeshift morgue, revealing the heart-wrenching realities of earthquake-hit Turkey. A report by AFP cited Rania Zaboubi, a Syrian refugee, seen scouring the body bags laid out in the car parking of a hospital in search of her uncle who went missing after Monday's series of earthquakes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/church-of-england-decides-to-bless-same-sex-couples-560382">Church of England decides to bless same-sex couples</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331066-untitled-design-2023-02-09t023150829.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Church's General Synod -- comprising hundreds of elected members, which meets two or three times a year -- backed the proposals by a wide margin following an eight-hour debate across two days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwanese-president-vice-president-to-donate-a-months-salary-for-turkey-relief-efforts-560374">Taiwan's president, vice president to donate&nbsp;a&nbsp;month's salary for Turkey relief efforts</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331215-untitled-design-2023-02-09t194004910.png?imwidth=1920" />

The office said, "Hope to do their part to help Turkey rebuild its homeland as soon as possible."

The salary contribution will add to the existing aid that has been sent already by the island nation.&nbsp;According to estimates, President Tsai-Ing wen earns about T$400,000 ($13,330) monthly.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chinese-lambast-hair-removal-ad-campaign-that-compared-women-with-orangatuns-560375">Chinese lambast hair removal ad campaign that compared women with orangutans</a>

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A Singapore-based hair removal chain, 'Ministry of Wax', became a focal&nbsp;hot topic on Chinese social media after its advertisement implied that women who do not remove their body hair are like Orangutans. The&nbsp;advertisements featured&nbsp;photos of hairy orangutans against attractive human models. As the advertisement surfaced on Chinese social media platforms Weibo and Douyin,&nbsp;it immediately stoked people to call out, what they said, was an act of misogyny by the company.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-responds-to-claims-that-vladimir-putin-was-involved-in-mh17-downing-560358">Russia rejects prosecutors’ claim that Vladimir Putin was involved in MH17 downing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331178-malaysia-airlines-flight-mh17.png?imwidth=1920" />

Dismissing the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia "could not accept" the results of the probe that the nation was involved. Peskov also said that the investigators had not publicly presented evidence to support their claims.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-british-mp-jailed-for-corruption-to-fund-his-drug-abuse-560394">Former British MP jailed for corruption to fund his drug abuse</a>

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A former UK parliamentarian with an autistic health condition&nbsp;has been jailed for four years for making untrue and fraudulent claims of expenses of about £52,000 ($63,354)&nbsp;to fund an extensive drug addiction to cocaine when he was still in office.&nbsp;The Labour Party leader Jared O'Mara, who previously represented Sheffield Hallam, about 166 miles northwest of London, was on trial at Leeds Crown Court for submitting "dishonest" invoices to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. O'Mara was a Labour MP from Sheffield Hallam from 2017 to 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-prevents-ukraine-from-using-starlink-internet-for-controlling-drones-560371">SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331207-spacex.png?imwidth=1920" />

SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-52-magnitude-earthquake-hits-indonesias-papua-four-dead-560337">Indonesia: 5.2 magnitude earthquake hits Papua, four killed as building collapses</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/09/331193-untitled-design-2023-02-09t174126806.png?imwidth=1920" />

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Papua on Thursday and claimed lives of four people besides damaging&nbsp;many buildings, the country's disaster agency said. Agency's head Asep Khalid in a statement said that the victims were at a cafe when the quake hit, causing the building to collapse, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;IMF seeks flood rehabilitation expenditure details from Pakistan

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Watch |&nbsp;Fiji's Deputy PM Prasad speaks to WION, says 'Fiji considers India an old friend'

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In a big development, the Church of England's governing body on Thursday (February 9) endorsed plans to let priests offer blessings to same-sex couples. In other news, following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice president William Lai will donate a month's salary for the relief efforts.

In a big development, the Church of England's governing body on Thursday (February 9) endorsed plans to let priests offer blessings to same-sex couples. In other news, following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice president William Lai will donate a month's salary for the relief efforts. Finally, Russia on Thursday (February 9) responded to the claims made by the international prosecutors that there were "strong indications" that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, which killed all on board. Click on the headlines to read more: Turkey earthquake: Hospital parking turns makeshift morgue as people scramble to identify their kin A car parking space in Southern Turkey has become a makeshift morgue, revealing the heart-wrenching realities of earthquake-hit Turkey. A report by AFP cited Rania Zaboubi, a Syrian refugee, seen scouring the body bags laid out in the car parking of a hospital in search of her uncle who went missing after Monday's series of earthquakes. Church of England decides to bless same-sex couples The Church's General Synod -- comprising hundreds of elected members, which meets two or three times a year -- backed the proposals by a wide margin following an eight-hour debate across two days. Taiwan's president, vice president to donate a month's salary for Turkey relief efforts The office said, "Hope to do their part to help Turkey rebuild its homeland as soon as possible." The salary contribution will add to the existing aid that has been sent already by the island nation. According to estimates, President Tsai-Ing wen earns about T$400,000 ($13,330) monthly. Chinese lambast hair removal ad campaign that compared women with orangutans A Singapore-based hair removal chain, 'Ministry of Wax', became a focal hot topic on Chinese social media after its advertisement implied that women who do not remove their body hair are like Orangutans. The advertisements featured photos of hairy orangutans against attractive human models. As the advertisement surfaced on Chinese social media platforms Weibo and Douyin, it immediately stoked people to call out, what they said, was an act of misogyny by the company. Russia rejects prosecutors’ claim that Vladimir Putin was involved in MH17 downing Dismissing the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia "could not accept" the results of the probe that the nation was involved. Peskov also said that the investigators had not publicly presented evidence to support their claims. Former British MP jailed for corruption to fund his drug abuse A former UK parliamentarian with an autistic health condition has been jailed for four years for making untrue and fraudulent claims of expenses of about £52,000 ($63,354) to fund an extensive drug addiction to cocaine when he was still in office. The Labour Party leader Jared O'Mara, who previously represented Sheffield Hallam, about 166 miles northwest of London, was on trial at Leeds Crown Court for submitting "dishonest" invoices to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. O'Mara was a Labour MP from Sheffield Hallam from 2017 to 2019. SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes". Indonesia: 5.2 magnitude earthquake hits Papua, four killed as building collapses A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Papua on Thursday and claimed lives of four people besides damaging many buildings, the country's disaster agency said. Agency's head Asep Khalid in a statement said that the victims were at a cafe when the quake hit, causing the building to collapse, Reuters reported. Watch | IMF seeks flood rehabilitation expenditure details from Pakistan Watch | Fiji's Deputy PM Prasad speaks to WION, says 'Fiji considers India an old friend'

Top 10 world news: Turkey earthquake updates, Church of England to bless same-sex couples, and more

Following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice President William Lai will donate a month's salary for the&nbsp;relief efforts, Taiwan's presidential office said on Thursday, Reuters reported.&nbsp;The office said, "Hope to do their part to help Turkey rebuild its homeland as soon as possible."

The salary contribution will add to the existing aid that has been sent already by the island nation.&nbsp;According to estimates, President Tsai-Ing wen earns about T$400,000 ($13,330) monthly.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-cryptocurrency-firms-pledge-donations-worth-millions-560266">Turkey-Syria earthquake: Cryptocurrency firms pledge donations worth millions</a>

The Taiwanese president also visited the de facto embassy in Taipei on Thursday to sign the book of condolence, and wrote, "My heart goes with our Turkish friends. Taiwan stands with Türkiye."

The help comes despite Turkey like most countries don't share any diplomatic relations with the island nation. Still, the two countries maintain de facto embassies in each other's capitals and also have direct flights between Istanbul and Taipei.&nbsp;

Taiwan, which itself suffers from frequent earthquakes, has announced aid of T$ 2 million for disaster relief and has sent two rescue teams to Turkey to help in the search for survivors.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-earthquake-how-long-a-person-can-survive-under-rubble-what-role-does-mental-condition-play-in-this-560204">Turkey Earthquake: How long a person can survive under rubble; what role does mental condition play in this?</a>

This is not the first time Tsai and Lai are donating their month's salary for relief efforts.&nbsp;

Last year, both of them donated their one month's salary to aid the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The combined death toll for the Turkey-Syria earthquake has surged&nbsp;past 19,300, even as search for more survivors is still underway.&nbsp;

It's just not countries, but several cryptocurrency firms have also pledged to donate millions to help quake-hit countries. &nbsp;These firms including Tether, OKZ, and Kucoin will donate around nine million to victims, according to a report by Decrypt.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice President William Lai will donate a month's salary for the relief efforts, Taiwan's presidential office said on Thursday, Reuters reported.

Following Turkey's deadly earthquake, Taiwanese President Tsai-Ing wen and Vice President William Lai will donate a month's salary for the relief efforts, Taiwan's presidential office said on Thursday, Reuters reported. The office said, "Hope to do their part to help Turkey rebuild its homeland as soon as possible." The salary contribution will add to the existing aid that has been sent already by the island nation. According to estimates, President Tsai-Ing wen earns about T$400,000 ($13,330) monthly. Also read | Turkey-Syria earthquake: Cryptocurrency firms pledge donations worth millions The Taiwanese president also visited the de facto embassy in Taipei on Thursday to sign the book of condolence, and wrote, "My heart goes with our Turkish friends. Taiwan stands with Türkiye." The help comes despite Turkey like most countries don't share any diplomatic relations with the island nation. Still, the two countries maintain de facto embassies in each other's capitals and also have direct flights between Istanbul and Taipei. Taiwan, which itself suffers from frequent earthquakes, has announced aid of T$ 2 million for disaster relief and has sent two rescue teams to Turkey to help in the search for survivors. Also read | Turkey Earthquake: How long a person can survive under rubble; what role does mental condition play in this? This is not the first time Tsai and Lai are donating their month's salary for relief efforts. Last year, both of them donated their one month's salary to aid the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. The combined death toll for the Turkey-Syria earthquake has surged past 19,300, even as search for more survivors is still underway. It's just not countries, but several cryptocurrency firms have also pledged to donate millions to help quake-hit countries. These firms including Tether, OKZ, and Kucoin will donate around nine million to victims, according to a report by Decrypt. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan's president, vice president to donate a month's salary for Turkey relief efforts

In pics | Before and after pictures of quake-hit Turkey show the magnitude of destruction

For users in India, Twitter has launched its premium membership service, Twitter Blue.

The paid subscription allows users early access to innovations that the platform introduces, as well as adds the desired blue tick next to their profile names&nbsp;that is nothing but a verified status for social media users. But a paid subscription undermines the verified status and may not give it the same standing as before.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/longing-for-longer-tweets-twitter-blue-subscribers-can-now-type-in-up-to-4000-characters-560201">Also read |&nbsp;Longing for longer tweets? Twitter Blue subscribers can now post up to 4,000 characters</a>

The "Blue Tick" was previously used to identify genuine accounts of well-known actors, politicians, journalists, and public figures before the firm launched its Twitter Blue Service.

Now, anyone who pays the subscription cost can purchase the checkmark.

Both iOS and Android smartphones, as well as Twitter's website, now support the purchase of Twitter Blue in India.

Users of iOS and Android in India must pay a monthly subscription cost of $11, while web users pay a fee of $8.

Indian users can also pay an annual charge of $82 to subscribe to the premium service. However, this is only available for web users.&nbsp;The subscription rates are similar to those in the United States.

In addition to the Blue Tick, early access to features like edit tweets, bookmark folders, custom app icons, and NFT profile images is available to Twitter Blue Members.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/mass-outage-facebook-instagram-youtube-twitter-were-all-down-on-wednesday-560173">Also read |&nbsp;Mass outage: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter were all down on Wednesday</a>

These users will also have the option to select multiple colour schemes for their app, prioritise tweet replies, and delete a tweet before it is seen by other users.

The other advantages include a larger character limit of 4,000, while other users' character limits are 280. Moreover,&nbsp;Twitter Blue subscribers can upload longer videos of 60 minutes or 2 GB in size.

The Blue subscription is available in several countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

However, Twitter said new sign-ups will not be allowed to subscribe for 90 days, with an additional waiting period also likely without any prior notice.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

For users in India, Twitter has launched its premium membership service, Twitter Blue. The paid subscription allows users early access to innovations that the platform introduces, as well as adds the desired blue tick next to their profile names that is nothing but a verified status for social media users.

For users in India, Twitter has launched its premium membership service, Twitter Blue. The paid subscription allows users early access to innovations that the platform introduces, as well as adds the desired blue tick next to their profile names that is nothing but a verified status for social media users. But a paid subscription undermines the verified status and may not give it the same standing as before. Also read | Longing for longer tweets? Twitter Blue subscribers can now post up to 4,000 characters The "Blue Tick" was previously used to identify genuine accounts of well-known actors, politicians, journalists, and public figures before the firm launched its Twitter Blue Service. Now, anyone who pays the subscription cost can purchase the checkmark. Both iOS and Android smartphones, as well as Twitter's website, now support the purchase of Twitter Blue in India. Users of iOS and Android in India must pay a monthly subscription cost of $11, while web users pay a fee of $8. Indian users can also pay an annual charge of $82 to subscribe to the premium service. However, this is only available for web users. The subscription rates are similar to those in the United States. In addition to the Blue Tick, early access to features like edit tweets, bookmark folders, custom app icons, and NFT profile images is available to Twitter Blue Members. Also read | Mass outage: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter were all down on Wednesday These users will also have the option to select multiple colour schemes for their app, prioritise tweet replies, and delete a tweet before it is seen by other users. The other advantages include a larger character limit of 4,000, while other users' character limits are 280. Moreover, Twitter Blue subscribers can upload longer videos of 60 minutes or 2 GB in size. The Blue subscription is available in several countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. However, Twitter said new sign-ups will not be allowed to subscribe for 90 days, with an additional waiting period also likely without any prior notice. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Twitter launches 'Blue' subscription for users in India

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Papua on Thursday and claimed lives of four people besides damaging&nbsp;many buildings, the country's disaster agency said. Agency's head Asep Khalid in a statement said that the victims were at a cafe when the quake hit, causing the building to collapse, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Putri Kurita, who was having lunch at another restaurant bolted for the exit fearing that the building would collapse. She said, "I was having lunch when things suddenly swayed, then jolts&nbsp;got much stronger."

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5.5 Magnitude Earthquake hits Indonesia killing four people as floating restaurant collapse into the sea. <a href="https://t.co/Pqn7Xclic6">pic.twitter.com/Pqn7Xclic6</a>
— NUAMAHONLINE.NEWS (@nuamahonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/nuamahonline/status/1623652736309903360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ire-over-standards-of-buildings-in-turkey-as-earthquake-death-toll-tops-12000-report-560211">Anger over construction standards in Turkey as combined quake toll tops 17,500</a>

The quake in the easternmost region of Papua was felt strongly for two to three seconds, causing panic among people.&nbsp;

According to the country's geophysics agency BMKG, the epicentre of the earthquake was one kilometre from Jayapura, the capital of Papua province at a depth of 10 km.

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Gempa berkekuatan magnitudo (M) 5,4 mengguncang Kota Jayapura, Papua. Sejumlah bangunan dilaporkan mengalami kerusakan dan hanyut ke laut. 
"Menurut informasi yang kami terima benar ada beberapa bangunan yang rusak di Kota Jayapura. Sebuah kafe di Ruko Dok II Jayapura rubuh dan <a href="https://t.co/lKPdNdjquz">pic.twitter.com/lKPdNdjquz</a>
— Kodok Ijo 🐸 (@Midjan_La_2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Midjan_La_2/status/1623599409404715008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) recorded the quake at a magnitude of 5.5 on the Richter scale.

This quake is one of more than a thousand recorded in the area since the beginning of this year, BMKG said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-bird-caged-in-turkey-after-anger-swamped-social-media-over-erdogans-quake-response-560125">Twitter back online in Turkey after being blocked following devastating quake</a>

Agency's chief Dwikorita Karnawati said, "Since January 2, 2023, there have been 1,079 quakes around Jayapura, with about 132 felt by its residents."

Several unverified footages of the quake were shared on social media, where a harbour-side building collapsed into the sea besides damage to a mall and hospital in the city.&nbsp;

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A shallow magnitude 5.4 earthquake occurred in the Indonesian province of Papua today. Early reports coming out says there is at least some damage to various infrastructure. 
The video below from the city of Jayapura, seems to show a building having collapsed in the sea. <a href="https://t.co/z8dkF0fNUN">pic.twitter.com/z8dkF0fNUN</a>
— Øystein L.A. (@oysteinvolcano) <a href="https://twitter.com/oysteinvolcano/status/1623602862935924736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Indonesia's meteorological agency has warned of potential aftershocks.&nbsp;

Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," where the tectonic plates are likely to collide, AFP reported.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Papua on Thursday and claimed lives of four people besides damaging many buildings, the country's disaster agency said.

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Papua on Thursday and claimed lives of four people besides damaging many buildings, the country's disaster agency said. Agency's head Asep Khalid in a statement said that the victims were at a cafe when the quake hit, causing the building to collapse, Reuters reported. Putri Kurita, who was having lunch at another restaurant bolted for the exit fearing that the building would collapse. She said, "I was having lunch when things suddenly swayed, then jolts got much stronger." 5.5 Magnitude Earthquake hits Indonesia killing four people as floating restaurant collapse into the sea. pic.twitter.com/Pqn7Xclic6 — NUAMAHONLINE.NEWS (@nuamahonline) February 9, 2023 × Also read | Anger over construction standards in Turkey as combined quake toll tops 17,500 The quake in the easternmost region of Papua was felt strongly for two to three seconds, causing panic among people. According to the country's geophysics agency BMKG, the epicentre of the earthquake was one kilometre from Jayapura, the capital of Papua province at a depth of 10 km. Gempa berkekuatan magnitudo (M) 5,4 mengguncang Kota Jayapura, Papua. Sejumlah bangunan dilaporkan mengalami kerusakan dan hanyut ke laut. "Menurut informasi yang kami terima benar ada beberapa bangunan yang rusak di Kota Jayapura. Sebuah kafe di Ruko Dok II Jayapura rubuh dan pic.twitter.com/lKPdNdjquz — Kodok Ijo 🐸 (@Midjan_La_2) February 9, 2023 × The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) recorded the quake at a magnitude of 5.5 on the Richter scale. This quake is one of more than a thousand recorded in the area since the beginning of this year, BMKG said. Also read | Twitter back online in Turkey after being blocked following devastating quake Agency's chief Dwikorita Karnawati said, "Since January 2, 2023, there have been 1,079 quakes around Jayapura, with about 132 felt by its residents." Several unverified footages of the quake were shared on social media, where a harbour-side building collapsed into the sea besides damage to a mall and hospital in the city. A shallow magnitude 5.4 earthquake occurred in the Indonesian province of Papua today. Early reports coming out says there is at least some damage to various infrastructure. The video below from the city of Jayapura, seems to show a building having collapsed in the sea. pic.twitter.com/z8dkF0fNUN — Øystein L.A. (@oysteinvolcano) February 9, 2023 × Indonesia's meteorological agency has warned of potential aftershocks. Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," where the tectonic plates are likely to collide, AFP reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indonesia: 5.2 magnitude earthquake hits Papua, four killed as building collapses

New York Mayor Eric Adams on Monday announced that he will be lifting the controversial COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers and the city's Department of Education employees. The Democrat said this vaccine mandate will end this Friday (Feb 10) if the decision is ratified at the upcoming city Board of Health Meeting, Reuters reported.

In a statement, Adams said, "with more than 96 per cent of city workers and more than 80 per cent of New Yorkers having received their primary COVID-19 series and more tools readily available to keep us healthy, this is the right moment for this decision."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-might-ask-countries-to-reserve-vaccines-to-avoid-covid-19-like-catastrophic-failure-draft-shows-558170">Also read |&nbsp;WHO may ask countries to reserve vaccines for poor to prevent ‘catastrophic failure’ like Covid</a>

He urged New Yorkers to take necessary steps such as proper vaccinations and boosters to protect themselves and others from the virus.&nbsp;

This decision comes four months after the city ended a Covid vaccine mandate for private employers and 10 months after the vaccine requirements were lifted for athletes and performers.&nbsp;

According to CBS News, Sophy Medina, a firefighter said, "I'm just one person, and I'm one of many people, one of many women, one of many people of colour that have been affected by this mandate. It's preposterous and I definitely never want to see this again. So for me this is a big win but it's not the end of the fight and I personally won't stop fighting until everybody gets the opportunity to get their jobs back and that we have it in writing that this can never happen to us again."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-end-covid-19-emergency-declarations-on-may-11-557568">Also read |&nbsp;US to end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11</a>

Unions representing workers who were fired for not submitting their vaccine proofs welcomed this decision but said that the job is half done. Patrick Lynch, a union leader said, "we call on the City to ensure that our members who were fired or had their employment unfairly impacted are reinstated, with back pay and without condition."

Over 1,700 municipal workers who were fired last year will be able to reapply for their old jobs.&nbsp;

The United States' most populated country will also be ending the 2021 vaccination requirement, for nonpublic schools, childcare, and daycare staff.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New York Mayor Eric Adams on Monday announced that he will be lifting the controversial COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers and the city's Department of Education employees.

New York Mayor Eric Adams on Monday announced that he will be lifting the controversial COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers and the city's Department of Education employees. The Democrat said this vaccine mandate will end this Friday (Feb 10) if the decision is ratified at the upcoming city Board of Health Meeting, Reuters reported. In a statement, Adams said, "with more than 96 per cent of city workers and more than 80 per cent of New Yorkers having received their primary COVID-19 series and more tools readily available to keep us healthy, this is the right moment for this decision." Also read | WHO may ask countries to reserve vaccines for poor to prevent ‘catastrophic failure’ like Covid He urged New Yorkers to take necessary steps such as proper vaccinations and boosters to protect themselves and others from the virus. This decision comes four months after the city ended a Covid vaccine mandate for private employers and 10 months after the vaccine requirements were lifted for athletes and performers. According to CBS News, Sophy Medina, a firefighter said, "I'm just one person, and I'm one of many people, one of many women, one of many people of colour that have been affected by this mandate. It's preposterous and I definitely never want to see this again. So for me this is a big win but it's not the end of the fight and I personally won't stop fighting until everybody gets the opportunity to get their jobs back and that we have it in writing that this can never happen to us again." Also read | US to end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11 Unions representing workers who were fired for not submitting their vaccine proofs welcomed this decision but said that the job is half done. Patrick Lynch, a union leader said, "we call on the City to ensure that our members who were fired or had their employment unfairly impacted are reinstated, with back pay and without condition." Over 1,700 municipal workers who were fired last year will be able to reapply for their old jobs. The United States' most populated country will also be ending the 2021 vaccination requirement, for nonpublic schools, childcare, and daycare staff. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: New York Mayor Eric Adams to end Covid vaccine mandate for city workers

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